Originally published in the S.F. Examiner on June 5, 2019.

While waiting for the light to change at Fourth and Mission with a fare going to Davies Symphony Hall, a horde of Democrats crosses the street in front of my cab. Once the signal turns green, another wave of conventioneers, most wearing shirts, carrying placards or sporting totes that broadcast their political affiliations, fills the crosswalk.

I can’t help but wonder what the people in back are thinking. I already know they’re from North Carolina and about to experience their first symphony.

This is San Francisco, after all, a renowned liberal bastion, and if you didn’t know the California Democratic Party was holding their annual convention at Moscone, you might assume this was just a normal day in The City.

So when the guy clears his throat and says, “Can I ask you a question?” I expect the inevitable.

“Fire away.”

“Can you recommend a decent spot for a late dinner after the show?”

Oh. It’s all business then…

“Most restaurants close early here,” I tell them. “But there’s a place called Noir Lounge a few blocks from Davies that’s open late.”

Outside the symphony hall, the man hands me a $20 bill on $11.75. Tells me to keep the change.

“Thanks for the info,” he says. “You’re the first white taxi driver we’ve had so far.”

“Uh, happy to help,” I mumble as they exit the cab, then head back downtown to try my luck with the Democrats again…

Read the rest here.

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