HELENA, Mont. (AP) Representatives of the gay community demanded an apology today from Representative Denny Rehberg, over a prank involving an Idaho congressman.

Rehberg placed a package on the airplane seat of fellow Republican U.S. Representative Mike Simpson, during a Middle East congressional delegation trip last month.

A Washington, D.C., newspaper called The Hill reported that the package contained a stuffed sheep with gloves attached to it; books on cross-dressing and sign language; a Village People CD and a T-shirt apparently referencing the Senator Larry Craig scandal.

Rehberg's spokesman Bridger Pierce says "no offense was intended." He says it was quote "a practical joke between two friends from neighboring western states who often play pranks on one another." The prank drew criticism from gay rights groups.

Jamee Greer of the Western Montana Gay and Lesbian Community Center says Rehberg owes Montana and the gay community an apology.

In addition, the Montana Human Rights Network and the Community Center of Missoula have requested a meeting with Rehberg to discuss the prank and his voting record.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 02-15-08 1959CST | save this article / add to your favorites list