Gay San Diego, Vol. 10, Issue 3

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Volume 10 Issue 3

2019

Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

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Voting for the Best of Gay San Diego begins Feb. 8

Personal reconciliation in Alaska

COMMUNITY VOICES

Finding treasures in archives

7 COMMUNITY VOICES

Around town with Nicole

9

ENTERTAINMENT

‘Somebody to Love’

(Courtesy of Simpatika)

By David Dixon

Brian Justin Crum sings “Somebody to Love” on his return to San Diego for a two-night sold out concert at Martinis Above Fourth Table + Stage on Jan. 16. (Photo by Albert H. Fulcher)

Uniting the music of Queen, power vocals and ballet for a multi-sensory performance Albert H. Fulcher |Editor

A tea party with Disney

q

Playwright Miranda Rose Hall

DINING

San Diego singer Brian Justin Crum and renowned ballet dancer Kirsten Bloom Allen are teaming up for a special Valentine’s Day performance at Music Box in Downtown on Feb. 14. This

collaboration, presented by ARC Entertainment Company and The Dream Adopters, promises to take the audience on a journey through the many wild, beautiful facets of love. This show, “Somebody to Love: A Queen Musical with a Ballet Twist,” which

showcases the iconic music of Queen, the power vocals of Crum and the graceful talents of Allen. It promises to be a multi-sensory debut performance embracing the diverse aspects of love.

see Love, pg 8

A good part of the excitement in seeing a new play is the sense of anticipation and discovery, and it’s rare to determine how the emotions and plot are going to unfold.

Diversionary Theatre’s production of “The Hour of Great Mercy” features a complex plot dealing with religion, homosexuality and a potentially tense family reunion. In the Alaskan town of Bethlehem, a gay Jesuit priest Ed (Andrew

see Great Mercy, pg 3

Angels of mercy

Urban Street Angels land Downtown

By Vince Meehan

Italian paradise in Hillcrest

Index Opinion ................................... 6 Classifieds............................ 13 Business & Services ............ 13 Puzzle ................................... 14

Contact us

(l to r) Resident Autumn Rapson and Just Be U case manager Sunny Rey in front of a mural at Urban Street Angels painted by Rapson. (Photo by Vince Meehan)

Eric Lovett is a fireball of energy and enthusiasm. Ask anyone who has ever met him, and they will agree. Founder and executive director of Urban Street Angels is a local nonprofit whose purpose is to house homeless transitional-age youth, those who are in the 18-to25-year range. The Alabama native’s positive, can-do personality is infectious and exactly

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see Angels, pg 2 Always Dependable, Always There for You, Always Prepared

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what you would want in the director of a nonprofit whose mission is to rescue youth from the streets. His Southern drawl is a thick as his enthusiasm and easily his most recognizable feature. Lovett recently leased a building at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Ash Street where he can now make his six-year vision a reality. As Lovett readied the premises for its open

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NEWS

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house, he bounced around the building high-fiving his staff, volunteers, and residents.

The director is still stinging from watching his beloved Alabama Crimson Tide lose to Clemson Tigers in the college football championships the night before. The Alabama Crimson Tide logo can be found everywhere in his office. For a second, his enthusiasm gets knocked down two notches as he stares off while reflecting on the game.

But just as quick, his eyes light up again as he explains how his vision has come to life.

“This building is owned by Father Joe’s, and they gave me a screamin’ deal on the lease,” Lovett said while beaming with pride. “The building comes with a large commercial grade kitchen, and both a gym and art studio downstairs. It’s just amazing how this all came together!”

This first-of-its-kind housing complex not only serves as a home, but as a resource center where his residents can seek job training and employment opportunities, as well as holistic health care and counseling.

“We have our own van and take it around San Diego contacting homeless youth who might qualify for our help,” Lovett said. “Ocean Beach is by far ground zero for these kids.

All of our youth are homeless, they deal with mental illness, and we are combating the stigma of that, and then saying you can do it, and we can help you do it.”

Candidates for housing must meet three qualifications to enter the program. First, they must be homeless and between the ages of 18 and 25 (also known as transition age youth or TAY). They must also have been identified with mental illness and qualify for services in the San Diego County’s Behavioral Health Services System of Care.

Qualified participants can enroll in the county-sponsored Just Be U three-month program, which includes support, housing and linkage to ongoing behavioral health treatment.

After completion of the Just Be U program, they graduate and then can register for the ninemonth Short-Term and Bridge Housing program. Participants then receive case management and an interactive roadmap to achieve success, along with safe, supportive housing. With this new center, Urban Street Angels aims to successfully help more than 100 homeless youth off the streets by 2020, and more than 500 by 2025.

“On any given night, we have 1,000 homeless youth on the streets of San Diego,” Lovett said. “Many have been sexually or physically abused, a lot have experienced emotional abuse.

Close to 100 percent of our youth have dealt with mental health issues in some shape, sort, or fashion. Therefore I saw the need — six years ago, when I started this — to make a difference in the community.”

Lovett started by going to the streets with water and sandwiches for the kids and providing basic life necessities.

gay-sd.com He saw there was no real dedicated homes for these youth and opened up his apartment to house a few.

“I started with two, and all my friends said, ‘Eric, don’t do it, they’ll rob, they’ll steal from you, what are you doing?’”

Lovett said. “But I felt the need to do that. So we started there, moved up to six in my own home, and over the period of the last few years we’ve grown, and now we’ll have 35 living in this new facility.”

Lovett also realized that beyond housing, these youths needed jobs and job training. So with his nonprofit, he created a social enterprise 8 West which creates high-end natural soap and candles.

“I started that in my own home as well,” Lovett said. “The name comes from — at the end of Interstate 8 West — is Ocean beach, which is one of the largest demographics for homeless youth in the country.”

Lovett uses 8 West to teach job skills and partners with 20 other companies to get his youth ready for the work force. He lets the kids gravitate to whichever aspect of the business they feel the most comfortable with.

Some choose to manufacture the soap, while others sell it at local farmer’s markets. Others are involved in creating the marketing graphics “I’ve always said, a job is what you’re paid for, but a calling is what you’re made for,” Lovett said. “And that’s the whole purpose of 8 West.”

Lovett credits 8 West with solidifying an existing partnership with the county, which helps fund his programs. This includes not only his new building, but also satellite emergency shelters such as Missiongathering Christian Church in North Park. He specifically credits Cecily Thornton-Stearns of the county’s Behavioral Health and Human Services Department with making that happen.

“Cecily came to me in March of 2016 after seeing our soaps somewhere, and she was like, ‘So what are you doing?’” Lovett said. “I told her I wanted to house people and I wanted to teach them sustainability. I wanted to give them a hand up, not just a hand out. She then said we want to partner with you — we want to pay for the beds. The county of San Diego now funds 90 percent of all our programs. We are just so thankful for the county and their belief in this and changing homelessness.”

Lovett himself came from a background of being rejected early in his life because of his sexuality.

“I was a Christian musician — from the South, Alabama — and naturally when I came out, I lost everything I had,” Lovett reflected. “That was many years ago, and I never wanted a young person to feel rejected or ostracized because of their sexuality, the color of their skin, where they’re from or who they choose to love. So that’s what really motivated me to start this.”

Because of this, Lovett has strong ties to the local LGBTQ community.

“Our organization is not just for LGBTQ, but we probably have 40 percent that are,”

Lovett said. “We accept transgender, those who identify as how they identify, and we also accept undocumented. Basically we believe in giving hope to those who need it.”

Lovett found San Diego the perfect place to start his vision.

He credits the accepting nature of San Diegans as inspiration.

“San Diego is like the South to me, people here want to meet you face to face; they are very hospitable,” Lovett said. “So I felt at home, but I also felt … welcomed. People here didn’t care if I was gay, they don’t care what color your skin is. So that was a big calling card for me.”

Autumn Rapson is a current resident of Urban Street Angels, and her story is somewhat typical of the youth housed there.

She, too, identifies as LGBTQ. The Waco, Texas native grew up with an abusive mom, which caused her to “house hop” and have run-ins with Child Protective Services. After running off to San Diego, she experienced several mental health breakdowns, which resulted in hospitalization. After a few unsuccessful attempts to seek treatment at several programs, she got news that a dear friend had taken their life.

“When I found that out, I spun into a really deep dark place,” Rapson said. “I was then in and out of the hospital quite a lot and had a few attempts myself. I was losing everything and felt completely hopeless, I couldn’t honestly say like, if someone said, ‘What do you see tomorrow?’ I’d say, I’m not gonna make it to tomorrow.”

As a last resort, Rapson posted a plea for help on Facebook saying she had nowhere to go and asked for leads. Somebody posted back the name Sunny Rey, a case manager with Just Be U. Rey picked her up at the hospital when she was discharged, and she has been there since. Rapson credits Rey and Urban Street Angels with saving her life.

