SCOTSGAY MAGAZINE ================= ScotsGay is a monthly magazine for lesbians, gay men and bisexuals. Edited, printed and published in Scotland Issue 31 - December 1999 ELECTRONIC EDITION ***Now available on the Web: http://www.scotsgay.co.uk/ How to Subscribe and Unsubscribe information is now at the END of the magazine. All Material Copyright (c) Pageprint Limited 1999. Permission is hereby given to distribute this material provided that this copyright notice is included and that distribution is specifically for non-profitmaking reasons. Distribution for profit must be done only with prior written consent of the magazine any deviation from this will be seen as an infringement of copyright. Hardcopies are limited to one per person for personal use only and such hard copies are subject to the same copyright restrictions as laid out above. The printed edition of ScotsGay is available by post at the following rates: 6 issue sub (UK & EC) 6ukp 6 issue sub (Overseas) 12ukp 12 issue sub (UK & EC) 12ukp 12 issue sub (Overseas) 24ukp Make Cheques and POs payable to 'Pageprint'or 'ScotsGay'and send them to: Subscriptions ScotsGay Magazine PO Box 666 Edinburgh Scotland EH7 5YW Inside this issue: Editorial - Praying on the gullible News Scottish Media Monitor The Nice Bit - bi vocal Eating disorders - One man's experience An Unholy Alliance - feminists and fundamentalists Edinburgh Glasgow Dundee Moray Voice Personals - For 1-2-1 Boxes - The ScotsGay Meet Market Venues International Media Extra - Mr Otton borrows a time machine Reviews - Film, literature and theatre Granny Spice Listings Helplines Joy Chart Scotsdyke - The lesbian 2000 calendar Credits -------------------------------------------------------------------- EDITORIAL ========= The forces of darkness and ignorance represented by organised superstition in Scotland have ondemned the Scottish Executive's modest proposal to repeal Section 28. It's easy enough to point out that, in Scotland, there are more practising homosexuals than there are practising Christians these days and that may well tell in the minds of politicians when they're weighing up the electoral implications of their actions. But that sort of numbers game, whilst amusing to play when yours are bigger than your opponents, doesn't really address the fundamental issue. And that is quite simply that our opponents are wrong. Not wrong because they don't like queers - which is a logical part of their illogical belief system. But wrong because their whole superstition is as batty as that of those who believe in a flat earth or the tooth fairy. That's not to say that superstitionists should not be freely heard in a pluralist society. (It's interesting to note that the majority brands of superstition frequently seek to silence those who adhere to minority brands which they refer to as 'Cults'.) But the non-superstitious should not be expected to take the voices of superstition any more seriously than we would take those of revisionists who claim that the Holocaust never happened. I'll no doubt be accused of rocking the boat here, and I don't deny that there are advantages to be had from making common cause with superstitionists whose readings of their scriptures differ from traditional homophobia such as the Metropolitan Community Church and the Scottish Episcopalian Primus Richard Holloway. Nevertheless, as we head into the last year of this Millennium, it would be nice if superstition took its place in the dustbin of history. But don't count on it. There are a lot of people out there who are fundamentally gullible - especially to fundamentalists. Despite everything, a Happy New Year to you all - when it comes! John Hein ------------------------------------------------------------------ NEWS ==== Queer Youngsters to Gather in Capital A major conference for young LGBT folk is going to take place in Scotland's Capital next spring. According to the organisers of YouthCon, March 2000 will see the bringing together of young LGBT people from all over Scotland for a weekend of parties and politics in Edinburgh. Kicking off with a Blind Date on the evening of Friday 10th March, two packed days of schmoozing, dancing and activism will follow. If you're looking for workshops on starting a youth group, the Scottish legal system or safer sex, they've got 'em. If you just want to spend a couple of days with other young queer people, they've got a chilled out programme of massage sessions, sports and, er, finger-painting. And in addition to Blind Date, there will be a big social on Saturday night, with both an alcohol-friendly venue and an equally exciting but legal alternative for under-18s and anyone else who chooses. And the weekend's (daytime) activities will only cost you UKP 10! The convention is aimed at anyone aged 25 or under who fancies attending, though obviously those with a queer sexual orientation are more likely to get a shag. Other aims include fostering contacts between LGBT youth groups and young people in Scotland, sharing resources and ideas, and maybe starting to make a permanent network to connect queer youth across the country. Contact details: Web: http://www.youthcon. force9.co.uk/E-mail: youthcon@youthcon.force9.co.uk Post: YouthCon, c/o 58a Broughton St., Edinburgh EH1 3SA --- No Room at the Inn as Christians Differ An East Lothian Christian Retreat Centre, on whose Board the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Scotland are represented, has cancelled bookings made by an Edinburgh Church with a special ministry to lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgendered people. A complaint has been made to the Equal Opportunities Commission. Carberry Towers near Musselburgh was formerly run by the Church of Scotland and is now administered by an ecumenical trust. Holy Trinity Metropolitan Community Church had, after several months discussions with Carberry, made two bookings for a retreat and a conference next year. Throughout, the diverse nature of the Church's membership was made clear to Carberry and no objection was raised until the cancellation. The Church is part of the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches, a world-wide Christian denomination which was originally founded by a gay man in consequence of the wide-spread discrimination in the mainline Churches. The Church's membership now includes people of all sexualities and religious backgrounds. In discussions with the Church following cancellation of the bookings Carberry has emphasised that it did not wish to be associated with lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered Christians. Ian Bonner-Evans, Pastoral Leader of the Edinburgh Congregation was deeply saddened by Carberry's action. "I am disappointed that, as we approach the Millennium, the Christian Church still seeks to promote division in our society rather than recognising our unity in Christ. I find it difficult to see any explanation for Carberry's action other than prejudice. We agreed a booking with Carberry and they will now not honour their commitment to us because we will not discriminate against people in our preaching of Christ's love. This is a slap in the face for all Christians who work to break down barriers. Many of my members are upset and angry as they feel Carberry has demeaned their integrity as Christians. I can only pray that Carberry will come to their senses and reinstate our bookings. Until then I am sure those people of faith who believe that the Gospel is Good News for all people, irrespective of sexuality, will not feel welcome at Carberry." The Church has made a complaint to the Equal Opportunities Commission. --- Initial Call for Papers Our nation? Queer voices from Scotland's past, present and future Edinburgh, April 2000 This is an initial call for papers or expressions of interest for a one-day conference to be held in central Edinburgh on a Saturday in April 2000. The conference will be as inclusive as possible. We hope to have presentations or papers from many different aspects of Scotland's diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) communities. Reflections on the experiences of people typically less privileged or visible such as, for example, those living in rural areas, older LGBT people or LGBT people from different cultures would be especially welcome. We aim to have a representative selection of papers from as wide a range of areas of interest as possible. We therefore ask for expressions of interest from those with an interest in Arts, Oral History, Law, Culture, Social Sciences, Health, Theatre, History and all other fields. Further details will be sent out in mid January. It would greatly assist us, however, to receive even tentative expressions of interest as soon as possible. Please send comments, questions and proposals for papers to - Our Nation? Conference c/o Outright Scotland, PO Box 23253, Edinburgh. EH1 3XD . E-mail: Walter Morani walter.m@scotland.com Brian Dempsey 9463746@coll.sms.ed.ac.uk --- Joyous Noise Holy Trinity Metropolitan Community Church is pleased to announce Edinburgh's Second Annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Community Carol Service. The Community Carol Service will take place at 6.00pm on Sunday 19 December in the Quaker Meeting House on Victoria Terrace (at the top of the Royal Mile). Last year's event was a tremendous success attracting larger than expected numbers and raising money for the Stonewall Youth Project, an Edinburgh based organisation working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered young people. The Community Carol Service provides an opportunity for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Community and its many friends and allies to celebrate the Christmas season together. Ian Bonner-Evans, Pastoral Leader of Holy Trinity Metropolitan Community Church, issued an open invitation to everyone to this years event: "Christmas is a time when many people, especially lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people, wish to participate in the traditions of Christmas but feel excluded from the mainstream Churches because of the often offensive attitudes adopted by some of these Churches throughout the year. I sincerely hope that our Community Carol Service can be a time when all people, irrespective of sexuality or background, can gather together to reflect on the Christmas message of goodwill to all people." There will be no admission charge for the Carol Service but an offering will be received in aid of Parents Enquiry Scotland, an organisation that supports the parents and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people in Scotland. For more information call Ian on 0131-664 8827. --- New Recruits Needed Strathclyde Lesbian and Gay Switchboard is looking for volunteers to join their existing team of telephone counsellors. As a charity, they depend upon committed and open minded individuals to run their telephone helpline which serves the West of Scotland. The Lesbian and Gay Switchboard provides information and support on a wide range of issues affecting our community. Selection will be in the New Year and full training will be given. They particularly welcome applications from women to support their expanded range of services including Lesbian Line. For further information and an application form, write to: Lesbian and Gay Switchboard, PO Box 38, Glasgow. G2 2QF or phone 0141-332 8372 any evening 7-10pm. The closing date for applications is the 4th of February 2000. --- Section 28 - The End? On October 29th the Scottish Executive announced that it plans to repeal Section 28 of the Local Government Act. First Minister Donald Dewar called the Section "a badge of shame", and Wendy Alexander, the Minister responsible for the Ethical Standards Bill, which will enact repeal, explained that the Section prevents schools from dealing with homophobic bullying. Three weeks later, the London Government, which had been swithering over whether to repeal the Section south of the border, announced it was following Scotland's lead and would repeal Section 28 in England and Wales, as part of a Local Government Bill at Westminster in the spring. Section 28 prevents local authorities from "promoting homosexuality" or from promoting the teaching in schools of "the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship". It was introduced by right-wing Tories under the Thatcher Government in 1988. Although it's never been used in court, research shows that Section 28 has had a real practical effect, as well as branding us as unacceptable second class citizens. In fact over half of teachers surveyed say that the Section prevents them from providing proper help and support for young lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, which leaves them isolated and often the victims of homophobic bullying. No wonder one in five young LGBT people attempts suicide. Section 28 is also used as an excuse by some local authorities not to support vital LGBT projects. In 1998, Perth and Kinross Council refused to give grant aid to Dundee LGB Switchboard, which provides a life-saving support service in the Perth area, because they claimed that to do so would breach Section 28. For And Against When the plan to repeal the Section was announced, the Scottish press had a field day. The Scotsman said it was the first time the Scottish Executive had showed vision and leadership, but a Daily Record