Printer-friendly version

Hi. We need to cover a lot of ground and you need to know the remainder of Jo's story, at least through her elementary school years. Mike has a story to tell, also and we will get to that soon. The next seven chapters take us to the next to the last day of school in the sixth grade where everyone ends up in a hospital. It's not the same hospital where the story begins.

I've had some formatting problems due to hyphenation. If you find a strange hyphen, let me know and I will try to edit it out. The same goes for any other obvious errors. I appreciate your input and comments.

Chapter 4: Jo's Story, Spring 1988, The Next Day

The rain continued to pour. The wind was very gusty and strong and the temperature had dropped to the low 50's. What had been spring was now winter again. According to the morning newscast, it was snowing where they had just hiked in bright sunshine two days before. It took conditions like these before the children ever had a ride to school. As soon as breakfast was finished and the dishes cleared, they got into the station wagon. Joey and Mary were let off first, then they proceeded to the junior high school where Patrick was left off. As they approached the town center, they crossed one of the concrete lined creek beds and noted the water was really rolling along. They'd had probably had a couple of inches of rain and according to the reports more was on the way.

Joey and Mary hurried to their respective classes, their trails of water and wet footprints mingling with the others already there. A 'rain day' was nice in many respects. Athletic activities were limited since the elementary school had no gymnasium, the recess periods were spent doing painting, singing and indoor games. Joey looked forward to this with relish.

Of course he had to use the restroom and things went down hill from there. Joey waited as long as he could; however, realized that he wouldn't be able to wait for the break to go. He walked up to Miss Jones' desk and asked in a quiet voice if he could go to the rest room.

"Of course, Joey," She smiled at her best student.

Miss Ruth Jones had been a teacher at Baldwin Elementary for a long time. She was one of the best-liked teachers in the school and would keep her students for the last two years before they moved on to junior high school. As Joey learned later on, she was quite aware of some of the problems Joey had been encountering at the school and had tried to get assistance from the other teachers and the principal. Most of them just put it as boys being boys. "It's all part of growing up" was the normal reply. Miss Jones knew that Billy Conklin and Freddy Smith were trouble and something had to be done.

Little did Joey know that Billy Conklin was already in the restroom, having had to respond to the call of nature, too. He was sitting in one of the stalls when he heard the door open. He peered through the space between the door and the side of the stall and saw Joey come in. Billy was a big kid. He was big for his age and it didn't help that he had been held back a year. He was a bit overweight and always had a sneer on his face. His hair was cut close to the scalp in a burr. He didn't bathe very often and his teeth were in bad condition. His only associate was Freddy Smith who probably should have been held back also. Freddy was even bigger, or at least taller, than Billy. They liked to stand around tormenting the smaller children, and Joey was their prime target.

He quietly unlatched the door as Joey finished peeing, zipped up and started walking to the sink to wash his hands. When Joey got close, Billy violently kicked the door open and caught Joey across his face. Joey didn't have a chance to react and the door struck him across the face and nose. He immediately fell backward his nose gushing blood and his screams of anguish echoing throughout the school. Miss Jones and Mrs. Simpson, Billy's teacher, got there first and saw Joey sitting on the floor with blood streaming down the front of his shirt. Mr. Frazier, the Principal was close behind.

As Miss Jones grabbed some moistened paper towels to press against Joeys bleeding nose, Mr. Frazier told Mrs. Simpson to take Billy to his office and not let him out of sight. The bleeding was slowing and between sobs Joey was able to tell what happened. Normally, when a stall door is opened one can hear the latch turning. Also, the door opens fairly slowly and if one is close it is very easy to get out of the way. One would certainly be able to get his hands up to protect his face. In this instance, he never was able to react until too late. Fortunately, he was close to the hinge and the door wasn't moving fast enough to cause catastrophic damage.

They took Joey to the nurse's office to have the nurse make sure he was alright and to call his parents. The nurse's office opened into the same reception area as the Principal's office. Billy was sitting there looking rather smug about everything.

"You clumsy little fairy, why don't you look where you're going? Mrs. Simpson, I didn't do anything. He just walked into the open door."

"Billy, if I were you, and I'm glad I'm not, I would just shut up," said a very irate Mrs. Simpson.

Miss Jones and Mr. Frazier took Joey into the room where the nurse took a look at the damage.

After a careful examination she said, "Joey, I have some good news and some bad news. The good news is that your nose does not seem to be broken. The bad news is you're going to have two fantastic black eyes. I'm going to call your folks to come get you so that you can go home and change clothes if you want to."

To say that Andy Beebe was angry would be an understatement. Joey could tell the instant he walked into the nurse's office that his father was extremely upset. Yet, he maintained his composure while the nurse described Joey's injuries and the fact that, in spite of the blood, they did not appear to be too serious. Joey was beyond tears at this point and he was able to accurately describe what had taken place in the restroom. Andy was horrified because the potential for catastrophic injury had been there and the meeting might have been taking place in the hospital emergency room instead of the nurse's office at school. Still, he managed to contain his anger.

Andy was going to stay until he'd a word with the principal. So when they left the nurse's office they took a seat in the waiting area. As they came out of the office, Joey saw that new kid, Mike O'Donnell sitting there with a very worried expression on his face. He turned and looked at Joey and his father and suddenly got a very strange look on his face. He looked at Joey in a way Joey had never been looked at by any of the other children in the school. It wasn't a look of disgust like Billy and Freddy had given him in the past. It was as if he was peering deep into Joey's mind.

Before anything else could happen, Mr. Frazier stepped out of his office and asked Mike to enter. Mr. Frazier looked at Joey and his dad, nodded and escorted Mike back into his office. It wasn't until that summer that Joey learned the gist of their conversation. He heard lot of talking and could tell both Principal Frazier and Mike O'Donnell were carrying on a conversation but he couldn't tell what they were saying.

The door opened and Joey saw Mike and Principal Frazier standing there. Mike turned as he came out and Joey looked up at him. Mike gave him a weak smile as he said, "I'm sorry Joey. Please forgive me. I'll try to make sure this never happens again." As he turned away, Joey saw what appeared to be tears; however, at the same time Mike appeared to be smiling.

Andy had already determined that Joey's injuries, although painful, did not appear to be serious. He decided that he would confront the principal about the agonies his little boy had been going through. He was just inches away from punching him in the nose. When Mike walked out the door, Andy stormed into Mr. Frazier's office with Joey close behind. Andy wanted Joey to know that he was on his side.

"Andy, before you say or do anything you might regret, I want to apologize to you and most of all, to Joey. I, no, we were wrong to let this situation continue as it has been allowed to. I have not been doing my job. We are so fortunate that nothing more serious than this has happened.

"Joey, I want to assure you that this will not happen again, at least not at this school. I am suspending Billy Conklin for the rest of the week. But with only a couple of months of school left before the summer break I am going to let Billy finish the semester. If we can prevent any further incidents this year maybe we can defuse this thing and by next fall Billy will grow up a little and be a more constructive member of this school.

"Andy, I'm going to have a teacher and staff meeting this afternoon. I'm going to explain to them that this harassment and name calling is to stop immediately. They are going to have to step in if they see anything remotely like what's been going on. Joey is not the only one that has been a victim of this sort of activity. I think the school district has some training materials on this and we are going to ensure everyone gets some sensitivity training.

"Also, there's another factor here. As you are aware, the school district's lines have been redrawn and we are going to get more students from the west side of town and from some of the unincorporated areas further out. The ethnic balance at this school is going to change considerably this fall. I want everyone, including the students, to be ready for it. I also understand there is a move afoot among certain people in town to stop this change. So we may see a number of the students reflect the attitudes of those people.

"Joey, why don't you go home with your dad and get cleaned up? You certainly don't have to come back today if you don't feel like it. Again I apologize for letting this happen."

During this entire one-sided conversation, Andy stood there with a look of wonder on his face. Joey noticed that he'd visibly relaxed. The tension he had at first seemed to melt away.

"Andy, can we call a truce and move forward? I'm going to do everything possible within my power to prevent further similar incidents. Would you back me? There may be trouble coming in Loma Sierra if this group of people I've been hearing about starts to become more vocal. We need some cool heads around here. Can I count on you?"

"Well, Jim, you certainly have caught me off guard. I am very upset about what has happened. Joey could have been seriously hurt and after our conversation the other night I thought this sort of thing wouldn't happen. I can see now that this incident may not have been easily preventable. Do you think a suspension is going to be enough to stop this string of harassments and assaults?"

"God, I hope so! I'm going to talk to Billy's dad as soon as I can. Hopefully, he'll be here in a few minutes."

He offered his hand and Andy grasped it firmly while looking Jim Frazier in the eyes.

