SCOTSGAY MAGAZINE ================= ScotsGay is a monthly magazine for lesbians, gay men and bisexuals. Edited, printed and published in Scotland ScotsGay 80/- Heavy - Issue 50 - February 2003 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 2003. 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) 8ukp 6 issue sub (Overseas) 15ukp 12 issue sub (UK & EC) 15ukp 12 issue sub (Overseas) 28ukp 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 Gaytown USA Letter to the Editor Heterosexuality: what is it? how is it caused? Edinburgh Glasgow Scottish Media Monitor Dance Chart Aberdeen Dundee Films Arts International Voice Personals Boxes - the ScotsGay Meet Market Helplines Listings Venues --------------------------------------------------------------- EDITORIAL ========= In the same week that saw the celebration (if that's the right word) of the 20th anniversary of the Bermondsey byelection, came the outing of a Labour MP. Peter Tatchell, you may remember, saw his parliamentary hopes dashed as a result of a massive campaign of homophobia which did little credit to any of his opponents expecially the victor, the spineless Simon Hughes, who remained firmly in the closet when any politicised gay man with any self-respect would have come out as a simple act of solidarity. Well, Hughes subsequently discovered a little bit of how it all felt when his sex life was eventually plastered all over the Sunday toilet paper. For those of us who were piqued at Tatchell's own bodged attempt to go back into the closet during the election at the bidding of the Labour Party, his subsequent acknowledgement that he was wrong to try this (not to mention 20 years of struggle in the garden/cesspit of gay liberation) has long since caused most of us to forgive him. Clive Betts, the Labour MP for Sheffield Attercliffe, actually came out of his own accord. Ish. Behind all the "brave step", "constituency is standing by him", "it was the right time" guff filling the pages of his local paper (and it did make it sound rather as if he was admitting to something vaguely disreputable like collecting cheese labels or stealing potato crisps from Small Children) was the spectre of the Sun. And, of course, Murdoch's finest duly delivered the following day with an exclusive tale that Betts was shagging a rent boy. Whoopie dee! In my (admitedly limited) experience, sex workers are generally nicer human beings and have higher standards of personal morality than most News International journalists. At least Betts isn't a hypocrite - he voted for an equal age of consent of 16. Although anyone who is a mate of the dreadful Blunkett must be a little bit suspect. How did he escape exposure for so long? As any journo (and most disco bunnies) know: pooves do not drink real ale or willingly go to football matches. Which is probably why most of our gay Scottish MSP's have so far managed to remain in the closet (although a wife and kids probably help). But, their day will come. Far better for outing to come now, at their own hands and at a time of their own choosing, than in the yellow press. After all, Iain Smith and Keith Raffan haven't exactly suffered as a result of their personal honesty with the electorate. All of which doesn't really bring us round to this month's front cover. Please note that the large 50 does not refer to the total IQ of the people in the picture, their combined penile lengths, or their blood alcohol level measured in furlongs per fortnight. It's a simple celebration that this is SG50. Although not, please note, our 100th issue. That won't happen until SG52a in July! ScotsGay's eccentric numbering scheme is designed solely to confuse ookish librarians. Our regular readers are, by now, totally beyond such things. John Hein E-mail: johndunedin@drink.demon.co.uk --------------------------------------------------------------- NEWS ==== *EVERY KIRK MEMBER SHOULD SUPPORT HIV/AIDS APPEAL A call to the Church of Scotland's 600,000 members to "show solidarity" with people with HIV/AIDS has been made by the Moderator of the General Assembly. The Rt Rev Dr. Finlay Macdonald announced the initiative at Waverley Care's Solas Information Centre in Edinburgh, when he launched the Kirk's Special Appeal on HIV/AIDS called for by the General Assembly last May. The Appeal calls on all Church members to:- - break the silence on HIV/AIDS - stand together with partner churches - offer practical support - speak up for the voiceless "Jesus lived such a short life here on earth. Yet even in the darkness at the foot of the Cross, we know the Easter dawn will break," says Dr. Macdonald. "So many of our brothers and sisters are living such short lives here on earth because of HIV/AIDS. We share in their suffering and are moved to compassion by their plight. Yet they often refuse to accept that life is too short. They seek to share the hope of a new possibility and quality of life as they organise to promote healthy lifestyles, advocate on behalf of the sick and care for the dying. They prove it is possible to move on from death to life. "I welcome this special appeal as a way for every member of the Kirk to show solidarity with people who live with HIV/AIDS - everywhere, including our own land. Your gift and mine, given in the name of our Risen Lord, and with much prayer, will make a real different. It will prove life is not too short." The Revd Nigel Pounde, the Church's HIV/AIDS Project Co-ordinator, said:- "Billions of US dollars are being committed to a possible war in Iraq yet the UN Global Fund to fight AIDS, TB and Malaria reports it 'lacks the resources' to approve a third round of grants in October this year. Meanwhile a further 3,000,000 people will die world wide this year alone and a further 5,000,000 new infections will be recorded. Does any graver threat to the world exist?." Stephen Lewis, the UN Secretary General's special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa, spoke in Edinburgh recently about 'the moral delinquency of the rich nations failing to provide the money' to fight AIDS, said the Revd Pounde, who added:- "Can there be a greater crime against humanity?" *WORKS OUTING A support and social group for employees of the Scottish Enterpise and Careers Scotland network has recently been set up. They plan to meet regularly at Delmonicas in Glasgow on the second last Thursday of the month at 6pm. Apart from an excuse to have a good blether and a few libations, they also plan to offer support to any employee who is hesitant about coming out at their work or have related issues. Scott Skinner, who helped set up the group commented, "It took me six years before I plucked up the courage to come out at work as I was worried about prejudice and the effect it would have on my career. This was totally unfounded and I have experienced a great deal of support from colleagues and the organisation. It's been a liberating and positive experience and I would encourage others to do the same. Although early days, we hope the group will grow and provide a useful forum for the gay and lesbian employees of the 3000 strong network". For more information or a confidential chat call Scott on 07771 667218 or E-mail: skinns1963@ntlworld.com *HATEFUL CRIMES It is now two years since lobbying by Outright Scotland and others resulted in the setting up of the Scottish Police and LGBT Community Liaison Forum. The Forum consists of representatives of all the police forces in Scotland, and of many LGBT organisations. In the past two years the Forum has done good work, for example developing a definition of homophobic incident that has now been recommended to police forces across Scotland. Unfortunately, the Forum has till now had little support from the Scottish Executive, for whom homophobic and transphobic hate crime has seemed a low priority. An Executive civil servant even wrote to the Forum secretary in 2001 objecting to the fact that the Forum meets on a Saturday, apparently not realising that nearly all the LGBT representatives involved are unpaid volunteers who could not take time off work to go to Forum meetings if they were on a weekday. Crown Office improvements It seems though that things are starting to change. Outright Scotland has been pressing the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service to improve their handling of the prosecution of homophobic and transphobic hate crime. Having the police record an incident as homophobic is useful, but if, when the report goes to the Procurator Fiscal, the homophobic element is downplayed, a lot of the benefit is lost. The good news is that Alastair Carmichael, Principal Procurator Fiscal Depute at the Crown Office in Edinburgh, has recently taken on the job of expanding the Crown Office's work on racist crimes to cover other kinds of hate crime. The first step is likely to be a consultation with LGBT people to find out what people's concerns are about the way the criminal justice system treats them. The law One of the problems is the law itself. The law says that if a crime is accompanied by or motivated by malice and ill-will towards the victim because of their race, it is a racially aggravated crime. That means the court must consider a heavier sentence, and that the whole justice system flags up and takes seriously (in theory at least) the racist element. The Criminal Justice Bill just passed by the Scottish Parliament will add religious and sectarian hate crimes to the category of aggravated crimes. But not homophobic or transphobic hate crimes. While the Bill was going through the Parliament, Robin Harper, Green MSP for the Lothians, worked with the Equality Network and others in an attempt to extend the definition of aggravated crimes to include homophobic and other hate crimes, such as those based on gender, or against disabled people. Robin submitted amendments to the Criminal Justice Bill to do just that. The week before Parliament was due to debate the amendments, Jim Wallace, Liberal Democrat Minister for Justice, invited Robin Harper, together with an Equality Network representative and one from the disability sector, to a meeting. The Scottish Executive were not happy with the detail of Robin's amendment, but agreed that something needed to be done. It was proposed that a working group should be set up, hosted by the Scottish Executive, and including the Equality Network and Outright Scotland, and gender, disability and age organisations, to look at how to ensure that homophobic, transphobic and other hate crimes are taken seriously throughout the system. In the final debate on the Criminal Justice Bill, on February 19th, Jim Wallace announced to the Parliament that the working group is to be set up immediately. The group will make recommendations later this year. There's likely to be another Criminal Justice Bill early next year. Perhaps then we will finally see hate crime against LGBT people taken seriously. Tim Hopkins E-mail: tms@dcs.ed.ac.uk *BADMINTON MATCH Glasgow's 1st Gay and Lesbian International Badminton Tournament will be played from 18th-21st Apr in the Kelvin Hall which has excellent courts and facilities. The Scottish Open Badminton Championships were held there in November 2002. Singles and doubles will be played for both men and women in categories: A, B+, B- and C. (It may be necessary to merge levels for some events.) All players will be guaranteed at least 4 games on both days. A team competition will be held throughout the tournament. The team achieving the best results overall will be presented with the Scottish Cup. Hosted accommodation will be offered to as many players as possible. Places will be allocated when registration and payment have been received and so early registration is recommended. Further details in the listings or consult http://www.teamscotland-bc.co.uk/ *PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION Menelas Siafakas has worked as a volunteer with Body Positive Strathclyde - the West of Scotland's only self-help organisation run by and for HIV+ people for the benefit of those infected and affected - for a number of years in many capacities. In the time he spent with them, he became aware of the importance of peer support, and for this reason he wants to enable the organisation to continue its vital role in providing support for those infected and affected. He is organising a one off exhibition/event of his photographic work, entitled "Boys in the City", to be held at the CCA on 29th Mar. His work attempts to explore boys/men in the city of Glasgow. The models were photographed at night, in locations chosen by themselves. The theme is playfulness, youth, and public disobedience. *FIRST OUT DELIVERS THE GOODS New research finds that 68% of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Scotland have suffered abuse because of their identity. This is just one of the findings of first out, the FIRST research to explore the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Scotland. The study, which received almost 1000 responses, found that a significant majority of LGBT people had been victims of abuse, harassment or violent attack. However, only 17% had reported the incident to the Police. In view of the recent System Three poll, commissioned by Glasgow City Council, which found that 31% of those questioned would be concerned if a lesbian or gay man moved next door to them, Beyond Barriers findings indicate the extent of discrimination, prejudice and harassment experienced by LGBT people in Scotland. These statistics present a major challenge for organisations working to end discrimination against LGBT people, including local authorities, the Police and Scottish Executive. In response to the publication of the report, Rowena Arshad, Scotland Commissioner for the Equal Opportunities Commission said: "Equal Opportunities Commission Scotland welcomes this extremely important piece of research into Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender life in Scotland. The results show very clearly the level of discrimination and prejudice experienced on a day to day basis by the LGBT community. The Article 13 European Directive will see the introduction later this year of new protections in employment and training for lesbians and gay men. We welcome this important step forward and would want to see these vital protections extended to goods and services as well. Equality has been and continues to be an important priority for Scotland. This research exposes the need to tackle this discrimination at every level and we hope it will encourage all individuals and organisations to take on this challenge with renewed vigour and determination." Ali Jarvis, Director of Stonewall Scotland, also welcomed the report, saying: "The research from Beyond Barriers, the Scottish Executive and the Scottish Social Attitudes survey shows a consistent picture of a Scotland in the 21st century where sexual orientation is still an issue for many people. The next step must be to take concrete action on the back of this and ensure equal participation for all people in a modern nation." Ruth Henry, Beyond Barriers Project Manager, said: "This research has been vital in ensuring that the voices of Scotland's LGBT community are heard. We hope that the findings will be useful to organisations in developing their policy around LGBT inclusion." Beyond Barriers is a Scotland wide project funded by the Community Fund. Established in October 2001, the project aims to challenge discrimination and prejudice against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people through working in partnership with minority and majority groups within Scotland. Beyond Barriers was the first Scottish LGBT organisation to receive a major award from the Community Fund (formerly the National Lotteries Charities Board). 924 people from across Scotland responded to the survey. Whilst the majority of respondents live in the Central belt (in Glasgow and Edinburgh), responses were received from the Highlands and Islands down to Dumfries and Galloway. The research also found that the number of LGBT people who vote is much higher than the national average. 83% reported that they vote in general elections, with 71% participating in both Scottish Parliament elections and local council elections. The results indicate that 1 in 5 respondents or their partner have children. *POSITIVE ADVOCACY Positive Voice, a self-help group for people living with HIV in the Lothians, has launched a vital new service. Advocacy is about having someone stand up for you when a little support will help you get your views across clearly. Positive Voice is unique: at Positive Voice, people with HIV don't just get support - they give it as well. Positive Voice is different because people who come to Positive Voice are not passive recipients of support, they actually provide the support themselves too. Positive Voice is for anyone in Lothian living with HIV or who is closely affected by the virus. Advocacy volunteers have completed their in-depth training course in advocacy and are set to start work... Some work has already begun, with Positive Voice recently supporting a member facing disciplinary action because she had not told her employer she had HIV. They were able to provide support in a way that really took the situation forward to the satisfaction of both employer and more importantly of the person getting support. *WADOC The management group for World AIDS Day Lothian is to meet on 13th Mar at 3pm at Positive Voice to debate a proposal to disband the organisation and for individual agencies to take responsibility for organising their own events etc. The reason for this is a lack of people with the time to devote to the organisation of the day on a voluntary basis. *SWITCHBOARDS Borders Switchboard is to close due to lack of support, Strathclyde Switchboard has changed all its telephone numbers (see listings) and new Switchboards are being promoted for Moray and Fraserburgh. *YOUTH Stonewall Youth is looking to expand its team of sessional workers and are looking for committed and experienced applicants to work in Edinburgh, West Lothian, Fife and the Scottish Borders. Stonewall Youth believes in equal opportunities, so applicants need NOT be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. *CALTON HILL There have been a few attacks on cruising men in this area recently. In response to this, the police are going to raise their profile, and will be patrolling in uniform through areas such as Royal Terrace gardens. They claim that the purpose of this exercise is not to catch cruising men, but rather the perpetrators of assaults and other attacks. *LIBERTINE Bunny McGeechan, from spanky-spanky club Violate, has formed a new political party - Liberty - and will be standing as their List Candidate in the Scottish Parliamentary elections on 1st May. *WEB OF EVIL The Church of Scotland's HIV/AIDS appeal - launched recently by the Moderator of the General Assembly, The Rt Rev Dr. Finlay Macdonald - will enable world-wide donation on-line for the first time, through its website: http://www.churchofscotland.org/ ---------------------------------------------------------------- DAYS AND NIGHTS AT GAYTOWN, USA =============================== A holiday in the Florida Keys and Key West, by Dirk Kriete Bugger, bugger, bugger, said an e-mail in my inbox round about the middle of January and continued to say that John, our editor, had a previous engagement and could not take up the invitation for an all expenses paid holiday extended by the Florida Keys and Key West Tourist board. Would anyone like to go instead it continued. Well, I thought, there's no harm in letting him know that I would be available, but I really did not think I ever would be the one to go. But I was wrong, a few days later I had a message on my answer phone from John saying to get in touch asap and the rest is history as they say. I was on my way to the gayest town in the United States. Arriving in Miami after having been cooped up in a Jumbo Jet for over 9 hours I was pretty knackered, but getting out of the airport and onto the highway I got a second wind so to say. Any thought of sleep evaporated and I caught the journey through a little part of the Everglades to our first destination, a small town on the Middle Keys called Marathon and the luxurious Banana Bay Resort and Marina. Little tip for travellers here, break up your journey down to Key West if at all possible in Marathon for a day or two, it's a very long trip from Miami down to Key West. There are flights available from Miami to Key West if you are keen to get there sooner, but if you're on a fly drive holiday Marathon is just a nice distance to drive without too much stress. Jetlag meant that I awoke the next day at 4.30am, local time, bright as a button, but I was made aware previously that this might happen and followed my friend's advice, which was to watch just a little television and soon I was sleepy enough to continue sleeping until 9am, a much more civilised time to be getting up on holidays. Poolside breakfast was followed by a couple of memorable visits to local attractions and especially worth a mention is the Dolphin Research Centre located on Grassy Key in the heart of the Florida Keys, which was home to the now deceased cast of Flipper and is still providing a haven for the descendents of the original stars of this long running TV series. Food, food, glorious food and if you're a seafood lover you'll be in Seventh Heaven almost anywhere on the Florida Keys. Worth a favourable mention is "Papa Joe's Tiki Bar", a very cosy and quaint little place overlooking the Gulf of Mexico where you can either dine outside with the wind in your hair or in the air-conditioned comfort of the little more formal dining room. And while you're there, this is a good place to try the famous Conch Fritters, available in more or less any restaurant throughout the Keys. Talking of restaurants, a must for connoisseurs of fresh seafood has to be the "Castaway Restaurant" in Marathon, a hot tip for seafood lovers and the extremely relaxed atmosphere make for a very enjoyable evening out. Whether you're dining out or just go out for a drink, Marathon's attitude may be best summed up in a t-shirt slogan that says, "This is as dressed up as I get". After another night in the huge bed provided by Banana Bay (easily sleeps 4 people in utter comfort) we were ferried across the spectacular Seven Mile Bridge, you might remember it's the one that gets blown up in the movie "True Lies", towards our final destination, Key West. We were told a few facts about this astonishing place on our way there, such as that the resident gay population exceeds 40% and that including holidaymakers in the high season this figure goes up to around 70% queers in this tropical paradise. The reason for these incredible figures is that in the late sixties, early seventies the US Marines pulled out of this prime location and left the place in utter decline. Jobs were lost and property prices slumped and in moved the hippies and the queers. It's a different story today though, you cannot buy any property here however dilapidated for less then $500,000. I got a lovely room in the prize winning, all gay "Equator" resort (which is the American name for a holiday hotel) on Fleming Street, just a stone's throw from the famous Duval Street. Amenities were aplenty here with the hotel's own pool (clothing optional), a whirlpool and free videos to use in your own room. The bed again was huge by European standards, although I heard some of the American guests grumble that they thought the beds were too small! We got into Key West on an utterly mad day. The very first gay only cruise ship had just disgorged its load of 1800 queers here and Key West put on a party to beat all others complete with Drag acts on Duval Street, which had been closed to all traffic. There literally was dancing in the streets, cruising aplenty and to us Europeans dumped in the middle of this it seemed like the world had gone completely upside down, in the most enjoyable way possible of course. After exploring a little of this amazing scene we all met up with our host at the Atlantic Shores Pool Bar and after drinks and watching the gay cruise ship depart we were taken to the sunset terrace of the "Hot Tin Roof" restaurant for another exceptional dinner. A little word of warning here to travellers from Europe, do wear something loose around the belly, because portions in the States are like everything else, enormous. The appetisers alone are enough to feed a family of four..... Let me give you a little more information on places to stay and to see in brief here. The island boasts umpteen gay only guesthouses with an exclusively gay clientele such as the "Island House" and "Big Ruby's Guesthouse" and just the one lesbian only guesthouse called "Pearl's Rainbow", where the proprietors insist on even delivery drivers to be females. So if you're staying there and you want a Pizza delivered to your room make sure to tell them to send a woman! There are many more guesthouses that are gay friendly and while staying in Key West I did not hear any remarks from anyone to make me feel uncomfortable or in any way discriminated against. There are lots of places to go and explore while in Key West, Nightlife is very lively and a particular mention has to be made of the "801" nightclub on Duval Street. Here you can catch a nightly home grown drag show