headline forecast "Gay sex lessons in schools" and called repeal a waste of the Scottish Parliament's time. On balance though, most newspapers supported the Executive's plans. Not so the Tories, nor the Catholic Church. Tory MSP Phil Gallie was quick to condemn the proposal, and in a grossly prejudiced newspaper article rehashing the old myth of connections between homosexuality and paedophilia, Cardinal Winning claimed that repeal would make young people vulnerable to abuse. Labour, the Liberal Democrats and the SNP however all said they support repeal, as do organisations such as the STUC and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities. So is the end of the Section now inevitable? In a word, no. South of the border, repeal must be approved by the House of Lords, and Baroness Young and her pals have already said that they will fight tooth and nail in the Lords to keep the Section. The same people have managed to hold up equalisation of the age of consent for two years, so there will be a real fight when the Lords debates the English repeal proposal. The Scottish Parliament The Scottish Parliament has no House of Lords, only elected MSPs, the majority of whom are from parties supporting repeal of the Section. But our enemies are already lobbying MSPs hard. Most vociferous are the religious conservatives, from the Salvation Army, the Baptists and Evan-gelical Alliance, to the Catholic Church with its profoundly anti-gay message. They include conservatives in the Church of Scotland, like Ann Allen, convenor of the Board of Social Responsibility, who can always be relied on by the press for an anti-gay quote, whatever the specific subject. More moderate and liberal Church leaders, including John Cairns, the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, and Richard Holloway, Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church, publicly support repeal of Section 28, but as always it is the antis who tend to make the most noise. Before repeal can happen, the Scottish Executive is conducting a public consultation on the issue. That ends on January 14th. The Executive must report to the Parliament on the results of the consultation, and how it has taken it into account. Then MSPs get to vote on the proposal to repeal the Section, probably in March, and again in May. Only then would Section 28 be repealed. The big question is, will the anti-repeal campaigners frighten the Executive and MSPs off? We have a major battle on our hands. Religious conservatives are pulling out all the stops on this. They are desperate to stop LGBT equality, because they think homosexuality is bad and wrong. We must make sure the Executive and MSPs know that, religious prejudice aside, people understand the damage the Section does, especially to young LGBT people, and many many people support the repeal plan. What You Can Do If we lose the battle for repeal of section 28, LGBT equality in Scotland will be set back years. Don't assume that won't affect you - it will. Don't assume that activists will do the necessary campaigning - they can't, there aren't enough of them. The most important thing you can do is write to your MSP. It sounds boring, but it really makes a difference. We must win the vote on this in Parliament. Write a short letter to your MSP saying you support repeal of Section 28 and want them to vote in favour of it. If you can put something in your letter about your own experience of discrimination as a young person at school, or elsewhere, that is really effective. Keep the letter short though, and be nice even if the MSP is from a party you don't support! You can find out who your MSP is in two ways: if you have net access, fire up your web browser and go to http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/msps/search-msp.htm where you can find out your MSP by typing in your postcode. Alternatively, ring the Scottish Parliament Information Service on 0131-348 5000. In fact, you have eight MSPs, one for your constituency and seven for your region. Please write to your constituency MSP, but if you feel energetic, you could write to them all! The address is: Name of MSP, Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP. The second thing you could do is write to the Scottish Executive saying you support their proposal to repeal Section 28. This needs to be done before January 14th. It's very important because we know that evangelical churches are getting their whole congregations to write opposing repeal, which means hundreds of letters. Again, mention of your own experiences of homophobia would be helpful. The address is: Stephen Wilson, Local Government Division 2a, The Scottish Executive, Area 3-H, Victoria Quay, Edinburgh, EH6 6QQ. Thirdly, please keep an eye on reports and letters in your newspaper. If you read a report or a letter opposing repeal of section 28, please write in to the letters page and say you disagree. Finally, if you want to be kept up to date with the progress of the Section 28 campaign over the next couple of months, or want to find out how else you could help, please get in contact with the Equality Network, at 58a Broughton St, Edinburgh, EH1 3SA, or on 07020 933 952. WUNCH REPENTS The Bank of Scotland is clearly trying to throw off their homophobic image by buying advertising space on Rainbow Network, a major new commercial gay and lesbian Internet site which also features information supplied by ScotsGay and our contributors. WWW: http://www.rainbownetwork.com/ THE BELLS Lothian Gay and Lesbian Switchboard's Halloween Ceilidh raised over UKP 600 for funds. Their next big thrash is their Valentines Ball next February. DOON RA WATTER Body Positive Strathclyde are to hold a two day re-union in Millport in February. GUESTS On Xmas Eve, Divine Divas in Edinburgh will admit invited male guests to the normally all women event. VALETE Dr Alan and Senior Nurse Christine Pithie formerly of Gartnavel and Ruchill Hospitals in Glasgow have emigrated to Christchurch, New Zealand. SKIRT The Winter issue of the Tartan Skirt (the magazine of the Scottish Transgender Community) is now out. AYR TODAY A new gay friendly bar is welcoming us in Ayr. Called Wee Windaes, this Scottish Brewers tenancy is hoping to increase its lgbt patronage. SCI-FI Edinburgh's Claremont Bar is holding an Xmas Eve disco party (10pm till 2am) and a no extra charge Champagne Style Hogmanay Glitter Party (10pm till 4am) with 100s of giveaways. JUMP! Body Positive Strathclyde raised UKP 400 from a charity parachute jump at Strathallan airfield. RAINBOW Rainbow Fund, the Johnstone based HIV/AIDS fundraisers netted over UKP 850 from two recent events in Glasgow's Court Bar and Waterloo. AWA' Copy from Derek Ogg, Nessie Lessie and Gus was delayed by the wrong sort of snow. We trust they will be back with us next issue. Granny Spice finally fought through the snowdrifts. Heather White, on the other hand, is in the Mediterranean diving for muffs. --------------------------------------------------------------------- SCOTTISH MEDIA MONITOR ====================== Garry Otton dances on the Church's grave The Herald's poll found 44% of the public thought religion had only "a minor part" to play in their lives. Just 8% of young people said it "was a major part of their lives." With the repeal of Section 28 looming, religionists have had to work fast. What they needed was something to show how the repeal of Section 28 would unleash unconstrained homosexual propaganda on innocent children. Oh, the power of prayer! The Scotsman revealed two Scottish schools buying an education pack "which encourages children as young as 14 to act out homosexual roles in the classroom." Something at last to challenge kids preconceptions of homosexuality? Not a bit of it! The Scotsman's education correspondent, Tom Little wrote: "The pack, which includes a video and costs UKP 35, encourages children to empathise with characters such as a married man who is caught 'cottaging,' a bisexual grandmother and a sado-masochist. In one game pupils are encouraged to play 'Spot the Heterosexual.'" One character in the pack, Karl, advised "Try experimenting with other boys and girls and see who you feel most comfortable with." Tom Little had 'Sexfinder General' Monsignor Tom Connolly of the Catholic Church wheeled out to wag a finger at anyone daring to 'experiment' with their sexuality. Valerie Riches of the right wing family values propaganda machine, Family and Youth Concern, (described in this report as an "independent think-tank)," thought: "This puts concepts and activities into the minds of youngsters they would not normally think about. That is a dangerous thing to do in child as young as 14." (Yes kids do normally think about sex at 14 and no, it is not dangerous for them to discuss it). The Christian Institute was next. Ian Bainbridge of the "charitable research foundation" declared it "one of the worst examples of its kind..." and Brian Monteith, the Conservative's education spokesman declared it "a breach" of Section 28. The Scotsman ought to look more carefully at press releases- and this appalling piece of propaganda extolled by organised religion - before committing to print. And Tom Little should have spent less time on sensation-seeking and more time with his nose in Neil Duncan's study, Sexual Bullying. Duncan found a close link between homophobia and violent attitudes towards women and anyone perceived as vulnerable. Boys who were 'nice' to girls were often perceived as 'gay.' This hard culture does not bode well for boys entering into human relationships of any kind. Despite the fuss, of the 76 education packs sold in England, only two were supposed to have been sold to secondary schools in Scotland: One in Fife and the other in Inverness. Both denied ever having used them. A Highlands Council spokesman said the pack "was inappropriate and schools would be advised not to use it." Muscular Christianity rules OK! In a report in the Sunday Mail the Church was being accused of helping Cliff Richards' ghastly 'Millennium Prayer' to number one in the British charts by buying up stocks and giving them away to churches. The Daily Record smugly concluded, "...When it comes to music, like everything else, the majority is always right." And how far right they are too! The battle over the repeal of Section 28 thundered on in the letters pages. Alisdair C Sampson cried in The Herald: "I have come to the inescapable conclusion that one of the most discriminated against groups in society are people like me- white, heterosexual males... I can say absolutely nothing critical about the views or actions of... those of a sexual orientation which is not of my choosing." Is that right? Well it hasn't stopped George Cooper who lives in Provand Hall Crescent, Baillieston delivering a threat in Glasgow's homophobic Evening Times: "If any of my boys come home from school talking about loving other boys, I will remove the teacher's teeth without anaesthetic." One of the greatest human rights activists of our time Peter Tatchell has been vilified by all sections of the media and even suffered the indignation of a hammering from The Herald columnist, John Macleod for "denying his sexuality" during the Bermondsey by-election. Unlike John Macleod, Peter Tatchell never maligned gays whilst concealing his homosexuality- if that is indeed what he ever did. With Peter's permission I am reproducing his reply that appeared in The Herald's 'Letters to the Editor' page on the same Tuesday Macleod's feature normally appeared: And didn't! "John Macleod should check his facts before making wild, untrue personal attacks (23 November). He is mistaken to accuse me of 'denying' my sexuality during the 1983 Bermondsey by-election. Although I did not discuss my private life with the press, I did speak out for gay equality and I was open about my homosexuality with voters on the doorsteps. It was my honesty that provoked the huge homophobic backlash, which included 2,000 hate letters, 150 assaults and attacks on my home, 30 death threats and a bullet through my door. John is also wrong to claim that OutRage! 'demonstrated' at the Cenotaph. We held a solemn, dignified act of Queer Remembrance in honour of lesbian, gay and bisexual servicepeople who died fighting Nazism, laying wreaths and observing a minute's silence. Our ceremony of remembrance was necessary because the Royal British Legion refuses to acknowledge that an estimated 500,000 homosexuals and bisexuals served in the armed forces from 1939-45, making a significant contribution to the defeat of Hitler. Most members of the public who witnessed our ceremony at the Cenotaph did not find it offensive. They cheered and applauded. It is untrue for John to say that OutRage! 