Joseph Rocha and Lori Saldaña

Well, I’ll be out of town for about six days for the Harvey Milk Foundation and a religious pilgrimage.

Will Walters vs. San Diego Pride

I recently read the lawsuit filed in federal court against the City and San Diego LGBT Pride by 30-year-old Will Walters and I’m concerned. First of all, Will is represented by the powerful and successful law firm of Mike Aguirre. San Diego Pride’s attorney is Todd Stevens (partner of popular Judge David Rubin). This is going to cost Pride some money to defend this case and all this could have been avoided if San Diego Pride would have issued an apology to Will.

Will Walters was in a great-looking leather outfit and walked all over the parade route and no police officer said a word. Then, wearing the very same outfit to the festival Will gets harassed and arrested because his leather outfit was now too revealing. The charges against Will Walters were, of course, dropped and San Diego Pride assured him that this incident will never happen again as it seems that Pride security not only overly cooperated with the uptight police officers but “banished” him. While I agree that there should be no “weenies, tits, butts” showing at our Pride events Will’s outfit was in no way lewd. Our Pride festival should especially be a place we can all express ourselves. I don’t think San Diego Pride handled this situation well at all and now, instead of issuing Will Walters a simple, deserved apology, they refused and now have a lawsuit against them. After all, Will Walters was harassed and subjected to some homophobic treatment at the county jail and its high-ranking “commander” personally apologized to Will on behalf of the Sheriff’s Dept. and that’s why they aren’t being sued. San Diego Pride’s refusal to also apologize will cost the organization thousands of dollars to now defend this lawsuit or settle it or lose it. A gamble that San Diego Pride should not have taken. Period.

Five days in the state capitol

I love their new airport. I presented some awards to veterans and GLBT leaders at the West Sacramento City Hall (their mayor is gay). Nice to see city council candidate Steve Hansen and Thelma Harris formerly of San Diego and now with Glaxo Smith Kline. The Waterboy continues to be my favorite restaurant. Yes, when I got back to town I, once again, had to check into the hospital, but I’m doing fine now.

Why Lori Saldaña over Peters

All of San Diego loved the late Junior Seau.

It seems all that Scott Peters and his supporters talk about is that he has lots of personal money to win. This has become the verbal “No. 1” talking point of the Peters campaign. Well, good for him that he, like Romney, is another “Mr. Money Bags,” but this congressional district is a lot about average families and blue collar workers.

Don’t forget that Lori Saldaña won her assembly race against two powerful establishment candidates who both out-spent her. Saldaña is a “bold progressive fighter.” Don’t we have enough rich businessmen in Congress? Let’s send a very qualified woman who can relate to the average struggling American. The choice is very clear. If you really want change in our nation’s capitol: Lori Saldaña for Congress!

About the Rainbow Flag issue

Many of you have been asking me questions and are concerned about the Planning Commission voting down, not once but twice, the Rainbow Flag project. First of all, we should all appreciate the very hard work the Hillcrest Business Association and others have done on this important project and we must continue to support it when it comes before the city council. I do feel that bringing up the huge Rainbow flag in the “Castro” of San Francisco is a mistake. We are San Diego and are “America’s Finest City” and our community stands on its own. I do wish that huge American and Rainbow flags could fly together in Hillcrest in honor of our military personnel and veterans. At any rate, this great project needs all of our support, so let’s get behind the Rainbow Flag project!

F.Y.I.

More than 950 tickets have been sold for the annual Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast (May 25). There are only a few tables left, so contact The Center today as it will be soon sold out again. Hey all you Latinos and Latino lovers out there, this coming Saturday (May 5) is the 14th annual Cinco de Mayo fiesta. Show time is 6:30 p.m. Your host: Carlos Silva. Video stars Brent Everett and husband Steve Pena of San Diego are on the cover of Just Us Boys magazine. North County’s new LGBTQ Center will be having their annual gala We are Family May 19 at the Oceanside Museum of Art. For more info: 760-672-1848. Russell Roybal, the deputy director of the N.G.L.T.F. in Washington, D.C., was in town this past weekend. San Diego hopes to host another Creating Change conference in the future. Stuart Milk will be in San Diego May 22 for the Harvey Milk Street dedication. Joseph Rocha tells me the recently established GLBT Veterans Advisory Council is in place and soon names will begin to be placed on the Ben F. Dillingham and Bridget Wilson LGBT Veterans Wall of Honor of San Diego County. Word is that Lei’s Lounge will reopen in June. Look for many San Diego civic and community leaders to drop their voter registration as Republicans and Democrats and become Independents in support of the new group “Move to the Middle” and Nathan Fletcher after the primary. Yes, plans are coming along for the first Harvey Milk American Diner to open in Hillcrest and soon to sweep America!

Super-popular Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom will be in Hillcrest May 23 campaigning for Bob Filner to be held at Rich’s (5 p.m.). The Ben F. Dillingham Community Grant recently paid for yet another cremation of a gay father of two who died of AIDS. This fund also paid for many cremations for those who could not even afford this last dignity in ones life. Look for the return for one night only of The Dating Game at Flicks for a charity fundraising event.

Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsandiego@aol.com.

Police Officers’ Widows/Orphans Fund charity event

Well, I’m off to our state capitol for five days of meetings and some speeches. Our governor could be naming a new gay or lesbian judge for San Diego soon.

