Josh Koehn

It was only the second of four elections this year to represent San Francisco in the state Assembly, but it will almost certainly prove to be the decisive one as Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/matt-haney-district-6-supervisor-on-why-hes-running/">Matt Haney</a> scored a dominating victory Tuesday over <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/david-campos-former-supervisor-and-longtime-party-leader-on-why-hes-running/">David Campos</a> in a special election.&nbsp;

core/paragraph

It was only the second of four elections this year to represent San Francisco in the state Assembly, but it will almost certainly prove to be the decisive one as Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/matt-haney-district-6-supervisor-on-why-hes-running/">Matt Haney</a> scored a dominating victory Tuesday over <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/david-campos-former-supervisor-and-longtime-party-leader-on-why-hes-running/">David Campos</a> in a special election.&nbsp;

Results for the Assembly District 17 runoff—<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/campos-haney-april-election-results/">near-final returns</a> had Haney taking 63.3% of the vote—suggest the District 6 supervisor’s ideological shift over the last year, as he rebranded himself from a San Francisco progressive to something more moderate, was a savvy strategy. But it’s unclear if that change represented a genuine evolution of thought, particularly on the issue of housing, or a calculated plan to mirror the path others have taken to political prominence.

Results for the Assembly District 17 runoff—<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/campos-haney-april-election-results/">near-final returns</a> had Haney taking 63.3% of the vote—suggest the District 6 supervisor’s ideological shift over the last year, as he rebranded himself from a San Francisco progressive to something more moderate, was a savvy strategy. But it’s unclear if that change represented a genuine evolution of thought, particularly on the issue of housing, or a calculated plan to mirror the path others have taken to political prominence.

The Standard spoke with almost a dozen sources at City Hall and the Capitol—including people close to both Haney and Campos’ campaigns, community organizers in San Francisco and longtime Bay Area political consultants—to get a sense of what San Franciscans should expect from its next assemblymember, and whether the results of this race are indicative of a less progressive electorate in San Francisco.&nbsp;

The Standard spoke with almost a dozen sources at City Hall and the Capitol—including people close to both Haney and Campos’ campaigns, community organizers in San Francisco and longtime Bay Area political consultants—to get a sense of what San Franciscans should expect from its next assemblymember, and whether the results of this race are indicative of a less progressive electorate in San Francisco.&nbsp;

While the low voter turnout makes it difficult to foreshadow the future of political races in the city, there is no doubt that the multiple crises San Francisco is facing—an intractable housing crunch, the opioid epidemic in the Tenderloin, and growing anxiety over public safety—played a huge role in how Tuesday’s race shook out.&nbsp;

While the low voter turnout makes it difficult to foreshadow the future of political races in the city, there is no doubt that the multiple crises San Francisco is facing—an intractable housing crunch, the opioid epidemic in the Tenderloin, and growing anxiety over public safety—played a huge role in how Tuesday’s race shook out.&nbsp;

Haney has been described as a friendly, studious, inoffensive ally, but one who has&nbsp; also ruffled feathers with political opportunism. Many forget that it was Haney’s attempt at being woke while serving on the Board of Education that created the school renaming mess that contributed to three board members being recalled in February.&nbsp;

Haney has been described as a friendly, studious, inoffensive ally, but one who has&nbsp; also ruffled feathers with political opportunism. Many forget that it was Haney’s attempt at being woke while serving on the Board of Education that created the school renaming mess that contributed to three board members being recalled in February.&nbsp;

“He has run away from his super-left record,” said David Latterman, a Bay Area political consultant with two decades of experience. “While it is true that he is kind of the amorphous blob that he is, he’s not a dyed-in-the-wool progressive. He’s been able to say enough things to moderates and the housing folks and the young people to make them happy.”

“He has run away from his super-left record,” said David Latterman, a Bay Area political consultant with two decades of experience. “While it is true that he is kind of the amorphous blob that he is, he’s not a dyed-in-the-wool progressive. He’s been able to say enough things to moderates and the housing folks and the young people to make them happy.”

Haney’s victory Tuesday in some ways is a testament to his ability to distance himself from his own record in 2018, when he easily won a seat on the Board of Supervisors despite opposing Sen. Scott Wiener’s SB 35 housing bill and offering limp support of development projects outside of District 6. His more recent about-face on housing helped him secure the support of <a href="https://yimbyaction.org/2021/">YIMBY Action</a> and other pro-housing groups in the city, a crucial step in differentiating himself from Campos.

Haney’s victory Tuesday in some ways is a testament to his ability to distance himself from his own record in 2018, when he easily won a seat on the Board of Supervisors despite opposing Sen. Scott Wiener’s SB 35 housing bill and offering limp support of development projects outside of District 6. His more recent about-face on housing helped him secure the support of <a href="https://yimbyaction.org/2021/">YIMBY Action</a> and other pro-housing groups in the city, a crucial step in differentiating himself from Campos.

“It took [Haney] a while,” said Laura Foote, the executive director of pro-housing group YIMBY Action, which endorsed Haney after working with him during his three-plus years as a supervisor. “He had to go through the experience of seeing all the roadblocks to building housing in San Francisco.”

“It took [Haney] a while,” said Laura Foote, the executive director of pro-housing group YIMBY Action, which endorsed Haney after working with him during his three-plus years as a supervisor. “He had to go through the experience of seeing all the roadblocks to building housing in San Francisco.”

Haney’s campaign also made a smart move tactically by having him move closer to the center to fend off an unexpectedly strong challenge from third-place primary finisher Bilal Mahmood. That maneuver set Haney up to absorb much of Mahmood’s supporters following a post-primary endorsement.

Haney’s campaign also made a smart move tactically by having him move closer to the center to fend off an unexpectedly strong challenge from third-place primary finisher Bilal Mahmood. That maneuver set Haney up to absorb much of Mahmood’s supporters following a post-primary endorsement.

