Pucker Up

Bloggers, Fundraising, and a Good Cause

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 11:29:20 GMT

RAINN AND ACCLAIMED AUTHOR TEAM UP FOR INNOVATIVE ONLINE FUNDRAISER!

Bloggers from Across the U.S. and Canada to Raise Funds and Awareness for Thousands of Dollars Worth of Prizes!

(Los Angeles, CA) March 31st, 2008 - April marks the fourth annual National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, and it's a big month for the Rape and Incest National Network (RAINN, www.rainn.org.) One of RAINN's immediate goals is to raise enough money to be able to offer victims of sexual abuse, sexual assault and rape an online hotline offering nonstop counseling and assistance. RAINN's Chelsea Bowers, Kevin Apgar (kapgar.typepad.com) and Sexography author Carly Milne have banded together to launch a one-of-a-kind online fundraising event to help RAINN reach that goal!

"Almost half of all sexual assault victims are under 18 and 80% are under 30", says Bowers, RAINN's Development Associate. "The National Sexual Assault Online Hotline provides this generation with a safe, secure and anonymous way to get help in a familiar instant messaging format."

As RAINN was making fundraising plans, Milne (whose memoirs is both a tragic and comedic tale about her journey of sexual self-discovery and survival of rape and abuse) approached Apgar to help her raise awareness about her book. Apgar had launched a successful blogger campaign for another author, but Milne wanted to do something unique to help other survivors. With RAINN's 24/7 campaign as an inspiration, Apgar and Milne designed a fundraiser encouraging the online community to join a blogathon designed not only to raise money for RAINN, but also encourage an open, honest and healthy discussion about sexuality.

But that's not all! The top three fundraisers will earn prizes for their efforts (with the grand prize totaling $3500) and the most entertaining writers will qualify for a weekly prize to reward their creative prowess. Prize sponsors who have graciously donated their wares include The Moxie Girls and Moxie Design Studios, Jimmy Belasco Candles, Jewelry Designer Huli Sloane, Photographer Raphael Sloane, Whole Foods, Exquisite Restraint, Master Stylist Djuna Citrin, Zhen Beauty, Booty Parlor, Sex educator and Village Voice columnist Tristan Taormino, Brookside Premium Chocolate, Psychic Ida Hartsman, Come As You Are, Snow Queen Vodka, Changing Hands Bookstore and author Lisa Solod Warren.
Links to sponsor sites and participating blogs can be found at http://kapgar.typepad.com/my_weblog/gbbmc2008.html.

By opening up the online community to help a quality charity, the team hope not only to encourage people to assist a worthy cause, but also to help change the way we communicate about sexual abuse, assault, and sexuality as a whole.

Says Bowers, "Recognizing National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month brings light to an issue that is often ignored, though it touches so many of us. We are so grateful to be working with Carly and Kevin, two invaluable supporters, who've devoted so much passion and energy to the fight against sexual assault."

About RAINN
The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network is the nation's largest anti-sexual assault organization. RAINN operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline with a nationwide partnership of more than 1,100 local rape treatment hotlines, providing victims of sexual assault with free, confidential services around the clock. The hotline helped 137,039 sexual assault victims in 2005 and has helped more than one million since it began in 1994. RAINN educates more than 120 million Americans each year about sexual assault. RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual assault organization and has been ranked as one of America's 100 Best Charities by Worth Magazine.

About Sexography
By turns serious and playful, Sexography maps the comedic coming of age, tragedy and liberating rebirth of one woman's sexual self. From "making out" with imaginary Hollywood stars in her closet (and getting busted) to coming to terms with abuse, assault and rape, from embracing her curiosity enough to become a sex toy tester to accepting and dealing with her tumultuous past, Carly Milne paints a brutally honest and amusing picture of what it's like to learn about and experience sex in every sense of the word. Spanning Milne's childhood in Canada all the way up to her present-day life in Los Angeles, Sexography will change your mind about why and how survivors survive.

UN Meeting on Sex Worker's Rights & Safe Sex

Sun, 24 Feb 2008 19:08:43 GMT

Please feel free to cross-post. Thanks, T

"Empowering Sex Workers to Ensure Safety, Health and the Protection of Human Rights"
United Nations Commission on the Status of Women
52nd Session
Parallel Event Sponsored by
Sex Workers Project, Urban Justice Center &
International Women's Health Coalition

February 27, 2008
Time: 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Church Center
(Across the street from United Nations, 44th and 1st)
Hardin Room (11th Fl.)
777 United Nations Plaza
NY, NY 10017

As leaders in the fight against HIV/AIDS and trafficking, sex workers are integral to educating their clients, their communities and the public about safe sex practices and to helping prevent forced sex work. Panelists will discuss how sex workers rights must be protected to ensure access to health, legal, educational and social services.
Taking the Pledge, a short film about USAID funding restrictions in regards to sex workers, will also be shown.

Moderator:
Supriya Pillai, Program Officer, International Women's Health Coalition

Panelists:
Sapna Patel, Staff Attorney, Sex Workers Project at the Urban Justice Center
Elaine Pearson, Deputy Director, Asia Division, Human Rights Watch
Melissa Ditmore, Ph.D., Coordinator, Network of Sex Work Projects
Editor, Encyclopedia of Prostitution and Sex Work

Video:
Taking the Pledge

DARK ODYSSEY: WINTER FIRE '08 - REMINDER - HOTEL RATES INCREASE THIS MONDAY!

