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I really don't think there are nearly as many "man-hater feminists" out there as some think or fear. As with anything in life, you'll have people that distort a valid idea or movement and go too far. In part I think the problem is that more radical elements tend to make more noise or get more of the attention. I'm a feminist, and in fact it bothers me when people say they aren't because truly it's meaning is that provided by MidniteMassage above, and has nothing to do with man-hating or putting men down. The other thing--and sometimes this is deliberate but often it's just unconscious--is when a group has been privileged with power it's hard for it recognize it and even harder for it to give that advantage up. Whether it's wealth, race, age, or gender, certain groups in our society are given advantages. Which isn't to say there's anything wrong with being rich, white, young, or male, or that those of us who fall into one or more of those demographics don't have problems, but we're also often blind to the privilege we have. I say this because some men are threatened by feminism and are unconsciously lasing out at the loss of their privilege. So they'll point to those feminists who are radical or unfair and paint them as if that's what all feminism is and undermine the movement and change the conversation. To be clear, I in no way think that's what the OP is doing here. Rather, I think it's in part the result of those that are threatened by feminism distorting its meaning (along with the few radicals) that the entire word starts to lose its true meaning or give it a bad taste for all of us when it shouldn't.

Gifts were delivered today. We filled up the igloo they had to hold them :p way to go guys!

Over 11 or so years in the business I've learned not to get angry. I don't even get frustrated anymore. I just say, if you can't enjoy it don't do it. So I enjoy the job and take pleasure in it. However, I am a bit mad at this new stupid law and wanted to write a letter. If you have a letter or a sentiment for our dear government, please feel free to share. Here it is: Dr Mr Harper, On the eve of C36, I present my life as a downtrodden, needy, and damaged woman forced into the sex trade by my own bad judgement and a number of shadowy pimps: I am 30. I have two university degrees and am starting a third degree in 2015. I spend my days smiling, laughing, and being happy. I am on my way to a great career. I have travelled the world. I like myself. I am healthy and in great physical form. I have friends and lovely family. I struggle with certain things, just like any human being alive. I speak two languages (unlike Harper and MacKay). I am an engaged, ambitious, and productive member of society. I pay my taxes. I have no addictions- not to drugs, not to drink, not to exploitative men. I am a companion, or cuddler, or woman, or whatever the linguistic result of your semantics war. I now live with a little more fear and paranoia thanks to C36. Thanks, Mr. Harper, for saving me from myself. I have a terrible life and I am in need of rescuing. However I'd like to point out that the worst thing in my life is surely YOU. You're worse than any pimp: you instill fear, you disrespect, and you create danger where none existed before. Merry Christmas to you and your family. Sincerely, Cara ps. I'd like to add, as a celebration of irony, that I've had domineering men in my life before and I've always had the strength and support to say no to their domination. Now with your new laws and assumed authority, you are in fact the one man in my life I cannot refuse or say no to. Of course it's great to be in a situation in which I can't say no or protect myself from a guy. A Christmas present indeed.

fem·i·nism : the belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities : organized activity in support of women's rights and interests This is the true definition and it has indeed been hijacked. Now when many people hear that someone is a feminist, they picture radical man hater out to elevate and destroy. There have been many feminists standing up against this industry, claiming victimization, painting ladies as unable to think for themselves, held back and down by men, forced and coerced. Yet, to me, a real feminist would focus on making sure the women have a right to CHOOSE, have workplace protections and labor rights and that there are laws in place to help those who are victims or need a better life circumstance. Feminism is not about pushing personal morals, agendas and beliefs, it's about giving everyone the right to choose. The right to have the same benefits and pay, the same access and yes, the same treatment. I don't believe that men should be automatically damned in favor of a woman, I don't believe that all abuse is only perpetrated by men or that only men manipulate and take advantage. I believe that we are all people and unique just like every life and situation. I believe in fairness for all, rights for all and in choosing what works for you as an individual. Feminism is NOT a dirty word and needs to be reclaimed. Those women who want to take away rights that don't fall in with their beliefs, feel men should be burned just because they are men and feel that every woman should receive benefit because they are simply a woman, need to be called out on what they really are because they are NOT feminists. Feminism is not just about women, it's about all people.