Police Officers’ Widows/Orphans Fund gets GLBT support

Not long ago Police Officer Jeremy Henwood was shot and killed after stopping by a McDonald’s to buy some cookies for a little boy. Whenever a police officer is killed in the line of duty, and we see the TV news reporting families, funerals etc., all San Diegans weep. Recently, the San Diego Police Officers Association held a fundraiser at that same McDonald’s for their Widows/Orphans Fund so I turned to some in our community to put together a contribution to this important cause … $1,600 was raised in a few hours from Rich’s, Numbers, Caliph, Bourbon Street, City Commissioner Bruce Abrams, Big Mike, Allan Spyere, Imperial Court, Ben Dillingham Community Fund and the San Diego LGBT Weekly. S.D.P.O.A. president, Brian Marvel, Police Chief Bill Lansdown and dozens of officers in attendance expressed their deep appreciation to our GLBT community when Nick Moede, Allan Spyere, Big Mike and I attended the fundraiser. Of course, our popular councilman, Todd Gloria and his staff were there after Officer Henwood’s awful murder happened in the heart of District 3. One of the first times we supported the SDPOA was in the 1980s when we presented more than $4,000 at the Nicky Awards for a police memorial which now stands at police headquarters in downtown San Diego.

People, politics and opinions

I’m endorsing former assemblywoman, Lori Saldana for Congress. We badly need more qualified women in our nation’s capitol; and Saldana’s voting record for equality has always been rated 100 percent by Equality California.

Councilman Todd Gloria raised the $51,000 to keep the AIDS- prevention syringe program alive thanks to both Republican and Democrat contributions of Councilmembers Young, Faulconer, Emerald and Alvarez. Gay Councilmember Carl DeMaio refused to not only contribute a dime but also was the lone vote (7-1) against supporting this most important AIDS-prevention program. Shame on you DeMaio. But I’m sure your lack of support pleased your Tea Party and radical right wing base of supporters.

Openly lesbian and national Democratic activist, the wealthy Hilary Rosen really put her high heel in her mouth when she blasted Ann Romney and truly did give her a great “birthday present!”

I recently had breakfast with Congressional candidate John Brooks. While this up-and-coming African American Democrat is considered a long-shot against Vargas and Denchney, he’s a fighter; and you have to give him respect.

Openly gay state assembly speaker, the powerful and influential top Democrat John Perez praised ex-Marine Nathan Fletcher’s decision to become an Independent.

Republican County Supervisor Pam Slater-Price’s endorsement of popular former mayor, Dave Roberts (a Democrat) has helped him rise in the polls to succeed her.

I am so very proud of the many national GLBT organizations who came out in support of Florida teen Trayvon Martin, who was shot to death by a “wanna-be cop.” Now they should come out against that state’s insane “stand your ground” law.

Super-popular Mayor Jerry Sanders and Sheriff Bill Gore have been seen frequently volunteering at Bonnie Dumanis’ campaign headquarters. Now that Councilman Todd Gloria is unopposed for re-election, the talk is about who will succeed him after his last term. The top name being mentioned in this heavy Democratic district is Steven Whitburn. Interestingly, Andrew Poat, who registered as an Independent not long ago has endorsed Fletcher for mayor; hmm … But Poat’s many past endorsements of arch-conservative Republicans may hurt him as another possible candidate to succeed Gloria. Mayoral candidate Bob Filner was received like a conquering hero at this past weekend’s annual Democratic Party dinner. Look for a possible announcement next week about Filner’s involvement and support of another big national effort to honor Harvey Milk’s legacy. The annual Harvey Milk San Diego Breakfast (May 25) has already sold almost 900 tickets, so get your tables/tickets today because it will be sold out again.

City Commissioner Robert Gleason recently had breakfast with General Daniel Yoo, commander of the MCRD.

Joseph Rocha is the new chair of the GLBT Veterans Wall of Honor Advisory Council at The Center.

Chad Michaels, RuPaul … San Diego native superstars!

No one is surprised that San Diego’s award-winning entertainer, Chad Michaels has made the top three finalists of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Logo TV’s top-rated show. Chad Michaels has been a superstar long before this show and will continue to be one no matter the final outcome. Executive producer, RuPaul was born in San Diego and Chad has become the pride of, not only San Diego, but fans all over the world. He has been classy, smart, sensitive and proven that many female impersonators are, indeed, smart and articulate. Chad has made it clear that she is a “professional” to quote her more than a dozen times over! Yes, she has been humorous, smart and played the game well. I first met Chad when I was the founder/producer of the Dreamgirls Revue (Wednesdays at Urban Mo’s and Saturday’s at Bourbon Street). Trust me, he was a mini “hot mess” and very new to the business and his drag mom, Hunter, convinced me to give him a chance and hire him. As Chad’s drag “granny” I’m so very proud of him as, I’m sure, his partner of eight years Adam is. Yes; at times Chad Michaels has had a healthy ego but to know him is to love him; and to see him entertain just once is to become a fan for life. By the way, I just fell in love with Latrice Royale … an old-school queen who is fabulous!

Wang’s is No. 1 Chinese restaurant!

Move over P.F. Chang’s there is a new king of all Chinese restaurants. Wang’s (3829 University Ave.) has taken over the throne and is now No. 1. Last week, San Diego businessman Sherman Mendoza and I had another fabulous dinner at this super-popular classy place. Everything, and I mean everything, on the menu is outstanding and you just can’t go wrong. I do wish they would add their “Duck Sliders” on their menu. Handsome co-owner Tom Eads makes everyone feel welcome and their entire staff is friendly and great (lots of handsome men and beautiful women). So, for the best Chinese food in town it’s now definitely Wang’s.

