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GLINN NEWS DISTRIBUTION RELEASES
These are news releases sent out by the GLINN News Distribution Service during 2003 and earlier, from newest to oldest. This is a representative sample. Thank you for your interest.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kevin Rennie
kfrennie@snet.net
860.528.2838 (Sunday)
860.644.5618 (Monday-Friday)
Veteran NYPD Detective to Testify for Civil Unions, Column Tells His Story
Hartford, Connecticut--February 23, 2003-- New York Police Detective Frank
Coppola will testify on behalf of civil union and same sex marriage Monday
before the Connecticut legislature.
Coppola, 38, lost his life partner, a New York firefighter, on September 11th.
They last saw each other in the 2nd floor lobby of the North Tower as Coppola
assisted an injured woman out of the building and his partner ascended into
the Tower.
Coppola, an 18 year police force veteran, tells his story to the Hartford
Courant's Sunday magazine political columnist, Kevin Rennie, in today's
edition.
Rennie is a former Republican state Representative and Senator.
The column appears at this site:
http://www.ctnow.com/news/local/northeast/hc-rennie0223.artfeb23.story
---------------------------------------------------
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For review copies, contact: Rebecca Grose, HarperCollins, Senior Manager of
Publicity: 212/261-6792 Rebecca.grose@harpercollins.com
To schedule an author interview, contact: Brent Hartinger: (253) 272-8425
brenthartinger@earthlink.net
GEOGRAPHY CLUB TELLS TIMELY TALE OF GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCE
In 1989, exactly one American high school had a gay-straight alliance. Now
over 1000 high schools do, and many of them are making headlines--lately, in
Boyd County, Kentucky, and Klein, Texas, where administrators are
desperately trying to shut the clubs down.
Now gay-straight alliances have also found their way into the pages of a
book, in the new gay teen novel, Geography Club.
"It's the story of a group of students who want to form a gay-straight
alliance at their high school," said author Brent Hartinger. "Problem is,
they don't want anyone to know they're gay. So they disguise the true nature
of their club--and discourage anyone else from joining it--by giving it the
most boring name they can think of: the Geography Club. Unfortunately, their
disguise doesn't last."
Hartinger's novel is getting a much warmer reception than those gay-straight
alliances in Kentucky and Texas. Advance sales have been "terrific," said
Steve Fraser, Hartinger's editor at HarperCollins, the publisher of the
book.
"There's already been interest in the foreign rights, and in the movie
rights too," Fraser said.
"HarperCollins has been unbelievably supportive," Hartinger said, pointing
out that the publisher has already bought a Geography Club sequel, The Order
of the Poison Oak, and two of the writer's other novels.
"That's four books," Hartinger said in amazement. "And that was before
Geography Club had even been released!"
Early industry reviews have been consistently positive. The Journal for the
Center for Children's Books called the book "a lively and compelling story"
and praised its "heart-palpitating romance" and "witty writing." Horn Book
Magazine called Geography Club's narration "pitch-perfect," and said, "This
is the most artful and authentic depiction of a gay teen since M. E. Kerr's
groundbreaking Charlie Gilhooly in I'll Love You When You're More Like Me."
"Everything has worked out so well for this book," Hartinger said.
"Sometimes I have to pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming."
With all the attention being paid to gay-straight alliances in high schools
across the country, the timing for the book couldn't seem to be better.
"I wish I could say it was because of some brilliant marketing strategy on
my part," Hartinger said. "But the truth is, it's just a coincidence. In
fact, I didn't even want to write the book, because I was convinced no
publisher would ever buy it."
Hartinger said he was discouraged by the reaction to his first gay young
adult book, which he wrote back in the early 1990s.
"It won a couple of major writing awards," he said. "But the reaction among
New York publishers was indifference bordering on outright hostility. One
editor told me outright that there was absolutely no market for a book about
gay teens. If it hadn't been for my agent--a straight woman--I never would
have written another gay teen book. She talked me into writing Geography
Club, because she was convinced that the times had changed, and that the
world was finally ready for just such a book."
"It's partly good timing," said Hartinger's agent, Jennifer DeChiara,
explaining the early success of the novel. "But I give most of the credit to
the book itself. I mean, this book has everything. Humor, romance, passion.
I spend all day reading manuscripts, and I know a page-turner when I read
one."
For his part, Hartinger is just glad the book is drawing still more
attention to the subject of gay-straight alliances.
"I think most adults have no idea what gay high school kids go through,"
said Hartinger, who helped found a gay-support organization in his hometown
of Tacoma, Washington, and who currently acts as an advisor to a
gay-straight alliance at his old high school.
"I think sometimes even some of us adult gay men and women forget," he said.
"We move to the big cities and start to think that the whole world is
gay-tolerant. Hopefully, my book will remind people that some of the most
courageous heroes in the gay rights struggle are still in their teens."
For more information about Geography Club, visit "Brent's Brain," Hartinger's
website, at www.brenthartinger.com.
____________________________________________________
Explore the inner workings of my mind at my web-site, "Brent's Brain":
http://www.brenthartinger.com And look for my first novel, GEOGRAPHY CLUB
by Brent Hartinger, in stores now!
Photographs Available:
http://www.gaydata.com/download/GeographyClub.bmp"
http://www.gaydata.com/download/BhartingerH20.jpg"
------------------------------------------------------
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts: Phil Lobel/Christopher Kingry
LOBELINE COMMUNICATIONS
310-271-1551
slashcom1@aol.com
GIRLS GO WILD AS DINAH SHORE WEEKEND INVADES PALM SPRINGS
PALM SPRINGS, CA - Girls galore will invade Palm Springs March 27-30 for the thirteenth annual Dinah Shore Weekend, the largest event for lesbians on the planet. The hottest women from all over the world will converge on the picturesque desert oasis for a four days of nonstop parties, music, poolside action and fun in the sun, produced by Girl Bar and Club Skirts.
"The diversity of our weekend is inspiring. We boast the most colorful exchange of every type of lesbian imaginable. Plus, the variety of entertainment, from comedy, to live performances, to go-go dancers, to house and hip hop, to a separate retro 70's room, guarantees that, with the Dinah, there is something for everyone," comments Mariah Hanson, owner of Club Skirts.
"Dinah Shore Weekend continues to be the most spectacular women's weekend in the world," says Sandy Sachs co-owner of Girl Bar. Robin Gans, co- owner of Girl Bar says, "It's unique! Where else can you meet lesbians from all over the world in one place amidst the beauty of Palm Springs?!"
VIP Weekend Passes and event tickets for DINAH SHORE WEEKEND 2003 are now on sale. VIP Weekend Passes include entry to all seven events (except Queens of Comedy IX) and are $110 if purchased before March 1, $125 after - a savings of $65. See event listings below for individual event ticket prices and availability. Call the Dinah hotline at (888) 386-4677 to also get event details or charge by phone. Visit www.clubskirts.com or wwwlgirlbar.com for additional information or to order tickets online
This year activities will center on DINAH's two luxurious host hotels: The Wyndham Palm Springs Resort and The Doral Resort. Their central locations, spacious accommodations and amazing amenities make The Wyndham and Doral the perfect places for an action-packed weekend of women's festivities. The Wyndham rooms and suites start at $165 per double occupancy. Wyndham Reservations can be made by calling (760) 322-6000. The Doral Resort offers rooms starting at $159 per double occupancy. Doral reservations can be made by calling (888) 386-4677. Don't forget to mention Dinah Shore Weekend to receive these special rates when calling either host hotel.
Complimentary shuttles will be operating for most events for registered guests at the host hotels. Departure times will be posted in the hotel lobbies.
For those who want maximum partying with minimal effort, The Dinah V.I.P. Package is the way to go! The special package has all the details covered, so you can focus on the important things: the festivities! It includes three nights at the beautiful Doral Resort, airport transfers, breakfast each morning, daily passes to the LPGA Dinah Shore and a special V.I.P. welcome party with the event producers on Thursday night at the Doral, VIP Weekend Passes for all the parties (including express VIP entry), preferred seating at the comedy show and shuttle transportation to all events. Dinah V.I.P. Packages start at $499 per person, based on double occupancy. Add $200 for single occupancy. Four and five night options are also available. Make reservations and start getting the VIP treatment right away by contacting the Doral Resort directly at: 888-386-4677.
GO WILD, GIRLS!
The action begins Thursday night at 9pm with the totally outrageous KICK-OFF PARTY. This year the girls will take over Palm Springs' hottest new nightclub, Heaven, for an evening of out-of-control fun! Doors open at 9pm and There will be a special performance at 9:30pm by a local talent, Josie Cutting who will surely remind you of a Dixie Chick! Meet your friends - or make new ones - as women from around the world arrive for a wild and crazy night of socializing and dancing starting at 9pm. DJ Kimberly S. AND Page Hodel will be mixing up the hottest hip-hop, R&B and house sounds. Individual event tickets are $15 at the door, or included in the VIP Weekend Pass.
Just when you think things couldn't get any wilder, Friday night brings a double-shot of hilarious and sexy mayhem with Queens of Comedy IX and the completely over-the-top White Party. Get set for an evening of sidesplitting humor with the hilarious high jinx of comediennes Vickie Shaw, Michele Balan and POPPY CHAMPLIN! The Wyndham Resort Grand Ballroom becomes comedy central as doors open at 7:00 pm for cocktails and seating. Vickie, Michele and Poppy seize the stage starting at 8pm. Tickets for Queens of Comedy IX are $30 before March 1st ; $35 afterward, and $40 at the door -- not included in the VIP Weekend Pass.
An invasion of wild women in white take control of the Doral Resort's Ballroom for the infamous The White Party, beginning at 8pm. DJs Page Hodel & Kimberly S. will whip the crowd to a frenzy as hot bodies transform the dance floor into a blinding sea of beauty. Temperatures will rise with a special performance from the insatiable Desert Sin at midnight, and continue to burn all night long. Doors open at 8:00pm. Dress: White attire recommended. $35 at the door or included with VIP Weekend Passes. No separate advance tickets for this event.
GET WET AND WILD POOLSIDE AT SATURDAZE & GIRL ROCK!
Poolside party time starts bright and early Saturday morning for Girl Rock at the Doral Resort and SaturDAZE at the Wyndham. Both events begin at 8am and boogie on until 4pm.
Apply an extra coat of Coppertone and kick back in the sun as Girl Rock's special guest DJs grind out the grooves all day long. Hot rocking live entertainment includes a special in-person performance by Finding Stella, Lexie Shine and Cause for Concern.
Over at the Wyndham Resort pool, DJs Page Hodel & Heather Vaughn will drive poolside dance floor wild at SaturDAZE. Go-Go Goddesses will be making waves at special live performances throughout the party.
Tickets to rock at both parties are $25.00 at the door -- or included with VIP Weekend Pass. No separate advance tickets for these events. Admission good for either party.
GIRLS GO DOWN UNDER & OVER THE RAINBOW
You can click those heels together, but you WON'T want to go home after experiencing the excitement of A Return to Oz. Follow the trail of crazed women down the Yellow Brick Road as the Wyndham Grand Ballroom is transformed into a magical emerald playground! The sensational party cycle starts Saturday night at 8pm as DJs Page Hodel and Kimberely S and sweep you away with swirling sounds that are sure to make you shake it. You'll feel just like Dorothy, Glinda and Toto, too… as you trek through the incredible population of friendly inhabitants - all gathered for an unbelievable all-night excursion of wild excitement.
International recording artist Gioia from the famed 80's group "EXPOSE" will drop in for a special performance Don't forget to also check out this event's Retro Dance Room - back by popular demand. Featuring the best of 70's & 80's music, it's sure to be a trip! For those of you who are willing to take a gamble, our Casino returns with Black Jack and roulette tables to add to this exciting night!
Tickets for Return to Oz are $35.00 before March 1st; $40.00 in afterward and $45.00 at the door - or included with VIP Weekend Pass.
THE WILDEST WAVES OF FUN!
Sunday morning, dive headfirst as the women go completely wild at the Wyndham Hotel's main pool area for SPLASH! This all-day assortment of good clean fun starts flowing at 8am. DJs Heather Vaughn, Kimberly S. & Page Hodel pump out a tsunami of sound that will have the dance floor drenched as Go-Go goddess make waves on stage. Get swept away by the flash flood of frolicking females at the largest women's pool party/t-dance/vendor fair ever. A sumptuous optional BBQ will also be on deck as the excitement grows by the gallon all afternoon! Hot Go-Gos will be the order of the day with a special surprise performance that will surely leave you needing a dip in the pool!
Tickets for SPLASH are $25.00 at the door- or included with VIP Weekend Pass.
ONE LAST WILD RIDE AT THE GRAND FINALE
The weekend's wild ride will come to an end with one last party on Sunday night. To make this last evening special, The Grand Finale will take place at Atlas (formerly Muriel's), Palm Springs most state of the art nightclub. Don't miss this special event as all the girls gather for one last wild and crazy dance at 9pm. To ensure everything ends on the right note, Kimberley S. and Page Hodel will be spinning the favorite hits of the weekend. The acclaimed erotic dance troupe, Lezbo a Go Go, will perform a titillating show to bring the weekend to a boil!.To add to the warm memories of DINAH 2003 and get everyone psyched for 2004, special performances and other surprises will also take place take place throughout the evening. Tickets for The Grand Finale are $15.00 at the door, or included with VIP Weekend Pass.
Corporate sponsors for DINAH SHORE WEEKEND 2003 include: American Airlines, Captain Morgan, Damron, Girlfriends Magazine, LesbiaNation.com, Miller Lite, Captain Morgan's Parrot Bay and Smirnoff Twist.