Unfortunately people with extreme views both right wing or left often tend to take sound middle of the road ideas and misrepresent them as the domain of their idiotic extreme views. For me and I think that for many Canadians my age (54) the feminist movement was a social movement started to address the glaring inequality that existed between men and women. Most men I think support the gains that have been made in women's rights and recognize that there are still issues to be addressed. I am the father of two amazing women who I have raised to be strong and independent and not to "need" the support or protection of any man. They know they can be or do anything they set their mind to they I think are the ideal that I understood the feminist movement was shooting for. But while strong and independent my daughters will continue to stand up for everyones human rights including women's right to equality. The men haters just like the right wing conservative moral crusaders who wrap them selves in the women's rights movement as a way to force their values on others will only win if they get to influence the minds of the next generation but they are losing that battle... they are in the last gasps of their existence as evidenced by their futile attempts to outlaw prostitution they have lost the support of the general public and it is only a matter of time now till they like the KKK of the civil right fight lose their relevance to society. Just my opinion Sent from my Passport using Tapatalk

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/wynne-has-grave-concern-about-new-prostitution-law/article21982770/

Maybe we should bring the bartender in limo ;). Lol

Thank you again for such a wonderful and fun evening. Great laughs, conversation and dancing were had. The drinks, entertainment and HOTTIES behind the bar were an added bonus. I feel lucky to have been able to be in such great company and catch up with everyone - plus meeting so many new friends was the icing on the cake. While I am now donating all my spare time to the gym (to work off mistert's to DIE for brownies) I eagerly await the next batch. Loneskater and MisterT you need to start your own event planning company - you outdo yourselves every event. While the ride to the event was an adventure in itself - maybe next time we can get a limo bus with a stripper pole....?

Meaghan, I couldn't agree with you more. There is indeed a long way to go and many things still haven't been addressed but we have made strides in the right direction, I believe. Now, as for these people who profess to be "feminists" in this current political climate. I honestly don't consider them feminists at all. I consider them rich, bored do-gooder housewives who are trying to put an end to prostitution. They pick the most vulnerable and yes, exploited, and use that as a symbol for their altruism. They have no idea of the real world outside their "ivory towers" and really don't understand the impact on others. They just don't want to see or hear about it. The Bedford decision brought the entire industry out into the light of day and they cannot stand that. They probably have husbands that "step out" or their marriage has failed because of something similar and they have an axe to grind. They adopt the mantel of feminism to try and give them credibility but in reality they are setting the real feminist movement back to the stone age. In all fairness to some of them, they don't even realize they are doing this, I believe. They truly believe they are trying to help but they forget the adage of "the road to hell is paved with good intentions".

A lot of the problem is that people who identify as feminists are now very divded on certain issues. Sexuality is one of them. Many of you have already pointed out that it's somewhat baffling that a woman who chooses by her own free will to profit handsomely from her sexuality can be painted as a victim. But there do seem to be plenty of self-proclaimed feminists who feel that any time a woman is sexualized, she is being exploited; that sexuality is implicitly degrading. An even trickier issue is ethics. Feminists want to see women achieve success and prominence in business and politics. However, the ways men achieved so much power in these fields are frequently seen as unethical. So there's a conflict of values. As a feminist, it might make you happy to see a woman as a wealthy CEO of giant company. However, it might offend you that to reach that level of success she had to resort to unethical tactics such as exploiting third world child labour to produce cheaper goods, using environmentally destructive materials and production methods, dishonest adverstising, union busting, bribing politicians, not paying her share of taxes etc.

A beautiful speech by Emma Watson at the UN:

I'm a feminist. Always have been and always will be. Do I agree with every statements other feminists say? No. That's what being a feminist is in my mind. Being able to hear others points of views, and deciding for yourself what you believe. Are women still being exploited and held back by a patriarchal society? Hell yes. Will I speak my mind about this? Of course. Society is constantly evolving. I still remember not being able to open a bank account without a husband's permission. We still have a long way to go.