Haney, who did not make himself available for an interview for this story, not only had a bigger campaign war chest than Campos, but he also benefited from $1.7 million in spending by independent expenditure committees over the course of the primary and runoff. That avalanche of outside spending shouldn’t be discounted. A torrent of mail propped Haney up on housing while taking Campos to task for everything from his work history with <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/chesa-boudin-recall/">District Attorney Chesa Boudin</a>, who is facing a recall, to votes Campos cast a decade ago when he served on the Board of Supervisors.

Haney, who did not make himself available for an interview for this story, not only had a bigger campaign war chest than Campos, but he also benefited from $1.7 million in spending by independent expenditure committees over the course of the primary and runoff. That avalanche of outside spending shouldn’t be discounted. A torrent of mail propped Haney up on housing while taking Campos to task for everything from his work history with <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/chesa-boudin-recall/">District Attorney Chesa Boudin</a>, who is facing a recall, to votes Campos cast a decade ago when he served on the Board of Supervisors.

“Haney has run a better campaign,” Latterman said. “He has more money (than Campos), but Haney and his team have run a decent campaign. He’s done a pretty good job not ticking anybody off.”&nbsp;

“Haney has run a better campaign,” Latterman said. “He has more money (than Campos), but Haney and his team have run a decent campaign. He’s done a pretty good job not ticking anybody off.”&nbsp;

Of course, it didn’t hurt that Campos ran a campaign that most observers considered to be anachronistic and even grating at times. In many ways, he relied on the same progressive playbook that led him to a similar Assembly race defeat in 2014: not taking money from corporations, focusing on identity politics and framing the discussion on housing in binary terms in which affordable homes are mostly pitted against luxury condos.&nbsp;

Of course, it didn’t hurt that Campos ran a campaign that most observers considered to be anachronistic and even grating at times. In many ways, he relied on the same progressive playbook that led him to a similar Assembly race defeat in 2014: not taking money from corporations, focusing on identity politics and framing the discussion on housing in binary terms in which affordable homes are mostly pitted against luxury condos.&nbsp;

If the Asian American vote was truly as sacrosanct in this race as both candidates have acknowledged in recent months, the absence of the late Chinatown boss Rose Pak probably hurt Campos more than his campaign initially realized. Pak spearheaded a get-out-the-vote operation on Campos’ behalf in a close Assembly loss in 2014 to David Chiu, whose resignation last year to become San Francisco’s city attorney prompted this year’s race.

If the Asian American vote was truly as sacrosanct in this race as both candidates have acknowledged in recent months, the absence of the late Chinatown boss Rose Pak probably hurt Campos more than his campaign initially realized. Pak spearheaded a get-out-the-vote operation on Campos’ behalf in a close Assembly loss in 2014 to David Chiu, whose resignation last year to become San Francisco’s city attorney prompted this year’s race.

Campos also has a well-established reputation for irritating the very people who would seem to be his obvious allies. Only one of the city’s two major LGBTQ+ organizations endorsed Campos, who is openly gay, and Equality California—the state’s largest LGBTQ+ group—decided to sit out the race entirely, a red flag considering how outspoken the group has been on behalf of Sen. Wiener and other out legislators.

Campos also has a well-established reputation for irritating the very people who would seem to be his obvious allies. Only one of the city’s two major LGBTQ+ organizations endorsed Campos, who is openly gay, and Equality California—the state’s largest LGBTQ+ group—decided to sit out the race entirely, a red flag considering how outspoken the group has been on behalf of Sen. Wiener and other out legislators.

Campos’ focus on being corporate-free might have resonated in the days when Bernie Sanders had liberal arts majors swooning, but the pandemic and issues the city is facing this very moment have superseded noble gestures on campaign cash.

Campos’ focus on being corporate-free might have resonated in the days when Bernie Sanders had liberal arts majors swooning, but the pandemic and issues the city is facing this very moment have superseded noble gestures on campaign cash.

Perhaps the most glaring example of Campos failing to read the room occurred just two days after mail-in ballots went out to voters last month, as he told a group of supporters at the Bernal Heights Recreation Center that his campaign was “<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/gross-san-franciscans-react-to-campos-comparison-to-ukrainians/">fighting and running like Ukrainians</a>” in an effort to defeat Haney.&nbsp;

Perhaps the most glaring example of Campos failing to read the room occurred just two days after mail-in ballots went out to voters last month, as he told a group of supporters at the Bernal Heights Recreation Center that his campaign was “<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/gross-san-franciscans-react-to-campos-comparison-to-ukrainians/">fighting and running like Ukrainians</a>” in an effort to defeat Haney.&nbsp;

If that seemed ill-advised, the rest of this year’s electoral calendar could inspire even more groans.

If that seemed ill-advised, the rest of this year’s electoral calendar could inspire even more groans.

In an interview earlier this month, Campos told The Standard that winning is his only focus—even if that means he needs to challenge Haney again in June when voters will be forced to weigh in once again on who should represent AD 17 for a full term spanning 2023 to 2024. The top-two finishers in that race are guaranteed to advance to a runoff in November, regardless of whether voters feel emotionally equipped.

In an interview earlier this month, Campos told The Standard that winning is his only focus—even if that means he needs to challenge Haney again in June when voters will be forced to weigh in once again on who should represent AD 17 for a full term spanning 2023 to 2024. The top-two finishers in that race are guaranteed to advance to a runoff in November, regardless of whether voters feel emotionally equipped.

New district lines, which were redrawn last year to include the city’s southwest side, suggest that the races this summer and fall will feature an even larger bloc of moderate voters, adding to Haney’s advantage as an incumbent. And yet, Campos pulled papers to run last year and is giving every indication he is determined to grimly carry on.

New district lines, which were redrawn last year to include the city’s southwest side, suggest that the races this summer and fall will feature an even larger bloc of moderate voters, adding to Haney’s advantage as an incumbent. And yet, Campos pulled papers to run last year and is giving every indication he is determined to grimly carry on.

Tuesday’s victory will give Haney the rest of the year to find his footing in Sacramento and essentially cast roll call votes on the state budget. As one of 80 assemblymembers, his vote will frequently land with the rest of the Democrats, who hold a supermajority in the Legislature.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s victory will give Haney the rest of the year to find his footing in Sacramento and essentially cast roll call votes on the state budget. As one of 80 assemblymembers, his vote will frequently land with the rest of the Democrats, who hold a supermajority in the Legislature.&nbsp;

His legacy will largely depend on his ability to follow through on his newly crafted image and author transformative policy to address California’s housing crisis.

