Date: Fri, 27 Jan 95 00:24:07 PST From: wasmith@eis.calstate.edu (Waugh Smith) These are articles from GLAAD's February 95 Newsletter: 1) This year's GLAAD Awards 2) Snapple & Rush Limbaugh 3) Peggy Brady, Co-Chair 4) "Showgirls" 5) Lou Sheldon 6) "Something Wilder" 7) Oscar Wilde 8) "Cybill" 9) "Madman" 10) "Gordon" with children of lesbians 11) "Donahue" and gay teens 12) "My So-Called Life" 13) Candace Gingrich 14) "Empty Nest" 15) "Ready to Wear" 16) "A Man of No Importance" 17) "The Darker Side of Black" 18) "Circle" 19) "Strawberry and Chocolate" 20) Hollywood Supports 21) Sexual Orientation in the Workplace 22) LA Times Howard Rosenberg 23) NY Times David Boaz 24) NY Times, their ads with Rush Limbaugh 25) Associated Press 26) TV Guide 27) Matt Groening 28) Macy's under attack by Concerned Women of Amerika 29) Tracking the Ads 30) Gay Bashing on America OnLine 31) Gary Reese 32) Helms 33) American Medical Association 34) Donna Red Wing 35) Chicago Randy Snyder 36) DC Cathy Rena 37) SF Al Kielwasser 38) Lee Werbel 39) Marriage in Hawaii 40) Short Takes American Family Association Internet CTN (mag for deaf) "Wanderlust" "This Way Out" 41) Your letters 42) Your hot tips GLAAD Reports - February '95 Carl Matthes, Editor (213) 254-2726 - fax (213) 257-5878 1) The Recipients of the 1995 GLAAD Media Awards Vanguard Award Steve Tisch The Vanguard Award, the highest award given by GLAAD, is presented to producer Steve Tisch for his leadership in helping to promote fair and accurate images and treatment of lesbians and gay men in the entertainment industry and for his commitment to community organizations such as AIDS Project Los Angeles (APLA). Outstanding Advertising IKEA IKEA's advertising campaign spotlights a gay male couple who are not only shopping for furniture, but also building a home and a life together. Outstanding Television Comedy Series "Friends" This refreshing series, from the creators of "Dream On," includes among its cast a lesbian mother-to-be, her girlfriend and the baby's father, a situation providing much comic fodder and food for thought. "Roseanne" "Roseanne" continues to make lesbians and gay men part of the fabric of the Connor life, including on-going characters (played by Martin Mull and Sandra Bernhard) and episodes like the unforgettable "Kiss" last March. Outstanding TV Comedy Episode "Frasier: The Matchmaker" What Frasier doesn't know only confounds him when he tries to do a good deed by setting up his gay station manager with his father's female nurse. Writer Joe Keenan turns this farsical foray into a sublime lesson on heterosexist assumptions prevalent in American society. Outstanding Television News Program "NBC Nightly News: Gay in America" This three-part investigative series explored issues facing our diverse lesbian and gay communities, including gay parenting and gay youth. Outstanding Television Miniseries "Tales of the City" Armistead Maupin's delightful series about gay life in late 1970s San Francisco brought appealing, unapologetic images of lesbians and gay men to the small screen, winning PBS one of its largest viewership ever for a dramatic presentation. Outstanding Television Drama Series "My So-Called Life" Teenage Angela traverses the complicated terrain of adolescence, joined by her high school friend Rikki, a bisexual teen, who experiences all the same rigors of growing up - dating, romance, peer acceptance - as well as the specific complications of growing up gay. Outstanding Television Documentary Series "The Real World III - San Francisco" The third installment of this popular series about American youth featured openly gay PWA Pedro Zamora, who brought issues of sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS and racial diversity into America's living rooms. His recent death from complications due to AIDS was widely mourned. Outstanding Television Program for Young Adults "More Than Just Friends: The Coming Out of Heidi Leiter" This half-hour telefilm expertly detailed the story of a young woman who asked her girlfriend to the high school prom, despite the initial protestations of family and friends. Outstanding Film "GO FISH" Captivating first film by Rose Troche about love and dating rituals in a lesbian community which concludes that perhaps opposites do attract. Outstanding Film Documentary "Coming Out Under Fire" Arthur Dong's moving account of lesbian and gay life during World War II, based on the acclaimed book by Allan Berube. Outstanding Print Media "Doonesury: Same-Sex Unions" by Garry Trudeau Garry Trudeau turns a comic eye towards the controversy over John Boswell's book about same-sex marriages, exploring the subject with characteristic intelligence and wit. Outstanding Music Video "I'm the Only One" by Melissa Etheridge Striking and positive lesbian images abound in Etheridge's passionate love song. Outstanding Song "This Train Revised" by The Indigo Girls Openly lesbian singers, Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, rail against bigotry and its effect of those targeted, including lesbians, gay men and bisexuals. Outstanding Album "Disappear Fear" by Disappear Fear The two-women folk duo, which includes an open lesbian, weaves gay and non-gay images into a portrait of everyday life. Los Angeles Awards: Outstanding Film with Gay Content: "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert" Outstanding Gay Theatre Production: "The Only Thing Worse You Could Have Told Me..." Outstanding Lesbian Theatre Production: "Last Summer at Blue Fish Cove" Outstanding Print Media: "Whose Values Are These Anyway?" Robin Abcarian, The Los Angeles Times New York Awards: Outstanding Theatre Production: "Love! Valour! Compassion!" Outstanding Journalist: Gabriel Rotello, New York Newsday Washington, D.C. Awards: Outstanding Achievement in Photography: "Family - A Portrait of Gay and Lesbian America," Nancy Andrews Outstanding Achievement in Advertising: Deutsch Advertising Outstanding Achievement for a Gay and Lesbian Publication: "Lambda Book Report," Deacon Maccubbin, Publisher Visibility Award: Bruce Lehman, assistant Secretary of Commerce, and Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks Public Service Awards: "National Coming Out Day" featuring Amanda Bearse GLAAD is proud to announce the... 1995 Media Awards Winners Get ready for two exciting nights! On March 12 (in Los Angeles at the Century Plaza Hotel) and March 16 (in New York at the Waldorf Astoria), "Roseanne," "Frasier," IKEA, "Tales of the City," "Go Fish," "Friends" and "NBC Nightly News," among others, will be honored during the 6th annual 1995 GLAAD Media Awards. 2) Snappel Withdraws from Limbaugh Quaker Oats, the parent company of the Snapple Beverage Company has notified GLAAD and the National Organization for Women (NOW) of Snapple's recent decision to withdraw sponsorship of "The Rush Limbaugh Show" on television. The two organizations have been leading the grassroots effort, including GLAAD's postcard campaign, to persuade Snapple not to continue as a sponsor of the highly rated monologue show. "We are delighted that the Snapple Corporation and its parent company, Quaker Oats, has shown... it will not support a platform of hate, homophobia and anti-feminist propaganda," said GLAAD Public Affairs Director, Darryl Clark. To support Quaker Oats in its decision, write: Steve Klein, Media Director, Kirshenbaum and Bonds, 145 Avenue of the Americas, New York 10002; re: Snapple Advertising. 