Well, if my doctors permit it, I will be off to New York and Washington, D.C., this week for meetings, benefits, etc.

Recently, I learned of another friend of mine who had committed suicide. Friends told me that he was getting very depressed over some personal problems. He was only 27 years old.

Personally, in these last two years I have had somewhat of a roller coaster ride with depression due to my health problems, my apartment building turning into condos and other personal problems. I get very depressed when I can’t fulfill my obligations and commitments, like attending last Sunday’s tribute to the Rev. Tony Freeman, because of a bad health day or breathing problems. So let me say that I have at times sought the help of professional counselors, and they have been helpful.

You know, it’s not easy getting old – your body and memory start to go. But depression can hit people of all ages. I consider myself to be a strong individual, but sometimes we all need help and must reach out. When we see friends going through depression, we must urge them to seek counseling. It could save a life. Thank you for listening.

One of the East Coast’s rising political stars, the tall, handsome, openly gay Latino state senator from Massachusetts, Jarrett Barrios, will be in town this Saturday, April 1, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the beautiful home of Robert Gleason and Mark Matys (and son Max).

Barrios is running for district attorney, and Saturday’s event is a fund-raiser for his campaign. Admission to the event is $75 (or more), and everyone is invited. For more information, phone (858) 539-7610.

I urge all San Diegans to support John Anthony Rinaldi for Congress (52nd District). A former police officer, teacher and Desert Storm veteran who was honored with the Navy Commendation Medal, John has been endorsed by state Senator Christine Kehoe, Councilmember Toni Atkins, Assembly candidate Mary Salas, the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council and the San Diego Young Stonewall Democrats, among others.

John Rinaldi is the most qualified candidate for the Democratic nomination. It is very disappointing that the predominantly GLBT San Diego Democratic Club did not endorse Rinaldi for Congress, because not only is he the most qualified, but John is also a proud member of our community.

One of the most picked-up, read and kept guide/directories is the super HillQuest Urban Guide. It is one of the best I’ve seen in the state because it is not just page after page of advertising, it is full of Hillcrest/San Diego history, politics and trivia about our 92103 zip code and beyond.

This year’s guide will feature more color pictures and fun and interesting pages. The ad deadline is fast approaching for the fourth edition (April 14), so don’t miss out. Contact award-winning businesspeople Ann Garwood and Nancy Moors at (619) 260-1929 for more information.

For 23 years, one of Southern California’s most popular video bars has been the award-winning Flicks. It’s always the place to go for a fun time and loads of eye candy.

I must say, they show some of the best videos – from music to comedy. There are very few bars that have had staying power like Flicks has. Last year, Flicks was voted San Diego’s most popular bar.

Owners Joe and Nigel have outstanding reputations of always giving back to the community, and they are two of the nicest business owners in town. So be sure to stop by Flicks this Tuesday, April 4, for complimentary champagne and fabulous food. It all starts at 8:00 p.m. and will include go-go boys!

San Diego’s popular Bourbon Street has won yet another award. AOL City Guide’s “City Best for 2006” voted Bourbon Street Best Gay Bar in San Diego last week. The AOL City Guide is the most popular local entertainment site on the Web, serving over 9 million consumers! Congratulations to everyone at Bourbon Street.

Tequila has become the new trend in the restaurant industry, as there are so many different varieties and styles to learn about and taste. So now, Baja Betty’s has a wild and fun monthly tequila club, which meets this Saturday, April 1, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. There will be food, giveaways and lots of fun. For more information, phone (619) 269-8510.

Stepping Stone of San Diego announced that their new development coordinator will be Jim Ginelli. Jim has been involved with Stepping Stone for over five years in a variety of capacities and has been involved with the organization’s annual “Living Out Loud” fund-raiser for the past two years, where he has been instrumental in raising over $275,000 for the nonprofit recovery organization. Congratulations, Jim!