Dinah Shore Weekend, produced by Club Skirts of San Francisco and Girl Bar Los Angeles, is the largest special event weekend gathering for lesbians in the nation. Held in March every year in the beautiful and warm desert setting of Palm Springs, California, Dinah Shore Weekend features a non-stop, fun-filled schedule of innovative, high-quality social events and parties with the hottest women from around the world in attendance.
NOTE TO EDITORS: High resolution color artwork and additional background and schedule information can be accessed online at: www.lobelinepr.com/dinah2003
# # #
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jeffrey S. Garber, president/ jeff@opuscommgroup.com
OpusComm Group, Inc.
834 Oakwood Street
Fayetteville, NY 13066
tel: (315) 637-2018
www.opuscommgroup.com
Thousands of Gays Speak Out in the Largest Annual Gay Consumer Study
92% of Gay Respondents Are Out to Their Friends
22% of Lesbian Respondents Are Parents
82% Prefer to Purchase From Known Gay-Friendly Companies
Syracuse, New York - November 4, 2002 - The 2002 Gay & Lesbian
Consumer Online Census finished with 8,831 participants, a 39 percent
increase over the number of respondents in 2001. The annual study,
conducted by GLCensus Partners, is an in-depth look into the consumer
behavior of the Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender (GLBT) community.
Respondents needed 45 minutes on average to complete the survey,
which was available online from July 9-August 20, at www.glcensus.org.
While the number of participants rose dramatically, many of the
results are remarkably consistent with those from the previous year.
"The consistency between the data sets is one of our key findings,"
said Amy Falkner of Syracuse University, lead researcher on the
project. "With a group as difficult to survey as the GLBT community,
the similarity in the results, even with a nearly 40% increase in
participation, means we are getting a clear picture of what this
community is like. The results should be of interest to everyone -
from social scientists to politicians to corporate America."
The 2001 and 2002 Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census is an endeavor
of the GLCensus Partners, a partnership between the S.I. Newhouse
School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, advertising
and public relations firm OpusComm Group, Inc., which specializes in
consultation of sensitivity issues and market plan development for
all types of advertisers to target the GLBT community, and GSociety,
Inc., a media/entertainment company whose family of companies feature
Internet portals GayWired.com, LesbiaNation.com and online travel
publication QTMagazine.com.
Here is a look at the similarities between the 2001 and 2002
results:
2001 2002
# of respondents 6,351 8,831
% of male respondents 54.8% 54.2%
% of female respondents 44.1% 44.8%
% intersexed/other 1.1% 1%
Median age 35 37
In a committed relationship 51% 51.1%
U.S. registered voters 89.8% 90%
Being "out"
"out" to friends 91.8% 92.3%
Education
College graduate 36.7% 37.2%
Graduate School degree 20.5% 21.4%
Religion
Percentage who are affilated
with a particular religion 65.3% 63.7%
Gay-Friendly/Purchase behavior
% of respondents who are more likely to buy products or purchase
services from companies they know are gay-friendly
82% 82%
Parenting
% that have children under 18 living at home
Female respondents 22.7% 21.7%
Male respondents 5.2% 4.9%
"This year’s results solidify that parenting is an important
component to our survey base and proposes a strong market for those
advertisers looking to grow their markets that are targeted to
families," says Jeffrey Garber, president of OpusComm Group Inc.,
and founder of the GLCensus Partner’s study.
Further similarities between the 2001 and 2002 results:
- Both the 2001 and the 2002 GLCensus respondents reported income
in all income brackets ranging from less than $19,999 to greater
than $200,000.
2001 2002
Personal Income
Male (largest bracket reported)
$20,000-$39,999 28.4% 30.4%
Female (largest bracket reported)
$$20,000-$39,999 37.5% 37.7%
Household Income
Male (largest bracket reported)
$40,000-$59,999 19% 19%
- % of males who reported household
incomes of $100,000 or more 28.2% 31.8%
Female (largest bracket reported)
$20,000-$39,999 23.2% 22.5%
- % females who reported household
incomes of $100,000 or more 15.2% 16.9%
"These numbers are no surprise, considering the findings on eduation.
For the most part receiving a good education usually goes hand and
hand with good paying jobs," comments Garber.
Part Two delves into consumer categories, focusing on GLBT consumer
behavior. In-depth analysis is provided on: automotive, childcare,
computer equipment, electronics, entertainment, financial, food and
beverage, home and garden, medical, pets, sports and fitness, and
travel.
Additonal survey findings and information on the GLBT respondents
including media popularity can be found at www.glcensus.org.
Both mainstream and GLBT media worldwide have quoted the Gay &
Lesbian Consumer Online Census as an authority on the understanding
of GLBT consumer behavior. Corporate America has taken notice as
well, making the study an integral part of Fortune 100 advertising
plans developed to target this unique, powerful and much needed
market in such a lagging economy
The survey was announced via news articles on wire services as well
as in mainstream and gay print, broadcast and online media. A public
relations campaign resulted in numerous media sponsors running PSAs
and hyperlinks to the survey from their respective Web sites. In
addition, an e-mail referral system was used at the survey completion
screen so respondents could easily pass the URL along to their
friends, encouraging them to participate.
For further information and to review a full summary of the 2001
or 2002 Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census, contact Jeffrey Garber,
president of OpusComm Group at jeff@opuscommgroup.com (315) 636-2018
or visit www.glcensus.org. A detailed description of the 2001 or 2002
Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census methodology can be viewed at
http://www.glcensus.com/downloads/Why_Online_Surveys.htm
GLCensus Partners (www.glcensus.org) - The world leader in GLBT
consumer research, includes:
- The S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse University (www.syracuse.edu) -
One of the world’s leading academic and research institutions in the
field of communications.
- OpusComm Group (www.opuscommgroup.com) - Innovative Advertising,
Marketing, Communication and Public Relations experts on the
Gay/Lesbian market.
- GSociety, Inc. (www.gsociety.com) - A media/entertainment company
whose reach and distribution channels target the millions of gay and
lesbian consumers worldwide. Traded on the NASDAQ: GSOC
# # #
Contact: Jeffrey S. Garber, president/ jeff@opuscommgroup.com
OpusComm Group, Inc.
834 Oakwood Street
Fayetteville, NY 13066
tel: (315) 637-2018
www.opuscommgroup.com
------------------------------------------------------------------
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jeffrey S. Garber, President
OpusComm Group, Inc.
Jeff@opuscommgroup.com
(315) 637-2018
www.opuscommgroup.com
www.glcensus.org
Largest Gay Consumer Study Reveals Automotive, Food and Beverage
Preferences
Ford and Toyota Lead the List of Favorite Automakers
26% of Respondents Will Buy a New Car within Next Two Years
31% Spend $300 to $499 a Month on Groceries
Syracuse, New York - January 30, 2003 - With 8,831 respondents,
the recently released 2002 Gay/Lesbian Consumer Online Census is
the largest and most comprehensive GLBT consumer study yet prepared.
Conducted by GLCensus Partners (Syracuse University and OpusComm
Group), the annual study fills the growing need among manufacturers
and service providers for detailed information on consumer behavior
and preferences of the Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender (GLBT)
community.
Several areas of consumer interest are examined by the census,
including automotive ownership and usage and food and beverage
preferences.
Ford leads the pack of preferred automakers in the Gay and Lesbian
community, judging by number of purchases and leases. Toyota,
Chevrolet, Honda, and Dodge round out the top five. Among the most
popular models, Ford is out in front in the truck, SUV, and Sports
Car categories with the Ford Ranger, Explorer 4 door, and Ford
Mustang. The Dodge Caravan, Mercedes-SL-Class, the Honda Accord,
and the Subaru Legacy Wagon are also frequently found in
respondents’ garages.
The study reveals that 10.2% of respondents drive a 2002 model
vehicle. More than one third own a car less than three years old,
and respondents between the ages of 25 - 34 make up the group mostly
likely to purchase a new car within the next 7 -12 months.
"Regarding the Gay and Lesbian community, it is just this kind of
consumer preference information -- detailed, up-to-date, relevant --
that manufacturers and the service industry urgently need," according
to Amy Falkner of Syracuse University, lead researcher on the project,
"And until now it simply was not available. The auto industry is
taking notice of the numbers and moving quickly to provide consumer
goods to what is only today becoming recognized as a large and
powerful purchasing group."
Food and beverages continue to be a big-ticket item. The 2002
Gay/Lesbian Consumer Online Census shows that 31% of respondents
spend an average of $300 to 499 a month on their household grocery
bill. The same percentage average $100 to $199 monthly on
restaurant tabs. Twenty-one percent of census respondents pay
between $36 and $45 for a restaurant dinner for two.
Almost 38% of respondents drink 2-4 glasses of wine a week, with
California and French wines leading the list of favorites. Among
liquors, vodka, rum and tequila are the preferred choices. Nearly
half of those replying prefer large brewery domestic beer over
imported, and a little less than one-fifth do not drink alcohol
at all.
"Food and beverage sales are big business, so it is no wonder that
the industry is scrambling to better serve the preferences of the
GLBT community," explains Jeffrey Garber, president of OpusComm
Group Inc., and founder of the GLCensus Partners' study.
"Restaurants, food packagers, airlines -- all have a vested interest
in better understanding their client’s needs, and this is the first
time they’ve had the accurate information they need to make informed
business choices about the Gay and Lesbian market."
The 2002 Gay/Lesbian Consumer Online Census also reports significant
new findings in the areas of childcare, electronics, entertainment,
finances, home and garden, medical care, pets, sports and fitness,
and travel.
The 2001 and 2002 Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census is an endeavor
of the GLCensus Partners, a partnership between the S.I. Newhouse
School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, and
advertising and public relations firm OpusComm Group, Inc., which
specializes in consultation of sensitivity issues and market plan
development for all types of advertisers to target the GLBT community.
For further information and to review a full summary of the 2001
or 2002 Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census, contact Jeffrey Garber,
president of OpusComm Group at jeff@opuscommgroup.com (315) 636-2018
or visit www.glcensus.org. A detailed description of the 2001 or
2002 Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census methodology can be viewed
at http://www.glcensus.com/downloads/Why_Online_Surveys.htm
- GLCensus Partners (www.glcensus.org) - The world leader in GLBT
consumer research, includes:
- The S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse University (www.syracuse.edu)-
One of the world’s leading academic and research institutions in
the field of communications.
- OpusComm Group (www.opuscommgroup.com) - Innovative Advertising,
Marketing, Communication and Public Relations experts on the
Gay/Lesbian market.
###
Distributed by GLINN's Gay News Distribution Service at
www.gaydata.com
Media Contact: Pam Derderian 610-397-0100
inqueerie@aol.com
Martina Navratilova Relaunches Rainbow Card
With Long Term Funding Commitment from MBNA America Bank
Subaru Of America Renews Support Of Gay/Lesbian Charity
(New York, NY) November 20, 2002 -- Tennis legend and ace activist
Martina Navratilova announced a long term funding commitment to gay
and lesbian causes today at the Gay Life Expo in New York City where
MBNA America Bank unveiled their relaunch of the Visa Rainbow Card
which was cofounded by Navratilova in 1995. She also confirmed Subaru
Of America, Inc.¹s renewal of its founding sponsorship of the Rainbow
Endowment, the non-profit beneficiary of funds raised through the
Rainbow Card. The program has generated over $1.3 million to date.
"We are grateful to secure a revenue stream for the Rainbow Endowment
at least through the later part of the decade," stated Navratilova.
"We attribute our program¹s success to the tremendous loyalty of
Rainbow Card members and the partnerships we have developed with
visionary corporate leaders," she continued. "Partnering with
companies dedicated to diversity and equality is of highest priority
and I¹m proud to say we have met our match with both Subaru and MBNA."
MBNA is commited to equality for all employees through its
nondiscrimination policy, which includes protection for gays and
lesbians. In addition, beginning January 1, 2003, MBNA will offer
domestic partners inclusion in the bank¹s benefits coverage.
The largest independent credit card lender in the world, MBNA also
provides retail deposit, consumer loan, and insurance products.
"MBNA is dedicated to serving its Customers and their individual
communities with meaningful benefits," according to Jim Murphy,
Director of Special Interest Marketing Programs at MBNA. "We are
pleased to relaunch the Rainbow Card with such wide ranging
benefits as online access and banking, the lowest annual APR offered,
and the finest Customer service in the business." MBNA Corporation,
a bank holding company and parent of MBNA America Bank, N. A., a
national bank, has $102.8 billion in managed loans.
"Subaru is a company committed to recognizing diversity and providing
an equitable level of benefits for all its employees," remarked Tim
Bennett, director of marketing for Subaru Of America, Inc. "We¹ve
earned high regard as the nation¹s first auto company to integrate
niche marketing to gays and lesbians as an integral part of our
overall marketing mix."
As a Rainbow Cardholder for more than 6 months, you are entitled to
a special VIP offer when you lease or purchase any new Subaru model.
For every car sold to a Rainbow Card member, Subaru will make an
additional donation to the Rainbow Endowment.
Visit www.rainbowcard.com to find out more about the VIP Partners
Program as well as other Card member benefits.
####
Photo caption: Co-founder and spokesperson Martina Navratilova
relaunches the Rainbow Card program with MBNA America Bank, N.A.
at a reception in New York City
--
Valerie Cucinotta
"15 Minutes" Inc.
610-832-1515
610-832-1585
v.cucinotta@verizon.net
Photo Available:
http://www.gaydata.com/download/MN_on_stage.jpg
Rainbow Endowment Marks Charitable Contributions In Excess of
$1.3 Million
Founding Sponsor Subaru of America Renews Commitment
(Philadelphia, PA) November 17, 2002--The Rainbow Endowment, a
philanthropic organization whose funds are generated by use of the
Rainbow Card, a Visa credit card issued by MBNA America Bank,
continues its work as a significant fundraising tool for the gay
and lesbian community as it exceeds donations of over $1.3 million
this year.
