Don’t forget Mama’s Day, an annual event for Mama’s Kitchen this Friday, May 6.

I’ve always believed that Mayor Dick Murphy was a decent, honest and well-meaning citizen who wanted to do his best for our city… he never really was a politician, and deep down, hated politics and campaigns. Yes, he made some mistakes, but all of our city’s problems should not be laid at his feet.

As for the GLBT community, though we had our differences on some major issues, we always welcomed him warmly and he always seemed to reach out to us….

Mayor Murphy actually met with his GLBT advisory board more times than any mayor ever did in the history of our city.

Many of us got to know Mayor Murphy and his family, and consider him a friend…. Now more than ever, our city officials must stop fighting and start working together… I wish the best for Mayor Murphy and his family, and want him to know that he and his family are in many San Diegans’ prayers.

Well, needless to say, I received dozens of phone calls from possible candidates and political consultants concerning the upcoming race for mayor…. Top candidates could be Donna Frye, former police chief Jerry Sanders, Dede Alpert, Ron Roberts and Juan Vargas, among others.

All San Diegans must vote for the very best candidate, who can turn this city around… not on personality or popularity.

Though I have never supported Peter Q. Davis, nor do I believe he could be elected… I believe that at this time, he would have been a solid choice to be appointed interim mayor, but that will never happen.

We as a GLBT voting bloc could swing the race in a close election, as we did in the city attorney’s race. This upcoming race for mayor will be the most important election in our city’s history… period.

San Diego’s gay Academy Awards are always sold out, and this year’s Nicky Awards tickets and tables are selling fast and furious…. The event takes place on Sunday, May 15, at the beautiful Westin Horton Plaza Hotel, and promises to be an evening of outstanding entertainment, pride and lots of fun. For more information, phone (619) 229-2822.

The day after the Nicky Awards, yes, Monday, May 16, you must check out Ordinary Miracles’ “May Event” at the awesome estate/mansion of Mrs. Bobbie Bohannan in Mission Hills. From 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., there will be fabulous food, drinks and music, all for only $25, which will benefit the GSDBA Foundation’s John McCusker Scholarship Fund. It is going to be a great party, so call Big Mike at (619) 807-7324 for more information.

It’s always one of the best events of the year, and always a fabulous, fun evening of delicious diversion, dancing and entertainment – that’s the annual San Diego Human Dignity Foundation springtime gala, which is entitled “Springtime in Paradise” this year and takes place on Saturday, May 21, at the Shelter Pointe Resort and Marina on the San Diego bay…. Just follow the crowds to “Paradise.” For more information, call (619) 291-3383.

Hey, what a deal! Bring your mom in on Mother’s Day to Baja Betty’s and she’ll receive a free two-item combo, a flower and a photo of her in a tiara! Baja Betty’s is always about good times, good food and great service. They were recently reviewed in San Diego Magazine.

After 35 years, the owner of House of Stapleton is retiring, and they’re having a huge closing sale with hundreds of pieces of Louis XVI, Empire and Regency, style antiques and gorgeous furniture all priced to clear. Truly the deal of a lifetime. The sale is in its final weeks, so you’d better get there now! The House of Stapleton is located on the top floor of the Horton Plaza Mall and is open seven days a week. Call them at (619) 239-1707 for more information.