hate crime! body image taking it? chlamydia!

MSM
TAKING IT?
TOP, BOTTOM OR
VERSATILE?
A Magazine for Men Who Have Sex With Men
Designed and published by
The Rainbow Project
www.rainbow-project.org
#001
CHLAMYDIA!
THE SILENT
INFECTION
HATE CRIME!
REPORT IT TO STOP IT
BODY IMAGE
BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE
OF THE BEHOLDER
- OR IS IT?
EDITORIAL
WELCOME TO MSM 1ST EDITION
--------------------------Hi everyone and welcome to MSM – The
Rainbow Project’s brand new quarterly magazine
for Men Who Have Sex With Men. Inside you will
find a range of articles exploring all aspects of
your physical, mental and emotional health and
information on our equality and advocacy work.
We are particularly proud of our cover shot
featuring our own models.
This first issue was launched on World Aid’s Day
and is dedicated to Noel Walsh, a
long-standing campaigner for the rights for HIV
Positive people in Ireland, North and South, who
died suddenly in November while attending a
HIV Conference in Oslo. Noel had strong
connections with The Rainbow Project and was
instrumental in setting up TRP’s Positive Voices
Project which brought together HIV-positive
people from right across Ireland enabling them to
meet other people in similar circumstances.
Noel’s vivacious personality and dedication to the
promotion of equality of opportunity for gay
people and HIV-positive people will be sorely
missed.
We hope you find the magazine informative and
fun. Send us an e-mail if you would like to model
for the next issue or have any suggestions for
topics you think we should cover.
Jim Crawford
Editor
([email protected])
CONTACTS CONTENTS
The Rainbow Project
YOU TALK
BELFAST
FOYLE
2-8 Commercial Court,
12a Queen Street,
Belfast, BT1 2NB
L’Derry, BT48 7EG
tel: (028) 9031 9030
tel: (028) 7128 3030
fax: (028) 9031 9031
fax: (028) 7128 3060
email: [email protected]
Mirjam Bader
David McCartney
Director
Foyle Centre Manager
Terry Sergeant
Sean Morrin
Counselling Manager
Youth Worker
Martin Rolston
Counsellor
Pat Nairn
Finance Officer
John O’Doherty
Equality Officer
Jim Crawford
Physical & Sexual Health Development Officer
Vacant Post
Mental Health Development Officer
.
WE LISTEN
Professional Co-Cultural Counselling
2-8 Commercial Court,
Belfast, BT1 2ND
tel: (028 ) 9031 9030
Page 3
Homophobic Hate Crime report it to
stop it!
Page 4
Chlamydia - The Silent Infection
Page 7
Is this love? - by Terry Sergeant
Page 10
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder!
- or is it
Page 12
LADZ night out
Page 13
A conversation with the Sunday
bingo show
Page 16
Taking it! Top, Bottom or Versatile!
Page 17
Keeping the faith
Page 18
Cut or Uncut?
Page 20
Auntie Pat’s problem page.
TRP is funded by DHSSPS, EHSSB, SHSSB, NHSSB,
WHSSCT, Big Lottery, Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust,
Children in Need and Comic Relief.
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
MSM 1
HOMOPHOBIC HATE CRIME
- REPORT IT TO STOP IT!
If you have been the victim
of, or have witnessed, a
physical attack, verbal attack
or any type of intimidation
due to your or someone
else’s sexual orientation it is
important that it is reported
to the police.
If you have not yet contacted
the police, are afraid to do
so, are unhappy with the
service received from the
police or would like to carry
out a third party report
please contact the Rainbow
Project.
You do NOT have to give any details
you do not want to. Nor do you have
to meet with the police. Please help
us ensure that it doesn’t happen to
anyone else by contacting:
[email protected]
or
028 9031 9030
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
MSM 3
CHLAMYDIA! THE
SILENT INFECTION!!!
This year the NHS has undertook a fierce
campaign in a bid to raise awareness
around the rapid rise of Sexually
Transmitted Infections (STIs) in the UK.
Chlamydia is now the fastest spreading
infection in the country as well as the most
commonly reported bacterium STI in
Europe.
Chlamydia is a bacterium which infects the
genital tract, eyes and throat. Symptoms
include a burning sensation while passing urine
and a white discharge from the tip of your penis.
However, not every case involved these
symptoms and many people who have
contracted Chlamydia don’t realise it. This
means the infection can go unnoticed,
undiagnosed and untreated. If Chlamydia remains untreated, the infection can spread to the
testicles causing severe pain and swelling. It
can also cause joint pain, chest infection and
infertility.
While Chlamydia diagnoses rates are lower in
Northern Ireland than in the rest of the UK, the
rate of increase in 2006-2007 has been similar.
