Social and Support Meeting: Saturday, June 20, 8PM
Starting with the June 20 meeting, we'll be using our new meeting place, the First Unitarian Church of Louisville, at the corner of 4th and York Sts. You should park in the lots at 3rd and York, behind the church, and enter through the double glass doors at the back of the church. There is a security system on these doors; as a result, BGB members will be in the vestibule waiting to let you in. If nobody is visible, push the button, and say BGB on the intercom when called. The doors will be attended by 6:30 PM that night until 8PM. After 8PM, you will have to use the intercom to get in. First Unitarian has requested that we not admit anyone who is not a member or guest of the group, so do not let anyone you don't know follow you in. After the meeting, as usual, those who wish will go out on the town, which doesn't close until 4AM. Changing rooms are available. This area of downtown Louisville is relatively safe and sheltered, and parking is easy and free behind the church. On Saturday evenings, there should be no traffic problems.
Louisville Pride Picnic Saturday, June 13th
BGB will have a booth at the Louisville Pride Picnic, which will be held at the Water Tower on River Rd. (use I-71 and Zorn Ave.) Saturday, June 13th. This is a great opportunity for the community to learn more about us, and should be a safe event for those who are security - conscious. Contact Terri at thambaug@ix.netcom.com for more details.
RSICK Coronation Sunday, June 7thBy Marjorie Demaille
The Royal Sovereign Imperial Court of All Kentucky is holding their Coronation in the Radisson Hotel in downtown Lexington, and we're invited! The hotel is on the corner of Broadway and Main and extends over to the corner of Broadway and Vine. On Sunday night street parking should be no problem unless Garth Brooks is in town again. There is a ramp attached to the building and another ramp up the street on Main. I assume they will hold the event in one of the second floor ballrooms again. This is a private party; all indoors, all away from everybody, in case any shy folks were wondering.
Tickets are $10 up through June 3rd. At the door they will be $25. Where to get them? I would be happy to pick one up for you if you like. Listed times are doors opening 6pm and the show starting at 7pm. My opinion is these are optimistic; we all know about queer people time. However, if last year was an indication, the program will be lengthy and a timely start may be necessary. As it was, it did go on until after 1am, with the bar open the whole time (convention license I guess). Anyway, you get to write your ballot for Emperor and Empress 17 when you get in the door. John Moses is the Emperor candidate. For Empress the choices are Latoya Becall (whom we met at the May BGB meeting), Mika Milano, and Leigh Angelique. To mark a ballot you need to show a KY ID -- this is for Kentucky royalty after all, so only Kentuckians are supposed to be voting.
In fact, the event is very dressy. Sequins will definitely fit right in. The program will probaby be in three sets with breaks in between so all the DQs can go change their outfits. This is my observation from last time. Should there be enough BGB interest, I am personally considering taking a room that night. We could all use this as a place to change our costumes, as well as for hospitality. There was a hospitality room the Court had last year, which operated the afternoon before the show. I did not visit this however. Most likely, it will again be possible for a Belles representative to walk up on the stage during the ceremony recognizing local organizations. We received this invitation last time, only I did not want to do it by myself, as I was the lone Belle there. It was my first Coronation, and I did not know what to expect.
What can you expect? All coronations have a theme; theirs is "On Their Majesties' Secret Service; An Evening of Intrigue at the Royal Masquerade Ball." It is an opportunity for all the DQs to hobnob in their finery, raise some money for charity, and meet other folk from the court system nationwide. Emperor Elvin has been on the road much during his reign, thus it is expected that quite a few other courts will send reps to this Coronation. One we met in Toronto may possibly show; Elvin could not confirm this though. The show will mix some pseudo-royal ceremony with some imaginative drag performances. Gladys Over is one not to be missed. Last year, one command performer was a transsexual woman. Also in there will be recognition of active community groups, as mentioned before. Last time we could have got a reserve table, which would be better than sitting out in the regular seats; that said, it would cost more on a per seat basis, plus we probably need a minimum of 8 to arrange a such table.
I'm pretty excited about going. Anybody else interested needs to check with me so I can decide about getting a Belles room. Contact me at efduhr1@pop.uky.edu for details.
