Citizen Kurt’s Dirty Dozen: Big Mike Phillips
I first met “Big Mike” Phillips in 1992 when he was tending bar at the Brass Rail. At the time, I was a regular there and Big Mike always poured a nice, heavy cocktail. Big Mike moved on to other venues around town, and we all followed him, especially when he landed at Rich’s. As Big Mike’s popularity grew, so did his desire to give back to his community. In 1996, Big Mike co-founded Ordinary Miracles, an organization that started with a handful of bartenders who wanted to give back by donating their tips to charity. The endeavor ended with a bang raising over $250,000 for several charitable organizations. Even though Ordinary Miracles is no more, Big Mike’s generosity continues. He volunteers his time and energy for numerous organizations and, each year, gives up his own birthday party to raise money for charity. Happy Birthday Big Mike, and thanks for being such an inspiration.
1) Whats the most embarrassing situation you have ever been in? This is a hard one. I really don’t let things get to me. If I find myself in an awkward situation, I try to make a joke of it (though I always seem to mess up at public speaking, it really makes me nervous.)
2) If you could banish a single person to a deserted island for life, who would it be and why? Dick Cheney. I just think he is an evil man…period!
3) Whats your favorite movie of all time? Harold and Maude
4) If you could spend the day at Disneyland with 3 people, living or dead, who would you pick? My friend Nigel Mayer, Ellen DeGeneres and Bratt Pitt
5) Whats your favorite word? Faith
6) If you could trade lives with anyone for one week, who would it be and why? Oprah Winfrey. Just to experience the crazy, positive and happy fulfilled life she seems to lead. And, I’d get to meet all the people she knows. How cool would that be?
7) What is your best attribute/characteristic? My positive way of thinking. Loving and living life to its fullest. Learning from others and giving back.
8) What prominent GLBT personality do you admire? Ellen DeGeneres
9) What is your “must see” TV? Brothers and Sisters on Sunday night
10) If you could recommend one book for people to read, what would it be?
The Power of Kindness by Piero Ferrucci
11) If you could pick any profession other than your own, what would it be? A TV and movie producer
12) What is your favorite quote?
“If you can or can’t, either way your right.” -Henry Ford
This is an awesome story/article!