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 01:25:41 GMT

Dark Odyssey: Winter Fire in Washington, DC
March 21-23, 2008
www.darkodyssey.com

Dark Odyssey: Winter Fire is only 8 weeks away and people are signing up from all over the country! We wanted to remind everyone that the Host Hotel room rates are going up this Monday, January 28th. Please don't miss out on our great room specials and early registration rates. We already have over 300 registrants! For more information please visit http:www.darkodyssey.com.

To be added to our mailing list, please write info@darkodyssey.com.

Pucker Up hits 200

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 16:04:58 GMT

NEW YORK — Mainstream alternative publication the Village Voice has announced a milestone for the paper’s sex columnist Tristan Taormino, who published her 200th “Pucker Up” column on Jan. 16.

To coincide with the event, the column has expanded its reach and is being syndicated to regional weekly newspapers LA Weekly, SF Weekly and Seattle Weekly.

"It’s a dream job — I get to eat, sleep, think and write about my favorite topic: sex. It never gets boring," Taormino said.

Taormino, who started her adult career as a sex educator in the late ‘90s, has written for the Village Voice for 8 and a half years covering many diverse topics and often in the vanguard of sexuality. Some of those subjects have included the first union for exotic dancers, the release of the HPV vaccine and genital surgery options for transgendered men, among others.

She was the first to break the story about a new plastic surgery craze — “The G-Shot,” a collagen shot given to help women "find" their G-spots — in 2004, in advance of other writers and well before sex experts questioned the procedure’s effectiveness.

A piece that Taormino wrote pointing out the potential dangers of sex toys containing harmful phthalates led to the adult novelty industry imposing self-regulation to essentially ban the chemicals from being used in manufacture.

As a columnist for the Voice, Taormino has traveled the world to various events related to sexuality and the adult industry, as well as interviewed key members of the adult community — while becoming a prominent contributor with her own books and seminar work.

Taormino’s annual “Sexy Gift Guide” and “The Best and Worst of Sex” round ups, which appear in the Village Voice, are must-reads for consumers and sex industry members alike.

She also has directed several adult video titles, including Tristan Taormino's Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women duo and Tristan Taormino’s House of Ass. Currently, she is producing the award winning gonzo series Chemistry for adult production company Vivid, as well as the Vivid-Ed line of instructional "Expert Guide" videos.

Read Tristan's 200th column here:
http://www.villagevoice.com/people/0803,taormino,78880,24.html

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 16:45:44 GMT

November 2, 4:00 pm EST
Sirius Channel 108
Tristan on MAXIM RADIO
Tune into to Tristan LIVE on Sirius Radio's The Covino & Rich Show show.
URL: www.covinoandrich.com
STUDIO CALL IN: 888-99-MAXIM
**Call in, they will be giving away some DVDs!!!

November 4, 8:00 pm
New York City
ANAL PLEASURE 101
Don't miss Tristan Taormino, author of The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women and director of Chemistry, for her ever popular introduction to back door delights. An essential for butt-sex novices, it's a favorite of anal sex sophomores and aficionados as well.
Location: Babeland, 43 Mercer St., New York City (btwn Broome and Grand)
Admission: $30, advance registration suggested
Info: 212-966-2120

November 7, 8:00 pm
Yellow Springs, OH
MY LIFE AS A FEMINIST PORNOGRAPHER
Award-winning author Tristan Taormino shares her personal journey from writer and sex educator to self-identified feminist pornographer. She'll dish details about the process of producing, directing, and starring in her first video, The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women, from striking a deal with mainstream producer legend John Stagliano of Evil Angel Video to putting her ass on the line—literally. She'll discuss why she chose to do porn, the challenges and breakthroughs she has seen within the adult industry with regards to women's pleasure, and her personal goals for working within the industry. She will bring an old argument to a new level of discussion: Is feminist pornography a paradox or can we really create sex-positive empowering porn?
Location: McGregor 113, Antioch College, Yellow Springs, OH
Admission: $5-$10 sliding scale at the door
Info: colten (at) puckerup.com

November 8 - 10
Indianapolis, IN
SSSS 50th Annual Meeting
Tristan will be in attendance, and also vending her books and videos.
URL: www.sexscience.org

November 16, 8:00 pm
Ithaca, NY
EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT ANAL SEX BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK!
In her most popular workshop, one she has taught around the world for over 9 years, Tristan introduces you to the world of anal pleasure. In this funny, educational class, she covers a wide variety of topics, including: myths about anal sex; anal anatomy, the G-spot, and the prostate; basic preparation and hygiene; lubes, anal toys, and safer sex; anal penetration for beginners, and much more!
Location: Cornell University (Kaufman Auditorium, Goldwin Smith Hall), Ithaca, NY
Info: colten (at) puckerup.com
Sponsored by The Cornell Women's Resource Center

Dark Odyssey: Summer Camp 2007

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 13:48:02 GMT

Hey Everyone!

In case you don't already know, I co-produce a bi-annual event called Dark Odyssey, and the next one is fast approaching!

Imagine a vacation which brings together sexuality, spirituality, education, and play in a fun, diverse environment where fantasy becomes reality.