featuring Key West's oldest drag act, Margo, amidst younger and more attractive acts. This club also has a "Dark Back Room" which as a reviewer of many American gay fiction books I had previously discounted as artistic license, but let me tell you here, they do exist, 'nough said... A little more sophisticated entertainment was offered by the management of the "La Te Da" restaurant and the cabaret on their premises on Duval Street. We were treated to a first class drag act by an entertainer imported from the New York scene. A stroke of luck had it that on the night we saw his performance a person on the front seat was a condom manufacturer from Minnesota, which of course added to the general hilarity of the performance considerably. The most enjoyable daytime activity I undertook while in Key West has to be the day I spent on the "Blue Q" sailing boat. We departed from the historic seaport after breakfast in the "Blue Heaven" restaurant (a brilliant place where you can have lovely foods such as Blueberry pancakes in the gardens surrounded by lots of chickens running wild between the patrons). The "Blue Q" is a Catamaran owned by the captain called Steve who runs mostly gay only cruises on his lovely sailing boat to either the surrounding islands for canoeing trips or to the big coral reef in the Atlantic just off the coast of Key West for snorkel trips and that gave us the opportunity to see some of the diverse wildlife on the many uninhabited and protected islands in the keys. Other places and activities worth a mention is the once weekly "Gay Trolley", a ride on a bus in drag, made to look like a tram, showing off the gay sights of Key West, a visit to the house of Ernest Hemingway, one of the most famous inhabitants of this tropical island paradise and his favourite drinking place "Sloppy Joe's" on Duval Street. Do try and take in the Sunset celebrations held every evening at Mallory Square where the golden globe disappears in the Gulf of Mexico to the strains of the United States southernmost bagpiper and last but not least the "Key West Aids Memorial", situated by the shores of the Atlantic, commemorating the many people that came to spend their last days here in the relaxed and accepting atmosphere that makes this place so unique to all its gay visitors. ------------------------------------------------------------- LETTER TO THE EDITOR ==================== Dear John and ScotsGay Readers, Remembering the strong Scottish voices and your powerful committment to international solidarity in past discussions in the ILGA and elsewhere, we make an open appeal for you to join us in St. Petersburg (21st-23rd Mar, 2003) for another "Next Stop Russia" Rainbow tour - using homo culture to help combat homophobia and silence - and fill the gap left by Amnesty International and its ongoing Russia tour ignoring homo rights. This is despite Amnesty's mandate and the 15-year-struggle within AI to convince the organization to overcome its fear of adopting lesbian and gay prisoners. Shrugging off protests from some sections and individuals in the world-wide human rights organization, the Amnesty Secretariat in London approved the castrated "homo-free" campaign for Russia - also opening the door for future AI campaigns choosing to dump homo rights. The London office so far has refused even to answer protest letters and requests to ensure that the Amnesty Russian campaign would help "break the silence" on homo rights - as so declared in Amnesty films and leaflets - rather than preserve it. We should point out that in the last Russian-Nordic tour in December, the president of St. Petersburg journalists union banned a planned press conference set for December 10th - World Human Rights Day. He stated publicly that he sees no link between human rights and homo rights - and that he is proud to be homophobic. The March event will include a stage of the ILGCN's (International Lesbian & Gay Cultural Network) "Nazi Persecution of Homosexuals" - describing the atrocities of the past and linking them with the neo nazi and other homophobic attacks on lesbians and gays today - through seminars, photo/art exhibits, films and a drama monologue about rape and murder in Russian prisons and military. The Nordic homo organizations supporting the St. Petersburg event are Tupilak (organization of homo cultural workers in the Nordic area), the Nordic Homo Council, HAI (Homo amnesty members in Amnesty's Nordic sections) and Nordic Rainbow Humanists. I'm afraid the local organizers (ignat.fialk@paloma.spbu.ru) are unable to provide accommodation for visitors, but all international input into this event will be greatly appreciated - not only for local Russians facing enormous pressures, but all of us wondering in which direction a once-courageous Amnesty International is turning. With many Western Prides and other events becoming increasingly more commercial, profit-minded, superficial and dangerously provincial, we especially welcome participants aware of the power in blending international solidarity, challenges, humor and homo culture into a weapon against homophobia and silence. Bill Schiller, ILGCN-Nordic, Tupilak E-mail: bill.schiller@sr.se ------------------------------------------------------------------- Heterosexuality: what is it? how is it caused? ============================================== JAMES LINDESAY Osler House, Oxford HETEROSEXUALITY (derived from the Greek heteros, meaning different, rather than the Latin heitare, to yawn) is a condition in which the individual is sexually attracted to members of the opposite sex. It is becoming increasingly apparent that heterosexuals (or "drabs", as they call themselves) do in fact make up a significant proportion of the community--it is by far the commonest of the sexual deviations--so the doctor must be equipped to deal with the problem when it arises. Heterosexuality does not respect the boundaries of either class or culture; men and woman from all races and strata of society are affected by it. It is true, however, that by a process of self-selection, certain occupations are over-represented by heterosexuals. In men, these include aggressive jobs such as manual labour or truck driving which help to support anxieties about gender role, and several of the professions (including, it must be said, medicine) where possession and wielding of power provides the attraction. Women prefer less active occupations, for example secretarial work or catering, Many women, of course, cannot work at all, trapped at home as they are by the children that are so often the consequence of heterosexual relations. The social life of the heterosexuals is a dismal one, pickups are made at locally-known quarters of town (certain pubs, "discos") or simply by cruising the streets. They hunt alone, or in groups, and constantly seek sexual satisfaction through repetitive and often shallow relationships, sometimes anonymous and rarely completely gratifying (indeed, heterosexual prostitution is not unusual). In an attempt to break this depressing pattern, many heterosexuals will embark upon a form of "marriage"; however, after a passionate start, over a quarter of these relationships break down, as the current statistics on divorce rates demonstrate (1). From the psychiatric viewpoint, heterosexuals may be broadly classified into the following groups: i) adolescents and mentally immature adults: It is quite common for the young to indulge in heterosexual behaviour without any apparent feelings of fear or guilt, they regard it as naughty rather than disordered. This attitude sometimes persists into adult life. ii) damaged personalities: Neurotic disturbance, alcoholism, psychopathy, and other anomalies of personality are extremely common among the heterosexuals studied by psychiatrists. This damage can affect the individual in two ways; it can be directed inward, causing depression and feelings of inadequacy, or else outward in resentfulness and anti-social behaviour. Whether these associated disorders predispose an individual to heterosexuality, or whether they are a consequence of it has yet to be determined. iii) serious mental disablement: Occasionally, heterosexual behaviour is a single component in a severe psychotic disorder (most frequently schizophrenia), or in mental defectiveness. Such heterosexuals often have to be segregated from society until rendered harmless by ageing or specific treatment. iv) latent, well-compensated personalities: Some heterosexuals manage to lead useful lives by suppressing their drives and redirecting the libido through more constructive channels: for example, junior doctors, night nurses. Inevitably, the strains imposed by such a denial are often too much to bear, and some of these heterosexuals will lapse, often "marrying" in a fit of heterosexual panic. v) relatively intact personalities: Lastly, there is a group whose personality development and ego functioning appear to be intact and who conduct themselves efficiently and constructively in society. It must not be forgotten that some of our greatest scientists, artists, lawyers, and even Prime Ministers have been heterosexual. Nevertheless, all these individuals exhibiting heterosexual behaviour show certain common features of the personality. They have difficulty in reconciling dependent and assertive drives, and there is a great tendency for them to become stereotyped in their particular gender-role; any threat to this role will cause them obvious anxiety, and may even lead to physical violence. As the frequency of rape and "wife" battering amply demonstrates, male heterosexuality can often express itself as hostility towards women: in fact, most murders per annum in the Western world are of one heterosexual by her (or his) partner. By its very nature, heterosexual intercourse is an aggressive act, reiterating as it does the symbolic castration of the passive female partner. Reciprocity in sex is rare, and usually frowned upon by other heterosexuals. They tend to be preoccupied with sex: it has been estimated that a twenty year old heterosexual can spend as much as two-thirds of his waking life indulging in sexual fantasies. Certain physical qualities are often popular; a male heterosexual may have an exaggerated preference for one particular part of the female anatomy--for example, the breasts, the buttocks, or even the legs. This body-fetishism is also found in women, for whom a large penis and slender hips are among the attributes found desirable. With regard to sexual behaviour, strong likes and dislikes are common: active and passive roles are rarely interchanged with the inevitable result that the act becomes a habit or a duty rather than a pleasure. Other perversions may be associated with heterosexuality. It is the opinion of many psychiatrists that the average intelligence of heterosexuals as a group is lower than that of the population as a whole. There is no published work to support or contradict this, but if it is true, it would help to explain the difficulty many heterosexuals seem to have in understanding the value and significance of life's circumstances. There is much that is still to be discovered about what causes heterosexuality. It is probable that there is no single aetiology; heterosexuals are a diverse group, and while in some constitutional factors may be important, in others environmental and psychological influences are more likely to be at fault. Constitutional Genetic influences may or may not be significant; what evidence exists is unsatisfactory and more research is needed. No chromosomal abnormality has been found accountable, and heterosexuals have no distinctive physique. However, it is a fact that most heterosexuals have heterosexual parents. It has been suggested by several workers that heterosexuality may be the result of hormone imbalance. In adult males, testosterone levels appear to affect the intensity of the sex drive but not its orientation: urine levels of the hormone are not significantly different in heterosexuals (2). However, a more sophisticated version of this theory suggests that the hormone has its effect by acting on the brain at a critical period in its development. Several studies (3) have shown that the structure and function of the developing rat brain can be upset if exposed to androgens. Whether or not these hormonal disturbances can account for the observed patterns of behaviour in human heterosexuality is unclear. Environmental Undoubtedly, the individual's upbringing, if biased in certain ways, may predispose him to heterosexuality. As Hoflung says: "the elements of sexual behaviour that are called 'deviant' in adults occur regularly in infants and young children" (4). Such behaviour--for example mutual fondling of the genitals by boys and girls, or a morbid curiosity in the genitals of the opposite-sex parent is commonly reported among those who later grow up to be heterosexuals. The experience of most "marriage" counsellors tells us that heterosexuals tend to marry their parents, that is, they require as partners those who can offer not only the security of a familiar relationship but also a sexual gratification otherwise forbidden by incest taboos. In seeking out females as sexual companions, the male heterosexual is motivated primarily by fear: fear, not only of incest, but also of the loss of the maternal relationship that would be threatened in the society of other men. There is probably a strong element of fantasy-identification with the same-sex parent, and a desire to adopt this parental role towards others; boys with assertive fathers and girls with unassuming, protective mothers seem to be particularly vulnerable to this (5). In the male, this identification with his father as the dominant partner in any relationship is the main cause of gender-role anxieties and a significant factor in the aetiology of heterosexual violence. These, then, are some of the factors that act to impose heterosexual behaviour upon the individual. Once established, there are other pressures that will reinforce this behaviour (or indeed, generate it on their own account) and these are such that they may render treatment difficult or impossible. Once the individual has become part of a heterosexual group ("the drab scene") and typical heterosexual mannerisms and jargon are adopted, the forces of the group will act to keep him as he is, and any thought of losing or changing his heterosexual role will be discouraged by the others. This coercion is the price an individual has to pay fur the very real measure of security that such a group has to offer. On a personal level, it is always flattering to be found sexually attractive, and this gratification of self-esteem is as important a reward for the heterosexual as it would be for anyone else. Finally, it must be remembered that heterosexual behaviour is not infrequently rewarded by material gain. It is probably these reinforcements that will lead a heterosexual to reject, often scornfully, any offer of psychiatric help: they profess that they are perfectly happy as they are, that heterosexuality is a 'superior' condition, that psychiatrists only want to punish them, and so on. That such defences spring from inadequacy is obvious, and the doctor must offer his support with care and tact; heterosexuals deserve our sympathy and tolerance as much as they need our professional help. REFERENCES 1. POPULATION TRENDS (1976) Marriage and Divorce. London HMSO, p 3. 2. KOLODNY, R.C. & MASTERS, W.H. (1973) Hormones and Homosexuality. 3. LISK, R.D. (1967) Sexual Behaviour Hormonal control. Neuroendocrinology ed. Martini & Ganong, vol. 2 p 197. Academic Press, New York. 4. HOFLUNG, C.K., Textbook of Psychiatry (1975). J.P. Lipincott Co., Philadelphia & Toronto. 5. MUSSEN, P. & DISTLER, L. (1959). Masculinity, Identification and Father-Son Relationships. Freud and Psychology, p 305. Penguin Modern Psychology. [Reprinted from the Oxford Medical School Gazette, vol. 29, No. 3] ----------------------------------------------------------------- Dun Eideann/Edinburgh ===================== Camp doesn't even begin to describe St Valentine's Day! The LGBT community proved to be camper than ever with various establishments providing fun and frolics to cater for everyone. The ever popular Habana was kind enough to have a charity night in aid of Gay Men's Health. Charity nights are always a success when Habana chooses to host the evening's entertainment. Cilla Slack was the evening's compere with her very own special version of Blind Date. The lucky contestants were fortunate enough to have such excellent prizes on offer! Blue Moon Cafe, Giuliano's, Tapas Tree, Smoke Stack, Lloyds Bar, Acanthus, and Edinburgh's newest restaurant Thai Me Up, situated at 4 Picardy Place, all deserve a massive thanks for donating such generous prizes! Thanks to all who took part and donated prizes to the raffle too. Clientele were spoilt during the raffle with outstanding prizes including; a DVD player, coffee machine, and a hamper of alcohol donated by Edinburgh's premier LGBT nightspot CC Blooms. Shag-Tag was the after watershed fun! With help from staff and volunteers from GMH, an excellent night was had by all! Bar staff really got into the spirit of Valentine's night as they took to the floor dressed up in drag! It looked like the cast from Prisoner Cell Block H! With an excellent mix of cheesy pop tunes and fab drink promos the organisation was faultless! Over GBP500 was raised, so a massive thank you to all who supported such a worthwhile cause. Gay Men's Health offers free, professional and confidential counselling for gay and bisexual men on any issue. For further information, or to make an appointment call 0131-558 9444 or email counselling@gmh.org.uk. Down the road at Planet Out, a Traffic Light Party was the theme for the Valentine weekend. This took the same format as Shag-Tag! On entry, everyone was persuaded to wear a sticker - red, amber or green - to indicate what they were up for! Excellent drink promos were on offer including the attractive 2 for 1! Miss Ima Hoor was the evening's compere and, as usual, provided fantastic humour throughout the night. The regular Planet Out Mon nights, or Pink Pound as we know them now, still wow them in with all drinks GBP1! Trendy Wendy is your host and caters for all music tastes. Wendy is probably best known for hosting Tackno at Massa situated in Market St. The next Tackno takes place on 30th Mar - Mothering Sunday in case you forgot! Doors open at 10.30pm and entry is GBP7 for non-Tackno members. Thu night is proving to be the most popular in Planet - Fruit Salad is the name with DJ's Lemon and Lime providing the night's music. Part of the duo is well-established DJ Jon Pleased who also DJ's at other hugely popular night such as Wiggle. I have heard from a reliable source that a new mid week extravaganza is in the pipeline for the beginning of Apr. Fruit Salad is going to be the pre-club for Fruit Cocktail - a club night to follow at Club Ego in the Cocteau Lounge (downstairs). Cheap drinks, cheap entry, and a mix of all the old dance classics should entice you along in considerable numbers. Discount passes will be on offer in Planet during the pre -club. Dates and info hasn't been confirmed so watch this space to find out more or alternatively check out Planet for more details. The Women's club night named Velvet has proved to be a huge success. For gay girlies and specially invited boy friends, Velvet takes place on the last Fri of every month at Club Ego. Entry is GBP6 and a two for one offer on entry is available if you arrive before 11.30pm. Resident DJ Michelle is your host along with special guests. CC Blooms remains as popular as ever and Every Night Is Party Night. On two floors, CC's is always packed even for karaoke on Thu and Tue. Downstairs is clubbier as opposed to the more chilled atmosphere upstairs. The latest dance music - past, present or future releases are played downstairs with the resident DJ's more than happy to play your requests. Drinks prices are competitive with other well-established clubs and entry is free. Future dates for Wiggle (Club EGO) are Sat 1st Mar and Sat 29th Mar. DJ's Trendy Wendy, Jon Pleased, Sally F and DJ Michelle provide the tunes. Doors open at 11pm but sometimes earlier depending on the queue! Entry is GBP9 and drink promos are available until 12.30. Pre-club frolics at Planet Out with DJ Brett King 10pm-1am. Now in its tenth year, Alan and Maggie Joy's huge stomper of a night - JOY is just as busy as it was ten years ago according to the comprehensive figures flashed at me by Alan Joy. Held every 4th Sat at EGO, Joy runs from 11pm until 3am. Entry is GBP8 for members or GBP10 otherwise. Joy is not for you if you like camp cheesy music as it features quite intense dance music. If you have never been before, why not go along and see what you think! Alan Joy's other clubbing extravaganza is Mingin' with Alan himself providing tunes alongside Brian Dempster. The venue is (upstairs) Studio 24, in Calton Road and is held every 2nd Sat. Entry is GBP5 before midnight and GBP6 after. On Sun 2nd Mar, DJ's Fisher & Price celebrate their Tenth [Aluminium] Anniversary of their DJ-ing partnership. From the early days of playing at friends' house parties and a few local residencies they've gone on to play throughout Scotland, Northern England, Northern Ireland, Russia, Australia and Ibiza. They've played with Moby at Edinburgh Castle and most recently alongside the best of Scotland's DJs at Gig on the Green in Glasgow. Throughout their eight year residency at Taste they have had the honour of playing alongside some of the world's most inventive and influential DJs including Tony De Vit, Dimitri, Justin Robertson, Dave Seaman, Rob Di Stefano, Mark Moore, Sander Kleinenberg and not forgetting their very good friend and Taste resident Jon Pleased. To mark the occasion they will play a set at Taste that will include all the tunes that have influenced their style and driven dance floors wild over the last ten years, starting from the present day and working their way back to 1993. Finally, the bijou eaterie at the LGBT centre is due to reopen on Fri 28th Feb under the new name of Sala. That's it for this month, if anyone ever wants a cheeky wee mention or info on other clubs/pubs in Edinburgh give me an e-mail! Wee Alan E-mail: weealan@drink.demon.co.uk ---------------------------------------------------------------- Glaschu/Glasgow =============== Salutations and felicitations gentle folk. So here we are in bright and breezy February. Apparently a sign of impending old age is when time picks up its skirts and appears to leg it at an increasing pace. On that basis I feel about 90! What happened to January? They also say: no news is good news. However in the case of Pride Scotland, this may not be the case. As at this time there appear to be no plans for a march or festival in either Glasgow or Edinburgh. As you probably already know, the incorporated company that has for a number of years operated as the administrative vehicle for Pride is in receivership. This does not however prevent individuals from setting up a new committee and arranging an event. Which is in fact what appears to be happening in Aberdeen for their own local event. While there are arguments on both sides as to the validity or need for a march in Glasgow or Edinburgh, it cannot be denied that it still serves as an opportunity for many to express their sexuality openly for the first time. If this alone does not justify a march, then frankly we may as well all pack up and go home. Anyhow enough of the preaching and on with the motley. I took the opportunity to attend the comedy night at Mercury Lounge. While the show was a little rough around the edges, in general it was a pleasant evening with a good atmosphere. The headline act Matt Blaize was certainly worth seeing. It is yet another example of how much effort the staff and management are putting into making a serious attempt to provide something different on the scene in Glasgow. If you have yet to experience this venue during the week I would strongly recommend that you check it out. The new fetish play club Mystyx launched on Sat 22nd Feb at Blackfriars in the downstairs bar. The organisers are well versed in what is required for such events and it showed. Though the start was quiet this was due to opening the doors at an early hour in the evening. However things soon picked up with a very diverse crowd attending, all ages, sizes and backgrounds. The atmosphere was warm and friendly. Helped by a lovely big bowl of chocolates at the door, a great place for observing people's coping mechanisms for guilt! The play area was well equipped and as the night developed became very busy. As a passive observer one can only wonder at the human ability to develop new and interesting, even aesthetically pleasing ways of inflicting pain on others. If I were to criticise anything it would be the slightly high drinks tariff and the fact that special offers ran out early in the evening. However this is an issue for Blackfriars rather than the club organisers. On the plus side given the "unusual" nature of the club, the bar staff were pleasant, polite and friendly. Though, a few people observed, that there did seem to be more than the usual number of shift changes! The club will run on the fourth Saturday of each month. The next couple of dates are 22nd Mar and 19th Apr. Dress code is