The Rose & Thorn Weekly Newz 2001 Archives

 

 

 

 

 

Time to RSVP for our Holiday Party! Our demo features Eric, of the Northern Maine Kinksters, and Mistress Ren, leader of CUFSmaine, demonstrating suspension bondage! Also we'll be having a BDSM gift swap. Details below.

 

I truly feel that there are as many ways of loving as there are people in the world, and as there are days in the lives of those people.

~ Mary S. Calderone

 

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THE ROSE & THORN WEEKLY NEWZ

Sunday, November 25th 2001

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FEATURED ARTICLES IN THIS STEAMING ISSUE:

Letters To The Editor - From our new R&T Guests

I've been invited to a play party! Should I go? - A Column By Submissive Sadie

Flirt's Bawdy Poetry 1 of 3 - How Many Orifices?

Holiday BDSM Shopping - Local Resources recommended by our readers

BDSM Website of the week - recommended by our readers

How Are We Doing? - A Quick Survey From Rose & Thorn

EVENTS NEAR AND SEMI-NEAR

Rose & Thorn Upcoming Events

The Regional Events & Announcements Listing

ADMINISTRIVIA

Request Copies Of Our Most Popular Articles!

How To Get Off Or On The Mailing List, Newsletter Policy etc.

 

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - FROM OUR NEW R&T GUESTS

I just wanted to thank you and your wonderful group for making this party a GREAT experience for me!! I didn't know walking into a room full of strangers could be so easy, especially for one so wallflowerish as myself. I also wanted to thank you for suggesting that I come alone this last time, I would be a liar to say that I didn't dread coming by myself. In fact I think if I had been able to bow out of coming, I probably would have (and I would have regretted it.) However, you were right, I meet so many more people on my own than what I would have meet if I had come with friends, relying on them as my safety net. You were all a wonderful example of how people should be toward new faces and I appreciated that. I would like to come to the next meeting, so if you can please sign me on. I'll even bring the sushi rolls that you liked so much!!

~ Sonja

Well, last night was my first Rose and Thorn party! What a NICE group of people! I have to say that I was very impressed by the organization that went into planning it, from the suggestions about what kind of food to bring to the excellent directions. Naturally, I was a bit nervous beforehand, and I want to thank all of you for making me feel very welcome and comfortable! This is a part of myself that I have felt ashamed of and tried to ignore for years, and what a pleasure to talk to people who understand and have similar interests. I was VERY ambivalent about getting locally involved in the scene, but I really think that suppressing myself has been robbing me of feeling truly alive.

~ Leslie

I loved it. It was very comfortable and pleasing. I had a blast last night.

~ Travis

I was amazed at what a civilized event it was and how interesting and good-looking all the people were. The way people held themselves, the way they talked, and how they dressed made me feel like part of something quite special. I felt an intellectual and cultural connection with the group. I left that night feeling quite happy, quite affirmed in my curiosity and identification with the D/s experiences that people were talking about.

~ Eric

Just a word of thanks to all who attended the party Saturday. It was so great to be with like minded friends. I had a wonderful time and look forward to seeing you again. Thanks to Keith for his hospitality. A big thank you to Sadie for making me feel included. Thank you all so very much!

~ David

I was glad I went, because it helped me learn a bit more about the scene, and what I want and do not want. I learned a lot listening to people and talking to one of the more experienced guests. I asked him quite a few questions and he was very empathetic towards myself seeking direction in this lifestyle. a non threatening atmosphere, a learning environment, pot luck is always a winner, friendly folks, excellent attention getting poems to start out the nite.

~ Schlimmer

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I've Been Invited To A BDSM Play Party! Should I go?

By Submissive Sadie

BurlVTSub@aol.com

Have you been invited to a BDSM play party and are wondering what it's all about? It can certainly be a scary thing for a novice to the scene, yet play parties are considered de rigeur. It almost seems uncool not to attend! I wrote this article from my own perspective of having chosen not to attend play parties, a decision that was based on my own feelings about the intimacy of the D/s experience. I hope the information below will not discourage you from attending, but rather help you decide if attending one is right for you. I felt it was important to talk about this viewpoint because play parties are assumed to be right for everyone, and it's important to validate every point of view.