Lexington Pride Picnic: Sunday, June 14
The Lexington Pride Picnic will take place June 14 from 12-4. The location is Windy Knoll Farm, on Cleveland Rd, about 5 miles east of New Circle Rd., just off US60. Angela Bridgman is the mistress (trollope?) of ceremonies, and will also be performing her comedy routine. It's bound to be a good time, and a terrific outreach/visibility opportunity for the group.
When Marj, Dawn, Jamie, Mitzi, and I gathered in a Residence Inn hotel room in December 1996, I don't think any of us really realized what we were setting into motion. Jim Morrison once described his life as being like "an arrow drawn back, stretched taut, then suddenly released into motion." I like using that analogy to describe this group. From the moment we touched ground, we started running, and we still are today, although at times, like all runners, we do have to stop for air. The difference is that now, we are a relay team. New people have come to the group, and have immediately pitched in with the load. If one of us cannot make a community event, that's not a problem, because others can and do. Best of all, we seem to be able to summon forth a small, committed army when it counts. When a member is down in the dumps, is having trouble, suddenly several of us come to their side. When a rotten piece of legislation gets thrown into the legislative hopper, a number of us fire off mail to our elected officials to steer them the right way. If you need help with your computer, finding a good used car, advice on where to shop, or on a doctor/therapist, or some job leads, it's likely that one of us is bound to be able to come to the rescue.
So, after reading the above, you'd say that everything is peachy-keen here, that we shouldn't change a thing, that we have no problems. Anyone that thinks that about themselves or this group is fooling themselves, for those who don't move forward get run over. There is truly more happening in the greater TG community, Ohio Valley, and nearby areas than you can possibly participate in, unless you're a Powerball winner and don't have to hold a job. I cannot remember what it was like to sit at home wondering "Ah, what is there to do tonight?" Now, it's "Sorry, I have to do a newsletter!"
For several months' now, a number of us have thought that moving the group to Louisville, while still maintaining relations and having outings in Lexington, would be the obvious thing to do. Why didn't we start out in Louisville originally? Well, 4 out of 5 of the founding members were Lexingtonians, and there already was a established TG group meeting in Louisville that ceased operations in late 1997 Why move now? Glad you asked. At most of our meetings, more than half of the members are from the Louisville metro area, sometimes 70%. Clubs close in Lexington at 1AM, as opposed to 4AM in Louisville. Our shopping and artistic facilities are just a bit better. I think the best reason to move, however, is visibility. We should be out and somewhat visible in Kentucky's largest city. It's wonderful that the community in Lexington has welcomed us they way they have. Problem is, up until now, there has been no T included in the GLB community in Louisville. That was made clear to us last July, when "gender" was dropped from the Fairness Amendment. After what happened then, we cannot afford to be overlooked or taken for granted anymore. Folks, we have some educating to do.
Thanks to Angela, we've found an excellent meeting place. We will be meeting at First Unitarian Church, which is located at the corner of Fourth and York Sts., 1 block south of Broadway. First Unitarian is located across York St. from the main branch of the Louisville Free Public Library, and is one block north of Spalding College, so the neighborhood is safe and accepting. There is a large parking lot on York St. behind the church (I would approach it from the north on 3rd), which is well lit and decently sheltered. At the times we meet on Saturday nights, the library will have been closed for a couple hours, so you need not fear the library patrons. As for the church itself, they are a welcoming congregation. Angela and I both attend services there regularly, and I have done so both as Anne and AC, as time permits. Rev. Richard Beal, the head of the church, actually was arrested in the demonstration that took place on 6th St. after Fairness was voted down in September 1997, so you know that he's friendly to us. I have never had an unfriendly look or comment from anyone at any service I've attended there. The fact that we will meet there, in a congregation with a "community" presence, will attract attention.
So, what do we do after the meeting? We have the church for a generous part of the evening, and will no longer have to rush to make a club before closing. As regular readers have noted, my local femme excursions into Louisville nightlife rarely include the "gay" places, because of my own peculiar liking for the blues, standup comedy, karaoke and my equal dislike for disco, hip-hop, techno, and country music. Despite the redneck image and jokes that are told about Kentucky, I haven't met with many jokes or much trouble. I really don't think we're going to, either, but I want to make sure before I subject the rest of the group to any choice I suggest, because I want every member of the group to feel that they can be safe going out with the "veteran Belles" after a meeting. We plan to go out on the town after most of our meetings, and we'll agree on a destination that fits with everyone's personal comfort level. I want everyone in this group to know that they are invited to join us for anything we do after and outside a meeting.