37th annual Nicky Awards: Aug. 26

The “gay academy awards of San Diego,” yes, the 37th presentation of the Nicky Awards has been set for Sunday, Aug. 26. This annual charity fundraiser is always fun and fabulous with outstanding entertainment. The producers have informed me there will be some new exciting changes for 2012. Did you know that current American Idol top finalist Jessica Sanchez performed and sang at a past Nicky Awards show? For more information on San Diego’s gay Oscars phone 619-300-1232.

Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsandiego@aol.com.

Emperor Tom Dickerson and Emperor Allan Spyere at the annual Easter egg hunt at Trolley Barn Park

Sunday morning, I started getting really early phone calls from back East as my picture made the New York Times society page and was done by famed photographer Bill Cunningham who caught me at a gala GLBT charity event.

Laura Duffy has let us all down

When openly lesbian Laura Duffy was appointed a United States attorney for this region I was very proud and still am, though I’ve disagreed with some of her decisions. But this recent “plea deal” with that murdering monster Benjamin Arellano Felix who headed the most ruthless and murdering Mexican drug cartel is a disgrace.

For more than two decades this man has been responsible for the murders of countless families and innocent children. U.S. Attorney Duffy sentenced him to only 25 years in prison. Even the sentencing U.S. District Judge Larry Burns said that if he could have he would have imposed a longer sentence but Laura Duffy’s deal with this monster stopped him from being able to do it. Interestingly, Laura Duffy sentenced some of Felix’s top aides to “life sentences” but not the head monster whose bloody rule over the Tijuana drug world included more than 1,000 killings which included victims tortured and even their bodies dissolved in acid.

Yet this is the same U.S. Attorney Laura Duffy who has gone nuts and been fanatically obsessed over closing down all of our city’s medical marijuana stores.

Ms. Duffy, you have sent the wrong message to the real drug world leaders with your deal-making and shame on you. There is no excuse … period.

Harvey Milk Street … Jess Jessop Avenue … Chris Kehoe Library?

Things are going well and as planned for the possible dedication of Harvey Milk Street in San Diego, next month. Our city has named hundreds of streets after prominent civic leaders and prominent Americans, but this would be the first street named after an openly gay American hero who served in the Navy while stationed in San Diego. Harvey Milk fell in love with California, and then moved to San Francisco; but it was our city that made this Navy veteran fall in love with the Golden State … and the rest is history.

It is our hope to continue to get outstanding citizens honored in San Diego as other civil leaders, people of color community leaders etc. have been. It is our goal to some day have a street dedicated in honor of Jess Jessop, Gloria Johnson, Jeri Delino and Ben Dillingham … all who have served, not only our country (three are veterans), but our community and city (many in official capacities). State Sen. Chris Kehoe will be retiring from office this year and I believe, someday, a public school should be named Sen. Christine Kehoe Elementary or High School!

We GLBT citizens of San Diego have just the same outstanding civic and community leaders and it is time they are recognized and honored as others have been. Interestingly, there is a Neil Good Homeless Shelter in downtown San Diego named after the second openly gay candidate to run for public office. (Al Best, our first candidate should also be recognized.) As chairman of this GLBT History Task Force I want to thank you all for your support for our Harvey Milk Street campaign, especially our hard-working members and San Diego LGBT Pride.

We now need donations to cover the new changed Harvey Milk Street signs … please send your contribution to LGBT Pride, P.O. Box 34366, San Diego 92163 or for more info. call 619-692-1967. Thank you. A special shout out and thank you to Councilman Todd Gloria and his great staff.

And, by the way, I think it’s time to get a campaign going to get a U.S. Navy ship named after Harvey Milk.

Children’s Easter Egg Hunt another success

A very big hug and thank you to everyone who made our Ninth annual Children’s Easter Egg Hunt another huge success with hundreds of smiling children and their families having a great Easter Sunday at Trolley Barn Park. Co-sponsors of this annual event were the Imperial Court, The LGBT Center/Family Matters and the offices of Councilman Todd Gloria, who made this all possible and brought so much joy to hundreds of these children. Thanks as well to: The Caliph, San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus, Promenade Apts., Rich’s, Lips, Bourbon St., Numbers, San Diego Rodeo, Leather Pride, Redwing D.J. Melo, William Oyos, Ben Dillingham, Nick Moede, Chris Plato, Sherman Mendoza, Michael and Billy Weiss, Tom Ketelaar, Lambda Archives, Big Mike, Allan Spyere, Erika Odessa, Kaiden, the Bears, Robert Rodriguez, Joseph Grienenberger, the Firefighters Local Union 145, the Eagle, Jackie-O, Robert Gleason, Charles Haggis, Sandra Lawhon, Frank Noblietti, Evans Hotels, Meldon Miller, Maureen Steiner, Camille Davidson, SDMEA, Rick Ford, Municipal Employees Association, Fred Townson, San Diego LGBT Weekly, Gay San Diego, Lorena Gonzalez, and big hugs to all the volunteers, especially from Family Matters (kisses to Jane and Carolina), the Imperial Court members and chairs: Empress A.J. and Emperor Tom … please forgive me if I’ve forgotten anyone … as the founder of this event it warms this old queens heart to see such love and generous outpourings of support from both the GLBT and straight community.

Comedian Robin Tyler’s special show: April 19

One of North America’s most famous, legendary and hilarious comedians will be doing a one night only show at the American Comedy Company, Thursday April 19. Yes, the one and only Robin Tyler will do her outrageous show to benefit our popular district attorney, Bonnie Dumanis who’s running for mayor … for reservations or more info. Americancomedyco.com

Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsandiego@aol.com.