His legacy will largely depend on his ability to follow through on his newly crafted image and author transformative policy to address California’s housing crisis.

Analysis: Haney dominates Campos by shrewdly following shifting political winds

Chris Roberts

NEW YORK — Andrey Kukushkin came to San Francisco in 1993 as the teenage grandson of Holocaust survivors from Odessa, the cosmopolitan Ukrainian port city that produced Leon Trotsky. One of countless refugees from the fall of the Soviet Union to wash up on American shores, Kukushkin attended classes at San Francisco State, learned English, and worked as a tennis instructor before leaving the tight-knit expat community in 2006. He left for the hyperhustle of post-privatization Moscow, where major business deals were done by strobe light, over drinks in nightclubs.

NEW YORK — Andrey Kukushkin came to San Francisco in 1993 as the teenage grandson of Holocaust survivors from Odessa, the cosmopolitan Ukrainian port city that produced Leon Trotsky. One of countless refugees from the fall of the Soviet Union to wash up on American shores, Kukushkin attended classes at San Francisco State, learned English, and worked as a tennis instructor before leaving the tight-knit expat community in 2006. He left for the hyperhustle of post-privatization Moscow, where major business deals were done by strobe light, over drinks in nightclubs.

If one was bold enough, tough enough or lucky enough, if one knew the right people and didn’t cross the wrong ones, fortunes could be made in months instead of years.

If one was bold enough, tough enough or lucky enough, if one knew the right people and didn’t cross the wrong ones, fortunes could be made in months instead of years.

When Kukushkin returned to the Bay Area in 2014, he was nearly unrecognizable, recalled a former friend and confidante: all flashy, nightclub-chic suits and fast talk, enough money in his pocket to secure <a href="https://businesssearch.sos.ca.gov/Document/RetrievePDF?Id=201703410310-25805378">a luxury condo on Rincon Hill.</a> He boasted about his connections to Russia’s new class of globetrotting millionaire and billionaire capitalists, bankers and tycoons, for whom he was ready and authorized to make deals—deals that, if they went right, might have made an oligarch out of Kukushkin himself.

When Kukushkin returned to the Bay Area in 2014, he was nearly unrecognizable, recalled a former friend and confidante: all flashy, nightclub-chic suits and fast talk, enough money in his pocket to secure <a href="https://businesssearch.sos.ca.gov/Document/RetrievePDF?Id=201703410310-25805378">a luxury condo on Rincon Hill.</a> He boasted about his connections to Russia’s new class of globetrotting millionaire and billionaire capitalists, bankers and tycoons, for whom he was ready and authorized to make deals—deals that, if they went right, might have made an oligarch out of Kukushkin himself.

Instead, Kukushkin ended up in tears Tuesday morning in federal court in New York City, where he was sentenced to a year and a day in prison for his role in <a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.nysd.524345/gov.uscourts.nysd.524345.304.0_1.pdf">a scheme to undermine U.S. elections and create a cannabis empire</a> that spanned several states, including a dispensary in San Francisco and a massive cannabis farm in the Alameda County foothills.&nbsp;

Instead, Kukushkin ended up in tears Tuesday morning in federal court in New York City, where he was sentenced to a year and a day in prison for his role in <a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.nysd.524345/gov.uscourts.nysd.524345.304.0_1.pdf">a scheme to undermine U.S. elections and create a cannabis empire</a> that spanned several states, including a dispensary in San Francisco and a massive cannabis farm in the Alameda County foothills.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s sentencing hearing followed Kukushkin’s conviction in October for serving as a bagman in a dizzying saga involving a cement oligarch, Rudy Giuliani and a coterie of unscrupulous emigres who frequented Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. Lev Parnas, one of the former New York mayor’s cronies caught up in the case, eventually flipped on both Giuliani and Trump and tried to testify during one of the former president’s impeachment trials.

Tuesday’s sentencing hearing followed Kukushkin’s conviction in October for serving as a bagman in a dizzying saga involving a cement oligarch, Rudy Giuliani and a coterie of unscrupulous emigres who frequented Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. Lev Parnas, one of the former New York mayor’s cronies caught up in the case, eventually flipped on both Giuliani and Trump and tried to testify during one of the former president’s impeachment trials.

Parnas was convicted in October along with Kukushkin in the straw donor scheme and pleaded guilty to additional fraud charges on March 10. He has not yet been sentenced. Igor Fruman, who was arrested along with Parnas in 2019 at Dulles International Airport, pleaded guilty to participating in the foreign donor scheme and was <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/21/nyregion/igor-fruman-sentencing.html">sentenced</a> to a year in prison. A fourth associate, David Correia, pleaded guilty to separate fraud charges and also <a href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/nation-world/2021/02/08/florida-man-sentenced-in-giuliani-related-fraud-case/">received</a> a year’s imprisonment.

Parnas was convicted in October along with Kukushkin in the straw donor scheme and pleaded guilty to additional fraud charges on March 10. He has not yet been sentenced. Igor Fruman, who was arrested along with Parnas in 2019 at Dulles International Airport, pleaded guilty to participating in the foreign donor scheme and was <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/21/nyregion/igor-fruman-sentencing.html">sentenced</a> to a year in prison. A fourth associate, David Correia, pleaded guilty to separate fraud charges and also <a href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/nation-world/2021/02/08/florida-man-sentenced-in-giuliani-related-fraud-case/">received</a> a year’s imprisonment.

In his impeachment, Trump was acquitted by the Senate. Giuliani has never been charged with a crime.

In his impeachment, Trump was acquitted by the Senate. Giuliani has never been charged with a crime.

In court Tuesday and in pre-sentencing letters to U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken, Kukushkin and his family members pleaded for leniency, claiming that Kukushkin was needed to care for his ailing father and for his fiance’s 80-year-old grandmother, who recently fled her home in war-ravaged Kyiv.

