Vision • Integtity • Quality Vol. 8, No. 3 • March 1994 News ~i views The Responsibility of Leadership Essay by JoAnn Roberts

Ariadne Kane of the Outreach Institute often the transgender phenomenon. That must be the refers to what we call "TV!fS Support" groups as organization's primary goal. If a leader gets some "Social Contact" groups and to an extent she's personal ego strokes along the way, that's fme. It's a correct. Most of our organizations are not like other bonus. But, we must never permit self-aggrandize­ mainstream support groups in that we aren't trying ment and/or personal gain to be the driving force to help people, for the most part, get over serious behind any action taken on behalf of our organiza­ traumatic events like rape or physical abuse. Most tions. Someone once said, "There is no greater of our groups provide peer-support to their mem­ treason than to do the right thing for the wrong bers by letting them know they are not alone and by reason." We don't want or need leaders who will providing a safe environment in which to socialize only do what is best for themselves. We must and meet other transgendered people. require our leaders to do what is best for the Because of this social nature, we tend not to give organization, even when it means a hardship for a lot of consideration to important aspects of themselves. leadership that might be required if our organiza­ Our chosen leaders must fully understand and tions were more like mainstream support groups. respect their roles as care-takers of our community The social and "fun" aspects of our organizations do organizations. Regardless of who founded what, the not necessarily require strong leadership skills in moment an organization accepts a tax exemption order to survive at the local level. from the federal government, that organization now However, we now have in our community belongs to the public and that means us, the several organizations that have taken on a more transgender community at large. We must expect, serious role of education and proactive outreach no, we must demand of our leaders only the highest to the world at large. We have created these ethical behavior. Any leader who feels that an organizations in the image of larger non-profit organization is "their's" to do with as they please, is corporations and we've taken advantage of state violating the trust we've placed in them and does not and federal regulations to acquire tax-exempt deserve to be in a leadership position. status so that certain doors which would other­ Organizations can and do come and go on the wise be closed are now open to us. whim of its supporters. In order to build anything of But, we have not overcome the "social contact" permanence, leaders must inspire the respect of mentality when it comes to selecting the leadership their followers. The best way to do that is for a of these corporations. Are we choosing or electing leader to show respect to his/her followers first. Any the best qualified people? Are we looking for leader who will not respect the supporters of their genuine leadership skills in our leaders? Do these organization is surely on an ego trip and not at all corporate officers understand the financial and legal concerned about the organization itself. responsibilities they assume when elected to office Any person who seeks a leadership position in in a tax-exempt organization? Do we not understand one of these organizations should be qualified for the seriousness of the roles these individuals play in that position. We should not choose merely by these organizations? The people we choose to lead personality, although that is important, but also by these special organizations must be the best that our education, real-life experience, and appropriate community has to offer and they must understand people/organizational skills. It is not sufficient the tremendous responsibility that we hand them. reason to put someone in a leadership position The prime responsibility of a leader to an simply because the organization was their idea, organization must be the organization itself and not especially if that person has no skills to sustain the personal ego. We have created these organizations to, ostensibly, help people understand the nature of continued on page 15 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

~ Chapter & Affiliate Information {bJ Renaissance ~i~:~ & Chapters Aftiliates © 1994, Renaissance Education Asso­ ciation, Inc., PO Box 60552, King of New Jersey Georgia Prussia, Pa. 19406-0552, 610-630- 1437. SouthJersey/Shore Area: Write Re­ The American Educational Gender naissance SJ, Box 189, Mays Landing, NJ Information Service (AEGIS), PO Box $2 per issue, $16 per year (12 issues). 08330. Meets the first Saturday of the 33724, Decatur, GA 30033-0724 or call Back issues are available for $2 per month at the Atlantic Mental Health 404-987-8535. Information resources. copy plus $0.52 postage and handling. Center, 2002 Black Horse Pike, McKee Send check or M.0 . to the above ad­ Louisiana City. Doors open at 7 p.m. Call 609-435- dress, attention: Beth Marshall. 5401 for details. The Gulf AreH Gender Alliance, PO Editor-in-Chief Box 870213, New Orleans, LA 70187- Pennsylvania Angela Gardner 1300. Local support group. Contributing Editors Greater Philadelphia area: Write New Jersey Dina Amberle Renaissance GPC, Box 530, Bensalem, JoAnn Roberts PA 19020-0530. Meets third Saturday of Monmouth/Ocean Trans-Gender, Layout the month in King of Prussia. Doors (MOTG), write PO Box8243, Red Bank, Creative Design Services open 8 p.m. all year 'round. Call 610- NJ 07701. Local support group. Distribution 630-1437 for information. New York Beth & Rachel Marshall Lower Susquehanna Valley: Write Renaissance LSV, Box 2122 Harrisburg, Metropolitan Gender Network Business Manager PA 17105. Meets on the first Saturday of (MGN), write 561 Hudson St., Box 45, Susan Persing the month. Call 717-780-lLSV (1578) New York, NY 10014, or call 201-794- Articles, opinion pieces, and letters to the for location and times. 1665, Ext. 332. Local support group. editor are always welcome. Ideas for ar­ ticles and opinion pieces should be sent to Would you like to start a group in your area? If so, we can help with our chapter/ our editorial office care of Renaissance, affiliate program. Write to the Director of Outreach, Chapter Development, PO Box 530, Bensalem, Pa. 19020-0530. Renaissance National, PO Box 60552, King of Prussia, PA 19406 or call 610-630- Complimentary and irate letters to the 1437 and request our Community Outreach Bulletin No. 1. editor may be sent to the same address.

Renaissance is a 501[c)[3) non-profit organiza­ tion providing education and support to the transgender community and the general public. Background Papers: Pen Pal Program: Background Papers are $1.25 each: If you would like to correspond with Events Calendar 1. Myths & Misconceptions About other people around the country con­ March Crossdressing tact Pen Pals, care of Maryann 5 Renaissance LSV Meeting 5 Ren SJ - Dr. Lee Etscovitz 2. Reasons for Male to Female Kirkland, PO Box 1242, Newtown, Pa., 18940. Maryann will put you on tl1e Pen 5 MOTG Movie Fund Raiser Cross dressing 12 New Delaware Group Forming Pal List and give you a copy of that list 3. PARTNERS: Spouses & 13 MGN Meeting so you may correspond with as many Significant Others 16 IFGE Con.; Portland, Wash. new friends as you like. 4. The Matter of Children 19 Renaissance GPC Meeting, Turrey Kepler, Legal Issues 5. Annotated Bibliography TransParenl Forun1: 19 MOTG Meeting 6. Telling the Children: A If you are transgendered and have 25 My Dinner With Dina Transsexual's Point of View 26 Sunshine Club Anniv. Banquet children, that makes you a TransParent. April 7. AIDS/ HIV Safety and Ethics. If you'd like to network with other 2 Ren LSV- Dinner at Bube's 8. Understanding Transsexualism TransParents contact Elsa Larson, PO 2 Renaissance SJ Meeting Box 2122, Harrisburg, Pa., 17105, at­ Signilicanl Other Support 10 MGN Meeting tention: TransParent. 16 Ren GPC - Lingerie Party To network with other partners of 21 Moonlight In Manhattan, NYC transgendered · people contact Evelyn 23 MOTG Meeting Kirkland, PO Box 1242, Newtown, Pa., 30 EuroFantasia, Denmark 18940.