You will also notice the minor change in name on the masthead. The group hasn't changed, but we're officially calling ourselves BGB these days. That is a compromise; most of us liked the "Bluegrass Belles" name, but we also want to make it clear that we also welcome the "boyz." I don't expect that an F2M would appreciate being a "Bluegrass Belle." So, we're calling it BGB, and if you're F2M, it stands for "Bluegrass Boyz"; if M2F, you're still a "Bluegrass Belle," even though smart homeowners in the Louisville area plant fescue in their yards instead of bluegrass.
Changes also seem to be taking place in the way TG people are being included in GLB community activities locally, although The Letter is the only local publication that has mentioned the T-word with any regularity (thanks, David Williams, our community could use many more like you!) Inclusion of TG people by the GLB community in Louisville will take place when we've earned their respect, and that process may have started. We want to be included out of friendship and respect. That is the lesson I've learned in Nashville, where the GLB always has a T, and where our friends in the Vals always are represented at community functions. It will take more than demands of "let us in!" to gain admittance - it will take good old-fashioned one on one interaction, along with having a few BGB members appear at community events. It will take work, intelligence, professionalism, tact, and diplomacy. We need to be seen more in public, the entire transgendered community, along with our supporters. We can better do this by meeting and socializing in Louisville, where more people will see us and take notice. I want to thank Terri publicly for taking the initiative to make arrangements for BGB to have a table at the Pride Picnic June 13th, and would like to encourage all who can to come to the picnic and give us a hand. We are going to be there to let people know that we have a group, that it welcomes all who think they might be TG and their supporters, and that we want to be a resource for and part of the "alternative lifestyle" community.
The final change is in the political area. We have been a group that is heavily involved in the transgendered political movement. That is a good thing, but most of us have felt that we should separate BGB from political activity. BGB is, after all, a social and support group, not a political action committee. Last fall, Angela Bridgman obtained the charter for It's Time, Kentucky!; the ITA groups exist for the purpose of political activism. It's time (pardon the pun) to separate our politics from our social and support functions, and perform political activism as ITKY exclusively. Anyone interested can join ITKY, it doesn't require anything other than standing up and being counted, although Angela will likely need to establish some type of financing for this sooner or later. You don't have to have any experience in political activism, you just have to want to help. This is a growing thing - Angela's been heavily involved with organizing ITKY, Dawn worked hard during the legislative session to thwart many of the initiatives of the evil State Sens. Tim Philpot and Sheldon Baugh, I've been asked to participate in a conference on gender presentation and orientation that is being put on by Fairness, and I'm using that opportunity to educate all interested on what it means to be TG, as well as to let them know that we stand at the ready to assist from the get-go in all future political initiatives. We may still have political activists and, hopefully, politicians at our meetings to speak in the future, but I want to balance that because not everyone has an interest in political matters. We're beginning to be accepted, and the change is very pleasant. The ITKY News will appear on the back page or 2 of this publication, as needed - some months, there won't be one; other times, there might be several pages. If you see news that applies here, let me know. Also, those of you who live in Indiana won't be left out -we'll note political news from Southern Indiana there, and we encourage you to make contact with Jennifer Sportsman, who is running It's Time, Indiana!. Those of us in ITKY will help you with any political action you want to initiate or thwart across the river, we already have agreed to help Ms Sportsman with Southern Indiana matters.
So, keep us posted on things in Hoosier land, please.
One last note, for those of you who don't live in the Derby City. As you can see from the Coronation article, we don't intend to neglect Lexington.. We still want to take part in events in Lexington. We have great relations with the GLBT community there, and several people from the group live there. In some ways, Lexington is more welcoming than Louisville. So, if you live in the Lexington area, and you're reluctant to join, don't be - we're your group, too. We simply need the visibility of being the TG group for Kentucky, meeting in Kentucky's largest city, building relations with the community and with other groups. So, let the good times roll...
One thing that the male side of this transgendered personality enjoys is presiding over the grille on a hot summers's evening, cooking some brats, steaks, or burgers, while enjoying a cold dark beer. Ahhh, word processing this is making me hungry...Who would be interested in making our July meeting a cookout? I am, I am....Hey, put on your shorts, suntan oil, maybe a swimsuit...
Let us know at the June meeting what you think of this idea?
Freedom and Mascara!