Founded in 1995, the Rainbow Endowment¹s mission is to promote
health, visibility and full access to social, cultural and civic
life for members of the diverse gay, lesbian, bisexual and
transgender community. ³To date we¹ve donated over $1.3 million
in charitable contributions, a significant milestone when you
consider that less than 2% of all philanthropic dollars in the
U. S. are targeted specifically to lesbian and gay causes,² stated
Rainbow Card co-founder and Endowment spokesperson, Martina
Navratilova.
³Subaru has played a significant role in the program¹s success,
and we are pleased to announce their renewed commitment as founding
sponsor of the Rainbow Endowment,² continued Navratilova. ³With less
than 45 foundations throughout the country that support this under
served community, it remains a priority for us to support the
philanthropic goals of the Rainbow Endowment,² stated Tim Bennett,
director of marketing for Subaru Of America, Inc.
The following organizations were recently awarded grants from the
Rainbow Endowment: American Civil Liberties Foundation, for their
support of ³Every Student, Every School²; Gay, Lesbian, Straight
Education Network for their support of work to stop harassment of
gay students and empower educators to keep all students safe; Human
Rights Campaign in support of FamilyNet, a user friendly web based
resource for gays and lesbians and their families; Lambda Legal
Defense & Education Fund in support of initiatives for gay youth
in foster care, in schools; and the Latino Outreach Project,
Equality Forum (formerly PrideFest America) in support of a
documentary in progress with MTV and PBS about gay youth and
teen suicide; Service Members Legal Defense Network in support
of a new legal database to enhance their overall watchdog effort.
The Rainbow Endowment recently named Jean Buchnowski, Executive
Director to facilitate the growth needed to catapult the organization
to the next level. ³Thanks to the Rainbow Card program¹s vital
commitments from Martina, MBNA, and the renewed support of Subaru of
America, we are able to look into the future and guarantee continued
funding to the community for many years to come,² explains Buchnowski.
Those interested in applying for funding from the Rainbow Endowment
are urged to carefully review the Endowment¹s funding guidelines
available online at www.rainbowcard.com/endowment, or by written
request to: P. O. Box 2165, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
###
Photo Caption: Spokesperson Martina Navratilova joins board members
of the Rainbow Endowment (L-R Bill Peters, Paul Ross, Karen Mudd,
Donna Knutson, Jean Buchnowski, Stephen Kazanjian) and Pam Derderian,
Rainbow Card co-founder.
--
Valerie Cucinotta
"15 Minutes" Inc.
610-832-1515
610-832-1585
v.cucinotta@verizon.net
Photo Available for Viewing/Saving:
http://www.gaydata.com/download/RBE.jpg
Wanted...Unsung Heroes
Visit www.advocate.com to Nominate Your Favorite
Gay/Lesbian Cause or Leader for the 2003 Subaru Rainbow Leadership
Award
November 15, New York, NY -- For the past six years The Rainbow
Card program has been a significant funding tools for gay and
lesbian causes, contributing over $1.3 million. As an extension
to their fundraising efforts, Martina Navratilova, Nancy Becker
and Pam Derderian, co-founders of the Rainbow Card, introduced the
Subaru Rainbow Leadership Award to honor individuals and/or
organizations whose work has positively impacted the gay and
lesbian community.
In partnership with The Advocate, the Rainbow Card program and
Subaru Of America, Inc., Founding Sponsor of the Rainbow Endowment,
welcomes public nominations for the 2003 Subaru Rainbow Leadership
Award. "It¹s a great way for members of our community to help those
who are striving on a daily basis to better the lives of gays and
lesbians," stated Navratilova. The award is accompanied by a
$10,000 grant.
The Rainbow Card Program is looking across the country for activists
who work on a local or national scope. The nominee can be involved
in creating visibility for LGBT social and/or cultural achievements;
achieving equal rights; working to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS or
to improving the lives of people with the disease; mentoring or
providing resources to lesbian and gay youth; etc. Past Leadership
Award recipients include: Bailey House which provides housing and
services for people with AIDS; Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education
Network which fights to end homophobia in schools; Lambda Legal
Defense and Education Fund which works for justice within the legal
system; LIFEbeat the music industry HIV/AIDS fundraiser; Mautner
Project for Lesbians with Cancer and community leaders Urvashi Vaid
for her state-to-state political advocacy efforts and the late
Kiyoshi Kuromiya to continue his pioneering Critical Path AIDS
Project, a comprehensive online resource for HIV/AIDS treatment
information.
"We believe in community outreach as a way to encourage the public
to share stories of a local nature," stated Tim Bennett, Director
of Marketing, Subaru of America, Inc. "By seeking people or
organizations who may not have the resources to cultivate their
own funding, we may truly be of help to an unsung hero of the
community."
Applications for the 2003 Subaru Rainbow Leadership Award may be
accessed and submitted electronically at www.advocate.com. For
more information about the Rainbow Card or about the 2003 Subaru
Rainbow Leadership Award visit www.rainbowcard.com
###
--
Valerie Cucinotta
"15 Minutes" Inc.
610-832-1515
610-832-1585
v.cucinotta@verizon.net
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT: Sharon Kersten (305) 867-0933 /
kersten@the-beach.net
MAZE OPENS WITH A WHITE PARTY WEEK WHIRLWIND
First-Ever FREE White Party Week Event -- with DJ Lydia Prim!
MAZE, the hot new entertainment and party complex, is soaring onto the SoBe
nightlife scene with a White Party Weekend whirlwind of events!
With three sanctioned WPW events -- White Journey, White Heat and Stay --
for its Grand Opening Weekend, MAZE is already giving back to the community
by hosting the first-ever FREE White Party Week event. White Journey, a
Morning Party on Saturday, November 30, will feature DJ Lydia Prim, one of
the most talked-about DJs in the country. Lydia, who spins nearly all on
vinyl, will keep the party going from 8 AM until 1 PM.
In lieu of charging admission for White Journey, MAZE owners Rich Van De
Boom and Stacy Gallowhur decided to make a substantial donation to Care
Resource and give an unprecedented free WPW party. "Our goal for MAZE is
create a high-energy space without the attitude," said Rich. "This is a
great opportunity for us to make a difference and to show the community what
we’re about."
In addition to White Journey, MAZE is hosting White Heat on Saturday night,
November 30 and Stay on Monday morning, December 2. White Heat is also
the kickoff of "Rize Saturdays," MAZE’s weekly Saturday night event for
South Florida’s GLBT community. DJs James Anderson of NYC and Wayne G from
London will be spinning at White Heat, along with a special performance by
Celeda, the latest "Grand Diva of Dance." Celeda’s latest collaboration
with Grammy award-winning producer Peter Rauhofer in "The Underground" is
perched at #1 on the Billboard Dance Charts! Stay, the 9 AM -- 1 PM morning
party on Monday, features DJ Escape, whose cutting edge style and five mix
CDs have earned him a coveted space in the gay party circuit.
With a totally new updated look, MAZE will definitely amaze you! The
Funktion-One sound system is beyond compare, as it is the only one of its
kind in the world; only one other club, in Ibiza, has a similar system, the
previous generation to this revolutionary sound. Fantastic Coemar lighting,
a totally revamped space and a constant flow of energy combine to create a
one-of-kind experience.
With an eclectic mix of energy, MAZE offers something for everyone during
White Party Week and beyond. Stay tuned for updates on Rize Saturdays and
other special events for the community. The club is located at 1290 18th
Street at West Avenue. www.clubmaze.com (305) 534-9975.
Tickets
Individual tickets are $50 for White Heat on Saturday, November 30, and $20
for the Stay morning party on Monday, December 2. To order tickets and
passes, please go to www.whiteparty.com or call (305) 667-9296, ext. 44.
Sharon Kersten
Kersten Communications
1815 Bay Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33141
Ph 305.867.0933
Fax 305.867.8554
Cel 305.458.3639
Images Available:
http://www.gaydata.com/download/LydiaPrim02.jpg
http://www.gaydata.com/download/Logo-MAZE.jpg
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jeffrey S. Garber, president/ jeff@opuscommgroup.com
OpusComm Group, Inc.
834 Oakwood Street
Fayetteville, NY 13066
tel: (315) 637-2018
www.opuscommgroup.com
Thousands of Gays Speak Out in the Largest Annual Gay Consumer Study
92% of Gay Respondents Are Out to Their Friends
22% of Lesbian Respondents Are Parents
82% Prefer to Purchase From Known Gay-Friendly Companies
Syracuse, New York - November 4, 2002 - The 2002 Gay & Lesbian
Consumer Online Census finished with 8,831 participants, a 39 percent
increase over the number of respondents in 2001. The annual study,
conducted by GLCensus Partners, is an in-depth look into the consumer
behavior of the Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender (GLBT) community.
Respondents needed 45 minutes on average to complete the survey,
which was available online from July 9-August 20, at www.glcensus.org.
While the number of participants rose dramatically, many of the
results are remarkably consistent with those from the previous year.
"The consistency between the data sets is one of our key findings,"
said Amy Falkner of Syracuse University, lead researcher on the
project. "With a group as difficult to survey as the GLBT community,
the similarity in the results, even with a nearly 40% increase in
participation, means we are getting a clear picture of what this
community is like. The results should be of interest to everyone -
from social scientists to politicians to corporate America."
The 2001 and 2002 Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census is an endeavor
of the GLCensus Partners, a partnership between the S.I. Newhouse
School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, advertising
and public relations firm OpusComm Group, Inc., which specializes in
consultation of sensitivity issues and market plan development for
all types of advertisers to target the GLBT community, and GSociety,
Inc., a media/entertainment company whose family of companies feature
Internet portals GayWired.com, LesbiaNation.com and online travel
publication QTMagazine.com.
Here is a look at the similarities between the 2001 and 2002
results:
2001 2002
# of respondents 6,351 8,831
% of male respondents 54.8% 54.2%
% of female respondents 44.1% 44.8%
% intersexed/other 1.1% 1%
Median age 35 37
In a committed relationship 51% 51.1%
U.S. registered voters 89.8% 90%
Being "out"
"out" to friends 91.8% 92.3%
Education
College graduate 36.7% 37.2%
Graduate School degree 20.5% 21.4%
Religion
Percentage who are affilated
with a particular religion 65.3% 63.7%
Gay-Friendly/Purchase behavior
% of respondents who are more likely to buy products or purchase
services from companies they know are gay-friendly
82% 82%
Parenting
% that have children under 18 living at home
Female respondents 22.7% 21.7%
Male respondents 5.2% 4.9%
"This year’s results solidify that parenting is an important
component to our survey base and proposes a strong market for those
advertisers looking to grow their markets that are targeted to
families," says Jeffrey Garber, president of OpusComm Group Inc.,
and founder of the GLCensus Partner’s study.
Further similarities between the 2001 and 2002 results:
- Both the 2001 and the 2002 GLCensus respondents reported income
in all income brackets ranging from less than $19,999 to greater
than $200,000.
2001 2002
Personal Income
Male (largest bracket reported)
$20,000-$39,999 28.4% 30.4%
Female (largest bracket reported)
$$20,000-$39,999 37.5% 37.7%
Household Income
Male (largest bracket reported)
$40,000-$59,999 19% 19%
- % of males who reported household
incomes of $100,000 or more 28.2% 31.8%
Female (largest bracket reported)
$20,000-$39,999 23.2% 22.5%
- % females who reported household
incomes of $100,000 or more 15.2% 16.9%
"These numbers are no surprise, considering the findings on eduation.
For the most part receiving a good education usually goes hand and
hand with good paying jobs," comments Garber.
Part Two delves into consumer categories, focusing on GLBT consumer
behavior. In-depth analysis is provided on: automotive, childcare,
computer equipment, electronics, entertainment, financial, food and
beverage, home and garden, medical, pets, sports and fitness, and
travel.
Additonal survey findings and information on the GLBT respondents
including media popularity can be found at www.glcensus.org.
Both mainstream and GLBT media worldwide have quoted the Gay &
Lesbian Consumer Online Census as an authority on the understanding
of GLBT consumer behavior. Corporate America has taken notice as
well, making the study an integral part of Fortune 100 advertising
plans developed to target this unique, powerful and much needed
market in such a lagging economy
The survey was announced via news articles on wire services as well
as in mainstream and gay print, broadcast and online media. A public
relations campaign resulted in numerous media sponsors running PSAs
and hyperlinks to the survey from their respective Web sites. In
addition, an e-mail referral system was used at the survey completion
screen so respondents could easily pass the URL along to their
friends, encouraging them to participate.
For further information and to review a full summary of the 2001
or 2002 Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census, contact Jeffrey Garber,
president of OpusComm Group at jeff@opuscommgroup.com (315) 636-2018
or visit www.glcensus.org. A detailed description of the 2001 or 2002
Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census methodology can be viewed at
http://www.glcensus.com/downloads/Why_Online_Surveys.htm
GLCensus Partners (www.glcensus.org) - The world leader in GLBT
consumer research, includes:
- The S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse University (www.syracuse.edu) -
One of the world’s leading academic and research institutions in the
field of communications.
- OpusComm Group (www.opuscommgroup.com) - Innovative Advertising,
Marketing, Communication and Public Relations experts on the
Gay/Lesbian market.
- GSociety, Inc. (www.gsociety.com) - A media/entertainment company
whose reach and distribution channels target the millions of gay and
lesbian consumers worldwide. Traded on the NASDAQ: GSOC
# # #
Contact: Jeffrey S. Garber, president/ jeff@opuscommgroup.com
OpusComm Group, Inc.