"I hope so too. And by the way, I know some groups are out there that are doing exactly what you're talking about."

Chapter 5: Jo's Story, Spring 1988, Making New Friends

Joey's injuries healed rather quickly, although he did have a couple of beautiful shiners. On the following Monday he noticed that some of the kids seemed a bit friendlier than before. He also noticed that Mike O'Donnell was no longer hanging around Billy and Freddy. In fact, Mike had come up to him several times in the next couple of days to ask if he was okay. He also said that if anyone gave Joey any problems to tell him and he would take care of it.

Joey was puzzled. This was a guy who'd been calling him queer and faggot and laughing when he fell. Now he was trying to be nice and help him out. Joey could use a friend in school and maybe this was the guy. Still, he wasn't really sure about what was going on. The one thing he did know was that Billy and Freddy were staying away from him. He hadn't been called anything in quite a while. One time Billy, when he thought no one could see him, gave Joey the finger. Joey tried not to look at him at all, if possible. Another time he saw Mike talking to Billy and Freddy. Some sort of heated conversation was going on and it appeared as if Billy was threatening Mike. Mike was shouting back and then turned away. Billy started to go after him, but thought better of it when he noticed a teacher watching him rather closely.

During the next recess Mike again came up to Joey and asked him if everything was alright. Joey did not know what to make of this attention and mumbled that he was alright.

"Look," said Mike, "I told you I was sorry about what I had done with those two idiots. They are not my friends and I wish you would be mine. I heard that you like to hike and I do too. I was wondering if you'd like to go on a hike with my family this weekend. We are going up to Big Santa Anita Canyon. I have heard it is kinda' a neat place."

"I don't know Mike. I'll have to ask my folks. I think I'd like to, though. I've been there a lot and there are a lot of neat places and things to see. The first part of the trail can be real hot, but it's real nice once you get to the bottom. I'll ask Mom and Dad this afternoon when I get to the shop."

Linda Beebe had been in contact with Dr. Scharff and had made an appointment for that afternoon. She explained to Dr. Scharff there were some issues to be discussed and that Joey had been hurt at school and she wanted him to look at the injuries to make sure problems didn't exist.

Dr. Scharff was a kindly old doctor and was nearing retirement. He and his family had fled their home in Innsbruck, Austria during the Anschlüss and had come to the United States. That had been 50 years ago. He still retained a German-Austrian accent and didn't seem to want to lose it. It had been Dr. Scharff who had first invited the Beebes to come to the Temple.

"Vell, Choey, that is quite a shiner you haff dere. How did zat happen?"

Joey gave a brief synopsis of what had happened.

"Let's see Choey, you are about 10 years old now, ja?"

"Actually, he is almost 11, Doctor. One of the things we want to talk about is the fact Joey will be starting to start to grow up soon and we want you to check and see if everything is happening the way it should."

"Okay, Choey, you go into zee examination room und strip to your shorts. I vill talk to your mother und be zere in a minute."

Joey proceeded into the room and stripped. He sat on the edge of the table after finding a magazine and waited for the doctor.

Dr. Scharff entered the examination room and washed his hands. He checked Joey's eyes and nose and took particular care with his nose, which was still quite sore. He then had Joey stand up so he could check his genitals. He poked and prodded and uttered a few "Hmmm"s as he checked things. He then examined Joey's chest listening carefully while he had Joey inhale and exhale. He also prodded around the breast area. Joey was glad that the doctor's hands were warm and soft. After completing the examination, Doctor Scharff told him to get dressed and come back to the other room.

Joey came out towards the end of the conversation and sat.

"Well, Doctor Scharff, am I a girl?"

"No, Choey. I tink things are chust taking time to happen. Ve vill watch tings for a vile, okay."

Joey seemed to not be quite as introspective as they went back to the shop.

"Are you alright, Honey?" asked his mother as they entered the shop. The doctor's office was only a couple of blocks from the shop and they had walked there and back.

"I think so. But it's funny, I still feel like something isn't right.

"Oh, Mike O'Donnell asked me if I'd like to go on a hike with his family this weekend. They want to go up to Chantry Flats and hike up into Big Santa Anita Canyon. They've never been there before. I can be their tour guide," he said rather proudly.

"Wasn't Mike one of those who was giving you trouble?"

"Yeah, but he apologized and said he was wrong and felt real bad about what happened."

"Yes, your father told me he did. That was a pretty big thing for him to do without being asked to."

"He does seem like a pretty nice guy and he said he wanted to be my friend. Do you think it would be okay? I'd really like to go."

"I don't have any problem with it and I'm pretty sure your father wouldn't either. Why don't you call him and tell him it's alright."

Joey went back to the family room to call. He had to call information to get their number, as the O'Donnells hadn't been there very long. He wrote down the number and dialed it. A girl answered the phone.

"Hi, this is Joey Beebe. May I speak to Mike O'Donnell, please?"

"Hey, Mike, some girl wants to talk to you," the girl shouted.

"Okay, be there in a sec," Mike hollered back.

"Hello," said Mike.

"Mike this is Joey. Who was that girl? She thought I was a girl."

"Oh, just my big sister. She can be a real pain sometimes."

"Mike, my mom says it's alright for me to go with you. Do I need to bring any lunch?"

"I don't think so. My mom usually makes up a picnic when we take trips. Dad'll carry it in a backpack. Should we bring a canteen? Is the water any good up there?"

"Dad said it used to be. He used to fish up there a lot. The cabins that are still back there are on septic tanks. The last time I was up there, I saw signs about a disease in the water and not to drink it. I think it's called Giardia or something like it. I think you should bring water."

"Great. I'm glad you can come. Let's talk about it tomorrow at school."

The rest of the week was pretty uneventful. A brief rain fell the next day, but the worst of the storm missed the Southern California area. It probably wouldn't rain again until late in the next fall. Joey had brought a note from the doctor excusing him from any athletics for the rest of the year due to his injured nose. What really made it nice was that suddenly Joey had a friend. A second thing was also nice. Billy Conklin and Freddy Smith were nowhere around. Joey came outside during the recess periods and would read a book, sort of. He was mainly watching his new friend playing baseball.

It turned out that Mike was a good athlete and once he got to know his classmates, and got over the stigma of hanging around Billy and Freddy, he was accepted as one of the regular students. His bad start had been erased. Over the next few years he became a leader.

The hiking trip through Big Santa Anita Canyon was a lot of fun. Just as Joey had thought, he got to be the guide. When they got to the bottom of the canyon they went upstream towards Sturtevant Falls. They passed a number of cabins that were still occupied, at least on weekends, although Joey had heard about people who lived there year 'round. The Black Alder trees hung over the creek and the beautiful Woodwardia ferns looked as if they came from a tropical jungle. They also saw some bright red cardinals. They were not native to the area, but had taken up residence there after some of their ancestors had escaped from people who brought them to Southern California. After a couple of miles, the trail split. The right hand trail went to the base of Sturtevant Falls where they had their picnic. The falls were about 60 feet high and had a large pool at the base. They found a very nice area to do a bit of wading.

Joey kept noticing that Mike's dad would glance at him in a funny way. He never said anything, but Joey once caught Mr. O'Donnell shaking his head in a questioning way

After their picnic was over, they packed up their refuse and put it into a trashcan that the Forest Service had provided. They walked back to the main trail and took it to the top of the falls. For the next few hundred yards they walked above a roaring cascade. It was very pretty in an eerie sort of way. The stream became much more peaceful and they came to a spot where another stream entered from the north. From there, the trail left the creek and headed west to Camp Sturtevant. They passed above another beautiful cascade and instead of going on to Camp Sturtevant; they took another branch of the trail back towards Chantry Flat. This trail was well above the canyon and it got a bit warmer. They came upon a grove of Madrone trees and Joey explained that this was the only area in Southern California where they grew. One had to go nearly a 100 miles up the coast before they were found again. It had to do with the high rainfall in the local area. They all looked at the smooth, red-barked tree trunks, appreciating their beauty. Eventually, the trail dropped into Winter Creek. This creek was smaller; however, a number of little flats were covered with large Bracken Ferns that grew as tall as Joey. From there they made the steep climb up Cardiac Hill to the car.

Joey was very proud of how he'd led the O'Donnells through the canyon. Mike and his sister were very impressed with his knowledge of the area. Their dad just kept looking at him in a funny way. Their mother said nothing.

When they got to Joey's house they pulled into the driveway to let him out. Joey's parents were doing some yard work and came over to say hello and to thank them for taking Joey along on their adventure. Andy introduced himself and offered a hand to Richard. To say the least, the handshake did not seem to be very enthusiastic. Richard introduced his wife and daughter. Andy and Linda had already greeted Mike when the kids got out of the car.

