october 2012 issue

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Pretty T Girls
October 2012
The Magazine for the most beautiful girls in the world
A publication of Pretty T Girls Yahoo group
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In This Issue
PAGE
Editorial by Barbara Jean
10 Beauty Mistakes You Are Probably Making
How To Make Your Nails Look Pretty
Crossdressing Partners Speak Now What?
10 Ways to Look Younger Now
The Exploits of Barbara Marie
Tasi’s Musings
Humor
So You Want to Be a Cover Girl
Angels in the Centerfold
Kathy’s Korner
Mellissa’s Tips & Tricks
The Adventures of Judy Sometimes
Earrings on an Elephants
Best Dresses For Your Body
Is Wearing White After Labor Day a Faux P:as?
My Desperate Plea for Normal Heels
Gene Behind Transsexualism Possibly Found
Lucille Sorella
Dear Miss Diane
The Gossip Fence
Shop Till You Drop
Calendar
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I Gotta Pee
An Editorial by: Barbara Jean
For the gay and lesbian community same sex marriage is the big issue. While it is an
issue that is of importantance to us, the restroom is an issue that is of equal or even
more importanance to us. On two of my boards the issue has seen rather heavy
discussion.
While at least 14 states have public accommodation laws that include gender identity
and expression and quite a few cities have also enacted similar laws, sadly problems
are still encountered for us even in the states where have the laws in place.
Why is it such a problem for us to use the ladies room? I don’t recall any cases where
a transman was hassled for using the men’s room. The answer of course is vulnerability. In almost all societies woman are more venerable than men.
Criminal intent… how many times have we seen where someone would dress as a
member of the opposite sex while committing a crime. It’s happened both way, men
dressed as women, and women dressed as men. While no one to my knowledge has
found any instance of a man dressing as a woman to commit a crime in a ladies room,
where else would the woman be more venerable? To make the matter worst, thanks
to the internet false stories have been posted and forwarded with the purpose of scarring, women. Consider this one.
“The Latest Scam”
A man slips into a woman’s restroom and sneaks into a stall. He waits till there is only
one woman in the restroom in a neighboring stall.
The criminal than stands on the toilet and points a gun into the next stall, demanding
the woman’s cash and valuables. After getting them he demands the woman to take
all her clothes off and kick them out of the stall. The thief than tosses everything into a
shopping bag and as he leaves quickly hangs an “out of order” sign on the door to
ensure no one will quickly come to the woman’s rescue. It usually takes an hour or two
for the woman to work up the nerve to leave the restroom nude, giving the criminal
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ample time to make his getaway. The woman is left naked and humiliated.”
Of course a check on snoops says that this never happened, but what if your wife or
some other female had this message forwarded to her. Talk of something to scare the
bedazzles out of her!
If we are confronted about using the ladies room how should it be handled. While law
enforcement officers may be aware of any non discrimination law, rent a cops may not
be. Also most people outside our community are not aware of these laws. Some girls
recommend keeping a copy of the law with you. But I think that would only be a start.
And what about states and cities that don’t have such laws?
If confronted, I would explain that I am transgendered, that I mean no harm to anyone
but use the room simply to pee, clean up and freshen makeup. If the woman made the
complaint is there apologize to her for scaring or alarming her. Also explain how using
a men’s room can be dangerous for us due to the fact that prejudicial men have been
known to attack us in the men’s room. Having some pamphlets or booklets in your
purse concerning transgenderism I think can also be a help.
Of course the better thing to do is to try and avoid the confrontation from taking place
in the first place. If you can find some place that has a single stall bathroom. Gas
stations are usually good for this along with many “greasy spoon” type of restaurants.
Use these before you really NEED to use the restroom. Also many are starting to put
in a third family restroom which of course is unisex.
As I write this I am seeing more and more about multi-stall unisex restrooms. I have to
wonder about safety issues for both us and for Ciswomen in these. What if some
hateful man is in it when we walk in? Will Women be safe in one?. Only time will tell
the answer here.
But when no such restroom is available and you MUST use the ladies room, the advice
is somewhat consensual, get in and get out. Do not congregate, just go to an empty
stall use it as any lady would use it, maybe wash your hands and then leave.
Sadly, I think this is an issue that is going to be with us for many more years before
any real resolution.
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10 Beauty Mistakes You're Probably Making
Industry insiders share the most surprising beauty blunders - and how to fix them.
By Holly Corbett, REDBOOK.
Wearing shimmer on your eyes
"Shimmery eye shadows can enhance wrinkles, so it's best to stick
to matte products as you get older," says Abdo. Use a base color
that goes over your entire lid, such as in a shade like sandstone.
"It'll brighten your eyes and even out redness for a flawless look."
Also opt for a colored shadow to apply to the crease of your lids to
give the illusion that your lids are receding for a more wide-awake
look.
Forgoing a topcoat
It's frustrating to take the time to paint your nails, only to have
it chip a day later. "You need to do some maintenance by
investing in a really strong top coat, and apply it daily to seal in
color and add shine," says Abdo. One to try: Seche Vite dry fast
top coat ($10; at drugstores). Also try wearing rubber gloves
when doing housework to keep polish from chipping or
chemicals in detergents from breaking down color.
Over-washing your face
"I find that most women wash their faces at least twice a day, but doing so
actually strips your skin of moisture," says Abdo. "You need only wash your
face at night and remove eye makeup by gently swiping a circular cotton pad
downward over your eye area." Since you're not wearing makeup while you
sleep (we hope!) you can skip sudsing up in the morning.
Plucking your own eyebrows
"Your brows shape your face and set the canvas for your makeup," says
Tivichi. She sees many women who pluck their brows too thin for their
features, and so recommends that every woman see an eyebrow specialist
who can create the most flattering shape for her face. "And don't touch your
eyebrows in between appointments - you must let them grow in," she says.
If you're letting your brows grow out, try using a brow pencil to create a
higher arch or filling in bald areas for the illusion of thicker brows.
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Forgetting to clean your makeup brushes
Grime and oil can build up on your makeup brushes and result in clogged
pores. "It's important to clean your brushes once a week," says Abdo. Use
a few drops of shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and then lay flat on a paper
towel to dry.
Stressing about adult acne
Zits aren't only for teenagers. In fact, acne may
affect more than half of adult women at some point in their lives,
according to a study in the Journal of the American Academy of
Dermatology. "Stress triggers your adrenal glands to release extra
cortisol, which in turn stimulates sweat and oil production to
aggravate breakouts," says Jeffrey R. LaDuca, Ph.D., M.D, president
of Reflections Dermatology & Psoriasis Center in Auburn and
Skaneateles, NY. You can lower the levels of stress hormones in
your body by getting at least seven hours of sleep and cutting back on
simple carbohydrates and sugar that boost inflammation.
Slathering chemicals on your skin
Putting harmful chemicals on your body can be just as dangerous as putting them into your mouth. "We absorb chemicals through our skin, so your makeup and skincare products should be clean," says Tivichi. "Today we have a
choice about buying products that are full of chemicals or
that are organic and made with natural
ingredients." Apart from checking labels to ensure your
products are phthalate and paraben-free, you can find out if
your favorite products contain harmful ingredients by
checking out the Environmental Working Group's database
Applying lotion after an airbrush tan
Lotion and airbrush tanning don't mix. "Many women arrive for an airbrush tan wearing lotion, which only creates a barrier and hinders the
color from fully absorbing into your skin," says Erica Abdo, a professional makeup artist who works at Fashion Week in New York City, as
well as for celebrities such as Samantha Harris. "You should also skip
moisturizer afterward because it interferes with the DHAs, or tanning
agents, that take six to eight hours to develop."
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Using these products before waxing
"Skip glycolics or retinoids - ingredients found in many acne
treatments and anti-aging products - at least three days
beforehand if you're getting a facial area waxed. These ingredients cause cells to turnover faster, making skin more sensitive
and wax more apt to pull off a layer," says Lidia Tivichi, a
clinical esthetician and founder of Maris Dusan Spa in New
York City.
Not shaving before laser hair
removal
Laser hair removal is now a normal part of many women's
beauty regimens. However, one of the biggest mistakes
laser technicians see clients making is arriving for
treatments with some stubble. "Unlike with waxing, it's
best to shave before a laser treatment to reduce pain and
increase effectiveness, says Erin Lindemann, a certified
national LaserFast Hair Removal trainer at Syracuse Laser
Spa in Syracuse, New York. However, nix waxing and depilatories before and in between laser sessions. "Lasers work by detecting a contrast in pigment
between darker follicles and lighter skin, but these methods destroy hairs' roots," says
Lindermann.
How to Make Your Nails Look Pretty
By Quickeasyfit.com
Pretty NailsYour nails are a part of you; therefore, it's important
that you take care of them. Well designed and well maintained
nails further enhance your beauty. Here are some tips helping
you do just that.
Biting your nails isn't just bad manners; it is also unhealthy for
your nails. Most people bite their nails when under stress.
However, such a habit ruins the shape of your nails. It is
essential, therefore, that you find a better way of dealing with your stress. If necessary, paint
your nails with deep colors or apply neem oil to prevent yourself from chewing on them.
Furthermore, it is advised that you wear gloves whenever indulged in any sorts of cleaning or
washing activities. Activities of this kind can detrimentally affect your nails, making them
rough and weak; therefore, it is a good idea to protect your nails against such exposure.
Your cuticles strengthen and protect your nails. For this reason, it is important that you avoid
cutting them. What you can do instead is keep them moisturized. You can also soften your
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cuticles by massaging them with a mixture of iodine and castor oil.
Always keep your nails dry. When wet, your nails become fragile and can easily break. Wet
nails also increase the risk of contracting a fungal infection.
Also, try to maintain consumption of a healthy diet. Having hard boiled eggs, milk and fresh
carrot juice will help you keep healthy nails. Moreover, maintain a sufficient intake of essential
vitamins and minerals. In addition to this, drink plenty of water. You can also include health
supplements, such as spirulina, in your diet for further strengthening your nails.
Don't use your nails for purposes they are not made for. Avoid scratching surfaces and opening
boxes with them. Using them for such strenuous tasks can make them rough, resulting in their
breakage. Furthermore, regularly massage and buff your nails. This will regulate the blood supply towards them, making them healthy and beautiful.
The use of nail polish is important for protecting your nails. It is advisable to apply two thin
coats of polish for enhancing your nail's look and also to prevent them from breaking. Nevertheless, you should not keep your nails painted for more than 10 days, allowing them some
breathing space.
When removing the nail polish, you should keep in mind to avoid using nail polish removers
containing acetone or formaldehyde. Such chemicals can have an adverse drying effect on your
nails. When washing off the nail polish remover make sure to leave no residue behind on your
nails.
Lastly, your nails should be cut and filed regularly. You can easily give your nails any shape
you want this way. Hopefully, by following these tips you can easily achieve the beautiful nails
you have always wanted.
Crossdresser’s Partners Speak — Now What?
The ‘cat’ is out of the bag. A wife just found out that she has been lied to, betrayed and
deceived by her crossdressing husband, who chose not to disclose his life long
condition. He misrepresented himself and the marriage for over a decade. The hand
grenade has gone off and your marriage is in pieces. She is devastated. Now what?
Well unfortunately this scenario is too familiar to many CDW — especially the
overwhelming majority who had no clue they were marrying a CD. But now that she
knows, how do you proceed with the marriage? Some marriages will not survive, some
will. What steps can you take to save your marriage?
Step one, acknowledge what you did and do not minimize it. Many CDW become
furious (salt on a wound) when they hear their CDH saying, “It is just clothes. I don’t
beat you or abuse you — so it is no big deal. I am not hurting anyone.”
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If this is your planned approach, please think it through. If you act like her feelings
mean nothing and are unfounded, you will most likely make things worse. By validating
what she is telling you, she is more likely to disclose her emotions. Do not criticize her
for how she feels. Listen. Validate. If you brush over the lies she is unlikely to believe
anything you have to say. Know that your response to her reaction can dictate the
trajectory of your marriage. A good way to start is to say; “I am sorry and should have
told you the truth before we married.” And then you can perhaps tell her you love her
and want to save the marriage and you are willing to go to therapy (alone and or
couples counseling). This is often a gigantic problem because most CDW and CDH do
not seek out counseling. Most CDW, along with many CDH, do not understand this
murky, thorny, taboo subculture of crossdressing. Therapy can help — even if the
marriage is over, both parties could use assistance getting through the process of
divorce.
Step two — listen to her. Let her tell you exactly how she feels about you and crossdressing. Let her tell you what her boundaries are. Maybe she can ‘live with it’ if you
never dress up in front of her, or possibly you can take one night a month and do your
thing at a cheap hotel. You should explain about how CD makes you feel, since so
much of it is sexually motivated.
It is significant to note that majority of CDW report not accepting and being uncomfortable with their CDH condition. Whereas some CDW accept it but normally not without
with clear-cut boundaries. A large number of CDW report a loss of intimacy and also
say that their CDH are less attractive to them. Obviously, since most CDW were
betrayed at the altar forcing her to see you ‘dressed up’ or even to suggest having sex
is not advised — unless she wants to engage. Otherwise, do not dress up around her,
follow her boundaries, show her love and respect.
