SCOTSGAY MAGAZINE ================= ScotsGay is a monthly magazine for lesbians, gay men and bisexuals. Edited, printed and published in Scotland ScotsGay 80/- Heavy - Issue 56 - February 2004 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 2004. 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) GBP 8 6 issue sub (Overseas) GBP 15 12 issue sub (UK & EC) GBP 15 12 issue sub (Overseas) GBP 28 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 News Parents' Enquiry Scotland Dundee Aberdeen Glasgow Edinburgh Scottish Media Monitor International Comedy Freebies Books Films Voice Personals Boxes - The ScotsGay Meet Market Helplines Listings Venues --------------------------------------------------------------- EDITORIAL ========= Regular readers will be aware that I'm not too enamoured with the idea of gay marriage. Marriage, gay or straight, was something I'd hoped would just wither on the vine as people subscribed to new values of sexual liberation. But it hasn't. And it probably won't. So, if you can't beat them, join them. Stu and I intend to tie the knot at the first possible opportunity if and when marriage becomes an option in Scotland. However, we intend not only to be the first couple to get married, but also the first couple to divorce. If Britney Spears can show proper respect for the Institution of Marriage, then so can we! Those crazy USAnians are currently clogging up San FranCrisco's City Hall and paying good money for a bit of paper that may, or may not, have legal validity. Over 3,500 couples so far. Although the cheapskates at City Hall didn't bother laying on catering for their own staff over a holiday weekend and were reduced to asking the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to provide not only food but officiants! The whole thing has got the Superstitious Right into a fair tizzy. It was a delicious experience to hear Eddie "Gay from the Tay" Mair on BBC Radio 4's PM kebbabing a female god-botherer about Bush's "marriage is the basis of our civilisation": "Yes, but what will happen to civilisation?". What indeed! When it comes to the UK's own humble proposals for Marriage Lite, the Law Society of Scotland's submission to the Scottish Executive's consultation made the point that I have been making for some time now: It would be easiest to simply make a minor amendment to the Marriage (Scotland) Acts instead of pissing about with major new legislation. Such an amendment would give us The Real Thing. But, that's not going to happen. Thanks to a Sewell Motion (it's nice to think that a major constitutional device is named after a man who got caught behind the wheel of a car with too much alcohol in his body), it will be Westminster that will legislate, although even that is not certain. The government plans to introduce the legislation in the House of Lords which means that their Lordships may have the final say on the matter! It just goes to show how much NuLabour cares about us in advance of an election. One person who won't be performing gay marriages is Pastor Jack Glass, whose death was announced today. This good Christian was implacably opposed to homosexuality and, most probably, anything that anybody sane might find pleasurable in life. Even the Reverend Iain Paisley is said to have found him too extreme in his views. I well recall the tale told by the late lamented Ian Christie who had had the entertaining experience of the demented Glass throwing "pieces of silver" at him. Mother Christie, being a sensible old poof, bent down to retrieve the coins from the gutter - only to discover that whereas the Pastor might have been Biblical in his rhetoric, the mean old bugger didn't stretch to anything more than coppers in his deeds! John Hein E-mail: editorial@scotsgay.co.uk --------------------------------------------------------------- NEWS ==== GAY NATIONAL POET FOR SCOTLAND First Minister Jack McConnell has announced that his Cabinet has agreed to create a position of national poet for Scotland. Mr McConnell confirmed the first person to be awarded this designation will be Edwin Morgan. Professor Morgan will be known as 'The Scots Makar.' Ministers are committed to an independent appointment process for the future and will consult with the Scottish Arts Council and members of the poetry community to agree that procedure. The First Minister said that Professor Edwin Morgan was the obvious first choice to be The Scots Makar Professor Morgan is recognised as Scotland's leading contemporary poet. He has been writing for six decades and some of his best known works such as The Second Life (1968) and From Glasgow to Saturn (1973) have been taught in schools across Scotland. Speaking at the award ceremony in Glasgow, the First Minister said: "It is vitally important that we recognise the significant contribution of poetry to the culture of Scotland. This position will symbolise the success and of Scottish poets in the past and the potential of Scottish poetry in the future. I hope that The Scots Makar will inspire young Scots to enjoy, and indeed to write, poetry. "Professor Morgan's work has done just that. Generations of Scots have had their lives enriched through his poetry, his vivid imagination and incredible use of language have sparked many an image into life. "Edwin Morgan is an exceptional human being whose talent has touched the lives of thousands of people around the world. He is not just a poet for Scotland - he is a poet for our times." Welcoming the announcement, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport Frank McAveety said: "Edwin Morgan has been an inspiration for many years. I have read his poetry since my teens, and have seen at first hand how his poems work magic with students at school. "His range and innovation have expanded Scottish poetry, and he is appreciated throughout the country." MARRIAGE LITE The overwhelming endorsement of 86% of respondents to the Scottish Executive's consultation on same sex civil partnerships has been warmly welcomed by organisations supporting equality and stable family relationships. The great majority of the consultation responses were based on a commitment to equality - recognising the need for parity of esteem and reduction of disadvantage for same sex couples across Scotland. John Wilkes, Director of the Equal Opportunities Commission in Scotland commented, "The Equal Opportunities Commission is pleased to note the positive public response to the idea of civil partnerships for lesbians and gay men. The proposals to enable same sex partnerships to be legally recognised and protected will be a significant step forward for equal opportunities in Scotland which we very much welcome". Such a high response reinforces the findings of last year's Scottish Social attitudes (SSA) survey that showed over three quarters of the population believe there is no place for prejudice in Scotland and 59% support "gay men and lesbians' right to marry". Significant support was shown by faith-based organisations with 11 out of 18 agreeing to the principle that same sex couples should be able to register their partnerships. Despite the unequivocal backing, the responses of some opponents to the proposals showed that there remain a small minority of people who are against *any* expression of gay and lesbian sexuality and reject civil partnerships outright because they might legitimise such relationships. "This is a clear green light for long overdue changes that simply reflect the way people are already making commitments in their lives", commented Ali Jarvis, Director of Stonewall Scotland. "The values of love, respect and commitment are as relevant to same sex couples as to any other". The report is online, and everyone who submitted a response should receive a copy of it as well: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/library5/social/cprar-00.asp FIFE Fife Men are to host a consultation between all LGBT groups in Fife. It will be held at the Parkway Hotel in Kirkcaldy from 4-7pm for "One Voice - Many Lives", with refreshments for those attending and a free entry to a social night at the same venue from 7 pm till late. There will be minibus transport from the evening social to Fife, up to St Andrews - calling at Leven on route, and to the West in and around Dunfermline. Last train to Edinburgh leaves at 2315 calling at all stations. We hope the combination of work and social will excite and encourage folk to attend. For those coming to the social night a entry charge will be made to cover the costs of the day. Anyone with some spare cash or ideas of how we can fund this please give Frank a call! But as you know the lack of funds has never stopped the Fife Men Project delivering services to all sectors of the community! Fife men are also arranging an LGBT meeting with LGBT Community Action Fife regarding the response to the Hate Crime Consultation - under the auspices of the Hate Crime Remote Reporting partnership with Fife Constabulary - and we hope as many of you will come along on Sat 21st Mar from 1-3pm - lunch will be provided so let us know if you can attend - especially if you have any special luncheon needs - the Lambda Centre is fully accessible and should you require sign language or other facilities these can be available. Sadly homophobic based hate crimes are alive in Fife but with your help we can challenge the ignorance and bigots. See Listings for contacts details. Alec Deary VOLUNTEERING Sorting through bin-bags full of charity shop clothes can't be a whole lot of fun, and is definitely the stereotype of the blue-rinse volunteer brigade. Fortunately, at the LGBT Centre for Health & Wellbeing, in Edinburgh, there'll be no bin-bags and blue-rinses are only an option. During February and March, an expansive volunteer training programme aims to integrate individuals, from the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) and wider communities, into essential areas of the Centre's work. Volunteers will be a well supported part of the Centre team and opportunities for personal and professional development will be positively encouraged. In looking for people with a wide range of skills, talents and abilities; the Centre hopes to realise volunteer opportunities in many areas including: advocacy, hospitality, events and promotions, publicity and information, reception, IT, administration and the All Women programme. For information on volunteering: Tony Stevenson or Allie Cherry on 0131-523 1100 or E-mail: tony@lgbthealth.org.uk or allie@lgbthealth.org.uk FORTH FRIEND FOLDS After 15 years of service to the Stirlingshire LGBT community, Forth Friend has decided to call it a day. On Fri 16th Jan, those that gathered for the regular gay men's meeting, plus invited lesbian guests, discussed the future of Forth Friend and came to the following conclusions: Forth Friend, as an organisation as constitutionally established, no longer exists. It has no members and no officials, probably Richard having been the last official before he headed south last year. The remaining documents were passed to me. This did not include a membership list so I am unable to contact former members except those on Mike's E-mail list plus those known to me personally. As there was no expressed interest in keeping Forth Friend alive the organisation cannot continue its present limbo state. These decisions will have the following results: * The Post box will close when payment is due for renewal. * Remaining funds in the Forth Friend bank account will be passed to the Glasgow Switchboard as the nearest successor to Forth Friend as per the Forth Friend constitution. * The Gay Men's Group will continue as normal meeting most months. * There is nothing for Lesbians centred in Stirling. * There is a lesbian hill walking group and a dog walking group. Contact me for details. * There is now a Gay Centre established in Falkirk: see ScotsGay Listings. * Pub nights at the Portcullis are discontinued unless people want to gather somewhere informally. It is with great regret that I have to tell you this having seen the birth and death of an organisation through 15 years of service. Many people have been helped through the years. It seems that the need for such an organisation has passed for the time being and maybe reflects a more tolerant society in Scotland to gays and lesbians. Time will tell. I hope that the friendships that have come about through Forth Friend will continue. Bruce Petrie E-mail: Forthfriend@lademill.force9.co.uk PHACE SCOTLAND EVENT IN GREENOCK For many people, living outside big cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh means having to travel miles to work or to socialise. If you are gay or bisexual it can be even harder to meet people or make friends outside of large towns. The same is true for finding the right information or advice. It can be harder to get appropriate health services or medical advice especially if you are unsure about disclosing your sexuality. On Thu 4th Mar, there will be an event for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) people who live or work in Greenock. The event is open to anyone from the area who identifies as LGBT, their friends and families. We are keen to set up a social or support group in the area so will be working out if there is enough demand for this. To start with, this social event will give people a safe and relaxed place to meet and mix. The event is being organised by PHACE Scotland, Beyond Barriers and the Phoenix Community Health Project. PHACE Scotland is an HIV charity working in the West of Scotland that also provides support, information and advice for gay and bisexual men. The Phoenix Community Health Project aims to improve the health of Inverclyde. Together with Beyond Barriers is a Scotland wide project based in Glasgow that deals with community development and challenging homophobia, we are committed to providing LGBT people with the opportunity to socialise and access support safely without fear of discrimination. Everybody has the right to a happy and healthy life. This event is an opportunity to socialise, find out more about our organisations and get involved in Inverclyde's LGBT community. The event will be laid-back, the food and the evening are free. For details of the time and venue, or to find out more, contact Matt Johnston at PHACE Scotland on 0141-332 3837, or E-mail: mattj@phacescotland.org WAVERLEY CARE NICKED Edinburgh charity, Waverley Care, has been selected by Harvey Nichols in Edinburgh as its annual charity for 2004. Following a successful sponsorship at the "Tartan and Tiaras" ball at Prestonfield House on 3rd Jan, the store is now set to support Waverley Care throughout the year at a number of high profile events including fashion shows and customer evenings. Speaking about the choice, General Manager, Gordon Drummond said, "We worked with Waverley Care on two projects last year and were impressed both by the work they do for people living with HIV but also with their professional approach to fundraising. We are delighted to have agreed a year's link-up with the charity following on from our sponsorship at the "Tartan and Tiaras" event." David Johnson, Director of Waverley Care, said "It is a great honour for us to have been selected as Harvey Nichols' Charity of the Year