Are there things you’ve always wondered about but have felt too uncomfortable to ask someone? Is there an issue you just don’t understand but would like to learn more about?

Megaphone has the answers you need.

Welcome to Pen Pals, a new feature that runs each month in our magazine.

Building on the open dialogue around drug use and addiction fostered by Megaphone’s new Speakers Bureau program, we’re launching a monthly “advice column” that aims to encourage respectful discussion about real life issues. We also want to increase interaction between the Megaphone team and our readers and customers.

So fire away! We have the awesome folks who are involved with Speakers Bureau, as well as some of our seasoned vendors, standing by to dole out their two cents’ worth.  (Take their advice at your own risk).

Oh, and a warning: Agree or disagree, rant or rave, but please be concise and respectful. No profanity. And while we are supportive of an honest exchange of ideas, racist, sexist, homophobic or other denigrating comments will not be printed.

Dear Pen Pals,

Stephen Scott (pictured above)

Vendor, Davie and Thurlow Streets

A: Take a lady friend out for dinner. I know a couple that would do dinner, other ladies like coffee.

Hand out Valentine’s Day cards to lady friends.

If I could afford it, I would give single ladies cards. Buy blank cards to wish them Happy Valentine’s Day. Single blank cards are cheap. Buy blank cards with beautiful scenery.

Bob Dennis (right)

Vendor, Cambie Village (19th Avenue and Cambie Street).