Since writing a weekly column since the early 1970s I’ve never missed three columns in a row … so, of course, I understand all the concerns, questions and gossip.
So, as I’ve always been open with my life with my readers I will set the record straight. No, I was not in the hospital for two weeks, but only three days. No, I’m not dying but I did have some scary moments. Old age can be, at times, very challenging and lately I have fallen or stumbled outside and, yes, inside my senior living apartment. At times my breathing has brought me problems and my heart … well … I live alone with my beloved cat Nixon. I am blessed to have close friends who drop by and make sure I have food and drink as I was bedridden for more than a week. I have been receiving endless phone calls and emails etc., and while I appreciate them I’ve always tried to be private about these details but they have gotten out. There are some gossipy hospital nurses that I would like to choke! At any rate I’m sorry I’ve missed so many meetings, events, etc., this past month but I’m doing better and taking all my medications. In fact, I am doing so much better that my doctor let me go to New York for about five days and, yes, see a specialist. But my last thoughts to you are this … I am blessed that I have so many caring friends. I live with and know a lot of my fellow seniors who are truly alone and uncared for. It breaks my heart to see them go through illness and life almost totally alone. Please try to reach out and make friends with a senior you know or live by. We are all going to get old. Thank you for listening.
New York
Well, trust me, I stayed in my hotel bed for about 75 percent of the time, but my view overlooked all of Times Square. Thank you, the Marriott Marquis Hotel. I had the honor of dedicating a wall at the historic Stonewall Inn (including a picture of me!) After my short speech I went back to my hotel but this historic, wonderful event went on with hundreds in attendance. At the big charity event attended by more than 1,000 people benefitting PFLAG and New Alternatives for homeless GLBT youth I had a great time and it was fun to have CoCo LaChine at my table and we fell in love with Olympic medalist Johnny Weir and comedian Lisa Lampanelli. I had the honor to present them awards along with all-time favorite world-renowned photographer Mike Ruiz. In my address to the huge New York audience I reminded them we all still should be concerned about the safety of our GLBT youth. We should also be concerned about a 17-year-old black teenage boy being shot and killed. I stopped by the beautiful Holy Cross Church and said some prayers for my friends and some who just recently passed away.
Please donate children’s Easter baskets
As many of you know, more than a decade ago grandmother Linda Childers and I founded an annual Children’s Easter Egg Hunt held every Easter Sunday at Trolley Barn Park in University Heights. Last year more than 600 children attended! This years sponsors are the Imperial Court, The LGBT Center and the City Council offices of Todd Gloria … and so many bars, businesses, sports groups, etc. Well, we badly need your help. Please donate children’s Easter baskets. You can drop them off at The Center or phone 619-692-1967 for more information. Thank you so very much.
Nathan Fletcher … a man of principle
Almost two years ago state Assemblyman Nathan Fletcher and I had lunch (at Baja Betty’s) and we were discussing upcoming state legislation. During our conversation we talked about the partisan, negativity and worsening battles between Republicans and Democrats. And, yes, we talked about him becoming an Independent because of the vicious and hateful attacks on him and his family by many Republicans over his support of the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and over his support of gay history being taught in our schools. I personally read some of this hate mail and the worst were the ones attacking his family, sons and faith.
Both the Democratic and Republican Parties are raising money for one of the most negative mayoral campaigns in our city’s history. I was sad to read Jess Durfee’s attack on Fletcher registering as an Independent, and I quote, “One of the most cynical political ploys we’ve seen in San Diego in decades.” How dare you Jess; you don’t even know this decorated young ex-Marine who has stood up for equality for all citizens and been so viciously attacked.
Nathan Fletcher is a man of character and principle and did what has been burning in his heart for years … there has to be a better way and for your information, Mr. Durfee, the highest growing registration is Independents as both parties continue to fight and let us down. No, I still have not officially endorsed a candidate as I highly respect Bob Filner and Bonnie Dumanis but, let me say, I am very proud of Nathan.
Nicole Murray Ramirez has been an award-winning columnist since 1973, and a Latino and gay activist for well over 40 years. He is currently a city commissioner and has served the last five mayors of San Diego. He is also a national board member of the Harvey Milk Foundation and chairman of the International Court Council of the USA, Canada and Mexico. Nicolemrsandiego@aol.com.
Sorry to read that you have been under the weather, rest up and be well and maybe cut back on the travel, your health and well being is the most important thing.