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The St. Louis Gender FoundationGazetteGazette May - June 2002. |
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The StLGF is a non-profit, non-sexual, social and educational organization open to all adults who believe in freedom of gender expression. Although our members are primarily male-to female crossdressers and male-to-female transsexuals; all members of the transgendered community, as well as supportive family members and interested professionals.
"The Gazette" is published bi-monthly in January, March, May, July, September, and November. The deadline for submissions is the 15th of the month prior to publication. For information please use our voice mail number (314) 607-4163.
All submissions become the property of StLGF, and should be accompanied by a release-to-print statement. Letters, articles, and/or pictures that include nudity, profanity, or obscenities will not be published.
We also reserve the right not to publish any other materials that we consider inappropriate. All issues are copyrighted. However, any nonprofit organization or publication may reprint articles or other information from this publication, provided they allow the free use of their materials by other non-profit organizations.
If you have any questions please write:
StLGF,
PO Box, St. Louis, MO 63117,
or call us at
<!-- -->-->Email the StLGF: stlgftg@netscape.net
Well the elections are over and you the voting members of StLGF have shown your faith and trust in the current Board to re-elect us for another season. Plus elect a new addition to the Board, our secretary... Ms. Betty. And with your approval at the April meeting, Ms Shalon has been appointed our new newsletter editor of the Gazette. Ms Shalon will be replacing Ms Monica Mulneix, our past Editor. I want to thank Monica for all the dedication, imagination and hard work she has put into producing the Gazette. And I wish to personally thank you, the members of StLGF for this opportunity to serve as your President for another term.
Last March 30th myself and Mr. Val were honored to attend an Open House for Pride at St. Louis City Hall. This was a great opportunity for us to meet with members and supporters of the LGBT community. This was also a chance for StLGF to branch out within the community. There are many numbers of TG and G&L support groups in the St. Louis and surrounding area. And most seem to be 'stand alone" groups. Nothing wrong with being independent. But that doesn't mean that we all can't network together. In other words share information about each other... support functions of each others groups... direct new candidates for membership to groups or organizations that would best suit that candidate's needs. This can only be done by openly accepting the fact that other organizations may see polices and rules different than your view but we are ALL in existence for the same thing ACCEPTANCE and SUPPORT of being yourself. This is one of the functions StLGF does 'behind the scene". We receive e-mail request for various types of support. Myself or other officers may direct them to other support groups that may fit their needs more so that StLGF. We need more of this action within the community. I witness more of this networking affect by talking with other representatives of various support groups that night at City Hall. Many were interested in learning more about StLGF. This is what keeps positive energy flowing for support and social groups like StLGF. For example I and other members have been fortunate to attend several Tn Ess functions (one of which I will write about later in this edition). Some of their members and officers I have talked with do acknowledge we do have some policy differences but once again both organizations agree our ba- sic mission is the same... accep- tance and support. Friendly rivalry amongst organizations can be healthy and even fun. But we must not confuse 'friendly rivalry" with prejudices and fear of each other. The later can be the kiss of death for many organizations that are tiring to do good. Lets start here with our group and extend to our bothers and sisters outside of StLGF the same love and support that we crave also. There is strength in numbers ladies and gentlemen. Can I get a AMEN!!
Now that I am through preaching... It seems as one gets older time passes by so quickly. This statement is directed primarily at those whom are accepting getting older... I personally plan on stop aging after this year. So here we are, coming to the close of another season. Children home for the summer, big family vacation plans and those forth coming hot St. Louis summers. This is the time so many of us choose to take a break from our daily routine. Week-end road trips with friends, family outings or just being plan lazy on a lake with rod and reel in hand.. This is a time, for that long awaited week or two vacation, we shed our 'business" or "blue collar" attire for swim suits to enjoy the pool or lake or ocean or just sun bath. You know ...take a little 'ME" time. This is GREAT!!! We all need that "ME" time. This rejuvenates the mind, soul and body. This is one of the reasons StLGF breaks for the Summer to give it's members that time we all need, no matter what form it takes. Enjoy the coming Summer BE SAFE, BE HAPPY, BE WELL and join us again in September when we kick off our new season. Love you all... Take Care.
