LGBTQ San Diego County News Issue 1 Volume 13

LGBTQSD.NEWS

MARCH 27 - APRIL 9, 2020 VOLUME 1 ISSUE 13

MAR 27 - APR 9, 2020 VOLUME 1 ISSUE 13

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LGBTQSD.NEWS

DEAR READERS: In an effort to stay in accordance with health officials, we decided it made the most sense to publish our issue #13 online only. This will hopefully help keep people safe and off the streets but still let patrons enjoy our publication by reading it online. Thank you for your support and please stay safe and healthy.

LGBTQ SAN DIEGO COUNTY NEWS FAMILY

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CONTINUING TO CELEBRATE

WOMEN’S HER-STORY MONTH! SPOTLIGHTING DR. ELIZABETH BLACKWELL AND ANNIE OAKLEY

HELPFUL

DR. ELIZABETH BLACKWELL

RESOURCE GUIDE

By M.G. Perez Senior Reporter

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an Diego community leaders have taken immediate action to bring relief to those in the LGBTQ community who need it most. The Imperial Court de San Diego has led the way by implementing an Emergency Food Voucher program. The program initially started by offering relief to local entertainers and bar employees who have been hit especially hard by the state’s business closure mandate due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Imperial Court has now expanded the offer of $50 Ralphs gift cards to the elderly.

In less than a week, gift cards in the amount of $14,200 have already been distributed. Big Mike Phillips is one of several volunteers helping with the voucher program distribution. He says, “I have lived in San Diego more than 30 years and I’ve never experienced anything like this. The people we are helping have been so appreciative of this small gift and I am humbled to partner with the Imperial Court; $50 is a lifeline for so many of our LGBTQ community members in this scary time for

everyone.” The voucher program can only continue with more donations. If you would like to support the purchase of grocery gift cards, click here https://bit.ly/DonationForGroceryCards There is also help being offered for laid-off employees in the hospitality industry. Breakfast Republic in Mission Valley is handing out prepackaged dinners each day between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., with a rotating menu including meals with meat loaf, roasted chicken and lasagna. Staff says they’ll keep handing out the dinners as long as they can. A $10 contribution is suggested for the meals, but workers struggling to afford food during the coronavirus pandemic can take a meal for free with no questions asked. “If you can afford more, then buy an extra one and ‘pay it forward,’ and we’ll ensure that the next laid-off worker receives their meal for free,” the Rise & Shine Hospitality Group explained in a Facebook post.

Helpful Resource Guide continues on C3

Source WomensHistory.Org

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he first woman in America to receive a medical degree, Elizabeth Blackwell championed the participation of women in the medical profession and ultimately opened her own medical college for women.

Born near Bristol, England on Feb. 3, 1821, Blackwell was the third of nine children of Hannah Lane and Samuel Blackwell, a sugar refiner, Quaker, and anti-slavery activist. Elizabeth’s famous relatives included her brother Henry, a well-known abolitionist and women’s suffrage supporter who married women’s rights activist Lucy Stone; Emily, who followed her sister into medicine; and sister-in-law Antoinette Brown Blackwell, the first ordained female minister in a mainstream Protestant denomination.

In 1832, the Blackwell family moved to America, settling in Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1838, Samuel Blackwell died, leaving the family penniless during a national financial crisis. Elizabeth, her mother, and two older sisters worked in the predominantly female profession of teaching.

Women’s Her-Story continues on C2

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Women’s Her-Story continued from Page 1

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DR. ELIZABETH BLACKWELL Blackwell was inspired to pursue medicine by a dying friend who said her ordeal would have been better had she had a female physician. Most male physicians trained as apprentices to experienced doctors; there were few medical colleges and none that accepted women, though a few women also apprenticed and became unlicensed physicians.

While teaching, Blackwell boarded with the families of two southern physicians who mentored her. In 1847, she returned to Philadelphia, hoping that Quaker friends could assist her entrance into medical school. Rejected everywhere she applied, she was ultimately admitted to Geneva College in rural New York, however, her acceptance letter was intended as a practical joke.

Blackwell faced discrimination and obstacles in college: professors forced her to sit separately at lectures and often excluded her from labs; local townspeople shunned her as a “bad” woman for defying her gender role. Blackwell eventually earned the respect of professors and classmates, graduating first in her class in 1849. She continued her training at London and Paris hospitals, though doctors there relegated her to midwifery or nursing. She began to emphasize preventative care and personal hygiene, recognizing that male doctors often caused epidemics by failing to wash their hands between patients.

In 1851, Dr. Blackwell returned to New York City, where discrimination against female physicians meant few patients and difficulty practicing in hospitals and clinics. With help from Quaker friends, Blackwell opened a small clinic to treat poor women; in 1857, she opened the New York Infirmary for Women and Children with her sister Dr. Emily Blackwell and colleague Dr. Marie Zakrzewska. Its mission included providing positions for women physicians. During the Civil War, the Blackwell sisters trained nurses for Union hospitals.

In 1868, Blackwell opened a medical college in New York City. A year later, she placed her sister in charge and returned permanently to London, where in 1875, she became a professor of gynecology at the New London School of Medicine for Women. She also helped found the National Health Society and published several books, including an autobiography, “Pioneer Work in Opening the Medical Profession to Women” (1895).

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NEWS

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Helpful Resource Guide continued from Page 1

ANNIE OAKLEY

By Paula J. Luttrell

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merican legend, Annie Oakley was a 5-foot-tall master sharpshooter nicknamed “Little Sure Shot” by Chief Sitting Bull, who was so impressed that he “adopted” her and gave her the Native American title “Watanya Cicilla.”

Oakley never failed to delight her audiences and her feats of marks-woman-ship were truly incredible. But her life getting there was far from easy.

Born Phoebe Ann Mosley in 1860, in a log cabin in rural Ohio, she was the sixth of nine children. Her father survived fighting in the war of 1812, but became an invalid after a blizzard caused him to suffer from hypothermia. Because of the poverty the family experienced after his illness and death, Annie did not attend regular school as a child. She and one of her sisters were admitted to the Darke County Infirmary. Annie was put in the care of the infirmary’s superintendent and his wife, who taught her to sew and decorate. She was later “bound out” to a local family to care for their infant son, with the false promise of 50 cents per week and an education. They enslaved her for nearly two years and tortured her, both mentally and physically. Annie finally ran away when she was 12. She referred to the couple as “the wolves” and never revealed their names.