'stalked' President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe. We made a lawful citizen's arrest of Mugabe on charges of torture, citing evidence from Amnesty International. Under British and international law torture is a criminal offence. If General Pinochet can be arrested for torture, then so should President Mugabe. John is further mistaken to state that OutRage! advocates the age of consent being 'lowered to 12.' We have supported an age of consent of 14 for two reasons. First, to reduce the criminalisation of young people involved in consenting sex (14 is now the average age of first sexual experience). Threatening these teenagers with prosecution does not protect them. It is a form of abuse. Second, an age of consent of 14 would lessen the legal obstacles to earlier, more effective sex education in schools. Many teachers are afraid to give explicit advice on contraception and safer sex to youngsters under 16 because they fear prosecution for aiding and abetting unlawful sex. While sexual abuse should be severely punished, there is no ethical justification for the criminalisation of victimless relationships. Our view is shared by the 12 European countries that now have ages of consent of 14 or lower." In fairness to John Macleod, he claimed Peter Tatchell - a member of "the most extreme gay-rights organisation in Britain" - had "stalked Michael Portillo" and "mugged Robert Mugabe." But face it! If anyone stalked Michael Portillo, it was the media. And as for the 'mugging' of Mugabe, Peter risked being shot at by Mugabe's security guards attempting, what was, a lawful citizen's arrest under Section 134 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 that forbids anyone to commit acts of torture. Mugabe has been accused by Amnesty International of appalling acts of censorship, suppression of strikes, peaceful protests and detention without trial. For defending the human rights of others, Peter Tatchell was arrested while Mugabe went shopping in Harrods. The incident brought gay human rights in Africa to the fore. Black lesbians, gays and bisexuals were given the opportunity to raise awareness on Zimbabwean television for the first time and over a hundred reports appeared in the African media. Peter puts into action what sometimes I can't put into words! Unlike John Macleod, Peter does not enjoy the privilege of a regular column in a national newspaper to explain his actions. Neither does he enjoy the support of one either. John Macleod - who has done Jack Shit for gays- ought to be the first to appreciate the endeavours of such a brave man. So too should Graeme Woolaston, eager to pull a few sheets of Wedgwood Basildon Bond to brown-nose the paper that sometimes pays him. "As a contributor to The Herald from an openly gay perspective, on the occasions when it is relevant, can I make it clear to Herald readers that neither Peter Tatchell nor the wholly London-based Outrage! have any mandate whatsoever for their repeated claim to speak for the gay community? On the contrary, most gay men believe that the impact of Tatchell's grossly inflated ego, humourlessness, and total lack of personal charm has significantly held back progress towards greater acceptance of us in public life." You too can express your opinion. No! Don't bother your arse writing to The Herald. Just send a donation to Outrage! PO Box 17816, London. SW14 8WT. The Herald generously threw a whole page open to John Haldane, Professor of Philosophy at St Andrews University to praise Catholicism. "Could it be that the world has gone astray, that Catholicism has held fast to fundamental truths, and that it is now reviled for its steadfastness? What the healthy judges to be right, the fevered and the chilled find to be too hot or too cold." And quite comfortable trashing our lives with his baseless propaganda, he droned: "Not only are basic Catholic ethical positions defensible they are gaining allies among former critics. In the United States and to some extent in Britain there is an emerging appreciation of Catholic moral opposition to sterilisation, abortion, euthanasia, pornography, and promiscuity. Many feminists and other radicals have moved to a more 'conservative' position on sexuality, and there is a growing Gays and Lesbians for Life movement." I eagerly await a whole page on the promotion of gay sex in The Herald. Well... I'm waiting? With the promotion of 'political correctness' by the right wing, the 'militant gay activist' should be making a comeback very soon. Certainly the Scottish Sun was quaking with fear when "army chiefs banned Military Police from patrolling outside Edinburgh Castle..." after gay group Direct Action taped a military policeman suggesting gays should be shot. The crackdown was ordered because top brass "feared militant gay activists" would launch a revenge attack on the Redcaps. An insider told the Scottish Sun: "Somehow the gays also found out where the officer was living... Now he has received personal threats and his family are under army protection." Poor love! Another Military Policeman added: "They are terrified that the MP patrols and the gays might clash, and spark off a war." Move over Chechnya! But while Direct Action had to initiate a "honeytrap" to catch the homophobia, the Scottish Sun just had to send one of its reporters. "We are being made to look like big girls' blouses," the MP gushed. "The bosses want to be seen to be very politically correct over the gays. So this lot who have promised to cause trouble can get away with it." A married woman had to write to Old Mother (Joan) Burnie in the Daily Record to tell her about the gay erotica she found on her husband's PC. Her husband had told her "it was just a laugh and it was good fun to get the gay boys excited by pretending to be as queer as them." She wondered if he might be gay. Errrr? Old Mother Burnie swung into action. "It's perfectly possible he isn't and that his explanation, sick though it may be, is absolutely correct." Yeah...! And the Daily Record's a good read! It is hard to believe that anyone as reactionary as Old Mother Burnie has the credibility to advise anyone as an agony aunt, but the Daily Record are so convinced, they even gave her additional space to attack "a bunch of amoral queers" at the Stonewall Equality Show. "...What on earth is (Posh Spice) doing cosying up to that pathetic old dancing queen Elton John and his kept man? She's a mother isn't she? So you might have thought she would have paused before she posed with a man who thinks it's a gas to present images little short of paedophilia on stage." The Edinburgh matron - thrown out of the Brownies for dirty fingernails - was not amused at a troupe of dancers in Boy Scout's uniforms, stripping down to their underpants on stage. "...Filth," she sniffed. The gay cause had been put back 20 years by Elton's "two-fingered salute to decency." Then she criticised "others" for not attacking this "obscene behaviour" because "it's not PC to criticise homosexuals for anything..." Sorry! That was something I must've missed! garryotton@bigfoot.com For a comprehensive guide of media homophobia in Scotland read the SCOTTISH MEDIA MONITOR website! http://www.bigfoot.com/~scotmedia (c) Garry Otton 1999 ------------------------------------------------------------------- THE NICE BIT ============ Got an E-mail the other day from some friends in Seattle who were at the controversial World Trade Organisation (WTO) conference recently. They belong to a United States group calling themselves 'Queers Against Capitalism'; part of a network of international anarchists that organises direct action over the World Wide Web. They come from a great tradition of bisexuals, lesbians and gays campaigning on the left from LGB Unison Trade Union groups to 'Puffs against the Poll Tax' Stacie, a bisexual woman from 'Queers Against Capitalism' briefly explained what relevance the campaign around the WTO has for all of us. Bisexuals, gay women and men are often regarded as more financially prosperous than straight people in today's Western societies. The Pink Pound is a clever marketing tool used by ad men to sell to the expanding gay market. However, in rich as well as poorer countries, bisexuals, lesbians and gays suffer greatly from poverty and homelessness. A significant minority of those living on the streets of Europe and the United States are gay, for they have been turned away from their family homes because of their sexuality. Gays and straights on the street often turn to drugs or alcohol or even prostitution as a means of escape from their plight. Imagine the situation then if you are gay and poor in the Third (and usually much more homophobic) World. The WTO philosophy is one of free trade. Free trade, they say, benefits countries and by definition, benefits its citizens. But in Africa it has meant that corporations have bought land owned by former peasants and then made the former peasants unemployed. In China, since joining the WTO, massive job cuts have been announced so companies can 'compete'. In Russia, since the end of the Cold War, and the relentless march of free trade, the country has been practically controlled by the new Russian Mafia. And in prosperous Scotland, England, and the rest of 'free' Europe and America there are more homeless people than ever. All bisexuals, lesbians and gays should support those protests and demonstrations against globalisation and capitalism. The massive Third World debt that our governments are refusing to write-off effects everyone in the Third World, not just the heterosexuals. If you wish to support gay rights then you must support those who are gay and in poverty at the hands of free capital. Those that are poor at home and abroad. Queers Against Capitalism isn't just about equality. We are a global network that looks around the world and asks, "Surely things could be organised better for everyone?" Christmas time is at least partly about thinking for others, and I thank Stacie, Bret, Joe, Sally, Stamp and all the others at Queers Against Capitalism for reminding us of that. If you want more information about any of the issues raised, or have any comments to make then E-mail me at the below address and I will pass them on. In the meantime have a great time over the holiday and a peaceful New Year. May all your resolutions come true! Love, Martin Walker mgwuk@hotmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------- FEATURE: Eating Disorder - a way of life? ========================================= I am writing to you with my story concerning an illness I have had most of my life. It is an eating disorder, or some call it bulimia. This illness has dogged me most of my life, and now seems out of control. I have lost the control to stop myself from over-eating and am faced with total disablement through morbid obesity or death from heart failure. It is like a time bomb that is waiting to go off... It started not long after I was sexually abused as a young boy at a school for handicapped children. I found that food was a comfort to me, a sort of consolation, and the cravings grew stronger each time. The need for food to help me through the day became an obsession and took over my life. No food, no quality of life... or so it seemed. The guilt was overwhelming, so I would eat again to stop feeling low or depressed, then the quilt would start again, and so it went on, and still does to this day. For most of my adult life I saw myself as a victim. Conditioned by institutional life, having been hospitalised and schooled from the age of 3 years until the age of 13. I had no decisions over how my life was handled, and even at the age of 13 when I left the residential school, my parents kept me at home to look after my baby brother and keep house. I knew no different. I expected no different. I used to be a laxative addict. I knew, like most bulimics, that laxatives do not really get rid of the food the way we think they do-they just cause more problems in the gut and bowels. Yet they are every bit as addictive as the food we are eating in vast quantities. I took up to 100 laxatives in any one night, and once they had taken effect, the pain would be horrendous in the guts, that I would have to crawl to the loo. This could go on for nearly 3 hours every morning. When I felt that my stomach had calmed down I would starve myself all day, convince myself that I was thinner, then come bedtime I would binge eat until the small hours of the morning... This went on until my GP discovered that I had a severe case of irritable bowel syndrome, probably caused by the laxatives, so I managed to stop taking them. It wasn't easy, but because the pain in my guts was so bad I made myself stop. As a gay man, I reflect on the almost 4 years of sexual abuse and humiliation I endured at the residential school and realise that the eating started so that I would put on weight and be unattractive to the abusers in the hope that they would leave me alone. This, of course, was nonsense, but as a child all manner of thoughts come into your head. Today, at the age of 47, I am just as bad at having a successful relationship as I ever was. I allow myself to be used, letting my boyfriend have sex with other men in my house, on my bed, with the thought that if I let him do this, he will like me more. Pathetic, I know! But when you've been a disappointment to your peers, when you feel that all you want is a little loving, then I believe it is easy to see why I do these things. I know deep down that I have to try harder to respect myself more, because if you don't respect yourself, then no-one else will either. How can I love someone who'd rather have sex with another man in my bedroom? How can I blame him, when I allow it to happen? When does the time come and I say to myself... this has to stop. I have to live my life for me, to help me, to enable me to grow stronger in my belief in myself, to have more confidence, to love myself! Most of this year I have spent in and out of hospital in the hope that I would be eligible for surgery to have my