International Court Council

A native of Nebraska, I taught school for two years in western Nebraska after college graduation. Realizing my sexuality and western Nebraska were not meshing, I moved to Denver in 1977 and came out there. After one year there, I was transferred to Utah by the insurance company for whom I worked and have lived in Utah ever since.The first coronation I attended was in 1979 (3rd Reign), but did not become involved until the 6th Reign in 1981. Becoming more of an activist, the community involvement of the Royal Court of the Golden Spike Empire attracted me to become more active in the organization.For the 7th Reign, I received the title of Lord in Waiting and I was appointed as secretary of the board. For the 8th Reign, I decided to run for Emperor and was elected to serve as Emperor VIII of the RCGSE with Auntie De. Many accomplishments were made during the 8th Reign including the start of our community center and the first Pride event. I was fortunate to be able to serve with Auntie De as she was a major contributor to the gay community of Salt Lake City.Throughout the years, I have been on the board of directors of the RCGSE more years than not, have been President of the Board, and Treasurer. I have also been on the Bylaw Committee and the Budget Committee, and have several times been the Board liaison to the Candidates and Coronation Coordinator.In addition to being involved in the Court, I have participated in the Gay Bowling League, the Gay Volleyball League (when I was younger and slimmer!), Salt Lake Men’s Choir, Metropolitan Community Church, and I was on the board of directors for the Horizon House when it was initially started in the 80’s. I have been a delegate to Democratic state convention and been a member of the platform committee for the Utah Democrats. This past year, when the RCGSE had no candidates for the office of Emperor or Empress, the College of Monarchs opened up the elections to members of the college. The Royal Court has been an integral part of my life, and a very viable organization in the gay community of Utah. I have always been proud of my association with the RCGSE, and I offered my name into nomination for Regent Emperor XXXII to try to help an organization that should mean a lot to all gay people of Utah. I am honored to have been elected by my peers and am enjoying reigning as Regent Emperor this year.