Transgender Blog Improved
As promised,I've improved my Transgender Blog. I will continue to leave this one running, due to past posts and inportant information relative to the Transgender Community. The new location (still on this site) is HERE!
I think you will enjoy the new look and feel, as well as the continually updated GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi, Transgendered) info and commentary.
Bookmark the new spot and I'll see you there!
Posted: Thursday 13th March 2008, 1:29 PM
Huffman's Loss for Transamerica
The "Oscar Shocker" to me, was Felicity Huffman's
(Transamerica) loss of "Best Actress" for her role. Although I havent seen the movie, yet, I've watched clips, seen Felicity's fascinating interviews, and it was quite evident how much time and effort she put in to actually LEARN about her Transgendered role, and excellently portray her character of a male to female TS. Although she is a GG (genetic gal), she is - most definitely - a credit to the
Transgendered Community. THAT was acting! Not just anyone can take on a role such as that and pull it off. On the other hand, there was Reese Witherspoon, who took home that award. Give me a break, Hollywood! It doesn't take much talent
(or acting ability) to play the wife of some hillbilly singer. Besides, she neither looked or sounded like "The Man in Black's" wife. Boo! Hiss! On that one!
Brokeback Mountain, sadly, lost "Best Picture." Even with all the hype and its expected win, it fell short. But really, did YOU actually expect it to win? I was hoping it would, but I have no
doubt the motion picture industry was ready to actually cross THAT line.
A win for the both (above) would have been a great milestone for society's acceptance. Well, back to the dark ages for a bit longer.
Posted: Monday 6th March 2006, 8:18 AM
The Plight of Transmen
I'll always take the time to voice my support for Transmen! This side of the Transgender issue is extremely important to keep up with, as F2M's continue to break new ground!
I've come across a super book written by Dean Kotula, who has "walked the walk!" Dean's book deals with F2M's from a historical, medical, psychological, and cultural point of view, and
features some excellent photography, as well!
Read my review HERE...
Posted: Thursday 26th January 2006, 1:01 PM
SRS Suregon Dr. Stanely Biber Passes Away
I, sadly, have to report the passing of Dr. Stanely Biber on January 16, 2006. I'd always wanted Doc Biber to preform MY SRS.
Biber had performed a reported 5,800 SRS operations and was a pioneer in the field, from his clinic in Trinidad, Colorado. He got started with a compassion for TS's, and a hand-drawn map of "what to do."
Biber is said to have delevoped comlications from pneumonia. He was 82.
At 81, Biber retired from practice, he didn't want to quit...BUT...He had to. Because of his age, medical malpractice insurance skyrocketed to over $250,000 a year. The premiums were just too much to bear, so he had to, sadly, give up his TS practice.
Taking Biber's place in Trinidad, was Dr. Marci Bowers, a post-op M2F. She had her surgery in 1998. Dr. Bowers has a natural empathy for her patients.
Dr. Staney Biber will be missed by the Transgender Community. He was, indeed, one of "The Best!"
Posted: Thursday 26th January 2006, 9:59 AM
Huffman Wins for Transamerica
Its a "Happy New Year" to begin this year's Blog entries (which I promise to keep updated on a more regular basis), on a very positive news note.
I wrote in a previous entry about the film: "Transamerica." Last Sunday night, I watched a 60 Minutes interview with starring actress Felicity Huffman. I'll admit, it was a touching and excellent interview.
Last night, at the Golden Globes, she received best drama actress for her role in that movie. In her acceptance speech, Huffman said, quoting, here: "I would like to salute the men and women who brave ostracism, alienation and a life lived on the margins to become who they really are." OK, this movie is on my list as a must-see!
Another big winner: "Brokeback Mountain." It won four awards, including best drama. From everything I've read and heard, its not JUST a movie about Gay Cowboys. Sorry guys, I couldn't
resist that one. - If you wanna see Gay Cowboys, feel free to visit any of the bars I used to frequent in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, LOL! Its reportedly a very deep and moving story that's attracting audiences..Even in conservative portions of America.