In 2006, 6% of the total male diagnoses in
Northern Ireland occurred in Men Who Have
Sex With Men. The Highest rates of diagnosed
cases in are in the 20-34 age groups and
peaking between 20-24 year olds.
Chlamydia is on the rise, even though research
shows that more and more people are fully
aware of the risks of unprotected sex and the
many different types of Sexually Transmitted
Infections. A recent survey carried out by the
office of National Statistics found that 79% of
men knew about the Chlamydia infection,
compared to 35% five years ago. However,
knowing the risks, an estimated 52% of Men
Who Have Sex With Men are still having
unprotected anal sex.
The reality is, those people most at risk are
those having unprotected sex, those with more
than one frequent and those with numerous
partners. Chlamydia is a serious infection, but
thankfully one that is treatable Condoms
remain the best line of defence against any type
of STI. So once again, the message very
clearly is:
ALWAYS WEAR A CONDOM.
GUM INFORMATION
Sexual Health Clinic
Level 3, Wing B
Royal Victoria Hospital
Opening Times:
Mon, Wed, Fri—8:30 to 11:30 and 1.30 to 3pm.
Tue, Thurs—8:30am to 11am.
Tel: 02890 634050 or 02890 634 054
The Clinic operates a walk in service on a first come, first served basis..
www.rainbow-project.org October
October2008
2008 MSM
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What are you waiting For?
IS THIS LOVE?
By Terry Sergeant
(Counselling Manager)
1 in 4 LGB people experience abuse in an
intimate relationship, yet few seek any help or
support.
Gay and bisexual relationships, like gay and
bisexual men, come in all shapes and sizes.
We usually have a “type”, that is, certain
qualities and assets that we look for in potential
partners, whether it be for fun, friendship, or
something more longer-term.
Healthy relationships help us to feel good
about ourselves and provide us with the
conditions to grow, learn and love. Sometimes
though, relationships are not so healthy – they
can be abusive, controlling and hurtful.
As a counsellor, I often work with men who are
being hurt in their relationships. This hurt can
be emotional (being put down, called names,
being criticised, etc), physica (pushing, hitting,
kicking, slapping, etc), sexual (being pressured
to have sex, pressure to not use a condom,
etc), and/or financial (your boyfriend takes
your money or controls how you spend it, etc).
Research estimates that 1 in 4 LGB people
experience abuse in a relationship – a sizeable
problem in the “gay” community. Yet many
people do not recongise that their relationships
are abusive because of the myth that “abuse” is
just about being slapped, kicked or punched.
The Family Planning Association have
produced a useful checklist for you to decide
how caring or non-caring your relationship
actually is. If you are experiencing abuse in a
relationship,
The Rainbow Project can help. We provide
professional, confidential counselling services to
men who are attracted to men. To make an
appointment, contact us on (028) 9031 9030.
Caring
A Non-Caring
relationships are about two people who feel
good about themselves and each other,
and includes things like:
relationship is when one person controls &
dominates another. It includes things like:
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Being good friends.
Freedom to do your own thing
Time and space to see your friends
Having your own interests
Being able to disagree with each other
Trusting each other
Having fun together
Making decisions together
Being able to talk about it if you have an
argument
* Feeling safe
* Your boyfriend gets angry when you talk to
someone else
* He is verbally aggressive or physically
threatening
* He calls you names, makes fun of you,
puts you down or makes you feel bad
about yourself
* He uses force, threats, emotional
blackmail or bargains to make you do things
you don’t want to do
* He threatens to harm you, your family,
friends, pets or property
* He threatens to out you to family, friends
and or colleagues
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
MSM 7
Serious Sexual Assault – The Facts
In April 2008 the PSNI restructured and established
dedicated Rape Crime Units to deal specifically with
and investigate serious sexual assaults. MSM caught
up with Detective Inspector Chris Wilson of the RCU to
find out more.
We offer special facilities where a medical examination can
take place and you will, where possible, have a choice of a
male or female doctor. These facilities are similar to those
you would find in your own doctor’s surgery.
MSM: Thanks for meeting with us Chris. So tell us what is
the reality in relation to Serious Sexual Assaults?
The doctor who examines you will be able to give you
confidential advice if you are concerned about sexually
transmitted infections and suggest where and how to get
the help required.
Chris: The chance that you will become a victim of Serious
Sexual Assault is extremely low, however it may happen to
you or someone close to you.
MSM: Why set up the Rape Crime Unit?
Chris: The formation of RCUs represents a new development in the Organisation’s drive to professionalise rape
investigation. There are 3 Teams located in Belfast,
Portadown and Ballymena that provide a 24-hour service.
The Teams are staffed by both male and female Detectives
who receive a high level of training in a number of specialist
areas specifically tailored around rape investigation.