Later on at dinner Joey went on and on about how neat the hike was and how proud he felt to have been a leader.

"Mike is cool and his sister isn't too bad either. Even if she did think I was a girl."

"How about their mom and dad?" asked Linda?

"They're alright, I guess. Mrs. O'Donnell doesn't say much and Mr. O'Donnell kept looking at me funny. He didn't really say much either.

"Pat, I think I saw one of those big brown trout you were telling me used to be in there. I was looking into one of those big pools above the falls and I could swear I saw one about a foot and a half long. It came up near the bottom end of the pool and grabbed a grasshopper that had fallen into the pool. Then it was gone. You may have to try it up there."

After a while, Joey finished his shower and came in to give his mother a goodnight kiss.

"I think Pat has found out something about the bridge in the Adventure game. I could hear him saying something about how was he going to sign the deed. That means he discovered how to take care of the Troll. He still has a long way to go, though. I think I'll give him another hint."

"Don't be too eager to give him hints, dear. He may figure out that you have already solved it and it won't be as much fun for him."

"'Night Mom, 'night Dad. See you in the morning."

Chapter 6: Jo's Story, Spring 1988, Mike to the Rescue

The next few weeks were pretty uneventful. The typical May and June fog was hanging around and periods of light drizzle spotted the mornings. They went three weeks without ever seeing the sun except for a brief period on some afternoons. School was winding down and everyone was eagerly anticipating the coming summer vacation.

There had not been any further incidents with Billy. Mike continued to be friendly to Joey, although at times seemed to be a bit distant. There hadn't been any further invitations to accompany his family on any excursions. Joey did notice that although there had been no verbal or physical contact with Billy, he often caught Billy staring at him with a malevolent grin on his face.

It all came down to the last day of school. Andy and Linda were working on an appraisal, so the shop was closed. Joey had to walk home past the convenience store where Billy and Freddy often hung out after school. Because the pressure seemed to be off over the last few weeks, Joey did not have the same trepidation about walking home that he usually did and his momentarily relaxed attitude let him walk into a trap.

He started down the street alone, as Mike wanted to go back and get a couple of things he'd forgotten. Suddenly he heard Mike shouting from a block away. As he turned to look up the street, he caught a glimpse of two bicycles coming around the convenience store toward him.

Billy raced around him and came to a sliding sideways stop. Suddenly, Joey was terrified. Then Freddy came to a skidding halt behind Joey. He was cut off from any escape.

"All right you little pansy piece of shit," said Billy as he got off the bike. "I'm going to knock your fuckin' teeth out and then I'm going to stomp the shit out of you."

Joey had to do something fast or Billy's threat was going to become a reality. He turned and tried to run toward the store between Billy and Freddy. He was almost quick enough, but not quite. Freddy, at the last second, stuck out his foot and caught Joey at the ankle. Joey went down like he'd been shot. He tried to catch himself, but there wasn't enough space or time. He hit on his hands, knees and chest and the wind was knocked out of him. He could hardly breathe.

Billy stood over him and gloated, "It's payback time BeeBee. I guess I'll kick the shit out of you first and then knock your teeth out. The order doesn't matter."

Just as Billy wound up to kick Joey, he was knocked sprawling by the flying body of Mike who hadn't stopped running. Billy was down but not hurt.

"Get Joey," Billy shouted, "I'll take care of this asshole, faggot lover."

Mike hesitated only briefly and flung himself over Joey's prostrate body.

Freddy and Billy moved in for the kill and started lining up for some telling kicks to Mike's body.

Inside the store Mrs. Aldridge was checking out at the counter when she looked up and saw the melee starting to take shape.

"Oh my god, those two boys are going to kill those other two."

Mr. Preston, the store manager, turned around and saw what was going on. He raced out of the store and ran toward the four, all the time shouting for them to stop. His request fell on deaf ears. As a last resort, he grabbed the two by their collars and pulled them away. They were still trying to kick the two on the ground.

"Call the police and an ambulance," shouted Mr. Preston. By then a couple of people driving by saw the fight, stopped and rushed over to help. Mike was doing his best not to cry. His ribs hurt and his nose was bleeding. Joey was a mess and was sobbing while sitting on the asphalt of the parking lot. Mrs. Aldridge brought out some wet towels and was trying to ease their pain and clean their injuries.

It didn't take long for the police to arrive and the two perpetrators were hustled to and locked into the back seats of the two squad cars. The ambulance arrived shortly afterward and the medics started attending to Joey and Mike. The police called the injured children's' homes. Joey was able to give them number where his parents were and the police were able to contact them. Mike's mother was at home and she hurried to the location. Joey's parents weren't far behind.

The medics advised them that the children's injuries did not appear to be serious, but that they should take them to the ER to get checked out. They thought Mike might have a broken rib. Joey needed to get the abrasions cleaned up and have the cut chin taken care of.

Andy and Linda led Joey to the car and headed to the hospital. Mike and Marcia were not far behind. The parents got a summary of what happened on the way.

At the same time, the police were taking Billy and Freddy to the police station where they were put into a holding cell until their parents could be located and the legal authorities could decide what was to be done with them.

Neither Joey's nor Mike's injuries were too serious. Joey's cut chin required only a butterfly Band-Aid, although there would be a small scar resembling a dimple. The scrapes on the hands and knees required cleaning, antibiotic ointment and some gauze covering. Mike's rib was cracked but would heal quickly. It would be sore and Mike would be uncomfortable for a while.

The two kids were sitting in the ER waiting area while the parents were taking care of the paper work.

"Mike, thank you for caring enough to help. I think they would have killed me if they had the chance."

"Look, Joey, I told you I would watch out for you and I intend to keep my promise. Those guys are bad news."

Suddenly, the doors crashed open and Richard O'Donnell stormed in.

"What the hell is going on?" he shouted.

Marcia turned around at the outburst and rushed over to him, "It's alright, Dear. Everyone is okay. Some kids from the school attacked Joey, and Mike rushed in to protect him. Fortunately, Mr. Preston was able to break it up and the police got there quickly."

Richard O'Donnell was furious. He didn't even ask about who had started the fight. He turned around and looked at Mike and Joey.

"Mike, you and your mother get in the car and go home."

He glowered at Joey again, then turned to his parents. His words were sharp and dripping with acid and hatred.

"I don't ever want to see your pansy son around my son again. Your son is trying to seduce my son into the world of perversion and homosexuality. The sooner you get out of this community the better."

Mike and his mother had not yet departed and were standing there with mouths agape at the tirade they had just heard.

"Now, dear, I know you are upset, but there is no reason to talk like that."

Turning toward his wife and son Richard shouted, "I told you to get out of here and go home. Now, do it!"

This was not the way the last day of school should be. What should have been a very happy day for Joey had turned into a disaster. He couldn't understand it. What had he done to deserve this? He was surprised at the fact his father reacted very calmly. He never verbally responded to Richard O'Donnell. He finished the paperwork and gathered his wife and son to him and said, "Let's go home. We have a summer ahead of us."
"ƒ
Chapter 7: Jo's Story, Summer 1988, The Appearance of Evil

Billy and Freddy were held over for a juvenile hearing. Billy already had three assaults on his record and Freddy had two. Many more assaults had happened that were not on the record. School officials reported the constant harassment against Joey and others. Mr. Frazier brought in a doodle Billy had produced and a state psychologist agreed that it was an indicator of serious personality defects. The fact that Billy's father did not/could not provide significant parental supervision and that his mother was nowhere to be found, did not give the juvenile judge much choice. Billy was to be remanded to the juvenile detention center for one year and be on probation until his eighteenth year. If he could stay out of trouble his record would be expunged; however, if there were any problems, he'd be back in the juvenile facility until his eighteenth birthday. The judge felt Freddy's situation was no better. His mother was a single mother and she had four other younger children. She testified that Freddy was out of control and she just couldn't handle him. The judge's decision was basically the same for Freddy.

As the juvenile authorities led Billy and Freddy away, Billy turned toward Joey and mouthed, "I will kill you." No one but Joey saw it. He would never forget that moment.

During the hearing Joey tried to look at Mike, and once, Mike looked back at Joey, but his father caught him and roughly turned him away while saying something in his ear that no one else was able to hear.

There had been a general election a week after school had let out and Richard O'Donnell had been elected by a very slim margin for the position left vacant by Al Pfeifer's untimely death.

One day when Joey and his little sister accompanied their mother to the Santa Anita Mall, Joey saw Mike come out of the electronics game pavilion next to the computer games store where Joey always headed. He ran over to see his friend.

Mike saw him coming and appeared a bit uneasy.

