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FebRUARY 2022 volUme 3 issUe 9
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LGBTQSD.NEWS
COMMuNitY features
News
PalM sPriNgs
2022 Spirit of Stonewall Nominations Are Open P16
Nicole Murray Ramirez 50 Years of LGBTQ/Latino Activism P7 International Bear Convergence (IBC) P14
Museum Month Returns to San Diego P10
COMMuNitY vOiCes
PubliC serviCe
Big Mike & Friends Featuring Andre Bowser P8
a noTe FroM Toni February, A Short Yet Busy Month P6
LiFe Beyond Therapy Smiling on the Outside; Crying on the Inside P9
CiTy aTTorney neWs Traveling by Air? Leave Your Firearms at Home P12
COurt News
Hillcrest Restaurant Shooter Sentenced to 49 Years Man who Fired Gun Near Mayor Gloria’s Home Faces Felony Charges P18
blaCK histOrY MONth
Maya Angelou First Black Woman to Appear on U.S. Coin P3
Love is in the air! valeNtiNe’s
sweet heart
F
COuPles
ebruary 14th is the celebration of Saint Valentine and the celebration of love and affection. The feast of Saint Valentine was established by Pope Gelasius I in 496AD in honor of Saint Valentine of Rome. The day became associated with romantic love in the 14th and 15th Centuries when notions of “courtly love” flourished in association with the “lovebirds” of early spring. Allow us to affectionately introduce you to some local Sweetheart Couples in our community.
rEaD oN PaGE 2
Kataluna Enriquez (courtesy image)
Miss Nevada 2021
KataluNa eNriquez
Creating important and positive Changes for Underrepresented CommUnities By Cesar a reyes
K
ataluna Enriquez made history as the first Transgender contestant in Miss USA. Enriquez won the opportunity and the title of Miss Nevada and was disappointed to have been let loose before the final 16 contestants were announced. But even without being able to showcase in the final pageant, she has made tremendous waves representing not only the Filipino community but also for the LGBTQ+ community by being an example to never limit your dreams.
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valentines Sweetheart Couples continued from Page 1
Joyce Marieb and Linda Barufaldi Together since 1972 (49 years) Married August 31, 2008
We grew up half a block from each other and probably met in Joyce’s grandmother’s grocery store in a small town in Western Massachusetts. We fell in love about 20 years later when we were both in grad school in Boston.
Lillian Faderman and Phyllis Irwin
Teresa Oyo and Rose Ruybal
Together since 1971 (51 years) Married on June 18, 2008
Together since 1986 (36 years)
We met at The Flame in May of 1986 and have been dancing and loving each other ever since. We were legally married on Dec 20 2016.
We got married in the San Diego County Courthouse in 2008, as soon as same-sex marriage became legal. We met as professors at California State University, Fresno.
Venice Michelle and William Brooks
Anthony Greika and Jesse Greika
Together since 1987 (33 years)
Together since 2004 (18 years) Married since 2014 (8 years)
We met at the Next Door Tavern while I was performing there back in 1987. We’ve been together for about 33 years now.
We met in Ft. Lauderdale back in 2003 thru a mutual friend and instantly had a connection but the timing wasn’t tight. A year later we ran into each other again at a party & finally started dating. Had the honor of being Married at the 2014 Grammy Wedding Ceremony to show support of Marriage Equality and the rest is history. #lovewins
Bob Lehman and Tom Felkner Together since 1991 (29 years) Married for 14 years
We were married on June 17, 2008 the first day it was legalized in California. Met on a t Tuesday night at Chicago’s Sidetrack
Erick De La Torre and Leo Rivas Together since 2015 (7 years)
We met in high school back in 2015 and we have been together for 7 years.
Jessica and David Mier
Quin (Samuel) and Jazmyn
The Miers met each other their last semester in college when they were both young eager congressional interns in Washington, DC.
We met through Glitz Glam our drag mother when she adopted both of us into the Haus of Glam. We were “sisters” first and quickly became very close. We soon realized our feelings for each other were romantic, we expressed this to each other and we’ve been together since.
Together since 2013 (15 years) Married October 12, 2013
Together for 9 months
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blaCK histOrY MONth
FebRUARY 2022 volUme 3 issUe 9
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James Baldwin and Maya Angelou 1960 (courtesy images)
T
he Maya Angelou Quarter is not only the first coin in the American Women Quarters Program but also the first time a black woman appears on a U.S. coin. Maya Angelou was a celebrated writer, performer, and social activist. She rose to international prominence as an author after the publication of her groundbreaking autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Angelou’s published works of verse, non-fiction, and fiction include more than 30 bestselling titles. Angelou’s remarkable career encompasses dance, theater, journalism, and social activism. She appeared in Broadway and off-Broadway plays, including “Cabaret for Freedom”, which she wrote with Godfrey Cambridge. At the request of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., she served as northern coordinator of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. In 1978, she was a National Book Award judge for biography and autobiography. Angelou read “On the Pulse of Morning” at the 1992 inauguration of President Clinton. Angelou’s reading marked the first time an African American woman wrote and presented a poem at a presidential inauguration. She was also only the second poet in history to do so, following Robert Frost, who recited a poem at President Kennedy’s inauguration in 1961. Angelou received more than 30 honorary degrees and was inducted into the Wake Forest University Hall of Fame for Writers. In 2010, President Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She was also the 2013 recipient of the Literarian Award, an honorary National Book Award for contributions to the literary community.
