Hi Tricia,
You describe yourself as a straight male. It is customary here to refer to anyone by thier gender identity. i.e. if you present yourself to us as Tricia we will refer to you as she, her etc.
However we generally go with whatever someone prefers, so bottom line is, it's your call. We want you to feel as welcome and as comfortable as we can.
I am Cassandra, everyone calls me Cassie, and I am a Trans woman. I'm also a moderator so if you have any questions regarding rules or posting or such, please fell free to ask myself or any other staff member. We are here to help. Please avail yourself of the Wiki, lots of useful information there. Do make sure you have read the site rules. We are real sticklers about that around here. Just ask anyone who has run a foul of one.
Most of all enjoy yourself and make some new friends.
Good Journey,
Cassie