"Joey if my dad sees me talking to you he'll ground me and 'tan' my hide. He told me to never talk to you again. I don't know why. You're a good guy and I really like you, but Dad says you are a bad influence and God won't like me if I associate with you."

"You've got to go. My dad's coming out of the store now."

Joey looked around and saw Mr. O'Donnell coming toward them. He did not look very happy.

"Michael, I told you what would happen if I ever caught you talking to this deviant again."

"Dad, he just came up to me. I told him you didn't want him around me."

"Okay, Mike, you tell him that you never want him to talk to you again. And do it now."

Mike was in near tears, but he did as his dad told him. It didn't sound too convincing, but it hurt Joey deeply.

Mr. O'Donnell grabbed his son and pulled him away.

"Don't you ever come around my son again, you little freak. Do you understand? If you do, I'll see to it that you and your family are run out of town along with their queer friends."

It was an empty threat; however, it sounded real enough to the 10-year old.

Joey sat on a nearby bench and started crying. His only friend in the world was not his friend. The hate he felt from Mr. O'Donnell was just like the hate he felt from Billy, Freddy and Earl Scroggins.

Linda Beebe was returning with Mary to the game room where she promised to meet Joey. She saw him sitting on the bench crying.

"Why, what's the matter dear?"

"Mr. O'Donnell made Mike promise to never talk to me again. He said I was a deviant and that he would run all of us out of town if I ever did again."

"Let's go home dear. I think I need to talk to your father."

When they got home, Linda related Joey's story to Andy. Andy went straight to the phone and called the O'Donnell house. He was lucky or unlucky enough, depending on how you look at it, to reach Richard O'Donnell directly.

"Mr. O'Donnell, this is Andrew Beebe. I want you to listen to me very carefully. How dare you threaten my son? He has done nothing to you or your family. He is an intelligent, sensitive child. You have destroyed a friendship because of your homophobic attitude"¦.

"Don't tell me I'm imagining things. And my son did not make it up. He is not in the habit of lying about anything"¦.

"Your son is a good child and would be welcome here any time "¦.

"My son is not gay, and certainly has no desire to have a gay relationship with your son. What sort of Dark Age hole did you crawl out of?

Andy pulled the phone away from his ear, glared at it for a moment and hung it up.

Linda and Joey had been standing back during the conversation.

"Well, I don't think I had any trouble figuring out what was being said on the other end. Do you think he broke the phone?"

Andy just muttered, "Sheiss Kopf," and walked away.
"ƒ
Chapter 8: Jo's Story, Summer 1988, Things Get a Lot Better

The Beebe family had a summer ahead of them and they would try to make the best of things in spite of the obvious political problems in Loma Sierra. They had reserved some pack animals at a pack station in an area in the Sierra Nevada where they went almost every year. They had a two week trip planned and were really looking forward to it. What they did was have the packer lead the pack train and the horses they were riding to a high pass in the area. Then the packer returned the riding stock back to the pack station, letting the Beebes lead the pack mules on foot. The Beebes were very experienced at this and the packers knew it. They had no qualms at all letting these flatlanders have their animals.

On this particular trip, the packer left them at the top of the nearly 12,000' Franklin Pass and the Beebes were on their own for the next two weeks. They proceeded down to the headwaters of Rattlesnake Creek, a tributary of the Kern River. They definitely were not yet acclimated to the altitude; however, the rest of the day was spent walking down hill and the effects of the altitude were not too severe. Still, when they arrived at their first campsite, they were glad the first day's trek was over. Surrounded by a lodgepole pine forest, they found an excellent campsite near the edge of 10,400 foot Forester Lake.

While Linda and Andy set up camp, Pat led the mules to a fenced pasture where they would have plenty of forage. The animals started grazing immediately, and one of them found a place to roll in the dust. They too, seemed glad the long day was over. While the mules were feeding, Pat made a quick circle of the pasture to insure the fence was intact. Past experience had told them that given a chance, the animals might take off to the pack station, especially if they were only a day out. This could really mess up their itinerary if they had to wait for the packer to bring the animals back. They knew if they got far enough away from the pack station, the mules would be less likely to wander far.

Joey and Mary were assigned to gather firewood. This camp location was in an area below timberline where wood gathering was allowed. In some places, packers were required to pack in their own fuel. The Beebes had a portable propane stove in the event it became necessary later on in the trip to cook without wood. The children also got water out of the nearby lake. They had to filter it before they could drink it because of the possibility of contamination. Andy wasn't really sure it was necessary at this location; however, it was better to be safe than sorry. All one needed was a major case of diarrhea to spoil the entire trip for everyone.

The next day the family spent lazing around the camp, acclimating themselves to the altitude. It was very pleasant, especially in the sun. The kids decided to go swimming to help them get rid of the trail grime they'd accumulated the day before. Both parents thought it would be a good idea to join them. A very nice beach was near the camp and they could wade out as far as they wanted. They could also soap down away from the lake and rinse off there so the soap wouldn't drain into the lake. The soap they used was supposed to be environmentally compatible. The kids delighted in rinsing each other down with buckets of water drawn from the lake.

One of the neat things about wading was the temperature change in the water as one went deeper. The top eighteen inches or so was relatively warm, maybe in the 50 degree Fahrenheit range. Much below that and the water became frigid. It was only about forty degrees, maybe even colder. The eastern brook trout in the lake thrived in the frigid waters.

The kids had had enough as a light breeze rapidly chilled their exposed skin. Water games were over until the next bathing time, which would be several days away.

They next day they took a side trip to Rattlesnake Creek, which was less than a mile away. It was extremely beautiful. The water was gin clear and the stream was loaded with small golden trout, which were native to the area. Many of the streams feeding into the Kern River had their own populations of golden trout. Each stream's fish was a bit different than the other. Their bright golden color, streaks of red and large dark spots made them especially beautiful. They were also eager to take the small artificial flies that Patrick presented to them. He was not particularly skillful as a fly fisherman; however, the long cast was not needed. Patrick kept only enough for dinner that night and released the rest. After a while he tried to see just how gullible the little fish were. If he stayed out of their sight and dangled a fly over the water, the small trout would leap out of the water trying to knock down what they thought was a potential meal.

That night after dinner they huddled about the small fire as Andy recounted his younger days hiking in the area. The fire had burned down to coals, when suddenly a large meteor streaked across the sky. It came out of the north and went from horizon to horizon. It left a glowing orange trail that lasted for at least a half a minute.

Joey followed its path across the night sky and made a silent wish. It couldn't do any harm.

Early the next morning they had a quick breakfast. While breakfast was being prepared, the kids went off to the pasture to get the mules. The mules being as smart as they were would have nothing to do with them and ran off. Patrick had brought a bag of oats and the kids filled their hands with oats, holding them out where the mules could see them. The mules had stopped a short distance away and were watching to see what their potential captors would do next. Suddenly one caught sight and the scent of the oats and decided that the running wasn't worth it. The jenny walked up to Mary and proceeded to bury her muzzle into Mary's hand practically inhaling the oats. They put a rope on her bridle and led her off toward camp. The other two mules followed closely behind each getting a share of the oats just to encourage them the next time. When they got back, the kids secured each to a small hitching rail that some previous packers had constructed. Then each sat on his or her favorite rock and filled up with some hot cereal and granola. They would need their energy for the long trek ahead of them.

Their hike took them over a relatively low pass and into a basin where a small granite bound lake known as Little Claire Lake lay. They could see the trout feeding on a hatch; however, a lot of walking was ahead and they couldn't afford to stop for long. When they reached the head of the lake, they did pause for a moment for pictures. Andy Beebe had shown them a picture in a book called The Gentle Wilderness, by Elliot Porter. The book was frequently on their coffee table in the den. As they looked toward the outlet of the lake, they suddenly realized they were looking at that picture. There would be many more images they could verify before the trip was over.

From the lake, the trail plunged down the canyon wall toward the bottom of Soda Creek more than a thousand feet below. The view was spectacular down the deep U-shaped canyon that had been sculpted by glaciers thousands of years before. Far in the distance was their destination for the night. As they approached the bottom, they could hear the creek rushing along and decided it would be a good place to have lunch. One of the advantages of using pack mules was that they could carry some luxuries that would be impossible to tote on their backs. One of their favorites was canned Mandarin Oranges. They would pass the can around, each taking one until all were gone. Then they would share the syrup. It gave them an energy boost.

Suddenly the canyon they were following plunged over a series of falls into a much larger canyon below. They had to switchback down the side to the bottom. After about a mile a bridge made of logs crossed the rushing torrent of Big Arroyo. The mules balked momentarily and the swift water below affected Joey and Mary's balance briefly. When they became used to the visual effect they were able to cross easily. There would be a couple of similar bridges later in the trip and by then they were old pros.