2 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

young and rich, had your parents and Not a very positive appearance, and no therapist bamboozled and got to go to way to take care of an expensive wig: college as a female? Ah to be young Later, on The Late Show with and crossdressed .... But, I digress. My Conan O'Brian, Malcolm McDowell source told me everyone would be was Conan's guest. They showed a clip happier if these three would just enroll from one of McDowell's early, starring at Haverford College. It seems all the vehicles, Caligula. This film was shot in coeds at Haverford get all done up a slipshod manner. In one particular everyday. Excuse me, I have to go to scene McDowell as Caligula makes some Mainline college campus's now. love to his sister while John Guilgud looks on. The two shots don't match up SURFS UP ... at all. They look as though they were On the television waves. It seems shot at a completely different time like there have been a veritable with a different camera, which, as it by \ngefo Gardner potpourri (I love that kind of talk) of turns out, they were. To make a joke of guys in dresses and references to guys this Conan had himself inserted into OK kids, fasten your seat belts, it's in dresses on television lately. That's the Guilgud part. He was dressed in a going to be a bumpy ride! Not really, not even counting The Kids In The toga with those olive branches on his but if you can use a Bette Davis line in Hall every Thursday night. I know, in head. After the clip ran McDowell your column, what the hey! I've got January I said they were on Friday. said, "Any excuse to get into a dress, oodles of bubbly, fluff stuff in this Well, right after the newsletter went to eh?" After the applause died down column and with out any further ado the printer the suits moved them to Conan replied, "Maybe." Let me point let's get it whipped to a froth. Thursdays. Guess too many kids in out that Mr. O'Brian is the producer of baggy clothes with their caps on The Simpsons. I think we've seen Bart COLLEGECAMPUSCUTIBS backwards were upset by men in and Homer in dresses pretty often. First up, an informed source at a women's clothes on Friday nights. Conan also dressed up as Rene prestigious, Mainline college has Tune in on a Thursday or tape them. Richards for a tasteless skit about informed me that there are transexual Anyhow, in a one week period dropping balls in a previous program. coeds on campus. Caspi When I during January I counted seven As far as I know, the nineteenth of queried her as to how she had ascer­ crossdresser related incidents on my January passed without any drag stuff tained that fact, she replied that it was TV set. I know there must be more on television but on the twentieth, boy known to all the girls on campus that that I missed and I'm not counting oh boy. First up was Entertainment three of the college's coeds were daytime talk shows or news programs. Tonight with not only RuPaul but former guys. The interesting thing is, Wanna know what they where? I Elton John taking Ms. Charles to the the women on campus are not friendly thought you'd never ask. induction ceremony at the Rock & Roll to these ladies and the transsexuals First, on the eighteenth, NYPD Hall of Fame. They made a lovely stay together all the time in a separate Blue did some drag bashing. This one couple. ET ran clips from their video clique. 'Why these barriers", I asked wasn't fun since the crossdresser was a which has Elton in drag too. Then, that and my source told me the campus strangulation killer. Not only was she hot bed of crossdressing, The women don't like the transsexuals evil but after they tracked her down Simpsons featured a plot that had the because they just don't fit in. I thought (her hairdresser ratted on her), the guy family in the witness protection she meant they didn't fit in because of I can't help but call Buntz, even program. They packed up and left their "difference." She said it was though they changed his name to town but they forgot Grandpa because these three are always "done" Sippowitcz , moved in for the bust. Simpson. He is seen standing outside to the nines. They attend classes every (Shouldn't that be plural?) He asked their old house in Springfield, pound­ day in designer outfits, "with matching the leggy, blonde TV if she wanted to ing on the door and calling out for his hose and pumps." do it the easy way or the hard way. She medicine. Well, the plot is resolved Must be nice girlfriend! The regular replied by pulling her tight, Spandex and the Simpsons return to their old female students all wear rugby shirts mini up around her waist and dashing home. Still outside the house is and jeans. No wonder the "TS" off down the block. One of the other Grandpa, but a transformed Grandpa. students don't seem to fit in. I can't officers blocked her escape and Buntz, He has long hair, lipstick and breasts. help but feel, if these three girls are I mean Sippowitcz tackled her. She It seems this transformation happened spending that much time on their lost her long, blonde tresses and when since the old guy didn't get his pills. clothes and makeup (I'm told they are she asked if she could have her hair Another old guy gives him a bouquet done like Christie Brinkley every back as they lead her away in hand­ of flowers and as the credits roll we morning) then they just may be cuffs and a nylon stocking cap, one of transvestites. Don't you wish you were the cops kicked her hair into the street. continued next page

3 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

much of a putz. While he's hiding out sync show following the buffet dinner. from the Bureau he uses various The doors open at seven PM with the News Beat ... disguises. Right, one of his disguises is dinner happening around seven-thirty a typical crossdresser outfit. He eats and the glittering, sequin slathered hear his voice saying, "Well, we can go lunch at a restaurant. He is seated at show follows at nine. Stay tuned to out but there's something you should one table and a friend he has made Renaissance News & Views for know about me." Talk about the contact with for information about his updated info on the entertainment Crying Game! case is seated at the next table. He's lineup. So far a former Miss Gay After The Simpsons came the probably about six two or so and when Pennsylvania , our own JoAnn Roberts Sinbad Show, also on Fox. I don't he stands up from this not-very­ and the informative Miss Edwards are really watch it but it was on while I was undercover conversation his friend signed up to perform. Tickets are getting made up or something. The says,"Your slip is showing." Yuk, yuk! available before August fifteenth for star of the show, Sinbad (oddly On the Dick Van Dyke show, $35.00. Prices go up to $37.00 after enough) was talking to his little girl. Diagnosis Murder which ran the next July fifteenth and up to $40.00 after She was telling him how much she evening, the guy using disguises is August fifteentli. Plan ahead, get tliose hated wearing the dress she had on. Dick's son the police detective. When tickets early and save money. We're He said, "That dress kept me out of Dick comments on how he thought he mentioning tliis early in the year in Vietnam." In another Sinbad Show on had been able to tell it was his son order to give all the girls a chance to the sixth of January he had been disguised as the stage hand the son snag a bargain dress for the event. making her a costume. At one point he tells him he'll probably be in a red was demonstrating the different types Spandex dress the next time he goes MOM, YOU'RE TALLER of thing they could make and he undercover. Dick says he hopes not AREN'T YOU? wrapped the fabric around his hips. He since his son doesn't have the legs for Michelle Lynn sent in a short clip told the little girl that he could wear a it. The son says it must be Dick's fault from the N ewsmakers section of skirt cause big hips run in his family. since he's his father. Again, big yuks. January eleventl1's Philadelphia When she says he can't wear a skirt Inquirer which gives tlie results of a cause he's a boy Sinbad replied you LSV BRINGS BACK THE LUAU poll conducted by several alternative don't have to be a girl to wear a skirt. Erica Edwards, the Co-chairlady of newspapers. (We used to call them He went on to add, "Boy George wore the Luau committee informs us that underground papers in the old days.) a skirt. He had to wear a long skirt tlie LSV Luau will return this year to Members of Generation X (that's since his leg's so bad. I could wear a the Sheraton Inn East in Harrisburg, teenagers, not members of tlie band of short skirt cause I got good legs." PA on August twenty seventh. Last tlie same name.) were asked who they Sounds like a good positive role year there was no one available to would choose as their parents. Four­ model to me. But back to tlie twenti­ organize the event so they didn't have teen percent picked Al Gore as dad eth. Matlock featured a macho FBI one. This meant that those interested and twenty two percent wanted man on tlie run. This guy was accused in performing during the Lumberjack Whoopi Goldberg as mom. Point seven of nefarious deeds by the Bureau and Song sing-along were forced to stay in percent wanted RuPaul as tlieir father Matlock was trying to defend him. The the closet, perhaps quietly humming but one point five percent wanted agent was a Col. Flagg type. Remem­ the song to themselves during a RuPaul as their mother. I think we can ber the guy on MASH who used to spy regular LSV meeting. see just what percentage of Generation on them and interrogate Koreans? This This year, in addition to the popular X has all tlie good taste. FBI agent is just like that only not as group sing there will be an all star lip