Annie had begun trapping at the age of 7, and hunting and shooting by the age of 8. She sold what she hunted to local shopkeepers and restaurants. Her profits paid off her mother’s small farm by the time she was just 15.

The young girl soon became well known throughout the region. On Thanksgiving Day 1875, traveling show marksman Frank E. Butler was performing in Cincinnati. Frank placed a $100 bet with a local hotel owner that he could best any fancy shooter in Ohio. The hotelier arranged a match between Butler and Annie. The last thing Frank expected was a 5-foot-tall teenage girl as his opponent. After missing on his 25th shot, Butler lost the match and the bet. A year later, Annie and Frank were married and began performing together.

The couple joined Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show in 1885. The three-year tour cemented Oakley as America’s first female star.

She earned more money than anyone else in the show besides Buffalo Bill himself.

Annie performed in other shows for extra income. In Europe, she put on shows for heads of state, like Queen Victoria of the U.K., King Umberto I of Italy, and President Marie Francois Sadi Carnot of France. She shot the ashes off a cigarette help by newly-crowned German Kaiser Wilhelm II at his request.

Oakley promoted the service of women in combat operations for the United States armed forces. She wrote a letter to President William McKinley in 1898, offering the services of 50 “lady sharpshooters,” who would provide their own arms and ammunition should the U.S. go to war with Spain. Her offer was not accepted but Teddy Roosevelt did name his volunteer cavalry the “Rough Riders” after the performers in Buffalo Bill’s show, where Annie was a major star.

Throughout her career, it is believed that Oakley taught more than 15,000 women how to use a firearm. She felt it was crucial for women to know to use a gun, as not only a form of physical and mental exercise, but also as a means to protect themselves.

She said, “I would like to see every woman handle guns as naturally as they know how to handle babies.”

Annie Oakley has been well-represented in arts and entertainment. Barbara Stanwick played Oakley in the namesake 1935 film. The 1941 Irving Berlin Broadway musical, “Annie Get Your Gun,” is based on her life, and was reprised in 1966.

Ethel Merman starred in both productions. A 1950 film version of the musical starred Betty Hutton and Howard Keel. Several years after headlining the 1948 national tour, Broadway legend Mary Martin returned to the role for a 1957 NBC television special. Oakley also had a television series named after her, and has been portrayed in many movies including “Tall Tales and Legends,” “Buffalo Girls,” and “Hidalgo.”

Over the course of her career, Annie Oakley showed people around the world that women were capable and able to handle firearms and even out-shoot men. She encouraged women to master the use of pistols they could keep in their purse to protect themselves. She was passionate about empowering women and protecting children.

Mama’s Kitchen continues operating as an “essential business” under the governor’s shelter-in-place order and is part of the county’s emergency response efforts.

Home meal deliveries will continue with additional safety procedures and volunteers can work during this time. However, the on-site pantry for low-income HIVpositive clients is closed.

Those who are registered with the pantry can enroll in the home delivered meal service in the meantime.

Being Alive San Diego is

limiting in-person visits for only clients in need of new AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) enrollment and PrEP. The state of California has extended all ADAP applications until June 30. If your ADAP enrollment has lapsed, renewal can be done with a phone call to the office at 619-291-1400. The recreation program, yoga classes, HIV 101 course, and Daniel’s Market are all suspended for the month of April.

The California Employment Development Department (EDD) has been

overwhelmed by the immediate increase in claims filed because of pandemic-related closures. The EDD is extending staff resources to keep up with the demand. For faster service, use UI Online to file a claim, certify for benefits, and get payment information. Visit https://www. edd.ca.gov/Unemployment/ UI_Online.htm Cal Fresh Food Stamp benefits have not changed.

If you are currently receiving benefits, they will be delivered to your card on the normal schedule.

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NEWS / OPINION

LGBTQSD.NEWS

MEAL PICK-UP LOCATIONS FOR CHILDREN

San Diego Unified Food and Nutrition Services will be conducting a drive thru/ walk-up distribution of daily prepared meals, free of charge. Children will need to be present to receive meals, and each child 18 years and younger may take one lunch and one breakfast for the next day.

There will be no congregate feeding; all food is to be taken and consumed off site. Social distancing guidelines apply.

Meal distribution times for all locations will be from Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

HOME AND SCHOOL A FAMILIES JOURNEY

By M.G. Perez Senior Reporter

Jennifer Sieber with her daughter spending more time together as the Covid-19 pandemic closes schools and upsets most daily routines.

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n a classroom, educators ahead of us,” said SDUSD call it a “teachable moBoard President John Lee Evment.” California Governor ans. “Students are missing out Gavin Newsom has encouron valuable learning opportuaged people to “meet the nities. The current situation moment” with his “Safer at is unsustainable and demands Home” statewide directive. It a solution. The solution we requires residents to selfare announcing allows our quarantine, permitting only students to continue their acaessential jobs and companies demic journey without the fear to continue to operate. of spreading the COVID-19 San Diego Unified School pandemic.”

District joined Los Angeles Jennifer Sieber and her Unified in closing all schools as 17-year-old daughter, Jay, of Monday, March 16. Between are among the families coping the two districts, the move dewith the SDUSD shutdown. signed to slow down the spread Jennifer works for the County of COVID-19, has left 750,000 of San Diego in the Human students and their families Resources department, which scrambling for guidance and remains open for now. She is resources. This teachable splitting her job with a couple moment has created its own of days in the office and the pandemic of concern for the rest of the week at their home state’s education system. in Hillcrest. “My biggest conThis week, SDUSD ancern is that Jay is a junior and nounced plans to save the in her most important year remainder of the academic for grades to apply to colleges year, while continuing efforts with,” Sieber says. “How will to protect staff, students and she be prepared for next year? their families. San Diego UniWill they be starting as if a fied will return to instruction normal junior year occurred or in April to guarantee students will there be some catch up? I an opportunity to successfully have so much anxiety thinkcomplete the current academic ing about how her teacher and year, even as physical school classes are going to be the next on: LGBTQ Sanand Diego County Newstwo months.”

Run Date: Marchand 13th buildings facilities remain The mother x 3.56” closed until public health ofMedia: Web daughter have Print created& a daily ficials determine it is safe for schedule with several hours of students to return to academic work balanced with classrooms. chores and recreational time. https://lgbtqsd.news/ “Even as our nation faces a Jay Sieber is a student at rchive (Examples): https://lgbtqsd.news/digital-archive/ health crisis, we can see the San Diego High School in size of the education challenge International Studies. She also

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SERVING LOCATIONS (AS OF MONDAY, MARCH 16): takes a class at San Diego City College, where she was about to have a midterm exam in her Black Studies class when the shutdown happened. She says, “I’m kind of indifferent to the shutdown because as a junior, we don’t have a lot of big school things happening.

