JJ'S HOSTS BENEFIT

A, benefit performance for HIGH GEAR was held on Jan. 20 at JJ's 2402 Club on St. Clair Ave. Sponsored by JJ's, the gala variety show was hosted by Miss Cathy Craig and Miss Denise Simone. Also featured were: Nikkie Summers, Nikkie Dee Ree, Melissa Ross, Karen Kristy, Big Mama, Noel Page, Jamie Withers, Joe Creak, and Ernie, the DJ at JJ's.

Publicity and promotion were handled entirely by JJ's, with all door proceeds going to HIGH GEAR. The standing room only. crowd made the event a smashing success for everyone involved.

The audience responded enthusiastically to the comedy

routines and elaborate musical numbers. Lavish sets and costumes added to the excitement of the evening.

Cast members. brought members of the audience on stage during the finale. All held hands and sang "Reach Out and Touch," after which HIGH GEAR staff members Mark Kinsley and Frank Wurm thanked JJ's and the performers for their generosity and support.

A statement on the publicity flyer set the theme of the evening: "Please help us help one another. Let's get together this day to show people that we can be united."

JJ's

The Hostesses

ROSS. REIGNS SUPREME

By Bambi Fontaine On Saturday, January 19, Lambda Lounge in Lorain held its annual benefit for High Gear newspaper. With an overflow and enthusiastic crowd in attendance, $300.00 was raised.

When presented with the proceeds check, Advertising Manager Carl Hammond (now Editor) said to co-owner/manager Danny: "These funds will go a long way in keeping High Gear not only solvent in 1980 but also in the forefront for all gay Ohioans."

A variety show with the entertainers competing for the title of

Miss Lambda Lounge highlighted the festive evening. Able and talented emcee for the competition was Michael Lee, formerly with the Frisco Follies. Many of the acts were memorable.

At the conclusion of the show. Miss Diana Ross, chosen by the audience as Miss Lambda during the evening, accepted her crown and was understandably moved to tears. Her performance alone was "dazzling."

Miss Barbra was chosen as first runner-up. Also in appearance were Mae West and Bette Midler.

2402 St.CLAIR. CLEVELAND

DA

LAMBO

HIGH GEAR PAGES

(216)

566-9576

LOUNGE

LORAIN

(216) 245-9413

1 052 BROADWAY,

Chuck and Danny

CWRU Gay Student Union is having disco party 2-24-80 at 8 p.m. at Wade Commons on E. 115th near Euclid Ave,

Watch next month for Cleveland's own -and soon to be Chlo's -Bambi Fontaine in future Issues of HIGH GEAR.