stomach stapled. A newer procedure was applied first by the surgeon. It was called the balloon method. This is where he inserts a balloon into the stomach, inflates it with 17 litres of blue water and you have a full-up feeling and are unable to eat large quantities of food. I was very unlucky, as my body rejected the balloon. I became dehydrated through constant vomiting. I was then informed by the surgeon that I was totally unsuitable for any kind of surgery (stomach stapling) as I had too much surgery previously for other conditions. This has brought me back to square one. Where do I go from here? I am frightened to try again, to go and see another psychologist or psychiatrist as I have seen them off and on since the age of 15. Yet, I know that I have to try, as my quality of life is very poor, my mobility poor, and the physical pain extremely hard to cope with. Life has to be worth saving, even mine... --------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURE: An Unholy Alliance =========================== Feorag NicBhride finds some strange people sharing a duvet. On the evening of Thursday December 2nd, Edinburgh witnessed a dramatic farce. The Scottish Campaign Against Pornography had organised a "Pornfire", as part of an otherwise worthy campaign against violence against women. This was promoted on a poster, complete with City of Edinburgh Council logo, which also announced the 'launch' of the Off The Shelf campaign by Scottish Women Against Pornography. This prompted an open letter from a number of groups and individuals suggesting that this was nothing other than a book-burning, In an attempt to deny this, Councillor Lesley Hinds, convenor of the Women's Committee, told the Edinburgh Evening News: "Scottish Women Against Pornography bought magazines to see what they were like. "They were quite shocked about what they could buy. They discussed what to do with the magazines and thought 'we don't want to keep them'. There will be a small brazier and they are going to burn these magazines, so there is no book-burning at all". She then went on to accuse author Iain Banks, one of the signatories to the letter, of supporting child pornography! (Johnston 1999, p5, col. 5) On the day, the plan to burn the magazines was abandoned and pieces of paper with headlines from girlie magazines and swear words printed on them were burned instead. The anti-porn campaigners tried to pretend that this was their intention all along. Mike Holmes, one of the counter-demonstrators reported: "They stated that they'd taken no Council cash but appeared to concede that the Council had funded promotion of their "Pornfire". They also stated that they had never had any intention of burning pornography, something that's certainly at odds with Councillor Hinds' statement. They claimed that if we'd only contacted them directly they could have told us this... I asked why, since they claimed to have had no intention to burn pornography, they'd called the event a "Pornfire" instead of the more usual word, but this produced only apparent exasperation." (Holmes 1999, lines 97-109) In a prime example of missing the point completely, they thought that the counter-demonstrators were calling them witches because they had brought along a witch-guy carrying a placard quoting Heinrich Heine : "Where they first burn books, they will burn people in the end." Attempts to reassure them that they were not being compared to followers of a contemporary sex-positive nature religion fell on deaf ears- they were too busy interrupting. They persisted with this line insisting to the Evening News that no attempt had been made to contact them directly (The only number on the poster was that of the Council's Equality Unit, who had been contacted for more information), and that the anti-censorship campaigners had given out misinformation about them (Puttick 1999, p3, col.3). They did not complain about Cllr. Hinds for some reason. Scottish Women Against Pornography1# has some very interesting views on women. The women at the demo tried to argue that the women in the publications were in no position to have consented to what they were doing. Having so denied that women are able to make up their own minds about what they want to do, they then asserted that this was even truer for women from ethnic minorities. One of them asked Mike Holmes "What about Asian Babes#? Did they consent?"2 (Holmes 1999. This particular comment was also overheard by this writer). The latest Scottish Women's Action Network newsletter3# (Winter 1999) is a special "Pornography as Violence Against Women" issue and is given over entirely to SWAP. They make their agenda perfectly clear- they want pornography to be defined as something which harms women, using race relations legislation as a model, and allow people "who could prove they were victims of pornography-related harm to take action against pornography manufacturers and distributors. This would ensure tighter controls of the distribution, public display4#, and availability of pornography throughout Scotland" (SWAN, p2). This sounds rather like the "model civil rights ordinance" against pornography put to the legislature in Minneapolis by feminist lawyer Catherine MacKinnon and theorist Andrea Dworkin. Although passed, after a loaded hearing, this law was soon struck down as unconstitutional. The acceptance of such a definition of pornography has badly damaged the civil rights and status of Canadian women especially lesbians (see box out). So why do Scottish Women Against Pornography think Scotland needs this? Their reasoning is vague at best. We are told: "The images themselves are very disturbing. The display of pornography is a pervasive form of sexual harassment. Many women find the display of pornography threatening. Young girls and women grow up surrounded by pornographic images which have a dramatic effect on how they see themselves. We learn to see ourselves as sexual objects, never in control or possession of our own bodies." (SWAN p2-3). Throughout, the distinction between top-shelf publications and illegal child pornography is muddied, and one statement at least harks back to the ritual abuse myth: "Women and children are actively abused during the production of pornographic material" (loc. cit.). Much of it is downright dubious "39% of women report being distressed by their partner asking them to act out scenes from pornography" (loc. cit., emphasis mine). This last statement is accompanied with the only reference in the entire magazine-a vague one to New Scientist which mentions only the publication and the month. As it's a weekly publication this isn't much help, especially as they don't mention page numbers or the title of the article, or the author! Throughout the newsletter, you get the impression that sex is something women don't like, and wouldn't do out of choice. No woman is an exhibitionist, nor are they ever interested in money. The phrase "women and children' is indivisible. Most importantly, women need to be told these things, because we are not capable of working them out for ourselves. A particularly ludicrous claim is that "every serial murderer has used porn to fuel his fantasies as have countless rapists and child abusers" (loc. cit.). In one sentence, these so-called feminists have given rapists an excuse to blame their actions on something other than themselves. They later claim that the porn industry is worth billions, so presumably it's read by a lot of people who are not murderers, rapists or child abusers. Nor do they point out the huge number of such offenders who try to blame God for their deficiencies! Maybe this has something to do with their allies. To further their cause, the "feminist" anti-porn campaigners have forged alliances with religious groups who wish to reduce women's rights. The original Off The Shelf campaign, launched in November 1989, involved not only Clare Short, and the women's groups but the Townswomen's Guild, the Church Army and fundamentalist groups such as the Community Standards Associations and CARE. Community Standards Associations aimed to "promote and explain the positive value of traditional Christian Standards and warn of the consequences of permissive values and practices threatening to take over our culture". To this end, they orchestrated letter-writing campaigns against girlie magazines, sex shops and sex education material, especially anything gay-oriented. They're best known for their actions against films such as the Life of Brian and Caligula, getting them banned in some areas of the UK. CARE stands for "Christian Action Research and Education". This organisation has its origins in a 1971 "Rally Against Permissiveness" in Trafalgar Square. Initially called the "National Festival of Light", it pioneered the use of tactics later used to promote the Satanic Abuse Myth. The group provided resources to oppose pornography and abortion. Local groups of fundamentalists would then distribute the resulting newsletters and pamphlets among the local medical professionals, teachers and social workers. They originally had their own anti-porn campaign, "Picking Up the Pieces", but enthusiastically swapped this for "Off The Shelf". This association is, not surprisingly, somewhat embarrassing to the 'feminist' groups and has often been denied. Catherine Itzen claimed the allegations were simply to discredit her campaign and in her 1992 book Pornography: Women, Violence, and Civil Liberties insisted "no such alliances exist, or have ever been made, either in the USA or the UK". Presumably the joint CAP/CARE 1990 campaign against sex shops in Bristol was a figment of the participants' imaginations and the photographs of Clare Short at a CARE meeting must have been forged by her detractors. The Christians themselves are less ashamed of the association. CARE's Nigel Williams wrote, in 1991, "CARE works very successfully at a national level with groups and members of Parliament who hold very different views on other issues which are important to us". He then explains that these groups would rather keep the relationship secret. Just to make it clear, a list of campaigning groups in the same book includes CAP, and he refers throughout to the anti-pornography campaign, as if it was a united effort. Further confirmation comes from a feminist magazine: "To me, if something is so obvious that people coming from opposite political perspectives can agree on it that would make it particularly strong" (Barbara Rogers quoted by Barbara Norden "Pornography: the Debate Goes On" Everywoman December 1990-January 1991. Cited in Thompson 1994, 231) This is not the first time campaigners for women's rights have linked up with religious extremists to the detriment of women. The early women's rights activists were particularly active in "social purity" movements which sought to deny access to sex education and birth control lest it lead to extra-marital sex. Thompson (1994, 17-21) goes into considerable detail of this sordid episode which reinforced the Victorian stereotypes of womanhood today's anti-porn women seem so keen to uphold. Canadian experience suggests that, even with a so-called feminist law in place, the sexists and homophobes in government, the police and the judiciary will make sure that women and gay men's access to sexual information and their own writing on sex are the only things censored. BOX-OUT: The 'Feminist' Model at work in Canada The situation in Canada, hailed by MacKinnon as a feminist success story, has been nothing of the sort. According to Avedon Carol: " In 1983, the Metropolitan Toronto Task Force on Violence Against Women had asked one of North America's leading feminists, Thelma MacCormack, who had formed the first women's studies programme in existence, to overview the research on pornography for them and attempt to locate a link between pornography and violence. She undertook the study and found no such link; when she reported, her work was suppressed and a new researcher was hired - this time a moral rightist who was happy to give them the answer they wanted. But then Catherine MacKinnon came to Canada to present her view that pornography was degrading to women, in the 1992 Butler case. Largely by exploiting the homophobia of the conservative men in the courts - showing them male homosexual erotic materials - anti-porn women were able to convince the judges that pornography degraded women. (Carol, n.d.)" Even though Canadian law protects materials of artistic or serious intent (no such provision exists in the Dworkin/MacKinnon model), Canada's lesbian, gay and feminist communities soon found themselves besieged. In Ontario, the police have decided that sexual material must include a story line and romance if it is not to be regarded as degrading to women! One Judge, F. C. Hayes, decided that all homosexual material was in itself degrading and dehumanising. When one bookshop brought an harassment case against the government, the raids were extended to include university and radical bookstores in general. One shop found itself subject to raids under this law after it started selling transcripts of a telephone conversation embarrassing to the Canadian government. In an ironic twist, Dworkin's own "Woman Hating" and "Pornography: Men Possessing Women" were seized because they "illegally eroticized pain and bondage". Books by Kathy Acker, Ambrose Bierce, Anne Rice and Oscar Wilde have fallen victim to the law, as have serious works calling for a tougher child abuse laws. The way the law has been applied has attracted comment from many women. Feminist writer Ellen Flanders notes, in her "Ideas-Feminism and Censorship" that "Butler is just about morality. It's morality in the guise of protecting women and children. And who needs the protection of the male patriarchy anyway, of the state?" But what about all the allegedly violent, misogynistic material made for heterosexual men? The authorities have yet to show any interest. (see Strossen 1995, 229-244 for a much more thorough summary) Endnotes 1 The poster referred to "Scottish Campaign Against Pornography" but the Evening News, Councillor Hinds the Scottish Women's Action Newsletter all refer exclusively to "Scottish Women Against Pornography. Perhaps SCAP is SWAP plus Jamie McGrigor, a Tory list MSP for the Highlands and Islands who supported them at the demonstration. 