If you are looking for information on play party etiquette, Mistress Ren of CUFSmaine has written an excellent article on that. You can find it on www.cufsmaine.org. You will want to read this carefully because your invitation is often dependant on another player, and they may be held responsible if you breech protocol. Getting invited to a private play party is considered to be a high honor. Not everyone gets that invitation, and it signifies that you are considered an experienced and safe player.

IS A PLAY PARTY FOR ME?

The best thing about play parties is that you can observe a wide variety of techniques and toys. Some Doms enjoy educating others and will do a demonstration for you with particular toys and techniques. This aspect can be an important part of a novice's education. At a recent play party which I attended (but didn't participate) I discovered some wonderful new toys - a twisted Lucite cane, a silver handled flogger, an electric fly swatter (for electric play) and a beautiful toy storage box made from a "bow" box - which was designed for bows and arrows.

Before you jump in however, you will want to consider if you wish to play in public at all. There is a contingent of BDSM scene people who do not attend play parties, although people often don't discuss this unless you ask them directly. (it's that looking uncool thing) I am one of those people because I feel that expressing my submissive side is a private and intimate experience that I don't want to share with a group. I have Dommed my own submissives at some parties, but I found that experience disconnected and somewhat theatrical in nature.

Why do people choose not to attend play parties? Some don't enjoy watching others submit in public - they consider it too personal. Perhaps they lean toward sexual-based play, and prefer not to do this type of play in public. As one Domme said to me "I believe that some things are best kept in private where the emotions as well as the juices can flow." Others they don't like watching folks have sex (which does happen at some parties). It may be that they don't have a partner, so attending and watching everyone else have fun and play is can be painful.

It's important to know that these reasons (or any others) are perfectly valid. If you feel this way, be open and up front about that decision and avoid judgements on people who do attend. If you go to a munch that morphs into a play party - and you don't feel comfortable or ready to be involved - it is perfectly OK to let the hosts know in a polite way that you are leaving.

Unfortunately despite the community's' insistence that we are all about "tolerance," there can occasionally be intolerant attitudes. I have experienced this myself because of my choice not to play in public. It may be because my leadership position "invites" more scrutiny, but I have heard some disparaging comments and in fact have been occasionally encouraged (read mildly pressured) to play. This kind of behavior is rare, but is nevertheless absolutely unacceptable.

Fortunately, hosts usually keep a room or two set aside for folks who want to play, but want to do so in private. This way you can join the party, and get some nookie as well! It is perfectly acceptable to ask the host in advance if this will be possible.

WHAT GOES ON AT A PLAY PARTY?

The first question that I hear is often: "What goes on at a play party?" This will vary a lot as you can imagine, and depends on the sensibilities of the hosts. Some groups like Rose & Thorn host primarily social events, with educational demonstrations. These are not considered play parties, so general play is not allowed. The people doing the demonstration have planned out what they'll be doing, and the general approach is a formal one. This is very different than a play party where guests are encouraged to interact freely, with whatever equipment may be set up at the time.

At most play parties there is a No Alcohol and No Drugs rule, and some hosts post signs regarding liability and other factors. Most of the people who go to play parties like to play in public; that is they have a streak of exhibitionism - however that is not the only reason people go. (I have quite a streak of exhibitionism, but still choose not to play.) In general, there is not a lot of overt sex or intense intimate contact. Most often you will see a variety of bondage with whipping, caning, and flogging, but sometimes you will also see intercourse and other sexual activities. Some hosts have lots of cool equipment like St. Andrews crosses, spanking benches, and so on. Others use more creativity - creating rope spiderwebs and using soft chairs as spanking benches. Many of the submissives will be nude or partially nude, so you will need to be comfortable with observing all kinds of people sans clothing.

WHAT AM I EXPECTED TO DO AT A PLAY PARTY?

Here in Vermont private play parties are usually hosted at private homes and are closed parties, which means you will need an invitation from the host to attend. Since the Rose & Thorn newsletter does not list private play parties (for liability reasons), you will need to become involved with the local BDSM community sufficiently so that you are a known and safe player. No host wants an unknown and possibly risky player in their home, both for personal safety and confidentiality reasons. The hosts will provide you with the common rules at their home, as well as information on the level of play that is acceptable at their home. When considering attending, think about the hosts and their home. Is the location a safe one - with privacy from prying eyes? Is it in an area where the cops are more likely to come by for a noise complaint? Are all the guests personally screened by the host? Are the hosts known to you so that if there's a problem you have someone to help you?