“If they weren’t there to pick me up when I was down, I don’t know what would have happened,” she said.

Urban Street Angels held its grand opening ceremony on Jan. 18, although they have actually been in operation since last year. City officials and sponsors were treated to a tour of the facility. Rapson opened the event with a stunningly stellar a capella version of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

Councilman Chris Ward along with Father Joe’s President and CEO Deacon Jim Vargas said a few words, while BIA Cares and the Cushman Foundation presented sizable donations. As the event wound down, officials from several communities such as El Cajon and Vista were already pitching Lovett to expand Urban Street Angels to serve in their areas. Lovett was enthusiastic about the concept.

“We need to do it! We need to do it!” he repeatedly emphasized in his Southern drawl.

Support 8 West and the Urban Street Angels by purchasing handcrafted premium bath, shower and spa products at 8west.org.

—Vince Meehan can be reached at vinniemeehan@gmail.com.t

THEATER

gay-sd.com FROM PAGE 1

GREAT MERCY Oswald) has left the Catholic Church and seeks to reconnect with his estranged brother. The reason for the falling out between the two forms part of the play’s plot.

The premise of the drama is inspired by playwright Miranda Rose Hall’s (a founding member and current resident playwright of LubDub Physical Theatre Co. based in New York) relationship with her father.

When Hall was attending the graduate school at the Yale School of Drama, her mentor was acclaimed playwright Sarah Ruhl. While Hall was trying to decide on a topic for her graduate thesis, Ruhl suggested that she write a gift play for someone that she loved.

“Ruhl looked to me and said, ‘I think you’re trying to write a gift play for your father,’” Hall said. “I realized maybe I am.”

The Alaskan setting is important to Hall’s story. She spent a few years working with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest,

Cast of “Hour of Great Mercy”

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helping marginalized groups in Anchorage and Missoula, Montana.

“The show is a bit of a love letter to the time I was living in Alaska,” she said. “When writing the script, I felt like I could get into the aspects about what it was like when I was living there.”

Director Rosina Reynolds hasn’t been to Alaska, and she did a significant amount of research in preparation for the rehearsals.

“I watched videos and did visual research on the landscape and the land,” Reynolds said. “I spent a good amount of

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019 time in Northern Wisconsin, and you can feel a similar sense of isolation.”

The need to connect to people in a lonely place is a crucial theme of the drama. Reynolds is working closely with Hall to help the writer tell her story on stage.

“I’m a part of her journey in getting her play realized and fulfilled in the way she saw it and wrote it,” she said.

“It’s a very collaborative environment.”

While the script specifically deals with Catholicism and homosexuality, one aspect of Hall’s story that Reynolds finds unique is the universality of the plot.

“It’s about the spirituality in all of us, regardless of your denomination,” she said. “She has a fascinating handle of that part of our humaneness.”

There might be a nuanced take on religion, but Hall doesn’t ignore the conflicts Ed faces owing to his sexuality.

Reynolds feels that members of the LGBT community will be affected by Ed’s “crisis of faith.”

“Learning to reconcile with inner-faith and stay true to your own sexuality and beliefs is a very large part of the play,” she said.

Hall acknowledges that love is far from absent in the narrative. A theme that she wants theatergoers to take away from the story is that “it is possible to find love in unexpected places.”

“I want audiences to feel like it’s never too late to love somebody,” she said.

Throughout the evening, Hall incorporates both light

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Director Rosina Reynolds (Photos courtesy of Simpatika)

and dark moments with humor, warmth and levity, especially in scenes where the characters display vulnerability. She does view her theatrical piece as one that’s, overall, an empathetic one.

With an interesting premise and a talented cast of mostly local artists including Tom Stephenson, Patrick Mayuyu and Dana Case, Diversionary’s latest production gives San Diegans an opportunity to watch a new work from a rising playwright. The experience should be one that is both personal and universal.

“The Hour of Great Mercy” is running at Diversionary Theatre through March 3. For tickets or more information, visit diversionary.org or call 619-220-0097.

—David Dixon is a freelance film and theater writer. He can be reached at daviddixon0202@gmail.com.t

COMMUNITY VOICES

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

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gay-sd.com

How to end a relationship Life Beyond Therapy Michael Kimmel

O

ne thing I’m often asked, as a psychotherapist is, “Should I stay in this relationship or should I go?” If the person decides to go, the next question — inevitably is — “How do I end it in the best way possible?” I’d like to break this (big) question down into a four key (smaller) questions that I often discuss with my clients: How do you calmly and rationally divide up joint assets?

I strongly recommend, when you are dealing with financial

assets, that you consult a professional in the financial and/ or legal arenas. The emotional piece of dividing up assets is something I can help with. If you consciously address the emotions of the relationship ending — sadness, hurt, anger, numbness, regret, guilt — they’re less likely to “bleed” into legal/financial challenges. Many divorces are expensive, drawn-out legal affairs because they didn’t deal with the emotional stuff, so it all got played out in court. Only the lawyers benefit when you ignore your emotions.

How do you not deep dive into anger, blame and remorse?

This is a big challenge.

Most of us need to express our

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thoughts/feelings about something major, like a breakup. It’s very tempting to demonize your soon-to-be ex. I hear it a lot: “He did this (awful thing)” or “She did that to me, can you believe it?” However, you probably need to vent, especially if you are not the one who wants to end the relationship. If it’s your idea, it’s easier to be gracious and kind.

If you were broadsided by her/ his decision to leave you, a period of sadness, anger, and blame is normal and healthy. But, try to contain it. Don’t spread it all over town. Pick someone you trust (like a therapist or trusted friend) who can keep confidentiality, and tell them everything you’re feeling. Let it all out, but to all others, contain it, to the best of your ability.

Can you still be friends?

Eventually, maybe.

Immediately, not usually. I’ve had lots of clients argue this one with me; they want to be great friends with their ex because, often, their ex is one of their closest friends. Ah, if only it worked that way. Usually the old romantic relationship has to “die” before a new friendship can be born. Many people have tried to prove me wrong on this — and I wish they had — but, so far, I haven’t known any splitting-up couple who has easily and quickly transitioned to friends. There’s usually too much emotion left floating around from the romantic phase to let a great friendship instantly sprout. Happily, given some time and space, many

(www.canstockphoto.com)

couples remain friends.

What do you tell people?

After confiding in only your closest BFFs, tell the world “in general” a very brief version of what happened. For example, “We are breaking up and it’s hard for me, so I’d rather not say any more about it right now.” People that know and love you will respect your wishes, but people who want the dirt may probe and prod. Don’t give in to them. It’s always fun to hear the dirt about other people, but, when the dirt’s about you, that’s another story.

The only way to control public opinion is to tell the public only what you want them to know.

Movie stars and politicians do this all the time. Learn their technique and control the conversation by only sharing what you want people to know. Sure, people may make up stuff, but it’s none of their business why you dumped her or why he ended it with you. The most civilized splits happen when neither party publicly trashtalks the other … that only leaves conjecture and rumor,

and those die much faster than a juicy story based on something your ex did that you told everyone at Rich’s or Gossip Grill after you’d had too many drinks. A nasty (true) story never dies. It just keeps getting repeated over and over. Don’t go there.

Ending a relationship, whether it was your idea or not, is really hard for most of us.

Stay classy, be discreet and as civilized as possible, and you’ll have no regrets (and little gossip) to worry about. Be as kind to yourself (and your soon-to-be ex) as possible and, I promise you: you won’t regret it.

—Michael Kimmel is a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in helping LGBT clients achieve their goals and deal with anxiety, depression, grief, sexually addictive behavior, coming out, relationship challenges and homophobia.

Contact him at 619-955-3311 or visit lifebeyondtherapy.com.

(Graphic provided by www.canstockphoto.com).t

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COMMUNITY VOICES

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GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

Treasure in the Archives

Out of the Archives Archives Staff

T

• We continue the digitization of our VHS tapes from ’80s and ’90s highlighting news and events from the San Diego LGBTQ community. We had already digitized all of our reelto-reel and cassette tapes and now are working to preserve our VHS collection before they deteriorate to the point they are unplayable. Every time a tape is played, it wears down a little and simple age takes its toll. We do not want to lose the videos of early Pride parades, performances of the women’s and men’s choruses and so many other moments from the past.

here are so many treasures hidden in Lambda Archives that unless someone requests something or we take a deep dive into a collection for processing, we often don’t know what treasures lay buried in boxes we never have time to open and explore.

For instance, while processing material from the Doug Moore Pride Collection, we have discovered many gems, including the 30 Pride theme banners from 1975-2004. These banners commemorated each Pride starting with 1975 and were carried as part of the parade for years. We hope to display some of them in our booth at this year’s Pride.

Thanks to the great support of Pride, this year’s booth will be much larger than in years past with a lot more history, particularly geared to the theme of Stonewall 50.