Join Imperial Court this Easter Sunday for the annual Easter egg hunt at Trolley Barn Park.

Since writing a weekly column since the early 1970s I’ve never missed three columns in a row … so, of course, I understand all the concerns, questions and gossip.

So, as I’ve always been open with my life with my readers I will set the record straight. No, I was not in the hospital for two weeks, but only three days. No, I’m not dying but I did have some scary moments. Old age can be, at times, very challenging and lately I have fallen or stumbled outside and, yes, inside my senior living apartment. At times my breathing has brought me problems and my heart … well … I live alone with my beloved cat Nixon. I am blessed to have close friends who drop by and make sure I have food and drink as I was bedridden for more than a week. I have been receiving endless phone calls and emails etc., and while I appreciate them I’ve always tried to be private about these details but they have gotten out. There are some gossipy hospital nurses that I would like to choke! At any rate I’m sorry I’ve missed so many meetings, events, etc., this past month but I’m doing better and taking all my medications. In fact, I am doing so much better that my doctor let me go to New York for about five days and, yes, see a specialist. But my last thoughts to you are this … I am blessed that I have so many caring friends. I live with and know a lot of my fellow seniors who are truly alone and uncared for. It breaks my heart to see them go through illness and life almost totally alone. Please try to reach out and make friends with a senior you know or live by. We are all going to get old. Thank you for listening.

New York

Well, trust me, I stayed in my hotel bed for about 75 percent of the time, but my view overlooked all of Times Square. Thank you, the Marriott Marquis Hotel. I had the honor of dedicating a wall at the historic Stonewall Inn (including a picture of me!) After my short speech I went back to my hotel but this historic, wonderful event went on with hundreds in attendance. At the big charity event attended by more than 1,000 people benefitting PFLAG and New Alternatives for homeless GLBT youth I had a great time and it was fun to have CoCo LaChine at my table and we fell in love with Olympic medalist Johnny Weir and comedian Lisa Lampanelli. I had the honor to present them awards along with all-time favorite world-renowned photographer Mike Ruiz. In my address to the huge New York audience I reminded them we all still should be concerned about the safety of our GLBT youth. We should also be concerned about a 17-year-old black teenage boy being shot and killed. I stopped by the beautiful Holy Cross Church and said some prayers for my friends and some who just recently passed away.

Please donate children’s Easter baskets

As many of you know, more than a decade ago grandmother Linda Childers and I founded an annual Children’s Easter Egg Hunt held every Easter Sunday at Trolley Barn Park in University Heights. Last year more than 600 children attended! This years sponsors are the Imperial Court, The LGBT Center and the City Council offices of Todd Gloria … and so many bars, businesses, sports groups, etc. Well, we badly need your help. Please donate children’s Easter baskets. You can drop them off at The Center or phone 619-692-1967 for more information. Thank you so very much.

Nathan Fletcher … a man of principle

Almost two years ago state Assemblyman Nathan Fletcher and I had lunch (at Baja Betty’s) and we were discussing upcoming state legislation. During our conversation we talked about the partisan, negativity and worsening battles between Republicans and Democrats. And, yes, we talked about him becoming an Independent because of the vicious and hateful attacks on him and his family by many Republicans over his support of the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and over his support of gay history being taught in our schools. I personally read some of this hate mail and the worst were the ones attacking his family, sons and faith.

Both the Democratic and Republican Parties are raising money for one of the most negative mayoral campaigns in our city’s history. I was sad to read Jess Durfee’s attack on Fletcher registering as an Independent, and I quote, “One of the most cynical political ploys we’ve seen in San Diego in decades.” How dare you Jess; you don’t even know this decorated young ex-Marine who has stood up for equality for all citizens and been so viciously attacked.

Nathan Fletcher is a man of character and principle and did what has been burning in his heart for years … there has to be a better way and for your information, Mr. Durfee, the highest growing registration is Independents as both parties continue to fight and let us down. No, I still have not officially endorsed a candidate as I highly respect Bob Filner and Bonnie Dumanis but, let me say, I am very proud of Nathan.

Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsandiego@aol.com.

Hopefully Hillcrest will soon be the home of a huge Rainbow Flag and Harvey Milk Street.

People, politics, opinions

So, Congressman David Dreier of California has decided not only to retire but stay in his closet ‘til the very end. This gay Republican could have done so much for our fight for equality, but never even raised a finger. So Martina Navratilova is going to be on Dancing with the Stars. Well, all I have to say to the producers is “good luck” as she was the most difficult and demanding person for me to work with at our Marches on Washington in the 1980s and ‘90s. (Ellen DeGeneres and Melissa Etheridge were wonderful, unlike Navratilova.)

Good for Congressman Bob Filner who has urged President Obama to reclassify marijuana as a schedule II or III drug. Looks like popular state Assemblyman Marty Block will be facing an influential conservative Republican for the state Senate. We all need to get behind Marty!

Sen. Kehoe and Assemblywoman Atkins will be co-hosting a fundraiser for Dr. Shirley Weber for the state Assembly this Sunday afternoon.

Nathan Fletcher, the author of Chelsea’s Law, was at Sunday’s second annual walk for the Chelsea’s Light Foundation and among those donating $900 in honor of Fletcher were Nick Moede (Rich’s and Numbers), the Imperial Court de San Diego, City Commissioner Bruce Abrams and businesswoman Mrs. Alma Rosa Vasic. At a recent civic event someone referred to renowned Union-Tribune columnist Tom Blair (most read in the city) as a true “San Diego historian.” And I could not agree more! Please support the ongoing campaign to end California’s death penalty, once and for all.