Anne Casebeer
Marjorie the Warrior?
You might call this thing one story of a 'weekend warrior.' Should that term be new to you, let me quote the subversive glossary definition, by Riki 'the Rikster' Wilchins, "Transpeople who dress up and go out only on weekends; akin to 'transpires,' transpeople who only come out at night." And if you want to call me a Mistress of Morph, well, that's okay too.
For one reason or another, the weekend following the Lobby Days trip, I was dying to get out again. Saturday night I set my mind at the last minute on going to the Vertigo club. I delayed this decision because most of Saturday was lost sleeping in, you see, due to the Vertigo episode of Friday night. On that night I had renewed acquaintance with an Ashley I'd first encountered at Vertigo's ganster-theme AVOL party of the previous Friday. Saturday she was back again, smelling nicely of Victoria's Secret's Azurin. This scent may be worth checking into. We closed down Vertigo. I guess you have figured out I enjoy Vertigo...
As I was sowell-rested, and not ready to head home, I drove about aimlessly before steering to Perkins, for that late night/early morning breakfast thing. At nearly 2 AM the place was really not that busy, and soon thinned out even more. I felt good being here, particularly because I ordinarily worry too much when out solo to make such stops. The clerk at the register enhanced this good feeling with her friendly talk. As I made my way to the car, a sense of satisfaction set in, satisfaction at overcoming past hesitation.
Sunday I finished off my weekend as a girl by first shopping Kroger for breakfast items at 9 AM. This was while costumed in a Transexual Menace shirt, blue jeans & white Reeboks, which entailed rising at 6:30 after turning in at about 3:45. The original plan was to do my laundry and shopping both; however, I chickened out of swinging by the laundromat. Once back home I changed into a black & white jumper outfit to drive to Cincinnati. You see JC Penney had mailed notification of their semi-annual dress sale, and Sunday was 'opening day' so to speak. The tiny store here in Lexington has a pitful selection, ergo I headed north, permit in hand. The hunt is on! Actually I was glad to be getting out of town, for I could now dump the fretting and just enjoy the shopping. As I conciously relaxed in the car to let worries go, the warming sun and lack of sleep threatened some drowsiness.
At the Northgate Mall, I brought in my flyer and corralled a sales associate. Don't you love that term, associate? Pointing out a couple of cute outfits motivated her to show me the ones they had. Of course they did not have my size, but no worry. I easily located other candidates, tried on a few and selected two short ones to take home. I had come for short dresses actually. Perhaps I should point out I'm a bit overstocked on long skirts, plus I don't use them for clubbing anyhow :-)
In chatting with the clerk, I asked where I might receive a caffeine infusion to revivify. She directed me to a coffee shop a couple doors down the mall. Strolling over I soon caught the aroma, then stepped up to order. With latte in hand, and no seating in the store, I stepped outside. The two or three tables in the mall gangway were already occupied. I decided I would just mosey along until an available bench presented itself. After I parked on one, I sipped while doing a little people watching; most likely they watched me also. Trekked next to McAlpin's to see about chokers. Conferring with their clerk, it seems they have none that are not beaded. In the end I got my fun anyhow by looking over the formidable array of earrings, and wound up selecting an impressive pair of hoops. In returning to the car I noted a Frederick's in the mall too; I should have made a stop there, now that I think about it.
By then the time was not yet 4 PM, so I dropped in at the JCPenney outlet store. This happens to be only about a mile up the same road. Here I picked out two dresses and a top and wanted to try them on, but I got directed to the men's fitting area. Boo-hiss! The sassy dotted black dress, again a shortie, suited me well enough to purchase. Now I backtracked to Don Pablo's, arriving just at 5:00 for eats. They seated me at a table out in the open nearby the fountain. I had a little fun bouncing coins into the water when some kids came over to look at it. I must say the Chicken Tampico was wonderful. Perhaps this was nothing unusual, but I wonder why four different restaurant staff stopped over at the table while I was dining?
On the drive home I thought of seeing the Titanic go down, once back in Lexington, as a grand finale. Then I remember Amy telling me earlier that week the movie goes over three hours. Hmmm, I might be in danger of dozing off. Even back at my place I did not want to relinquish the girl fun, so I had a quick game of Marjorie Mannequin to try all my outfits and the big new hoops. I found that some taupe hose I never use nicely matched that purplish printed mock-wrap dress I bought. Further, an under-utilized purple beaded necklace is well suited. How about that -- a new dress, and I already own the accessories! What shoes to use is now the question...