But I know a lot of my peers are upset about their college trips being canceled.” Her college class has already been changed to online learning, while she’s working on enrichment assignments at home. “I am staying connected to my friends through social media for sure, like Snapchat and Instagram. We miss each other but know that we must follow what the government says.”

Los Angles Unified Superintendent Austin Beutner has announced that his district will now remain closed until at least May 1. That’s an additional five weeks to what was initially expected but still significantly less than what Governor Newsom predicted last week when he said he expected California schools would not reopen before summer break in June.

While schools are not in session, SDUSD has partnered with local KPBS-TV to provide on-air resources as well as online learning content. The partnership is called “At-Home Learning: Where Children Matter,” comprised of a broadcast component with programming that is aligned to mandated California standards. All resources are public and can be accessed at www. sandi.net The district is also providing food services for as long as schools are closed, with meals available to families with children who need assistance. Both Los Angeles and San Diego leaders continue to advocate for more state funding to continue support as the pandemic proceeds.

“From the moment that our two districts announced plans to close to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 global pandemic, our legislative leaders have been there to support our students,” said Beutner and Marten in a joint statement.

“They took bold action to save thousands of jobs by ensuring

• Clark Middle - 4388 Thorn St., San Diego, CA 92105 • Cherokee Point Elementary - 3735 38th St., San Diego, CA 92105 • Sherman Elementary School - 301 22nd St., San Diego, CA 92102 • Zamorano Fine Arts Academy - 2655 Casey St., San Diego, CA 92139 • Kearny High School 1954 Komet Way, San Diego, CA 92111 • Walker Elementary School - 9225 Hillery Drive, San Diego, CA 92126 • Farb Middle - 4880 La Cuenta Drive, San Diego, CA 92124 • O’ Farrell Charter School - 6130 Skyline Drive, San Diego, CA 92114 • Porter Elementary North - 445 S. 47th St., San Diego, CA 92113 • Chollas Mead Elementary, 4525 Market St., San Diego, CA 92102 • Perkins K-8, 1770 Main St., San Diego, CA 92113 • Ibarra Elementary School, 4877 Orange Ave., San Diego, CA 92115 • Horton Elementary School, 5050 Guymon St., San Diego CA 92102

status quo funding for school systems across the state. Without that action, our economy would be in more trouble than we already face, and thanks to that action, we are able to focus on serving our children.”

Meanwhile, Sieber and her daughter are hanging in there like everyone else. “I know there just aren’t answers to most of my questions right now, so there’s nothing we can do. Jay is great at reminding me to breathe.”

LGBTQ San Diego County News PO Box 34664 San Diego, CA 92163 858.886.9458 PUBLISHER Terry Sidie ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Nicole Murray Ramirez nicolemrsd1@gmail.com 619-241-5672 CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cesar A. Reyes creativedirector@lgbtqsd.news EDITOR editor@lgbtqsd.news SENIOR STAFF REPORTER M. G. Perez SALES sales@lgbtqsd.news STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Big Mike Phillips Bmsd1957@gmail.com 619-807-7324 COPY EDITOR Dustin Lothspeich WEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA info@lgbtq.news CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Big Mike Phillips Kevin Perry Michael Kimmel Paula J. Luttrell

DISTRIBUTION LGBTQ San Diego County News is distributed free every other Friday of the month. © 2020. All rights reserved.

OPINION/LETTERS LGBTQ San Diego County News encourages letters to the editor and guest editorials. Please email them directly to editor@lgbtqsd.news and include your name, phone number and address for verification. We reserve the right to edit letters for brevity and accuracy. Letters and guest editorials do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or staff.

SUBMISSION/NEWS TIPS Press releases and story ideas are welcomed. Send press releases, tips, photos or story ideas to editor@lgbtqsd.news. For breaking news and Investigative story ideas, contact the editor by phone or email.

Copyright © 2020 LGBTQ San Diego County News Editor’s Note: The opinions written in this publication’s editorial and opinion pages are the author’s own and does not necessarily represent the opinions of the staff and/or publisher of LGBTQ San Diego County News. The newspaper and its staff should be held harmless of liability or damages.

COMMUNITY VOICES

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Conversations with Nicole It takes a village Nicole Murray Ramirez —Nicole Murray Ramirez has been writing a column since 1973. He has been a Latino/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 Nicolemrsd1@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @Nmrsd2.

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t is in difficult times that our community shines in so many ways. These days, in many ways, remind a lot of us of the early dark years of the AIDS crisis. As many of you know, the Imperial Courts chapters have been around since the early 1960s and now we have chapters in 70 cities within the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The Imperial Court de San Diego has been around for 48 years and helped established the San Diego County AIDS Assistance Fund, Tijuana AIDS Fund and San Diego AIDS Walk (with founder Susan Jester). About two weeks ago, Emperor Mikie Lochner called me about helping people with food who have lost their jobs as many have in the entertainment/service industry (bars, restaurants, etc.). So, we came up with the Emergency Food Voucher Fund.

The Imperial Court de San Diego put in the first $5,000 and established the fund, giving out $50 Ralphs/Vons food gift cards to people in need, including families with children. As of this date, due to the generosity of so many people, the Emergency Food Voucher Fund will have given out more than $15,000 in vouchers! This includes $2,500 for the LGBT Center’s clients and families in need. I want to especially thank Bill Ash, Chris Shaw, SF Emperor Jerry, Joe Letzkus, Tom Hebrank, Tom Urbanski, Marsha Elmendorf and City Council candidate Stephen Whitburn.

Reach Out and Touch Someone There are many people in our communities across North America who live alone, be they single or seniors (especially many LGBTQ seniors), so we launched our “Reach Out and Touch Someone” project encouraging and reminding people to check in on their friends regularly by phone, email, text, letters, etc. For people isolated by themselves, it means a lot and makes a big difference knowing that someone cares and they’re not alone. Why not make a list so that you reach out to these people regularly.

Operation: Royal Mask A project focusing on members of our community who are sewing and making face masks because of the low supply (Paris of Inside Out Restaurant even has a video showing you how to make them).

