Recently a very well known and openly gay appointed City official committed suicide in San Diego.… He had a drinking problem and was lonely… as so many of our friends are. We all need to keep better contact with our friends and watch them, listen to them and reach out to them when they are going through problems or depressed.… That one kind word or phone call might just make a huge difference to them.... Let’s take care of each other and be there for each other.… Thank you.

Last week’s GLBT San Diego reception in honor of our current Lt. Governor Bustamante drew a big crowd of GLBT movers and shakers to the award-winning home of Tom Felkner and Bob Lehman.… Lt. Governor Cruz Bustamante was great — very articulate, funny and, as usual, “down to earth.” Cruz Bustamante has a long record of support for GLBT equality — now over two decades.… As one of the organizers of this reception I wish to sincerely thank Bob and Tom, Big Mike, Eugene Heytow, Michael Portantino, Ray Drew, Ryan Hurd, Maureen Steiner and everyone who helped.… Remember, no on the recall… yes on Bustamante.

What promises to be the biggest and best event of the year for the highly respected Family Matters organization will be their All Community Annual Family BBQ this coming Sunday, Sept. 21, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Family Matters is one of our community’s most loved (along with PFLAG) community organizations… with GLBT Parents, their children and friends, grandparents, etc. coming together in a fun, positive and caring way.… Our GLBT families are growing bigger every year, so let’s stop by and support them.… For more information, phone (619) 289-5431. This community BBQ is being sponsored by Sycuan Casino and Resort, the Imperial Court and La Jolla IVF.

Yes, this coming Saturday’s 10th anniversary dinner for the Asian Pacific Islander Community AIDS Project (APICAP) at the beautiful Emerald Plaza Hotel is sold out as this is going to be a night no one will ever forget with a very different evening and event than we are used to… lots of beautiful and colorful entertainment and unbelievable food.… It’s going to be one classy and fabulous night. Congratulations to Jess San Roque and APICAP on an outstanding job! There might be a few loose tickets left. To find out, phone (619) 229-2822.

The Brass Rail will be hosting the annual Mr. Miss, Ms. Gay Latino Contest this coming Sunday, Sept. 21, at 8:00 p.m…. This contest promises to be another fun night, with dancing and entertaining. Contestants are still being sought, so if you’re interested and a Latino man, lesbian or impersonator, phone (619) 294-8430 or (619) 692-1967.… This contest always draws a great crowd and everyone is welcome, so see you all at the Brass Rail this Sunday!

Move over Chi Chi LaRue, there’s a new director in town… Coco LaChine, whose new hit movie, The Bachelor, is the talk of the industry.… It’s one hot video with lots of action, starring All Worlds Video exclusive 20-year-old Barrett Long, who reminds you of a young Rick “Humongous” Donovan in every inch.… We are talking HUGE! The Bachelor is a take off on the hit TV reality show, with a wild, different twist.… The Bachelor is, of course, Barrett Long (perfect name) and those men trying to land him… Well, I will not tell you the ending because you have to see it for yourself… but this blockbuster gets two thumbs up — including something else, which will go way up!!! To order, phone (800) 537-8024.

Next Saturday, Sept. 27, Latinos from all over California will be heading down to San Diego for a big “fiesta.” Yes, GLBT Latin Pride San Diego County!!! Thousands of Latinos and their friends have been attending this high energy, colorful and fun event at Balboa Park (at the corner of Presidents Way and Park Ave.). Latin Pride San Diego begins at 12:00 noon with great live entertainment.… Some of the top Latino DJs will also be spinning.… There will be special Mariachi performances and Spanish Colonial Folk-art exhibits.… There will be fabulous Aztec/Latin American arts and crafts booths, a variety of food choices and a beer garden. The huge Latin main stage will include Chicano Rock, Latin Jazz, Salsa, Tex-Mex, Techno etc.… You’re all invited. Phone (619) 295-5839 or (619) 695-2192 for more information!

One of California’s biggest success stories has been those hot, steamy, packed Club Papi parties/dances in almost every major city (Club Papi has even started in Houston, Texas!!). Well, after Latin Pride 2003 San Diego next Saturday, thousands will be heading to the official ending of this prideful day. Rich’s, of course, will be the spot.… It’s Club Papi San Diego’s first anniversary blowout and it’s going to be off the hook, including ten of the most handsome and built Latin go-go boys on the west coast.… Rich’s will certainly have a line around the block, so just be patient. For further information, visit www.gaylesbiantimes.com for a link to the Club Papi website.

Club Montage celebrates their seven year anniversary Saturday, Sept. 27. Celebrate with DJ Kimberly S. and a live performance by Janice Robinson.

Even for an old queen like me it’s hard to believe that Bourbon Street has been going strong for 16 years!!! Tom Felkner and Bob Lehman have done an outstanding job turning Bourbon Street into one of the most popular bars on the West Coast, not to mention all of the hot men who go there. Be sure to stop by next Wednesday, Sept. 24, for their 16th anniversary party, where Niki Haris will be performing live. If you just can’t wait until Wednesday, stop by this Sunday, Sept. 21, when Dora Guillen will be guest bartending from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. You can count on this bartender to pour you a nice stiff one!