Congratulations to County Commissioner Bruce Abrams on becoming the first openly gay elected member of the Anti-Defamation League San Diego Regional Board … long overdue. Get your tickets today for the fourth annual Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast (May 25) as it’s going to be another sold out event with 1,000 people. Info: 619-692-2077 x 204. Harveymilkbreakfast.org.

Dr. Michael Clark

The late Dr. Clark was a proud openly gay businessman and a prominent Republican Party leader when most would stay in their closets. The University Club, founded in 1908, is the oldest San Diego private social club and didn’t have its first female president ‘til 1996 and still has never had one of color. But in 1990 it elected openly gay Dr. Michael Clark as its president and last week I got invited to the official unveiling of the President’s Gallery, which included Michael’s portrait. I was a friend of his and Susan Jester (founder AIDS Walk) was also in attendance. Among past presidents of the prestigious University Club are mayors, military officers and major businessmen. Indeed, Michael Clark was a respected and dedicated community leader.

Paul King, “RIP,” … my creator

I was saddened to hear that 87-year-old gay businessman Paul King recently passed away. King was a mover and shaker in the gay community in the 1970s and was the publisher of the San Diego Sun and gave me my first weekly column, and yes, kinda got me started! He was a very generous businessman who always gave back to our community and when AIDS first broke out he and Frank Stirriti of Vulcan’s underwrote our city’s first AIDS education material and were major funders of our early struggling AIDS agencies. Paul was a good friend and even took care of me when I overdosed on drugs and gave me a job. We travelled to Mexico a lot and a few days ago I talked to his long-time partner Richard Dewalt and we went down memory lane. Rest in peace old friend.

Titanic exhibit … sinks

The so called, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition now showing at the Natural History Museum in Balboa Park is just plain awful and way overpriced. Don’t be fooled as it’s just a bunch of broken bottles, cups and dishes. The recent documentaries on the Titanic are 100 percent better and are cheaper to rent or catch on The History Channel … period.

Chapman Collection … the best

We all love special stores with one-of-a-kind items that are unbelievable and the best around (for more than two decades) is The Chapman Collection in Horton Plaza (on the top-floor mall). They have the most beautiful antiques, collectables and furniture. I’m talking incredible and because of the economy … low, low prices. So if you are looking for that special gift or tapestries, artwork, etc, check out the chapmancollection.com.

Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsandiego@aol.com.

The Oscars were outstanding – a return to glamour and traditions, but I wanted The Help to win everything.

San Francisco

This has been one of my very favorite destinations since the 1960s. Yes, those hippie years were outrageous and, of course, I wore both bell bottoms and mini skirts (with high go go boots).

A very special thank you to Mark Dean of C-Two Hotels who hosted my stay. The Hotel Fusion is a fabulous boutique hotel. I was in San Francisco for the annual Jose Julio Sarria Honors, named after the 88-year-old World War II veteran and first openly gay candidate (1961) to run for an elected office in North America. Since Jose could not be in attendance because of failing health I had the honor to present the awards to a police officer, high school principal, businesspeople, GLBT parents and charity fundraisers. It was great to see my good friends Sen. Mark Leno and City Treasurer Joe Cisneros and was flattered to get a welcome to the city by Mayor Edwin Lee.

I had a breakfast meeting with the executive director of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus who are working on a musical tribute to Harvey Milk. I stopped by the HRC store to see my friend, general manager, Shane Martin. To be honest, I got somewhat tired and exhausted so I’ve cancelled my upcoming trips to Vancouver and Washington, D.C. (I’m starting to listen to my doctor more.)

A most humbling experience

While I truly appreciate the many calls and e-mails congratulating myself and Dr. Delores Jacobs for being named “local heroes” by KPBS and Union Bank I can tell you I have never been more humbled at the awards ceremony held recently at the beautiful Balboa Theatre. The really true heroes were some of my co-honorees like Dr. Jacobs and Dr. Edith Eva Eger who at the age of 16 was sent to the Auschwitz death camp and lost her family. Or Kathy Anderson, co-founder of Survivors of Torture International and Rachael Ortiz, the loving founder, “mother” of Barrio Station or Bill Bodry, the founder of Challenge Center.

I wish to most sincerely thank KPBS and Union Bank.

Victory Brunch = more than $100,000

The growing political and money power of the San Diego GLBT community was in full display at this past Sunday’s annual Victory Brunch at the Catamaran Resort Hotel. National leaders Susan Atkins Weathers and Robert Gleason (both the pride of San Diego) led the event. (Great job, also, to Matt Stephens, Bob Mablowitz, John Lipsey and Marcia Green.)

It was nice to see Christine Quinn again, who is on her way to become the next mayor of New York. At my table were Rabbi Laurie Coskey, Labor Council CEO Lorena Gonzalez, County Commissioner Bruce Abrams, College Board member Humberto Peraze, law student Christian Castro, Empress XL Lady Ajax and F St. Corp. CEO Mrs. Alma Rosa Vasic. Mayoral candidates Congressman Bob Filner, state Assemblyman Nathan Fletcher and District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis attended the brunch and were all seen table-hopping.

Well, more than $100,000 was raised in a few hours.

Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsandiego@aol.com.

Nicole with Hall of Famer and former Chargers linebacker Junior Seau

Well I’m off to San Francisco for about four days and then some rest and on to Vancouver and New York.

