Lesbian wins custody battle

[Continued from Page 3) lor largely pecuniary reasons. McGahn-Williams, Dempsey's attorney, gold GCN, that it is fortunate for lesbian mothers in New Jersey that the "best interests of the children" there are decided, by a judge, not a jury, "because when a judge writes an opinion, he must state the reasons behind it... (whereas) a jury doesn't have to tell its reasons.

"In 'S.P. v. J.P., the (trial court) judge disregarded expert witnesses' testimony on the lesbian mother's behalf. Then the appei-

late court said that, obviously, he had made a bad decision. But an. appellate court can't overturn a jury's decision (because it doesn't know what the jurors' easons were)."

be precedent in other states, even if it were on the State Supreme Court level... (B)ut with .custody cases, any time an attor-

September 1980 HIGH GEAR Page 15

we know what we're doing is right, but it's hard when you're on

the front page two days in a row and on talks shows.'

ney can say that this happened in Sisterspace sponsers weekend in Poconos

New Jersey or Pennsylvania or Michigan, that can influence the judge....(F)or this reason, organizations like the Lesbian Mother's National Defense Fund are. important to attorneys. They are. clearing house."

The coverage by the "straight" media of Dempsey's court battle and victory has been extensive. and "very positive." McGahnWilliams said. She is happy about the effect the nationwide public-a ity will have on other such cases. She admits that a "New Jersey court's decision has no effect on the law in other states; it wouldn't

However, Dempsey has had some qualms about subjecting her chlidren to more publicity. "My kids have said, 'Hey mom,

Scizzor Wizards

On September 12, 13, and 14th. Sisterspace will sponsor a Lesbian Feminist weekend in the Pocono Mountains. This annual event takes place East of Scrantón, Pa.

Activities include entertain-

HAIRCUTTING

BY APPOINTMENT

WAVING HENNAS

17124 Detroit, Lakewood, Ohio

521-2611

ment, workshops, sports, and cultural events. Entertainment offered mime, poetry, theatre film and music, dancing etc. Workshops such as Message, White Racism, Self-Defense, Lesbian Sexuality, Lesbian Healthcare, Writer's Workshop. and Skill-Sharing. Sports facilities include a lake, swimming pools, indoor gym, basketball courts, tennis courts, and a softball field. Canoes are available. (NOTE: Bring your own balls, bats, racquets etc.). Cultural events include jam sessions, readings, and a slide show.

Food is Vegeterian and Nonvegeterian. Ice can be supplied at the camp for ice chests. Smoking-Not permitted in the buildings, allowed outdoors. Bring your own ashtray. No animals. Children permitted. Discretion requested in bringing boy children 8 yrs. and older. First aid facilities available... Pre-registration is required. Registration is limited to 450. Call 215-222-5110 for space availability. Cabin space or Tent (Bring your own) space provided. Two hour work shift requested. Registration forms available at the Community Center.

1281 West Ninth Street

Hillbilly Ho-Down Thursday Sept. 11 9:00 p.m.

Cleveland 216-241-8677

Prizes Portable TV Clock Radio

Your Host & Hostess

Totie McCoy & Clyde Anne Hatfield

Due to the Picnic Sunday Sept. 21

The Vaults will not serve Brunch

THE PLACE TO BE

ON SUNDAYS

TRESEPOTE isepori