The Revival of a Legend

Once the pride of political powerhouse Carmen Warschaw—a woman who shattered California’s glass ceilings and was proudly dubbed The Dragon Lady—this 86-foot steel yacht had been left dormant in San Diego for over a decade. Until we found her.

We saw more than a boat—we saw potential, a platform, and a story that needed to sail again.

And so, we poured in blood, sweat, tears… and a bit of glitter.

Today, she is The Dragon Lady: restored, radiant, and nearly ready to return as a Coast Guard – certified commercial vessel. But we need your help to get there.

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⚓ Help Us Cross the Final Threshold

We’re in the final stage of a three-year lease-to-own agreement with the California State University Maritime Foundation, with a purchase price of $300,000 already negotiated. Now, we are actively preparing for her Certificate of Inspection (COI)—the final step to transition her from a recreational vessel to a Coastwise Commercial Charter yacht.

Once certified, The Dragon Lady will legally carry up to 50 guests for public and private events, unlocking revenue, community engagement, and cultural impact.

This is where you come in.

We’re calling on supporters, visionaries, and fellow dreamers to help us:

• Fund the final safety, navigation, and fire suppression systems for COI  
• Contribute financially or volunteer for hands-on work aboard  
• Share your skills in Brightwork, admin, bookkeeping, or event support  
• Spread the word and invite your community into ours  

Contact Us | Donate or Invest | Volunteer

The Dragon Lady Needs Your Help to Set Sail

A Legend Waiting to Rise

For over a decade, The Dragon Lady—an 86-foot steel yacht with an extraordinary past—sat dormant in San Diego Bay, quietly waiting for someone to see her potential.

We saw it. And we answered her call.

Named after political powerhouse Carmen Warschaw, who shattered California's glass ceilings in the 1960s and was proudly dubbed "The Dragon Lady" by her adversaries, this vessel once hosted some of the state's most influential voices in Democratic politics.

Today, after three years of restoration, blood, sweat, tears, and a bit of glitter, we're 90% of the way to bringing her back as a Coast Guard-certified commercial charter vessel serving San Francisco Bay.

But we need your help to cross the finish line.

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What We're Funding: The Final 10%

We're in the final stage of our three-year lease-to-own agreement with the California State University Maritime Foundation. The purchase price of $300,000 has been negotiated and we're making payments.

Now we need to complete our Certificate of Inspection (COI)—the official Coast Guard certification that will allow us to legally carry passengers and operate commercially.

Your donations will fund:

Total Goal: $75,000

Every dollar goes directly toward these certification requirements. We've already invested hundreds of thousands in hull restoration, engine work, interior refurbishment, and systems. This is the final stretch.

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What Happens When We Launch?

Once certified, The Dragon Lady becomes a revenue-generating vessel that serves the San Francisco Bay community while sustaining itself financially:

We'll Offer:

This isn't just saving a boat—it's launching a community asset that will serve the Bay Area for decades to come.

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Our Mission

To create a safe, fabulous space on the navigable waters of Mother Earth for the LGBTQ+ community, People of Color, Indigenous and marginalized individuals, and the Feminine Divine.

As purveyors of indulgence, we seek to spread human rights to every shore we come upon.

The Dragon Lady represents:

• Cultural preservation – Honoring Carmen Warschaw's legacy
• Community building – Creating inclusive spaces on the water
• Maritime heritage – Keeping classic vessels alive and working
• Radical inclusivity – A platform for voices that deserve to be heard
• Artistic freedom – A floating stage for creativity and expression

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Thank You Gifts for Supporters

While GoFundMe doesn't require rewards, we want to express our gratitude:

From Captain Jerry

"I created Jerry's Faeries to bring joy, connection, and a bit of sparkle to the sea. The Dragon Lady is the next chapter—a place for art, community, and indulgence. Whether you join us with your hands, your heart, or your donation, there's room for you aboard.

This boat has a story. Carmen Warschaw, the original Dragon Lady, fought for what was right when it wasn't popular. She created space for people who were told they didn't belong. Now we're bringing her yacht back to do the same thing.

With your help, we'll sail again."

– Captain Jerry A. Deal
USCG Licensed Master | STCW Certified | FAA Drone Operator
Captain@JerrysFaeries.com | 415-819-2289

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Timeline to Launch

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️ The Work So Far

We've already completed:

• Full hull inspection and steel repairs
• Complete engine rebuild (twin diesels)
• Electrical system overhaul
• Plumbing and sanitation systems
• Interior restoration (salon, galley, staterooms)
• Professional sound system installation (VOID Acoustics)
• Dynamic LED lighting systems
• Deck restoration and refinishing
• Safety rail installation
• Exterior painting and detailing

Estimated value of work completed: $200,000+

This campaign funds THE FINAL ITEMS needed for Coast Guard certification. We're so close!

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Why This Matters

For San Francisco:

• Preserves maritime heritage on our waterfront
• Creates unique event venue unlike anything else in the Bay
• Supports local economy through bookings and jobs

For the LGBTQ+ Community:

• Safe, affirming space for celebrations and gatherings
• Platform for queer artists and performers
• Continuation of SF's tradition of LGBTQ+ cultural spaces

For Everyone:

• Saves a historic vessel from being scrapped
• Creates accessible bay experiences
• Honors Carmen Warschaw's legacy of fighting for inclusion

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Every Dollar Counts

Whether you donate $10 or$10,000, you're helping an icon return to the water. You're supporting:

✨ Maritime heritage preservation
✨ LGBTQ+ community spaces
✨ Local arts and culture
✨ Sustainable community business
✨ Radical inclusivity on the bay

The Dragon Lady is rising. Come aboard and help her soar.

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Questions? Want to Get Involved?

Email: Captain@JerrysFaeries.com
Phone: 415-819-2289
Location: South Beach Harbor, Pier 40, San Francisco

Follow our journey:

• Instagram: [Your IG handle]
• Facebook: [Your FB page]
• Website: DragonLadySF.com

Want to volunteer? We're always looking for skilled hands to help with:

• Marine maintenance and brightwork
• Admin and bookkeeping support
• Event planning and coordination
• Marketing and social media

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⚓ The Dragon Lady's Specifications

Built: 1979 by Skullerud & Sons
Length: 86 feet
Hull: Steel construction
Engines: Twin diesel
Capacity: Up to 50 passengers (once certified)
Decks: 3 levels (upper deck, main deck, lower deck)
Amenities: Full galley, salon, staterooms, multiple entertainment areas

Named After: Carmen Warschaw (1916-2002)

• First female chair of California's Fair Employment Practices Commission
• Democratic Party National Committee member
• "Woman of the Year" – Los Angeles Times, 1968
• Political powerhouse who earned the nickname "The Dragon Lady"

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Stretch Goals

If we exceed our $75,000 goal, additional funds will support:

$85,000 – Professional marketing and photography for launch
$100,000 – First season operating capital and crew training
$125,000 – Enhanced accessibility features for guests with disabilities

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❤️ Thank You

Thank you for believing in The Dragon Lady. Thank you for supporting our mission. Thank you for being part of this journey.

Together, we're not just restoring a yacht—we're creating a floating sanctuary for community, creativity, and celebration.

Let's set sail.

⚓

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