3) From the Co-Chair Report Peggy Brady Another area of focus for the board has been in developing a plan to guide our chapter development program, chapter and national relations and coordinate a plan for the regionalization of the organization. Heading this effort is director and vice-chair of the board Jeanie Keeny of GLAAD/Kansas City. Our chapter development strategy is to duplicate the GLAAD model of cultural advocacy in new, diverse and geographically dispersed areas in order to provide anyone, anywhere with an entry point into the organization. We intend to replicate GLAAD "franchises" throughout the country, linked to the national organization through our publications, Media Alerts, Dispatches and computer network. The need to integrate our chapters into the organization and allow for local independence is a challenge we are confident we can meet with a wide range of programs including local and national media monitoring and response, visibility campaigns and media training for GLAAD members and allied groups. If you read last month's publication you already know this effort has paid off with the defeat of Measure 13 in Oregon and "The Morning After" news conference coordinated by GLAAD Field Director Donna Red Wing. Donald Suggs, our New York Associate Director, is in Oregon as I write this, presenting media training to community based organizations as part of GLAAD's on-going efforts to provide media education. Television & Film 4) "Showgirls" - Basic Homophobia Director Paul Verhoeven and screen writer Joe Eszterhas - of "Basic Instinct" fame - may be at it again; this time collaborating on Carolco studio's new feature film "Showgirls," currently being shot in Las Vegas. "Showgirls" is described as "an erotic, exotic, and often gritty expose of life behind the scenes on the (Las Vegas) strip, following the travails of Nomi Malone, a young woman thrust into a world where friends are few and obstacles are many." Among the "obstacles" Nomi confronts is a lesbian villain. The script synopsis for "Showgirls" describes Nomi Malone being virtually stalked by Cristal, the evil, back-stabbing, cocaine-addicted lesbian. One scene is described: "The next day, Nomi shows up for rehearsal, but she only finds Cristal, doing cocaine. Over lunch, their conversation takes on a sexual lean. Cristal's coming on to her. As they rehearse later, Cristal begins to kiss her, and again accuses her of being a whore. Nomi refuses to go further." Admittedly, the full significance of such characterizations can only be revealed by the complete script and the finished film. However, given the homophobic tripe that Verhoeven and Eszterhas gave us with "Basic Instinct," lesbian and gay filmgoers should basically be suspicious. Concerns may be shared with: Director Paul Verhoeven, Producers Alan Marshall and Charles Evans, and Co-Producer Joe Eszterhas, "Showgirls," c/o Carolco Studios, 8800 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles 90069. 5) Quotable Quote... From Lou Sheldon, head of the Traditional Values Coalition, complaining about the apparently increasing number of lesbian/gay/bisexual roles on television, "Homosexuals should not be portrayed at all on TV. If young males need to identify with someone, they should identify with Clint Eastwood." 6) "Something Wilder" The NBC-TV popular sitcom "Something Wilder," starring Gene Wilder, included both gay and lesbian situations but without any gay or lesbian characters in its January 3 episode. In one part Wilder is in a store with his business partner to buy a new mattress. He tries it out but needs his partner's help to see how it feels with two on the mattress. His partner reluctantly agrees. Gene wants him to move closer - after all that is the way the mattress will be used. Again the partner agrees while the manager appears. The manager says he understands - and is cool about their apparent relationship. He says in fact he'll sign them on for his advertising account. Gene and his partner like that and gladly become gay to suit their new customer. Later the lesbian part. Gene's wife and his former wife get together in a restaurant and gleefully describe Gene's faults. They drink and get high and collapse in laughter on each others' necks. The same manager is sitting at the bar watching and says "They say they're ten percent of the population. Around here it looks more like twenty." Great that writers can now treat gay and lesbian themes in good humor - no handwringing - no AIDS connections - no religious right moralizing - now they can "mainstream" gays and lesbians. Send your comments to: "Something Wilder," The Kellerman Company, c/o NBC Entertainment, 3000 W. Alameda Ave., Burbank, CA 91523; Copy: Associate Producer, Babi Hall. 7) From Wilder to Wilde... Ninety-year old Sir John Gielgud unveiled a plaque January 3 in London's West End theater district to commemorate flamboyant Irish playwright Oscar Wilde, who died penniless and in disgrace because of his homosexuality. "Cybill" "Cybill" (CBS-TV, Monday, 9:30pm) is a new sitcom that's been using us to get a few laughs. The jokes aren't overtly nasty, but they're not nice, either. Featuring Cybill Shepherd, everyone's favorite former "Moonlighting" detective, as a middle-aged actress trying to survive in Hollywood. While the sitcom features no gay characters, there's already been a number of gay jokes. In the sitcom's debut on January 2, Cybill is arguing face-to-face with her two ex-husbands, prompting her daughter to exclaim, "I think I'll become a lesbian!" Later when the detente between Cybill and the husbands becomes explicitly heated, Cybill exclaims, "That lesbian idea is sounding better all the time." In another episode, Cybill invites a producer to her home where he announces, half jokingly, that he was planning an all-gay soap opera called "Gays of Our Lives." This could have been funny. However, as the guy went on about how fabulous everyone's wardrobe would be, we get to see two other guests looking shocked and appalled. It's great to be included in the fun; but these kind of jokes are at our expense. Suggesting that you can bargain your sexual orientation with Mom is an insult to anyone who has struggled with sexual identity and using the stunned couple as the punch line to the gay soap opera reinforces negative misperceptions. Let the producers know we love to laugh as much as anyone else, but not at the expense of maintaining derogatory stereotypes. Challenge CBS and "Cybill" to have the courage to include a funny, appealing character who is also openly and proudly lesbian or gay. Contact: Mr. Courtney Conte, Executive Producer, "Cybill," 4024 Radford Ave., Bldg. #1, Studio City, CA 91504. 