In court Tuesday and in pre-sentencing letters to U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken, Kukushkin and his family members pleaded for leniency, claiming that Kukushkin was needed to care for his ailing father and for his fiance’s 80-year-old grandmother, who recently fled her home in war-ravaged Kyiv.

Oetken agreed that Kukushkin’s imprisonment would be a burden on his family, but that some punishment was appropriate. “Straw donations corrupt our system,” Oetken said.

Oetken agreed that Kukushkin’s imprisonment would be a burden on his family, but that some punishment was appropriate. “Straw donations corrupt our system,” Oetken said.

The United States Attorney, which was seeking five years in prison for Kukushkin, did not respond to a request for comment.

The United States Attorney, which was seeking five years in prison for Kukushkin, did not respond to a request for comment.

Through his attorney, Gerald Lefcourt, Kukushkin declined to comment on the sentencing Tuesday. However, Lefcourt said that Kukushkin plans to appeal—and, in the meantime, he plans to continue working with other modern-day Ukrainian refugees fleeing the destruction of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-ukrainians-rally-in-fear-for-families-country/">Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion last month. This work includes</a> filling out forms, interpreting and recommending countries in which to find refuge, Lefcourt said.

Through his attorney, Gerald Lefcourt, Kukushkin declined to comment on the sentencing Tuesday. However, Lefcourt said that Kukushkin plans to appeal—and, in the meantime, he plans to continue working with other modern-day Ukrainian refugees fleeing the destruction of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-ukrainians-rally-in-fear-for-families-country/">Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion last month. This work includes</a> filling out forms, interpreting and recommending countries in which to find refuge, Lefcourt said.

“He’s doing all kinds of things, including protesting in the street,” Lefcourt added.

“He’s doing all kinds of things, including protesting in the street,” Lefcourt added.

Kukushkin was found guilty of funneling $1 million from Russian oligarch Andrei Muraviev to associates of presidential fixer Rudy Giuliani. Muraviev, whose name is sometimes also anglicized as “Muravyev” or “Muravyov,” is a Siberian cement magnate who later made a mint in technology and other investments, including a stint as <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1561566/000119312513161884/d426593df1a.htm">director of Qiwi</a>, a popular Russian financial transaction app.

Kukushkin was found guilty of funneling $1 million from Russian oligarch Andrei Muraviev to associates of presidential fixer Rudy Giuliani. Muraviev, whose name is sometimes also anglicized as “Muravyev” or “Muravyov,” is a Siberian cement magnate who later made a mint in technology and other investments, including a stint as <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1561566/000119312513161884/d426593df1a.htm">director of Qiwi</a>, a popular Russian financial transaction app.

He befriended Kukushkin when the pair both attended San Francisco State, where Muraviev earned a degree in finance in 1998, according to court and <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1561566/000119312513161884/d426593df1a.htm">federal Securities Exchange Commission</a> documents.&nbsp;

He befriended Kukushkin when the pair both attended San Francisco State, where Muraviev earned a degree in finance in 1998, according to court and <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1561566/000119312513161884/d426593df1a.htm">federal Securities Exchange Commission</a> documents.&nbsp;

It was Kukushkin’s connections to Muraviev, whom he reconnected with in Moscow, that powered his reinvention as a wheeler-dealer.&nbsp;

It was Kukushkin’s connections to Muraviev, whom he reconnected with in Moscow, that powered his reinvention as a wheeler-dealer.&nbsp;

Beginning in 2018, Giuliani’s associates—Lev Parnas, Igor Fruman and David Correia—spread Muraviev’s money around elections in Florida and Nevada. (At least once, in 2018, Parnas brought up cannabis banking to Trump while he was president, according to a secret recording Parnas later<a href="https://lawandcrime.com/high-profile/veterans-affairs-dept-planned-to-partner-with-lev-parnass-indicted-business-associate/"> published</a>.)

Beginning in 2018, Giuliani’s associates—Lev Parnas, Igor Fruman and David Correia—spread Muraviev’s money around elections in Florida and Nevada. (At least once, in 2018, Parnas brought up cannabis banking to Trump while he was president, according to a secret recording Parnas later<a href="https://lawandcrime.com/high-profile/veterans-affairs-dept-planned-to-partner-with-lev-parnass-indicted-business-associate/"> published</a>.)

The laundered campaign contributions were a hamfisted attempt to win favor from Republican elected officials and candidates who might hold the strings to winning limited marjiuana business licenses, according to court documents. And, since the money came from Muraviev—a foreign national who is prohibited by law from funding U.S. elections—it was an illegal end-around.

The laundered campaign contributions were a hamfisted attempt to win favor from Republican elected officials and candidates who might hold the strings to winning limited marjiuana business licenses, according to court documents. And, since the money came from Muraviev—a foreign national who is prohibited by law from funding U.S. elections—it was an illegal end-around.

The goal of buying off elected officials, according to court documents, was to follow the lead of other success stories from the hyper-rich Russian elite. <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/23/us/kukushkin-giuliani-russia-cannabis-marijuana.html">Foreign investors from China, Japan, South America and Russia</a> have seen the reluctance of U.S. banks to handle cash from cannabis sales as a chance to make a fresh fortune in the burgeoning American marijuana industry. Among the post-Soviet success stories to successfully diversify into North American weed was Boris Jordan, a prominent banker and onetime confidante of Vladimir Putin who is now CEO of Curaleaf, one of the world’s largest cannabis companies.

The goal of buying off elected officials, according to court documents, was to follow the lead of other success stories from the hyper-rich Russian elite. <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/23/us/kukushkin-giuliani-russia-cannabis-marijuana.html">Foreign investors from China, Japan, South America and Russia</a> have seen the reluctance of U.S. banks to handle cash from cannabis sales as a chance to make a fresh fortune in the burgeoning American marijuana industry. Among the post-Soviet success stories to successfully diversify into North American weed was Boris Jordan, a prominent banker and onetime confidante of Vladimir Putin who is now CEO of Curaleaf, one of the world’s largest cannabis companies.