MSM: What advice would you give victims?
Chris: In the event that you or someone known to you
becomes a victim of Serious Sexual Assault you should
report it to Police and/or a trusted friend as soon as
practicable. Changing of clothes, washing, eating, drinking,
smoking and going to the toilet should be avoided if at all
possible until speaking to a Police Officer. Whilst it is our
responsibility to investigate your allegation, your welfare
and feelings will always come first.
MSM: What can people expect when they report?
Chris: In order to find out the facts we will ask you a number
of questions. Although You may find some of these difficult
or unpleasant to answer you should be reassured that
officers are used to talking about these types of investigation
and will be sensitive. We encourage you to be open and
not to be embarrassed. We will then record your detailed
account, which is known as your statement of complaint.
Sometimes your account may be recorded on video.
MSM: What about going to court?
Chris: At the conclusion of the investigation you may be
called as a witness in a criminal trial. Whether or not you
are the victim, this can be a stressful experience but you will
be supported. Victim Support Schemes are now available
in most areas.
MSM: What about anonymity?
Chris: There are laws in place which restrict newspapers,
radio and television from printing your name, or telling
people who you are. However, they can print or tell what
you actually say in court, providing it does not identify you.
Chris: We are all different in the way we deal with things
that happen in our lives. Remember, it is not your fault if
you become a victim. There are a number of voluntary
and statutory agencies, independent of the Police, who can
offer assistance, counselling and support including The
Rainbow Project in Belfast and Londonderry.
Should you need to report a sexual crime, or obtain further
information about anything contained in this article, please
contact the Police on 0845 600 8000 or in an emergency
dial 999.
Prof Andrew Yip of Nottingham University
continued that "this lack of acceptance can
have damaging effects on their spiritual
and sexual health, leading to, for instance,
depression, a strong sense of guilt and
shame, sexual risk-taking, and the dissociation from faith communities".
He concluded that "for those gay and lesbian persons who find the strength and
resources to rise above such structural
limitations there is indisputable evidence of
personal flourishing, as a result of living
positively as spiritual and sexual beings".
He was speaking at St George's Church of
Ireland parish church to an audience of
Christian clergy and laity as well as people
from LGBT organisations from across Ireland.
Dr Richard O'Leary of the Changing Attitude Ireland group, which organised the
event, said that "in the aftermath of the
inflammatory remarks made about gay and
lesbian people by Iris Robinson MP, we felt
it was important that Christians, gays and
MSM: What about medical examinations?
Chris: In most cases we may ask you to agree to be
examined by a doctor who is also specially trained. The
purpose of the examination is to make sure you get any
medical help you need and to look for evidence which may
help find the person responsible.
October 2008
Lesbian, Gay, Bi and Trans Christians who
aspire to incorporate their sexuality with
their spirituality have found "their efforts
are often thwarted by the lack of acceptance within faith communities," a public
meeting in Belfast was told on Saturday
18th October. It was organised following a
description of homosexuality as an abomination by DUP MP Iris Robinson. The
weekend lecture was part of a series of
events organised by Changing Attitude
Ireland on the theme of “The Churches and
Intolerance” and which were funded by the
Good Relations Unit of Belfast City Council.
MSM: Any last words for our readers?
Remember, the Police Officer speaking to you will be
trained to deal with your complaint. We have access to
informal interviewing facilities where we can talk with you. If
you wish, you may be accompanied by a friend or relative.
Alternatively, The Rainbow Project will make its premises
available where victims can confidentially engage with
Detectives in a neutral setting.
www.rainbow-project.org
Keeping the Faith
By Liam Larmour
MSM 8
gay Christians in Northern Ireland had an
opportunity to hear some of the latest
research on this whole area".
The question that wasn’t asked however,
was: ‘Are Christians in the LGBT
Community as much a minority as they are
perceived to be in wider society?’
Many LGBT Christians face negativity from
other members of the LGBT community. In
other parts of society LGBT people have to
‘come out’ and challenge prejudice to be
accepted. Though, in the LGBT community,
where some of the trendy gay youth wear
rosary beads as a fashion accessory, those
who identify as Christian have to ‘come out’
as someone who has a faith, and God
forbid, still practices it. I know I was once
asked if I prayed for forgiveness after
having sex with my boyfriend. And that was
by a very good gay friend who just didn’t
get it that I had a faith in something other
than sex.
Perhaps the LGBT community has as much
ground to cover it dealing with its own
prejudices than we expect society too. After
all, we do always claim that we are just a
microcosm of larger society. But do we
cherry-pick which parts of that society we
promote? It is often said that the LGBT
community is more tolerant due to the
shared experience of homophobia, But like
many gay people are finding, the LGBT
community can be just as prejudiced as the
next.