Finally, another edition has made its way to your doorstep. I hope you enjoyed the efforts exerted by all the contributors and my editorialette skills of last issue. My first issue was not without its problems and mistakes but I believe it still turned out reasonably well. I have read the survey results from last issue and I will do my best to address the changes outlined by our readers. Some suggestions for our contributors:
| When submitting TG friendly shopping places please include the store name, location as well as any sales contact. |
| When submitting articles for publication, it is desirable to include a photo. Many of our contributors have similar names |
| When submitting pictures of recent activities, please include a brief explanation of who, what, where and when. |
| Please do not forget your release-to-print letter. |
Encourage all those you know to put their writing skills to work and share your precious moments with us. Writings from significant others, poetry, stories, profiles, pictures, they are all welcome. Please forward your material to: stlgftg@netscape.net and it will be reviewed for publication in the next issue.
I look forward to being your humble Gazette servant. If you have any suggestions or concerns, please do not hesitate to E-mail me at shaloncute@aol.com Cozy up in your favorite reading spot and indulge yourself in the exciting stories that follow.
Saturday March 16th marked my renewed membership after over a two-year absence from STLGF. The last two years were filled with completing my MBA on a full time basis while working full time, attempting to become an independent contractor and finally finding my dream job. If that wasnt enough I completed several house improvements, including a new paving brick sidewalk and built in book case with a fireproof safe hidden behind it. Poor Ashleigh was unable to get out at all during this period and she sure regrets it now. I cannot tell you girls (and guys) just how great I feel to be back in the midst of so many fine people.
The meeting was not my first time out this year; I actually got out two weeks earlier just to once again feel comfortable in being Ashleigh in public again. My outing on March 2nd was a wonderful experience. I started the day by donning my new little black dress from Dillards and going to Salon Linda G on Manchester to have Pat (a wonderful lady who loves doing makeup for us girls) complete a full makeover on me. She was just so nice and encouraging! I will no doubt go back to her, maybe even to take her up on waxing my brows to give me a more feminine eye. After my makeover I went to Grey Fox on Spring to see how one of my old haunts was. Unfortunately, the bar has changed and no longer has the "T" following that it used to. It always amazes me how bars come and go for the ‘T’ community. I miss Alibies also!
So it was off to find someplace new. I ended up at Blakes on South Broadway. What a wonderful fun experience! I immediately ended up meeting Bonnie (part owner) and a couple of her sisters. They immediately adopted me as part of their traveling party, what fun it was! We ended up going to Drakes on Theresa, Freddies on Manchester, Bastille on Russell and back to Blakes all the while enjoying these fine establishments and their patrons. Of course if you girls (and guys) remember that was also the night of the winter storm. We were all such a site trying to walk on ice in heels, holding on to each other and sliding along. Once back at Blakes I was able to meet Bobbie Fox and Christine and enjoy the show. Luckily for me I decided to leave before closing as Bobbie and Randy (one of her traveling party girls) decided to go out once again and poor Randy ended up falling on the ice and breaking her ankle, what a story she has to tell. I felt so wonderful being Ashleigh again. I knew after this experience Ashleigh will never be put away again, so I decided to rejoin and become active this time in STLGF.
I was so pleased that Sharon was able to process my application so quickly and get me the directions to the meeting. I started this day out by buying myself my first coat, a lovely London Fog. Luckily I have been feeling so comfortable as being able to be Ashleigh on a part time basis that I have actually grown nice nails. I have never been able to do this before, it must be a sign of how at ease and relaxed I am now that Ashleigh is more a part of my life. With my new found nails I was off to Elegant Designs Day Spa on Manchester to get a manicure and have them colored. Julie the manicurist was so lovely and accepting, I just loved the experience! Once back at home it was time to cook dinner and get ready to venture out once again.
Being unsure of where once inside to go for the meeting I waited till I saw a few other girls arrive so that I could walk in with them. Luckily Charlie was there and knew where to guide us to find our room. How relaxed and wonderful I felt! It was so enjoyable sitting and talking to Michele from Carbondale and Kathleen from Rolla as well as the others at my table that I regretfully have to say I have forgotten your names (I am so sorry but I am so bad with names). I was afraid that the meeting would be tedious due to the change in charter, but I was pleasantly surprised! I was also surprised at all the announcements, I should have brought a secretary to take notes for me. Maybe next time Mr.Val could give me her notes so that I could absorb all the news and dates and all. Just kidding Sir! I would love to hear more about Leather & Lace from you though and the upcoming event in April I think it was.