Dark Odyssey: Summer Camp 2007, a journey of sexual exploration for the spiritual and creative sex-positive communities returns for its fifth year. It will be held at a secluded, two hundred acre retreat in Northern Maryland. Our mission is to cross-pollinate ideas and concepts between diverse groups of individuals who desire to explore different areas of sexuality. The Dark Odyssey Community is truly multi-sexual, welcoming people of all genders and sexual orientations. We welcome people interested in everything from sex, Tantra, and BDSM to polyamory, swinging, Paganism, and spirituality; attendees come from all over the world and identify as sex-positive activists, nudists, shamans, Masters, slaves, leatherfolk, genderqueers, sex bloggers, crossdressers, body modifiers, radical faeries,
and perverts.

The event, from September 12-17, 2007 will feature top-notch sex educators, relationship experts, SM masters, and spiritual teachers from around the world, including:

Barbara Carrellas * Bear * Beth and Preston
Bobby * British "Lucky" Paul * Captain Beatrice & Benedick
Del * Dossie Easton * Felice Shays
Fräulein Rottenmeier * Helen Boyd * Jacq Jones
Jefferson * Jim Deuder * Jon and Carin * Lee "Bridgett" Harrington
Levi Halberstadt * Lolita Wolf * Marcus
Margo Eve & Elkor * Mark Michaels & Patricia Johnson * Michelle Zee
Nina Hartley * Reid Mihalko & Marcia Baczynski
Sarah Sloane * Scherzoid * Sir C * Susan B
Suzanne SxySadist * SwitchMe
Tristan Taormino * Whittney Matlock

And over 75 of the most unique, exciting workshops anywhere, with an
emphasis on hands-on demonstrations, including:

Beyond Bowed Heads: Rituals for Dominance and submission
Binding Intentions: The Art of Rope Magic
Border Crossing: Challenging Boundaries, Connecting Bodies
Delight in Difficult Dominance
Discipline and Awareness: How To Enhance Life And Play With Body/Mind
Techniques
Making Your Move: a Flirting Class
Making Poly/Mono Relationships Work
Pain: Plight-Punishment-Pleasure
Playing in the Dark: Journeys Through Humiliation
Radical Ecstasy
Spiritual Body Modification
Trans-Sex & Identity
Uneven Libidos: When Your Partner Isn¹t as Sexual as You
Urban Tantra

PLUS, LOTS MORE ON...

Sex: Lick her, Cocksucking, Anal Play, Fisting, G-spot, Threesomes
Identity: What Labels Give Us, What Labels Take Away
Relationships: 'Ethical Sluts' Workshop by author Dossie Easton
BDSM: Ecstatic Caning and Pick-Up Play for Bottoms
Spirituality: Energy Pull Ritual and Walking the Path of Ordeal
And An Entire Track of Classes & Events Devoted to Fireplay!

In addition to workshops, Dark Odyssey features creative social activities, nightly special events, erotic rituals, lakeside bonfires, the Sex-O-Rama playspace, and a 10,000 square foot fully equipped dungeon open for play around the clock. Legendary special events include:

Body Beautiful * PT and Yoga for Perverts * Night in Flames
Energy Pull Ritual * Garden of Carnal Delights * Cupid's Gambit
Fucking Machines Show * Cigars & Chocolate * Cuddle Party
Perverts' Potluck * Fire Spinning Night * Petting Zoo * Pajama Party

All this happens in a fun camp environment at a retreat with great accommodations: forty cabins with real beds, full bathrooms, hot water showers, and electricity; two swimming pools, canoeing, and hiking; plus, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a midnight snack included.

Unlike a typical conference event, where you have to pay for registration fees, hotel room costs, plus meals, Dark Odyssey is an all-inclusive event. Current registration rates have been extended until August 27, so register soon to get the lower rate. You can register up until September 12.

Visit our website, http://www.darkodyssey.com for more details. We hope you will join us for this exciting event!

With lube + affection,

Tristan

Dark Odyssey: Summer Camp 2007
September 12-17, 2007

http://www.darkodyssey.com

Wed, 09 May 2007 13:01:14 GMT

HAPPY B-DAY TRISTAN!

http://www.cafeastrology.com/birthday/iftodayisyourbirthday.html

Born May 9
Intensity characterizes your close personal relationships in the year ahead. You are attracted to people and circumstances that jolt you out of your routine. Superficial connections are no longer valued. Your emotions may often rule your head. If possible, try to avoid power plays and mind games this year...and the people who play them. You are likely to push yourself hard in order to go after what you want. Take time off for rest and relaxation!

hot kinky A$$, who doesn't want that?

Tue, 24 Apr 2007 11:48:23 GMT

MOB in New England put out an absolutely steaming hot 2007 calendar - and it is a 16 month calendar which means there is still a good 12 months to go! Plus, this is the type of thing that you'll want to clip the pictures from tha past month and save them for, you know, awhile.

But you don't have to just take my word about it, here is what Tristan said:
"Slick, sexy, intelligent, and cheeky, "Mob: Behind the Scene" is one of the best calendars I've ever seen. The models' bottoms are smokin' and professional quality sets it apart from other do-it-yourself, grassroots publishing ventures. It will be hanging on my wall long after the months have come and gone!" Tristan Taormino, PuckerUp.com

And did I mention it only features butts?
All differently sized, of different shapes, colors, outfits and actions.
And I hear that all the models were actual MOB members, extra nice!

Check it out here:
http://www.mobnewengland.org/home.html
or:
http://www.lulu.com/content/419653

I'm teaching this time!

Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:51:27 GMT

DARK ODYSSEY: SPRING FIRE
HOTEL & REGISTRATIONS RATES INCREASE MARCH 1!

Are you interested in sex, spirituality, and BDSM, polyamory, Paganism, gender and sexual identities, relationships, swinging, polyamory, Tantra, and more?