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MONTEL MANIA courthouse in robes.) It seems a lower meaning to get to the library and look court had awarded custody of a three tl1is one up. I can see secret agent Sharon from California sent a clip year old child to it's mother since dad Beauregard in his hoop skirt and big from the December twelfth edition of confessed to crossdressing. The hat now. "Oh General, I just love to the National Inquirer about the Montana Supremes said,"Hey, give a hear about silly old military secrets! Montel Williams Show. Not only can crossdresser a break" and reversed the Get me a Mint Julep and then tell me you watch the show but now you can decision. This information came in a everything ya' all know." read reports about the show in the another tabloid clip, Clothes Don't It's more likely the spy is a female­ tabloids and then later read a rewritten Make The Man also sent in by Sharon. to-male, but ifI ever get to the library, version of that report in a crossdresser or if one of our Civil War buffs let's us newsletter. What a country. GOVERNOR'S A GOOF know, I'll pass it along. Back to the report. It seems Northern Arizona University Montel had a woman on the show who doesn't mind a little transsexuality. In a FILMS FLOUNCING WITH Fl's said that she was divorcing her clip from USA Today, sent by Wendy Jane Peabody sent me a column husband because he wore dresses. On Smith from Pittsburgh, we find out from the Asbury Park Press of January further questioning by Mr. Williams that Governor Symington had de­ eighth. The Screen Notes column, she admitted that she wanted the manded that a course in transsexuality originally from the L.A. Times had divorce not because of the crossdress­ be dropped from the University's information about a bunch of upcom­ ing but because she had to find his curriculum. The University said it was ing releases tliat feature crossdressing. things hidden in a trunk and , "Be­ up to them to pick the curriculum. The writer seemed to think this was cause he didn't say it to me. I had to Symington has backed down on his the way things were going since the find out myself in such a shocking request but still says the course is success of Mrs. Doubtfire. That is manner, which devastated me. .'' She frivolous and an insult to tax payers. generally the way the Hollywood suits added, "Had I known, I would not Tell some of the tax payers struggling decide where to put the big develop­ have married him." I think we can see with transgender issues that it's ment money but I have to disagree this her husband's mistake clearly enough. frivolous. Maybe Governor Symington time since two of the films mentioned It is very difficult to come out to the needs a few enlightening letters from were already in pre-production before woman in your life but it's better to do our readers? Mrs. Doubtfire came out, (We even it early and not try to hide an impor­ mentioned one in the Renaissance tant part of your personality. CATCHING A SPY, ER, EYE News, Vis a Vis, Sept.'93) and one is a A ray of hope for husbands in the Back in December I clipped a piece film that was shot in Australia probably closet is the woman's further assertion from the Philadelphia Inquirer titled at least a year ago. I think the trend that though she has filed for divorce, "Eye Catching Headlines IL" At least I toward crossdressing in movies has she still loves her husband and may think I clipped it. It's been so long it more to do with a gradual build up seek a reconciliation. Wish we knew may have been sent by someone else. from Tootsie to The Crying Game who they were. We could ship them a If that's the case, I apologize. than Mrs. D. copy of Coping With Crossdressing. The eye catching headline that Whatever the reason, here are the GIVE THE SUPREMES A HAND caught my eye was the last one in the flicks to watch for in '94. Harvey piece, "Cross Dressing Confederate Fierstein (who played Robin Williams The Montana Supreme Court Spy." It seems that was the lead cover brother in "Mrs. D .") has written a doesn't mind a little crossdressing. (Of headline of a magazine called course they do prance around the America's Civil War. I've been continued page 14

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Sammi Rae's Memorial Puzzles New Chapter Forming Women's Names II All it takes to get a Renaissance chapter going in your area is a little drive and determination. Just look at Danielle Lynn of Wilmington, Dela­ ware. She contacted Renaissance National about starting a chapter a few weeks ago and the national board will vote on her petition at its March 13 meeting. Before Danielle contacted the National board she had already lined up a meeting place, several interested members, and a group of officers for her board. If you join the Delaware group you even get a discount card for a local beauty supply place! Now that's organization. If you would like more information on the soon-to-officially-exist Dela­ ware Chapter of Renaissance, write them at PO Box 5656, Wilmington, DE, 19808. We'll have more informa­ tion on the group in next month's issue. In the meantime Danielle and Leslie will be happy to hear from you.

MGN Nc·ws

Abigail Freda Marla Prudence The girls from New York sent us Alberta Fredrlca Marsha Rochelle the names and positions of their new Angelica Hortense Melissa Rosalie steering committee. As their press Ann Hyacynth Mercedes Rosalind release says, it's part of their, "Velvet Blanche Irene Michelle Sabrina Revolution." Guess they love the Daisy lsodora Miidred Samantha crushed velvet look. Anyhow, the new Dawn Jennifer Mindy Sharon committee is as follows: Monica Ann Diano Leah Monico Suzanne Pedone is the Chair of the Steering Erma Lilian Nan Theodora Committee and is in charge of Estelle Lois Natalie Vera member services. Lynn E. Walker is Evelyn Lolita Noreen Verna Assistant Chair and handles publicity Faith IV\odeline Pam Veronica and outreach. Randi Ripley orches- Fay Marlo Patricia Virginia Florence Mo~orle Peg Wiima continued on page 20 il'oo~•~•WORKSHOPS •EDUCATION NOTICE: Dr. Peo has writer's cramp Roger E. Peo, Ph.D. this month. His column will resume next month with #87. P. 0. Box 3445 (914) 452-8405 Poughkeepsie, NY 12603

6 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3 Big. Tall. Short. Small. We've got something for everyone.

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ageism. She doesn't know how to change people's attitudes towards older crossdressers but perhaps just broaching the subject will enlighten some people who sub-consciously reject their older sisters. She made it clear that she still thinks IXE is a great group and harbors no ill will towards anyone in the group. She has a positive outlook despite this problem. In any group of people there will always be some banding of people of like interests, tastes, etc. Being a I think everyone has quite rightly Mind you, this gr.~at American city is minority in any social setting can be a applauded the new layout and typeface being criticized by someone who lives disadvantage. And there's no easy of our newsletter that premiered last in Orange County CA, where they answer for changing people's social month. Did you notice also that we named the airport after John Wayne, patterns. But my experience has been changed the name to 'News & Views'? for cryin' out loud. that crossdressing is more of an Of course the most important new It's a free country and the free press equalizer-particularly with regard to view in this rag is my own photo atop should be able to take others to task age-than many other activities. Older this column. Someone asked me if it's for mistakes and missteps here and crossdressers think younger than most true that I really write the column there but our friends in Orange others of like age and aside from the wearing rhinestones and feathers as County are inadvertently giving obvious crossdressing related issues, all tl1e photo shows. The answer is 'Yes' themselves a new image with all their of us are usually interesting people in because that was a condition of my negativity. Until I see some improve­ our 'normal' lives. If you think you may employment here. I insisted on it. ment in their monthly screed, I hereby be a closet 'ageist', think about it and re-name them the 'Puckered Pusses of don't make assumptions about our IN WIDCH I RENAME A Orange County'. older sisters. GROUP I think a group that calls itself the ANOTHER 'ISM' CREATES GENDER IN A BLENDER Powder Puffs of Orange County ASCIDSM Two recent articles in other should be a pretty fun-loving crew, An unnamed author wrote an article publications took on the concept of doncha think? But in their two most in the IXE sorority's newsletter in gender 'blending' and gender stereo­ recent 'Girl Talk' newsletters there is a which she brought up the subject of typing. Daniela Bruzzese wrote in a cynical, bitter tone permeating it. 'ageism' at their meetings. This older Tapestry article that transsexuals are The IFGE seems to be their major member of IXE noticed that she was victims of gender stereotyping because target and there is certainly an axe having a hard time talking to people, or they feel the need to change their being ground here by someone. was being ignored, at their monthly outward appearance in order to Potshots are taken at otl1er community meetings. She was bothered by this become their 'true gender' selves. stalwarts as well, including 'Cross­ because it created some doubt about Ms. Bruzzese's point being that if Talk', Tri-Ess, and even RuPaul. In the herself. Was she boring? Did she look gender is truly in your head, as January issue of their newsletter, over bad? Did she give off some offending opposed to sex-which is defined by half of the editorial content is negative signal that made people not like her? physical characteristics-then there towards some other individual or She asked someone she trusted for shouldn't be a need to change physical group. If you're looking for an uplifting an honest assessment of why others characteristics to actualize oneself as read by perusing the Powder Puffs' didn't want to talk to her. The answer the opposite gender. By feeling the newsletter, you got another think was simple, in the view of the confi­ need to conform to society's standards coming, girlfriend. dant. "You're older and the others of femininity (or conversely masculin­ One of the things the author says as don't identify with you." she was told. ity, for F-t-M's), transsexuals who she takes a swipe at the IFGE is that This was sort of a 'good news, bad undergo reassignment surgery, or even they held their Directors' meeting in news' for the author. cosmetic transformations, are capitu­ Boston in January. Then she writes At least it wasn't something per­ lating to the stereotypes rather than that 'hardly anyone wants to go there, sonal about her appearance, attitude, blazing their own trails, expressing even in good weather.' Boston, even or hygiene but there isn't anything she their own unique gender. aside from its place in American can do to reverse the aging process. In this construct, gender is seen as a history, is a great city, culturally The author thought it was wortl1- spectrum with shades of gender diverse, and an intellectual capital. while to bring up the subject of coloring in the space between the

