Esprit Master

Sunday Evening Ice Breaker

Juan de Fuca, on Sunday May 8 at 6:00PM

On Sunday evening there will be an icebreaker Cocktail Party for all of the early arrivals at Esprit. Snacks will be provided by Esprit and wine, beer and cocktails will be available from the no-host bar. The party starts early in the evening and is a great time to renew old friendships and see what folks have been up to since the last Esprit.

For first-time attendees this is a fabulous time to meet people and get charged up for the coming week! The party will be held in the Juan de Fuca banquet room.

Years ago, the Icebreaker was held in the patio on the water side of the restaurant. The patio is slightly sunken and has glass all the way around it so that the diners in the restaurant can see the water. The attendees in 2001 promptly named it "The Fishbowl"!

This is the traditional kickoff to the week of Esprit. While this icebreaker is pretty much the same each year, Esprit definitely is not. The week is just getting started and there is a full slate of fun.

Esprit Master

Early Check-in

Juan de Fuca, on Sunday May 8 at 6:00PM

Early check-in for attendees who are fully paid and have pictures that were submitted or from the previous yearbook.

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Morning

Esprit Lobby, on Monday May 9 at 8:00AM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Afternoon

Esprit Lobby, on Monday May 9 at 1:00PM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Alyssa Lee

Koffee Klatsch

Presenter: Alyssa Lee

Peninsula, on Monday May 9 at 9:00AM

A morning get-together for first-time attendees. Come share stories, insights, experiences and feelings with your friends. While you're here, enjoy a morning coffee or tea and catch up on what's coming up today.

FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES ONLY, PLEASE.

Presenter Info

Alyssa attended her first Esprit in 2001. Among her many duties, she is the Big Sister/Little Sister Liaison in addition to leading the Koffee Klatsch.

Suzanne Adams

Cross Dressing 101

Presenter: Suzanne Adams

Peninsula, on Monday May 9 at 10:30AM

This is the ideal introduction to cross-dressing for the beginning crossdresser. The class will cover an array of topics in Suzanne's inimitable rapid-fire style. Learn about clothing, sizing, how to discreetly size clothes in the store, basic style advice, recent trends, and more in this popular class.

Presenter Info

Suzanne_Adams has been involved within the TG community since the early 1990's. She has served two years as President of Emerald City in the 1990's and six years as President from 2000 to 2006 and is currently the Secretary of the Board for Emerald City. She was a Facilitator for Pacific Gender Support groups and Treasurer of the parent organization Pacific Gender Institute in 2006 and Vice President of PGI for 2007. Since 2001 she has been Co-Chair and is currently the Chair on the Seattle Chief of Police Advisory Committee for Sexual Minorities. She is also the Seattle Police Firearms Review Board Citizen's Observer, appointed by the Seattle Mayor since 1996. She has served on the Ingersoll Gender Center Board and facilitated groups for 15 years (1993 through 2008). She has been secretary for five Esprit Committee Chairs and is the current Chair of the Esprit committee. Suzanne has been a presenter at Esprit every year since 1993.

Suzanne Adams

Basic Self Defense for Women and Those Who Present Themselves as Women

Presenter: Suzanne Adams

Peninsula, on Monday May 9 at 3:30PM

Suzanne has extensive past and current experience in law enforcement. She will teach you about awareness, avoiding risky situations, moving safely through different surroundings, a variety of self-defense moves, and how to handle interactions with the public and the police. Although this is a self defense course, movement is kept to a minimum and "dressing down" is not necessary.

Presenter Info

Suzanne_Adams has been involved within the TG community since the early 1990's. She has served two years as President of Emerald City in the 1990's and six years as President from 2000 to 2006 and is currently the Secretary of the Board for Emerald City. She was a Facilitator for Pacific Gender Support groups and Treasurer of the parent organization Pacific Gender Institute in 2006 and Vice President of PGI for 2007. Since 2001 she has been Co-Chair and is currently the Chair on the Seattle Chief of Police Advisory Committee for Sexual Minorities. She is also the Seattle Police Firearms Review Board Citizen's Observer, appointed by the Seattle Mayor since 1996. She has served on the Ingersoll Gender Center Board and facilitated groups for 15 years (1993 through 2008). She has been secretary for five Esprit Committee Chairs and is the current Chair of the Esprit committee. Suzanne has been a presenter at Esprit every year since 1993

Esprit Master

Clothing Exchange

Rm 151/153, on Monday May 9 at 9:00AM

The FREE Clothing Exchange is a daily feature of Esprit. Bring the clothes you don't wear any more and take whatever you like. A couple of ground rules, please:

1. Donate ONLY clean clothing in good, wearable condition (no seams ripped, buttons or zippers missing etc.)
2. HANG UP what you bring on the hangers provided.
3. HANG UP what you try on but don't take.
4. Enjoy!

Dotti Berry

SO Program - Overview and Welcome Message (no session)

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Monday May 9 at 9:00AM

2022 Esprit Theme for SO’s and Couples: Return to the Magic

There is no better city to support you than Port Angeles, WA, an amazing community of support that enables you to love who you are by loving you first.  This picture visually embraces the light that comes from within as we return to the magic of who we are. It’s the joy of tapping into that authentic self. This community has supported the growth of Esprit for over 30 years.  It has been my privilege to serve you for close to 20 of those (yes, I am counting the two years missed due to the pandemic which would have made this my 19th year)!  There is also no better conference to attend in terms of an opportunity for discovering how to love yourself, or enhancing loving the person you already are, both individually as an SO (Significant Other) or a person who is transgender or questioning, and/or as a couple.

Understand that tapping into the magic of the light within and “loving who you are” will never be a point at which you arrive because it is not a destination. It’s an ongoing process, both a joyous journey and one that perplexes each of us (your facilitator included!)  You will never reach the finish line of loving who you actually are and finding the eternal magic.  It is not an end goal, the peak of the mountain, the final task you must accomplish. You simply discover how to experience the magic along the journey of life! I invite you to “Enjoy the Ride” because it is YOUR ride, your journey.

Returning to the magic by embracing the light within is never-ending, because your life is fluid. “Every day is a new day” is not a cliche.  Having said that, it can either work for you, or against you. One day you will wake up, feel wonderful and say “Wow, I get it! I am on my way to truly loving who I am!”  The next day you will wake us (as I did when I moved 3000 miles across the country to live with Robynne), look in the mirror and say “Who ARE you?” as I contort my face in all directions.  It will feel as if there is no way out.  One day you think you are “Ms. Popularity” and “Who I am is OK” and the next day you feel as if everyone in your orbit thinks you are worthless and a deadbeat.  But this isn’t about them.  It’s about you and how you feel about yourself.  The truth is that nobody should be given authority over you in terms of loving yourself.  If you have been doing that, STOP IT!  It’s not their job to don you with a magic wand.  Return to the magic means accepting that it’s your responsibility to use the magic wand and tap yourself on the head, saying, “Who you are is OK and I love who you are!”  Indeed, You ARE a Miracle!  

“Loving Who You Are” enables you to return to the magic.  It will encompass a combination of moments, sometimes within seconds of each other, in which you feel proud of  “who you are” and then disgusted with yourself at the same time.  This is NORMAL!  Everyone experiences these feelings.