Anyhow, I had forgotten about food being provided so I didn’t eat, next month I know better. So I did miss out a little on the social part of breaking bread together. In addition I had a prior commitment to meet someone at Blakes so I actually had to beg out early before the show. Sorry I missed you girls, I am sure you were great! I ended up meeting my friends at Blakes and had a wonderful end to a fine evening! I look forward to the next meeting in April and promise not to make other commitments. Meanwhile, I would love to hear from any of you that may want to get out in between meetings. I can be reached via email at AshleighCD@aol.com. Also for anyone interested I am attending the Southern Comfort Conference from September 17-22, 2002 this will be my first conference and I would love to talk to any of you that may be interested in flying there together or even sharing a room. See you all soon!
For three years I put my personal life on hold to take care of my Mom. Caring for her went from weekends at her house to putting her in a nursing home to her death. Dealing wit my own house and her past estate to finally selling it this past November. I have no brothers or sisters so it was not easy. I have two very good daughters and two close friends who helped. To enjoy the little things that make you happy is what kept me going. Not having many chances to make meetings was hard. Getting the newsletter made it easier. I knew I had friends that cared and supported me. I am glad I am a crossdresser, it made it easier to let my emotions out and helped me to grieve my loss. It helped me to grow as a whole person. I am more confident with a better understanding of who I am. I have come to realize I am more woman than man. This is coming from the inside out. Acceptance of yourself causes a person to be a whole person. A book I read called "Beyond Jesus" helped me to awaken my belief in God. I now have a true love for Him and can understand the Bible. We are the way we are for a reason. In some way it will be revealed to us. Thank goodness for catalogs! I finally bought new clothes to wear. Victoria's Secret is great!. From bras, night gowns, breas enhancers and dresses, It's been fun! to look and feel more woman. I got lucky to have a great Avon lady. Yes, she knows I am a CD'er. Buying all the makeup was not for my daughters, but for me! I have found in my limited times out in the public the daytime can be fun. Going to Saint Louis Bread Company for bagels on a Sunday morning is fun! I Keep it simple, leggings, sweater and booties. I also went to the symphony on a Sunday afternoon. I was read by a few but no one really cared. They came like I did, for the music. I hope these ramblings of mine have given you an idea of why I have been absent from the meetings. To those who are dealing with similar times, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Thank you.
The En Femme Getaway in Eureka Springs, Arkansas was planned well in advance and Bebe and I had made our reservations near the beginning of the year.
Two weeks before the event, I had went to Americas Eyeglasses in Crestwood to get Shalon her first pair of glasses. I went "drab" and I chose two pair of frames after my eye exam. I then sat down with the sales lady, whose job it is to sell me extra junk for the glasses (tints, lite plastic, etc.), and she, at nearly a yelling voice exclaims, "Why, these are WOMEN'S glasses... you don't want WOMEN'S glasses, do you??!!" Well the way I remember it, the place with nearly 25 people became quieter than an empty church. I looked straight at her and softly explained that I liked and wanted them anyway... she seemed content with my answer and handed me the itemized receipt where upon inspection, at the bottom, in bold, all cap type read the following words, "I informed HIM the eyeglass frames he has chosen were women's but he wanted them anyway." Now I guess when I turn in the receipt to the insurance form, the guys at the insurance company can have a good laugh too!
This particular weekend started late Thursday afternoon when I finished work. Bebe and I went together to have our nails done at the local salon. This was my first experience ever at such an establishment. Bebe was seated first and was well into her manicure before I was seated... The young woman who was to manicure my nails uttered a some noises which included a few clicking noises (she spoke little to no English) and pointed to a tray of glue on nail tips, that I swear were longer than a #10 common carpenters nail (3 inches)! I shrugged my shoulders, shook my head and pointed to Bebe saying, "I want whatever she's got". The young woman picked up the tray, walked across the room to Bebe, uttered more noises and clicks and Bebe answered, yes! Its about this time I'm thinkin' I'm going to end up with nails so long that I'll be able to scratch my forehead without raising my arm as she starts gluing these things in place! She pulls out what look like hedge trimmers and starts to indicate (without language) how long do I want the nails- I was relieved to know they were not going to be the massive protrusions I had first envisioned. I was content to have a nice working length and even settled for clear polish (a color I altered later at home to a beautiful bright pink).