8 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3 polar opposites of male and female. If said but I am at a loss because it was attempt to give this story the 'climax' it transsexuals didn't feel the oppressing almost unintelligible. It had something richly deserves. need to blend-in to whichever pole to do with religion because there was a The suggestions ranged from the they sought, we would have a world lot of scripture quoted but the rest of it romantic (chiffon nightgowns and satin with many different expressions of was, well, let's just say that it needed sheets), to the slightly kinky (6" heels gender, individualized by each some editing, punctuation, spelling, and lace-up corsets), to the more person's own vision of themselves. and grammatical structure. Other than bizarre (matching Girl Scout uniforms The EON Accord carried an article that, it was great. and three boxes of chocolate cookies). by Ann Harper which used this Here is a brief example: "The Erie I guess we're not going to be able to concept of gender blending to make Sisters is a club who's so exist is to reach a consensus here on this fantasy the point that not everyone can feel educate the public. We as associated scenario. So keep your fantasies to comfortable being their own island of individual gives our club a virtuous yourselves. I don't want to know gender. While acknowledging that repetitious." everyone's deep, dark bedroom some may prefer to express their own My suspicion is that Diane L. may secrets. As for myself: I'm going to gender concept, many crossdressers - in fact be the femme name of that change into my Girl Scout uniform who may not have as strong a sense of master of the malaprop, Norm Crosby, and have some cookies. their true gender as transsexuals - need or perhaps the femme alter ego of the See ya next month ... the stereotypes of gender to guide double-talking Professor Irwin Corey. them. In order to jump back and forth between their male and female selves, LEADERSHIP it is necessary to have some definition Just to show that I'm not picking on between the two points on the scale. the Erie Sisters, I want to point out The interesting thing about these something I found very interesting in two points of view is that they question tl1eir newsletter, written by their new the concept of 'passing' as the be-all president Kris Holt. and end all for everyone in the TG She applauds her predecessor Pam community. There is a movement out Dresser for being aggressive in there that eschews passing in favor of establishing the group through its individual expressions of gender and infancy. Kris points out that it takes a that is an interesting idea because special person, 'a spark plug', to make conformity is restrictive. Anything that a go of a new venture. Sometimes promotes greater freedom of expres­ these types ofleaders are hard to work sion-in gender issues or in broader with because they can be abrasive­ topics-is a positive thing. but without that drive the chances of success are greatly diminished. ONCE AGAIN, PLEASE -IN ENGLISH BEDROOM FANTASY UPDATE The Erie Sisters group newsletter In a previous column I mentioned Mirror Images carried an article by an article that teased us by mentioning one of their own named Diane L. an 'ultimate bedroom fantasy' without titled 'Unintended Wisdom No providing any details. I invited readers Excuse'. I would like to tell you what it to furnish their own details in an

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9 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

Some people think they are generous Checked on a few others and almost more investment capital is needed ... " because they give away free advice. everybody made it through with just For my views on such things, please minor damage. Thank goodness. see "The Responsibility of Leadership" We start buzzin'---- this month with the elsewhere in this issue. weather. While it was Rumblin' in With all of the---- natural disasters we've Reading CPa.) it was Knockin' in experienced this last year, quakes, bliz­ While we're up---- in New England, let's Northridge CCaJ. And if that wasn't zards, hurricanes, and .floods, it's no talk about the revitalization of Fantasia enough, it was bitterly cold in the East wonder the fin d.3 siecle kooks are out Fair. At last year's Fair, a small group breaking all records for lows every­ in force. Add in the fact that it's also of Fair supporters approached Fair where. It all seemed to start on Satur­ the end of a millennium and we've got manager Ari Kane and offered their day, January 15. About 7:30 PM. every nutball in the world babbling assistance in getting the Fair back on Reading was hit with, not one, but two about conspiracies and the end of the track. FanFair and the Outreach Insti­ earthquakes in the 4.6 range. Some of world as we know it. Is it the hand of tute, the Fair's sponsor, had fallen on us felt it here in King of Prussia. Almost God? Are we about to be wiped off the hard times with decreasing attendance exactly 36 hours later, Northridge ex­ face of the earth? Or are we so arro­ and little community support. With just perienced its 6.6 quake. We received gant that we forgot it's not nice to fool a teeny bit of arm twisting, Kane was a call from our son at USC about 7:35 with Mother Nature and we just convinced to accept the offer of help. AM. Monday, to tell us about the quake needed reminding? From my vantage point, it looks as and that he was OK. CThank you to all though FanFair '94 will be as good as who called to inquire about him . He's The other hot---- buzz comes from New ever. In fact, good enough that I'm go­ fine.) Later that day, it started to snow England, home of the International ing back. Ari Kane is to be commended here and then turn to rain and ice. We Foundation for Gender Education (what for recognizing that an organization like were "iced in " here for three days. And would a Hot Buzz column be without the Institute and an event like FanFair it was nasty. Alison Laing slipped and news from IFGE?) Chair of the IFGE cannot be run single-handedly. She is cracked her skull, requiring a few board, Linda Buten, and Executive Di­ working closely with her board and the stitches. Meanwhile, we tried to get rector, Merissa Sherrill Lynn, sent out "Friends of Fantasia Fair" to restore word from California about our friends a press release announcing several the Fair to its status as the pre-eminent and acquaintances. First to call was new initiatives. First to be implemented community event. Oh, yeah, there is Kym Richards of Cross Talk. Kym re­ is a search for a new "qualified execu­ absolutely no truth to the rumor that ported that she was a little shaken but tive director" and the second is a "spe­ IFGE will host a program titled "Fund­ undamaged. She reported that all the cial fund drive to hire that person." The Raising for Fun and Profit. " windows in Lydia's store had shattered announcement says the search will during the quake. Next we called Vir­ begin immediately with screening inter­ Now on to the---- important stuff.. . Many ginia Prince who reported her worst views to be held at the annual meeting of you have heard me mention damage was losing the cable TV sig­ in Portland, March 16 - 20. Potential Clinique's Continuous Coverage foun­ nal. But that was more than she could applicants should write to Lynn at P.O. dation as a good beard concealer. say for Drs. Richard Docter and Vern Box 367, Wayland, MA 01778. The Well, it seems that this very good prod­ Bullough. Dick and Vern both live al­ release also quotes Lynn as saying: uct has been improved. Clinique has most on top of the quake's epicenter. "Once [the new executive director] is announced Soft Conceal Corrector. a Docter's home was badly shaken and found and the funds raised, I will be foundation that goes on sheer and the water heater fell off its base as did better able to pursue my responsibili­ light, yet hides almost any flaw. This the chimney taking out their electricity. ties as founding director... " Ms. Lynn new product deserves some investiga­ At last report they were still trying to wants IFGE's By Laws amended to tion and will be the subject of a later get it hooked up. Several calls to Jim create a new lifetime position for her report, but you may not want to wait, Bridges did not get through until Friday called "Founding Director" which so check it out at $10.50. and then the phone was unanswered. would give her a permanent voting seat Kym called back and told us Jim and on the board and on every committee. Those of us over---- 35 (and some of us Anthony were fine. We called Dave at The new position would also come with are well over... ) know the impending NS products and spoke to Mary. a stipend. Ms. Buten adds: "Ourfund­ signs of ageing show up first around CDave? Dave's not here.) She told us raising efforts have helped tremen­ the eyes, i.e. crows feet. Neutrogena everybody there was okay, too. dously to meet financial needs, but Intensified Eye Moisture helps elimi-