You may shoot me with your words, you may cut me with your eyes, you may kill me with your hatefulness, but still, like air, i’ll rise! — maya angelou
MaYa aNgelOu
first blaCK wOMaN tO aPPear ON u.s. COiN
“Behind her are a Bird in fLight and a rising sUn” By LGBTQ San Diego County News Staff Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, the nation’s first female Treasury secretary, said, “Each time we redesign our currency, we have the chance to say something about our country. I’m very proud that these coins celebrate the contributions of some of America’s
most remarkable women, including Maya Angelou.” The head of the quarter coin depicts a portrait of George Washington which was originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser to mark George Washington’s 200th birthday. A recommend-
ed design for the 1932 quarter, the then US Treasury Secretary Mellon ultimately selected the familiar John Flannigan design. The reverse of the coin depicts Maya Angelou with her arms uplifted. Behind her are a bird in flight and a rising sun, images inspired by
her poetry and symbolic of the way she lived. “This coin will ensure generations of Americans learn about Maya Angelou’s books and poetry that spoke to the lived experience of Black women,” said Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV). Soon after taking office in 2021, The Biden administration announced that it planned to replace Andrew Jackson’s portrait on the $20 bill with American abolitionist and political activist Harriet Tubman, a leader in the Underground Railroad. The administration has provided no further information since the announcement.
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miss Nevada 2021 Kataluna Enriquez continued from Page 1
imperiaL CoUrt de san diego
50 Years Of NOble deeds
1972
members of san diego LgBtQ+ Community started organizing the imperial Court de san diego Chapter of the international imperial Court system.
Kataluna Enriquez (courtesy images)
W
e will have the honor of her visit to San Diego during the first weekend of February to take part in the Imperial Court’s Coronation weekend. The oldest LGBTQ organization in San Diego is celebrating its 50th reign and is expected to be a grand event with lots of out-of-town visitors. The weekend will kick off with a State Tribute Dinner in honor of Nicole Murray Ramirez’s 50 years of LGBTQ/Latino activism and Enriquez will be a special guest providing entertainment during the dinner. We had the opportunity to ask Enriquez about her historical Miss Nevada title win and her visit to San Diego. You are a fashion designer and specialize in pageant gowns. Can you give our readers a little bit more of your story? Where did you grow up and what dreams did you have as a child? The first pageant I’ve ever done is Queen of the Universe, which was a pageant ran by Mother Karina Samala of the Imperial Court. I wore a clearance dress and was nothing comparable to all the girls who was competing. I didn’t place that night but a friend of mine told me a few days after that I was actually a few points away from making the top 10 cut. Knowing that I was very close to making part of the cut changed my mind from thinking that this was not part of my journey, to a fulltime life changing course. I had a hard time finding a dress that fit my budget and my body type which then forced me to start creating my own. To this day, I have never worn any gown in any of the competitions I’ve ever done. My next goal is to create a collection
#bevisible and create a narrative and conversation where we can talk about issues that are not often talked about such as growing up in America, not feeling Asian or American enough or traditional family trauma in brown communities. I’d also like to expand and venture my work into media like film, hosting, public speaking, fashion and maybe reality T.V. where I can showcase my business and talent to the rest of the world. I was born in Angeles City (Pampanga, Philippines) but grew up in the Bay Area. As a child I dreamed of being an engineer or architect. Unfortunately, I was not the best in math, but I’ve always had a creative eye. When did you decide you wanted to compete for Miss Nevada? After competing in all the biggest international pageants, a friend of mine and one of my pageant moms, Cece, the Director of Slay Models, pushed me to compete in the Miss USA system. He said that If anyone would ever compete in the Miss USA/ Miss Universe System that it would be me. I then trained and competed in my first Miss USA state competition but unfortunately had issues with the director. I was outcasted and treated differently during the application process (where I was asked to prove my surgeries/gender), and during the competition. (Where I was not given a roommate compared to everyone else.) Being a Filipino Trans woman, you represent so many underrepresented communities. How do you feel about having that spotlight?
One thing that people often don’t realize or think about are the layers that defines who I am. Often times the narrative of who I am is simply just a trans competitor. People forget that I lived a life being ashamed to bring “baon” to school. Being told to go back where I belong or to only speak English. Being a survivor of physical and sexual abuse, is a reality for many Trans women, but somehow never talked about. Being Trans itself holds another layer of a different reality in life, such as being denied the use of a specific restroom, being over-sexualized and objectified. I am so vocal and upfront about the many layers of me that is underrepresented yet so important and I think that is why people gravitate to my story and who I am as a being. For me, it’s not about the spotlight but about hopefully creating an important and positive change for communities who have struggled and felt not a part of society. After heading to Miss USA and not placing (which we thing was a sad decision on the organizer’s part), what projects are you working on? I will still continue my work within LGBTQ+ youth and mental health. My goal is to expand my campaign
You will be visiting San Diego soon. Is this your first time in our city? No, I have gone a couple times. The last time I visited was for Taste of the Philippines Festival where I hosted a segment of the event. However, there’s still so much to explore and I’d like to connect and support small /family owned or any LGBT/Asian/Pacific Islander Businesses. What are you looking forward to during your visit? Besides connecting with the people and communities of San Diego, I’d love to try as much unique food and experience that San Diego can offer. During your visit you will be a part of the Imperial Court’s Coronation weekend, celebrating activism and giving back to the community. How do you give back? I work throughout the country supporting LGBTQ+ youth and bringing awareness to bigger platforms with hopes to educate many and spread an important message that is often not heard. Besides volunteering, donating, fundraising and the usual ways we give back, one way that I also give back is by being the representation in media and inspiration for the youth.
1974
the Courts “toys for Kids” annual drive is the oldest holiday toy drive in the LgBtQ+ Community and was established after the marines “toys for tots” program refused to accept donations from the homosexual community.
1979
the student scholarship program was founded to assist san diego area students achieve their goals. the program has given over $200,000 in scholarships.
2003
the easter egg hunt is an annual event where children and parents of the LgBtQ+ community and ally families come together for a day of fun in the park.
2020
during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Court supported the community by giving out over $45,000 in vouchers through their emergency food voucher fund.