As I mentioned, guests are not expected to play, although it is often assumed that you will play since you are attending. If you are told that you are expected to play if you attend, think carefully about whether this is right for you. More importantly, do you want to be with a group who do not value the educational aspect of observation without having to play?

Do you feel that your experience level is sufficient that you will feel comfortable playing in front of others? Do you enjoy being watched? Do you have a partner whom you can trust to take care of you in a public situation? If you are a sub and unattached, then you will want to ask a friend to look after you, especially if the Dom/me you have played with lacks aftercare skills (which, they shouldn't... but there are a few callous Dom/mes out there!)

It is OK to let folks know before you start a scene that you are new to the scene. You may want to ask for advice, or even have a more experienced Dom or sub participate in the scene, demonstrating techniques and watching out for possible mistakes that may cause injury. Not only does this keep the sub safe, it improves your skills, and of course swells the head of the experienced Dom/me!

DO I NEED TO BRING A PARTNER?

You will want to think about bringing a partner, and negotiating a scene in advance so that you will be able to play without excessive discussion. Many players have different limits on things like nudity and levels of play when it comes to public play, so be sure to discuss these issues with your partner. If you are alone and thinking of finding someone at the party to play with, think carefully about your own limits and what you are looking for and how you will communicate that to a stranger. In the heat of passion it can be easy to agree to something that you might regret later. Never let a total stranger gag you so that you cannot speak during a scene - there is no way that they can know your limits and how you are feeling if you cannot communicate. You will want to bring some of your own toys along, especially if they are intimate items. If someone initiates contact with you, be prepared to talk openly and clearly about what kind of play you are looking for.

IN CLOSING

Listen to your own feelings about attending a play party. If you don't feel ready, don't go. If you feel uncomfortable once you are there, then leave if you need to. If you go, but decide it's not for you - then don't go to another one. But if you go and have a fabulous time, then knock yourself out!

 

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Submissive Sadie is the founder and leader of Rose & Thorn, Vermont's BDSM social group. Comments, compliments and complaints, as well as requests for reprinting can be addressed to her at BurlVTSub@aol.com. Sadie believes that the universe is abundant, and that sharing information freely is part of this abundance, so she allows reprints of her writing in most venues.

Copyright September, 2001.

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How many Orifices?

Poem by Flirt/Flirticia - Read at the last R&T Party

bevb01@msn.com

I thought that I had only one,

To fuck with when we wanted fun.

Soon I learned something new,

A face fuck uses orifice two!

Sure that there, no more could be,

My ass, I was shown was number three!

Three orifices! Now I was sure,

I couldn’t possibly have anymore!

Yet, when upset with my Dom one day,

He put it to me this a way!

"This here is a fuck of a different kind.

Right now, I’m going to fuck your mind! "

His mind fuck was employed with zest,

And truly put me to the test!

I’m not quite sure how he gets in,

This orifice beneath my skin!

Copyright 08/23/01

 

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HOLIDAY BDSM SHOPPING - LOCAL RESOURCES RECOMMENDED BY OUR READERS

For those of you who like to "Spend Locally," for the holidays here are the Northern Vermont BDSM businesses that our members recommend. Please send me any additions or corrections to the list.

Happy shopping!

~ Sadie

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BDSM Bedroom Paraphernalia

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IMAGO

802-893-2977

Imagos has recently expanded and now has one aisle of low cost BDSM items, mostly under $35. I'd describe them as "entry-level" play items, good for beginners or Doms on a budget. There are a few more interesting items like the purple rubber stranded floggers - but nothing high-end like deerskin floggers. It's a very low key store in a semi-residential area - no neon or garish signs. A very friendly place - very female friendly (there have been women there every time I've visited). DIRECTIONS: From 89 north. Take exit 17, proceed west on rte. 2 until the first right, which is Jasper Mine road. Take a right onto the connector for about 200 feet then keep LEFT into Jasper Mine. Continue west less than 1/2 mile, the store is on the left. It has a large but sedate sign out front, and just looks like a big residential house.

Imago has a website with personal ads on it? Check it out at:

www.imagoxxx.com/imago

 

GOOD STUFF

Church Street, Burlington

658-6520.

Good Stuff is up a flight of stairs from the Red Square bar and Monelle women's clothing store - across the street from City Hall. I haven't been there, but I understand they have a variety of magazines, videos, and sex toys. Reviews from our readers welcome!