834 Oakwood Street
Fayetteville, NY 13066
tel: (315) 637-2018
www.opuscommgroup.com
Wellfinder
Suite 261, 701 Rossland Road East
Whitby, ON, Canada L1N 3V2
Joe Johnston
(905) 668-0886
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
A Recent South American Discovery Has Proven To Boost The Immune
System, Giving Hope To Millions.
Joe Johnston, founder of the organization "Wellfinder", reports the
discovery of Bio Immune Response Modulator (BIRM) that has proven to
help those suffering from debilitating and often fatal immune-related
diseases. Developed by Dr. Edwin Cevallos, an Ecuadorian Oncologist,
BIRM is a rare Amazon plant extract; so rare in fact that it is only
found in one area of the Amazon. It is made by hand and administered
as a natural food supplement. It is exported under the direction of
Dr. Cevallos exclusively. Information concerning BIRM is available
via confidential email to ANYONE who feels that they may benefit
from this discovery. The email address is immuneplus@getresponse.com
Johnston, an international wellness advocate and entrepreneur, says
that "Wellfinder" is dedicated to bringing such medical breakthroughs
as BIRM to the public's attention. He says, "over 50 million people
in the United States alone suffer from immune-related diseases such
as Scleroderma, Multiple Sclerosis, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. In
addition, HIV and AIDS prey on millions, often with devastating
results." Johnston adds, "if this information concerning the
availability of BIRM helps just one person on the road to wellness
then my organization will have served its purpose."
For further information, contact Joe Johnston at
press@wellfinder.com or (905) 668-0886.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: KellyAnn Tucci
OpusComm Group, Inc.
315-422-6250
kellyann@opuscommgroup.com
www.opuscommgroup.com
Commentary Shows Human Side to the GLBT Numbers
Syracuse, NY - August 6, 2002 - The GLCensus Partnership,
creators of the now annual Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census,
is looking forward to analyzing the 2002 GLCensus (www.glcensus.org),
which is at the midpoint of the survey period. And if the 2001 survey
was any example, corporate America is anxiously awaiting the results
as well. The census, which analyzes the spending habits of the GLBT
community, is in its third week and ends August 18. Participation so
far has nearly doubled over the 2001 six-week tally. And so has the
commentary from those respondents.
Syracuse University, OpusComm Group and GSociety, which make up
the partnership, wanted to ensure that participation in the GLCensus
was strictly voluntary, and completely private, which led them to use
the Internet as the vehicle. Respondents spend approximately 40
minutes answering multiple-choice questions on categories such as
childcare, , entertainment, automotive, pet care, healthcare and
electronics/technology, among others. At the end, however, they
have a chance to share their thoughts on the GLCensus, the GLBT
community and society in general, instilling a profile of the
humanity, aside from the cold hard facts and statistics.
A young participant's request and support...
"Thank you for caring enough to create this census. I would love to
participate in anything that might help my community, but do remember
that I live with my parents (who do not know about my orientation)
and cannot receive any mail identified as gay-related. But feel free
to send anything to my email, which is private."
Due to the fierce protection of privacy for the respondents
insisted upon by the GLCensus Partnership, the comments, which
accompany the completed surveys, are completely anonymous. "It’s
no secret that there are still strong acceptance issues and
discrimination factors towards the GLBT community," says Cary
Gilbert, vice president of GSociety, one of three partners of
GLCensus Partners. "Even though these people understandably want
to protect their privacy, in most cases, that doesn’t mean they
don’t want the opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings."
"Being as old as I am, and not being out but 3 years, I’m so
surprised and pleased that this type of survey is conducted. I
know it will be, and is, helpful. I’m anxious to see the results."
Jeff Garber, president of OpusComm Group, founding partner of
the GLCensus, talks about the poignancy of most of the commentary,
and how remarks have struck a nerve among the GLCensus staff
members.
"As happens in a lot of grand-scale research projects, we
sometimes get so embroiled in compiling statistics, we lose sight
of the fact that the numbers represent people’s lives," he said.
"The thoughts and feelings they have shared with us are astounding,
and I have to say, affirming as to why we are trying to accomplish
our goal with the GLCensus. And the diversity of people from which
they come... it’s unbelievable!"
Donna Red Wing, director of policy and special initiatives at the
Gill Foundation comments, "As we work toward achieving equal
opportunity for all people --regardless of sexual orientation or
gender identity -- we are pleased to see research articulating who
"gay America" really is. We hope that information gathered from the
GLCensus will help to build bridges between the LGBT and straight
communities, by illustrating how lesbians and gays participate in
every aspect of American life."
"I live on a limited disability budget because of AIDS - don’t really
have a life anymore. Don’t know how valuable my info will be to you,
but here it is..."
"Thanks for doing this. I would love to see the word get out to
those in the marketing field. My partner and I went to an appliance
store with cash in hand to buy a top of the line front-loading washer
and dryer. Not one sales person even made eye contact with us. They
missed out on a $2500 sale. Again, thanks. I hope you make a
difference."
"There needs to be more tests like these to expose the normalcy of
gay life to the straight public and also the monetary value of the
gay dollars being put back into the community. We are here, and we
spend money. We are the future and we deserve notice and respect."
Corporate Response Ability
"This is a typical theme," says Garber. "Even with the great
response we’ve had from Fortune 100 corporations who have purchased
the results of the 2001 GLCensus and sought consultation on how to
target the GLBT market, many of them never considered the fact that
it takes more than a gay-oriented ad to serve the community. Ad
campaigns will only get them in the door, that, and a commitment
to being gay-friendly inside and out. Its an investment, but one
that pays off quickly in brand loyalty."
"Gay friendly companies are very important in my decision making
process. One of the main reasons I bought my Subaru Outback was
because of the company’s support for the GLBT." "
Comments like this echo throughout, many explaining that while
they were drawn in by advertising, it was the comfort level they
experienced while being serviced that sealed their buying decisions.
Time Spent Elicits Change
Hundreds have responded to the length of the GLCensus, but
very few negatively. A repeated theme: "That was long, but thanks
for the opportunity to have a voice."
Amy Falkner, a professor at the S.I. Newhouse School of
Communications at Syracuse University, and leader of the research
development team for the GLCensus Partnership, explains: "With
research of this stature, we try to gather as much information as
possible from as many participants as we can reach. We try to keep
the length as manageable as possible; otherwise, completion would
be a big issue.
According to the comments we’ve received, most of the people who give
that hour of their time to complete it share the same goal as we do:
recognition of the GLBT community as not only a viable market, but
one which corporate America needs to openly address."
"Thanks for such a comprehensive survey! Hopefully, the results will
reveal how ingrained in the fabric of life we are as the GLBT
community, and that our demographic counts!!"
"I’m glad I had this opportunity to respond. I am young, female,
educated, and I vote!!!"
"We’ve also received a lot of constructive criticism from the
participants," says Falkner. "This can be some of the most valuable
information derived, enabling us to improve and expand on pertinent
economic information. For example, last year we received a lot of
requests to include a category on pet care. We did some further
research and found that the GLBT community is a huge market for that
particular industry. Based on those factors, that is the one new
category on the 2002 GLCensus."
The GLBT respondents expressed the overwhelming need for the
information gathered by the GLCensus Partnership to go farther, as
well as research into other aspects of the community.
"Keep up the active interest in the betterment/improvement of the
Gay Community. If I were allowed one wish - ok maybe 3 wishes - one
would surely be that the info given on behalf of your participants
be utilized constructively to initiate Gay rights-oriented laws,
education, etc. The Gay Community, and ultimately the world in
general, is a better place because surveys such as this one exist.
Cheers!"
"While we have concentrated on the consumerism side of the GLBT
community, we are vitally aware of the need for changes across the
board: socially, politically, etc.," says Garber. "The underlying
motivation for a lot of people to participate in such a study is
that consumerism is a form of activism."
As one participant points out:
"Thank you for including me in this census --these things are vitally
important --not just for the GLBT Community, but as a way of educating
the world-at-large about ourselves -- and education always leads to
tolerance and acceptance."
The 2002 Gay & Lesbian Consumer Online Census is open for
participation until August 18th of this year. Members of the GLBT
Community can go to www.glcensus.org to take the survey, find
results from the previous year and information about the GLCensus
partnership.
GLCensus Partners (www.glcensus.org) - The leader in GLBT consumer
research, includes:
- The S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse University (www.syracuse.edu) -
One of the world’s leading academic and research institutions in the
field of communications.
- OpusComm Group (www.opuscommgroup.com) - Innovative Advertising,
Marketing, Communication and Public Relations experts on the
Gay/Lesbian market.
- GSociety, Inc. (www.gsociety.com) - A media/entertainment company
whose reach and distribution channels target the millions of gay and
lesbian consumers worldwide. Traded on the NASDAQ: GSOC
For more information, contact KellyAnn Tucci, VP Public
Relations at 315-422-6250 or kellyann@opuscommgroup.com.
WWW.RainbowPrideCoach.com, a personal, professional, and business
coaching organization based in Columbus, Ohio has formed to help gay,
lesbian, and bisexual individuals achieve their career, relationship,
social/recreational and spiritual goals.
Owner Craig Campbell asserts that coaching differs from other helping
professions, like psychotherapy, in a number of ways. He explains,
"Clients come to therapy driven by emotional pain and turmoil,
whereas clients come to coaching driven by passion and excitement.
Coaching focuses more on the future; therapy is more oriented to the
past. Coaching is more collaborative and action oriented. Generally,
folks who hire a coach are already high functioning, and if they have
abuse or neglect issues from childhood, they have significantly
worked through them in therapy already, or they are currently seeing
a therapist to resolve those issues. What coaching clients want is
support, encouragement, and accountability in achieving some
important life goals and in creating an extraordinary life. Therapy
is about going from the basement to the first floor. Coaching is
about going from the first floor to the mezzanine."
Campbell, who is gay himself, states that he has worked with the
gay, lesbian, and bisexual community for twelve years because of
his desire to help and empower that population. "We're still the
easiest target of prejudice and discrimination. This fact is
reflected even in our language: it hasn't been OK for decades to
use the 'n' word, but it's still OK to use the 'f' word and the
'd' word." Campbell asserts, "I believe the GLB community is
filled with gifted, creative, extraordinary people, but years of
oppression and vilification have taken there toll on us, and in
some cases, resulted in stymied or thwarted careers and relationships,
wasted talent, and lost potential. I'd like to do what I can to
reverse this trend. I want to help gay, lesbian, and bisexual
individuals in the United States and all over the world design
rich, full, successful lives for themselves. They deserve it!"
Coaching services at www.RainbowPrideCoach.com are provided via
the telephone and email, and group coaching is offered through a
teleconference phone line. A free quarterly newsletter can be
obtained by subscribing at the website. For more information,
call Craig at 614-457-7699 or email him at CRussell12@AOL.com.
----------------------------------------------------------------
NEWS_RELEASE: Contact: Rebecca Thomas
(760) 773-0290
e-mail: rebeccat@kgadvertising.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Legendary Racquet Club of Palm Springs Makes History Again
with Gay and Lesbian Retirement Community
(Palm Springs, Ca) For decades Hollywood celebrities made
The Racquet Club of Palms Springs one of the premier desert
hideaways. Founded in the early 1930’s by movie industry
icons Charlie Farrell and Ralph Bellamy, the resort catered
to celebrities including Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra.
The stars came out to play tennis, relax and wine and dine
at the famous Bamboo Lounge.
While it has been many years since The Racquet Club’s
heyday, the resort’s legacy is being rediscovered through a
revolutionary new vision. It is being transformed into the
first gay and lesbian retirement community on the West
Coast. Not only has the time come for the rebirth of The
Racquet Club, the time has come for a community that will
cater to the needs of gays and lesbians who want to enjoy
their golden years in a warm and accepting environment. With
estimates of nearly 500,000 gays and lesbians turning 50
every year in the United States there is a great need to
provide service to this market.
"We think a variety of retirement housing opportunities
should exist for the gay and lesbian community, and resort
living is one of them," said Mary Thorndall, Executive
Director of the Gay and Lesbian Association of Retiring
Persons.
The Racquet Club is a unique retirement community, designed
to meet the needs of seniors with charm and style. It is
located on 11 acres in "uptown Palm Springs" at the base of
the beautiful San Jacinto Mountains. The resort-style
retirement community has 46 fully furnished units, ranging
in price and size -- up to a four-bedroom villa with a
private pool. Residents aren’t locked into long-term leases;
instead they pay on a month-to-month basis. Animal lovers
will also be pleased to know The Racquet Club allows small
animals.
Rent includes utilities, meals from the Bamboo Lounge menu,
local transportation, recreation, laundry and housekeeping
services, as well as access to the resort’s health club.
Those who enjoy an active lifestyle will appreciate the
resort’s Olympic-sized swimming pool, spa and 10 tennis
courts.
The Bamboo Lounge, as well as the resort’s health club and
conference facilities, will remain open to the public.
On-site accommodations can be made for residents’ family and
friends on an "as available" basis.
"We want residents to feel a part of the greater Palm
Springs community," said Mishael Patton, Executive Director
of The Racquet Club of Palm Springs Retirement Community.
"And, likewise we want Palm Springs to continue to enjoy all
that The Racquet Club has to offer."
The Racquet Club is owned and operated by Sign of the Dove
Retirement Communities, a company with eight other
facilities in Southern California. Management is committed
to ensuring its residents receive the best possible service
and living environments.
"We have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to retirement
communities, and we’re looking forward to bringing our
experience to this community," said Bernard Rosenson, owner
of Sign of the Dove Retirement Communities.