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COMMuNitY feature
FebRUARY 2022 volUme 3 issUe 9
Nicole Murray Ramirez, Queen Mother of the Americas and Terry Sidie, King Father I of the Amercias (photo courtesy of Ron Comstock)
thanK YoU NiCOle MurraY raMirez! LGBTQ San Diego County News Publisher Terry Sidie (King Father I of the Americas, ICS) and staff would like to congratulate and thank our Associate Publisher, Nicole Murray Ramirez (Nicole the Great, Queen Mother of the Americas, ICS) for 50 years of service to our community, and to countless continually evolving social justice causes. Nicole is a leading force and trailblazer behind the success and progression of the LGBTQ+ community locally, nationally and beyond our borders. It is impossible not to recognize and admire Nicole’s lifetime of historical work. Honorary Mayor of Hillcrest Queen Mother of the Americas Honorary Colonel City Commissioner County Commissioner Spearhead Mentor Friend Activist Pioneer
Founder Leader Public Servant Board Member, Board Chair Multiple City Key Holder Multiple Award & Honor Recipient AIDS Hero Grand Marshal Empress Nicky Awards Creator
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Vice President Harris (image by shutterstock.com)
LGBTQ San Diego County News PO Box 34664 San Diego, CA 92163 858.886.9458
a NOte frOM tONi
PUBLISHER Terry Sidie
toni g. atkins
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Nicole Murray Ramirez nicolemrsd1@gmail.com 619.241.5672
—Toni G. Atkins represents the 39th District in the California Senate. Follow her on Twitter @SenToniAtkins.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cesar A. Reyes creativedirector@lgbtqsd.news EDITOR JP Emerson editor@lgbtqsd.news
F
ebruary is a short month where we manage to squeeze in celebrations of history, leadership, and love. This year, as we honor Black History Month, I am so proud to have Kamala Harris serving as our Vice President of the United States, and for the first time ever, we are honoring a Black woman on our nation’s currency. For me, Vice President Harris and the glorious Maya Angelou have often been sources of inspiration and hope, and I know that will continue to be true for millions of others as well, now and in the future. This year, one great example of the kind of leadership we look to celebrate on Presidents Day comes from the Biden Administration providing free COVID-19 masks and tests. The masks can be found at local pharmacies, and for tests, you can go to COVIDtests.gov to place your order. Facing this never-seen-before, constantly changing virus, I believe Joe Biden is rising to meet the challenge thoughtfully and empathetically in ever-swirling circumstances. Valentine’s Day is the time we set aside to show special
COPY EDITOR Brittany Berger iceberger@gmail.com SALES sales@lgbtqsd.news 858.886.9458 STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Big Mike Phillips Bmsd1957@gmail.com 619.807.7324 WEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA info@lgbtq.news
februarY,
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Big Mike Phillips Mara W. Elliott Michael Kimmel Neal Putnam Toni G. Atkins
a short Yet BUsY month attention and spoil the ones we love. Except for our pets, it seems, as Mia and Joey have somehow have managed to stretch that spoiling out to 365 days a year. This year it is a good time to remember there are a lot of ways to offer
expressions of love: Donating blood. Shopping for an elderly neighbor. Setting up a Zoom with friends you may not have seen in years. And, yes, you can also show your love for others by masking, vaxxing, and encouraging others to do the
same—good ways we can use this short month to put this long struggle behind us. Jennifer and I wish you and yours a most Happy Valentine’s Day. As Maya Angelou said, “I know that love saves me and it is here to save us all.”
DISTRIBUTION LGBTQ San Diego County News is distributed free every first Friday of the month. © 2021. 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 © 2022 LGBTQ San Diego County News Editor’s Note: The opinions written in this publication’s advertorial, 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.
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Photo by Rikke Photography
big MiKe & 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 619-807-7324, or bmsd1957@gmail.com.
I
am excited to introduce our readers to amazing and caring people who live, work, play, and do business in our community and city. Learning about people of all lifestyles, talents, and personalities who I think would be interesting for our readers to enjoy. San Diego has a wonderful diversity of individuals who make our slice of paradise the greatest place to live and enjoy each other’s uniqueness. How did you end up in San Diego and what do you love about it? I’m a San Diego native, I know that’s rare hearing now with San Diego’s crazy price of living everyone leaves but I’m a water person it brings me peace and San Diego is surrounded by it so I’m always at a beach recharging my batteries.
aNdre bOwser
What gets you most excited about life? My purpose drives me, if you know me on a personal level you know that I am nonstop, but I love to work and do things that I know are making a difference. As a businessowner or employee what makes your business stand out and how has it changed your life? Running Club San Diego has been a journey of many highs and lows, there is a bunch of negative history that I’ve been left with to rewrite and fix but I am up for the challenge. The goal is to create a true safe space for everyone to be themselves and be embraced for doing exactly that while being in clean fun environment creating positive memories. What small act of kindness were you once shown that you’ll never forget? When I first took over leadership at the Club, it was right after the fire we had and I was giving a new hire orientation to about 15 people, and I was shy and didn’t even stand. Marc pulled me from under the table to stand up and lead my portion of the orientation. That moment changed my life in many ways it was the first time I felt love so deep and it
forced me to get out of comfort zone which has helped me grow as a leader. If the universe could grant you one wish, what would you wish for, and why? For parents who are not ready to have children not be allowed to have them, not taking peoples right away but if there was some kind of magical way the universe automatically stopped people from being pregnant who are not ready to raise a child. I want this because I was born from a couple that wasn’t ready and shouldn’t have been parents and yes, I’m here and yes, I’ve fought through all of the things that I had to because of the choices they made. But people shouldn’t be born already having to fight to survive.
