Family Org. Objects to 7-Eleven Stocking "Simpsons" Playboy

DALLAS -- The November issue of Playboy magazine that hit newsstands yesterday is garnering much attention from the conservative American Family Association (AFA), which called on 7-Eleven Inc. to remove the product from its stores.

The issue's cover image features Marge Simpson, a character from Fox's cartoon sitcom "The Simpsons," reportedly done in part to mark the 20th anniversary of the show, according to a report on Pennlive.com.

The 7-Eleven convenience store chain hasn't regularly sold Playboy in more than 20 years, but some stores are carrying this issue.

7-Eleven spokeswoman Margaret Chabris said in the report the convenience store retailer has no plans to carry Playboy on a regular basis.

"It is not a recommended item for company stores," she said, adding franchise stores are independent contractors and some carry the magazine. "We thought the Simpson issue would make nice collectibles. We're not requiring the stores take it."

She also noted the magazines are being shipped in plastic wrappers so underage customers can't see inside.

The AFA called on 7-Eleven stores last week to reconsider their decision to sell the issue, and said having a cartoon character on the cover will encourage more kids to look at Playboy.

"It's irresponsible of 7-Eleven to display [pornographic material] in front of boys who pop into 7-Elevens for a hot dog or a Slurpee," Randy Sharp, AFA special projects director, said in a statement cited by Pennlive.com. "A cartoon is going to be appealing to a child. Playboy and 7-Eleven and Fox are allowing that to happen," he said.

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