As a grand opening bonus, The Racquet Club will waive its
administration fee for the first 10 residents and give them
their sixth month rent free.
Sign of the Dove was founded in 1977 with the goal of
providing excellence in care for the elderly, in fabulous
surroundings, at the most efficient price. At Sign of the
Dove our mission is to promote the well being of our
residents through a wide range of residential and supportive
services. A continuum of care meets physical, mental and
social needs while fostering dignity and independence.
For more information contact Racquet Club Executive
Director, Mishael Patton at (760) 325-1281.
FACT SHEET:
The Racquet Club of Palm Springs Retirement Community...
"Continuing a golden tradition of classic hospitality."
The Racquet Club of Palm Springs was built in the early
1930’s by Hollywood icons Charlie Farrell and Ralph Bellamy.
For decades it was a retreat for the stars -- a world class
resort where they could relax and play tennis. Today, The
Racquet Club caters to members of the gay and lesbian
community who want to spend their golden years in a warm,
accepting environment where they’ll be pampered like the
many Hollywood greats who came before them.
** Located on 11 acres in beautiful uptown Palm Springs
** 1st Gay and Lesbian Retirement Community in the West Coast
** 46 fully-furnished units
** 10 tennis courts
** Olympic-sized swimming pool and spa
** Sauna
** Access to famous Bamboo Lounge restaurant
** Rent includes:
* Utilities, including telephone service and cable.
* Membership to health club
* Laundry and housekeeping service
*
NEWS_RELEASE: 'Growing Up Gay In America'
A New Resource Offering Informative and Practical Advice
For Teen Guys Questioning Their Sexuality and Growing Up Gay
Contact: Peter Simmons
Teen Talk Communications
(508) 698-0123
GrowingUpGay@aol.com
For Immediate Release
Boston, MA -- 'Growing Up Gay In America' ($11.95 / Franklin Street
Books / ISBN #: 0-97194140-8 / 232-pages), by best-selling author
Jason R. Rich, is now available from Amazon.com, BN.com and
traditional booksellers nationwide. This informative resource
provides answers to common questions and offers positive, practical
and accurate advice on a wide range of topics and issues currently
facing gay, questioning and bisexual teen guys as well as their
parents, teachers, friends and relatives.
Topics covered within Growing Up Gay In America include:
* Determining Your Sexual Orientation
* Coming Out
* Building A Support System
* Dealing with Parents & Relatives
* The Gay Social Scene
* Relationships & Dating
* Sex
* Gay Club Etiquette
* Gay Life In Cyberspace
* Planning For The Future
* Gay Marriages / Domestic Partnerships
* Homosexuality Versus Religion
* Gay-Oriented TV Shows & Movies
* And Much More
For readers who are uncomfortable going to a bookstore to purchase a
gay-oriented book, or who are scared to be caught reading one,
'Growing Up Gay In America' is also now available in several popular
electronic (eBook) formats, so it can be downloaded and read on a
computer screen, Palm PDA or eBook reader. The eBook editions are
published by Dimension Publishing and support the following formats:
Palm eBook Reader for Palm PDAs ($9.95, ISBN #: 0-7952-0002-1), Adobe
Reader ($9.95, ISBN #: 0-7952-0001-3) and Microsoft Reader ($9.95,
ISBN #: 0-7952-0000-5).
Author Jason R. Rich is currently available for interviews and review
copies are available upon request. For more information, visit the
book’s Web site at www.Growing-Up-Gay.com.
Contact: Peter Simmons, Teen Talk Communications, (508) 698-0123,
GrowingUpGay@aol.com
Special Announcement
Syracuse University - OpusComm - GSociety invite you to:
Stand Up and Be Counted... Again!
July 8th - August 18th
You matter and so does your voice...
You are invited to voice your opinions and state some cold hard facts
about what it is to be a member of the GLBT Community.
The 2002 G/L Consumer Online Census started on July 8th, and continues
until August 19th of this year. Once again, we are providing the
opportunity to Stand Up and Be Counted - showing Corporate America,
politicians, the media and fellow citizens just how influential the
Gay Community is.
6,351 of you got their attention by completing the 2001 Census.
That is the LARGEST pool of respondents in the history of research
into the GLBT community. We even made it to the front page of USA
TODAY with our GLCensus GLBT opinion polls. So flex your network
muscle and get EVERBODY involved again this year!
Knowing that there is so much more we can do - must do - in the
coming year, we are asking you to partner with us to reach our goals.
*** Get online and fill out the Census
*** Get other GLBT family and friends to participate.
*** Send us your comments and suggestions. There are
improvements in this year's Census as a direct result of YOUR input.
*** Take pride in knowing that you are affecting a change in
the world for yourself and the future of the GLBT Community.
Thank you for helping us do what was considered impossible.
We've shown the world that the GLBT Community is not "elusive".
We are a force to be reckoned with - and let's be honest, catered to.
Ready to take the census? Click here to Stand Up and Be Counted:
http://www.glcensus.org
Thank you!
2002 Gay/Lesbian Consumer Online Census
July 8th - August 18th
http://www.glcensus.org
2001 Gay/Lesbian Consumer Online Census: A Syracuse University,
OpusComm Group, GSociety Study -- GLCensus Partners 2002 ©
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jeffrey Garber
OpusComm Group
315.422-6250
jeff@opuscommgroup.com
www.glcensus.org
Landmark Research Continues into GLBT Community
GLBT Consumer Habits revealed:
77% of the Female respondents listed books as their #1 form of
Entertainment
59% of the Males preferred attending Theatrical Movies
76% of the the 35 - 44 age group have Cable TV
28% of the Males respondents and 27% of the Females spent at
least 5 -10 days in a hotel per year
Syracuse, New York - June 28, 2002 - The 2001 Gay/Lesbian Consumer
Online Census Internet-based study was designed to poll gays and
lesbians about their education, jobs, spending practices, and
politics, and to market that information to advertisers.
"Gays and lesbians, collectively, are an important consumer
constituency," says Jeffrey Garber, president of OpusComm Group,
founding partner of GLCensus Partners. "The 2001 Gay/Lesbian
Consumer Online Census will become one of the primary tools used
to educate mainstream advertisers about this unique and widely
ignored niche market."
The Census, a joint project of OpusComm Group, a GLBT Advertising/
Public Relations firm, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
at Syracuse University, and GSociety, Inc., the first publicly traded
gay company specializing in media/entertainment, is the most in-depth
study to date, exploring the consumer patterns of gay and lesbian
people.
"A few major corporations are beginning to reap the rewards as
pioneers in this market," says Syracuse University Professor Amy
Falkner, an expert in targeted advertising and how different groups
use the Internet. "Gay and lesbian advertising is moving ‘out of the
closet’ and into the mainstream market." The results of the 2001 G/L
Census were published and made available for purchase in October 2001. Since then, a large number of the Fortune 100 companies have purchased the information in an effort to successfully market directly to this coveted segment. Garber states: "GLBT consumer clout is gaining fast respect and attention. GLBT consumers are hoping that their consumer loyalty will be valued by advertisers who will in turn, reciprocate in assisting the community in efforts to pursue legislative equality — in essence consumerism is a form of activism."
"With the 2001 G/L Census, our hope was to get a higher, more
respectable number of respondents, making it the largest independent
survey of the GLBT consumer market to date, enabling it to accurately
express the attitudes and opinions of a larger GLBT population",
Garber said. "Launching the ’Stand Up and Be Counted‘ campaign, and
choosing the Internet as the vehicle for the study, was obviously a
potent combination. We had 6,351 respondents. That is practically
unheard of in most research, much less in a targeted community
considered so elusive."
"You’ll be seeing many more large corporations ‘coming out’ as
friendly to gays once they see what a positive image in the gay
community can do for sales," explains Cary Gilbert, vice-president
of gay entertainment/media company GSociety, Inc. "It isn’t being
deceptive or devious on the company’s part. Instead, it’s a matter
of taking the opportunity to be open and positive about their
policies and goals concerning the gay population. Recognizing gay
clients has a positive effect on the bottom line. It’s a side benefit
-- and a compelling one."
With the success of the 2001 G/L Census, The GLCensus Partnership is
ready to unveil the 2002 Gay/Lesbian Consumer Online Census on July
8th, delving further into the spending habits and overall economic
structure of the Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender community. New
topics will be added to the original survey areas covered in the
history-making 2001 study. Since the close of the 2001 research,
which drew 6,351 respondents and the attention of worldwide media,
politicos and businesses alike, the GLCensus Partnership has accrued
a database with thousands more GLBT members registering each month to
participate in this year’s study.
The 2002 G/L Consumer Online Census will be made available to members
of the worldwide GLBT community beginning July 8th through August
18th, 2002 at www.glcensus.org. The study will include basic
demographics (gender, self-identification, ethnicity, geography,
family/relationship structures, occupation, household income), as
well as spending habits in a number of targeted industries, such as
automotive, financial, health and human services, pet care, travel
and entertainment, just to name a few.
NEW Release of GLBT Consumer Research:
Highlights of GLBT respondents on twelve Consumer categories from
the "2001 Gay/Lesbian Consumer Online Census.
6,351 respondents completed the 40 minute long census conducted
between July 9 - August 20, 2002. 5,869 were from the U.S. The
following statistics reflect the U.S. respondents only.
Summary: Base for the U.S. is 5,869 respondents — 3,228 men (55%)
and 2,586 women (44.1%), ranging from age 18 to 80. Median age of
respondent base was 35. Median age of adults (18+) in the U.S. is
42, based on Nov. 1, 2000 U.S. Census Bureau estimates.
Child Care
Almost a quarter (23%) of the respondents said they spent some
money on child/baby items each month. Of those who did, 21% spend
$100-299.
- Out of the respondents, 13% said they had children living with
them under the age of 18
- By age group of households with children, the most consistent
shoppers were
25 - 34 (37% spent $100-299/month, 27% spend $300-499/month, and
11% spent $500-600/month). The 35 - 44 age group (37% spent
$100-299/month, 28% spend $300-499/month, and 13% spent $500-600/
month).
Of those who spent on child and baby items, most recently did their
shopping in supermarkets (53%), discount stores (45%) and drugstores
(42%).
Clothing and Accessories
Monthly Spending on Clothing by Gender
Male
(24%, Less than $49/month, 31% spent $50-99/month, 33% spent
$100-299/month, 8% spend $300-499/month, and 5% spent $500-600/month).
Female
(38%, Less than $49/month, 34% spent $50- 99/month, 24% spent
$100-299/month, 4% spend $300-499/month, and 1% spent $500-600/month).
In general, male respondents were more likely to spend more money on
clothing and accessories.
Department stores received the most amount of business (51% had
shopped in the last month, 43% at discount stores, and 35% at drug
stores.
The 18-24 age group shopped the most at department stores with 56%;
followed by the 35-44 age group who shopped 52%.
The 18-24 age group shopped the most designer stores with 56%,
followed by the 25-34 age group who shopped 38%.
40% of the respondents had a separate wardrobe for work.
Influence on clothing and accessories purchases:
- 6 out of 10 say the #1 factor is fit, and 8 out of 10 saying it
was either #1 or #2 concern.
35% said quality for their #1 concern, followed by 34% who said
cost, and 10% said brand name.
Computers, Electronics, Entertainment, Financial, Food & Beverage,
Home & Garden, Medical Insurance, Personal Care Products, Sports &
Fitness and Travel and the FULL Press Release can be found at:
http://www.opuscommgroup.com/PressReleases/gl_release.html
GLCensus Partners (www.glcensus.org) - The world leader in GLBT
consumer research, includes:
- The S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse University
(www.syracuse.edu) - One of the world’s leading academic and
research institutions in the field of communications.
- OpusComm Group (www.opuscommgroup.com) - Innovative Advertising,
Marketing, Communication and Public Relations experts on the
Gay/Lesbian market.
- GSociety, Inc. (www.gsociety.com) - A media/entertainment
company whose reach and distribution channels target the millions
of gay and lesbian consumers worldwide. Traded on the NASDAQ: GSOC
For further information contact Jeffrey Garber, president, OpusComm
Group, Inc., at (315) 422-6250 or jeff@opuscommgroup.com.
Full Methodology and Details: http://www.glcensus.com/downloads/
Why_Online_Surveys.htm
IMPORTANT NOTICE
IN GRANTING BROADCAST/PRINT PERMISSION TO PUBLICIZE ANY/OR ALL
PORTIONS OF 2001 GAY/LESBIAN CONSUMER ONLINE CENSUS INFORMATION
PROVIDED.
You are authorized to quote from this report only if credited as
follows:
"A Syracuse University, OpusComm Group, GSociety Study".
You may also want to add: "For more information please visit
http://www.glcensus.org"
NEW STUDY - (Please include following information in article)
The 2002 G/L Consumer Online Census will be made available to
members of the worldwide GLBT community beginning July 8th through
August 18th, 2002 at www.glcensus.org. The study will include basic
demographics (gender, self-identification, ethnicity, geography,
family/relationship structures, occupation, household income), as
well as spending habits in a number of targeted industries, such
as automotive, financial, health and human services, pet care,
travel and entertainment, just to name a few.
###
Grand Diva Public Relations Press Release
ROCK MUSIC'S BAD BOY STRIKES AGAIN
*V*I*R*G*O* INVITED TO PERFORM AT THE 2002 NYC GAY PRIDE RALLY
NEW YORK, NEW YORK -- One would think that closing out last
year with one of OutMusic's Top 50 Songs of 2001 wouild be
enough for an industrial rock prodigy. But when that artist
is *V*I*R*G*O*, a single accomplishment is never enough.