9) "Madman" In "Madman of the People" (NBC-TV, Thursday, 9:30pm) on January 5, "Madman" Dabney Coleman has taken to riding the New York City subways to get in touch with "the people." Of the many people he encounters are two men on their way to "the Rainbow Room to celebrate their 50th Anniversary." When Coleman asks about their wives, they say, "Wives? We're married to each other. Sometimes he plays the wife and sometimes I play the wife." Coleman's reaction is supportive and convincing. (This scene is only one of many showing the humorous side to human nature and riding the subways.) Suggest to the producers additional storylines and characterizations that could be included in this shows. Write: "Madman of the People," c/o NBC Entertainment, 3000 W. Alameda Ave., Burbank, CA 91523 Two for Teens 10) "Gordon" with Children of Lesbians... The January 5 edition of the syndicated talk-show "Gordon," entitled "My Mom is a Lesbian," featured the teen-aged children of several lesbians. Thirteen-year old Stacey and 17-year old Jeff were the children of Jennifer. Jeff spent the entire program with his back to the cameras because he said he wouldn't be able to handle the reaction of his friends if they knew he had a lesbian mom. Host Gordon Elliott introduced 18-year old Josh who told the tragic story of his lesbian mom and her lover being shot by a neighbor. The neighbor was charged with double homicide and is serving a life sentence. Josh was wearing a lavender ribbon and revealed that it was for the Lavender Family Network, a group dedicated to helping children of lesbian and gay parents. Also appearing on the program was April Martin, PhD, author of the "Lesbian and Gay Parenting Handbook." Dr. Martin spoke intelligently and directly and brought her own daughter to the program. Gordon ended the hour by interviewing Judy Nelson, the former lover of Martina Navritalova. Ms. Nelson brought two children into her eight year relationship with the tennis star, and Gordon featured remarks from her son, Bales, who said that his mother and Martina were the best parents he could have hoped for. Gordon handled the program effectively and the questions from the audience intelligently. Send your comments to: Gordon Elliott, "Gordon," 524 W. 57th St., New York 10019. 11) "Donahue" & Gay Teens... "Gay Teens in a Straight World" was the focus of the December 28 installment of "Donahue." And what a great show it was. No only was Phil in top form, but the structure of the panel and pacing of the hour was exceptionally productive. The panel consisted of teen actor Wilson Cruz ("My So-Called Life"), a gay boy who wore drag to school "to get a reaction" and his father, two lesbian teens, and Carol Gush, executive director of SMYAL (Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League). "Donahue" producers deserve credit - this time - for not feeling the obligation to include on the panel a bigoted, homophobic non-expert for balance. Send your comments along with ideas for future shows to: Patricia McMillen, Executive Producer, "Donahue," NBC, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York 10012; fax (212) 757-5386. 12) "Life" Support The December 22 episode of "My So-Called Life" (ABC-TV) includes a storyline in which teenager Ricky Vasquez is forced from his own home because of his sexual orientation. Wilson Cruz, the 20-year-old actor who plays Ricky, says that the storyline is based on his real life experiences; his father asked him to leave home just before Christmas last year because he is gay. In the first few weeks of January a new twist was added when Ricky surprised a male teacher by showing up at the door of the home he shares with his male partner. In a scene shortly before Ricky appeared, the men were discussing the possible misinterpretations that homophobic parents and school administrators might have if the teacher let the homeless teen stay with them. Cruz recently told a TV Guide interviewer why he decided to come out. "In order for my character to have any effect on people, I can't live a hypocritical life," he said. Asked if he thought his character would find romance on "My So-Called Life," Cruz replied: "When he's ready." Currently, "Life" is the only network television program that features a recurring role model for lesbian/gay/bisexual teens. Unfortunately, as one critic put it, the program is "ratings starved." ABC has announced that, as of January 26, the series will be placed on hiatus and might not be renewed next Fall. Grassroots efforts to save the "Life" have sprung up around the country, and supportive letters could make all the difference. Write: Randi Cohen, ABC Productions, 2020 Avenue of the Stars, 5th Floor, Century City, CA 90067, fax 310-557-6147; Marshall Herskovitz & Ed Zwick, Executive Producers, "My So-Called Life," Bedford Fall Company, 409 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401. On-Line Support: Fans can lobby on-line to save "Life" at savemscl@aol.com. 13) Quotable Quote... From Candace Gingrich, lesbian sister of Newt Gingrich, the new Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, about her ever speaking to her brother about her being a lesbian, "We've never actually spoken with each other about it...He's probably more embarrassed that I'm a Democrat, if anything." 14) A Fuller "Empty Nest" The January 7 epsiode of NBC-TV's "Empty Nest" brings Charley a new roommate named Hank. And from the moment he walks into camera range it is sensed that there is something "different" about Hank. This is soon realized when Hank and his two male friends include Charley in their plans for the evening - visiting a bar. While observing the action in the bar, with his arm slung around Hank's shoulder, Charley spots the two young men they came with dancing together. He remarks that if they don't stop people might think they were - he does not finish the sentence - realization dawns. Slowly he removes his arm from around Hank's shoulder; "Oh, my God!' he gasps, "you're gay!" Hank decides to get a room in a hotel due to Charley's discomfort but Charley asks him to help out with one last social dinner since Hank is such a good cook. Carol and a female friend arrive for dinner. In talking about how difficult it is to find a date, Carol's friend remarks that most of the good-looking men or either married or "fags." All action stops. Charley straightens, his face stern and cold: "I would appreciate it if you didn't use that word in my house." As she tries to respond, Charley says that Hank is his friend and roommate, and if she can't handle it, she can leave. The woman bristles and walks out. To encourage "Empty Nest" to keep Hank in the series and to build upon this introductory episode, contact: "Empty Nest," c/o NBC Entertainment, 3000 W. Alameda Ave., Burbank, CA 91523. 15) Be on the Lookout for... "Pret-a-Porter": Robert Altman's latest film has more than enough of everything, including two titles (the other is "Ready to Wear"). With more diversity than Noah's Ark, "Ready" features more actors and actresses per frame than any other film in memory, while presenting sexual orientation/diversification in all its glory. From our vantage point, the most boring and predictable relationship is that of the straight husband, Tim Robbins, cheating with his professional adversary, Julia Roberts (yawn). It's the gays that make it interesting. Released by Miramax. 16) "A Man of No Importance": Who doesn't like Alfie? The affable bus conductor/play producer who has turned his morning commuters into a neighborhood theatre group. And Alfie becomes even more lovable and human as Director Surl Krishnamma peels off layer after layer of socially imposed camoflauge to reveal the "real" Alfie. Albert Finney does a masterful job portraying this late-blooming gay man with a crush on hunk bus driver Robbie (Rufus Sewell). A Sony Pictures Classic release. 