PLANET ROCK ADULT STORE

Main Street, Barre

They have some BDSM stuff but it's a bit more expensive than Imago's and its not as friendly as them either. It's upstairs over the Inferno Dance club and the Planet Rock strip club.

TONY'S TACK SHOP

Hinesburg Road, Williston

802-862-9448

Carries Coventry Crops (among other things). One of our subs had this to say about those crops: "Did not break even on my bottom. 150 swats so far - oh my what a red bottom I had! Ouch-ouch-ouch!"

THE HORSE WORKS

Rte 2A by the farm supply store just east of the shopping center, Taft Corners, Williston

802-879-8935

Nice crops for less than 10 bucks, fur mitts, hard rubber massage scrubbers and a good variety of leather conditioners to keep toys supple.

** One of our members commented that the cost is typically lower if sold as tack, rather than as BDSM paraphernalia, and reminds you to use discretion when shopping at tack shops. They also note that "it is embarrassing to get caught with a horse collar strapped around your waist!" :)

 

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Clothing & Jewelry

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HOT TOPIC

University Mall, Dorset Street, South Burlington

802-862-0879

Hot Topic which has a large variety of inexpensive gothic/BDSM type clothing and jewelry. They have a lot of collars, nipple rings, and PVC clothing. (women's clothing in sizes to 3x - although it runs small)

OLD GOLD

180 Main Street in Burlington

802-864-7786

Old Gold carries a lot of BDSM clothing and collars and gothic and such. It's a favorite "second hand" clothing place for many of our members - lots of cool and sexy accoutrements.

CHAMPLAIN LEATHER

144 Cherry street next to Fire and Metal

802-864-0198

Owner is named Jeremy and he has made leather chaps, vests, and slings for some of our members. He also can get leather in bulk, and black leather roses. (I have one of these and they are way cool!)

MASTER JOEL

LordShandefour@aol.com

Joes does custom Native American and 18th & 19th century clothing, as well as custom leather work.

 

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Tattoos & Piercings

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IN LIVING COLOR TATTOOING

85 Margaret Street, 2nd Floor

Plattsburgh

518-562-8224

Kristen - is the tattooist

One of our members highly recommends Kristen for tattooing. He says her work is very detailed and reasonably priced.

 

 

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Misc Equipment

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HIDE'S PRIDE

Five corners, Essex

Some very nice bulk leathers, and are friendly.

LAKESHORE HARDWARE

Mallet's bay

Has a decent selection of stainless steel hardware, like double ended snaps and some good prices on entry level rope.

THE ALL MIGHTY WALL-MART (Our own Master Bruce's favorite store!)

The all mighty Wal-Mart has a lot to offer to the BDSM community if you so wish to look. For those who wish to know.

CRAFT DEPT. ribbon for bondage, small craft size clothespins, leather lace, Velcro, wood beads with holes in them (think about it people). craft glues and starter pin wheels (OK, they think they are for pattern transfer).

PHARMACY DEPT. cane replacement tips.(suction cups), lubes. KY etc. latex gloves enema kits, condoms of course and in season personal vibrators. So they look like bugs…

HARDWARE DEPT. chain, rope, black lights, locks, etc.

SPORTING GOODS DEPT. snake bite kit, weight belts (see D rings etc in the craft dept. to make into bondage belt) 3lb weights to build up the flogging arms, sports gloves, paddles, practice golf balls (with ribbon for gags) small funnel (for white gas)

AUTO DEPT. Mix miser ***(combine with snake bite kit and small funnel for suction) hold down straps for, well you figure it out. bungie cords

TOY DEPT. Cheap no key needed hand cuffs, bike gloves and water guns.

JEWELRY DEPT. Leather strap watch bands.(add D rings) Intimate appeal.

FOOD DEPT. Hershey topping etc. Dare I say it. the wooden spoons etc. what would the Attleboro cops think. not to mention the "personal massagers* in house wares.

WATCH DEPT. "The band" pre-made Velcro wrist restraints (and small

ankles) ass D rings from the "La Button" rack in crafts. If you want light duty leather there are leather watch bands as well some with metal accents that also will take the D rings.

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HOW ARE WE DOING? - A QUICK SURVEY FROM ROSE & THORN (this will run for four weeks)

MONTHLY EVENTS

What do you like about our monthly parties? Any suggestions for improvement? If you are receiving the newsletter but not attending our parties - what can we do to encourage you to come?