The most important aspect of “Loving Who You Are” as you return to the magic and embrace the light within is that it enables you to both invite others to love you and then to accept their love.   This is never more true that when it applies to your spouse or partner. It becomes the cornerstone that can lead to the formation of a beautiful, engaging, respectful and evolving relationship.

You may have already discovered and accepted that being transgender is never a choice; however, to be honest and live authentically is a choice.  To love yourself and to love others is also a choice, albeit one that takes time.  Bring others along with you in your journey, particularly your spouse or partner, and also your friends and family.

Our program will provide you a safe space for reflecting, contemplating your choices, and taking steps which empower you to live life “Loving Who You Are!”  as you journey through the week with your SO. Making choices also applies to you as the SO as well as both of you together as a couple.  The journey of the person who is transgender and making a decision to disclose that information means you may be faced with choices for which you feel unprepared.

You, individually and together as a couple, are confronted with multiple choices.  Our program will provide you a safe space for reflecting upon and contemplating the diverse choices with which you will come to better understand during your special week at Esprit.

While relationships can sometimes have common threads and share common stories, none are exactly alike.  Both the SO and the person who is transgender must find empathy and support for exploring the nature of their unique individual selves and their relationship.  Our program will support you in your journey of  “Loving Who You Are” as you move beyond isolation and what you are feeling and rediscovering that you who has been lost as you return to the magic.

If you have previously attended Esprit and been a part of our SO/Couples program, your sense of what’s happening in your family has possibly been evolving, and that, too, is a part of your journey upon which you can reflect.

Whether you are married or partnered with a FtM, MtF, be they crossdressers, transexual or genderqueer, (your partnership might total more than two people) Esprit’s SO/Couples program is designed to help you get answers to your questions.  It is designed to help you build friendships that encourage you, hear you, and make sure you know – you are NOT alone!

Attending Esprit offers many insights, whether you are a newbie or a long-timer. Bottom line? Everyone is welcome…because we all have value and that is worth reflecting upon and accepting.

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry, CEO of Training2Transform Global Communications, was “Born to Coach.” This is her 17th year as facilitator of the Esprit SO/Couples Program, working with both Significant Others and Couples.
She is a Consultant, Coach, Trainer/Facilitator & Speaker. She worked on her doctorate in Human Sexuality. She studied with Brian McNaught, called the "Godfather of Gay Sensitivity Training" by the New York Times, at the Thornfield Annual Conference on Sexuality, where she completed a special track on corporate diversity and gay and transgender issues in the workplace. She works passionately for the acceptance and inclusion of the community of transgender,  gender diverse, and gender questioning individuals, saying, "Not only should they not be left behind, we must invite them to lead the way and take a place at the head of the table."  During 2017, Dotti and Brian McNaught created live hangouts called “Talk With America.”  
Their intention was to:

• Create a place where we can meet and talk with wisdom, grace, and humor about how we are reclaiming our realities and envisioning our future.
• Compassionately listen as we engage with people in our lives who have different attitudes and opinions about issues we hold dear.
• Embrace transformational vs adversarial interactions

Dotti says, “If we really, truly want to hear and understand how our family, friends, or antagonists feel, there are ways to make it easier for them to talk, and for us to listen. What we did at Talk With America has application to what we do at Esprit through the SO/Couples program.”
Dotti has coached the expansive spectrum of gender diverse persons one-on-one, and has also keynoted conferences.  Additionally, she has facilitated groups for SO's and couples at other conferences such as Fantasia Fair, Southern Comfort, and IFGE (International Foundation for Gender Education), in addition to her ongoing work with Esprit.
Dotti has authored various articles, and since 1985, has worked with both youth and adults one-on-one, as well as facilitated seminars and workshops for organizations, universities, corporations, religious institutions and Leadership classes. Sodexho, Info Quest Clinical, the Girl Scouts, NCCJ (National Conference of Community and Justice), the University of Kentucky, Women Out Front, and Soulforce are some of the diverse groups who have secured her services in the areas of executive coaching, personal transformation, LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) issues, diversity, team-building, and non-violent process.

Two Women & a Poodle, Dotti Berry, her spouse, Robynne Sapp, and their standard poodle, Rylee Joy, completed a year long journey, www.GayIntoStraightAmerica.com, in 2006, with the intention of engaging hearts and minds, creating authentic connections, and transcending differences that separate us. They traveled throughout the state of Washington in 2012, speaking about the importance of The Freedom to Marry for ALL.  Unfortunately, they lost Rylee Joy, their black Standard Poodle on April 6, 2016.  They welcomed a new addition to their family, a red standard poodle, Baylee Joy, who attended her first Esprit in 2017. During Thanksgiving, 2018, they added another family member, Willow, Baylee Joy’s mother. The family of four look forward to being at Esprit 2022!

 

Message from Dotti Berry:

The SO program at Esprit is invaluable for Significant Others, as well as couples who attend together.  Whether you are attending for the first time or have attended multiple times, constantly creating your relationship in the “moment” is essential to its success and its ability to thrive in the midst of whatever obstacles you encounter.

Facilitating the SO program isn’t about doing “presentations.”  The descriptions below merely serve as the foundation for the particular session. I facilitate the process, and we work with what each of you brings into the group session. YOU are the reason the groups work because it is the information and insights you share about your own personal journey that are key as others witness your process and vice versa.  When you ask your personal questions and share your personal story, you enable others to tap into the reservoir of insights that are yours.

If you’ve participated in the past as a SO or as a couple, please join us again.  Each year is new because you are constantly evolving and re-inventing yourself if you are alive and growing.  You are not the same people as you were last year. You are like any any person/couple in relationship. You have new issues/situations which come up on a daily basis.  

And if you think you have “done that already” because you already participated in the SO/Couples program at Esprit in the past, trust me, you haven’t!  And it’s all the more reason to attend.  Why?  You could have “done it already” in a past year, but because you haven’t yet attended Esprit 2022, you haven’t addressed your relationship in the present...and that is what keeps it alive and vital.

The nuances of each relationship are different, adding texture and meaning to life in an expanded way as they are explored. Refuse to succumb to the ordinary and simply “survive” as an individual or as a couple in your relationship. Commit to examining and bringing to light all that is and relish the opportunity to discover how to thrive vs survive, whatever it takes!

Contact Information: Dotti Berry , CEO, Training2Transform Global Communications 1-888-440-9780  coachdottiberry@me.com

 

Esprit Master

Pickleball Beginners Class

Elks Playfield Courts, on Monday May 9 at 10:00AM

What's pickleball? This fast-moving court sport is rapidly becoming a fad all across the nation! Take a badminton-style court, slightly overgrown ping-pong paddles, two or four maniacal players, throw in a whiffle ball and watch the action start!

Don't know how to play? Then this introductory beginners session is for you! We'll have a couple of experienced players to teach you the rules and some basic techniques so you'll be ready for the tournament that follows.

Esprit is organizing an in-house tournament this year (usually we play with the locals of Port Angeles). We'll have more details as they become available.

Esprit Master

Pickleball Tournament

Elks Playfield Courts, on Monday May 9 at 12:00PM

What's pickleball? This fast-moving court sport is rapidly becoming a fad all across the nation! Take a badminton-style court, slightly overgrown ping-pong paddles, two or four maniacal players, throw in a whiffle ball and watch the action start!

