Date: Thu, 10 Apr 1997 07:29:26 -0700 From: "Jay M. Kohorn & Zeke Zeidler" Subject: 2nd Openly Gay School Board President in Los Angeles County FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Zeke Zeidler April 7, 1997 (310) 316-8427 For photo or information ZEKE ZEIDLER ELECTED PRESIDENT OF REDONDO BEACH SCHOOL BOARD Openly Gay school board member Zeke Zeidler has been elected President of the Redondo Beach School Board. Zeidler, a children's court attorney, was first elected to the board in 1995 as a Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund endorsed candidate, becoming one of ten openly Gay or Lesbian school board members in the country. He is currently serving a four-year term on the school board. "I am excited about this opportunity. We have many important issues on our plate, including class size reduction and domestic partnership benefits for employees," Zeidler said. "As the only openly Gay elected official in Redondo Beach, I have been able to provide a unique perspective, while educating the Board regarding Gay and Lesbian issues. I am honored that my colleagues have charged me with the responsibility of serving as the school board's representative to the community." Since becoming a school board member, Zeidler has ensured that every new or revised school district policy and contract includes "sexual orientation" and "disability" in the anti-discrimination clause. Prior to becoming a school board member, Zeidler served as President of the Redondo Beach Educational Foundation, and was one of the principal drafters of the unified school district's dress code and mission statement. Zeidler represents the 53rd Assembly District on the Executive Board of the California Democratic Party and on the Endorsement Committee of the Los Angeles County Democratic Party. He is also active in many political organizations, including Stonewall Democratic Club and the LIFE Lobby. Zeidler is currently planning a run for the California State Assembly in 1998; the 53rd Assembly District stretches from Venice to Torrance.