Heartland News It Gets Better Musical
The ACCESSline endorses Christie Vilsack
IC Kings
TTInterview page 21
What’s Inside:
Sacha Sacket and Tyler Houston in It Gets Better.
Section 1: News & Politics
The ACCESSline endorses Christie Vilsack Cedar Rapids Unity is now CR PrideFest Advertising rates Better Together Dubuque LGBT Conference 10/26-27 Diversity Focus to host Student Leadership Conference New LGBT healthcare clinic at U of I Hospitals & Clinics 2Iowa Governor’s Bullying Prevention Summite 11/27 Minor Details: What’s Love Worth, After All? Religion of Anger by Tony E. Hansen Shrink Rap by Loren A. Olson MD Remarkables:When Life Begins:The Bible is Right Obama’s Support of Marriage Equality, Rev. Irene Monroe Digging Deeper interview by Amber Dunham CR PrideFest Hallowwen Dance & Costume Party 10/20 LGBT People Speaking Our Truths,Warren J. Blumenfeld Creep of the Week by D’Anne Witkowski
On October 19, 2012, The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles and the It Gets Better project will be debuting the musical It Gets Better at The University of Iowa’s Hancher Auditorium in Iowa City. The performance will be preceded by a week of performance excerpts and discussions on the topics of bullying and teen suicide. (See the advertisement for this production on page 20.)
TTHEARTLAND NEWS continued page 5
Jeremy Morris: Mr. Iowa Leather 2012
Jeremy Morris reflects on his past year as title holder as Iowa’s Leather Weekend gets closer to choosing a Mr. Iowa Leather 2013. Mr. Morris reflects on his inspiration for competing, what he accomplished this past year, being a part of the Behind the Sash 2013 calendar, participating in IML, what he has given back to the community and what the community has Jeremy Morris, Photo Courtesy of given to him. Richard Yates Photography. What led you to compete for Mr. Iowa Leather 2012?
TTMORRIS continued on page 14
Page 11
Page 12
Section 2: Fun Guide TTEditorial on page 3
We are fortunate in Iowa that our merit system has produced some of the most fair and impartial judges in the country… The 70 judges and four supreme court justices standing for retention in this year’s general election on November 6 are well qualified to remain as judges. — Iowa State Bar, IowaBar.org Page 16
3 3 4 4 4 5 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10
Entertainment Picks for the Month 11 Nelly Furtado interview by Chris Azzopardi 11 New Kings Oct. Breast Cancer Awareness Show 10/12 12 Des Moines Playhouse Hollywood Halloween 10/26 14 Wired This Way: GoodReads, by Rachel Eliason 15 Inside Out: ER by Ellen Krug 15 Just Sayin’ by Beau Fodor 16 IC Kings Halloween, interview by Angela Geno-Stumme 21 The Bookworm Sez by Terri Schlichenmeyer 22 Comics and Crossword Puzzle 22-23 Pumpkin Recipes from Bisschopswijn 23 Jed Ryan, interview by Angela Geno-Stumme 24
Section 3: Community
FFBC: Michael Streit by Bruce Carr 25 Luther PRIDE - On the Rise 25 Diversity Focus Annual Meeting, Cedar Rapids 10/11 25 Greater Omaha GLBT Network Calendar 25 National Coming Out Day, by Royal Bush 26 Know Your HIV Resources, Michelle D. Hayes RN 26 From the Pastor’s Pen, by Rev. Jonathan Page 27 Greater Omaha GLBT Network Calendar 27 Business Directory 28-29 Ask Lambda Legal: Police Harassment by Thomas Ude 30 Breast Health by PPH Medical Director Dr. Jill Meadows 32 Inside Out: The Book, by Ellen Krug 32 Project HIM 34 Midwest Leather Weekend 10/5-6 34
Page 24
Page 36
OCTOBER 2012
PUBLICATION INFORMATION Copyright © 2012, All rights reserved. ACCESSline
P.O. Box 396
Des Moines, IA 50302-0396 (712) 560-1807
www.ACCESSlineAMERICA.com editor@ACCESSlineIOWA.com
ACCESSline is a monthly publication by
FIRESPIKE LLC. The paper was founded in
1986 by the non-profit organization ACCESS (A Concerned
Community for Education,
Safer-sex and Support) in Northeast Iowa.
Arthur Breur, Editor in Chief Angela Geno-Stumme, Managing Editor
Publication of the name, photograph or
likeness of any person, business or organization in ACCESSline is not to be construed as any indication of sexual orientation. Opinions
expressed by columnists do not necessarily
reflect the opinions of ACCESSline or the LGBT+ community. Letters to the editor may
be published. We cannot be responsible for errors in advertising copy.
We welcome the submission of origi-
nal materials, including line drawings and
cartoons, news stories, poems, essays. They should be clearly labeled with author/artist
name, address, and phone number. We
reserve the right to edit letters and other material for reasons of profanity, space, or
clarity. Materials will not be returned. A
writer’s guide is available for those wishing to submit original work.
Advertising rates and deadlines are
available at ACCESSlineAMERICA.com. All ads must be approved by ACCESSline’s editorial board.