Esprit is organizing an in-house tournament this year (usually we play with the locals of Port Angeles). We'll have more details as they become available.

Jan Jefferies

Stephanie Avion Chix w Stix Pool Tournament

Organizer: Jan Jefferies

Elks Pool Room, on Monday May 9 at 6:00PM

Registration: 6pm
Play starts: 7pm

Pool tables have always gone hand in hand with adventure, vice, and women of mystery. Usually it's the men who own the room, but at Esprit things are a bit different.

Imagine a roomful of short-skirted hoochies competing fiercely for the prized title of Esprit Pool Tournament Champion. A 20's gangster moll here, a film noir femme fatale there, and a biker chick over by the bar...drop them all into a small pool hall, and you have the Annual Esprit Pool Tournament.

The Naval Elks Lodge hosts the tournament in their private pool room. There will be no-host bar and food service and assistants to help run the tournament.

This is a friendly tournament and everyone has plenty of opportunities to play regardless of skill level. We will follow the Official Rules of the BCA Pool League (with a few changes to better accommodate recreational play) and contact the pool tournament coordinator, if you have other questions.

Back at the Red Lion, many attendees also enjoy hanging out in the hotel bar which truly becomes one of the hottest and most interesting places in town during the week of Esprit.

The tournament was renamed in 2020/2021 in honour of Stephanie Avion, who served for many years on the Esprit Committee.

 

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Morning

Esprit Lobby, on Tuesday May 10 at 9:00AM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Afternoon

Esprit Lobby, on Tuesday May 10 at 2:30PM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Alyssa Lee

Koffee Klatsch

Presenter: Alyssa Lee

Peninsula, on Tuesday May 10 at 9:00AM

A morning get-together for first-time attendees. Come share stories, insights, experiences and feelings with your friends. While you're here, enjoy a morning coffee or tea and catch up on what's coming up today.

FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES ONLY, PLEASE.

Presenter Info

Alyssa attended her first Esprit in 2001. Among her many duties, she is the Big Sister/Little Sister Liaison in addition to leading the Koffee Klatsch.

Davina Liffey

Davina's journey so far

Presenter: Davina Liffey

Peninsula, on Tuesday May 10 at 10:30AM

I will describe how I became Davina and how Esprit was a major part of this. I will talk about how I ventured out into the world and will touch on my travels, which have been an integral part of the process of confirming myself in my identity as Davina. This talk is intended for everyone: from first-timers at Esprit to old friends.

Presenter Info

Davina Liffey is a British lady of mature age who has mostly been based in Brazil over the last 25 years. Professionally, she is a freelance translator (Portuguese to English) and English-language reviewer, specializing in publication of academic texts within the life sciences. She first came to Esprit in 2014, which was also her first time of being out to the world as Davina. It proved to be a life-changing experience and she has kept coming back for more ever since! In addition, outside of Esprit, she has increasingly been presenting as her true self. Davina has developed a certain reputation as a traveller and enjoys seeking out new places to visit as herself.

Esprit Master

Clothing Exchange

Rm 151/153, on Tuesday May 10 at 9:00AM

The FREE Clothing Exchange is a daily feature of Esprit. Bring the clothes you don't wear any more and take whatever you like. A couple of ground rules, please:

1. Donate ONLY clean clothing in good, wearable condition (no seams ripped, buttons or zippers missing etc.)
2. HANG UP what you bring on the hangers provided.
3. HANG UP what you try on but don't take.
4. Enjoy!

Dotti Berry

SO Program - "Return to the Magic!?" Are you kidding me?

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Tuesday May 10 at 9:00AM

For SO's ONLY. For the Significant Other of the transgender partner, whether you are male, female, or questioning.

You might feel unprepared for this journey…period.  If you are at the beginning of this amazing (and yes, sometimes challenging journey) and feeling unprepared, or if you have attended Esprit multiple times and been a part of our SO group a few times or even multiple times, its still ok to feel unprepared if the status of your partner who is transgender seems to be continually evolving.  Most likely, you are also still evolving in what you feel you can accept/not accept.  It is easy to feel left in the dark and isolated as the non-transgender partner or SO. If you are an SO who feels isolated, we will be investigating how you have choices and what those choices entail. You will have a safe space for reflecting upon how you can positively impact and alter your isolation if that is your desire during this week at Esprit.  We want to help you “find or return to” the magic. Our intention is that you feel heard, acknowledged, and appreciated.  Join us, whether you are a newbie SO or have attended Esprit in the past.  It’s a new year with a new group of people who show up.  Dare to become your own Pearl this week!

 

Presenter Info

See writeup under "Overview" session

Dotti Berry

SO Program - Where's the Magic Pearl when we are working to expand our circle as a couple?

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Tuesday May 10 at 1:30PM

For transgender couples (all parties must attend)

Creating new situations for expanding as a couple means both need to be on a similar or acceptably congruent page.  How can you create that for yourselves?  Come explore the possibilities available once you identify the “irritants” that are barriers for you.  Discover how to leverage those “irritants” for creating the Magic Pearl you want!

These irritants can be a stepping stone for returning to the magic of what you once felt, but in a different way.

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry, CEO of Training2Transform Global Communications. For details, see writeup under "Overview" session.

Esprit Master

Esprit Ascot Races

Juan de Fuca, on Tuesday May 10 at 7:00PM

The horses are real, the races are real, the fun is real! Only the money is play! Dress up in your fanciest hat - yes, there's a hat contest! (Need inspiration? Try here!)

Hone your betting skills and bring all your horse race savvy - and a healthy appreciation for the whimsical - to the Juan de Fuca Room Tuesday night. You don't have to know anything about horse racing to have a great time! Your lovely and talented hoss boss and mistress of ceremonies Stephanie Mitchell will make sure you stay on track, regardless of what the horses get up to.

Our talented and beautiful decorators, coordinators, runners and counters are all Esprit attendees and all volunteer their time. Would you like to volunteer to help? Contact our Volunteer Coordinator now!

How it works:

We'll have a big screen onto which a series of professionally packaged, actual horse races and steeplechases will be shown (completely new races this year!). Everyone will be provided a starting amount of betting funds. In between races, you'll study the horses, check the odds, watch the horses parade before the race, and place your bets. The races are real, as is the excitement! Assorted prizes will be awarded to the evening's big winners and non-winners alike and there will be special prizes for the most outrageous and glamorous hats!

What to wear:

For fun, we encourage you to dress in the spirit of the Royal Ascot Racecourse. Think "My Fair Lady" and you'll be on the right track.

If you really want to be a stickler for the fashion police, here's how it's done: Ladies wear formal day dress and a hat that covers the crown of the head (since this is an evening event, evening wear is perfectly fine as well). Shoulders and midriff are traditionally covered and hems shouldn't be more than 2" above the knee. Stockings or tights are most proper. The Ascot is timeless and you may pick something stylish from any era.

And in our private ballroom, you don't have to worry about your heels sinking into the turf!

Alyssa Lee

Dancing with DJ Icy Aly

Organizer: Alyssa Lee

Olympic/Juan de Fuca, on Tuesday May 10 at 9:00PM

After the running with the horses at the Esprit Ascot it's time to put on your favorite dancing shoes for an evening with Esprit's own DJ Icy Aly. Spinning popular hits from the 80's, 90's and today, she will definitely keep your heels moving with Electronic Dance Music beats, the newest trend in radio and dance clubs across the country.