10 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

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nate, temporarily, crow's feet and tive? Will there be an Information High­ Ontario ministry of Consumer and other fine lines for up to twelve hours. way Patrol as depicted in a recent Out­ Commercial Relations issued an order That ought to be enough time for al­ land cartoon? .. . Excuse us. Mr. Jones, to the Toronto rock band Drop Kick Me most anybody. but according to your ShopNet ac­ Jesus to change its name because it count, you're a single male living alone might incite religious violence Cnow I am sorry to---- report that Spring and and you've been making large pur­ there's an oxymoron). And speaking of Summer fashions show no let up in the chases of ladies lingerie. We have a morons, there are plenty of them here silliness department. Designers con­ search warrant here ... Technology is a who would like to see the First Amend­ tinue to cast about, seemingly ran­ sword that cuts both ways. ment repealed. Such as ... domly, for a new trend and in the process will try anything. Even Donna Brassieres may---- be uplifting, but their A recent editorial---- in a well-known pub­ Karan, who usually shows good design prices are soaring. I remember buying lication admonished that "criticism poi­ sense (even if it is pricey) has taken a a new bra in Macy's for twelve dollars. sons and decays. " I suppose one dip in the pool of foolish fads by show­ That same bra is now closer to $20. might feel that way if the writer were ing long (to the ankle) sarong skirts for Sure, I could buy a white cotton bra the point of the criticism. No one is per­ men. True, some hip-hop clothing looks from the L'eggs outlet for a few bucks, fect, however, and everyone can use almost like a skirt, but Mr. Corporate but my tastes run a little more fanciful a little criticism now and then, even this America is not likely to bring Karan' s and I have a penchant for front-hook queen. This country was founded by ideas to the boardroom. underwires. My advice is wait until people who believed in the right to Victoria's Secret has a sale. They have freely speak one's mind. They fought Complaints of---- exorbitant fees for so­ a wide variety of styles and colors and a war to preserve that right and they called supermodels have not fallen on the bras can be bought for $13. wrote it into the basic document that deaf ears. While models like Claudia defines our political ideology. lfwe give Schiffer, Christy Turlington, and Cindy King of the sleazoid---- mail-order sales up the right to free speech, we give up Crawford have been known to earn business, Michael Salem, made it into a basic tool of democracy. In fact, there $20,000 for a single fashion show in the New York Post last month. Salem, are some who believe that we have a the past, such sky-high fees are a thing if nothing else, knows how to work an responsibility to criticize in order to pre­ of the past. Organizers of the New angle and he used the hype surround­ serve and protect our freedom. The fol­ York fashion shows proposed rates ing the film Mrs. Doubtfire to hype his lowing quote is from author/writer ranging from $250 to $750 per hour. crossdresser mail-order business. Noam Chomsky: "It is the responsibil­ CThat's still not chicken-feed!) Claudia Those naifs at the Post sucked it up, ity of intellectuals to speak the truth Schiffer, who earned $30,000 at the too. Salem claims 100,00 regular cus­ and expose lies. Intellectuals are in a Chanel show, would have had to work tomers and a mailing list of 250,000. position to expose the lies of [organi­ 37 hours overtime to earn the same in He also says he's been in business for zations], to analyze actions according New York. Poor baby! 25 years. Bull! All of it. If you're new to their causes and motives and often to this community, beware of Mr. Sa­ hidden intentions. In the Western world Television shopping---- networks like lem (not to be confused with Phillip at least, they have the power that QVC and HSN are a big hit with many Salem on the West Coast, and, no, comes from political liberty, from ac­ crossdressers because there is the se­ they are not related). Michael Salem cess to information, and from freedom curity of anonymity. Well, there's good makes his living preying on the fear and of expression. For a privileged minor­ news for you home shopping addicts. insecurities of closeted crossdressers ity, Western democracy provides the More new shopping channels are on and charges exorbitant prices for com­ leisure, the facilities, and the training to the way. Macy's has announced a 24- monly available items. How's $100 for seek the truth lying behind the veil of hour shopping chanel, Via TV, that will a gaff that shouldn't cost more than distortion and misrepresentation, ide­ offer high fashion from small catalogs. $15 to $20 or $150 for a waist-cincher ology, and class interest through which Then there is the Catalog Channel that you can order through the Fredericks events ... are presented to us." will offer selections from large catalogs catalog for $18? Stay clear of this guy. like Speigel Cone of my faves); and a © 1993 by Creative---- Design Services. show called Can We Shop? hosted by Things may be---- bad at times here in the All rights reserved. Opinions expressed Joan Rivers. But will the anonymity still U.S. of A. but I'd rather live here than are those of the author. If you don't like be there when television goes interac- anywhere else. For example, the them, go write your own column.

11 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

Responsibility, c_•ont'd. sation solely on the basis of their always be a place for them in our community status. No one has a right community's organizations. In fact, to compensation of any kind. Each the very best leaders will always in organization. Placing the organization's must carry their own weight and earn demand for their skills. fate in the hands of unskilled person­ whatever compensation is granted Finally, it is not sufficient to hold nel is irrespsonsible. them. Anyone who does not perform high standards of ethical behavior for Any person elected or appointed to to expectations, does not deserve a one's self. Leaders must require the a leadership position should under­ dime, regardless of who they are. same high standards of ethical behav­ stand their job and what is expected of People in leadership positions are ior from everyone in the organization them. Organizations should set usually granted perks, little favors to without exception. And, every rule and standards and goals for each position "sweeten" their position. There is no regulation governing the exempt of responsibility, then measure their problem with this practice as long as organization must be followed scrupu­ leaders against these criteria. Organi­ such grants are legal and above board. lously to the letter. Expect no less. zations should periodically review the Organizations cannot condone under­ It is also important for our commu­ performance of their leadera and let the-table subsidies, or back-room nity to know what its rights are them know how they're doing and have agreements for perks, especially if they concerning these public corporations. the courage to tell them where they are designed to benefit only a select You have the right to know who sits on need to change or improve their few. That generally violates the the board of directors, who the officers performance. Organizations should principle of every tax-exempt organiza­ of the corporation are and what also have the courage to be clear about tion that no one shall personally profit compensation they receive, if any. You the consequences of unacceptable job from the proceeds of the organization. have the right to inspect a tax-exempt performance. Any person in a leadership position organization's Articles of Incorpora­ As our community's organizations who wants a guaranteed position in tion, By Laws, and original application grow in scope and complexity, it is not perpetuity should be considered for tax exemption. You have the right unreasonable to compensate leaders suspect in motivation. Such people are to inspect a tax-exempt organization's for their work. But, such compensation concerned only with their personal tax returns (Form 990) for the past should be linked to performance in the status, not the organization's goals. If position. No one is entitled to com pen- someone is a good leader, there will continued on page 15