I for one look forward to the day when I can
walk into a gay bar and not have to worry
about calling myself Christian.
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
MSM 9
BEAUTY IS
IN THE EYE
OF THE
BEHOLDER
- OR
IS IT?
“60 days until the perfect body,”
“Washboard abs without ever
moving a muscle,” Get maximum
bulk from minimum effort!”
All sound familiar? They should do.
Every month, Men’s Health magazines
are littered with images of annoyingly
handsome men flawlessly chiselled
and sculpted to the point of perfection.
Gay & Straight men’s magazines alike
fill our shelves and force feed us with
body beautiful images and would have
us believe that it is the only way to live
our lives.
Answer this question: Are you really
happy with your body? An estimated 1
in 5 young men are deeply unhappy
with their body image and the number
of men admitted to hospitals or clinics
with anorexia has risen by 67 per cent
in the past five years.
Research also suggests that eating
disorders are predominant mainly
between the ages of 16 – 25.
The kind of pressures men young and
old are feeling these days to look their
best is without a doubt, causing
detrimental effects to their physical and
mental health. More and more men
are becoming depressed, suffering
from anxiety, turning to drugs and
alcohol and performing unsafe sex –
all effects of the toils and pressures of
everyday life.
The magazines, billboards and
aftershave commercials are no doubt
to blame but they aren’t the only
villains. The gay scene itself promotes
a body centred focus with high
expectations about physical
appearance. So to an extent, we also
have ourselves to blame.
Despite all of this, we should
remember that there is nothing
particularly wrong with wanting to look
your best. After all, a healthy diet with
regular exercise will ultimately lead to
a happier and healthier lifestyle.
Putting the diet and exercise lecture
aside for the moment, there is a further
importance to remember:
Vanity and Self-esteem no doubt go
hand in hand. The better we look, the
better we feel and the more confidence
we have. Your mental state of mind is
just as important as your physical
state.
As cliché as it sounds, believing in
yourself no matter what your shape is,
will do a lot for your confidence and
how people perceive you. Feeling
comfortable in your own skin, is
without a doubt, one of the most
important factors of personal health.
There has never been a more
important time for people to develop a
healthy perception of their bodies and
to raise their own self esteem.
Did you know?
Most Supermodels weigh 50%
LESS than the
average British
woman!!
If you find yourself regularly obsessing
about your body shape or weight then
exercise and a healthy balanced diet is
the only way to go. By doing as little
as fifteen minutes of exercise per day,
whether walking, jogging or
somersaulting across the Lisburn
Road, you can add tremendous
benefits to your physical and mental
health.
And if you think you’re overweight,
you’re not alone! 66% of men in the
UK are overweight or obese. Who
needs Washboard Abs anyway?
LADZ NIGHT OUT...
Each week the gathering takes place of
young gay, bisexual men and those
exploring their understanding of their
sexual orientation.
Young men of all shapes and sizes, different
backgrounds, some who like stiletto’s which
are so big they must pay road tax, some who
play football ( not very well I might add) and
some who just don’t care what I think anyway.
Yes folks you have arrived at the LADZ Youth
Project run by The Rainbow Project in L’Derry
at our Foyle Centre.
Tom and Phillip at the Rainbow Project Foyle Centre
The LADZ Project has a very serious side in
that all our work is around personal
development, lifting self esteem and raising
confidence in young men that have grown up
marginalised and excluded from society but
mostly it’s about having fun, activity, learning
new skills and meeting new friends.
You can find out more at our Bebo Site at
http://www.bebo.com/LadzY3 and look out for
out new LADZ pages at
www.rainbow-project.com Coming soon.
Sean Morrin
Youth Support Worker
The LADZ Project have also been involved in
the all Ireland LGBT residential at the SHARE
Centre and Activity Day at the OZONE in
Belfast. Many friendships have been made
throughout Ireland and long may this continue.
So if you are 14 to 25, feel free to come along
to The Rainbow Project Foyle Centre any
Wednesday from 5 to 7pm. You will be made
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
The residential weekend at Glebe House
MSM 12
My first time in the Kremlin was about seven
years ago (God I feel so old). I remember it well
because apart from the feeling of dread in the pit
of my stomach, it was also a Sunday night
which meant one thing – Bingo! I
remember the loud thunderous boom coming
from the stairs as I sat anxiously in the old Tsar
bar - It was Revvlon and his massive platform
boots! I watched in awe as the 8ft Drag Queen
walk towards me . When she reached me she
said (or rather hissed), “Do you wanna play
Bingo?!” Instead of peeing in my pants I
squeaked, “No thanks.” In true Revvlon fashion
though, she rolled her eyes and sneered at me
and walked away, disgusted.