Once across, they had their first real uphill climb of the trip. It took about an hour and suddenly they were on an almost flat area known as Chagoopa Plateau. Another two miles and they were at their destination. It was a large fairly shallow lake known as Moraine Lake. Andy explained to them that a glacier that had descended from the much higher peaks to the west had formed it. The glacier left a semicircular ridge of debris that formed a natural dam. The lake sometimes froze to the bottom making the survival of fish a problem. Sometimes the Park Service would drop small trout from an airplane to restock it if it froze out. They would have to see about the fish. Andy felt since not a lot of tadpoles and other aquatic life were visible there probably were some fish. The last few winters had been mild and the lake may not have frozen to the bottom.

Their routine that night was the same as it had been a few nights before. This time there was no fenced pasture, so they staked the mules out in the pasture. They would have to move them as they at the grass in their areas and would also have to make sure they got plenty of water. That would be the kids' chore. These mules were gentle creatures and the Beebes had used two of them in years past. They were pretty sure the two remembered them and the kind treatment they had received.

The next day Andy and Patrick decided to hike into the Kern River and see if they could entice the large trout that inhabited the area. Joey and Mary decided that another swim was in order and Linda thought she would just take it easy. The scenery was spectacular and she thought she would do some watercolors.

Mary and Joey waded out into the shallow water that was much warmer than the previous lake.

"Joey," said Mary somewhat inquisitively, "did you make a wish the other night when that big shooting star passed over us?"

"Yeah."

"What did you wish for? I saw you looking at where it had been for a long time and I thought you looked sad."

"Mary, if I tell you the wish won't come true." This was the book answer and Joey hoped it was the right answer. His wish was very simple. He'd wished that Mike O'Donnell would be his friend forever. He never forgot that wish and there would be times in the ensuing years that Joey was certain that wishes never came true.

Andy and Patrick returned late in the afternoon, hot and weary and overflowing with tales of the huge trout they had seen, caught and released. It was a fly fisherman's dream and it had certainly come true for them. Neither would say who caught the most and largest and apparently, neither cared. They just had a lot of fun.

That night as they sat around the fire they watched the alpenglow on the massive Kaweah Peak to the northwest. Andy and Patrick had talked about climbing it as it was the highest peak in the middle range, over 13,800 ft high. They decide that maybe they had enough climbing for a day or so and would just take it easy. It was a good thing.

The next day a little haze was present and by noon cumulous clouds were starting to develop. They could hear the rumble of thunder in the distance and quickly got out the lightweight tarp they had brought just for such instances. They tied it to several trees and suddenly they had a roof over their sleeping area. The other items that should not get wet were placed under the area and they made sure that the saddle gear was protected. It was just in time. The drops that flirted with them soon became a downpour. Several times, lightning struck very close to them and the resulting thunder was like the crack of a cannon. They had moved the mules to a sheltering grove so that they wouldn't be out in the open.

The rain was over in about an hour and no one was the worst for it. They had seen several bolts strike the ridge where Andy and Patrick would have been climbing had they attempted it and every one was glad they did not. The clouds evaporated quickly and by late afternoon one could hardly tell it rained. That was the last rain they saw on the trip.

They pulled up stakes the next day and headed up the Big Arroyo Canyon to the northwest. It was going to be about a 12 mile day and they needed to get away early. They made camp at the second Big Five Lake that also gave them access to another large chain of lakes known as Little Five Lakes.

Andy and Pat decided they would attempt the climb of Kaweah Peak from that camp. It meant dropping into the Big Arroyo twice, once going and once on the return. The good news was the trip from this location was a lot shorter. They got up at dawn one morning and took the lunch they had packed the night before. It was going to be a long day. Basically, they went cross-country the entire way. They had a map and compass, although neither was necessary. It took almost seven hours to reach the top. The view was worth every step of the way. They found a pile of rocks that protected some tobacco cans. Each one held some small notebooks that previous climbers had used to document their adventure. They were flabbergasted to read one entry from a 73 year-old man who had made the climb on the Labor Day weekend in 1959. He was by himself and noted this was the tenth time he had made the climb. He had packed to near where they were camping on his first day (It would take the Beebes two days to do the same distance), climbed the peak on the second day and planned on returning to San Francisco the next day after hiking back to the trailhead in Mineral King. Some weekend!

The men returned to camp as the light faded. They were exhausted and exuberant at the same time. Everyone was amazed about the story of the old man. Somehow Joey felt it was true. The rest of the trip would be a cakewalk.

After a two-day hike out over Black Rock Pass and Timber Gap, the Beebes said goodbye to their faithful mules and headed down the 7,000 ft. drop to the San Joaquin Valley. They decided to spend a night in a motel in the valley and get cleaned up. They would enjoy someone else's cooking that night.

The trip home the next day was easy and they pulled into the driveway in mid-afternoon. A lot of mail was waiting for them below the slot at the front door. Most of it was trash; however, there were the expected bills and magazines. There was also a letter with no return address. It had been postmarked in Arcadia. Linda opened it, read it and without showing any emotion as Joey watched, she slid it into her desk along with the bills. She would show it to his father later.

The answering machine had the usual messages. What was unexpected though was the message for Joey from Mike. Mike asked Joey to meet him at the park the following Monday. He said he had things to say. Linda thought about erasing it, then decided that was Joey's prerogative. She might talk to him about it, but it was Joey's decision. She called Joey in and played the message for him. Joey was ecstatic. Maybe wishes did come true after all.
"ƒ

Joey was a lot more at ease walking about since his two nemeses had been incarcerated. He almost ran to the park to see his friend. As Joey entered the park he looked everywhere for his friend. Some high school kids were playing tennis and the usual assortment of kids of all ages were on their skateboards. There had been some talk by the city officials about creating a special skateboard area to try to give them a good place to skate rather than in the business areas. Finally, Joey spotted Mike at a table that was a bit out of the way and under a large live oak. Joey started to wave and shout his friend's name; however, he noticed Mike had his finger on his lips to hush him. Joey ran over to the table.

"Mike, I thought your dad said we couldn't see each other."

"He did. I had to call your house from a pay phone so Dad couldn't hear me. I don't understand what's wrong with him. You haven't done any thing to him or me. It's my fault I got hurt trying to keep Billy from hurting you. He told Mary to watch me and make sure I didn't hang around you."

"Where's she now?"

"Well, I didn't know about what my dad told her to do, but she came up to my room the other night and told me when Mom and Dad were at one of their meetings. She say's Dad's crazy, and she isn't going to stop me from seeing my friends, especially those who are good people, not like those assholes Billy and Freddy. She says Dad has some sort of hang-up about you. She thinks it goes a lot further than that and it has something to do with these people Mom and Dad are meeting with. Anyway, they are at the print shop and we don't have to worry about them, and Mary is at the store. Tell me about your trip."

"It was cool. I wish you could have gone. I was going to invite you, but after what happened with your dad I knew it couldn't happen. We went swimming a lot and Pat and Dad caught some big fish. They also climbed a peak that was almost 14,000 feet high. It only rained on one day. We saw a lot of places that are pictured in a book we have at home. Gosh, it was pretty there!"

Joey ran on a bit more. He was so excited about seeing Mike. They both knew they wouldn't be able to see each other a lot before school started in the fall. Mike could call Joey; however, it would be difficult for Joey to call Mike. They felt they would be able to work something out. They did and fortunately were not caught by Mike's dad. All in all, the rest of the summer went fairly well for the two, although not nearly as well as they really wanted.

It was the following Wednesday night that Joey's parents went to the City Council meeting. They attended most of them, but Joey could tell this was one that they didn't want to miss. His folks told the children there were a number of things they needed to address the board about, including the treatment Joey had been receiving from some people in the community. Joey noticed when they returned they were rather upbeat about things.

The rest of the summer turned out to be very nice. The city council came up with a resolution about ensuring the city was an open city and everyone was welcome. The resolution passed six to zero with one council member abstaining. Richard O'Donnell's vote didn't really matter, anyway.

Something else, a bit more unusual, happened also. Mike was allowed to meet with Joey and they could play together like the friends they were. Mike's dad had made a couple of rules though. One was that Joey was not to be invited to the O'Donnell house. The second was the boys had to be accompanied by Mike's older sister, Mary. It was a bit difficult at times, as the sister of each boy was Mary. To avoid confusion, Mike's sister became Mary Kate and Joey's sister was Mary Jane. Another 'non' problem appeared, also. Patrick and Mary Kate found they liked each other. Both were at the age where the opposite sexes suddenly became much more interesting.

