Jen
24
Bethlehem PA
Jen's e-mail-
Howl_4_me_Tok@yahoo.com
How long have you been Straight Edge?
I've never used any drugs or smoked anything. I've never been into casual sex.I drank two or three times,for my brothers wedding and my sisters 21st birthday.I don't really claim to be Straight Edge,but most of my friends say I fit the profile so well that I may as well be.I do listen to punk and indie,and some hardcore,and I know the origins of the Straight Edge movement.I do fit the profile, but labels are not a big thing for me.As one great person once said I don't avoid alcohol and smoking and drugs because I'm Straight Edge, I'm Straight Edge because I don't drink and smoke, etc.

What does Straight Edge mean to you?
Straight Edge is a movement intended to get kids to take responsibility for themselves,to take care of themselve,and to maintain a sharp mind and healthy body.People should be strong enough to make a difference without leaning on something like drugs. But it's not for everybody.A lot of people feel differently,and that's cool. It's your choice, a personal choice.

How did you get into it?
My sister got me into punk,and from there I went my own way.She went to parties and got drunk,and I stayed outside and chatted with people.Once I was into punk and around those people more,it just sort of grew.I first heard of sXe when I was 15 or so,and a kid asked me if I wanted a drink.I said no, so he drew and X on my hand.After that it just stuck.

What's the sXe scene like in your area?
The scene here is dying,as it is everywhere else.Unfortunately,the majority of Edgers around this area have gone the way of gangs.Their thugs who take it upon themselves to tell everyone else how to live. Most have resorted to violence.That's not what sXe is supposed to be about,perhaps another I don't really claim to be part of the label.

What are some of your hobbies
?
I like music,going to shows when I get the time. I also backpack,kayak,ski and snowblade, and spend as much time as possible with my puppy. I just like being outside.I like movies too, preferable in an empty theater. The occasional party with friends, but I have to bring my own beverages...And I love sitting up at dinners all night with some good conversation and decaf coffee (so I can sleep afterwards).




Music tastes?
Punk,indie, and some hardcore.

Fave bands?
I like some obvious bands, Rancid,DKM,Suicide Machines,Voodoo Glow Skulls,Refused,Dead Milkmen,Bouncing Souls,Sex Pistols,The Clash,Transplants (hell,anything with Tim's name on it works for me), Vandal's,even the Violent Femms and some not obvious,like the Arrogant Sons Of Bitches,look them up,they kick ass.

Best ever show?
I'd have to say it was definately the Arrogant Sons Of Bitches.

What's your opinion on Edgebreakers?
Hey,it's not for everyone.I don't concern myself with what others do,it's not up to me to make decisions for them.Like I said,it's all a personal choice,some people just disagree with the philosophy.That's fine,better to be yourself than fake it.

First record you ever brought?

Rancid,Out come the wolves...it was all over after that..


Give us a line of lyrics to represent you...

"I take a look around,I don't like what I see
A bunch of people who don't now shit about Unity
I see right through your skin,you say you see right through mine
Then please explain to me why we fight all the time
I can't take it anymore,this is bothering me
Got people killing each other
Why does this have to be?
I wish I knew,I really wish I knew
How people can see there's no real difference between me and you."
--SOS by The Suicide Machines.

Last message for everyone?
Live your life your way on your terms.We all die, don't let it end with regrets.