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New addiction group for gay and bisexual men

THT

This summer, HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is launching a new group for gay and bisexual men in Brighton who feel that drug or alcohol use is having an overwhelming and negative impact on their lives or sexual behaviour. The charity is asking men in the city to get in touch to register their interest in taking part in the group, which will run from the charity’s centre on Ship Street on Thursday evenings and will launch in July.

The addictions group will be open to local men irrespective of their HIV status and will provide a confidential and non-judgemental space where they can explore sexual behaviours within the wider context of other lifestyle choices, such as drug or alcohol use.

50 per cent of new HIV diagnoses in the South East of England in 2011 were among gay and bisexual men. Gay and bisexual men are also more likely to be diagnosed with other sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhoea. Men who attend the new support group will learn strategies to take control and break cycles of behaviour that might make them unhappy or put them at increased risk of sexual ill health.

Ross Boseley, Health Promotion Co-ordinator for Terrence Higgins Trust in Brighton, said:

“There is a wealth of information out there designed to support people to make positive decisions around alcohol, drug use and sexual behaviour. Even with all that information we can at times in our lives make decisions that don’t make us happy. If you find yourself struggling to make the right choices for you, it’s important to know that there is support out there. We hope that gay and bisexual men in the city will take advantage of this free, non-judgemental and confidential space where they can work through their behaviours and take control of their health.”

THT offers a comprehensive programme of groups for gay and bisexual men in Brighton, covering a range of issues including compulsive and chaotic behaviour around sex and drugs. Men who are diagnosed with HIV can also access one-to-one support and practical advice through the charity’s counselling and health training services.

For more information or to register your interest in taking part in the group, EMAIL:

Or telephone: 01273 764208

For more information about THT, CLICK HERE:

Royal Spa Nursery School Summer Fete Fundraiser

Royal Spa Nursey School

Royal Spa Nursery School will be hosting their summer fete fundraiser at Park Hill, Brighton, on Saturday, June 22 at 11am.

The day, which raises vital funds for the nursery, will feature food and drink stalls, a bouncy castle, adults’ and kids’ tombola, face painting, glitter tattoos, plant and arts & crafts stalls, a luxury hamper and a raffle.

Event: Summer Fete

Where: Royal Spa Nursery School, Park Hill, Brighton, BN2 0BT (entrance in Queen’s Park, near the playground pond).

When: Saturday, June 22 at 11am.

For more information, or to donate something for the raffle, EMAIL: 

Hove Carnival 2013

Hove Carnival

This year’s Hove Carnival is on Bank Holiday Monday, May, 27 at Hove Park from midday.  As well as all your favourite family activities, this year the carnival will feature a line up of local artists and bands who will be performing in the Big Top throughout the afternoon.

Amongst the line up is Kevin Pearce, an up and coming indie folk musician, whose reputation is growing. Kevin has been receiving BBC radio airplay and has performed extensively throughout the UK (supporting the likes of Scott Matthews, Sandi Thom and Boo Hewerdine) and has recently returned from a tour of America’s east coast.

Another highlight is Samantha Horwill, a South African born singer songwriter who’s gutsy catchy modern fold is characterised by strong melodies and emotive lyrics. Her debut album ‘Caught in the Light’ released in 2012 established a new song writing voice.

Sam has a close connection to the Hospice and didn’t hesitate to get involved:

She said:

“My mother was cared for at The Martlets in 2008, where she died from lung cancer. I try and raise money for the hospice whenever I can, including my biennial Sam’s Christmas Stocking events and I am delighted to involved in the Hove Carnival this year.”

The full line up for Monday, May 27 is:

•      12-1 Karl Bashford
•       1-2 Edd Mann
•       2-3 Chris & Layla
•       3-4 Sam Horwill
•        4-5 Kevin Pearce
•        5-6 Annalisa & Chris

Tickets for the Big Top can be purchased in advance for each 40 minute set from the Brighton Fringe website (£2) or pay on the day (£2.50).

As well as the Fair, there will be plenty of traditional old fashioned activities on offer; from Punch & Judy shows and a coconut shy, to the ever popular swing boats. The main Arena will have a rolling programme of events. One of the highlights will be the Falconry display and, of course, the annual dog show.

Visitors will also be able to get up close to other animals including owls, donkeys and a cheeky goat called Ruby.  For younger visitors worried about their own cuddly animals, St John’s Ambulance will be on hand running a Teddy Bears Hospital.