I've pretty much been driving ever since Saturday morning so haven't had a chance to sit down and read or respond ... finally made it to Timmins and just have to say... what a RIOT!!! oh I had so much fun, and probably the hottest date on my arm... thank you Emily for sharing dinner and some good laughs xo Great to see all my friends, old and new :) I was so impressed with the entertainment! gorgeous and so talented, a most gracious hostess, such hot bartenders... dayum, non-stop tunes, and of course our outstanding organizers. You guys sure know how to show a lady a good time. Truly a class act, all of you.

..... my cerb social virginity that is! What a wonderful introduction to a great event. It was like sex, once you have it, the more you want it. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting and chatting with all the ladies and gentlemen, the spectacular entertainment, great food, fine tunes and the welcoming, open-minded, thoughtful and respectful atmosphere. I personally thanked mistert and loneskater at the social and want to add my public thanks here. I was remiss in not catching up with Alexandria (she was pretty busy being welcoming and gracious! - oh yeah, and gorgeous too!) so a public acknowledgement for all her efforts. Thanks all!

Likewise .... thank-you to the organizers of the Christmas Social. It was my first event, it won't be my last.

How about this one? Lol [ATTACH]258[/ATTACH] Xoxo, Miss Lane

Surprisingly, there was not a lot of media coverage surrounding this new law and 90% of the clients I see have no idea what the hell is going on so that says something right there. Not a peep as far as I know from the Ottawa Sun and Ottawa Citizen the last time I check online news stories. Toronto and Vancouver Police Departments have said they are making this new law a low priority to enforce. And Now Magazine in Toronto refuses to comply with the new law regarding third party ad banning. http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/now-magazine-plans-to-defy-ad-ban-in-new-prostitution-bill-1.2863044 Lets carry on...

First things first before I post this. To Cara, very well said and kudos for being the strong, independent, intelligent woman you are. Now from the other side, here goes. Dear Mr. Harper, My name is Ernie(yes, I am using my real first name here), also known as peacectryguy on several forums that advertise and discuss topics related to escorts in Canada. I am 55 years young, separated and work as a plumber/ heating tech in one of the busiest areas of the country. I pay my taxes and am a contributor to the overall good of the economy and well being of this great nation. I am also what is referred to as a hobbyist. I am a customer/ client of ladies who offer companionship for a fee. These ladies are confident and smart and beautiful and in the real dating world, I would likely never meet or see ladies of this stature as I would probably consider them out of my league and never even approach them. You however, and your cronies, would refer to me as a degenerate pervert or some other derogatory term and an exploiter of women. This is far from the reality of my world. I visit and spend time with lovely ladies ranging in age from early 20's to late 40's.I make every effort to treat the ladies with respect and dignity. These ladies are neither coerced by me or anyone else, nor are they victims of violence or drug abuse. They are just people like all of us. Now for the catch. You have enacted a law that would make me a criminal and deprive me of my ability to work in certain places and limit my abilities to continue to contribute to our nation's well-being. By doing this, you also deprive the ladies that I have grown to know the ability to distinguish the difference between a gentleman such as myself and the very people you say you are protecting them from. They are therefore, put into much graver danger then they were before this came into effect. This also limits the free exchange of information and the means for all of us to stay safe in a world where there will always be a select few who prefer to exploit and harm their fellow man or woman. You would drive the entire industry into the underground darkness to hide it from your puritan view rather than bring it all into the light and see it for what it truly is. By doing this you not only make "criminals out of thousands of honest men" (I quoted that because a minister said that when prohibition was enacted), but you allow the real criminals in all of this to never be exposed, therefore putting many ladies well-being and lives in danger. In conclusion, I just want to say thank you for showing your true colors and letting us all know that you are really not worthy of a seat of power in a democracy. With your power, there is supposed to be an unbiased perspective for the good of all Canadians, not just those you deem worthy. I think I'll copy and paste that and send it to our honorable P.M. What do you all think?