This is not a time for a CDH to be making any demands on a CDW. In fact, it is time to
focus on her needs and desires, now that your condition has turned your marriage
upside down. Humpty Dumpty (your marriage) is likely to be in pieces and it is up to
you to try rebuilding the trust that is gone. Begin and end with the truth, piece by piece.
Blessings to all,
Dee A. Levy, MA
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10 Ways to Look Younger Now
By Melissa Matthews Brown
Missing your youthful glow and plump lips of years past? Learn how
to take years off your look without heading to the dermatologist.
Instead, try the following age-defying makeup tricks that'll give
sagging skin a boost, deflate puffy eyes and more. Photo Credit:
Ericka McConnell.
"I have puffy-looking eyes." - The fix: Wear eyeshadow
When lids are swollen they lose definition. Bring back depth with two
woman in her 40s shadows: one in a light color (try gold) and another in a medium
shade like bronze. "Swirl both colors together with a brush before
applying to your lids and just beyond the crease," says Silver. Estée Lauder Double
Wear Stay-in-Place ShadowCreme in Antique Gold and Golden Sands.
"My skin tone is uneven." - The fix: Wear full-coverage foundation
"An older complexion needs more coverage, not more product," says celebrity makeup
artist Jake Bailey. Translation: Layering on a sheer formula isn't your best bet. Instead,
Bailey recommends using a small amount of full-coverage liquid foundation. Since
these formulas are denser, they're better at camouflaging imperfections. Use a
foundation brush to apply color down the center of your face, then gently sweep it
outward. Dermablend Smooth Indulgence SPF 20 Foundation..
"How do I lift my droopy cheeks?" - The fix: Put on liquid highlighter
Have you noticed that the supple skin that once plumped up your cheeks has now
headed south for your jawline? Don't panic, here's the trick: Smile wide and use the tip
of your ring finger (it applies the lightest pressure on delicate aging skin) to gently tap
liquid highlighter along your cheekbones, from just beyond the apples of your cheeks
up toward your temples until you meet your hairline. "The product contains lightreflecting particles that draw the eye upward and away from droopy jowls," explains
celebrity makeup artist Laura Geller, owner of Laura Geller Makeup. Benefit Cosmetics
High Beam.
"I look tired all the time." - The fix: Wear two shades of eyeliner
"Properly applied liner opens up your eyes by giving them definition," says Mally
Roncal, celebrity makeup artist and owner of Mally Beauty. She suggests using
creamy formulas since they will glide across lids without tugging at skin, creating a
more seamless line. "Walk" black eyeliner across your top lashes using tiny back-andforth motions, starting from the outer corner of your eye inward. But avoid dark colors
on bottom-they'll only accentuate undereye circles. Instead, use a nude shade to
brighten the area. Mally Beauty Mattewand Eye Brightener, Revlon Luxurious Color
Smoky Crayon in Black Smoke.
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"When I wear lipstick, it bleeds into the lines around my mouth."- The fix: Use lip
stain
Nothing screams "I look older" louder than when your lipstick "feathers" or seeps into
tiny lines surrounding lips. The simple solution is to swap your lipstick for a lip stain.
"These matte formulas are quick-setting and don't bleed like creamier lipsticks," Bailey
explains. If you prefer a shinier finish, wait for the stain to dry, then apply a moisturizing
balm over lips. Laura Mercier Lip Stain,
"I miss my youthful glow." - The fix: Swipe on cream blush
Know this: If you prefer to use powder blush (or foundation or eyeshadow, for that matter), proceed with caution. "Powders settle into fine lines, accentuating them," warns
Bailey. Go for creams instead-they won't highlight imperfections and are more
pigmented so you can use less. As for choosing a blush color, light skin works best
with paler shades; darker complexions should go brighter. Hard Candy Hide & Glow
Cheek Duo Cheek Tint in In Love.
"How can I get the most out of my antiaging products?" - The fix: Coat skin with
makeup primer
While you sleep, nighttime creams and serums boost cell turnover to reveal youngerlooking skin. But they can't work if they rub off onto your pillow. Prevent this by
applying a thin layer of primer to your face after you smooth them on. "A nickel-size
amount should do the trick," says Roncal. Laura Geller Spackle Under Makeup Primer.
"My lips are getting thinner." - The fix: Dab on clear gloss
Collagen production slows down with age, causing lips to lose their fullness. "To combat this, apply clear gloss to the center of your bottom lip and along the bow of your top
lip," Geller says. The gloss attracts light to the thickest parts of your lips, plumping
them. Elizabeth Arden Crystal Clear Lip Gloss.
"I need an eye lift."- The fix: Curl your lashes and use mascara
"Curling is an important first step that will really open up your eyes," says celebrity
makeup artist Melissa Silver. Also, since lashes tend to thin out as we age, sweep on a
coat or two of a volumizing black mascara. "These mascaras are formulated with
ingredients that condition and plump," Silver explains. Maybelline New York Falsies by
Volum' Express Mascara.
"My skin looks washed out."- The fix: Put on lipstick
If nothing else, swipe on lipstick before heading out the door in the morning. "Adding
color to this focal point on your face instantly warms up your entire complexion," says
Bailey. The best lip color to use? Berry. "It's the most universally flattering shade-great
for every skin tone," he says. CoverGirl Lip Perfection Lip Color in Euphoria.
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The Exploits of Barbara Marie
A CHANCE ENCOUNTER
BY
BARBARA MARIE DAVIDSON
Atlanta, GA is a city of over 10 million people. This past weekend, August 12th, I made a
whirlwind trip to the big A with a friend from the nail shop. It was a combination
business as well as a pleasure trip as we went up to do some shopping, pick up some
supplies for the shop and also to pick up a new worker for the shop. Upon arriving in
Atlanta, we went to Perimeter Mall and parted company for about 30 minutes. As I got on the
escalator to go up, there was a very attractive blond, tall, slender “lady” just ahead of me who
was dressed basically in ‘business attire” with stockings and heels . I noticed that she had a run
in her stocking and when we got to the top I mentioned it to her. She turn around and in a
somewhat of a soft, pleasant voice said thank you for telling me.
I knew right away that she was like me, either a transgendered M2F or possibly a
Transsexual. The difference, however, was our dress. I was in caprice and open toed
sandals as were most of the ladies in the mall, where as she was in a Sunday outfit or a business
attire with heels. I introduced my self to her and told her that I was like her, a M2F transgender
person. She told me her name , Andrea Baker, and we talked for a few minutes. Then, the conversation took on a differed tone. Talk about being a small world, it got really small in a hurry.
I mentioned something about being in the PTG group and was one of the co moderators. She
got a funny look on her face. It turns out not only is she a member of the PTG group, but was
the Cover Girl for the June 2012 issue of the magazine. Not only did she know who I was, but
she also mentioned that she enjoyed reading my articles that appear in the monthly PTG magazine.
She mentions several of the TG groups that she is in the Atlanta area and I asked her if she
knew my friends Teresa and Milla from Alabama. Yes was her reply. It even got to be a smaller
world at this time as she had been on HRT and recently had a breast augmentation. I have been
on HRT for over 4 years and also recently (June of this year) had a breast augmentation as well.
Andrea is hoping some day to be able to complete her
transition with SRS. I, on the other hand am happy with the person that I have become. Teresa
had her SRS in December of 2011 out in Texas (see my article “A Friends
Transition from M2F” in the January or February issue of the PTG Magazine.) Teresa and I
both had our Breast Augmentations one day apart. However, Teresa is a D cup whereas I am a
C cup. Then the conversation even got smaller as it comes to find out that she was a member of
Sigma Epsilon (the Atlanta Chapter of TriEss) before she moved on to her new life. I have
been a member of Sig Eps since December 2007. She knew a
number of the “girls” who are still in SIG Eps.
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Before we parted company, we exchanged calling cards and vowed to keep in touch with each
other. It is hard to believe that a chance encounter like the one we had in a city as large as Atlanta was brought on by my commenting to her that she had a run in her hose that she was unaware of until I mentioned it to her. I have learned a lot in the last few years about being female. A guy would probably not have said a word to her. Whereas, a lady would most probably mention it so that she could do something about it, before it gets too noticeable. So, one
never knows who they will meet in a chance encounter such as ours which turned out to be a
good thing.
Yours
Barbara Marie Davidson
MY WHIRL-WIND TRIP
TO
LAS VEGAS
BY
BARBARA MARIE DAVIDSON
When Diane (Dao) asked me about going to going to Las Vegas about three weeks ago with her
and Tom (Tri), I first relented and said no as it would be a time for them to get away by them
selves from the kids, work and enjoy life. However, she would not take NO for an answer, as
she has asked me to go with them before and I said no (except for the trip several weeks ago to
Epcot and the Magic Kingdom in Orlando when it was a family trip). Thus, for the better of
valor, so I might be asked again, I relented and said yes. As soon as I said yes, she was on the
computer looking for the best deals and flights out of
Atlanta for Saturday, August 25th and return on Tuesday, August the 28th. She wound up getting a direct flight on Delta from Atlanta to Las Vegas leaving from Atlanta at 10 pm(EST) and
arriving in Las Vegas approximately 4 hours later (1120 Las Vegas time). The Hotel she
booked was the Bellagio. The total price for the three of us, including air fair and the hotel
(three people – two rooms) was $568.00 per person.
All of us worked on Saturday at the nail shops until 5 pm at which time we left and went to her
house to swap cars and pick up Tom, who was coming from his shop in Sylvania. We left the
house at 1750 for Atlanta. I must remind you that it is a good three plus hours from Statesboro
to Atlanta. It is a good thing she was driving as we arrived at the
Hartsville International Air port at 2105. She and Tom packed one suit case, while I packed one
and brought an empty carry on for things that we might buy when we make a one day visit to
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Las Angles on Monday.
With Diane driving, if I did not know better, I would have thought the flight started at 1810
when we got on the interstate as I was not sure if the wheels ever touched the ground. However
an occasional bump or two reminded me that were still on the ground. We hit Macon, GA (125
miles from Statesboro) at 1942 and it is a good 75 miles from Macon to Atlanta. As I said we
hit the airport at 2105. BY the time we checked in, went through security, took the tram to concourse F, found our way to the boarding gate for the Delta flight, it was 0948 and the plane was
due to depart at 2202. I think we were one of the last folks to board. The plane departed the
gate about 2210 and we were air born at 2229. I was dressed comfortable as I was wearing a
white “I love Guess’ tee shirt with jean caprice and black sandals. Before we left Statesboro,
both Diane and I had our Nails and toes done. She had French tips on both her hands and feet
while I had Cajun shrimp (red) on my toes and Pink and White (solar) nails on my hands with a
design on each ring finger. She was wearing a black top with jeans and low-heeled white sandals. The plane touched town in Las Vegas at 2305 PST. Which would have been a little after
two am EST. We deplaned at 2335 took the tram from the terminal to the baggage claim area.
When we got our baggage and found our way to the shuttle bus, over an hour had lapsed.. The
shuttle was $7.00 a person. By the time we got to the hotel still another good hour had lapsed.
We had to go up some stairs, as the escalator was not working. All I can say is thanks to a
young man who came to aid this damsel in distress with my bags. If one has not figured it out
by now, Las Vegas is a gambling town from the get-go. When we
deplaned and got into the terminal, I noticed groups of slot machines everywhere. They were
all through out the terminal. Every hotel, especially those on the “strip” - Las Vegas Blvd, had
a huge casino. The Bellagio was no different. Once you checked in, one had to walk through
the casino to get to the shops, to eat but more important to get to the
elevator to go to your room. I will say that every one out here was very polite and
courteous. It was yes mam, no mam, or may I help you mam. It really made this girl feel good
to be accepted as the person I was presenting. It was almost 4 o’clock am EST when I laid my
head down on the pillow. Diane and Tom were on the third floor while I was on the Second
floor. (Thank goodness for cell phones.)
Sunday morning, after having ‘breakfast” at the Buffet in the hotel, Tom spent the day gambling while the ‘girls’ went shopping. I had rented a SUV from Enterprise using my USAA
membership. Diane and went to the Preminium Outlet Mall which was only about 4 miles from
the hotel. Not sure how much she spent, but I bought 4 tops that were a little “low cut” to reveal my new “looks”. Across from the hotel was the miracle mile, a very large enclosed mall
that was nothing but wall-to-wall shops. In some areas of the mall, on could look up and “see
the sky”. However it was not the sky. It was a very cleverly made image that made it look like
you were out side. Of course, the mall surrounded the casino and lobby of one of the hotels
across the street from the Bellagio. A gain it was nice to have the sales person come up to you
and say, “May I help you ladies.” Later, Diane said to me that she rarely thinks of me as a male
as she has basically has only known Barbara for these past 4 years. Make me feel good to know
that I have a girl friend that I can pal about with and talk about girl things with out being embarrassed. As with the trip to Disney recently, we did a lot of walking. This time I brought some
‘walking shoes’. When we got back to the hotel is was back to the Buffet for supper. Remem-
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ber that there is a
3-hour time difference so we were eating supper after midnight PST. It was 0130 PST (about
430 am EST) when I finally laid my head down on my pillow. Tom had an OK day at the poker
tables. He is actually about two grand to the good at this time. Diane and I have yet to put a
quarter in a slot machine.
