Community News Letter

March 2003

 

Many apologies for the lateness of this Newsletter. We started off hoping to send one out in early February. All I can say is that there has been a lot happening and we weren’t sure of our facts. Bearing in mind the confusion caused last year with several versions going electronically and hard copy with fluid matters we decided that as there was little happening we would wait and see.

 

HEALTH PROMOTION

Last year Carrey Friend was asked to take part in the consultative process to establish the Islands first Sexual Health strategy. We were very pleased to be asked. One of only two voluntary organisations so consulted. When the first draft appeared there were many items with which we were not happy but new submissions have resulted in most of our proposals being incorporated. We will feature some of the results in a future issue.

 

FIESTA HAVANA

We are told that the experiment with Sunday evenings has now come to an end and that they are no more. If we are wrong can someone please let us know.

 

Death of Ken Bradford.

Ken Bradford died recently. He used to be a regular on the scene in the 1970’s, ‘80’s and early ‘90’s. He had been living in retirement in Castletown recently. We share the grief of his family. This highlights how few older members there are in our community and how precious are their memories. Is anyone out there prepared to try and set up an oral history project, interviewing on tape the memories of the few left who can remember back to the 1950’s and the scene around the quayside?

 

RON THOMAS HEART PROBLEMS

Ron was taken ill in late January with heart problems. He is now back running Extension 2. No doubt too soon. Thanks to his son and partner and Steve for helping keep it open in February. Future improvements may help establish “Rons” as it is affectionately known as a premier small supper cabaret venue.

 

WEBSITE UPDATED

All remaining website amendments have been made, thanks Mark, It should now be accurate for months to come

 

 

 

PRIDE PRIDE PRIDE PRIDE PRIDE

We are still aiming for Tynwald Weekend but as yet have no venue or entertainment. Next Community meeting at Extension 2 on 13th March at 7.30pm to finalise

     

                       EVENTS

 

Extension 2 Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from 21.00

 

Extension 2, 1st March, GINO see over for more info

 

13th March Community/Pride Meeting at Extension 2 at 19.30

 

World Aids day. Volunteers required to help the committee set up events for this year. Please attend 13/03/03 meeting

 

5th April Monthly disco at Extension 2 21.00 £4.00 on the door

 

     CAN YOU HELP PLEASE?

A lesbian post grad student  at Liverpool John Moores is researching social support for lesbians working in schools. She is looking for one to one interviews and will guarantee confidentiality. She can be contacted at SS3859@aol.com

 

Data protection. If we have your address details either by post or e-mail wrong please let us know. If you want to be taken off the mailing list e-mail to friend@gayinfo.org.im or write PO Box 170 Douglas

 

AND FINALLY…..

We have been very fortunate in finding someone to sponsor our new leaflets and cards. No. 34 Therapy Collective working out of 34 Victoria street offer many complementary therapies and have agreed to pay for the new leaflets, cards and Web Site for the next year. Thank you.

 

PLEASE CONSIDER USING THEM