Hi Everyone,
I am a member of Tri-Ess chapter Chi Delta Mu in northern New Jersey.
The big reason for the interview process is to make sure a prospective member is really a CD and to keep admirers away. Wives do go to meetings and you really don't want admirers there. Unfortunately, meeting places have to remain secret.
As for national's policy of straight crossdressers only, a lot of chapters have a policy of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell, Don't Cruise."
If you are serious about improving your look as a CD, you are going to have to meet other CDs. Tri-Ess is a safe way to go out for the first time. If you are a novice and don't look that good and the group puts you down about your looks, they are not worth joining.
Lastly, you can get dressed at a Tri-Ess meeting.