Railway lovers will be spoilt for choice as not only will Hove Park’s miniature locomotive be running and Tate Cars are sponsoring an electric train.

Pick up golfing tips from the experts at Lewes golf club or get your hands dirty planting up pots with Mayberry Garden Centre.

For Hove’s master bakers there will be a chance to show off in the ‘Bake Off’ tent.

For more information, CLICK HERE: 

The finale of the carnival will be a spectacular memory balloon release.  Each balloon will be £2 and you can add your own message.  The proceeds of the carnival will be split between the organisers.

Elias String Quartet: St George’s Church: Brighton Festival Review

EliasStringQuartet1_large

String Quartet in A major Op. 18 No. 5
String Quartet in C major Op. 59 No. 3, ‘Rasumovsky’ 
String Quartet in C sharp minor Op. 131

The last of the Elias Quartet’s trio of concerts exploring and celebrating Beethoven’s string quartets culminated in the Op. 131 quartet, Beethoven’s personal favourite of his late quartets. Schumann, himself a master of the form, admired the late quartets for ‘…the grandeur of which no words can express. They seem to me to stand… on the extreme boundary of all that has hitherto been attained by human art and imagination.’ Before that, the Op. 18 quartet looked back to Mozart while the Op. 59, composed for the Russian ambassador to Vienna, Prince Rasumovsky, had a Russian tinge.

The cello playing was exceptional, but then all the musicians tonight were astonishing, each a vibrant part of the whole with subtle and sophisticated expression and playing which allowed the music to soar, their phrasing was spot on. This is an enchantingly expressive quartet filled with moments of theatricality whilst maintaining a ruthless determination to bring every note out into the auditorium and fill the space with the composer’s complex meaning.

ESQEalovega

This was an excellent evening of ensemble playing, the Elias Quartet are on top of their game right now, with an intense projection of their combined will into the auditorium which connected with this most eccentric of Beethoven pieces to bring a real sense of darling to the concert and delight the audience.

You can see more of the Beethoven recital project here on their dedicated website where they are documenting the project:

These three interesting pieces which show Beethoven less showy and grand but in movement between the classical and the introspective romantic whilst still maintaining the tight and close reliance on rhythm and melody that makes these quartets such a rewarding listening experience.

See the Elias Quartet website here for future performances:

This was an exceptional evening of musical accomplishment and a real highlight of the festival for me so far, the Elias Quartet are simply superb.

50 Shades of Cabaret at Proud Cabaret

Proud Cabaret Brighton

I paid a visit to the new 50 Shades of Cabaret evening at Proud Cabaret in Kemptown last month. It was fascinating!

I should have realised when I received an email on the afternoon of the event from Proud Cabaret asking me to agree to the following conditions that this would not be your typical night out for dinner.

The email read:

“During the evening, guests may be subject to any or all of the following: Mild restraint (handcuffs, shackles or blindfolds) / mild physical contact and ‘punishments’ from your waiter or waitress (light spanking, drink challenges, dares etc.). ‘Punishments’ may be incurred for any reason deemed appropriate by staff. Witnessing performances of a mildly sexual/fetish themed nature. You will be required to adhere to ‘the rules’ of your table. Please note all of the above is with good intent and in no-way forces guests to participate. Guests are free to leave at any time. Guests will also be provided with a Safety word should you feel uncomfortable with your situation. At the beginning of the evening guests will be able to blow out their candle should they not wish to get involved in the show but want to watch only.”

“YOU MUST NOT TOUCH YOUR WAITER/WAITRESS AT ANY TIME.

Dress code is strictly dress to impress, and dress up is strongly encouraged – think fetish inspired/burlesque/vintage/ PVC/gothic. No casual street wear will be permitted. Toilet or cigarette breaks must be requested from a member of staff, who will grant you permission. Taking longer than the allocated time may result in a ‘punishment’ from your waiter/waitress.

Proud Cabaret Brighton

What played out when we arrived at the venue was classic master slave role play. Our waitress introduced herself and then left us in no doubt who was in control of the evenings events. Her permission had to be sought to go to the toilet or to go smoking outside. If you wanted salt with your food you had to beg. All good fun until you upset her and then you were taken to the stage to be publicly spanked in front of all the other diners or committed to spend time on all fours in the cage on the stage. Our waitress was a very good mistress indeed!

You choose what to eat online before you arrive. My partner and I both chose the same food. Sweet pea and watercress soup, followed by herb crusted rack of lamb, finishing with a selection of British cheeses.