The Imperial Courts across North America have hundreds of “Betsy Ross” friends sewing away.

Operation: Free Comic Books “Operation: Free Comic Books” is launching this weekend for families with children. Our schools are closed so children are home and these free comics will help brighten their day. I must most sincerely thank Princess Betty Pages of Denver, Colorado, who owns one of the biggest comic-book stores in the entire world! This week, he shipped me hundreds of comic books from his famous Mile High Comics store and they’re for children ranging in age from 4 to 12 years old. Thank you, Betty, for being as generous as usual (Pages also regularly feeds the homeless in Denver).

There have been so many acts of kindness and support for our projects and I especially want to thank: Tom Hebrank, who regularly drops off “snacks” (cookies, chips, etc.) for children and families we give food vouchers to; Fina/Joseph, for getting that big donation; especially Empress Regina Styles of the Redwing Bar and Grill, who made all our logos (she is the best!); and Carolina Ramos of our LGBT Center — just so many wonderful, caring people. Also, thanks to the members of the Imperial Court de San Diego board of directors, who have helped with these projects: Michael Zarbo (our hard-working treasurer), Steven Blocker, Robert Rodriguez and his partner Scott Parman (who have both played a major part in delivering the food vouchers), Emperor Randy and Huggy Bear Mark, our President Mikie Lochner — all of them have played a part in these projects. And, of course, one of our community’s “angels”...yes, the one and only “Big Mike,” who always plays a big role in all of our projects and benefits. Also, Jonathan Hale, SDGLN, Hale Media, COVID-19 Support Group, Eddie Rey and the Business Alliance. A special shout-out to our elected public officials who are making a big difference by their leadership and hard work: Mayor Kevin Faulconer; City Council President Georgette Gomez; Councilman Chris Ward; state Assembly members Todd Gloria and Lorena Gonzalez; California Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins; Police Chief David Nisleit; Sheriff Bill Gore; County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher; and their outstanding staff members.

Also, God bless our nurses, doctors, postal workers, grocery workers, trash collectors, flight attendants, pharmacy staff, etc. Yes, it most certainly “takes a village” in every way to be able to do all these things and there are a lot of unsung heroes involved in these projects. Let’s not forget that organizations like our LGBT Community Center, Being Alive San Diego, Mama’s Kitchen, etc., are also doing a lot of reaching out and helping people in need.

But we cannot continue to do this without your help — please donate to the Imperial Court de San Diego, especially for our Emergency Food Voucher Fund: https://bit.ly/3akDL0N Go Fund Me https://bit.ly/3bpzysM Make checks payable to ICSD and send to: Imperial Court de San Diego, Inc. P.O. Box 34104, San Diego, CA 92163.

Contact Michael Lochner at 619-972-6369. www.imperialcourtsandiego.com To contact me: 619-241-5672.

Nicole Murray Ramirez, P.O. Box 33915, San Diego, CA, 92163, and nicolemrsd1@gmail.com God bless you all. Our village will survive this and we will have one huge celebration!

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STRENGTHEN YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

“Being calm and relaxed strengthens it.”

LIFE BEYOND THERAPY Michael Kimmel —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.

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n the past few days, I’ve been getting a lot of texts and phone calls from clients who are worried about the coronavirus (COVID-19) and want to know, “What can I do? How can I help my immune system?”

I am no physician, but as a psychotherapist who has studied the relationship between our minds and bodies for about 40 years now, I have some suggestions for my clients that I’d like to share with you.

Fear and worry weaken your immune system. Being calm and relaxed strengthens it. So, during these uncertain times, do whatever you can do to remain as calm and relaxed as possible.

This may sound simplistic, but research shows it to be true. Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by our bodies when we feel afraid and worried. Cortisol is a stress hormone released by the adrenal glands.

Your brain triggers its release in response to emergency situations.

However, when cortisol levels are too high for too long, this hormone can hurt you more than it helps — it typically contributes to depression, poor sleep, low energy, weight gain and high blood pres-

(Photo by rawpixels.com)

sure. Prolonged and elevated levels of cortisol are not good for you.

In times like these, we need to take good care of ourselves (and each other) until the current global health crisis is resolved. Here are some suggestions to reduce your cortisol levels and strengthen your immune system:

Since 1972, The San Diego LGBT Community Center’s mission has been to enhance and sustain the health and well-being of our LGBTQ community. We are a strong and resilient community who have advocated, stood up, and cared for each other for many years. We will weather this crisis as we have in the past, together as a community.

Based on guidance from public health officials and out of concern for our community – The Center must also postpone our major fundraising events, Dining Out For Life® San Diego and the annual Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast. If you are able, please donate so that we can continue our Emergency Services at thecentersd.org/giving

The Center’s Emergency Services include: • Behavioral Health Services by Zoom Health Care • Emergency Referral Desk • HIV testing by appointment • Program Case management by Zoom or phone • Critical housing needs • Food resources

Call 619.692.2077 x211 for Emergency Services, resources, and referrals

CENTER EMERGENCY FUND Please donate to provide Emergency Services during the Covid-19 Pandemic thecentersd.org/giving The San Diego LGBT Community Center 3909 Centre Street • 619-692-2077 www.thecentersd.org

Watch movies that cheer you up or make you laugh.

Listen to music that makes you feel good.

Dance around the house (nobody’s watching).

Make good food for yourself: keep it healthy, but let yourself have some “fun” food too, like chocolate and a little wine or pasta. Allow yourself the little pleasures of life… your immune system will thank you.

Get exercise you’re comfortable with. Go outside for a walk, do some stretches in your living room, Google “yoga for the immune system” and do some simple poses. They can really calm you down (I know, I just did a few of them).

Read something that makes you feel good and safe; I have a few books that I re-read when I’m feeling scared or worried.

They always lift my spirits and make me feel better.

Limit your exposure to social media and news outlets — you want to be aware but not overwhelmed.

And limit your exposure to people who tend to panic, overreact or love to create drama: this isn’t good for your immune system. If you must be around people like this (e.g., because you’re married to them), help them be as calm and relaxed as possible. Do things together that encourage that. One couple I know play board games to leave the outside world behind. Another couple find that walks with their dogs are the best things they can do to feel good. Friends of mine went out to the Anza Borrega desert yesterday because that makes them feel really calm.

Whatever your preference, with your friends and lovers, help each other stay calm.

Decide how comfortable you

are being around other people and do what works for you.