Those were the days of the “Ball-busting Bingo”
of course and since the one woman show
Portia
TINA
what seems like many years ago, the Sunday
Bingo Show has literally
exploded into an all round entertainment
bonanza! The new show now consists of Cabaret, Karaoke, The Pink Lottery, Take Your Pick,
Drinks promotions, Camp camp camp Music,
lots of comedy and of course, Bingo. It also
hosts four of the best drag
artists that have ever graced the Northern Irish
gay scene.
MSM caught up with the cast of the improved
SBS backstage for a conversation in what was
probably the loudest, funniest, bitchiest hardest
interview, EVER!
Bunn
y
y
ud
Tr
Activities and projects are something we do a
lot of (when you can get most of them away
from the mirror) and the results have been very
good. We have produced a short film “Closet”
which has been shown in Dublin, New York
and as far away as Australia and we have
produced a DVD of short stories about being
gay/bisexual in Northern Ireland. We have
also completed workshops on mask making,
costume making, sexual health and addressed
issues such as addiction, depression and general mental health.
to feel very welcome by members, staff and
volunteers and who knows you may want to get
involved in our projects, you will get the
opportunity to meet new friends and catch up
with some old ones and you will be in a place
were you can totally be who you are and have
great fun.
A CONVERSATION WITH
THE SUNDAY
SHOW
MSM: Hi girl’s, thanks for inviting us into your fabulous dressing room. Myself (Jim) and John have a few
questions for ya. Try and keep it clean.
MSM: How did you first get into the entertainment
business?
Tina: It basically started as a laugh and a joke at parties
and it just excelled after that. Then I got an audition for the
parliament as a Drag Queen and then entered Alternative
Miss Ireland and came first and that’s what launched my
career and I’ve never looked back since.
Trudy: (breaks into the song “Don’t Rain on my parade”
for some reason) It was something that was always
around me because my mum used to bring my sister into
theatre classes and I screamed until she took me. Then,
two weeks after my sister left I just kept doing it and here I
am. (Lots of bitching ensues, Tina reminds us Trudy came
second in AMI).
Portia: (Told to keep it brief after she threatens to write an
autobiography) I have been doing performance arts all my
life and decided o move up to Belfast and didn’t want to do
a regular job. So I started doing drag... (there was more to
Portia’s answer we’re sure but Tina and Trudy waffled so
much that things just moved along...)
Bunny: Well I always wanted to do drag. Portia started
taking me down to union street on different nights in drag
then eventually I was allowed to do a few numbers for the
Sunday bingo show and then I just wouldn’t leave and now
they can’t get rid of me..
Trudy: Yea, the Drag Artist that wouldn’t go away!
MSM: What do you most like about the Sunday Bingo
Show?
Portia: Can I go first?
Tina: I’m gonna fuckin kill you if you steal my answer!
Portia: Well, it’s the amount of fun we have back stage, it’s
the amount of fun we have on stage and it’s the friendship
and bond that we have developed. (Everyone kind of
looks at each other) No really, we are so lucky and so
blessed to be doing something that we love to do!
Trudy: Well the thing about the Sunday Bingo Show for
me is that it’s sort of got a life of its own. In a sense that
there are certain elements that each of us brings and it’s
just not the same if one of us isn’t there. There’s a certain
formula that makes it what it is and it really does come
alive.
Tina: Do you know what I love? The unspoken competitiveness! Te secretly looking at each other and thinking oh
my god her fuckin number is amazing, her dress, her wig.
I love coming into work and I hate it when they’re better
than me. I fuckin hate it when Bunny gets a bigger round
of applause! For me it’s the competitiveness. Yes, we’re
all very good friends but we’re all very very competitive.
Trudy: I disagree.
Tina: yes we are!
Trudy: We’ve had this conversation before! I’m not competitive. I don’t mind Tina being competitive because that
raises her creativity.
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
Portia: I love when I walk of stage and people tell me I look
beautiful or the show was amazing. I like the attention!
Bunny: I love that everyone here is so different: You have
Tina who is just a big glitter ball of energy, Portia who has a
character who is so together and knows her character back
to front, Trudy comes up with something that will blow you
away every week because she just thinks of things that no
one else does and then I live in my own little retro fantasy
where Judy Garland is still alive! It’s a place that we can do
whatever we want and that’s fantastic!
MSM: So far, what’s your best memory of the Sunday
bingo Show?
Tina: My most memorable one was the night I did a show
in sign language and my mum and sister were in the audience (Tina’s sister is deaf) and it was the first time they had
ever been to one of my shows. It was my birthday and I
didn’t know they were gonna be there and then I dedicated
the show to my daddy and he died four days later. I don’t
think I’ll ever have a show better than that.