If you were given the opportunity to travel anywhere in the world, and were able to take one person with you, where would you go, who would you take and why? I would love to go somewhere in Spain, to be able to find my “Latin Papi” husband. And I would take my fur baby Kaden because I want him to explore the world with me. If you had a chance to spend one million dollars on someone, or any group of people, who would it be and how would you spend that money to better them? LGBTQ youth entrepreneurs that want to make a real difference. I wish I had someone besides myself believe in me with the financial resources when I was younger it would have taken away a lot of negative thought patterns and traumas that I’ve had. I have always been an ambitious person with many goals to achieve but not much support so I would love to be able to be the person I needed when
I was young, broke, and with a dream. If you could give someone advise about your art, hobby, or business, what would you tell them? Perfection is an illusion, but greatness is a vision. Loving yourself is so important to becoming the best of who you are. Please write a couple sentences to describe your loving self and how you want to live your best life? The journey to self-acceptance and loving myself has been an interesting one, by looking at me now, you wouldn’t think that I once weighed close to 500 pounds and being in a community that is so vain it was so hard being an overweight black feminine person. There was a lot of loneliness and feeling of being unworthy but I was given beautiful love driven advice from people and decided to make a change. I have routines that keep on track and a bunch of positive mantras
that I have always around me to keep me in a positive mindset, its actually part of my mission at Club San Diego is to help everyone feel beautiful and confident at least while being at the Club, I know how one real positive comment can transform a person’s view of themselves. Gratitude is so important in each of our lives, what are you most grateful for, and how do you pay it forward? I am most grateful for being given a second chance on life; we all have a past that we are either ashamed or embarrassed about. But I was given a chance to rewrite my future and not have my past define me. And with that I help mentor my young staff on making the right choices and one day I hope to be a motivational speaker to help others become the best version of themselves. @itsandrebowser
COMMuNitY vOiCes
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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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sMiliNg ON the Outside; CrYiNg ON the iNside “sOMetiMes, talKiNg abOut YOur PrObleMs MaKes YOu feel better”
Do you ever feel like you’re faking happiness? Is your optimism sometimes shaky? When someone tells you, “It’s all good”, do you want to smack ‘em?
L
Lots people on social media are talking about “toxic positivity”: the belief that people should put a positive spin on all experiences, regardless of how awful they are. I’ve long called this concept “emotional incongruence”: when your outside expression doesn’t match your inner feelings. For example, way too many people smile when they’re unhappy. It’s an automatic reaction, drummed into their heads, usually from childhood. They’ve been doing it for so long that they don’t even realize they’re doing it. Imagine yourself smiling while you say things like: “I can’t believe he left me” or “I’m so bummed that they hired someone else for that job”. This is fake happiness, phony optimism: to keep it going takes a lot of effort and energy. It’s usually self-imposed. You learned it a long time ago when someone brainwashed you with ideas like: • “No one will like me if I’m sad.” • “If I’m not the life of the party/the funny one, no one will want to hang out with me.” • “Showing sadness is weakness, I have to pretend to be happy.”
If this is you, the pressure to pretend to be happy – when you feel like shit – is intense. And it’s really confusing to your mind and your body: your body (facial expression) pretends to be happy but your mind (thoughts and emotions) is sad, angry, or depressed. After a while, it would be hard to know what you really feel, wouldn’t it? For years’ now, New Age/ pop psychology has pushed the idea of positive thinking, an example of which is doing positive affirmations, like: • I am rich! • I am successful! • I am handsome!
(image by shutterstock.com)
While there is value in affirming what you want, positive thinking isn’t always the best solution to a problem. Some examples of too much positive thinking include: • Saying to someone who’s experienced something awful (job loss, death of a loved one): “Everything happens for a reason” • Telling people that they need to use their enforced COVID isolation time to learn new skills, improve their fitness or – some how – make themselves “better” • Downplaying someone’s concerns by telling them, during a difficult time, “It could be worse”
Grief and sadness are normal parts of life. A person struggling with depression who repeatedly hears messages to “move on” or “don’t be such a Debby Downer” might feel like their friends and family don’t care about them. They may even be ashamed of their sad/ mad/bad feelings, which encourages them to smile and pretend that everything’s just fine. When you’re brainwashed to “put on a happy face” and ignore your pain, you can’t address your problems honestly and powerfully. This kind of denial does not lead to a happier life, it often leads to using alcohol, recreational drugs, chronic shopping and other addictive behaviors to deaden your pain. Instead, when you’re crying on the inside, address it. Tell yourself: It’s okay to be sad, angry, or confused. I don’t have to fake it. Sometimes, talking about your problems makes you feel better. You realize you’re not alone. One research study found that labeling and talking about emotions reduced the strength of certain neural pathways in the brain associated with those emotions. In essence, you are reprogramming your brain when you identify and work through difficult emotions.
If you’d like to become more emotionally “congruent” (e.g., your outside matches your inside), consider these strategies: • Recognize that negative emotions are normal • Identify and name your emotions, don’t avoid or deny them • Talk with people you trust about your emotions, including tough ones like anger, disappointment, hurt and rage
• Get support from nonjudgmental people, like trusted friends or a therapist • Stop trying to put a positive spin on every thing
While positive thinking offers some benefits, smiling on the outside while you’re crying on the inside is an awful place to be. The next time you feel like shit: own it, use it and learn from it.
The San Diego LGBT Community Center, 3909 Centre Street www.thecentersd.org
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Bob Lehman at Visions Art Museum with Executive Director Laura Mitchell (courtesy images)
lgbtqsd.news
some of the more than 45
MuseuMs aCrOss saN diegO COuNtY
SaN DiEGo aFriCaN amEriCaN muSEum oF FiNE arT 555 saturn Blvd. suite B, #261 san diego, Ca 92154
www.sdaamfa.org
MuseuM MONth returNs tO saN diegO
“this is the perfeCt time to go and expLore something new in san diego,” By LGBTQ San Diego County News Staff
BaroNa CuLTuraL CENTEr & muSEum
I
t’s time to get out and explore the fun as the San Diego Museum Month celebrates its 33rd year of half-off tickets to more than 45 museums across San Diego County. During the month of February, everyone can get a free Museum Month pass at a San Diego Macy’s store or one of more than 80 public libraries. Each pass is good for up to four people to visit a local museum, historic site, garden, zoo/aquarium and more. “This is the perfect time to go and explore something new in San Diego,” said Bob Lehman, Executive Director of the San Diego Museum Council which sponsors the 28-day event. “After last year’s mainly virtual event, we couldn’t be happier to welcome people back in person.” According to Lehman, one of the main goals of Museum Month is to increase accessibility to all communities to enjoy San Diego’s cultural institutions. Partnering with local libraries makes it easy and convenient for families of all neighborhoods to access the free passes. Lehman, who previously served as Executive Director of the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus, sees his new mission as an opportunity to increase diversity and inclusion within the museum community. New to Museum Month this year is a wide range of participants including the San Diego African American Museum of Fine Art, the Women’s Museum of California, the Marine Corp Recruit Depot Command Museum and Balboa Park’s Comic-Con Museum. For a list of participating museums and restrictions, go to www.SanDiegoMuseumCouncil.org. “Many people don’t know that we have museums throughout the County, not just in Balboa Park,” noted Lehman. “From the California Surf Museum in Oceanside to the Tijuana Estuary in Imperial Beach and east to the Barona Cultural Center and Museum in Lakeside, we are truly everywhere.” For families with kids, a favor-
1095 Barona rd. Lakeside, Ca 92040
www.baronamuseum.com
CaLiForNia SurF muSEum 312 pier view way oceanside, California 92054 Bob Lehman at the New Children’s Museum Teatro Piñata with designers Emily Schmit and David Israel Reynoso
www.surfmuseum.org
ComiC CoN muSEum 2131 pan american plaza san diego, Ca 92101
www.comic-con.org/museum
Bob Lehman at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot
ite museum is the New Children’s Museum downtown which currently features Teatro Piñata, a colorful theater and backstage for kids to explore. It was designed by local theater designer David Israel Reynoso, known for his work at The Old Globe and La Jolla Playhouse. This month, the museum welcomed its new executive director and CEO, Elizabeth Yang-Hellewell who lives in Bonita with her wife and
two young children. “Members of the LGBTQ community have long been instrumental to the museum community, as artists, curators, administrators and—most importantly—as museum enthusiasts,” said Lehman. “We hope Museum Month gives our community, and all communities, the opportunity to further enjoy San Diego’s rich and vibrant cultural offerings and explore the fun.”