Monday morning found the three of us on our way to the Little Saigon area of Westminster,
CA. it is about a 4-hour drive on I 15. The first thing we did was to eat lunch at a place called
Nha Hang PAG7LAC . They brought out strips of beef, shrimp and a grill, as every thing is
prepared at the table by you. The condiments were rice paper for the ‘spring rolls” and assorted
Vietnamese greens and bean sprouts. From there we went to a large indoor Vietnamese Mall to
shop. While we were there, I bought me a Vietnamese formal dress. They had some beautiful
material, which would have been about $100 plus the cost to make it, which would have made it
right at $200 +. When she took my measurements, she told me that she had a beautify dress
already made that should fit me. The pants were a little big but they altered it right their while I
waited and it was only $140.00. It is kind of a Yellowish orange with matching pants.
(Vietnamese formal dresses are
2-piece) As I mentioned, there was some nice material but since I was only there for a few
hours, there was no way I could have gotten it due to time. Diane had a pair of slacks
tailored and it was only $5.00. I was treated like any other lady in the store although every one
else was Vietnamese. We then went to a Vietnamese massage parlor for a massage. It was
wonderful as it was almost a total body massage and was only $15.00 for one hour. Diane paid
for the three of us and I left a $30.00 tip for the three ladies. After a little more shopping we
wend to the Lang Ngon Restaurant and Diane ordered lobster two ways and a Dungeness crab
for us to eat. There was a big “to go box left which I ate for breakfast on Tuesday morning.
Everywhere we went, I was treated just like I was a real lady. It was great!
We left to drive back to Vegas about 2015 PST and with Tom and Diane doing the driving, we
were back at the Bellagio at midnight. Tom went to play poker and Diane and I walked around
until about 4 am PST. Tom had another “good day” or night at the poker table as he started
with $400 cash and handed Diane $2000.00 for the night. After a few hours sleep, I was up,
showered and dressed for the day. This time I was wearing jean caprice, and a “animal” top
from Guess that really showed my new assets (encased in a new push up and in bra” that left no
doubt as to my “gender” (best investment I have made so far to create my self image). I have
no regrets as what I have done. I returned the rental car to Enterprise at 0815 and made a reservation for a small limousine to take us to the airport as none of us have ever ridden in a Limo
before. It would have been 3
$30.00 by bus, $40.00+ by cab, $60.00 a Lincoln Town car and $70.00 for the Limo (I
already drive a Lincoln MKX. We left the hotel at 1030. It was about a 10-minute drive to the
airport but that was fine as it was the thrill of the limo that added the final touch to the trip. We
checked in at 11 am and got our vouchers, took the tram to the D concourse and went to gate
34. At 1230 they started boarding the lane and our tickets were in zone one of the economy section thus we were some of the first to board the plane this time. The flight left the ground at
approximately 1310 PST and landed in Atlanta about 7 pm EST. After catching the tram to the
baggage area, we left the airport and went to the Vin Phu restaurant in Morrow, GA for supper.
There we met Diane’s father who only lives several blocks from the restaurant.
16
The one regret I have had so far in the trip that because of time, I could not get together with
Barbara Jean Jasen The other Co moderator of the PTG group and editor of the magazine who
lives in Vegas We talked several time on the cell phone but that was about it. She left Tuesday
night flying to Albany (See her emails in the PTG/dual gender groups about flying en femme).
Time wise just did not work out for either of us. Maybe there will be another time. I will say
that this girl had a great time and experience although it was definitely a Whirl Wind trip. Just
remember, go for at least 3 or 4 days and take lots of $$ and a good pair of walking shoes. Also
go comfortable. We think its hot here in Georgia, but out there, it is HOT! We missed the 115degree temps by several days but it was still 105 for two of the days we were there. In Westminster CA it was in the mid 80’s. Also the drive on Interstate 15 from Vegas to California was
boring as it was nothing but miles and miles of “desert”. With the foot hills all about you, and
no trees, it kind of of reminded me of a scene out of western movies with the Indians or the bandits looking down upon you from the rocks and boulders all about you.
Let me say something about flying en femme and the TSA/security checks. When I flew to
Vietnam in November of 2010, I had no problems even though all of my ID’s and
passport had my Legal name of William with an adrogenous photo that could have gone either
way. All I got was a few funny looks, a few smiles and have a good trip, MAM! On this trip all
of my id cards and everything had my new legal name which is Now Barbara Marie. I guess I
must of looked suspicious or something as I went through the scanner, I got “patted down”, and
my hands were swiped with some sort of a pad which was then placed on a reader. 10 seconds
later, I was told to have a nice flight. (that was going out to Vegas.) Coming back, I was wearing jean caprice with stud designs on the pockets. Guess what! The same thing happened again
only with a little more force and my hands were again swiped with a cloth. Then, I was able to
continue on. I must of looked funny or something for it to happed twice on the same trip. So,
be prepared and don’t wear
clothing with studs or metal designs on your clothing. Just be yourself when traveling and all
will be well.
So Ladies, when the opportunity comes to you for doing something bold and daring, Do it, as
you are not getting any younger. Also remember that life is short, you only life once, so enjoy
your life and cherish the memories with lots of photos. I will admit that I am
enjoying my life as Barbara and have done many things in the last few years that I have not regretted, but it might have been a lot nicer if it could have been done with a loved one. In My
case, at least I have a good “girl friend” to pal about with.
Barbara
17
Tasi’s Musings: October, 2012
Greetings from Merida.
But not about Merida this month. A headline in one of my favorite fashion
blogs caught my attention. It said men buy more shoes than women - in
Mexico! It seems the Latin lover is alive and well and spending mucho
dinero on footwear. Small wonder so many Latina women dress so well their men know as much about fashion as they do.
It seems the “Shoe Capital of Mexico” is in Leon, just east of Guadalajara
in central Mexico with more than 3000 plants. Footwear manufacturing in
Mexico is an old tradition dating back to more than 400 years and at
present; it’s the leading industry in the
country. Mexican shoes are known
throughout the world including the fashion capitals of Europe
and NAFTA is certainly a help with the export of Mexican
shoes to the U.S. and Canada. They are known for quality
fashion, and comfort.
And here I thought all those shoes in my neighboring luxury
mall were imports. The shoes in the windows here are really
quite marvelous with fabulous designs and great colors. I
guess it’s good that Mexican women are relatively small because their heel heights approach some pretty tall buildings.
In the News
Mexican transvestites. There are all too many stories of LGBT people in Mexico being
murdered or abused, but not in this Mexican town on the west coast of central Mexico. The
video shot on location is really a bit heartwarming that in at least some areas, like Juchitan in
Oaxaca province, openly gay men and out of the closet transvestites are still welcome, or at
least safe. See here: http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/taxonomy/term/18979/120814/
location-video-third-gender
An Oklahoma County judge is refusing to let men planning sex-change operations switch to
feminine names. District Judge Bill Graves has denied name changes in two such cases so far
— last year and again in August. The judge ruled both times the requests were made for a
fraudulent purpose and one of the reasons was based on religious beliefs. Five other Oklahoma
County judges who handle name change requests told The
Oklahoman they routinely grant them in transgender cases.
I just hope someone takes this judge to a Judicial Review
Board and gets him disqualified to sit on the bench.
http://newsok.com/oklahoma-judge-refuses-to-let-menplanning-sex-change-operations-have-feminine-names/
article/3710192#ixzz27KjGHv2v
18
I try not to get political but it’s pretty obvious that one party supports the LGBT community
and the other does not. Here is a short clip from the Transgender Progress LGBT Caucus DNC
2012: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYiLDT315Lg&feature=youtu.be. What can I say
but vote early and vote often
Books and Movies
We Are New Hampshire: Transgender Lives in the Granite State is a collection of 10 stories
about transgender people and their families. Published by Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders and Transgender New Hampshire, the book was created as a resource and educational
tool. More details here: http://www.glad.org/nh-stories or here: http://tgnh.org/ The book is
free.
Fashion and Beauty
Still on the subject of shoes, you’ve heard the old phrase, “Men are from Mars, Women are
from Venus”. Well now we have a new version. When it comes to
shopping, “Women are from Nordstrom's and Men are from Sears”
But men do have different priorities than women when walking
down the aisles. In a study titled, "Men Buy, Women Shop, "
researchers at Wharton's Jay H. Baker Retail Initiative and the
VerdeGroup, a Toronto consulting firm, found that women react
more strongly than men to personal interaction with sales
associates. Men are more likely to respond to more utilitarian
aspects of the experience -- such as the availability of parking,
whether the item they came for is in stock, and the length of the
checkout line.
"Women tend to be more invested in the shopping experience on
many dimensions," says Robert Price, chief marketing officer at CVS Caremark". Men want to
go to Sears, buy a specific tool and get out." http://knowledge.emory.edu/article.cfm?
articleid=1103.
So how do you shop? Like a man or like a woman? That’s why I know I’m a woman inside – I
have the shopping bug! J Just think of the thrill of finding that piece you've been coveting all
season, marked down 70%, and in your size or the joy of trying on a pair of jeans just for fun,
and they actually fit well.
But did you know that 1/3 of women hate to shop. Connie Wang writes in Refinery29 that for
the majority of women, shopping is about chasing these happy, happy moments, however we'll
admit, in the pursuit of happiness, there's a lot of BS we have to put up with as well. A study
completed by Marisota.co.uk revealed that 1/3 of women hate shopping because of long lines,
clothes that don't fit, frustrating environments, and — with nearly half of the 2,000 women sur-
19
veyed agreeing — patronizing sales staffs that make you feel like you don't deserve the clothes
you're eyeballing.
15% of respondents have even cried on a shopping trip. 50% have never felt that "high" when
scoring a good deal. Most upsettingly, 42% of women say that the whole experience would be
easier if they had different bodies (well we can relate to that), which reveals a lot about how the
culture of shopping has institutionalized body shaming — a huge shame. (And if women are
shamed, what portends for us) Amidst all the disappointing shopping environments out there in
the world, we need some good news. So, tell us: Are there any stores you shop at that end up
making you feel better about how you look and about your personal style?
Well, for women over 50 at least there is some good news.
This YouTube video on etiquette for women over 50 (http://
www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8L6ZLHk1O8&feature=em-uploademail-
new ) talks to how to be stylish (I guess despite the wrinkles
and flabby arms). Here’s the secret: Buy classic styles that
stand the test of time, buy clothes that fit and flatter – you
may need a tailor, and buy quality clothes – the money spent
is really a savings.
But if you’re not 50 or older, here’s some more style advice
from Jessica Stam on Yahoo Shine (http://shine.yahoo.com/the-thread/the-threads-jessica
-stam-has-the-best-on-trend-fall-fashion-picks-for-every-shape.html) on what the new
trend waves are for the fall.
People are all buzzing about peplums, military-inspired fashion (YUK!), and sheath dresses-but which ones are right for your body? Supermodel and Thread host Jessica Stam is
here to help, with stylish and on-trend picks for people of all shapes--from apple to athletic--to make sure you look your absolute best. Take a peek at Jessica's picks this week
and be sure to stay tuned to The Thread for all your fall fashion needs (and of course this
column!)
Good Housekeeping recently tested 97 anti-aging beauty products
on 661 volunteers and tallied responses on 2,004 questionnaires
to find 22 winners that really can make you look younger!
Makeup used to promise to add a flush to your cheeks, a rosy hue to
your lips. Today it aims to do much, much more: hydrate skin, minimize wrinkles, and diminish lines on lips. And not just while you're
wearing it: Like lotions and serums, anti-aging makeup vows to deliver skin benefits over time, so you'll eventually look better even
when you don't have it on.
20
Skeptical? We were, too. Last summer, we began a yearlong project to determine, scientifically,
if any of the myriad anti-aging cosmetics lived up to their claims — eye shadows that say they
don't crease, lip liners that are supposedly anti-feathering, and primers that promise to hide
lines. We enlisted 661 women, ages 35 to 79, to try them — in some cases, for as long as eight
weeks. They filled out questionnaires, came to our lab for skin analyses done with high-tech
equipment, and went home with the test brands.* The good news: The bold claims aren't all
marketing hype. Here are the 11 winners (gold) and 11 runners-up (silver) that were proven to
work.
Believe it or not, so far there are 443 comments to the article. This is my favorite from Mimi,
“At age 78, I doubt there is any cosmetic that will make me look younger” or maybe this one
from Otto Pilot, “Thank you. I'll take the extra large size of everything. I'm a mess”. Mellissa,
where are you when we need you? As you can imagine, the comments were all across the board
and about evenly divided between those that like cosmetics and those that thought the article
was a little self-serving. But if you want an enjoyable hour or two, read the comments. The link
is above.
