The 39th Annual Nicky Awards

For 39 years, The Nicky Awards have been considered the "Gay" Academy Awards of San Diego. The Awards were established by activist and City Commissioner Nicole Murray-Ramirez in 1975. The annual event taking place on Sunday, August 24, celebrates outstanding achievements within the community, ranging in categories from Outstanding Community Organization to Outstanding Bar Employee and all points in between, representing the diversity within San Diego's LGBT community.

The oft-heard award show saying "It's an honor just to be nominated" certainly comes into play here, as it is earned from people in the community, by giving individuals the nod and is followed by a succession of nomination parties held at a variety of venues. Then, as determined via online voting at The Nicky Awards official website, the evening will celebrate those who are lucky enough to take home a golden statuette. The 2014 edition will also maintain the tradition of special recipient awards, recognizing honorees with the annual George Moscone Award and the Harvey Milk Civil Rights Award, to name a few.

It's not just about the glitz and glamor of a tux or haute couture dress, or the possibility for that Sally Field moment ("You like me, right now, you like me!"). The non-profit organization has raised thousands of dollars for a wealth of LGBT causes and garnered attention from a slew of politicians over the years. And what f�te would be complete without entertainment? Comedian Shawn Pelofsky will be on-hand to emcee the proceedings with the same verve she has brought to television shows such as "Last Comic Standing" and "Chelsea Lately." Two former reality show contestants, Lorie Moore of The X-Factor and American Idol season 13 performer, Keith London, will be on stage to rock the dome at San Diego's new Central Library.

The Rage Monthly spoke with Chair of the Board of Governors and Producer Allan Spyere about what makes this a night to remember every year.

What makes The Nicky Awards so special for the community?

The Nicky Awards are one of the oldest LGBT community awards in the United States. It is also the first LGBT community event that the Mayor of San Diego, Police Chief and other prominent elected officials have attended.

Who will be receiving special recognition awards at this year's ceremony?

Bishop Jim Mathes and the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego will be honored with the annual Mayor George Moscone Award. The Harvey Milk Civil Rights Award will be presented to the San Diego Trans Pride March and the Harvey Milk/NMR Scholarship will be presented to Ryland Whittington. Chad Michaels will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in the Arts and the Michael Portantino Media Award will go to ABC News Channel 10 reporter Michael Chen.

How do you make sure that the show goes off without a hitch?

In reality, it does not go off without a hitch. There are so many steps to organizing this event, that it is easy to overlook some things. Since I took over the production of the awards show about four years ago, I've tried to make it more current, fun and entertaining. It was time to bring it to the 21st century.

What do you think The Nicky Awards' legacy is?

In the words of Governor Gray Davis, "By showcasing excellence in the community, the Nicky Awards serve as proof that every person has something important to contribute, that each of us can make a difference. This celebration is a tribute to the men and women of San Diego's LGBT community who work hard to improve the quality of life for all." That is the continued legacy of The Nicky Awards.

For more information or to purchase tickets for The Nicky Awards, log onto nickyawards.org