LAKE ERIE 2009 GALA LETTERS




Thursday Evening 2009




SUPER JOB

I attended the 2009 gala from wednesday to sunday and just wanted to say I had a delightful time
and to express my appreciation to the girls that organize and put this event together.
Ya all do a super job and deserve a great big hug.

I love the social atmosphere of the gala, the events, not to mention the reasonable costs to attend.
I hope to be able to attend many more Erie gala..

Dee-lite-fully yours, Cyndy Dee



First Timers

This years Gala for me was very rewarding because of my small involvment in the Gala being the
newcomers contact gal and making sure we honoured those people who have died for there beliefs
with the moment of silence on the day of rememberance. My contact with the first time girls helped
me to stay grounded and remember where my journey started. I believe that everyone should take part
in the Gala at sometime to give back to the event that helped them to grow in their own journey.

Thanks for being there Erie Gala.

Connie




MORE CONFIDENT

This year, the gala was even better than in the previous years. Each year, because of
the opportunities I get at the Gala, I become more and more confident expressing myself
in my chosen gender. In 2009, I spent 2 days in Erie before anyone else showed up and I
had a lot of fun pushing the limits for myself - grocery shopping, regular shopping,
dining alone in restaurants and generally being myself. It was wonderful.
When Penny and the others showed up, we went to a movie together (a first for me) and did
tons of shopping in consignment stores. I found the perfect dress for myself and had it
repaired by a seamstress - all regular, normal activities I never get to do as myself.

During the Gala, I met many more gals - and made some really good friends. I can't wait
for next year and wish I could tell everyone who doesn't go what a great trip the Gala is.

Thanks!

Michelle



2008 GALA LETTERS



ANOTHER GALA HAS COME AND GONE


Yes our 10th annual gala is in the past and we are done planning for our 11th.
There is a new Transgendered Band that will be making their first appearance at this
years Gala - Trans Send on Friday Night at 10:30. Paul is returning with his caustic humor as Dueling Pianos
on Friday at 8:30PM. Another new act is Pamula Ann to appear between Trans Sends Bands sets.
Also we are planning on a swap and trade rack in the registration area and anything that is left over
will be donated to a local thrift shop.

New this year will be our wine tour to Ohio's Finest Winery's. And we will be
returning to Erie's Maritime Museum as well as returning to Romalos Chocolate Factory.
This years Gala is shaping up to be a great one and hopefully, there will be none
of that white fluffy four letter word around this year.

Bethany Myers



TIME OF MY LIFE


What makes a girl long for the chilly November weather in Erie? Three words - Lake Erie Gala.
I'm losing count of how many I've been to, but would never miss it for the world.
Absolutely the best TG event I know of, one that makes any and every girl feel welcome
and special. The event is only one week out of the year, but the memories last a lifetime!

Melanie S.


FREEDOM


OMG! What a tremendous feeling of freedom. I spent 4 days in "girl-mode",
interacting with people out in real the world. Everyone was so nice...
from the staff to the other guests and beyond... very friendly. Next Gala,
I hope to spend a whole week! I had a fantastic time.

Kimberley Weathers