for 2004, the year in which Waverley Care celebrates its 15th birthday! Our celebrity photographic exhibition, BEING THERE, which Harvey Nichols kindly hosted during last year's Festival, was the starting point for what we believe will now develop into a mutually beneficial relationship. We look forward to getting to know staff and customers in the course of the year, as we work with them to make a real difference to those whose lives have been touched by HIV." GLASGAY! Steven Thomson has been appointed as new Festival Producer of Glasgay. Steven has been working for the last six years as Administrative Director of New Territories, Scotland's international festival of live arts and has worked in the past with people like Bill Bryden, former director of the National Theatre. He follows in the footsteps of David Leddy who is leaving to further his career as a theatre director - his next show, called Through The Night, will take place at The Arches in May. BALL The Glasgow Brownlee Aids Welfare Fund is hosting its 2004 Ball on Sat 6th Mar In the Holiday Inn City West, Bothwell Street in Glasgow. A marvellous evening of live entertainment and sumptuous revelry is assured, ranging from a 4 course Dinner,Band and Cabaret to evening - long fund raising fun and frolics. We challenge you to find a finer collection of Black-Tied, Kilted specimens of Scots Manhood or a more elegant array of Gowned Ladies (and everything else in between too, of course). NINEWELLS Can you help by attending a workshop for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people who have used the services of Ninewells hospital? The organisers are looking for people who are willing to share their experiences and views of these services. Your participation can help to make the NHS in Scotland more inclusive of LGBT people. Wed 3rd Mar 2004, 5.30-8pm at Number Ten, 10 Constitution Street, Dundee. Buffet and Refreshments. For information and to book a place on the workshop phone Nick Laird on: 0141-574 0242, or E-mail: nick@beyondbarriers.org.uk GROWL BearScots Birthday Party will be held on Fri 2nd Apr Music in The Laughing Duck, 24 Howe Street, Edinburgh from 9pm onwards with party games such as 'Pass the Bear' 'Musical Bears' & 'Bears' Bingo'. BOOKS The 8th Edinburgh Independent Radical Book Fair will take place from Thu 10th to Sun 13th Jun in the Assembly Rooms, George St, Edinburgh. WWW: http://www.word-power.co.uk/book_fair/ THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT? The Caledonian Thebans are hosting a "Sing-along-a-Sound-of Music" in the Edinburgh Filmhouse on Sat 13th Mar from 9.30pm. MEME REVOLUTION An art gallery show in Edinburgh (MEME revolution), showcases the work of 5 undiscovered Edinburgh Artists in association with the Community Foundation and the Millennium Fund (http://www.memerevolution.com/meme.htm). The show runs from 5th-17th Mar in the Patriothall Gallery, 48 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh. The show will also include workshops and the work of undiscovered film makers. PRIDE Pride Scotia (Edinburgh) has opened an office in the Edinburgh LGBT Centre at 58a Broughton Street. They'll be holding "Drop-ins" on 6th and 20th Mar 2-4pm. Thereafter the Drop-ins will be on the 1st and 3rd Sat of each month. --------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURE: PARENTS' ENQUIRY SCOTLAND ================================== Parents Enquiry Scotland is a small voluntary organisation which came into being 30 years ago when the newly formed Lothian Lesbian and Gay Switchboard asked Marjorie Cameron to take calls from parents, which she has done ever since. There are now eight parents operating helplines from our own homes with calls coming from all over Scotland and other parts of the UK. Parents Enquiry is affiliated to FFLAG UK and has contacts with PFLAG in the United States. The organisation grew as the political climate changed. PES campaigned for equality, lobbying the House of Lords and giving evidence in the Scottish Parliament and we are proud of Scotland’s lead in legislation towards equality for LGBT people. The anti-bullying campaigns are very high on our agenda and we have sent information to most of the secondary school boards in Scotland and received some very encouraging responses. As parents, we are keen to see the guidelines following the repeal of Section 2A implemented; we wish our children had had the chance to learn about their sexuality in a safe environment but we know, only too well, that it will take time. Our primary commitment is to helping parents when their sons or daughters 'come out'. We are strong supporters of family values - we can’t understand how same-sex relationships can be thought to undermine them. It is the quality of the relationship which counts. Our own LGBT children are very much part of our families, loved and valued. LGBT organisations in Scotland have given PES tremendous support and encouragement over the years. We work with LGBT Youth, Healthy Respect, the Equality Network, amongst many others and our main helpline is funded by Holy Trinity Metropolitan Community Church. In addition to our helplines, we send out information booklets to parents and organisations, give talks, training sessions, arrange meetings. All NHS Boards in Scotland have our leaflets. We are befrienders, not counsellors, offering peer support to parents and families for as long as it takes. Anne Patrizio (Co-ordinator) Parents Enquiry Scotland Central Helpline No. 0131-556 6047 (9am-10pm, 7 days a week) E-mail: parentsenquiry@hotmail.com WWW: http://www.parentsenquiryscotland.org/ Pic: Anne Patrizio was recently awarded the MBE for services to the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender community in Scotland. --------------------------------------------------------------- DUN DEAGH: DUNDEE SCENE ======================= Hello everybody. Valentine's night went well for all the scene, Gary and Ian setting the standard for the Valentine's fancy dress in Charlie's Bar and an excellent prize of going up in a plane over Dundee for the winner of Drama Queen 2004 at Out. On Sun 29th of Feb, Out will have a "Music for the Feet" night, when you get to help choose from a collection of dance anthems for the night, as the ad says be it funky house, trance, hardcore, old skool or just plain dance! Think that excludes The Darkness then. Karoaka with Suzie is still going strong and pulling in quite a crowd on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9opm onwards in Brooklyn's Bar. Charlie's Bar are also hoping to make more use of the lounge and dance floor throughout the week by hosting various nights for interested groups. The area can be separated from the rest of the bar for the more secluded get-together, and various deals on drinks/food could be on offer. For more details get in touch with Ian, often found behind the bar or by calling Dundee (01382) 200660. Diversitay continue to hold their monthly meetings on the third Wednesday of the month, generally in the DCA on Perth Road although exact details can be confirmed by calling the switchboard on Mondays 7-10pm Dundee (01382) 202620. I believe that they have missed one out from February, but it will be back in March. Sadly I've not yet got the report into the workshops and questionnaires that were carried out at the end of last year yet. As I write this, it's probably just left the publishers so there should be more information next month. And finally a quick reminder of the workshop that is to be held on the 3rd Mar looking at the experiences of those in the LGBT community who have used the facilities at Ninewells Hospital. It is in room 10, 10 Constitution Street (I have had some queries about location and I'm sure it is Street and not Road) from 5.30-8pm. For further information and to book a place get in touch with Nick Laird, E-mail: nick@beyondbarriers.org.uk or Tel: 0141-574 0242. Chris E-mail: courier_chris@yahoo.co.uk --------------------------------------------------------------- OBAR DHEADHAINN: ABERDEEN SCENE =============================== Hi there. Here we go with another round up of all that's happening north of anywhere. Wellmans Health Suite on Justice Mill Lane seems busier than ever and will probably be hoping that the Aberdeen winter continues for some time yet. They have a new library of magazines to educate and entertain you - just make sure the pages are dry before you put them back, guys. Abacos on Market Street continue with their karaoke evenings and drinks promotions of GBP2 for house doubles. If you are a student then don't forget your Snapfax card which can be used against food or drink. The function room upstairs is free to hire and they can arrange buffets from GBP3 per head. Entry to Bar Indigo on the Adelphi is still free Sun to Thu. There's good dance music on Fridays when the entry is GBP2 after midnight and Cheesy Chunes on Saturdays when it is GBP3 after midnight. Drinks are all GBP1.50 before midnight. There will be two fancy dress nights in March. On Sun 21st - that's Mothers Day - it's 'Come as your Mum' and Thu 25th is a 70's theme night. The best dressed on each night will get a magnum of champagne. Rabbies on Exchange Street have karaoke 7 nights with Alan or Susie. You can also get 3 alcopops for GBP5 and 2 bottles of Carlsberg for GBP1.50. They are holding an inter-pub pool competition with a prize of GBP1000. Entry for this is GBP5 and the competition will be held on Sun 7th Mar from 2.30pm. Yumbo above Sals on Crown Street appears to be open Thu, Fri and Sat from 10pm though I haven't been up to check it out. Anyone who's been recently please drop me an e-mail and let me know how it's doing. A Granite Sisters women's disco will be held on Fri 12th Mar in the East Neuk Lounge, King Street, Aberdeen to celebrate International Women's Day. The ITV documentary Get Real featuring the Aberdeen Women's Centre will be shown on Thu 4th Mar at 7.30pm. Phace still plan to move out of their Justice Mill Lane premises despite their intended new location on Union Street falling through at the last moment. They are again looking for a suitable city centre venue and hope to move by mid April. The Police Liaison meeting earlier this month was well attended and produced a draft Joint Outreach Team Strategy for Phace and the Police. Phace will be providing Grampian Police with training on LGBT issues. Icebreakers for those coming out meet at the Phace offices on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 7.30pm to 9pm. The Pride of Moray Firth meeting for Thu 18th Mar is cancelled as Mark is taking a well earned rest. The next North East Scotland Gay Group meeting will be on Sun 21st Mar at 7.30pm and will be discussing future events and the direction of the group. The Phace volunteers will meet at Phace on Mon 22nd Mar at 7pm - new volunteers welcome. For all Phace organised events contact Mark, Lesley or Mike on Aberdeen (01224) 587166. For those of you who want to take to the stage Aberdeen Cares Drama Company are still looking for luvvies to take part in Torch Song Trilogy. This, the first ever performance in Scotland, hopes to build on the success of last years play Beautiful Thing. It is set on the New York drag scene and is broken into three separate plays interlinked by the main character Arnold, his trials and tribulations of trying to find love. It will be performed in the Arts Centre at the start of September for 3 nights and there are plans to take it to the Brighton Fringe Festival in May 2005. Auditions are being held on Tue 9th Mar so if you are interested or mad (but committed) enough contact Phace for details. I have been asked to pass on thanks from Graeme for all the support, flowers and cards received after the death of his partner Nicky Summers earlier this month. A memorial service will be held in Indigo on the Adelphi on Sun 29th Feb at 8pm. NELF are looking for applications from individuals or agencies to organise the 3rd Aberdeen Pride Festival which will take place in Duthie Park on Sunday 6th June 2004. The Festival Organiser will have the responsibility for co-ordinating the planning, organisation, promotion and marketing of the Pride Festival. The Organiser will receive guidance from the Pride Festival Planning Group and some volunteers will be available to assist in specific tasks. The position is on a self-employed basis and the remuneration payable is a fixed fee of GBP4,000. A city centre office base will be provided although there is the option to undertake some tasks from home or elsewhere if preferred. For further information contact Babs Greenwood on Aberdeen (01224) 522831. Letters of application and CVs can be sent to North East LGBT Forum Ltd c/o Babs Greenwood, Aberdeen City Council, Office of Chief Executive, Community Development, St. Nicholas House, Broad Street, Aberdeen AB10 1GZ. Fax (01224) 522832 by Mon 1st Mar. The next Pride meeting will be on Thu 4th Mar at the switchboard offices at 24 Market Street, Aberdeen. Finally, a Brazilian ad for lube. Innocent enough to be viewed at work. If you haven't figured it out, drop me an email and I'll explain. http://shoebucket. dhs.org/advertisement.html. Well that's all for this month so if you have any news or just want to say hi then drop me an email or I might see you at a venue near you. Tivoli E-mail: Tivoli_abdn@yahoo.co.uk --------------------------------------------------------------- GLASCHU: GLASGOW SCENE ====================== Salutations and felicitations gentle folk. Well here we are again and I must admit that recently I have been pondering my situation and how or not I fit into what society expects. You see I discovered that being a man was definitely not my destiny or wish. So I put my mind to a resolution and decided on the only other option, to become a woman! Obvious or maybe not. You see the choices are rather limited. Male or Female, Man or Woman, Boy or Girl. Black and White - no room for grey, no room for all the colours of the rainbow. Do I know what it feels like to be a man? Not that I am aware of. Do I know what it feels like to be a woman? Once more not that I am aware of. I only know for sure what it feels like to be me. To be absolutely clear I have no regrets about my decision to cross the gender boundary. However what I want to know is why we constructed it in the first place. For it is not a naturally occurring thing. Rather it is a creation of society, of you and me. But in creating it we also create the means to marginalise many, many people. The toughest part of my life is yet to come, it is finding a place where I can be plain simple old me. So I guess that makes me just like everyone else. So what is happening on the social scene in Glasgow? Answer the same old bollocks. So here goes, pencils and paper at the ready. First up Glasgay has appointed a new producer Steven Thomson, so we bid a fond farewell to David Leddy and wish him well in the future. MELTING POT is on Sat 28th Feb and Sat 27th Mar at the Riverside Club, Fox Street. Doors open Midnight-3am. Entry is GBP10 on the door. Capacity 250, so get there early. Residents Simon Cordiner and Billy Woods will be spinning underground disco classics from the past, the best of today's house music, and a little bit of whatever takes their fancy. E-mail: meltingpotuk@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 07855 418745. Next B.U.R.L.Y night is on Good Fri 9th Apr at The Arches. Please check Website for details http://www.dv8scots.co.uk/or E-mail: dv8scots@hotmail.com Tel: 07930 357401. A reminder that BearScots meet on the 2nd Friday of the month from 9pm in the Revolver Bar. For hairy, moustached and bearded men and their admirers. E-mail: glasgow_bear@yahoo. co.uk Next up, a mention for the new premises for Relax Central at 3rd Floor, 27 Union Street. The opening times are 11am-9pm. For more details call at the number below. Tel: 0141-221 0415. Traxxevents proudly presents The Scratch Perverts with Jay Double U and Eastborn on Sat Mar 20th at The Queen Margaret Union, Queen Margaret Drive. Over the past six years in the world of Hip Hop, this collective has been blowing away audiences and tearing up clubs with the most memorable shows around. Doors are from 10pm-2.15am. Tickets GBP10/8 conc. (plus booking fee). Available from Tickets Scotland, Argyle Street, Glasgow, and Rose Street, Edinburgh, the QMU Box Office - 0141-339 9784 - or buy online at http://www.traxxevents.com/ New Flesh on Wednesdays Rock/Nu Metal at Privilege, 69 Hope Street (Just up from the Solid Rock Cafe). Doors open 9pm-2am (GBP1 between 9pm and 10pm, GBP2 between 10pm and 11pm, GBP4 after 11pm). Tel: 0141-353 6555. Fax: 0141-353 6999 http://www.andywaite.com/newflesh/E-mail: newflesh@andywaite.com Club Bedlam, is usually on the last Saturday of the month. This club is billed as Pansexual - Suitable for alternative sexualities. Qudos, Main Floor, Queen Margaret Union, Glasgow University, Hillhead. Door open 9pm until 2 am. Tickets usually available from: Osiris, 487 Great Western Rd and Missing Records, Wellington St. Also available on the door at GBP3. For more information E-mail: brian@cantara. demon.co.uk or gg@nakedtruth. co.uk or bedlamcorp@bedlamcorp.plus.com WWW: http://www.bedlamcorp.co.uk/ The next club 'Violate' is on Sat 6th Mar at the Big Joint in Scotstoun. A very popular event this club welcomes a mixed crowd of all ages. Music is a mix of dance and rock. A play area is set up in the large back room and food is included in the ticket price. As an introduction to the BDSM scene this club night is ideal. Doors open at 8pm club runs until 2am. Tickets are GBP10 on the door or GBP5 for members. Annual membership is available on the door at GBP10 Discount news. You can get 10% off in Red Moon, 5 Dixon Street. Open Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun. Take along your Violate membership card. Don't forget that your Violate membership card will also get you 10% off in Cyber and all UK outlets of Clone Zone as well as reduced entry to Club Lash. See listings for further details. The Cube presents Passionality every Monday night. A night of pop, chart & dance music. Doors open 11.30pm to 3am. Entry is GBP3 or GBP2 with a flyer. Also FUN is on every Tuesday with DJ's Shawn Roberts and Shazza Halliwell. Doors open 11.30pm to 3am. Entry is GBP3 all night. 34-44 Queen Street, Glasgow. Website: http://www.cubeglasgow.co.uk/ Once more I have managed to struggle through another desperate attempt to generate some interest in the Glasgow scene. So until next time. Remember folks whatever you find to do: be safe. Angharad E-mail: angharad@drink.demon.co.uk --------------------------------------------------------------- DUN EIDEANN: EDINBURGH SCENE ============================ Hottest news to hit the gay scene this month is that DJ James Longworth will be providing another fab night in our social calendars. Metrosexual will launch on Thu 25th Mar and will work in conjunction with Mr Gay UK for the Edinburgh Heats. The venue will be City nightclub where the fantastic Hogmany Hangover was held. The City is a 4 million pound club that opened early last year. The establishment is spacious and door staff are not as ignorant as they were in January, which is the only thing people complained about. Drinks are reasonably priced and special promo drinks will be on offer and I think they will be VKs Carlsberg and G&T for GBP1.50. The music policy is any thing goes really except I don't think it will be catering for those who love the cheese. Entry on the launch night will be GBP5 but every Thursday after that it will be GBP3 before midnight and GBP4 after which isn't bad for a decent venue etc. So you heard it heard it here first: Metrosexual, every Thursday at City situated in Market St opposite Tackno home - Massa. City was also the host of one of the hottest after show parties at last year's MTV music awards. Apart from this, oor James being a busy lad hosting the newest night in the LGBT calendar, the now oldies will still be running and are proving to be as popular as ever. VIBE still takes place at Ego every Tuesday with entry GBP3 if you don't have a wee Vibe card thing and GBP2 if you do. Drink promos are GBP1.50 and DJ James Longworth provides all of the tunes in the main hall with DJ Nathan downstairs providing all the hottest RnB tracks. This night is popular with all ages but seems to attract a slightly younger crowd not afraid of skiving college the next again day!!!! Blaze still takes place every second Friday at Ego and isn't as camp or Cheesy! Be careful what you are doing on entry though as there is a separate club going on downstairs; remember you are only paying for upstairs. The amount of times I have passed and seen folk arguing and trying to get downstairs! Wow so if any one requires any info or wants to provide any feed back contact James directly - E-mail: jameslongworth@jameslongworth.com Trendy Wendy's Tackno has confirmed dates for the next wee while along with the campest themes. I am telling you in advance so you can decide which ones to go to and get the day of your work on the Monday. Sun 29th Feb is Divas Night, Sun 28th Mar is Playboy Night, and Sun 25th Apr is Tackno's spring clean as well as my birthday! Sun 20th May, which is a bank hol the next day, is Animal Tackno! Entry is GBP6 but if you make the effort to dress up then you get a discount on the door! Trendy Wendy provides the campest and cheesiest tunes; doors open at 11pm and check out the bar to see if any drink promos are on the go. This end of month bonanza is always extremely popular so go along early to avoid a queue. You can also catch Trendy Wendy at Planet Out every Monday 9pm-1am. Club Luvely (which I always forget to mention!) has announced that Sat 6th Mar will be Mad March Hair! Resident DJs Tommy Kay, Stone, George Paterson provides the tunes. Make an effort with the attire and you may be lucky enough to queue jump with the dress code being Big, Bad and Mad Hair and Glam. Easter bunnies are welcome as this date in our calendar looms. Doors open at 10.30pm and the club closes at 3am. Luvely takes place at the Liquid Rooms in Victoria St. Luvely also takes place at Edinburgh's Premier bar - Habana situated on Greenside Place on Sat 28th Feb as a wee warm up for what's ahead. One of the newest nights on the scene is Polysuper cheez held at MOOD in the Omni complex every Monday 10pm-3am. This club launched on World Aids Day 2003 and has had a steady clientele since. Entry is only GBP1 before 12.30 and GBP3 after. If you can nab a flyer from any of the bars then you get in for GBP2. Drink promos run throughout the whole night for GBP1.50 including Double Vodkas & Mixers, Breezers, Reefs, Grolsch and other selected pints. You can also catch Ali and Polysuper Pete downstairs Fri and Sat til 2am at the Newtown Bar in Dublin St (which is also available for hire Sun-Thu). This bar seems to be more popular with men but women are more than welcome. Drink promos run regularly through out the day. Edinburgh's oldest and most successful night Joy has confirmed its next dates, which are; Sat Mar 13th, April 10th and May 8th. Joy is held at the Venue (15 Calton Rd) and features DJs, Maggie and Alan Joy, Trendy Wendy, Sally F and Brett King. The Joy membership card scheme is no longer in operation but the door charge has changed so nobody is paying more than before. Entry is GBP6 before midnight and GBP8 afterwards. And if you ever feel like stretching your legs and taking a walk along to Howe Street then visit one of Edinburgh's oldest on-off gay bars the Laughing Duck. Friendly, spacious, and reasonable in price the Duck is one of Edinburgh's most popular bars. Food is available Noon-8pm with a selection of pub grub available. Drink promos run all week including after work happy hour with 20% of selected pints 5-8pm also for a limited period selected alco pops are GBP1.50. Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest nights with during the week providing an excellent spot for a first date or a chance to socialise. And one last thing Sala in Broughton St celebrates its 1st birthday on Sat 28th Feb so: Happy Birthday! Alan E-mail: weealan@drink.demon.co.uk --------------------------------------------------------------- SCOTTISH MEDIA MONITOR ====================== Time to Declare War on Religionists, says Garry Otton As the Church disintegrates around us, the voices of its militants become ever more shrill. There was an Almighty fight going on in the playground over campuses shared by Catholic and non-denominational schools. And who had we at the centre of the fight? Well, well, well! If it wasn't our old friend, Religion! Reporter Graham Grant in The Scottish Daily Mail casually described the spat over the "bringing together of children of different faiths". Faith is only ever imposed on children. They're not born with one and there's precious little evidence of it bringing anyone together! (Not counting mass graves). Catholic Church militants threatened to pull out of a GBP150m public-private partnership scheme to create seven shared campuses. Their demands included separate entrances, staff rooms, libraries, and - I kid you not - separate Catholic and non-denominational lavatories! Even convent-educated Old Mother (Joan) Burnie gasped in The Daily Record: "Is there really a difference between a Catholic and a Proddy willy?" Michael McGrath, director of the Scottish Catholic Education Service was reported in The Herald saying: "The worry with one big shared campus, with the same entrance for both schools, is that people would not recognise that the schools were still separate. The most successful organisations are those that have a clear identity, a strong brand, and a positive ethos and we want to maintain these things in our schools in Lanarkshire". With a Catholic 'cottage'? Oh, puh-leeease! His thoughts on promoting the brand were echoed by Frank Cassidy, chancellor of the Catholic diocese of Motherwell, who was reported defending proselytising to children in The Scottish Daily Mail: "It's important for us to have Catholic insignia and symbolism in the foyer of the school, which is why we want separate entrances". The ubiquitous columnist, Mrs Katie Grant screeched her family-carrier to a halt outside the school gates, and hollered: "They didn't waste much time, did they, those clever secularians, as we might call them. Dalkeith's joint school campuses are launched with not a sign of the cross in sight and pictures of the Pope are removed because he is a 'religious artefact' rather than a world leader". In fact, it had already been agreed that this particular wall was to be covered with student's artwork. She snorted from her column in The Scotsman: "...A head or two should roll... It would have been unthinkable not to pay due deference to the great faith of Islam, not just because political correctness demands it but because Islamic leaders up here quite rightly defend themselves strongly... It seems that in supposedly equal Scotland, there really are minorities and minorities..." Instead of focusing on properly equipping their schools, North Lanarkshire council sweet-talked Catholic officials with removable dividing walls in staff rooms and shared entrances for staff. On BBC's Newsnight Scotland, presenter Gordon Brewer gave voice to public incredulity with some pertinent questions for their director of education, Michael O'Neill and Catholic education spokesman, Michael McGrath who said he "feared integration". Given the Catholic Church's record of gay human rights abuses, this was scary stuff. Illustrating the threat Catholicism posed to young gay people, Zenit, the Catholic news agency reported an American priest, Father John Harvey, suggesting parents were responsible for the formation of gay children. He said that if parents suspect that their children were 'experimenting' with homosexuality, 'the child must be commanded to seek therapy from reliable Catholic doctors'. A scientific report in The British Medical Journal warned of the dangers and ineffectiveness of psychoanalysis, behavioural aversion therapy with electric shocks, electroconvulsive therapy, oestrogen treatment to reduce libido, desensitisation of an assumed phobia of the opposite sex, hypnosis, psychodrama and abreaction to change aspects of human behaviour. Children need to be rescued from religion. We all do. Mingling with the issue of providing Catholics with separate libraries was the smell of burning books. The Scottish Daily Mail reported: "Mr Cassidy added that fears over inappropriate material such as sex education literature were justification enough for separate libraries". By chance, last week, a letter was forwarded to me from a reader offended by extreme literature left lying around in the staff room of a Roman Catholic primary school where she worked. Turning to the letters' page of The Scottish Catholic Observer she found: "SIR - I was interested to read the letter from the homosexual... Because the Observer is accessible to younger people there can be no discussion of homosexual acts as a Christian option", wrote a cowardly "Name and address supplied". Another wrote: "...A sexual relationship outside marriage is fornication and sexual relationships between two men is buggery. Having, years ago, lived with lesbian women in the army (WRAC) I know quite a lot about them", wrote Mary Murton of Argyll who went on to diagnose: "Real physical abnormalities of a sexual nature are a tragedy. To be disorientated sexually is a terrible cross to bear". Is it, Mary, for whom? Militants in the Church have already sought exemptions from human rights legislation allowing them to dismiss employees simply for being gay, so what chance is there of ridding Scotland of this fascist material? Hopefully, more voters will now turn their back on established political parties like Labour and its coalition partners, the Liberal Democrats, with all their mealy-mouthed promises of a liberal democracy. (One of their MSPs is connected to an extreme religious group that supports the 'curing' of homosexuals). They have all consistently failed us. Tick the boxes of independent parties such as the Greens, the Liberals and the Scottish Socialist Party. Using peaceful political means, it is time to declare war on religionists and draw a clear line on how far we should permit religion to impinge on public life. The nippy-sweetie wife of the editor of The Herald, Colette Douglas Home, window-dressed the issue of religious apartheid in her column in The Scottish Daily Mail