Some of my clients prefer to do solitary activities at this time, others want to be around people. Some people are comfortable going to a gym, others aren’t. Trust your gut and do what works for you.

If you have a pet, spend more time with them than usual — both you and your pet will benefit.

Talk with your friends, especially the ones who help you stay calm. Knowing that you are not alone is a big help in times like these, when the coronavirus is such a huge unknown.

Make love and have good nurturing sex with a partner you know and feel safe with.

This isn’t a good time for anonymous sex that can leave you scared and lonely. Enough said…

If you have hobbies, this is a great time to amp them up. I like gardening, painting with watercolors, reading, music, yoga, working out and hiking, so I have been doing more of each of these recently. I even went out in the gentle rain this morning to pull weeds.

My neighbors may have thought I was crazy, but I enjoyed it (and the weeds came out easily, too).

Anything that makes you feel better will strengthen your immune system. Yesterday, I did laundry and thoroughly cleaned the kitchen because it makes me feel better to have those tasks done.

In these challenging times, you can help your immune system to be as strong and healthy as possible. I hope that the above suggestions bring you some calm and relaxation…and the lower cortisol levels that accompany them.

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BIG MIKE AND FRIENDS Big Mike Phillips —Big Mike Phillips is an activist, fundraiser, bartender and photographer who has lived in San Diego for 30 years. He has helped create two nonprofits and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charity. He has been a photographer for more than 25 years and has recorded our LGBTQ history not only in San Diego but around the country, including three LGBTQ marches on Washington D.C. Contact Big Mike at 619-8077324, or bmsd1957@gmail.com.

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s 2020 begins a new decade, it’s interesting to see how the world — full of so many challenges — has changed through my eyes. I came out of the closet as a gay man in 1975, the year I graduated from high school. Coming from a very religious Baptist upbringing, I had never even been in any kind of bar. I remember the very first time I went to one, it just so happened to be a woman’s show bar and even then, I didn’t realize where I was. What I do remember was there was a drag show that night, which brought a whole new outlook to me about being gay. I loved it. Michael Poor, my friend who took me that night, knew all the queens who performed. He introduced me to the star of the show, Paulette Leigh (Paul Briner), and I found out he was the older brother of Cheryl Briner, my best friend at the time who I’d known since high school. The next morning, I called Cheryl and told her I’d met her brother, which led to her becoming the first person I’d tell I was gay. I have loved and appreciated drag queens ever since. Watching them bring so much joy and laughter to others while using their talents to raise thousands and thousands of dollars during the AIDS epidemic and still being the first to give up their time and talents to raise money in their communities — they are our “drag heroes.”

I have had the pleasure of enjoying ongoing friendships with so many talented queens throughout my life and have built special relationships by working with them to raise money to help those in need.

One such drag entertainer I have just fallen in love with is the extremely funny and talented Mariam T (Remington Scott Kienbusch). I met Mariam T at a benefit for the San Diego’s AIDS Memorial Park held at Lips, a very popular drag bar in North Park. Along with her fellow drag entertainers, they donated their time and talents to raise money for the cause. I just thought Mariam T was so funny, I needed to get to know her better. It just so happened that I ran into her waiting tables at Urban MO’s one day when I went there for lunch, so I introduced myself, gave her my card and got her phone number. I asked her if she would join me for coffee or lunch.

I was putting together a charity event with a wonderful committee of dear friends and thought her talents would be perfect as the event’s host for the evening. I called her for about two or three weeks, and then after finally getting ahold of her, we finally met up and she agreed to be our host for the benefit. Damn, she plays hard to get.

Remington was born and raised in a small country town in Northeastern Arkansas. Growing up in the Bible belt certainly took its toll on a young, queer theater kid. Remington did say he was lucky, for the most part, that coming out was fairly easy for him. “You’d be surprised how many homosexuals there are in hillbilly land. It’s kind of like my mom said when I came out: ‘Well, son… you had a Barbie Dreamboat when you were 4. There weren’t many surprised folks.’”

He went on to tell me more about his childhood. “Growing up, I was allowed to be pretty feminine and eccentric. I played dress up in my grandmother’s clothes; I did her makeup; I painted birdhouses with mud and glitter; I only liked to play with Barbies; I used to lip sync to an old VHS recording of a Reba McEntire concert; I

Remington Scott Kienbusch, aka

Mariam T Big Mike and Mariam T

know a lot of Disney nerds.) So, any chance he gets to go up to Disneyland, he’s there — that’s his happy place.

Mariam T has become one of San Diego’s most beloved comedian drag entertainers who is gracing stages with her amazing talents. She is always happy to lend a helping hand, especially by hosting benefit shows around town (I had the pleasure of working with her on our 30th anniversary event for Being Alive). Mariam T has donated herself for many charitable events to raise

money for several organizations.

One of her favorites last year was co-hosting Dragsgiving, with her superstar drag mom Glitz Glam, where they raised a lot of money for the Scott Carlson Thanksgiving Dinner as well as the Imperial Court Toy Drive.

When I asked Mariam T about her love life, this is what she told me: “I’m very single. In the words of my own mother, ‘It’s gonna take someone real special to marry you one day, son.’ I love my momma. She’s as country as a can of Spam but she tells it like it is and loves me more than anyone in this whole world. I’m open to the idea of dating, but with my career path, and where I see myself going, I don’t think a serious relationship is in my future any time soon. So, I’m stuck in a relationship with a narcissistic drag queen who never offers to pay the bill.”

Getting to know Mariam T has been really fun and along with building a great friendship with her, she brings so much laughter and joy to any room she’s in. I love her ideas, fast comebacks, kindness and creativity she shares with her explosive personality. Mariam T is currently involved with a lot of interesting adventures she’s been working hard on and said to just keep any eye out for what will be coming soon. She, of course, performs at several of our local gay bars, where you can catch her making people laugh and having a great time. I, for one, am excited to see where her career will take her.

Mariam T is truly a raising star whose twinkle lights will one day blind you as the bright lights that will appear with her name.

To end with a quote from Mariam T herself: “If you need a good laugh… just have yourself a cup of T.” Thank you, Mariam T, for taking us into the world of laughter, especially in the difficult times we face right now. You are a star.

To book Mariam T or learn more about her, visit her on Instagram @TheMariamT or her website: sheherme.com

All are

Mariam T (photo by Big Mike Phillips)

was a green wicked witch for Halloween; I had my own pair of ruby slippers; and by fourth grade, I knew who Elvira was and had a B-52s CD. My small-town parents knew they had a weirdo on their hands from a very young age. Every time I come home to visit, my dad always says, ‘I remember you being a little boy… 2 and 3 years old and looking at you and knowing I would lose you. That this place would never be enough.’ Isn’t that funny how parents just know things?”