We were up as early as 5:30 AM on Friday. We still had gathering, ironing and packing the tremendously large volume of clothing we planned to bring. The Dodge Intrepid we rented was finally packed FULL by 8:15! With just enough room in the car for Bebe and I, we started out of the neighborhood... three times... We kept forgetting one thing or another (like we had room for it anyway). Returning home three times would not have been such a bother except I was traveling en-femme and was hoping to avoid detection by curious neighbors.
Once on the road, we traveled for 5-1/2 hours with only three stops. At every stop, Bebe would run interference while I ducked into the ladies restroom. It must have worked well because we managed to relieve ourselves without incident.
Upon arriving, we had the assistance of the Hotel to get us unpacked... The hills in Eureka Springs are so steep that five inch heels are NOT recommended unless you intend to stay indoors... I was happy to have their help unpacking. Once comfortably secured in our room, we looked up Sharon and met her in the lobby... In an attempt to avoid duplication of the story, Sharon will continue the adventure from here - but - before I'm finished, ask Sharon sometime about her 2 AM "dancin' in the streets" experience - trust me, it's worth it! Shalon
My adventure was almost similar to Shalon and Bebes. I decided to travel dressed... for the FIRST TIME. And after checking my street to make sure no neighbors are out going to work, I bravely walked out the door to the car. Fired up my trusty wagon and left with a sigh of relief until about a half mile from my home I notice I forgot something. And I had to return to my home only once because I forgot the map….duh.
But after braving the highways with no problems…little over 5.5 hours….only got lost once, I made it to Eureka Springs about 12:30 p.m. Friday afternoon. Once I found the hotel and parked, I noticed being in this little town is almost like going back in time. The rolling hills, the buildings showing an era of construction you would find back in the 1800’s and friendly faces of people talking; taking their time walking and enjoying the day. The Hotel staff at Basin Park was very courteous and made us all feel welcomed.
After check in I started meeting other girls in the lobby that braved arriving dressed also. Some I had met at Fall Harvest 2000 in St. Louis. Yes Marci, they still remember…… thank you. I also ran into Michelle and Tess two past members and we had lunch on the balcony with a young lady from Texas named Suzi (she and I had a great night of performing that Saturday night on open mike night).
After lunch then I ran into Shalon and Bebe in the lobby. From there we explored the various shops and sights the town had to offer. And yes Shalon was correct…..heels are only for the brave or foolish. We were either walking up hill or down hill or side ways. There are no level streets in this town.
After shopping, and we only covered part of the town, we head back to the hotel to freshen up for the social get together that night. It was nice to see some familiar faces and meet some new people. And after the get together the night life started. Since this was also “Diversity Week-End” the town was also catering to the GLBT community. So we met ladies and gents from other organizations and from different parts of the country. It was a fun night…..or so I was told. Some of us “ladies” closed a few of the local drinking establishments that night. And someone was a complete “hussy” swing her purse and skipping in the middle of the street on the way back to the hotel. I tell you some people just don’t know how to behave when I…oops.. they are away from home.
Well the next morning (after several cups of coffee) the hotel provided us with a shuttle ride to their sister hotel for a beautiful buffet breakfast. Once again the buildings along the way were so quaint and elegant. Now we are ready for another day of shopping and touring the town. After up hill and down hill, Bebe and Shalon and myself had to take a break for a while. So we stopped at one of the local outside restaurant / bar for refreshments. It was neat just watching people and some car enthusiast cruising through town with their show cars. Now here is a switch…we were even graced with the presence of a biker group through town. Talk about diversity. As the day was winding down we caught a trolley to tour the town and later drop us off at the hotel to change for the evening event. Ahhh a sigh of relief for the feet.