ThE NEW ChiLDrEN’S muSEum 200 w island ave. san diego, Ca 92101
www.thinkplaycreate.org
advertOrial
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y name is Dave Myers and I’m running for San Diego County Sheriff. Our campaign is historic. If elected, I would be the first LGBTQ elected Sheriff in the State of California. I am a native San Diegan, born and raised in the Allied Garden neighborhood. My family was not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination – but my parents gave us so much love and attention that we always felt secure and confident about our future. Every child in San Diego should grow up with that sense of security and nurturing. I have always known as far back as I could remember that I wanted to be in law enforcement. Perhaps it came from the belief instilled by my parents and grandparents that you always lend a hand to those in need, and you do it with dignity and respect. I have two grown children; I’m a new first-time grandfather and I currently live in La Mesa with my husband Dominic of 18 years. I joined the San Diego Sheriff’s Department in 1985. One of the most memorable events during this time was when I responded to a call involving two 8-year-old twin boys living in a foster home who were trying to commit suicide. Using my K-9 dog Sarge as an icebreaker, I was able to coax them away from the edge of the 20 feet deep culvert that they had planned to jump into. In 1994, I was presented with the Department’s Medal for Lifesaving. I happened upon a person who was going to
dave MYers for san diego CoUntY sheriff
jump off a bridge onto a heavily traveled roadway. As the paramedics on the scene kept the attention of the individual, I snuck up from behind and grabbed him off the edge of the bridge and back onto the roadway. I’ve worked my way up the ranks at the Sheriff’s Department from a patrol Deputy to Commander. I’ve worked in almost every part of the Sheriff’s Department, includ-
ing as a beat patrol Deputy, a detentions Deputy, a homicide detective, Community Oriented Policing & Problem Solving, a Lieutenant for the Border Crime Suppression Team and the Communications Center. As Commander, I’ve managed 24 patrol stations and substations encompassing all of San Diego County. In addition, I ran the Special Investigations Division, which included homicide, narcotics, terrorism,
and gangs and served as the Commander for the Courts Division, which is responsible for the security at all Superior Court facilities. I’ve previously served as Board President of the Y.E.S. Program, a non-profit organization centered in Barrio Logan that connected at risk youth with social services such as remedial education, and work readiness skills. Currently, I am a board member for
two non-profits, Community Advocates for Just and Moral Governance, and the Woody Williams Medal of Honor Foundation. My law enforcement and community-based experience makes me the best candidate for Sheriff in San Diego County. I’d appreciate your support. Visit our website and sign up to support. www.davemyersforsheriff.com
DAVE WILL BE THE FIRST LGTBQ SHERIFF IN CALIFORNIA HISTORY IF ELECTED.
HE HAS THE EXPERIENCE, THE VALUES, THE STRATEGIES TO PROTECT US ALL AND DO IT IN A FAIR AND EQUAL MANNER. HE IS THE CHANGE WE BADLY NEED IN SAN DIEGO LAW ENFORCEMENT. § 35 years distinguished experience in law enforcement, including a lifesaving medal. § Priority is to end the cruel, unacceptable deaths in our jails (171 deaths as of January 2022). § Only SheriffÕ s candidate already working with the ACLU and other criminal justice reform organization to address racial inequities in policing in San Diego. § Nationally recognized expert on criminal justice reform policies and practices. § Has a solid plan to rebuild trust with law enforcement, especially among the LGBTQ+ community and people of color. § Started the first-ever SheriffÕ s Department recruiting booth at SD Gay Pride to increase diversity.
https://www.davemyersforsheriff.com/
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CitY attOrNeY News
Mara w. elliott —Mara W. Elliott was elected City Attorney of San Diego in 2016 after serving as the chief deputy attorney for the Office’s Public Services Section and legal adviser to the city’s Independent Audit Committee and Environment Committee. Elliott and the lawyers in her section held polluters accountable, reformed city contracting, cut administrative red tape, and strengthened the city’s living wage and non-discrimination in contracting ordinances.