*V*I*R*G*O* will be performing selections from his debut LP,
"Moderate Extremism", at the 2002 New York City Pride Rally
at Bryant Park.
Last year, *V*I*R*G*O* took the New York Gay Pride Festival
by storm with his sensual and sinister debut single, 'Alpha
Male'. This year, *V*I*R*G*O*'s harsh, defiant performance
at the 2002 New York Gay Pride Rally will undeniably leave
people astounded. In stark contrast to the usual, trance/
house music that the gay community has embraced for so long,
*V*I*R*G*O* delivers a unique musical challenge to his
listeners. From the abrasive lyrics of his next single 'U SUCK'
to the submissive slave fantasy of 'Black Leather'',
*V*I*R*G*O*'s June 23rd performance is certainly not to be
missed.
*V*I*R*G*O* WILL PERFORM AT THE 2002 HERTITAGE OF PRIDE GAY
PRIDE RALLY AT BRYANT PARK (42nd STREET and 6th AVENUE) ON
JUNE 23rd, 2002. THE RALLY BEGINS AT 2 PM. VISIT
WWW.NYCPRIDE.ORG FOR MORE INFO.
*V*I*R*G*O*'s virtual EP which contains, 'U SUCK', 'BLACK
LEATHER' and 'PARASITE' is available for free at 'WAVEFORM'
-- The Official *V*I*R*G*O* website. (www.intraxis.com/virgo).
Press Contact for *V*I*R*G*O*
Shelbric Arrington Fuller for the Grand Diva Group -- 212-463-
6893. sfuller@granddivagroup.com
NEWS RELEASE: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Red Dog Sportswear
461 2nd Street #C329
San Francisco, CA 94107
Phone: (415) 536-4173
Fax: (877) 471-0269
http://www.reddogsportswear.com
MOVE OVER ROVER, THERE’S A NEW DOG IN TOWN – INTRODUCING RED DOG
SPORTSWEAR!
New Clothing Retailer Debuts on the Web
San Francisco, CA – June 3, 2002 – There’s a new retailer on the web
with the official launch of Red Dog Sportswear today. The company’s
primary audience is gay men in their 20’s and 30’s.
Red Dog Sportswear is positioned to be unique in the fashion industry.
It’s signature product is 100% organic underwear. Later this year, the
company is planning the introduction of personalized clothing with an
‘online element’.
“With so many different brands out there, we have to be different.”
states Brian Almashie, President of Red Dog Sportswear. “For example, I
commissioned a San Francisco artist to paint a mural that we could use
as a backdrop for the models and our products. During the shoot, some
of the models even had body paint applied to them.”
In addition to offering casual clothing at affordable prices, Red Dog
Sportswear aims to build a community. The Red Dog Sportswear web site
provides an opportunity for site visitors to “Meet the Models” via an
interactive photo gallery. Site visitors also have the opportunity to
vote
for their favorite models and download free desktop backgrounds. Those
that wish to see private galleries of the models (that include artistic
nude photos of select models) can do so by joining “ClubRed.” Members
have access a private VIP area on the site and receive a 20% discount
off every purchase they make including sale items.
“I believe in rewarding our customers,” adds Brian. “For example, we
include an “edible treat” with every order we ship.” Those that sign up
for the company’s free catalog will even receive an eCard on their
birthday. To save costs, Customer Service is handled online via live
chat or e-mail. “Our number one priority is providing excellent service
to our customers,” states Brian. “By being a virtual retailer, we pass
the cost savings to the consumer by offering competitive pricing.”
To celebrate its launch, Red Dog Sportswear is having a STOCK UP FOR
SUMMER SALE. Those that visit the site will have the opportunity to
save up to 70% on selected products.
For more information, contact Brian Almashie at 415.536.4173 or e-mail
him at: brian@reddogsportswear.com.
###
ANDERSON PRIZE FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES FUNDING OF NGLTF ANNUAL
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS
CHICAGO, JANUARY 20, 2002 - Allen Schuh, President of The Anderson
Prize Foundation has announced a three year commitment to fund the
National Gay Lesbian Task Force's Community Services Awards with
$30,000 annually.
The awards are presented at the NGLTF's annual Creating Change
Conferences. Beginning last fall and continuing for the next two
years three awardees will receive $10,000 each in cash, no strings
attached.
Well known for the past ten years for funding and distributing The
Stonewall Awards, the Anderson Prize Foundation was founded by the
late Paul Anderson of Chicago in 1991 shortly before his death of
AIDS-related illness. Mr. Schuh, an attorney in Chicago and a
resident of Chicago and San Francisco, was Anderson's companion for
13 years and is president of the Foundation. They set up the awards
to reward those who have contributed to the gay and lesbian community
and are made without regard to sexual orientation, race, ethnic
origin, age or gender. In past years, nominators from the gay and
lesbian community who remained anonymous to the general public were
invited by the Foundation to recommend award candidates from the four
quadrants of the United States.
To date there have been 38 Stonewall Award winners receiving a total
of nearly $1 million in prizes. Winners have included gay rights
leaders who went on to national prominence, and local activists,
straight and gay, whose work on behalf of the gay community continued
relatively unknown.
"For our second decade," explained Mr. Schuh, we wish to work more
closely with established gay and lesbian organizations--organizations
whose members have direct knowledge of all those unsung heroes who
contribute so selflessly to our community."
# # #
NEWS_RELEASE: NEWS RELEASE: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Cindy L. Abel,
bizvox Marketing Communications
Phone: (678) 641-2329
Email: cabel@bizvox.cc
ATLANTA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
WELCOMES GAY AND LESBIAN VISITORS
TO ATLANTA PRIDE WEEKEND JUNE 28 -- 30
Register at www.gay-atlanta.com to Win a Free Weekend
Atlanta, GA -- The Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB)
has launched a new web site, www.gay-atlanta.com, to provide gay and
lesbian visitors to Atlanta current and accurate information about
local events and attractions, gay-friendly neighborhoods, dining,
shopping, and to facilitate online hotel reservations.
The new web site’s launch coincides with the upcoming annual Atlanta
Pride Weekend events June 28-30, when more than 200,000 gay and
non-gay, locals and out-of-towners will take part in the three-day
festival. Now in its 32nd year and one of the largest such events
in the country, Atlanta Pride centers on a gigantic festival in
Piedmont Park and a massive parade through Atlanta on historic
Peachtree Street.
To help introduce the new web site and promote Atlanta Pride weekend,
ACVB is to giving away a free deluxe weekend for two during Atlanta
Pride (including hotel accommodations and dinner for two) in a
drawing from names of people who register online at:
www.gay-atlanta.com.
"We continue to look for ways to encourage tourism growth in Atlanta,"
said Gregory Pierce, Chief Financial Officer and Vice President,
Technology. "The gay and lesbian travel market represents a viable
target market for Atlanta, as this segment has maintained its
traveling frequency in the past 8 months. The inclusive quality of
our city makes it particularly attractive and receptive to gay
tourists, and we look forward to welcoming them for special occasions
as well as throughout the year."
Atlanta Pride 2002 kicks off Friday, June 28, with the opening of
the Pride Festival by the Atlanta Freedom Marching Band. Festival
hours are 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Friday, 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, and 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Sunday.
Entertainment at the Bell South Stage (at the Charles Allen Avenue
entrance) and the Coca-Cola Stage (at the ball fields near the 14th
Street entrance) runs continually during the festival. Beverage
vendors and the Showtime Queer As Folk Market, set up along the
Park’s roadway, link the stage areas.
Visitors are invited to stay an extra day and take me OUT to the ball
game Monday, July 1st at the 2nd Annual "Night Out" at the Braves
Game. The Braves play Montreal at 7 p.m.
A list of Atlanta Pride events is available online at
www.gay-atlanta.com and complete Atlanta visitor information is
available at www.atlanta.net.
For more details, call the Atlanta Pride office at 404-688-4800.
Established in 1913, the ACVB is a private, non-profit organization
created exclusively to market metro Atlanta and Georgia as the premier
conventions, meetings and leisure destination in the regional,
national and international marketplace, and favorably impact the
Atlanta economy through conventions and tourism.
###
NEWS_RELEASE: duanesimolke@yahoo.com
(Lubbock, Texas) West Texas author Duane Simolke returns with a
fourth book: Degranon. This unusual release marks Simolke’s first
novel, and his first book of science fiction.
Most scifi novels, movies, and TV shows ignore human diversity.
Even among a wild variety of alien races, the human characters
mostly stay within the usual frameworks of white and heterosexual.
Aside from the occasional black man-who probably dies in an early
scene or fades in and out with little consequence to the narrative-
we rarely see people of color. And gay characters appear even less
often.
In the alternate universe Simolke created for his science fiction
adventure, we encounter characters that we might think of as Native
American, African American, Latino, Asian, or gay. In fact, white
characters receive only passing references, while gays seem idealized.
Simolke stops short of calling Degranon a "gay novel," since he wrote
the book for a general audience, and since the main characters are
heterosexual. However, he uses some of those non-gay characters to
explore gay themes, as well as wider themes of diversity, freedom,
and violence.
Though primarily a high-concept adventure, Degranon challenges every
reader’s views, perceptions, and prejudices. Everyone who reads it
will find it disturbing at times, exciting at times, and ultimately
optimistic. In fact, many people will interpret certain scenes,
characters, and events in differing ways.
Readers wanting to learn more about Duane Simolke and his writing
should visit his home page (http://www.duanesimolke.com). They’ll
find links or writings related to diversity, homophobia, cancer,
writers, and many other topics. They’ll also find Rainbow: Lubbock,
Simolke’s gay newsletter for Lubbock, Texas, which is where he lives,
and where he received a Ph.D. from Texas Tech University.
Free review copies of Simolke’s books are no longer available. He
asks that readers support his work by ordering his new book at their
favorite local or online bookstore.
http://www.duanesimolke.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NEWS_RELEASE: Freedom Fund, Inc.
329 Wappoo Road
Charleston, SC 29407
Daryl Crouse
daryl@freedomfundsc.com
843-276-3124
Charleston Hosts Second Annual Freedom Party July 5-7
Charleston, SC--The Second Annual Freedom Party will be held
July 5-7, 2002. The Freedom Party is an annual event to raise
awareness and funds to support local gay and lesbian charities.
Freedom 02 is expected to draw more than 1000 party boys from all
over the southeast. This year's beneficiaries include Lowcountry
AIDS services, We Are Family, Low Country Gay & Lesbian Alliance
and Alliance for Full Acceptance.
This year’s events include a high energy opening party at Pantheon
(formerly Club Avalon) in downtown Charleston. Featuring DJ Friddo,
one of the fastest rising Billboard reporting DJ’s on the circuit.
Friddo is the resident DJ at Velocity (Charlotte, NC) and can be
heard on Circuit Party Mix.
On Saturday, the main event will be held at The Maritime Center.
DJ Julian Marsh, one of the favorite daytime party DJ’s, will spin.
The Maritime Center has a green space, warehouse, and boat docking
facilities. The crowd will be entertained by Jordan Kennedy of
Atlanta, GA. Parasailing will also be offered to those adventurous
partygoers. An air conditioned lounge on the second floor will be
open to those VIP Pass holders.
Saturday night, the party turns it up a notch with an event at the
cavernous Music Farm. A former train station, the Music Farm
features two balconies and stage and has hosted some of the
Southeast's best talent. PDA Lighting and Sound will create a
lighting and sound extravaganza. DJ Roland Belmares will spin
with be a special performance by Velvet Nation's favorite entertainer,
Aubrey.
The weekend of events concludes with a cruise through the historic
Charleston harbor. Celebrate freedom during the harbor cruise tea
dance with DJ Chad Youngblood. Chad is currently serving a residency
at New Orleans’s hottest club, OZ.
Anyone having visited Charleston before will tell you, the spectacular
architecture and beaches aren’t to be missed. Don't miss the social
event of the summer! Last year's event sold over $11,000 in tickets
toward the benefit of local Charleston gay and lesbian charities.
Tickets are on sale now. The Fourth of July weekend is about Freedom
and we look forward to seeing you celebrate Freedom with us!
The Weekend Party Pass is $150 which includes guaranteed access to
all events. The VIP Party Pass is $200 which includes guaranteed
access to all events, limited edition Freedom 02 muscle tee or
baseball jersey. Individual event tickets are available online and
at the door of each venue. Venues are limited in space and tickets
are available online at www.freedomfundsc.com or at any local
Millennium Music. Tickets are also available at Manifest Music,
Columbia, SC and Charlotte, NC.
The Freedom Party is produced by The Freedom Fund, Inc. The Freedom
Fund organizes an all volunteer committee which is responsible for
the fundraising and production of each year’s events. All proceeds
are donated to designated charities as determined by the Freedom Fund. The Freedom Fund is still seeking corporate sponsors to offset production costs.
For more information contact Daryl Crouse, 843-276-3124 or
daryl@freedomfundsc.com or visit http://www.freedomfundsc.com.
Press photos available, contact daryl@freedomfundsc.com.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
NEWS_RELEASE: Freedom Fund, Inc.
329 Wappoo Road
Charleston, SC 29407
Daryl Crouse
daryl@freedomfundsc.com
843-276-3124
Charleston Hosts Second Annual Freedom Party July 5-7
Charleston, SC--The Second Annual Freedom Party will be held
July 5-7, 2002. The Freedom Party is an annual event to raise
awareness and funds to support local gay and lesbian charities.
Freedom 02 is expected to draw more than 1000 party boys from all
over the southeast. This year's beneficiaries include Lowcountry
AIDS services, We Are Family, Low Country Gay & Lesbian Alliance
and Alliance for Full Acceptance.
