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COMM GM

"Brutal, senseless, and it must be stopped," said the friend of two women who were abducted and raped. A Friday evening-out for fun and relaxation left one dead and one injured, and the community in an uproar. The survivor lay for 16 agonizing hours before a chance discovery by the police. The media carried the news the next day and each of us responded with a multitude of emotions. As a community, we first reacted with horror and disbelief. For some the shock was transformed into fear, and to anger for others. No matter what the reactions, all were agreed something must be done. Telephones began to ring at the Rape Crisis Center, WomenSpace, the Gay Hotline, and the bar where the victims had been that night, with callers demanding information and action. Many of us organized into groups in a concerted effort to ensure the arrest and conviction of the assailant and to prevent recurrences.

In the heat of their emotions some chose to vent their anger on scapegoats. Emotion without rational thought is ineffective and potentially harmful to all. It is commendable of the community to be concerned and demand action. But one question remains: Where was our concern during the 2,000 other rapes that occurred in Cleveland during the last twelve months? Instead of venting our anger on scapegoats with personal vendettas, we should direct our emotions into productive channels. The issue here is to be free from invasions or attacks on one's person, not the security of any particular parking lot. After the

JULY 1982

emotional rage over this occurance has diminished, we need to continue working to achieve that security. The means exist or can be created to attain our common goal. The political process allows each of us to express our opinions to public officials about these issues. We must demand new legislation, more effective law enforcement, and a workable and equitable judicial system. With the coming of elections in November, we must use our ballots to force politicians to deal with the realities of rape and murder. We must recognize that each of us is responsible for becoming a "non victim."

Self defense classes and seminars on securing property are available. Education is necessary to insure our collective and personal safety. Unfortunately, change will not happen quickly and women will continue to find themselves as victims. Organizations exist such as the Rape Crisis Center and Women Together, which provide victims with support and encouragement. These organizations need a constant flow of volunteers and money to remain effective.

The bottom line of these issues is that we live in a society which allows rape, murder and assault to continue. Women Against Violence Against Women and other groups are working to change the fundamental problem in our culture. The task is monumental, but no change will take place unless all of us become committed to the task.

Dear New Editors:

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

I am in possession of your June, 1982 issue of The New High Gear. Congratulations on a job well done, from the quality of the paper and printing used right down to the formatting. The articles are much more interesting and objective. The publication is more informative and a pleasure to read. Keep up the good work.

I have a complaint about previous issues of the old High Gear. As Public Relations Manager of Another Place, it has been my experience that some of the old practices of who got free coverage for special events given at some of the gay establishments was done in an unfair manner and perhaps your policies for this type of thing should be reviewed.

We usually ran some sort of ad in the paper monthly and were a distribution center for High Gear, but when we requested free coverage we were always promised that someone would be there but no one ever showed up. I sincerely hope you and your new staff don't fall victim to this catastrophic behavior as did your predecessors.

Once again, keep up the good work. Looking forward to future issues.

Respectfully, Stewart Moore

ED. NOTE-We appreciate the kind words of encouragement, and can't apologize enough for some of the sins of past, As to our policies of coverage, we refer you to page 3 of the June issue, where you will find our editorial policies and objectives. We pledge to fulfill these policies of coverage to the extent possible with our very limited staff.

Dear Editors,

Congratulations on a very fine journal. I am very impressed with you both. Continued greatness. P. David Foust Columbus, Ohio

Dear Editor,

After reading my first issue of "High Gear," I was impressed, and liked your publication. I frequent the bars in Columbus, Ohio and that's where I found your paper.

I read the letters to the editor, and would like to comment on one in particular.

It concerned "dykes," which I think is rude to call a Lesbian. The ones I know are friendly and treated as sisters, not a threat.

A gay male feels threatened by the presence of a female at any function, Gay or otherwise. To some gay males, a female is competition. Some gay men are bisexual, deep down, and would consider a female in bed. I for one, smile, and say hello, and one woman even bought me a drink at a bar.

They have feelings as well as gay men, and sad to say, they have to be more outspoken to be heard. There are more gay men than women, as everyone knows.

So to the gay women, I say, Stick in there and fight for what you want, respect from gay men. We can and should stick together. I'm proud to be gay and will promote any gay activity or event, and stand behind my brothers and sisters.

James R. Hosier Springfield, Ohio

Dear Editor,

The management and staff of "Chaps" would like to thank everyone who joined us for the Cast Party for the New York Metropolitan Opera on Saturday, June 5th. On their last night in Cleveland, we gave them a wonderful evening to remember. Everyone had a great time, thanks to you.

Álso several of our regular customers have suggested that I write this letter in order to "set

the record straight" regarding our membership policies. Many of their friends are under the wrong impressions regarding our club. They feel that although we should not engage in the same type of back-biting untruths that started the rumors, we should at least tell it like it is.

Our memberships are designed to provide legitimate methods of door control. A private mailing list, savings to our patrons and security to you. Memberships are $5, renewable in 6 months. The membership then admits you free on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, and for $1 on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. All guests of members are also admitted free on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday and pay only $1 for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Non-members or out of towners are admitted for $2 Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and free on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday.

We are promoting "Inflation Fighter Specials" during the week to help you combat today's economic conditions. Our interior parking garage opened to our customers as of June 7th. Parking is free from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily during Cocktail Hour. After 9 p.m. interior parking is $1 to

cover the cost of maintenance and our attendants. An interior entrance to "Chaps" from the garage is also available for convenience and for those desiring anonimity.

answer

I hope I have answered some of the untrue rumors and invite everyone to be his own judge. Come on down. See for yourself. Sincerely,

Dear Editor,

Frank S. Kuhn, Mgr.

In regards to Ms. Martinez's letter in your last issue, I find it totally unrealistic. If a woman would act like a lady, no matter if she is butch or femme, she will be treated as such.

I have been going to some of the establishments you mentioned in your letter for years. I have had my differences with the owners, but never have I been barred simply because I'm a

woman.

The gay men and women do get along like a family. This is quite evident at parties and picnics. For example, the picnic on May 23rd at the Barn at which Gay men and women from Sandusky, Lorain, Mansfield, and Elyria attended. Everyone had a fantastic time, just like brothers and sisters. I was very upset by your letter, because you told only one sideyours.

Owners, bartenders and barmaids are human and should be treated as such.

Maybe where you go gay men don't want gay women around or vice versa. Where I go, we are a family, a gay family with everyone pulling together to make our gay society one in which everyone is welcome.

Ms. Sue Perdue Lorain