Saturday night was the formal dinner and all the ladies were so beautiful and a few even donned “ turn of the century” outfits. This was the time that thank you and recognition's were given out. And we had a surprise speaker for the night. Ms. Fiona Thurman, from Nashville, Tennessee. She was on the first Search and Rescue team flown into New York. Fiona, I believe, lives part time en-femme. She talked about some very gripping events she was involved with at ground zero and how the firemen, rescue team members and everyone involved in the search, once they knew about her, just accepted her as a person. It was a very good night. And once again time for night life. But this time no bar closings …..well maybe just one.
After the dinner we went to the “Billiard Room” upstairs where they had Open Mike night. Thank you Bebe….I owe you one. Ms. Bebe volunteered me to do a number with Suzi. Guess what number…. Proud Mary. Well it went over OK. No tomatoes or cabbage was thrown. And we had a blast. This event was billed exactly as it was titled…a getaway. No seminars…no how to do this and that….no touring professional speakers just a fun relaxing weekend of shopping and being yourself . The merchants were very helpful and glad to see us in their establishments. And for the girls that don’t venture out in public much or at all… this was the event to build your self confidence. And sometimes we all need this, yes even girls like myself that venture out almost everywhere. And for those that are blessed to have a spouse that accepts them this was a great time to spend together. And I must say my hat is off to Dixie and Becca for all their hard work they did to put this first event together. And when ever they come back to St. Louis they will be welcomed with open arms at any StLGF meeting or special function. So my recommendation is lets visit the next event scheduled Oct. 31st through Nov. 3rd of this year. For the Fall Getaway. Have A Great Day, Sharon Love
As Shalon has told you, our weekend of adventure actually started on Thursday before leaving on Friday. We could have used an interpreter in getting her nails done.
With the glasses thing, the sales clerk had some scruples... If we wanted everyone in town to know that Stev wanted women's glasses for Shalon we would have taken an ad out in the weekly journal... I expect a call from the insurance company on whether to pay or not to pay the charges accrued... As we venture on our trip we had a couple of pit stops... The bladder just doesn't work as well as we approach our senior years (and they say these are the golden years!!!!).
Our first stop was at a Burger King for a sandwich, so I tell Shalon to go to the bathroom while I order the food... I think everyone either had the day off or this place wasn't accustomed to early arrivals, it was a good 20 minute wait... The next stop being at a rest area... I think everyone that should have been at Burger King was at this stop... Men waiting to use the bathroom and a line in the women's bathroom... Men were looking as we wait our turn for the pot... You could hear the whispering about Shalon... Rather how pretty she was or is that a man or a woman??? I could tell that Shalon was loving the chance to drive being En-femme.
As we got closer and closer to our destination we needed to make one more pit stop... Shalon was doing some kind of dance in the car, "I've just got to find a bathroom, somewhere, I need to go real bad... Maybe I can just pull the car on the shoulder and just go"...NO!!! you have the wrong undergarments for that! Finally, we found a station with only one person in the store... I asked where is the bathroom and she pointed us in that direction, Shalon was at the door in a split second... "what a relief", she said...
When we arrived at our destination the door man help us with the suitcases and boxes of shoes, and other apparel. I asked at the front desk if Sharon had arrived yet, she replied yes... We were able to get a room just two doors down from her. We met and talked with several people that were there for the En-femme Getaway... Quite a few wives (S/O's) came also... I enjoyed talking with them very much... The ladies came as far as Houston & Dallas, Texas, St. Joseph & Rolla Missouri and some place in Kentucky. So dear women don't ever think that you are the only one like yourself out there... There are many.
The time arrived for us to be at the Atrium Room for appetizers and getting to know one another and make new friends... It was a very nice gathering of beautiful women and their S/O's. It still amazes me how beautiful these women are... As we chat with one another and find out how far some has traveled and talked about S/O's not understanding them.
We decided to enjoy some of the remaining evening going up to the 6th floor where the music was blasting. We had to pay a cover charge and Shalon got carded. She let us all know too, "I got carded, I got carded", it thrilled her to death (I think they just wanted to see what her drab side looked like). She had already had a few drinks so her body had limbered up to where she was dancing as if it was going to be her only and last dance...