All I can say is that the food was excellent. Great soup, lamb cooked to perfection and well chosen cheeses that had been left to breath,

Very often at these type of cabaret/dinner venues the food is a bit of a let down but it certainly was not here, I would thoroughly recommend it.

The evenings entertainment started towards the end of the meal. The artists individually were very good but the show was not held together well. It went on for too long with long gaps between the artists. Tighten that up and you have a great evening out.

The meal and show cost a very reasonable £24 and the drinks were not too expensive.

Proud Cabaret Brighton

Performers include: Miss Betty, Chi Chi Revolver, Dolly Rocket and Betsie Bon Bon.

Proud Cabaret is a lovely venue and there is nothing quite like this type of night out in Brighton. Ideal for birthdays and anniversaries.

A 12.5% service charge is added to your bill at the end of the evening. If you want only to see the show tickets are £11.20

For more information CLICK HERE: 

 

 

Denver loses North American Outgames in 2015

Denver lose Outgames in 2015
Denver lose Outgames in 2015

The Board of GLISA North America (Gay and Lesbian International Sport Association – North America) has announced that it has regretfully terminated discussions with the Denver Outgames Host Committee to hold the next North America Outgames. in 2015.

“We really did not want to take this action,” said Bruce Townsend, President of GLISA North America. “But we have not been kept informed of any significant development in the planning of the three components that make up an Outgames- Sports, Culture and Human Rights.”

In 2010 GLISA NA accepted the bid to hold the next North America Outgames in Denver. During the 2010 Cinco de Mayo weekend, representatives from GLISA North America conducted a site visit and held weekend – long meetings with Denver individuals. “We had a great visit with many wonderful Denver folks during Cinco de mayo; they made a good start and we expected to see on- going progress on areas identified for improvement,” said Greg Larocque, former President of GLISA North America and Bid Committee Chair.

In the intervening time, GLISA North America has not been informed of substantive progress on issues noted during the site visit. Recently, an additional issue of a conflict of interest has arisen which has not been constructively addressed.

GLISA North America is committed to the delivery of quality Outgames for the North American LGBTQI community. The importance of safe, welcoming and inclusive opportunities to play one’s sport, discuss one’s Human Rights and celebrate one’s accomplishments cannot be understated. GLISA North America will not go forward with an event that does not continue the history of success of previous North America Outgames,” according to Duy Ngo, GLISA NA Licensing Committee Chair.

GLISA North America is pursuing other opportunities for the North America LGBTQI community and will provide information as it becomes available.

GLISA North America has hosted two successful Outgames to date, in 2007 in Calgary, Alberta, the 25th anniversary of the Western Cup, and in 2011 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Both events brought several thousand participants and locals out for the three components and captivated each city during the Outgames activities. The different sport activities occurred over a week of events; the Human Rights Conference lasted three and five days (Calgary and Vancouver respectively); and the cultural activities included celebrations from every dimension in the community including featured performances by Lily Tomlin (Calgary) and Carol Pope (Vancouver).

DENVER WEB.600

Hove MP calls for end to commercial squatting

Mike Weatherley, MP
Mike Weatherley, MP & Mike Stimpson,

Mike Weatherley, the Conservative MP for Hove and Portslade, along with Mike Stimpson, Chair of the Southern Landlords Association, has hand-delivered a personal letter to the Prime Minister calling for anti-squatting legislation to be extended to commercial properties.

Mike was instrumental in the criminalisation of squatting in residential properties, which doesn’t include commercial properties in September 2012.

Mike said:

“I was delighted that Mike Stimpson from the Southern Landlords Association could join me in delivering my letter to the Prime Minister. For too long squatters have run roughshod over the wishes of local communities. The law criminalising squatting in residential properties has been a real success. Now we need to extend it to commercial.”

He continued:

“The Prime Minister was very supportive of the initial legislation so I am confident that he will back criminalising squatting outright.”

As a consequence of Mike’s role in passing the new law, squatters have led a vitriolic campaign against the MP on Twitter and routinely call for his death.

A whole website has even been created to monitor Mike’s death.

I Look: I Divine at The Marlborough Theatre

ilook

Mark Kydd deftly interwove fiction with reality at I Look: I Divine, a semi-autobiographical story of growing up gay in Dundee, where the only club was The Beez Knees, a misnomer if ever there was one!