Both films have draw quite a bit of opposition (no surprise) from so-called "moral" activists and related religious groups, who had BETTER "get a clue" for the 21st century.
Posted: Tuesday 17th January 2006, 6:46 AM
Brini Maxwell's Guide to Gracious Living
My favorite "Domestic Divia," Brini Maxwell, has begun her SECOND season on the Style Network! To kind of kick it off, Brini has written a book with favorite tips, tricks, and ideas for decorating, cooking, dressing, entertaining, and housekeeping. It includes household hints and recipes, full-color illustrations, and (the BIG ta-da!) photographs of Brini in action!
If you haven't guessed already, Brini is Transgendered. She has a cult following and has come a LONG way from taping her cable tv show for a local New York channel in her apartment.
Read More Here!
Posted: Wednesday 9th November 2005, 1:19 AM
Britain's Funniest Woman (Used to be a Man)
A contest to find Britain’s funniest woman has been won by a comic who used to be a man.
Post Op TS Debra-Jane Appelby took the win at the Funny Women Competition at London’s Comedy Store, beating out 150 hopefuls.
Appelby, a 38-year-old IT contractor from Keighley, West Yorkshire, reportedly doesn't mention her gender reassignment in her act, and the judges, as well as the audience, were
not aware of her past.
Appelby HAD informed the organizers and sponsors of the contest - in advance - that she'd changed gender to become a woman (over 10 years ago).
Fortunately, it was never considered as grounds to view her participation in the competition to be different from any other woman.
Appelby has been performing for about two years, and this is her second competition win.
Posted: Monday 18th July 2005, 1:19 PM
Another Warning Re: Silicone Pumping Parties
I've been preaching about the dangers of "silicone pumping" for YEARS, so here's - YET ANOTHER - horrid incident!
From San Diego comes recent word that a Transgendered woman, who became ill at an illegal silicone pumping party in University Heights has died. Police reportedly are seeking a suspect.
Patricio Gonzales, 45, was reportedly pronounced dead at a hospital. Gonzales is said to have developed breathing difficulties, hours after the silicone injections.
Gonzales was repordly among five other Transgendered clients who paid to get the injections to enhance their feminine appearance,
according to a San Diego Police Lt. Others became ill, as well. Their conditions are unknown.
Homicide detectives are looking for an unlicensed medical practitioner who allegedly administered the illegal shots.
The silicone used during these illegal incidents is usually industrial grade and not safe for humans.
As medical grade silicone is implanted under the skin in sealed sacs to keep it from leaking, "pumping" involves
injecting the dangerous substance STRAIGHT into the body.
The industrial version is not sterile and can cause infections, particularly in the lungs.
Ladies, I just wanted to take this opportunity to warn you AGAIN!
Posted: Thursday 14th July 2005, 1:42 PM
TransGeneration to Premier in September
An exclusive online premiere of the first episode of "TransGeneration," an eight-part Sundance Channel original series will kick off the "soon to be launched" PlanetOut Video
Broadband Service in September 2005.
"TransGeneration" is expected to premiere on Sundance Channel Tuesday, September 20th at 9:00 PM Eastern Time. The date of the Planetout.com and Gay.com premiere is to be announced.
"TransGeneration" is a series that follows students at four different colleges over the course of the 2004-05 school year, capturing their triumphs and setbacks, as they balance the
challenges of academia, campus life, and family, along with their commitment to gender reassignment.
Posted: Thursday 14th July 2005, 1:15 PM
San Francisco Pride Parade and Celebration 2005
Well, I've returned from a much-needed vaction! I won't bore you with details, but suffice to say, it was well worth it! :-)
As we get back into the swing of things, I'll point out that I have many friends and readers in the SF area, so I wanted to pass this news release along. Its not only of interest to those living in that area, but - definitely - important to our community, as a whole!