as "...not a melting pot, but a celebration of differences". (Wha')? "Those who imagine the Catholic bit of the curriculum involves a 35-minute religious lesson a day need to think again... Catholicism is full immersion, not a dipping of the fingers in a font. It would be a near impossibility to contain children in its cocoon when they were meeting another peer group every time they went to the loo." My recollections of sex with a Catholic priest, mingled with the smell of Dettol, polished municipal tiles and a crest of the burgh, damaged neither of us, even if he was forced to wear a condom and confront his guilt afterwards. Harking back to her convent days, Colette kindly afforded us a glimpse of life under the Catholic regime, how "care was taken about the range of books in the library. Modesty was applied to naked images in art books with felt tip pen and, memorably, the cross section of a pregnant woman was excised from my O' level biology textbook..." Mario Conti, the Archbishop of Glasgow dropped her hubbie - the editor of The Herald - a line from his headquarters at 196, Clyde Street, Glasgow, protesting at the BBC's decision to show a documentary, Sex and the Holy City during the 25th anniversary of the pontificate of Pope John Paul II and the beautification of Mother Teresa! His letter accused the BBC of encouraging "a tabloid culture". His letter was generously reported on the front page of The Herald where Conti complained "such scheduling showed gross insensitivity to the spiritual and historic significance of these moments". About as sensitive as the revelation in the documentary that the Catholic Church were promoting the appalling lie that condoms offer no protection against HIV! Conti labelled accusations that the Catholic Church had a major part to play in the HIV/AIDS crisis in Africa with their refusal to approve the use of condoms in The Scottish Daily Mail as a "questionable, indeed inaccurate, thesis..." He told The Herald: "We do not object to probing questions". Victims of child abuse by priests beg to differ. But, he added, "we do object to rudeness and prejudice..." (Well so do we, but since when has that ever stopped you)? A spokesperson for the BBC soon put him in his place: "If Archbishop Conti wishes to raise any concerns about our output with us, we will be happy to respond to him directly rather than through the press". Anthony Cooper - who I presumed lived on the Moon - but was, in fact, from Greenock, felt drawn to put pen to paper and write to The Sunday Times Scotland: "Unfortunately, the Catholic voice is often denied the right of reply in a media biased toward humanist values". If only! Mrs Katie Grant used The Scotsman to add her weight to the religious propaganda used in defence of segregation. She called it "the thin end of an increasingly strident, determined and clever secular wedge", adding: "Any aggravation in a shared playground will be put down to religious bigotry, and Scotland's chatterati will demand that public Catholicism be toned down so as not to 'offend' anybody". She confessed: "All over the western world, Christianity in general, and Catholicism in particular, is thought of as a bad thing, and the Church, with its varying shameful scandals... and its lack of charismatic people to speak on its behalf, does not help itself". But this was only half time. Gays versus Caths. Gerald Warner chalked up the scores in Scotland on Sunday: "The seven new shared schools are to be built in the ecclesiastical province of Glasgow, which comprises the three dioceses of Glasgow, Motherwell and Paisley. In 1978 that province registered 9,470 baptisms. Today the figure is 4,860. That represents a halving of Catholic births in just a quarter of a century. Over the same period, marriages have declined from 4,148 to 1,383. The Catholic schools do not seem to be having much success in teaching the faith. Sunday Mass attendance is now down to 30%". So we're winning! With a pathological hatred of homosexuality stemming from an undetermined source and as unofficial spokesman for the militant wing of the Catholic Church, 'Geraldine' Warner lashed her acid tongue across the arse of sceptics of "creeping integration... Religion has become a dirty word in our aggressively secularised society," he gnashed, distancing himself from his own aggressive demands for the public to take to the streets over such issues as the repeal of Clause 28 and the abolition of fox-hunting in Scotland. Over religious apartheid in Lanarkshire he moaned: "This is just the kind of Clochemerle-style dispute that invites derision from commentators already heavily predisposed to mockery of all things Catholic". Clochemerle? The tale of French provincial manners about a socialist mayor, in a small French town, who provoked outrage after erecting a pissoir next to a church! At least anyone could use it! But this was just another excuse for Warner to vent moral outrage over his living nightmare: Homosexuality. It was a call for the toughening of moral fibre against something he perceived as an evil. A strengthening of resolve against a 'weakness'. A call to arms. "Today there is a more urgent need than ever to inculcate Catholic doctrine into children...", he blasted. "If secular society debases itself into a reincarnation of Gomorrah, then it is responsible for the gulf that its degeneracy creates between that 'non-judgmental' cauldron of moral anarchy and the beliefs of Catholics. Consistently, for 2,000 years, that faith has condemned as sins cohabitation, abortion, euthanasia, homosexuality and many other modish lifestyles promoted by modern, secular society". He added: "Any attempts by schools to fill their rolls with non-Catholic pupils should be rigorously monitored and in no instance should the proportion of non-Catholics exceed 5%". Reporter Cameron Simpson milked this story for all it was worth, with: "Catholic Church boycotts BBC's Newsnight over its 'prejudice'," appearing the next day in The Herald. This time, Conti squealed, once more, over "gross insensitivity". He told The Mail: "It is socially irresponsible to commission programmes which mock religious minorities". (And people in glasshouses shouldn't throw stones, but there you go)! The Catholic media office, headed by Catholic militant Peter Kearney, wrote to Blair Jenkins, BBC Scotland's head of news and current affairs warning him that they were "withdrawing its co-operation" until it got "fairness" from the BBC. Two MPs spoke for the Church, Tory MP David Amess whinged that a significant number of Catholics had been dropped without explanation from Radio 4's early morning Thought for the Day slot. (What do we want religionist propaganda interrupting the news every day for, anyway?) Labour MP Sion Simon demanded the BBC launch an independent, fully audited inquiry into the BBC's journalistic, editorial and ethical procedures and standards. As it was, the corporation had promised that they would meet representatives from the Church. There was no shortage of willing customers for the religionist's press releases. "MPs from both sides of the House waded into the controversy...", rejoined The Scottish Daily Mail who bragged: "Archbishop Conti writes exclusively for the Mail". Reader, James Bauld wrote to The Herald: "My abiding memory of the Newsnight interview was not of any 'sneering' or 'aggression'. It was watching the best of my former teachers (Michael O'Neill) sitting practically cringeing with embarrassment at the position being adopted on behalf of the Catholic Church". For Mario Conti this was all a bit of a giggle. In another letter to The Herald he confessed to reading the tidal wave of outrage "leaking" from The Herald's letters' pages with "some amusement". In the end, he was satisfied his argument had "got home". Brushing aside the Catholic's moral arguments against using condoms in the face of an AIDS epidemic, he diverted attention to how much money they were throwing at people living with the disease: "GBP414,523 went to 11 HIV/Aids programmes", he bragged, and, without naming the source, pointed to, "recently published statistics" which "identified the Catholic Church as globally the provider of 25% of all care to Aids sufferers. I hardly think the Terence Higgins Trust... is in this league", he swiped. The Catholic militants had dug themselves a very deep hole. Never mind. They had plenty of useful friends they could count on, Enter one, Eddie Barnes. His biased reports in support of Catholic dogma and so-called 'family values' were once a familiar read in The Scottish Daily Mail. Vis-a-vis: "Lurid school sex education packs suggest pupils discuss gay and oral sex. Parents are appalled by the material..." and "the Scottish Executive was attacked last night for caving in to European legislation and ushering through more liberal laws governing homosexual practices". Now promoted to Scottish political editor of Scotland on Sunday he fondly wrote how: "Cardinal Keith O'Brien, will accept the scrapping of Catholic schools if support for them dwindles in Scotland". In Barnes's interview with the Scottish Catholic leader, O'Brien swept away rumours that he was liberal-minded: "I have never spoken against family life, or said that married people should commit adultery or that homosexuals should live together and adopt children... I'm regarded by Catholics as a right old square. I'm not a way-out liberal: I've never advocated any of these things. From the first day when I became a priest, when folk came to confession they knew where they stood - it is go and sin no more... As regards to marriage, to lifestyles, you listen and you comfort, but eventually you say: 'I can't do anything more to help you; you know the teaching of Christ, about adultery or homosexuality, and that's that'." Or until they're so fucked up about their sexuality they have to get 16 and 17-year-old lads drunk before they can risk having sex with them. That is, before they are attacked by someone whose sexuality is even more pathologically twisted! Alan Wilson, the respectable history teacher's legs were found in a wheelie bin and arms, head and torso were found wrapped in a carpet in a back garden in Merchiston Avenue in Edinburgh. Alan Wilson thanked Mario Conti for his help preparing his book 'St Margaret Queen of Scotland'. E-mail: garry@scottishmediamonitor.com Now averaging over 1000 hits a day, read the papers, post your comments or search for material at the SCOTTISH MEDIA MONITOR website: http://www.scottishmediamonitor.com SMM supports the work of The Peter Tatchell Human Rights Fund, PO Box 35253, London. E1 4YF. Donations welcome, write cheque to PTHRF. --------------------------------------------------------------- INTERNATIONAL NEWS FROM REX WOCKNER =================================== CAMBODIAN KING: GAY MARRIAGE OK Cambodia's King Norodom Sihanouk says that same-sex couples should be allowed to get married. Writing on his Web site after watching news reports from San Francisco, the monarch said, "I think it [the Cambodian government] should allow marriage between man and man or between woman and woman." The full handwritten text is at http://www.norodomsihanouk.info/mes%2004/fev%2004/2002txt2.htm CANADIAN SUPREMES DELAY MARRIAGE HEARINGS Canada's Supreme Court has postponed its hearings on same-sex marriage until October. Same-sex marriage was legalized by provincial court orders in Ontario and British Columbia last summer, and weddings began taking place immediately. Thousands have occurred. The federal government said it agreed with the rulings by the provinces' highest courts and would introduce legislation to open up marriage nationwide. But the feds also sent three procedural questions to the Canadian Supreme Court. Then, in January, the government added a fourth question. That question caused the postponement. Canada's Parliament will not consider legislation to legalize same-sex marriage in the other provinces and territories until the Supreme Court answers the questions. In the meantime, same-sex couples from anywhere in the world can still go to Ontario or British Columbia, buy a marriage license and get married the same day. 10% OF IRISH STUDENTS ARE GAY Ten percent of Irish university students are gay and 18 percent have had gay sex, a survey by the Union of Students in Ireland has found. The organization quizzed 500 students in 15 colleges across the island. Other findings included: 70 percent of those questioned said Irish society is homophobic, 28 percent said they had experienced homophobic taunts, and 21 percent do not wish to see gay couples engage in public displays of affection. Seventy-nine percent would react positively if their best friend came out of the closet but only 40 percent would have a positive response if their brother or sister came out. 10% OF MALTESE GAYS REPORT VIOLENCE A survey conducted by the Malta Gay Rights Movement (MGRM) found that 10 percent of gays and lesbians have faced violence due to their sexual orientation, according to The Malta Independent newspaper. And half of the island's gays reported they had experienced anti-gay harassment. MEXICAN GAYS STAGE PARTNERSHIP RALLY Several thousand gay, lesbian and transsexual couples descended on a downtown Mexico City plaza to demand recognition of same-sex unions, Reuters has reported. They hugged, kissed and received symbolic marriage licenses, the wire service said. ANTI-GAY MP REJECTED A member of Canada's parliament who made disparaging remarks about gays has been dumped by his political party. In November, Canadian Alliance MP Larry Spencer told the Vancouver Sun: "I do believe it was a mistake to have legalized it [gay sex]. I just wish that there was some way that society could stand up and say, 'This is not right.' [If] anybody that used Colgate toothpaste, their life expectancy was lowered by 10, 15 years, what do you think would happen to Colgate toothpaste? It would be outlawed. Well, we know that's what happens to men living a gay lifestyle." Spencer also claimed that gays stage "conventions" to plot the seduction of children. NEW ZEALAND PLANS CIVIL UNIONS A civil-union bill will be introduced into New Zealand's Parliament shortly, the New Zealand Press Association reported. It would grant unioned couples most of the rights of matrimony. SOUTH KOREA TO DE-LIST GAYS The South Korean government has said it will remove homosexuality from its list of unacceptable sexual acts that harm teenagers. The list -- which also includes incest, bestiality, prostitution and sadism -- is used for censoring movies, books and Web sites, among other purposes. ROME GAYS STAGE KISS-IN Thousands of gays staged a kiss-in in Rome's Piazza Farnese on Valentine's Day. "Italy is one of the very few European Union countries that doesn't recognize same-sex couples, and this has to change," said organizer Sergio lo Giudice of the gay lobby group Arcigay. "Political parties ... are too afraid of the Vatican." The Vatican declared war on same-sex marriage and civil-union and domestic-partnership laws last July. GAY BAR OWNER JAILED The owner of a gay bar in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China, was sent to prison for eight years Feb. 18 for running a gay prostitution ring, the Xinhua news agency reported. Li Ning, 33, was