Stay tuned for more information on the special events and exhibits planned for July!

An archived program of a previous Imperial Our intern from SDSU is currently pro- Court de San Diego Coronation cessing an accrual to our Center for Social Services • We are assembling a list Collection, which contains inof our book collection for export valuable material regarding to Worldcat, allowing for indithe early days of the center viduals to discover our more and those who were involved in unusual titles while searching making what would become one at their local library (public or of the largest and most vibrant academic). Due to space conLGBTQ community centers straints, we will be parting in the nation. There is some with some common titles that overlap between this collection are readily available at public and the collection of Pride hislibraries, but we want the world tory and that of some of the to know some of the rare books founding members of the comthat we possess, some of which munity as their early activism only exist in a handful of licrossed from one organization braries in the U.S. Among the to another. rarer titles: “Voluptuous Panic,” Another find our intern un“The Erotic World of Weimar earthed was a list of gay bars Berlin” and “The Illustrated created by Jess Jessop in 1972 Presidential Report of the which added a great deal of inCommission on Obscenity and formation to our spreadsheet of Pornography” prepared for early LGBT businesses.

Richard Nixon in 1972.

Many other projects are • The Lambda Archives keeping the Archives staff, Oral History Project has been interns, volunteers and board focusing on individuals from busy. Among them: the North Park Senior Housing

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Project, one of only seven in the country that is LGBTQ affirming and geared for those 55 and over.

• With a new acquisition from the Ladies Room adjacent to the Caliph, combined with other recently acquired material, we are endeavoring to establish a dedicated collection devoted to trans/cross-dressing history spanning decades.

• Thanks to the Imperial Court de San Diego, we now have programs from their coronations (all but Coronation III — if you happen to have a copy at home you’re willing to donate, please do) from 19812005. We will be digitizing them as searchable PDF files.

And we have been helping with requests for information from near and far. Some folks wanted to access an interview that the brother of David Koresh (he of Branch Davidian fame) did with the Gay & Lesbian Times. The brother was gay, lived in Hillcrest, and the only interview he gave to any media was to that local news outlet. Who knew?

A journalist in London wanted more information about the Blood Sisters — the group of brave local lesbians who stepped up to donate blood in the early days of AIDS to help their sick, gay friends. The Blood Sisters and Lambda Archives made the news in the U.K. A filmmaker in Ireland wanted more information about Andrew Cunanan and the Archives was able to put him in touch with a few local people who knew Andrew.

All just a part of our mission to share our history — good and bad — with the world. Visit the Archives, the exhibit at the San Diego History Center in Balboa Park, or come to one of our events to learn more!

A Pride banner from 1975 (Photos courtesy of Lambda Archives) On Tuesday, Feb. 19, at 7 p.m., Lambda Archives presents the San Diego debut of the stage play “Dear Anita Bryant,” by well-known activist Ronni Sanlo. Sanlo lost custody of her children when she came out as a lesbian in Florida during the Anita Bryant days. This one-hour, one-act play covers LGBT history from the 1950s, through Sanlo’s battle for equal rights and to see her children. The play is being performed at Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., as a benefit for Lambda Archives and will be followed by a VIP reception in the theater lobby to meet Ronni, the cast, and Lambda Archives historian-in-residence Lillian Faderman. Tickets to

the performance are $20 for Archives members, $25 for nonmembers, $40 for the VIP package for Archives members and $50 for nonmembers. For tickets: bit.ly/2BaG0UZ. For more information: 619-260-1522 or info@ LambdaArchives.org.

The next public walking tour of Hillcrest’s LGBTQ history is Saturday, March 2 at 10:30 a.m. Get your tickets: lambda-archives.ticketleap.com.

—Walter G. Meyer is the author of the critically acclaimed gay novel ‘Rounding Third,’ a regular contributor to Gay San Diego, and the manager of Lambda Archives. Reach him at manager.lambda.archives@ gmail.com.t

Events benefitting the Archives

On Saturday, Feb. 16, to celebrate her birthday, local drag legend Franceska presents a good old-fashioned entertaining drag show. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m.

The $10 cover at the door will go to benefit Lambda Archives’ continuing work to preserve and teach local LGBTQ history.

Socialize before the show and dance after the show to enjoy some great company.

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Years of Pride banners march during Pride Parade

6

OPINION

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

gay-sd.com

Guest Editorial

Creep of the Week: Karen Pence

By D’Anne Witkowski Imagine walking into art class one day in grade school and finding that none other than Karen Pence, wife of Vice President Mike Pence, is your teacher.

For a lot of kids, such a thing would be pretty exciting, regardless of how said kid’s parents voted in 2016. I mean, hey, how many kids can claim that they have a B-level celebrity as a teacher? Also, her watercolor paintings are actually really good.

What isn’t good is the school at which Pence is teaching.

Because that school, the K-8 Immanuel Christian School in Virginia, bans LGBT people.

No gay teachers. No queer students. No lesbian lunch ladies.

They don’t even want LGBT allies working for, attending or sending their kids to the school.

And people are a little, well, grossed out that the vice president’s wife would take a job at such an unwelcoming school. It’s worth pointing out EDITOR Albert H. Fulcher (619) 961-1960 albert@sdcnn.om CONTRIBUTING EDITORS (619) 519-7775 Sara Butler, x118 Jeff Clemetson, x119 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS David Dixon Michael Kimmel Lambda Archives staff Vince Meehan Nicole Murray Ramirez Mickey Rox Frank Sabatini Jr. D'Anne Witkowskit CONTRIBUTOR www.canstockphoto.com WEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA Sara Butler web@sdcnn.com

(www.canstockphoto.com)

that Pence worked at this same school for a dozen or so years back when her husband was a U.S. representative. So why is it a big deal that she’s going back?

Because her spotlight is brighter now. Her platform is elevated. When she was a congressman’s wife teaching there was, while still gross, pretty low-key. But no more.

Now she’s doubling down on a

school that very explicitly discriminates against LGBT people. And from the very highest reaches of government that’s being condoned and encouraged, and it’s wrong.

This is just piling on to the harm this administration has done to LGBT people, whether it’s reminding guidelines that aimed to protect LGBT students or banning transgender troops.

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Not surprisingly, Pence has received criticism from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD).

“Why not teach at a school that welcomes everyone, instead of choosing one that won’t serve LGBTQ kids, kids of LGBTQ parents?” JoDee Winterhof, senior vice president for Policy and Political Affairs at the HRC told HuffPost. “The Pences never seem to miss an opportunity to show their public service only extends to some.”

“This sends a terrible message to students,” the ACLU tweeted, while GLAAD encouraged people to sign a petition telling Pence and Immanuel Christian School “to stop discriminating against LGBTQ students.”

But the Pences also pissed off Lady Gaga.

“To Mike Pence, who thinks it’s acceptable that his wife work at a school that bans LGBTQ, you are wrong,” Gaga said during a recent performance. “You are the worst representation of what it means to be a Christian. I am

a Christian woman and what I do know about Christianity is that we bear no prejudice, and everybody is welcome.”

That is, of course, not the Pence brand of Christianity where being a Christian and discriminating against LGBT people go hand in hand and cannot be separated.

There is some confusion about what this means when it comes to freedom of religion and freedom of speech. Does Karen Pence have those rights?

Yep. Can the school legally ban LGBT people? Yep. Does reporting on this story and/or criticizing Pence constitute an “attack?” Nope.

It’s not an attack to call someone out for being awful and hateful. And it’s still not an attack when you call someone out for being awful and hateful when they’re doing it in the name of religion. The funny thing about freedom of religion and speech is that they work both ways. In other words, not everyone believes the same shit you do or hates the same people you do and when you’re a public figure you’re going to be called out no matter what you do.

So why not teach at a school that welcomes everyone?

Unless, of course, Pence doesn’t welcome everyone. And, yeah, she has every right to believe that LGBT people aren’t deserving of equality, but that’s a view held by a smaller and smaller group of increasingly hateful and reactionary people. Cling to that view if you choose, but don’t be surprised to get shit for it.

Mike Pence rejects the idea of even questioning a school’s wholesale rejection of LGBT people.

“To see major news organizations attacking Christian education is deeply offensive to us,” he said in a statement, adding that “this criticism of Christian education in America should stop.”

There’s that pesky freedom of speech thing again.

Criticism must absolutely continue. It’s the bare minimum we can do in the face of injustice.

—D'Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.

(Graphic by www.canstockphoto.com).t

OPINIONS/LETTERS: Gay San Diego encourages letters to the editor and guest editorials. Please email either to albert@sdcnn.com and include your phone number and address for verification.

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Letters and guest editorials do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or staff.

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COMMUNITY VOICES

gay-sd.com

First lady Katherine hosts Coronation 47 at 619-288-1183 or imperialcourtsandiego.com.