Remington did theater for many years with a friend who passed away unexpectedly at 17. After that, he could never shake that feeling of having his naive idea of invincibility taken away from him. Unfortunately, he basically had a meltdown, failed in college and felt miserable and hopeless as to what to do with his life. Frustrated where he was in his life at the time, he packed his bags, sold all his stuff (left his gold PT Cruiser behind) and bought a one-way ticket to California. As he puts it, “It’s been one crazy ride.”

Before drag took over Remington’s life and he became Mariam T, he was very involved with community theater. He used to be the marketing director of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit theater group and also directed children’s theater and children’s theater summer programs. Right now, his hobbies include rhinestoning everything he wears. He likes to cook, read, go to museums and is a huge Disney nerd. (Seems like I

7

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THE SHOW MUST GO ON-LINE

By M.G. Perez Senior Reporter

A

ll San Diego theaters remain dark as the COVID-19 pandemic proceeds.

Much like an Act 1 finale, audiences are left wondering what happens next and when will the intermission end? Performers and their production teams and management are wondering, as well. Now, what we know for sure is that the vibrant San Diego creative and performing arts community is united and committed to the fundamental promise that the “show must go on.”

Social distancing and government orders to shut down public meeting places have inspired performances during the pandemic to move online across social media platforms.

The San Diego Virtual Cabaret has grown to more than 750 followers combined on its Facebook and Instagram

pages. The digital stage is administrated by Actors’ Equity Association member William Robinson, who is known to local audiences as both a professional actor and musical director. Robinson has invited actors, dancers, instrumentalists, impersonators, and singers to share their own content often created in makeshift performance spaces at home under the current quarantine.

In a recent Facebook post, Sara Ah Sing performed the chilling ballad “I’d Give My Life for You” from the musical “Miss Saigon.” She also posted support for the community, “Hey peeps. I love the idea and spirit of this page so much.

Creating has really helped me in this weird time. And when your best friend is a kickass pianist, there are almost no limits. Thank you for letting

me share.” All content is welcomed from performers of any level. The page is listed as a private group but visible to anyone who wants to be invited to join.

Theatre Is the Cure is launching a San Diego-based international virtual theatrical event.

The inaugural livestream kicks off Friday, March 27, at 6:30 p.m. PST. Theater artists worldwide will come together to share live performances with audiences everywhere in the comfort of their own homes or wherever they have access to Wi-Fi. This is an online pay-what-you-can event, and all proceeds will be distributed to participating artists that have been financially impacted by the pandemic. Thirty playwrights will write one original monologue each. Thirty directors will be matched with a script and one of 30 actors to rehearse via teleconference, culminating in a livestream of performances.

The event is produced by Logan Squared Productions, known for “That 24-Hour Thing,” which wraps the San Diego International Fringe Festival every year. Hannah Logan is at the helm of the project working with her graphic design partner, Ron Logan. She says, “We already have people responding from all over the world — Venezuela, Italy, and Australia. A director who has the virus is joining us as a participant.

This is a worldwide crisis, but theater is the cure. Our venues were shut down, but let’s create a worldwide theater pandemic bringing entertainment, inspiration, humor,

hope, and faith into homes everywhere. Your home is our theater.” For more information, email Logan at theatreisthecure@gmail.com The coronavirus has led to a new world isolation fueling social media according to a study from the online influencer agency Obviously (www.obvious.ly). The group analyzed 260 of their own campaigns, including more than 7.5 million Instagram posts and data from 2,152 TikTok influencers. The research found a 76% increase in daily accumulated likes on Instagram posts over the last two weeks. The trend is continuing here in San Diego, too.

On Tuesday nights, usually nestled beneath an East Village pub, there are true creative juices flowing. Amplified Ale Works at Island Avenue and 14th Street is known for its beer and brick-oven pizzas. What you won’t find on the menu is the extra serving of original poetry, articulate sounds in a piece of spoken word, or maybe some pages read aloud from a still-to-bepublished novel. “We are all about creating an inclusive community, where creatives of all levels can come be connected and supported,” says Sunny Rey, a published poet herself and the founder of Poets Underground. Because of the pandemic, she has now taken the underground community online every Tuesday and Thursday evening until further notice. She continues, “Poets Underground offers a space of retreat, rest, venting and safe support. Our guests refer to our usual Tuesday night events as ‘church’ or

‘therapy group.’ Whatever we are to each person, I can promise safe expression and genuine care. That will not change online or be suppressed by a virus outbreak.”

The open-mic opportunity livestreams on Instagram at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Kristen Fogle is president of ACT (Association of Community Theaters of San Diego County). “I think it’s so important for us to support our local arts organizations and businesses as much as possible right now. If you have a reservation for something that has been canceled, consider letting the theater or arts organization keep your money as a donation.”

She also has another suggestion: “Teaching artists and everyone in our community is losing work over this. Please consider hiring one of them to do work for you. They can tutor your kids, clean up your website, whatever. These individuals have so many skills and they are so incredibly deserving of our generosity right now.”

M.G. Perez is founder of the San Diego Theatre Connection and creator of the Community OMG blog communityomg.tumblr.com.

He is posting content in real-time as the pandemic continues. Submit theater content and story updates to mgperez@sdtconnection.com Follow on social media on Facebook and Instagram @sdtheatreconnection and on Twitter @TheSDTC.

NEWS

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STRATEGIES FOR THE LONG HAUL

COPING WITH LONELINESS, ‘TOUCH HUNGER’ AND OTHER CHALLENGES

By Michael Kimmel

DEAR READERS:

W

e don’t know how long the pandemic will last, how long we’ll need to practice social distancing or how long we’re likely to be working from home, unable to see our friends and colleagues. So, in this column I offer you some mental health strategies “for the long haul.”

I read that “loneliness” is one of the most Googled subjects at this point in the pandemic. Well, duh! We can’t hang out with our friends and loved ones, can’t get a hug or sit down for dinner or a cocktail — of course we’re going to feel lonely.