Esprit Master

Golfing With Sandra

Dungeness Golf, Sequim, on Wednesday May 11 at 9:00AM

Join Esprit's own Sandra Finlay on Wednesday morning for an enjoyable round of golf at the beautiful Dungeness Golf Club in Sequim. Please note that this is NOT a course for inexperienced golfers!

Sign up in the registration area. Please signup early. Price TBA. Meet at registration desk for 9:15, set-up carpools and leave no later than 9:30. Tee times will start around 10:30. Course dress code and regulations in force. Rental clubs available.

If you have never golfed before this is not a course for you.

Presenter Info

Sandra's 2009 debut at Esprit earned her a blue graduation butterfly. Since 2013 I have supported the Esprit conference as a committee member. My main function at Esprit is raising funds for the Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County. I enjoy meeting new people and hearing about their life journey. My vision of Golf: walking in a beautiful park getting fresh air and exercise, enjoying time with friends. If I have a good round that's a bonus!

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Morning

Esprit Lobby, on Wednesday May 11 at 9:00AM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Afternoon

Esprit Lobby, on Wednesday May 11 at 2:30PM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Alyssa Lee

Koffee Klatsch

Presenter: Alyssa Lee

Peninsula, on Wednesday May 11 at 9:00AM

A morning get-together for first-time attendees. Come share stories, insights, experiences and feelings with your friends. While you're here, enjoy a morning coffee or tea and catch up on what's coming up today.

FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES ONLY, PLEASE.

Presenter Info

Alyssa attended her first Esprit in 2001. Among her many duties, she is the Big Sister/Little Sister Liaison in addition to leading the Koffee Klatsch.

Suzanne Adams

Basic Self Defense for Women and Those Who Present Themselves as Women

Presenter: Suzanne Adams

Peninsula, on Wednesday May 11 at 10:00AM

Suzanne has extensive past and current experience in law enforcement. She will teach you about awareness, avoiding risky situations, moving safely through different surroundings, a variety of self-defense moves, and how to handle interactions with the public and the police. Although this is a self defense course, movement is kept to a minimum and "dressing down" is not necessary.

Presenter Info

Suzanne_Adams has been involved within the TG community since the early 1990's. She has served two years as President of Emerald City in the 1990's and six years as President from 2000 to 2006 and is currently the Secretary of the Board for Emerald City. She was a Facilitator for Pacific Gender Support groups and Treasurer of the parent organization Pacific Gender Institute in 2006 and Vice President of PGI for 2007. Since 2001 she has been Co-Chair and is currently the Chair on the Seattle Chief of Police Advisory Committee for Sexual Minorities. She is also the Seattle Police Firearms Review Board Citizen's Observer, appointed by the Seattle Mayor since 1996. She has served on the Ingersoll Gender Center Board and facilitated groups for 15 years (1993 through 2008). She has been secretary for five Esprit Committee Chairs and is the current Chair of the Esprit committee. Suzanne has been a presenter at Esprit every year since 1993

Melissa Morton

Transgender Personalities in History, from the 15th Century to the 1860s

Presenter: Melissa Morton

Peninsula, on Wednesday May 11 at 3:30PM

Since humankind began to define the boundaries of gender behavior, there have been people who defied or crossed over those boundaries. Hear their stories. Some of them were male to female, others of them were female to male. Some of them lived as transgender for most of their lives, others for only brief but significant periods in their lives. All of them left a legacy of some sort.

Presenter Info

Melissa Morton is a former attorney and accountant who has been interested in history for many years. Attending a lecture about Civil War spies inspired her to a study of many transgender persons across multiple centuries and countries.

Esprit Master

Movie Night

Peninsula, on Wednesday May 11 at 7:30PM

For your viewing pleasure, Esprit presents Captain Marvel.  Esprit will provide popcorn and a special cartoon pre-feature. This event will be like going to the cinima but without a ticket price or concession stand line!

Esprit Master

Clothing Exchange

Rm 151/153, on Wednesday May 11 at 9:00AM

The FREE Clothing Exchange is a daily feature of Esprit. Bring the clothes you don't wear any more and take whatever you like. A couple of ground rules, please:

1. Donate ONLY clean clothing in good, wearable condition (no seams ripped, buttons or zippers missing etc.)
2. HANG UP what you bring on the hangers provided.
3. HANG UP what you try on but don't take.
4. Enjoy!

Dotti Berry

SO Program - How do I trust again when I feel betrayed?

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Wednesday May 11 at 9:00AM

For SO's ONLY. For the Significant Other of the transgender partner, whether you are male, female, or questioning.

Join us in a safe space where you can delve into how trust, or lack of it, impacts your relationship.   If you’ve had the magic before in your relationship, you can return to the magic again.  Discover your inner light so that you can authentically share your fears.  Are you a SO who is currently experiencing this situation or one who has moved through this situation.  Come share your story so that others can benefit.

Whether you are a newbie or a person who is further along on your journey, you can be a sounding board for one another and use whatever is irritating you to become a beautiful Pearl!

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry, CEO of Training2Transform Global Communications. For details, see writeup under "Overview" session.

Dotti Berry

SO Program - How do we trust again as a couple when trust has been compromised in some manner?

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Wednesday May 11 at 1:30PM

For transgender couples (all parties must attend)

Broken trust is one of the most challenging aspects of any relationship, without any extra “irritants” such as a new discovery about your partner.  Be open to looking at how broken trust compromises and impacts the integrity of your relationship.   Commit to using the “irritant” as a vehicle for restoring trust and allowing your relationship to develop into the Magic Pearl you have always desired.  Humpty Dumpty is a children’s nursery rhyme, but you might not realize there’s a lesson for adults too.  Humpty Dumpty was an egg who got cracked…

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall
All the king's horses and all the king's men
Couldn't put Humpty together again

WHAT IF they forgot to explain that when an egg cracks, there’s a “new opening” and you can now make an exquisite omelette…something you can’t do as long as an egg never cracks. So who cares if you can’t put it back together again.  Maybe you can make something better!

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry, CEO of Training2Transform Global Communications. For details, see writeup under "Overview" session.

Esprit Master

Croquet on the Lawn

Back Lawn, on Wednesday May 11 at 12:00PM

Please note - this is a signup option only so we can gauge interest and numbers.

Join us for a friendly and oh so elegant game of good old-fashioned croquet on the back lawn. How elegant, you say? You finest finery from last night's Ascot Races would not be out of place. If you want to really take it to another level by dressing the part of an English aristocrat in My Fair Lady clothes!

What? You can't play croquet? It's even easier than cricket!

What? You can't play cricket? Okay, how about tee-ball with a ground-level tee!

But really, come and enjoy the fun even if you don't want to dress up!