Everyone's risk tolerance will be different and I am not sure it is fair to put the responsibility for it on the lady who is responding.... personally I see the management of that risk as something that is up to me and I would prefer the lady simply answer my text with any personal tone she is feeling. Just my Opinion Sent from my Passport using Tapatalk

There. Finally found the letter that I mentioned yesterday from Toronto City Council (in the form of a JPG image) to Premier Wynn. It will be presented tomorrow on the National Day to Stop Violence Against Women. Thank you to the people who care about the safety of women! And

"It's a woman's body to do with it as she chooses!" So why does this apply to abortion and not SPing? I've always found that quite hypocritical. Anyway, there's a movement called Men Going Their Own Way, in which men simply give up on relationships with women and do their own thing, and when manly needs arise they pursue this hobby, or travel abroad to well known "affection destinations", or whatever. Some men, after getting gutted by Divorce and Family courts and false abuse claims, feel the pendulum has swung too far in the opposite direction and have removed themselves from all the drama. It seems to be a covert rebellion. "if the word feminist has been hijacked by extremists?" You don't say! :P

As someone doing a PhD in women's studies, let me say first off that there is no one definition of feminism, but as a generalization we can say that feminism refers to the political, economic and social equality of the sexes. There are many different strands of feminism, such as Marxist/Socialist feminism, radical feminism, liberal feminism, post-structural/postmodernist feminism. They all have particular histories and goals. It's much better to think of feminism in the plural, as feminisms, because there are many. In terms of the type of feminism influencing C36--this is a very specific form of radical feminism that was formulated during the 60s-70s-80s. But lest you think this a new incarnation, this type of "rescue the fallen women" has been a goal of middle class white women since the 19th century. Despite being very vocal, they are in fact a minority amongst feminists generally. I generally refer to myself as a sex radical feminist or a sex positive feminist. Those are labels that refer to a type of feminism that is supportive of sex workers rights, as well as trans rights (many rad fems are trans-exclusionary, arguing offensively that transwomen in particular are just men in drag). I would hope you wouldn't paint an entire group as man-haters because of a few bad apples.

They say the top ranks of politics and business are filled with psychopaths, and since men are 10-20 times as likely to be psychopaths as women, that probably partially explains the gender imbalance at the top rungs of society. So what's the solution here, encourage more women to be psychopaths? These folks don't play by the rules, and more rules just create more of a challenge for them.

I interrupt this nativity thread to bring you a picture of two T-Rexes fighting over a watermelon.

Yes the bartenders were cute and friendly. Would be nice to have them on hand next time. Same with the staff in the kitchen. Lol. All very nice. ;) Posted via Mobile Device

ok now that the jealousey gone because i couldn't go i'll reply lol now that's 2 in a row i missed but next one it will be planned well in advance loneskater and mistert always put on a awesome social great work

Again, thank you loneskater and mistert and Alexxandria! As loneskater said, Alexxandria is an amazing woman! And ALO and CMJ are wonderful places to enjoy life with beautiful, attractive women who make you feel great! Happy holidays and all the very best in the New Year to everyone!

I may just be the exception but i never really got the benefit of a separate hobby phone.. in my opinion i think it would just increase my risk because I would have to explain why two phones. My preferred approach is to have a good smartphone (BlackBerry Passport for example). That allows you to turn off or customize notifications, has password access and that you can use privacy Apps to hide text and email messages from companions in encrypted hidden folders. I also use a contact management app that allows for hidden contacts that are only accessible with password. This approach has worked for years and the security features are easily explained due to the work info on my phones. I am able to openly chat with many companions with little concern about privacy. Just my Opinion Sent from my Passport using Tapatalk

To the OP: As your first and only post in the 19 months you've been a member... I'm a little concerned you haven't learned to manage your cell phone discretely. Having your incoming messages viewed by others is not only uncomfortable for you but can also cause unwanted issues for the ladies you're communicating with. As Nicolette recommends: delete, delete, delete!

I say let somebody read all the babes and huns and whatever they want in my texts. It means absolutely nothing and never will. Women call me hon all the time in public places. Cashiers, bank tellers, my customers (some old enough to be my grandma and that is really old), ladies I hold the door open for at the post office who I don't know. The list goes on and on. If anyone is worried about their wife or girlfriend seeing it, then just delete it immediately or don't read the silly thing in front of them in the first place. Here's a novel idea, turn your hobby phone right off when you aren't alone and in private. Solves the discretion problem in a heartbeat.

