From: r!sa, 56, Murrieta, Calif., inkcredible@ez2.net

Date: 1/22/02

My parents needed to use an R to name me in the Jewish tradition, in memory of my great-grandmother, Rebecca. They were fans of the opera singer, Risë Stevens, and were quick to enlighten me to the fact that a talented, famous, and lovely woman and I had the same name.

My maiden name is Weiner. (Pronounced as it's written, not 'Wyner'). So my name was also a tongue twister. Go ahead, try to say it and it will most likely be: Wisa Weiner. You can imagine how I was teased — and not only by other children! It still brings snickers. It's understandable why I married young to someone with an easy and ordinary name.

But on a deep and secret note, I've always felt the 'R' gave me a certain 'edge' and strength that an 'L' (Lisa) couldn't possibly possess. 'R' as in 'aRtist': I have always been and earned my living as an artist. My enthusiasm for learning, doing, and teaching art grows and continues to excite, fulfill, and reward me.

Your site was forwarded to me by a friend who knows two other Risas. And Thank You, Reesa, for this wonderful site. It's a thrill to be a part of the Reesa Society