Would you like the chance to learn from nationally-known sex educators, BDSM masters, top-notch Tantra teachers, relationship experts, and award-winning authors, activists, and community leaders?

Do want to socialize, connect, network, play, and party in a diverse, sex-positive environment?

Come to the event where fantasy becomes reality:
Dark Odyssey: Spring Fire, April 6-8 2007, a journey of sexual exploration for spiritual and creative sex-positive communities

*****PRESENTERS*****

Anita Wagner, polyamory and sexual freedom activist and educator
Anton, Universal Tao Instructor and founder of SexySpirits.com
Barbara Carrellas, author of Urban Tantra
Bridgett "Lee" Harrington, International Fetish Model, Eclectic Soul,
and Erotic Educator
British "Lucky" Paul, latex addicted perv from the other side of the
pond
Dan and dawn, Pagan Clergy and Poly/kinky/slutty adventurers
Helen Boyd, author of My Husband Betty and She's Not The Man I Married
Jefferson, sex blogger, One Life, Take Two
Jon Webster & Carin, polyamorous couple
Judy Guerin (aka Ms. Ariel), political sexual freedom activist
Kate Bornstein, highly acclaimed author, performer, and gender outlaw
Marc B., experienced top and nice sadist
Maggie Tapert, Sexual-spiritual healer and Founder/High Priestess of
Wings of Joy Marcus, sex party organizer and sex blogger, Welcome to the
Fuck House
Margo Eve & Elkor, academic masochist and sensual top with a dominant
streak
Mark Michaels & Patricia Johnson, authors of The Essence of Tantric
Sexuality
Michelle Zee, trans, pagan, poly and bi activist
Rita Seagrave, deaf poly switch
Sarah Sloane, Poly Pagan sadomasochist & trained piercer
Scott Bonelli, tactile fetishist and head of Big Head Studios
Selina Fire, sex blogger, Sex in the City - The Real Version
Shibari Warrior, aka Thomas, bondage and suspension teacher
Tristan Taormino, sex educator, author, anal expert
Viviane, sex blogger, Viviane's Sex Carnival

*****UNIQUE CLASSES*****
Age Play * Mind Fuck * Electricity, Bondage Erotic Breathwork * Fantasy Roleplay Exhibitionism as an Evolutionary Path Expanded Orgasm *
Fucking Machines Knifeplay * Kinky Paganism * Needleplay Pleasure as Spiritual Practice * Polyamory Sacred Sexuality * Sado-Shamanism * Spanking
Tantric Erogenous Zones * Trans-Sex and Identity Uneven Libidos * Urban Tantra * Open Relationships Mummification * Dreaming in the Dungeon

*****SPECIAL EVENTS & FEATURES*****

Spring Fire Marketplace With Incredible Vendors 21,000 Square Feet of Dungeon and Play Spaces Mixers for Singles and Genderqueer Folks Our Own Unique Erotic Easter Egg Hunt Midnight Seduction Saturday Banquet & Show Cherry Poppin' and Swappin'

All this happens in the comfort and luxury of the same hotel in downtown Washington DC where we celebrated the New Year in 2006.

Registration is now open! Early registration rates and the lower hotel rates increase March 1, so register today!

The Producers of Dark Odyssey:
Greg, Karri, Tristan and Colten

For more information:
http://www.darkodyssey.com

Upcoming Dark Odyssey and Leather Retreat Events:

April 6-8, 2007: Dark Odyssey: Spring Fire, Washington DC
June 20-25, 2007: Leather Retreat, Northern Maryland
September 12-17, 2007: Dark Odyssey: Summer Camp, Northern Maryland

Washington DC Braces for Weekend of Sexual Freedom w/Darklady & Carol Queen

Mon, 28 Aug 2006 15:17:29 GMT

Washington DC Braces for Weekend of Sexual Freedom w/Darklady & Carol Queen
Performances, Readings & a Masturbate-a-thon at The Crucible!

Is Washington DC ready for a weekend of sex positive entertainment & education from both Darklady and Carol Queen? With security levels currently at "Elevated" -- it's just possible.

Friday, September 08, 2006
Readings & Performances w/ Portland's Darklady & San Francisco's Carol Queen (www.carolqueen.com)
Music by "Uncle Frazier's" band Memory Leak
(www.memoryleakmusic.com)

Saturday, September 09, 2006
First-Ever Washington DC Masturbate-a-thon hosted by Dr. Carol Queen, Dr. Robert Lawrence & Darklady

9:00 pm - 2:00 am
$20/per night
The Crucible
(www.the-crucible.com)
1816 Half Street, SW
Washington DC

Both nights are fundraisers for the Woodhull Freedom Foundation & Center for Sex and Culture
www.woodhullfoundation.org
www.centerforsexandculture.com

==============================

FRIDAY: The music of Memory Leak kicks off the evening, followed by a Darklady improv explaining what it's like to be a fallen Catholic girl who grew up to be a professional porn reviewer and a Masturbate-a-thon organizer. Learn about what happens when she's alone in her shower when she reads "Mother, May I," published in Guilty Pleasures, from Black Books.

Then join the incomparable Dr. Carol Queen, San Francisco's most famous sexologist, for a virtual backstage tour of the Lusty Lady Theater, as Carol gives another wildly popular performance of "Peep Show," her story of life behind the locked doors of the Private Pleasures Booth.