So, what can we do about it? Keep in touch with friends by a phone call or, even better, FaceTime or an equivalent. Seeing people is much better than just hearing their voice. You can see their face, body language and almost feel them there with you. A phone call is good too. Texting is OK, but it lacks the intimacy of FaceTime or a phone call. It’s better than nothing, but, in these lonely, isolating times, don’t settle for a text when you can have a loving, familiar face and/or a real voice on the line.

Lucky for us, we live in beautiful, temperate San Diego where we can easily be outside most days. Being cooped up in the house isn’t good for your body: fresh air, sunshine and seeing the big world all around you is great for your mental health…and you’re likely to see other people walking/jogging/ bicycling too. This decreases feelings of depression and isolation: “See, there’s other people doing what I’m doing. We’ll all get through this together.” If your physical health isn’t good, can you manage a short walk around the block? If not, how about being outside for a few minutes? If you garden, that’s a terrific way to be outside: pull weeds (there’s a lot of them right now), move plants around, fertilize them…hell, you could even sing to them (as friends of mine do).

There is such a thing as “touch hunger” and during this time of social distancing, it may be hard to get loving touch. If you live with a partner, please give each other more loving touch than usual. If you live alone, I encourage you to touch your body, run your fingers over it, massage it gently. This may sound weird, but it will make your body happy and boost your immune system. And what about masturbating? Isn’t that a form of touch? It is, but is it loving and nurturing or is it a rushed experience just to get off? You could experiment with masturbation as a form of pleasurable self-touching: try new ways to make yourself feel good. Slow down your pace. Try some toys (you can order some online, if you like). Use your “other” hand (it really makes a difference). Touch your entire body — not just your genitals — as you masturbate. I learned this from The Body Electric School: it’s called a full body orgasm and it’s pretty great stuff.

One thing I’m doing to help myself cope is to think of this pandemic period as a kind of meditation retreat. In the past, I have been on 10-day silent retreats that were full of peace, meditation, rest, yoga, solitude and good food. I am trying to bring these same qualities into this time of social isolation.

Even if you can’t get into this kind of mindset, can you, as a friend of mine said, “use this time to slow down and rest from how crazy my life has been for the past few years”? We now have time to rest and be more introspective, how will we use it? When it’s all over, will we have used it to recharge our mind/body/spirit or will we have spent the whole time worried and anxious? Yesterday, a client told me (yes, I’m seeing my clients via webcam sessions, keeping us all safe and healthy): “I’m using this time to take a good, hard look at my priorities in life…and some of them need to change.”

On the other hand, for many of us, keeping busy and active makes us feel better. If so, go for it! Do all those home projects you’ve been putting off. Clean out your closets/car/garage; redesign your garden; clear out your junk drawer; organize your home office; clean the cupboards under your sinks (those oftenignored spaces); cook those fabulous, multi-step meals you’ve been too busy to make; explore our beautiful city (whatever areas are “allowable” or “recommended” by the CDC); and go for long walks (with your dog, a friend or on your own). Keep yourself busy, if that’s what calms you.

We don’t know how long the pandemic will last. To be comfortable with all this uncertainty, I encourage you to find some strategies for the long haul. So, when it’s all over and we’re all looking back, you’ll feel good about how you spent your precious time.

(Photo by rawpixels.com)

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ENTERTAINMENT

LGBTQSD.NEWS

(Photo by rawpixels.com)

ENTERTAIN YOUR BRAIN ENJOY FREE ONLINE CONTENT DURING THESE TROUBLED TIMES

By Kevin Perry

T

he body and the mind share an eternal waltz with destiny. The brain is firmly in charge, but it is beholden to the mortal coil of skin, bones, and vulnerability in which it is encased.

While your body is quarantined in the confines of your work-from-home sanctuary, your imagination is still free to roam. Explore other galaxies,

ignite a new romance, and unleash your creativity, all from the comfort of your shelter.

The San Diego County Library offers Overdrive, a digital collection of eBooks and Kindle titles to feed your curiosity. Immerse yourself in “Tales of the City” by Armistead Maupin or delve deeper into our cultural cache with Oscar Wilde as your

guide. His classics like “The Picture of Dorian Gray” and “The Importance of Being Earnest” evoke limitless grandeur, even as you stare at the same four walls.

If you have little ones climbing up those aforementioned four walls due to school closures, take heed: Overdrive has a kids’ library packed with nature, wonder, and

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excitement. Turn your breakfast nook into a Nook nook and transform your tablet into a smorgasbord of free content.

There is no need to face the uncertainty of assembling at a physical library when the virtual stacks await your eager fingertips. And best of all: you can return your selections online with those same nimble fingertips. No late fees, no

crowds, no worries! sdcl.overdrive.com If streaming entertainment is what you crave, then save some room for Hulu. This pinnacle of pixels puts the “you” in LGBTQ. Hulu’s gay content includes edgy new gems like “Midnight Kiss,” a dangerous foray into fetish and calamity.

Rediscover heartbreaking classics like “Brokeback Mountain” or lighten up with “Will & Grace” (either version)! There is also the flirtatious new hit series “The Bisexual,” which excavates the awkwardness and triumphs of the modern dating scene. And let’s not forget the charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Binge on past seasons while wearing your fave faux fur (nobody’s watching — just do it)!

Speaking of the “yas kween” herself, RuPaul also stars in the Netflix series “AJ and the Queen.” Join her on a road trip to self-discovery! Dig into the bleached roots of drag/trans supremacy by re-watching “Paris Is Burning” or “The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson,” also available on Netflix. Oscar winners “Philadelphia” and “Moonlight” are streaming their legendary narratives for all to behold. Dry those tears with the comedy series “Bonding,” about a hapless New York twink who gets embroiled in his roommate’s bondage biz.

If you simply can’t get bogged down in a fully involved series, enjoy the bite-size frivolity of “Special.” This collection of vi-

ENTERTAINMENT

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Q Puzzle

(Photo by rawpixels.com)

46 Poet ___ Wu 47 Jeremy of _M. Butterfly_ 49 Press package from HRC 50 Kofi Annan’s home 53 End of the quote 59 Kahlo portrayer 60 61 Historic Stonewall event 63 One with a holey bottom 64 Depp’s cross-dressing role 65 Locker room emanation 66 Where to start out 67 Since, to James M. Barrie 68 Say, “We’re just friends...” perhaps

gnettes explores the life, love, and exasperation of a young gay man who refuses to let cerebral palsy get in the way of his brilliantly bitchy lifestyle.

Truly, Netflix’s LGBTQ+ menu is the place to chill.

