Dear Abby, America’s most famous advice columnist has spoken out supporting same-sex marriage and will be doing a PFLAG benefit soon. I encourage everyone to write her a letter to show her that the GLBT community supports her, because I am sure she will be getting a lot of hate mail.

Five District 3 City Council candidates, including John Hartline, attended the Hillcrest Town Council forum on Tuesday. A big crowd of people showed up to witness the forum, including State Assemblymember Lori Saldana and one of the mayor’s daughters who lives in the district. In my opinion, here is how the candidates did:

James Hartline: Hartline was the big surprise of the evening as he was articulate, knowledgeable of the issues and I found myself agreeing with him on many of the problems our neighborhoods are facing. While he definitely was against bars being open late at night and also adult businesses, he hardly displayed any of the homophobia he has become infamous for. He is very compassionate about seniors in the district. As a former drug addict and homeless person, Hartline hopes that he will be a role model, showing those that hit the bottom that they can lift themselves up. Hartline also stated he would meet with GLBT community members in his office.

John Hartley: Hartley is the one to watch. As a popular former councilmember with solid name recognition, he has walked the district more than any other candidate. Hartley’s political consultant is Larry Reemer, who is also the political consultant for Marti Emerald. Hartley could win this time.

Stephen Whitburn: Whitburn did very well and is a good speaker. He also speaks Spanish and is a strong advocate for affordable housing, especially after his last three apartments turned into condos! Many dismissed Whitburn at the beginning, but nobody is dismissing his serious candidacy now.

Robert Lee: It’s good to see a businessperson in the race. It is also good to see a moderate Republican, who happens to be gay, praise the mayor for his stance on same-sex marriage. Lee is a smart man with good ideas, but he is unknown and not involved in the local GLBT community. Still, he is very likeable.

Todd Gloria: Anyone who attended this forum knows why he is the frontrunner. A San Diego native, who grew up in District 3, Gloria knows every neighborhood in the district. Not only does he know the problems faced, he also plans to change things. Gloria has been a public servant and advocate for District 3 for many years. His long list of supporters is a testimony to his strong family ties and hard work ethic.

Mark your calendar for the 20th anniversary celebration of the Lambda Archives, when it will be honoring 20 heroes in the GLBT community, on Saturday, Dec. 8, at The Center. Every major city in the United States has its own historic archives building, except San Diego. With our archives crammed into a small space above the Diversionary Theatre, we are losing our community history. It’s time we all wake up and support the Lambda Archives and preserve the GLBT community history of San Diego. Support 20 Years-20 Heroes. It’s going to be a proud and historic event.

I just want to sincerely thank those who have written, e-mailed and called me after Tyrone Jones attacked me, saying I was missing in action during the amicus briefs issue that went before city council and the mayor. Yes, you were all correct; I was very involved behind the scenes more than I can ever say, because discussions with councilmembers and the mayor are confidential and off the record on this issue.

Still, let me make something clear: After 40 years of activism and political involvement, I know that the real work and most decisions are made not the day of the vote, but in meetings and personal discussions before the vote.

Yes, I endorse and support councilmembers Kevin Falconer, Tony Young and Brian Meinshein. While I’m very disappointed with them on this issue, I still would support them as I do not judge a public office holder on only one issue. I supported Mayor Jerry Sanders, while probably 80 percent of the GLBT community supported his opponent.

Ten years ago in Washington, D.C. at a GLBT leadership meeting we discussed the issue of same-sex unions versus same-sex marriage. I was for same-sex unions with all the rights and privileges of marriage. But once same-sex marriage was decided as the way to go, I have been supportive ever since. Let’s not forget I am the past state chairperson for Equality California. The passing of the amicus brief supporting same-sex marriage was a team effort and many community activists deserve credit, not just me. I, like them, did my part. Now all of you must do yours and get involved. I beg you to register to vote, as our future and full civil rights depends on all of us getting involved. Thank you.

Once again a large crowd of supporters showed up for the annual Scouting For All Rally held at Balboa Park, which not only had great speeches, but also good news coverage. I will always attend this rally when I’m in town and sincerely thank everyone involved in Scouting For All, for keeping up the good fight and keeping us focused on this important issue.

What a great event, what great entertainment and what fun it was at the Hillcrest Centennial Gala held in the Grand Ballroom of The Prado in Balboa Park. It was truly a celebration of Hillcrest’s first 100 years. The place was packed and everyone was smiling and having a good time as we toasted Hillcrest being named one of the 10 greatest neighborhoods in the United States. Congratulations to everyone involved, including the organizations and sponsors, and especially Ann Garwood and Nancy Moors!

KUSI television’s Leonard Simpson brought New York fashion week to San Diego last weekend, with handsome, hot male and gorgeous female models at the prestigious Westgate Hotel.The Mama’s Kitchen benefit had the place filled with high society socialites dressed to the nines. I felt right at home with all the people in attendance who have had plastic surgery, including myself and the plastic surgery I’ve had done on my face. There was a gourmet lunch and a silent auction with almost every item going for well beyond the prices that were set. It was a fun time and a fabulous event for a worthy cause. Joining me on the runway were City Commissioner Bruce Abrams and owner of the Caliph, Sherman Mendoza. I can’t wait until next year… Bravo Leonard darling!