also fined $7,300 by the People's Court of Qinhuai District. YOUNGER WESTERN AUSTRALIANS SUPPORT GAY COUPLES Three out of four voters aged 18 to 35 in the Australian state of Western Australia, where Perth is located, support equal recognition of same-sex relationships, a poll has found. But the Westpoll survey saw support plummet to 43 percent among people aged 36 and older, according to a report in The West Australian newspaper. Pollster Keith Patterson said older voters probably have had less exposure to gays. "Gay people in older age groups are more likely to have repressed their sexuality than gays in the under-35 age group," he said. "Older people are therefore less likely to knowingly have friends who are gay, and would be viewing the great gay revolution at somewhat more of a distance than would their younger counterparts." --------------------------------------------------------------- ARTS: COMEDY ============ Martin Walker, ScotsGay's resident media queen, has been dispatched to cover the Glasgow International Comedy Festival. "Bigger and better than ever before!" was the message from the organisers as they announced the launch of this year's event. And with over 35,000 tickets available covering over 150 performances at more than 20 venues across Glasgow, there is much of interest for the LGBT punter. One time ScotsGay cover boy Craig Hill is East Kilbride's gayest international comedy star. For those who haven't seen Craig on TV's 'Floor Show' or during his sell out Festival Shows - Where have you been? Certainly not at the Stand Comedy Club, where he still comperes its hugely popular 'OOT on Tuesday' gay comedy night. "I do OOT whenever I can, it's a lovely atmosphere and so, so friendly," Craig enthuses. "A gay comedy night - how fabulous is that? And most of the people we've had on have been amazing." Craig is one of the nation's smilers. Naturally enthusiastic, in person and on stage, it's difficult not to be swept away with his larger than life manner. Yet on the professional comedy circuit he is a relative new comer. His debut was in just 1998, when a friend secretly booked him in for an 'open spot' at The Gilded Balloon. "I had to be pushed on to stage - but once up there I loved it." He's been hosting sell out Edinburgh Festival shows ever since, and that's not all. Craig has been everywhere. He's supported tours by Johnny Vegas, Phil Kay and Ross Noble, and frequently headlines at venues in Manchester, Newcastle and Dublin. He's a regular performer in London, and his European dates have included shows in Amsterdam, Brussels and Antwerp. And he's been even further afield. "I missed out on the Glasgow Comedy Festival last year as I was touring in Sydney down under. This year Glasgow is the one event that I simply couldn't turn down. I'm going to take my show to a whole new audience. I'll be singing, doing some improv and a few impersonations, and playing with the audience. The energy levels will be up - I canae wait!" So after all this travelling, it's not so much a case of 'Fame Awaits' for Craig Hill, more 'Fame Arrived.' And after doing regular guest spots on TV and radio, and following the huge honour of introducing the fabulous 'Proclaimers' at 'T in the Park', he's landed his own TV show. "I'm compering BBC Scotland's 'Floor Show' this year, which will be really exciting. My chance to misbehave on the box more than ever." So there is no chance that Craig is going to tone down the camp now he's the compere? "No way! - You're gonna see me being myself - only more so!" Any news on the line up? "It's going to be distinctly Scottish - we'll be plugging Scottish comedy talent. There are so many wonderful alternative or camp funny people I've performed with - like Tina C. I'd love to have these guys on TV with me. But that would be a very different show. Craig and his camp friends!" So, world tours and on TV, Craig must get his groupies - Is he single? I have to ask... "No, I'm very happy with Doug. It's been 6 years now!" And when Craig says he's very happy, I believe him. He's still smiling, "In Glasgow I'm sharing the night, er, professionally, with the lovely Des Clarke, who is such a warm, friendly funny man - people are going to adore him." Young Scot Des Clark is a star in his own right - he's won or been a runner up in practically every comedy competition going. ITV Golden Mic Award 2001, Chortle Open Mic Comedian of The Year 2002, Daily Telegraph Open Mic Award 2001, BBC New Comedy Award 2001, Channel 4 'So You Think You're Funny' in 2000. The list goes on. His rapid ascendance has already seen him headline at major comedy venues throughout the country. Oh, and Television work on the 'Live Floor Show' and that awful matriarchs quiz, 'The Weakest Link: Stand - Up Comedy Special'. "My fans will love Des," adds Craig, "We compliment each other's humour very nicely. I gigged with him on the Live Floor Show and he was brilliant." Craig Hill hosts 'The Floor Show' from 12th March on BBC Scotland. You can catch the 'Floor Show' performers in person at the Stand. Tue 23th & 30th Mar, 6:30pm, Stand Comedy Club, 333 Woodlands Rd, Glasgow. Tickets are free Plus, Craig Hill and Des Clarke at the Glasgow Comedy Festival, Sat 27th Mar, 8pm, Cottier Theatre, 93 -95 Hyndland Street, Glasgow. Tickets GBP10 Another big Scots talent is Glasgow's versatile gay comic Charlie Ross, here with his acclaimed show, 'Tracksuits and Munchkins.' And for Charlie, the Glasgow Comedy Festival is his homecoming. "I'm really excited to be a part of the Glasgow Comedy Festival," grins Charlie. "I missed out last year having just moved to London and wanting to concentrate on the scene abroad. So this year I'm going at it with a vengeance. Glasgow is my home - I miss it loads and it's very important to me. So the show is very exciting." Charlie appears, acts and indeed, is, a regular Glasgow bloke. He talks about football and he likes a beer. Though openly and happily gay, his sexuality isn't his act, though he does do gay material. Apart from the occasional flourish, Charlie is not camp. "It's interesting that for almost the first year I was doing comedy, I never came out on stage. I have to admit I was scared of the reaction it would get and I suppose, rather patronisingly, under-estimated the audiences. Once I did it - that was it. It sort of opened a floodgates and I realised I had a wealth of material that I could talk about and, more importantly, wanted to joke about. I have had a fantastic reaction everywhere I've gigged from Glasgow to Cornwall and even the isle of Jersey, who were fantastic. I do think that people still have an old fashioned perception of a gay man and if I do anything, I maybe have them leaving my show with a slightly different outlook on gay issues. Some gay guys like Kylie, some like football, some like both! Of course, the same could be said of straight men too." ScotsGay has been following the progress of Charlie's career since catching him three years ago at the Edinburgh Festival. He's performed and compered everywhere since, and has written and performed with the successful Sketch Show outfit that he co-founded, 'Straight Shooters'. Sketch show comedy is an entirely different way of performing, but it showed his versatility as an actor, dancer and singer. He even performed in drag. Performing at London's famous Canal Cafe Theatre, one time home of the League of Gentleman and hosts of current NewsRevue crop, 'Straight Shooters' first run got an excellent response. Charlie, it seems, can do it all. "I've always been involved in the stage and had tried just about everything. I was even a club singer for a little while. Yes, the spangly waistcoats and 'Hi Ho Silver Lining!' I always enjoyed singing and thought that it would be the performing art that I would be successful in, if any." It was at the same time that he lost both his parents and his brother to cancer within a four-year period. Ironically, this dreadful experience was one of the things that drove Charlie towards comedy. "One of the things you realise once you've confronted death is that all the cliches really are true. Life is too short and this isn't a rehearsal. So I decided to try to have more of a stab at it. Not that I started paragliding over the Arctic Ocean or anything, just decided that if there was something I wanted to try, I would just do it. Comedy is what I've always really wanted to do." Charlie has been funny his whole life (as Kenneth Williams might say) "When I was a teacher - a job for which a sense of humour is essential - I found myself using gags more and more to illuminate my lessons." Charlie eventually went along to the State Bar comedy club in Glasgow and did an open spot. "I didn't tell a soul, working on the principle that if I was crap I could put it down to experience and move on. Well it must have been okay because I was asked back and it just sort of snowballed since then." Charlie Ross 'LIVE' on Tue Mar 9th at 8.30pm Edinburgh University; Charlie Ross in 'Tracksuits and Munchkins' at the Glasgow Comedy Festival, Thu 18th Mar, 8pm, 13th Note, 50 King Street, Glasgow. Tickets GBP6/GBP5 Chris Green's comic creation Tina C has played to sell out shows world wide, including the Edinburgh Festival. Last years 'Lifestyle Guru' show was a Fringe highlight, as was the brilliant satirical 'Twin Towers Tribute' the year before. I caught up with Chris last year, as the 2003 festival was about to get underway. "At the Time of my Twin Towers show - no one was doing 9/11 jokes. But the audiences had a huge appetite for the humour. Now everybody is doing it." So, who is Tina? "Tina is a Nashville lady," and then suddenly, like the TARDIS, Chris has dematerialized. And Tina is with me. "After some terrible criticism of my debut CD release It 'Ain't Easy Being Easy', I fought my way back into the mainstream with the No.1 Hits,'No Dick's As Hard As My Life', and my anthemic single - 'Course I Want You For Your Body (I Got A Mind Of My Own)'. I am now hailed as a role model for ballsy women everywhere, You see, we Nashville girls are a strong women. We only wear short skirts and sing songs about being mistreated by men because we want to." From Tina's website, 8 top tips for life - 1. If you're not part of the problem - you're part of the solution. 2. Pay everyone you meet a compliment - even if it's 'look at you breathing!' 3. As my mama used to say "if you sit on the fence - you're gonna get splinters in your ass". 4. Never wear nylons on a plane, unless you want 90 degree burns where your legs used to be. 5. When dealing with international leaders or friends in the mall, if you can't think of something nice to say - make a joke about the name. 6. I used to complain to my mama - "mama, life is hard" and she said to me "learn to enjoy it when it's hard". 7. Don't be afraid to start crying - there's nobody that didn't ever stop ('part from my great aunt who died of hysterical dehydration - but there's always an exception to prove the rule). 8. Keep the faith, keep the love, buy the album! Check out Tina Online at http://www.tinac.net and see her in the flesh Tina C - Just Doing It For The Love, Fri 26th Mar, 10pm, Tron Theatre, 63 Trongate, Glasgow. Tickets GBP8/GBP6 Other highlights at the Glasgow comedy festival? ScotsGay gave Mitch Benn and the Distractions 5 stars for their show in Edinburgh in August for good reason. A professional comedian working with professional musicians. They take musical comedy to a whole new level. His Eminem parody in particular is a real gem, and his popular song 'Crap Shag' is inspired. Mitch Benn and the Distractions, Tue 23rd Mar, 7:45pm, The Arches, 253 Argyle Street, Glasgow. Tickets GBP10/GBP8 Having somehow missed his Edinburgh Fringe shows, I finally got to see Reginald D Hunter at Madame Jo Jo's Christmas in London, during their Christmas bash. On stage he delivers the best and funniest critique of Political Correctness I have ever heard. By proving that everyone is racist, sexist and homophobic, including himself, he shows himself to be the most tolerant funnyman you'll ever see. Reginald D Hunter in White Woman, Thu 18th Mar, 10pm, Tron Theatre, 63 Trongate, Glasgow. Tickets GBP8/GBP6 Reasons To be Cheerful, by the 7:84 Theatre Company, is a comedy about the reunion of three ex socialist friends. Perhaps they all run off and join the old Liberal Party. Reasons To Be Cheerful, 7:84 Theatre Company, Wed 17th Mar - Sat 20th Mar at 7:30pm, Tron Theatre, 63 Trongate, Glasgow. Tickets GBP8/(GBP5 conc) - Wed/Thu, GBP5/(no conc) - Fri, GBP12/(GBP6 conc) - Sat For more news and a complete list of who else is performing see the festival website. http//:www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com/ Other names to look out for include Dora Bryan (not to be confused with Dara O'Briain - who is also well worth checking out). Mark Steel (the funniest member of the SWP you'll ever see). Thanks to Phil Tams. Have a good time at the festival. Say hi if you see me out and about and e-mail me with your comments: mgwuk2003@yahoo.co.uk --------------------------------------------------------------- FREEBIES ======== Boxfresh British Youth Grooming Boxfresh, the original British urbanwear brand are to launch an exciting fresh all year round collection of body products to give lasting protection against everyday urban environments. It's fresh out of the box, Boxfresh! This exclusive grooming line is to be launched April 2004 in selected Boots stores nationwide. The range will combine lasting freshness and a distinctive scent, which reflects the Boxfresh urban lifestyle. This unique and masculine fragrance is ideal to combat the tough urban environments. With a fresh citrus top infused with lemongrass. The main tag is a combination of herbal notes with a moody urban undertone of musk, sandalwood cedarwood and moss. The range will consist of: Boxfresh British Youth Travel Bag Pack GBP20 This is perfect for weekends away and festivals with body wash, all packaged in an exclusive Boxfresh travel bag. Boxfresh British Youth Sweat Band Pack GBP 8.50 The ultimate urban survival pack featuring body wash, sweat band and 3 exclusive badge. Boxfresh British Youth Carabina Pack GBP12.50 The ultimate urban survival pack featuring body wash, body spray, hair wash and Carabina keyring. Boxfresh British Youth Cap Pack GBP18 Urban head protection, containing hair wash, and the essential Boxfresh Cap. Boxfresh British Youth T-Shirt Pack GBP23 Makes an ideal gift for streetwise urbanites. Includes body spray. Thanks to the nice Boxfresh folk, ScotsGay has three of the Travel Bag Packs to give away. If you would like one, send a postcard with your name and address on it to: Boxfresh Offer, ScotsGay Magazine, PO Box 666, Edinburgh. EH7 5YW. --------------------------------------------------------------- ARTS: BOOKS =========== Monster Brian Bouldrey Alyson GBP9.99 Do you know any "Sissies" or "Pansies"? If your answer to this question is yes then you must read this book, even if it is only to make you laugh at your own stereotype of masculinity. Self-proclaimed sissy Brian Bouldrey has a very goofy sense of humour and puts it to good use in these stories where he goes undercover to investigate American machismo. These stories are sharp witted autobiographical