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ore people tried to bring firearms onto airplanes last year than ever before, and San Diego was part of that trend. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration knew it had a problem on its hands as early as October, when the number of guns confiscated at airport security checkpoints had already surpassed the previous all-time high and was continuing to climb. At San Diego International Airport, 13 individuals were referred to our Office after being caught trying to bring guns onto planes in 2021, nearly as many as the previous three years combined. This trend is concerning. People expect air travel to be safe, and are alarmed by the increasing number of flights being locked down or diverted because of mask protesters and inebriated passengers. We rely more than ever on the TSA to keep planes weaponfree, but the gun industry works faster, creating new guns and gun parts that are undetectable and untraceable. When airport police confiscate weapons, the cases are often referred to my office. We can file misdemeanor charges ranging from introducing a weapon into a secure area to carrying a loaded firearm in a public place. In San Diego, the typical traveler caught by the TSA is a male who has a loaded handgun in his carry-on bag or backpack and no criminal record. About one-quarter of them are current or former law enforcement or military. Almost always, when caught, the gun owner will say they were in a hurry to get to the airport and forgot the gun was in their bag. Others
traveliNg bY air?
Leave YoUr firearms at home claim they put the gun in their bag to keep it away from their children, untrustworthy roommates, or even thieving family members. They are usually cooperative and often upset or frightened about how the arrest will affect their careers and futures. Among those stopped in San Diego were a pastor, lifeguard, real estate agent, plastic surgeon, firearm company employee, and at least two who said they needed to carry a gun because they frequently traveled with large amounts of cash. The penalties generally include forfeiture of the weapon and fines of up to $1,000. The courts often order defendants to take firearms safety courses, perform com-
munity service, and submit to a Fourth Amendment waiver for a set period of time, which means their persons and property are subject to search if law enforcement believes they are committing new crimes. The defendant may receive court-ordered diversion which keeps them out of jail as long as they remain law abiding and possess no weapons for a set period, usually six months to a year. In addition, the TSA may levy hefty fines for these violations: bringing a loaded firearm through airport security can cost as much as $13,910; bringing an unloaded gun on a plane will result in a fine up to $2,475. Remember: Travelers are
never permitted to bring ammunition and loaded or unloaded firearms onboard commercial aircraft in the United States. Unloaded firearms and ammunition may be transported in checked luggage if properly stored in a hard-sided locked case and declared to airline personnel upon checkin. Different states, local governments, and airlines may have additional restrictions. It is up to the traveler to know and abide by them. Prosecutors in my office evaluate each case on its facts and file charges only when the elements of a crime are present. Sometimes an individual has a reasonable explanation that shows a good-faith attempt to follow the law.
Others are not interested in complying with the law: three of the 24 individuals charged by our Office in the past four years failed to appear in court and now have warrants out for their arrest. Restrictions on firearms during air travel exist to keep all of us safe from the threat of potential gun violence, including accidental shootings, in crowded airports and in our skies. Ignorance of the law, being forgetful, or being in a hurry, is no excuse. So, regardless of your reason for carrying a gun to the airport, think again. You can save yourself a lot of time, trouble, and costly legal consequences by making sure you comply with laws that keep travelers safe.
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eveNts / Puzzle
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q Puzzle
CaPES aND CaFTaNS aCroSS 1 Caribbean pirate portrayer Johnny 5 drinks made from fruits 9 opera villain, usually 14 Baltic sea feeder 15 Coal porter’s vehicle? 16 artist hernandez 17 adriatic seaport 18 put on the staff 19 plans from richard simmons 20 first Lady advised by 36-across 23 start of a rhyme about a tiger 24 score for Burke 25 Queen toppers 28 three-pointer for the atlanta dream? 33 potpourri scent 34 gay nightlife district of London 35 Blood classification syst. 36 african-american fashion icon known for capes and caftans 40 Uey from nnw 41 meat that goes in your boxers 42 witherspoon, who played elle 43 shakespearean roles, for example 46 Used rubbers 47 mandela org. 48 Bard’s river 49 publication edited by 36-across 55 west side story factions 56 topped the cake 57 village people’s “in the ___” 59 “wise Up” singer mann 60 nathan of modern family 61 fox comedy with Jane Lynch 62 You can go down on them in winter 63 morse’s shorts 64 highsmith’s the price of ___
DoWN 1 3/25/1947, to elton John (abbr.) 2 source of red balls 3 gilpin who played roz on frasier 4 intense competition at Barneys 5 Birthplace of socrates 6 in a straight-faced way 7 dixie Chicks’ “goodbye ___” 8 nemesis of tinkerbell 9 one that can bite you in the sack 10 margaret Cho’s ancestors, e.g. 11 Banana stalk 12 “___ good example” 13 areas for dr. Kerry weaver 21 from this place, to King James 22 second-guesser’s words 25 fastener on a necklace 26 step in the salon 27 Like tyne, to timothy 28 froot ___ 29 Cry after getting the shaft 30 drags in 31 too big for your britches 32 played (with) 34 ward of once and again 37 shaft of a knight 38 grain for Lorca 39 sexual preferences, for example 44 hung loosely 45 Burdens of proof 46 gives the slip to 48 one who often screws actors 49 Colorado ski area 50 Janis Joplin’s “down ___” 51 salsa rating 52 fruit high in antioxidants 53 simba’s Broadway love 54 Big name in stunt riding 55 pump purchase 58 to date
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eNtertaiNMeNt
ibC 2022 set tO CONverge februarY 24th - 28th
“Don’t miss out on what promises to be one heck of a party”
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nternational Bear Convergence (IBC) is the premier winter event for Bears in Palm Springs, California, welcoming thousands of frisky, bears, muscle bears, cubs, chasers, chubs, admirers & their fans to have the time of their lives! The four-day event comes to life with DJs, live entertainment and thousands of bears from around the globe. IBC 2020 was hugely successful and one of the last big events before the pandemic. With COVID 19 restrictions easing up and more people getting vaccinated, we expect record-breaking attendance in 2022. During the day kick back and enjoy pool parties with music provided by world renown DJ’s at the fabulous Hotel ZOSO pool, our host hotel. With multiple bars, cabanas, outdoor lounge areas and sun deck area overlooking the action at the pool. You’re destined to have a fantastic day. After the sun goes down, evenings will heat up with high-energy dance parties & comedy show. Or you can find Mr. Right or Mr. Right Now, at our speed dating event on Friday night, get a relaxing massage at the IBC Massage Spa or shop in our vendor mall. And don’t forget our infamous Hungry Bear Drag Brunch on Sunday. IBC’s pool parties & dance events are legendary and have highlighted several top DJs from California and around the globe including: DJ Tony Moran, DJ Stefan Schell, DJ Matt Consola & DJ Matt Moody to name a few. And past live performances by Martha Wash, Kristine W, Inaya Day & Ultra Nate. This year we have two nights of performances. Friday night the incomparable Debby Holiday and on Saturday night we mark the return of the incredible Kristine W. COVID 19 & IBC 2022 International Bear Convergence is closely monitoring
