gay in Belfast? (Portland, Searsport, Eastport: home, school, college)

[xmainer]

I'm thinking of moving back to Maine, Belfast to be precise, and I was wondering if anyone can comment on the quality of life for a single gay man in that area. I'm not looking for a scene, per se. I'm 47 and live a fairly quiet, professional life. I would like to find a community of folks, gay or otherwise, who would welcome someone who is gay, likes to socialize, play sports, do outdoor activities, enjoys high and low culture, and would love to be part of a warm, active community of friends.

Thanks.

[Elcarim]

Well, you may end up being my neighbor after we move. You'd be welcome at our backyard bbq!

May I ask why you left Maine and why you choose to return? Just curious!

[xmainer]

I grew up in Maine and left to do the things that people do: college, work, graduate school, more work, etc.. I have lived in Boston, Chicago, Miami, and now Connecticut. Bottom line: I love Maine.

So, is there a nice group of fun-loving, open-minded, 40-somethings in Belfast? How do you find things living there? Is it wise for a single guy to move there? I wouldn't mind finding a partner some day.

[xmainer]

Oh, forgive me. And thank you so much for that welcoming reply. I love bbq's!

[moughie]

xmainer, I recall seeing a previous post regarding a neighboring town, Searsport, as having a vibrant diverse gay population. ( Sorry, I cannot recall which thread.)

You know, Portland is also a great multicultural. diverse and open community of all sorts of residents.We had several gay friends when we lived there. Never heard them complain of anything.

I would certainly hope that where ever you choose to settle, your personal orientation would not be an issue. Unfortunately, closed narrow minds filled with prejudism and pre-judgement exist in all places.

[danpv]

I think this is the post moughie's referring to:

http://www.city-data.com/forum/maine...e-maine-5.html

[xmainer]

These comments are so helpful. Maybe I'm seeing a little of the community I'm looking for on this forum. I love so many things about Maine. In fact, I'm heading up there to visit my folks in a few weeks and I'm already jazzed with anticipation. (I live in CT, you see. Don't get me started.) That said, change is a little scary, but this forum has started to make me more hopeful about returning to my home state. Keep the comments coming!

[corgis]

I think that most any town wouldn't have a problem with a gay person as long as they act like a responsible adult. There are several gays here in Eastport and they are not treated differently than anyone else here.

[mainebrokerman]

Originally Posted by corgis

I think that most any town wouldn't have a problem with a gay person as long as they act like a responsible adult. There are several gays here in Eastport and they are not treated differently than anyone else here.

this statement will apply to most maine towns,,

[Elcarim]

It occurred to me earlier today that some of us may inadvertently offend out of pure ignorance of acceptable terminology when discussing people's private lifestyles. Please let us know if we do - preferrably in a private message.