Conversations with Nicole Nicole Murray Ramirez

BigMike's birthday fundraiser raises more than $14,000

O

ne of the most popular first ladies in San Diego's history, Katherine Stuart Faulconer has been named the Honorary Chair of San Diego's oldest LGBT events, “The 47th Annual Imperial Coronation Gala: A Military Ball,” of the Imperial Court de San Diego established in 1972. The 47th coronation is on Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Crowne Plaza San Diego, 2270 Hotel Circle N. starting at 5:30 p.m. and the entire community is invited. Visiting royal court chapters and LGBT nobles and friends will be attending from all over the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The International Imperial Court System was founded in 1965 by World War II veteran Jose Julio Sarria, who in 1961 became the first openly gay candidate to run for public office in North America. Twelve years ago, Empress I Jose crowned me as her “Heir and Successor” and I am the titular leader of the Imperial Court System, which now has 70 city chapters. The International Imperial Court Council will meet in San Diego for two days and I will preside over the council meeting as the reigning Queen Mother of the Americas. A good way to describe the Imperial Courts is that they are like the LGBT of Shriners or Elks and have raised

San Diego’s first lady Katherine Stuart Faulconer (Courtesy photo) millions of dollars for countless charities and causes since the 1960s.

Katherine Stuart Faulconer and her husband, Mayor Kevin Faulconer, are strong supporters and friends of the LGBT community. Katherine attended LGBT civil rights rallies, served as a “waitress” at Dine Out for AIDS, and much more. She is the co-chair of the San Diego AIDS Memorial Project. Our first lady of San Diego will be presented the Empress I Tawny Tann Humanitarian Award. The Feb. 9 gala event will include outstanding entertainment, eye-popping gowns, crowns, military uniforms and royal pageantry. For more information on tickets and tables, contact Empress Lala Too at 619-2546372 or Empress Regina Styles

Beloved local personality BigMike Phillips’ 20th Annual Birthday Bash Benefit raised more than $14,000 that will go to both Emperor Omar’s Closet at Florence Elementary School and the Matthew Shepard Foundation. The fun event on Jan. 19 at Rich's drew hundreds of people including such VIPs as state Senate President Toni Atkins and her wife Jennifer LaSar, Mayor Kevin and Katherine Faulconer, the state Assembly Majority Whip (and our next mayor) Assembly member Todd Gloria, state Assembly member Lorenz Gonzalez and her husband County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher, City Attorney Mara Elliott, City Councilmember Dr. Jen Campbell, State Board of Equalization District 4 member Mike Shaefer, Will Rodriguez Kennedy, and state president of the California Young Democrats and City Council candidate Stephen Whitburn. I had the honor of chairing his Host Committee and a big humble thank you to all who supported this most successful benefit, including the San Diego Gay Men's Chorus!

County Supervisor Fletcher marries gay couple

Together for 28 years, Jerry Capozzelli and Tony Cucuzzella made local history on Jan. 28 as the first gay couple to be married

in the Office Chambers of the County Board of Supervisors.

Newly elected County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher officiated his first gay marriage and told me he was very honored and humbled. Capozzelli, Mr. A’s infamous maitre d’, told me last week at Mr. A's that he was getting married and I asked Fletcher if he would do the honors and he quickly and happily said yes. Thank you, Nathan, and congratulations, Jerry and Tony. Here is to another 28 years together.

—Nicole Murray Ramirez has been writing a column since 1973. He has been a Latino/

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

7

gay activist for almost half a century and has advised and served the last seven mayors of San Diego. Named the ‘Honorary Mayor of Hillcrest’ by a city proclamation, he has received many media awards including from the prestigious San Diego Press Club. Reach Nicole at Hillcrestqueen5@gmail.com, and follow him on Twitter @Nmrsd2.

Editor’s Note: The opinions written in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the staff and/or publisher of Gay San Diego and/or its parent company, San Diego Community News Network (SDCNN). The newspaper and its staff should be held harmless of liability or damages.t

(l to r) Jerry Capozzelli, County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher, and Tony Cucuzzella. Fletcher married long-time couple Capozzelli and Cucuzzella, the first gay marriage held at the Office Chambers of the County Board of Supervisors officiated by Fletcher on Jan. 28. (Courtesy photo)

ENTERTAINMENT

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

8

FROM PAGE 1

LOVE

Brian Justin Crum hit the national spotlight on season 11 of “America’s Got Talent” with his powerful vocals and intimate performances, coming in fourth place. But on Jan. 28, he revisited “America’s Got Talent: The Champions,” and was voted to the finals with his brilliant performance of Elton John’s “Your Song.”

Kirsten Bloom Allen, founder of ARC Entertainment, boasts a repertoire of globe-spanning performances at institutions such as The Kennedy Center with The Suzanne Farrell Ballet; Shanghai, Beijing; and for George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush.

Allen noted that there are many creative elements happening on both ends of the spectrum with music and dance throughout the Valentine’s Day performance.

Accompanying dancers are from City Ballet of San Diego.

“They are beautifully trained classical ballet dancers but have such a cutting-edge style of movement that they can do both,” Allen said. “They can do the ultra-classic works and also get very contemporary. So they are more edgy and sexy which is what we are going for with this show.”

“Queen’s music has always held a place near and dear to my heart,” Crum said. “I grew up THE listening BESTto their music and

“Somebody to Love: A Queen Musical with a Ballet Twist,” is a multi-sensory production that celebrates the diversity of love, through music, song and dance.

I got the chance to tour with dance. So it’s a well-rounded, the musical ‘We Will Rock built-for-the-senses artistic You.’ So when this opportunity experience. It is a very innocame up to mix the music of vative and creative new way of Queen with my favorite form looking at a concert with [the of dance of contemporary addition of] that visual eleballet, it was a no-brainer for ment of dance in there. I still me. It’s been exciting being a find ballet so beautiful every part of that creative process day and every day it inspires and putting the show together, me.” figuring out what it is going to Crum, who has a lot on his look like and how it is going to plate right now, said this perflow. I’m really excited to pres- formance is one of the excitent it to San Diego.” ing projects he is doing right Allen said the music itself is now — and that the premise so iconic and that most people of mixing the arts in this uncan relate to Queen, due to the usual way is something very band’s many great songs. special to him.

“People coming in [for the Crum grew up in the world show] are going to have a feast of musical theater and said for their senses,” Allen said. this show brings him back “They are going to have the to his theatrical beginnings. beautiful voice of Brian Justin He performed in his first Crum, the incredible catalog Broadway show at 18 years old of Queen and the stunningly and spent eight years in New gorgeous visual element ofCONCERT York doing different shows.

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gay-sd.com said this performance is going to be nothing short of a roller coaster ride for the senses.

“The show is highlighting different avenues of love,” Crum said. “Whether it is friendship, romantic, gay, straight — we are exploring all the different types of love through music and through dance. It is going to be a really beautiful story that we tell. Expect a lot of incredible music. The band is insane, the dancers are really beautiful so the audience can expect something really entertaining with lots of energy and a really romantic Valentine’s Day event.

And the Music Box is a great venue.”

Allen said performing on Valentine’s Day with the purpose of putting a message out there of love and acceptance is particularly beautiful.

“Love comes in any forms.

It can be with a man and a woman, a man and a man, woman and a woman … there are no boundaries. We are trying to promote the unifying message of love and acceptance and equality with this show. I believe in that 100 percent and it is coming from my heart,” Allen said.

When asked about Crum, Allen gushed about his talent — and feels that the pairing between the two was meant to be.

“He’s absolutely wonderful to work with,” Allen said.

“He’s so talented, so creative and I love the ideas that he’s putting into this show creatively and artistically. He’s just a joy. He lights up the room whenever he enters it. I like his energy a lot.”

Allen added that costumes are in production and they are extremely cool, sexy and edgy.

There are a lot of elements implemented into the production including adding little nuances to the costumes, choreography, music, and writing to create a magical environment.

“I think we landed in a great spot for the beginning,” Allen continued. “We are definitely going to reproduce this many times. It’s already getting such great response and a tremendous amount of buzz.

There's some talk about possible touring, so we’ll just see where this flies.”

Forming ARC Entertainment Company, Allen said this is her concept in adding the visual element of dance to rock concerts.

Performance feature working

with classically trained dancers and combining them with music like the Wallflowers and Jefferson Starship — adding dance to the sets of different rock musicians to create an explosive energy.

“I want to give ballet a new platform to shine and increase awareness of the art form,” Allen said. “Many people that come to this show, it could be their first ballet they have ever seen and that is part of what this is. Exposing ballet to another generation in a cool, edgy sort of way. I’ll always be true to the classics but integrating it in a way with contemporary movements and dynamic works can capture an audience that did not grow up watching it. They’ll be entertained and look at ballet in another way, that they love it and it is really cool. That is the goal.”