black or fetish. Entry is GBP8 for guests or GBP5 membership plus GBP5 entry on the door. Members may pre book tickets. Which could prove useful, as entry is limited to 60 people, so first come first served. Doors open at 7.30pm and close at 1am. The end of March sees Bedlam celebrate its 5th birthday. This popular Goth/Alternative night just seems to grow from strength to strength. A very mixed crowd with an anything goes policy helps give this club a unique atmosphere. Though consideration for other people is expected and Brian asks that you do not dance on the stage. Next event is Sat 29th Mar, Doors open 9pm and it runs until 2am. Tickets are GBP3 on the door. For more information check out the website: http://www.bedlamcorp. co.uk/ The start of March is heralded in by club Violate on Saturday 1st 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 9pm and the club runs until 2am. Tickets are GBP10 on the door or GBP5 for members. Annual membership is available on the door at GBP10 this also entitles you to a discount at Cyber the alternative clothing outlet. See listings for further details. The Arches is to hold a new club night called simply ICE. The days of Trade are long gone and so along comes ICE. Direct from Sydney, Australia this party is well renowned down under for its club nights and infamous Mardi Gras events. Brought to you by Mary Kiani, who was the first to bring you Trade not to mention Radio 1's Fergie. An unpredictable club night returns to Glasgow. With Wayne G (ICE & Heaven) and Gonzalo (Trade) pumping out the hard tunes in the Freezer, it's down to local lads Michael Paterson (Fusion) and Ken Ferguson (Trade) to get the funky tunes spinning in the Melt. So there you go disco dollies yet another chance to spend loads of dosh on not a lot. Doors open at 11pm on Sat 15th Mar, tickets are GBP13 for further details E-mail: icepartyuk@hotmail.com The next BURLY night will be on Fri 28th Feb. The most important thing to note is that BURLY has now moved to the Mercury Lounge. This popular club night for 25 and over Bi/Gay men is proving very popular. Doors open 10pm with tickets GBP5 on the door. For further details check out our listings. Along with these specific club nights are of course the usual suspects offering a variety of experiences from the traditional pubs like the Victoria Bar on the Bridgegait who offer a warm atmosphere and a decent pint of ale, to the hot sweaty dance clubs like the Cube on Queen Street, on a Monday and Tuesday night for those who just do not want the weekend to finish. For those of you looking for something to do during the day, there are of course the CCA or the Tron Theatre. Or maybe you fancy dropping into the LGBT Centre at 11 Dixon Street and whiling a few hours away with a cup of coffee in the GLC cafe/bar. Whatever you fancy, check out the listings pages at the back for further details. So there goes February welcomed with a cough and bade farewell with a sneeze. Still, wrap up warm and take a nip for the cold, after all it is purely medicinal! Remember whatever you find to do: be safe. Angharad E-mail: angharad@drink.demon.co.uk ------------------------------------------------------------------- Scottish Media Monitor ====================== Garry Otton Releases the Ghost of Clause Past I've always doubted his proclaimed sexuality. Not surprising, really. There isn't a columnist in Scotland who writes so habitually and obsessively on homosexuality. Gerald Warner. A staunch Conservative, religionist columnist for Scotland on Sunday who is as out of touch with the people he writes for as he is in touch with his facts. Seizing an opportunity to connect the repeal of Clause 28 with the prospect of a voter's malaise at election time, his rant reached new heights as he turned on MSPs, particularly women, "the female of the species is deadlier than the male". He claimed MSPs had "abused" voters by repealing an outdated piece of English, Thatcher-inspired, legislative nonsense that couldn't have stood up in law. "They repealed Section 28 in the teeth of public opinion and impertinently defamed as 'bigots' 1,094,440 Scots who voted against the repeal in an independent referendum". For starters, this was no 'independent referendum', only a flawed, private opinion poll financed by wealthy religionist, Brian Souter. Flawed, because it used an outdated electoral register. The turnout of the poll was 32% (or 34% depending on whether you included in the total numbers polled (3,970,712) the eight per cent of envelopes returned by the post office undelivered). Out of 1,272,202 returns, there were 11,356 spoilt ballots and 11,856 empty envelopes (each about one per cent). The poll suggested that 166,406 voted for repeal (13%) and 1,094,440 voted against repeal (86%). Overall, this suggested 70% of Scots rejected the Keep the Clause campaign, either by binning the ballot or by voting for repeal. A 34% response was, in any case, derisory. Postal ballots in Scotland - even as something mundane as the privatisation of water - usually drum up around 70%, and that's without pumping in an estimated GBP2m to persuade about half the claimed readership of The Daily Record to vote in favour of retention! Two out of three Scots rejected, binned or simply ignored the poll. Whilst supporters for repeal derided Souter's PR machine for misinforming the general public, the Keep the Clause campaign responded by declaring they were being labelled bigots. Warner was now turning campaign propaganda into established fact. "If that shifty, sweaty, pathetic creature called a parliamentary candidate infests your doorstep during the next few weeks, grovelling for your vote, ask him why he called you a bigot..." Old Mother (Joan) Burnie in The Daily Record frothed: "Soon, you see, it will be legal to have sex in public lavatories in England - so long as you remember to keep the door closed. But in Scotland it remains an offence. Something for which I think I am rather thankful. God knows, there are enough long queues as it is without having to wait for people having it away in cubicles". Now it would've been helpful if the old bint had properly noted that this would only be the case if no one else had been offended! She could call the police. The women (and we are loitering in a women's cludgie, aren't we Joan?) could be arrested and hey presto! SEX FILTH HALTED BY OUR JOANIE would be in the bag! Old Mother Burnie is no liberal agony aunt. Commenting on Mrs Simpson's affair with a car salesman, I doubt if we'd have seen an equal share of column inches bestowed on Edward VIII had he indulged in a few extra-marital affairs. Of Queen Mary? She "was a kleptomaniac who thought nothing of helping herself to anything which caught her fancy". The Daily Record's confident, informed agony aunt, clearly experienced in all matters of human sexuality, turned on Edward who "had the dinkiest winkie ever seen. Or rather not, unless with a very strong telescope". She labelled him "a sexual inadequate..." and called George, the Duke of Kent, "the Windsor's Michael Barrymore - a cocaine-snorting rampant bisexual whose lovers, male and female, had to be regularly paid off". I would have thought it obvious, even to her, that bisexuality was not something easily expressed during those times. Old Mother Burnie blames it all on the newspapers "heavily censored by their owners who wanted to keep in with the establishment..." At least she got that bit right. But she wants to take a closer look at how that moral censorship works today. It starts with her column... The Daily Record would do well to just to do the decent thing. Ditch the witch and make the switch! The Sunday Herald thought they would add to the debate over licensing lap-dancing clubs by sending in a religionist waving a tenner to pay for a 'girl' to dance. Albeit the former church leader Richard Holloway, I don't see how this was supposed to further the debate. Holloway wrote how one girl "performed the standard routine of snaky undulations over me as a song played on the sound system. When the song stopped, she picked up her little dress and smiled a charming smile. And off she went". After seeking to explain the sexual politics of a lap-dancing club "in terms of global capitalism" with Seven Days editor Charlene Sweeney in tow, the experience left him unaroused and forced to leave, "too confused to define (their) reactions". I'm not surprised! Between them, they still found enough material to fill two pages. Holloway tried to argue how the industry was trying to redefine our sexual tastes, forcing us to accept sexual fast food. I don't think so. The club just offered its randy guests as much as it could get away with in the face of religionist-inspired laws and regulations from government and local authorities. A clue appeared in Holloway's giveaway remark after he noted how one man disappeared into a "dimly-lit corner" with one of the dancers. And another from the Seven Days editor when a woman offered them the opportunity of following her to a private room. "I am still unclear as to what that option actually entailed", confessed Ms Sweeney. Duh! She excused herself with her offering of a feminist message that "women should have the same rights as men to access and consume erotic and pornographic images", so that Ms Sweeney felt she "had every right to be there". But what right, I wondered, when she sat there, intellectualising the whole idea out of all proportion and confessing how she couldn't imagine a lap-dancer ever turning her on? And what point in introducing, however liberal, a former Bishop of the Episcopalian Church who was never likely (in front of a journalist) to go into a quiet corner, pay for a lady to play with him until he shot his load anyway? It's a pity. Had they both enveloped themselves in some wonderful sexual foreplay, privately or in a more anonymous, sexually charged group, I think they'd have had a lot more to say about the regulations that produced this bacchanalian Burger King. The article was good intentioned amidst the stiffness and rigidity of sexual issues in the Scottish press, but exposing the dark underbelly of religion working behind the scenes to suffocate the expression of sex in cities like Glasgow would have been more direct and ultimately more useful. Richard and Charlene, over to you... Norman Silvester - yes, he who once exercised moral outrage by exposing an erotic video shop and calling it a story - once again scraped mucky 'exclusives' off his shoe and across the pages of The Sunday Mail. One was the appearance of a transsexual in court who had "escaped a jail sentence... after telling a sheriff he is having a sex change". A full description of everything Lisa-Anne Docherty was wearing dominated the report before Silvester delivered the final swipe, describing how "he left the court clutching his handbag". In the same paper we had his report of "sick images" found by police "showing Lego characters committing rape, torture and murder". These "lurid" poses and "graphic scenes, including child abuse" are apparently popular with paedophiles. Many men who have had their computers seized and are under investigation for downloading child porn have been found to have already clicked onto the site. Six Welsh council workers are facing the sack for sending e-mails with images from the website "of toys having sex". Have a look at the 'Brick Testament' for yourself at http://thereverend.com/brick_testament/. Unless there are parts of this site I've missed, it is hardly x-rated material by any stretch of the imagination. If this is what police are holding up as illegal, obscene material, then I think we are witnessing a wave of moral censorship not seen since Nazis burnt gay books outside the Magnus Hirschfield Institute in Berlin. Too often in newspapers we read how police have seized indecent material without ever being in a position to qualify this for ourselves. In this case, 'private parts' were not drawn on the solitary, white, Lego-brick that is used to represent the lower abdomen. (Although I did see some red Lego-bricks scattered about to represent blood after circumcision). With graphic references to rape, torture, murder, incest, sodomy... Could I suggest a general amnesty in order for us all to hand over copies of the Bible into our nearest police station? When the Lego story offered an opportunity to remind readers about Operation Ore, a massive, international swoop on people accessing child porn sites, so too did the story of a website depicting erotic pictures of transsexuals, gays and lesbians by Sunday Mail reporter Derek Alexander. "...Police have launched a massive crackdown on child porn". The story prompted, not only details of Operation Ore, but also a claim that "the cyberporn industry" was worth "a staggering GBP10billion per year" and even managed to add the fact that rock star Pete Townshend had been arrested "after admitting he paid for child sex images". This was, in fact, a story about "cocaine king Michael 'Benji' Bennett" who had launched a website that featured "pictures of teenagers, (presumably over the age of consent, otherwise, believe me, The Sunday Mail would've said so), transsexuals, gay men and lesbians" and "fake pornographic pictures of pop star Britney Spears and tennis pin-up Anna Kournikova". A "Strathclyde police insider", eager to express his opinion, told the paper how he thought this "morally wrong". If The Sunday Mail has one foot in the past over it's handling of transsexuals, then it fares no better with lesbians. "Say Tata to Tatu's lesbian act... Here are the real boyfriends", crowed Billy Sloan's 'exclusive'. Pop duo Tatu (an abbreviation that means This Girl Loves That Girl) was supposed to have "caused a storm of controversy" and "stunned" the world when they claimed they were "red-hot lesbian lovers". Red-hot for whom, Sunday Mail's lesbian readers or Billy Sloan? I think he should get out more. Ignoring bisexuality, he delivered "proof their controversial image is all a sham" and proceeded to calm the world with the news that both girls "have boyfriends". If The Sunday Mail wants to make such a fuss over girls hiding boyfriends, why are they locked in such slothful complacency over the number of pop stars who hide their homosexuality? Garry Otton's book SEXUAL FASCISM is published by Ganymede Books priced GBP8.99. E-mail: garry@scottishmediamonitor.com WWW: http://www.scottishmediamonitor.com/ Read the papers everyday online. Cut It Out! * Ruaridh Nicoll in The Observer in Scotland: "Linda Fabiani, famously opposed to human rights abuses of all shades, was elegantly removed, and read in the shadow of her desk. I tried to see what the book was, receiving a quizzical look as I hung upside down from the gallery. The title - and please God let me have read this correctly - was Sexual Fashion". No, actually, it was 'Sexual Fascism'. * Mrs Katie Grant whinging again in The Scotsman: "When I was a pupil at St Mary's Convent, Ascot, in the Seventies, nuns in full Sound of Music habits groomed upper-class girls to be wives and mothers. They largely succeeded. Few of my St Mary's contemporaries have careers and most looked perfectly happy. But we were the end of an era... The girls who leave nowadays will not write 'mother' in the slot marked 'occupation'...". Awwww! * Importing middle-England's narrow-mindedness to Scotland, Mrs Katie Grant, blessed with the privilege of being able to air her prejudices from a number of platforms, this time in The Scotsman, on why the Scottish Executive aren't listening: "They prefer to indulge in pointless debates about 'social inclusion' instead". Fire the bitch. I would! * Catholic Church spokesman Peter Kearney, in The Scotsman: "There are a lot of people out there who are not only opposed to faith schools, but are also opposed to religion. There is an intolerant, anti-faith minority who object to diversity". And what of the intolerant, faith minority running these schools who object to diversity?" ---------------------------------------------------------------- Dance chart =========== 1. DIRTY VEGAS - I SHOULD KNOW (Alex Neri Club Mix / Flatline Dub) (Credence) 2. RAIRBIRDS - NEED MORE NOW (Fluke Remix) (Nuke) 3. FORCE MASS MOTION V DYLAN RHYMES - VANQUISH (Tek Mix) (Acetate) 4. STEPHANE MALCA featuring KENNY - REVOLUTION (Mike Monday Badman Remix) (Kinky Vinyl) 5. MONTILLA - MADRID SESSIONS 1 EP : Lowmass (1-Off) 6. ANDREA DORIA - BUCCI BAG (Bucci Dub) (Magneti Marelli) 7. KYBOSH - REVOLUTION (Make It Mix) (Baroque) 8. ELECTRONICA - SHE LOVES ME / COKE, SEX, DRUGS (Azuli) 9. FLOORPLAY - THE BEAT (Autowhite) 10 D-TRACK - BACK TO BASS (Fluid) 11 QUIVVER - TWIST AND SHOUT (Techdub) (White) 12 FPU - RACER CAR (TGV Dub) (Turbo) 13 PETE GAWTRY - RE-MORSE (Mara Mix / Original Mix) (Tune Inn) 14 BLANK & JONES featuring ANNE CLARK - THE HARDEST HEART EXTRA (Gang Go) (Corvin Dalek's Sexinfarkt Remix) 15 MARCEL WOODS - DRAMA (Original) (ID&T) 16 ALPINESTARS - BURNING UP (Different Gear Mix - Vocal) (Riverman) 17 DOG - BITTEN (Jon Carter Main Mix) (Heavenly) 18 JODY LEI - ALL ABOUT LEI : SHOWDOWN (Malcolm Duffy Remix) (Independiente) 19 GEORGE JUNG - GET TOGETHER (21st Century Fux Mix) (EQ Grey) 20 DJ T - GOLD DREAMER (Voltswagen Mix / Phunk Investigations Club Mix) (Y2K House) --------------------------------------------------------------- Obar Dheadhiann/Aberdeen ======================== Out Clubbing is now the only wholly gay venue in the city. I very occasionally get complaints about the venue being that wee bit too straight over the weekends, I have no power over the mix of punters who part with their cash at the door, if you ain't happy talk to the management or bar staff. Personally as we're striving for equality in all things for the LGBT community just go out there and enjoy yourselves!! (You may even turn some of them!) On to 'Brian The Builder', Madam Grumpy has started the refurb of the bar and new metal banisters have replaced the old (very eighties wooden things - OI! That's no way to talk about one of our valued advertisers even if he is out of the country. Ed) ones, ledges will be installed along the railings to stop you spilling your drink. What's in the pipeline next only she who is grumpy knows! Good to see Joyce is back at the helm, well done to Frankie and the guyz for holding the fort, so what's coming up in Out; Look out for more drink promotions as they happen and announcements soon on the next round of entertainment and fun at the club. Fidel's has closed its doors, and even your intrepid reporter cannot get anything out of the management (can't even track them down!) but if anyone knows how I can get in touch with the guyz give me a shout coz I've got a heap of stock and stuff in the bar I need back! Abacus on Market Street seems to be one of the new places to be seen in, a friendly welcome is guaranteed by the staff. If we patronise the bar enough it may just be what the non-club scene amongst us need. Lashed has been postponed at least until the summer, but will be back, bigger and better and possibly in a new venue. The first night will more than likely to be the Moulin Noir fest, just keep reading this column for details. Community News: PRIDE in Aberdeen - 1st June 2003 arrangements are ongoing at the moment, we would like to involve as many people as possible and would like to have some of the local and national companies in Grampian to sponsor information tents etc, so if you know of an organisation wanting to part with some cash, phone me on Aberdeen (01224) 587 166. Beautiful Thing - We are still looking for cast and crew for this forthcoming production for the PRIDE in Aberdeen event this year. So whether you can sing or dance, bang a nail with hammer (how butch!) use a screwdriver or paintbrushes get in touch. Pillar Aberdeen the mental health support agency was recently awarded a City of Aberdeen Council, Equal Opportunities Award for its work involving the LGBT community. PHACE Scotland who co-facilitate an LGBT Group with Pillar in their Back Wynd Drop In Centre have seen their work first hand and value it as a positive contribution to an even more marginalized group. Also receiving an award from a representative of the Lord Provost was Andy Webb the Convenor of the NELF Board and Forum. Andy has over the years been the lynch pin of keeping LGBT rights at the head of equality issues in Grampian. Andy started the groundwork for the LGBT Police Liaison Forum and also The Aberdeen City Council Action Plan. NELF (North East LGBT Forum):The next meeting is on the 18th March in the Arts Centre. The forum is planning to hold a 'Hustings' in the run up to the May elections for the Council and Scottish Parliament representatives hoping to be voted into power - this is your chance to see what your MSP or Councillor can do for you. PHACE Scotland is holding Drop In sessions at the offices in Justice Mill Lane every Friday from 2pm - 4pm over the next few months, this is a pilot scheme and may be extended if there is a reasonable response. We are looking for additional Volunteers to assist us in carrying out different aspects of work that the project is involved in. Anyone who wishes to volunteer can contact Leslie at the office (Aberdeen (01224) 587166) and ask for information. Andrea Rowe - Action Researcher with the project in Grampian is carrying out a Needs Assessment for Service Users with HIV/AIDS. Her main focus will be in producing a report with recommendations on how future service provision can be improved for the people of Grampian with HIV/AIDS. Have your say by contacting her at the office on the usual number. Grampian Gay Men's Health Project Awards for the first time the project is to hold an awards ceremony during the PRIDE in Aberdeen Event on the 1st of June. The awards are for recipients in the Grampian area only. It's your chance to show that you appreciate the work being done in Grampian to further LGBT Equality. The categories are: * Organisation in the Public Sector promoting LGBT Equality and Challenging Discrimination. (E.g. Council, Police, Health Board etc, etc.) * Volunteer Organisation promoting LGBT Equality and Challenging Discrimination. * Individual Working against Discrimination. (Can be a member of an organisation) * Voluntary Worker Promoting LGBT Equality and Challenging Discrimination. * National Organisation who Works to Promote LGBT Equality in Grampian. * Entertainment Award. The awards can be nominated by phoning the project office on Aberdeen (01224) 587166 or by e-mailing: markt@phacescotland.org The PHACE Scotland-Grampian Gay Men's Health Project or any of its staff cannot be nominated for any of the above awards. Grampian LGBT / Police Liaison Forum No one to replace PC Shona Grimmer at the General Enquiries Department yet, Shona was due to leave her current post on the 18th Feb and as the copper headed copper is the one who has assisted us most in getting the joint outreach work off the ground I would like to pass on my thanks for the many dark, cold, wet and duck infested nights she has accompanied me on! Keep on Quackin' Shona! Over a two week period Grampian Police mounted a special operation in the Duthie Park area designed to catch naughty boyz 'n' girlz who operate on the south side of the city. Unfortunately during their enquiries many of the guyz who cruise the River Side area were stopped and questioned, (I've been assured that the guyz were not the specific target) the Police have apologised for the manner this operation was carried out and will inform us of any similar operations before they commence. STI's in Grampian: .There is currently an increase in the Grampian Area of two nasty sexually transmitted infections, Pubic Lice and Chlamydia. Pubic Lice better known as Crabs are small insects normally passed from person to person during sex, they live in hair especially around the genitals and anus, but can also be found on hair around the body such as armpits, behind the knees and chest hair. Symptoms usually include itching around the groin and other infected areas, you may also notice the lice eggs attached to hair around the infected area. They may also be passed on by sharing towels and from bedclothes although this is less common. To wipe out the little buggers lotions such as Derbac can be purchased from your local chemist without prescription or can be available free of charge from the GUM Clinic at Woolmanhill. Shaving the hair around the infected area will not get rid of crabs. Remember to wash all clothes and bed linen you have used since picking up an infection. Out of courtesy and for a chance to eradicate any further infestation you should also tell any other people that you have had any intimate bodily contact with. Chlamydia is far more common than most of us realise, but left untreated can lead to serious problems in both men and women, such as making both sexes infertile (sterile). The cases detected in the Grampian area seem to be mainly concentrated in the under 25's although anyone is a possible target. Chlamydia is one of those really nasty buggers that you may have without even knowing about it, so unless you've been tested at the GUM Clinic or by your GP you could be spreading the infection. As with all STI's you don't have to be shagging everyone one in sight to contract it, (only once is enough!!). It can be caught through unprotected anal, vaginal and oral sex as well as being passed on by sex toys or your fingers, but