But in Kukushkin’s case, it didn’t work. Though Muraviev funneled $325,000 to a pro-Trump political action committee and another $50,000 to future Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis—victories Muraviev marked in a text message asking when he’d be rewarded for his investment with business licenses—those licenses never materialized. In Nevada, Giuliani’s would-be flunkies missed a crucial deadline to apply. In other states, they just didn’t win a permit.

But in Kukushkin’s case, it didn’t work. Though Muraviev funneled $325,000 to a pro-Trump political action committee and another $50,000 to future Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis—victories Muraviev marked in a text message asking when he’d be rewarded for his investment with business licenses—those licenses never materialized. In Nevada, Giuliani’s would-be flunkies missed a crucial deadline to apply. In other states, they just didn’t win a permit.

Meanwhile, Kukushkin and Muraviev spread around even more money, embarking on a whirlwind tour of California’s cannabis industry.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kukushkin and Muraviev spread around even more money, embarking on a whirlwind tour of California’s cannabis industry.&nbsp;

Muraviev<a href="https://webapps.sftc.org/ci/CaseInfo.dll?CaseNum=CGC18567013&amp;SessionID=C2DBF65CAEA19B1A7666A7533C552EF7B4A57BB8"> invested</a> $1 million into Medithrive, a legacy San Francisco cannabis dispensary in the Mission District. When that investment soured, Kukushkin filed suit in San Francisco Superior Court to recover the money. That matter is still pending.

Muraviev<a href="https://webapps.sftc.org/ci/CaseInfo.dll?CaseNum=CGC18567013&amp;SessionID=C2DBF65CAEA19B1A7666A7533C552EF7B4A57BB8"> invested</a> $1 million into Medithrive, a legacy San Francisco cannabis dispensary in the Mission District. When that investment soured, Kukushkin filed suit in San Francisco Superior Court to recover the money. That matter is still pending.

Muraviev and Kukushkin also <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/23/us/kukushkin-giuliani-russia-cannabis-marijuana.html">partnered</a> with another emigre from the Soviet bloc: Garib Karapetyan, whom the Sacramento Bee described as a “<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/article259435019.html">prominent” figure in that city’s cannabis business</a>. The pair partnered with Karapetyan on at least two consulting businesses, according to state business filings, but their names vanished after Kukushkin’s 2019 indictment.&nbsp;

Muraviev and Kukushkin also <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/23/us/kukushkin-giuliani-russia-cannabis-marijuana.html">partnered</a> with another emigre from the Soviet bloc: Garib Karapetyan, whom the Sacramento Bee described as a “<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/article259435019.html">prominent” figure in that city’s cannabis business</a>. The pair partnered with Karapetyan on at least two consulting businesses, according to state business filings, but their names vanished after Kukushkin’s 2019 indictment.&nbsp;

Karapetyan has never been accused of any wrongdoing.

Karapetyan has never been accused of any wrongdoing.

Muraviev was indicted at the same time as Kukushkin, <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/chrisroberts/2022/03/15/russian-oligarch-who-invested-in-us-politics-marijuana-industry-is-indicted/">according to federal court documents</a> unsealed on Monday. A Russian national, he is believed to live in Moscow, well beyond the reach of American law.

Muraviev was indicted at the same time as Kukushkin, <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/chrisroberts/2022/03/15/russian-oligarch-who-invested-in-us-politics-marijuana-industry-is-indicted/">according to federal court documents</a> unsealed on Monday. A Russian national, he is believed to live in Moscow, well beyond the reach of American law.

Central to Kukushkin’s appeal, according to his attorney, is a claim that he simply wasn’t aware of what the Giuliani crew and Muraviev were doing. Lefcourt said that all Kukushkin wanted to do was create a marijuana empire in San Francisco and beyond.

Central to Kukushkin’s appeal, according to his attorney, is a claim that he simply wasn’t aware of what the Giuliani crew and Muraviev were doing. Lefcourt said that all Kukushkin wanted to do was create a marijuana empire in San Francisco and beyond.

He left Russia to cash in on cannabis in SF. He ended up sentenced to prison with Rudy Giuliani’s associates

Christina Campodonico

You could say that the Bat Cave-themed garage in the Outer Sunset’s iconic Starship House is the granddaddy of tricked-out San Francisco garages.&nbsp;

You could say that the Bat Cave-themed garage in the Outer Sunset’s iconic Starship House is the granddaddy of tricked-out San Francisco garages.&nbsp;

The quirky two-story row house with Art-Deco accents—which also features a replica set of the Starship Enterprise, rooms dedicated to local history and much more pop-cultural bric-a-brac<meta charset="utf-8">—is among the city’s more unique homes.

The quirky two-story row house with Art-Deco accents—which also features a replica set of the Starship Enterprise, rooms dedicated to local history and much more pop-cultural bric-a-brac<meta charset="utf-8">—is among the city’s more unique homes.

James T. Kirk—his given name—started tinkering with his family home, which became <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/sf-culture/article/starship-house-james-kirk-endangered-star-trek-16669288.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">part of a high-profile property war late last year</a> and recently found a buyer, after moving in about 20 years ago. (Kirk plans to live in the lower half of the home and pay rent to the new owner; a possible Airbnb experience is also in the works.) Over the years, the home has become an eccentric landmark for out-of-town lookie-loos as well as a chill hangout for locals to stop by.

James T. Kirk—his given name—started tinkering with his family home, which became <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/sf-culture/article/starship-house-james-kirk-endangered-star-trek-16669288.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">part of a high-profile property war late last year</a> and recently found a buyer, after moving in about 20 years ago. (Kirk plans to live in the lower half of the home and pay rent to the new owner; a possible Airbnb experience is also in the works.) Over the years, the home has become an eccentric landmark for out-of-town lookie-loos as well as a chill hangout for locals to stop by.