Growing up as the more flamboyant of two brothers in the 1970s and 80s, Mark used introspectic anecdotal monologue to captivate the audience, all peppered with scenes from obscure 1980s novel I Look Divine, a work that centres around two gay brothers, one of whom is Nicholas, a self-absorbed, narcissistic young man who succumbs to age despite countless preventive ministrations.

Told with humour, a penchant for origami, and charming self-deprication, “We planned two versions of this show; this is the one with no budget!” Mark used music and mimicry to segue from one scene to the next: we’re in Edinburgh, we’re dipping our toes into its gay scene,  we’re asking the question is his brother really in love with Donna Summer?

Interspersed with cliff hanger revelations, faded memories and dusty family secrets, I Look: I Divine is a story many of us can relate to, a story stranger than fiction! 

Event: I Look: I Divine

Where: The Marlborough Theatre, 4 Princes Street, Brighton

When: May 22-24 at 7.30pm.

Tickets: £10/£8.

To book click here 

The show is part of The Brighton Fringe. 

Survey shows LGBTQ youth at risk from discrimination

METROResearch conducted by Metro, the equality and diversity charity, has shown that young LGBTQ people in England still experience discrimination, abuse and hate crimes.

Metro’s Youth Chances survey, which was based on responses from 9,020 LGBTQ people aged between 16-25, showed that 72% experienced homophobic name calling or other verbal abuse, 22% experienced physical assault, 42% experienced threats and intimidation and 43% harrassment.

Dr Greg Ussher, METRO Deputy CEO, said:

“As we mark the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, these findings are sobering. There have been major steps forward in LGBT equality and in understanding the needs of young people, but as our findings show we still have a long way to go to eliminating discrimination and ensuring that sexuality and gender identity are not barriers to young people’s happiness and wellbeing.

“It is of grave concern to me that our young people face such violence and fear because of who they are. Our work with young people in schools and youth groups confirms these findings and how important it is to ensure young people are supported and that homophobic bullying is addressed. We are committed to ensuring that Youth Chances results in real change to young people’s lives and we are working with commissioners and providers to this end.”

Further reports on findings from Youth Chances will be published later in the year with a further survey being undertaken in 2014.

For more info, CLICK HERE:    

First ‘bedroom tax’ eviction for Brighton?

The Labour and Cooperative spokesperson for tenant liaison, Cllr Leigh Farrow, is demanding an immediate investigation into the Green administrations much trumpeted ‘policy’ of ‘no eviction’ if any tenant gets into arrears over the Tory led governments Bedroom Tax, after the Labour and Cooperative Group were handed a letter sent to a tenant, threatening them with court proceedings to repossess their home after getting into arrears over the tax.

Two weeks ago the Green administration running the council brought an amendment to the Housing Committee setting out a policy that would preclude those getting into arrears over Bedroom tax from being evicted, however the tenant who has received the threatening letter spoke to the Councils team responsible, citing the ‘no eviction’ policy, only to be told by the member of staff that they had “never heard of it”.

The tenant is currently appealing a council decision regarding their assessment of the Bedroom Tax and as of today’s date has not received any reply.

At the meeting two weeks ago a Green Housing Committee spokesperson assured a deputation of residents that “there would be no more threatening letters sent to tenants”.
 

Cllr Leigh-Farrow
Cllr Leigh-Farrow

Labour and Cooperative Councillor, Leigh Farrow said:

“After receiving assurances from the Green administration that no tenant would be threatened with eviction if they were in arrears over the Bedroom Tax, we once again see them acting as agents for the Tory led government’s austerity policies. This is why I am today calling on the Green administration to launch an immediate investigation into this matter and to give assurances that no further distressing threatening letters are being sent out to tenants”

A council spokesperson, said:

“We have a legal obligation to warn tenants of the consequences of not paying rent and this letter is part of the multiple efforts we already make to work with tenants to avoid building up debts and facing eviction.

“Both these important facts were reiterated through the recent amendment at housing committee on under occupancy. The letter sent out is part of the process that enables us to work with tenants to explore all options including the feasibility of transferring to a more suitable property to avoid any benefit reductions.”

“The council’s policy on this issues is: That for a transitional period until 1st April 2014, where (i) all other avenues have been explored, and (ii) transfer is the only option but there are no suitable properties to transfer to, and (iii) where it is possible to clearly identify that arrears are solely due to the under-occupancy penalty; officers will use all means other than evictions and bailiffs to recover rent due.”

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