Thanks for the link. I think it's a good article, and nicely balanced. I'm a hardcore idealist (by nature and profession), and I was pretty sure that the response to the site was positive from all sides. Guess I was a bit blind. Thistle's comment hit right on the money about some guys (I would *hope* a tiny minority) feeling like it's their place to make judgments about women's worth, or the SGs in particular. I find that kind of attitude highly offensive as a man, because it demonstrates an ignorance and frank stupidity about how some men feel they are entitled to determine a woman's fate. That kind of crap is hopelessly outdated (by several thousand years), and it's sad to see it in the Bay Area, where I spent most of my formative years. From my experience (I'm in my mid-30's), virtually *every* women I've ever met is quite capable of determining her own path in life, thank you very much. If she chooses to involve a man, woman or other in the decision, that's her call and all should respect that as an inalienable right. You don't like it? Take a few thousand mics of Cal acid and run naked in the middle of the 580/80 interchange during rush hour...

I work with an arts collective with permanent members in the Bay and Portland, and without exception, we are deeply impressed with the concepts behind Suicide Girls as a fellow collective. They're the first of a very few links we provide on our site because we find them and their attitudes not only refreshing and fun, but quite inspirational. I'd heard about them in early 2002, but didn't join until just this year. While my membership fee doesn't amount to much, I prefer to keep the most expensive rate, because I figure anything I can do to help the site and the girls is well worth a few bucks a month. We also provide them free publicity whenever possible.

I've had the pleasure (and honor) of meeting several while I've been in Portland, and the qualities I see most are confidence, individuality, raw power, humor and intelligence; ravishing beauty is a given. :P It's no coincidence that these are the traits I find most intensely attractive in women. I've also spoken with about a dozen directly through the site, and while I'm somewhat older than most, it's better late than never to be a part of this community. These are such real and utterly unapologetic women that it makes me break out in laughter 'cause I'm so happy for them. Frankly, it's a major turn on to see and know women who are proud to be who they are, and what they choose to make of themselves. There's such a wide variety of background, experience, attitude and honesty among the girls that I doubt I'll ever find another community quite like it. I'm glad there's a considerable presence here in Portland, and while I'm not yet a "member" of the PDX group, I figure I've got all the time in the world.

On a personal note, Erin (Suicide) allowed us to use one of her photos on our site, and I was truly flattered that she'd do so for a relatively new-to-the-area group. I respect artists who acknowledge their talents, and you really have to look at each girl's profile to see how incredibly talented many of them are.

I suppose you could say I adore them individually and as a collective, and Missy and the other founders should be given some sort of International Freedom award. Immediately. :) It's a legitimate global community of beautiful freaks, weirdos, and fantastic lunatics, and I'm very proud to be a member of it. Just feels like home...

On the financial end, it is by FAR the least expensive community site around, and if I had the cash, I'd be kicking some down on regular basis just to help them out. If you're not yet a member, do yourself a favor and sign up NOW. If you have any artistic taste whatsoever, you will not regret it. One could say I'm favorably impressed... :P

- li'l ol' kher