17) "The Darker Side of Black": This latest film from Isaac Julien began its run in the United States in January. Its focus is on three Black homophobic performers: Buju Banton, Brand Nubian (a rap group) and Shabba Ranks. Interviewed by Tod Roulette for Out magazine, Julien states, "My feeling about America is that there are far too many excluded voices." "Higher Learning": John Singleton's latest effort, after "Boys N the Hood" and "Poetic Justice," is "Higher Learning," which opened nationwide in January. From interviews with Bryant Gumble on NBC-TV's "Today" to Out magazine, Singleton pointed out that his new film is inclusive of different races, religions and sexual orientations, including actress Kristy Swanson playing a just-coming-out lesbian. 18) "Mrs. Parker and the Vicious Circle": In release since late December, "Circle" chronicles the activities of some of New York's literary elite (including the founders of The New Yorker) in this Alan Rudolph directed film. Peter Gallagher portrays the gay, second husband of writer Dorothy Parker (Jennifer Jason Leigh). 19) "Strawberry and Chocolate": Making its U.S. debut in January, "Strawberry" tells the story of Diego and David and their passionate, yet platonic, relationship in 1980's Havana, Cuba. Radio & Print TimesWatch 20) Sheinberg, Diller and Hollywood Supports... "Powerful executives formed Hollywood Supports in 1991...The organization has since thrived," read the sub-headline to the January 4 Los Angeles Times article on Sidney Sheinberg, president of MCA, Barry Diller, chair of QVC and Hollywood Supports, the AIDS and sexual orientation support organization directed by Richard Jennings, the former GLAAD/LA Executive Director. Written by Richard Natale, the article chronicled the 1991 awakening of Diller, then the chair of 20th Century Fox, to the attitudes about AIDS and homosexuality within the industry ("Is it possible that if people declare their HIV status they won't be able to get work?" Diller asked himself. "And I thought, no it can't really be that bad.") Diller received "several disquieting reports" from others and finally confided his findings to Sheinberg. ("I'm still accused of being naive, because I still have trouble believing that these things happen," said Sheinberg.) Sheinberg announced the formation, along with Diller, of Hollywood Supports during his acceptance speech at the 1991 AIDS Project Los Angeles annual awards benefit. By attaching their names and funding the new organization from their own resources, the new organization gained immediate recognition with the entertainment community. And it has spearheaded the drive for domestic partner benefits, seminars on Sexual Orientation in the Workplace and AIDS/HIV discrimination within the entertainment industry. ("Absolutely nothing has gone wrong," says Diller. "And for that you have to acknowledge our executive director, Richard Jennings.") Looking to the future, Sheinberg and Jennings say that the next step is to broaden the domestic partner benefits to include the industry's guilds and unions. Diller hopes there will be a time when "...(Hollywood Supports) will have made itself obsolete..." But, added Sheinberg, "I don't see the issues of educating people about AIDS and diversity in the workplace going away any time soon." Your comments may be directed to: Mr. Shelby Coffey III, Editor-in-Chief, Los Angeles Times, Times-Mirror Square, Los Angeles 90053; Mr. Sidney Sheinberg, President, MCA, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608; Mr. Barry Diller, Chair, QVC, 1940 Coldwater Canyon, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; Richard Jennings, Executive Director, Hollyood Supports, 8455 Beverly Blvd., #305, Los Angeles 90048. 21) Workplace Sexual Orientation... GLAAD and Hollywood Supports are seeking facilitators for "Sexual Orientation in the Workplace" seminars. Beginning on February 22, 1995 volunteers will be trained to facilitate discussion of policies and practices of inclusion, while outlining the business advantages of including gay and lesbian awareness as an aspect of workplace diversity. The training sessions will continue on Monday and Wednesday evening for four weeks including one Saturday, March 18. Training class size is limited and an interview is required. For an application call: Tamra at (213) 655-7705. And remember, over two dozen highly trained volunteer facilitators are available to present the 90-minute seminar at your workplace. For more information, to make suggestions on whom to contact at your workplace regarding the seminar, or to schedule a seminar, contact: GLAAD at (213) 658-6775 or Hollywood Supports Assistant Director Tamra King at (213) 655-7705. Coming out in "Sweeps"... By Howard Rosenberg (From the December 5, 1994 Los Angeles Times; reprinted with permission from Mr. Rosenberg.) When is it appropriate for a gay man to announce his sexual orientation in front of a television camera? Is November better than December? January is out because of the Super Bowl. But is February better than March? Naturally April wouldn't do. Already too crowded. You know, Easter, National Secretaries Day, the start of Daylight Savings. But is May better than June? Forget summertime, which is vacation time. Fall brings school. October? What, and be eclipsed by the buildup for Halloween Man, oh man. Is nothing ever simple for our friends in television news? All right, let's see if we have this right. Garrett Glaser, who reports on entertainment for KNBC-TV Channel 4, wants to acknowledge on the air that he's gay. According to a Times article last week, had hoped to do so in a story especially relevant to the gay community, one that was to have run last month. But the story was canceled when other stations acquired the ever-coveted list of mini-documentaries Channel 4 planned to run during the November ratings sweeps. Why would this cause Channel 4 to abort or alter its initial sweeps agenda? Don't ask. Anyway, Channel 4's acting news director, Kenny Boles, says there now are no "specific plans" for Glaser to use a Channel 4 newscast to announce his gayness -- something Glaser has previously acknowledged in print, by the way. But Boles says that if Glaser were allowed to declare his sexual orientation in a Channel 4 newscast -- which Boles regards as "an important thing to do" -- it would be something the station would consider for the February or May sweeps. It's nice to see a gay person who's open about his sexual orientation. Even in relatively sophisticated Los Angeles, such declarations can harm careers. Yet the more who do "come out," the easier it is for other gays to follow suit and rip the closet door from its hinges. But oh, brother! What Boles appears to be saying is that Channel 4 will allow Glaser to affirm his homosexuality in a Channel 4 newscast only during a rating sweeps, one of those month-long periods of intense audience measurement that are crucial to setting local advertising rates. In other words, the Glaser story, touted as relevant to gays, apparently is relevant to