NEWSLETTER

What do you like about the newsletter? Are there topics you'd like to see covered in more depth? Any other suggestions or ideas?

COMMUNITY

How can we help you get more involved in the BDSM community? What kind of other events would you participate in? If you are a woman, would you be interested in attending a women's discussion group?

Any other thoughts or comments?

THANK YOU FOR YOUR INPUT!

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BDSM WEBSITE OF THE WEEK - RECOMMENDED BY OUR READERS

The Frugal Domme - one of my favorites for inexpensive & make your own toys, & other fun stuff.

http://www.frugaldomme.com/

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REGIONAL VT & NEW ENGLAND BDSM EVENT & ANNOUNCEMENT LIST

****This list has been updated with most of the organized BDSM groups in the New England area plus one time events at the bottom.

 

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ROSE & THORN BDSM SOCIAL EVENTS

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For more info contact me: BurlVTSub@aol.com

UPCOMING DATES (Usually the third Saturday of the month):

Saturday December 15th Holiday party & BDSM Gift Swap (Richmond). This is a RED themed party - please wear a red accountrement.

SUSPENSION BONDAGE DEMO - The demonstration this month will be uplifting - literally! Eric, of the Northern Maine Kinksters, and Mistress Ren, leader of CUFSmaine, return to R&T to demonstrate suspension bondage!

Suspension bondage involves the use of extensive rope work to support the body and then suspending the submissive from hooks or a pulley. Aside from the beautiful aesthetics, suspension bondage allows the submissive the feeling of 'floating free' and almost always puts them into a headspace unrivaled by any other BDSM activity. We hope you will join us and experience this beautiful and intimate occasion.

BDSM GIFT SWAP - Get some new cool BDSM toys for your collection at our BDSM Gift Swap. Please bring one UNWRAPPED item of BDSM paraphernalia. Could be something new you don't want (maybe you got it as a gift, or don't like it or whatever). "Used" items are okay if they're in excellent condition and are NOT intimate items. Intimate items are anything used in relation to bodily fluids (dildos, used whips, etc.). Non-intimate items include such things as handcuffs, nice silk scarves, etc.

You can also purchase something if you wish, but please don't spend more than $20 or so (unless you really want to!). Imagos in Colchester has recently expanded and now has one aisle of relatively low cost BDSM items. You can call them for directions at 893-2977 or check their website http://www.imagoxxx.com/imago.html. We have a list of local BDSM vendors as well - just e-mail Sadie for a copy.

Need some ideas? How about: Small floggers, whips, or paddles, lingerie, scarves, a box of latex-alternative gloves (for those allergic to latex), Velcro handcuffs, blindfold, fabric mask, BDSM jewelry or keyrings. Variety of colored/scented/flavored condoms, lubricants, books. Don't forget the hardware store: rope, chains & clips, O-rings. Tack shops have low-priced crops & other goodies. Sexy foods such as truffles, a can of whipped cream, etc. (non-perishable items only).

 

Saturday January 19th New Year's Party (Burlington) - This is a PURPLE themed party - please wear a purple accountrement.

Saturday February 16th Dinner OUT at a restaurant. Please wear evening dress - nothing too wild please!

Saturday March 16th St. Patrick's Day Party - This is a GREEN themed party - please wear a green accountrement.

Saturday April 20th

Saturday May 18th

Saturday June 15th - THIRD anniversary party!

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GENERAL BDSM ANNOUNCEMENTS

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BDSM ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES SURVEY - Your Input Requested from Jack McGeorge

www.dss.sexresearch.org

Important Survey - Your input is needed! Reliable information describing our attitudes and practices regarding dominance, submission, slavery and service will help dispel myths and misunderstandings. Jack McGeorge is ready to begin phase II of his research with an on-line questionnaire. Please help this important work by visiting www.dss.sexresearch.org and completing the 2001 Questionnaire Regarding Dominance, Submission and Service.

The goal of this survey is to use the collected data to improve my understanding of both the people who incorporate dominance and submission (D/s) into their relationships and the role of personal service in those relationships. Increasing the longevity of D/s relationships by improving the quality of D/s related instruction is my long-term goal. This questionnaire and the subsequent survey are anonymous and all information provided will be treated with the utmost confidence.