Not to be outdone (or outgayed), Amazon Prime’s queer content features the lush lesbian fantasy “Raven’s Touch,” the tongue-in-cheek titillation of “Eating Out,” and the title that speaks volumes: “Ticked Off Trannies with Knives.”

Amazon also teams up with Audible to bring you such tales as “Bathhouse Confessions” and “Gay Girl, Good God.” When screen time overwhelms your eyes, give your ears a chance to play. Audiobooks can elevate your quarantine into a landscape of listening pleasure.

Keep the good vibes streaming with free music and additional content from San Diego’s own Z90.3 app. Even when the rest of the world slows down, the pop won’t stop! To expand your audio horizons, catch up with queer musicians like Dizzy Fae or Faze. Just plug their names into Spotify and bathe yourself in a rainbow of healing harmonies.

No journey through the jungles of free content would be complete without a trip to YouTube. The godmother of all digital video curators boasts millions of hours of entertainment, so click “Skip Ad” and join us in the revelry! “Her

Story” charts the ups, downs, and sunny complexities of SoCal life for its two transgender lead characters. “The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo” upends stereotypes while embracing the liberating absurdity of auditioning while queer.

If you just want — nay, NEED — a blast of catty realness injected into your consciousness, revisit the scarf-flipping fun of “Sassy Gay Friend.” “What, what, what are you doing?”

To delve into specialty fare, consider the boutique app Dekoo. The LGBTQ digital hotspot offers scintillating series such as “The Third” and action-infused pulp thrillers, a la “Hot Guys with Guns.”

Revry.tv perks up your playlist with original series like “Kappa Force,” a campy sorority slapstick superheroine romp that puts jokes in a blender and mixes them into a fine daiquiri of deliriousness.

And for some reel grrrl power, check out Here TV, home of homo hits like “I Can’t Think Straight” and “Nina’s Heavenly Delights.”

The LGBTQ story is one of connection in the face of adversity. Despite the unprecedented challenges we face in the age of the coronavirus, we can stay connected to our community, to our imagination, and to ourselves. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and stories of the free content outlined above, and look forward to a time when we can reenact their loving examples in person. Stay healthy.

THE BOYS IN THE BAND ACROSS 1 Masticate 5 Leathermen ride them 9 Banana treat 14 Jamie who cross-dressed on _M*A*S*H_ 15 Current Amsterdam currency 16 Linney of _Tales of the City_ 17 Early Ron Howard role 18 ___ all-time high 19 Spear of Minnesota 20 Start of a quote by Mart Crowley (1935-2020) 23 Out on a limb

24 Club where you can dance with a sailor 25 _The Rose_ star Bette 28 Month in Madrid 30 ___ & the Gang 34 Erotic diarist Nin 35 More of the quote 37 More of the quote 39 Org. in many spy movies 40 Always, to Emily Dickinson 41 Math subject 42 Avoided going straight 44 Inventor’s monogram 45 Velvet finish

DOWN 1 Handler of big bucks, in brief 2 Drag queen ___ Phace 3 Julia Roberts’ Brockovich 4 Sweaty guys embracing in a ring 5 Eavesdropper, e.g.

6 Bellybutton type 7 2015 Tomlin movie 8 Carol, for example 9 Puts in stitches, like Wanda Sykes 10 Boxer of the comics 11 Knockout 12 Coward’s confession?

13 Tart taste 21 Pink Triangle ___ 22 “G’day!” sayer 25 Dull surface 26 Harden 27 “Queen of the Hop” singer Bobby 29 Env. fattener 31 The ___ beat (passive partner?)

32 Rehoboth Beach setting 33 Pluck ‘em!

35 _Tales of the City_ character 36 On the decline 38 Good to eat 43 Club dancer 46 Box office buy 48 Boston leather bar 49 He stole the tarts of the Queen of Hearts 51 Iroquoian tongue 52 Cell component 53 Facetious “I see” 54 Gladly, old-style 55 Seaman’s pair 56 ___ guys (Robin Hood’s men?)

57 Baldwin staffer 58 Time for cowboys to shoot off 62 “I’ll ___ anything once”

48 Essen exclamation 49 TV spots 52 Baum’s good witch 54 End of the purpose 56 _WKRP_ actress Anderson 57 Poet Kitty 59 Remarkable hole 60 Quiche ingredients 61 Make money 62 Pirate’s stash 63 Enjoy an Oreo 64 Nemesis of Tinkerbell 65 Return key on a PC

THE PURPOSE OF HOMOSEXUALITY ACROSS 1 Chef Des Jardins 6 Shuttlecock 10 Tops cakes 14 Quinn of _Practical Magic_ 15 Personal lubricant ingredient 16 _South Park_ cocreator Stone 17 Public spectacle 18 _Boys Don’t Cry_ character 19 Ask for it while kneeling 20 Start of the purpose of homosexuality, per 58-Down 22 Sequence of unknown length 24 Suffix with profit

25 Dickinson’s howe’er 26 Words of empathy 27 More of the purpose 31 Mapplethorpe’s “Dark ___ Rose” 34 Steed stopper 35 _In Cold Blood_ writer, informally 36 “Take a crack ___” 37 Bugs or Erin 39 One with a foamy head 40 Went down on 41 Cocksure Aesop character 42 Composer Copland 43 More of the purpose 47 Queens in Las Vegas

DOWN 1 _Queer Eye_ discernment 2 Nouveau ___ 3 Maria’s “Do” equivalent 4 Relief of Lincoln 5 Staying power?

6 Weapon to use against Trump in November 7 “Now ___ me down to sleep ...”

8 Political analyst Reagan 9 Clark Kent portrayer on TV 10 Tainted 11 “Top of the World” singer Karen 12 It comes at the bottom of a list 13 Lid problem 21 TV trigram 23 Mountain pool 26 It comes out of your head 27 “Scram!” to Gomer 28 Goofed up 29 Bite it 30 Alternative to “Go straight” 31 Swedish import 32 Caesar’s invite to a threesome?

33 Navel adornments 37 The guys you’re seeing?

38 Unrefined metals 39 Ebenezer’s exclamation 41 Bunch of stallions 42 Button or Bean 44 Like Hans Christian Andersen 45 Polynesian woman 46 Here to Rimbaud 49 Inside tongue?

50 Dig (into) 51 Look from Snidely 52 One side of Ed Wood 53 HRC’s equal sign 54 Treat meat 55 “Nuts!”

58 Composer/lyricist Austin QSyndicate.com

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