People, politics and opinions

Well, it finally happened! Former Log Cabin Republican president, Will Rodriguez-Kennedy has re-registered as a Democrat. Though I have not endorsed anyone officially in the Saldaña and Peters race I am now leaning heavily toward Lori Saldaña. I don’t like the beating up on Saldaña that’s happening mostly because Peters has more money. Not a good enough reason for many of us. I have decided to support Shirley Weber, for the state Assembly, whom I have known and respected for almost three decades.

No, I haven’t made an endorsement in the upcoming county supervisor’s race, but I am leaning toward Steve Danon. Well, all I have to say to Ralph Denney and his fourth run for the state Assembly is good luck. Ralph is a nice enough guy but our hearts belong to Toni Atkins, period. I strongly urge your support for the re-election of Councilwoman Sherri Lightner – a true public servant of the people.

Yes, Allan Spyere is back in San Diego and, yes, he has high profile attorneys and, yes, we called our contacts with the state department, etc, etc. I’ve done this with others needing my assistance and what was one of the first things Spyere did when he got out? Continue with the Imperial Court’s monthly visits to senior convalescent hospitals to spend time with shut-in seniors.

Presenting the original rainbow motif Pride flag: (L to R) Nick Moede, Pepper Price, Robb Rodriguez, Ajax, Tom, Benjamin Nicholls

Washington celebrates marriage equality

It was great spending three days in the latest state where marriage equality was passed by both houses and signed into law by their governor, Chris Gregoire. Of course, now the radical right has organized to get this issue on the ballot and overturn it in November. As I said in one of my speeches, “Time, indeed history, is on our side as we of the GLBT equality movement are the civil rights movement of the 21st century.” The whole time I was in Seattle it was on and off pouring rain. Michael Zarbo of the San Diego Filipino Cultural Society stopped by the Seattle Filipino Community Center as San Diego is looking to build one here. Sunday we went to one of the most beautiful churches in the region, St. James Cathedral. I was pretty booked up with events and meetings so I didn’t get to check out any of the gay nightlife.

Check out Revivals

I just love Revivals (1644 University Ave.), the best secondhand thrift store on the West Coast. Best prices and super-friendly staff and volunteers.

Like many of you I’m struggling to make ends meet and Revivals has everything at super-low prices during these difficult economic times for many of us. Revivals is heaven-sent.

Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsd@aol.com.

The governor of Washington signed a bill legalizing gay marriage earlier this week and now I’m off to Seattle to help celebrate and give a speech.

Mayor, sheriff, majority whip, district attorney and congressmembers attend royal events

In the 1970s no elected public official would dare attend a “homosexual event” as it would be committing political suicide. The then mayor refused even to meet homosexual community activists because he felt there wasn’t really a homo constituency. Well, we have indeed come a long way, baby! At this past weekend’s 40th anniversary events for the Imperial Court, Republicans and Democrats comfortably mixed with drag queens and GLBT royalty from all over Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Among the VIPs in attendance at the Imperial State Dinner and Coronation Ball were Mayor Jerry Sanders, Congresswoman Susan Davis, Sheriff Bill Gore, Majority Whip of the state Assembly Toni Atkins, District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis, Congressman Bob Filner (with his beautiful fiancée), state Assemblyman Nathan Fletcher, City Councilmembers Todd Gloria and Sherri Lightner and School Board Member Kevin Beiser.

About 1,000 people attended the numerous royal celebrations held throughout the weekend including Port Commissioner Bob Nelson, City Commissioner Robert Gleason, County Commissioners Ben F. Dillingham, Bruce Abrams and Frank Lechner, City Commissioners Larry Baza and Kevin Tilden, Dr. Bill Beck, Attorney Rick Kerman, Mrs. Alma Rosa Vasic, Alberto Cores, City Task Force Member Stephen Whitburn, Dr. Delores Jacobs, Attorney Robert Lynn, Chris Shaw, California Bank Senior Vice President Cindy Lehman, Bob Morris, N.G.L.T.F. Deputy Director Russell Royball, Harvey Milk Foundation founder Stuart Milk, Labor Council Director/CEO Lorena Gonzalez, Attorney Al Smithson and many more.

The Imperial Court sincerely thanks all the many organizations and agencies who sent representatives to show their respect and appreciation. As for those that didn’t … well, don’t call us, we’ll call you … and, oh yes, the check is in the mail.

Dear Johnathan Hale

While many people are not happy with your negative story on community activist and charity fundraiser Allan Spyere, I don’t really understand why you have always loved to kick a guy when he’s down.

You hounded Michael Portantino with media attack after attack and he, unfortunately, commited suicide. You and your “promise-ring” partner Carl DeMaio have attacked long-time GLBT activists and fundraisers who you guys call the “Golden Thirty” though many of them helped build the community and civil rights you and Carl enjoy today.

You, Johnathan, just love being a pit bull of negativity, ugliness and pettiness. You continue to push your two well-known pit bull puppies (on your payroll) who have drank the DeMaio/Hale Kool-Aid to write letters and blogs praising their blind loyalty to you both and kissing your ass to the point that they have lost a lot of community respect that they once had.

But, the truth is, Allan is, and Michael was a public figure so the media has the right to report on them and their lives. Hell, in more than 45 years of my activism, countless articles have been written about my past street life and drug addiction. So you are in your right to put media spotlights on these two gentlemen and many others you just plainly hate. But never forget, Johnathan Hale, you, too, are a public figure. Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsd@aol.com.

A very warm welcome to GLBT royalty, from all over the USA, Canada and Mexico, here for Coronation XL and to GLBT Democrats here for the California Democratic Party Convention.