like the majority of STI's cannot be caught from using the swimming pool or toilets. The symptoms include a watery or yellow discharge from the penis, burning or itching sensation at the tip of the penis or when having a piss in both sexes, pain during sex, swollen balls or anus again combined with a clear sticky discharge. (Off your tea yet?) Because Chlamydia is a bacteria it can be easily treated if caught early as long as it hasn't caused any serious problems: there are a number of antibiotics used by the GUM Clinic that can combat the infection. So if in doubt go and have yourself checked out. There is about a two-week waiting period for appointments at GUM, if you're worried talk to your GP, the practice nurse should be available to take the relevant swab tests. Now like the rest of you I find baring my arse (enough of the comments already!!) to a total stranger very embarrassing but if it comes to that or being sterile I know which option I would take. Look after your sexual health and well-being and you can have a long and happy sex life. There endeth today's sermon. As always be safe, be happy and remember boyz 'n' girlz, "Let's be careful out there." Mark Thomson E-mail: markt@phacescotland.org --------------------------------------------------------------- Dun-deagh/Dundee ================ A quiet and cold February has hit scene attendances mid week and it is only the weekend when the club has had anyone in it other than staff. When commenting on the expensive drink when other clubs are discounting we get the stock answer of "but we have a (one) drink promo on tonight". Well, I and my friends have tried to help! It is fair that straight clubs are feeling the pinch as few go out other than Saturdays. Brooklyns has been busier of late but at least they have interesting drink deals designed to obviously entice the regulars from the competition. The offers have upset Charlie as he exclaimed they can't keep that going for long and made a clear jibe at 'responsible licensees'! Some of their karaoke nights are very busy as Suze attempts to perfect the art of singing and speaking all at the same time. No great improvement in the music policy of the club despite my gentle mention in the last issue. Some up to date stuff would be great, guys. If they took more interest in our requests they might get an idea. Don't just listen to your mates. One person not listening to any music in the club will be 'wee Gill' who was carried out on a Friday and barred and then escorted out by Police on the Monday. Was Madame Grumpy scared he got hit in the knee caps by the little mizz? So, that's another person to be paying the new prices for a pint in Charlies which will bring it close to two quid. With prices like that, it's like a court fine being barred from Brooklyn. The new bar being planned for Dundee is not to be male only as rumoured last month. The info is still a closely kept secret and it either centres on the Tickety Boos which went bust recently or St Andrews Street area. More choice is welcome and lower prices would be welcome. So if we hear anything further we'll let ye ken. You can tell we head towards local government elections as every councillor tries to grab a headline in the local paper. The most recent photograph of prospective Labour Party candidates brought a couple of well known faces to the fore. Not least if you are gay. Wonder if they get elected will they scurry back into the closet SNP style? Remember if you do vote just who has been active defending LGBT rights in the city. You may well be deafened by the silence!! So, the group orgy of nightclub owner and friends reported here two months ago has allegedly been repeated with Sir David and Co invited into the Master(s) bedroom. Must be the last flush of youth for them or perhaps to get Brian in the holiday mood yet again! Shafted ----------------------------------------------------------------- Films ===== Malcolm Epstein The end of March brings us an action film you must know about called The Recruit (12a) that has Al Pacino as an instructor for America's Central Intelligence Agency who moulds secret agents into shape to cope with most disasters. If 26 year old stunning unshaven guys are your scene Colin Farrell is essential to your life. Growing up near Dublin, when he appeared in the "Ballykissangel" TV series he was snapped up by Hollywood. This is the major star building part for him. I've seen him clean shaven, but he has far more charisma here. As tracking down the best of old movies has obsessed me since childhood I haven't seen a face as impressive since the early fifties when Montgomery Clift and Rock Hudson were acknowledged as the best looking men in movies. Both happened to be gay. Rock made the most of that, but Monty had a guilty conscience about it and took to the bottle later dying of alcoholism. As the name Colin Farrell could be with us for a long time do have a look at him in "The Recruit" to decide if he comes up to your very high standards. Pierce Brosnan has gone as far away from James Bond as he can get in his latest movie Evelyn (PG) as a very humble Irishman in the early fifties whose wife leaves him with three children. The authorities take them away from him and his battle to get them back from children's homes involves court cases and a change in the law. It is frank enough to show a nun hitting his daughter. TV documentaries in recent years have shown the stigma suffered by unmarried pregnant girls in the forties and fifties meant Irish nuns were prepared to employ them in laundries where they were punched into submission. As I love trips to the thirties and forties I enjoyed The Heart Of Me (15) about a wealthy couple where the husband has an affair with his sister in law, Helena Bonham Carter. Taken from a book "The Echoing Grove" by a popular author of the past, Rosamond Lehmann, it is a world of designer gowns and opulent homes. Worth waiting till early May for. The comedy Stealing Harvard (l2a) has Jason Lee short of money for urgent reasons you don't need to know about who is caught burgling a house by the owner who says, can you believe, he won't tell the police if he can photograph Jason in a blonde wig and in drag. Somehow two other guys have to wear a dress and wig before the credits come up. Don't worry about not being able to wedge into your holiday schedule a Russian trip and St. Petersburg for Russian Ark (U) is a brilliant documentary about the Tsar's winter palace that was converted into the Hermitage Museum. Full of priceless paintings, the last Great Ball of 1913 is re-created with hundreds of splendidly costumed dancers appreciating a vast orchestra. It could inspire many to book their flights. Confessions Of a Dangerous Mind (15) is a very weird concoction. Sam Rockwell is a TV producer of game shows whom, we are meant to believe, is a CIA assassin at night. Drew Barrymore and Julia Roberts are part of his life and George Clooney was so impressed with the script he directed and stars in it. The Rules Of Attraction (18) is a high school comedy your straight friends will enjoy as the cast are very pleasing to look at. But the writer and director is misguided enough to show a gay student who kisses a straight one on the lips and is roughly pushed away. If he knew what he was doing he would know anyone gay would have received far more encouragement before they went that far. CURRENT RELEASES Writer/director Todd Haynes has bitten off more than he can chew with Far From Heaven (12). Evidently fascinated by melodramas of the fifties he has made his own storylines not easy to combine. Racial inequality in a small American town with white women terrified of being seen with a black man is one. And a mother of two children, Julianne Moore, finding her husband, Dennis Quaid, in a passionate embrace with another man is the second. I was nauseated watching school children throwing bricks at a black girl. I was frustrated Mr Haynes had no idea how to show the Quaid relationship with an attractive young man. The Pianist (15) is a powerful version of the suffering Jewish people went through in Poland at the hands of Hitler's soldiers in the war. It is a horror story relieved by a leading man who is magical at the piano whenever he can get near one. As much as I love and adore Maureen Lipman someone should have told director Roman Polanski she was not ideal casting as a terrified Jewish mother as she is known to millions British viewers from amusing TV ads and situation comedies. Plus he has made the unfortunate decision of having German soldiers talking in upper class British voices. They should either have been talking in German with subtitles onscreen or in English with German accents. If you can overlook this it is a very gripping film. The Hours (12a) was based on a book by Michael Cunningham, published in 1998, about the mentally disturbed writer Virginia Woolf who committed suicide in 1941, Mr Cunningham contrasted her with women in the early fifties and today who became fixated with a Woolf character called Mrs Dalloway. Because Virginia is played by Nicole Kidman with a prosthetic nose to reduce her appeal, plus Julianne Moore and Meryl Streep in the updated scenes it opened to rave reviews and could be in line for Oscars. The director Stephen Daldry also made "Billy Elliot" which I much preferred. The ideal would be releasing it as a double bill with the film "Mrs Dalloway" that Vanessa Redgrave starred in a few years ago. As "Spiderman" made astronomical money we might be in for many films based on cartoon characters. As I would go to the ends of the earth for Ben Affleck I gazed in wonder at Daredevil (15). Making an athletic hero blind is more believable in cartoons than moving film I dare to suggest. But the violence here is used to right wrongs will please many and the Hollywood gloss keeps you with it. No expense was spared. Colin Farrell as the villain with the shaved head is effective. But you will prefer him unshaven in "The Recruit" Catch Me If You Can (12a) will keep Leonardo DiCaprio fans engrossed watching him perfecting teenage fraud with Tom Hanks as an FBI man having a hard time tracking him down. It's based on a true story. Solaris (12a) is the most unusual space story ever made. As a doctor, George Clooney, is sent to a space station that has cut off all communication with earth and finds his deceased wife out there. You must be a devout Clooney lover for this one. Two Weeks Notice (12a) has millionaire Hugh Grant jousting with his legal advisor, Sandra Bullock, who arranges his current divorce. It is a lot of fun and I don't need to tell you whom he ends up with. Those of us who think black is beautiful and have vaguely thought of a holiday in Jamaica should see a documentary called Life And Debt (U) that is a shocking insight into life there. When they became independent in 1962 the International Monetary Fund and the Worldbank made them loans charging double the amount of interest charged elsewhere. The tragic details have to be heard to be believed. Christopher Eccleston is one of Britain's most virile actors who would be a major star if we had any organised film industry here. His latest movie Revengers Tragedy (15) based on a 17th century play, has been shot with the same dialogue in Liverpool. Incest, violence and rape involve Derek Jacobi, Eddie Izzard, and Sophie Dahl. All very weird filmfare. VIDEO WORLD Casting Mr Eccleston in The Second Coming (to be bought or hired on Carlton) certainly gives more impact. Written by the "Queer As Folk" man, Russell T. Davies, it is not easy to bring authenticity to a story about a humble northern guy working in a video shop who suddenly announces he is the son of god. ITV must have been impressed as they screened it on two nights early in February. Mr Eccleston's considerable appeal helps us believe while talking to thousands in a football stadium at night, suddenly daylight fills the ground, while it is still dark outside. One of the most extraordinary storylines of our time. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Arts ==== Martin Powell I'm not sure whether to start with the good news, the better news or the best news. In fact, I don't know which is which so I'll just list them. Firstly it looks like my lamentations last time about events on Edinburgh's Cowgate may have been a bit excessive. It seems that the Gilded Balloon will have a presence on the Cowgate this year and will, as last year, be running the Caves at August's Fringe. I am also reliably informed that although Adam House currently has no electricity supply, C Venues are anticipating no unusual problems with running the place this year. Secondly there is a film out there that is well worth seeing. I know everyone else is raving about it but see no reason why that should stop me from joining in. It relates to the way in an earlier century people who engaged in sexual activities that were frowned upon were, in effect, imprisoned for life by a body claiming to be part of the country's religion. I'm talking about Peter Mullan's 'The Magdalene Sisters' and is about the way young unmarried heterosexual women who became pregnant in Ireland were locked away in the Magdalene Laundries. When did this barbaric behaviour come to an end? Well the last one closed in 1996. Thirdly X Factor Dance Company are back with 'In Your Dreams', which is touring Scotland in March and April. Talking about his new work Artistic Director Alan Greig comments 'After dealing with very specific themes in previous X factor shows; that of breakdown of marriage, secrets and the afterlife; I liked the idea that anything can happen in a dream and thought that this would be a very exciting and challenging theme to explore further.' This is X Factor's 15th show and the previous ones I've seen by them have been superb so I've got high expectations of this one. Tour dates and venues are below. Saturday March 1, 7.30 pm :The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen Saturday March 8, 7.30 pm: Brunton Theatre, Musselburgh: Wednesday March 12, 7.30 pm: Howden Park, Livingston Friday March 14, 8 pm: Universal Hall, Findhorn: Tuesday March 18, 8 pm: Byre Theatre, St Andrews Friday March 21, 7.30 pm: Volunteer Hall, Galashiels Wednesday April 2, 8 pm: Macrobert, University of Stirling, Stirling Friday April 4, 7.30 pm: Paisley Arts Centre, Paisley Tuesday April 8, 7.30 pm: Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline Thursday 10 & Friday 11 April , 8 pm: Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh Saturday April 12, 8pm: Tron Theatre, Glasgow E-mail: martinp@drink.demon.co.uk -------------------------------------------------------------- International News from Rex Wockner =================================== *Colombian singer supports civil unions bill Grammy-winning Colombian singer Juanes has come out in support of Colombia's gay civil-unions bill in an interview with Tentaciones magazine. The bill has passed a Senate committee and is expected to be considered by the full Senate in March. The interviewer said to Juanes: "I need to ask you a hard question. What would happen if gay and lesbian organizations in Colombia ask Juanes to support the civil-unions petition publicly? Would you do this?" Juanes replied: "I would support them. Why wouldn't I? The same way I support other communities, including mine, I would do the same thing with the gay and lesbian community. ... I think that every single person can decide what to do with his or her life. I think it's great, as long as there is love and respect between the couple." The interview appears in the February issue. Juanes' hits include "Fijate bien" and "A Dios le pido." *Key Al Qaeda informant comes out A man that US officials have called one of the most credible and useful Al Qaeda informers in Europe came out during conversations with US investigators, The New York Times has reported. Jordanian Shadi Abdullah told investigators: "My family is very poor. I wanted to come to Germany to start a new life. Another reason was the opportunity to live a freer life in Germany. This involves my sexual tendencies toward men. I had expected problems and disadvantages in relation to this in Jordan." According to The NY Times: "In addition to providing counterterrorism officials with details like the meanings of code words used in taped conversations, [Abdullah] laid out a road map of the network's capabilities and intentions and explained how the hierarchy was rebuilt after the death or capture of Qaeda leaders in Afghanistan. Mr. Abdullah provided names and descriptions of dozens of Qaeda members, helping authorities to disrupt terrorist plots in Germany, Italy, Britain and the United States." *Euro parliament supports free movement of gay couples The European Parliament has approved a directive favouring mutual recognition of same-sex couples and their families when they flit among the 15 nations of the European Union. The vote was 269 to 225 with 46 abstentions. "By adopting the principle of mutual recognition to same-sex partnerships in the context of free movement, the European Parliament has taken up the core demands put forward by ILGA-Europe in its advocacy efforts," said the International Lesbian & Gay Association's European branch. The Parliament's proposal must be approved by the EU's Council of Ministers. *SPAIN DEFEATS GAY MARRIAGE PROPOSALS Spain's Parliament has voted down five bills that would have legalised same-sex marriage, Agence France-Presse has reported. The report said all MPs from Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar's People's Party were forced to vote against the measures. People's Party deputy Rosa Estaras said the bills -- introduced by the Socialists, the United Left and three regional parties -- were torpedoed because they were "unconstitutional." *TRANSSEXUAL MARRIAGE UPHELD The full bench of the Family Court of Australia has rejected Attorney General Daryl Williams' effort to invalidate a marriage between a woman, Jennifer, and a transsexual who used to be a woman, Kevin. Kevin's birth certificate and passport now say he is male and the couple have had two children via in-vitro fertilization. Williams might appeal to the High Court. According to his spokeswoman, "The case raises serious issues concerning the meaning of marriage under the Marriage Act." *SA PRISONER WINS HIV SETTLEMENT A South African man who contracted HIV while imprisoned from 1993-1994 has received $132,500 in an out-of-court settlement with the Department of Correctional Services. The former inmate said he caught HIV by having sex with other prisoners, which he said he would not have done if prison officials had warned him of the danger. South African prisons did not provide inmates with condoms until 1996. One in five South African adults is HIV-positive. *TWO ARRESTED IN CAPE TOWN SLAYINGS Police in Cape Town, South Africa, have arrested two men for the murders of nine men at the Sizzlers gay massage parlor. News reports had linked the Jan 20th massacre to gangs and drug deals, but police said they now believe the motive was robbery. The victims were tied up, shot, and had their throats slit. Six died on the spot and three died later in hospitals. One man survived. He has been released from the hospital, after having two bullets removed from his head, and is staying at a safe house. Police said both of the arrestees have confessed. *ARREST IN VANCOUVER MURDER Police in Vancouver, Canada, have made an arrest in the case of the brutal murder of Aaron Webster in late 2001. Webster was beaten to death with a baseball bat or pool cue in a cruising area of Stanley Park, which abuts Vancouver's gayest neighborhood. Police believe it was a gay-bashing. The 19-year-old man who was arrested cannot be named because he was only 17 at the time of the crime. Police do not believe the man acted alone and said they will make more arrests shortly. *GAY CANADIANS DEMAND MARRIAGE LICENCES Several dozen gay couples went to government offices across Canada on St Valentine's Day and demanded marriage licences. The coordinated protests were organized by the national lobby group Equality for Gays and Lesbians Everywhere. "Our love and our relationships are not equally valued," said EGALE's Richard Chambers, according to the CBC. "By taking local action in our own hometowns, we are asking all Canadians to defend our equal right to celebrate our love by calling on the federal justice minister to honor our Charter [of Rights and Freedoms] rights and end marriage discrimination." No marriage licences were issued during the protests. Superior courts in Ontario and Quebec have declared Canada's ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional and given the federal government two years to open up the institution. The government has 17 months remaining in which to act. Hearings are underway in Ottawa, Canada's capital, to decide whether to appeal the provincial rulings to the Canadian Supreme Court. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. *WOMEN Romantic Woman 44 year old attractive lesbian with brown/copper hair is very honest, caring and romantic. Her hobbies include: good conversation, meals out, driving, walks, weekends away, music, the theatre and concerts. She is a non-smoker and is looking for similar - please get in touch. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5228. Ayrshire Female Seeks Tomboy Type 32 year old female from Ayrshire is 5'4" tall with blonde hair and a good sense of humour. 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Considerate Master Glasgow leather Sub, late 40's with shaved head, 5'9" tall, 38" chest, 32" waist, 11.5 stone is looking for considerate Master. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5200. X-Dressing X-Cyclist Andy from West Lothian, 36 years old, 16st, ex-cyclist who is into cross-dressing would like to meet someone 22-40 years old to spend nights in and out with. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5204. Suchlike in St. Andrews David from St. Andrews is 52 years old, 6'2" tall, well built - not fat - has his own house and car is looking for a friend 40-60 years for swimming, theatre, dances, holidays and suchlike. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5207. Safe, Horny And Active Duncan is 32 years old, muscular, tattooed, shaved all over, 5'10" tall and is looking for muscular active fishermen, oil workers, road diggers etc. 18-64 years, Fife area only for safe, horny fun. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5212. Lorry Driver Desperate For Pickup Bruce is a 40 year old slim, handsome, frustrated, bisexual lorry-driver from Aberdeen who would like to meet someone close to a main route for some fun. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5217. Walkover? Morayshire. 5'3" tall, non-smoker with a fresh, clean complexion who does a lot of walking and likes CP would like to meet someone. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5218. Can't Get No... Glasgow man, mid 40's would like to meet other men for satisfaction and adventure. Age and looks are not important but an ability to give and receive uninhibited pleasure is. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5142. Classy TV Natasha is a 29 year old feminine, long-legged, classily-dressed, convincing TV who is looking to meet a broad-minded mature male in his 40's to 60's for friendship and maybe more. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5165. Glasgow Lumberjack? Steve is a 37 years old non-smoking, sturdily-built, 12st, 32" waisted gay man who lives in the West End of Glasgow. He loves animals, the cinema, bowling and does forestry work. He is looking for someone for companionship, friendship and lots of sexy fun. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5170. Football & Golf Pete is a 43 year old Peterhead guy, interested in football and golf who is looking for someone with similar interests. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5177. Sequined Shorts Colin is 5'9" tall with dark hair. Is into guys with sequined or tight shorts - preferably above the knee. Must be an older, masculine guy. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5098. A Thorough Spanking Needing firm discipline? This retired teacher in Aberdeenshire seeks naughty boys needing to go across his knee and have their bare bottom thoroughly spanked. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5101. Dunfermline Disciplinarian Dunfermline discipline will give you very, very firm corrective discipline. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5102. 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. Les Bi Friends Male mid-thirties is looking for a lesbian couple or a bi-couple, any age - doesn't matter. He's from the Edinburgh area and would like you to get in touch with him for mutual fun. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5054. Yellow Sub- 38 year old slim, submissive guy, into yellow, is looking for dominant guys any age. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5060. Who's The Daddy? Two Daddy figures in Fife are looking for a younger 16+ guy who wants fun and to be looked after. Shy boys are welcome for spoiling. Can collect in the Fife area. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5072. Masters Only Please Two passive guys, 32 and 45 years old in the Fife area are looking for an experienced master who can really show them the ropes. Genuine Masters only please. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5073. Initiation Invitation We are two guys who can travel to Edinburgh and Aberdeen and who are looking for an invitation to leather, rubber and fetish parties. We would like to get into the scene. Please give us a call and we will get back to you. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5074. Athletic Student Two Fife gents require young student, athletic types. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5075. Rough Trade Dave is looking for active Skins, Braces, Docs, Sta-Prest, Football, Casuals. Rough trade wanted for sub-professional 52 years old guy in Fife who can accommodate for some CP fun. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5078. Close Encounter Of The Casual Kind Dundee guy, 36 years old with reasonable looks and body is seeing casual encounters. Can accommodate and likes toys, leather, poppers etc. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4991. Bob A Job? Bobby is 40 years guy old from Aberdeen where he owns his own Training and Animal Centre. He is looking for passive guys 17-30 years old and may be able to offer accommodation and employment. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5001. School Strap Retired teacher wanted to administer 1950's school punishment. Glasgow - can travel but not accommodate. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5007. Bad Boys - Phone Me Now! Wanted: bad boys who need their bare bottoms spanked by experienced, 55 years old disciplinarian in the Central Region. "Phone now, bad boy". Phone 09068 556613 - Number 5040. Rough And Ready in Renfrew? Andy is a 40 year old passive gay male, slim to medium build, who likes walks, videos and cosy nights in. He would like to meet a guy who is tall and dark and hairy - masculine manual worker with tattoos if possible. He lives in Renfrew and can accommodate. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4974. Glasgow - Scotland - Anywhere Strict but friendly uncle type, 48, active, seeks nephews 17-29 years, any colour or nationality. Shy lads treated with care. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4907. Oriental Young Oriental wanted by very discreet older man. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4908. Sexy Seeks Shy Attractive, tall, sexy, gym-trained 42 year old professional guy who lives in Glasgow and is into quiet things like walking, movies and music yet enjoys a beer is looking for a younger, shy guy who is equally attractive, for a possible relationship. No queens, cross-dressers or time-wasters please. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4868. 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. Bald, Sincere Glaswegian Wanted 28 year old Glasgow male, 5'9" tall, short-haired and good looking - often doesn't pass for his age. He is mature and studies social and medical sciences. His interest are: reading, watching documentaries, politics, classical music and he has a very keen interest in Modern History. He is looking for friends or a 1-2-1 in the Glasgow area, 35-40 years, preferably bald or with a No 1 haircut. Seeking a caring, sincere, stable man for a possible relationship. Queens, time-wasters, users or two-timers need not apply. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4785. Visit My Study NOW! Mature Edinburgh headmaster-type will deal firmly with naughty boys. So call now for a visit to his study. P 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. Renfrew Rendezvous Andrew from mid-Renfrew is 40 years, 5'10" with cropped fair hair, clean-shaven and quite hairy. Likes long walks, videos, cosy nights in and the occasional pint. Looking for tall, dark, muscular, hairy guy for no strings fun. He can accommodate but can't travel. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 4521. 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. hone 09068 556613 - Number 3942. Corrective Discipline Mature Edinburgh schoolmaster type asks naughty boys, of any age, to report to him for corrective discipline. Phone 09068 556613 - Number 3583. 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 *WOMEN Rainbow Retreats Women only B&B in Andalucia, Southern Spain. 40 mins from Malaga Airport. All en-suite rooms, private pool and bar. For further details please look at our web site: http://www.womens-holiday.com/or ring 0034 952 495535. [52] Cadzow Athletic Ladies FC Are seeking new players in all positions. We train Tue and Sun in Hamilton. If interested, contact Michelle on Motherwell (01698) 249154. Boring Fart Seeks Soulmate Lesbian, 35, smoker, non scene, WLTM genuine, romantic soulmate. Must like animals. GSOH, likes cosy nights in meals out and company of good friends. Box SG50027. Aberdeen - Gay Female Late 30's, GSOH, professional, non scene, looking for a woman of similar age for friendship, maybe more. Enjoy walking, cinema, eating out and just having fun. Go on - get in touch. Box SG50032. Save Me - My Heart Is Empty Gay female, 32, lots of love to give, GSOH, WLTM female for fun and who knows. Like scene, wild nights in and out. Own house and car. No bi's. All letters answered. Box SG50033. Gay Female - Glasgow - 29 With GSOH, likes cinema, food and watching footie. Seeks lesbian 28-38 for friendship, maybe more. If I meet Ms Right then that's a bonus! Box SG50034. *MEN Men Spanking Men A fully illustrated magazine containing CP stories of Men Spanking Men. Canes, Tawses, Hands, Straps and much more. For full details and an order form, ring Jason Junior on 0800 9805469. E-mail: jason@jason-junior.co.uk WWW: http://www.jason-junior.co.uk [52a] Fraserburgh Interested in starting an LGBT switchboard to cover the Fraserburgh area? If so, get in touch. Box SG50001. Cute Young Lad Wanted Sexy, cute, boyish and affectionate 16-21 year old lad wanted for friendship and safe, horny fun by older guy (45). I know you're out there, let's get together! Edinburgh - Glasgow areas. Box SG50004. Spanish Boy - Glasgow I'm a Spanish boy studing in Glasgow. I'm 20, good looking, thin, with brown eyes and hair. Interested in men between 19-26. I'm friendly, honest, I like going out, travelling and having laughs with friends. Box SG50005. Glasgow Master Seeks Slave(s) Glasgow master looking for in shape slave(s) 18-38 to train. Must be willing to put my pleasure before its. Respectful applications for test ride. Convince me you are. Box SG50006. Active Guy Wanted I'm looking for a nice Latino type active guy. I also love Spanish men, Mexican, Argentinian, Italian, prefer very muscular guys but not a must, genuineness and honesty are more important. Age and looks not important. I'm single, 45 years, 5'9", 32"w, 42"c, zero crop balding, green eyes, good build, hairy and passive (bottom). I have my own place and transport and live in Greenock. So if you are looking for fun and friendship get in touch. Box SG50007. Edinburgh Friendly mature Indian guy, 40's, seeks uncomplicated fun with 20's-30's guys. Regret unable to accommodate or travel. Total discretion required and offered. Box SG50008. Seeking 24/7 Slave Gay male couple, mid-30's, own home and business. You 18-30, fit, hairy, keen to please, anything goes. Duties many and varied including housework, gardening, personal. Goto http://www.gaydar.co.uk/wantaslave or Write: Box SG50009. Sore Bare Butt Needed Lazy unemployed houseboy, 25, 5'9", 11st, slim build, needs games/headmaster to give spanking, strapping + canelines to my bare butt to correct my bad exam results. Cannot accommodate. Travelling expenses may be required. No timewasters please. Sorry, mobile numbers not rung. Love and best swishes to you all. Box SG50010. Exhibitionist Wanted Man with video camera seeks uninhibited guy under 30 to film. No publication or strings. Box SG50013. Passive Seeks Domimant 46 year old passive married bi guy in Dunfermline seeks mature active dominant master to introduce him to over the knee fun and CP. Prefer to accommodate but can travel. Box SG50014. Good Looking 32 Year Old Looking for straight acting 35-55 for no strings fun. You will be tanned, funny in non gay sense, and stocky. Marrieds very welcome. Discretion necessary and assured. Box SG50016. Edinburgh - Glasgow - Stirling Any first year students like to meet up with discreet older (40's) guy for fun and friendship? I don't bite but may nibble gently if asked nicely! Box SG50017. 18 Year Old Novice Needs Taught! I am an 18 year old Glasgow male who is still an anal virgin and would like to be taught!! Can travel but not too far!!! Box SG50018. 19 - Fit And Horny 24/7 6ft, dark skin, toned body in the Dundee area. Looking to get away from Dundee. Need good looking guy for fun, fun, fun. Pics would help. Box SG50019. Edinburgh Professional Good looking Edinburgh professional, 6 ft, blue eyes, brown hair, likes cinema, travel, eating and drinking, seeks similar 35-40. Box SG50020. Can't Send E-mail Would John, call sign "Jay", who replied to my advert on 23rd Jan giving a "lonelydarla" e-mail address please contact, as that address just bounces e-mails. Box SG50021. Aberdeen 37 year old guy looking for relationship with career minded person. Average looks, hairy, enjoy good wine and food. Time I had some love from similar who wants to show some affection. Box SG50022. Genuine I'm 31, live in Livingston and work in Edinburgh. I am looking to meet someone for friendship but hopefully more between the ages of 25-45. I am honest and genuine and expect the same from friends/boyfriends! Box SG50023. Bi-curious Seeks gay smooth 30-50 year old for tentative explorations. I am athletic, slim, 5'9". Pictures essential - please E-mail: guitarcrazi@aol.com for assured response or Write: Box SG50024. Mature For Younger Genuinely nice guy, 51, looks much younger, s/l s/a, masculine, handsome, well built, down to earth seeks young companion who would like to be cared for and about with a view to relationship. Box SG50025. Killie Or Surrounding Area Looking for a guy 18-30 to show me a good time. I am 35, shy, quiet, inexperienced, willing to try most things. Own house so can accommodate. Discretion is a must. ALA. Box SG50026. Young Lad I live in the Perthshire area of Scotland and would like to make new friends in this area. If interested in any way, then get in touch. Box SG50027. Former Ayrshire Guy Hi guys. I am looking to contact guys from Ayrshire. I now live in blackpool and want to e-mail, txt, write to guys any age. Get in touch, perhaps I may invite you down one day. Davie. Box SG50028. Edinburgh - Anywhere Friendly 40's guy, small, fat and hairy, seeks 16-26 year old guy for fun and friendship. Box SG50029. Fraserburgh - Aberdeenshire 56 year old gay male WLTM gay or bi guys for fun. Into A and O, being spanked, etc. E-mail: billyritchie@tinyworld.co.uk or Write: Box SG50030. Skinhead Seeks Mates Skin wants to meet skins. Into DM's, rubber, w/s, gob, bondage, humiation. Let's meet for drinks and hot, wet fun. Phone number and photo for quick reply. Box SG50031. Holiday Companion Lonely Aberdonian with epilepsy (but drug controlled) due to two previous strokes, recently used and dumped by Dundee businessman. Seeks companion to spend 10 days in Holland in June 2003 for friendship whilst on holiday. Box SG50035. Let's Be Friends Retired surgeon, 63, back in Scotland after years abroad, seeks congenial friends of any age to share agreeable lifestyle. Prefers music, theatre, travel, to pubs and clubs. Box SG50036. Looking For Sex On Legs 23 year old, goodlooking carer in Tayside, looking for sexy students aged 20-30, nice body, nice butt, nice smile, looking for boyfriend. All letters with photo answered. Box SG50037. Magherafelt - Northern Ireland 36 year old male, dark brown hair, No 2 cut, chubby, looking for gay/bi for penpals in Edinburgh, Glasgow, anywhere. Age under 36. get writing guys. Box SG50038. What's It Called? Gay guy from Cumbernauld, 57, seeks guy 50-60 for friendship. Box SG50039. Are You A Young Rebel? So rebellious that you don't spend a fortune and/or hours making yourself look like every other so-called rebel with piercings, predictable haircut and clothes just like everybody else? So rebellious that you'd actually prefer the company of somebody old enough to be your father but without his attitude? If this is you, please write. Box SG50040. Daytime Fun In Edinburgh Late 30's guy offers hot, horny, daytime fun to guys 30-45 in his own city centre place. Box SG50041. Fife - Central - Anywhere Slim guys sought by 40 year old Fife guy for no strings fun. Can accommodate or travel. No age limits. Male couples, bi's, married welcome. Discretion assured. ALA. Photo a bonus. Box SG50042. Nappy And Plastic Pants Fun Glasgow guy loves to wear nappies, plastic pants for wet times. Also dress as adult baby sometimes in rompers, bibs, etc. Genuine. Box SG50043. Glasgow - Horny In Lingerie Two guys, one into lingerie, slim build, 49, one voyeur, 50. WLTM other lingerie types, no strings, for fun and friendship. Discretion assured/expected. Can accommodate. Glasgow area. Box SG50044. Am I Asking To Much? Fed up 32 year old looking for nice ordinary guy! No time wasters or drama queens please. Prefer straight acting and non scene. Edinburgh/Glasgow area. Box SG50045. Glasgow Adonis Slim, smooth, fit, gay guy looking for new mates. I'm mid 20's, genuine, honest, GSOH, SA/SL, fed up on my own. What you got to lose? Age/looks unimportant. ALAWP. Box SG50046. Seeking Active Top Guy, mid 30's, 5'11", 10st, slim, tidy, passive, GSOH, no baggage, SA, SL, seeks active top for 1-2-1. Can accommodate. Discretion assured. Get writing. Box SG50047. North East Guy Male, 52, looking for first time experience with TV/TS and crossdressers. W/E, smooth. Get in touch. Box SG50048. Leather - Anywhere Genuine Edinburgh guy, non smoker, non scene, 38, 5'6", blond, down to earth, average looks, looking for a down to earth genuine guy, non smoker. Like to have safe horny fun in our leathers. ALA. Box SG50049. Tayside - Scotland Slim, mature, easy going gay guy, 56, looking for an active gay man for fun, friendship and more. Age, looks, colour not important. Can travel reasonable distances. Box SG50050. Glasgow Area Healthy Living Social Group Continues to meet - city venues - drink (lunch?) - each others homes: cheese/wine/non alcoholic alternative drinks; massage, relax/light exercise, share/explore interests, theatre? walks, non smokers, 30+ flexible. Interested? Contact for details. Box SG50051. Relocated To Glasgow WLTM Fun Mates 42 year old fit hairy (outish) veggie, seldom on scene, WLTM 29-45 (flexible) N/Sm bespectacled? sharing l/term friendship, citylife/country pursuits; gym, domestic/DIY horny workouts? massage for afters, any Christians? Let's share love. ALA. Box SG50052. Passive In Renfrew Big muscle guy and hairy 50"+ chest sought be passive gay guy, 51, for horny fun. Can accommodate. Must be active. Posibly tattooed. Discreet. ALA. Box SG50053. Horny Penpals Wanted By 23 Year Old You 18-35 and wanting hot correspondence. I love solo, seeing straight guys enjoying themselves, voyeurism, early reminiscences, shorts. Let's turn each other on. Box SG50054. 40's Pupil Seeks Strict Teacher Novice slave seeks Dom(s) to teach me to serve and help me pass my A Levels. This mid 40's pupil will be ever so grateful. No age limit. Box SG50055. Glasgow Guy Seeks 16-30ish friendship perhaps leading to 1-2-1. Honest guys only. Discretion assured. Write soon. All letters answered. Box SG50056. Scotland - England Guy, 50's, WLTM someone for LTR. 40-75. Need someone to love and be loived by. Will relocate with right person. Own home and car. Can accommodate. Any nationality welcome. Much to offer. Box SG50057. Strathclyde West Coast guy, genuine, nice looking, youthful, 50's, good slim body, 32" waist, with cute little butt, WLTM mature discreet active top for mutual enjoyment. Likes small briefs, gay videos. Box SG50058. *BISEXUAL Bi Curious? There has to be a first time for everything! If you're aged 16-21 or so, why not 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. I have a large double bed and collection of gay videos in Edinburgh but will travel if required. Box SG50003. Wanted! Hi! We are a couple and we would like some bisexual females to have some regular fun with. We are flexible and can accommodate. Anyone interested please reply. No gay bi guys please! Box SG50011. Bi Guy Seeks Male/Female Couple 45 year old, well built, well endowed, bi guy seeks male/female couple. I'm tall, brown hair/eyes, enjoy all forms of fun. I'm looking for fun and good times with couple in and around Aberdeen area. Looks, age, colour not important. Get in contact soon with photo if possible. Box SG50015. Submissive 30's Well built former rugby player, 16st, 49" chest, 35" waist, seeks re-training by strict experienced master. Photo please. Anywhere. Box SG50059. Friendship 29 year old bi male looking for couple to start long friendship/relationship with. I am 6ft, slim, fit, very easy going and curious to share threesome with a couple and where the male is bi. I like older men/women, any siz/ looks as long as you're easy going and enjoy most things. Also enjoy toys, diy, lingerie. So please get in contact. I am honest and I look forward to your reply. Box SG50060. *STRAIGHT Edinburgh - Anywhere Genial 50something silver bear seeks morally relaxed women of all ages for fun and friendship. Box SG50002. *FRIENDS ABROAD Canadian Contact Looking for a male friend between 20 and 35 years old, honest, fit body, very masculine look, great personality and you need a good pal. Send your letter with a photo to PO Box 60542 RPO, Montreal QC, Canada H1V 3T8. Guaranteed reply by postmail with photo. Send your 24hr quick short message to E-mail: be-brief@sympatico.ca (text only) Good School Strapping Retired school teacher with school strap and tawse I used to discipline my grade school students. Looking for male or female, who needs a good strapping on the palm of the hands, or the tawse on their bare bottoms, as I used to give my students. Write: David Orick, C-197 Trans Site Road, RR-1, Vancouver, PEI, Canada. E-mail: bbincanada@yahoo.com *LOOKING FOR Edinburgh Underground Tour - Jan 29th Hi! I (German) saw you (Irish) at the Edinburgh Underground Tour on Jan 29th at 4pm. You were there with a friend from Israel, I was there with a colleague of mine. Remember? I wish the tour would have been longer :-) and I could have talked to you. If you read this, please E-mail: Kautokaino@aol.com or Write: Box SG50012. Edinburgh John Looking for John, from Edinburgh. We met in Amsterdam on 1st Feb 2003. E-mail: antonio_me2003@yahoo.it *ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE Fraserburgh Free accommodation and meals offered to guy interested in working with fabulous circus high school and stunt horses and ponies. Andalusian Lipinzzaner, Falabellas and German Shepherd Dog act. Free training given by Advanced Animal Trainer. For more info, phone: 01346 583145. *JOBS OFFERED Assistant Instructor Required by busy West Highland Sailing School to assist in running the Centre, dealing with customers and crewing on yachts and powerboats. Applicants should be young, fit, good looking, straight acting and reasonably broadminded. Prior experience is not esssential as full training to the appropriate NGB level available. All kit provided and private accommodation available. Position might suit student or school leaver. Further details from 07831 846025 or E-mail: swl121@aol.com [52] 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. [99] 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 CAFFMOS Contacts and friendships for men over sixty. The organisation for the more mature gentleman and his admirers. Write to: CAFFMOS, PO Box 2273, Hove. BN3 2GF. Or phone Hove (01273) 220995 for information. [99] Contact Mag Contact Mag for adults: over 900 photos. Approval copy from: Matchmaker (K38), Chorley, PR7 4BS. 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Call KEYSOL for details of property exhibitions, inspection trips or brochure 0141-576 8808. [99] Limited Companies Only GBP90 for your own Limited Company. PLCs GBP100. Charitable and Unlimited Companies also available. Freephone 0800 526421 for our free 'Guide To Limited Companies'. E-mail: cosun@drink.demon.co.uk WWW: http://www.quick-companies.co.uk/ [99] Metamorphosis A lesbian run painting and decorating company providing a quality, competitive and respectful service to a wide variety of people in the City of Edinburgh. General painting, papering and decorating. Colour advice. Plaster repairs. Tiling. Minor electrical and joinery work. Other household odd jobs. No job too small. Carol. Tel: 0131-476 1052 or 07944 805495. E-mail: metamorphosis@blueyonder.co.uk or metamorphosis@supanet.com [55] Personal Services At Your Request Relax! Chores/errands taken from the busy professsional. Ironing, personal, errands (training in massage). Relax! Fit service, friendly guy. 0141-883 2715. 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E-mail: trots@drink.demon.co.uk or Write: Box SG50000. [99] Worldwide Penfriends Regular lists. Make friends, exchange holidays, improve your languages. For general and music lovers' lists send GBP3: "The Penpal List", c/o 221B Merton Rd, Southfields, London. SW18 5EE. [99] *BACK RUBS Edinburgh Big, chubby and cuddly gay man offers relaxing and erotic massage for men in comfortable surroundings. (No out visits). Please call Kenny or leave a message on my Voicemail on the following numbers: 0131-661 1477, or 07890 024865. [99] Glasgow Area 39 year old huy gives massage. Short, skinny build. Out calls, hotel, etc. Call David on 07867 693108. [50] Glasgow Area Swedish massage. Remedial and sports massage. Qualified practitioner. Evenings and weekends. Home visits. Non-sexual. Drew. 01355 245708. [50a] Glasgow Area Unhurried service by genuine 23 year old fit lad. Other services offered, discretion assured. Tel: 07904 196250. [50] Glasgow Gay Guy Gives good massage. 5'10", slim, toned, tanned, well hung. In/out calls. Very genuine. Very horny. So give me a call on 07765 194696. Tony. [50] Massage For Men - Edinburgh Great relaxing, holistic, sensual, tantric, full body pampering relief in nurturing masculine environment. Shower, warm towels, refreshments. GBP20 per session. Exceptionally good value. Jim. Qualified, experienced, caring. 0131-556 7199. [52] Massage In Kirkcaldy Full body massage given in Kirkcaldy area. Discreet location. For more details ask Joe on 01592 644464. Situated in Kirkcaldy High Street. [50] Soothing & Relaxing... Back rub by genuine guys. Unhurried service given in discreet, clean and safe surroundings. Other services offered. Discounts available....ask!! Call Mike or Chick on 07931 594870. WWW: http://www.backrubplus.plus.com/ [50] *WHERE TO STAY Aberdeenshire Farm Holidays Gay owned working farm. Horses and rare breed animals and poultry. You can help out or relax. Miles of beaches and walks. Live in Chalet or Mobile Home accommodation, with great food. Ideal stopover for travelling salespeople or lorry drivers. Phone: 07881 490065 (eve). [99] All New, All Gay Guesthouses - Edinburgh Two great locations. Exclusively gay. Easy walk to nightlife. Stylish rooms, all with TV and video (tapes available). Shared and private bathrooms. Breakfast available till noon. Non-smoking houses. Easy parking. Room rates: GBP29-GBP49 per night. Call 0131-558 1382 or Fax 0131-556 8279. WWW: http://www.gayscotland.com/alvahouse/ [51a] Edinburgh The Alexander Guest House is a gay friendly guest house (owned and run) with a mixed clientele. Every detail has been thought of in our recently refurbished bedrooms to make your stay a more memorable one. They are equipped with refreshment trays, ironing facilities, hairdryers etc. We serve a full Scottish and continental breakfast menu. We are located 1 mile from the city on the south side with private parking. You can check out our web site at http://www.thealexanderguesthouse. co.uk/ Please call Glenn or Alex on 0131-258 4028 or E-mail: alexander@guest68 freeserve.co.uk A warm welcome awaits you. Mention ScotsGay and get 10% discount. [51a] Glasgow - New Exclusively Gay Bed And Breakfast Spencer's Guest House. Superior accommodation in the heart of Glasgow's West End. Our spacious recently refurbished rooms are equipped with colour TV, hairdryers and refreshment trays. Ironing facilities available on request. Close to all amenities. Affordable and easy access to city centre gay pubs and clubs. Full Scottish Breakfast served 8am-Noon. For further details, telephone: 0141-581 6765. [50a] Inverness Glenuig Guesthouse, close to city centre, offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. We have en-suite facilities, substantial continental breakfast served until noon and off street parking. Rates from GBP15pppn. 29 Fairfield Road, Inverness, IV3 5QD. Tel: 01463 250938. Fax: 01463 221685. E-mail: cchtravel@aol.com [51a] Perthshire Friendly country cottage Bed and Breakfast. 2 rooms with all facilities. Private parking. Pub/restaurant next door. 2 miles from Coupar Angus on the A94. 