SATURDAY: Cum for a cause during Washington DC's first Masturbate-a-thon fundraiser. Help raise money for sex-positive causes while exploring the good sex available at the end of your own hand. Live Masturbate-a-Thon founders Carol Queen and Robert Lawrence join Portland's Masturbate-a-Thon impresaria Darklady as your evening's hosts. A Fucking Machine and a half-dozen Sybians will be available for guests' riding pleasure.

There are three ways to participate:
1) Get masturbation pledges from yourself, friends, or strangers! Minimum total pledge is $20.
2) Be a voyeur! Watch the fun from the mezzanine. No cameras of any kind, though!
3) Share a helping hand like they do in Portland by inviting a friend into the Jack-and-Jill-Off Room for some non-intercourse fun.

DC M-a-T Sponsors:
HotMovies.com
AdamEve.com

UPCOMING DARKLADY EVENTS
September 16: Darklady's Back to Reform School Party
October 13 - 15: Closing keynote speaker, Building Bridges, Seattle
(http://www.lovethatworks.org)
October 28: Polyween (Theme: Sacred & Profane)
November 17 - 19: Orycon Science Fiction Convention
December 31: New Year's Eve (Theme TBA)

-- Darklady
http://www.darklady.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheDarkAtrium
http://darklady-produc.livejournal.com/
http://www.masturbate-a-thon.org

OOB closes

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 16:19:02 GMT

Since Tristan's written a lot of articles for OOB, ya'll might want to know...

The press release 7/12/06..
LESBIAN MAGAZINE VELVETPARK BUYS SUBSCRIBERS FROM
GIRLFRIENDS AND ON OUR BACKS

New York, NY June 27, 2006: Velvetpark, the progressive and innovative national lesbian lifestyle magazine, has purchased the active subscribers of the lesbian magazines Girlfriends and On Our Backs.

Girlfriends and On Our Backs ceased publication in March 2006 and its former owner, H.A.F. Publishing closed the sale with Velvetpark in May 2006.

Velvetpark has assembled a new editorial staff for the launch of its Summer Issue July 1 2006, starting with managing editor, Diana Cage. Diana was editor at On Our Backs for five years and is the author of several books on sex, dating and relationships. Angela Jimenez signs on as senior editor. Angela's background in journalism includes both writing and photojournalism. She is a regular contributing photographer for the New York Times and the Newark Star Ledger.

Founder, Grace Moon, remains as Editor in Chief. Grace Moon started Velvetpark four years ago in July 2002. Velvetpark has been knownfor its original content, high quality graphics and photography due impart to Moon?s background and training in the fine and applied arts.

Velvetpark is published four times a year by Tableau Editions Ltd. a women owned independent publishing company based in Chicago. Velvetpark's editorial headquarters is located in Brooklyn, New York.

Best of luck to Velvet Park, but it doesn't look like my kind of thing. OOB closed back in March, but I thought they were just taking their time with the next issue.

Happy Birthday Tristan!

Tue, 09 May 2006 20:46:40 GMT

Best wishes to the lovely Miss Taormino, and continued success in your endeavors. Hope yer having fun wherever you are! :)

Tristan signs to direct for Vivid!

Tue, 25 Apr 2006 13:53:50 GMT

Writer-Director Tristan Taormino Joins Vivid Entertainment; Will Head New Vivid-Ed Imprint and Direct New Line

LOS ANGELES, CA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 04/10/2006 -- Writer and director Tristan Taormino has joined Vivid Entertainment and will be involved in two major projects simultaneously. She will head an innovative imprint called "Vivid-Ed" that will produce a new breed of instructional movies and she will direct a new line of reality videos for Vivid.
"Tristan is one of the bright talents to come into the adult business in this generation. We are thrilled that we'll be able to have her fresh perspective on two very exciting new projects simultaneously," said Steven Hirsch, co-founder and co-chairman of Vivid Entertainment.
Taormino, the author of the best-selling books "Down and Dirty Sex Secrets" and "True Lust: Adventures in Sex, Porn and Perversion," will direct the first two titles in the Vivid-Ed series and will bring in other directors for the second and third productions in the first year.
"I plan to combine education and information with entertainment and arousal," says Taormino. "It's all about teaching people techniques and inspiring them to want to practice what they learned right away! We will appeal to couples looking to improve their sex lives and be more adventurous. The films will feature attractive, intelligent real-life people as well as articulate, exemplary adult performers. With Vivid-Ed we have a chance to inform, educate and get someone off simultaneously. This definitely will not be your father's sex ed tape."
Much of the inspiration for the Vivid-Ed project comes from sex workshops Taormino has been teaching around the world for the past eight years on subjects including safer sex, g-spot stimulation, erotic role-playing, and sex toys. "Plenty of men and women tell me that they love all-sex features so the focus of my Vivid work will be on fresh performers, hot, spontaneous sex, real chemistry and real orgasms for everyone. Couples already trust Vivid for erotic features, now they can count on Vivid for hot reality, too."
The niece of famed novelist Thomas Pynchon, Tristan Taormino grew up on Long Island and now lives in New York City, where she is a columnist for the Village Voice. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa in American Studies from Wesleyan University and is the author of three books and editor of 14 anthologies.
About Vivid:
Vivid Entertainment Group is the world's leading adult film company. Its "Vivid Girl" concept brings together top adult film stars who are signed to exclusive agreements styled on the old Hollywood contract star system which it pioneered in the adult entertainment industry. Vivid has wide brand-name awareness through films and licensing programs that extend to advertising, apparel, book publishing, virility supplements, condoms, snowboards, calendars, comic books and a variety of other products. For more information write rm@vivid.com.