gays only during a ratings period. Otherwise, forget it. Glaser told The Times he was unconcerned about the change of plans. Boles did give Glaser "permission" to acknowledge his homosexuality during an October stint on Marilu Henner's syndicated talk show that airs on Channel 4. Permission? As if the station owned the airwaves or had the right to veto or even regulate Glaser's non-workplace comments about his sexual orientation. You'd think by now, given the publicity his homosexuality has received outside Channel 4, that anything Glaser said about his sexual orientation on the air would be redundant. In case some haven't gotten the skinny, however, this column is ready to assist Glaser in spreading the word. If you are a Channel 4 news viewer, read this now: GARRETT GLASER IS GAY! By the way, I had planned to disclose my heterosexuality today, but my editors at The Times ordered me to delay my announcement until after Christmas. Editor's note: The day the Howard Rosenberg column appeared, KNBC-TV's acting news director, Kenny Boles, let Glaser say the words "as a gay man who has lost many friends to AIDS..." in his obituary for Elizabeth Glaser, the AIDS activist (no relation to Garrett) . 23) Boaz on Domestic Partners... A New York Times January 4 Op-Ed piece by David Boaz, executive vice-president of the Cato Institute, was entitled "Domestic Justice." Mr. Boaz observed that "New York's new Governor, George Pataki, plans to reverse Mario Cuomo's policy of granting health benefits to the domestic partners of all unmarried state employees... Although the most vocal opposition to domestic partnerships is aimed at gay couples, giving them benefits doesn't undermine marriage." Mr. Boaz continued, "Giving domestic partnership benefits to unmarried heterosexual couples, on the other hand, does undermine marriage. 'If two heterosexuals are going to shack up together, they should get married,' said the Rev. Charles Bullock, who fought successfully to overturn a partnership law in Austin." Mr. Boaz then cited gay leaders who "haven't helped themselves in this debate. They invariably urge that heterosexual couples be included in legislation and corporate policies...(they) would be better off making a pro-family case, playing up their commitment to their partners and their desire for a legal union." Mr. Boaz also pointed out that many entities, "including Stanford, Montefiore Medical Center, Lotus Development Corporation and the Public Broadcasting Service - have extended benefits only to same-sex couples. Most of these have said that if homosexual couples are allowed to legally marry, these policies would be ended - which is as it should be." In closing Boaz says, "And that's the point that Governor and sensible gay activists ought to be able to agree on: commitment should be encouraged, while relationships without commitment should not expect social recognition or financial benefits." Your comments may be sent to: Letters to the Editor, The New York Times, 229 W. 43 Street, New York 10036. 24) Setting the Record "Straight"... Recently, The New York Times (NYT) produced a television ad campaign featuring hate-monger Rush Limbaugh (GLAAD Reports, Dec. 94). In response, the "newspaper of record" has received a number of complaints questioning the logic of hiring Limbaugh to promote the NYT. Alyse Myers, promotion director for the NYT explained: "The celebrities chosen were intended to represent a cross-section of opinions and viewpoints. The purpose is to demonstrate that The Times can appeal to all people, not just those with similar likes and points of view...I hope this explanation clarifies our advertising objectives for you." Myers' explanation only clarifies the unfairness and hypocrisy of her newspaper's advertising campaign. Apparently, "all people" includes homophobes but not homosexuals. NYT ads didn't feature any openly lesbian, gay or bisexual celebrities. Until it includes lesbians and gays in its celebrity "cross-section," Myers' claims about pluralism are simply disingenuous. The NYT promotions department needs to follow the lead of its newsroom staff. (NYT has taken editorial stands in favor of lesbian/gay civil rights, and the paper recently appointed David Dunlap (GLAAD Reports, Jan. 95), an openly-gay reporter, to cover the lesbigay beat). Write to: Alyse Myers, Promotion Director, The New York Times, 229 W. 43 Street, New York 10036. 25) AP = Anti-Discrimination Prohibited The Associated Press (AP) is the nation's largest wire-service, disseminating news stories for use by media outlets around the globe. Unfortunately, however, the association doesn't have much good news to offer its own lesbian, gay and bisexual employees. AP has once again refused to adopt a corporate policy prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation. The Associated Press announced that it will continue to arbitrate only those discrimination claims involving groups already protected by Federal law (which currently covers age, sex, race, creed, color, national origin, disability or status as a Vietnam veteran). Adolphe Bernotas, chair of the negotiating team for the Wire Services Guild (the union that represents AP employees) is exasperated by the corporation's homophobic policy. "We find it disingenuous that AP would agree to abide by the law," Bernotas said, "The law doesn't protect gays and lesbians. That's why we want it in the contract." Let the Associated Press know that workplace bigotry is bad news! Write to: All Members, Board of Directors, Associated Press, 50 Rockefeller Plaza, New York 10020; cc: Jim Donna, Human Resources Committee. 26) An Inclusive "Cheers & Jeers" In its December 24-30 issue, TV Guide features a cover story on "The Year in Cheers & Jeers." This eight-page article gives the magazine's "take on the winners, whiners, and weirdos that made '94 a year to tune in. Or in some cases...tune out." Significantly, TV Guide's year-end list includes two lesbian/gay references among its reasons to "tune in." The magazine's editors express "Real admiration for MTV's choice of Pedro Zamora as an inhabitant of 'The Real World.'" They note: "Zamora, who recently succumbed to AIDS, bravely educated his roommates - and the rest of the world - about the killer disease. Cheers to MTV, and to a World-class hero." The editors also gave a "Cheer" to "Roseanne" for - among other things - "playing kissy-face" with Mariel Hemingway in the much-publicized "lesbian kiss" episode of the "Roseanne" show. TV Guide's regular, weekly "Cheers & Jeers" column has also affirmed lesbian, gay and bisexual images on television. Cheers for these efforts can be sent to: Anthea Disney, Editor-in-Chief, TV Guide, Radnor, PA 19088. (If you want your comments considered for publication, send them to the "Letters Department" or e-mail tvgeditor@delphi.com.) 27) Quotable Quote... From cartoonist Matt Groening (creator of "The Simpsons") on the new, Republican, 104th Congress with a "new" Pledge of Allegiance, which reads: "I pledge allegiance - and wrap myself in - the flag of the United States Against Anything Un-American, and to the Republicans for which it stands, two nations, under Jesus, rich against poor, with curtailed liberty and justice for all (except blacks, homosexuals, women who want abortions, Communists, welfare queens, treehuggers, feminazis, illegal immigrants, children of illegal immigrants, and you, if you don't watch your step.)" Advertising 28) CWA Takes on Macy's The ultra-right wing and ultra-homophobic Concerned Women of America (CWA) (which bills itself as the nation's largest women's organization) has begun a phone zap of Macy's department stores for advertising in "The Advocate." According to the CWA, Macy's representatives have been apologizing to angry CWA callers for advertising in the lesbian/gay news magazine. Let Macy's know that no apologies are necessary; ask the company to reject CWA's hate campaign and to continue Macy's support of lesbian, gay and bisexual publications. Call (212) 695-4400 (and press "1", then "0") or write: Macy's, 151 West 34th Street, New York 10001, Attn: Executive Offices. 