Having not performed in San Diego for six years, Crum came home for a two-night, sold-out intimate concert at Martinis Above Fourth Table + Stage on Jan. 16-17. He rocked the house with Queen’s “Somebody to Love” — his audition piece for “America’s Got Talent” — and his viral take on Radiohead’s “Creep.”

He went full-on campy with Britney Spears’ “Baby One More Time.” Along with his piano player/vocalist Nicholas Connell, they had the audience roaring with their dual performance of “Suddenly Seymour” from “Little Shop of Horrors” — all after a full day of rehearsal for the upcoming “Somebody to Love: A Queen Musical with a Ballet Twist” performance.

“San Diego is my home and my heart,” Crum said.

“Everything that I learned in the arts came from the incredible teachers that I had in San Diego. Teachers and the schooling, there is so much respect for the creative arts. I have to say thank you [to San Diego] for being my home, and for being such a great teacher to me. It’s always exciting to be able to come back. Martini’s [show] and ‘Somebody to Love’ are really things that I can share back to San Diego, so I am so happy to bring these projects to the place that I grew up. I’m sending lots of love and I’m really excited to brings these shows to San Diego.”

—Albert Fulcher can be reached at albert@sdcnn.com.t

San Diego ballet dancer Kirsten Bloom Allen (left) and singer Brian Justin Crum (center) par with dancers from the San Diego City Ballet for a special Valentine’s Day performance at the Music Box on Feb. 14. (Photos by Mark Mendoza)

ENTERTIANMENT

gay-sd.com

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

What can be dumber than Disney?

9

Mariam’s Tea Party takes on Disney in a variety show that stands out Albert H. Fulcher | Editor It was a deliriously fun night with Mariam T and her sirens as they celebrated everything Disney. Full of classic drag performances and comedy skits, this show had it all. Stand-up comedy, burlesque, and improv were all worked into a performance that packed Urban Mo’s on Jan. 19. This themed night of amusement, fairly new to San Diego, began back in

September 2018. Judging by the response of the crowd, it seems Mariam’s Tea Party monthly variety show is a complete success.

Everything was “amuck, amuck, amuck” in the best way for “Mariam’s Tea Party: Dumber than Disney.” I was elated that Mariam T brought back the performance of the Sanderson sisters from “Hocus Pocus,” a number she said she doesn’t do. But for the Disney theme, and my first time for

(l to r) The Sirens: Michele Ada, Mariam T, Keex Rose, Lolita Von Tease and Evelynn Rose (Photos by Albert H. Fulcher) this show, I’m glad she did.

The Sanderson sisters were a pure joy to watch — I couldn’t take my eyes off of Michele Ada as Mary Sanderson. She invoked the crooked face of actor Kathy Najimy’s performance so well that it was supernaturally divine.

Throughout the evening’s different performances, we got to watch our favorite Disney characters. Minnie

Mouse, Alice in Wonderland, Elsa from “Frozen,” “The Tiki, Tiki, Tiki Room” from Enchanted Tiki Room, Ursula from “The Little Mermaid,” and a burlesque version of Pinocchio all joined the party.

Some performed classic Disney songs, while others pulled out all the stops and used the characters to summon another dimension to these favorite characters. The costumes were spot-on for the characters,

including Keex Rose’s sexy Ursula over the top look with the mini skirt tentacles and the moray eel (hands?).

Lolita Von Tease blew the house out in Mo’s Universe as Alice and Evelyn Rose’s Pinocchio performance brought out the classics moves of burlesque in a Disneyized fashion that will not soon be forgotten.

see Party, pg 15

ThECEnTER events @Th Tuesday, Feb. 5

The Sanderson sisters from Disney’s “Hocus Pocus” make an encore appearance

Wednesdays, Feb. 6 & Feb. 20

Food Bank

TransParents

9 am, The Center The San Diego LGBT Community Center hosts a distribution site in The Center’s parking lot on the first Tuesday of each month for the Community Cares Project of the San Diego Food Bank. For more information, visit the San Diego Food Bank at www.sandiegofoodbank.org or contact Sarah Merk-Benitez at 619.692.2077 x214 or smerkbenitez@thecentersd.org.

Saturday, Feb. 16

South Bay Youth Center Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, 1-3 pm, 1180 3rd Ave.

Suite C1, Chula Vista, CA

MICHAEL KIMMEL Psychotherapist Author of "Life Beyond Therapy" in Gay San Diego 5100 Marlborough Drive San Diego CA 92116 (619)955-3311 www.LifeBeyondTherapy.com

The Center welcomes you to officially open our South Bay Youth Center (SBYC). Light appetizers will be provided. An opportunity to view the space will also be available following a brief program. Please RSVP at http://bit.ly/sbyouthcenter. The SBYC is wheelchair accessible and an ASL interpreter will be present at the event. For other accessibility requests or more information, please contact Victor Esquivel, Director of Youth Services at 619.692.2077 x207 or southbayyouth@thecentersd.org.

www.thecentersd.org The San Diego LGBT Community Center 3909 Centre Street • 619-692-2077 Twitter: @LGBTCenter

facebook.com/At.The.Center

6:30-7:30 pm, The Center NEW at The Center! Are you a parent or guardian of a transgender or gender non conforming youth?

This is a brave space to find community and discuss how to lovingly support your youth! Join us at The Center with our volunteer facilitator, Kathryn! This group meets the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month.

For more information, contact Tiana at tvargas@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x212.

Sunday, Feb. 17

Tantrums & Tiaras

6-10 pm, The Observatory, north Park Join us for Tantrums & Tiaras – Battle of the Bar Queens on Sunday, Feb. 17!

The contestants are breaking in their highest heels in preparation for what will be the best show yet. As you know, these “queens” have little to no experience in drag and will be competing in swimsuit, evening gown, and the oh-so-popular talent categories. You have no idea what’s in store but you won’t want to miss it! This fierce show benefits the programs and services for The Center. Tickets are on sale now at www.TantrumsTiaras.org.

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DINING

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

When in Parma Restaurant Review Frank Sabatini Jr.

S

ome of the most heavenly foods originate from the northern-Italian city of Parma, starting with the gold standard of dry-cured ham known as prosciutto di

Parma. The area is also home to hardy pork ragus, stuffed pastas (think tortellini), and Parmigiana Reggiano, which ranks among the strongest tasting cheeses in the world.

Your gateway to this gastronomic paradise lies in the heart of Hillcrest, at Parma Cucina Italiana, where the charm factor of its Italian owners and servers are just as captivating

Owners Leonardo Ciriminna and his wife Francesca Giuliani

1/5V Old Globe, The

gay-sd.com

Parma Cucina Italiana 3850 Fifth Ave. (Hillcrest) 619-543-0049 parmaitaliankitchen.com Prices: Salads and appetizers $7.50 to $18.50 Pasta dishes $16.50 to $19.50 Meat and fish entrees $18.50 to $23.50 as the wild boar Bolognese clinging to ribbons of housemade pappardelle pasta.

Leonardo Ciriminna and his wife, Francesca Giuliani, opened the intimate restaurant six years ago after moving here from Florence. Influenced by the cuisine of Parma, which sits to the north of their hometown, Ciriminna also incorporated into the menu some of his late grandmother’s recipes for things like beef meatballs and lasagna layered with bechamel sauce. She penned them in a notebook decades ago, and Ciriminna keeps the collection dearly on hand.

Just as I recalled when eating here in 2014, customers start sauntering in almost immediately after the doors open at 4:30 p.m. each day.

The couple is usually onsite to warmly greet them — an essential gesture that contributes to the restaurant’s sustained success on a block of Fifth Avenue (between University and Robinson) where eateries suddenly come and go often.

Adding to the equation is a lot of damn good food.

A plate of the gorgeous thinsliced prosciutto is a pleasant, salty prelude to crostini de polenta, an appetizer featuring two square cuts of the soft cornmeal. One is draped with mild gorgonzola-walnut sauce, and the other with a cream-laden puree of truffles and porcini mushrooms. It’s a refined, outstanding dish indicative of classic northern-Italian cuisine.

Lentil soup (among others) appears on the menu about 10 days a month. Lucky for hubby and I, we got to slurp down a couple bowls of the thick pottage, which is augmented by a soulful puree of onions, potatoes, carrots, parsley and a touch of garlic. Say yes to your server’s offer of grated

Parma captures the heart and soul of northern Italy. (Photos by Frank Sabatini Jr.) Parmesan on top, and you’re suddenly transported to you know where.

Ciriminna recently began adding fish and seafood to the menu for customers wishing to step outside of landlocked Parma. Aside from a daily catch and smoked salmon with penne pasta in wine-cream sauce, there’s house-made tagliatelle egg noodles dressed in homey red sauce and twined around shrimp cooked in white wine, garlic and herbs. The pasta is lightweight, and the combined flavors are lovably Italian.