2 "Asian Babes" is a British publication featuring British women. 3 I would like to assure SWAP that my copy is not the copy handed out to one of the male counter-demonstrators on condition he didn't show it to anyone else or copy it. He has kept that promise and my copy comes from elsewhere. 4 Except presumably, when they want to publicly display it to burn it. References and Further Reading Carol, Avedon. 1994. Nudes, Prudes and Attitudes. Pornography and Censorship. Cheltenham, New Clarion Press (Issues on Social Policy Series). Carol, Avedon. n.d. The Harm of Porn: Just Another Excuse to Censor. Essay on the Feminists Against Censorship web site http://www. fiawol.demon.co.uk/FAC/harm.htm. Holmes, Mike. 1999. A Bonfire of Inanities. "Pornfire" Report - Edinburgh, 2nd December 1999. Posted to ed.general, uk.politics.censorship and uk.current-events.censorship 3 Dec 1999 18:06:53 GMT. Johnston, Ian. 1999. "Book-burning sparks city rage", Edinburgh Evening News, Thursday December 2 1999, p5. Puttick, Helen. 1999. "Dirty protest ends in a farce", Edinburgh Evening News, Friday December 3 1999, p3. Strossen, Nadine. 1995. Defending Pornography. Free Speech, Sex and the Fight for Women's Rights. London, Abacus. Thompson, Bill. 1994. Soft Core. Moral Crusades Against Pornography in Britain and America. London. Cassell. The ad-hoc group which protested about the book-burning has its own web site: http://www.cluefactory.org.uk/freespeech/ This article was originally published in the Winter 1999 edition of the Pagan Prattle, a cynical neopagan freesheet with a decidedly queer bent. Copies should have found their way into the Wyrd Shop, 154 Canongate, Edinburgh, and 23 Enigma on Glasgow's High Street by the time you read this. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SCENE REPORTS ============= Dun Eideann/Edinburgh A Cool Yule to all readers from Martin, the Edinburgh Scene's worst nightmare! First things first. You must check out Hot Stuff, AKA the New French Connection. Open until Three from 18th December through to 3rd January 2000, It's a fresh lick of paint for the popular venue. Very much a 70's Disco bar - if that's your (hand)bag check out the line-up. On Wednesdays Divine Titty Galore (she's a Karaoke Madam apparently) is your host. Thursdays sees DJ Venus -the Gay Goddess playing 70's tunes on the decks. On Friday there's more abuse and karaoke with Sheila Blige (is it me or in Sandy getting her nails in everywhere?). Saturday sees Happy Hour from Eight until Nine and then on Sunday its Dance Anthems a-go-go - designed, it says here, to get you going "before your Sunday Clubbing at Night" So where to go clubbing on that now tooled up for Sunday night? Queer Sunday@ Eden is a must on Sunday 19th December. From ten until three the dress code is strictly night-ware with prizes for the best looking pyjamas on a boy and on a girl. Eden is a top club with lots of space and definitely recommended. And what's this? "As She Sees It - Life through the eyes of Drag Diva Sheila Blige" downstairs at twelve thirty. I refer the honourable reader to the comment I made a paragraph ago. Also on Sundays is Tackno at Club Mercado, the place that DJ Trendy Wendy does her unique thang. It ought to be compulsory to mention her in every single scene review, I am one of her many followers. In-fact there was talk of a fan club, but I reckon Wendy is far too shy. Mind you, you can worship with Wendy on Saturday 18th December at the old Mansfield Pace Church AKA Cafe Graffiti. Be there from ten thirty until three and enjoy special guests Sister Susie and Nancy Novice (sounds erm, kinky) Must say hi to Alan Lambie who dances and PRs for ICONS at Mercado. Thanks for the E-mail, Alan. ICONS happens on the first Sunday of each month and the last one on December 5th was apparently a real stormer, although I couldn't make it as I was away from Edinburgh gallivanting at the time. You'll be reading more about ICONS here in 2000. Loads is happening over Christmas and Y2K, but the one-nighters are all straight on December 31st. To see 2000 in 'homo-style' stick to those places that are gay twenty-four seven. Planet Out, CC Blooms, the Fly Bar, the Newtown, the Stag and Turret, the Blue Moon, Nexus, and Hot Stuff will all doubtless be as busy as hell. A busy December too for the (under new management) Townhouse Health Club. For a tenner you get sunbeds, video lounge, steam room, Jacuzzi, sauna cabins and complimentary drinks! Call 0131-556 6116 and let them talk you into a visit. The longer established No.18 Sauna is almost always busy too, mind you. But the consensus seems to be that Edinburgh can easily cope with two venues of this kind. Anyway, have a party at Christmas and a peaceful 2000! Love, Martin Walker mgwuk@hotmail.com --- Glaschu/Glasgow Thanks to all of you who mailed me asking how I am. A lot of you seem to still be under the impression I'm on my death-bed, but the events of last month were all a false alarm. Probably in better condition than I was when I was 18 when I smoked 40 a day, drank like a fish, ate carnivore crap and never took any exercise. Suppose I'd better also be nice to Toerag for the new typeface as a lot of you have said you prefer it and the myopic can actually read my column. Why not just give me 2 pages? (Why don't you just learn to be concise?- Ed.) Have you decided whose pockets you're going to be lining over Hogmanay? Had loads of you moaning about the UKP 20 entry price at both Benetts and The Poo. Don't you people understand the extra costs involved in running licensed premises at this time of year? 1200 tickets at UKP 10 over the odds is only an extra 12 thousand quid to pay for the bar staff and the extra entertainment that will undoubtedly be laid on! No doubt the Benetts and Poo staff are looking forward to bulging wage packets for the evening! Stop moaning-pay up, shut up and dig deep! I'm alright Jack, I've already bought my UKP 10 ticket for the bash down in the GGLC, and happy to do so in the knowledge that UKP 5 goes straight to GGLC funds, and we get a buffet as well! Should be a great night, with a Ceilidh (any excuse for me to wear my kilt), disco by Stu, and a PA from the Reverend KY Jelly. The tickets are going fast, so if you want an affordable Hogmanay piss-up you'd better get one soon. Drinks prices will be as usual - no hiking up the price just 'cos it's New Year. Tickets are also going fast for the Christmas Eve Party - only UKP 5! Had loads of you asking me what's happening on Mondays and Tuesdays with Penelope's closed. Spoke to Greg, who tells me that Penelope's won't re-open till March next year as the damage was worse than first thought. However, there are two new club nights at Planet Peach on Queen Street, both from 11pm till 3am. The Monday do is called PANTS, and there'll be a different name for the Tuesday bash when it starts on 28th Dec. Absolutely the right size for Monday and Tuesday nights, dark and cruisy, and it's got a nice chill out zone away from the dance floor where you can talk to your trade for the night. D.J is Shawn, who tells me that there'll be a few drinks promos too. The music suited the crop-headed disco twinkies happily doing all the STEPS silly dances last time I was down! Definitely a good weekday club night, so pick up a flyer for UKP 2 entry in the pubs. Had to laugh at the bouncers- obviously they realise that 99% of you pansies fit into the Caterpillar boots, white T-shirt, combat trousers and number 1 crop mould, so I got the usual "Do you know what sort of night it is?" when I first turned up! Centurion Health Club weren't too happy about the comments I wrote 2 issues ago, and asked my Small Bald Ginger Editor and myself to visit their premises to pass judgement. The main complaint was always that the place was too cold, but new heating has now been installed, so you shouldn't have any moans about the temperature now. I think Gordon and Alex were a bit surprised that you are all very quick to complain to ME about something when you really should have addressed your complaints to them in the first place (this applies equally to all venues in Glasgow) The place has certainly changed since I was last in, and now boasts private cabins and a darkroom. The cafe which used to be through the back is now by reception, and the general decor has been upgraded. One of Glasgow city centre's straight discos might become a full time 7 days a week LGB venue. I suspect that many of the straight discos are worried about the impact of the new Destiny Nightclub and are looking at other options. Must make it clear that this is only a possibility and I'll give more details if anything comes of it. I had loads of you coming up to say hello during the GGLC open day. Thanks for all the nice comments about the mag - nice to know you all love it so much!! Never knew I was so FAMOUS - you all obviously recognise me easily enough!! The open day was attended by Elaine C Smith, a very funny lady who cut the ribbon, blew out the candles and promptly set off the smoke alarms! The Cafe-Bar was busy all afternoon, with all tables taken and many of the sports and social groups had their own stalls, so hopefully you all had a chance to find out more about the ones you're interested in. They put MY stall opposite the toilets - trying to imply something about me, eh? I had a moan at Sadie's last month regarding the large number of complaints I'd had recently about them. Three months ago they were a popular venue attracting no adverse criticism. Now they're attracting even fewer votes than DELS!!. Get your shit together guys-we're getting deservedly pissed off with the crap service, and tatty decor. At least the place has been painted but the fridges are still fucked after many weeks. I can't believe how far and fast this place has gone down the pan!. Get the place sorted out, or just kiss it all goodbye - the scene awaits your response. (I think we can safely add Sadies to the list of places I'm currently barred from!!) Now the Pub and Club Awards as voted on by you lot. Had a few comments from some of you about the forthcoming Boyz awards, and whether the voting forms will be removed in certain venues. I wonder why. Also had a few of you asking why the editor of Boyz never mentions his long-distance lover by name, only saying that he lives hundreds of miles from London and is a well built guy - Now who could that be? Best Pub was The Waterloo, worst was Sadie's - no votes at all. Best Club Night was Trade, and Best Nightclub was Benetts. Jo, Alison, Betty and the rest of the crew down at the Waterloo won Best Service, with Sadie's coming last at no votes at all. Keep those votes coming - they're the kick up the arse that certain venues need! While I'm on the subject, I'd better point out that although the Court Bar is a small venue, it consistently attracts a very respectable number of votes for Best Pub and Best Service. I can also recommend the music - who says the 70s was the decade with no taste? All good stuff - keep it up! Austin's has got another set of doors installed to cut down the noise, so hopefully they will soon be able to re-start the entertainment which you are all missing so badly. Had LOADS of you saying how much you miss the good old days up in Hope Street with Betty B, Jason, Chris and Robert and May Miller doing their stuff.. Glasgow is crying out for a good LGB cabaret bar, so here's hoping Austin's can re-invent itself down in Miller Street. I hear that the Townhouse Health Club in Edinburgh has been eagerly awaiting my first visit. Haven't forgotten guys, will be through shortly to see what all the Glasgow scene are so excited about. Robin in Clone Zone tells me that the return to Virginia Street is going to be even more delayed, and now looks like being September next year. For those of you who've not been in to the GGLC unit recently, it's been extended to provide a bigger selection of toys and stuff. The GGLC Cafe will be open on 1st Jan from 8pm, and entry is free if you're feeling a bit poor after paying the rip-off prices from the previous night in certain other places! Walter (Auntie Wilma) is D.J. All the GGLC Karaoke MCs will also be in the Cafe/Bar on 30th Dec - Francine, Ricky and Betty B together - should be a laugh with the 3 of them screaming their tits off and fighting over the microphone!! If you've got any mental health problems, get in touch with PINK PSYCHE on 0141-400 7203 - I hardly need add that