29) Tracking the Ads The Media Outreach Committee wants to inform the gay and lesbian community of advertisers who either support programs about our community or contribute to censorship of those programs, and you can help. The next time you watch television, keep a pencil and paper handy. If there is such content, jot down the name of the show and its sponsors. Then, call the information into the GLAAD Hotlines: In Los Angeles: (213) U R GLAAD; fax (213) 658-6776; in New York (212) 802-1700; fax (212) 807-1806. If you are an advertising industry "insider" who might have access to information about advertisers who have been under boycott or hate-campaign pressure to cease advertising on programs that are lesbian and gay positive, please call us. Any information will be treated in confidence. Online 30) Another Media Area to Watch America Online carries bios of those who choose to submit them. GLAAD member Bob LaFont found three that carried hostility toward gays: Member Name: Brad Location: Illinois Hobbies: Bashing the faggots and lesbians on AOL Member Name: Cory Location: St. Paul, MN Quote: I hate gay people. "Hey faggot, I got a bat with your name on it." Screen Name: Toh jb Hobbies: beating the living shit out of queers Occupation: gay bashing Quote: YOU FAGGOT!!!! Bob decided to write America Online management the following letter: I have attached for your records several AOL members who expressed an interest in killing or beating ordinary people who have otherwise caused them no harm. While there is no specific laws that mandate that a person like another person; murder, mayhem and assault are violent crimes against society. I feel that the contents in these public postings, created by the individuals themselves, are a real and probable threat of violence. They effectively incite criminal behavior. While freedom of speech is paramount to the order of our society we have never condoned shouting "Fire" in a crowded theater. We can not likewise condone violent incitements like these. Since these individuals have exhibited lawlessness and an intent to commit crimes, I demand that you notify the authorities in their respective townships of the clear and present danger. Additionally I require you to remove them from America Online access for the good of the law abiding citizens on the network. Bob LaFont (RLaFont@aol.com) The reply from America Online: Dear RLaFont, I am writing to you on behalf of America Online in response to your recent Email about the three profiles you submitted. Our Terms of Service explicitly prohibit vulgarity, harassment, commercial solicitation, and other nuisance activities. We've set up several ways for you to obtain help when you're being harassed, or when you've witnessed Terms of Service violations: Please use keyword: GUIDE PAGER for violations, please send e-mail to screen name TOSAdvisor. To block instant messages (IM?s), sign on to the master account screen name and use keyword:PARENTAL CONTROL to set preferences for each screen name under your account. For details, please see our Terms of Service, keyword TOS. I have forwarded the EMail you sent to TOS Advisor for you. They will deal with the users as needed. Thank you for using America Online, if you have any further questions please feel free to write again. Mike Elpers (MElpersEM) Technical Support Representative 31) From the Electronic Mail Bag - Gary Reese Hi guys. First, I want to say that I appreciate the GLAAD newsletter -- gawd! what a lot of work just to do that newsletter. Your energy, your commitment, your focus, etc., etc., is inspiring. And we're going to need it all the more after the Newtniks take power and start to cream us. Second, I am writing a book on gay athletes and homophobia in the sports world. I want to get myself and others working in this field on national talk shows. I'd like your advice. My idea so far is to propose the topic, suggest a panel of folks from our side. I suppose the show's producer goes out and finds the crazies to "balance" the program. For a panel, we could have myself, Dee Mosbacher, Pat Griffin, Jim Ballard, and Greg Louganis. Or others. I'm very well connected with all of these folks. So -- whatdaya think? I'd be interested in your thoughts and comments. Gary N. Reese, 3406-B South Oak, Austin, TX 78704 ; greese@tenet.edu GLAAD News 32) GOP Contract with America? In the first indication that anti-gay extremists in the new Republican-controlled Congress may target lesbian and gay Americans in discriminatory legislation, Sen. Jesse Helms (R- N.C.) has introduced two bills that would promote hate speech and discrimination against federal workers. The Helms' bills mark the first two pieces of anti-gay legislation introduced in the 104th Congress. The first bill, S.23, would give a special exemption from workplace non-discrimination policies to government employees who voice prejudices against lesbian and gay co-workers. S.25 would target lesbian and gay employees for discrimination by denying their employee organizations the same rights to free association and free speech guaranteed to other employee groups. Twenty-two employee groups for lesbian and gay federal workers have formed, similar to groups representing African-Americans, Latinos and women in the federal work force. Contact your representatives now and encourage their opposition to this legislation. 33) GLAAD Lauds AMA GLAAD commends the American Medical Association (AMA) for finally removing references to a "sexual-orientation related" disorders. These alleged disorders were used to justify cruel and ineffective "therapies" designed to change individuals' sexual orientation. "There is a sickness clearly present here," said GLAAD Executive Director Ellen Carton. "That sickness is homophobia." The AMA reversed the 1981 policy in a report entitled "Health Care Needs of Gay Men and Lesbians in the United States," which was adopted by the AMA's House of Delegates earlier this month. Your comments to: AMA, 1101 Vermont Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20005. 