"Transgender Pride Standing Up, Standing Out, Standing Proud"
With great fanfare and excitement, the SF LGBT Pride Celebration Committee announces expanded Transgender Pride participation in the 2005 Pride Celebration. Transgender Pride is a weeklong series of events celebrating the Transgender community and supporters. Cecilia Chung, Transgender Pride Organizer, said,
"The Transgender Equality movement has never been stronger. This year we have added a trans stage and pavilion to showcase the diversity in the community. Performers will be representing
the FTM, MTF, and gender queer communities."
The schedule of events, includes:
Monday, June 20, 2005 - The Transgender Community Awards will be held from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at the LGBT Community Center (1800 Market Street) in the Ceremonial Room. The awards
are bestowed to individuals and groups within the Transgender community, and to community supporters/affiliates.
Friday, June 24, 2005 - The Transgender Pride March returns for a second year. Marchers will gather in Dolores Park at 4:00pm and at 7:00pm march to the Civic Center in a show of unity and support to the community.
Sunday, June 26, 2005 - The Transgender Stage marks the first such stage held at the San Francisco Pride Celebration. Showcasing a variety of performers from within the Transgender
community, the stage also acts as a focal point and gathering space for members of the Transgender community.
Sunday, June 26, 2005 - The first ever Transgender Pavilion makes a debut at the SF Pride Celebration. Located near the Transgender Stage, the pavilion highlights exhibitors from
Transgender owned or Transgender friendly businesses.
Joey Cain, SF Pride Board President, said, "San Francisco Pride is excited to once again be involved for a second year in a row in supporting Transgender visibility in our community and at our event."
Presently, Transgender Pride is soliciting exhibitors from the LGBT and mainstream communities for the Transgender Pavilion.
For more information about Transgender Pride please see their website.
This year marks the 35th anniversary of the San Francisco Pride Parade and Celebration. The event theme is, "Stand Up, Stand Out, Stand Proud," and will be held the June 25/26
weekend.
You may also contact Jonathan Fishleder at: (415) 864-0831.
Posted: Friday 27th May 2005, 10:58 PM
Transamerica Screened at Tribeca Film Festival
The movie, "Transamerica," has just been screened at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York. Actress Felicity Huffman (from televisions's "Desperate Housewives") reportedly received an excellent review from the New York Times for her portrayal of Bree, a male to female TS. Bree seeks SRS in "Transamerica."
Apparently, in preparation for the role, Huffman says she started reading about Transgendered women, actually meeting with them, and taking lessons from coaches who train Transgendered individuals in becoming more feminine.
Obviously, I haven't seen the movie, so I "cautiously" applaud the efforts of those involved in their attempt to accurately
depict Bree's plight.
I'm sure Huffman probably handled her role quite well, but I'd have hoped they'd have taken the opportunity to use a REAL Transgendered actress.
Posted: Saturday 30th April 2005, 11:16 AM
Behind the Queens in Knoxville
An article in Knoxville's Metro Pulse Magazine called, "Life's a Drag, Too," revisits the East Tennessee City's drag scene. Its an excellent look into the word of Knoxville Drag.
One of the peformers interviewed was Angel Collins, a veteran performer of around 20 years, who currently does a cabaret show at The Rainbow Club West. I remember watching Angel's stunning performances at The Carousell II, back in the mid 80's.
Angel makes quite a statement on silicone injections. You really should read the article.
Posted: Sunday 17th April 2005, 9:26 AM
Trangender Issues on "Without a Trace"
I'd like to commend the writers, producers, and performers at "Without a Trace," a CBS televsion program. I'd never watched it before, but the promos for Thursday night's show were rather inriquing, so I tuned in.
The Transgender subject matter was handled with extreme professionalism, in my opinion. It was informative, very realistic, and compassionate. The plot involved the disappearance of a male to female TS, who had undergone Gender Reassignment Surgery. There was also a female to male character, apprearing briefly in the story.
