Innerview With A Bear- by Eric Crow

 

Jimmy Trimble is the current Mr. Bear San Diego 2025. He has the distinction of being the first trans man to hold the title. I was a judge for the contest last October, and it was very satisfying watching him soak up all the energy from the San Diego community and take his place at the table. He is a relative newcomer to our part of the Forest, so to speak, and I think we'll be seeing good things from him years after he steps aside next year.

NH: How has your year been so far and what are you up to in your title period? What events do you have planned? What out of town events are you going to?

JT: So far my year has gone really well. I’ve attended a wide variety of events. My first event was a Valentines event. We brought in approximately $1600 to support The TransLatina Coalition. We have also built a stronger connection to the SDBBL (San Diego Bootblack Leather) and are co-hosting the summer season of an event called “Leather Weather.” I have a Hillcrest scavenger hunt planned for Spring and a lot of pride fundraisers. I am planning on attending Cubchella, and P-Town Bear week in Massachusetts.

NH: How is your experience as a titleholder so far? What has surprised you? What makes you smile about the San Diego community?

JT: My experience as a titleholder has been remarkable and really quite fun. I’m surprised by the amount of support that is being offered and followed up on amongst other titleholders and the community. I smile when I think of the turnout for the raising of the trans flag on our Trans Day of Visibility. Just being in the presence of so many activated transpeople and allies fills me with hope and joy.

NH: When and how did you realize you were a Bear?

JT: My mother has a photo of 2 year old me with my brown bear shirt on. I insisted on being called that my entire toddlerhood. As far as an adult bear, it’s never been a question, really. Fuzzy, thick, and friendly, that’s me.

NH: Tell us about your experience of San Diego Leather Pride. Did you learn anything new?

JT: I’m learning new things about Leather and its rituals, traditions, and beauty daily. My kink practice has always been rather private so it’s exciting to learn so much from others and find out how much there is to have in common. I really enjoyed the fantasty videos made by the contestants. They showed another side of themselves to everyone, and that really helped me get to know them. The fantasies were wide-ranging—everything from humorous to protective to over the top. I found them all to be delightful.

NH: If asked, would you go to compete at North American Bear or World Bear? Why or why not?

JT: I think it would be incredible to compete on a world stage. It would be a dream to meet so many new people from all over the world who are committed to service and share the comraderie of bear hood. The preparation and travel, I imagine, would be challenging but a lot of fun. The competition itself would be rigorous but such a rush!

NH: How are you surviving Trump 2.0? What does the trans/enby community need right now to make it through?

JT: I’m surviving one day at a time. I’m limiting my news intake and saving my conversations for in person where I know I can offer true support. I think the trans/NB community needs to try not to isolate with fear or despair. Your feelings are valid AND your people are out here ready to find some joy and purpose to help us all make it. Remain strong, we are not going anywhere.

 NH: What’s your favorite season and what do you love doing during that time?

JT: I love summer. I love pool parties and grilling out under the sun. Bonfires, beach days, and any excuse to take my shirt off.

NH: What advice will you have for your Sash Kid? What advice do you have for those who are considering stepping up to compete for a title?

JT If you are considering stepping up - go for it! Get out of your comfort zone, have fun. It’s worth the work. For a sash kid. Set a solid platform and goal for the year. Keep your eyes set on those things and don’t get distracted and you’ll be just fine.

NH: It is the day of your step down. What will you be remembered for?

JT: At minimum, I’d like to be remembered for working hard and being kind to all. At best, I’d love to be remembered for making sure the Bear community stay a safe welcoming place to be yourself.

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If you would like to get to know Jimmy more, you can find him at Bears San Diego events, which you can find by going to www.bearssd.org . If you would like to learn more about Trans Services in San Diego, please visit https://transhealthsd.org/resources/. 

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