WARNING!! It may not fit. Recently I wrote an article which will appear in an upcoming issue of TGForum titled “I Love That Dress But It’s From China”. In searching for clothing
suitable for the TG body that will be featured on my new website, www.sisterhouse.net, we
found an incredible number of customer complaints, particularly directed at Far East manufacturers. Here’s an excerpt from the article:
And finally it comes and I’m so excited as I tear open the package and hold up the
dress of my dreams. Except that’s it so crumpled that I doubt even the dry cleaner will
get all those wrinkles out. And wait, it’s not turquoise, but purple, and this beading that
made the dress so special is barely attached, and the lace shawl that was part of the
purchase is missing.
Find out all the problems and what you need to be aware of so you don’t become a victim by
visiting www.tgforum.com)
Humor.
Father of the Year Helps Dress-Wearing Son Feel Comfortable By Putting on a Skirt
Himself
"My five year old son
likes to wear dresses,
“says German dad Nils
Pickert.
Back when he lived in
West Berlin, it was
certainly a conversationstarter, but not much
more than that. Now,
however, Pickert and his
son live in a "very
traditional" South
German village where
21
his son's predilection for dresses is the talk of the town.
"I didn't want to talk my son into not wearing dresses and skirts. "He didn't make friends in doing that in Berlin already and after a lot of contemplation I had only one option left: To broaden
my shoulders for my little buddy and dress in a skirt myself."
At first, Pickert's son was reluctant to wear a dress in public, fearing he would be laughed at,
particularly by other kids at his preschool. But that all changed one "skirt and dress day" when
he and his dad made a resident of the town stare so hard she slammed into street light face first.
This man certainly deserves the honor for “father of the Year”. Read the full story here: http://
gawker.com/5938676/father-of-the-year-helps-dress+wearing-son-feel-comfortable-by-puttingon-a-skirt-himself
There are two new absolutely wonderful TG cartoonists now on the internet. The first of these
is Diane Darcy, a part-time T-girl from Chicago, who spends far too much time on the internet
trying to introduce shy photos to suitable text. She strives to explore the broad spectrum of the
transgender experience with wit, humor, compassion and sensuality. One of these is below. This
one is suitable for public viewing but she gets pretty raunchy at times if you go to the naughty,
naughty Diane captions. If you need a lift please visit Diane caption at
www.yahoogroups.com/groups/tgcaptionsbydiane31 or http://www.flickr.com/photos/dianed.
I guarantee that you’ll love her wit and humor.
So until next month, Hugs to everyone …….Tasi
22
Humor
23
What Does it Take to be a Cover Girl
By: Barbara Jean
On another board that many of our members also belong to there was recently a discussion concerning one of the cover girls. Now the discussion was actually concerning
dressing as other women dressed, and how some of the crossdressers dressed.
Some felt that her outfit was not something other women would normally wear. The
discussion then went on to dressing for where we were going and if the girl was going
to a club then the outfit was appropriate. They were thinking she should be dressed in
a more conservative outfit, one say more appropriate for the office.
I admit that many a time the girl who I thought should be our cover girl did not win nor
even take the calendar girl position. They certainly had what I personally thought
would make a beautiful cover girl picture. It made me wonder what was wrong that
they did not win, they had a beautiful feminine look to them, beautiful hair, beautiful
outfits, and even good backgrounds to their photos. It was then that I took a look at
that old cover girl poll.
Below is that old poll showing what was being sought. I will run a new poll this month
to see what current members are seeking.
They asked me to vote for them
2
They Represent Female the best
83
I like their clothes
75
They are most passable
80
I like the shape of their breast
21
I close my eyes and pick
00
They are sexiest
58
They have great legs
59
I like their shoes
37
I like their hair
50
I like their eyes
43
I have heard good things about them
5
They are popular
0
I want to make them happy
5
24
They do a lot for the TG community
10
I want to look like them
38
It’s someone I admire
34
They have a nice shape
69
They don’t have hair on their arms and legs
35
I dislike their competition
0
I just pick someone randomly
0
They look the best
99
I was blackmailed
0
I like their name the most
4
I know the person
15
Now I am going to run a new poll and will keep it going for a couple of months. Voter
identity will not be displayed in the new poll, but you will be able to view the results as
the poll is open.
So you want to be a cover girl, well study the results of this old poll, keep an eye and
what others are seeking in the current poll, and study the photos of past winners of
cover girl contest. These should all provide you with the tips to help you win.
One other word from me PLEASE be sure your photo is VERTICLE! Remember it is
for the cover of the magazine and the home page of the group.
25
Angels in the Centerfold
Danielle Rose
Ginger
Denise Demann
Tiffany
26
Elane
Mellissa Lynn
Veronica
27
Kathy’s Korner
(Ed: Note: Girls we welcome back Kathy King whom we have missed for
several months due to some surgery that she had to have in the spring)
Our Culture
Before we can be respected for our gender difference, genetic women must be totally
respected for their minds, bodies and feelings. Our future and success as
Transgendered Women falls hand and hand with the future success of genetic women
in our society.
I have asked myself why we are male and female.
Other than the obvious we were born that way, we have the obvious male and female
genitals, plus from birth society has built a wall that separates male and female. If you
scale this wall society will react in a negative way, you will be considered an outcast.
When a couple gets pregnant, today’s parents have their fetus photographed to see
what the gender is, so we can prepare for the happy event.
The child’s future is already planned before the birth. A boy will be strong, athletic,
good looking and smart. A girl will be submissive, smart and cute.
When our children are born, the hospital separates and colorizes (our children in Blue
and Pink, with name tags, night gowns and hats to keep their little heads warm.
Our relatives bring presents with either pink or blue wrappings and clothes or toys that
are gender specific.
When the child comes home from the hospital the child is laid in a gender color
coordinated crib with walls and accoutrements that match.
Even when the baby is held by friends and family, the speech of each person holding
the baby is different. If the baby is a boy he is handled more roughly than a girl and
when the boy grabs your finger, the person holding the child declares “What a Grip; he
going in to the NBA when he grows up.” If it’s a girl with a strong grip “Oh she has a
strong grip, better to hold onto Mommy with.”
We don’t give these kids a chance; we already stereotyped them before they have a
28
defined their own personality.
In a Song from “South Pacific”the lyrics say:
“You’ve got to Be Carefully Taught”
You have to be taught to hate and fear
You’ve got to be taught,
From year to year
It’s got to be drummed in your dear little ear
You’ve got to be carefully taught.”
This song ways originally written about race discrimination but it can be used for
gender discrimination as well.
As our children grow, their personalities start to take shape, and they can tell the
difference between boys and girls. Some girls like to play with trucks and superheroes
and some boys enjoy playing with Barbie dolls and like playing dress-up. “OH MY
Goodness”, we have created monsters. Most parents will make a big deal out of this
behavior (which in my opinion) teaches the child to hold in these desires, which
confuses and frustrates.
In my nonprofessional opinion the stone wall between the sexes will be knocked down
only when women are totally treated as equals, not just in the work place, sexually and
in professional sports as well.
When female Chinese swimmer Ye Shiwen took the gold with a time that incredibly
outpaced American gold medalist Ryan Lochte’s final 50 in the men’s race by a splitsecond, a male US coach cried foul and accused her of doping. This was an
unsubstantial claim as Olympic officials had cleared her to participate in the games.
Despite the many challenges, women are starting to compete on the same level with
their male counterparts. I can’t help what the face of the Olympic game will take in 100
years from now.
The time is coming when estrogen may outperform testosterone. You will know when
we have turned a corner when a little boy goes up to a woman and says “You are my
Hero”.
All this change will take place, the question is “when”? I know it wouldn’t be in my
lifetime, so what can we do until the “gender train” gets up to speed? Be positive about
our gender, try an educate others as much as possible, don’t back down when
confronted, smile and follow the law. You can’t change society overnight, just one
person at a time.
I know many of you may not agree with me, but I am just a person that tries to use my
personal experiences to shape my life and the lives around me. Let me know how you
29
feel…
veemey01@yahoo.com
Love you all.
Kathy Ann
Mellissalynn’s Tips & Tricks
Hi, girls! Welcome to October. Halloween is coming! Have you
started thinking about how you’re going to appear for it? I’m still
pondering the return of Supergirl, or a new idea, possibly. I have
a really great long red T-shirt that, with a wide black belt, looks
very much like a Star Trek minidress. This is an older picture of
it. I’m thinking seriously about this for my costume…
So as you all may know, I started beauty school in September.
It’s still too early for a lot of news on that front, but I can tell you
that I’m having fun! As I progress, look for new and exciting tips
and tricks to appear here in my column.
If you want to tell me about your tips or tricks, or anything else
for that matter, you can send me an e-mail at
mlatjnadhmelly@gmail.com. No comment is too small, no idea
too slight! I love to hear from you all.
Let the column begin!
@@@@@@@@@@
Well, fall starts this month. This is a good time for Mellissa’s
seasonal tip to go through your makeup and see what may or may not be expired. Mascara is
the big culprit, girls; three months is the shelf life. After that, you can risk eye infections and
blemishes; not a pretty sight! So please, rotate your war paint every season.
@@@@@@@@@@
I’m going to speak a little about something that no one, male, female, or anywhere in between,
wants to have: stretch marks. Stretch marks, scientifically known as striae, are pink and slightly
raised at first, before turning darker and then eventually white, looking sunken into the skin.
They usually happen during pregnancy, but can also be caused by growth spurts, weight gain or
loss, tuberculosis, or Cushing's disease.
30
Treatments actually come in two forms. You can reduce the appearance of stretch marks using
topical treatments like Tretinoin (vitamin A), Trofolastin cream (with the active ingredient of
centella asiatic) and particular acid skin peels. These work by stimulating the skin growth, and
are most effective when your stretch marks are still pink, soon after you've gotten them. These
treatments won't help much if your stretch marks have faded into white. Another way to
approach the problem is clinically, using laser treatments, microdermabrasion, RF, and IPL.
Stretch marks can be covered up by concealing products or makeup, which will reduce their
appearance. Whatever you do, though, don't try to make them blend in by getting a tan! While
the rest of your skin darkens, the stretch marks, being scar tissue, will look exactly the same.
Getting color will actually make them more noticeable compared to your darker skin.
Moisturizing your skin won't actually help prevent stretch marks. Even though it seems like
moisturizing would plasticize the skin and thus make it less susceptible, research doesn't
support this theory, so don't depend on it as a means of prevention. However, moisturizing,
along with exercise, can help smooth out the skin, which makes the stretch marks less obvious.
@@@@@@@@@@
Here’s a quick professional tip on how to choose the right shade of red for your lipstick. Pale
skin tones work best with shades of plum or wine, or a bluish-red tint. Medium-skinned girls
will do best with shades of rose, mauve, or berry. Darker-skinned ladies should try pinkish
tones, fuchsia, or poppy.
@@@@@@@@@@
Do you want to seriously define your cheekbones? Try this trick: apply blush under the
cheekbone only, not on top.
@@@@@@@@@@
When using a translucent powder, you should remember the benefits of pressed versus loose
powder. Loose powder is easier to use with a brush, and doesn’t take much to give you a softer,
more refined look. Pressed powder is great for covering blemishes, as well as stubble.
@@@@@@@@@@
Do you know how to tease your hair? No, you don’t point at it and say mean things! Take a
one-inch section of your hair straight up and away from your head. Place a comb in your hair
about an inch or two from the roots, and comb toward the roots repeatedly. This creates volume
and lift. You can do this to as many sections of your hair as you like.
@@@@@@@@@@
Now that I’m a student of cosmetology, I think I’m going to start sharing a few bits of
information from class. Mainly terms and such, but as I get farther into it, I’ll start sharing
techniques as well. We’ll start with the word trichology. Trichology is, simply, the study of
31
the health of the hair and scalp. This field isn’t just used in cosmetology, but also in forensic
medicines as an identification tool.
@@@@@@@@@@
So you’re wearing your favorite blouse and realize you’ve gotten foundation on the collar. Not
to worry! If the garment is washer-safe, soak it with aerosol hairspray, let it sit for about ten
minutes, then dab it with a damp sponge or cloth. The hairspray will break down the makeup,
and a good wash will remove it.
@@@@@@@@@@
Have you seen the stretchy cocktail rings a lot of places are selling now? Well, here’s another
way to use them if you don’t want to wear a ring. Use it as a hairband cover! Put your hair up
in a pony as usual, then thread your hair through the ring until it rests on the hairband. Instant
new look!
@@@@@@@@@@
This is a pro tip for making your nail polish last longer. Before painting, wipe your nails down
with polish remover. This will take off any oils on your nails and give the polish a better base
to hold on to. White vinegar will also do the trick
@@@@@@@@@@
Professional makeup artists have all kinds of tricks for making their clients look spectacular.
This is one for using mascara. Try, instead of pulling your mascara wand out toward the temples, pull inward toward your nose. This puts your lashes over your eyes instead of off to the
side, making them much more noticeable.
@@@@@@@@@@
This is a great way to quickly get unwanted smells out of your hair. Take a dryer sheet and pull
it over sections of your hair. The sheet will neutralize any odors you’ve picked up and will
leave your hair really soft to boot.
Try this to get great looking waves instead of curls. After you finish curling your hair, use a
paddle brush to smooth some of the curl out. This will create waves and look gorgeous!