34) Portland Field Office Meet Donna Red Wing by Wally Smith Donna Red Wing, of our National Field Office, is a tough, beautiful, spirited, all-out lesbian. Were she so inclined she would be a whopping great preacher. She was born and went to school in Brookline, Massachusetts and took her masters in art at Clark University in Worcester. Six years ago she came to Portland, Oregon as Executive Director of the Lesbian Community Project. Her job is to organize all the smaller chapters. Why does she stay in Portland? Besides just liking Portland she finds people outside the huge cities are easier with someone who is from Portland rather than the overpowering Los Angeles or New York. From ads, articles, and word of mouth she gets her inquiries. Right now she has 80 potential groups forming. There are three levels: 1) "Outlooks," just beginning, 2) "Outposts," actually mini-chapters, and 3) the final, actual full chapters, each level with guidelines and programs. For example, in Saint Joseph, Missouri there is a lesbian softball team. They meet bi-monthly, write letters from GLAAD Reports, or from her own bi-monthly faxed and e-mailed Dispatch. They are already a fully functioning group. To meet with all these groups Donna spends a lot of time in the air, about 125 hours a year travelling some 75,000 miles. GLAAD now comprises the now integrated New York/Los Angeles, seven chapters: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Kansas City, National Capitol Area, San Diego, and the San Francisco Bay Area. But to be real grass roots and everywhere we need people and action everywhere. This is Donna's demanding job and one of the great projects of GLAAD. 35) Chapter News From Chicago... by Randy Snyder Mitchell Locin in his Chicago Tribune column "D.C. Journal," reported that "James Hormel is a former Chicago lawyer, former dean of students at the University of Chicago Law School, a Democratic Party activist, philanthropist, manager of a family fortune and was under consideration by the Clinton administration for appointment as ambassador to Fiji. But Hormel is also gay. "With Senator Jesse Helms (R-NC), the new chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, serving notice that he would challenge Hormel's nomination because of that, the White House decided it would rather switch than fight." San Francisco supervisor Carole Migden said that the rejection of Hormel "underscores Clinton's spineless approach to gay issues." 36) From NCA... by Cathy Rena Karen Murray, columnist for the Virginia Journal Papers, spoke about her experiences as a media activist and columnist who has strongly supported gay and lesbain issues, including the Fairfax library battle, at the GLAAD offices in Washington, D.C. on January 19. NCA has initiated discussions with the Washington Post, which is reorganizing its newsroom protocol, offering suggestions and assistance in changing their stylebook in regards to coverage of gay and lesbian issues. On February 17, NCA will present "Lesbian Visibility in the Media: Beyond Lesbian Chic," a panel held during "Passages," a lesbian conference at the University of Maryland. 36) From San Francisco... by Al Kielwasser A recent episode of KQED-TV's (Channel 9) "This Week in Northern California" - the only regular news show produced by the Bay Area PBS station - featured a segment on San Francisco's landmark legislation that outlaws discrimination against transgendered people. Introducing the segment, host Belva Davis described the new law as providing "special rights" for the City's transgendered citizens. Of course, the legislation protects the basic, civil rights of transgendered people and has nothing to do with "special rights," a category of mythical liberties created by homophobes. When Davis' shocking misnomer was brought to the station's attention, however, an on-air apology and correction were quickly promised. According to station representatives, the error was unintentional - a scriptwriter's glitch that in no way represented the conscious use of false and misleading right wing rhetoric. Though the script error was unfortunate, KQED's swift response is certainly encouraging. Contact John Roszak, Producer and DeAnne Hamilton, Executive Producer, "This Week in Northern California," KQED-TV, 2601 Mariposa St., San Francisco, CA 94110; fax 415-553-2456; copy your letters to Mary Bitterman, President, KQED, Inc., at the same address. Radio Activity . . . Kudos to San Francisco Bay Area radio station KABL (Jerry Jacob, Station Manager, 2576 Harrison St., San Francisco, CA 94110) for including same-sex song dedications on its "Saturday Night Groove Thing" show. KSFO: Talk About Bad News...Radio station KSFO (560 AM) has changed broadcasting formats and will now be broadcasting conservative talk shows featuring Pat Buchanan, Michael Savage (local homophobe who rails against "homosexual control" of public broadcasting) and J. Paul Emerson, recently fired from KFRC for his on-air racism. KSFO, which was purchased last summer by local radio station KGO (which, in turn, is part of Capital Cities/ABC), announced its change with a press release headlined: "Out: Political Correctness, Liberal Media, the Democratic Party. In: KSFO HotTalk 560." Share your thoughts with: Mickey Luckoff, General Manager, KGO/KSFO, 900 Front St., San Francisco, CA 94111; fax (415) 391-2795; Robert Iger, President and CEO, Capital Cities/ABC, Inc., 77 W. 66th St., New York 10021; fax (212) 456-1419. 38) Bye, Bye Lee by Stephanie Farrington-Domingue As January drew to an end, so did one of the working relationships we have enjoyed over the past couple of years. It is going to take some time to get accustomed to NOT hearing the infectiously friendly voice, or seeing the equally welcoming face of Lee Werbel around the GLAAD Los Angeles headquarters. Lee, having been one of the final contenders in our '92 Executive Director (ED) search, stepped in as GLAAD/LA's Deputy Director when our ED at that time, David Smith, accepted the position of Communications Director with the Campaign for Military Service in Washington, D.C. By April '92, Lee became our ED and was well on her way to adding her spin to the course of events. Lee was the first female ED of the then Los Angeles chapter. Stepping into the role of ED had its challenges, and she met these challenges with an earnestness and honesty that speaks to the quality of her character. Oh, we went 'round and 'round about many issues - some of them were pretty rough - but in the end, Lee showed us that she was truly dedicated to the best interest of GLAAD, while always managing to keep moving us towards our organizational goals and our media image. She was a breath of air in a smoke-filled room; a departure from the dull and droning "business as usual." During her tenure there were many accomplishments. These included leading our efforts to ensure that the "lesbian" kiss was maintained on "Roseanne;" collaborating with Hollywood Supports in the development of the Sexual Orientation in the Workplace seminars; moving our offices to a larger and better space; the birth of the People of Color Committee; helping to coordinate the first "Day of Compassion;" organizing the Benefit Premier Screening of "Serving in Silence;" spearheading that wonderful Awareness Campaign, "We Are Who YOU Are," utilizing over 200 bus benches in Los Angeles County, and organizing the successful campaign to encourage Snapple to not renew its advertising contract with "The Rush Limbaugh Show." Now, don't get me wrong, I didn't say Lee did all of these things single handedly, but she did provide the climate for these accomplishments, and more, to happen. Sometimes we wish so much for things to happen, that we lose sight of the achievements we've made. At the end of January, Lee headed off into the sunset to return to her pursuits in arts administration. No matter where that may take her, I will always remember her honesty and dependability; her ability to juggle at least five things at once - and be there on all of them. I will remember the unsure Lee, who took on an organization eager to move beyond its growing pangs, and the seasoned Lee who spoke to us of changing hearts and minds, and on behalf all of us here at GLAAD, we thank Lee and wish her the very best that life has to offer. 