this is a confidential service. Found a great website for lovers of long-haired guys http://www.homestead.com/longhairedmen/index.html - obviously I'm in my element, although I don't suppose you crop-headed boring shits will like it! May Harold should soon be joining the Tuesday Club down at The GGLC along with Sarah Douglas. And for those of you who like a bit of Country and Western, Sarah's mum also does an occasional stint which goes down well with all the "Yee - Haa" fans. Finally, what do you think our chances are of more LGBT equality and the repeal of Section 28 in the New Year? Don't hold your breath for any progress from Tony Blair and the family values party. Still, I suppose they've got other priorities in a week which saw Linda Mulvihill kill herself and her 2 kids, 13 year old James Sutton becoming a father of twins, Women's Aid revealing that 1 in 4 women suffer domestic violence, a father ending up in court for assaulting his 14 year old son who refused to hand over the money from his paper round, a 5 year old girl being taken in to care after her drug addict father was arrested, the discovery of a 3 year old dealing drugs while her parents supervised, 4 pupils being shot in America by a 13 year old - "He comes from a really good family", Bolton footballer Dean Holdsworth being placed on probation for assaulting his wife, an unnamed 14 year old girl who killed her new-born child, and Duncan West inflicting 96 fatal injuries on his girlfriend with a knife, hammer and pruning shears. Family values - don't you just LOVE them? Love, Goldilocks E-mail: - webmistress@gay-glasgow.co.uk Webs(h)ite:- http://www.gay-glasgow.co.uk/ --- Dun-deagh/Dundee One of the most successful fashion shows ever to be held in Dundee was organised by Body Positive Tayside. In recognition of World Aids Day, the event at the Maryatt Hall featured fashion with some spectacular dance routines. A considerable number of gay men featured as models (what's new?). A Glasgow student on placement to BP Tayside co-ordinated the event and in her closing speech she apologised that the show was not of the same standard as seen in Milan. Yeah, we all thought Dundee was better! Full marks to all who took part. No marks to the city's gay venues which didn't and less than full marks to Brannigans for making the thirsty audience wait for a drink at the after show party. Also feeling a little thirsty is one young man previously referred to as Nathan and more recently Spike in this column. Apparently he threatened a barmaid of Charlie's with a glass and having done this to the boss at the other place. has been barred from both premises. Nathan has been seen more often in the city cruising areas and will be, until Charlie gets frisky again! Panto season continues at Liberty with the chief dame undoubtedly being Clive James' bit on the side Margarita Pracatan. Some of the less streetwise audience thought it was a drag queen. her show certainly did not drag as she launched in to 'favourites' such as Fame, La Vida Loca and Lionel Ritche's Hello. Some of the songs were only recognisable after two verses as she doesn't worry about getting the words or, indeed, the tunes correct. The night was billed as a personal audience with Margarita and the audience was invited to ask her questions through the Masturbator of Ceremonies. Ms. Pracatan finished off her show with New York New York, where she now lives. Presented with a bouquet, she held a champagne reception in the green room, signed autographs and met some of the audience. An amazing lady who appeared to enjoy her vocation and was pleased to announce she had received an award on Clive James' next show for singing badly - they clearly haven't heard Jack McKay! Failing to get the crowd on her side was TV star Rhona Cameron. The poor girl was heckled from the start by a big heffer fae Kirriemuir and a wanker who once holidayed in New Zealand. She should have coped but didn't. Was it that she was distracted by the appearance of Sue (of Mel and Sue fame) who was, we later learnt, in the club in disguise. The disguise did not fool Security Lass Sarah who was most moist! Bar XS is two years old shortly and the birthday party invite seems to have been lost in the post. No doubt the night will attract those who normally drink in the other venue as we Dundonians are always willing to attend when there is the chance of something for nothing. Congratulations on your birthday and dealing with new competition since Devas was taken over. Speaking of Devas, we hear c0mplaints that the chosen few are not having to pay for their mixers in the spirits. Apparently if your face fits you pay a different price. Does the proprietor know? Well he does now! Liberty is open till 3.30 most Saturdays now, and till 4.30 am on Christmas Eve and Hogmanay. Chris tells me they have some tickets left for Christmas Eve at UKP 10, which gives free entry on Christmas Day night as well. Hogmanay promises to be special with a guest spot by Radio Tay's Mickey Gavin at their Glitz and Glitter ball. The UKP 20 ticket price might be reasonable seeing as it also includes free entry to the club on the first Friday on January and an invite to the 5th birthday bash. It can't be five years since we stopped going to sleazy Oscars with its sleepy DJ and the sicky carpet. Charlie's offering free entry every night but don't seem to be open on Christmas Day or New Year's Day - phone to check. Here's hoping next year brings you everything you wish for, especially some less-tight denims for Chris at Liberty! Liquid Silk aka Santa Claws. --- Moireibh/Moray Merry Christmas folks! Not a very original beginning but topical none the less. I have just come off the phone from several people who really should be 'in the know' but unfortunately it still looks like this column is going to be pretty skinny. I'll just have to pad it out with talk of how I almost literally bumped my car into (the gorgeous) Ali McCoist whilst driving through Glasgow today. It wasn't my fault, however, as cute as he may be he really shouldn't have been on his mobile while driving his bright yellow VW. He was very charming when he realised that he had almost cut me up and gave me a friendly wave. I'd have got him to autograph me if I had had time to run along the road during rush hour. Not learning a lesson from his narrow scrape, however, (clearly not his first as he had a big crack in his windscreen) he still buggered off through a red light! OK enough padding, back to the job in hand. (Oh, please). Well the Moray Christmas do was held last night (the 8th) in the Park House Hotel in Elgin. A modest turn out enjoyed plentiful food, plentiful drink and several versions of a steak sauce (Chef's special?). The annual frolics of a raffle and sweepstake were thrown in for good measure. The music was supplied courtesy of Paul and DJ David, who was thought to be mixing the music in his own unique way until it was discovered that the CD deck was actually faulty! Still much dancing was had including a very successful version of 'musical statues' which was won by Carol-Anne, much to the annoyance of Charlie who always seems to win something at these events. A special mention also goes to Fran from Giles Cafe Bar who also showed her particular skills on the dance floor. Talking of Carol-Anne, I am tipped off from a reliable (!) source that this young lady was up for a threesome...with our Donald and Charlie! Now that challenge would have kept her perplexed 'for the next thousand years. Onto other news, as I mentioned in last months column 'Health Promotions' had a stand set up for World Aids Day in their offices in Elgin in which the public can get more information on the subject and speak to people who can educate and advise. All very helpful especially in this 'little town'. That old trollop Sister Bobby and her posse-Novice Brother Bimbo del Doppio Senso, Sister Athletica de la Bain and Sister Ovina Fornicata (who, incidentally, should be re-named Jesus after rising once again from the dead) graced the Aberdeen event 'When Tribes Walked' a couple of weekends ago. I'm not actually sure if John Hein should be thanked or locked up for transporting that lot up from Edinburgh to terrorise the Granite City, but they did raise a donation for Milestone House, an HIV and Aids hospice in Edinburgh, so forgiveness must be granted. Definite thanks are given to Alan Morrison whose brainchild the 'Tribes' event was and it is just a pity that more of the Community weren't there to enjoy it. Well that's almost it for this month, but don't forget that Moray LGB Switchboard is there on Thursdays and Fridays and quick thanks go to Bobby for getting ScotsGay magazine distributed around here and giving me another job of delivering the Inverness batch up to Reachout Highland! As if I don't have enough to do... like going wild at Steps in Glasgow for example. I make no apologies for loving this group, especially Lee (the dark haired one) and we gave them a run for their money with the dancing! Certainly not a 'Tragedy' and definitely not 'Better Best Forgotten'! Right that's definitely it now, I'm off to dream about getting banged by Ali McCoist... take care, season's greetings, have a fab 'n' memorable Hogmanay and make the most of every minute! Dr Kenniff ----------------------------------------------------------------------- LETTERS ======= PO Box 91, INVERNESS IV2 7GJ. E-mail: High_Les@bigfoot.com Dear ScotsGay, TIFFETTE As reported earlier this year, Highland Lesbian Group and Reach Out Highland were attempting to work together in a closer relationship. In mid September this relationship was permanently curtailed by the lesbian group for a number of reasons - one being an informal and inappropriate approach to the group during a group meeting at Reach Out Highland's premises by a man attempting to join the lesbian group, and the subsequent failure of Reach Out Highland to understand the lesbian group's position on this. Reach Out Highland also failed to open up the premises for lesbian meetings on numerous occasions, and despite apologies and assurances from them this continued to happen. Today (Dec 1) we received an envelope from Reach Out Highland containing no note of apology or explanation, but two letters from isolated women in the Highlands who had tried to contact the lesbian group through a Reach Out Highland address - the letters were both postmarked June and one of them had also been opened in error by someone. A five month delay in forwarding of letters like this is totally unacceptable. We would like to make it clear that we have always had our own address and that this is the address which should be used by women wishing to contact the group - PO Box 91, INVERNESS IV2 7GJ. The Reach Out Highland address or addresses used by other groups there, are not secure for women wishing to contact our group. Highland Lesbian Group --- Name and address supplied Dear ScotsGay, DUNDEE Investigation is undergoing regarding an incident within "Liberty", but this has not involved "made up" "complaints against the venue and its owner" in any way shape or form, neither is it based on my being "refused a job". I cannot comment on the incident at this time, however I can comment that I have not "sent" anything "off to Tayside Polis" with regard to the "venue" or "its owner" now or in the past - Please either retract this statement or apologise, as Liquid Silk has been given false information from a misinformed source. Yours, "woman who was refused a job at Liberty" --- AN OPEN LETTER TO THE PINK PAPER FROM ZIMBABWE The article "Gays attacked in Zimbabwe after Outrage! stunt" (Pink Paper, 12 November) dangerously misrepresents the situation in Zimbabwe. There was a single incident involving attacks on two gay men, not "a number of gay men". It was isolated and not part of "a series of attacks", as the Pink Paper claims. The statement that "there were other reports of attacks on gay men by the police across Zimbabwe" is a total fabrication. Furthermore, nobody was "sexually assaulted". The "damage" to the lesbian and gay community in this country stems directly from President Mugabe's anti-gay rhetoric. The blame for anti-gay violence must rest squarely on the shoulders of Mugabe, not on the independent actions of foreign groups such as Outrage! Human rights defenders tire of being blamed for violence which they have not committed. The Outrage! citizen's arrest has succesully highlighted the human rights abuses of the Mugabe regime. The President's cage was seriously rattled and he is still smarting with indignation. His subsequent rantings that it was a plot orchestrated by "Gay Gangster" Blair and MI5 have been met with scorn and ridicule. The Outrage! protest has led to a number of positive outcomes. Zimbabwe Television (ZTV) is inviting representatives from GALZ to appear as panelists on a discussion programme. This is a first, and a major opportunity for us to be heard. The invitation comes in direct response to the Outrage! citizen's arrest of Mugabe. All the newspapers here, even the state-controlled media, are now falling over themselves to print our stories. We are being heard for the first time. In total, since Sunday 31st October, GALZ has collected over 100 newspaper articles on the subject of lesbian and gay issues and the Outrage! protest in London. Outrage! has strengthened out credibility within the general human rights movement in Zimbabwe by mentioning the torture of journalists and the genocide in Matabeleland. Publicity is our best weapon. The recent limelight comes directly in the wake of the Outrage! citizen's arrest of the President and, for that, we thank Peter Tatchell and his Outrage! crew. Yours sincerely Keith Goddard Programmes manager, GALZ. The Pink Paper has refused to print this letter in full. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ SCOTSGAY VOICE FOR 1-2-1 To reply to ScotsGay Voice Ads, phone 09068 556613 (calls charged at 60p per minute) and use the number at the end of the ad. You can leave your own ad FREE on FREEphone 0800 138 4121. Edinburgh Spaniard 40 year old Spanish Bisexual from Edinburgh is seeking 18-22 year old for holidays, flat-sharing, sports etc.. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 2747. TV in Glasgow? Robert. 40 years old, 6' tall, well-built guy from Glasgow. Seeking attractive TV for sexy fun. All calls answered. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 2748. Football & CP Football and corporal punishment anyone? Clean, healthy and hygienic Glasgow guy has a fantastic collection of football socks. Also enjoys being punished. Experienced or not - give him a ring! Phone 09068 556613 - Number 2751. A Rėle In The Tay? 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As box number holders are unlikely to have access to e-mail, please include your name and address so that they can get back to you! And remember to include the box number that you're replying to clearly on each reply. By snail mail: Just pop your reply in an envelope with the box number written in the TOP RIGHT corner and place the envelope with your reply inside another envelope with two loose first class stamps. If you are writing from outside the UK, an International Reply Coupon (IRC) should be enclosed for each reply instead of postage stamps. International Reply Coupons are available from most Post Offices throughout the world. We are unable to send on replies without postage stamps or IRCs. Send all replies to: ScotsGay Magazine, PO Box 666, Edinburgh. EH7 5YW. To place a Contact Ad: Write to the above address enclosing your advertisement copy. Ads are FREE of charge to the advertiser. Or you can send them by e-mail to scotsgay@drink.demon.co.uk ***Women Just Landed! 22 year old femme lesbian just back in the UK seeks new pals in Edinburgh/Glasgow areas for fun and good times. Possible relationship with that special someone. Box SG31006. ***Men Very Sexy Masculine Male Hi, I'm looking to share a free weekend with another sexy male. You must be good looking and below 40 with a well endowed disposition. I'm 6ft with angular features, attractive, slim and reasonably muscular. You must love to club - contact me let's have fun. Tayside or close by. Box SG31007. Masculine Gay Guy I'm a 32 year old, 5'10" - straight acting/looking masculine guy from Glasgow. Good body, work out regularly - you won't be disappointed. Seeking similar - for good times ages between 30-50. Can accommodate/travel. Box SG31008. Christmas Fairy Wanted 40 year old Edinburgh guy would like a young Christmas Fairy to put on top of his pole over the festive season. Box SG31009. 20 Year Old Guy Young guy seeking similar in Edinburgh, for friendship, and hopefully more. Any younger guys welcome. Box SG31010. Electronics Guy Needs That Vital Spark!! Hi, 25 year old recently out first-time college student wishes to meet similar guy under 25 from Dunfermline/Fife/Central area for friendship and fun. Well built, tall, dark hair, lovely blue eyes and smile (apparently!!), charismatic, romantic, and intelligent. Looking for someone with dark hair and brown eyes (but not essential), a casual neat appearance would be great as would a good personality. Hope to hear from a guy who can share with me the good things about being gay, please write or E-mail me on allister555@fcmail. com and I shall reply promptly to you. I've no interest in S&M type fun, nor drama queens or time-wasters. Box SG31011. Daddy Seeks son or nephew. 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I come from Falkirk. Box SG31034. Wanted: One Very Handsome Curious Lover Age up to 40 - for very private affair - no kinks, no games. A bit mad, intelligent, daft, Scotland North. Oh yes: The Arts and things. Box SG31035. Are You Male? Got Legs And Bits? You could be a soldier, a sailor or a navvy, sparky, unemployed, rich or poor, plumber, odd job man, farmer, MALE, late 20's - early 40's in the Highlands?? You'll do! Box SG31036. Wanted: Indians - Asians Contacts, information - Asian guys in Scotland. Box SG31037. Paisley Area Offbeat, intelligent, 44 year old, 5'11", slim, into sci-fi, music, gay vids, walking the dog, WLTM sympathetic (Skinny?) younger guy in need of a cuddle. Can accommodate. Box SG31038. Deserted At Xmas? Edinburgh: small, hairy, Santa Claus type bear offers to share his large double bed at Xmas with lonely young guy. ALAWP. Phone or E-mail helps. Box SG31039. Edinburgh - Fife - Glasgow Are you an intelligent gay guy with few hang-ups but a zest for living and fun who would like to be my friend - maybe more? I'm 37, professional, slim, romantic, tactile, sensitive and GSOH. ALA. Box SG31040. Big Bellied Adventure Slim, tall, cropped, 37, safe, sane and ticklish, seeks well proportioned big, bulky, confident, happy man for ample bellied fun. Cropped men in possession of swagger and poise welcome. Box SG31041. Three's Company: Glasgow - Anywhere Two genuine, friendly guys (both 36), not bad looks, seek similar guy(s) under 40 for no strings fun and hopefully friendship. Discretion assured. CT/A. Box SG31042. Fife - Edinburgh - Lothian Genuine 30 year old, looks younger, fit GSOH, seeks similar guys for fun and friendship, maybe more. Photo ensures reply. Can accommodate or travel. Box SG31043. Edinburgh NSc, 26, 6', VGL, SA/SL, dark, horny, fun, needs lover 20-40, solid, sorted, sexy, active, WE, hairy a plus, for heat and passion, nothing short of wicked. ALA. Box SG31044. Sincere Genuine Friends 31, slim, sincere guy seeks man who is looking for genuine friendship leading to possible 1-2-1 in Glasgow, Edinburgh and surrounding area up to age 50. ALA. Box SG31045. Glasgow - West Coast Slim, 27, VGL professional male, seeks slim young guy for socialising, conversation, company and shagging up to and on 2000, maybe beyond? Your photo gets mine. Box SG31046. Glasgow Handsome, 33, SA/L, dark hair, 5'10"/11", fit, NSm, seeks similar, manly guy about 25-40 who may enjoy hill walking or other sports and preferably NSc. Glasgow, Edinburgh, Scotland. Photo? Thanks. Box SG31047. Edinburgh Mature male, 50's, slim, fit, will physically pamper smooth 18-30 bi or gay, any nationality, who would like to relax. Regret cannot accommodate or travel far. ALA. NSc. Box SG31048. Your Wish Is My Command 38 year old Fife guy - up for anything - seeks slim/skinny guys/couples for no strings fun. Your place or mine. I'm S/L, S/A, non scene and very versatile. ALA. Box SG31049. Seeking Strict 50+ Slim, hairless, naughty schoolboy, 29, seeks daddy/headmaster 50+. I am polite, reliable, enjoy short trousers, spanking, nappies. Discretion assured. Occasional meetings, no strings. East Scotland or anywhere. Box SG31050. Edinburgh - Glasgow Straight acting male, 31, tall, fit, strong and well built, WLTM similarly straight acting well built men, preferably very hairy and stocky, chubbies welcome. No slim pretty boys, please! Photo ensures reply. Box SG31052. True Romance Peaceful soul, 34, nice looks, likes ice cream, stormy weather, hugs and happy people, seeks honest masculine guy for togetherness and fun. Genuine and easy going. Fife, Edinburgh, 26-40. Box SG31053. Any Hirsute Guys Out There? Edinburgh guy, 39, average height, build, weight and looks with brown eyes, hair and goatee WLTM SA, SL, NSm very hairy slim-muscular masculine male 25-45 for fun times - maybe more. Box SG31054. Central Or Remote Uncle/nephew 48/18, both open minded and versatile, seek third young guy, under 33, for friendship, oriental, Asian or white, should be passive or versatile, Shyness a bonus. ALA. Box SG31055. Mutual DIY - Oral - Discreet? Glasgow male, 39, attractive, straight acting, non scene, well endowed, slim/medium build, 5'7", WLTM N/S, S/A, guy 28-42 for mutual DIY/oral fun/friendship. Can be discreet. Can't accommodate. Box SG31056. Edinburgh Skinhead 34, zero crop into skin gear, DM's, braces, Fred Perry, combats, rubber, etc, want to meet guys into gob, w/s and used gear for hot wet fun. Phone number for quick reply. Box SG31057. Submissive Weightlifter 38, 15 stones, some experience, seeks strict master for retraining. Photo please. Central Scotland, anywhere. Box SG31058. Young Guy Wanted I'm 42, and into lots of anorakish interests like railways, Ham radio, communications, telephone collecting, 78's. Are there any young (under 26) guys around who share similar interests and like older guys? Box SG31059. Fun and friendship? I'm 32, 5'8", 10.5 st, good body, clean-shaven, VWE, seeking slim man (18-30). Shy guys welcome! I can accommodate (Central Glasgow. E-mail: stresa@compuserve.com or write: Box SG31061. Edinburgh - Lothians Fit 49 year old man enjoys cinema, theatre, the outdoors, seeks similar males, 30-50 for friendship. Bald and/or bearded men a bonus. Regret I can't accommodate. ALA. Box SG31062. Glasgow - West Coast Slim, 27, VGL, professional male, seeks slim young guy, passive and under-endowed preferred, for noisy nights out, steamy nights in sort of thing. Genuine replies only, please. Box SG31063. Stirling 40something guy with flat near to the University offers off campus fun to young undergraduates who are looking for total discretion. Box SG31064. Glasgow Guy WE looking for similar for uncomplicated 'O' level fun. Box SG31065. Edinburgh 45 year old, WE, hairy, Asian guy seeks afternoon fun. Age/race not important. Versatile. Cannot travel or accommodate. Central Edinburgh only. Total discretion assured. Box SG31066. Edinburgh - Central Scotland Small, extremely hairy bear seeks young smooth cub for cuddles and maybe more. Your cave or mine. Box SG31067. Non Scene Young Guy Wanted Are you totally non scene? More at home with your straight friends but still needing a bit of discreet gay company when it matters most? Why not get in touch with this understanding guy (40) for a bit of fun and friendship. Write fully. Photo (and/or E-mail) helps but not essential. Non smoker preferred. Box SG31068. A Bear Isn't Just For Xmas! You may get stuck with him until Hogmanay! Seasonall bear hugs offered to cubs in the Edinburgh area. Woof! Box SG31069. ***Bisexual Edinburgh - Glasgow - Anywhere Considerate first time safe experience offered to young, smooth, bi or bi-curious guy by older, experienced, versatile and considerate man. Can accommodate or will travel. Daytime, evening or overnight. Photo appreciated but not essential. Total discretion assured. Box SG31005. Daytime Fun Offered to bi or bi-curious student types looking to experiment with older guy (in late forties) in seclusion of self contained flat. I have both gay and straight porn. Box SG31017. Bi Male Seeks Couple In Glasgow Bi male, 40's, 6', seeks m/f couple, bi or bi-curious male, to explore possibilities and fantasies. I am clean, discreet, caring but can be dom. Sorry, can't accommodate. ALA. Any age. Box SG31051. ***Straight Stirling - Edinburgh Straight guy, 30, hard working and happy with life. WLTM straight or bi female, must have a sense of humour! ALAWP. Box SG31002. ***Friends Abroad Miami Beach - USA Mature, educated Latin man, 51, tall, European, ISO special friend. No drugs, no piercings, no tattoos. Like to travel, history, geography. You must be 35+. Photo appreciated. Write: Juan, 1455 West Avenue, #901, Miami Beach, Florida 33138, USA. Ukraine Hi, me call Secriy. I live on Ukraine in City Kharkov. To me is casual in hands your magazine it simply remarkable has got. After I have read it one time was not separated at all from it. As you already have understood I gay. At us very difficulty to find. To itself of the friend. Therefore as at us it is a shame. Me even beat for that I gay. And I have decided to try happiness and to write the announcement in your magazine. There can be someone I will respond also I shall find to myself the friend. And if you can that please print mine announcement. To me 18 years. I student. I love sports, to listen to good music, nature, your magazine and all world. PS I want much to not be happy and to be divided by it with the friend each minute. Box SG31001. USA I visited the UK in last week of October and first week of November '99. I was in London, and was supposed to visit Ireland, (Northern & Republic) (hope that does not offend anyone) and visited Scotland, Newcastle, York, and Manchester. I met some nice local guys and had a great time. If you would be interested in meeting this Texan "Yank" from West Hollywood California, please get in touch so we can set up a meeting time and place if you might be coming to America. I'll show you the places to go and things to do in my area, clubs, restaurants, and other venues (gay and non-gay) you would want to see and do. Thank you very much for your time and effort, I look forward to meeting you personally. Jess Kalinowsky, West Hollywood, CA 90069, USA. WWW:http://home.earthlink.net/~friendstravl/E-mail: friendstravl@earthlink.net USA I am looking for a young (18-22) flat mate. RENT FREE! to share my 2 bedroom apartment (flat) in Philadelphia, Pa USA. Your own bedroom. No strings!! Check out my page. WWW: http://www.angelfire.com/pa3/joeyspace or E-mail: jem317@worldnet.att.net ***Looking For Bisexual 'Nerdy' Type You answered my ad. You: bearded, bi, Christian. We met Bookshop in George St. I had cold. Get in touch please - I lost your address. Me: also bearded. Box SG31060. ***Accommodation Required Inverness 20 miles radius Inverness. Mature guy, 2 dogs, needs accommodation. Long term. Anything considered. Prefer rural. Box SG31003 or phone Farr (01808) 521489. ***Jobs Offered Cash For Your Body Photogenic guys can earn UKP 75 cash - or UKP 100 with chest and arm definition - posing for Mike Arlen who has had 13 glossy magazines published called Mike Arlen's Guys. Send snapshots of your magnificent body to him: Mike Arlen, Wetherby Studios, 23 Wetherby Mansions, Earls Court Square, London. SW5 9BH or Phone: 020-7373 1107. Models Wanted Previously published photographer needs good looking guys (18-25) who want to earn UKP 20 per hour for publication work. For details please phone Stuart on 0141-636 6556 (No withheld numbers please) or E-mail budgie@shaws.u-net.com ***Services CAFFMOS Contacts and friendships for men over sixty. The organisation for the more mature gentleman and his admirers. Write to: CAFFMOS, PO Box 2273, Hove. BN3 2GF. Or phone Hove (01273) 220995 for information. Contact Mag Contact Mag for adults: over 900 photos. Approval copy from: Matchmaker (K38), Chorley, PR7 4BS. Or ring 01257 483335 (24 hours). Free TV/TS News A Tranny not for profit newsletter. Views, news, venues and free personal adverts. A5 sae: BM Box 2534, London. WC1N 3XX. Golden Wheel Seeking discreet gay or bisexual new friends, male or female? Long standing service, all areas and worldwide. Send stamp for details to: (Sadie), The Golden Wheel, Liverpool. L15 3HT. Interior Design Interior design can be affordable. Beautiful curtains, stunning rooms created to order. Huge selection of fabrics available, rooms created to your specifications. Business enquiries welcome. Phone: Douglas on FREEPHONE 0800 980 2275. International Pen Friends Would you like to correspond with gay men all over the world? It is possible through INTERGAY, an international gay pen club. For info, write to: INTERGAY, Voorstraat 12-A, 4033 AD, Lienden, The Netherlands. Internet Porn Fed up clicking through endless sites looking for all the best porn, only to find yet another dead link or rip-off site?. Don't waste any more time and money - get my list of all the best FREE hardcore sites. No rubbish! No scams! No rip-offs! All sites TOTALLY free, and no credit card required. For my comprehensive listing of the web's best HARDCORE porno, send cheque/PO for UKP 9.95. Money back if not totally satisfied!! Box SG31004. Make The Most Of Your Garden This Year Personal touch landscape design and planting services - serving the entire central belt. Let me deliver a personal design solution to your garden from design to completion. All tasks considered and estimated for, first consultation offers free advice and no obligation. Phone 07970 421153. Worldwide Penfriends Regular lists. Make friends, exchange holidays, improve your languages. For general and music lovers' lists send UKP 3: "The Penpal List", c/o 221B Merton Road, South-fields, London. SW18 5EE. ***Back Rubs Back Rub Plus For the new millennium, prices reduced!! Mention this advert for discounts. Unhurried service from well built guys. Call Mike or Chick. Phone 0141-889 1764. Edinburgh Therapeutic massage/touch therapy for men and women. UKP 20 per session. John. 0131-467 7312. Please note, this is NOT a sexual service! Edinburgh - Glasgow - New Lad Good-looking, WE, fit and horny lad. Friendly, discreet and uninhibited versatile fun/games, escort, professional massage services. Enjoy yourself with Jason 07974 525758. Out calls. Evening and weekends. Massage For Men Great relaxing sensual pampering by qualified genuinely caring masseur. 1 hour full body session UKP 15 - includes soothing candles, music, warm towels, shower, refreshments. Exceptionally good value. Jim. Phone 0131-556 7199. Public School Rugby Type Escort Well educated, discreet, bi-guy, 5'10", dark, muscular, offers a personal escort service, alone or with partner to genuine callers. Southern Scotland and Borders. Aromatherapy massage and games upon request. Phone: Chris on 0700 682970. ***Where to Stay Don't Pay Inflated Taxi Fares This Hogmanay, if you are in Glasgow City Centre for the celebrations, why not make the most of it and stay in town? Double room available: 31st, 1st, 2nd. City Centre location. UKP 15pppn inc Continental Breakfast. Call Steve on 0141-564 3741 or E-mail: bananabendingco@planetout.com Gay Friendly Guest House - Edinburgh Run by gays with a mixed clientele. We are situated 1 1/2 miles from Princes Street and most tourist attractions. We have a full Scottish and continental breakfast menu. All rooms have a refreshment tray and cable TV. We have en- suite and basic rooms available to suit both budgets. A warm welcome awaits you at the Alexander. For more information, phone Glenn or Alex on 0131-624 4028. Fax: 0131-477 1246. Or E-mail alexander@guest68.freeserve.co.uk North East Scotland Farmhouse Retreat-Bed & Breakfast Gay, non-scene, rustic, remote, private, warm relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy that extra special break you really need. Treat yourself. Discretion assured service. Details and other information: phone 01261 851154. Sutherland On A9 to Wick, B&B. Roadside. 60 miles from Inverness. Double or single. Phone: Helmsdale (01431) 821570. Tayside B&B Gay friendly B&B, riverside setting, Strathtay, 30 miles North of Perth. Double or single. STB Four Stars. Own trout fishing available. Phone Richard on 01887 820944. The Maltings Bed & Breakfast Small guest flat double room. Friendly Service. Homely atmosphere. Midway between Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen. Phone: Peter on 01674 674148 or mobile 0831 438999. USA One Bedroom Condo, Los Angeles, California available for vacation rental. Located in West Hollywood, Walking distance to clubs, restaurants, bars, gym. Fully furnished, all new and updated, linens, etc. $650 per week. If interested phone Michael at 00 1 714-381-5855, or write to Michael Winston, 8577 Rugby Drive #202, West Hollywood, CA 90069, or E-mail LagunaGuy9@aol.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------- VENUES ====== ABERDEEN ABERDEEN WOMEN'S CENTRE Shoe Lane, off Queen Street. Tel: (01224) 625010. Fax: 01224 625777. Tue-Thu 10am-2pm. Where the women hang out. Lesbian group meets Wed 8-10pm. THE CITY BAR 25 Netherkirkgate. Tel: (01224) 619941. 11am-Midnight. Friendly city centre venue in side street just a few yards from the main road. CLUB 2000 62 Shiprow. Tel: (01224) 596999. 9pm-2am. Friendly, small and intimate pub/club. Entry charge Fri/Sat only. Free before 11pm and ukp2 after with no re-entry fee. [__________________________________________________] AYR WEE WINDAES 9 Newmarket Street. Tel: (01292) 267360. Mon-Sat 11am-12.30am. Sun 12.30pm-Midnight. Although mainly straight during the day, the manager hopes to increase the growing number of lesbian and gay customers that frequent the bar. [__________________________________________________] DUNDEE BAR XS St Andrew's Lane (behind Liberty Nightclub). Tel: (01382) 200660. Mon-Sat 8pm-Midnight. Sun 8-11pm. Cafe/bar for lgb clientele under the same successful management as Liberty to which it has its own entrance. CHARLIE'S BAR 75 Seagate. Tel: (01382) 226840. Mon-Sat 11am-Midnight. Sun 12.30-11pm. Dundee's longest established gay bar. Much improved. LIBERTY NIGHTCLUB 124 Seagate. Tel: (01382) 200660. Wed-Sun 11pm-2.30am. Good atmosphere, very popular disco with wide selection of sounds and the occasional act/PA. Thursdays and Sundays are quieter - but not much. [__________________________________________________] EDINBURGH ATOMIX 60 Broughton Street. Tel: 0131-558 8174. Sat-Wed Noon-7pm. Thu-Fri Noon-8pm. Xmas Hours: 1st-23rd Dec 11am-9pm. A different world of gay shopping - gifts and toys for gay boyz and girlz. Exciting new fashion ranges and made to measure service. Catalogue update released 14/11/99. E-mail: atomix@tinyonline.co.uk BLACK BO'S 57/61 Blackfriars Street. Tel: 0131-557 6136. Fri-Sat Noon-2pm. Daily 6-10pm. Superb little vegetarian restaurant. Friendly staff. Mixed clientele. Excellent value lunch menu. BLUE MOON 1 Barony Street/36 Broughton Street. Tel: 0131-556 2788 (Bar) or 0131-557 0911 (Office). Mon-Fri 11am-11.30pm, Sat-Sun 9-12.30am. Food served until 10pm. Popular lesbigay cafe/bar complex. BOBBIE'S BOOKSHOP 220 Morrison Street. Tel: 0131-538 7069. Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm. Mixed bookshop selling a selection of UK and imported gay magazines. C32 CAFE 32c Broughton Street. Tel: 0131-557 2012. 10am-11pm. Stylish new gay friendly licensed cafe with extensive menu including vegetarian selection. CAFE LUCIA 13-29 Nicolson Street. Tel: 0131-662 1112. Generally 10am-10pm but hours vary according to performances. Mixed bar attached to the Edinburgh Festival Theatre. Full of luvvies and their friends! CATWALK CAFE 2a Picardy Place. Tel: 0131-478 7770. Mon-Sat 11am-1am. Sun Noon-1am. Busy, stylish and gay friendly. WWW: http://www.catwalk1.co.uk/ C.C. BLOOM'S 23 Greenside Place. Tel: 0131-556 9331. Mon-Sat 6pm-3am, Sun 4pm-3am. Karaoke on Thu and Sun. Male strippers Sun at 4.30pm. Disco every night from 10.30pm. CITY CAFE 19 Blair Street. Tel: 0131-220 0125. 11am-1am. Not as outrageously mixed as it used to be, but still seriously conventional. CLAREMONT BAR & RESTAURANT 133/135 East Claremont Street. Tel: 0131-556 5662. FAX: 0131-558 3539. Bar: Mon-Sat 11am-1am, Sun 12.30pm-1am. Restaurant: Mon-Wed 11.30am-2.30pm and 6pm-10pm, Thu-Sat 11.30am-10pm, Sun 12.30pm-10pm. Gay owned, gay friendly and renowned for courtesy, comfort and good food. Last Sat of month: a male only night called Kruz aimed at leather, denim, rubber, skinhead, uniform and bears run in conjunction with the MSC Scotland Monthly Meeting. E-mail: robin@scifipub99.freeserve.co.uk WWW: http://www.scifipub99.freeserve.co.uk/ CLOUDS 16 Forth Street. Tel: 0131-550 3808 FAX: 0131-550 3807. A gay-owned, Edinburgh based Letting Agency offering a comprehensive & competitive service for Landlords/Owners for long-term & short term property management. E-mail: cloudsacc@aol.com CYBERIA 88 Hanover Street. Tel: 0131-220 4403. 10am-10pm. Friendly mixed cybercafe with friendly mixed staff. Where the wired queers hang out. E-mail: edinburgh@cybersurf.co.uk WWW: http://www.cybersurf.co.uk/ DIVINE DIVA'S The Venue (Top Floor), 15 Calton Road. Tel: 0131-556 8997. Every fourth Fri - 9.30pm-3am. Future dates: Fri 24th Dec, 21st Jan. Women only one nighter with all proceeds going to Edinburgh Switchboard. On Xmas Eve, invited male guests are allowed in too! DUST Studio 24, 24 Calton Road. Info Line: 07901 600242 (DJ Dave). Thu 11pm-3am. A mix of Goth, Rock, Industrial, Metal and Punk DJ's. ukp2. Drinks promos. All sexualities. EDINBURGH GAY ESCORTS 19a Albany Street. Tel: 0131-558 1011. Fax: 07079 002683. Provides gay and lesbian escorts throughout Scotland. Tours of Edinburgh and surroundings. Member of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association. E-mail: enquiries@edinburghgayescorts.co.uk WWW: http://www.edinburghgayescorts.co.uk EDINBURGH LESBIAN GAY AND BISEXUAL CENTRE 58a and 60 Broughton Street. Houses Atomix, Nexus Cafe-Bar, OUTRIGHT Scotland, Pride Scotland and Massage for Health. Also provides meeting and noticeboard space for many lesbigay organisations. Private mailboxes available. FANTASIES 8b Drummond Street. Tel/FAX: 0131-557 8336. Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun Noon-9pm. Scotland's ORIGINAL licenced SEX shop where you'll be made welcome by the very bearish Vince (who's straight), Paddy (who isn't), Steve (who isn't either!) or Maya (who is not an ancient civilisation!!!). Toys galore, video rental too! Glamour shop upstairs stocks larger sizes. FILTH: A CLUB WITH NO MORALS Studio 24, 24 Calton Road. Info Line: 0131-467 2551. Every 4th Sat. Next dates: 1st Jan, 29th Jan. 10.30pm-3am. Alan Joy's new project FILTH is an extension of his club MINGIN'. The emphasis will still be on dark, sexy, trance music but there will be a strict dress code at the door. Sexy clubwear, leather pants or even plain underpants (optional). If people start getting a wee bit frisky and disappear into dark corners with someone they shouldn't, does it matter? No bystanders or spectators allowed. Dress up or go somewhere else! Entry ukp5. FLY BAR 2 North St Andrews Street. Tel/FAX: 0131-556 9016. Mon-Sat 11am-1am, Sun 11am-11pm. Newly established gay bar, open until 1am most evenings, popular with women. Offers up and coming new DJ talent at the decks at weekends and a variety of other weekday events. Look out for monthly Women Only events in the bar. Warm friendly atmosphere. Food served Noon-3pm daily. E-mail: flybar@ic24.net HOT STUFF 89 Rose Street Lane North. Tel: 0131-225 7651. Noon-1am. Previously Frenchies, this vibrant gay 70's disco theme bar in the heart of Rose Street is run by Shiela Blige. HOLYROOD TAVERN 9a Holyrood Road. Tel: 0131-556 5044. Noon-12.45am. Edinbur