@@@@@@@@@@
And now, Mellissa’s Germ-phobic Tip! This isn’t even a makeup tip, except that you touch
your face with your hands. You know what else you touch with your hands? I bet your fingers
are resting on it right now…yes, I mean the keyboard. To clean, take a clean eyeshadow applicator or Q-tip, dunk it in some rubbing alcohol, and clean between the keys. Then soak a cloth
32
in alcohol and clean the keys themselves.
@@@@@@@@@@
If your makeup sponge has started to shred at the
edges, smell odd, or lose its original shape, it's time to
replace it. Washing them regularly with plain soap and
allowing for time to air-dry helps sponges last longer,
but they should still be replaced on a regular basis.
@@@@@@@@@@
Sure, the makeup you own may look good on you …
in theory. If you aren't using the right brushes to apply
that makeup in the first place, though, you can either
be losing the effect of your makeup or maybe even
destroying your look all together!
Generally, the brushes that are included with most
makeup products are junk. Picking up makeup brushes
may initially be a bit of an expense, but if you purchase quality brushes they may last for five
years or more and you will definitely notice a difference in how your makeup looks once applied.
The largest amount of makeup brushes out on the market these days are for the eyes, and for a
good reason. Our eyes have many different contouring areas and crevices that need different
tools to fully compliment their shape. The most important brush to start with for your eyes is
the flat stiff brush. This brush is to be used to put all-over eye color all over your entire eyelid.
The stiffness of the bristles is required so that the brush can pick up a lot of eye color, and the
flatness of the brush allows you to pat any kind of eyeshadow you have over the eye primer.
The next type of brush that is important to have in your makeup kit is the stiff dome brush. This
brush is absolutely essential if you are a big fan of giving yourself the dramatic, smoky eyes.
The shape of this brush allows for you to apply more color to the crease of your eyes and
without getting color on the lid or above the brow bone.
The soft dome brush is useful in creating softer, more blended looks. The soft dome brush is
ideal for blending in any eyeshadow under your brow bone, applying powder to the under eye
area to prevent your eye makeup from creasing, and it's a great tool for applying lighter, softer
colors to the crease of your eye.
The pencil brush is the last eye makeup brush on the must-have list. If you like to wear eye
liner, then this brush is perfect. This small, thin brush is wonderful for smudging any
eyeshadow under your lower lash line and for smudging your eyeliner evenly. It's also great if
you are trying to give yourself a defined crease.
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There are a wide variety of different makeup brushes that you can buy, and a wide range of different prices. The general rule of thumb is that the less expensive the brush, the lower in quality
the brush is. Less expensive brushes are typically made out of plastic and have nylon bristles.
They are not nearly as good when it comes to makeup application, and they will need to be replaced far sooner than if you were to buy a different type of brush.
The best kind of makeup brushes are those that have a wooden handle and that are made of animal hair bristles. These are the brushes that can last five years or more, depending on how well
and regularly they are maintained.
@@@@@@@@@@
And that does it for this October edition of tips & tricks. I hope that you all find something of
use in the column, and maybe even get to use it on a Halloween look. We’d all love to see what
you come up with! So send me your Halloween pictures, or ideas, or just an e-mail to chat; I
answer everything. The address is still mlatjnadhmelly@gmail.com, in case you’ve forgotten.
Happy Halloween!
34
Hi, girls, it’s Mellissa again with a quick note. I started beauty school on September 11, and I
wanted to show you all my first styling! This is Vanessa, my victim-I-mean-mannequin.
Please, please, PLEASE tell me what you think!
35
The Adventures of Judy Sometimes
A lesson learned ?...I doubt it.
This weeks Sundress Thursday event was an open house at my friend Kim's salon/
gallery. Its purpose was to introduce her new renter who does business under the
name Tousled Hair.
Most who have attended these events in the past know its some what of a dressy
affair where most of the women wear something you'd probably see in an office setting. My wife and I wore dresses as did many of the Sundressers.
Sundress Thursday is open to anyone who wishes to participate, including my
crossdressing sisters. My friend Brittney usually joins every 3 weeks or so, but this time
around it was Julie who decided to bless us with an appearance. I've talked about Julie
here before, she's the one who dresses, for the lack of a better term, like a $2 whore.
Tonights ensemble included a skin tight top, a micro mini skirt, 4" spiked heels, topped
off by a well worn platinum blond wig.
As you can imagine when she walked in more than a few mouths dropped to the floor,
including Kims new renter's parents. I'm going to take a wild shot in the dark and guess
this was their first experience with a real life crossdresser, excluding myself of course.
When I came in with my wife I don't think anyone even gave me a second look, but
then again, everyone already knows me.
Eventually several of us wondered over to the bar next door for a cocktail and you
know who followed us. She pretty much received the same reaction as every head in
the place turned as she walked by, or should I say pranced by, because what she does
in those shoes certainly couldn't be categorized as walking, lol.
Later in the evening a few of us ended up at our local VFW and once again the $2 gal
graced us with her presents. Our group settled in at the corner of the bar with Julie on
the far end. Several tables of guys were near us and you could see the laughs and the
smirks from every table.
About 30 minutes in a guy from one of the tables comes up beside Julie and asks, are
you for real?, needless to say she got a little huffy with the guy and couldn't believe he
would ask such a thing. After the incident she asks me, I wonder why he didn't ask you
36
the same thing. Before I could even answer a couple of the sundresses jumped in and
said, why would he, Judy looks great, I doubt he even suspected a thing. I'm still
smiling over that one.
Anyway, I'm hoping Julie learned something from the reactions she received last
night...but knowing her, I doubt it.
Judy (I look marvelous) sometimes
Tasi’s Fashion News
Earrings on an Elephant
Or How to Choose Earrings to Flatter your Face Shape
Earrings have been a part of human culture since 3000
BC. In past times, earrings actually established your position in
society, because only royalty and very wealthy were able to
afford expensive jewelry. Fine jewelry was worn by only the
wealthy. The rest of the population also wore earrings to
decorate their body, but they were replicas of high society jewelry.
Earrings are very popular with women because they can help you enhance your
overall look. They do so by adding femininity to your face. You can change the entire
look and feel of your wardrobe by adding the right earrings. You can bring out
your softer feminine side, the sexy goddess, or present simple charm, sophistication,
or elegance. Your earrings give a subtle hint about your personality. For both men and
women today earrings are a definite fashion statement.
But earrings come in all different styles and shapes. It's not one size fits all here. You
should carefully choose earrings that fit your face shape because only some earrings
flatter you and others not at all. So let’s talk about selecting the best earrings to flatter
your face shape.
A flattering pair of earrings can be an easy way to appear fashion conscious. Earrings
can draw the eye away from messy hair or tired eyes, creating the impression of a
polished appearance. Though individual style and trends can influence preferences in
earrings, use a basic knowledge of face shape to pick out new jewelry. Play with
various inexpensive costume styles to enhance a face's natural proportions and
beauty. In general, you should select earring shapes that do not mimic your face shape
So the obvious question is What is my face shape?
Imogen Lamport at “Insideoutstyleblog.com” can help us there. Check her YouTube
video here. how to figure out your face shape.
37
Once you know your approximate face shape you can then choose earrings to balance
it.
Oval Faces
The main feature of an oval face is the forehead which is usually wider as compared to
the chin. The hairline is gently rounded and the approximate length is equal to one and
a half times width. Celebrities like Charlie Theron, Jessica Alba, Kate Hudson and Beyonce Knowles have an oval face. If you have an oval face then earrings with soft
shapes like studs, ovals and teardrops will look good on you.
If you have an Oval face, Think “Anything goes” You can always do some experimentation with different styles and decide what looks good on your face. And it can be
nearly in any style including studs, chandeliers and hoops. Individuals blessed with
highly symmetrical, oval features can shop for jewelry according to personal
preference and trends. Aim for earrings no longer than the bottom of the jaw for the
best effect.
38
Round Faces
The main feature of a round face is the circular shape that is as wide as it is long and
is usually characterized with a round chin.
Earrings with lean, long and angular curved
lines can be the perfect choice because it
helps in elongating a round face. You can wear drop
earrings in dangles, ovals and oblongs. Even an angular
stud earring will look good on a round face. Make sure that
you steer clear of small studs and hoops. Always avoid
wearing chunky large earrings.
Your goal is to wear earrings longer than they are wide and add some angle to
your face
Choose the following shapes:
Square, oblong, oval and rectangle drops
Long narrow drops
Squares, oblongs, rectangles work well as do dangling and angular designs
Elongated styles will draw attention down instead of around
Avoid hoop earrings, studs and large chunky earrings they will accentuate your
roundness
Square or Rectangular Faces
The main features of a square face are broad and
strong forehead, square hairline and angular jaw.
Earrings with a round and angular edge will work
best because it will help in softening a square face.
If you have a square face, avoid wearing angular
style, large earrings so that your face doesn't look
wider. Instead wear hoops and medium to long
styles. Celebrities like Demi Moore, Katie Holmes,
Geena Davis and Salma Hayek have a somewhat
square face.
A Square Face: Think Mid-Size
If you have long hair, drops no longer than your chin and with some width too Transform a rectangular face into a classic oval by picking a small, flattering pair of earrings.
Studs or small drop earrings will draw the eye to the center of the face, creating the impression of a gently rounded jaw. Avoid chandelier earrings, which draw attention to
the broad bottom of the face
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Your goal is to wear earrings longer than they
are wide
Choose the following shapes:
Earrings with a round and angular edge
Long drop earrings
Long tear drops
Multi-tiered dangly earrings
Exaggerated earrings
Hoops and curved edges
Studs
Avoid square shapes
Heart-Shaped Faces
Heart shaped faces are usually narrow at the jaw
line and wide at the forehead or cheekbone. It is
very much similar to an oval face but below the
cheekbones it is narrower due to which the chin
looks more pointed. Stars like Sophie Dahl, Reese
Witherspoon and Scarlett Johansson have a heart
shaped face.
A Heart-shaped Face: Think Round
Choose the following shapes:
Chandeliers that are narrow at the top and wide at the bottom
Teardrop earrings
Rectangle shapes
Triangular earrings that are tapered at the top (the opposite of your face shape)
Oval and circular earrings
Avoid earrings that are the same as your face shape (wide at the top and narrow at
the bottom)
Avoid narrow drop earrings that extend past the jaw and can make the chin appear
long and pointed
Avoid pointy earrings
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Diamond Face
The main features of a diamond shaped face are broad and
strong forehead with square hairline and angular jaw. Such
faces are wide at the cheeks but narrow at the forehead and
chin. Katherine Hepburn and Sophia Loren are celebrities with a
diamond face. If you also have a face shape like this, wear
earrings that are less in length and more in width. A straight line
and curves combination will work best. You can also try studs
and small drop earrings.
Your goal is to choose narrow shapes that add width to your jaw line
Choose the following shapes:
Your best shapes are narrower at the top and wider at the bottom
Short and wide earrings
Small tear drops and pear shapes
Triangle shapes
Ovals and studs
Avoid long thin earrings
Triangle Face
The main features of a triangular face shape are
your face is longer than it is wider, your jaw line is
wider than your forehead, your chin is square and/
or flat in shape, your jaw line is broad and strong,
your cheekbones are straight and taper from your
jaw to your forehead, your forehead is narrow, and
your face is widest at your jaw line. . Celebrities
like Jennifer Love Hewitt, Jessica Alba, Julia
Roberts, and Victoria Beckham all have triangular
faces.
Your goal is to wear earrings that are longer than they are wide
Choose the following shapes:
Large oval shapes
Small circular earrings
Earrings with curves at the bottom
Avoid triangular shapes or earrings that come to a point
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Oblong Face
An oblong face is very much similar to a square face but it is longer
and not very wide. Simple studs
and chandelier style earrings look
very good on an oblong face.
However, angular and long
earrings must be avoided. Few celebrity examples
are Terri Hatcher, Sarah Jessica Parker and
Angelina Jolie.
Your goal is to choose earrings have more width than length
Choose the following shapes:
Round, square and fan shape earring
Teardrops
Small hoops
Simple studs and chandelier style earring
3 dimensional style earrings to add fullness
Big earrings
Drops no longer than the chin, better with some width
Avoid flat or thin dangly earrings
Where to buy earrings
Earrings are available everywhere: any major department or big box store, plus-size
stores, jewelry stores, consignment shops (usually good for vintage looks) and of
course, online. If you are looking for clip-on earrings as many of us are, you might try
http://www.cliptomania.com/, they have an outstanding assortment. You can also convert conventional earrings by buying a kit available at Hobby Lobby, JoAnn Fabrics or
other craft stores.
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best dresses for your body
BY NATALIE MATTHEWS
Most stores organize dresses by silhouette (long sleeve, knee length, strapless) or occasion (cocktail, casual, the not-always-true "day to night" category). But cataloguing dresses based on the body type they flatter—while it
would probably be the most helpful method—doesn't seem to exist. We find
this frustrating, and imagine we're not alone. (Unless people actally like the
experience of ogling an amazingly wonderful dress, only to register that it
just won't suit their shape?)
Click through the slideshow below to find the best dress for YOU. They'll
look as great on your body as they do on the rack, whether you're boyish,
curvy, top-heavy, petite, whatever:
If you're small-chested...