Trudy: My most memorable show was probably my birthday as well you know because the girls had like thirty or
forty of my family and friends at the show – I’m normally
really good at finding out surprises but I had NO idea! At
first I didn’t even realise they were there then faces just
started popping out of the crowd. It was actually really nice,
I thought I as gonna cry. I wondered why I was getting such
loud applause (laughs).
Portia: You know, I really couldn’t say because there’s so
many good nights and things that have happened. The
show is so good every single week, I can’t think of one
particular time!
Bunny: My favourite memory is when Trudy brought an
old Drag Queen out of retirement, Lilli Vin Stoom and they
did Barbra. There wasn’t one person in the audience that
wasn’t looking at them, it was amazing.
MSM: Ok, out of the Sunday Bingo Show cast who
would you like to Kiss, Fuck and Kill?
(everyone laughs – we agree that the MSM team are Journalistic genesis)
Tina: I would kiss Portia...and get her to suck cocaine off
my cock..
(Off course MSM does not condone such behaviour ...)
Trudy: Yea so her mouth is numb so she can’t taste the
cum!
Tina: I’d kill Trudy
Trudy: I would kill Bunny for her drag wardrobe.. I would
kiss Portia because she’s pow’rful... and I would fuck Tina...
off a cliff! (Tina looks offended. We laugh at her mockingly)
Portia: (screeches something in a high pitch voice) I would
kiss Trudy.. I would fuck in a three some Bunny and Tina
because they’re dirty bastards and it would be great!!
Trudy: Who would you kill?
Portia: Myself! (laughs)
Bunny: Erm... I would kiss Trudy. From the stories I’ve
heard, I’d buck Tina and I’d kill Portia.
Portia: Whore!!
Bunny: She’s very sweet but she does tell you a bit too
much information about the diet.
MSM 14
MSM: Alright, Your catchphrase is “fuck the lingo, let’s
play bingo!” But which numbers do you look forward
to and which numbers do you dread?
Tina: I’m actually quite superstitious so I don’t like the
number 13. Don’t like calling it out. Oh, and my favourite is
69!
Portia: (in realisation) Oooooh Numbers!!! I thought you
meant songs!! You mean actual numbers?
Tina: Oh for fuck sake Portia!
Trudy: Portia’s a little dyslexic by the way! (MSM agrees)
Trudy: (laughs) My favourite number is legs eleven!!
What number do I dread? (Thinks for ages making a
weird noise with her gob)... 101!
(at this point John’s short hand is failing him – he can’t
keep up, thankfully I came prepared!)
Portia: I quite like two little ducks 22 because you can use
a Ballymena accent.
MSM: Huh?
Tina: What’s the number you dislike?
Portia: What’s the quack quack one?
MSM: Huh?
Portia: Oh no wait, what’s two fat lesbians?
Tina and Trudy: Eighty eight.
Portia: Oh yea, hate that one because it’s disrespectful to
lesbians.
MSM: Moving swiftly on... Is Portia as big a frigid as
she says she is and Tina are you a big a slut as you
say you are?
Tina: Yes, definitely.
Trudy: (laughs) Tina had two men before she even got
here!
Tina: Aye, two in about 20 minutes. One came to my
house and kept me late for work.. he walked in, pulled my
tights down and sucked me off!
Trudy: I phoned her and said “Tina where are you?” and
she said.... Cuuuuuuuming!!
MSM: And the other guy?
Tina: In the car park earlier. Oh and yes, Portia is unbelievably frigid. She doesn’t do drag shags! I do.
Portia: That doesn’t mean I’m frigid because I don’t do
drag shags!
Trudy: I don’t think Portia is frigid because I’ve heard the
stories.
Portia: I’m not frigid at all! I just don’t shag people in drag.
It’s like someone working in a chippy and going home and
having sex in their uniform.. To me, this is just a uniform, a
night job.
Trudy: Tina would, over the deep fat fryer!
MSM: Trudy have you ever had a drag shag?
Trudy: No.
MSM: Bunny?
Bunny: I’m in a corset, two pairs of tights, two pairs of
control pants, it wouldn’t be easy!
Trudy: The type of men who usually go for Drag shags
are usually like spides then when you take off your Bra and
they realise you’ve nothing there, it’s weird.
Tina: Well hold on! When I take off my clothes I do have
something there! I have a great body, a big dick and a
really nice arse and I don’t mind showing it off!
Portia: When I take my tights off I look like I’ve had a suzerain!!
(the girls laugh and more high pitched mayhem happens.
Too much to possibly type!)
MSM: What’s your favourite thing about your alterego?
