This coming Sunday is Father’s Day…my dad died years ago of Alzheimer’s…we were not close because I was gay and we never really had closure before he died. Those of you who have loving, accepting parents are truly blessed as many many moms and dads do not accept their GLBT children. Always cherish and celebrate parents who accept and love you unconditionally.

What a wonderful three days in L.A. Friday night, I went to a welcoming reception at the Festival grounds with Mayor John Heilman and city officials. Saturday, I was one of the keynote speakers at the “International Transgender Summit” along with San Francisco City Commissioner Cecila Chung, Councilman Jeffrey Prang and Karina Samala, chair of the city’s Transgender Advisory Board. Stopped by Haute Nightclub for a huge lesbian party that was benefit for the Harvey Milk Foundation by PYT Productions. I was at CSN’s first pride parade/march 40 years ago on Hollywood Boulevard. It was great hanging around parade founder Rev. Troy Perry this past weekend and seeing my pal Robin Tyler. It was great talking to Councilmembers John Durran and Jeffrey Prang (thank you for my West Hollywood City’s 26th Anniversary medal). Assembly Speaker John Perez was his usual outgoing self, and I found CNN newscaster Jane Velez-Mitchell to be down to earth and beautiful. It was also wonderful to run into L.A. Latino icon Oscar De La O of Bienstar. It was fabulous to see Sharon and Kelly Osbourne again and I made them both official “Princesses” and gave them crowns to wear (they along with the Imperial Court’s were “Grand Marshals”). The parade was out of this world and I had a great time on the Community Grand Marshal’s float.

And thank you to CSW President Rodney Scott, their board and staff for rolling out the red carpet and treating me like a true queen! By the way, I had a talk with “The Abbey” Nightclub owner David, whom told me that have not found a San Diego location but they have not stopped looking.

As I’ve said before in some of my speeches; “The Golden State is turning Brown” and California is one of the four states where people of color make up the majority, including Texas, New Mexico and the District of Columbia. Nationwide, 35% of all Americans are of color and soon, in the future of our country, the “minorities” will become the majority. Why I bring all this up is because the GLBT community must continue building more bridges and stronger ties with the Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, African-American and Native-American communities and organizations. The future of GLBT equality depends heavily on this bridge building.

Just last week I got the official financial statement of a local non-profit organization and boy, was I shocked! For the year 2008-2009 they relieved donations/grants of 12 million dollars and there expenses were about 11 million dollars (mostly salaries and benefits). Needless to say, I will not be sending any further donations their way. During these hard times for everyone, including non-profits, you should and always ask questions about salaries etc. and how much really goes to the mission of the non-profits you support. Make sure your donations and support goes to non-profits who really help people or causes. Ask questions!

Contestants are still wanted for the upcoming Mr., Miss, Ms. Gay San Diego 2010 Contest this Sunday, June 20 at Flame starting at 6 p.m. The Gay San Diego Contest was founded in 1974 and is the longest running contest in the state. For more information, call 619-300-1232 or 619-288-1183.

One of the most popular and fun Latino events of the year is coming on Saturday, June 26th, it’s the annual fabulous Frida party at The Center from 6-10 p.m. with food, dancing, and great entertainment. You’re all invited! There will be live music and Latino singers/bands etc. it’s all a benefit for the Latino Services Program at the GLBT Center. Contact Carolina Ramos at The Center for more information, (619) 692-2077 x116.

Barrio Star (2706 5th Ave) – Run to this place before the world discovers it! It has the best tortilla soup in the world and some of the fattest tacos in town. Chef Lhasa has made up the most outstanding authentic menu. Manager Amy, and staff, are friendly and with all the fabulous food, it’s a hit! Now open for lunch and dinner.

SOHO (3025 El Cajon Blvd.) – It’s a great new restaurant and lounge open Tuesday through Sunday. I love this place, and their food is fresh. But the very best quality…an adventure for your taste buds.

Caliph’s Deli (5th Ave) – Yes, the world famous Caliph has a new deli. Open Moday through Thursday from 11:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Wonderful and super tasty hamburgers, sandwiches and the best homemade chili and potato salads in the land. All at very reasonable prices, check out Caliph’s!

San Diego Desserts (5987 El Cajon Blvd.) – You all need to discover this gem of a place that includes a restaurant and one of the most popular bakeries in town (many hotels use them). Gay owned and friendly, they serve lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends and open 7 days a week. One visit and you’ll be back. Visit www.sandiegodesserts.net