Tristan and Joanna Angel in NYC on Monday!

Sun, 09 Apr 2006 23:22:37 GMT

April 10, 7:30 - 9:00 pm
NYC BOOK AND VIDEO SIGNING
Come meet author and director Tristan Taormino as she signs copies of her latest book, the second edition of The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women, and her video Tristan Taormino’s House of Ass.

BurningAngel.com’s Joanna Angel, star of the movie and several alt porn sensation, will also be on hand to sign videos.

Admission: Free!

Location: Babeland, 43 Mercer St. between Broome and Grand, NYC

Info: 212-966-2120

URL: http://www.babeland.com

Anal Sex workshop in NYC, 4/2/06

Mon, 27 Mar 2006 16:09:25 GMT

Anal Sex 101 @ Babeland, Sun, Apr. 2nd
Please re-post and spread the love!

Anal Sex 101
Sunday, April 02, 08:00PM, $30
Don’t miss Tristan Taormino, author of The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women, for her ever popular introduction to back door delights. An essential for butt-sex novices, it’s a favorite of anal sex sophomores and aficionados alike.

Pre-registration is required to guarantee a spot. To register we must receive payment at one of our locations or by credit card over the phone.

For NY registration, call (212) 966-2120.

Babeland
43 Mercer Street, NYC
(between Grand & Broome)
212-966-2120
www.babeland.com

upcoming events

Sun, 12 Mar 2006 22:38:50 GMT

Hey check it out!
I'm finally on LJ, sort of.
But at least I can make updates every now and then!
Hope to see you all soon.
With lube + affection,

Tristan

March 25, 4:00 pm
QUEER SEX NOW!
The theme of this year’s Swarthmore Sager Symposium is “Making Love, Queering Sex: Getting It on in Our Bedrooms, Boardrooms, and Classrooms.” As part of this annual event, Tristan will give her talk “Queer Sex Now!” where she’ll discuss current erotic trends, including the explosion of queer porn, the development of public sex spaces, and the growing exploration of alternatives to monogamy. Plus, she'll explain why she thinks the LGBT Movement has had broad, significant effects on the sex lives of everyone (not just queer people) and has lead to the emergence of "the queer heterosexual."
Location: Lang Concert Hall, Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, PA
Admission: Free and open to the public. Swarthmore students, faculty, and staff do not need to register. Swarthmore alumni and all other attendees MUST register. Go to http://www.sccs.swarthmore.edu/org/sager/sager2006/registration.htm
Email: sager (at) swarthmore.edu
URL: http://www.sccs.swarthmore.edu/org/sager/index.html

March 30, about 8:15 am Eastern Time
TRISTAN ON HOWARD STERN
Eight years after Tristan first met Howard Stern, she returns to his radio show to talk about the second edition of The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women and her new video Tristan Taormino’s House of Ass. This time, no pesky FCC regulations (it’s satellite radio!), no censorship, and no holds barred! Call in or email with questions (see contact info below)! If you miss the live show, it replays at 9:00 pm Eastern Time. Not on the East Coast? Check the schedule here: http://www.howardstern.com/howard-100-101.html
Info: Channel 100 on Sirius Satellite Radio
Studio Line: 1-888-9-ASSHOLE
Email: http://64.235.250.151/alx/contact.php
URL: http://www.sirius.com

April 2, 8:00 - 10:00 pm
ANAL PLEASURE 101
Don't miss Tristan Taormino, author of The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women, for her ever popular introduction to back door delights. An essential for butt-sex novices, it's a favorite of anal sex beginners and aficionados alike. In this funny, educational class, she covers a wide variety of topics, including: myths about anal sex; anal anatomy, the G-spot and the prostate; basic preparation and hygiene; lubes, anal toys, and safer sex; anal penetration for beginners, and much more!
Admission: $30
Location: Babeland, 43 Mercer St. between Broome and Grand, NYC
Info: 212-966-2120
URL: http://www.babeland.com

April 3, 7:30 - 9:00 pm
NYC BOOK AND VIDEO SIGNING
Come meet author and director Tristan Taormino as she signs copies of her latest book, the second edition of The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women, and her video Tristan Taormino’s House of Ass. BurningAngel.com’s Joanna Angel, star of the movie and alt porn sensation, will also be on hand to sign videos.
Admission: Free
Location: Babeland, 43 Mercer St. between Broome and Grand, NYC
Info: 212-966-2120
URL: http://www.babeland.com

Darklady's Sexpose -- Gay Porn & GayVN Award Nominee Brad Benton

Thu, 09 Mar 2006 08:30:54 GMT

Darklady’s “Sexposé”
Thursday, March 9, 2006
2:00pm PST/5:00pm EST
YNOTRadio.com

THIS WEEK’S TOPIC: Gay Porn & GayVN Award nominee Brad Benton

Darklady loves gay porn. What’s not to like? Join Darklady as she talks smut with fellow reviewer Mark Kleim and multiply nominated GayVN Award performer Brad Benton – four hours before the actual awards show!

Log on. Listen. Join in the chat room conversation.

DARKLADY REVIEWS:
Dirty Little Sins – (Brad’s Best Actor nominated role)
Desperate Husbands – (Brad’s Best Supporting nominated role)

DARKLADY INTERVIEWS:
1) Mark Kleim -- owner of LavenderLounge.com, LavenderLoungeBlog.com, MuscleBearCub.com, and ReelGuys.com.