20 mins from Perth. Call Ron on 0773 0876454 for room reservations and/or massage. [53a] Sutherland On A9 to Wick, B&B. Roadside, 60 miles from Inverness. Double or single. GBP13 per person. Tea and sandwiches included. Phone: Helmsdale(01431) 821570. [62] ---------------------------------------------------------- Helplines ========= CROSSLYNX NATIONAL TV/TS HELPLINE Mon 7.30-9.30pm. Phone: 0141-847 0787. WWW: http://SGLS.tripod.com/ transgen.htm CENTRAL SCOTLAND POLICE HOMOPHOBIC HELPLINE Nightly 7-10pm. Phone: Stirling (01786) 469483 or 0141-847 0647. WWW: http://www.centralscotland.police.uk/gblt/index.html CUMBRIA AND THE BORDERS GAY HELPLINE Nightly 6-9pm. Phone: Bassenthwaite Lake (01768) 776244 DIVERSITAY LGBT SWITCHBOARD (DUNDEE) Mon 7-10pm. Phone: Dundee (01382) 202620 Write: PO Box 53, Dundee. DD1 3YG. E-mail: diversitay@hotmail.com. WWW: http://www.dundeelgb.freeserve. co.uk/ DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY LESBIAN AND GAYLINE Thu 7.30-9.30pm. Phone: Dumfries (01387) 261818 Write: DAGLAG, PO Box 1299, Dumfries. DG1 2PD. E-mail: daglag@drink.demon.co.uk FIFE FRIEND Fri 7.30-10pm. Phone: Kirkcaldy (01592) 266688 Write: PO Box 19, Kirkcaldy. KY1 3JF. WWW: http://www.fifefriend. co.uk/ FIFE HATE CRIME REPORTING HELPLINE 24 hours. Phone: Freephone 0800 3891425 A freephone number for people who wish support in reporting crime motivated by hate to Fife Constabulary. For further information about the service or becoming a trained helpline volunteer, phone us now! GRAMPIAN LESBIAN, GAY AND BISEXUAL SWITCHBOARD Wed, Fri 7.30-9.30pm. Phone: Aberdeen (01224) 212600. E-mail: glgbs@glgbs. org.uk. WWW: http://www. glgbs.org.uk/ LOTHIAN GAY AND LESBIAN SWITCHBOARD Nightly 7.30-10pm. Phone: 0131-556 4049 LOTHIAN LESBIAN LINE Mon, Thu 7.30-10pm. Phone: 0131-557 0751 NIGHT OWL HIV/AIDS CRISIS LINE Nightly Midnight-5am. Phone: 0141-332 2992 STRATHCLYDE GAY AND LESBIAN SWITCHBOARD Nightly 7-10pm. Phone: 0141-847 0447. E-mail: info@sgls.co.uk. WWW: http://www.sgls.co.uk/ SWITCHBOARD LESBIAN LINE Wed 7.30-10pm. Phone: 0141-847 0547. WWW: http://www.sgls.co.uk/ services1.htm LONDON LESBIAN AND GAY SWITCHBOARD 24 hours. Phone/Minicom: 020-7837 7324. FAX: 020-7837 7300. WWW: http://www.llgs.org.uk/ ------------------------------------------------------------------ Listings ======== ScotsGay Listings are FREE! We TRY to provide Scotland's most up-to-date and accurate listings. If your group isn't listed - or if your entry needs updating - please write to ScotsGay with full details. We're not clairvoyant: If we don't know about it, it just won't go in! We'd also like to know about your forthcoming events and meetings. Although many of the listings are for specific towns, they often cover a much wider area. If in doubt, you can always phone one of the Switchboards for more information. Write to:- ScotsGay Listings, PO Box 666, Edinburgh EH7 5YW, Fax them to: 0131-539 2999 or E-mail them to listings@scotsgay.co.uk. Our most up to date listings can always be found on our web site at http://www.scotsgay.co.uk/listings/ SCOTSGAY MAGAZINE SCOTSGAY: Monthly magazine edited, printed and published in Scotland. Sample copy available by phoning 0906 1100256 (calls cost no more than GBP2). Tel: 0845 1208062 (+44 131-539 0666). FAX: 0131-539 2999. Write: PO Box 666, Edinburgh. EH7 5YW. E-mail: editorial@scotsgay.co.uk or scotsgay@drink.demon.co.uk WWW: http://www.scotsgay.co.uk/ NATIONAL ORGANISATIONS OUTRIGHT SCOTLAND: Scotland's oldest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights organisation. It was founded in 1969 as the Scottish Minorities Group, later became the Scottish Homosexual Rights Group and changed its name to OUTRIGHT SCOTLAND in December 1992. Currently focusing on work around the Scottish Parliament, Scottish Executive and Scottish Public Institutions such as the NHS, Police and Justice System. Tel: 0131-558 9216. Write: The Secretary, OUTRIGHT SCOTLAND, PO Box 23253, Edinburgh. EH1 3XD. E-mail: convenor@outright-scotland.org WWW: http://www.outright-scotland.org/ Why not support OUTRIGHT SCOTLAND's work? Membership is GBP15 waged, GBP9 low-waged (under GBP10,000 pa) and GBP5 unwaged. Life membership is GBP150. Affiliation from Trades Union and Political Party Branches also welcome: GBP100 (Local Branches), GBP150 (National Organisations). Please make out your cheque/Postal Order to OUTRIGHT SCOTLAND and send to The Secretary, OUTRIGHT SCOTLAND, PO Box 23253, Edinburgh. EH1 3XD. Through Outright Scotland Community Press Ltd, Outright Scotland publishes Gay Scotland, a monthly newspaper. Tel: 0131-558 9216. FAX: 0870 7022824. Write: Gay Scotland, PO Box 23253, Edinburgh. EH1 3XD. E-mail: editor@gay-scotland.info WWW: http://www.gay-scotland.info/ BEYOND BARRIERS: Scotland wide project challenging homophobia and prejudice through information, training, research and LGBT community involvement. Tel: 0141-574 0240. Fax: 0141-574 0224. Write: 11 Dixon Street, Glasgow. G1 4AL. E-mail: info@beyondbarriers.org.uk WWW: http://www.beyondbarriers.org.uk/ EQUALITY NETWORK: Working for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality in Scotland. Write: 22 Forth Street, Edinburgh. EH1 3LH. Tel: 07020 933 952. Fax: 07020 933 954. E-mail: en@equality-network.org WWW: http://www.equality-network.org/ We hold weekly meetings, regular forums and an annual conference; contact us for more details. Join the campaign network! LESBIAN ARCHIVE AND INFORMATION CENTRE: The UK's largest and most significant collection of materials relating to lesbian lives. LAIC (at Glasgow Women's Library) 109 Trongate, Glasgow. G1 5HD. Tel/Fax: 0141-552 8345. Open Tue-Fri 1-6pm and Sat 2-5pm. E-mail: gwl@womens-library.org.uk WWW: http://www.womens-library.org.uk/laic.htm STONEWALL SCOTLAND: Scottish office of the London based campaigning group. Write: 11 Dixon Street, Glasgow, G1 4AL. Tel: 0141-204 0746. Fax: 0141-204 5110. E-mail: scotland@stonewall.org.uk WWW: http://www.stonewall.org.uk/ LOCAL ORGANISATIONS ABERDEEN: North East LGBT Forum: An umbrella group for voluntary LGBT organisations in the North East of Scotland. Working towards opening an LGBT Centre in Aberdeen. Regular meetings. Tel: Aberdeen (01224) 212600 (Grampian LGB Switchboard). E-mail: lgbtforum@hotmail.com WWW: http://uk.geocities.com/equalityforum/ North East Scotland Gay Group: Caters for all ages and meets at 7.30pm on the 3rd Sun of every month. Tel: Phace Scotland on Aberdeen (01224) 587166 (9am-5pm). E-mail: nesgg@phacescotland.org AYRSHIRE: Ayrshire Social & Sexuality Support Group: Meets 3rd Wed of each month at 7pm in Irvine. Details of venue from David Bingham on 0141-332 3837 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm), Irvine (01294) 323473 or Strathclyde Switchboard. E-mail: davidb@phacescotland.org CAITHNESS: Caithness Gay, Lesbian & Bisexual Group: A friendly informal group which meets regularly. Write: Box 689, Journal Office, 42 Union Street, Wick. KW1 5ED. E-mail: caithnessglc@aol.com WWW: http://members.lycos.co.uk/caithnessglc/ index.htm DUMFRIES: Dumfries & Galloway Lesbian & Gayline: Thu 7.30-9.30pm. Tel: Dumfries (01387) 261818. Write: DAGLAG, PO Box 1299, Dumfries. DG1 2PD. E-mail: daglag@drink.demon.co.uk DUNDEE: Disco:very: The newsletter from Diversitay. Available from: Diversitay (LGBT Group), PO Box 53, Dundee, DD1 3YG. EDINBURGH: Icebreakers: An alternative to the scene which takes place 8-9.15pm on the 2nd & 4th Wed of each month in CC Blooms. First-timers are invited to arrive at 7.30pm. Phone Lothian Switchboard for details. ELGIN: Pride of Moray Firth Group is being re-established. Write: c/o Phace Scotland, 21-23 Justice Mill Lane, Aberdeen. AB11 6EQ. Tel: Aberdeen (01224) 587166. Fax: Aberdeen (01224) 587167. E-mail: markt@phacescotland.org FALKIRK: FLAGS LGBT Group: A quiz is organized on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month in the Tollbooth Tavern, Tollbooth Street, Falkirk from 7.30pm. Write: FLAGS, PO Box 21117, Alloa, FK10 3YN. E-mail: secretary@f-l-a-g-s.co.uk WWW: http://www.flags.tk/ FIFE: LGBT Community Action (Fife): Runs Coffee and Social Evening every Tue from 7.30-10pm at 5 South Fergus Place, Kirkcaldy. Write: LGBT Community Action (Fife), 5 Fergus Place, Kirkcaldy. KY1 1YA. Tel: Kirkcaldy (01592) 266688 (Tue 7.30-9pm. GLASGOW: Glasgow LGBT Centre: The Centre Board manages Glasgow LGBT Centre Limited, which is registered as a Scottish charity and as a Scottish company. Centre Administrator is on duty (10am-1pm Mon-Fri). Membership criteria for Glasgow LGBT Centre Limited is available to all interested people agreeing to the code of conduct. See press for notice of the Annual General meeting of Members - childcare and BSL interpreter can be organised, but please give advance notice. Membership is closed in the last month. Write: Glasgow LGBT Centre, 11 Dixon Street, Glasgow, G1 4AL. Tel/Fax: 0141-221 7203. E-mail: lgbt.glasgow@ gglc.org.uk WWW: http://www.gglc.org.uk/ Icebreakers Group: For lesbians, gays and bisexuals new to the scene. 12.30-3pm on 1st Sun of each month at LGBT Centre, 11 Dixon Street. Details from Strathclyde Switchboard. Out on Sunday: A social group for lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgender people. 7.30-9.30pm on last Sun of month in the LGBT Centre. Self determined programme, which is organised by the group. A warm welcome for new members. Tel: 0141-221 7203 or E-mail: lgbtart@gglc.org.uk INVERNESS: Highland Gay Men's Group: Meets on the 4th Wed of each month at 34 Waterloo Place. Tel: Ronald on Inverness (01463) 711585 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.30pm). E-mail: project@reachout.demon.co.uk KELVIN VALLEY: Kelvin Valley Gay Men's Group: Covers Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Kirkintilloch areas. Meets every Wed 7.30pm in private houses. Tel: Kilsyth (01236) 825656. LANARKSHIRE: Lanarkshire Gay Group: An LGBT group which meets every Wed from 8pm in or around Hamilton. We are a small group of gay people who get together for support and friendship over a cup of tea or coffee. Join us for genuine friendship, we welcome new members, Gay, Lesbian, Bi, Transgender and their friends. Come along, give it a try, what have you got to lose? Write: LGG, 10 Bartie Gardens, Ashgill, Larkhall. ML9 3FB. Tel: Larkhall (01698) 887532 (7-10pm). E-mail: LGG@bartie.fsnet.co.uk WWW: http://www.geocities.com/lanarkshiregaymensgroup/ STIRLING: Stirling Gay Men's Group: Meets monthly from Sep-Jun (generally 3rd Fri) in private houses. Also occasional informal pub meets. Write: PO Box 28, Stirling. FK9 5YW. WEST LOTHIAN: Gay Men's Health West Lothian Project: A gay men's group which meets every Tue eve in Livingston. Tel: Bathgate (01506) 631010 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm). E-mail: colin@gmh.org.uk WOMEN'S LISTINGS SCOTTISH NETWORK FOR LESBIAN STRENGTH: To further lesbian issues, follow a lesbian agenda and foster lesbian visibility. Further information from Highland Lesbian Group at PO Box 91, Inverness. IV2 7GJ. E-mail: High_Les@bigfoot.com ABERDEEN: Aberdeen Lesbian Group: A small social group of lesbian and bisexual women who meet every fortnight in the Womenis Centre, Shoe Lane (next to the Lemon Tree). They aim to bring together like-minded women into a friendly atmosphere focussing on fun and enjoyment. Tel: Aberdeen (01224) 625010. E-mail: aberdeenlesbiangroup@yahoo.co.uk WWW: http://www.geocities.com/ aberdeenlesbiangroup/ Granite Sisters: Aberdeen based social group for lesbians over the age of 30 years but welcomes members from anywhere if you are prepared to travel. Meeting in a variety of venues both private and public, they consider confidentiality and safety of their members, and those enquiring, as a high priority. Two regular monthly meetings and various other events. Tel: Aberdeen (01224) 713336 (day/eve). Write: PO Box 18230. Aberdeen. AB2 9YN. E-mail: 13@clara.co.uk WWW: http://GraniteSisters.tripod.com/ DUNDEE: Ellesbelles: Dundee's women only drumming group. Meets every Thu from 5.30pm at Michelin Athletic Club, Drumgeith Road, Tel: Dundee (01382) 330131. E-mail: ellesbellesdundee@hotmail.com We Bissums: A regular newletter for women in and around Dundee. Write: PO Box 6819, Dundee. DD1 2YG. E-mail: we_bissums@hotmail.com EDINBURGH: AD Group: For lesbians 40+. Monthly meeting and frequent social events. For details, phone Edinburgh Lesbian Line Edinburgh Gay Women's Group: Weekly social group to chat, laugh, do crazy things or more relaxed ones. Go to the movies, pub, theatre, dancing, whatever you fancy. Meets every Wed 8pm onwards at Sala, LGB Centre, 60 Broughton St. Tel: 0131-556 4049 for details. LIBRA: Help for women concerned about their drinking. Free 1-2-1 counselling. Tel: 0131-661 0111. Write: 4 Norton Park, Edinburgh. EH7 5RS. GLASGOW: Centre For Women's Health: Sandyford Initiative, 2-6 Sandyford Place, Glasgow. G3 7NB. E-mail: rosie.ilett@glacomen. scot.nhs.uk. Tel: 0141-211 6700. Fax: 0141-211 6702. Minicom: 0141-211 6703. WWW: http://www.sandyford.org/ Sappho @ Sandyford: Sappho promotes positive health for lesbians and easier access to sexual, reproductive and women's health services. A monthly well-woman clinic and screening service is provided in a lesbian friendly setting on the 1st Tue of each month. Tel: 0141-211 8130 for info. Counselling at the Centre for Women's Health takes place fortnightly on Tue eves. Women Only Space and Reference Library: Mon-Thu 10am-8.30pm, Fri 10am-4pm. Tel: 0141-211 6700 for info. There is a crche within Sandyford Initiative - Tel: 0141-211 8647 for info. Glasgow Women's Library: 4th/5th Floors, 109 Trongate, G1 5HD. Tel: 0141-552 8345. Open Tue-Fri 1-6pm. Sat 2-5pm. Closed Mon. Lending and reference library - books, magazines, journals, videos, leaflets and information. UK and overseas feminist and lesbian publications. Contains the Lesbian Archive and Information Centre - a unique national collection of publications, journals and ephemera by and for lesbians. E-mail: gwl@womens-library.org.uk WWW: http://www.womens-library.org.uk/ L.I.C. - Lesbian Inclusion Co-ordination: Social group co-ordinating a range of activities and involvement for lesbians at the Glasgow Gay and Lesbian Centre. Meets at 7pm on last Tue of every month at 11 Dixon Street, Glasgow. Tel: 0141-221 7203, WWW: http://www.gglc.org.uk/ or E-mail: AliJarvis@unify.freeserve.co.uk OLGA - Older Women's Group: Meets monthly. Tel: Jenny or Alex on Kilwinning (01294) 558171. Self Defence and Personal Safety: Personal safety and self defence courses for women are offered by Wise Women, 120 Sydney Street, Glasgow. G31 1JF. Tel: 0141-550 7557. INVERNESS: Girls @ The Gate: Social meeting for LBT women and friends. All welcome. Third Sat of every month from 1pm onwards at The Gate Cafe Bar, 21 Queensgate, Inverness. Tel: Lynn on 07765 793997. Highland Lesbian Group: A friendly lesbian social group that gets together on the first Sat of each month at the Royal Highland Hotel in Inverness from 12.30pm onwards. Also offers support and information. Write: PO Box 91, Inverness. IV2 7GJ. E-mail: High_Les@bigfoot.com LESBIAN INFORMATION SERVICE: Write: PO Box 8, Todmorden, Lancashire. OL14 5TZ. Please enclose an sae. Tel/Fax: Todmorden (01706) 817235. E-mail: jan@lesbianinformationservice.org WWW: http://www.lesbianinformationservice.org/ LILLIDOTS: Lesbian Feminist Walking Group. Contact via Dundee Switchboard, Lothian Lesbian Line, Grampian Switchboard or Strathclyde Switchboard. STIRLING: Forth Valley Gay Women. Friendly social group meets 1st Tue of each month for drinks/chats in the Whistlebinkie, St Mary's Wynd, Stirling. Tel: 07903 600218. E-mail: fv.gw@virgin.net YOUNG LESBIANS: See our Youth Groups listings. BISEXUALS BI EDINBURGH: A monthly space for bisexuals and those questioning their sexuality. Meets 3rd Wed of month from 8pm at the Edinburgh LGB Centre, 58a Broughton Street for informal discussion followed by drinks. E-mail: edinbi@drink.demon.co.uk BI GLASGOW: Glasgow's own bisexual group, for information, support and socializing, for bisexuals and those questioning their sexuality. Meets 1st Wed of month, from 7.30-9.30pm in the Ian Dunn Room at Glasgow LGBT Centre, followed by drinks. Also organises training and activist activities in support of bisexual visibility and pride. Write: Bi Glasgow, c/o Glasgow LGBT Centre, 11 Dixon Street, Glasgow, G1 4AL. Tel: Sarah on 07980 855801 or John on 07957 236687. E-mail: glasgow@bi.org WWW: http://biglasgow.bi.org ATHEISTS/HUMANISTS EDINBURGH FREETHINKERS: An informal network of militant atheists (with one militant humanist agnostic atheist). Write: PO Box 666, Edinburgh. EH7 5YW. E-mail god@antipope.org WWW: http://www.antipope.org/freethinkers/ GAY AND LESBIAN HUMANIST ASSOCIATION: GALHA is a national membership group promoting the gay-friendly Humanist outlook and gay and lesbian rights as human rights. Write: 34 Spring Lane, Kenilworth, Warwickshire. CV8 2HB. Tel/Fax: Kenilworth (01926) 858450. E-mail: secretary@galha.org WWW: http://www.galha.org/ PINK TRIANGLE TRUST: PTT is a gay charity which can arrange non-religious ceremonies of love and commitment for lesbian and gay couples at very reasonable rates in most parts of Scotland. Details from: Write: 34 Spring Lane, Kenilworth, Warwickshire. CV8 2HB. Tel/Fax: Kenilworth (01926) 858450. E-mail: ceremonies@pinktriangle.org.uk WWW: http://www.pinktriangle.org.uk BDSM MSC SCOTLAND: A club for men interested in Leather, Rubber, Uniform. Meets at the Claremont Bar, Edinburgh, on the 1st & 3rd Sats of each month from 9pm. Write: PO Box 28, Edinburgh. EH3 5JL. SCOTSSKINS: Information Site for Scottish Gay Skinheads. E-mail: scotsskinsinfo@aol. com WWW: http://groups.msn.com/ scotsskins/ SM GAYS: Write: SM Gays, BM SM Gays, London. WC1N 3XX. E-mail: info@smgays.org WWW: http://www.smgays.org/ BEARS BEARSCOTS: For hairy, moustached and bearded men and their admirers. Edinburgh: Meets 1st Sat of each month from 2pm in the Townhouse Health Club and then from 9pm in the Claremont Bar. Write: PO Box 12785, Edinburgh, EH7 5YD. Tel: Dundee (01382) 640059. E-mail: info@bearscots. org.uk Glasgow: Meets 4th Sat of each month (in conjunction with BCUK) from 9pm in the Revolver Bar. Tel: 0141-883 9055. E-mail: glasgowbears@drink. demon.co.uk For details of other social events across Scotland contact BearScots or check the website. WWW: http://www.bearscots.org.uk/ BEREAVEMENT LESBIAN & GAY BEREAVEMENT PROJECT: Provides support and information to bereaved lesbians and gay men or anyone bereaved by the death of a lesbian or gay man. Tel: 020-7403 5969 (Mon, Tue, Thu 7.30-10.30pm). BIKERS GAY BIKERS MOTORCYCLE CLUB: A UK-wide club for women and men. Active Scottish section. Write: PO Box 33, Long Eaton, Nottingham. NG10 2BF. E-mail: info@gaybikers.co.uk WWW: http://www.gaybikers.co.uk/ CHRISTIANS EVANGELICAL FELLOWSHIP: Lesbian, gay or bisexual? From an Evangelical tradition? So are we. Tel: Ewan on Falkirk (01324) 621777. Write: 123 Byron Road, Chelmsford, Essex. CM2 6HJ. HOLY TRINITY METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH: An inclusive church of the lesbigay and trangendered community open to all irrespective of sexuality. Services: Every Sun at 6pm in the Quaker Meeting House, Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh. Relationship blessings conducted by arrangement. Tel: Rev Ian Bonner-Evans on 0131-347 8699. Write: PO Box 12433, Edinburgh. EH1 3FU. E-mail: mail@mccedinburgh.com WWW: http://www.mccedinburgh.com/ QUAKERS: Quaker Lesbian and Gay Fellowship (formerly Friends' Homosexual Fellowship) is a welcoming and supportive national group for people of all sexual orientations and their friends. Write: 46 The Avenue, Starbeck, Harrogate. HG1 4QD. QUEST: Organisation for lesbian and gay Catholics. Monthly meetings are held in different regional groups throughout Britain. Scottish meetings held in Glasgow. Quest Linkline - The Helpline for Gay and Lesbian Catholics - Tel: (Freephone) 0808 808 0234 (Fri & Sun 7-10pm - answerphone all other times). Write: BM Box 2585, LONDON WC1N 3XX. E-mail: secretary@questgaycatholic.org.uk WWW: www.questgaycatholic.org.uk/ CREATIVE ARTS DIVERSE ARTISTS @ THE GLC: An opportunity for Artists from all Art Disciplines, to meet discuss their Art and develop projects and workshop opportunities. Membership is open to all diverse Artists. Tel: 0141-221 7203. E-mail: lgbtart@gglc.org.uk WWW: http://www.gglc.org.uk/ JIM LAVERY ART GALLERY: An opportunity for visual artists to see their work on display in an LGBT Art Gallery available on a booking basis in our calendar of Art Exhibitions. Tel: 0141-221 7203 for booking details. E-mail: lgbtart@gglc.org.uk SPEAKEASY: A celebration of the spoken word and music. Every third Wed in the month from 8.30pm in Glasgow LGBT Centre Jackie Forster Room. Poets, Writers, Comedians, Soap Box Stars, Folk Singers, Guitarists, Opera Singers, Pop Singers, Authors, Actors, Drama Queens, Cello-ists. Tel: 0141-221 7203 to book your mike slot, or come along on the night and take pot luck. Contributors and audience welcome. E-mail: lgbtart@gglc.org.uk WWW: http://www.gglc.org.uk/anthology_2001.html CULTURAL ABBA VIDEO CONTACTS SOCIETY: For anyone wanting to meet with other guys with a Scandinavian fixation, watch/swap videos, memorabilia or just jam with other Svenskas. Must be devout fans! E-mail: whubbakid@aol.com CELTIC MUSIC GAY GROUP: Mixed LGB group. Scottish/Irish music/culture fans (Wolfstone, Runrig, Wolfe Tones, Athenry, Aire Og, Christy Moore, etc). Watch and swap videos/cassettes. Write: BM Box 7970, LONDON. WC1N 3XX. CLANN AN UABHAIR (A FAMILY OF PRIDE): New York City's own Gay & Lesbian Scottish Association. Membership open to anyone. Dances, ceilidhs, cultural events throughout the year. A particularly warm welcome to anyone visiting our town from Scotland! Write: Clann An Uabhair, GLSA, PO Box 630, Murray Hill Station, New York, NY 10016, USA. Tel: 00 1 (212) 726-1418. WWW: http://www.gayscots.org/ GLASGAY!: The UK's largest multi-arts festival for multi-sexual people and their friends. Following last year's huge increase in audiences and press coverage, Glasgay is celebrating its tenth anniversary year in style with large-scale work by high-calibre international artists as well as long-term community outreach projects that anybody can get involved in. Dates: 1st-15th Nov 2003. Write: Room 320A, 74 Victoria Crescent Road, Glasgow. G12 9JL. Tel: 0141-334 7126. E-mail: info@glasgay.org. uk WWW: http://www.glasgay.co.uk/ INTERNATIONAL KILT APPRECIATION SOCIETY (IKAS): Contact and social group for guys interested in viewing/wearing kilts. Regular newsletter. Write: Mervyn Tacy, `Ziveli', 20 Ordsall Park Road, RETFORD, Notts, DN22 7PA. Please enclose sae. KILTS: A newly established group to promote, encourage, enjoy and esteem the wearing of the Kilt. Regular meetings and outings. Write: Brian Barras, 23a Milne Park Road, Bannockburn, Stirling. FK7 8NZ. Phone Stirling (01786) 480201. E-mail: brian.barras@btinternet.com SCOTTISH GAY VEGGIE GROUP: Social group. Tel: 0141-883 2715. CYBERSPACE LAMBDA BOARD - EDINBURGH: The UK's oldest lesbigay 24 hour computer based bulletin board system. Private mailboxing, areas for Women, Gay Men, Bisexuals, Leather Enthusiasts, TV/TSs, etc. 0131-556 6316. Scrolling (8N1) and Viewdata (Prestel) formats at speeds up to V22bis (2400/2400). SCOTSGAY: All of the words from the magazine can be found on our website as well as interactive Meet Market and our Listings which are updated nearly every day. WWW: http://www.scotsgay.co.uk/ HEALTH AND ABILITIES ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Whilst AA runs the following LGBT meetings in Glasgow and Edinburgh, please note that it is a non restrictive organisation and LGBT people are welcome at any meeting. Edinburgh: Tue 7.30pm (LGB Centre, 58a Broughton Street). Glasgow: Tue 8pm (Phace Scotland, 2nd Floor, 49 Bath Street), Thu 8pm (Nye Bevan House, 20 India Street), Fri 8pm (LGBT Centre, 11 Dixon Street). National Helpline: 0845 7697555 (24 hours). Scottish Office: 0141-226 2214. Edinburgh Office: 0131-225 2727. Glasgow Tue Meeting: Michael on 0141-810 3979 (6-10pm). ALZHEIMER'S SOCIETY GAYLINE: Carers' contacts for gay men and lesbians are trained and skilled volunteers able to offer a listening ear and understanding to gay and lesbian carers of people with Alzheimer's disease or any other form of dementia. Tel: Arthur on Brighton (01273) 628047, Bruce on Oxford (01865) 847471, Roger on Thanet (01843) 220932 or Sally on 020-8675 0660. Alzheimer's Society National Helpline - Tel: 0845 3000336 (8.30am-6.30pm Mon-Fri). E-mail: helpline@alzheimers.org.uk WWW: http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/carers/gaycarers.html KLINEFELTER SYNDROME: An Intersex condition affecting 1 in 700 live born males. Also known as 47,XXY. Self-Help/Support group for Internet users - WWW: http://www.smartgroups.com/ group/klinefelterxxy or Tel: Steph on 07950 850981. E-mail: k.xxy@medscape.com LADDIES & LASSIES CLUB: Scottish Deaf Gay & Lesbian Club. Normally meets in LGBT Centre, 11 Dixon Street, Glasgow from 7pm-Midnight on last Fri of each month. Write: c/o Alex Clark, 10b Aitken Street, Airdrie. ML6 6LS. E-mail: LLSDGALC@hotmail.com PILLAR ABERDEEN: LGBT Group for people with mental health problems. Meets Sun 1-3pm on the Top Floor, Pillar 20, Back Wynd, Aberdeen. Tel: Aberdeen (01224) 642845. Fax: Aberdeen (01224) 621266. E-mail: info@pillaraberdeen.co.uk SEX ADDICTS ANONYMOUS: Men's Sexual Health Recovery Group for the sexually driven and those at risk. A fellowship of men who meet on a regular basis in Glasgow and Edinburgh to stop their compulsive sexual behaviour. Tel: Scottish Helpline on 0141-552 0154 (24 hours). E-mail: SAAGlasgow@aol.com WWW: http://www.sexaa.org/ HIV/AIDS BODY POSITIVE (FIFE): 13 Wemyssfield, Kirkcaldy. KY1 1XN. Providing support for those HIV+ and with AIDS in the Kingdom. Tel: Kirkcaldy (01592) 597756. Fax: Kirkcaldy (01592) 561057. E-mail: bodypositivefife@ care4free.net BODY POSITIVE (GRAMPIAN): A self help group offering support and assistance for individuals with HIV/AIDS in the Grampian area. Write: PO Box 83, Aberdeen. AB9 1AA. BODY POSITIVE (STRATHCLYDE): 3 Park Quadrant, Glasgow. G3 6BS. Providing support for those living with HIV and AIDS in the West of Scotland. Drop In: Mon-Fri 11am-5pm. Support Group: Tue 6-8pm. Administration: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Tel: 0141-332 5010. Fax: 0141-332 4285. E-mail: bpstrathclyde@btconnect.com WWW: http://homepages.enterprise.net/ bpstrathclyde/ BODY POSITIVE (TAYSIDE): 11-15 Princes Street, Dundee. DD4 6BY. A charity that exists to empower HIV positive people and those affected by HIV to eliminate the stigma and isolation they experience. Tel: Dundee (01382) 461555. Fax: Dundee (01382) 461424. Tue-Thu (Drop In) Noon-3.30pm. E-mail: admin@bptayside.sol.co.uk WWW: http://www.bodypositivetayside.org/ BROWNLEE CENTRE (GLASGOW): Gartnavel General Hospital, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow. G12 0YN. Confidential information, advice, counselling and testing for HIV and hepatitis. Tel: 0141-211 1089. Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Tue 5-7.30pm, Thu 5-7.30pm, Fri 9am-4.30pm. FIFE MEN: 5 South Fergus Place, Kirkcaldy. KY1 1YA. (Behind Sheriff Court). Information, advice and support on gay and health issues, free condoms, and much more! Mon-Fri 1-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm. Tel: Kirkcaldy (01592) 265666. Fax: Kirkcaldy (01592) 643866. E-mail: enquiries@fifemen.co.uk WWW: http://www.fifemen.co.uk/ FRESH JUICE: Weekly support group for HIV+ gay and bisexual men in Edinburgh. Fri (hours vary). Tel: 0131-661 0982. GAY MEN'S HEALTH: 10a Union Street, Edinburgh. EH1 3LU. A community led Lothian wide project for gay and bisexual men. Wide ranging volunteering opportunities which provide services including support and counselling, scene work, peer education and training, provision of condoms, lube and Safer Sex information. Tel: 0131-558 9444. Fax: 0131-558 9060. E-mail: info@gmh.org.uk WWW: http://www.gmh.org.uk/ GLASGOW BROWNLEE AIDS WELFARE FUND: Raises funds for people with HIV/AIDS in the Greater Glasgow area. Write: PO Box 3954, Glasgow. G45 9WB. E-mail: info@gbawf.org.uk WWW: http://www.gbawf.org.uk/ GRAMPIAN BUDDY GROUP: Befriending and support service for people living with HIV/AIDS. Write: PO Box 353, Aberdeen. AB9 8DD. Tel: Aberdeen (01224) 681818 (Ext 55486). WWW: http://www.grampianbuddygroup.org/ HEALTHY GAY SCOTLAND: Free condoms and lube available by post (Scotland only) through their website. WWW: http://www.healthygayscotland.com/ HIV-AIDS CARERS AND FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP: Suite 226, Baltic Chambers, 50 Wellington Street, Glasgow. G2 6HJ. Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri 10am-2pm. Telephone Support Service Mon-Fri 7pm-10pm. Tel: 0141-221 8100. Fax: 0141-221 8529. E-mail: hiv-aids_carers@lineone.net WWW: http://www.hiv-aids-carers.org.uk/ LANARKSHIRE HIV, AIDS AND HEPATITIS CENTRE: Counselling Service, Monklands Hospital, Monks Court Avenue, Airdrie. ML6 0JS. One stop shop for HIV and Hepatitis health services. Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Tel: Airdrie (01236) 747960 or 712247. Fax: Airdrie (01236) 712449. NATIONAL AIDS HELPLINE: Freephone 0800 567123. 24 hour service for confidential advice and information. Minicom: 0800 521361 (24 hours). Other languages: 0800 9172227 6-10pm Mon Bengali, Tue Urdu, Wed Arabic, Thu Gujerati, Fri Hindi, Sat Punjabi, Sun Cantonese. Welsh 11am-11pm on 0800 567123. (All calls to 0800 numbers are free except from some mobile networks). E-mail: info@healthwise.org.uk PHACE SCOTLAND: 49 Bath Street, Glasgow. G2 2DL. Formerly PHACE West. HIV prevention and support support services in Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Arran, Argyll and Clyde and Greater Glasgow including Buddying, NIGHTOWL Crisis Line and the Crusaid Hardship Fund in Scotland. Also provides a range of health promotion services for Gay and Bisexual men throughout the West of Scotland and Grampian. Please contact for further details. Volunteers welcome! Tel: 0141-332 3838. Fax: 0141-332 3755. E-mail: contact@phacescotland.org PHACE SCOTLAND - GRAMPIAN GAY MEN'S HEALTH PROJECT: 21-23 Justice Mill Lane, Aberdeen. AB11 6EQ. Tel: Aberdeen (01224) 587166. Fax: Aberdeen (01224) 587167. E-mail: markt@phacescotland.org POSITIVE ACCOMMODATION TEAM: 1st Floor, Granite House, 31 Stockwell Street, Glasgow. G1 4RZ. Social work service for people with HIV/AIDS providing supported living arrangements, intensive community based support. General advice and information on community care and housing needs also provided. Mon-Thu 8.45am-4.45pm. Fri 8.45am-3.55pm. Tel: 0141-552 4488. Fax: 0141-552 2760. POSITIVE HELP: 13a Great King Street, Edinburgh. EH3 6QW. Practical help for people who are infected or affected by HIV and AIDS in Edinburgh, their families and carers. Tel: 0131-558 1122. Fax: 0131-558 3636. E-mail: posihelp@onetel.net.uk POSITIVE VOICE: 37-39 Montrose Terrace, Edinburgh. EH7 5DJ. Community self-help organisation for people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS. Tel: 0131-652 0754. Fax: 0131-661 9100. Peer support: Mon, Tue, Thu, 10.30am-2.30pm. Not closed at other times though. Anyone affected or infected by the virus can come along if they have an appointment with a volunteer. People can phone for an appointment or make one while they are in for peer support. E-mail: enquiries@positive-voice.org.uk REACH OUT HIGHLAND: 34 Waterloo Place, Inverness. IV1 1NB. Supports people throughout the Highlands - whether living there or visiting - to take responsibility for, manage, and make informed choices about their sexual health and well-being. Tel: Inverness (01463) 711585 (Mon-Wed, Fri 9.30am-4.30pm, Thu 9.30am-7pm). Fax: Inverness (01463) 711793. E-mail: support@reachout.demon.co.uk WWW: http://www.reachout.demon.co.uk/ ROAM OUTREACH PROJECT: Spittal Street Centre, 22-24 Spittal Street, Edinburgh. EH3 9DU. Outreach sexual health service for male sex workers and men using cruising areas including the Internet. Tel: 0131-537 8300 and ask for Mark or David. E-mail: roamoutreachteam@hotmail.com STEVE RETSON PROJECT: Sandyford Initiative (old Eye Infirmary), 2-6 Sandyford Place, Glasgow. G3 7NP. Sexual health service for gay men. Tue & Wed 5.30-8.30pm. Also Thu 5.30-8.30pm at the LGBT Centre, 11 Dixon Street. Same-day HIV test by appt on Tuesdays. All appointments Tel: 0141-211 8628 (9.30am-5pm Mon, Thu. 9.30am-8.30pm Tue, Wed. 9.30am-4pm Fri.) For general enquiries only E-mail: GUM@glacomen. scot.nhs.uk WWW: http://www.steveretsonproject.org.uk/ TAYSIDE GAY MEN'S HEALTH PROJECT: Promoting Gay Men's Health in Tayside. Deals with HIV/AIDS as well as other aspects of health promotion. Runs local men's groups in co-operation with Diversitay. Tel: Richard McIntosh (Co-ordinator) on Dundee (01382) 525266. Fax: Dundee (01382) 461424. E-mail: admin@gaymenshealthtayside.com WAVERLEY CARE: 58a Queen Street, Edinburgh. EH2 3NS. Waverley Care is an agency responsible for a number of projects for people living with AIDS/HIV in the Lothians. Tel: 0131-226 2206. Fax: 0131-226 2209. E-mail: director@waverleycare.org WAVERLEY CARE BUDDY SERVICE: Waverley Care Buddy Service is a volunteer befriending service offering emotional and social 1:1 support for individuals living with HIV in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Write: Tony Stevenson, Buddy Service Co-ordinator, c/o Milestone House, 113 Oxgangs Road North, Edinburgh. EH14 1EB. Tel: 0131-441 5405 (a private and dedicated phone line). E-mail: buddy@waverleycare.org WWW: http://www.waverleycare.org/ WAVERLEY CARE DAYCARE SERVICE: Offers a range of daycare activities to people with HIV/AIDS. Tel: 0131-441 2791. WAVERLEY CARE MILESTONE HOUSE: 113 Oxgangs Road North, Edinburgh. EH14 1EB. Residential care (primarily respite and paliative care) for people with HIV/AIDS. Tel/Fax: 0131-441 6989. E-mail: milestone@waverleycare.org WWW: http://www.waverleycare.org/ WAVERLEY CARE SOLAS HIV/AIDS INFORMATION CENTRE: 2/4 Abbeymount, Edinburgh. EH8 8EJ. Information, support, advice, counselling and a cafe. Opening times: Mon, Wed & Fri 11am-4pm, Tue & Thu 11am-9pm, First Sat of each month 11am-4pm. Tel: 0131-661 0982. E-mail: solas@waverleycare.org WWW: http://www.waverleycare.org/ WORLD AIDS DAY (LOTHIAN): Write: c/o SOLAS, 2-4 Abbeymount, Edinburgh. EH8 8EJ. Tel: 0131-661 0982. Fax: 0131-652 1780. Ensures that World AIDS Day is commemorated in the Lothians on the 1st Dec each year and promotes understanding of issues around HIV/AIDS. E-mail: info@worldaidsdaylothian.org WWW: http://www.worldaidsdaylothian.org/ OLDER GAYS CAFFMOS: Nationwide Social and Contacts Club for the older gay gentleman and his admirers, both young and old. Write: PO Box 2273, Hove. BN3 2GF. Tel: Hove (01273) 220995. E-mail: Caffmos2@aol.com WWW: http://www.Caffmos.co.uk/ PHOENIX: National group for the over forties and friends of any age. Write: PO Box 103, Wallington, Surrey. SM6 9SJ. Please enclose sae. ORDER OF PERPETUAL INDULGENCE The Sisters and Brothers of the OPI are part of a world wide order of queer men and women of all sexualities which is open to all who feel the habit. Its tenets are: The expiation of stigmatic guilt and the promulgation of universal joy. WWW: http://www.thesisters.org.uk/ OPI CONVENT OF DUNN EIDEANN: The Edinburgh convent. Write: Sister Athletica de la Bain OPI, c/o PO Box 666, Edinburgh. EH7 5YW. OPI CONVENT OF MORAVIA: A more Northern manifestation of the Sisterate. Write: Sister Bobby OPI, Convent of Moravia, 2-4 Lamb Street, Bishopmill, Elgin. IV30 2DG. Tel: 07881 490065. OUTDOOR PURSUITS GAY BIRDERS CLUB: For LGBT Birdwatchers. Write: Gay Birders Club, GeeBeeCee, BCM-Mono, London. WC1N 3XX. E-mail: info@gbc-online.org.uk WWW: http://www.gbc-online.org.uk/ GAY CARAVAN & CAMPING CLUB: For men and women. Regular meets throughout the UK. Tel: Robert on Preston (01772) 461104. E-mail: info@gaycaravanclub.com WWW: http://www.gaycaravanclub.com/ GAY OUTDOOR CLUB: Holds regular events including walking, skiing, cycling, mountaineering, camping, youth-hostelling, badminton and swimming. Monthly social evening in Edinburgh on 2nd Thu of month. Please send an A5 sae to PO Box 637, Skellingthorpe, Lincoln, LN6 5XD, or ring one of the Scottish contacts: EDINBURGH: Walks & Social: Grant on 0131-556 8705 (E-mail: g.obrien@btclick.com), Gym & Swimming: Colin on 0131-226 4476. Edinburgh Women's contact: Sonya on 0131-346 2067. (E-mail: sonia@chrisbressey.com). GLASGOW: Walks: Robert on 0141-950 1081 (E-mail: r-watt@dircon.co.uk), Cycling and Swimming: Douglas on 0870 3215894 (E-mail: drb61@pobox.com), Climbing: Jonathan on 0141-334 0812 (E-mail: jr12@btopenworld.com), Badminton: Donn on 07919 410042. HIGHLANDS: Walks & Weekend Trips: Alan on Dores (01463) 751258 & Les on Inverness (01463) 238920. MOUNTAINEERING: Roger on York (01904) 659544 (E-mail: r.sutton@ukonline.co.uk). E-mail: goc@bi.org. WWW: http://goc.bi.org/ Fri/Sun 7/9 Mar: MOUNTAINEERING. Camping in the Fishefield Forest, Northern Highlands. Sun 16 Mar: EDINBURGH. Walk to Cramond along cycle paths. Fri/Sun 21/23 Mar: HIGHLANDS. Hill-walking and climbing weekend based at Crianlarich Youth Hostel. Sun 30 Mar: BORDERS. The Three Brethren (1522ft), starting from Selkirk. Sat 5 Apr: HIGHLANDS. Blair Atholl/Glen Tilt by train and bike. Fri/Sun 11/13 Apr: MOUNTAINEERING. Backpacking long weekend. Fri/Mon 18/21 Apr: GOC SCOTLAND / TRANSPENNINE groups joint Easter weekend based at Kendoon Youth Hostel in Dumfries and Galloway. Both walking and cycling planned. Sun 27 Apr: Walk up Tinto Hill (2320ft) in the Clyde Valley. Fri/Mon 2/5 May: MOUNTAINEERING. Weekend in the Cuillin, Isle of Skye. Fri/Mon 2/5 May: WEST HIGHLANDS. Walking weekend in the Mull, Ulva, Morvern and Arnamurchan area. Sun 18 May: Kinnoull Hill, Perth. 11 mile path walk, overlooking the Tay Valley. Fri/Mon 23/26 May: HIGHLANDS. Annual wilderness backpacking weekend, this year to be held in the far NW area, South of Cape Wrath. Sun 25 May: DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY. Walk in the Scar Glen and Southern Upland Way. Sun 1 June: EDINBURGH. Arty-farty Edinburgh walk!! Painting and walking in the North Berwick area. Tue 3 Jun: STIRLINGSHIRE. Evening walk up Ben A'an. Fri/Sun 13/15 Jun: HIGHLANDS. Camping weekend in the Ullapool area. Sat/Sun 14/15 Jun: FIFE. Weekend on the farm, based at Belliston. Tue Jun 17: GLASGOW. Evening walk in the Kilpatrick Hills. Sun 22 Jun: EDINBURGH. East and West Cairn Hills (1841ft) in the Pentlands. Sun 29 Jun: HIGHLANDS. Day hill-walk in the Black Mount. Tue Jul 1: GLASGOW. Evening walk up Dumgoyne. Fri/Sun 4/6 Jul: MOUNTAINEERING. Backpacking in Knoydart. Tue Jul 15: WEST LOTHIAN. Evening walk in Beecraigs Country Park, between Bathgate and Linlithgow. Fri/Sun 18/20 Jul: HIGHLANDS. Fisherfield Hills from Kinlochewe. Sun 20 Jul: BORDERS. Lammer Law (1729ft) and Meikle Fays Law (1755ft) in the Lammermuir Hills. Fri/Sun 25/27 Jul: MOUNTAINEERING. Walking, cycling and climbing weekend based on the Island of Arran. Sun 3 Aug: BORDERS. A gentle 'viola' walk, in the Broughton area. Fri/Sun 8/10 Aug: GOC ANNUAL OUTDOOR GATHERING. This year, based in Durham. Fri/Sun 15/17 Aug: EDINBURGH. Festival Frolic Weekend. Theatre on Friday night. Saturday: Union canal walk from Polmont-Falkirk Wheel. Party on the Saturday night. Sunday: TBA. Fri/Sun 22/24 Aug: HIGHLANDS. Hill-walking weekend based in the Braemar / Glen Quoich / Lochnagar area. Sun 24 Aug: BORDERS. Blackhope Scar (2136ft) in the Moorfoot Hills. Sun 31 Aug: ARGYLL. Walk up 'The Cobbler' (2890ft), near Arrochar. Fri/Sun 5/7 Sep: MOUNTAINEERING. Back-packing in the Cairgorms. Fri/Sun 12/14 Sep: HIGHLANDS. Camping in Glen Lyon. Hillwalking on Sat with barbeque in the evening. Funghi foray on Sun. Sun 21 Sep: DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY. Walk in the lower Annandale area. Fri/Sun 26/28 Sep: GOC ANNUAL SCOTTISH GATHERING. A full programme of walking, mountaineering and cycling, based in Newtonmore. Sun 5 Oct: EDINBURGH. Day walk. Fri/Sun 17/19 Oct: HIGHLANDS. Weekend in the Torridon area. Sun 19 Oct: BORDERS. Pykestone Hill (2418ft) from Drumelzier - approx 12 miles. Sun 26 Oct: STIRLINGSHIRE. Walk up 'Meikle Bin' (1870ft), in the Campsie Fells. Fri/Sun 31 Oct/2 Nov: HIGHLANDS. Train-based weekend: Corrour Station to Dalwhinnie over the tops. Fri/Sun 14/16 Nov: HIGHLANDS. Weekend based at Pitlochry Youth Hostel. Sun 23 Nov: BORDERS. Birkscairn Hill near Peebles. Sun 30 November: STIRLINGSHIRE. Walk up 'Garrell Hill (1503ft) and Tomtain (1486ft), in the Kilsyth Hills. Fri/Sun 5/7 December: MOUNTAINEERING. Glen Coe. Sun 7 Dec: BORDERS. Minch Moor (1860ft) from Traquair - approx. 8-10 miles. Thu 11 Dec: EDINBURGH. Neo-social - ice skating. Sun 21 Dec: GOC Scotland Xmas walk and meal. GLASGOW GAY RAMBLERS GROUP: Leisurely walks in the countryside. Bring sensible footwear/clothing and packed lunch. 2nd Sat of each month (except Dec). Meet at Mitchell Library, Berkeley Street. No membership - just turn up. Cars normally shared. Tel: Robert on 0141-950 1081. E-mail: r-watt@dircon.co.uk PARENTS EDINBURGH LESBIAN MOTHERS GROUP (ELMG): Normally meets on second Sat afternoon of each month at St Columba's by the Castle, High Street. Phone in advance to check venue and/or book crche. See listing for Lesbian Mothers Network (Scotland) for contact details. GAY DADS SCOTLAND: Meets on last Thu of each month at 8pm in Edinburgh LGB Centre, 58a Broughton Street. Glasgow meetings on second Mon of each month at the GLGBT Centre, 11 Dixon Street. Meetings planned in Borders. Also meets socially each month in different cities. Contact for details or view the web site. Tel: 07791 188742. E-mail: info@gaydadsscotland.org.uk WWW: http://www.gaydadsscotland.org.uk/ LESBIAN MOTHERS (HIGHLAND): Tel: Maria on Beauly (01463) 782797 after 6.30pm. Write: c/o Reach Out Highland, 34 Waterloo Place, Inverness. IV1 1NB. E-mail: maria@scotland-info.co.uk LESBIAN MOTHERS NETWORK (SCOTLAND): Tel: Sue Robertson on 0131-556 3899/4563. Fax: 0131-557 9650. Write: One Parent Families Scotland, 13 Gayfield Square, Edinburgh. EH1 3NX. E-mail: suerobertson@opfs.org.uk WWW: http://www.lesbian-mothers-scotland.org.uk/ & http://www.opfs.org.uk/ PARENTS' ENQUIRY SCOTLAND: Support for parents of LGBT children. Write: c/o SYP, John Cotton Centre, 10 Sunnyside, Edinburgh. EH7 5RA. Tel: 0131-556 6047 before 10pm. E-mail: parentsenquiry@hotmail.com WWW: http://www.parentsenquiryscotland.org/ POLITICAL AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER NETWORK: Campaigns for LGBT prisoners of conscience overseas and works within Amnesty International UK to promote LGBT issues. Write: AIGLBT Network, Amnesty International, 6 Castle Street, Edinburgh. EH2 3AT. Tel: Dave on 0141-575 2277. E-mail: glasgowdave500@ntlworld.com WWW: http://www.ailgbt.co.uk DELGA-SCOTLAND: Liberal Democrats for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Equality. Write: DELGA-Scotland, 4 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh, EH12 5DR. WWW: http://www.scotlibdems.org.uk/ao/delgscot/delgscot.htm INTERCOURSE: Group devoted to encouraging discussion about sex and sexuality. Activities include pub nights, discussions and trips to the cinema. Mix of ages, genders, sexualities, ethnicities etc. Write: Intercourse, c/o 17 West Montgomery Place Edinburgh EH7 5HA. E-mail: info@intercourse.org.uk WWW: http://www.intercourse.org.uk/ LIBERAL PARTY LESBIAN AND GAY CAMPAIGN: Tel: 0151-259 5935 (Telephone Answering Machine). Write: 41 Sutton Street, Liverpool. L13 7EG. E-mail: libgay@libparty.demon.co.uk WWW: http://www.liberal.org.uk/ OUT FOR INDEPENDENCE: The SNP's LGBT Group, has been established to bring together lesbians, bisexuals, gay men and transgender people who support Independence, and to act as a forum within the SNP to discuss LGBT issues. Write: Out for Independence, 107 McDonald Road, Edinburgh. EH7 4NW. SCOTTISH LABOUR CAMPAIGN FOR LESBIAN AND GAY RIGHTS: Works within the Labour and Trades Union movement to secure equality for lesbians and gay men. Meets quarterly. Write: c/o LGBT Centre, 11 Dixon Street, Glasgow. G1 4AL. TORCH: Represents the gay community to the Conservative Party. Write: BM TORCHE, London WC1N 3XX. E-mail: info@gayconservatives.com WWW: http://www.gayconservatives.com/ PRISONERS FREE MAGAZINES FOR PRISONERS: Copies of ScotsGay are sent free of charge to prisoners in UK prisons and institutions. Please contact us if you wish to be added to the mailing list. RAPE/SEXUAL ABUSE MEN AGAINST SEXUAL ABUSE: 1-2-1 counselling and psychotherapy by arrangement. Tel: 0141-550 2048 (Tue 7-9pm). RAPE AND ABUSE LINE: For male and female survivors. Women answer the Tel: Freephone 0808 8000123 (or Dingwall (01349) 865316) hours as advised on telephone answering machine. Men answer the Tel: Freephone 0808 8000122 (or Dingwall (01349) 862686) hours as advised on telephone answering machine. Callers are welcome to phone either line. Write: PO Box 10, Dingwall. IV15 9HE. REAL ALE LESBIAN AND GAY REAL ALE DRINKERS: Formerly Diverse Drinkers, this is the Edinburgh group of CAMRA's Task Group for LGBT real ale and cider fans. Meets in The Holyrood Tavern 1st Mon of each month from 8pm to sample the brewers' art. Tel: Karen on 0131-557 8790. E-mail: diversedrinkers@drink.demon.co.uk WWW: http://www.antipope.org/feorag/ drinkers/ UK LGBT real ale pub listings can be found at WWW: http://www.goldings.demon.co.uk/queerale/ SPORTS ABERDEEN GAY MEN'S SWIMMING GROUP: Swim every Wed from 8pm onwards. Tel: David on Aberdeen (01224) 317552. E-mail: agmsg@drink.demon.co.uk CALEDONIAN THEBANS: Caledonian Thebans Rugby Union and Touch Club. New and experienced players wanted for the UK's 3rd gay rugby club. No experience necessary. Instruction and practice by experienced members. Learn the game and get fit with us. Tel: 07960 954242 (after 5pm). E-mail: chairman@thebans-rfc.co.uk WWW: http://www.thebans-rfc.co.uk/ GAY GOLF CLUB: Tel: Danny on 0141-946 8290. E-mail: tierney_daniel@hotmail.com GLASGOW BADMINTON CLUB: Glasgow based gay badminton club meets twice weekly for competitive games. International tournaments and matches against clubs in London and Europe are held annually. Sorry - no beginners. Tel: Raymond on 0141-778 9220. E-mail: TeamScotland@hotmail.com WWW: http://www.teamscotland-bc.co.uk/ GLASGOW GAY AND LESBIAN BADMINTON CLUB: Meets every Thu from 8-10pm. Come along and have fun and enjoy meeting the other members for a friendly game. All welcome. Tel: Donn on 07919 410042 (6-11pm). GLASGOW SWIMMING GROUP: Meets informally during adults-only session 7.30-9pm Thu at North Woodside Pool, Braid Square. Tel: Douglas on 0141-649 5896. E-mail: drb61@pobox.com WWW: http://www.pobox.com/~gocscotland GAY FOOTBALL SUPPORTERS NETWORK: Write: GFSN Membership Secretary, c/o Central Station, 37 Wharfdale Road, London. N1 9SE. Tel: Clive on 0141-779 2321 or Barry on Stony Stratford (01908) 564085. E-mail: blyons@btinternet.com WWW: http://www.gfsn.org.uk GOC CYCLING GROUP: Runs on 2nd Sun of each month throughout Central Scotland and also evening rides in Summer. Tel: Douglas on 0870 3215894 or E-mail: drb61@pobox.com WWW: http://www.pobox.com/~gocscotland Sun 9 Mar: The Edinburgh - Glasgow challenge! Cycle the entire route between the two cities using canals and cycle paths. Sun 13 Apr: Cycle tour of the Cowal Peninsula and Isle of Bute. Fri/Mon 18/21 Apr: Kendoon YH Weekend. Sun 11 May: Peebles / Broughton area. Sun 8 Jun: Cycle treasure hunt in the Edinburgh area. Tue 10 Jun: Evening run - Exploring lanes in North Lanarkshire / West Lothian. Tue 24 Jun: Evening run in the Stirling area. Tue 8 Jul: Evening run - circular trip to the West of Glasgow using local cycle tracks, Renfrew Ferry, Erskine Bridge etc. Sun 13 Jul: Fife country run with all the usual points of interest. Tue 22 Jul: CYCLING. Evening run from Penicuik. Fri/Fri 1/8 Aug: A week's tour, to include the Orkney Isles. Sun 7 Sep: Run in the Innerleithen area. Fri/Sun 26/28 Sep: GOC ANNUAL SCOTTISH GATHERING. Cycling along 'route 7' based at Newtonmore. Sat/Sun 11/12 Oct: Cycling weekend in the Thornhill / Upper Nithsdale area. Sun 9 Nov: Circular run, taking in quieter roads in the Culross / North Forth Shore / Clackmannan areas. STUDENTS Many Universities and Colleges have Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Societies. Contact these via your Student Union or Student Association. ScotsGay also links to a number of LGBT Soc websites from our own web page at http://www.scotsgay.co.uk/ Many LGBT Socs are open to non-students living in the area. Tel: NUS Scotland LGBT Officer on 0131-556 6598. Fax: 0131-557 5679. Write: Steven Jack, LGBT Officer, NUS Scotland, 29 Forth Street, Edinburgh. EH1 3LE. E-mail: nus-scot@dircon.co.uk TV/TS ABERDEEN: 3G (Grampian Gender Group). Offers support, help and a safe environment for Transgendered People. Meets 3rd Sat of each month Noon-5pm. Tel: Gillian on 07050 562175. Mon & Wed 7-9pm. E-mail: ggg_aberdeen@yahoo.co.uk EDINBURGH: Edinburgh TV/TS Group meets last Sat of each month (except Dec) 1-5pm in Phnix Cellar Bar, 46 Broughton Street. Starting soon: an evening meeting for chat and socialising. Tel: Sophie on 0131-557 1925 or Adele 0131-467 6417. E-mail: sophietv224@hotmail.com TransAlba aims to support both pre and post-op transexuals, their families and friends. Meets LGB Centre, 60 Broughton Street, Edinburgh 2-4pm on the 3rd Sat of each month. Tel: Andrea on 07818 467512 (Wed 7-9pm). E-mail: ac@brown1414.fsnet.co.uk Transgender Youth Support Group For 13-25 year olds of all sexualities and genders. Meets every 2nd Mon. Significant others are also very welcome. For more info, contact Stonewall Youth Project. Tel: 0845 113 0005 (Tue 7.30-9pm). E-mail: info@lgbtyouth.org.uk GLASGOW: Crosslynx TV/TS Group meets second Wed of each month (except December) from 7-10pm. Tel: Crosslynx Helpline on 0141-847 0787 (Mon 7.30-9.30pm). Write: c/o SLGS, PO Box 38, Glasgow. G2 2QF. WWW: http://SGLS.tripod.com/ transgen.htm WEST LOTHIAN: Transgender Support Group meets in Livingston on 2nd and last Sat of each month from 5pm (phone for details). Tel: 07808 564626 (Mon-Thu 6-10pm). E-mail: kira@westlothiantsg.co.uk WWW: http://www.westlothiantsg.co.uk/ WORKPLACE AFLAGA: The Armed Forces Lesbian & Gay Association (formerly Rank Outsiders). Support group for all serving and LGBT ex members. Write: BCM Box 8431, London. WC1N 3XX. National Helpline: 0870 740 7755 (Wed 7-11pm, Sun Noon-7pm). E-mail: info@aflaga.org.uk WWW: http://www.aflaga.org.uk CAS: Support group for all LGBT people involved in Scottish Citizens Advice Bureaux. Tel: Gary on Eyemouth (018907) 52074. E-mail: cas@drink.demon.co.uk EIS GAY AND LESBIAN NETWORK: Write: Veronica Rankin (National Officer, Education and Equality), 46 Moray Place, Edinburgh. EH3 6BH. Tel: Veronica Rankin on 0131-225 6244. E-mail: vrankin@eis.org.uk FIRE BRIGADES UNION GAY AND LESBIAN SUPPORT GROUP: For firefighters and control staff. Write: National Gay And Lesbian Committee, PO Box 10555, LONDON. N1 8XT. Tel: 0800 783 4778. E-mail: gal01@fbu-ho.org.uk WWW: http://www.fbu.org.uk/ GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL G&L EMPLOYEES FORUM: Tel: Charles Thompson on 0141-287 3744. E-mail: charles.thompson@land.glasgow.gov.uk GMB SCOTLAND EQUAL RIGHTS GROUP: Write: Regional Equal Rights Officer, GMB Scotland, Fountain House, 1/3 Woodside Crescent, Glasgow. G3 7UJ. Tel: 0141-332 8641. E-mail: robert.parker@gmb.org.uk PCS PROUD: The voice of LGBT members in the Public and Commercial Services Union. Regular meetings, newsletters and support. Tel: Karen Foster on 0141-285 4312 (Office Hours) or 07940 935678 (Evenings). SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE GL: New support and social group for gay and lesbian employees of the Scottish Enterprise and Careers Scotland network. Meet on the 2nd. last Thursday of the month in Delmonicas, Glasgow at 6pm. Tel Scott Skinner on: 07771 667218. E-mail: skinns1963@ntlworld.com UNISON: South Ayrshire: Out & About is a social/support group for all LGBT members of Unison within South Ayrshire Council (and their partners) but LGBT Unison members of other South of Scotland Local Authorities are also welcome. Meets: 1st Wed of each month 7.30-9.30pm at local venue. Details from Unison Office on Ayr (01292) 617632 or from Ailsa on Ayr (01292) 617620 (during office hours). E-mail: stublack@patersonayr.fsnet.co.uk YOUTH GROUPS ARGYLL & CLYDE YOUTH SEXUALITY & SUPPORT GROUPS: If you are interested in getting involved in a local group that helps gay and bisexual men aged under 26 come to terms with their sexuality, Tel: Matt Johnston on 0141-332 3837 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) or E-mail: mattj@phacescotland.org COLOURS LGBT YOUTH: Formerly Bi-G-LES Youth. Friendship and support for under 26s. Meets Tue 6-9pm at the City Initiative, 196 Bath Street. Write: c/o City Centre Initiative, 196 Bath Street, Glasgow. G2 4HH. E-mail: johnpaul.fitzpatrick@mac.com WWW: http://www14.brinkster.com/colourslgbt/ HIGHLAND GAY, LESBIAN AND BISEXUAL YOUTH GROUP: Meets 7.30pm 1st Wed of each month at 34 Waterloo Place, Inverness. Tel: Inverness (01463) 711585 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.30pm) and ask for Ronald. Social meeting 3rd Fri of each month, same time and place. E-mail: project@reachout.demon.co.uk LIPS - LESBIANS IN PEER SUPPORT: Project supporting young lesbians and bisexual women aged 25 and under. Offers a safe space for young lesbian and bisexual women to meet, providing information, support and activities. Meets every 1st and 3rd Sat, 2-4pm and every 2nd and 4th Thu, 7-9pm at Glasgow Women's Library, 109 Trongate, Glasgow. Tel: Shona or Sue on 0141-552 8345/7539. E-mail: gwl@womens-library.org.uk STONEWALL YOUTH PROJECT: Provides services for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered young people living in Edinburgh, Lothians, Fife and Borders. Project Phoneline: 0845 113 0005 (Tue 7.30-9pm) is staffed by trained staff members ready to give information or just chat. Edinburgh: Youth Group (Under 18s) Sat 3pm, Friends Group (age 18-25) Wed 7pm, TG Group (all ages) - every 2nd Mon 7pm, Girlz Group (all ages) - Sat Noon, Drop-in - Tue 7pm. Borders: Galashiels Drop-in - Wed 7pm, Peebles Drop-in Mon 6pm, Berwick-upon-Tweed Drop-in every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month Noon - 2pm. West Lothian: Livingston - every 2nd Mon 7-9pm. Fife: Kirkcaldy - Thu 7pm. Office Tel/Fax: 0131-622 2266 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm). Write: SYP, John Cotton Centre, 10 Sunnyside, Edinburgh. EH7 5RA. E-mail: info@lgbtyouth.org.uk WWW: http://www.lgbtyouth.org.uk/ THIS WAY OUT: Group for lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgenders or those who are unsure. For people aged 25 or under. Informal meetings held monthly on Wed eves. Phone Diversitay LGBT Switchboard on Dundee (01382) 202620 Mon 7-10pm. Write: Diversitay LGBT Group, PO Box 53, Dundee, DD1 3YG. E-mail: diversitay@hotmail.com WWW: http://www.dundeelgb.freeserve.co.uk/ Confidentiality guaranteed. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Venues ====== * indicates that these venues stock ScotsGay ABERDEEN ABERDEEN WOMEN'S CENTRE* Shoe Lane, (next door to Lemon Tree). Tel: (01224) 625010. Tue-Wed 10am-2pm. A *women only space* where all women are welcome without prejudice. Free use of computers and Internet connection. Latest computer/women's magazines/morning newspaper. For women in the gay community there is also a copy of the latest edition of AroundAB-out2001 Newsletter. Drop-in coffee lounge. Information resource Room/Women's library. Computer/Confidence/English as a second language courses run throughout year. Access for disabled. No smoking policy in Centre. Contact Maria Clark for more details at E-mail: awc@clara.co.uk OUT* 7 Crown Street. Tel: (01224) 212527. Sun, Thu 11pm-2am. Fri-Sat 11pm-3am. Popular large venue. Regular promos and PAs. Gay owned. Now Aberdeen's only gay venue following the closure of Fidel's. DUMFRIES SWEATY BETTY'S* Ay-Jay's Bar, The Crichton Campus, Bankend Road. Tel: (01387) 702221. Last Fri of every month. 9pm-1am. A new regular club night for lesbians, gay men and their friends. GBP3/GBP2 concs. E-mail: surefire.promotions@virgin.net DUNDEE BROOKLYN'S BAR* 2 St Andrew's Lane. Tel: (01382) 200660. Wed-Sun 7pm-Midnight. Well appointed gay friendly bar next door to Out and under the same management. CHARLIE'S BAR* 75-79 Seagate. Tel: (01382) 226840. Mon-Sat 11am-Midnight, Sun 12.30pm-Midnight. Gay friendly bar with free disco Fri & Sat 8-11pm. Free use of premises for pre-booked groups. OUT* 124 Seagate. Tel: (01382) 200660. Wed-Sun 11pm-2.30am. Previously Liberty Nightclub, has recently re-opened after a massive refurbishment. Good atmosphere, very popular disco with wide selection of sounds and the occasional act/PA. EDINBURGH BLACK BO'S 57/61 Blackfriars Street. Tel: 0131-557 6136. Wed-Sat 6-10pm. Superb little vegetarian restaurant. Friendly staff. Mixed clientele. BLUE MOON* 1 Barony Street/36 Broughton Street. Tel: 0131-556 2788 (Bar) or 0131-557 0911 (Office). Mon-Fri 11am-11pm, Sat-Sun 10am-11.30pm. Food served until 10pm. Popular lesbigay cafe/bar complex. BOBBIE'S BOOKSHOP* 220 Morrison Street. Tel: 0131-538 7069. Mon-Sat 10am-1pm, 2-5.30pm. Mixed bookshop selling a selection of UK and imported gay magazines. C.C. BLOOM'S* 23 Greenside Place. Tel: 0131-556 9331. Mon-Sat 7pm-3am, Sun 8pm-3am. Two floors. Karaoke on Thu and Sun. Disco every night from 10.30pm. CLAREMONT BAR & RESTAURANT* 133/135 East Claremont Street. Tel: 0131-556 5662. FAX: 0131-558 3539. Bar: Mon-Sat 11am-1am, Sun 12.30pm-1am. Restaurant: Mon-Wed 11.30am-2.30pm and 6pm-10pm, Thu-Sat 11.30am-10pm, Sun 12.30pm-10pm. Gay owned, gay friendly and renowned for courtesy, comfort and good food. First and Third Sats of month from 8pm: a male only night aimed at leather, denim, rubber, skinhead, uniform and bears run in conjunction with the MSC Scotland Monthly Meeting and BearScots. E-mail: info@claremont-bar-edinburgh.co.uk WWW: http://www.claremont-bar-edinburgh.co.uk/ EASYINTERNETCAFE 58 Rose Street. Tel: 0131-220 3577. Daily 7am-10.45pm. Large Internet Cafe from which many gay men seem to troll the net instead of just picking up each other! WWW: http://www.easyinternetcafe.com/ EDINBURGH LESBIAN GAY AND BISEXUAL CENTRE* 58a and 60 Broughton Street. Houses Sala Cafe-Bar and Massage for Health. Also provides meeting and noticeboard space for many lesbigay organisations. Private mailboxes available. FRENCHIES BAR* 89 Rose Street Lane North. Tel: 0131-225 7651. Mon-Sat 1pm-1am, Sun 2pm-Midnight. This vibrant gay bar (Edinburgh's oldest) is in the heart of Rose Street. Happy Hour 6-8pm every day. HABANA* 22 Greenside Place. Tel: 0131-558 1270. Mon-Sat Noon-1am, Sun 12.30pm-1am. Centrally located pre club bar. Open and bright as well as quite intimate. Busy. Quizoke every Thu with John. Drink promos throughout the month - see ad for details. HOLYROOD TAVERN* 9a Holyrood Road. Tel: 0131-556 5044. Daily Noon-12.45am. Edinburgh's best kept secret. Real ale in a gay friendly atmosphere. "If you must go on the scene, why not have some beer first?" CAMRA's Lesbian and Gay Real Ale Drinkers meet there on the first Mon of the month from 8pm - WWW: http://www.antipope.org/feorag/drinkers/ Goths meet every Wednesday (perverts of all shapes and sizes most welcome!) from 9pm. JOY* Club Ego, 14 Picardy Place. Tel: 0131-478 7434. JOY Info Line: 0131-467 2551. 11pm-3am. Monthly. Next date: Sat 12th Apr. DJs Maggie Joy and Alan Joy are now joined by new resident DJ Brett King in the main hall, adding a funkier dimension to the music. Trendy Wendy and Sally F are more eclectic in the downstairs room. GBP8 members/GBP10 non-members. E-mail: clubjoy@blueyonder.co.uk. LAUGHING DUCK* 24 Howe Street. Tel: 0131-220 2376. Mon-Thu Noon-Midnight, Fri-Sat Noon-1am, Sun 12.30pm-Midnight. Stylish, comfy bar with relaxed atmosphere serving food till 7.30pm and a fantastic GBP3.99 brunch till 4pm on Sun. DJis on Sat nights. Pub Quiz every second Sun from 9pm. Function Room Hire. E-mail: contact@thelaughingduck.co.uk. WWW: http://www.thelaughingduck.co.uk/ LEATHER AND LACE* 8 Drummond Street. Tel: 0131-557 9413. FAX: 0131-557 8336. 25 Easter Road. Tel: 0131-623 6969. Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun Noon-9pm. 368-370 Gorgie Road (Currently not licensed as a sex shop). Tel: 0131-468 6969. Mon-Sat 11am-8pm, Sun Noon-8pm. Scotland's ORIGINAL licenced SEX shops (formerly Fantasies) where you'll be made welcome by the very nice assortment of folk who work there! Toys galore, video rental too! Larger sizes stocked. LUSH!* Club Ego, 14 Picardy Place. Tel: 0131-478 7434. Info Line: 07736 936650. 10.30pm-3am. Last Fri of each month. Commercial gay club. Dance, Poptunes with DJ's Dale & Craig (Planet Out/Joy/Saturday Social). GBP5 members, GBP6 non members. Pre-club party at Planet Out. WWW: http://www.clublush.co.uk/ LUVELY The Liquid Room, 9c Victoria Street. Tel: 0131-225 2564. Info Line: 07711 307997. First Sat of each Month. 10pm-3am. Mega club night with resident DJ's Tommy Kay, Newton & Stone, Jared and GP. WWW: http://www.luvely.net/ MASSAGE FOR HEALTH 58a/60 Broughton Street. By appointment only. Massage therapy from qualified practitioners Anne (Tel: 07986 810190) and John (Tel: 07970 921209). Also Meditation, Relaxation and Yoga Classes throughout the year - phone John for details. E-mail: info@massageforhealth.co.uk WWW: http://www.massageforhealth.co.uk/ MINGIN' Studio 24, 24-26 Calton Road. Info Line: 0131-467 2551. 11pm-3am. Fortnightly Sat. Next dates: Sat 8th & 22nd Mar. Alan Joy's dark, sexy, dirty house night features Alan Joy himself on the decks plus Brian Dempster. GBP6 entry (GBP5 before midnight). E-mail: mingin@blueyonder.co.uk MSDEMEANOUR Phnix Cellar Bar under the Phnix Bar at 46 Broughton Street. Tel: 0131-557 0234. Info Line: 07831 372154. Monthly. 8.30pm-1am. Edinburgh's only regular T-Girl night club. As the Phnix Bar is undergoing refurbishment, the club has been suspended until Spring. E-mail: MsDemeanourUK@aol.com WWW: http://www.msdemeanour.co.uk/ NEW TOWN BAR* 26B Dublin Street. Tel: 0131-538 7775. Mon-Thu Noon-1am. Fri-Sat Noon-2am. Sun 12.30pm-1am. Especially popular with men. Drinks Promotions Daily. Downstairs Bar open Fri & Sat with resident DJ from 10pm-2am. Also available for hire Sun-Thu. No EIGHTEEN* 18 Albert Place. Tel: 0131-553 3222. Daily Noon-10pm. Long established sauna club for gay and bisexual men. Excellent facilities include large sauna cabin, 14 man steam room,10 (very popular) private rooms, 8 man filtered Jacuzzi, communal and private showers, video, TV lounge and hot and cold refreshments. Warm, clean and friendly. GBP9 (GBP7 concessions). WWW: http://www.number18sauna.co.uk/ OOT: OUT ON TUESDAY* Stand Comedy Club, 5 York Place. Tel: 0131-558 7272. Second Tue of each month. 9-11pm. Monthly gay comedy club in established comedy venue. Hot food. Real ale. E-mail: admin@thestand.co.uk WWW: http://www.thestand.co.uk/ PLANET OUT* 6 Baxter's Place. Tel: 0131-524 0061. Daily 4pm-1am. Popular and busy gay bar with friendly staff. SALA CAFE-BAR* 60 Broughton Street. Tel: 0131-478 7069. Tue-Sun 11am-11pm. Previously known as Nexus, the cafe/bar at the LGBT Centre is due to re-open on 28th Feb after major refurbishment including new bar area. Relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, eclectic menu. Regular live music and gallery space. E-mail: salacafebar@hotmail.com THE STAG & TURRET* 1-7 Montrose Terrace. Tel: 0131-661 6443. Mon-Sat 11am-1am, Sun 12.30pm-1am. Friendly gay local just round the corner from the Solas Centre. Two new pool tables upstairs. STEAMWORKS* 5 Broughton Market. Tel: 0131-477 3567. Daily 11am-11pm. New sauna with large spa pool, steamroom, dry sauna, labyrinth, massage, cafe lounge, free Internet access, vertical tanning. WWW: http://www.steamworks-sauna.co.uk/ SOLAS CAFE* 2/4 Abbeymount. Tel: 0131-661 0982. Mon, Wed, Fri 11am-4pm, Tue, Thu 11am-8pm. Attached to Solas HIV/AIDS Information Centre. Good home cooking (everything cooked on the premises). Vegetarians and carnivores catered for. TACKNO Massa (formerly Club Mercado), 36-39 Market Street. Tel: 0131-226 4224. Last Sun of each month. 10pm-3am. DJ Trendy Wendy. Mixed and crowded club night. TASTE The Liquid Room, 9c Victoria Street. Tel: 0131-225 2564. Info Line: 0131-557 4656. Sun 11pm-3am. DJs Fisher & Price play a progressive mix of garage and house in the Main Room with guests whilst Martin Valentine and Steven Wanless play garage and US house in the Back Room, to an up-for-it mixed/gay crowd. GBP6 Members/Guests GBP8. GBP5 entry before 11.30pm. Drinks promos until 1am. Sun 2nd Mar: Taste presents... 10 of the best. The Fisher & Price 10th Anniversary Party featuring the best tunes from the last ten years. Year's Free Pass to the first 10 in the club. Sun 30th Mar: Jon Pleased (Quarterly Residency). E-mail: contact-us@taste-clubs.com WWW: http://www.taste-clubs.com/ THAI ME UP 4 Picardy Place. Tel: 0131-558 9234. Daily Noon-11pm. Superb gay owned Thai restaurant situated in the middle of Edinburgh's gay area. E-mail: management@tmeup.com WWW: http://www.tmeup.com/ TOWNHOUSE SAUNA AND GYM* 53 East Claremont Street. Tel: 0131-556 6116. Sun-Thu Noon-11pm, Fri-Sat Noon-Midnight. Scotland's largest, featuring steam room, 20 person sauna, large Jacuzzi, Kruze Video Zone, licensed bar and Broadband Internet cafe, free weights gym, massage by appointment. Admission GBP9 (Concessions GBP6), Mon 18-25 years old GBP4 entry, Tue GBP5 before 2pm, Wed GBP10 per couple, Thu GBP7 entry before 4pm, Fri GBP7 entry after 9pm, Sat 2 for 1 beers and spirits, Sun GBP5 for students. Annual Membership GBP2. Proudly gay owned and operated. WWW: http://www.gayscotland.com/townhouse/index1.htm VELVET* Club Ego, 14 Picardy Place. Tel: 0131-478 7434. Last Fri of each month. 11pm-3am. Next dates: Fri 28th Feb, 28th Mar, 25th Apr. Women's club nite, for gay girlies and their specially invited gay boy friends. A fresh new approach to a girls' nite out, with DJ Michelle (Poptastic/Wiggle/Joy/Planet Out). GBP6/GBP5 conc. with ID - 2 for 1 b4 11.30pm. E-mail: clubvelvet@blueyonder.co.uk WWW: http://www.www.webflyers.co.uk/Flyer/377 VIBE* Club Ego, 14 Picardy Place. Tel: 0131-478 7434. Tue 11pm-3am. James Longworth plays mixture of mainstream toons to a fashionable, large crowd. Drinks promos. GBP2 members/GBP3 non-members. E-mail: vibe@100ent.com WWW: http://www.vibetuesdays.com/ WEB 13* 13 Bread Street. Tel: 0131-229 8883. Mon-Fri 10am-8pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun Noon-6pm. Informal mixed cybercafe with homely and approachable staff. E-mail: queries@web13.co.uk WWW: http://www.web13.co.uk/ WIGGLE* Club Ego, 14 Picardy Place. Tel: 0131-478 7434. Info Line: 0131-467 2551. 11pm-3am. Monthly. Next dates: Sat 1st & 29th Mar. In the main hall, resident DJs Trendy Wendy and Jon Pleased blend camp with classics and new sounds. Sally F and DJ Michelle go a touch alternative downstairs. Sat 1st Mar is "Night Of A Thousand Queens" with a musical tribute to Freddie Mercury et al. Free pre-Wiggle party at Planet Out featuring DJ Brett King from 10pm-1am. Entry to Wiggle is GBP9. E-mail: wiggle@blueyonder.co.uk GLASGOW BENNETS DISCO 80-90 Glassford Street. Tel: 0141-552 5761. Tue-Sun 11pm-3am. Beautifully appointed busy club on two floors. Frequent PAs. Tuesdays are straight. WWW: http://www.bennets.co.uk/ E-mail: BennetsWeb@aol.com BURLY* Mercury Lounge, 142 Bath Lane. Tel: 0141-248 1777. Infoline: 07930 357401. 10pm-3am. Next dates: Fri 28th Feb "Love Hurts" (drink promos, live DJ, music, cruising & safe and consensual S&M demonstrations GBP5), Sat 15th Mar BURLY Light in the Night Bar of The Mercury Lounge. Club night for the over 25 age group. Dress Code: rubber, leather, uniform, industrial, denim, rugby & kilts. Designed to be cruisy. WWW: http://www.dv8scots.co.uk/ E-mail: dv8scots@hotmail.com CANDLE BAR* 20 Candleriggs. Tel: 0141-564 1285. Mon-Fri 4.30pm-Midnight, Sat Noon-Midnight, Sun 12.30pm-Midnight. Upmarket bar in the heart of the Merchant City. Regular cabaret, karaoke and disco. Under new management. CCA* 350 Sauchiehall Street. Box Office Tel: 0141-332 7521. FAX: 0141-332 3226. Café Tel: 0141-332 7959. Box Office: Tue-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-Midnight, Sun 11am-6pm. Gallery: Tue-Sun 11am-6pm, Thu 11am-8pm. Cafe: Tue-Sat 11am-9.30pm, Sun 11am-4pm. The Centre for Contemporary Arts. Performance & exhibition spaces, Cafe/Bar, bookshop. E-mail: gen@cca-glasgow.com WWW: http://www.cca-glasgow.com/ CLONE ZONE* 45 Virginia St. Tel/FAX: 0141-553 2666. Mon-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun Noon-7pm. Clothes, videos, magazines, toys. Has now moved out of the GGLC and into new premises a few doors North of their original shop. E-mail: admin@clonezone.co.uk WWW: http://www.clonezone.co.uk/ CLUB MYSTYX* Blackfriars Bar (Basement), 36 Bell Street. Tel: 0141-552 5924. Next dates: Sat 22nd Mar, 19th Apr. 7.30pm-1am. Members Only BDSM play club. GBP5 membership (available at door), GBP5 entrance for member, GBP8 for guests accompanying members. Fetishwear/black dress code: no sportswear allowed. E-mail: club_mystyx@yahoo.co.uk WWW: http://www.geocities.com/club_mystyx/indexmystyx.html COURT BAR* 69 Hutcheson Street. Tel: 0141-552 2463. Mon-Sat 8am-Midnight, Sun 12.30pm-Midnight. Intimate bar beside former Sheriff Court. Straight until mid-evening. CUBE 34 & 44 Queen Street. Tel: 0141-226 8990. Mon-Tue 11.30pm-3am. Two-nighter with DJs Shawn and George. Various drinks promos. Entry GBP3. CYBER* Unit 3, King's Court, 107 Kings Street. Tel/FAX: 0141-553 0942. Mon-Sat 10am-6pm. Sun Noon-5.30pm. Alternative clothing. DELMONICA'S BAR 68 Virginia Street. Tel: 0141-552 4803. Daily Noon-Midnight. Nice if your face fits. EASYINTERNETCAFE 57/61 St. Vincent Street. Tel: 0141-222 2365. Daily 7am-10.45pm. Large Internet Cafe from which many gay men seem to troll the net instead of just picking up each other! WWW: http://www.easyinternetcafe.com/ GLC CAFE/BAR* 11 Dixon Street. Tel: 0141-226 5050. Daily 11am-Midnight. Full breakfast always available. Home cooking. Friendly and busy! Karaoke on Fri, Sat and Sun. GLASGOW LGBT CENTRE (GGLC)* 11 Dixon Street. Tel/FAX: 0141-221 7203. Daily 11am-Midnight. Welcomes lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgendered. Services include: Cafe Bar, Joy-4-U, Info Box, Health Info, Interest Groups, Free Newspapers, Diary of Events, Reading Room, Garden of Reflection, Function space for hire and innovative Art Gallery. Increasingly busy and popular! Fully wheelchair accessible venue. E-mail: lgbt.glasgow@gglc.org.uk WWW: http://www.gglc.org.uk/ THE LANE 60 Robertson Street Lane (off Argyle Street). Tel: 0141-221 1802. Mon-Fri 1-10pm, Sat-Sun Noon-10pm. "Exotic Gay Men's Club" with sauna and private cabins. Not very busy. THE MENS ROOM 130 Great Western Road. Tel: 0141-332 1001. FAX: 0141-332 4555. Tue 10am-6pm, Wed-Fri 9.30am-8pm, Sat 9.30am-5pm. One stop male grooming emporium. E-mail: enquiries@themensroom.biz WWW: http://www.themensroom.biz/ MERCURY LOUNGE* 142 Bath Lane. Tel: 0141-248 1777. Tue-Sun 10pm-3am (except Thu - open for comedy from 9pm). Well appointed new club. Full programme of PAs, etc. E-mail: mercurylounge@hotmail.com OOT IN GLASGOW* Stand Comedy Club, 333 Woodlands Road. Tel: 0870 600 6055. Second Wed of each month. 8.30-10.30pm. Monthly gay comedy club. E-mail: admin@thestand.co.uk WWW: http://www.thestand.co.uk/ THE POLO LOUNGE 84 Wilson Street. Tel: 0141-553 1221. Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sun 5pm-3am. Smaller than previously but retains same attitude. WWW: http://www.pololounge.co.uk/ RELAX CENTRAL* Central House, 2nd Floor, 50-58 Jamaica Street. Tel: 0141-847 0088. Noon-10pm. New Sauna in the City Centre. E-mail: info@relaxcentral.co.uk WWW: http://www.relaxcentral.co.uk/ REVOLVER BAR* 6a John Street. Tel: 0141-553 2456. Noon-Midnight. A refreshing antidote to the current gay scene. Pool table, state of the art free jukebox (with over 7,000 tracks on it), reasonably priced drinks, good quality service, no karaoke. E-mail: info@revolverdotbar.com WWW: http://www.revolverdotbar.com/ SADIE FROST'S 8-10 West George Street. Tel: 0141-332 8005. Daily Noon-Midnight. Bar meals Noon-7pm. Gay friendly as long as you don't kiss your same sex partner. Heterosexuals are, of course, more than welcome to consume each others' tonsils. SILKS AND SECRETS* 308 Argyle Street. Tel: 0141-572 1017. Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun Noon-5pm. Clothes and toys catering for gay, transvestite and fetish tastes. Friendly understanding staff. Larger sizes stocked. SPA 19* 19 Dixon Street. Tel: 0141-572 0347. Sun-Fri Noon-10pm, Sat Noon-4am (All Nighter). Facilities include 2 sauna cabins, steamroom, Jacuzzi, gymnasium, Construction Zone, large rest area, private rest rooms, television lounge, smoking and non-smoking lounges, video monitors installed throughout premises. E-mail: spa_19uk@yahoo.co.uk SPYKER* Unit 7, King's Court, 99 Kings Street. Tel: 0141-552 3111. Mon-Fri 11am-5.30pm, Sat 11am-6pm. Fetish Wear. TRON THEATRE CAFE BAR* Chisholm Street. Tel: 0141-552 8587. Daily 10am-Late. Friendly theatre bar. Mixed. Good food. E-mail: boxoffice@tron.co.uk WWW: http://www.tron.co.uk/ VICTORIA BAR* 157-159 Bridgegait. Tel: 0141-552 6040. Daily 11am-Midnight. Basically straight, but justly popular with Glasgow's many Real Ale queens and dykes. Convenient for the Citizens Theatre. VIOLATE PO Box 808, Glasgow. G71 7YN. Violate Club Line: 09099 108174 (60p per min at all times). BDSM and general pervery. Operates in Glasgow and Edinburgh. E-mail: info@violate.co.uk WWW: http://www.violate.co.uk/ THE WATERLOO* 306 Argyle Street. Tel: 0141-229 5891. Mon-Sat Noon-Midnight, Sun 12.30pm-Midnight. Semper idem! Popular, crowded, down to earth gay drinking shop. Scotland's oldest gay bar - what more can we say? Busy, busy, busy! Awarded the Beti Hutton seal of approval. INVERNESS GATE CAFE BAR* 21 Queensgate. Tel: (01463) 711700. Mon 10am-11pm, Tue 10am-1am, Wed 10am-11pm, Thu-Fri 10am-1am, Sat 10am-12.30am, Sun Noon-11pm. Gay friendly bar with dedicated gay nights Tue & Fri. Drink promos and DJs. SLEEPERS Station Square, Academy Street. Tel: (01463) 231926. Mon-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 12.30-11pm. Inverness's main gay-friendly establishment. Soon to undergo a refurbishment and rename. Smart hotel bar. Gayest on Wed and Fri evenings. KIRKCALDY FEUARS ARMS 66 Commercial Street. Tel: (01592) 269056. Mon-Wed 11.30am-3pm & 5-11pm, Thu 11.30am-3pm & 5pm-Midnight, Fri-Sat 11.30am-Midnight, Sun 12.30-11pm. Mixed venue. Traditional pub (in CAMRA's Good Beer Guide) serving real ale to a wide clientele. Listed Grade B - fascinating Gents lavatory (and three resident Spirits). STIRLING BARNTON BISTRO* 3 1/2 Barnton Street. Tel: (01786) 461698. Mon-Thu 10.30am-Midnight, Fri-Sat 10.30am-1am, Sun Noon-Midnight. (Food: Until 7.30pm). Near to railway station. Mixed, busy, bohemian and friendly bar/bistro. Popular with students and Sons/Daughters of the Rock alike. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ScotsGay: a monthly magazine for lesbians, gays and bisexuals. ScotsGay 60/- Light appears in odd numbered months, whilst ScotsGay 80/- Heavy appears in even numbered months. ISSN: 1357-0595. Edited, printed and published in Scotland. (c) Pageprint Limited, February 2003. PO Box 666, Edinburgh. EH7 5YW. Non profit use by the lesbigay community of material in the magazine will normally be permitted free of charge - but contact us first for permission. We haven't had sex with most of the people who appear in the magazine, so we don't actually know what their sexuality is. Editorial: Tel: 0845 1208062 or 0131-539 0666. Fax: 0131-539 2999 E-mail: scotsgay@drink.demon. co.uk. WWW: http://www.scotsgay.co.uk/ Advertising: Tel: 0131-558 1279. Fax: 0131-539 2999. Subscribing by E-mail: Send a 'subscribe scotsgay-list' message to listserver@drink.demon.co.uk and the text files of future editions will be delivered to you by e-mail. To Unsubscribe: send an 'unsubscribe scotsgay-list' message to listserver@drink.demon.co.uk - please *do not* include the quote marks with your message. In either case, please ensure that your message is in the body (NOT header of the message) and that MIME and HTML options are switched OFF. Our listserver can only accept ASCII text. If you do not understand this, please consult your ISP or Sysadmin.