Love from a sister,
Marjorie
Into The Lions' Den
As I left my room, I felt like I was walking to my death. I was thinking, they're waiting for us. They will parade us down the street like animals. They will rip away our humanity. The humiliation will be unbearable. "What am I doing here ?" A tiny voice answers, "trying to make things better for my children." Holding this thought like a sword, I walked the rest of the way with my head held high. I quickened my pace and marched through the doors with an air of defiance, just in time for the continental breakfast at the hotel.
This was the first of two days I would be lobbying in the nations' capital. Coming from a small town, having served in the military for fifteen years, I believed that I wasn't allowed to question the government. These are the people that tell us what we can or cannot do. How to do it, when to do it, and appear to answer to no one but themselves. What chance do I, as a middle aged, transgendered male, have against what appear to be Gods? All these fears were going around in my mind, as I had breakfast. The room was filled with transgendered people from all over the U.S. They were talking over plans of attack, subject matter, and generally having a good time. You would think we were going to a party, for all the laughing going on.
At 8:00 a.m. sharp, we started our six-mile walk to the subway. Actually, it was only six blocks. There we were, sixty transgendered men and woman walking in a column, scattered over six blocks. All I knew of subways is what I've seen in movies set in New York. I was expecting to find a bunch of gang members charging us to use the tunnel, graffiti all over the walls, and the inside looking like a battle zone. Instead, I found a clean and well-maintained facility. After a few instructions on how to get a ticket, we were on our way to the train. The trip to the Capital was smooth and quite. I was still expecting something to happen (gang riots, terrorist attack, King Kong, something). As we approached the capital I saw guards on the grounds, guards on the roofs, guards in cars, and guards on motorcycles. I KNEW IT! They WERE waiting for us. It turned out to be normal capital security.
We had our pictures taken on the capital steps (a tradition, you know). Everyone started to take pictures of everything and everybody. After the cameras cooled down, we broke into our separate delegations and headed off to do battle in the seat of power of this country. I was ready to use part of that military training I've been taught over the years. I was bringing up the rear, in case they tried to grab us. I would be in a position to turn and run in my high heels. Everything went OK. The only problem I had was that I couldn't get through a single metal detector without it going off. It may have been the stays in my corset setting them off. To my amazement the guards were friendly and courteous. All of the security people called us ladies. Inside, it was all polished marble and oak. It kind of felt like that long walk to the principals office. We all hit the restroom in a mass to fix ourselves up after the walk there. It was a very windy day and our hair was a mess. After fussing in the mirror longer than a contestant for Miss U.S.A., we headed off to our first appointment. We arrived and were met by Senator Lugar's legal assistant. She greeted us individually and lead us to a conference room to discuss the issues.
For those of you that don't know, we went to Washington to lobby for a domestic violence bill that would protect ALL people, not just the Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender (GLBT) community. We are hoping to get the words "gender expression or perceived gender" added to the bill. This addition would insure that anyone that doesn't strictly identify as a genetic male or female, either by choice or perceived by others, will be entitled to equal protection under the law. This would include straight men and women that people just think are gay. We weren't looking to get any special rights; just the same rights as everyone else has. We told her our individual stories of the pain and humiliation of everyday life as a second class citizen. I was the last one to speak. I was so scared that my hands were sweating and my heart was pounding so loud that I felt that everyone could hear it. I reminded myself why I was there and started to tell my story. I began by telling her that I was there for my children and the children of other parents. We wanted to feel that when they left home, they would have some place to turn if in trouble or needed help. In some areas, the police aren't required to intervene in domestic violence cases involving gay couples. A woman will receive immediate action if she reports a case of sexual harassment (whether she is gay or not). Almost nothing is done if she reports harassment because she is gay. Violence is violence, no matter who or what you are. The law should protect all equally.
When I finished, I was surprised at how easy it had been to tell a stranger (especially a senator's assistant) how I felt. Including what I thought should be done. The meeting ended and we left thanking her for her time. When we got into the hall, Angela told me that I was the hit of the meeting. I didn't feel that I did anything. I just said what I felt. To listen to Angela, I should be running for office. I will admit that after the meeting and Angela's comments, I felt differently. I had challenged the lions in their den and lived.