I'll have to admit, they did their homework on this one. I'm sorry I wasn't able to give you a "heads up," but I didn't know about it, myself, I just kind of stumbled upon it by sheer accident.
Posted: Saturday 2nd April 2005, 7:22 AM
Reflections on Workplace Bias
There are obviously STILL injustices in the workplace. Fortunately, these days, more laws are being enacted and company policies are being changed to "accomodate" the GLBT Community.
Looking back, times have, indeed, changed, Several years ago, before I transitioned, I had an extremely "straight" job, and went to great lengths to "protect" myself. Oddly enough, I lost that job, NOT because of poor performance,
but because I was seen cross dressed at a Gay bar by another company employee, figure that one out. When I was fired, THAT was the reason I was given. It didn't do much to help my career, back
then, as word soon spread throughout the industry.
I guess the point I'm trying to make is I didn't cause any trouble (I DID cry when I got home), I just picked myself up and life went on. I'm not always sure I made the right decision, but times WERE different ---> THEN. Had it happened in today's society, I certainly would have handled the situation much differently.
I guess I'm just being in a reflective mood. I usually don't get too "personal" in this Blog, so I thought I'd share that story.
Posted: Friday 25th March 2005, 8:34 AM
USGA to Allow Transgendered Golfers
Although Transgendered is a "catch-all" term, in my opinion, I think they mean TS...
Officials with the U.S. Golf Association reportedly have cleared the way for Transgendered athletes to compete in USGA championships, including the U.S. Women's Open.
The ruling is said to be effective immediately, and be the "standard" used to determine a contestant's eligibility in the organization's 2005 championship events.
The new policy says Transgendered athletes WILL be eligible to compete two years after having gender reassignment surgery, subject to proof of gender guidelines.
A medical committee will be appointed to advise the association in developing guidelines and put the new the new standards into effect.
Posted: Friday 25th March 2005, 8:28 AM
Wigs for the Transgendered
Lets talk about wigs for a moment. I realize many M2F's in the Transgendered Community have to rely on some decent hair, if you've been the unlucky receipient of the dreaded "male pattern baldness."
Granted, you've got to have personal confidence - in the first place - to either transition, or just live the lifestyle you've chosen, but one of the easiest ways to get clocked, honestly, is a bad wig.
One of the coolest places I've found to buy exquisite wigs (of ALL kinds) is International Wig.
Besides just being one snazzy site, they've got a super selection. You can even earn free wigs, plus there's a newsletter with money-saving coupons...Just to name a few highlights.
I'm bringing this up because I get a ton of requests for wig info. I hope this helps!
Posted: Monday 21st March 2005, 6:58 AM
Gay Marriage - An Issue for Tennessee Voters in 2006
Tennessee's 2006 election for governor will now have a MAJOR issue on the ballot...A constitutional ban on Gay
marriage.
The state House, in its infinite wisdom (note MY sarcasm) passed the resolution (88-7) on Thursday. An earlier two-thirds passage in the Senate, tossed the measure to the House.
When it comes before voters, however, the measure will need MORE than a simple majority for passage. An amendment to Tennessee's Constitution requires passage by a majority of
ballots cast in the governor's race, itself.
I was disappointed in noting the NAMES of the House members that favored such legislation. Unfortunately, I know many of them personally.
I applaud those that turned thumbs down on the measure.
I don't know Beverly Marrero (D) Memphis, but reportedly she says she voted against it because it would write discrimination into the state constitution. THUMBS UP Representative Marrero! (And to the 6 others who put our freedom and rights FIRST!)
Posted: Thursday 17th March 2005, 9:01 PM
Korean Underwear Model is Transgendered
Korea's Ho Li-hsiu, who began life as a man, but now makes a decent living as a female model and TV show cameo favorite in Taiwan, will reportedly be the spokesperson for Swear Underwear. Choosing an SRS recipient as an underwear model is apparently a great step forward in what's said to be a conservative market like Taiwan.