Only general tickets available for royal events

Dinner tickets for both the Imperial State dinner, set for this Friday night, and the 40th anniversary Coronation Ball Saturday night (Feb. 11) have been completely sold out. There are some general seating and tables available ($40) but I urge you to get them quickly 619-254-6372 and 619-540-8727. There might be some available at the door but only for Saturday’s event ($50 door). This year the current 39th reign, monarchs and the board of directors have given out more than $70,000 in community grants.

Among Coronation XL honorees will be, Emperor I Omar (1973), Empress II Toby (1974), Empress V Morgana (1976) and Empress Norma who will all be in attendance. Friday night’s state dinner will include two well-known opera stars and Saturday’s Coronation Ball, A Military Affair, will include pageantry and some unbelievable and exciting entertainment.

Everyone is welcome and invited to attend this week’s celebrations and it is San Diego GLBT leaders, activists and organizations chance to show their respect and appreciation to the members of the Imperial Court for 40 years of noble deeds.

Allan Spyere: You are loved and will be missed

It is with a sad heart that I tell you all that community activist, fundraiser and popular personality, Allan Spyere has to return to his native land, Brazil, to take care of some personal matters. More sadly, Allan will not be able to attend Coronation XL and preside at all this weekend’s events as our reigning emperor de San Diego.

Many of you know Allan was like a grandson to me. He was more than a friend, Allan was family. My heart is truly broken and I miss him so much already. He should be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for putting up with me these last years. Allan was producer, along with Lisa Sanders, of the Nicky Awards and was greatly involved with the Harvey Milk Foundation and so many organizations and causes. He was San Diego LGBT Weekly’s club scene reporter and a popular bartender at Numbers. Allan has a loving family in Brazil who are looking forward to having him home.

Harvey Milk books going to school districts

In 2001, elementary school teacher and author Kari Krakow with former Walt Disney animation artist David Gardner published their book, The Harvey Milk Story for 8 year old students and over. The Imperial Court de San Diego, the Queen Eddie GLBT Youth Fund and The LGBT Center has purchased more than 250 of these books that will be presented, this Saturday night, to the San Diego School District and the New York School District that Harvey Milk attended when he was a little boy. Accepting these books at Coronation XL will be school board member, Kevin Beiser, Stuart Milk and some GLSEN officials. This presentation will indeed be an historic first event and San Diego will one of the first cities in the nation to be providing gay history books to school districts.

Kickin’ it with Toni Atkins

I’ve had the pleasure of being a long-time friend of Toni Atkins for many years. I first met her when she was involved with women’s health issues and agencies and she got me and the Imperial Court to hold fundraisers for women not able to pay for cancer tests (our first benefit raised more than $3,000). Toni Atkins has never been a politician, but a true public servant coming from the Deep South where she was born, and lived in a house with no running water or electricity. She is one of the most down-to-earth and honest individuals I’ve ever met. She has risen from a San Diego city councilmember to acting mayor of San Diego and now majority whip of the California state Assembly.

This past Friday we spent some fun time together. First we went to lunch and had a great time talking about the community and politics. Then we were off to a photo shoot with Sen. Chris Kehoe, Councilman Marti Emerald, former Councilwoman Donna Frye and, yes, Congressman Bob Filner. Now this was a lively gathering to say the least. Later that evening Toni picked me up again to attend the Lambda Archives’ fun Pajama Party fundraiser at the fabulous Snooze restaurant. I love just “kickin’ it” with my pal Toni.

RuPaul’s Drag Race IV is fabulous

Logo TV’s smash hit RuPaul’s Drag Race is better than ever and San Diego’s very own Chad Michaels is doing California so very proud (including me your little old grandma!)

I think hot tiny Latina, Kenya, is most certainly the beauty on duty but Chad is giving her a run for her money.

I can’t stand William from L.A. – bad attitude and needs to shave closer. Madame seems nice but is a “Ct” version of last season’s fab diva Delta Works (could be Delta’s understudy). I love, love, love Latrice, a very wise big girl with a lot of talent. No one better screw with this ex con with a heart of gold, but a fist of a beast! Jiggly is a par hot mess who’s brought her personal baggage to the show. She reminds me of a prettier Mama Cass of San Diego fame. (And she looks like Season II’s Juju Been plus 200 more pounds!)

I don’t know what to make of Sharon Needles. She is one scary-looking queen. Princess should be stripped down to a baroness. But one thing is certain and that is Season IV looks like a silicone explosion with creepy vampire eye contacts everywhere! Chad Michaels has certainly become a star of the show and her down-to-earth blunt talk about her underground silicone treatment will most certainly save some lives.

The Wellington is a five star restaurant

Move over Morton’s and Ruth’s Chris because there is a new king of steakhouses and it’s The Wellington (729 Washington Street) right here in Mission Hills. This past Monday night I returned for another outstanding five star dinner with Mrs. Alma Rosa Vasic (CEO of F St. Corp.) and her new executive assistant Casanova. It’s a “Class A” restaurant that seats only about two dozen people and reservations are highly recommended. Chef Miguel Valdez is certainly a “Top Chef/Iron Chef” in his own right and if you’re really lucky Vasilios will be your waiter. Everything on the menu is outstanding.

Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsd@aol.com.

Councilman Todd Gloria named “Citizen of the Year” at the Philippine American Society for Arts & Culture installation

Last week I had a great lunch with Gay San Diego publisher David Mannis and his editor, handsome Anthony King. Welcome to San Diego, Anthony.