39) General Meeting: Los Angeles - Marriage in HAwaii On February 28, Tuesday evening, the general membership meeting in Los Angeles will focus on "Gay & Lesbian Marriages in Hawaii: Will We be Left at the Altar?" One of our guests will be J. Craig Fong, director of the Western Regional office of the Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund, the lead attorney for the three couples suing the state of Hawaii for the right to marriage. Lesbians and gay men in Hawaii are fighting to win equal marriage rights. What are the national implications of such a breakthrough? What are the remaining obstacles? Are we as a community more prepared to define the relevant issues than we were with the gays in the military debate? Join GLAAD as we address shaping the climate of receptivity NOW, so that judges and legislators, called upon to review pending cases and produce legislation, won't be acting in a vacuum. The radical right is already on the move. The legal, political, social and religious perspectives will be shared. Schedule: 7:00 p.m. refreshments: Wedding Cake will be served! 7:30 p.m. program. Come to: Temple Beth Chayim Chadishim, 6000 West Pico Blvd., one block east of Crescent Heights. Donations requested. (No one turned away for lack of funds.) And in Hawaii... Federal Judge Harold Fong heard a motion for a temporary restraining order on the work of the Hawaiian Commission on Sexual Orientation and the Law. The motion was filed by a fundamentalist Catholic and a minister of the Assembly of God. At 11:30 am, Dec. 23, Judge Fong issued his decision: He accepted their complaint that having representatives of the Catholic and Mormon churches on the commission (and named as such) violated the separation of church and state. He ordered the two Catholic representatives and two Mormon representatives removed from the commission. (See GLAAD Reports, Dec. 94) This leaves the commission with a quorum of 7 members, 6 of whom are known to support full civil rights for gays and lesbians. (The seventh commission member is Judge Kimura (retired), a well-known civil libertarian.) Judge Fong made clear that the governor could appoint 4 new commission members, who could incidentally be of a certain religion, but could not (officially) represent that religion on the commission. Your comments to: Tom Ramsey, Secretary, HERMP Steering Committee, 1820 University Ave., Room 8, Honolulu, HI 96822. 40) Short Takes The American Family Association (AFA), an ultra-homophobic hate group, is self-described as "a Christian organization promoting the biblical ethic of decency in American society with primary emphasis on TV and other media." Most recently, the AFA has begun offering "intensive out-patient counseling for individuals afflicted with pornography." For a mere $1,000., "porn addicts" get a week of counseling sessions and "exercise therapy." For your free brochure and further information, contact: AFA OutReach, P.O. Drawer 2440, Tupelo, MS 38803; e-mail AmFamily1@aol.com. "NetGuide" is a slick new magazine billed as "The Guide to Online Services and the Internet." The January 1995 issue includes "Pink Triangle," a review of ten computer BBS sites "that cater to gay, lesbian and bisexual issues and interests." The thoughtful, illustrated overview covers everything from the Internet's "Queer Resources Directory" to America On-Line's "Gay and Lesbian Community Forum. Direct your comments to: Patrice Adcroft, Editor-In-Chief, "NetGuide," 600 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030; fax (516) 562-7406, e-mail netmail@netguide.cmp.com. "Freestyles" is a new gay and lesbian magazine-format television series, according to Florida producer Dan Dailey. The 13 part series will be made available to major cable affiliates across the nation. "Freestyles" promises to deliver the "very best in entertainment, travel, fine cuisine, special events and more." The first issue of CTN, a magazine for deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing-signing lesbians, gay men and bisexuals, came off the press in January. The quarterly magazine is published by an all volunteer staff consisting of mostly other deaf lesbians & gays. Contact: CTN Magazine, P.O.Box 14431, San Francisco, CA 94114; Email: CTN Mag@aol.com; fax: (415) 626-9033. Stephanie Farrington-Domingue, former GLAAD/USA and GLAAD/LA co-president and presently the director of Community Outreach and Education at the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Community Services Center, has been elected to a two-year term on the Hollywood Redevelopment Project's Community Advisory Committee. Congratulations, Stephanie. "Wanderlust,"a USC documentary film about women truck drivers, seeks lesbian truck drivers to share their experiences of life on the road. The film will explore how women became interested in driving trucks and how they handle harassment, discrimination and balancing relationships. Contact: Jennifer Rothman (213) 656-7042. "This Way Out" is a half-hour weekly radio program in Los Angeles dedicated to news, interviews and music by, for and about the international GLB community. Listen on Tuesday afternoons at 4:30 on KPFK 90.7 FM. Contact: e-mail at TWOradio@aol.com, or producer, Greg Gordon, at (213) 874-0874. 41) GLAAD Wants Your Letter The need for continual gay and lesbian reaction to the events that are shaping our lives and our future is very important; this is one of our most effective tools. When you send a letter responding to a g/l issue, send a copy to us for our files. We would also like to have a copy of any response you receive. Send to: New York Headquarters, 150 W. 26th St., Suite 503, New York 10001; (212) 807-1700; fax (212) 807-1806; or Los Angeles Headquarters, 8455 Beverly Blvd, #305, Los Angeles 90048; (213) 658-6775; fax (213) 658-6776. 42) "Hot Tips" Welcomed GLAAD needs advance information on films, TV programs and commercials with lesbian/gay themes or characters. The Media Outreach Committee would like to know of any projects in any stages of production or release. (Development stage may be premature.) Call, fax or write to us in New York at: 150 W. 26th St., New York 10001 Phone: (212) 807-1700 fax (212) 807-1806 In Los Angeles: 8455 Beverly Blvd., #305, Los Angeles 90048 Phone: (213) 658-6775 Hotline - (213) U R GLAAD fax - (213) 658-6776 When you contact us, please include the following information: producing company or studio; names of the producers or directors; synopsis; start or release date; any relevant material. All information will be kept confidential. Submitted by wasmith@eis.calstate.edu waughs@aol.com (wally)