musings and reflections which provide us with the certain knowledge that manly stereotypes yield surprising subtleties and contradictions. These are hilarious essays on the different views on what makes a man. Best Gay Erotica 2004 Richard Labonte (Editor) Cleis GBP10.99 Well. What can I say about this compilation, hmm, let's say that it's pretty good one handed reading material. Some of the stories are quite captivating, but in the end all of them are just so predictable. Having said all that I must admit that one of the short stories in this book stood out from the rest, "How I Learned to Snap" I found to be a most entertaining stories about coming of age. Gay & Lesbian Online Jeff Dawson Alyson GBP13.99 How about putting that computer in the corner of your bedroom to some very good use and surfing the thousands of queer websites available for those of us in the know? With the help of this book, which incidentally is the fifth edition of this invaluable guide, you won't feel so overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of gay and lesbian sites out there in cyberspace. This book orders the websites available for you to surf into neat categories and makes it a lot easier to actually find the relevant sites for any particular information you want to find, whether it is a night out in Alabama or info on queer skinheads, opera or leather & SM it's all out there for those who know where to look. And with this book you will know! Escort Tales Joseph Itiel Harrington Park Press GBP9.99 Apart from being candidly erotic these stories provide an insight into the private thoughts and fascinating lives of gay male escorts. These sex workers might live and work in places as diverse as New York, Hong Kong, Jerusalem or Acapulco and are from miscellaneous social background, but they share an almost instinctive knowledge of how essential things like good timing are in the sex industry. The seven stories in this book are told with charm and wit, sometimes amusing, sometimes thought provoking, but always provocative. This book is not just erotically charged but also gives those of us with no or little experience of the sex industry a valuable insight. Idol Worship Michael Ferguson Starbooks GBP13.99 I like movies and I like men and I like this book. I found several of my particular favourites here and I'm sure if you're similarly inclined then so will you. Whether you're a fan of young Leonardo di Caprio or Matt Dylon, Keano Reeves or Rudolph Valentino, they are all featured in this book. I am only sorry that the fantastic photographs featured in this book are not printed on better paper. The quality of the pictures leaves something to be desired being printed on the same pages as the rest of the book. Apart from that though it is a thoroughly enjoyable romp through the most desirable male bodies Hollywood and beyond has to offer. Blood Moon Darwin Porter Georgia Literary Association GBP12.99 This is one of the most gripping and entertaining novels I've read in a long time. It's not particularly new, but to be perfectly honest, with about 800 pages it seemed a little of a task to read. How wrong I was, time just flew by reading this excellent novel and I spend every available minute with my head buried deep in the pages of Blood Moon. A more emotional Tour de Force involving a multitude of very powerful characters you could not wish for. These characters are the most colourful and sometimes unlikely people you could ever imagine, yet the excellent story telling capabilities of Darwin Porter makes even the most incredible scenario somewhat you can accept whole heartedly. A real page turner, go out and get it now. Dirk Kriete --------------------------------------------------------------- ARTS: FILMS TO KNOW ABOUT ========================= It is the season for South American cinema. "Imagining Argentina" (15) is enough to make us realise how lucky we are to live in this green and pleasant land. For in 1976 ruthless generals in Buenos Aires were torturing and murdering anyone who criticised their government. 30,000 people disappeared. This kind of subject is more suitable for a TV documentary than a feature film to entertain a world public. But writer/director Christopher Hampton felt so strongly about the subject that his zeal infected Antonio Banderas who agreed to play the lead. He is the husband of campaigning journalist Emma Thompson who is imprisoned, raped and tortured. The sincerity with which it is made could bring academy award nominations. But you need a very strong stomach for this one. Frustrated parents amongst us will prefer "Valentin" (PG) who is a 9 year old boy in the 1960's Buenos Aires. The story implies his mother left his impossible father who lives elsewhere occasionally visiting his son who lives with his grandmother. He is the most appealing child you have ever seen onscreen. When his grandmother dies, you might need more paper tissues than I did. It is worth tracking down at art cinemas. "Suddenly" (15) is set in the same city and has two lesbians following an overweight girl telling her she is irrisistible. Shot on a tight budget in black and white its cast of very new actors bring a realism that impresses. Worth looking out for later in April is "Wondrous Oblivion" (PG) set in 1960 about an 11 year old Jewish boy, Sam Smith, in a London terrace house who is hopeless at cricket at school when a black family move next door who set up a practice cricket net in their garden. While the snob neighbours ignore the Jamaican family, Sam is happy to improve his cricket by practising with them. It is a movie with great charm until writer/director Paul Morrison shows an arsonist attempting to burn their house down. As in Britain today there are still parents who brainwash their children to be anti any minority they choose to look down on, I don't consider it a good idea to put arson onscreen. Many of us will never forget in the last ten years the murder of two black boys, Stephen Lawrence and Damilola Taylor, in south London with totally inadequate police investigations and no convictions. CURRENT RELEASES If you don't believe police corruption is possible you positively must see "Charlie" (18) about a gangster family called the Richardsons who dominated south London in the sixties when the Kray brothers ruled the East End. Luke Goss, who started his career in the pop band Bros, is brilliant as the sadistic gang leader Charlie Richardson. You need strong nerves to watch Charlie ordering his men to strip and torture any thug who has displeased him. Scotland Yard finally becomes embarrassed by the Richardsons' reputations and bring former members of their gang from prison sentences to testify in court against them. If you can cope with the disgusting subject matter it is compulsive viewing because Luke Goss is a star find if ever there was one. The police are making sure the court file notes held in public records won't be released till 2044 and some will remain closed till 2069. "Something's Gotta Give" (12A) is a comedy in which audiences are expected to believe that successful playwright Diane Keaton chooses the falling apart Jack Nicholson to have an affair with in preference to Keanu Reeves who is mad about her. If you think that is believeable go and see it. Poetry lovers are the only people I Can recommend to "Sylvia" (15). It is the true story of American Sylvia Plath who meets Ted Hughes while studying at Cambridge. Instant chemistry plus their obsessions with poetry leads to marriage. But the unstable Sylvia commits suicide when love goes wrong. You have to be fixated by the lovely Gwyneth Paltrow and the stunning Daniel Craig in the leads to be patient with this one. "The Dreamers" (18) is a Bernardo Bertolucci film about a brother and sister who are Paris students in 1968 who befriend an American teenage student because of their passion for old movies. While parents are away they invite him to stay and a sexual threesome happens. The nudity will keep some audiences happy. "Dickie Roberts" (12A) is a pleasing comedy about a former child star from TV who, as an adult, is desperately trying to revive his fame. A likeable cast make it great fun. If you are a slapstick lover "Cheaper By The Dozen" (PG) is the film to aim for if you are entertaining anyone under 15. Steve Martin has 12 kids whose enjoyment in life is humiliating adults in any way possible. "Man Dancin' " (15) is a Glaswegian gangster story about Alex Ferns (who played the evil Trevor in Eastenders) going home after a nine year prison sentence. On probation his local priest persuades him to take part in a religious play. But his former boss who runs a protection racket is furious Alex won't return to work for him. It won't do anything for the Scottish tourist trade. Thank goodness for "Monarch Of The Glen". Producer/writer/director Maeve Murphy was so convinced that the public would be interested in the true story of the Armagh women's prison in 1980 that she also acts in "Silent Grace". IRA members are determined to hunger strike. DVD World Those who never saw the 1961 movie "Victim" should see it now to know the suffering gay people went through before it became legal from 21 in 1967 in England and Wales - in Scotland, of course, that didn't happen until 1980!. Blackmailers were rife and it was considered very brave at the time for box office idol Dirk Bogarde to play the lead. In a selection of autobiographies Dirk wrote he never admitted to being gay. His humility and sincerity onscreen was an incredible contrast to his arrogance when being interviewed for TV by Russell Harty at the end of the eighties although Russell didn't mention Tony Forwood, the guy Dirk had lived with for over 30 years. Also on the Carlton DVD is an early sixties interview with Dirk fortunately taken on one of his good mood days. Not many people have the strength to do one person shows when they are touching 80 years of age, but on "Elaine Stritch At Liberty" by Metrodome she gives the impression she is half that age. A very popular singing star on the American and British stages in many musicals throughout her life she tells very entertainingly about dating Marlon Brando when he was young and magnificent. And she admits how alcohol affected her life in later years. Elaine is a vibrant personality whom you will enjoy even if you have never encountered her before. I am pleased to say my second favourite film of all time "The Wicked Lady" is now on a Carlton DVD. Made in 1945 it was the biggest hit of that year with Margaret Lockwood and James Mason at their memorable best as 18th century highwaymen. Besides "Casablanca" it is the only movie I keep to watch every couple of years. "Camp" was so popular on cinema release in the past year it is now on a Momentum DVD to be released in April. Set in an American summer camp it has talented straight and gay teenagers rehearsing musical shows with a professional director as they hope to go into the New York theatre. Their reputation reaches show writer Stephen Sondheim who asks to see one of their productions. Young leading man Daniel Letterle is something to feast the eyes on. Malcolm Epstein ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SCOTSGAY VOICE FOR PERSONALS ============================ (We regret that this service is only available within the UK) 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. It's completely FREE to place your ad by phone on 0800 138 4 1-2-1 We'll not only print your ad in our next few issues, but it will also be available for telephone callers to our browse hotline on 09068 556613 Advertisers get their own private voice mailbox and can pick up replies on 09068 556613 Why not suck it and see? Conditions of service: All participants must be 18 or over. Ads will run for up to 3 issues. It will not be possible to reply to advertisers who have not collected replies for more than 28 days. service supplied by Tele-Dater, PO Box 425, PE25 2RQ. E-mail: admin@bizorg.co.uk. Helpline (10am - 6pm weekdays) 0870 121 1210 (not a premium rate number). 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. MEN Ayry Fairy? Young-looking and acting 35 year old, slim Ayrshire guy is looking to meet up with any young and cute-looking lads. He can travel and accommodate. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5699. Horny Uncle Horny uncle type seeking nephew for hot, horny fun with no strings attached. He is 40 years old, 5'7" tall with a 30" waist and 40" chest. "No camps, effeminates or fatties". Can accommodate or travel in the Glasgow area. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5701. First-timer 31 year old Glaswegian bi-guy is looking for a feminine gay guy to share his first experience with, preferably 21 to 25 years old. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5706. Daddy Bear 6'2" tall, big, cuddly, hairy daddy bear living in Edinburgh would like to show some love to younger guys. He has his own place and car and would like to meet guys between 18 and 30 years. "If you fancy some fun - get back to me". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5710. North Sea Gaz Gaz is a 39 year old from Dundee with a medium build, short hair and brown eyes. He likes football, going out and staying in. He is looking for a younger, mature, understanding person for a one-to-one relationship. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5711. Letter To Our Editor? 37 year old guy who lives to the south of Edinburgh is slim, fair and enjoys a variety of interests. He would like to meet people 50+ years old who are bald or balding on top and who have a confident and positive attitude to life. "If you are interested, please leave a message and I will return your call". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5729. Cute, Cuddly And Quiet Steve from Dundee is 32 years old, cute and cuddly. He likes watching TV, quiet nights in and nights out. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5730. Wee Call 39 years old guy from Clydebank/Glasgow/Dumbarton area who likes to cross-dress a bit would "really like to submit to an older man's desire. If you think that's you and would like to get together, give me a wee call". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5663. Lost in Glasgow Peter, 40 years old, is looking for young guy to have some fun with. He has his own place and car. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5674. First Man? Adam is 40 years old, 5'9" tall, 30" waist with short dark hair and clean-shaven is looking for a one to one relationship. Interests are going out, cinema and music. West Lothian area. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5677. Uplifting Tayside guy is looking for local people for friendship. He is fairly easy going and fun-loving and would like to make more gay friends between 25 and 65 years for socialising meals out, evenings at the theatre and cinema. No people with a history of depression please he wants to be lifted up out of himself. "I will get back to everyone who replies". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5679. Dominate Me! 48 year old bisexual guy who is a bit overweight, would like to be dominated by singles or couples. "That's all". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5680. Use Me! Submissive bi-male with body piercings is looking for a Top guy who can control him. "Use me as you want". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5683. Fit Barry Barry is 39 years old and has recently moved to the Aberdeenshire area. He is 5'10" tall with grey hair, is fairly fit and is looking for a partner/friend of roughly the same age. He is easy going, reasonably attractive and has a dry sense of humour. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5684. Wee Call Dale from Edinburgh would like to try watersports. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5686. Dominate David David lives in the Paisley area. He is 5'8" tall with brown hair and would like to meet somebody very dominant. He is very submissive. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5687. Crap 60 year old, with a crap telephone says he will answer all messages. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5690. Clubbing Chris Chris is a bisexual man in Glasgow/Edinburgh who would like to meet others to go to gay and straight clubs with. He is 5'11" tall, very easy going, works out and has a muscular/athletic build. He is looking for a bisexual friend. Not a relationship. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5691. Naked Ambitions? "Do you fancy being a stripper in a gay or straight clubs? Do you have a good-looking body and are confident? Then I can be your Agent and include you in a new-forming group and make you some serious money". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5693. Forceful False Floosie For Forties Fife Frolics I am looking for a dominant TV. I am a mid-forties male who stays in Fife and works in Edinburgh. Looking for somebody who is into fun and entertainment. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5695. I Want Discipline! I am a mid 50's, stocky, straight acting, Edinburgh guy with a need for some discipline in my life. I am looking for a hairy, masterful 30+ guy willing to train me by showing me the error of my ways. If that's you - give me a call. Please. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5623. Accommodating Aberdeen Alan Alan from Central Aberdeen is in his mid 40's, well-groomed, clean and discreet. He can accommodate and travel in the NE of Scotland. He is genuine and honest and likes foreign travel. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5631. Socialising 44 years old, 5'8", fair hair, blue eyes, medium build passive gay guy is looking for an active guy of a similar age. Likes quiet nights in, wining and dining and is looking for someone with whom he can go out socially and have some fun. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5638. Watersports Good-looking, genuine, 36 years, discreet Edinburgh guy into odours and watersports is looking for some fun. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5639. Doubles In Dundee Bi, sub guy from near Dundee, 38 years, 5'10", blond hair and blue eyes is looking for two or more guys who are not scared to enjoy themselves and have a very good time. He has a lot of equipment, is very submissive and likes roleplay and poppers. He can accommodate. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5643. Local To Johnstone? Johnstone and surrounding area. 39 years old, 5'7", stocky with hairy build, average looks; shy at first but with a good sense of humour. Looking for someone hopefully local. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5647. Fiona - Size 24 Steven/Fiona is 44 years old and takes a size 24 in women's clothes. Looking for another cross-dresser who also lives near to Clydebank. Also likes driving, videos, DVDs. Age and looks are unimportant. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5652. Caring Chas Chas, 35 years from Glasgow is a genuine, down to earth, good-natured guy with 34" waist and a hairy body who is looking for similar - straight-acting and preferably non scene guy aged between 35 and 40 who is looking for more than a one night stand. He enjoys going for a drink, eating out, going on holiday and cosy nights in and is looking to get to know someone who he can care for. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5655. Explore Leather & Rubber John is a 39 year old bisexual guy, with a medium height and build, who would like to discreetly explore his sexuality with an understanding, experienced older guy; particularly if they like wearing leather or rubber. He lives in the Edinburgh area but cannot accommodate. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5600. Blue-Eyed Guy 39 year old good-looking, straight-acting, non-scene Glasgow gay guy with blue eyes, short hair, is clean shaven with a hairy body. He works out and keeps fit. He likes the cinema, eating out and quiet evenings in and is looking for a younger guy for friendship, leading to a possible 1-2-1. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5605. In And Out In Edinburgh Straight-acting, 43 year old slim, dark gay guy from Fife/Edinburgh area, interested in music, films, videos, DVDs, nights in and out is looking for friendship or a relationship. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5566. Pain And Clout In Edinburgh Edinburgh guy, 60 year old, will deal firmly with bad boys: spanking, belt and cane. "Report now for punishment". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5568. Kenny Kenny is 33 years old, 5'11" tall with a large build, blue eyes and short brown hair. He is looking for a 35-45 year old mature and intelligent father figure to love him and treat him like a boyfriend too. He has been badly hurt in the past so needs someone who is understanding for a 1-2-1 relationship. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5572. Caucasian 4 Asian Smooth-bodied, chubby, big-chested, straight-acting, non-scene, very discreet white guy would like to meet a guy from the Indian, Pakistani or Arab communities who lives in Edinburgh . Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5577. Make Me Submissive! Edinburgh guy would like to meet an active black guy who could "make him submissive". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5581. Protruding Nipples 14 stone guy with protruding nipples would like to meet a big, hairy, well-hung daddy. "If that's you - give me a call. I have my own place". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5582. Mutual Satisfaction 47 year old genuine bi-guy from the north of Glasgow is looking for similar guys for fun, friendship and mutually-satisfying times. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5594. Grampian Gordon Slim, passive, discreet, tall and slim Gordon from the Grampian area is looking for a senior top. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5596. Shy Jamie Jamie is a 35 year old non-smoking, shy guy with a good sense of humour. Hobbies include walking, watching sports and music. He is looking for a similar guy in the north-east of Scotland. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5494. Cute Guy Central Scotland 28 year old slim, toned, cute, genuine, passive guy with a lot of interests is looking for an active older, professional guy to develop a friendship and 1-2-1. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5497. Leather And Rubber Paul from the Edinburgh area is 40 years old, into leather and rubber, bikers and skins. "Any masters out there - give me a call". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5517. Boots And Gloves Paul likes boots, gloves, leather and rubber. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5519. Cross-Dresser 43 year old slim West Dumbarton guy who likes to cross dress in the privacy of his own home. He is passive and submissive and would love to hear from you. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5527. Anything Goes In Aberdeen Aberdeen area 39 year old tolerant slave seeks master, 45+. Anything goes. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5431. Something More Paisley/Johnstone area, 38 years old, 5' 7" tall, stockily built, straight acting and looking inexperienced guy is looking for "something more than the usual." Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5448. Edinburgh Lock Male, early 40's, into domination, rubber, leather and restraints. Comes from Edinburgh but can travel. Please give him a call if you are similarly interested. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5452. Central Belter Experienced headmaster, 55 years old, presently dealing with athletic 35 year old bad boy, wants to enlarge the class. Traditional discipline and correction given. Discretion expected and assured. Will travel Central Belt. Also interested in meeting fellow masters. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5423. Edinburgh Domination "We are two dominant guys from the Edinburgh area, one is 50, the other 22 years. We are looking for a young, submissive guy between the ages of 18 and 30 years approximately. He must be prepared to accept bondage, CP etc.. We can travel but not accommodate at the moment". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5347. Fife Fetish For Rubber And Restraint Fife Fetish couple looking for fetish males, females and couples. They are into leather, rubber, restraint and domination. They can accommodate and travel. Age not important. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5367. Sore Bottom Guaranteed Edinburgh guy, 59 years old, offers school-type CP to naughty boys; spanking, cane - a sore bottom guaranteed. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5379. Peter From Edinburgh Peter from Edinburgh is 48 years old, 5'8" tall and totally non-scene. He is very genuine, honest and caring. He likes theatre, cinema, walking, the gym and holidays. He is looking for a like-minded gay or bi-guy who enjoys life - 18-50 years old. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5380. Learning The Ropes Slim, mature, 50's passive Tayside guy who likes bondage and restraint games would like to meet an active gay partner who is interested or experienced in trying out bondage ideas. Age and looks unimportant. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5318. Suberdonian Aberdeen area slim 38 year old submissive guy seeking dominant guys 40+. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5321. Do You Look Good In Uniform? Then here's something to your advantage with discreet, friendly non-scene type. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5285. Mature From Dundee? Francis from Dundee is in his mid-fifties with a slim build, 5'8" tall with blue eyes. He would like to meet an active gay guy for fun and friendship. Preferably mature, but any age and colour would be most welcome. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5232. Masculine From Glasgow Alvin from Glasgow is 29 years old, 5'7" tall with dark hair and eyes, quite well built, hairy and masculine. He loves travelling, films, books, food and drink. He is looking for someone who is genuine, masculine, intelligent and easy-going for fun and friendship - hopefully leading to a wee bit more. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5236. Belting Memories "I am looking for a genuine retired or former teacher, living in Scotland, over the age of 50 to give me the belt as per my schooldays. I need my hands warmed again". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5252. Asian In Glasgow? Glasgow guy, 44 years old, 5'11", 12st with dark hair who works out would like to meet an Asian guy for fun and friendship. He is very discreet and can accommodate. So if you like what you hear - leave a message. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5180. Pissable Meeting In Aberdeen Aberdeen area. Slim, tanned, 38 year old Sub, into bondage and yellow, looking for other guys 40+. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5199. Colourful Aberdonian Aberdeen area, submissive 42 year old, into yellow or brown, into dominant guys, any age. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5082. Gym'll Fix It Dominant Master, Glasgow area, 44 years, 5'11", 12 stones with dark brown hair. He's very fit and goes to the gym 3 times a week. He is looking for a slave for spanking, role play and mild CP. He can accommodate and is very discreet. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5052. Yellow Sub- 38 year old slim, submissive guy, into yellow, is looking for dominant guys any age. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5060. Professional And Non-scene 31 year old professional, non-scene gay guy, non-smoker, 5'8", 10.5 stone, 33" waist. Hobbies include cinema, theatre, reading, country walking and swimming. Looking to meet gay/bi guys up to 45 years old for a possible 1-2-1 with the right guy. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4775. Peter From Edinburgh Peter from Edinburgh is a 51 year old, clean-shaven guy with dark hair. He enjoys, music, cinema, theatre, country walking, swimming, briefs and Speedos and he is looking to meet people for fun. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4710. Belting I am a guy in my 40's that remembers the belt at school. I am looking for a genuine, retired or former schoolteacher over 50 to give me the belt over my outstretched palms. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4437. Fraserburgh Versatile and fair-haired. Classical music, books and video-lover looking for similar. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 9628. -------------------------------------------------------------- BOXES - THE SCOTSGAY MEET MARKET ================================ To reply to a Contact Ad: By e-mail: We can now accept replies by e-mail for Box Numbers. They should be sent to boxreplies@drink.demon.co.uk and will be printed out and posted on by snail mail to the box number holders. There will be no charge for this service. 