With the threat of Billy and Freddy gone for a while, Joey became much more outgoing. The kids met in the park frequently. The younger boys tolerated Mary Jane, and Pat and Mary Kate were much too interested in each other to interfere with Mike and Joey's adventures. Sometimes when Linda would drive to the O'Donnell's house to pick up the kids to take them to the mall or a movie, Marcia would come out with the kids and was really very civil and friendly. Linda knew something was going on; she just wasn't really convinced everything had really improved so much. One thing that was noticeable was the absence of Richard O'Donnell. He was never present when any of these exchanges occurred, not that he was really missed. It would be some years before the Beebes found out the whole truth of the matter.

The second week in August was Joey's 11th birthday. The family thought it would be nice if the O'Donnell children could attend. After the events of the previous semester, Joey found out that maybe he had a few more friends than he thought. He got on the phone and invited one other boy and three girls who had been especially nice to him. All of them came and they had the party on the patio. Andy barbecued chicken and Linda prepared all the fixin's and of course there was ice cream and cake. They did play some fun games; however, pin the tail on the donkey was definitely passé.

As things wound down and the guests' parents came by to pick up their children, the group went indoors out of the heat. Joey got out the album of pictures they had put together of their trip to the Sierras. Mike was impressed with the distance they had walked. All of them were impressed with the beauty of the area. The panorama from the top of the mountain Andy and Pat had climbed was spectacular. Joey then got out The Gentle Wilderness and they compared photos. All in all, it was a great day.

A couple of weeks before school started, the children were playing at the Beebe's house. Pat was showing Mary Kate how the computer worked. In addition to boring things like word processing and spreadsheets, there were games to be played including all sorts of card games and interactive games where you tried to solve puzzles. Pat was showing MK (he started calling her that as it was easier and maybe a bit more personal) the Adventure Game. It had been getting more difficult and sometimes he and MJ (the name had the same metamorphosis) would work on it together.

Joey realized early on that the game could not be solved in one fell swoop. He knew it would have to be done in steps, saving the game when you made significant progress, then working from there. The mazes were particularly troublesome. "All looking different" or "All looking the same" made it very difficult trying to figure out where he was. He kept running out of batteries for the flashlight and would have to use his gold coins to buy them, or if the light failed, he would be eaten by a grue and have to start all over. That was when he learned he would have to fail to learn. He started mapping the cave carefully, keeping track of all the literal and figurative pitfalls. He still couldn't figure out the mazes until he realized they were not infinite. There was a pattern to them. The clincher was when he came upon something he discarded. He suddenly realized he could use his treasure to mark each spot. Then once the maze was mapped, he could go back and solve it without losing any treasure.

On this particular day, Pat was pondering the maze with MK. Joey thought it was time for another hint.

"Hi, Hansel and Gretel, how's it going?"

"What's with the Hansel and Gretel bit?" said Pat.

"I think what he means is we could leave 'bread crumbs' to find our way back," said MK

It was like a light bulb going off, more than one actually. Pat turned and scowled at Joey.

"You little shit," he said affectionately as only siblings can. "You solved it didn't you? You have been playing with me all along. How long has it been?"

"Don't feel too bad. I had help, too. I never would have figured out about the dictionary except I overheard some college guys talking about it at the library one day. I solved it about a year ago. You have a long way to go. You did real well about getting the deed. When you reach an impasse, try everything. Touch everything. Push everything. I won't help you unless you want me to and all I'll do is give you a hint. I won't tell you how to do anything."

"What do you mean about the dictionary? I've read it. It didn't help much."

"Don't worry about it now. You have a lot of other things to do first."

They were all really having a good time and the kids really got along well. The problems caused by Mike's dad were almost forgotten. Joey didn't forget them, though. The physical things that Joey had discussed with his mother, the things she'd seen in the bathroom and at the lake were still there and perhaps even more so. His hips seemed to be a bit wider. He was definitely getting a 'bubble butt'. His nipples also seemed to be a bit more prominent and more sensitive. Dr. Scharff had said everything was okay; however, Joey was not convinced. He might have to do some study on his own. His thoughts about his turning into a girl were still weighing on his mind.

Actually, he knew there was no magic here. Maybe he was a boy, maybe he was a girl, and whatever it was going to be he wanted to know soon. What he didn't want was to be something in between. He might have to talk to Mr. Cassil again. Joey was also beginning to wonder about his relationship with Mike. He knew that being friends with someone was enjoying being able to do things with that person, that they had similar interests. The trouble was the feelings he had for Mike were closer to the feelings he had for the members of his own family. It was affection. Maybe he was gay.

School started the Monday after Labor Day. Miss Jones did continue as Joey's teacher, although they changed rooms. Joey was pleased that he did not seem to be the object of as much teasing as in the past. The school had initiated coeducational team sports for some of the recess periods and this took a lot of pressure off Joey to perform to the level of many of the other boys. In many ways the games seemed to be a lot more fun.

During the second week of school, they had one of those late summer heat waves that happened every few years. Joey got up one morning and notice that the air was as clear as it could be. A gentle breeze blowing off the mountains and it was hot! By noon the temperature was over 100 degrees. The school staff decided it was too hot for outdoor activities and everyone remained indoors. By the time school let out it was 108! In the next week the temperatures got as high as 112 in Loma Sierra. It was not a record, but close. Some areas at lower altitudes got as high as 115. The Beebes drove up the Chantry Flat road one evening to see how the view was. They pulled off the road at a scenic overlook and took in the sights. A sea of lights could be seen all the way to the Pacific Ocean more than 30 miles away. They could see where the lights stopped and the ocean began. Their view probably took in close to ten million people. It was still close to 100 degrees even after sundown.

The Beebes hadn't yet gone to bed when they heard the sirens, lots of sirens. They went to the front of the house and could see the angry red glow from up the hill. The authorities were not sure who started it; however someone obviously had started it. It might have been a discarded a cigarette or it might have been deliberate. It started near where the Beebes had been earlier in the evening and flared quickly in the tinder dry brush. It was beyond control before the first fire crews could respond. What made the situation extremely difficult was that the wind off the mountain had strengthened and the notorious Santa Ana was going full bore. In the first hour over 500 acres of chaparral was consumed. In the second hour authorities started evacuating residents who lived close to the base of the mountain. Among those were Matt Cassil and Roger Copeland.

As the Beebes watched the fire, their phone rang.

"Hello."

"Andy, Matt here. Do you think you could put up a few folks tonight? The fire seems to be coming towards the house and the sheriff has evacuated everyone up here in the canyon. A lot of the folks have already left; however, Roger and I could use a roof and the Andersons could use one too."

"Gosh, yes, come on and bring the Andersons too. We have plenty of room. Just get everybody out of there."

"Okay, we'll see you in a few minutes."

Ever since Southern California started developing people found it very fashionable to build in the hilly areas. At first, the homes were built in the bottoms of the canyons, but as population pressures increased and technology improved, the developments started moving up the slopes. The area where Matt and Roger lived was in a small canyon that had been developed in the early 1900s. Most of the homes were in the California bungalow style and were of frame construction. Matt and Roger's house had been built in the Spanish style. It had an attractive stucco exterior and a terracotta tile roof. When they left, they could see the flames on the ridge above them. It didn't look good. A number of fire fighting crews had moved up toward the end of the road and were trying to establish a fire line. It was going to be tough, because not much water available this far up. Matt and Roger led the Andersons to the Beebe house.

Linda had everything just about ready for their guests when they arrived. Joey moved to the spare bed in Pat's room and the Anderson's daughter, Janet, took the extra bed in Mary Jane's room. Gerald and Marilyn Anderson moved into Joey's room. Matt and Roger got the two hide-a-beds in the den. Matt and Roger's shelties were given free reign of the back yard as was the Anderson's Border Collie. The Anderson's caged parakeets were put in the utility room, as it was too hot in the garage.

Sleep did not come easy for the adults. They were up until early hours in the morning trying to determine the progress of the fire. At times the heavy smoke obscured their view and all they could do was hope that their homes would be spared. The smell of the burning brush, which at other times would have brought about a more pleasant reaction, pervaded the air. Ash and partly burned leaves fell like snow on the yard.

Early the next morning they were awakened by the sound of airplanes overhead. As soon as the light improved the forest service sent aircraft in to bomb the fire with fire retardant solutions. This was dangerous but effective work. Many of the planes were retired military C-130s and similar cargo aircraft. They were not really designed as bombers and the stress of their heavy loads and the maneuvering in the mountainous areas was difficult on the planes' structures. Planes had crashed and crews had been lost all because of some careless or criminal act that set the mountains ablaze.

The television newscasts announced that the Loma Sierra Schools would be closed until the fire no longer threatened the area. The Beebes decided not to open their shop and just keep an eye on things at home. It was not likely the fire would move into town unless the Santa Ana winds gained strength and the temperatures stayed extremely hot.

