If you have not already seen my prior blog posts on the massive Prop 8 March and Rally, see here and here.

Interestingly, at 20,000 to 25,000, the San Diego protests (these were nationwide events) were the largest in the country.  Many are surprised at this; see this U-T article from yesterday with theories as to how and why.  One theory overlooked in that article, I think, was the extrordinary support from the local gay bar and club owners the San Diego protest got.  In particular, I am thinking of Rich’s and Numbers owner Nick Moede, who was indefatiguable in his efforts to promote and organize these events.

Another interesting “scene” related bit of news: Last week, I went to the scheduled meeting of my local Hillcrest Town Council. Top item on the agenda was a new proposal from the developers of the 301 University site. Instead of a high-rise condo complex, they now propose a mid-rise “botique hotel.”

What’s interesting to me about this proposed project is, the plans for this hotel call for a “rooftop bar,” as well as a restaurant, 3rd floor outdoor pool on an offset roof, and banquet halls and meeting rooms for other social events.

The roof bar will be on the south side of the 6-story building, making it a nice place to sip a cocktail and watch the sunset (much like Top of the Park).  The preliminary sketch of the building below is looking from the northwest, i.e., as it would look standing on the corner where Hula’s is currently located:

If the project is approved, groundbreaking is anticipated for early 2010, meaning we could get a new outdoor watering hole with a nice view in the neighborhood by late 2011.

Upcoming events: Tonight is Baja Betty’s 4th Anniversary Party!  7 to 9pm.  Free food and drink…who can pass that up?  As in past Betty’s anniverary parties (see here and here and here) the theme will be “wear something Red.”  And eat and drink a lot.  Which I plan to.  )

Besides the March and Rally, other new albums up this week include Manic Monday at The Brass Rail, Bourbon Street last Thursday (during the Warner Home Video “Pee Wee’s Big Adventure” DVD release promo), and K.D. Lang Live at Hawthorn’s and the Birch North Park Theatre, Cake at Bourbon Street, Lei Lounge, and Loaded at Numbers, all last Saturday.

Lastly, SD Pix is looking for an additional photographer!  If any of you out there are interested in doing a bit of what I do, send me an email.  We are looking for sociable people with a good quality digital camera; photo editing skills are helpful as well.  Thanks!

Jim Winsor (jim@sdpix.com)