
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: MONDAY, March 9, 1992                   TAG: 9203090213
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A8   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

LABOR UNIONS, GAYS HAVE HOLD ON DEMOCRATS

AFTER READING all the news stories on the recent mass meeting of the Democrats and the Republicans, the only conclusion a reasonable person could draw is that organized labor has taken control of the Roanoke city Democratic Party, with the homosexuals having their foot in the front door.

At the Democrats' meeting, union banners were all over the place. Union members wore caps and jackets bearing the initials of their union. At least one bus arrived full of union members, and the organizers made sure everyone had a copy of labor's sample ballot. Their ticket won.

Sam Garrison, the head cheerleader for his gay brothers and lesbian sisters, was there, sounding off as usual. He claimed most of the Democratic candidates for mayor and City Council sought support from gays by getting in touch with him and other known homosexuals. He also claimed some Democratic candidates had attended gay events, shaking hands and meeting people.

The news coverage reported that two of the Democratic candidates, who are now serving on City Council, responded to a request to speak to a gay group, and one of these has even visited a mostly gay disco. It is unbelievable to me that any candidate would cozy up to homosexuals seeking their votes.

Woe to the city of Roanoke if the Democratic ticket is elected on May 5. WILLIAM G. AMMEN ROANOKE

by CNB