Bunny: My favourite thing is, when I started out doing this, I
was very quiet and didn’t feel comfortable coming out of my
shell but being Bunny really gives me that extra confidence
boost and now backstage for example, I could say whatever I want. She’s really gotten me out of my shell and
that’s what I love about it.
Portia: I think mine is the glamour and sex appeal! (Tina
sniggers)
Trudy: I love the fashion, the fegs, the fun and the fabulousness!
Tina: The money and the attention! I love everything about
it but I get to meet lots of people and I make great money.
That’s what I love about it.
MSM: What would you like it to say on your grave
stone?
Bunny: Lashes to ashes, busts to dust! (laughs)
Portia: Mine would probably say live life, love and be
happy!
Tina: I actually want both my names to be on my headstone. If I go before you cunts, you may make sure is says
Gerard Tina Leggs Tantrums Fat Face Walls! Actually, Big
Dick... here lies a Champion!
Bunny: I think Portia’s would say “Are you interested in
buying?”
Trudy: (laughs) I would like it to say “the fags gone!”
MSM: Any last words for all the people reading this?
Tina: You know, I would just like to say a massive thank
you to everyone, to all communities who come down to
support us and continue to support us.
Portia: yea, that’s perfect. I agree.
Trudy: don’t do to others that you wouldn’t have done to
yourself.
Portia: Just going back to what Tina said. A really big
thank you to everyone who supports us. But not just on a
Sunday night, to those that come down on all our other
nights and support us. Thank you.
The Sunday Bingo Show can be found at the Shoe
Factory from 9pm on a Sunday night. Don’t miss it.
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
MSM 15
TAKING IT!
TOP, BOTTOM OR VERSATILE?
If you are a member of such Gay dating websites
such as Gaydar or Ladslads, you may have been
asked to reveal your preferred sexual position before
even meeting up for a casual date or in the hopes of
a long-term relationship. As strange as this may
sound, declaring it is now an accepted norm in the
world of online gay dating.
But do all Men Who Have Sex With Men engage in
anal sex and how can you be sure that it is enjoyable
and safe for both you and your partner? Firstly,
surveys by the Terrence Higgins Trust have shown
that 1 in 5 gay men do not have anal sex in any one
year. So if it is not for you, you are not alone. There is
plenty of fun to be had anyway with rimming,
blowjobs, fingering the prostate, sex toys etc. etc. If
anal sex is your thing or you would like to try it, then
we have some tips for you here whether you are a
Top, Bottom or Versatile:
¤ The more often you do it as a Bottom, the better it
will feel. You could practice on your own using
your fingers if you are nervous;
¤ Choose a position that suits you both. The Bottom
on top Cowboy Style will give the Bottom an
opportunity to control how far the cock goes in.
¤ The classic legs over his shoulders is a favourite
of many as it helps the sphincter relax;
¤ To avoid mess and the risk of STIs, always use
condoms. It is also handy to have wipes nearby.
¤ Some gay men would use anal douches but
these can wash away much of the protective
mucous lining your arse;
¤ Remember that tearing of the lining of the arse of
the Bottom can you put you both at increased risk
of infection; so gently does it! Apply plenty of lube
to the condom and the Bottom’s arse to avoid too
much friction;
¤ If you want to be asked back for more as a Top,
then take it slowly and help your partner to relax
his sphincter by massaging it first and gently
inserting some fingers. Then gently push your
cock in slightly until you feel your partner’s arse
tighten. Then wait until the sphincter relaxes, this
can take between 30 and 60 seconds so be
patient, before pushing it in further. The Bottom
could try and push out his sphincter as if having a
shit and should not forget to breath!;
¤ If the inside of the Bottom’s arse is sore when
being fucked, it could be that you two simply have
the angle wrong. Change the angle by trusting up
rather than sideways. Also, always remember that
STOP means STOP NOW!
¤ Finally, (and this is important, so read this first
before you get “down and dirty”). Pull out gently to
avoid any pain and hold onto the condom at the
same time.
Well, that is all the tips we have for you for now. So
whether you are a Top, Bottom or Versatile or just
not into anal sex, the main message here
is to relax, be safe and enjoy the fun!
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
MSM 16
CUT OR UNCUT?
DOES CIRCUMCISION REDUCE HIV?
Over the last few years, there has
been some discussion on whether or
not one’s foreskin can reduce the
rate of HIV.
It began back in mid 2005 in South
Africa, where a controlled trail of
circumcisions took place. The findings
were based on two separate trails in
Kenya and Uganda where men would
be offered circumcision straight away,
or after a two year delay.
The trails however were stopped early
and due to the strong body of evidence
produced, all of the participants were
eventually offered circumcision.
