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Gay Life Pittsburgh #1 February 1977

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Summary

This first issue of Gay Life Pittsburgh from February 1977, published by Jim Austin, introduces itself as a new publication for the Pittsburgh gay community, focusing on socialization rather than being a “full-service” newspaper like its predecessor, Pittsburgh Gay News (PGN). The publication features news briefs, entertainment, nightlife information, personals, and candid photography.

Publisher’s Message: Jim Austin explains the shift from PGN to Gay Life, emphasizing a focus on local Pittsburgh gay social life and an “upbeat” writing style for news.
Local News:
- Mellon Bank’s high school senior magazine, Now You and Your Future, includes a section on gay counseling resources.
- The former Penthouse Theatre (619 Liberty Ave.) has new owners and is now the “Big Apple Top,” showing male “skinflicks” and planning to add a gay disco.
- In Touch, a national gay magazine, published a negative feature about Pittsburgh titled “Is There Life In Pittsburgh?”, concluding “only Albuquerque could be worse.”
- Senate Bill 83, an anti-gay piece of legislation preventing gays from state employment, has been reintroduced in Pennsylvania.
- The Pennsylvania Council for Sexual Minorities has established a center to investigate discrimination complaints.
- Lebanon High School Board rejected a gift of two pro-gay books, leading to a gay student’s suicide.
National News:
- A Womenpoll survey found 50% of women would continue a friendship with a man if he was discovered to be gay.
- Rev. Ellen Barrett, 30, was ordained as the Episcopal Church’s first openly gay priest.
- Several states, including Pennsylvania, are considering pro-gay legislation.
- Pro football player Dave Kopay revealed his father threatened to kill him after he came out as gay.
- The CIA has names of 300,000 people arrested for “gay-oriented ‘crimes’.”
“Markings” Musical: A local gay musical production is set to premiere on February 19 and 26 at the University & City Ministries Building in Oakland. It aims to be “the first thoroughly positive approach to homosexuality” and features writings and music from Sappho to Barry Manilow.
Advertisements and Listings: The issue includes advertisements for local gay businesses, bars, and bathhouses, as well as personal ads (“Male Matematcher”), mail-order services for gay films and products, and a calendar of events for February 1977.
Special Events: Mardi Gras parties are planned for February 20 at the House of Tilden and Allegheny Social Club, and a Red & White Party at the House of Tilden on February 14.
Travel: Gay Life plans to sponsor a two-week gay rail tour of America in the fall (Oct 1-14), with stops in New York City, New Orleans, Hollywood, San Francisco, Seattle, and Chicago.