Thanksgiving Dinner 2016 marked the 40th anniversary of Tenderloin Tessie Holiday Dinners. This 100% volunteer organization has served family-style holiday dinners on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter –without fail — since its inception in 1976. Founded by a drag performer named Tessie, the dinner affords both its guests and its volunteer participants the opportunity to create an uniquely San Francisco community of love and inclusion. I am so honored to be part of this legacy, singing in my own voice to entertain, just like our founder Tessie did.
Our Thanksgiving celebration this year was also marked with the distinction of visiting State Senator Mark Leno. Senator Leno arrived mid-afternoon, graciously greeted and mingled with our guests and presented our President, Mr. Michael Gagne, with an official Proclomation in honor of our 40 year event. Many thanks to you, outgoing Senator Leno, for acknowledging our work in this very special way.