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12 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3 'fl Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor: over this; aging is a natural process. skin sag in 1-2 years. In her January column, JoAnn Rob­ Besides, your mother was right, worry Please inform your readers. Printing erts remarked that she had heard a lec­ can cause wrinkles. such untrue information is unfair to ture of some sort mention that elec­ Michelle Lynn those who need help. trolysis may lead its user to need a Sincerely, Kathryn I. Kailian facelift. Her electrolysis commentary Dear Editor, Electrologist & Para-Medical was presented rather offhandedly and I am an electrologist with 17 years of Aesthetician is, at best, incomplete information of a experience, working in the suburbs of complex subject. Philadelphia and moving to Washington, JoAnn Roberts replies: Galvanic Electrolysis, where the user D.C. sometime in the future. The information about sagging skin holds an electrode and completes an One of my many T.S. clients showed after full-beard electrolysis came from electrical circuit with her body, can tend me an article printed in the Renais­ a well-respected medical doctor and to dry the skin. This method causes the sance News that caused me great dis­ was verified by an electrologist who has buildup of lye compounds under the skin may. JoAnn Roberts claims that after 20 years experience working with trans­ due to the electrical current and may having completed beard removal, you'll sexuals, transvestites and female imper­ contribute to the drying of the skin. I likely need a facelift. What nonsense! sonators. However, both writers missed find this method less suitable for facial Hair follicles do not support the skin, the real point of the piece. hair removal. muscles do. Where does Ms. Roberts Shortwave is the preferred method, get her information? I have been working the Editor replies: as it generates no heat and does not for one of Philadelphia's most promi­ I didn't know one little mention in rely on a lye based chemical reaction to nent plastic surgeons for ten years and the Hot Buzz column would set off such destroy the hair follicle. Electrologists, can assure you that this is erroneous a storm of controversy. Your letter and in fact, note this method stimulates and emotionally dangerous for any cli­ that of Michelle Lynn take JoAnn to blood flow, which is potentially beneficial ent needy of beard removal. task as if she were a Nazi propagandist to healthy skin. Regardless, the most I suppose a client might need a All she said was, "Your face may sag." current dermatological studies (refer to facelift after electrolysis if the proce­ That was a minor point. The main Tapestry and the Renaissance Library) dure takes so many years to complete. thrust of the piece was talking about find no significant evidence that short­ This would happen only with an incompe­ transgendered people thinking elec­ wave electrolysis leads to facelifts. tent operator. I have never seen facial trolysis is a necessity. Personally, I Electrolysis is a long term commit­ haven't had any hair removed electri­ ment. Anyone considering it should cally and I probably won't. It hurts. I'm evaluate their situation and goals with a chicken. qualified, accredited operator. 11111111111JP1• Sandi• s Let me start my own controversy by I've heard some express concern that saying, in my experience, I have seen close shaving, where the hair is cut down Hair, people who've had electrolysis and below the surface and the skin is con­ even though the beard hairs are all stantly stretched, might lead to skin Nail, gone it is possible to tell from the tex­ wrinkles and sag. However, skin aging Body, ture of their skin, when light hits it from has many interactive factors, not the certain angles, that this person once least of which is heredity. Salon had a beard. I couldn't say why Ms. Roberts As JoAnn said, "What's necessary is friends now appear older to her, but any­ that you hide your beard effectively." 2579 Huntingdon Pike one can do things to minimize the ef­ People should investigate their options fects of aging. These include avoiding ul­ Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 and make a decision on what products traviolet sun exposure, following a or services to use after they have taken sensible skin care program, getting 215-947-7301 the time to become well informed. enough sleep (without scrunching your Beeper 618-4918 face in the pillow), eating a vitamin and After reading- -"Trading- Places" in mineral rich diet, drinking several the January Ladies Home Joumal, I felt glasses of water a day, and by not Private Appointments Available smoking. But above all, don't obsess continued on page 15

13 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

the South (and live to tell about it!) WORLD NEWS Nobody called me to audition so Phaedra Kelly of the International News Beat ... let's move along to another drag road Gender Transient Affinity has gotten picture, the aforementioned Australian word on the condition of Turkish script called "Plucked." It's the story of film titled, "The Adventures of travesti activist, Demet Demir. a drag queen who has to raise his Priscilla, Queen of The Desert." This Phaedra reports that Demet was not sister's kids after she deserts them. It's time the queens go walk-about in the imprisoned by Turkish police when being produced by Dolly Parton's outback in a beat up bus called she disappeared back in August. The company Sandollar Productions. Priscilla. (This gives Crocodile Dundee police had broken through their flat Sounds like it could be a hoot. No a chance to check there gender wall while the girls were out (shopping word if Harvey will play the DQ. without having to travel to New York.) no doubt) and then ransacked the If we think back to the success of that apartment and sealed it so they could WALK ON THE •••• other Aussie import "Road Warrior" not re-enter with out being arrested. Next up in the cavalcade of queens maybe we can look forward to a whole Demet and her friends are well and is the life story of Holly Woodlawn. series of pictures about these drag avoiding the police. "Holly came from Miami, F.L.A. queens in Oz. Miss Kelly is trying to raise money Hitchhiked her way across the U.S.A .. " WHITHER WOOD? Holly's in Hollywood now and her continued on page 16 autobiography,"A Low Life In High Not mentioned in the Screen Notes Heels" has been optioned by the column was the Johnny Depp vehicle, producer who brought us the ever "The Ed Wood Story." I don't even memorable "Father of The know if that's the title but they have Bride."(Huh?) This was reported as a wrapped shooting.(That's show talk) starring vehicle for Madonna and I Stories about Ed Wood (The transves­ mentioned it way back in the May tite director of "Plan Nine From Outer 1993 issue. Madonna was reportedly Space" and "Glen or Glenda?") have set to play the role of Candy Darling hit the infotainment shows recently so ("Candy came from out on the Island. they're no doubt the beginning of the In the back room she was everybody's Ed Wood promo blitz. Johnny was darling.") and Harvey Fierstein was featured in an interview in Us maga­ penning the script. Well, they don't zine in which he said preparing for the mention Maddie or Harv in this latest role gave him a new respect for what report. That's show biz. More on this women go through when they get all one when we get more information. dressed up. He further stated that he JOAN BENCAN has more regard for crossdressers now ELECTROLYSIS WITH 3 YOU GET EGG ROLL that he knows what they have to go The film we mentioned in the through to feel pretty. He always keeps 408 New Rd. (Rt. 9), Northfield September '93 issue was the Steven some of his wardrobe from his films. 609-645-8618 Spielberg project, "To Wong Foo, He reveals in this interview that he FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION Thank's For Everything, Julie kept an Angora sweater and a pair of Newmar.'' It's the story of three drag pumps from the Wood flick. See ya at queens who make a journey through the Queen Mary Johnny.

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14 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3 'nng 414" "'" • compelled to offer my praise. each other as men and women get lost Dear Angela Gardner: Myrna Blyth, Editor-in-Chief in a scramble for rating points. Thank you so much for your positive As a life long transvestite and prac­ By not discussing motivation and letter of January 7. Myrna Blyth has ticing crossdresser for fourteen years I concentrating on presenting ones self seen your letter and she asked me to re­ must applaud your "Trading Places" as a member of the opposite sex I feel spond on her behalf. piece in the January issue of the Jour­ your article is a large step forward in "Trading Places" dealt with gender nal. The experience ·of crossing the understanding between· the sexes. roles and preconceptions in a positive, gender border was an eye opening one Congratulations to your actors and the · non-sensational way and I'm glad that for me and your couple expressed how entire team on a job well done. you, and members of your organization, it feels perfectly. We tend to take so If your magazine would be inter­ fully appreciated that. While we never much about our "natural" gender role ested in .doing anything on crossdress­ know for certain which stories we will do for granted that most people don't stop ing or transvestism in the future please a follow-up on, your letter will be seen by to examine tl1e issue that closely. feel free to contact us for information our articles department, and we will keep It is hard for transvestites to talk and assistance. Our group is a support it on file for future use. about these important concepts in a se­ organization with over four hundred Once again, thank you for taking the rious manner in the public forums that members and we routinely supply time to share this with us. The editors are available; like television talk shows. speakers for university sex eel/psych do truly appreci.ate words of praise They tend to concentrate on the sensa­ classes and television programs. about our articles. tional aspects of a man in a dress and Angela Gardner, Outreach Director Sincerely, Jill Benz , Reader Service the lessons learned about how we treat