At this point (and the only time I became worried about her) was when a guy started dancing with her... I had seen him talking with another man and I think they must have had some kind of bet going on about who was going to dance with her, because the other gays came and cut-in to dance with her too... Shalon was enjoying the dancing so much... Had she not planted her hand on the guy's rump, I don't think I would have been so worried, but she did... small wonder he didn't want anyone else to dance with her... So being worried at that point I asked Sharon to please watch if she has to go to the bathroom or something please go with her... I was really worried about the touch on the rump...
After dancing for awhile we all decided to go up the street to a place playing blues music... We all danced, talked, laughed and really had a good time. After being there a few hours, a few of us decide its time to turn in as it's well past one o'clock... Sharon and a few others decide to venture farther up the hill to another entertainment spot.. This part you will have to have Sharon inform you on... Seems (we've been told) she LOVES dancin' in the streets".
Saturday morning arrives and everyone is anticipating going shopping... There were stores galore. Never have I seen so many stores together...We shopped for several hours, looking at dresses, gowns, undies, ...etc. We also spent time at an outside beer garden and just talked. Earlier we had purchased tickets to ride the trolley, so as our time was running short, (we had hoped to get a 30 min or so nap before the grand ball), we decided to ride the trolley. We thought the trolley driver would let us off anywhere... WRONG... Sharon rang the bell hoping to get off near the hotel, but the driver just kept on traveling up and down the hills, stopping only at designated stops. We had to ride the trolley twice around before getting off fairly close to the hotel... there went our nap!
Time now to get ready for the grand ball with a Victorian theme. The women looked just stunning in their evenings attire... After a wonderful dinner and some social time, we all decide to go to the 6th floor again, and we found different music than the night before...We listened to a gentleman playing and singing country music and everyone just enjoyed their last night together... After saying our good night to everyone we ventured to bed in the wee hours of the night and agree to meet Sunday morning for brunch... This was a fantastic getaway for everyone and had only wished that everyone could have been there...You would have loved it
MY BELIEFS AND PRAYERBY KathrinIT IS HARD FOR PEOPLE TO UNDERSTAND WHAT ACROSSDRESSER GOES THROUGH. THE MENTAL, EMOTIONAL,PHYSICAL STRESS AND DESIRES, EVEN PAIN. HARD TO GET THATTURMOIL INSIDE TO CALM DOWN. WHEN YOU ACCEPT WHO YOUARE THEN YOU WILL BE ONE PERSON.CRY WHEN YOU NEED TO!YOU WILL FEEL BETTER!I DID.I DO!I CAN LOOK AT PEOPLELIFEBETTERCLEARERFIND OUT WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY! DO IT!ALWAYS BE WILLING TO LEND A HAND. IT WILL BE RETURNEDJESUS ACCEPTED TAX COLLECTORS, PROSTITUTES, HOMELESS,CROSSDRESSERS AND GENTILES. WHY? INCLUSION. WE AREALL ACCEPTED, INCLUDING WHEN WE LOOK DIFFERENT, DRESSDIFFERENT. THAT IS WHAT KEEPS COMING BACK TO ME. TOACCEPT EVERYONE.I ASK GOD TO GIVE ME PATIENCE TO LISTEN AND LEARN FROMOTHER PEOPLE. To HAVE FAITH IN GOD TO HELP ME TOUNDERSTAND WHY I AM THE WAY I AM. |
The Field of Splendor
by Mr. Val V.P. They drift in and out, their lights so bright, each a |
TO TELL MY NEIGHBORS
Thoughts by Kathrin I wish I could tell everyone on my street I am a cross dresser. I am very much a women. Dressing as a women is just a small part of me. You need to get to know all of me. My whole being is one very com- plex person. I am willing to open up to all of you. Ask questions? Let me ask quesfions of you! |
Dear Ones... Life is certainly an adventure, and for STLGF members our April meeting was no exception.
Because of the closure of our previous meeting place (Blitt's) and the generous offer of club member Ashley Henke to use her office space, we were all treated to the experience of the historic Washington Street loft district. The meeting was one of our largest attended functions of the year, and we all thank you dear Ashley.
C.D.'S AT THE MALLS... My wife is not a mall rat in the general sense of the term, but occasionally she forces herself into one of the larger local malls such as St. Clair Square, St. Louis Centre, or the Galleria to add to her (and luckily mine) collection of feminine finery.