The Center welcomes the Filipino community

Many times, our LGBT Community Center hosts other community events. This past Saturday the Philippine American Society for Arts & Culture held its installation of officers and more than 200 movers and shakers of The Asian Pacific Islander community were in attendance at the dinner (sponsored by Barona Casino). The event also presented some outstanding Filipino singers and dance troupes. District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis installed the society officers and Congressman Bob Filner addressed the crowd. School Boardmember Kevin Beiser was warmly welcomed by the crowd and the goal of this organization is to build their own Filipino community center. Popular Councilman Todd Gloria, who is part Filipino, was given the only award presented at the event, “Outstanding Citizen of the Year.”

I wish to thank P.A.S.A.C founder/president, City Commissioner Shonnee Henry for the honor of emceeing this event along with Michael Zarbo. The Filipino community is the second largest people of color community in San Diego County.

An open letter to Dumanis, Filner and Fletcher

I have attended Dumanis’ and Fletcher’s campaign kick-offs and some of Filner’s events. What do Bonnie Dumanis, Bob Filner and Nathan Fletcher and their supporters have in common? The one major thing is that they all do not want Carl DeMaio to be our next mayor – period. Nathan Fletcher has labeled Carl DeMaio as, “the most divisive figure at City Hall” and called DeMaio, “a hypocrite.” Mayor Jerry Sanders, who has endorsed Bonnie Dumanis, recently said that if there was a fire at City Hall the first thing that should happen is, “to throw Carl DeMaio out the window.” Not one of DeMaio’s fellow councilmembers have endorsed him, and word is none will. Council president pro-temp, Kevin Faulconer, has endorsed Dumanis. Recent polls have changed many times for Dumanis, Filner and Fletcher and while June is about five months away I share the opinion that before the primary one of these three candidates should drop out. The one candidate that consistently polls 4th at least two months before the election. Bonnie, Bob and Nathan – you are all good solid candidates that would make good mayors, but do you want to be responsible for the election of one of the most divisive, mean-spirited “bullys” (as Donna Frye has called him) becoming our next mayor? When the time comes, I ask you to do the right thing, the best thing for our city … drop out.

San Diego Pride fulfills its promise

With the establishment of its “Community Advisory Board” San Diego LGBT Pride has done a remarkable and outstanding job of fulfilling all its commitments and promises to our community and the board of directors should be commended. I attended last week’s community forum and was impressed with the board and executive director and their continuing outreach to the community and accepting input and listening to the many diverse voices of our community.

A.J. Turner and Tom Dickerson are candidates for empress and emperor XL.

State dinner sold out! Coronation tickets going

The Imperial Court de San Diego’s upcoming 40th anniversary events are being well received with Friday night’s (Feb. 10), Imperial State Dinner being sold out. Saturday night’s 40th Coronation, “A Military Ball”, tickets are going fast. After 40 years of raising funds for almost every organization in town, it is only right that for one night these organizations attend this important milestone that few GLBT organizations achieve. The entire community is invited to attend Coronation XL which will include dinner, unbelievable pageantry and outstanding entertainment.

People, politics and opinions

A major GLBT fundraiser will be held at Eden Nightclub for mayoral candidate Bonnie Dumanis Feb. 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Among the hosts are Lisa Sanders, Bob Nelson, Bill Beck, Kevin Tilden and a long list of GLBT leaders and business people. Did you know congressional candidate Scott Peters is on the board of directors of the LGBT Center? Meanwhile veteran hero and national gay spokesperson Joseph Rocha has endorsed Lori Saldana. Word is that popular foreman supervisor Bevan Duffy will soon be named to a very high position in San Francisco Mayor Lee’s administration. Ben Gomez has been named the chair of the GLBT Veterans Wall of Honor (at The Center) Task Force. Andrew Poat is quietly but firmly getting important commitments and support to succeed Todd Gloria in the 3rd District in 2016. Nathan Fletcher’s GLBT fundraiser at Bamboo Lounge last week was a big success. Open lesbian Laura Duffy who is the U.S. attorney in San Diego has angered many GLBT community members over her campaign to close down our local pot shops. But who can blame her as so many have taken advantage of what was the true reason for compassionate marijuana usage. I say let’s just put legalized marijuana to another vote by Californians.

President Obama’s gay chairs coming to San Diego

This past Sunday, two co-chairs of President Barack Obama’s National GLBT advisory council flew into San Diego to host a luncheon for seven GLBT activists. Prominent Chicago/Dallas businessmen James Brewster and Bob Satawake gave us a briefing on the president’s administration accomplishments and solid record when it comes to equality. The lunch was arranged by City Commissioner Stampp Corbin (past chair of the President’s Advisory Board) and included Port Commissioner Bob Nelson, Dr. Delores Jacobs, City Commissioner Dr. Joel Trambley, Maureen Steiner, Camille Davidson, and myself. I found the meeting to be most informative and I brought up our national campaign to get the U.S. Postage Department to issue a stamp in honor of Harvey Milk.

Pajama Party at Snooze, Feb. 3

You’re all invited to attend one of the most fun and festive events of the New Year, a Pajama Party! All of this is a fundraiser for the Lambda Archives. (Let’s preserve our GLBT history). This Friday’s (Feb. 3) night’s event from 6 to 9 p.m. will be held at Snooze (3940 5th Ave.) and will include food, contests, prizes and lots of fun. Dress comfortably, pajamas or not, but do wear something! For more info: Lambaarchives.com or 619-260-1522.

Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsd@aol.com.