2) Brad Benton – GayVN Award nominee for Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, and Performer of the Year.

Log on. Listen. Join in the chat room conversation.
YNOTRadio.com
Thursdays
2:00pm PST/5:00pm EST

UPCOMING TOPICS:
03-16-06 – Rubber. Guests: The Baroness & Mr. West Coast Rubber, Alan Stroik.
www.baroness.com & www.westcoastrubber.com
03-23-06 – Leather. Guests: Stormy Leather & Ms. World Leather 2005, Michelle Jackson
www.stormyleather.com & www.msworldleather.com
03-30-06 – Phone Sex.

Do you have guest, subject, or review item suggestions? If so, send them to darklady@darklady.com.

Thanks – and play safe.

-- Darklady
Assistant editor, YNOT.com
Host, “Darklady’s Sexpose,” YNOTRadio.com
www.darklady.com
www.masturbate-a-thon.org

Backdoor Betty 3 - Tristan's Official Release Party!!!

Wed, 22 Feb 2006 04:31:39 GMT

Adam & Eve and Tristan Taormino present -

Backdoor Betty 3
The official launch party to celebrate the release of the second edition of Tristan Taormino's book,
The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women
and her new video,
Tristan Taormino's House of Ass

Sunday, February 26, 2006
Crash Mansion
199 Bowery at Spring Street, NYC
Doors open at 8:00 pm

Meet Adult Superstars
Joanna Angel & Justine Joli

Feast Your Eyes On
A Preview of House of Ass
&
Exclusive Behind the Scenes Photos

Performances By
JonesTown & Bridget Everett

Admission: 21+, ID a must, $15 ($10 with flyer or print out of this invite)
Transportation: 6 to Spring, J/M to Bowery, F to 2nd Avenue
Media: for guest list, email colten (at) puckerup.com
More info here:
http://www.puckerup.com/video/

Goodie Bags Sponsored by:
Adam & Eve, Astroglide, At Least It's Pink, Babeland, Burning Angel, Cleis Press, EonMckai.com, Eros Boutique, HoneyBun, JonesTown, JustineJoli.com, Positive Health Project, Puckerup.com, Sphincterine, The Smitten Kitten, and WackyJac

Tue, 31 Jan 2006 23:12:51 GMT

For Immediate Release: Photo

Tristan Taormino Forms Smart Ass Productions

January 31, 2006 (New York, NY): After nearly a five-year hiatus, Village Voice sex columnist and AVN award-winning director Tristan Taormino returns to the world of adult video at the helm of her new production company, Smart Ass Productions.

In 1999, Tristan made a splash when she directed, produced and starred in The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women for Evil Angel. Co-directed by Ernest Greene and John Stagliano and shot by Stagliano himself, the video received five stars from AVN, two AVN Awards (including Best Anal Release), and an XRCO Award. She followed it up with The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women 2 in 2001, and that title was nominated for Erotic Film of the Year at the Erotic Awards in the UK. In the past several years, she has concentrated on building her sex education empire, which includes penning columns for The Village Voice and Hustler’s Taboo Magazine, authoring popular sex books, lecturing at top colleges and universities, and teaching sexuality workshops all over the world. She’s thrilled to be returning to porn. “I have always had one foot in the adult industry since I write about it often,” says Tristan. “I have watched as more women have stepped behind the camera, and I have been newly inspired to do the same.”

While women and couples have finally been acknowledged as a viable segment of porn consumers, the majority of videos marketed to them are plot-driven features. Through her workshops and other public appearances, Tristan has the opportunity to talk to hundreds of different people. “Plenty of men and women tell me that they love all-sex and gonzo videos, but could do without some of the elements of the most popular titles in those genres. Plus, they’re tired of seeing videos where the women either don’t come or their orgasms are clearly fake.” That’s where Smart Ass Productions comes in. No outrageous stunts. No degradation. Instead, the focus of Tristan’s videos is fresh and accessible performers, hot, spontaneous sex, real chemistry and real orgasms for everyone. “I want the best and brightest performers to come together in a sexually-charged, intense environment where they can let their guard down and show a different side of themselves. Also, one of the complaints I hear most often from women is that the guys aren’t attractive, so I am on a mission to have hot guys in all my videos!”

The first Smart Ass production she directed is Tristan Taormino’s House of Ass for Adam & Eve Pictures. Shot near Mountain Center, California (three hours outside Los Angeles), this reality-TV inspired video stars Joanna Angel, Justine Joli, Sarah Blake, Keeani Lei, Mr. Marcus, Talon, and Scott Nails. Joanna does her first interracial scene in the video. “She did a scene with Scott the first day which was really great,” says Tristan. “The next day, she told me that she liked Mr. Marcus and felt there was chemistry between them. Their scene was totally spontaneous and really hot.”

Tristan plans to direct several titles in 2006. Although she joined forces with Adam & Eve for Tristan Taormino’s House of Ass, she does not have an exclusive deal with the company. “The experience I had with John Stagliano and everyone at Evil Angel was incredible. I really enjoyed working with Adam & Eve on House of Ass. I would love the chance to work with both of them again,” says Tristan. “Plus, there are several other companies I’ve followed throughout the years that I think are creating really great stuff. So, I am keeping my options open.”

Tristan Taormino’s House of Ass hits the streets February 24. The video’s debut coincides with the release of the second edition of The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women from Cleis Press.

For more information on Tristan Taormino and Smart Ass Productions, visit http://www.puckerup.com or email colten@puckerup.com.