For two days we talked to senators and congresspersons or their assistants. WE put these people into office and they have to listen to us as part of their job. Some would listen politely and others would say (in a nice way but flat out) that they wouldn't support us. Sometimes you find a receptive individual, who will listen, ask questions, and honestly show surprise at the stories we had to tell. We didn't expect to convince everybody. If we could get one congressperson or senator to change his/her mind, then lobby days were successful. Even if we failed to change anyone's mind, the time we spent walking the halls of Washington, wasn't wasted. Our words and stories may sit in someone's mind like a seed in the ground. It may yet grow into understanding.
As for me personally, I got to see a part of Washington, D.C. that most people never see. I met people that I've only read about. The people that shape and guide this country. But the most important thing is that I got to exercise my right to disagree with the government and to voice my opinion directly to the elected officials. This right is seldom used by the people that need it the most. This inaction leaves other people (the religious right) free to determine how we are to live or even if we are allowed to live. By denying the right to equal protection, they are saying that we don't have a right to live. America was founded by individuals willing to fight for the right to be free. African-Americans were willing to stand-up for their right to be treated as equals. It's time for us to stand together and fight for the rights so long denied us. Obtaining equal rights has never been easy. The only way it will ever happen is if we all stand together. The GLBT community may be a disliked minority, but we are still THE PEOPLE!!! We have the power to affect change. All we need, is for EVERYONE to help make it happen. If you don't do it for yourself, do it for your friends or your family.
The old adage is as true today as it was in the past.
UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL
You can make a difference! This is a free country. The choice is up to you!
Toodles, Terri
My Final Mother's Day
Mother's Day will always remind me of that which I no longer have. I no longer have a biological mother who wants me, or loves me. And all because I have an inner need to be a girl, instead of a boy. This is too often the case with transgendered people.
However, in my case, I truly wonder why I find this to be so painful. Is it perhaps because I held out hope that one day, my mother would finally accept me as the woman I am? I don't know. While my family should really be no loss to me, I find that it is.
My father was and is an alcoholic who constantly abused me physically, verbally, mentally, and emotionally, without surcease, for the entire 23 years I lived under his roof, and under his thumb. My mother was too wrapped up in her own problems to be of any help, and was too concerned with "keeping the peace", whatever that means, to ever speak up against my father.
My brother is a child-molesting, incestous bastard, who, for five years, abused me sexually. It is amazing that, surviving all of this abuse in my childhood, I am functional at all. What is perhaps more amazing is that I am having a modicum of success in my life. What is astounding to me is that it would hurt at all to lose my family.
My family was, as you can tell, the classic dysfunctional family. And extricating yourself from a lifetime of abuse and horror is not unlike trying to extricate your favorite fishing lure from a surrounding mess of rusty, worn out fish-hooks. It cuts, it bleeds, and it hurts. Why must our families put us though this kind of torment? Is being a transgendered person truly so horrible that failies find themselves unable to accept, or, as in the case of my family, unwilling to accept?
I wonder how many transgendered people came from dysfunctional families, and what effect it may have had on our being transgendered. Surely, my parents are convinced they must have done something wrong, or failed in some way, to have raised a transgendered child. Or maybe my family begrudges my finding happiness? The accepting family seems rare, and more than once, I have questioned why this is so.
I have seen parents love children who were born crippled, retarded, Siamese, or maybe blind, or even deaf. I have seen mothers beg for a judge's mercy on her son, who has grown up to commit murder, and victimization of the innocent. So, what exactly am I saying here? Is transgenderism truly more horrible than becoming a murderer, or a rapist? I think not. Is transgenderism as immutable as being born, in some way, defective? I believe it is. Unfortunately, many parents can't or won't see this, or they refuse to see this, as is the case with my parents. A mother said to me once, "I'd rather have a live daughter than a dead son." Why are most of our families not able to see this? The reason is the fear of the unknown. Fear of embarrassment. Truly, parents, is what your friends and neighbors think more important to you than having the child you brought into the world?
It is too late, now, for my family. They never will accept, and I have come to realize that now. So, on behalf of my brothers and sisters who still have a chance to have accepting families, I beg to the families...open your hearts, open your minds, and love your child! Don't ever put them through the agony I went through, when, on Mother's Day, I had to tell my mother, "It was nice knowing you."