That afternoon the break everyone had hoped for came and the heat wave broke. The wind suddenly shifted and the ocean breeze came in from the opposite direction, effectively stopping the march of the flames. The worst was over; however, the authorities would not allow the residents back into the evacuated areas until the fire was controlled in their area. It would probably be the next day before they could get back. All they could do was wait. The younger children went out to play. The older children played computer games and the adults made do.

A pall of smoke still hung over the area the next morning. Linda made breakfast for everyone and they were finding seats where they could. All of a sudden a shout arose from the den.

"Linda, you need to see this."

Everyone was gathered around the TV. A news crew was on site at the mouth of the canyon where their guests had fled from two days before. Several law enforcement cars were in the area and the remote newsperson was talking rather excitedly.

"It's not just that the residents have to put up with disasters like this, they have to put up with the criminal element as well. Police got word early this morning that there may be some looters in the area. We have some footage taken earlier as police brought out one of the suspected looters in cuffs."

The scene changed to the earlier shot. A man in cuffs was being placed in the rear seat of a police cruiser. He could be heard shouting.

"I ain't done nothin'. I didn't steal nothin'. I was just leaving a message for those heathen queers that this was God's way of showing them the hell they are going to in their next life."

The scene switched to the live shot and the reporter.

"Strangely enough, it doesn't appear this individual had even attempted to break in to the houses. He was caught spray painting a house up the canyon. Apparently, he'd an accomplice who fled and has not been apprehended. We have not been allowed up there yet; however, I understand a defamatory massage was painted on the outside of the house. As to the other houses in the canyon, we understand there are a lot of very lucky people. Only two structures are confirmed damaged, and these were new houses under construction. The residents apparently had done a lot to protect their homes and the measures they took worked."

A loud cheer rose from everyone at the Beebe's house.

Matt turned to Roger and said, "Well, we needed to repaint anyway. What a relief. Let's go see if we can get up there."

Turning to Andy he said, "You did see who that was?"

"Yep, it was our friend Scroggins, and I'll bet I know who the accomplice was too."

The atmosphere was definitely elated as the two families prepared to go back to their homes. Maybe things would get back to normal for a while.
"ƒ
Chapter 10: Jo's Story, Fall 1988 through Spring 1989, Déjà Vu

Earl Scroggins went to trial and Joey's parents and a number of others from Loma Sierra attended the short proceedings. Earl pled guilty and was sentenced to four months for various crimes.

A few weeks after the first fire there was another bout of Santa Ana winds; however, Southern California survived with only a couple of small fires that were quickly contained. The weather was a bit cooler and they hoped the rainy season would start soon.

Joey excelled in class. With the main tormentors away, he could really enjoy his academic endeavors as well as enjoy his time with his friends. He could walk the halls without fearing abuse and enjoy his time during recess without being teased about his lack of athleticism. Sometimes he actually was able to make a good catch and he felt satisfaction when his classmates cheered him, something he was never allowed to feel in the past.

One thing that was interesting was the experience of having new classmates due to the shifting of school boundaries. The class included a number of Black, Hispanic and eastern European students. Perhaps the most difficult thing was being taken for a girl. Joey expected it, but he was uneasy about their embarrassment when they were corrected. They were assured it was a common error and not to worry about it, as Joey no longer did.

As the season shifted to winter, Joey noted his physical appearance continued to shift toward the feminine; however, his boy shirts hid most of it. However, it was becoming difficult, as many of the young boys trousers did not fit him correctly. Still, thinking about Dr. Scharff's words, he continued to play wait and see. Surely something definitive would happen soon. Other things were changing 'down there' too. He found that when he had to urinate, it was becoming more and more difficult to 'hit the target'. He seemed to spray at times, which could result in embarrassing wet spots on the front of his trousers. The solution was easy. He started using the toilets in the stalls. No one ever questioned why he went there and he didn't have any 'mistakes' with their accompanying humiliation.

His musical talents far outstripped his fellow students and the school system allowed him to play with the high school orchestra. He was allowed to get lessons from the advanced instructors and they all agreed he should be getting private lessons outside the school system. He would. One time he played a Mozart piano concerto with the high school orchestra at an assembly. It was an early piece, and not too difficult, primarily for the sake of the orchestra. When he first showed up for a rehearsal, he was addressed as Miss Beebe. He almost decided not to correct the error; however, as a lot of people he knew would be seeing the performance, he thought it best to set things right. Strangely, this recognition error seemed to be happening more and more.

As winter moved into spring, Joey found he was thinking a lot about Mike and wished they had the same teacher. Still, they did see each other at recess time, lunch and after school. Since they both lived in the same general direction from school, Joey, Mike, MJ and several other students would walk to and from school, weather permitting. Mike now had a bicycle; however, more times than not, he would walk his bike so that he could accompany Joey and MJ. He had a basket on the handlebars and they would put their book bags in it. Because Mary Kate couldn't not accompany them, Mike was not allowed to come into Joey's home after school. Sometimes when Joey went to his parents' shop Mike would accompany him there. He would listen to Joey play and try to figure out what Joey was talking about when he was using those musical terms. Still, Mike found it interesting when Joey would bring up some tidbits of musical history.

Spring break arrived and the schools were closed for a week. The weather remained very pleasant and the children enjoyed the time off. School would be out for summer vacation in seven weeks and there was a lot of academic ground to cover between Easter and the last day of school. It was also only six weeks before Billy Conklin and Freddy Smith were to be released from juvenile custody.

It was the next to last day of school and the academic year was essentially over. Joey was not in a good mood on this particular morning. He hadn't been in a good mood for several days and he didn't know why. Things were just not right and now his stomach was upset and cramping. He complained to his mother and she took his temperature. His temperature was near normal and Linda suggested he go on to school as school had only one more day left.

Joey went directly to class and got out some art supplies so that he could finish a watercolor he'd been working on. It was a picture of the mountain range his dad and brother had climbed the summer before. It would be the last watercolor Joseph Andrew Beebe would ever work on.

Joey was feeling really crappy and by mid-morning he thought he would go to the nurse and try to get some help. He told Miss Jones that he felt ill and she allowed him to go to the nurse. Jim Frazier's office door was open and he saw Joey come in.

"Hello there, Joey, congratulations on graduation. Junior High School is going to be a lot of fun for you. Is there something I can do for you?"

"Mr. Frazier, I'm not feeling well and I was hoping I could leave at lunch. I can walk to my parent's store."

"Well, Ms. Grimley will be back in a moment and she can check you out. I certainly don't see any problems with your leaving. I certainly hope you will be well enough to come to the party tomorrow."

Ms Grimley had been the principal's secretary and school nurse for years. She was compassionate toward the ill and had no use for the malingerers. Joey waited patiently for her to come back from her errands and read a National Geographic in the meantime.

"Joey, what are you doing here? Surely you haven't been causing problems in class again?" quipped Ms. Grimley trying to be funny.

"I don't feel well, Ms. Grimley. My stomach is cramping and I feel like I'm getting the flu."

Ms. Grimley took Joey's temperature and found it was just a bit elevated. That plus his other complaints was enough for her calling Joey's mom at the shop.

"Mrs. Beebe, I have Joey in the office. He's not feeling well and his fever is up a bit. I don't think it is anything serious; however, an afternoon of rest might do him some good."

"Do you think it would be okay if Joey walked to the shop? Andy has the car at the moment and I can't come and get him."

"Joey, do you think you could walk to your parents' store. Your mom can't get you right now."

"Yes, Ms. Grimley, I can do that."

Ms. Grimley called Joey's classroom and told Miss Jones Joey was going home for the rest of the day.

When Joey left the office, it was time for the lunch break. He was making his way slowly across the playground when Mike, on his way to the cafeteria, saw him walking toward the playground exit."

"Hey, Joey, wait up," he shouted as he ran up. "Aren't you coming to lunch?"

"No, I don't feel well and I'm going to the store to meet mom."

Joey did not look real perky and Mike had an idea.

"Let me get my bike and I'll ride you down there. You can sit on the cross bar. Besides it's downhill and we can cut through the park."

"You're not allowed to leave the school at lunch Mike. You know that."

"I can be back before lunch is over and you don't look very well. Besides, they won't miss me."

They walked over to the bike rack where Mike unlocked his bike and Joey got on the cross bar. They had done this a few times and Mike was strong enough to handle the added weight.

The cross bar was not at all comfortable; however, Joey felt it was better than walking. Every once in a while, Mike had to pedal and his knee would hit Joey's thigh or butt, but most of the time they could coast. As they headed for the walkway that cut diagonally across the park Joey looked up and saw two boys sitting at a picnic table. At first he didn't recognize them and then he did. A feeling of sheer terror spread through his body. It was Billy and Freddy, smoking cigarettes and they were sitting no further than three feet from the path.