For more information on Tristan Taormino’s House of Ass, contact Katy Zvolerin at Adam & Eve, katy@adameve.com.

Darklady Productions Presents: Celebration of Eros

Wed, 18 Jan 2006 06:34:49 GMT

Darklady Productions Presents: Celebration of Eros

When the season is dark and the world is at war it can be difficult to connect with our romantic, sensual, and erotic selves. Join Santa Cruz photographer/writer David Steinberg and Portland writer/event coordinator Theresa “Darklady” Reed for an evening of poetry, prose, music, and evocative slideshow imagery that will summon, embrace, and celebrate the lover in each of us. Meet the performers the night before – and party with them in an exclusive cocktail social directly after the event. Ages 18 and older.

Meet & Greet David Steinberg
Friday, February 10, 2006
$5+ suggested donation
7:00 pm – midnight
Darklady Estates
RSVP darklady@darklady.com for directions and details

Celebration of Eros
Saturday, February 11, 2006
$10+ suggested donation
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
600 NE Prescott
Portland, OR 97211
RSVP darklady@darklady.com to reserve limited seating
Wheelchair Access Possible, please contact for details

Post Celebration Cocktail Social/Play Party
$10+ suggested donation
10:00pm – 2:00am
Darklady Estates
RSVP darklady@darklady.com for directions and details

David Steinberg is available for photo sessions with interested couples. If interested, write EroNat@aol.com or call 831-234-1073 for more information. www.davidsteinberg.us

As always, we are collecting pet supplies for animals rescued from Hurricane Katrina by Dandelion Dog Rescue. www.dandeliondogrescue.org

Upcoming Darklady Events:
May 20: 6th Annual Portland Masturbate-a-thon (“Pajama Party of Passion”)

-- Darklady
http://www.darklady.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheDarkAtrium
http://www.livejournal.com/~darklady_produc
http://www.masturbate-a-thon.org

Darklady in March Hustler Magazine

Thu, 12 Jan 2006 23:25:32 GMT

WHO: Theresa "Darklady" Reed

WHAT: Hustler Magazine, March 2006 issue

WHEN: Now

WHERE: Adult Magazine Stands

WHY: "Zealots to the Left of Me, Zealots to the Right of Me," a wonderfully funny and insightful (if I do say so myself, which I do)
pro-free speech rant reprinted from Darklady's YNOT.com online blog. Read it for yourself in print -- and see photos of Darklady like
you've never seen before. Photographs by David Steinberg, Bridgett
Harrington, and Byron O'Brien.

Bring your copy to Portland's February 11 "Celebration of Eros" featuring David Steinberg and Darklady for autographs -- and maybe
even something extra. ;-)

-- Darklady
Assistant Editor, YNOT.com
www.darklady.com
www.masturbate-a-thon.org
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheDarkAtrium

Sign up before Oct 30th for the BEST hotel rate in town!

Thu, 27 Oct 2005 17:52:12 GMT

DARK ODYSSEY: WINTER FIRE - NEW YEAR'S WEEKEND
HOTEL PROMO ENDS THIS WEEKEND (OCT 30)

Downtown Washington, DC
Dec 30, 2005 - Jan 2, 2006
http://www.darkodyssey.com

Almost 200 people from all over the country signed up for Dark Odyssey: Winter Fire in the first two weeks of registration. Don't miss your chance to take advantage of the host hotel's $119/night promotion which ends at midnight on Sunday, October 30. This is the lowest rate you'll find for a name brand hotel in downtown DC ... let alone inside the host hotel of
the best BDSM, spiritual and lifestyle convention of the year.

Sign up now to stay in our beautiful, top-notch convention hotel (over 800 rooms) a stone's throw from the Capitol and the Smithsonian. Our scene-friendly hotel is dedicated to making this a welcoming environment for our community and would love to see us take over their whole hotel!

The entire lower ballroom level will be converted into a series of 12 interconnected ballrooms, set up with unique, creative themes and decor that people have come to expect from Dark Odyssey. Each night, you'll start your adventure in our central lounge/bar and dance floor area and then wander off to explore all the various delights to be found in our 22,000 square
foot playspace. Some rooms have a surreal carnival-esque feel with huge open areas, high ceilings and vast amounts of new, top quality, play equipment. Other spaces are dark and moody, perfect for more intimate encounters.
Everywhere is fully carpeted, clean, warm and inviting and open for play until the wee hours of the morning.

The three day conference focuses on alternate sexuality education with over 60 workshops and demos ranging from Transgendered Sexuality to Tantra, Sensual Massage to the Multi Orgasmic Man, from Bondage to Blowjobs!
Dark Odyssey explores it all! Each evening you'll meet new people at our mixers, dance and party in the Saturnalia Ballroom, and get lost in our huge playspace furnished with some of the best equipment in the world. On New Year's Eve (Saturday night) join us for an elegant Banquet and a naughty Burlesque show followed by our New Year's Eve extravaganza. Relax and
stay Sunday night for our afterglow play party ... Monday is a national holiday!

Don't miss out on the amazing $119/night room rate special offered by the hotel and our early bird registration rates all ending this weekend, at midnight on Sunday, October 30. It's the best deal you'll find at a real hotel in DC but you MUST book it now! Join the fun and sign up at http://www.darkodyssey.com today.

Best Regards,

The Producers of Dark Odyssey:
Greg, Tristan, Karri, and colten

For more information:
http://www.darkodyssey.com