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TES®
The Eulenspiegel Society

 

The TES Weekly - February 25, 2002

Staff Volunteers: Flagg, Lolita, Paul NyghtOwl
Contributors: Lisa V. and suttle



NEWS FLASH: VACANCY ON THE BOARD
by Mark Richards, TES Secretary

At the close of the Board of Directors' meeting of Wednesday, 13 February 2002, Joshua HighTower tendered his resignation from the Board, effective immediately.

The rest of us on the Board are sorry to see Josh leave the Board, but understand that he felt it necessary and respect his decision. On behalf of myself and my fellow directors, I would like to thank Josh for his service.

Per the TES Association bylaws, the resulting vacancy is to be filled by vote of the Board at its next regularly scheduled meeting, which will be on Wednesday, 13 March 2002.

Anybody wanting to be considered for this position should make their interest known to the Board (preferably in writing) before March 13. The simplest way of doing this is by e-mail to tes@tes.org. All candidates for the position must be members in good standing of the TES Association.

Mark Richards Secretary TES Association (The Eulenspiegel Society)

 

MEETING REPORTS

The Switchables Group: "What's, Why's and Wherefores"
by Lisa V.

Jack McGeorge of Black Rose led an inquisitive crowd of switchables and/or polymorphous perverts on Wednesday night, discussing the "What's, Why's and Wherefores" of switching. The presentation provided a great overview for novices and old-timers alike. The well-attended meeting was also the first marking the co-hosting arrangement of the group, with Mark being joined by Jeff as co-facilitators of the Switchable's SIG.

An accomplished and always-engaging speaker, Jack discussed his beginnings in the scene, when he identified primarily as a bottom, and how he and his relationships have evolved over time, such that today he finds himself most usually taking on a dominant role. Still, Jack emphasized that these were his experiences and we must be very fluid when it comes to our definitions of switching. Take for instance the couple that might swap top and bottom roles from scene to scene- or even in the midst of one. Are they switches? Absolutely! How about the resolute dominant who enjoys commanding a submissive to top them on occasion? Sure, why not!

A healthy discussion was sparked over how experiencing one side of the switching coin might inform one's performance on the other. Aside from the dissenting opinion of one self-described natural dominant, most were heartily enthusiastic in their agreement that being a "good" bottom can give one the skills and insightful perceptions that are so desired of a "good" top.

The group's next meeting will feature Bob Walter and Ann Justi in a presentation on the topic of "Service."

 

A Knifeplay Workshop with Jack McGeorge
by Paul KnyfeOwl

Jack McGeorge struck back on Saturday at the LGBT Center giving a carefully planned knifeplay workshop. Explaining to us that much of his play and technique comes from a military background, Jack discussed form and function of various knives, from the marine K-bar to medieval-style implements. Lecture worked hand in hand with demonstration to show the basic principles of using blades sensually on one's bottom. Jack opened with a point-by-point lecture on techniques and recommended knife safety. He pointed out various philosophical implications and psychological effects of knife play--reminding his audience that the best knife is the one in your hand--and that even the most elaborate blade is merely a tool to get into the head of one's bottom. Jack then proceeded to thrill the audience. A willing volunteer (Boymeat) was called forward, and Jack proceeded to demonstrate across-the-gut knife-movements, and using the blade on his back, beck, face, cock, balls, and anus. No holds were barred and the audience was thrilled. They were even more thrilled with the second part of the class, as Jack encouraged attendees to learn in a hands-on way, working with individuals and groups--and scaring the hell out of several bottoms--the author included. The workshop then closed with a discussion, in which Jack talked about some of his wilder scene experiences. But for those--you had to be there.

 

NCSF UPDATE:
For Immediate Release
Contact: suttle@leatherquest.com

My Vicious Valentine 5, which was targeted by a right-wing Christian fringe group, completed another great weekend of pansexual BDSM dungeon play and outstanding workshops, February 15-17, 2002 in the Chicagoland area. Said group made false claims about health concerns and the legality of the event. However, while the CWFA sat frozen in its inability to close the event, (thanks to legal groundwork laid in the previous four years) VV-5 created a warm and inviting atmosphere for its attendees, raising over $4,000 for the Welcome Home Development Project, helping them to realize their dream of creating a planned community for active as well as retired people in the BDSM lifestyle.

While the Concerned Women for America (CWFA.org) attempted to twist facts about the event, Susan Wright, founder of the National Coalition of Sexual Freedom (NCSF) fielded press calls while the organizers and the host hotel worked through potential security issues and police concerns. Thanks to the CWFA's activities, VV-5 featured on The Bill O'Reilly Show on Fox Cable, numerous Chicago newspapers and local radio shows.

Overwhelmingly educated minds saw through the inflammatory false claims the CWFA made and the right for consenting adults to engage privately in consensual activities. The legal support for My Vicious Valentine 5, the event promoters, the host hotel, Susan Wright of the NCSF and the attendees should be commended.

The weekend began with a traditional parade of colors, with the American flag and Leather Flags presented by members of the community at large. A rousing rendition of "God Bless America" filled the ballroom as participants joined in proclaiming to everyone their citizenship and freedom. Presenters included Deborah Addington, International Master 2001 Master Jim and International Slave 2001, slave marsha. Acclaimed author Vi Johnson was also featured. The Friday and Saturday night play parties were pressed to capacity as people socialized and played all evening long. Remember VV-5! They stood unbowed.

Press coverage of the event can be found at http://www.leatherquest.com/events/vv2002.htm

 

THE TES FAQ
by Paul NyghtOwl

Who or what is an "Eulenspiegel?"
TES' name comes from German mythology. The figure of Till Eulenspiegel was a fool, a trickster, and yes, Virginia, a masochist as well. One story about Till has him as a sort of royal jester, holding a mirror for the king so that the monarch could see the folly of his actions.. Another is that he kept pushing a rock up a hill over and over, and the pain of his efforts was a reward. Literally translated, it means 'Owl's Mirror.'


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