For Immediate Release: April 11, 2003 Of Interest To: Media and Entertainment Editors Contact: Cocky Chambers - Email (714) 739-2569 Free press pass to Village TV member's section: Username: press Password: pres0415 Photos - click here "ALL NEWS IS GAY NEWS" AS VILLAGE TV UNVEILS INTERNET'S FIRST ALL-GAY TV NEWSCAST Los Angeles -Village TV, the first ever 24 hour Internet TV channel devoted specifically to the information and entertainment needs of Gay and Lesbian audiences world wide, is proud to present the first Gay television news. "The Gay News" is an innovative, informative program that has Gay audiences everywhere taking notice. Hosted by Johnathon Weeks and Rommel, with entertainment news by Leo Buck, it's a lighthearted, (at times, downright hilarious,) gay frat boy's look at the topics of the day with a decidedly "lavender-colored" slant. "The Gay News" is a fully staffed, professional newscast with all of the titles, graphics and transitions you would expect of any major broadcast news program. Taped every Tuesday evening in the Village TV newsroom in Los Angeles, each finished, weekly edition of the show is added to Village TV's website located at www.villagetv.com, every Wednesday at 5 pm Pacific. The idea is the creation of Executive Producer and Village TV President, Chambers who notes that growing up, there were virtually no gay-oriented shows on TV let also any that showed the gay community in a positive and informative light. "It's still difficult to find any programming of this kind anywhere," he adds. Deciding to answer the need himself, Chambers created "The Gay News" in February with the idea of producing a news program devoted strictly to the unique informational needs of the global gay community. "Mainstream media either ignores gay stories altogether or ignores the 'gay side' of mainstream stories." Additionally, he explains that a more recent trend has seen newscasts going to the opposite extreme by ignoring any subtle negative aspects of gays in the news. "Either way," Chambers continues, "the complete story is not being told. 'Village TV' tells the whole story." Chambers notes that because Village TV is narrowcast, (meaning it only goes to those viewers who want to see it,) it makes a show like this one perfectly suited for Internet TV. He further states, "We're on reliably every week, and the news is more immediate and more universally appealing than printed media." "The Gay News" reports on the progress and setbacks of gay rights, and the overall status of the gay condition worldwide. The program covers stories relating to politics, entertainment, travel, and even the weather (where, of course, it's always "raining men"). Just a few of the notable stories they've covered since the show's inception include a visit by a man who purported to be a actual member of the gay Mafia, ongoing coverage of the war in Iraq, and a gay look at this year's Academy Awards show. With an aggressive anti-censorship philosophy, even adult related topics are covered from time to time. Likewise, he points to the fact that "being uncensored, we feature stories and footage that you will definitely not find on other, more mainstream television news," citing things as nudity, and several recent frank images taken directly from the battlefields in Iraq, as two prime examples. Of the show's distinctive and unconventional style, Chambers enthusiastically states, "It's safe to say that the news has never been done quite this way before." He observes that while "The Gay News" is definitely 'real news,' " we also try to bring a lot of humor to as many stories as possible-kind of like a gay 'Talk Soup' or 'Not Necessarily the News.' It's all delivered with plenty of gay puns, quips, funny anecdotes, and lots of homosexual-related innuendo like only gay men can do it!" As Executive Producer, he also credits the news team of Johnathon, Rommel, and Leo for such unique, often improvisational appeal. Earlier this year, Johnathon Weeks was named "Village TV's Official Spokesperson," after beating out over 50 other applicants. A former child actor, he was featured as Rita Wilson's son in the NBC sit-com, "Sonny Spoons," which also co-starred Mario Van Peebles. Mature beyond his years, Weeks brings intelligence, humor, exceptional charisma, and "boy next door" good looks to his job as Anchor. With quick-thinking abilities and an exceptional perspective, each week he proves that he's more than prepared to speak thoughtfully on the many gay issues he covers. His Co-Anchor and sidekick, Rommel, the author of "The Eight-Count Technique for Bottoms, " brings considerable video production experience, and electric sex appeal, as wells as intellectual prowess to the news program. Rounding out the trio is Leo Buck, the latest addition to the team. Considered by many to be one of gay entertainment's foremost insiders, Buck brings with him extensive experience and insight to the stories he reports on for "The Gay News." Having been the entertainment correspondent for "The Orange County Blade" and "4-Front" magazines simultaneously, he's currently a frequent contributor to publications as widespread as Los Angeles, California to Berlin, Germany, and is equally adept at reporting on all aspects of the gay entertainment scene. RealPlayer is required to see most Village TV content, including "The Gay News." A free real player is available for download from the site. A high-speed connection, such as DSL, is recommended to for best video quality. Presently available by subscription, with the addition of more and more advertisers, "The Gay News" is slated to be broadcast free in the very near future. As a special preview, everyone is invited to watch the full newscast at no charge at the following web address: http://www.villagetv.com/gaynews.htm END Gay News Photos Johnathon Weeks and Rommel report on the gay community's greater opposition to the war in Iraq. Johnathon Weeks and Rommel expose the queer facts about the relationships of Michael Jackson. Johnathon Weeks and Rommel report on the story of a gay Palistinian man's struggle to remain in Isreal. Johnathon Weeks and Rommel announce an upcoming entertainment report by Leo Buck. Executive Producer Cocky Chambers introduces Jason Stuart, host of the 2nd Annual Village TV Awards