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Morning

Esprit Lobby, on Thursday May 12 at 9:00AM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Esprit Master

Talent Show Auditions

Esprit Lobby, on Thursday May 12 at 2:00PM

The Esprit Talent Show is a fun and popular event for the performers, attendees and general public. This year’s show is being produced by Julia Lauer, technical director. We welcome any type of act; acts in the past have included live musical performances, karaoke, stand-up comedy, magic, dramatic performance…the list goes on! We want the show overall to run about 75 minutes, so to ensure as many acts as possible have time on stage we ask that you limit your act to 5 minutes. With this limitation, and allowing for changeover and short bits between acts we hope to have time for 9-11 acts to perform. If you want to perform, here is a general idea of the production schedule and casting process: First... SIGN UP! A sign-up sheet will be posted in the registration lobby. Tell us who you are, what you want to do, and how to contact you. If your act involves playback of any music or other technical needs, please contact the technical director Julia Lauer by using the contact page as soon as possible and get her your media or special requests. If at all possible, please get Julia your media prior to the auditions. You must attend the auditions from about 2:00-4:00pm Thursday in Room 148/Hollywood Beach hospitality suite. You will have a chance to perform your act and update your biographical information. Keep in mind the room is pretty small compared to the Elks stage, so if your act is a big modern dance piece, you might have to pare it down for the audition! The show will be cast and rehearsal times posted by Thursday evening. Those that are cast will be assigned a 20 minute rehearsal time for Friday afternoon. During this time you will have the chance to rehearse your act a few times, on the Elks stage, and with the sound system so you can get the feel of the stage. Okay, I know what you’re thinking, "20 Minutes to rehearse???!!?!" Keep in mind: Friday afternoon is CRAZY! We will giVe you 20 minutes of undivided attention to rehearse, but please be punctual, and ready to go! We have to keep on schedule, or the show staff won't have time to change their clothes for the evening! And we don’t want that to happen! Check in with the show staff before dinner. We need to know everybody's there! Now...relax. Enjoy your dinner. Have fun! You'll need to get ready backstage before dinner ends, especially if you're one of the first acts. Maybe have someone save your dessert! Go out there and break a leg! General specifications: The stage is about 30' wide X 12' deep. 4 wireless handheld microphones will be available. Straight or boom stands are available. 6 speaker sound system with stage monitor will be provided. If you need props or furniture beyond a chair or maybe a music stand, you are on your own! Additional needs: 1 or 2 people to volunteer for backstage coordination/stagehand duty would be awesome! Contact the Talent Show Coordinator or the Volunteer Coordinator if you’d like to help out with the show, but don’t want to be onstage. Wear your most fashionable backstage black! You’ll look all cool talking on a headset! No experience necessary!

Presenter Info

Julia Lauer was bitten by the theatre bug in high school. After graduating from The Evergreen State College with a degree in Theatre Technology, Stage Management, and Film / Video Production, she (cleverly disguised as her mild-mannered male alter-ego) began a career ranging from Theatre to Special Events, before settling on Audio Visual Production. She is currently employed by a Seattle Audio Visual provider as a Senior Technician.

In 2009, Julia began running audio and assisting in the production of the Esprit Talent Show. In 2012, Julia and Amanda Strong teamed up to co-produce the show, with Amanda hosting and Julia working behind the scenes as Audio Technician and Stage Manager.

Julia looks forward to again producing the Talent Show with Kara Connor, and assisting where she can with other technical issues that arise at Esprit 2022.

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Afternoon

Esprit Lobby, on Thursday May 12 at 3:00PM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Alyssa Lee

Koffee Klatsch

Presenter: Alyssa Lee

Peninsula, on Thursday May 12 at 9:00AM

A morning get-together for first-time attendees. Come share stories, insights, experiences and feelings with your friends. While you're here, enjoy a morning coffee or tea and catch up on what's coming up today.

FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES ONLY, PLEASE.

Presenter Info

Alyssa attended her first Esprit in 2001. Among her many duties, she is the Big Sister/Little Sister Liaison in addition to leading the Koffee Klatsch.

Alice Berry

Electrolysis Today

Presenter: Alice Berry

Peninsula, on Thursday May 12 at 10:15AM

I will send description and picture to Maille.

Presenter Info

I will send description and picture to Maille.

Karen Williams

Blue Monday

Presenter: Karen Williams

Peninsula, on Thursday May 12 at 3:00PM

All good things come to an end, even Esprit. After living our dreams for a week, first timers often find "the end" stunningly traumatic. We return to our homes, jobs, loved ones, and closets with a heavy heart, tears, sometimes deep depression. Karen shows first timers (and others) how to duck the worst traumas by treating ourselves well afterwards, staying in contact with friends we meet at Esprit, planning treats to look forward to, and applying bunches of additional ideas gathered over the years from sisters facing their own blue Mondays.

Presenter Info

Karen Williams has been a member of the Emerald City since 1987. She has held numerous positions including president, newsletter editor social chair and vice president. Karen has also been involved with Esprit since its inception in 1990. She has also been involved in transgender class panels at the University of Washington, Highline Community College and Peninsula College since 1992. She lives with her wife in Kirkland, Washington and moves back and forth between her male role and female role as necessary.

Esprit Master

Clothing Exchange

Rm 151/153, on Thursday May 12 at 9:00AM

The FREE Clothing Exchange is a daily feature of Esprit. Bring the clothes you don't wear any more and take whatever you like. A couple of ground rules, please:

1. Donate ONLY clean clothing in good, wearable condition (no seams ripped, buttons or zippers missing etc.)
2. HANG UP what you bring on the hangers provided.
3. HANG UP what you try on but don't take.
4. Enjoy!

 

Dotti Berry

SO Program - Learn How to Define Yourself and create your own Magic Pearl.

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Thursday May 12 at 9:00AM

For SO's ONLY. For the Significant Other of the transgender partner, whether you are male, female, or questioning.

Isn’t it time to speak your mind based on what you want vs only considering what your partner wants?   Your voice is an important one, perhaps an “irritant” in some moments.  Allow for that.  Not speaking your truth does not contribute to the making of a Magic Pearl or an exquisite omelette.  Something must crack open, whether an oyster or an egg, to access what’s better.

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry, CEO of Training2Transform Global Communications. For details, see writeup under "Overview" session.

Dotti Berry

SO Program - Create your Magic Relationship Pearl by Learning to Define yourselves as individuals and as a couple.

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Thursday May 12 at 1:30PM

For transgender couples (all parties must attend)

Begin by discovering how to speak your mind and learning how to negotiate with one another about transgender expression and/or transition.  Define what is at stake by establishing boundaries.  Embrace the “irritants” you feel by naming them and then using them to create a new Magic Pearl!  Explore what happens when one of you “cracks open” before the other does.  Examine options before this happens!

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry, CEO of Training2Transform Global Communications. For details, see writeup under "Overview" session.

Dotti Berry

Couples Luncheon - SOs and Partners

Organizer: Dotti Berry

Hotel Lounge, on Thursday May 12 at 11:30AM

Couples Luncheon. For transgender couples (all parties are encouraged to attend)

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry

Alyssa Lee

Dancing with DJ Icy Aly

Organizer: Alyssa Lee

Hotel Lounge, on Thursday May 12 at 9:00PM

Something to keep you hopping on a Thursday evening! Join DJ Icy Aly from 9pm till midnight - and bring your dancing shoes. NOTE - this is downtairs in the Peninsula Room, not the upstairs ballroom.