and most skilled people with only the Got Something To tluee years. If you are denied the right highest standards of integrity and to inspect these documents, you have ethical behavior. If we accept anything Say? News? Buzz? the right to file a complaint with the less, we are doomed to experience a Internal Revenue Service; they will vicious cycle of organization creation Renaissance News & Views is investigate. (Having the right to and dissolution designed to benefit a the place to have your say, inspect does not mean an organization. select few. spread your news, or share is required to mail you copies of © Copyright 1993, JoAnn Roberts the juicy rumor. Send submis­ documents. They can require you to & Creative Design Services. Reprinted sions to the Editor, care of the inspect on their premises. This by permission. All rights reserved. The address on the masthead (see regulation may change in the next original version of this essay appears in year so that a request by mail must Sacred Cows Make The Best Ham­ page 2). For those of you who be honored.) burger available for $12.00 plus $1.20 are byte-deprived, please To recap, the leadership of our new p&h,from CDS, PO Box 61263, type double-spaced. Those tax-exempt organizations should be King of Prussia, PA 19406.) with computers should send the best educated, most experienced, ASCII text on a 3.5" disk.

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15 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

retired or something else like that. I hold this "lifelike" wonder on to my ran into Eric at the New Prelude one body fell off in my hand when I tried it News Beat ... night and he set me straight. So to on. Fortunately I had purchased it speak. He is definitely available for all with my American Express card. I for a trip to China to investigate your beauty needs and can be reached called them and said I was unsatisfied reports that a Chinese doctor has at 215-862-2369. His makeovers are with the merchandise and was return­ perfected complete genital trans­ $45 to $55 and is you want to go ing it to Michael Salem. They credited plants. If you care to contribute to this shopping at the mall he will escort you my account. effort send a check to IGTA, 1, Bank and help you co-ordinate outfits for The only thing I can say for the man Buildings, School Green Road, $150.00 (That includes the makeover.) was he did seem to be discreet. The Freshwater I-o-W, P040-9AJ, UK. He has wigs and makeup kits for sale bill from American Express listed the Checks should be written in pounds and is ready to transform you into the merchandise as "leg wear." I guess he Sterling, not dollars. The banks will glamour queen of your dreams. could have just written it up as "tits." convert it and let you know how much All right Eric, put down that teasing So other than discretion, there are few it is in U.S. dollars. Remember, the comb! I told them, I told them! reasons for patronizing the Michael pound is worth about $1.50 Salem Boutiques. He's high priced and Miss Kelly is hoping to stop by the AREAL BOOB offers low quality. Middle East while she's traveling and He keeps turning up in the media would be interested in visiting our like a cold sore on a cheap hooker's lip. HOWARD'S END Kuwait correspondent, Billie. Hey Who? Michael Salem, the robber It seems that Howard Stem, the Billie, would you like a house guest for baron of1V boutiques. He's been at it shock talk jock who broadcasts his a few days? If so, drop Phaedra a line for twenty five years, catering to the juvenile, but lucrative, smut all around at her address above. needs of the 1V community; or ripping these United States is fascinated with it off. I guess it all depends on your penis size. He continually makes IT'S A SMALL WORLD ..• point of view. Anyhow, he managed to comparisons between his equipment One of those things that make get mentioned in the press because of and that of those around him. One of people say it's a small world happened . Mrs. Doubtftre. Salem maintains in a his guests on the, much-talked-about to me the night of the GPC meeting. I . piece in the January 27 Daily News New Years Pay-Per-View program that attended dinner with the girls who that the breast forms Robin Williams Stem hosted was the lovely and participated in the CDS seminar that uses in his hit movie are, "terrible." He talented, transgendered model and was conducted that day. We were dismisses Robin's all-in-one undergar­ actress, Tula. She postulated in a Daily dining at Lulu Wellington's and the ments as far to bulky. "It's so clumsy, News column on January 27 that girl across the table (you must know it's ridiculous." Mike, it is a comedy. perhaps Howard's penile preoccupa­ that there were thirty of us there and I He goes on, of course, to tout the tion might have something to do with ended up across the table from this simplicity of using his brand of breasts. the relatively teeny size of his weeny. lady.), leaned over and said,''You're "Our breasts go on and off is three to At one point in the festivities Howard Angela, aren't you?" I could only reply six seconds." I have a vision of Salem mooned and Tula got a good view. that yes, I was and she said, "Do you with a stopwatch and a line of flat She commented, "What he had live in (insert the name of my exclu­ chested drag queens holding silicone between his legs was far smaller than sive condominium complex here). breast forms. The mind boggles. What what I had removed." Howie, Howie, How could she know that? Had she some people won't do for market Howie! I've seen you in drag on your penetrated my security? Just as I was research. television show. You didn't look bad. If seriously considering the instant His absurd closing remark is that it's as small as Tula says, maybe you dismissal of my personal security firm, anyone coming to his boutique can, should consider a little elective she went on to tell me that she lived in "come in as a man and leave as a surgery. Think of the headlines that the same exclusive complex. There's woman in just a few seconds." Yeah, could generate: Stern Seeks SRS! crossdressers every where. You could right Mikey. I'll bet they look just great Film At Eleven almost trip over 'em. I'm gonna have after six seconds of makeover. her over for tea. Maybe we'll start a I had my first rip off experience in OVER AND OUT very small chapter in the complex. the 1V community when I purchased That's it for another month. I leave some of Michael Salem's breasts back you with a quote from Sophia Loren: LETS KISS & MAKEUP in 1981. The Pleasure Chest was "Sex appeal is fifty percent what you've In January I mentioned that Eric guaranteed to look and feel lifelike. got and fifty percent what people think Lee was more involved with other When it finally arrived, around four you've got." Au voir kittens! pursuits than his beauty work. This months later it was hard as a rock and unfortunately implied that Eric had the el(lstic band that was supposed to

16 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

}ocus on Page Two Last month we pre­ listing; AEGIS, The American Educa­ sented a completely tional Gender Information Service in CLASSIFIEDS redesigned news- letter for your Decatur, Georgia. Their major mission reading pleasure. One important part is to, " ... foster communication and Classified Ads are $3.00 for 3 lines for 3 of that redesign job was making the respectful interaction between months. Service ads only. information on page two more caregivers and consumers." They Private, professional counseling for drug, understandable and useful. In the old publish the Chrysalis Quarterly , a very alcohol, gambling, sex & food addictions. Renaissance News, page two just kinda slick journal for the transgender Insurance accepted. Mary Reynolds DOV, existed. Everything ran together and community which has covered issues CAC 215-744-4n7. didn't give the reader a reason to from Health and Transition and The bother trying to decode it. Realities ofTransexual Surgery to Furniture, Appliances, Household goods, Now, page two sings to the reader. Transgender Perspectives on the Records, Antiques, Toy trains and other You can tell immediately that we have Return of The Goddess (in the most goodies - Bought and Sold - Beth Marshall: various chapters and affiliates, where recent issue.) 610-259-4945 - Leave a message they're located and how to contact Unlike our other affiliates and them. In the Resources section you chapters, AEGIS is not a support Need professional typing or resume service? can find how to contact our Significant group. It is strictly an information Call Bonnie Allen , 610-326-8734. All work Other Support group, the TransParent resource for the transgendered, done on PC. Reasonable rates. Forum, and the Pen Pal Program . particularly those seeking sexual re­ Need the police? Dial 911 . Need computer The Background Papers are clearly assignment surgery. If you are seeking help? Write ECC, P. 0. Box 911, Havertown, enumerated and upcoming events in in-depth information on SRS and PA 19083 the community are listed in an easy to related topics call AEGIS at 404-939- read Events Calender. 0244 or write them at PO Box 33724, Member in So. Phila needs transportation to This month we're spotlighting one Decatur, GA 30033 and ask for their GPC meetings. If you can help, please call of our affiliates from the page two list of publications. 215-389-5097.

