Before gay marriage and Grindr, San Francisco featured shared bathing

For a trip down cultural memory lane, there’s a lovely collection of flyers for the Ritch Street Health Club and other San Francisco bathhouses pre-1987.

You know it’s cherry blossom time, when boy bands practice their dance moves in the park

Lest you think spring brings out only positive feelings of joy and choreography, most of the over-heard comments by passers-by failed to appreciate the effort and artistry of these earnest teens. Dance on, boys!

Electoral mascots in Japan trigger gag reflex

I had to force down some rising vomit after seeing the unveiling of this competition-winning mascot for the upcoming Japanese election. Starry eyes or not, I’d be satisfied with his reign if his delusional views don’t cause wars with the neighbors or any more nuke accidents.

What lesbians think of penises. Hilarious.

Identical twins, queer Canadians Tegan and Sara are emo pop duo

Wow! How did I know about them? This is their 7th album.

I am Divine

Can’t wait to see this new documentary about my hometown goddess.

I am learning Japanese with Princess Aiko and Porn Star Koh-sama

Oh, Twitter! Thanks to you, I am learning Japanese by following (fake) Princess Aiko and Porn Star Koh-sama.

Is Jenny Shimizu the sexiest butch alive?!

Maybe! I had forgotten about one-time Calvin Klein model Jenny Shimizu, later rumored to have slept with Madonna and Angelina Jolie. Now she’s been connected with NYC’s It Fashion sensation Michelle Harper.

Men, take some pointers from this butch icon!

And the winner is . . . Mr Kyoto!

Thank you, Kathryn, for linking to the results of the Mr Japan contest. I think they chose a good winner. Of course it’s not just about looks but also leadership and powers of expression.

Much attention directed to the mid-section

A botanic greenhouse is a perfect place for learning. Somehow, everyone’s attention seems to be at waist level.