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Morning

Esprit Lobby, on Friday May 13 at 9:00AM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Afternoon

Esprit Lobby, on Friday May 13 at 2:30PM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Alyssa Lee

Koffee Klatsch

Presenter: Alyssa Lee

Peninsula, on Friday May 13 at 9:00AM

A morning get-together for first-time attendees. Come share stories, insights, experiences and feelings with your friends. While you're here, enjoy a morning coffee or tea and catch up on what's coming up today.

FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES ONLY, PLEASE.

Presenter Info

Alyssa attended her first Esprit in 2001. Among her many duties, she is the Big Sister/Little Sister Liaison in addition to leading the Koffee Klatsch.

Anna Lantry

Trans Vocal Training

Presenter: Anna Lantry

Peninsula, on Friday May 13 at 10:15AM

During this presentation, I will discuss the elements of the voice that make someone sound masculine, feminine, or androgynous with demonstrations of each thing provided by myself. I will then have generous time for Q&A, and to give someone a free brief voice lesson if there are any willing volunteers.

Presenter Info

I've been teaching as a trans vocal coach and singing teacher since 2013. I hold degrees in Voice and Health. I have been out as transgender since 2018, and have started two companies to offer vocal coaching to the transgender community - Your Lessons Now and Trans Vocal Coaching.

Jennifer Burnett

Cross-Gender Hormone Treatment for Gender Dysphoria

Presenter: Jennifer Burnett

Peninsula, on Friday May 13 at 2:30PM

For those who are considering (or have already started) medical treatment to transition to their true gender, there is much information, as well as a great deal of misinformation, available on the Internet regarding the hormones/medications that are commonly employed for this purpose. This often promotes confusion as to what is the best and safest medical approach to a gender transition. This class consists of a Power Point presentation followed by a Q & A session concerning of the different hormone protocols used (for both M2F and F2M), their risks, benefits and side effects. Ancillary testing and additional/adjunct medications will also be discussed. I will also provide resource information and websites where medical providers can gain further knowledge on the treatment of Gender Dysphoria.

Presenter Info

Jennifer A. Burnett, MS, MD, FAAFP

 

Past Positions & Accreditations (Now Retired): Assoc. Professor of Family & Community Medicine, UCSF-Fresno; Faculty- Fresno Family Practice Residency Program, Board-Certified in Family Medicine, Medical Advisory Board of the UCSF Centers of Excellence for TG Healthcare.

Continuing Professional Involvement: American Academy of Family Physicians- Fellow & Lifetime Member, World Professional Association for Transgender Health, Christian Medical & Dental Associations.

Lectures delivered: Medical Treatment of Gender Dysphoria, the Spiritual implications of being born Transsexual, et al. presented at National TG Conferences including IFGE, Esprit, Southern Comfort, Gender Spectrum, Philadelphia Trans Health Conference, TG Religious Leader’s Summit, the 2009, 2011 & 2014 WPATH International Symposiums, the American Academy of Family Physicians 2010 Nat. Scientific Assembly and the 2013 National Transgender Health Summit.

Additional Appointments & Awards: California’s 2009 LGBT Delegate to the AAFP’s National Congress of Special Constituencies. Recipient of the 2009 UCSF Chancellor’s Award for LGBT Leadership, 2009 Champions of Diversity Award.

Esprit Master

Clothing Exchange

Rm 151/153, on Friday May 13 at 9:00AM

The FREE Clothing Exchange is a daily feature of Esprit. Bring the clothes you don't wear any more and take whatever you like. A couple of ground rules, please:

1. Donate ONLY clean clothing in good, wearable condition (no seams ripped, buttons or zippers missing etc.)
2. HANG UP what you bring on the hangers provided.
3. HANG UP what you try on but don't take.
4. Enjoy!

Dotti Berry

SO Program - Reclaiming Intimacy... what matters most.

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Friday May 13 at 9:00AM

For SO's ONLY. For the Significant Other of the transgender partner, whether you are male, female, or questioning.

Lack of intimacy is one of the most common pitfalls that occurs from secrecy and broken trust.  With all that these “irritants” create, the environment is also ripe for reclaiming intimacy.  Now there’s a great omelette you can create when the egg is broken!  Are you open to developing a beautiful Magic Pearl?  Decide what is at stake for you, and be prepared to speak your truth in the afternoon session with your partner.  Once you know what YOU want, it’s much easier to communicate that new understanding to your partner/spouse.

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry, CEO of Training2Transform Global Communications. For details, see writeup under "Overview" session.

Dotti Berry

SO Program - What type of intimacy do you want to reclaim as a couple?

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Friday May 13 at 2:00PM

For transgender couples (all parties must attend)

Your SOs had the opportunity to look at their feelings about reclaiming intimacy in our morning session and to consider what is most important to them.  Now is your opportunity to look at the varied components of intimacy for yourselves, and then for you all to discern as a couple where your priorities lie with one another.   Are you ready to take all of the “irritants” you have felt with one another and enable those “irritants” to create a new Magic Pearl in your relationship?  Are you willing to actually crack the egg open together vs waiting to fall off the wall like Humpty Dumpty? With so many different types of intimacy available, you have options and connecting on any one of these can connect you in new ways.  Isn’t it a relief to look at this list and discover how many wonderful options you have for intimacy?

1. Moral Intimacy - Shared common vision of what is right & meaningful
2. Emotional Intimacy - Being tuned into each other’s wavelength; willingness to acknowledge the other for whom he/she is without reservation, unafraid to show the real you without fear of repercussions or judgement.  
3. Intellectual Intimacy - Sharing in the world of ideas & passions
4. Aesthetic Intimacy - Sharing experiences of beauty, with compatibility showing through your ability to acknowledge tastes in music, theatre, decor, and then live with and impart together decisions which, though might not be precisely the same, still inspire one another.
5. Creative Intimacy - Sharing in acts of creating together
6. Recreational Intimacy - Sharing experiences of fun and play
7. Crisis Intimacy - Closeness in coping with problems and pain
8. Conflict Intimacy - Facing and struggling with differences and how to navigate any irreconcilable differences
9. Commitment Intimacy - Mutuality derived from common investment
10. Work Intimacy - Closeness of sharing common/differential tasks
11. Spiritual Intimacy - Endeavoring to create we-ness in sharing ultimate concerns about one another,  humanity and our place in the world
12. Communication Intimacy - The foundation and source of all types of authentic intimacy and the ability to speak to one another in the language which the other likes to receive information and input
13. Physical Intimacy - shared touching in non-genital ways, including touching, hugging, and kissing
14. Genital Intimacy - Erotic or orgasmic closeness
15. Unconditional Intimacy - The hardest to attain - loving without reservation the person they are yesterday, today and tomorrow, without waiting for anything in return.  You love because you choose to love, not because you expect them to do the same.  You love in a way that opens up a space for them to return to you what you give to then.

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry, CEO of Training2Transform Global Communications. For details, see writeup under "Overview" session.

Esprit Master

Fashion Show and Luncheon

Olympic/Juan de Fuca, on Friday May 13 at 12:00PM

The Fashion Show is another of Esprit's many traditions. Enjoy a lovely lunch while your fellow attendees model everything from sportswear to casual attire to formal evening gowns. You can even sign up to be one of the models!

You don't need to have any modelling experience - just a desire to wear beautiful clothes and look gorgeous!