WILD SIDE CW"iat group is nearby? TRANSFORMATIONS C\\7here can I buy shoes? BOUTIQUE AND TV HOTEL CW"ien is Southern Comfort? (AS SEEN ON THE DONAHUE SHOW) These and most all your other questions are answered in our 1994 Who's Who & Resource Home of the Guide to the International Transgender Toronto Community. We have bias of international CrossDressers community leaders, 1 OO's of listings for Support Club Groups with detailed membership information, Businesses supportive of the transgender Call or write for free brochures commnunity, and Professional Counselors, Catalogue $10.00 Therapists & Health Care Providers. All cross­ plus $3.50 P&H indexed for easy use. There is nothing else like it We accept Cdn. anywhere. Pick one up today, $10 postpaid. or U.S. Funds From ... who else? · New address: Creative Design Services PO Box 61263 161 Gerrad St East King of Prussia, PA 19406 Toronto, Ontario CANADA MSA 2E4 (416) 921-6112 24 Hrs

17 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

by Jackie Thomas Expensive name but inexpensive Makeup ($40.00). Cover Girl, in It's a new year and here is a new clothing. Nineteen dollar skirts, twenty twenty shades, was as good, if not source for shoes. How about a full line nine dollar dresses, fifty nine dollar better, than the expensive ones. of shoes (just like in the store) avail­ suits and thirty nine dollar silk blazers. Applied by finger or with a dry sponge, able in sizes to thirteen WW? Wow! A Nice quality for the price. In fact, I'm it gives thorough coverage and leaves a gold mine for transies and, it's regular wearing one of their skirts and a slightly dewy finish . Works best on mail order, no beefed up prices. A sweater as I write. Order the catalog normal to dry skin. It gave such good cute, smartly tailored, low heeled from them at 1 Chadwick Place, Box coverage that it worked well as a spot pump with an adjustable T-strap runs 1600, Brockton, MA 02403-1600. They concealer too. It seems to work pretty forty two dollars. A supple, soft carry sizes to 20 for most items. well for me and it's a lot cheaper than leather, low boot with fleece lining is JoAnn Roberts is the expert on what I've been using. For $5.95 give it fifty nine ninety five and there are a makeup (along with a bunch of other a try, it may be good for you. (Made­ nice selection of sandals and heels in things) but I want to pass on the nwiselle is still my favorite subscription the same price range. Want a catalog? results of a Mademoiselle magazine magazine for a buck.) Call l-800-362-8410, or write: Coward, rating on the new cream and powder Drop me a line at PO Box 2122, Palo Verde at 34th, Box 27800, foundation in a single compact. If Harrisburg, PA 17105-2122 with your Tucson, AZ 85726-7800. you're not familiar with it, the cream sources, questions and comments. I'll For nice outer dressing; shells, tees and powder foundation combines the try to answer them in this column. I and sweaters, try Bedford Fair. Good best of both makeup base and face need your input and help, share your prices! Call 800-964-1000, or write; powder in one. The magazine rated six knowledge with the rest of us. So, until Bedford Fair, 421 Landmark Drive, of these: Shiseido ($27.00), Yves next time ... happy shopping! Wilmington, NC 28410 for catalog. St.Laurent ($36.50), Estee Lauder My favorite mail order source (at ($25.00), Cover Girl ($5.95), Lancome present) is Chadwick's of Boston. ($25.00) and Chanel Perfecting

The Gender Journey !J?emania's Lingerie A small-group exploration of the various 3715 West Chester Pike stages in the life of a crossdresser, with Newtown Square, PA 19073 implications for personal identity and hu­ (610) 325-0177 man relationships. Held at the Wayne Counseling Center Call to be form fitted and (where Renaissance Gr. Phila. meets) with measured for undergarments and lingerie ... Dr. Lee Etscovitz, Renaissance National Librarian, former Professor of Human Be­ Bras • Panties havior at Drexel University, and currently Girdles •Slips Director of Human Dimensions, an orga­ Waist Cinchers nization specializing in gender education. All in One $25perperson per two-hour session. Meet­ Beautiful Lingerie ing times flexibly arranged. Write: Human etc. Dimensions, PO Box 471, Willow Grove, Sizes: Small to Queen 4X Bras: 32 to 52 PA 19090 or call 215-657-1560. Home and Office . Confidentiality Assured Pariies Available

18 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3 11''"1§8111nl1f1tjlHi$- Compiled from the minutes taken by · White reported the opening balance with Renaissance members one-on­ National Secretary, Bonnie Allen. for 1993 was $752 and the year's one if they found the idea of attending The Renaissance Board met on closing balance was $3338. The a regular meeting too intimidating. No January 15 in King of Prussia, Pa. At proposed budget for 1994 is $8480. vote was taken on this item but it was that time Co-Director of Membership, The possibility of having a permanent agreed that the option should be Elsa Larson, reported that member­ office space in the King of Prussia area explored. The next meeting of the ship renewals were up compared to was discussed. Such a space could be a Board is scheduled for March 13 at the the same time in 1993. It was resolved home for the Renaissance Library and GPC meeting site. Anyone wishing to that former members would be sent a Bookstore. It would also be a place an item on the agenda or obtain sample copy of the newsletter in order convienient, non-threatening, spot a copy of the January minutes should to stimulate interest. Treasurer Joanne where interested novices could meet contact Bonnie Allen at 610-630-1437.

Mijfi Iii I HIi" i I f.!i @'~'·8- We are pleased to announce the Eventually the Business Manager will newsstands. Ms. Persing comes to tl1e addition of a Business Manager to the assume control of distribution of Business Manager position with the News & Views staff. Susan Persing, Renaissance News & Views to retail necessary computer skills and equip­ former National Secretary felt a desire outlets. Presently we are only available ment to handle the billing for ads and to get back in the swing and has to the non-subscribing general public collection of payments for issues sold volunteered to step in and handle the at one bookstore in the Philadelphia on the newsstand. She also has the newsletter's business matters. Ms. area; Giovanni's Room at twelftl1 and people. skills needed to deal with the Persing's responsibilities will include Pine. We are projecting an increase in concerns of advertisers and retail billing advertisers, acting as the retail outlets by the year's end and are outlet managers. Welcome aboard contact person for ad copy changes hoping to place the newsletter in Susan. and soliciting new ad business. several main- stream bookstores or

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19 Renaissance News & Views, Vol. 8, No. 3

Barbara A. Susinno R.N. CPE. Jessica Lynn Porter CPE. Main Street Electrology Members and Supporters of Renaissance

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Hidden Fantasies trates meeting programs and edits all of MGN's video tapes. "''*"'''"Iii!!.(Got anything racy?) Barbie Muller keeps a tight rein on Intimate Apparel finances. Felicity Kacsik is active on the activism front. Everything from leather to lace. Petite to Stacey Richkus has the thankless task of editing their Extra-large. Crossdressers welcome. newsletter and Samantha Lewis is the librarian. Congratulations to all the ladies of the "Ruling Junta". Compare Our Prices! Let us know what exciting things you have planned for the 1911 Main St. Big Apple and we'll pass them along to our readers. If Northampton anyone in interested in attending a Metropolitan Gender Network meeting, check out page two for their contact 262-2814 information. Hrs: Mon. - Fri.; 10-7 Sat.: 10-4

V/O CD Available TVffS? FETISH? DOMINANT/SUBMISSIVE? A professional voice over announcer who happens to be a crossdresser is available Nancy Ava Miller, M. Ed. for commercial and corporate announcing work. Leave a message for Angela on the - Sex educator/dominatrix/author - CDS machine: 610-640-9449. For a sample for those with unique desires. of my announcing style call the Renais­ Support groups, literature, S&M/B&D/fetish sance Voice Mail at 610-630-1437. counseling, intelligent fantasy conversation, etc. I won't arrive at the recording session en femme. (Unless the producer wants me to.) (908) 284-8040 .Love, 9\(g.ncy

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