The gregarious Kirk is happy to chat just about any time of day.&nbsp;

The gregarious Kirk is happy to chat just about any time of day.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSCF9079-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-40344"/><figcaption>James T. Kirk made the Starship House in the Outer Sunset a local landmark with a replica set of the Starship Enterprise&#8217;s famous bridge from the TV series &#8216;Star Trek.&#8217; | Eloïse Kelsey</figcaption></figure>

core/image

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSCF9079-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-40344"/><figcaption>James T. Kirk made the Starship House in the Outer Sunset a local landmark with a replica set of the Starship Enterprise's famous bridge from the TV series 'Star Trek.' | Eloïse Kelsey</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSCF9079-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-40344"/><figcaption>James T. Kirk made the Starship House in the Outer Sunset a local landmark with a replica set of the Starship Enterprise&#8217;s famous bridge from the TV series &#8216;Star Trek.&#8217; | Eloïse Kelsey</figcaption></figure>

“You know, a lot of people think it&#8217;s kind of crazy, but I really enjoy having the open-door feeling,” he said, likening his home’s come-over-whenever policy to the one that he grew up with during the 1970s and ’80s in the Sunset.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You know, a lot of people think it's kind of crazy, but I really enjoy having the open-door feeling,” he said, likening his home’s come-over-whenever policy to the one that he grew up with during the 1970s and ’80s in the Sunset.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You know, a lot of people think it&#8217;s kind of crazy, but I really enjoy having the open-door feeling,” he said, likening his home’s come-over-whenever policy to the one that he grew up with during the 1970s and ’80s in the Sunset.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We had a lot of open doors and a lot of people would just invite you in,” he said. “It was just a different, different world.”

“We had a lot of open doors and a lot of people would just invite you in,” he said. “It was just a different, different world.”

While the pandemic has driven some to recoil from society, it has led others to rediscover the communal spirit that Kirk remembers so fondly—opening their (garage) doors in uniquely creative and entrepreneurial ways.&nbsp;

While the pandemic has driven some to recoil from society, it has led others to rediscover the communal spirit that Kirk remembers so fondly—opening their (garage) doors in uniquely creative and entrepreneurial ways.&nbsp;

Some are passionate hobbyists, who use their spaces as workshops and ateliers for their crafts, while others are trying to manifest <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/google-apple-hp-microsoft-amazon-started-in-garages-photos-2019-12">their own Silicon Valley origin story</a> by launching a full-fledged business out of their humble car park.

Some are passionate hobbyists, who use their spaces as workshops and ateliers for their crafts, while others are trying to manifest <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/google-apple-hp-microsoft-amazon-started-in-garages-photos-2019-12">their own Silicon Valley origin story</a> by launching a full-fledged business out of their humble car park.

It’s not always easy. In fact, things may actually be harder for those who are good at what they do, as permitting and zoning rules can turn a talented artist or artisan into a scofflaw in short order.

It’s not always easy. In fact, things may actually be harder for those who are good at what they do, as permitting and zoning rules can turn a talented artist or artisan into a scofflaw in short order.

Creative Space: Some Just Want More Room For Activities

<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creative-space-some-just-want-more-room-for-activities">Creative Space: Some Just Want More Room For Activities</h4>

core/heading

<h4 id="h-creative-space-some-just-want-more-room-for-activities">Creative Space: Some Just Want More Room For Activities</h4>

After drag artist and writer Joe Wadlington woke up in a “pile of drag” in his bedroom one too many times, he knew it was time to find a space for his alter ego, Jubilee, to stitch costumes, apply makeup and store her many wigs and glittery costumes.

After drag artist and writer Joe Wadlington woke up in a “pile of drag” in his bedroom one too many times, he knew it was time to find a space for his alter ego, Jubilee, to stitch costumes, apply makeup and store her many wigs and glittery costumes.

While pulling off the lashes and sequined evening wear from the previous night’s show was satisfying, Jubilee’s moltings were starting to drag on Wadlington’s life outside of drag.

While pulling off the lashes and sequined evening wear from the previous night’s show was satisfying, Jubilee’s moltings were starting to drag on Wadlington’s life outside of drag.

Joe Wadlington, who performs under the drag queen name Jubilee, in front of his costume atelier in the Mission. | Photo by Eloise Kelsey

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSCF8669-resized.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-40287"/><figcaption>Joe Wadlington, who performs under the drag queen name Jubilee, in front of his costume atelier in the Mission. | <meta charset="utf-8">Eloïse Kelsey</figcaption></figure>

“If I was in a drag show that week, the entire week—making the outfit, conceiving the number—took over my entire room, so I couldn&#8217;t do anything else,” Wadlington, now a graduate student at San Francisco State, recalled.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“If I was in a drag show that week, the entire week—making the outfit, conceiving the number—took over my entire room, so I couldn't do anything else,” Wadlington, now a graduate student at San Francisco State, recalled.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“If I was in a drag show that week, the entire week—making the outfit, conceiving the number—took over my entire room, so I couldn&#8217;t do anything else,” Wadlington, now a graduate student at San Francisco State, recalled.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So when a garage opened up in his building, Wadlington, with some trepidation about adding onto his monthly rent, leased the space. He hasn’t looked back, even though the endeavor is more of a “money pit” than a thriving performance-based business.&nbsp;

So when a garage opened up in his building, Wadlington, with some trepidation about adding onto his monthly rent, leased the space. He hasn’t looked back, even though the endeavor is more of a “money pit” than a thriving performance-based business.&nbsp;

Wadlington rents the garage for $250 per month (on the lower end of San Francisco garage rents, which can go for $300 to $400 or more), but only takes home about $70 from each drag show after transportation expenses. And that’s not counting the cost of costumes, makeup or the loss of in-person performance opportunities due to the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wadlington rents the garage for $250 per month (on the lower end of San Francisco garage rents, which can go for $300 to $400 or more), but only takes home about $70 from each drag show after transportation expenses. And that’s not counting the cost of costumes, makeup or the loss of in-person performance opportunities due to the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Still, for Wadlington, the creative (and storage) space is worth it.&nbsp;

Still, for Wadlington, the creative (and storage) space is worth it.&nbsp;

“I don&#8217;t see a life for me where I don&#8217;t have a workshop going forward,” he said.&nbsp;

“I don't see a life for me where I don't have a workshop going forward,” he said.&nbsp;

“I don&#8217;t see a life for me where I don&#8217;t have a workshop going forward,” he said.&nbsp;