And it seems sad, to me, that a woman I have known only for six months is more a mother to me than my own natural mother. I met the woman who should have been my mother on the Internet, and later, in person, on my most recent trip to Pennsylvania. Sheri Morphis is a truly wonderful woman, who, like me, is a survivor of unspeakable horrors. She is not, in any way, transgendered, but accepts, and loves me, as if I was her daughter. Yet, losing my natural mother still hurts. Please, mothers, and fathers.....remember that on Mother's Day, or Father's Day, it is supposed to be a celebration of life....it is a special person who can be a parent....anyone can be a sperm donor, or an egg donor. While it is your special day, remember what it is that makes a mother, or a father....and cherish it!
A GAME FOR YOUMatch the Belle (or friend) with their most commonly-used phrase:
Dawn Wilson That's not fair...............
Angela Bridgman It's gonna get ugly.........
Anne Casebeer You don't know how terrible......
Marjorie Demaille She has issues............
RuthAnn Asmus It's not too bad.......
Amy McCorkle Well, I was thinking..........
Terri Hambaugh Put it this way...............
Jill Ambrose What you don't know......
The first to figger oot 'de answers (or, rather, first to page me with the answers at 502-672-8613,
or email me at agc@MCI2000.com) wins 2 free movie rentals from Video Vault. Yes, free porno
movie rentals are at stake here....Anne
Ma Vie En Rose (My Life in Pink)
is coming to home video June 22nd. Many of you were with us in March when we watched this fine movie at the Kentucky Theatre in Lexington before our meeting. For those of you who aren't familiar with it, "Rose" is the story of Ludovic, a 7-year old male child who is a rather obvious TS. . Ludovic's family wavers it its support of their child, as the community around them ostracizes them over Ludovic's unusual behavior. I will warn you that the movie was made in French, and will be available only with subtitles, which is the only way a true movie buff would ever watch a foreign film. It won the Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Film, but was passed over by the Oscars. Look for it at your local independent video store - I don't think that Hollywood Video or Blockbuster Video are likely to stock it. It is very much worth watching, and I also can recommend it as a video you could use to introduce and explain transsexuality to family and friends. So far, I have not yet heard any video release dates for Bent or Different for Girls, but, as soon as I know, I'll let you know. It's my job.....Anne
A late note: "Different for Girls" will also be released on video this month, same day as "Rose".Look for it at your local alternative video store.
Southern Comfort Conference Moves
Jennileigh Love has informed me that the Southern Comfort Conference, which many of us intend to attend, has changed hotels. It is now being held at the Terrace Garden Inn, Lenox Rd, Atlanta. The number for reservations is 404-261-9250.
The Sheraton Five Points, directly next door, is also available to convention goers; it's reportedly the better bargain of the two. The convention is being held Sept. 30 - Oct. 4, and is priced at $195 for the full conference with banquets, making it a great bargain as gender conferences go. I have seen the tentative seminar schedule, and folks, the lineup of presenters (including Dawn) is first-rate, and includes some real up-and-coming names, as well as special tracks for F2M and TS people. Frankly, you'll have trouble choosing which seminar to attend, unless the Atlanta nightlife causes you to sleep until noon. Make your plans.
Rent Is Coming To Louisville
If you haven't seen this phenomenal, validating Broadway show, you've anotherchance. It's coming to Louisville this summer (July 14-26) and tickets are on sale NOW at the KY Center for the Arts ticket office. It's got something for everyone: grrl love, a campy drag queen who breaks your heart, cute twenty-something boyz, community, hope, sadness that remembers joy, and a Pulitzer Prize for Jonathan Larson to boot. Something for everyone
with the exception of our buddies over on the Religious Right.
Tickets are around $45., thirty bucks cheaper than the NY price.
From Lambdanet
Kentucky Primary Election Results Mostly Unfavorable to The GLBT Community
By Anne Casebeer
With only a couple notable exceptions, the results of the May primary elections in Kentucky were awful. So what else is new?
In Lexington, the Congressional seat now held by (D) Scotty Baesler, who is running for the Senate, will be contested by (D) Ernesto Scorsone and (R) William Fletcher. Fletcher is known to be a disciple of Dr. Frank Simon; Scorsone has been friendly to us in the past.
In the race for Wendell Ford's soon-to-be vacated Senate seat, (D) Scotty Baesler will face (R) Jim Bunning. Baesler is a marginally better choice; he isn't likely to proactively support or initiate legislation on our behalf, but at least will listen to us. Bunning is a particularly perniciously narrow-minded Religious Reich favorite.