Thank you,

Jack McGeorge

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BDSM RECIPES & POEMS WANTED!

sa_kinah@hotmail.com

sa`kinah of ALU in Maine is in the process of developing a BDSM recipe book for people in the lifestyle. She welcomes recipes and poems from Dom/mes, Subs, Switches and everyone in between! Please send your materials to her directly. (I'd also love to run your poetry in this newsletter if you want to copy me on the poetry - thanks!)

For more information on Alternative Lifestyles United (ALU) contact:

www.geocities.com/aluorg

email: info@alur.xohost.com

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FETISH PHOTOGRAPHY NOW AVAILABLE FROM OUR VERY OWN MICHAEL

Michael from the Rose & Thorn core group is now doing fetish (and regular) photography in his home studio. E-mail him directly for a sample of his work. Because he is relatively new to portrait/fetish photography (although not photography in general) he is offering a special deal to Rose & Thorn newsletter readers. While he is building up his portfolio he will be doing the sitting at cost. The set he did with Sadie cost less than $50.

You can contact him directly at: fletch1107@adelphia.net

 

 

 

 

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OTHER GROUPS & EVENTS NEARBY

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****This data is for informational purposes only. It does not imply endorsement by Rose & Thorn of any organization listed here, nor does R&T accept any liability for activities held.

 

 

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POWER EXCHANGE OF NEW ENGLAND (PENE) - formerly LEATHERBOUND NORTHEAST)

For more info contact: trishnh@hotmail.com

http://welcome.to/PENE

Power Exchange of New England (Pansexual). Monthly munches, socials, and special events. Serving southern NH and VT. Munches every second Tuesday at the Elm City Pub and Brewery in the Colony Mill Marketplace, 222 West Street, Keene NH. Social nights out the last Friday of each month at the Rainbow Cattle Co. Rt. 5 East Dummerston VT. from 8:30-? casual dress.

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WEST LEBANON, NH BDSM MUNCH

For more info contact: UVMunch@valley.net

Munch is at the Powerhouse Mall in West Lebanon from 2:00 to 4:30 PM.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/UVMunch/

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WHITE MOUNTAINS GROUP

For more info contact: Ppmpv@sover.net

Munches in North Conway, NH on Nov 10th as well as in Lincoln/No. Woodstock in the future

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D/S-NEWHAMPSHIRE MUNCH

hizangel_BB@ds-newhampshire.org

www.ds-newhampshire.org

Held in Londonderry - Second Saturday of each month, 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, at WhipperSnappers restaurant on Route 102 in Londonderry, NH. Hosted by the founders of the #D/s-NewHampshire IRC channel on irc.bondage.com.

For details, subscribe to the e-mail list at:

Ds-NewHampshire-subscribe@yahoogroups.com,

or visit

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Ds-ewHampshire

 

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BOUND FOR PLEASURE

heather@bfp.com

New England BDSM social group that firmly believes in Safe, Sane and Consensual activities that will reflect on the B/D, D/S, S/M, Fetish and Alternative Lifestyle Communities in a healthy and positive light.

Munches at North Shore Mall , Peabody MA

4th Wednesday of every month

6:30 PM to closing

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WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS POWER EXCHANGE

MsAlexandra@wmpe.org

413-782-8829

www.wmpe.org

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CUFSmaine

CUFSmaine@aol.com

www.cufsmaine.org

Mistress Ren or Master LesVoiles

A free support, social, and education group located in Southern and Central Maine, serving Maine and New England. Our primary base of operations is Portland, Maine. We offer: monthly Munch meetings at a local restaurant/banquet center the last Sunday of every month, a monthly Newsletter, available both online (free) and via snail mail (yearly subscription to cover printing and postage costs). Also, CUFSmaine hosts bi-monthly (sometimes monthly) classes and seminars at a location safe for newbies. CUFSmaine sponsors the annual Maine B & D Shopping Spree each fall in Portland, Maine, as well as the summer time Kinky Scavenger Hunt.

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***NEW GROUP!

Alternative Lifestyles United (ALU)

www.geocities.com/aluorg

email: info@alur.xohost.com

ALU meets every third Saturday of the month at Augustine's in Lewiston Maine. This is a social group for people of alternative lifestyles who wish

to unite and meet others.

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CENTRAL MAINE ALLIANCE

CMA@CentralMaineAlliance.org

BDSM social & educational organization serving Maine. Our munches are held the 2nd Saturday of each month, with the place alternating between Augusta and Auburn. In addition we hold classes and other special events throughout the year, and also provide a monthly newsletter, which comes out the 4th Saturday of each month.