Similarly, Stephen Amato-Salvatierra’s garage in the Outer Sunset is more of a “sacred little zone” and studio space to “indulge” in his “creative impulses.”&nbsp;

Similarly, Stephen Amato-Salvatierra’s garage in the Outer Sunset is more of a “sacred little zone” and studio space to “indulge” in his “creative impulses.”&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_7502-resized.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-40291"/><figcaption>Stephen Amato-Salvatierra creates a bag made from a repurposed sail. | Eloïse Kelsey</figcaption></figure>

Working in the wine industry by day, Amato-Salvatierra started making handbags out of old sails about 10 years ago. The Ocean Beach Yacht Club, the name he has given his side project, is headquartered out of his garage.&nbsp;

Working in the wine industry by day, Amato-Salvatierra started making handbags out of old sails about 10 years ago. The Ocean Beach Yacht Club, the name he has given his side project, is headquartered out of his garage.&nbsp;

“It&#8217;s kind of an area where I can just go unplug from everything else and get sort of lost in the creative flow,” said Amato-Salvatierra, who mostly focuses on commissions, making small collections of bags and one-offs. “I don&#8217;t really intend on making it like a full-time job. … I want to continue to treat it as sort of an art practice.”

“It's kind of an area where I can just go unplug from everything else and get sort of lost in the creative flow,” said Amato-Salvatierra, who mostly focuses on commissions, making small collections of bags and one-offs. “I don't really intend on making it like a full-time job. … I want to continue to treat it as sort of an art practice.”

“It&#8217;s kind of an area where I can just go unplug from everything else and get sort of lost in the creative flow,” said Amato-Salvatierra, who mostly focuses on commissions, making small collections of bags and one-offs. “I don&#8217;t really intend on making it like a full-time job. … I want to continue to treat it as sort of an art practice.”

Side Hustle to Startup: Turning a Passion into a Profession

<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Side Hustle to Startup: Turning a Passion into a Profession</h4>

<h4>Side Hustle to Startup: Turning a Passion into a Profession</h4>

Andy Omvik and his four housemates are running a side-hustle incubator of sorts out of their Outer Sunset garage.

Andy Omvik and his four housemates are running a side-hustle incubator of sorts out of their Outer Sunset garage.

After one of his roommates acquired a screen printer and an industrial-strength heat-setting dryer a little over a year ago, Omvik, along with his flatmates, friends and creative collaborators have been churning out T-shirts, artistic prints and other screen-printed apparel. What started out as a way to make some quick cash and spread neighborhood pride is starting to look like a viable livelihood for some of them.

After one of his roommates acquired a screen printer and an industrial-strength heat-setting dryer a little over a year ago, Omvik, along with his flatmates, friends and creative collaborators have been churning out T-shirts, artistic prints and other screen-printed apparel. What started out as a way to make some quick cash and spread neighborhood pride is starting to look like a viable livelihood for some of them.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_7028-resized.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-40295"/><figcaption>Jonah Ledingham-Valenzuela gets ready to screen print on a shirt for his clothing brand in the Outer Sunset garage he shares with four housemates. | Eloïse Kelsey </figcaption></figure>

The group recently made a series of prints for the Outer Sunset coffee shop, <a href="https://www.avsf.co/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Avenues</a>, and screen printed tees for local musician ZOLA. Omvik has also been putting the screen printer to work on a project for the Santa Cruz-based apparel brand <a href="https://www.instagram.com/penpalsocialmedia/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penpal</a>. Omvik is also <a href="https://andyomvikphoto.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a photographer</a> and runs photoshoots out the garage where another of his roommates shapes surfboards.

The group recently made a series of prints for the Outer Sunset coffee shop, <a href="https://www.avsf.co/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Avenues</a>, and screen printed tees for local musician ZOLA. Omvik has also been putting the screen printer to work on a project for the Santa Cruz-based apparel brand <a href="https://www.instagram.com/penpalsocialmedia/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penpal</a>. Omvik is also <a href="https://andyomvikphoto.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a photographer</a> and runs photoshoots out the garage where another of his roommates shapes surfboards.

He says that over the course of the pandemic he’s not only been able to dive deeper into his creative process, but also think more about his photography and screen printing as a business.

He says that over the course of the pandemic he’s not only been able to dive deeper into his creative process, but also think more about his photography and screen printing as a business.

After losing his job, Omvik says he was even able to cover three months’ rent through one print sale.

After losing his job, Omvik says he was even able to cover three months’ rent through one print sale.

While Omvik and his crew have yet to formalize their screen printing venture as a business, they do hope to turn a profit one day.&nbsp;

While Omvik and his crew have yet to formalize their screen printing venture as a business, they do hope to turn a profit one day.&nbsp;

Business is also on the mind of freelance graphic designer and Inner Sunset condo owner, Roy Tahtinen, who was inspired to convert his garage and photography studio into an art gallery after showcasing his <a href="https://www.heartsfound.art/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photos of hidden hearts</a> in SF as part of SF Open Studios last fall.&nbsp;

Business is also on the mind of freelance graphic designer and Inner Sunset condo owner, Roy Tahtinen, who was inspired to convert his garage and photography studio into an art gallery after showcasing his <a href="https://www.heartsfound.art/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photos of hidden hearts</a> in SF as part of SF Open Studios last fall.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_7215-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-40301"/><figcaption>Sunset condo owner Roy Tahtinen converted his garage into an art gallery to feature his heart-themed photography. | Eloïse Kelsey</figcaption></figure>

Open Studios not only allowed Tahtinen the opportunity&nbsp;to comfortably share his artwork with others during the pandemic in an airy, open space, it also encouraged him to think about the heart-themed photography he’d been shooting for years and posting online as less of a hobby and more of a business. He sold about 40 pieces during Open Studios and made around $1,000. Converting his garage into an art gallery also allowed Tahtinen to experiment with showcasing his photography for just a few hundred dollars in light renovations.&nbsp;

Open Studios not only allowed Tahtinen the opportunity&nbsp;to comfortably share his artwork with others during the pandemic in an airy, open space, it also encouraged him to think about the heart-themed photography he’d been shooting for years and posting online as less of a hobby and more of a business. He sold about 40 pieces during Open Studios and made around $1,000. Converting his garage into an art gallery also allowed Tahtinen to experiment with showcasing his photography for just a few hundred dollars in light renovations.&nbsp;

“The gallery gives me that launching pad to start from, to be able to print things out and see things together and rearrange things,” said Tahtinen. “If I had to do that within the envelope of my own home, I never could have taken it that far.”

