by Ron Robbins

The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach symbolizes different things to different people. For one, it’s signals the arrival of Pride season at the starting gate. Polish up those chrome rims and start tanning those hot bodies. When the Grand Prix flags come down, up go the Pride flags. Here’s a few more sleek, sassy and slick ways to race right into Pride season.

Sleek

Attention race fans! Attendance for the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach regularly reaches or exceeds 200,000 people. The Grand Prix, the biggest event in Long Beach, is the premier circuit in the Champ Car World Series. The 2008 race takes place April 18-20, and will be the last race for Champ Cars as the series is merged with the Indy Racing League. And after three days of exciting races (and crowds, closed off streets and echoing sounds of racing engines), we’ll be graced with those beautiful Pride flags adorning Ocean Avenue.

Sassy

In case you’d like to steer clear of opening night of the Grand Prix, race over to Irvine for the area’s return of Mary J. Blige, performing live with Jay-Z at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater on Friday, April 18. Bound to give a stellar performance, Blige is touring in support of her latest CD, Growing Pains. Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

Superior

Gayopoly, the Center OC’s 2008 Gala Fundraiser, celebrates 37 years of superior services to our community. On Saturday, May 3, join the celebration at the Hyatt Regency Irvine for a wild trip through OC’s rich LGBT history, and a special tribute to comedian Bruce Vilanch. For sponsorship and table host opportunities, check in with the lovely folks at the Center.

Slick

Did you know that Grace Slick, the rock sensation best known for her involvement with Jefferson Airplane, Jefferson Starship and, finally, Starship, is also an artist? The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has her own exhibit at the Wentworth Gallery in Newport Beach. Inspired by her love of rock ‘n’ roll, Slick’s artwork presents a range of subjects, including portraits of old friends and legendary musicians such as Jerry Garcia, Jimi Hendrix, Mick Jagger, Janis Joplin, John Lennon, Jim Morrison and Sting. The exhibit is free and runs daily through April 30.

The Details

The Center Orange County
12752 Garden Grove Blvd.
Garden Grove
www.thecenteroc.org

Verizon Wireless
Amphitheater
8800 Irvine Center Dr.
Irvine
www.livenation.com

Wentworth Gallery
271 Newport Center Dr.
Newport Beach
(949) 760-9554