Ditto for the wild boar Bolognese and classic chicken piccata. The latter gives you a few pounded-out breasts fillets draped in lemon-wine sauce and capers. It includes basic mashed potatoes and colorful caponata, the Italian equivalent of French ratatouille involving roasted eggplant, zucchini, onions and a variety of bell peppers.

Giuliani makes the desserts.

If you’ve never had tartufo, this is the place to try it. Common throughout all of Italy, it typically features two flavors of ice cream — in this case scratchmade chocolate and hazelnut gelato — encasing fruit or chocolate. Our surprise center was soft semi-sweet fudge, a perfect come-on to the icy outer shell.

We also tried her cocoa-dusted tiramisu constructed with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and imported mascarpone cheese, which tasted tangier and creamier than domestic versions. Giuliani omits the usual injection of brandy in the recipe — and without any consequences to the overall flavor profile.

The wine list focuses on varietals from Italian regions.

There’s Lambrusco Dolce from Emilia-Romagna; pinot grigio from Umbria; and a full-bodied “super Tuscan” from Toscana that paired fantastically to the wild boar.

Parma Cucina Italiana is LGBT-friendly. Since opening, it has helped raise money for HIV/AIDS service organizations through The Center’s Dining Out for Life program.

Its diverse patronage includes Italian transplants who like coming in to chat with the staff in their native language. But even if there isn’t a speck of paesano in your DNA, you’ll feel right at home here.

—Frank Sabatini Jr. is the author of ‘Secret San Diego’ (ECW Press) and began his local writing career more than two decades ago as a staffer for the former San Diego Tribune.

You can reach him at fsabatini@san.rr.com.t

Imported prosciutto di Parma

Chicken piccata with mashed potatoes and caponata Tagliatelle noodles with shrimp

DINING

gay-sd.com

The newly remodeled Doubletree Hotel Circle and its rebranded restaurant, Seaglass, has brought on

Rachel Jacobs as executive chef.

The Ocean Beach resident previously held culinary positions at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, Anthem in North Park, and the Hard Rock Cafe in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Seaglass revamped a majority of the menu, with many dishes steering clear of gluten. In addition, about 20 percent of the options are vegetarian or vegan.

One of her standout items includes a burger fashioned in the spirit of a California burrito. It’s topped with avocado, pico de gallo and French fries.

The hotel also hired pastry chef Mirsonia Jimenez from Puerto Rico. Her creations include Puerto Rican panna cotta known as coconut tembleque, and cheesecake swans made with cream cheese and caramel flan. 1515 Hotel Circle South, 619-881-6900, doubletreehotelcircle.com.

Panda Express in Mission Valley’s Park Village Center has closed and will make way for an eighth San Diego location of Breakfast Republic at 1570 Camino de la Reina.

Owned by the locally-based Rise & Shine Restaurant Group, the transformation is due for completion in May. In the meantime, the company is introducing walk-up windows

to its Breakfast Republic properties in Pacific Beach (4465 Mission Blvd.) and the East Village (707 G St.). Named Eggies, they will operate from shipping containers and sell coffee drinks, English muffin sandwiches, and noshes such as firttatas and French toast served in small Mason jars. Both are slated to open in mid- to late spring. breakfastrepublic.com.

Chef Rachel Jacobs is raising the culinary bar in a remodeled Hotel Circle property. (Photo by Shauna Aguirre)

San Diego gourmand Mary Kay Waters recently released a cookbook of recipes from her culinary ventures.

(Courtesy of Waters Fine Foods & Catering)

Businesses and event organizers throughout San Diego that have employed Waters Fine Foods & Catering for their special events now have access to many of the recipes that owner Mary Kay Waters has used over the 30 years she’s been in business. Her new 240-page hardcover cookbook, “Waters Fine Foods — Stories and Recipes from our Kitchen,” is hot off the press and available for $28 at various outlets: Specialty Produce (1929 Hancock St.), Warwick’s (7912 Girard Ave.), and Waters Fine Catering Cafe (1125 W. Morena Blvd.)

Replete with color photography, the book features chapters on breakfast, salads, soups, sandwiches, entrees, desserts and more. It is also available on the website at waterscatering.com.

Australian wagyu beef is stealing the show at the new Shawarma Guys food truck in South Park. Launched on Jan. 28 by Michigan transplant Bryan Zeto, the mobile kitchen specializes in Mediterranean fare and operates Monday through Saturday in The Bottle House parking lot. The lauded melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef is used in sandwiches, bowls, wraps and customized plates. Other menu items include hummus, Greek salads and a signature dish called lemon cream chop French fries, which are fries topped with panko-breaded chicken and lemon-garlic sauce. 3012 Grape St., 619-340-1234.

At least until spring arrives, Madison on Park in University Heights is offering “build your own hot toddy” for $12 per mug. A celebrated winter drink throughout Scotland and Ireland — and touted as a cure for cold-weather ailments — customers can create their heated cocktail by choosing a spirit, sweetener and citrus element.

Choices include bourbon, rum and rye whiskey, which can be paired to ingredients such as honey, smoked maple syrup and allspice liqueur, among others.

Lemon, lime, grapefruit and pineapple are available to further enhance the toddies. 4622 Park Blvd., 619-269-6566, madisononpark.com.

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

11

Customized hot toddies are available at Madison on Park.

(Courtesy of Katalyst Public Relations)

Since leaving his mark on Uptown’s culinary scene with the former Vagabond in South Park, as well as two existing locations of Cafe Madeleine in South Park and North Park, restaurateur Jerome Gombert has launched his next venture in Rosarito, Mexico.

His new Viaje Oyster Bar will hold its grand opening on Feb. 7. The 5,000-square-foot space offers ocean views and a menu rich in seafood. He’s sourcing the oysters from Baja’s coastal town of San Quintin, and said they are the same bivalves he used at Vagabond.

Helming the kitchen is Mexico City chef Marcello Hisaki, who has developed steak and chicken entrees in addition to offering at least seven types of fish.

Also available are Mexican craft beers and wines from Baja and France. Boulevard Benito Juarez 25500, Quinta del Mar, 22710; 52-661-104-0718.

Restaurateur Jerome Gombert at his new restaurant in Rosarito (Courtesy of Viaje Oyster Bar)

Wagyu beef shawarma is all the rage in South Park. (Photo by Bryan Zeto)

Looking for a great

OPPORTUNITY? We are seeking experienced, motivated advertising sales consultants for our six community newspapers.

Must be knowledgeable of these areas and have a minimum of one year advertising sales experience. The ideal candidate is an energetic team player who is bright, positive, creative and personable who relates to small business owners and can assess their advertising needs.

Fulltime, base plus commission.

For more information about our community newspapers, visit us at sdcnn.com.

Resume to David Mannis at David@sdcnn.com (619)961-1951

—Frank Sabatini Jr. can be reached at fsabatini@san.rr.com.t

LIFESTYLE

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

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gay-sd.com

9 things you need to ‘cleanse’ when entering a new relationship

N

By Mikey Rox

ew relationships are the universe’s way of giving us yet “another” chance to get it right in the love department – and since none of us are getting younger, it’s wise not to squander it by making the same mistakes over and over.

This time around, along with changing toxic behaviors that may have sent your significant other running for the nearest therapist or liquor store, consider cleansing a few areas of your life, tangible and otherwise.

Here are a few places to start.

breakup is to get a new ’do. A fresh hairstyle (or even just a shapeup) has the uncanny ability to change your physical appearance and mental and emotional outlook by providing a sense of satisfaction and confidence. But don’t stop there. Schedule a few self-care appointments, like a massage, fitness class and a gripe-andget-over-it brunch with your besties before moving on.

Your Car

Maybe you don’t have anything in your car that reminds you of your ex, but it’s still

in that bin in the attic. You’re not alone here. According to a Nectar Sleep survey, 59 percent of respondents said they do a “fall refresh” to their wardrobes when starting a committed relationship to get rid of previous partners' favorite sweaters and T-shirts.

Medicine cabinet

Toss the toothbrushes, colognes and any other grooming products your ex might have left behind. Keep the expensive skin creams, though; dumpster divers don’t need $90 worth of retinol, son.

Nightstand

There are several life rules I stand by, and one of them is that drawer dildos don’t enter my ass; I don’t know where it’s been, but I know it’s been somewhere, and that’s enough nope for me. If you’re starting a new relationship, clean out your sex drawer so A) you don’t look like a fucc boi with your 27 condoms

Call Today!

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San Diego’s LGBT News source Volume 9 Issue 6 March 16-29, 2018

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

gay-sd.com

Vote for your favorites Page 16

2 NEWS

Candidate Malbrough speaks, Nordstrom drops out

BEATING THE ODDS

Dockless bikes in Hillcrest

q INTERVIEW

By William E. Kelly Editor’s Note: This is the second in a three-part series.