“The gallery gives me that launching pad to start from, to be able to print things out and see things together and rearrange things,” said Tahtinen. “If I had to do that within the envelope of my own home, I never could have taken it that far.”

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_7083-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-40327"/><figcaption>Roy Tahtinen in front of his open art gallery in the Inner Sunset. | Eloïse Kelsey</figcaption></figure>

Tahtinen has since started opening up his garage for online pickup orders and as an art gallery pop-up on Fridays and Sundays, when people can see his photography up close.

Tahtinen has since started opening up his garage for online pickup orders and as an art gallery pop-up on Fridays and Sundays, when people can see his photography up close.

While Tahtinen was unsure if he could convert his garage into an art gallery at first, he says the process of formalizing his space with the city was pretty easy. He called 311, “and they said that as long as I&#8217;m not serving food and I have my proper licenses that I am free to do what I want in that space,” said Tahtinen, noting he has a tax ID with the state and a business license with the city.

While Tahtinen was unsure if he could convert his garage into an art gallery at first, he says the process of formalizing his space with the city was pretty easy. He called 311, “and they said that as long as I'm not serving food and I have my proper licenses that I am free to do what I want in that space,” said Tahtinen, noting he has a tax ID with the state and a business license with the city.

While Tahtinen was unsure if he could convert his garage into an art gallery at first, he says the process of formalizing his space with the city was pretty easy. He called 311, “and they said that as long as I&#8217;m not serving food and I have my proper licenses that I am free to do what I want in that space,” said Tahtinen, noting he has a tax ID with the state and a business license with the city.

“The city seems to be supportive of the arts,” he said.&nbsp;It’s now a “goal” of his to “do more on the business side” with his art gallery.&nbsp;

“The city seems to be supportive of the arts,” he said.&nbsp;It’s now a “goal” of his to “do more on the business side” with his art gallery.&nbsp;

All In: The Full-Fledged ‘Garagepreneurs’

<h4 class="wp-block-heading">All In: The Full-Fledged ‘Garagepreneurs’</h4>

<h4>All In: The Full-Fledged ‘Garagepreneurs’</h4>

Since moving to San Francisco in 2013, ceramicist, apparel and homewares designer Anne Gates had long struggled to balance her artistic passion projects with her day job as a graphic designer in tech.&nbsp;

Since moving to San Francisco in 2013, ceramicist, apparel and homewares designer Anne Gates had long struggled to balance her artistic passion projects with her day job as a graphic designer in tech.&nbsp;

A layoff in 2018 forced her to pivot to contract design work, but the pandemic in March 2020 finally compelled her to embrace her own creative small business, <a href="https://annegates.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anne Gates Studio</a>, full time. She moved out of a high-rent apartment in the Mission to a more affordable two-bedroom with a garage in the Outer Richmond. Gates is no longer working with a sewing machine two feet from her bed and now has the room to work with clay at home, which comes in handy, seeing as her ceramics studio shut down due to the pandemic.

A layoff in 2018 forced her to pivot to contract design work, but the pandemic in March 2020 finally compelled her to embrace her own creative small business, <a href="https://annegates.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anne Gates Studio</a>, full time. She moved out of a high-rent apartment in the Mission to a more affordable two-bedroom with a garage in the Outer Richmond. Gates is no longer working with a sewing machine two feet from her bed and now has the room to work with clay at home, which comes in handy, seeing as her ceramics studio shut down due to the pandemic.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSCF8970-1-2500x1766.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-40305"/><figcaption>Ceramicist and designer Anne Gates in front of her Outer Richmond garage studio. | <meta charset="utf-8">Eloïse Kelsey</figcaption></figure>

For Gates, having a garage has not only given her the physical space to make ceramics and store her wares. It’s also given her the confidence and ability to pursue her business full-time.&nbsp;

For Gates, having a garage has not only given her the physical space to make ceramics and store her wares. It’s also given her the confidence and ability to pursue her business full-time.&nbsp;

“I’m so happy that I am able to be a working artist in the city,” said Gates, who stayed afloat during the pandemic by sewing masks. “This house has been such a gift. … To have the full-time focus be the business and have this safe space and beautiful space to really thrive&#8230; it&#8217;s been wonderfully empowering.”

“I’m so happy that I am able to be a working artist in the city,” said Gates, who stayed afloat during the pandemic by sewing masks. “This house has been such a gift. … To have the full-time focus be the business and have this safe space and beautiful space to really thrive... it's been wonderfully empowering.”

“I’m so happy that I am able to be a working artist in the city,” said Gates, who stayed afloat during the pandemic by sewing masks. “This house has been such a gift. … To have the full-time focus be the business and have this safe space and beautiful space to really thrive&#8230; it&#8217;s been wonderfully empowering.”

Analysis: Haney dominates Campos by shrewdly following shifting political winds

He left Russia to cash in on cannabis in SF. He ended up sentenced to prison with Rudy Giuliani’s associates

Opening doors: Repurposed SF garages give creatives space to pursue passions and chase dreams

Honey Mahogany’s supporters see her as the harbinger of a new kind of San Francisco politics

Food empowerment: A new kind of grocery store may come to the Bayview

Search Results for: condo

Analysis: Haney dominates Campos by shrewdly following shifting political winds

He left Russia to cash in on cannabis in SF. He ended up sentenced to prison with Rudy Giuliani’s associates

Opening doors: Repurposed SF garages give creatives space to pursue passions and chase dreams

Honey Mahogany’s supporters see her as the harbinger of a new kind of San Francisco politics

Food empowerment: A new kind of grocery store may come to the Bayview