This year’s events include a high energy opening party at Pantheon
(formerly Club Avalon) in downtown Charleston. Featuring DJ Friddo,
one of the fastest rising Billboard reporting DJ’s on the circuit.
Friddo is the resident DJ at Velocity (Charlotte, NC) and can be
heard on Circuit Party Mix.
On Saturday, the main event will be held at The Maritime Center.
DJ Julian Marsh, one of the favorite daytime party DJ’s, will spin.
The Maritime Center has a green space, warehouse, and boat docking
facilities. The crowd will be entertained by Jordan Kennedy of
Atlanta, GA. Parasailing will also be offered to those adventurous
partygoers. An air conditioned lounge on the second floor will be
open to those VIP Pass holders.
Saturday night, the party turns it up a notch with an event at the
cavernous Music Farm. A former train station, the Music Farm
features two balconies and stage and has hosted some of the
Southeast's best talent. PDA Lighting and Sound will create a
lighting and sound extravaganza. DJ Roland Belmares will spin
with be a special performance by Velvet Nation's favorite entertainer,
Aubrey.
The weekend of events concludes with a cruise through the historic
Charleston harbor. Celebrate freedom during the harbor cruise tea
dance with DJ Chad Youngblood. Chad is currently serving a residency
at New Orleans’s hottest club, OZ.
Anyone having visited Charleston before will tell you, the spectacular
architecture and beaches aren’t to be missed. Don't miss the social
event of the summer! Last year's event sold over $11,000 in tickets
toward the benefit of local Charleston gay and lesbian charities.
Tickets are on sale now. The Fourth of July weekend is about Freedom
and we look forward to seeing you celebrate Freedom with us!
The Weekend Party Pass is $150 which includes guaranteed access to
all events. The VIP Party Pass is $200 which includes guaranteed
access to all events, limited edition Freedom 02 muscle tee or
baseball jersey. Individual event tickets are available online and
at the door of each venue. Venues are limited in space and tickets
are available online at www.freedomfundsc.com or at any local
Millennium Music. Tickets are also available at Manifest Music,
Columbia, SC and Charlotte, NC.
The Freedom Party is produced by The Freedom Fund, Inc. The Freedom
Fund organizes an all volunteer committee which is responsible for
the fundraising and production of each year’s events. All proceeds
are donated to designated charities as determined by the Freedom Fund. The Freedom Fund is still seeking corporate sponsors to offset production costs.
For more information contact Daryl Crouse, 843-276-3124 or
daryl@freedomfundsc.com or visit http://www.freedomfundsc.com.
Press photos available, contact daryl@freedomfundsc.com.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For additional information:
Tom O’Neill 773-528-2554
tjoneillexp@aol.com
FOUNDER OF NGLTF’S "CREATING CHANGE"
WINS STONEWALL® AWARD 2002
CHICAGO, MAY 5, 2002 - Sue Hyde, Field Organizer of the National Gay
and Lesbian Task Force, and co-founder and Director of the "Creating
Change Conference" has been named recipient of this year’s $25,000,
no-strings-attached Stonewall Award. The award was announced today
by Allen Schuh, president of the Anderson Prize Foundation.
Well known for the past ten years for funding and distributing The
Stonewall Awards, the Anderson Prize Foundation was established by
the late Paul Anderson of Chicago in 1991 shortly before his death
of AIDS-related illness. Mr. Schuh, an attorney in Chicago and a
resident of Chicago and San Francisco, was Anderson's companion for
13 years and is president of the Foundation. They set up the
foundation to reward those who have contributed significantly to the
gay and lesbian community, and the awards are made without regard to
sexual orientation, race, ethnic origin, age or gender. To date
there have been 39 Stonewall Award winners receiving a total of over
$1 million in prizes. Winners have included gay rights leaders who went on to
national prominence, and local activists, straight and gay, whose
work on behalf of the gay community continued relatively unknown.
Sue’s involvement in the gay and lesbian movement spans more than 25
years -- much more if you include her very first organized protest
back in 1970 in Beardstown, Illinois, a bastion of Midwestern
conservativism if there ever was one. She was still in high school
when she decided to take on the Beardstown school board’s
discriminatory "no pants on girls" dress code. Her first victory was
only a harbinger of things to come.
If Sue, a restless child of the sixties, was looking for a cause,
she found one shortly after that when she picked up a copy of TIME
magazine and read about the Stonewall riots. "Here’s something big
happening and it’s about me," exclaimed Sue. She was off and running.
Her first professional involvement with the gay and lesbian community
was as the News Editor of the Gay Community News, published out of
Boston and at the time the only national gay weekly in the country.
Under Sue’s leadership GCN became the most respected source for news
on the emerging GLBT movement of the 80’s.
Sue left the paper in 1985 to run the Gay and Lesbian Defense
Committee where she was influential in overturning Massachusetts’
ban against gay foster parents.
Next, Sue joined the staff of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
(NGLTF) where she ran the privacy project, a major national organizing
project to repeal so-called sodomy laws. She worked in that role for
the next five years and helped create many of the statewide GLBT
organizations that exist today and led the movement to shift resources
to building local and state infrastructures. Sue directly built some
of the most lasting coalitions in the movement.
In 1987 and 1988 Sue was a central organizer of two major national
civil disobedience actions that took place in Washington. She
planned and led over 5000 protesters to surround the Supreme Court
to protest the injustice of the curt’s rejection of the right of
privacy to GLBT people. That protest remains to this day the largest
organized civil disobedience action of the modern GLBT movement. It
was also one of the first gay and lesbian protests to be widely
covered in the mainstream media -- a major breakthrough at the
time.
In 1988 Sue Hyde co-founded the Creating Change Conference, the
largest and most diverse annual gathering of those working for GLBT
civil rights held anywhere in the world. As Director Sue plans and
organizes every aspect of the conference. She motivates hundreds of
volunteers, manages a complex project involving literally hundreds of
trainers, and oversees all aspects of the budget. Creating Change
has trained more than 20,000 activists in 13 years and has been
presented in 12 different cities. This conference is perhaps Sue’s
greatest legacy. Throughout her career Sue has achieved
extraordinary results while working with little or no resources.
And, even more remarkably, she has also managed to raise two wonderful
children with her partner of 15 years.
"Sue is exactly the the type of dedicated person Paul had in mind
when he established the Stonewall Award," said Allen Schuh. "Not
only has she contributed significantly to the gay and lesbian
community, but she has done so at great self-sacrifice. It was
Paul’s intention not only to honor them but also to reward them."
##
Photograph: http://www.gaydata.com/download/suehyde.jpg
------------------------------------------------------------------
NEWS_RELEASE: Growing Up Gay In America
A New Resource Offering Informative and Practical Advice
For Teen Guys Questioning Their Sexuality and Growing Up Gay
- Coming To Bookstores Everywhere in Late-April 2002 --
Contact: Peter Simmons
Teen Talk Communications
(508) 698-0123
GrowingUpGay@aol.com
For Immediate Release
Boston, MA -- Best-selling author Jason R. Rich, in conjunction with
Franklin Street Books, has announced the pending release of Growing
Up Gay In America ($11.95, ISBN #: 0-97194-14-0-8). This full-length
book will be a unique and informative resource for teenage boys who
are questioning their sexuality or growing up gay. The book is slated
for publication on April 30, 2002 by Franklin Street Books, and will
be distributed through bookstores nationwide, as well as through
Amazon.com and BN.com.
Growing Up Gay In America will provide answers to common questions
and offer positive, practical and accurate advice on a wide range of
topics and issues currently facing gay, questioning and bisexual teen
males in America.
There are currently over 2,700,000 teenagers in America who are
questioning their sexuality or who believe themselves to be gay or
bisexual. A staggering percentage of these teens are severely
depressed, confused and frightened. They’re forced to deal with the
challenges of being a teen; confront the inaccurate misconceptions
related to homosexuality; and deal with emotional and/or physical
abuse from homophobic parents, teachers, peers and coworkers. This
continues to result in high levels of suicide, alcoholism and drug
abuse among gay teens.
Growing Up Gay In America will help anyone who is feeling depressed,
alone, confused and/or aliened by the people around them (as a result
of being afraid to accept and/or confront their sexual orientation).
This book will help the reader understand who they are; build their
self-esteem; overcome their anxiety and depression; and deal with
everyday life as they pursue true happiness. It will also be an
extremely valuable resource for parents, friends and teachers of gay
teens.
"There are many serious issues facing young homosexuals in America.
For example, The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services reported
that 30 percent of all teen suicides are committed by youths who are
questioning their sexuality. This statistic is unnerving," explained
author Jason Rich. "I believe this book will help young people better
accept who they are and provide them with much needed and accurate
information so that when they deal with obstacles relating to their
sexuality, they’re not alone. So much of the ‘information’ teenagers
have these days about homosexuality and the related lifestyle is
totally inaccurate, misinterpreted or based on stereotypes."
For potential readers who are uncomfortable buying a gay-oriented
book from a traditional bookstore, or who are worried about getting
caught reading it because their sexual orientation is still a secret,
Growing Up Gay In America will also be available for purchase and
download in several popular eBook formats, so it can be purchased
and read privately on a computer screen, PDA or hand-held eBook
reader.
Jason R. Rich (http://www.jasonrich.com) is a newspaper and magazine
columnist, as well as the best-selling author of over 25 books,
including: The Unofficial Guide To Starting A Business Online, The
Everything Guide To Walt Disney World, Universal Studios & Greater
Orlando, The Everything Organize Your Home Book and The Everything
College Survival Guide. He currently lives outside of Boston.
For more information about Growing Up Gay In America, please visit
the book’s Web site at http://www.Growing-Up-Gay.com. Review copies
of the book are available upon request to media outlets. Author
interviews are currently available.
Title: Growing Up Gay In America
Author: Jason R. Rich
Publisher: Franklin Street Books
Cover Price: $11.95
ISBN #: 0-97194-14-0-8
Publication Date: April 30, 2002
# # #
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Craig Smith
DHRF Director of Events
Tel 305-572-1841
csmith@dhrf.com
or
Tim Dodson
Tim Dodson Public Relations
Tel 305-756-6763
timdodson@hotmail.com
ICE PALACE PARTY PROMISES SPECTACULAR WINTER PARTY WEEK FINALE
Superstar DJ Victor Calderone, Mega-Party Producer Mark Baker Pair
Up For First Time
MIAMI, February 18, 2002 -- As South Florida's Winter Party Week®
fast approaches, organizers have announced the debut of The Ice Palace
Party, a new Sunday-evening party that promises a brilliant contrast
to the sun-drenched Winter Party® itself. "People return to Winter
Party Week® year after year partly because of the variety of party
experiences we offer," said Craig Smith, Director of Events for the
Dade Human Rights Foundation (DHRF), beneficiary of the event. "For
2002 we're capping the week with one of the most innovative and
extravagant events we've ever presented."
Set for March 10 at Miami's Ice Palace Film Studios, The Ice Palace
Party features music by DJ/producer legend Victor Calderone, famous
for his remix projects with recording artists such as Madonna,
Gloria Estefan, Bette Midler and Sting, as well as his engagements
in nightclubs around the world. His 2001 Winter Party Week appearance,
at Miami Beach's Crobar, drew an overflow crowd. "Crobar's one of my
favorite rooms, but I'm excited about the move to The Ice Palace
because we can accommodate a larger audience and raise more money for
the Foundation, which is what it's all about," said Calderone. "The
space has amazing potential and all the right people are involved."
That potential will be realized by party producer Mark Barker, creator
of magical events for Orlando's Gay Days and other occasions. "We're
taking full advantage of the architecture of the building to create
four very dramatic spaces, two inside and two outside," said Baker.
Ice Palace Film Studios, converted from a former ice plant, is nestled
in an industrial area near downtown Miami that has emerged as an arts,
media and production center. "Each area will have its own theme and
lighting effects. We're going for a very big, glamorous look,"
Baker added. The party's epicenter, the dance floor, will be housed
in a 12,000-square-foot sound stage with soaring 18-24 foot ceilings.
This year, South Florida residents can take advantage of a special
South Florida Pass which includes admission to both the Sunday
afternoon Winter Party® and the Sunday evening Ice Palace Party
for only $140, a $20 savings. The South Florida Pass is available
only at South Florida ticket outlets and requires valid Florida I.D.
Other passes are available at http://www.winterparty.com or Box
Office Tickets, (800) 494-TIXS. Visit The Winter Party® online for
special airfare and hotel rates offered by Winter Party® travel
partners.
Winter Party Week benefits Dade Human Rights Foundation, South
Florida's leading organization serving the gay, lesbian, bisexual
and transgender community. Presenting Sponsors of Winter Party
Week® are Bacardi, Centaur Entertainment, and Out magazine.
# # #
The Winter Party® and Winter Party Week® are registered trademarks
of Dade Human Rights Foundation. All rights reserved.
Note to Media: A Winter Party Week® schedule is attached. More
details (including a Media Credential Request Form) will follow
shortly. For all media inquiries, contact timdodson@hotmail.com.