The Ugandan study included nearly
5000 men aged 15–49. The results of
this study found that 48% of these men
were less likely to acquire HIV. The
Kenyan study then included 2800 men
aged 18-24 and resulted that 53% of
men were less likely to acquire HIV.
The results for these heterosexual
based tests seemed enormously
important to a nation where over 20
million people have HIV/AIDS. It seems
that circumcision could reduce HIV
transmission in heterosexual sex by
50%.
So what is the big deal about the
Foreskin? Well, Scientists have found
that cells in the inside lining of the
foreskin are especially venerable to HIV
and circumcision removes them.
were circumcised. The data collected
was significantly lower from its African
counterpart. Only 14% showed a lower
risk of HIV in circumcised men. With
such a weak number, it is hard for the
scientific
community to distinguish whether this is
a genuine figure, or purely just a chance
result.
The MSM results may be so low
because research suggests that the
majority of HIV infected men are
reported to be the receptive partner
(bottom) so being circumcised might not
reduce the risk anyway.
Through all of these tests and
discussions, many HIV/AIDS Campaigns
and Health organisations across the
world are still warning against the effects
of unprotected sex. There is a worry in
the health community that with all of this
discussion, people who are circumcised
might suddenly engage in overly
promiscuous activities, thinking that they
are immune to the infection.
Social, information, support & networking for Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual, Transgender people, their friends and
families living, working or studying in or near the
Causeway Coast area
We have a Drop-In Base which offers a chance to relax, enjoy some refreshments, meet new people, have a chat and catch up with old
friends. We meet on the 1st Monday of each month 7.00pm – 9.00pm
Resource Room–Simon Community House, 14 -16 Lodge Road,
Coleraine
Info-line: 07910 980314 (Thursdays 7pm-9pm only)
www.causewaylgbt.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
We’re also on Bebo: CausewayLgbtN
Men that have sex with men, whether
cut or uncut, are susceptible to HIV.
Being “cut” is by no means, a substitute
for Safer Sex.
Thus the message is still clear;
always use a condom.
Can circumcision reduce the
risk of HIV in MSM?
In the USA, the Centre of Decease
Control, Atlanta, examined 53,567 men
who have sex with men - 52% of which
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
MSM 18
Causeway LGBT Network’s Drop-In is a drug & alcohol-free zone.
AUNTIE PAT’S
PROBLEM PAGE
Hello to all you poof’s and queens. My
name is Pat, Auntie Pat to you. I have been
tasked with replying to the whinging letters
MSM receive from all the men in Northern
Ireland. If you have a problem that no one
else can answer, contact MSM and
between my G&T, cookies and Eastenders I
will print a reply. It probably won’t do you
any good, but it will give the rest of us a
laugh.
With Minimal Love
Auntie Pat
Dear James,
I'm not sure if this is on the market yet but
search the web anyway - Barbie doll has a
mate called Ken, really cute guy. I know
he would be the perfect solution to your
problem. Anyway the most exciting thing is that
Ken is going robotic. What more could you
want? Christmas arriving early!
Auntie Pat
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Auntie Pat,
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Auntie Pat,
I hope you can help!! I'm gay and going out
with this guy but I don't know how to tell my
family, but supposed "friends" are telling loads
of people... So how do I tell my family???
Stressed, (18) Newtownabbey
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Stressed,
Open your mouth and say 'Mum, Dad, I am
gay! Piss, or get off the pot!
I have a problem that has haunted me every
day of my life since I can remember. I am 25yrs
old, and I have actually no proper set of
eyebrows. I am really embarrassed about this.
There is a scattered amount of hair that grows,
but it is very light and not very visible from a
distance. I have to fill in my eyebrows with an
eye pencil to make it look like i have a set of
eyebrows
Any suggestions or advice??
Hairless, 25, Derry
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Auntie Pat
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Auntie Pat,
Can you give me advice on what to do? I’m
straight but I get attracted to guys. All i think
about is kissing cuddling with them, I don’t
wanna see their parts below the waist. I’m not
gay, I just want comforting lots off kissing
cuddling and being close! Its getting me really
down and I’ve been comfort eating and feeling
lonely. what do I do?
James (21) Belfast
____________________________________________________________________________________________
www.rainbow-project.org
October 2008
Dear Hairless,
I really think you've made a mistake contacting
me, I might be good but I know my
limitations. I am not psychic, was never
psychic, or ever will be. Perhaps you should
contact Ghost Busters, or Most Haunted to get
in touch with your eyebrows.
Auntie Pat
____________________________________________________________________________________________
If you have a problem you would like to
send to Auntie Pat, you can email her at
[email protected]
MSM 20
T R P
C O N D O MS
&
L UBE
GOT COCK?
NEED CONDOMS!
AVAILABLE FREE AT
www.rainbow-project.org