Read the first in the series online at bit.ly/2tGWqD9.

Liz Carmouche, a 125-pound bantamweigh t women's MMA fighter, is ranked No. (Courtesy of 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu) 6 in the world.

Former Christian rocker comes out

First openly lesbian fighter makes Albert H. Fulcher | Editor In 2010, when Liz Carmouche decided she wanted to compete in the MMA (mixed martial arts) professionally, she did so with a “head on” approach. She was

i THEATER

her way to the top of MMA rankings

told it would take a year or more of training before she ever saw the ring. But the veteran Marine Corps aviation electrician beat the odds, getting her first chance to fight professionally within four months of starting her training.

Now after 11 wins and six losses, Carmouche is currently the No. 6 ranked 125-pound bantamweight women’s MMA fighter in the world.

see MMA, pg 11

Homelessness in the LGBTQ comm unity

Mayor brings interfaith discussion Albert H. Fulcher | Editor

OnStage Playhouse's "Spike Heels"

o

DINING

Magic with cast iron

Index Opinion

6

Classifieds

21

Calendar

22

Puzzle

22

Contact us

The Interfaith Shelter Network (ISN) has been an effective program for the homeless throughout San Diego County, so far helping 8,000 homeless individuals gain access to resources and services to get their lives back on track.

San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer joined the (ISN) in asking LGBT-friendly congregations to join the network and open their doors to homeless individuals at the ISN Summit on March 5 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral.

“We know there are a number of LGBTQ individuals experiencing homelessness and they need our help. That’s why we are asking LGBTQ-friendly congregations, who understand their needs, to join our care network and provide a temporary place for them to begin turning their lives around,” said Faulconer in a press release.

to LGBT–affirming congregations

Candidate Ken Malbrough ● Opening statement

(l to r) ISN Summit panelists, The Very Rev. Penny Bridges, Trisha Brereton, Fernando Lopez, Gary Owen, and Jonathan Herrera (Photo by Albert H. Fulcher)

The ISN Summit discussion addressing the summit. “This panel consisted of The Very is a network that works and Rev. Penny Bridges, dean, with your help and participaSt. Paul’s Cathedral; Trisha tion, I think you will see the Brereton, ISN executive dibenefits in so many ways. That rector; Fernando Lopez, San is why I am optimistic about Diego LGBT Pride executive our opportunities to begin makdirector; Gary Owen, ISN voling a real difference.” unteer; and Jonathan Herrera, Faulconer said that combatsenior advisor on homelessne ss ting homelessness is about crecoordination for the city of San ating that safe space for those Diego. in need, regardless of someone’s “You all represent the fabrace, color, religion, gender, sexric of our city for wanting to ual orientation, national origin, do the right thing and helpage or disabilities. ing people get back on their feet,” Faulconer said when see ISN,

“The county has $2 billion in reserve tax dollars just floating in a cloud of unknown use by county supervisors,” Malbrough said.

He said he pledges to “seek community input” on how these reserve tax dollars can best be utilized and would like to see them invested in “chronically neglected or underfunded areas,” such as housing and public safety in underserved communities.

“My priority is reducing our homelessness epidemic and addressing this issue region-wide,” he said.

“Providing access to health and human services is the primary and more affordable method to avoid the pathway to homelessness and incarceration.”

pg 15

Editorial/Letters

see Candidates, pg 5

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619-961-1960 albert@sdcnn.com

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Advertising 619-961-1958 mike@sdcnn.com

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On June 5, San Diego County will hold primary elections for the following seats: county board of supervisors; county assessor/ recorder/county clerk; county treasurer/tax collector; district attorney; county sheriff; county board of education members; community college district members; and superior court judges.

In the first of this series, I spoke to Omar Passons and Lori Saldana, two of the six candidates I interviewed who wish to represent District 4 on the San Diego County board of supervisors .

Each candidate I spoke to agreed to focus on the challenges facing seniors, and was offered the opportunity to state their priorities, objectives, goals and plans to address and achieve those priorities, as well as share their experience and qualifications.

Following are the highlights of responses by candidates Ken Malbrough and Marcia Nordstrom.

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(www.canstockphoto.com)

Gifts

You don’t have to burn all the cards and gifts your ex ever gave you – that relationship is still part of your “story,” and you’ll regret expunging those things in the long run (I’ve been there myself) – but it’s important to close that chapter and put the literal lid on those memories. Store them in a weatherproof bin in the basement or attic (or the back of a closet) as a future reminder of what once was instead of a constant reminder of what went wrong.

Bed sheets

This may seem like an insignificant place to concentrate your cleansing energy, but you and your ex spent a lot of time on your bed sheets.

They hold memories (among other things, like your ex’s DNA), and your new partner deserves to make new memories on sanitary cotton that’s not a graveyard of ghosts of relationships past.

Yourself

One of my best strategies to shake off a particularly bad

an area that you’ll want to cleanse before picking up a romantic prospect for a date.

Nobody with any self-respect wants to date a slob, and a dirty vehicle is the first warning that you might have cat skeletons buried under stacks of newspapers at home.

Underwear drawer

My boyfriend and I enjoy buying each other sexy underwear for special occasions, but if we ever breakup, those skivs are going straight to the dumpster. They’re an intimate part of our relationship, and I wouldn’t carry them over into a new one. I’d think about him every time I put them on, which is hardly fair for the new guy I’m trying to entice. It’s sad to see them go, I know – they represent many satisfying experiences – but you’re here to make new ones, however that may work out in the future.

Closets

Did your partner leave clothing in your closet? Return them. Are there items they bought you in there? Put ’em

and half-empty bottles of Gun Oil, and B) you don’t get called out for being a dirtball while your dick is in your hand.

Media accounts

If your breakup wasn’t amicable and you two are prone to agitating each other on social media, take the high road and block your ex for the time being. New dates deserve a fighting chance to connect with you, and that can’t happen if your diverting energy to a toxic situation. Maybe you can ease into being friends after time has passed, maybe not, but a clean break is best if you intend to truly move on.

—Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has been published in more than 100 outlets across the world. He spends his time writing from the beach with his dog Jaxon. Connect with Mikey on Instagram @mikeyrox.

(Photo by www.CanStockPhoto.com)t

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GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

Friday, Feb. 1

Human Rights Watch Film Festival The San Diego Human Rights Watch Film Festival returns this year to the Museum of Photographic Arts. One of 20 cities that host the festival, San Diego’s chapter will show five films relating to the crucial need to address human rights violations around the world. The festival will take run until Feb. 2 with films spread out over two days. Festival passes are available for $40, or single screening tickets may be purchased for $10. 1649 El Prado. For film listings, show times, and tickets, visits the museum website at mopa.org

Saturday, Feb. 2

Herland with the Bechdel Brigade Catch a special showing of the Moxie Theatre’s production Herland as the Bechdel Brigade host a reception that will precede and follow the show. Members of the San Diego Woman’s Chorus will perform beforehand.

Afterwards there will be a meet-and-greet discussion with the play’s creator, Grace McLeod. Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets $25. 6663 El Cajon Blvd.

Sunday, Feb. 3

Crazy for You The Horton Grand Theatre presents an award-winning musical that’s sure to enchant audiences of all ages. Brimming with classic Gershwin tunes, Crazy for You tells the story of young New York banker Bobby Child, who is sent to Deadrock, Nevada, to foreclose on a rundown theatre, but not before he falls in love with the theatre owner’s daughter.

Tickets start at $70. 444 Fourth Ave. bit.ly/2GaiPgF

gay-sd.com Monday, Feb. 4

Travi$ Scott Rapper Travis Scott will take the stage at Pechanga Arena on Feb. 4 on his Astroworld tour. Show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $50. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. bit.ly/2Fj1Kl9

Tuesday, Feb. 5

MØ at the Observatory Danish electropop artist MØ will perform at the Observatory North Park on Feb. 5 with opener Mykki Blanco. Tickets $30. Doors open at 7 p.m. with show at 8 p.m. 2891 University Ave.

Wednesday, Feb. 6

Goodwill Grand Re-opening The Goodwill in Hillcrest has announced its grand re-opening after being closed for renovations. The newly enhanced store has over 1,600-square-feet of added space, an expanded home & furniture section, and more checkout space.

The store will open its doors at 9:30. 1219 University Ave.

Thursday, Feb. 7

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day The Faith-Based Action Coalition will host their annual National Black HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day Event on Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will include free HIV testing, snacks, activities for kids, opportunity drawings, music, and lots of resources and information from participating exhibitors, including The Center’s #BeTheGeneration team. The event will be held in the parking lot of the Salvation Army, located at 825 Seventh Ave.