...choose a ruffled or tiered neckline. The extra fabric
will add a cup size. (Or something like that. It's not an
exact science.)
If you're athletic or boyish...
...look for asymmetrical cuts or ruched details, which instantly create curves.
If you're apple shaped...
...opt for a dress with a loose torso and an
eye-catching skirt. It'll hide your tummy while
highlighting a slimmer lower half.
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If you're pear-shaped...
...find this pairing: V neck top + full skirted bottom.
The V shape draws the eye to your natural waist
instead of wider hips, while the full skirt helps
camouflage big hips and bottoms.
If you're busty...
...choose a neckline that offers coverage and brawearing capability but isn't too low or too high. Too
much fabric up top will only enhance the size of your
bust.
If you're top-heavy...
...let the prints do the work for you. A dress like this
(with wider, bigger shapes on the bottom) brings
attention to the bottom half.
If you're petite...
...pick a solid, body-skimming dress. Uniform color
gives smaller figures a columnar, elongated
appearance, while the sleek silhouette keeps a tiny
frame from looking swamped in fabric.
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Is wearing white after Labor Day really a
faux-pas?
By Amy Brantley
Who says you can't wear white after Labor Day?
All women are familiar with the saying that white isn't to be worn
after Labor Day. While I have heard this all my life, I must admit
that I never really paid attention; though I did wonder why it was
such a faux-pas. With Labor Day right around the corner, I
decided to do a bit of research as to why this fashion myth has
had such prominence throughout the years. I must admit; I was a
bit startled as to why it was once considered poor-taste to wear white into the cooler months,
but it does make sense. Let's take a closer look at whether or not you should wear white after
Labor Day.
How Did It All Begin?
As with most fashion trends, the upper-crust started this tradition in the early 20th century as a
way to show how well off they really were. While poor people couldn't afford to change their
wardrobe with the seasons, rich people could. Thus, the white clothes that were worn in the
summer were thought to be a sign of being poor when worn in the winter. Instead, you were
supposed to wear darker colors. But, how does this relate to today's fashion?
Can We Wear White After Labor Day?
Obviously, we live in an age where such trivialities aren't taken literally. Still, you may find
yourself wondering if that white blazer should be tucked away until next summer. The truth is
white has actually become a very trendy color for winter fashion. While winter white is actually
an off-white color, it's still all the rage. However, you do want to remember to choose pieces
that are made of heavier, winter-friendly materials. There you have it. You now longer have to
listen to the voice of your great grandmother nit-picking that gorgeous outfit you picked out that
just happens to be white. Embrace all the shades throughout the year. Remember, it's not the
color itself that matters, it's how the color looks on you that really matters.
45
My Desperate Plea for Normal
Heels
By Joanna Douglas, Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor | Fashion
I often write about the fashion that makes us sad, and lately the
items that upset me the most are outrageous high heels. First
off, I've never understood when women say "the higher the
heel, the better." Towering stilettos might look "sexier," but any
shoe I can't easily walk several blocks in, stand for several
hours in, or dance in is not being purchased by me. Perhaps
high heels aren't meant to be practical, but these days it's
difficult to find heels that are 3.5" or lower and don't make my
feet feel instantly numb.
The other element that makes me a combination of confused, disgusted, angry, and
bummed out is the absurd amount of embellishments on high heels. I share Coco
Chanel's philosophy on accessorizing. She said, "Before you leave the house, look in
the mirror and take one thing off." I wish all shoe designers would keep this concept in
mind. So many current heels are adorned with zippers, buckles, studs, spikes, crystals,
rosettes, animal prints, intertwining straps, platforms, and a random combination of
four different materials like suede, patent leather, lizard-printed metallic leather, and
calf hair. Aside from the fact that I find these Frankenshoes are a complete eye sore,
tracking down a more neutral heel that could go with any outfit has become increasingly difficult. (If someone else wants to wear these things, so be it, but how about
some basic options for me?!) Also: the more embellishments the higher the price, or at
least so it seems.
With all that in mind I bring you the latest best-selling heel: Christian Louboutin's 20th
anniversaryIsolde Spiked Patent-leather Sandals. They cost $3,995 and they're almost
completely sold out (the black ones are gone on Net-a-Porter, but the gold version is
available in very limited sizes at Barneysand ChristianLouboutin.com. In the past few
weeks I've seen Jennifer Lopez, Victoria Beckham, Kim Kardashian, Cassie, Monica,
and "Real Housewives" star Nene Leakes wearing these monstrosities.
I would not wear these if they were given to me for free. In fact, I'm convinced Christian
Louboutin is playing a practical joke on everyone, seeing how ridiculous and expensive
he can make each pair of shoes and laughing as celebrities willingly wear them in
public.
I don't think every pair of shoes needs to be a basic black pump. I like polka dots. I like
neon. I like metallics. I like small buckles and studs. I just don't like them all at once,
and I'm starting to wonder if I am alone in this thought. I'm also hoping every day that a
more minimalist style with a less treacherous heel height comes back into fashion. And
soon.
46
Genes behind Transsexualism possibly found.
World Science "http://www.world-science.net" \h
Scientists say they may have found genes that help explain why a tiny percentage of
men seethemselves as women, cruelly trapped in the wrong body.
The researchers say the findings are very preliminary and should be "interpreted with
the ut-most caution," due to the small sample size used in their study.
Nonetheless, they say, the results might shed some light on the rare condition,
transsexualism. Itis estimated to afflict about one in 30,000 men, some of whom follow
through on their sense oftheir correct gender by getting sex-change operations.
More broadly, the research could help clarify one of the most contentious and poorly
understood questions in biology: what creates "gender identity"—the sense most people
have that they areeither a man or a woman.
The feeling is normally rather deep-seated; people don't need to examine their body
shapes toconfirm it. It is also considered distinct from the issue of whom a person is
sexually attracted to.
The question is how genes, culture or both conspire to produce gender identity
Transsexualism "raises important questions as to how the gender identity is moulded
in hu-mans," wrote the researchers, who included Susanne Hennigsson of Göteborg
University andMikael Landén of the Karolinska Institute in Göteborg and Stockholm,
Sweden, respectively.
They describe the research in the August issue of the scientific journal Psychoneuroendocrinology.
If their findings are correct, the risk of becoming a transsexual may depend partly on
variationsin the length of certain segments of DNA where the genetic code
47
"stutters," that is, a few "letters" of the code repeat themselves in the same order
many times.
Notably, scientists found in a study published last December that these repeat
sequences may be the sites of some of the most common genetic mutations, and thus
may underlie some of the fastest evolutionary changes in life's history. Evolutionary
theory holds that mutations produce evolution, because the occasional mutations that are
advantageous spread through populations, changing these populations' characteristics,
and over time gradually create new species.
In the transsexualism study, the researchers examined a repeat sequence in each of three
genesknown to affect the sexual development of the brain, in hopes that one or more of
these might shedlight on transsexualism. They studied several common variants
affecting the length of these re-peats in different people.
These variants "are all much more common than is transsexualism" itself, they wrote.
"Hence, thegoal of this study was not to reveal the primary cause of transsexualism, " but
rather to help explain"whether the studied genes may facilitate or prevent" it.
One particular variant seemed significantly associated with the frequency of transsexualism, they found. This variant was in a gene responsible for producing a molecule called
ER-Beta. ER-Beta acts as a minuscule gateway that controls the flow of estrogen, a
hormone, through the brain dur-ing fetal development.
Estrogen is thought to be responsible for wiring the brain in a "masculine" way in males
beforebirth although, paradoxically, the substance is better known as a female sex
hormone. This is be-cause after birth, it influences the development of female sexual
characteristics.
The gene that produces the ER-beta receptor contains a section called a CA repeat
sequence, so called because C and A are names for two "letters" of the genetic code
which, here, are repeatedmany times in a row.
The researchers found that longer CA repeats were associated with a greater risk of
transsexual-ism in the study, which included 29 male-to-female transsexuals (men who
wish they were women)and 229 healthy males.
It is unknown exactly how this change in the ER-beta gene might contribute to transsexualism, theresearchers said. The gene may produce different variants of the molecular
48
gateway, which trans-mit estrogen more or less easily; but it's unknown whether one of
these might be the reason for theeffect, or whether the reason is something else.
Moreover, the researchers found that the two other genes that they studied also seem to
influencethe risk of becoming a transsexual. But neither of these genes on its own
predicted that risk, theyfound. Rather, specific combinations of all three variants seemed
to be more common amongtranssexuals.
The other two genes studied were genes encoding the production of molecules called
aromatase and androgen receptor. These genes, too, are believed to help determine
how "masculine" the
brain becomes.
More masculine, in this context, means that certain brain structures are relatively smaller
or larger in males than in females, possibly reflecting the relative importance of those
brain structures in each sex.
Researchers have found that parts of the frontal cortex, the seat of many reasoning
functions, and the limbic cortex, involved in emotions, are bigger compared to other brain
areas in women than in men. Parts of the parietal cortex, which contributes to spatial perception, and the amygdala, which responds to emotionally arousing information, are bigger in men. A part of the hypothalamus, a brain region that regulates reproductive behavior, is also believed to be bigger in males.
At least one brain region has also been found to be different in male heterosexuals and
homosex-uals, also a part of the hypothalamus. And more recently, gay and straight men
have been found to differ in how their brain responds to a scent in male sweat.
But scientists don't know whether homosexuality and transsexualism have anything in
common bi-ologically, beyond the fact that some people view both as aberrations and that
now, both are being found to have a possible genetic basis.
The idea that genes underlie transsexualism, at least among men who want to be
women, has gained support from reports on twin and non-twin siblings who both have
"this very rare condition, and from reports on families with more than one member" having
it, Henningsson and colleagues wrote.
Gender identity is typically established by 18 to 24 months of age, when "boys come to
know they are boys, and girls come to know they are girls," according to the Merck Manual
of Diagnosis and Therapy, 17th Edition.
49
Some people act in ways typically considered more appropriate for the other sex, but this
doesn't make them transsexuals, as long as they're comfortable with their physical gender.
Rather, trans-sexuals "believe that they are victims of a biologic accident," the book says,
"and that they are cru-elly imprisoned within a body incompatible with their gender
identity."
How To Pass As A Woman In Seven Seconds
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lucille Sorella is a GG (genetic girl)
who teaches crossdressers, transsexuals, and transgender females
how to look, act, and feel like real women. Her goal is to help Twomen express their inner and outer femininity and increase their
confidence as women. She has a professional background in fashion, beauty, dance, and natural healing and has been working
with the transgender community for the past 12 years. Her website
is loaded with useful information and is located at http://
www.flat2fem.com/index1.html .
Did you know that you only have seven seconds to make a first impression?
That means that you’ve only got seven seconds to blend in or pass as a woman! After
that, people’s judgments have been
cast and are almost impossible to
change.
I won’t lie – having a pretty face helps,
but it’s often the little details that make
or break a first impression. So how
can you be sure that people see you as
the fab female you truly are? Keep
reading to discover my top five tips for
making a stunning first impression!
1. Set an intention
The first step to making a great impression is deciding WHAT impression you
want to make… is your goal to blend in as just another girl going about her day … or is
it to stick out as a gender bending fashion diva? Do you want to be noticed for your
style, your sophistication … or maybe just your great legs?
Once you know your intention, it’s a lot easier to channel that energy through your ap-
50
pearance and interactions with people.
2. Check your accessories
A first impression has less to do with your natural born looks as it does with all the little
details that make up your image. I’m talking about your clothes, makeup, hair, jewelry,
shoes, etc. Your shoes and bag in particular say loads about you, your fashion sense,
and even your status – so make sure these accessories reflect the impression you are
trying to make.
3. Don’t wear too much perfume
I know this seems like an obvious tip, but it must be said: Wearing too much perfume
offends people and makes you seem like you are trying too hard! It’s a good way to
ruin an otherwise great impression. How much perfume is too much? Unless somebody is close enough to touch you, they should NOT be able to smell your perfume.
4. Be aware of your body language
Body language is important, ESPECIALLY when you are making a first impression.
Your posture and body language should tell the world that you are a classy, confident
woman who deserves respect. If you really want to master feminine body language,
try video taping yourself. You might discover some “surprises” – like jerky movements
or slouched shoulders – that you weren’t aware of in real life.
5. Make eye contact
Your eyes reveal more about you than you probably realize. Avoiding eye contact
gives the impression that you have low self esteem or have something to hide. Not
what you need for a first impression! So be bold and look people straight in the eye.
(And don’t forget to smile!)
Dear Miss Diane,
My problem was height. I'm 6'2" in my nylons. My wife who rules our household is very
supportive.
Several suggestions to help your problem:
1. Let your hair grow-mine is now 24" and is dyed blonde.
2- Wear the brightest lipstick you can find. This will attract attention to your lips-.just
like the girl in the Progressive Insurance commercials. You don't notice anything else
about her.
3. Get rid of any facial hair (moustache, beard, sideburns) 3 Get your eyebrows
51
shaped at a beauty parlor. Thin arched brows do not shriek "male".