2002 WINTER PARTY WEEK® SCHEDULE
SUNDAY, MARCH 3
Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Event, 7 pm
Screening of documentary "The Celluloid Closet"
Regal Cinema South Beach, 1100 Lincoln Road
Tickets: $10 suggested donation to MGLFF
Call MGLFF, 305-534-9924
MONDAY, MARCH 4
Legacy, DJ Robert Rodriguez, 10 pm
Bash, 655 Washington Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: $10 at the door only
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6
Welcome Center Opens
Surfcomber Hotel, 1717 Collins Avenue, South Beach
Miami Light Project presents Mercy, 8 pm
A new performance piece by MacArthur "Genius"
Fellowship recipients Meredith Monk and Ann Hamilton
Gusman Center for the Performing Arts
174 East Flagler Street, Miami
Tickets: $20/$30/$40
Call Miami Light Project, 305-576-4350
THURSDAY, MARCH 7
Noche Tropical, DJ Producers Tony Moran & Monty Q, 10 pm-5 am
Liquid, 1532 Washington Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: $20
FRIDAY, MARCH 8
Tropical Fever, DJ Peter Rauhofer, 9 pm-5 am
Level, 1235 Washington Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: $60 advance/$70 door
SATURDAY, MARCH 9
Revelation, DJ Susan Morabito, 8 am-2 pm
Produced by PM Parties
Crobar, 1445 Washington Avenue, South Beach
$25 advance/$35 door
Pool Party, DJ Julian Marsh, Noon-5 pm
Surfcomber Hotel, 1717 Collins Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: $15 advance/$20 door
VIP Cocktail Party, 7-10 pm
Live Brazilian jazz and bar hosted by Bacardi
Private bayfront home, Miami Beach
Information: call 305-572-1841
Tickets: $75
Tropical Heat, DJ Abel, 9 pm-5 am
Salvation, 1771 West Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: $50 advance/$60 door
(Salvation members with ID card receive $5 discount)
SUNDAY, MARCH 10
Morning Party, DJ Lars Peter Andersen, 8 am-1 pm
Salvation, 1771 West Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: Available at Salvation box office and door only
The Winter Party®, DJ Producers Manny Lehman & Lydia Prim, Noon-Sunset
On the beach at 14th Street, South Beach
Tickets: $75
Tea Dance, DJ Tracy Young, 5 pm-11:30 pm
Produced by Jeffrey Sanker
Billboard Live, 1501 Collins Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: $30 advance/$35 door
Ice Palace Film Studios Party, DJ Victor Calderone, 10 pm-8 am
Produced by Mark Baker
Ice Palace Studios, 59 NW 14th Street, Miami
(Shuttle service from South Beach)
Tickets: $85
MONDAY, MARCH 11
Morning Party, DJ Eddie Elias, 8 am
Salvation, 1771 West Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: $25 advance/$35 door
Tea Dance, DJ Robert Rodriguez, 5 pm-10 pm
Bash, 655 Washington Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: $10 at the door
(All Winter Party Passholders admitted free)
National DJ Showcase, DJs Dale Rozman, DJ Pride, Marcus Purnell,
Chris Racine, dangerous dave, 10 pm-5 am
Steam, 1439 Washington Avenue, South Beach
Tickets: $20 advance/$25 door
------------------------------------------------------------------
NEWS_RELEASE: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 4, 2002
Contact:
Sigward Moser
Managing Principal
Domini Social Investments
(212) 217-1110
smoser@domini.com
Zan McColloch-Lussier
Communications Manager
Pride Foundation
(206) 323-3318
INVESTORS URGE EMERSON TO BAR DISCRIMINATION AGAINST
GAYS, LESBIANS
Pride Foundation and Domini Social Investments Say Company’s
Employment Policies Should Forbid Discrimination Based on Sexual
Orientation
NEW YORK, NY & SEATTLE, WA -- Pride Foundation, the nation’s largest
gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered community foundation has
filed a shareholder resolution with Emerson (Ticker: EMR) requesting
that the electrical equipment manufacturer amend its employment
opportunity policy to bar discrimination based on sexual orientation.
The resolution was co-filed with Domini Social Investments, manager
of the Domini Social Equity Fund (NASDQ: DSEFX), the nation’s oldest
and largest socially responsible index fund, and Ms. Janet Francis
King, a private investor concerned about discrimination in the
workplace.
The shareholder resolution will be brought before Emerson’s annual
shareholder meeting to take place on February 5, 2002. An identical
resolution brought before last year’s annual meeting was defeated but
received over 12% approval, entitling the filers to bring the
resolution forward again this year. Ongoing negotiations with
Emerson have been unsuccessful.
"Emerson executives have stated their commitment to non-discrimination
based on sexual orientation," said Adam Kanzer, Domini’s Director of
Shareholder Advocacy. "We applaud the company for this commitment,
but an internal, unwritten policy is not enough. We want Emerson to
formalize this policy by putting it in writing for employees,
customers and all the world to see."
"Nearly 300 Fortune 500 companies include sexual orientation in their
non-discrimination policies," continued Kanzer. "According to the
Human Rights Campaign, over the past year, approximately 41 Fortune
500 companies joined these ranks by amending their policies. We are
asking Emerson to join these companies in ensuring a fair workplace."
"We want Emerson Electric to be inclusive, to attract and retain the
best employees, and to send a message to gay and lesbian workers that
they are valued and respected," added Audrey Haberman, Executive
Director of Pride Foundation. "Non-discrimination policies are not
official until they are put in writing, and until they are, Emerson
will fall short of these goals."
"Discrimination is bad business and I am glad Emerson doesn’t
practice it," stated Janet Francis King. "Lets let the world hear
about our good business by adding words to our actions.
The shareholder resolution cited a study by the National Gay and
Lesbian Task Force finding significant levels of workplace
discrimination and harassment against gay men and lesbians in twenty
American cities.
Since 1987, Pride Foundation has funded more than $3 million in
grants and scholarships to strengthen the gay, lesbian, bisexual and
transgender community. Located in Washington state, the Foundation
has worked successfully with General Electric and McDonald’s to add
sexual orientation to their nondiscrimination policies. Pride
Foundation stewards a $4.5 million endowment.
Domini Social Investments manages more than $1.9 billion in assets
for individual and institutional investors seeking to create
positive change in society by integrating social and environmental
values into their investment decisions. Its flagship fund, the
Domini Social Equity Fund, was the first socially and environmentally
screened index fund and is the nation’s largest socially responsible
index fund. The Fund includes companies with positive records in
community involvement, the environment, diversity and employee
relations, and excludes companies deriving significant revenues
from alcohol, tobacco, gambling, nuclear power and weapons
contracting. In addition to the Domini Social Equity Fund, the
company also offers the Domini Social Bond Fund (NASDQ: DSBFX) and
an FDIC-insured money market account (in partnership with ShoreBank),
both of which focus on community economic development.
Additional information on this and other shareholder initiatives is
available on both Pride Foundation’s (www.pridefoundation.org ) and
Domini Social Investments’, (www.domini.com) websites.
The Domini Social Equity Fund and the Domini Social Bond Fund are
subject to market risks and are not insured. You may lose money.
Some of the Domini Social Bond Fund’s community investments may be
unrated and carry greater credit risks than the Fund’s other
investments. As of 12/31/01, Emerson and McDonald’s represented
0.44% and 0.62%, respectively, of the Domini Social Index Portfolio
(DSIP). Unlike other mutual funds, the Domini Social Equity Fund
seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing all of its
investable assets in the DSIP, a separate portfolio with an identical
investment objective. The composition of the DSIP is subject to
change. Please obtain a prospectus by calling 1-800-762-6814 or
online at www.domini.com. Read it carefully before you invest or
send money. DSIL Investment Services LLC (DSILD), Distributor. The
Domini Social Equity Fund is not affiliated with any bank and is
not insured. DSILD and ShoreBank are not affiliated. Domini Social
Investments and the Pride Foundation are not affiliated.
Domini Social Investments, Domini Social Equity Fund, Domini
Social Bond Fund and Domini Money Market Account are registered
service marks of Domini Social Investments LLC. 02/02
# # #
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For additional information:
Tom O'Neill 773-528-2554
tjoneillexp@aol.com
NEWS_RELEASE: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Mike Spanola
Klubz Entertainment, Inc.
Phone: 415 505 8672
eFax: 413 826 0775
bizbox@klubz.com
http://www.circuitspotlight.com
http://www.klubz.com
KLUBZ GIVES AWAY FREE PASSES TO CIRCUIT BOYZ
Nightlife Portal Spins Off and Lands in Gay Circuit Community
San Francisco, CA -- February 8, 2002 -- CircuitSpotlight wants
circuit boyz to have a gay ol' time this winter - for free.
To celebrate its Web debut, CircuitSpotlight is giving away one
weekend pass to Ski Daze in Salt Lake City and four passes to Miami's
Winter Party?.
This new cyber circuit scene is the brainchild of KLUBZ?, the Web's
most comprehensive guide to the Bay Area's dance music and club scene.
"When KLUBZ was first envisioned three years ago, the idea was to
create a single online home for every facet of the dance community,"
said John McNamara, Co-Founder and President of Klubz Entertainment,
Inc. "We didn't realize that getting bigger might mean breaking off
into smaller, distinct communities within the larger dance music
scene -- in this case, the circuit community."
CircuitSpotlight? and KLUBZ? are divisions of Klubz Entertainment,
Inc., a volunteer-staffed media company based in San Francisco. In
its first two years, Klubz Entertainment has grown from an idea for
a local club resource to an international web portal for club, rave
and circuit party information.
"CircuitSpotlight had evolved and matured so quickly as a KLUBZ
feature, we felt it was ready to leave home and find its own place
on the Web," added Mike Spanola, Business Strategist for both
CircuitSpotlight and KLUBZ.
To participate in the giveaway, send an email to
circuitspirit@klubz.com describing what the circuit means to you.
All submissions will be posted in the Circuit Spirit section of
the Web site. Full contest details are available online at
http://www.circuitspotlight.com.
For more information, contact Mike Spanola at 415.505.8672 or
email bizbox@klubz.com.
###
For Immediate Release
Media Contacts:
Phil Lobel/Chris Kingry
Lobeline Communications
310-271-1551
chris@lobeline.com
HOT WOMEN, SPECTACULAR SETTING, UNFORGETTABLE EVENTS:
LET'S GET THE PARTY STARTED -- IT'S DINAH TIME!
PALM SPRINGS, CA -- Pack your bags, grab your shades and join
your friends at the world's greatest gathering of women this last
weekend in March. Those famous Palm Springs parties will soon be
starting, so don't be late, it's DINAH time.
Girl Bar and Club Skirts present the DINAH SHORE WEEKEND 2002,
happening March 28th - 31st in the spectacular setting of Palm
Springs, California. There's only one DINAH - and the hottest
women will all be there for an action-packed weekend of unforgettable
events, spectacular pool parties, amazing entertainment and non-stop
fun.
"It's the most spectacular women's weekend in the world," quotes
Sandy Sachs co-owner of Girl Bar. Robin Gans, co- owner of Girl Bar
says, "It's unique! Where else can you meet lesbians from all over
the world in one place?"
"The diversity of our weekend is awesome. We boast the most colorful
exchange of every type of lesbian imaginable. Plus, the cross section
of entertainment, from comedy, to live performances, to go-go dancers,
to house and hip hop, to a separate retro 70's room, guarantees that,
with the Dinah, there is something for everyone," adds Mariah Hanson,
owner of Club Skirts.
VIP Weekend passes and event tickets for DINAH SHORE WEEKEND 2002 are
now on sale. VIP Weekend passes (includes entry to all seven events)
are $110 if purchased before March 1st and $125 after - a savings of
$65. See below for individual event ticket prices and availability.
Visit www.clubskirts.com or www.girlbar.com for additional information
and to order online. Call the Dinah hotline at 888 44-DINAH to also
get event details or to charge by phone.
The center of the action will be at DINAH's two luxurious host
hotels: The Riviera Resort and The Doral Resort. Their central
locations, spacious accommodations and amazing amenities make The
Doral and Riviera the perfect places for the weekend of women's
festivities. The Riviera's rooms start at $169 for double occupancy,
call (800) 444-8311 for reservations. The Doral Resort offers rooms
starting at $159 per double occupancy. Doral reservations can be made
by calling (888) 386-4677. Don't forget to mention Dinah Shore
Weekend to receive these special rates when calling either host
hotel.
Complimentary shuttles will be operating for most events for
registered guests at the host hotels. Departure times will be
posted in the hotel lobbies.
For those who want maximum partying with minimal effort, The Dinah
Executive Package is the way to go! The special package has all the
details covered, so you can focus on the important things: the
festivities! It includes three nights at the beautiful Doral
Resort, airport transfers, breakfast each morning, daily passes to
the LPGA Dinah Shore, VIP Weekend Passes for all the parties
(including express VIP entry), preferred seating at the comedy show
and shuttle transportation to all events. Dinah Executive Packages
start at $499 per person, based on double occupancy. Add $200 for
single occupancy. Four and five night options are also available.
Make reservations and start getting the VIP treatment right away by
contacting the Doral Resort directly at: 888-386-4677.
LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL--
DINAH 2002 tees off Thursday, March 28 with its official KICK-OFF
party at The Courtside, located adjacent to the Riviera Resort
(formerly known as Bono's Restaurant). Meet your friends - or make
new ones - as women from around the world arrive for an enticing
evening of socializing and dancing starting at 9pm. DJ Kimberly
S. will be mixing up the hottest hip-hop, R&B and house sounds.
Individual event tickets are $15 at the door, or included in the
VIP Weekend Pass.
Friday night will feature a double shot of fun with Queens of
Comedy VIII and The White Party. Get set for an evening of side-
splitting humor with the hilarious high jinx of comediennes Karen
Ripley, Maggie Cassella and Karen Williams. The Riviera Resort
Grand Ballroom becomes comedy central as doors open at 7:00 pm
for cocktails and seating. Karen, Maggie, and Karen seize the
stage starting at 8pm. Tickets for Queens of Comedy VIII are $30
before March 1st ; $35 afterward, and $40 at the door -- not
included in the VIP Weekend Pass.
Experience a night of women in white at The White Party, beginning
at 8pm at the Doral. DJ Page Hodel (ClubSkirts/SF