"Oh my God, it's Billy and Freddy."

Mike apparently hadn't been paying attention and when he looked up they were only a few feet away from the delinquents. Mike tried to cut to the right, but the front tire caught on something and they were thrown from the bike. They were stunned and helpless.

"Well, lookey, lookey. I guess we won't have to worry about what to do this afternoon after all. Freddy, grab that faggot loving Mike and hold him. I don't want him to mess up my fun like he did last time.

"Well, you fuckin' little pansy, where was I before I was interrupted the last time? Oh, yeah, I was in the process of kickin' the shit out of you."

Mike was screaming at the top of his lungs, but Freddy had him in a hammerlock and Mike was not able to do anything. He wasn't even able to control what he was shouting, "Leave her alone you son of a bitch. Leave her alone. She never did anything to you."

Joey had tried to roll up into a ball and fortunately Billy was so incensed that he was not as effective as he might have been. Still, he landed a number of telling blows to Joey. A number of them were in the area between Joey's buttocks and thighs. Mike continued to scream and yell.

Freddy suddenly saw Matt Cassil running up and let Mike go. He took off in the other direction. Mike immediately jumped on Billy. He kept shouting and crying, "Leave her alone you son of a bitch, Leave her alone." Billy was a deranged animal and kept kicking at the huddled figure who was rolled into a fetal position on the ground. He kept repeating, "Take that you pansy faggot," and would take another kick.

Matt waded in, grabbed Billy and pulled him away from the huddled figure. He literally threw Billy against a tree and knocked the wind out of him. Billy wasn't going anywhere for a while and by the time he got up the police from the arriving patrol car had him cuffed.

Meanwhile, Mike was sobbing and trying to comfort the groaning figure on the ground. Matt knelt to see what he could do. Who was she? Suddenly everything came together with a crash. She was Joey! And Joey was bleeding profusely from what appeared to be a wound in the groin area where Billy had been kicking him.

The police had arrived very quickly and called Linda and she literally ran up to the park. The ambulance attendants allowed her to ride in the back with Joey. Since Mike had been roughed up a bit he was also placed in the ambulance and they sped off to the hospital.

Once in the hospital, Joey was rushed into a treatment room where the attending nurses removed the remainder his clothing and assessed the damage. Joey was in a lot of pain and was close to going into shock. They started an IV and administered fluids to help keep Joey's blood pressure from falling too far.

"Doctor, you need to look at this," said one of the medical assistants.

"Well, I haven't seen anything like this before. I think we need to numb the area, but we need to keep Joey conscious."

"Joey, I'm Doctor Brown. We need to look at the damage here a bit more closely and we want you to be awake. I don't want to try any anesthesia that will put you under at this time. I am going to turn you over for a minute and things may hurt a bit worse for a moment. You will feel a sharp prick just above your tailbone and essentially, everything will go numb from just below the waist. That way we can check things out and talk to you while we do it."

Considering all the other pain, the injection into the spinal cord was nothing. The pain receded and for the next half hour Joey listened as the doctors did their work. The language was technical, but Joey had been doing a lot of reading and understood a lot of what was being said. In spite of the dull ache and sure to be returning pain everything was going to be just fine.

Dr. Brown continued with the examination. Joey couldn't feel anything at the moment; however, he knew there was a lot of examination going on in the injured area.

"Other than this extraneous tissue in place of the labia majora, and the ambiguous penis, everything appears to be normal. The labia minora are normal, the hymen is torn and I think we can remove this extra tissue without any problem. The cervix appears to be normal. I think she is having her period too. Do we have the x-rays and sonograms yet?"

"Yes, Doctor, they just brought them in."

"Joey, I need to take a moment to look at some things. Hang in there. You're going to be okay."

Joey continued to listen to the discussion going on. Things were getting very interesting.

"Look at that! Everything is there, right where it's supposed to be.

"Doctor, are you saying what I think you are saying, that my hymen is gone, and that I'm a girl?"

"Joey, don't worry about that now. We'll try to explain it later."

"Doctor, I'm not worried. That's great. The problem's solved." A huge smile spread across her face. Boy, was Mike going to be surprised.

After they finished their work and inserted a catheter, they wheeled Joey down the hall to a patient's room. They injected a mild sedative, more for the soon to be returning pain than anything else and went down the hall to notify her soon to be shocked parents. Joey lay there taking it all in. She had been right all along, and now things were going to get better - a lot better.

The doctor led Joey's parents to the room. The door was open slightly and Joey was lying under a light blanket. She was gazing out the window and was very contemplative and peaceful. At the sound of the door opening, she turned to see her parents come in.

Her mother broke the ice, "Well aren't you full of surprises. I don't think we really know what to say. We are just so thankful you are going to be alright. This seems to be rushing things, but what are we going to call you?"

"How about your daughter?" said Joey, suppressing a giggle. It was obvious the painkillers and nerve block were doing what they were supposed to. "I was thinking about it when you came in. Actually I've been thinking about it for a long time. Joey is a girls name too, but I would rather be called 'Jo" with no 'e'. So, I'll just be Josephine. That was Great Grandma's name. My middle name can be Andrea, that's just like Andrew. All we have to do is add and change a few letters. See, not a big deal? I think I want to sleep, but before I do, I want to talk to Mike: alone, please. I know we have a lot to talk about, but we have a lot of time, don't we? There're some things I need to find out from Mike. Don't tell him about this, okay?"

They said they would send Mike, although he had to be escorted down the hall because of his age. Linda and Andy sat in the reception area and explained to Matt and Marcia what was going on.

Mike rather tentatively knocked on the door.

"Come in, Mike."

"Are you going to be okay, Joey? I tried to keep those bastards off of you. I just couldn't do it."

"You did just fine, Mike. I'm going to be fine, no, great, but not in the way many people thought.

"Mike, you don't have to answer, but I want to know about something you said. When Billy was kicking me, you kept yelling, 'Leave her alone'."

Mike was embarrassed and hung his head a bit.

"It's alright. I'll understand."

"Joey, you were my friend when you didn't have to be. I was mean to you and you never said anything or did anything to make me act the way I did. When Billy hurt you that first time, I suddenly realized you were a person and you didn't deserve what was happening. I then found that I liked you. It's really difficult to explain. It was kinda' like we really belonged together."

"Okay, but why did you say 'her'?"

"I don't think I have ever looked at you as a boy. I thought you were kinda' girly, but it didn't matter. However, today something happened: something I shouldn't have done, but couldn't help. When you were riding on my crossbar I looked down the front of your shirt. And, Joey, you've got boobs! I couldn't help it, Joey. I'm sorry. If you don't want to be my friend, I'll understand."

"Mike, of course I have boobs. I'm a girl, you silly twit."

Mike collapsed in the middle of the floor.

Selected Excerpts from MJ's Diary:

Wednesday, June 14, 1989. I've never kept a diary before, so this may not be very good. Miss Jones came by our classroom two days before school ended and told us she was going to be our teacher next year. She gave us an assignment to keep a diary so that we could write a story about what happened to us over the summer. I don't like to write because my handwriting is so bad, but Pat made a secret file for me on the computer and I am writing in it. It's kind of neat because it corrects my spelling and grammar. It doesn't always let me write what I want to, but I think my writing is better because of it.

Anyway, I didn't know what I was going to write about. We don't really write that much in fourth grade. Then the weirdest things happened. Those jerks, Billy and Freddy, attacked Joey again and hurt him real bad and he has been in the hospital for almost a week. Then the weirdest thing of all has happened. Mom and Dad told me that Jo, not Joey, is not my brother. She is my sister and always was. It was just that nobody knew it. Anyway, I got to visit Jo. I thought the name would be hard to get used to, but it wasn't.

Jo says she is okay. She hurts a lot. I can tell. However, she seems to be real happy. She had to have some surgery to fix things. Mike and MK have been by a lot. I went to the hospital the other day with Mom and Dad and Mike was there and he was holding Jo's hand. That's real weird.

Saturday, July 22, 1989. Jo may be my big sister and two years older than me, but boy, is she dumb about being a girl. I have to show her everything. Mom and MK have been helping and Jo is really trying, but it's like she is five years old. She seems real happy all the time. She's getting tall. Mike's hanging out with her all the time, but all they do is talk about music and stuff. She just got over her period and Mom had to show her how to use tampons. Yucky! Mom told me all about it a while ago. You know, babies and all that. It's going to be a while before I have to worry about it.

---

If you liked this post, you can leave a comment and/or a kudo!
Click the Good Story! button above to leave the author a kudo:
And please, remember to comment, too! Thanks.