Release Date:	March 8, 1995, 10:00 pm
Contact:	Dawn Rankin-Phelps
		(804)543-2460

At 8 pm, March 8, 1995, Pat Robertson and spokesperson Gene Kapp went to
Virginia Beach City Jail to meet with Dr. Mel White on the 23rd day of his
fast.  White had insisted on discussing with Robertson the rise of hate
crimes against God's gay and lesbian children.  In the short meeting arranged
by Sheriff Frank Drew, White asked Robertson to do two things: first,
publicly acknowledge the rise in hate crimes against gay and lesbian
Americans; and second, to publicly condemn anyone who commits or incites
these crimes.  White's other request of Robertson was to meet with a delegatio
n from PFLAG to hear their stories.  Robertson assured White that he would
respond to these requests within the next few days.  Immediately upon
Robertson's departure, Sheriff Drew informed White that all charges against
him as been dropped.

A press conference will be held in the parking lot of Greater Grinders where
a 14.5 pound lighter White can be interviewed at noon tomorrow.  White is
available for other interviews for the next two days.  Call Dawn
Rankin-Phelps to set an appointment.

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