Make sure you've signed up by Thursay morning in the Esprit Lobby! See more information at the Fashion Show.

Esprit Master

The World-Famous Esprit Talent Show!

Elks Ballroom, on Friday May 13 at 6:00PM

The Friday Talent Show is our home grown variety show featuring the various talents of Esprit’s attendees. It is the highlight of an evening that begins with cocktails and a full meal served in the Ballroom of the elegant and historic Naval Elks Lodge, a short distance from the Red Lion. Since Esprit 2000, hundreds of attendees have taken to the stage to sing a song, do a skit, maybe some standup comedy or even magic. If you would like to perform, please see the performer guidelines below. We look forward to a fun and entertaining evening for all!

The cocktail hour and dinner are for Esprit attendees only, and then we will open the doors to the general public for the Talent Show at approximately 8:00 pm. A $5.00 donation will be requested at the door, all proceeds will benefit Hospice of Clallam County. There will be a no-host bar serving alcohol, so guests must be 21 years of age. Esprit staff and a local security guard will provide security and screen local guests.

After the talent show you are welcome to linger at the Elks as you ponder the rest of the evening. Our very own DJ ICY ALY will be spinning dance tunes for us to dance the night away.

Presenter Info

Julia Lauer was bitten by the theatre bug in high school. After graduating from The Evergreen State College with a degree in Theatre Technology, Stage Management, and Film/Video Production, she began a career ranging from Theatre to Special Events, before settling on Audio Visual Production. She is currently employed by a national Audio Visual Integration company as a Senior Technician and Video Engineer.

In 2009, Julia began running audio and assisting in the production of the Esprit Talent Show. In 2012, Julia took a major role in the production of the show; helping to coordinate the Auditions as well as working behind the scenes as Audio Technician and Stage Manager.

Julia looks forward to again producing the Talent Show, and assisting where she can with other technical issues that arise at this year's Esprit.

Alyssa Lee

Dancing at the Elks

Organizer: Alyssa Lee

Elks Ballroom, on Friday May 13 at 9:00PM

After the world-class entertainment at the world-famous Talent Show, what better way is there to finish the night than with dancing to your favourite tunes! Our very own DJ Icy Aly plays all the great music you know and love, and she'll keep your toes tapping until midnight - and probably all the way back to the hotel!

You'll dance in the beautiful grand old ballroom at the Elks Naval Lodge, and you'll have no shortage of partners - pretty much everyone at Esprit loves to dance! The biggest problem you might have is deciding who's leading!

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN - Morning

Esprit Lobby, on Saturday May 14 at 9:00AM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN for checkin, badge photos, badge pickup and general inquiries.

Esprit Master

Registration OPEN BY APPT ONLY

Esprit Lobby, on Saturday May 14 at 2:30PM

Esprit Registration Desk is OPEN by appointment ONLY. Phone 425-736-4013.

Alyssa Lee

Koffee Klatsch

Presenter: Alyssa Lee

Peninsula, on Saturday May 14 at 9:00AM

A morning get-together for first-time attendees. Come share stories, insights, experiences and feelings with your friends. While you're here, enjoy a morning coffee or tea and catch up on what's coming up today.

FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES ONLY, PLEASE.

Presenter Info

Alyssa attended her first Esprit in 2001. Among her many duties, she is the Big Sister/Little Sister Liaison in addition to leading the Koffee Klatsch.

Dr. Marci Bowers

Trans Surgery - Options & Opinions for all Session 1

Presenter: Dr. Marci Bowers

Peninsula, on Saturday May 14 at 10:15AM

Dr. Bowers will review current techniques and surgical options, including but not limited by genital surgery.

Presenter Info

Marci Bowers, M.D. of Burlingame, California, is acknowledged as a pioneer in the field of Gender Affirmation Surgery and is the first woman worldwide to hold a personal transgender history while performing transgender surgery. She is also the first US surgeon to learn the technique of functional clitoral restoration after Female Genital Mutilation/cutting (FGM/c).

Dr. Bowers is a pelvic and gynecologic surgeon with more than 29 years’ experience in Women’s Healthcare. She is a University of Minnesota Medical School graduate and former class and student body president. Her Ob/Gyn was at the the University of Washington. She continued in Seattle as an Obstetrician/Gynecologist at The Polyclinic and Swedish Medical Center, then joined Dr. Stanley Biber in Trinidad, Colorado in 2003, redefining US transgender surgery.

Dr. Bowers is an elected board member of WPATH, and has served on the board of directors for both GLAAD and the Transgender Law Center. In 2018 and 2019, she performed the first live surgical vaginoplasty surgeries in WPATH-sponsored surgical educational programs at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York. Her work has been highlighted by appearances on Oprah, CBS Sunday Morning, Discovery Health, Al-jazeera, and more recently, the TLC reality series, “I am Jazz.” She has been featured in numerous documentaries and new features including the Guardian, BBC, Times of London, Esquire, and many others. In addition to many accolades, Dr. Bowers is recognized as one of the 100 most influential LGBT people on the Guardian’s World Pride Power List and one of Huffington Post’s 50 Transgender Icons. And Lastly, Dr. Bowers has been called the Transgender Surgery Rock Star (Denver Post), the George O’Keefe of Genitalia (unknown) and the Beyonce of Bottom Surgery (KPFK-FM in North Hollywood). 

Dr. Marci Bowers

Trans Surgery - Options & Opinions for all Session 2

Presenter: Dr. Marci Bowers

Peninsula, on Saturday May 14 at 2:30PM

Dr. Bowers will review current techniques and surgical options, including but not limited by genital surgery.

Presenter Info

Marci Bowers, M.D. of Burlingame, California, is acknowledged as a pioneer in the field of Gender Affirmation Surgery and is the first woman worldwide to hold a personal transgender history while performing transgender surgery. She is also the first US surgeon to learn the technique of functional clitoral restoration after Female Genital Mutilation/cutting (FGM/c).

Dr. Bowers is a pelvic and gynecologic surgeon with more than 29 years’ experience in Women’s Healthcare. She is a University of Minnesota Medical School graduate and former class and student body president. Her Ob/Gyn was at the the University of Washington. She continued in Seattle as an Obstetrician/Gynecologist at The Polyclinic and Swedish Medical Center, then joined Dr. Stanley Biber in Trinidad, Colorado in 2003, redefining US transgender surgery.

Dr. Bowers is an elected board member of WPATH, and has served on the board of directors for both GLAAD and the Transgender Law Center. In 2018 and 2019, she performed the first live surgical vaginoplasty surgeries in WPATH-sponsored surgical educational programs at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York. Her work has been highlighted by appearances on Oprah, CBS Sunday Morning, Discovery Health, Al-jazeera, and more recently, the TLC reality series, “I am Jazz.” She has been featured in numerous documentaries and new features including the Guardian, BBC, Times of London, Esquire, and many others. In addition to many accolades, Dr. Bowers is recognized as one of the 100 most influential LGBT people on the Guardian’s World Pride Power List and one of Huffington Post’s 50 Transgender Icons. And Lastly, Dr. Bowers has been called the Transgender Surgery Rock Star (Denver Post), the George O’Keefe of Genitalia (unknown) and the Beyonce of Bottom Surgery (KPFK-FM in North Hollywood). 