global developments regarding the Covid-19 coronavirus, and we are fully focused on protecting the health and safety of our guests and team. A proof of vaccination rule will be strictly enforced for all participants of the event. As we draw closer to February, we’ll be constantly monitoring key information sources from trusted government agencies and follow prescribed guidelines to ensure the safety of our attendees. In addition, we are working with the county of Riverside to establish a testing site at the hotel. Our host hotel will have stringent measures in place to limit their guests’ exposure to viruses. At this point,
they’re taking heightened safety precautions that will remain in place and will be reviewed daily for revision as conditions warrant. These include implementing hygiene protocols of all guests, and itinerary modifications. We’ll work diligently to provide our booked guests with advance notice of itinerary changes if and when they occur. We ask that you continue to stay up to date with all of your areas COVID protocols as a way to properly stay informed. So, don’t miss out on what promises to be one heck of a party. Get your passes and make your room reservations today at www.ibc-ps.com
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AHF Wellness Center 3580 Fifth Ave, 2nd Fl San Diego, 92103 (619) 837-2100 Mon-Fri 10am - 6pm
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News briefs
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san diego pride
2022 sPirit Of stONewall nominations are open
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very year, San Diego Pride accepts nominations from the community for the annual presentations of the Spirit of Stonewall Awards. The awards recognize individuals who contribute significantly to the LGBTQ community through their leadership, activism, and fundraising efforts. For reference, the awardees from the previous three years are included below each award’s description. Champion of Pride: An individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the LGBTQ community over an extended period of years with consideration to service to San Diego Pride. 2021: Dwayne Crenshaw 2020: Bixby Marino-Kibbee 2019: LaRue Fields 2018: Tinesia Conwright Community Grand Marshal: An individual or group that has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the LGBTQ community over an extended period of years and/or has made an exceptional contribution in the past year. 2021: Moe Girton 2020: Essential Workers during COVID-19 2019: The Stonewall Generation 2018: Alberto Cortés Larry T. Baza Arts & Culture Award: (Inaugural) A visual or performing artist or organization who elevates the LGBTQ community in service of education, advocacy, visibility, justice, and joy. This award is in honor of the legacy of Larry T. Baza. 2021: Matt Morrow Stonewall Service Award: A group or organization which may or may not identify as LGBTQ but which has stalwartly supported the LGBTQ community over an extended period of years and/or has made an exceptional contribution in the past year. 2021: San Diego Black LGBTQ Coalition 2020: Casa Arcoiris 2019: San Diego History Center 2018: We Care Mixer Friend of Pride: An individual who does not identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer, but who has stalwartly supported the LGBTQ community over an extended period of years and/or has made an exceptional contribution in the past year. 2021: Nathan Fletcher 2020: David & Jessica Mier 2019: Rev. Penny Bridges 2018: Terrie Vorono
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art is aN iNtegral Part of hiLLCrest’s CommUnitY
(image courtesy of san diego Pride)
Stonewall Philanthropy Award: A group, organization, or individual which may or may not identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer, but which has diligently raised funds to support the LGBTQ community over an extended period of years and/or has made an exceptional contribution in the past year. 2021: Burgess Family 2020: John Ealy 2019: Blue Shield 2018: San Diego County Credit Union (SDCCU) Community Service: An individual who is recognized as an up-andcoming leader within the LGBTQ community or whose contribution to the community in the past year was of particular significance. 2021: Ana Laura Martínez 2020: Damon J. Shearer 2019: Abrahán Monzon 2018: Liat Wexler Inspirational Relationship: Any friendship, familial bond, or intimate relationship whose love, strength, work, and commitment to LGBTQ equality embodies the humanity of our community. 2021: Frannya Tuchman & Jamie Arangure 2020: Joyce Marieb, Ph.D & Linda Barufaldi, D.C. 2019: Ricardo Gallego & Dr. Orlando Espín Nominate your inspiration here, or at sdpride.org, deadline to nominate is February 28, 2022. Please submit a letter of nomination stating why you think your nominee should be considered. Assume that we do not know anything about them or their accomplishments. Please be specific. The more detailed and relevant the information you supply, the better. Nominations will be reviewed based on the nominees’ qualifications and nomination letters. The review committee considers the quality, not the quantity, of the nominations. Multiple nominations of the same person without specific information are not helpful to this process. Read the categories carefully to ensure your nominee’s accomplishments fit the specific award criteria.
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illcrest’s artists and businesses are ready to holler “Olly olly oxen free, Come out, Come out, Wherever you are” to San Diego’s arts patrons. As Omicron restrictions begin to lift, the neighborhood is encouraging San Diegans to take a chance to step back into the burgeoning neighborhood art scene. “The Studio Door is thrilled to see a level of the arts in the neighborhood that looks a lot like two years ago before we all went dormant to meet the challenges of the pandemic,” said gallery owner Patric Stillman. March Highlights include: The 8th Annual Crow Show • Preview Night: Thursday, March 3 from 6 - 9 PM • Reception: Saturday, March 19 from 6 - 9 PM The Studio Door’s most popular visual art exhibition runs March 3 - 31. The gallery will make juried artworks available for purchase from artists across the country celebrating our feathered neighbors. The 8th annual exhibit is being juried by Wes Siegrist, Executive Director of The Society of Animal Artists. The Return of Art Workshops • Saturdays Local artists Crisinda Lyons (fused glass) and Patrick N Brown (mixed media) will offer one day creative workshops out of The Studio Door. These special hands-on classes will mark the return of art programming at The Studio Door. Index Urban • Ongoing Artist Showcase Inspiring international curiosity, the family-owned travel store is showcasing sculptures by Scott Bruckner, paintings of Jon Cantwell and recent art by Jordan Cantwell, who just returned from an extended artist residency in Athens, Greece.