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 *LOOKING FOR Box SG54199 Could the advertiser with this box number whose advertisement appeared on page 11 of ScotsGay 54a please phone 0131-539 0666 urgently. Looking For An Old Friend Does anyone know of a man named Jim Clark from Dumfries, Scotland? I lost contact with him after he moved back to the UK from Bermuda in the early 1980's. He attended University of Glasgow and was accountant. If anyone knows how to contact him please advise his whereabouts and how he may be reached or he can contact me via E-mail or snail mail. Any help is greatly appreciated as we were very close friends. Write: Edward Teal, 4001-B Maplewood, Austin, TX 78722, USA. E-mail: ed5517@msn.com Sperm Donor Sought By lesbian couple (31/35, prof) in Edinburgh area. Looking for healthy, intelligent and reliable man. No co-parenting involvement. Will pay expenses. Box SG55140. [58] *ANNOUNCEMENTS 2nd March 2004 Happy birthday, Duncan. You are the light of my life and make my buttocks clench. Love you lots, Chris. *WOMEN Motherwell Ladies Football Team Are seeking new players in all positions. We train Tue and Thu in Hamilton. If interested, contact Michelle on Motherwell (01698) 249154. Little Miss Curious 26 year old female, GSOH, seeks bi/lesbian girlies to explore sexuality, have fun and friendship. Aberdeen area. Box SG56031. Foxy Lady Watery Cancerian, 30, GSOH, very femme, 5'5 1/2", medium build, short blonde hair, looking for handsome butch with added softness for love, fun and friendship. No timewasters, please. Write now! 23-27. Box SG56037. *MEN Gay Football In Glasgow Looking to start up a team to play recreationally and possibly competitively in the Glasgow/Central Scotland area. All players welcome, regardless of skill level, sexual orientation or gender. If interested in either organising or playing, E-mail: Shaun at glbtfootball@hotmail.com Attracted To Men And Also To God? I am trying to initiate a support/talk/study group, perhaps meeting weekly, for men of all denominations who have a belief in a higher power/source/godhead, and who, like me, are not finding him/her/it in organised institutional events. Phone: Hamish on 07796 958206 or E-mail: lebartonne@hotmail.com Dirty Old Man Seeks youngster (16-21) with sense of humour and enough imagination to guess the purpose for which he is being sought! Box SG56002. Mr Right Looking for Mr Right Dark hair, average body, hairy chest, uncut would be nice. I'm 40, good body/looks, straight acting, looking for nice genuine guy to get in touch. Box SG56006. Lonely Adult Baby gay male, 34. Passive, 5'11", large nappy wearing. For active, unattached, non workaholic gay male. Daddy, boyfriend. For relationship. No married men or masters. I'm from Midlothian. ALA. Box SG56007. Edinburgh - Central Scotland Friendly 40ish guy looking for young (16-26 year old) guy who genuinely prefers the company of older guys. A one off meeting would be fine, but regular uncomplicated fun is what I'm looking for. Mutual respect required and total discretion offered. Box SG56008. Bi Curious 40 Year Old I am a very bi curious 40 year old who will try anything once with an older gent 50+. I can travel but cannot accommodate. Box SG56011. Seeking Hi-Viz Or Overalls I'm 27, clean shaven down below, slim build, slightly hairy chest, looking for guys in Hi-viz, overalls, shirt and tie, work gear, etc. Box SG56012. Stephen Purdon Type Sought by older Edinburgh guy for fun and friendship. Box SG56013. Couple Looking For Same We're a longstanding couple, down to earth, 34 and 55, good looking, clean, into most things. Like tops of any age into older/younger for 3somes only. We live in Fife. Just get in touch if you fancy a chat. We don't do 1-2-1. No set type as long as not too overweight and we're partial to a hung meet. I love kilts and grey hair - partner like nice bodies and smooth and a mixture. If there is a couple of the same age, get in touch. Thanks gents and lads till we heer from you. Box SG56014. Any Cute, Smart, East Asian Guys? 30's guy, nice looks, well endowed, 5'7", 11st, blond red hair, blue eyes, top, looking for friendship and fun with talkative Asian guy. Box SG56015. Edinburgh CP/Spanking 43 year old looking for some CP/Spanking fun. You preferably between 36 and 46, slim/average build and with at least some experience. Box SG56016. Well Built Genuine Friend Wanted It's really hard trying to find somebody that's genuine, honest, loving, caring, unselfish and not a user in the Glasgow area. People keep saying it will happen one day, that I will meet the guy of my dreams and I have been looking for years. I would love to meet somebody that is all of the above but preferably with muscle and must be a 100% top (active) guy, age is not important. I'm 46, single, good build, hairy, balding, greenish eyes, 5'9" and passive and live in Greenock, it's not that far from Glasgow, as some seem to think you need a passport to come here. So if anybody genuine out there no matter what race, colour, nationality etc wants to contact me please do so and maybe we can meet for a chat and coffee and who knows what can happen. Box SG56017. Chubby Guy - 29 - Gateshead/Newcastle Chubby guy looking for slim/med/rugger build guy 18-39 years for fun friendship possible 1-2-1. Box SG56018. Pre-op TS WLTM Str8/Bi/CD/Les Good looking 50 year old pre-op with a long way to go WLTM others of same ilk, 25-60 years. I smoke, occ/drink, drive. Live Dumbarton. Box SG56019. Sensual Massages Available Hi, I am a 20 year old male in Aberdeen who does great massages. I am 6ft, dark hair, slim, VWE. Box SG56020. Aberdeen Bear Young at heart guy, 37, Quite a lot of body hair looking for someone who appreciates all the hair. Chest and back sometimes trimmed. Good in the sack. Need a guy about the same age who wants the body, medium build and career guy needs a mate who is ideally passive wanting to soak up all the fun that can be had between two guys. Box SG56021. Young And Friendly 19 year old who has just come out looking for friends around the same age in Glasgow. Like to go out to the pub and have fun. Not looking for a relationship or anything like that. Just looking for people to go to the pub with! Box SG56022. Glasgow 32, 6'2" tall, slim, looking for 18+ for friendship or more. Box SG56023. Transport/Communications Enthusiasts Any young guys interested in trains/planes/buses or radio communications? 46 year old radio ham would like to hear from you. Possible weekends away. Box SG56024. Cute Horny Young Lad Wanted 16-20 year old lad wanted for safe, horny fun and friendship by genuine 43 year old guy. First-timers very welcome. Come on guys, I'm waiting! Box SG56025. Aberdeen Couple Professional gay male couple new to Aberdeen seeks similar couples for friendship only. We're 32/44 and enjoy eating out, socialising with mates and travel. Box SG56026. Hello 22 year old lad just got back to Edinburgh looking for work of some sort... Anybody got any ideas?? Get in touch. Box SG56027. Irish Builder Seeks Scotsman Irish Bloke, 36, clean shaven, 6'1", hairy, w/e, s/a. I work as a builder. I would like to meet other builders or farmers. I'm the rough and ready type. I would love to meet a Scotsman my age or a bit older. Box SG56029. Casual I am a 50 year old male, 5'11" tall, broad build, very blue eyes, highly educated and artistic. I am very dominant, love spanking, recieving O and giving A. I am seeking a casual relationship with another male, nothing regular, just when I'm in the mood, looks and age unimportant, just willingness to give pleasure. Anywhere in Scotland as willing to travel. Pic guarantees reply. Box SG56030. Leather and Rubber Master Glasgow Master 40's into safe leather and rubber scenes seeks new sub or slave 18 to 30. Full training given in well equipped playroom. Horny novice boy needed, students welcome to apply. Box SG56032. Men Wanted Male, late 30's Scot living in Tyne and Wear, 5'10", shaven head, goatee, well endowed, live alone in Heaton, Newcastle. Looking to meet men for broadminded fun. I'm waiting. Box SG56033. Edinburgh Uncomplicated fun and friendship offered to young guy 16-22 by 45 year old guy. Come and go as you like. Box SG56038. Strathclyde - Anywhere Nice, slim, youthful late 50's, easy going, straight acting, mostly passive, seeks similar aged, active top guy for regular safe sexy fun. Likes videos, cuddles, kisses, mild spankings. Can travel weekends. Box SG56039. Falkirk Guy - Edinburgh - Glasgow (23) Looking for guys aged 16-23 with good sense of humour into SciFi, pubs, clubbing. Must be slim, good looking. Photo please. All replies answered. Thanks. Box SG56040. Young Slim And Smooth? Glasgow guy (34) seeks skinny wee ned (16-21) for anything goes nights in and out. Smooth body essential. Box SG56041. HIV+ Seeks Pal 6ft, slim, fit, 53, friendly guy can accommodate or travel seeks w/e horny pal for fun and friendship. Any age. ALA. Lancashire. Box SG56042. Edinburgh - Glasgow - Anywhere No strings fun offered to young, smooth chested guys by older hairy bloke. Photo helps. Box SG56043. Male - 38 - Hairy - Glasgow Glasgow male, 38, slim, hairy, dark hair/eyes, seeks 40/50's male, hairy, for fun. SA/SL. ALA. Box SG56044. House Slave Wanted - 25 Years Old Submissive for house duties horny boy needs bondage and ... Living in I will take fully care and train you well. Send letter with experience, details and photo. Box SG56045. First Year Student? First time? Like to try things out with a considerate older guy rather than make a fool of yourself with a guy your own age? Discretion assured. Edinburgh based but can travel. Box SG56046. Leatherclad Fireblade Biker I'm 28, a fit, hunky rider needing guys with sport bikes for summer ride-outs, talk bikes, etc. Hot, horny, always up for a shag. Glasgow area. Box SG56047. Glasgow Guy For Fun Fit guy, 54, slim, versatile, balanced, genuine, non smoker, non scene, seeks other balanced guys guys/couples for regular fun. Can accommodate and travel. Discretion assured. Box SG56048. Glasgow Guy Joe, 48, 5'10", slim, g/l, intelligent, various interests, cropped hair, GSOH, w/e, NSc WLTM similar working class guy for fun, friendship and good times. Box SG56049. Woof! Small hairy bear (45) seeks young smooth cub (16-20) for mutual pawing. Your cave or mine. Box SG56050. Any Old Ropes Young 65, well built, n/s, clean shaven, non smoking, would like to be tied, gagged and whipped then forcibly subjected to A+O. Willing to please master anyway he wants. Box SG56051. Slim Guys Wanted For No-strings Fun Fife guy seeks slim guys of any age for fun at my place or yours. I'm versatile and 45 years old. Discretion assured for bi and married guys. ALA. Box SG56052. Glasgow Bi-guy? Wanted 25-35 years, active and affectionate for no strings fun with 30 year old, slim, sane guy who is caring, shy and genuine. Very discreet and clean. Box SG56053. Aspergers 40something Aspergent looking for fun and friendship with 16-25 year old similar. If you like older hairy guys and can't be bothered with the pathetic courting rituals of the pubs and clubs, please respond to this ad. Box SG56054. *BISEXUAL Bi Curious? There has to be a first time for everything! Aged 16-21: get in touch? Considerate experienced versatile older guy will talk you through things at your own pace before getting down to some safe fun. Your limits respected. Total discretion assured. Live in Edinburgh but will travel if required. Box SG56001. Adult Little Girl/Baby Girl Hi All. Trying another ad after a long break without one. Any TVs TSs or CDs or other adult babies/LGs, nappy/plastic pants wearers etc out there. Also groups or couples m/m , m/f, f/f as I am a bi-sexual male. Can accommodate so I hope this ad in 04 will get me some replies as past ones have not. Ideally a nice daddy type (or mummy - both would be nice). ALA. Note, I might be in England by the time this is published but same applies. Box SG56003. Men or Women Wanted For Fun! I am a 19 year old guy from glasgow! Can travel but not accomModate! Would like to meet males or females for good times! I like to satisfy! I am straight and have never done anything with a guy but am willing to try! So get in touch soon! Box SG56009. Bisexual Woman I am 35, not bad looking with a good body. I have a great sense of humour and would like other females (bi/bi curious) to get in touch. I am looking for friendship, some people to have a laugh with and possibly to go on fun nights out. Box SG56010. Slave Looking For A Master I am a slave and I am looking for a master but not too young - between the ages of 37 and 50 - to be trained to become a proper slave. He can punish me if I disobey, am gobby, etc. I want to be properly whipped and beaten for discipline and to be tied up. My master must be a proper master who is in the Masters' Union. Box SG56028. Muscle Bear Seeks cub interested in weights or rugby to cherish and discipline. Photo please. Central Scotland or anywhere. Box SG56034. Hunky Monkey Required by strict dominant older master into all forms of CP. Photos get mine. Box SG56035. All I Want Is... A bit of no nonsense fun. If you're 16-21 and are up for one off or occasional meets, then this 50 year old guy would like to hear from you. Box SG56055. *STRAIGHT Dundee - Perth Friendly, fit, 50something silver bear seeks morally relaxed women of all ages for fun and friendship. Box SG56004. Dundonian Cutie - Welsh Ex-pat 30 years old, rugby build, well read, university educated, bubbly personality, WLTM caring, intelligent woman, 25-40, for committed long-term relationship. Box SG56005. New Friendships Ayrshire male, 40's, WLTM new male/female freinds/relationships. Different nationality, couples, coloured people welcomed. Phone chats, meet for coffee/chat. Bisexual females 18-69 welcomed. Include photo, SAE if possible. Box SG56036. *FRIENDS ABROAD INTERGAY Penpal contacts with gay men all over the world. Over 120 subscribers in 30 countries. To join is free: send your ad. Only subscribers get the booklet with all data and addresses by enclosing GBP5. INTERGAY, Voorstraat 12-A, 4033 AD Lienden, Netherlands. Brazil 43, hairy top, foot/tickle fetishist, seeks 30-40 slim, blond, ticklish life partner to build monogamic serious life relation in soul/soul commitemnt. Write: Marc, CP3670, Rio 20001-970, Brazil. Canada I'm an ex-pat Scot living in Vancouver BC - will be in and around Aberdeen in May and would like to meet other gay Scots while there. I'm male, a young 56, good-looking and interested in the arts and soccer and anything Scottish. I have been visiting regularly for the past six years and have fallen in love with the place. E-mail: bigalwg@hotmail.com Hospitality Trade In Orlando 45 minutes from Disney, Daytona Beach and Cape Canaveral. Private guest room with bath, garden with swimming pool. Educated gay male. Seeking to exchange hospitality (up to a week) with singles or couples. Write: Alan Levin, 4137 Derby Place, Oviedo, FL 32765, USA. E-mail: gayjewinfl@aol.com *JOBS OFFERED GBP100 per hour We are recruiting attractive guys to work as escorts in our highly respected escort agency. Earn up to GBP100 per hour for doing what you enjoy. You will be well looked after and supported in your work, and will be involved with a progressive, dynamic agency. Models also required. For more info call Ross on 08444 170134 or E-mail: ross@scotsguys.com [56] Assistant Instructor Required by busy Scottish sailing centre for 2004 season. Applicants should be young, fit, reasonably broadminded, straight acting and looking. Must have an excellent sense of humour and be able to relate well to customers. Full training will be given and all activity kit and equipment provided. Private accommodation available. Position can be full time, seasonal or possibly part time. Might suit a student or school leaver. Good terms and conditions. For further details, E-mail: swl121@aol.com or Tel: 07831 846025. [56a] Cash For Your Body Photogenic guys can earn GBP100 cash posing for Mike Arlen who has had 14 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. E-mail: mikearlen@btopenworld.com [99] International Company Expanding Want to work from home using your own PC to earn part-time or full-time income? Run your own business and realise your potential?? WWW: http://www.fulcrumofsuccess.net/[58a] Models Wanted Previously published photographer needs good looking guys (18-25) who want to earn GBP20 per hour for publication work. For details please phone Stuart on 0141-636 6556 (No withheld numbers please) or E-mail: xpozure4u@shaws2000. fsnet.co.uk [99] *SERVICES Books For Sale For lists, contact E Francis, Flat 4, Park Lane, 22 Dunsfold Croft, Aston, Birmingha