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UNITED LEATHERFOLK OF CT

a non-profit BDSM support/social group.

http://lauragoodwin.org

laura@lauragoodwin.org

United Leatherfolk of CT (Pansexual) founded in March 1990, is a non-profit support and social group for BDSM men and women of all orientations. Intimate and very friendly. Not public. No fees. Contact me via email if you wish to be considered for membership. This club is especially welcoming and helpful for singles and newbies, but enthusiasts at all levels of development will be comfortable with us. Don't be alone in a crowd: join ULC for the personal attention you need. Email Laura Goodwin for membership info.

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CONNECTICUT BDSM MUNCH

New Haven, CT

Fleursss@aol.com

http://www.wildfleurs.com/munch

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WESTCHESTER DOM/ME S SUB

Master.Dyh@verizon.net

Northern Suburbs of NYC, primarily Westchester, Munches on the first Sunday of every month at 5 PM. Play parties on the third Friday of the month.

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ROCHESTER KINK SOCIETY

http://www.rks-society.com/events.htm

BDSM organization located in Rochester, NY. Our Mission: To provide BDSM and Kink-Oriented persons with a safe space for learning, practicing, and discussing BDSM and related kink. Holding monthly munches, meetings, demonstrations, workshops, playparties and online discussions.

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NEW ENGLAND LEATHER ALLIANCE

NELA is an organization dedicated to making a safe place in the world for all leather/fetishes/SM people through education, advocacy, and charitable giving. They have an excellent quarterly newsletter, and are well known throughout New England as one of our premier organizations. Membership is only $10 (what a deal!) which give you free entry to the Fetish Flea Market in Boston.

www.nla-newengland.org

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BOSTON DUNGEON SOCIETY

www.bostondungeon.org

bds-staff@bdsbbs.com

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MASTERS AND SLAVES TOGETHER (MasT)

www.mast.net/boston

BosDsCpl@aol.com

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PADDLEBORO DEFENSE LEAGUE

www.paddleboro.com

info@paddleboro.com

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CANADA

DSSG - Dominant/submissive Support Group

http://www.dssg.org

dssg@home.com

Munches. workshops, Kinky Craft Fairs & play parties in Hamilton, Ontario

Discussion group in Toronto, Ontario

 

 

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REQUEST COPIES OF OUR MOST POPULAR ARTICLES! Just e-mail Sadie with the one you want.

ARTICLES BY SUBMISSIVE SADIE:

How to Get Involved in the BDSM Lifestyle

Mistress Sadie Speaks

Submissive Sadie's Top Ten Tips for Dating Doms

Sadie Comes Out and So Much More!

I've Been Invited To A Play Party! Should I go?

FAQ about Rose & Thorn

What Every Novice Dom/me Should Have In Their Toy Bag - A list from our members

OTHER POPULAR COLUMNS

Play Party Etiquette by Mistress Ren of CUFSmaine

SM Vs. Abuse

Ten Rules for Dominants

Chastity Belts by Altairboy

BDSM LISTS AND RESOURCES

R&T Member's Favorite Websites

Consignment shops in Northern Vermont (for dressing BDSM)

Stores & shops that sell BDSM Paraphernalia in Northern Vermont

BDSM Symbol patches & other items

Books

Movies

Songs

POEMS

By Cynthia, Flirt, Bruce, Josephine, Anne & Amber

ARTICLES IN THE GROUP LEADER SERIES - BY SUBMISSIVE SADIE

The Trials and Tribulations… and Joys, of Running Rose & Thorn of Vermont. (And Tips on How To Start Your Own Group!)

How to Screen Guests for a BDSM Organization

Managing A Large E-Mail Addresses List – Tips & Tricks for Peace of Mind

 

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Articles must be BDSM related

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We will not edit your work so please make sure it is proofread. Please note if I can use your name and e-mail address so readers can respond to you directly.

We will treat you with courtesy and respect and we expect the same. Do not expect us to run your information if you are acting like a jerk.

We only run listings for established BDSM groups that are in alignment with our values. We do not list private play parties.

If you have a concern about the newsletter, please write us about it and include suggestions for fixing the problem. Insults with no corresponding suggestions will not be responded to. For example - one reader accused the newsletter of being "CyberDomme." That may or may not be true, as many of the writers are indeed women, but it did not suggest any solutions (such as this male writer offering to write some articles.)