From: pbt@mail.ast.cam.ac.uk (Philip) Subject: The Edward Carpenter Community : Events 1994 Date: Thu, 20 Jan 1994 11:28:36 GMT THE EDWARD CARPENTER COMMUNITY I am taking this opportunity of posting a message to draw soc.motss readers attention to the existence of the gay network in the UK known as the Edward Carpenter Community - in particular I am doing this now as the 1994 national events have just been announced and bookings are now being taken. The Edward Carpenter Community (ECC) is a network of gay men committed to "personal growth, sharing, trust, mutual support and creativity". If that all sounds a bit heavy, don't believe it, the events are often outrageous, camp and more fun than almost anywhere else. For many people their first ECC week is a life-changing experience. Originally the ECC was based on the ideal of a rural community of men living together. There are now 2 living communities in London but with an emphasis now more on residential events held at a number of very special venues around the UK. There will probably be nine national events this year - all are 1 week long (except the 10 day event - the "tweek" - in June). All the events are known as "GMWs" (= Gay Mens Weeks). Numbers of people attending each event vary from 20 to 65. Prices are on a sliding scale - the principle is that no-one should be prevented from attending due to low income, unemployment, health problems etc. Some of the 1994 national ECC events are as follows :- APRIL : GMW 1 is in the Lake District at Wasdale. A spectacular location with excellent walking in the vicinity. JUNE : GMW 2 is at a very special location, Lauriston Hall in SW Scotland. This is where the ECC was formed and it remains a "spiritual home". This event is 10 days long. JULY/AUG : GMW 3 is a 7 day event again at Lauriston Hall. (* Note - this week is particularly heavily booked! *) AUGUST : GMW 4 Also in the Lake District with an emphasis on outdoor activities. SEPTEMBER : A new concept - a joint Lesbian/Gay week at Lauriston Hall. This is the first time this has been tried. There will be other weeks whose details are yet to be confirmed. If you are interested in more information and a booking form for any of the events then please phone the main ECC contact in London : (UK+) 081-672-8857. These events are so popular that places are rapidly filled - particularly for the Lauriston events which are usually fully booked within days of their being announced. However, there is a policy of reserving one-third of the places for those who have not previously attended so this gives the first-timer a reasonable chance of getting a place. Please feel free to contact me for information. Sorry I *cannot* deal with actual bookings - these must be made in writing to the person dealing with the specific event. Philip email : pbt@mail.ast.cam.ac.uk