You've beat me here .... :icon_wink: Being located in Montreal (and in Ottawa yesterday for that), my involvement was somewhat limited to doing things from a distance (i'm saying i had the easy job of the lot for this event). Having been in town a couple of weeks ago, maybe back in October, when i visited the venue before things went into full swing, that the brunt of the work was born by Loneskater's and Alexandria's shoulders. I've seen what was put in in terms of efforts and major investment, both in time and money, over the past few days, including yesterday, to make this happen. Cleaning, decorating, changing lightbulbs etc..... And Murphy was at work; what could go wrong in a building like this did go wrong. My vantage point was particular this time around; I helped organized but was also a spectator to the organisation (if that makes sense). I know, as i'm sure all of you are, that none of us organizers are in this to make money, just to bring members of the community together for a good time. As a sidetone, I've also gotten feedback from our performers overnight; they've enjoyed doing their numbers for us and stayed a little bit with us afterwards. Lengthy note, i know, just to tip my hat to my colleagues.

From all the ALO staff: We are very happy to be part of this amazing community Loneskater and Mister T did a great job. This 2 awesome guys don't get any benefit from this event, is just to keep us together and we all should appreciate that. Also want to thank Southie for his help thru night, all the beautiful ladies and amazing gentlemen that joined the event. Honey man of course. And much more Alexxandria

When I first entered the adult entertainment industry I was young and at the time it was for the money and the fact that I could have more freedom with my time (spending more time traveling, hanging out with friends and family) etc...However As I have grown up and tried different professions in this industry (Massage, Independent Courtesan & Dancer) I have gained so much more insight, memories & friends! It became more about the connections I was making with people and learning more about myself as well. I am a people person and I am very genuine with my service and my personality really does shine! I love making people happy & relaxed, chatting with all different types of people of different walks of lives is so exciting to me! Although of course (being honest) the money is great (especially when I am in school) and dont have to seek out loans and incur debt while still maintaing a comfortable lifestyle for my lovely fur baby (my dog) & I Hee Hee Just my 2 cents :P

Hi I like to see Ma's and have seen many of Ottawa's most popular MA' both at spas and as Indy's. In the east end there are two Massage Spa's, CMJEast and Vibe. Both in discreet locations that are easy to get to off the Queenway. Both are nice upscale and classy Spa's, with large modern showers and clean rooms. However the choice of women is limited. CMJ West seems to have a lot more choice in women and the East a fewer limited selection. I have met several of my favorite MA's in the east end, but they are now mostly available in the west end. The Spa's in the South and the West end are are a fair drive from downtown Ottawa during the lunch time and are even further when I am home in the far East end. I have a feeling that if more of the popular girls from the South and West End Spa's were to come to the east end location that there would be more clients going to the East end location. Orleans, Rockland, Vars, Cumberland, Navan and Blackburn Hamlet are close by. Between those locations there are probably thousands of men who find the east end location more convenient? Just wanted to see if any other members would go to the East End spa's if the choice of MA's were available. And which women would you love to see in the East if they were to visit more often? Hope to get a lot of input. Maybe we can convince the girls to come to the Eastend more often :)

Toronto Newspapers Says it Will Defy Ad Ban Stephanie Levitz, The Canadian Press Published Saturday, December 6, 2014 7:44AM EST http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/toronto-newspaper-says-it-will-defy-ad-ban-in-new-prostitution-bill-1.2135855

Happy Birthday to you Ms. Mandy. Have a wonderful day!

Happy Birthday MsManda Enjoy your special day RG

Yes, one big downside of the hidden hobby phone is the limited windows of communication. My responsiveness I'm sure may seem slow or I may appear aloof sometimes. I usually explain my phone situation to anyone I have regular communication with... they're always understanding. Another issues with my hobby (really) dumbphone is that cursed little numeric keypad. It takes me forever to type "quick" responses, but it does force me to be succinct (which is also appreciated, I'm sure). lol

Happy Birthday!