(courtesy image)
Revised Edition of First Thursdays • Thursday, March 3 from 5 - 10 pm After a two-month hiatus, Walk in Art kicks off its 2022 season from March through October. The public can look forward to the return of art, vendors, and food trucks with guest performances. New Neighborhood Mural Look for the unveiling of the longest mural in Hillcrest at the corner of 6th and University. As announced at Hillcrest Business Association’s 100 centennial last October, the new mural by artists Jason and Frieda Gould (Visual Arts Supply) will celebrate our neighborhoods diversity. Other Local Secrets Hidden in plain sight, locals know that they can find changing exhibitions on the walls of Bread & Cie and Artist & Craftsman Supply plus a variety of local makers’ goods at DiTorr. “Art brings us closer than ever,” said Stillman. “All of the artists at The Studio Door are thrilled to be a part of a neighborhood that understands that art is essential to the quality of our community.” The Studio Door, Hillcrest’s premier art gallery is a unique art center located just minutes from downtown San Diego and Balboa Park. Since 2014, it has become known for its gallery of contemporary art, working artist studios, a museum store gift shop, community events and the neighborhood’s expanding Mural Alley. The gallery maintains regular hours Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 7 PM and by appointment. For more details, visit www.thestudiodoor.com.
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COurt News
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Stefano Markell Parker (courtesy image)
“I feel this is the proper sentence,” said Judge Link. “He endangered a lot of the public.”
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tefano Markell Parker didn’t give an explanation as to why he fired 19 shots into a Hillcrest restaurant in 2019 before he was sentenced January 14th to 49 years in state prison. Wearing a green jail uniform, Parker, 32, said nothing before San Diego Superior Court Judge Fred Link imposed the sentence in which he will have to serve 85% of the term before he can be paroled. Parker miraculously missed all 11 customers and 7 employees inside the Asian Bistro, busting out all the windows while standing in a trench coat on University Avenue across the street from the restaurant’s Golden Dragon iconic sign at 7:40 p.m. The judge said the question of why Parker fired the shots remains unknown, but he had a history of “mental problems in Alabama that were not taken care of.” So the motive still appears to be hatred of gay people – given what Parker wrote about LGBTQ people on his Facebook account. Parker apparently misunderstood a standard welcoming message the restaurant had on its website during pride week. “Who told all these gayfers it was safe to come outside…?” wrote Parker two weeks before the shooting. “Nothing against gay dudes but (obscenity) they look at you…when they know you don’t swing that (sic) way,” he wrote. Parker was convicted of murder when he was 16 years old in Jefferson, Alabama
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man charged with firing a single gunshot outside Mayor Todd Gloria’s home in Mission Hills during a protest has been charged with discharging a firearm in a grossly negligent manner. Lonnie James Crawford, 38, is also charged with possession of cocaine while armed in the Aug. 30, 2021 incident, which did not result in any injuries, but it disrupted the protest. People were peacefully picketing outside Gloria’s apartment building around 9 p.m. with signs about the homeless when the man drove a truck through the crowd. He went inside a nearby building, as he is a neighbor of Gloria, and came outside, firing one shot in the air, according to witnesses. Crawford pleaded not guilty Jan. 13 before San Diego Superior Court Judge Joseph Brannigan, who scheduled an April 28 preliminary hearing. Crawford was allowed to remain free on $100,000 bond on conditions that include attending self-help meetings and a ban on leaving the state, according to court records.
shOOter iN 2019 hillCrest restauraNt shooting sentenCed to 49 Years By Neal Putnam in the death of James Ware, another teenager, in a drive-by shooting on Dec. 29, 2005, according to his probation report. Parker was sentenced to approximately four years in custody for the slaying, but the sentencing report here didn’t say if he was the driver or the gunman. The only injury to someone in the restaurant occurred when a bullet struck a plate and the plate hit a woman in the head. She and the others were crouched down on the floor for a long time after the shooting started. “It was the longest night of her life,” wrote a sentencing official who interviewed the woman. Parker used a Ruger AR556 rifle which was found several blocks from the scene, according to the probation report. Police arrested Parker a few blocks away. He was given credits for
Lonnie James Crawford (courtesy image)
MaN whO fired guN
at protest oUtside of maYor gLoria’s home faCes feLonY Charges By Neal Putnam “These felony charges reflect the seriousness of the defendant’s actions and the danger he posed to the protesters who were clearly victimized by his actions,” said District Attorney Summer Stephan in a press release.
serving 1,227 days in jail since his arrest. Parker didn’t make a statement to sentencing officials. Parker pleaded guilty to five counts of assault with a deadly weapon and 11 counts of attempted murder. As part of a plea deal charges for firing into an occupied building and felon in possession of a firearm were dismissed on Oct. 22. With the 49-year sentence, Parker will have to serve almost 42 actual years before he can be paroled around age 70. Early in his case, Parker was found to be mentally incompetent to stand trial and he was sent to Patton State Hospital for treatment and medication. Doctors there determined he had regained his competency and he was returned to San Diego. A Superior Court judge found Parker to be mentally fit on April 21, 2021, according to court records.
“I want to be clear that everyone’s right to protest peacefully must be safeguarded and anyone who harms that right through illegal conduct will face consequences,” said Stephan. At the time, Gloria issued a statement saying “All San Diegans have a constitutional right to peacefully assemble and protest without fear of being attacked or intimidated.” “Last night’s protest at the apartment building where my family and I live turned violent when a man not associated with the protest senselessly fired a gun,” said Gloria on Aug. 31. “I’m grateful for our police department’s work that apprehended the suspect who is now in custody and facing multiple felony charges,” said Gloria. Tasha Williamson was at the protest, and told reporters “we have a right to be free to protest, to be safe to protest.” “We showed up at Todd’s house because he sends law enforcement officers and other people to the homeless population every single day,” said protester Mandy Lien.
Puzzle sOlutiON
CaPES aND CaFTaNS From PaGE 13
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