4-Get your ears pierced and always wear femme earrings when in public. Do not wear
diamond studs-many athletes do, so studs are now a no-no for trannies. I wear
dangling pearls.
5. Always be freshly and closely shaved when in public.
6. Carry a very femme purse wherever you go.
7. Stand as tall as you can, with your chest thrust out.
8.. Walk with a femme swing to your hips. Take short steps. Try to point your toes
straight ahead. Pretend you are walking a chalk line and have each step center on the
line.
9. Always wear femme colors. Pink, lavender, yellow, white, black. Use silks and satins, never wool or cotton.
10. A hair ribbon or bow is appropriate.
11. Use eye shadow and mascara.
12. Keep your fingernails painted, either red or pink, display your hands prominently.
A bit about me. We were wed in Las Vegas in 2004 by an ordained minister. The day
before we got our license at the Clark County office. That was the last day I ever wore
any male clothes. I was wed in a dress that my wife made to match hers. We got some
stares as we walked hand in hand through the lobby of the (now torn down) Stardust
Hotel in our wedding gowns. Going there, my plane ticket said Mr. No one at the airline
complained on the return trip as Mr.______ showed up in a skirt and blouse with nylons
and pink shoes.If they had, my wife was primed to tell them that her husband was a
24/7 sissy cross-dresser. That's what she tells customs every time we cross the USCanada border. I just smile at the officer, with fresh lipstick on, and a sheepish look.
Never a problem.
I do not consider myself a trans-sexual. I'm male, submissive, always en femme with no
idea of a sex change. I wear a 42DD bra with breast forms, so there is no mistaking
how I present, as if my skirt, nylons, femme shoes, blouse and long blonde hair didn't
give it away. No Woman is ugly. That's why some wear cosmetics. Just know you are
F, not M, and be proud. Go for it Girl!
Fondly, girlishly, with best wishes.
sissygrace
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The Gossip Fence
Fort Worth now has not one but two transgender support groups
After we featured the new group Fort Worth Transgender Support on the cover of
Dallas Voice leaders with another Cowtown trans group, Trans-cendence, informed us
it has started up again. Chris Christian, the group’s co-leader, said the group was
inactive for some time due to busy schedules and leadership changes.
The group has 36 active members including a separate group called SOFFA,
Significant Others, Family, Friends and Allies, that meets next door when
Trans-cendence meets. The group meets as a whole but then separates to talk about
unique issues and situations that come from being a parent of or married to a trans
person.
Trans-cendence meets monthly on the first Tuesday at Agape Metropolitan Community
Church, at 4615 E. California Parkway in Fort Worth. For more information about
Trans-cendence, go here <http://trans-cendence.webs.com/> .
For Transgender Veterans, An Awkward ID Problem Awaits Simple Fix
WASHINGTON -- There aren't many transgender U.S. military veterans. Advocacy
groups estimate the number may be somewhere around 300,000 out of the nation's 26
million vets. But nearly all will struggle to access military benefits because of an awkward bureaucratic snafu that could be easily fixed: their discharge papers show the
wrong gender.
The problem for transgender vets, who typically transition to the opposite gender after
leaving the military, is that their name and gender no longer match what appears on
the form. And since the Defense Department treats the document as "a historical
record," military officials aren't allowed to change its information, which means
transgender vets routinely get turned down for services.
It would be "pretty simple" to fix, Wilson said. Since it would only require an
administrative tweak to give people the ability to amend their discharge forms, the fix
could be made as easily as the stroke of a pen by Defense Secretary Leon Panetta.
It is "absolutely under his jurisdiction," Wilson said. A Defense Department
spokeswoman could not immediately say whether Panetta would be receptive to
making the change.
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Chicago Police Department adopts transgender general order
Chicago, IL — The Chicago Police Department (CPD) has adopted a general order for
the treatment of transgender individuals while in CPD custody, reports the Windy City
Times.
The order mandates that police not search transgender people in an attempt to
determine their gender, that officers respect preferred names and pronouns for
transgender detainees and that they not use someone's gender identity as assumed
cause for a crime. It further bans derogatory language against trans people.
According to the CPD website, the policy went into effect Aug. 22.
Eric Holder Gay Rights A Top Priority For Obama Administration
Attorney General Eric Holder on Thursday addressed a gathering of LGBT lawyers,
telling them that gay rights are a top priority for President Barack Obama and his administration.
“Thanks to the work of tireless advocates, activists, and attorneys in – and far beyond
– this room, our nation has made great strides on the road to LGBT equality and the
unfinished struggle to secure and protect the civil rights of all Americans. For President
Obama, for me, and for our colleagues at every level of the Obama administration, this
work has long been a top priority – and I'm pleased to note that it has resulted in
meaningful, measurable and enduring change,” Holder told attendees of the 2012
Lavender Law Conference and Career Fair taking place in Washington DC.
Transgender People New Targets of Hateful Political Ads
DENVER — Even amidst emotional fights over same-sex marriage, anti-gay political
advertisements have grown increasingly civil since the 1970s, new research finds. For
transgender people, however, the media landscape is looking increasingly brutal.
Political attacks against transgender people increasingly portray them as predatory
and dangerous, even as ads by conservative groups depicting gay people as pedophiles or sexual predators have dropped nearly off the map, said Amy Stone, a sociologist at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas.
"Awareness has really been focused on same sex-marriage," Stone told Live Science.
"We haven't been paying attention to the ways that transgender rights are so easily targeted by the [political] right on a local level."
Targeting the transgendered
Transgender people are at high risk of experiencing prejudice and mental health problems , including a staggering 41 percent rate of suicide attempts
Gender identity and the issue of transgender rights often come up on a local level
when cities and municipalities consider nondiscrimination laws. For example, in 2008,
the city commission of Gainesville, Fla., added a gender identity provision to the town's
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anti-discrimination ordinance. Social conservatives organized a ballot referendum,
seeking to overthrow the new provision with the specter of men invading women's
restrooms. (The referendum did not pass and the anti-discrimination ordinance
stands.)
This April, a similar anti-discrimination proposition failed to pass in Anchorage, Alaska.
In the run-up to the vote, an opposition group called "Protect Your Rights – Vote No On
Prop. 5" put out a cartoon ad depicting a burly man in a dress applying for a job as a
daycare worker. A voiceover then warned that under the new proposition, it would be
illegal for the daycare "to refuse a job to a transvestite who wants to work with toddlers."
"If we look at how transgender individuals are represented in the media it's often in a
very negative way," Stone said. "So they're on 'Law & Order' as a sex worker and
they're portrayed in a negative way in that fashion, or they are a victim of a crime or
they're a murderer, a killer."
Fighting back
Gay and transgender rights activists have started fighting back against fear-mongering
portrayals of trans people, Stone said, attempting to educate the public about what
"transgendered" means and why equal rights matter.
Hit & Miss won't return for second series, confirms Sky Atlantic
Chloë Sevigny's Hit & Miss will not return for a second series, it has been confirmed.
In a message on the channel's official Twitter feed, Sky Atlantic stated "Hit & Miss was
always intended as a mini-series, and as such, there are no plans for it to return."
Back in July, Sky Atlantic told Digital Spy that a decision was yet to be made on the
future of Hit & Miss but the broadcaster noted that the first six-part series had been
"critically-acclaimed, and viewers have really taken to it".
However, Chloë Sevigny previously hinted that the series might not return , revealing
that she was signed only for a single run. She added: "I'd want to see what they would
do with the story [in season two], where the characters would go. I really enjoyed playing the character."
Democrats unveil historic party platform backing ‘freedom to marry,’ ENDA
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On the eve of their national convention in Charlotte, N.C., the
Democratic Party on Monday unveiled its official platform, one that supports marriage
equality for gays and lesbians — an historic first for a national U.S. political party.
The platform also calls for the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), supports
the Employment Non- Discrimination Act, which would prohibit workplace
discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and protections for LGBT
bi-national couples threatened with deportation.
The Democratic platform also states that it “strongly and unequivocally supports Roe v.
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Wade,” the 1973 landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that made abortion legal.
The document stands in sharp contrast to the Republican blueprint that the GOP
adopted at its convention in Tampa, Fla., last week. The Republican plan calls for a
ban of all abortions and same-sex marriage.
Events focus on transgender issues in the workplace
Human relations professionals, as well as other parties interested in diversity, have a
golden opportunity to learn more about the issues surrounding transgendered
employees. Out & Equal of Atlanta, in conjunction with Turner Broadcasting’s TurnOut,
hosts two back-to-back events to help foster dialogue about issues that come up when
an employee experiences a gender transition.
On Tuesday, Sept. 18, a special screening of the film “No Dumb Questions” was
shown at Turner Broadcasting. This film is a lighthearted documentary profiling three
sisters, ages 6, 9 and 11, struggling to understand why and how their Uncle Bill is
becoming a woman. Filmmaker Melissa Regan will answer questions along with the
father of the girls and, for the first time, the three sisters together. Since this film was
made 10 years ago, the sisters have a different perspective and are eager to share
with the audience about the process they went through. Regan decided to make the
film as a response to being told by her mother not to share the fact that she was a
lesbian with her younger siblings.
The second event the following morning, Sept. 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., was a
free educational seminar about workplace issues that surround transgendered
employees. “This training addresses serious issues that companies are grappling with
such as transgender worker re-entry into the workplace after transitioning,” he says.
Toyota Uses Transgender Israeli Model to Show that the New 2013 Auris isn’t for
Everyone
Something tells us that Toyota's TV spot for the freshly unveiled 2013 Auris compact
hatchback won't be hitting the airwaves in a lot of countries outside of its home market
of Japan any time soon. Toyota's commercial for the new generation of the Auris,
which itself will make its first public appearance at next month's Paris Motor Show in
both regular and Hybrid forms, stars an unnamed transgender fashion model from Israel.
The 19-year old male model with feminine traits poses around the five-door hatchback
and at the same time we see a tagline saying, "NOT IN TREND, NOT CASUAL, NOT
FOR EVERYONE, NOT AUTHORITY, BUT AURIS".
Judge orders that trans convict be given gender reassignment surgery in prison
A Judge in Boston, Massachusetts has ruled that a trans woman must be given gender
reassignment surgery in prison, in order to treat her gender dysphoria. This is believed
to be the first ruling of its kind.
Michelle Kosilek identifies herself as female but is incarcerated in an male-only prison.
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She was previously known as Robert, was married to Cheryl Kosilek, and was
convicted of murdering her in 1990. She received a life sentence, with no parole, had
attempted to commit suicide, and to self-castrate since being locked up in the all male
prison in Norfolk, Massachusetts.
Chief Judge Mark L. Wolf described the surgery as the “only adequate treatment” for
Kosilek. The Department of Correction will be responsible for deciding where to
incarcerate Ms Kolinsek after her surgery.
Legal first as sex swap flasher wins treatment bid
A FLASHER will not have to undergo group sex offending treatment handed down as
part of his punishment... because he is now a she. The convicted offender, who now
goes by the name of Saralee Fisher, will now have to carry out one-to-one work with a
probation officer.
It is believed it is the first time ever officials have been forced to alter the conditions of
a sex offender’s punishment because of a sex change.
March Honors 46th Anniversary of Compton's Cafeteria Riots
In the 1960s, Compton's Cafeteria in San Francisco's gritty Tenderloin neighborhood
was virtually the only place in the city where transgender folks could congregate
publicly, as they weren't allowed in gay bars at the time. Cross-dressing was still illegal
in the city, and the local police often used the presence of trans women as a pretext for
raiding and closing gay bars.
The patrons at Compton's were used to being rousted by the police, but one night,
after a cop attempted to arrest one trans woman, that "street queen" (as the women
were often called) fought back and tossed her drink into the officer's face. A huge riot
broke out and spilled into the neighborhood, becomimg one of the first transgender
uprisings in the U.S., three years before New York's Stonewall. (There was a much
smaller riot in L.A. in 1959.)
Trans people weren't the only ones rioting as the hours went on; they were joined by
many from the country's first youth group, Vanguard Youth, as well as numerous street
dykes, queer hustlers, and neighborhood locals. Later LGBT folks from other parts of
the city joined in. The Compton's riot was a turning point in trans liberation, and by
1969 the first transgender advocacy group in the nation -- and the world -- had been
founded, according to GLBTQ.com
In 2011 Sandra Fluke argued for sex-change-operation insurance mandate
In an academic article published last year, contraception advocate Sandra Fluke made
the case that private health insurers should be required to pay for sex change operations.
Fluke has become a vocal surrogate of the Democratic Party. She thrust herself into
the media spotlight in February when she told the House Democratic Steering and
57
Policy Committee that many of her Georgetown Law School classmates were without
birth control pills because the university’s insurance plan was not forced to cover it.
“Transgender persons wishing to undergo the gender reassignment process
frequently face heterosexist employer health insurance policies that label [genderreassignment] surgery as cosmetic, or medically unnecessary and therefore
uncovered,” Fluke and Hu wrote for the Georgetown Journal of Gender and the Law
By some estimates, sex change operations can cost between $15,000 and $20,000;
the cost for some procedures can be as high as $50,000. Fluke and other advocates
want insurers to cover all such operations. In general, assuming the costs of new
coverage mandates tends to raise rates for all enrollees in a given health-care plan.
