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Desert Pride Center

Whats Happening NOW?

Commentary from PSNOW President Melinda Tremaglio
May 2008

The month of May brings to life Mother’s Day, and I’m remembering my mother who passed away on May 8th last year. Although I was estranged from my family because of my sexuality, I still went home once in a while to visit with my mother and brothers. It’s always like stepping back in time to a childhood full of angst and violence. I was there when she passed away and she looked very peaceful. I hugged her and whispered, “Thanks for having me.” I knew that she was free of her pain body, which suffered tremendous abuse from my raging, alcoholic father. I would like to dedicate this column to Bernadette, my mother.

There are many memorable dates in May. We celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 11, and I will celebrate with you because I believe we are all mothers and sisters united in the common goal of peace, happiness and a future for our children free of violence. On May 27, 1977, Janet Guthrie was the first woman race car driver to qualify for the Indy 500. Last week, Danica Patrick became the first female to win the Indy Japan 300. The 26-year old won in her 50th career start. May is also Asian Heritage Month, and on May 10, 1870, Victoria Woodhull became the first woman candidate for president. Amelia Earhart flew the Pacific Ocean solo on May 22, 1932.  Oh, I almost forgot May 6th -- International Diet Day, ugh! 

To read the rest of the article, click here and open the file - (dont worry, it has been checked and is web-virus free! )

About the writer:

Melinda was born and raised in Connecticut and entered the Army straight out of high school where she was discharged for being a homosexual. This began her journey as an advocate for fairness and equality. Melinda hosted/produced a television show in West Hollywood from 1986-1990 called "Lifestyle Update" a weekly gay and lesbian entertainment show. She served as President on the board of Homestead Hospice & Shelter, providing homes for men and women with AIDS from 1991-1994. Melinda moved to Palm Springs in 1997 and worked for Triangle Productions, 1997- 2001 in television and radio. She also served on the Pride Board from 1999-2001 and was First Vice Commander of AMVETS Post 66 from 2003-2005. She has been on the board of the Martin Luther King Memorial Committee 2002-2007and currently serves as President of the Palm Springs Area Chapter of the National Organization for Women 2001-2007. She has been volunteering for the Well in the Desert for the past 4 years.

 You can reach Melinda at melindat@dc.rr.com

Q&A from LGBT Attorney BARBARA BARRETT

May 2008

Dear Local Lawyer,

I think I did a terrible thing.  I'm a 75-year-old lesbian living in a mobile home park in Desert Hot Springs. My partner of so many years died six months ago and my health is failing. I have been diagnosed with glaucoma and have difficulty seeing.   A neighbor of mine started helping me out after my partner died and he has been very, very kind to me.  He helps me write the checks for my monthly bills.  Instead of signing my name to the checks he told me it would be easier and legal if his name was put on my account.  So, off we went to the bank and I put his name on all of my accounts as a joint tenant so that he can help me write my checks.  I have about $225,000 in my accounts.

When I die I want all of my money to go to my partner's daughter (I helped raise her) and I have a will leaving everything to her.  I have this nagging feeling that somehow I did something wrong.  Did I?

                                                                     Signed,      Needy But Not Wanting To Be Stupid

To read Barbara's response and see the whole column, click here and open the file - all files have been checked for email viruses.

About the writer:

Barbara Barrett is a local Palm Springs attorney practicing in the areas of estate planning (wills and trusts), probates, gay and lesbian dissolutions, and bankruptcy.  She has been practicing since 1983 and her offices are at 555 S. Sunrise Way, Suite 217 Palm Springs, CA 92264. She is also the President of Desert Women for Equality, a group aimed at improving the lives of women in the Coachella Valley. You can send your questions to Your Local Lawyer at bbarrett92262@aol.com Please be sure to include your name and address.

Disclaimer:  The information contained in this column is for general guidance only. The application and impact of laws can vary widely based on the specific facts involved.  As such, advice given should not be used a substitute for a consultation with an attorney.  Attorney Barbara Barrett and L Spot Palm Springs recommend that before making any decision or taking any action, you consult with an attorney of your choice.