Hobby phone is the only way to go. Turn it on when playing, then turn it off when you aren't. Simple really. I'm surprised more don't have one.

The only sensible solution is to get more intimate in all of your communication: "Dear Armitage, Dunwitch & Whateley, Attorneys at Law: can you please quote me the price to draw up a few contracts, my delicious sweetie-pies? Thanks. Signed, Mr. Hun-hun Bunnycakes." Now all replies will look equally suspicious -- which means they will all look equally innocent!

Anyone see this girl? She was in Saint John earlier this week and now in Moncton. Pictures look great and would love to see her. Any info would be greatly appreciated. PM if required. http://newbrunswick.backpage.com/FemaleEscorts/attn-moncton-cutie-with-a-booty-here-to-satisfy-your-every-need/1845356

awesome social last night, by far the best one ive been to. saw some familiar faces, met some new faces, all in all, it was fantastic. cant wait for the next one!! :) my congrats to everyone who helped organize it :) star

I'm fortunate enough to not have a "lifestyle" to support. I don't drink, smoke or do drugs. My "day job" pays the majority of my bills. Right now a lot of my extra cash goes to training for said "day job", travel, paying off my student loans, and stashing it away for a raining day.

Even if money was the first reason someone decided to do this, it would not be the reason they would continue to do this.

I was 35 years old. I married my child hood sweet heart. I came home one day and she said its over. I said whats over and she said we are over. I said why and she said she did not love me anymore. She said I need to move out and she was keeping my children. That night I ventured out not sure where I was going or what I was going to do. I saw this lady hitchhiking and stopped to give her a ride. I had no idea she was working. She offered me some fun and I said yes. At that point in time I had never kissed another woman or been with another woman in my life. Considering my ex was seldom intimate with me I would say I was the closest to a virgin you would ever find. It was my way of dealing with the pain.

Honestly, I have no idea. Anyone looking to advertize anything out-of-the-ordinary is going to find it tough to reach her target market with the new rules. Perhaps other advertizing venues will be happy to push the rules further, and places like Twitter probably don't care at all...

Welcome to the board, Carrie! I hate to be the bearer of bad news (and I may be wrong), but I suspect most ladies won't answer this in public. They all have their ways of screening potential clients and things they do to ensure their own safety, but those won't be revealed here as they generally don't want to make it easier for the undesirable would-be clients to circumvent them. The board has a SP-only section, where I'm sure these things do get discussed more openly - the FAQ has details on how to get access. That might be your best bet.

Terri Jean Bedford has caused a stir and issued a threat as may be seen HERE, and isn`t it of interest that the hearings are back on the news again. I sincerely and respectfully disagree with the comments that were written about that article arguing that her action is wrong and unprofessional and unethical. I gave this opinion once before when the topic was in the news and the silence was understandably deafening, but I shall repeat it. IF someone truly believes that Bill C-36 will cause physical harm and or death to even one sex worker, then I argue that taking whatever legal action is required to prevent that from happening is not only acceptable but also a responsibility. If that includes naming a client then so be it. If I threatened a sex worker with physical harm then the fact that I had been a paying client should NOT give me immunity. Threatening to release the names of clients who are planning an action that will kill women is not enough. Doing it after the bill is passed is irresponsible. I argue that if her statements are true then the information should be released immediately to the press before the law is passed and then let the press do the job that they have thus far chosen not to do. Their are ways to do it. In 1974 Deep Throat, whoever he is is unknown to this day, along with press investigation brought down a presidency. I do believe that the hypocrisy of some of these government members, NOT their use of legal sex workers, could cause this government to fall, and this bill along with it. I am writing a totally politically incorrect comment that most will disagree with. I know that. There is no way that any sex worker or perhaps any client should publicly agree with this. All I ask is that all sex workers ask themselves where does client privilege stop and protecting your own life and lives of fellow sex workers begin. Sorry if I made anyone feel uncomfortable. I don`t think that this is just a game if lives are on the line. MN2 (who apparently is not such a nice guy.)