The 3rd District Congressional race is between incumbent (R) Anne Northup and (D) Chris Gorman. Neither will ever support any issues of interest to our community.
In the Louisville Mayoral race, County Judge Dave Armstrong is facing Bill Wilson. Wilson is a friend of Frank Simon's. Dave Armstrong received Simon's endorsement against Dr. Tom Owen, who lost by a whisker. Sit this one out, folks...
The only ray of hope is in the Louisville Board of Aldermen, where we seem to have an even split of pro-and-anti Fairness candidates likely to be elected in November. Unfortunately, Steve Magre will likely remain in office. Still, Armstrong has stated that he would veto a Fairness Amendment, then rescinded that statement the week before the election. I wouldn not expect him to sign a Fairness Amendment into law willingly, despite his statements of being pro-development.
TRANSGENDER SURGICAL & MEDICAL CENTER (TSMC) SPECIALIZING IN COMPLETE TRANS CARE OPENS IN PITTSBURGH
Friday, May 1, 1998 (PITTSBURGH, PA, USA) A new era in transgender care has begun in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A city that is known for so many medical "Firsts." For the first time in Trans History, a trans physician and surgeon, Dr. Sheila Kirk, has developed and is directing a facility specializing in complete transgender surgical and medical care. In addition, Dr. Kirk is performing MTF GRS, FTM top surgeries, hysterectomies and related surgical procedures for MTFs and FTMs. The facility is named the Transgender Surgical & Medical Center or TSMC and the offices are located at 2100 Jane Street, Medical Professional Building, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Trans Care by Transprofessionals
"This step is a first step for our community, " states Dr. Kirk, "a small step...when compared to the other steps that should and will follow in this relatively new discipline I like to refer to as Trans Care. However, it is an important step and signifies a positive shift that paves the way to fully utilize the immense medical and surgical talent that exists within our own community to help us treat our Sisters and Brothers. Transprofessionals caring for Trans people through all facets of their gender journey should be the norm not the exception. As TSMC grows, it is our goal to recruit Transprofessionals whose professional caliber and dedication matches TSMC's philosophy of providing the highest standards of excellence."
TSMC Team
Sheila Kirk, MD, F.A.O.G.-Board certified OB/GYN, Transgender Medicine Specialist/Surgeon, author of our community's best-selling medical books and the first Transgender physician elected to the HBIGDA board. In addition to performing MTF GRS, Dr. Kirk specializes in FTM top surgeries, hysterectomies and related surgical procedures for MTFs and FTMs.
J. William Futrell, MD, F.A.C.S.-Chief and Professor of the University Pittsburgh Medical Center, Plastic Reconstructive Surgery Department. One of the nation's most respected plastic surgeons, Dr. Futrell has vast experience in MTF/FTM GRS, feminization and masculinzation of the face and related MTF/FTM surgeries.
Ernest K. Manders, MD, F.A.C.S.- Board certified in micro and plastic reconstructive surgery, Dr. Manders is Professor of Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical School. Specializes in Rib Removal & Male Pattern Baldness Surgery. In addition to MTF/FTM GRS, Dr. Manders specialties include his pioneered
method for minimally invasive rib removal for MTFs and his pioneered techniques for correcting male pattern baldness.
TSMC Provides the Highest Standards of Care & Excellence
"It gives me great pleasure to be an associate of these highly-skilled and compassionate surgeons," Dr. Kirk said, "Our combined experience in transgender surgical and medical care and our mutual dedication will provide to our community the highest standards of care, concern and management throughout all stages of their medical and surgical needs."
Surgical Procedures Offered at TSMC
Surgical procedures for the MTF individuals include Gender Reassignment Surgery, breast augmentation, face feminization, minimally invasive rib removal and a wide range of associated feminizing procedures. For FTM individuals: phalloplasty, top surgery, hysterectomy, clitoral freeing, facial masculinzation are among the services available including an innovative surgical procedure for male pattern baldness.
For more complete information on the services offered and general information, please contact
Sheila Kirk, M.D. by phone (412) 781-1092, fax (412) 781-1096, e-mail TSMC@aol.com or snail
mail: c/o TSMC, P.O. Box 38366, Blawnox, PA 15238. TSMC is a registered name.