Esprit Master

Clothing Exchange

Rm 151/153, on Saturday May 14 at 9:00AM

The FREE Clothing Exchange is a daily feature of Esprit. Bring the clothes you don't wear any more and take whatever you like. A couple of ground rules, please:

1. Donate ONLY clean clothing in good, wearable condition (no seams ripped, buttons or zippers missing etc.)
2. HANG UP what you bring on the hangers provided.
3. HANG UP what you try on but don't take.
4. Enjoy!

Dotti Berry

SO Program - Integrating the week's learning experiences or embracing your arrival as a couple at Esprit.

Presenter: Dotti Berry

SO Lounge, on Saturday May 14 at 9:00AM

For transgender couples (all parties must attend)

You’ve been at Esprit and participating in our SO/Couples program for some of the sessions, for all of the sessions, or you have just arrived.  What Magic Pearl are you seeking and how will you use the “irritants” that enviably happen in your relationship to create your own Magic Pearl?

Join us. Listen, explore, embrace the “irritants” and be open with one another and with other couples.  Your feelings and your stories matter.  They are the basis of all Magic Pearls that are created, as you re-discover the light within and recapture the magic.

Presenter Info

Dotti Berry, CEO of Training2Transform Global Communications. For details, see writeup under "Overview" session.

Esprit Master

Slumber Party

SO Lounge, on Saturday May 14 at 11:59PM

The Saturday night slumber party is a longstanding Esprit tradition. The Hospitality Suite begins to fill with ladies in nighties as the Saturday night graduation dinner and party draws to a close. Some snacks and pizza are usually available (as are a lot of leftover beverages that come crawling out of people's rooms). The room is usually filled to capacity and the evening is filled with lively moderated conversation, backrubs and footrubs, and more. A few diehards haul blankets and pillows to the room and stay as late as they can. The slumber party sets aside some time to share your experiences in a warm and respectful setting.

And who knows who else might show up? In 1999, a barbershop quartet was passing through the hotel late at night and stumbled onto the Saturday night slumber party. Doing what any gentlemen would do, they politely greeted the ladies in the hall and then proceeded to serenade the ladies with an impromptu performance.

You're welcome to wear anything in good taste and reason to the party. Some ladies simply pop in after the Saturday night party in their party outfits, chat for a few minutes, and disappear. Some choose to attend the slumber party in makeup; others choose to be comfortable and get cleaned up and dispense with the bra, wig, and other accessories they normally use when dressed. You may wish to lean somewhat to the more practical side if you plan on staying a while. Most of the seating consists of simple upright chairs, the floor, a counter, pillows/blankets, and perhaps a few seats on a sofa. You may be standing up and sitting down and shifting position frequently depending on how crowded the room gets and the activities that are going on. In addition, you may want to wear or bring something (such as a robe) that allows you to comfortably walk the length of the hotel to get back to your room for supplies or blankets.

Dr. Marci Bowers

Luncheon and Keynote - Dr. Marci Bowers

Organizer: Dr. Marci Bowers

Olympic/Juan de Fuca, on Saturday May 14 at 12:00PM

Dr. Bowers will review historical and personal perspectives on transgender identities in a rapidly evolving world that is resistant to change.

Presenter Info

Marci Bowers, M.D. of Burlingame, California, is acknowledged as a pioneer in the field of Gender Affirmation Surgery and is the first woman worldwide to hold a personal transgender history while performing transgender surgery. She is also the first US surgeon to learn the technique of functional clitoral restoration after Female Genital Mutilation/cutting (FGM/c).

Dr. Bowers is a pelvic and gynecologic surgeon with more than 29 years’ experience in Women’s Healthcare. She is a University of Minnesota Medical School graduate and former class and student body president. Her Ob/Gyn was at the the University of Washington. She continued in Seattle as an Obstetrician/Gynecologist at The Polyclinic and Swedish Medical Center, then joined Dr. Stanley Biber in Trinidad, Colorado in 2003, redefining US transgender surgery.

Dr. Bowers is an elected board member of WPATH, and has served on the board of directors for both GLAAD and the Transgender Law Center. In 2018 and 2019, she performed the first live surgical vaginoplasty surgeries in WPATH-sponsored surgical educational programs at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York. Her work has been highlighted by appearances on Oprah, CBS Sunday Morning, Discovery Health, Al-jazeera, and more recently, the TLC reality series, “I am Jazz.” She has been featured in numerous documentaries and new features including the Guardian, BBC, Times of London, Esquire, and many others. In addition to many accolades, Dr. Bowers is recognized as one of the 100 most influential LGBT people on the Guardian’s World Pride Power List and one of Huffington Post’s 50 Transgender Icons. And Lastly, Dr. Bowers has been called the Transgender Surgery Rock Star (Denver Post), the George O’Keefe of Genitalia (unknown) and the Beyonce of Bottom Surgery (KPFK-FM in North Hollywood). 

Esprit Master

The Saturday Night Gala!

Olympic/Juan de Fuca, on Saturday May 14 at 6:00PM

Saturday night is the night we celebrate New Friends, Old Friends and all that has happened during the past week. Where better to enjoy ourselves than the Red Lion Ballroom, transformed into a luxurious banquet room and dance hall!

Esprit Master

Graduation Ceremony

Elks Lodge Room, on Saturday May 14 at 4:00PM

Your first time at Esprit is a very big step, no less significant than graduation from school. At Esprit Graduation we recognize and honor those who have made this step in a formal ceremony. Everyone is invited to attend Graduation in the Elks Ceremonial Room and welcome their new sisters. First-timers who have been at Esprit since at least Wednesday are eligible to be part of the Stage Ceremony.

We especially encourage Big Sisters and spouses to attend. Spouses can also be first-timers - after all, it's a big step for you too!

Esprit Master

Farewell Sunday Brunch

Olympic/Juan de Fuca, on Sunday May 15 at 11:00AM

This is the wind-up to Esprit. It's a time for goodbyes, of course, but also for "see you next year!" It's also a great opportunity to reminisce with your friends.

Esprit Master

Storytime with Ginger

Olympic/Juan de Fuca, on Sunday May 15 at 11:45AM

As a great closing to our week together, Ginger Chien entertains us with a story or two. Her tales are always funny, touching and thought-provoking, and her engaging, personal style will captivate you from the outset. Please stay for this special treat and the end of our Farewell Brunch.

Presenter Info

I attended my first Esprit in 1999 and spent subsequent years trying new things. This has included volunteering at the Registration Desk, being a Big Sister, performing in the Talent Show, maintaining the Esprit website for a number of years, serving on the Scholarship Committee, and helping to plan Esprit each year. My main excitement at Esprit is rocking out with The Nasty Habits on the final weekend.

My other interests range from the dark to the sublime. On my shelves you'll find dark, disturbing movies and light-hearted children's books side by side. I love costumes, Play-Doh, and blowing into my dog's mouth to make her lips flap. I'm an open-mic storyteller and my stories about life, love, and being have been presented at professional and technical conferences around the country.

I transitioned in 2011 and am proud to work at AT&T Mobility, a company that has earned top honors from Diversity Inc. and 100% rating from HRC year after year, even against constantly evolving best-in-class measures of transgender benefits. If you're curious about how a best-in-class company carries out diversity policies, take a look here and here.