Saturday, Feb. 9

Sabados en Fuego Join The Rail in Hillcrest for Uptown’s hottest Latin night with live music, drinks, and dancing all night long. No cover before 10:30 p.m. 3796 5th Ave. 21+ Love Hurts Cabaret The talented women of SDWC are at it again for our 4th annual love-themed cabaret Love Hurts! Join in for an evening of music performed by the talented women of San Diego Women's Chorus. The event features the solo, duo, and small ensemble talents of SDWC, and, as always, a few special surprise performances! Show starts at 7:30 p.m., with a pre-show happy hour at 6:30p.m. Enjoy an array of appetizers, beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages while you browse the silent auction baskets and opportunity drawing prizes.

Complimentary coffee and ice water provided. Tickets start at $20. bit.ly/2G15aco

Sunday, Feb. 10

Valentine’s Bloom Grab your Valentine and join Kendra Scott jewelers inside Westfield UTC Mall for an afternoon of floral arranging fun! Shop, sip mimosas and enjoy light bites while you create a beautiful seasonal bouquet of fresh flowers to take home.

Complimentary food and drinks will be provided and enjoy a 15% off discount on all Kendra Scott purchases!

All attendees will be entered into a raffle to win a piece of Kendra Scott jewelry! $65.

7007 Friars Rd. bit.ly/2GaSbnP

local American Idol Contests & newly-signed recording artists. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Tickets start at $20. 3940 Fourth Ave. bit.ly/2G15tUA

Wednesday, Feb. 13

Ongoing Events

Steve Grand Chicago based singer-songwriter Steve Grand, whose viral song All American Boy launched a chart-topping career, will be at Martinis Above Fourth for a special two-night, valentine’s show on his Up Close and Personal tour. Shows begin at 8 p.m. on Feb. 13 and 14.

Tickets $40. 3940 Fourth Ave. bit.ly/2G85hT4

Thursday, Feb. 14

Valentine’s Date Night Marina Kitchen, located inside the Marriott, has announced a decadent three-course dinner menu for Valentine’s day, prepared

by Chef Aron Schwartz. The prix fixe meal offers a selection of classic dishes, with vegetarian options available.

The menu will be available Feb. 14 – 16 from 5 – 10 p.m. each night. $55 per seat.

For reservations call 619-234-1500

Tuesday, Feb. 12

Stars of the Future Check out Martinis Above Fourth and see a cast of gifted young performers showcase their musical talents. Guests will enjoy hearing their favorite musical theatre pieces from the voices of future Broadway Stars. These artists have credits that include the Old Globe Theatre, The San Diego Rep & the La Jolla Playhouse. Many are winners of Old Globe Honors,

‘Somebody to Love’ – On the heels of “Bohemian Rhapsody’s” recent Golden Globe Wins, “Somebody to Love – A Queen musical with a ballet twist” will debuting in San Diego on Valentine’s Day. The oneof-a-kind event showcases a live rendition of Queen’s iconic repertoire featuring San Diego native, vocal powerhouse and “America’s Got Talent” finalist Brian Justin

‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’ The iconic musical production makes its way to the Diversionary stage, with tickets on sale now for the spring show. A rock and roll tinted story of personal discovery, this independent show turned Broadway hit is sure to leave audiences captivated. Tickets on sale night for opening night March 21. $30. 4545 Park Blvd. bit.ly/2FZPzKm

Tantrums & Tiaras Tickets are on sale now for the Center’s annual Tantrums & Tiaras fundraising event. The fun returns this year as contestants from around the city gather to help support the Center’s programs and services, and to compete for the top spot in this outrageously fun beauty pageant.

The show will take place on Feb. 17 from 6 – 10 p.m. at The Observatory. 2891 University Ave. Tickets start at $35. bit.ly/2FZuDDi Leading with Love Gala The North County LGBTQ Resource Center (NCRC) has announced ticket sales for its 2019 Leading with Love gala. The signature fundraising event helps the NCRC keep its doors open and programs running for those in need. Gala will be on June 9 from 2 – 7 p.m. $125. bit.ly/2FV9tGc.t

QSyndicate.com

Q Q PUZZLE PUZZLE

solution on page 13

HEDGES' MOMS

DOWN

ACROSS

1 Potent leader 5 Peter I, for one 9 It could explode in your mouth, in a gag 14 Brightly colored 15 Top drawer 16 Venue of “Spartacus” 17 Ron Howard film with Ellen DeGeneres 18 Winslet of “The Reader” 19 Type of call 20 She plays the mom of Lucas Hedges in 31-Across 23 Showy bloomers 24 Goes down 27 It connects Dick to Dyke 28 How a guy may approach his boyfriend?

31 Lucas Hedges movie about a family struggling with gay conversion 35 Hopkins of “Bosom Buddies”

Crum and renowned ballet dancer and San Diego local Kirsten Bloom Allen. The dynamic music of Queen mixed with the visual element of dance will take the audience on a multi-sensory journey through the different facets of love. 8 p.m. $67$100. The Music Box, 1337 India St. bit.ly/2Bc1e4O

36 “Got ya!”

37 Prepared, like fruit 39 Toto's home st.

40 Sounds like Harvey Fierstein?

43 Lucas Hedges flick about a mom and son struggling with drug addiction 46 Slaves row them for their masters 48 Maugham's “Cakes and ___” 49 Eat away at 50 Debbie Harry's old band 54 She plays the mom of Lucas Hedges in 43-Across 57 Mexican friend of Maya Angelou?

60 Like the 13 Amer. colonies 61 ___ up (come clean) 62 Dorothy, to Em 63 When doubled, Mork's good-bye 64 Isherwood's “___ Camera” 65 Chat room request 66 On the calm side 67 Parker of “South Park”

1 Erect 2 Concern of GLAAD and NLGJA 3 Lumberjack's first cut 4 Entail 5 Enjoy a bed, perhaps 6 Emulates three men in a tub 7 Opposition member 8 Clarinet part 9 Minnelli hit of 1972 10 Hard shaft material 11 GM make 12 Aardvark entree 13 “Rebel Without a Cause” director Nicholas 21 One with a tricky tongue 22 Summer Billings hrs.

25 Kevin Isom's “It Only Hurts When I ___” 26 Singer Yma from Peru 28 Colette's fathers 29 Forbidden fruit site

30 Propane holder 31 One way to San Francisco 32 Midwest hub 33 Arafat once of Middle East politics 34 Know, to Frida 38 Much of many a Shakespearean play 41 “The Laramie ___” 42 Entices into the sack, perhaps 44 Neatnik's opposite 45 Live Aid, e.g.

47 Rev. White of Soulforce 50 Juice for your pickle 51 Dismal, to Dickinson 52 Lancelot's “C'est Moi,” translated 53 Francis Bacon work 55 Island of Barrie's land 56 Russian inland sea 57 T or F, on exams 58 Problem of Harold in “The Boys in the Band” 59 Some like it hot

NEWS

gay-sd.com FROM PAGE 9

PARTY

It was clear Mariam T had as much fun as we did. She bounced around the house, putting a check on her bucket list by singing the “Tiki” song.

Mariam T commanded the room and found any way to entertain the audience during the breaks, either on stage or from behind the curtain¬ — so much so, that many couldn’t realize whether we were waiting for the next performance or not.

Diamond Dogs Boylesque’s Ziggy Zig literally stripped Aladdin down to his core essentials, maybe even a little less, and later brought his dancing mate Marvin Garcia up on stage to strip it down just a little bit more.

This was a nonstop show full of fun, laughter, great performances and a lot of surprises.

Along with the performances, the variety of Mariam’s Tea Party set it apart from many other shows. There was certainly something there for everyone. But the crowd loved it all, showering bills onto the

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

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stage from the very back of the room. Even better, the performers also had a blast. It was obvious from the moment they set foot (or tentacles, or fins …) on stage, they were there to have fun and to entertain.

You can’t ask for more from a show than that. And Mariam T, Evelyn Rose, Michele Ada, BeBe Gunn, Keex Rose, Vanity Jones and The Diamond Dogs all delivered.

I can’t wait to see what the next show’s theme is.

—Albert Fulcher can be reached at albert@sdcnn.com.t

Lolita Von Tease takes the audience through Wonderland

Keex Rose’s Ursula makes you want to turn to the dark side of Disney

Mariam T performs “The Tiki, Tiki, Tiki Room”

Diamond Dogs Boylesque’s Ziggy Zip strips down Aladdin

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COMMUNITY

GAY SAN DIEGO Feb. 1 - 14, 2019

&in

Gay San Diego BigMike Phillip’s birthday bash!

On Jan. 20, BigMike Phillips held his 20th annual birthday fundraiser at Rich’s San Diego. Between tickets sold and his GoFundMe page, he raised more than $14,000 benefitting the Trevor Project and Omar’s Closet at Florence Elementary School. San Diego’s LGBT community came out in full force to celebrate this annual occasion with city and state officials, non-profit organizations and the many people that BigMike has touched with his heart and generosity throughout the years.

(Photos by Albert H. Fulcher)

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