While out-and-about lately she has observed more and more crossdressers experiencing the joys of being fully dressed amongst general society. Why she is spotting more now than in the recent past, I don't know. I guess more and more sisters like to do their shopping at 2:30 p.m. on a weekday. How she spots them is much more interesting.
"They give themselves away by being constantly on the lookout to see if they are being read, always fidgeting at their clothes or purses, and generally acting terribly uptight. These things immediately trigger a warning in a woman, and she takes a hard second look, thereby prompting "the read" that was trying to be avoided.
I had to restrain myself from going up to one guy to tell him to relax and get on with his charade already, but I spooked him off without getting to," said Coco. The moral, if you want to blend in and reasonably pass, is to dress conservatively, avoid times when kids are not in school (pesky teenagers will spot you no matter what), and just RELAX.
MOVIE REPORT... If any of the gendering masses prefer to go out dressed to the movie theatres, I can suggest two new releases that are sure to please. " The Kids in the Hall: Brain Candy" is receiving pretty good reviews. Of course the Kids in the Hall guys perform all gender roles quite well in anything they do. This falls into the drag comedy genre rather than drag as performance art found in such films as "To Wong Foo..." or "Wigstock" or "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert."
Another movie with some general gender theming is "I Shot Andy Warhol." This flick includes some of the Warhol Super-stars, genderbenders to the core. In fact, Candy Darling's semi-major role is played quite well by the actor.
T.V. SCENE... Recently seen on the local scene were four ladies out for dinner and theatre. Our own arts-critic-in-the-making Stephanie James organized an informal pre-theatre dinner at Caleco's (with special attention from our favor-ite poet and " waitron unit" Jordynne) followed by the stage play " Glen or Glenda" on April 6th.
Stephanie Robin from the Boston Tiffany Club, Chrissie "the Carp" Calvery, and the Lovely One joined the everefficient Miss James for a truly enjoyable and splendid evening out. The Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre Company produced an outstanding adaptation of this original Ed Wood schlocky film. The stage version was not only more entertaining than the original, but presented the subject matter of transvestism in a better light (and lighting).
Please note that Stephanie Robin was in St. Louis on business and connected with STLGF through our voice mailbox. This is an example of how sister clubs can provide the gender traveler with advice on local gender activities. Since STLGF is known as a fun club in a fun city within the gender community, maybe we should offer our services to the St. Louis Bureau of Tourism.
On tax return day when most of you were figuring out how much of your dressing purchases should have gone to the tax man, the Elegant One, Chrissie (she needs to lose "the Carp" image -- I'm open to suggestions from you all), and the Lovely One attended the "Vegas in Space" party at the Way Out Club.
Being three of the four dressed souls to participate in this futuristic, sci-fi, lounge drag extravaganza; we elected to have a couple drinks, watch part of the campy, low-budget flick, then blow off to get our Editrix some nourishment. What we didn't know was that, right after we left, the place filled up with outrageous sci-fi queens that made the place look like Sunset Boulevard on Halloween.
Oh well, guess the queens came in late 'cuz they had to get their taxes done first. The late night club scene offerings in the Gateway are evolving for us gender-gifted folk. The triedand- true gay clubs still have the first choice of options. However, other alternative clubs, mixed clubs, and even some straight clubs are getting into drag and male crossdressing. Events are occurring now with different crossdressing themes in places that would have been unheard of two years ago.
POTPOURRI... How many of you remember the " Betty Grable Lookalike Contest" at the Fox Theatre about six or seven years ago held in conjunction with some show at the Fox? I do, but I just found out the winner of this main-stream and straight contest was a man.
As reported in TWISL in an interview with the local drag diva and reigning Midwest - Entertainer - of - The - Year Michelle McCausland, I learned the truth.
"There were thirty real women on the stage and me in a one-piece bathing suit in front of 4000 people. No one knew I was a man, and I won for having the best legs! It was foam rubber, of course, but I won and that's what's important!"
Well, friends, somewhere I have stashed a photo from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch of that contest, and as I remember, all the women were very sexy but obviously at a handicap when competing against a professional female impersonator. It's all illusion, Honey, and the best illusion wins!
UNTIL NEXT TIME, MY LOVELIES,
If you want to be like the Kids in the Hall, Watch out for the kids in the mall.
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