Actually, this brings to mind a few other TG models who've made the grade in so-called mainstream marketing. I realize there are others, but (looking back) Tula (Caroline Cossey) was a huge success in both modeling, movies (she was a "James Bond Girl"), and print media ads. If I recall, the "Blonde Bombshell,"
Mimi Marks has been a mainstream covergirl, as well.
I'd imagine the world would be rather surprised at the number of Transgendered models we see daily, probably without the slightest idea. Its kind of cool, actually!
Posted: Wednesday 9th March 2005, 8:23 AM
Transgendered Golfer Makes History
Admittedly, I dont follow golf, but as far as the Transgender Community goes, this is very important step forward, overall, as pro-golfer Mianne Bagger became the first TS to compete in the Ladies European Tour. Last week, she played in the ANZ Ladies Masters Tournament in Australia,
Bagger underwent reassignment surgery in 1995.
Apparently, fellow players have accepted her, and she's quoted as saying they've been "wonderful."
She became eligible for the tour after officials changed the "female at birth" policy for competitors. The Australian and British Ladies Golf Associations followed suit. The LPGA
Tour (U.S.) is reportedly considering a policy change, as well.
Posted: Monday 28th February 2005, 6:58 AM
Tennessee Lawmakers Tackle Transgender and Gay Issues
Tennessee State Senator Steve Cohen of Memphis has reportedly introduced a bill to allow a person who has undergone an SRS operation to change his or her birth certificate.
Senate Bill 37 indicates Tennessee is one of only three states that refuses to allow Transgendered persons the opportunity to correct their birth certificate.
Tennessee, Ohio, and Idaho are apparently the only states that don't permit a birth certificate change after reassignment surgery.
As far as the wording goes (as I have it), the measure proposes to amend Tennessee Code to state: "Upon receipt of a sworn statement by a licensed physician indicating that the gender
of an individual born in Tennessee has been changed by surgical procedure, the certificate of birth of the individual shall be amended to reflect the change."
According to Cohen, its important for Homeland Security issues, with people who need to provide birth certificates.
Obviously, the measure has taken flak from various religious groups and organizations. But I give Cohen a BIG "thumbs up!"
Unfortunately, I don't know the current status of this bill, as the last thing I heard it was in a committee.
Of course, with the good news, also comes the bad, as some lawmkers in The Volunteer State are taking efforts to create a constitutional amendment banning Gay marriage.
The Senate Judiciary Committee in Nashville reportedly approved the measure, moving it to the full Tennessee Senate. Republicans are said to be trying to prevent courts from allowing Gay marriages in other states from being recognized in Tennessee.
Posted: Tuesday 22nd February 2005, 9:37 AM
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Archives
Transgender Blog Improved
Huffman's Loss for Transamerica
The Plight of Transmen
SRS Suregon Dr. Stanely Biber Passes Away
Huffman Wins for Transamerica
Brini Maxwell's Guide to Gracious Living
Britain's Funniest Woman (Used to be a Man)
Another Warning Re: Silicone Pumping Parties
TransGeneration to Premier in September
San Francisco Pride Parade and Celebration 2005
Transamerica Screened at Tribeca Film Festival
Behind the Queens in Knoxville
Transgender Issues on "Without a Trace"
Reflections on Workplace Bias
USGA to Allow Transgendered Golfers
Wigs for the Transgendered
Gay Marriage - An Issue for Tennessee Voters in 2006
Korean Underwear Model is Transgendered
Transgendered Golfer Makes History
Tennessee Lawmakers Tackle Transgender and Gay Issues
Silicone Pumping Parties
From the Inside Out: Radical Gender Transformation, FTM and Beyond
Transgendered Actresses
Another Transgender Reality Television Show?
My 2004 News Year's Message
Help Tsunami Victims - NOW!
Merry Christmas 2004!
Gender Swap
Surgery in Thailand
Canadaian Gay/Lesbian Weddings
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