Conference to Understand Health Issues of Transgendered to be Held in Australia
TransgenderedIt has been reported that scientists and doctors would be attending a
meeting-cum-conference at Cairns to understand more the health issues of
transgenders. The conference called Sister Girl and Gender Diverse Conference is one
of the first of it types in Queensland.
Doctors and medical practitioners have been found unaware of the health issues faced
by the transgendered. The conference will take place on Friday. Health Expert, Darren
Russell was reported saying, “There are specialists in this area around the country both GPs who have got large numbers of transgender people in their community as
well as clinics, specialists and psychiatrists who are experts in this”.
The conference will provide an opportunity to the medical practitioners to understand
the health issues of the transgendered. During the conference indigenous transgender
people will share their experience as well. It is hoped that the conference will prove
helpful in improving the medical science.
Transgender pilot wins battle against FAA
"After three years of advocacy, we are thrilled to see the FAA remove unnecessary
and burdensome barriers for transgender pilots," said Masen Davis, executive director
of the TLC, in an email to the Bay Area Reporter. "At [TLC] our goal is to create a
society where every person can live authentically, free from discrimination. For
Tamsyn, that means being able to fly."
Prior to June 2012, and as stipulated in the FAA Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners,
transgender pilots were required to undergo a battery of psychiatric evaluations in
order to obtain medical certification. According to Waterhouse, the tests cost
thousands of dollars and took days, and, in the end, certification could still be denied.
In a letter dated July 7, 2009, the agency informed Waterhouse that she failed to meet
the medical standards prescribed in the agency's code of federal regulations and
denied her request for medical certification. During this time, she called TLC, which
worked with NCTE and NGLTF, as well as Congressmen Mike Honda (D-San Jose)
and Barney Frank (D-Massachusetts), to implore the FAA to change its guidelines.
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In June, the FAA revised its policy for transgender pilots. While documentation from
primary care physicians, as well as psychologists or psychiatrists, is still required, the
revision removes the psychological testing requirement. The changes are posted
online under "Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners"
Need $75,000 for a Sex-Change Operation? Enroll at UC Berkeley
Under the student health care plan at the University of California (UC) – Berkeley, students can receive coverage of up to $75,000 for sex-change operations and other
related therapy, documents obtained on Monday by Campus Reform reportedly
indicate. According to the “2012-13 UC Berkeley Student Health Insurance Plan
Benefits Booklet,”the publicly funded university will provide up to 90 percent of the
controversial procedure, which comes out to about $75,000. Also covered under UC
Berkeley’s health care plan are students who would like to have “hormone therapy”
and “gender confirmation (reassignment) surgery.” Better yet, the university will also
pay for some “certain travel costs” associated with a sex-change operation because
there are only a “limited number of providers” near the school.
UC Berkeley’s website describes its student health care plan as “a comprehensive major medical insurance plan, providing medical, counseling, prescription, vision and dental services.” Funny, it doesn’t mention sex-change operations.
HHS Says Health Plans Cannot Discriminate Against Transgender People
In a recent letter hailed by advocates in the LGBT community, the Department of
Health and Human Services clarified that provisions in the Affordable Care Act
prohibiting sex discrimination in health insurance apply to transgender people.
With HHS declaring that it would be discriminatory for employers, insurers and others
to deny health insurance coverage or benefits based on "gender identity or failure to
conform to stereotypical notions of masculinity or femininity," advocates hope that
transgender people will take another step toward achieving equality in health care.
The HHS letter, issued by the department's Office of Civil Rights, adds to recent court
decisions and a ruling by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in April that
the Civil Rights Act's prohibition against sex discrimination applies to transgender
people. The letter says the office of civil rights is now accepting and investigating
complaints of sex discrimination under the health care law. If discrimination is found
and an organization doesn't act voluntarily to resolve the problem, the office may move
to halt federal financial assistance, among other actions.
The letter does not mean that insurers have to cover surgery related to gender transition, according to a statement posted online by HHS, which plans to issue further guidance on the subject.
Many major professional medical organizations, including the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association, support treatment for gender identity
disorder. Although they are not required to do so, a growing number of employers provide health benefits that address the needs of transgender individuals.
59
Paul Ryan Helped Kill Trans-Inclusive ENDA
Republican vice-presidential nominee Paul Ryan voted in favor of protecting gay, l
esbian, and bisexual employees from discrimination in 2007, but refused to support a
version of the legislation that added gender identity to the protected characteristics.
New Laws On the Way for Transgender People
The Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton says new laws will be introduced to
provide recognition for Transgender people in Ireland.
The legislation, which is required following Dr Lydia Foy’s High Court victory five years
ago, will allow people to change their gender on their birth certificate. The Minister’s
announced a Dail and Seanad Committee will discuss the issue before the end of the
year, after which the legislation will be drafted.
The State has to introduce these new laws after it lost the case taken by Transgendered woman, Dr Lydia Foy, five years ago.
Many delegates here are disappointed the lack of marriage equality means if you
change your gender but want to remain with your existing partner, you must divorce
and remarry
Post-Macy Best Employment Practices for a Transgender Workforce
The transgender community has seen a recent surge in legal, policy, and rule-making
developments affording it greater protections from employment discrimination. For
example, although federal anti-discrimination laws do not explicitly prohibit
discrimination on the basis of gender identity, 16 states[1], the District of Columbia,
and over 140 local governments now have laws expressly prohibiting discrimination on
the basis of gender identity or expression. In addition, the Eleventh Circuit recently
ruled that while transgender individuals do not make up their own protected class, such
individuals might still enjoy protection from discrimination under the recognized
protected classes of sex and gender if an employer takes adverse action against them
because their appearances and/or behaviors do not fit gender stereotypes. See Glenn
v. Brumby, (11th Cir. 2011).
Finally, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) ruled earlier this year,
in Macy v. Holder, that Title VII protects transgender individuals from discrimination[2].
Although Macy does not bind federal courts, it will likely influence how courts view and
decide transgender cases. Moreover, the EEOC will now accept and investigate Title
VII claims alleging discrimination based on transgender status against private-sector
employers.
In the wake of these developments, employers should prepare for a possible increase
in gender-identity discrimination claims and review their policies and practices to help
reduce the risks of such claims.
60
Gender-inclusive washrooms officially open in the SUB
On Aug. 29, two formerly gendered washrooms in the main concourse of the UVic
Student Union Building (SUB) were reopened as multi-stall gender-inclusive
washrooms, meaning any person of any perceived gender can use either space.
"The driving force behind why we are going gender inclusive is there are a lot of issues
of violence against transgendered people in washrooms and difficulty for them to
access or enter gendered spaces," says Ariel Tseng, UVSS director of Finance and
Operations and a member of the gender-inclusive washrooms committee. "They are
also important for families, like parents who are a different gender from their children
and people who have caregivers of a different gender."
UVic is the first campus on Vancouver Island to implement the multi-stall concept for
gender-inclusive washrooms. The only visible changes to the main concourse
washrooms are the replacement of signs at the entrance of each bathroom as well as
a partition built around the urinals in the former men's washroom.
Transgender Delegation Makes DNC ''Especially Historic''
2012 Dem Convention boasts largest-ever number of transgender delegates
''This year is the first time there have been so many delegates from the trans
community, so it makes it an especially historic moment for us.'' In total, there are 13
openly trans delegates. Several took time to speak directly with QNotes. Here's a look
at who they are and some of their thoughts on President Obama, Charlotte, their role
in the convention and their hopes for the future:
Democrats Advance Trans Rights, But Rarely Say So In Charlotte
Thrilled, for the most part, with the administration's actions on trans issues, many
transgender Democrats found themselves looking for the action to be matched more
often with words -- from elected officials like Obama, but also from LGBT leaders
themselves.
Dana Beyer, an out transgender member of the Credentials Committee in Charlotte,
said, "The trans community has clearly experienced a quantum leap in recognition by
the national Democratic Party. That was evident not only by the 75 percent increase in
trans delegates" -- there were 14 out transgender delegate or alternate delegates in
Charlotte -- "but by the acceptance of trans rights by those who were already accepting
of gay rights."
The progress on trans issues, though significant, has happened under the radar for the
most part. And, unlike steps taken by the administration on marriage and the military,
movement on trans issues -- including coverage in the party's platform -- rarely is
trumpeted as a success outside of LGBT-specific (or even trans-specific) forums and
media. In every notable instance of administrative action taken -- from the State
Department to the Education Department to Health and Human Services to Housing
and Urban Development to the Justice Department -- discrimination against and
protections for transgender people, based on gender identity, have been addressed
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alongside those based on sexual orientation. Aside from the end of "Don't Ask, Don't
Tell" -- which only addressed gay, lesbian and bisexual, but not trans, service -almost all federal changes during the Obama administration for LGBT people have
been inclusive of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. "It's the lack of recognition from within our LGBT caucus leaders. We heard consistently about marriage
equality. Rick Stafford even stepped over himself," she said of the LGBT caucus chair,
who made a comment about the end of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" enabling out LGBT
service, but then correcting himself and noting that work remained to be done to enable out transgender military service. Beyer said, though, that even on that front, the
situation was improving.
Same sex wedding hell: Transgender couples ‘must split’
MARRIED transgender folks in Ireland will have to get divorced if their status gets
State approval. The warning came as equality groups gave a guarded welcome to
government plans to give them legal recognition. Social Protection Minister Joan
Burton said proposed legislation would soon be published. But she insisted a clause
on ‘forced divorces’ would stay in the Bill to maintain the constitutional protection of
marriage.
Transgender Equality Network’s Vanessa Lacey claimed the new law would break up
happy relationships. She said it could hurt situations where one partner comes out
with their gender identity and is supported by their spouse. “To get your gender
certificate when the legislation eventually comes in, you are forced to divorce because
it is technically a same-sex marriage. “Here we are developing parent and family support groups and then our Government is saying, ‘Let’s just drag them apart’.
France confirms gay marriage will be legal by 2013
French Prime Minister Jean Marc Ayrault has said a same-sex marriage and adoption
bill will be passed to the Senate in October. Fulfilling a campaign promise of President
Francois Hollande, the package reforms will also allow adoption by gay couples.
It is unknown whether other promised reforms, such as transgender people being
allowed to legally define their gender before surgery, granting lesbians fertility
treatment, and lifting the lifetime ban on gay and bisexual men giving blood, will also
be included in the bill.
GP banned after prescribing gay “cure”
A NSW doctor belonging to the Exclusive Brethren religious sect has been banned
from practising as a GP after prescribing chemical castration as a “cure” for
homosexuality.
Mark Christopher James Craddock prescribed an 18-year-old man anti-androgen
therapy cyproterone acetate (Cyprostat) when he approached Craddock in 2008
seeking a treatment for being gay. A council hearing held last month was told the
young man came out as gay in 2008 and was told by a Exclusive Brethren leader that
“there’s medication you can go on for these things”. The leader then referred him on to
62
Craddock.
The Medical Council found that Craddock did not make a proper physical psychologist
nor did he discuss the side effects of the drug, which includes impotence in some
cases. He was found guilty of unsatisfactory conduct and was restricted to only
practicing as a radiologist with restrictions on prescriptions he could write for patients
outside that field except in emergency situations.
Victims asked to come forward after butt injections lead to woman's death
JACKSON, Miss. — Attorney General Jim Hood is asking for any other victims to
come forward after a Georgia woman died from a buttocks injection in Jackson. The
Mississippi attorney general is asking anyone who had procedures done by Tracey
Lynn Garner to call his office. Authorities said transgender suspect Tracey Lynn
Garner, whose birth name is Morris Garner, is charged with depraved-heart murder in
connection with the death of Karma Gordon.
Hood said Gordon used a form of silicone in an illegal procedure to make Gordon's
buttocks bigger. Gordon traveled from Atlanta to Garner's home in Jackson and paid
$1,500 for the procedure, Hood said. Gordon became very ill on her way home and
went to a hospital Hood said. She died within three days, he said.
The attorney general's office has asked anyone who has had a procedure from Garner
to call 1-800-281-4418.
Report: The US is less productive because of LGBT discrimination in the
workplace
Discrimination against LGBT employees of the US government, on all levels, is proving
costly to the taxpayer, a new study claims.
Titled, Gay and Transgender Discrimination in the Public Sector , the report says there
are around a million LGBT employees working in state, local or municipal government,
and that many fear that they will be overlooked for promotion, not be hired at all, or
even that they will be sacked, for being gay.
Produced by AFSCME, a public services union, and the Center for American Progress,
a nonpartisan research institute, the report starts by saying that discrimination is unfair
to LGBT people and has a negative financial effect: “Discrimination against gay and
transgender workers introduces costly inefficiencies and thereby imposes significant
financial harm on government entities.
The report examines the problem, and then suggests legal solutions to protect the
LGBT workforce in their jobs, and the government and taxpayer from losing out financially: “Lastly, we outline commonsense solutions that policymakers at the municipal,
state, and federal level should take to combat discrimination and ensure the fair and
equal treatment of all employees, gay or straight, transgender or not.
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