Section 1: News & Politics
ACCESSline Page 3
From The Editor
The ACCESSline endorses Christie Vilsack
Iowa has the opportunity to move the the state and the country ahead in this election by electing Christie Vilsack as representative for the newly formed 4th congressional district. Despite its history of leading the country on many progressive issues, Iowans have never elected a female Governor or a female US representative or senator. Mississippi is the only other state that has never had a female governor or member of congress. A native Iowan, Vilsack has historically been a proponent of education and literacy, starting with her career as a librarian and teacher and continuing through her role as First Lady of Iowa. She has also been an advocate for women’s health and for preventing unwanted pregnancies. Recent letters to the Des Moines Register have villified Vilsack’s support for Roe v. Wade, but they seem unaware of (or unwilling to
discuss) the fact that in 2007 she founded The Iowa Initiative, whose goal is to reduce unwanted pregnancies among 18-30 yearold women. (The Iowa Initiative created the well-received “Avoid The Stork” campaign, which advertised across Iowa in 2010 and 2011.) Vilsack served as the Initiative’s executive director for three years. Of course, it is difficult to endorse Christie Vilsack without listing the arguments against voting for Steve King. Even before being elected in 2002, Steve King proudly proclaimed that he would not work across the aisle to the benefit of Iowa or the country, but rather stated: “This seat
will be used to move the political center of gravity in Congress to the right;” and, “It’s not about compromise if you want to get something done for Republicans. It’s about negotiating from a position of strength.” Notice he did not say “if you want to get something done for Iowans” in his statement. As he promised early on, King has consistently put his arguably extreme
Editor-in-Chief, Arthur Breur personal beliefs and political party ahead of the interests of Iowans. His actions and statements are routinely more in line with national talk-show radio and right-wing political pundits than with the majority of Iowans—even in conservative-leaning western Iowa. King has attacked the separation of powers in Iowa’s government by promoting the ouster of Iowa’s Supreme Court Justices
TTVILSACK cont’d page 5
Cedar Rapids Unity is now CRPrideFest Cedar Rapids Unity (CRU) is changing their name, but not their purpose. Over the past decade the non-profit, all-volunteer organization that has been instrumental in planning, fundraising and implementing the Cedar Rapids Pride festival held each June has like many organizations, changed and narrowed its focus. Through surveys and interviews in the GLBT community, we have found there is much confusion with the following: Who puts on the Pride festival? Where do the funds come from?
How do I find more information on-line? How can I get involved? We found that the entity Cedar Rapids Unity was confusing people when they really want to relate to the festival itself, so we are doing away with Cedar Rapids Unity, and becoming CRPrideFest. CRPrideFest will be our name across the board and throughout all of our correspondence. Once all the change is managed our new website will be onestop shopping for everything about the
Cedar Rapids Pride festival and its related events, fundraisers, vendors, entertainment and so on. We feel this simplification of our purpose and mission makes sense to alleviate peoples confusion about the different entities as they have existed in the past. Please visit our new website CRPridefest.com for more information, and updates to this exciting challenge! Sincerely, The Board of Directors of CRPrideFest Kelly S. Gassman
ACCESSline Wants To Hear From You! Send in photos and stories about your events... especially benefits, pageants. and conferences!
Please send us information on any of the following: Corrections to articles • Stories of LGBT or HIV+ interest • Letters to the editor Editorials or opinion pieces • Engagement and wedding ceremony announcements or photos Questions on any topic we print • Photos and writeups about shows, events, pageants, and fundraisers Please email us at Editor@ACCESSlineIOWA.com. You may also contact us at our regular address, ACCESSline, P.O. Box 396, Des Moines, IA 50302-0396 ACCESSline reserves the right to print letters to the editor and other feedback at the editor’s discretion.
Subscribe to ACCESSline
Thank you for reading ACCESSline, the Heartland’s LGBT+ monthly newspaper. Our goal continues to be to keep the community informed about gay organizations, events, HIV/AIDS news, politics, national and international news, and other critical issues. Don’t miss it! $42 for 12 issues. Subscribe at: ACCESSlineAMERICA.com Send this completed form with check or money order for $42 for a one year subscription (12 issues) or RENEW for $36. Send to:
ACCESSline, P.O. Box 396, Des Moines, IA 50302-0396 and we’ll send you ACCESSline in a plain brown envelope!
Good for the $42 annual rate or $36 renewal!
Name:________________________________________________________________ Address:_ ____________________________________________________________ City:______________________________ State:_ _____ Zip:_ _____________
ACCESSline Page 4
Section 1: News & Politics
Better Together Dubuque LGBT conference 10/26-27 Better Together Dubuque hosts area conference to create a more inclusive Dubuque community for LGBT citizens, October 26-27 at the Port of Dubuque. Better Together Dubuque wants to create more open and accepting neighborhoods for our LGBT+ community members with a weekend of family friendly events and panel discussions. The city’s efforts to be a city of social and cultural vibrancy have seen results—help us to build on that success by ensuring that Dubuque is a safe and welcoming community for all of our citizens. This weekend of events—the first in Dubuque’s history—will include sharing stories, opening dialogues, increasing understanding, promoting inclusion, and building community through social mixers, family fun with bounce houses and Zumba, and a professional conference. In recognition of our efforts to be inclusive and supportive of our entire community, Zach Wahls will be presenting the Better Together Dubuque Conference keynote
address. Wahls is the author of My Two Moms, a memoir highlighting his experiences growing up in the American heartland with a two-mom family. Zach Wahls has also been interviewed by Jon Stewart, David Letterman, CBS, MSNBC, as well as newspapers and blogs across the nation. Weekend of Events will Include: Friday Night October 26 - Social Engagement organized by Barry Gentry and the Dubuque Chamber Saturday October 27 - 9am-4pm Conference with 8:30am Registration at The Grand River Center Conference Registration due October 5 Saturday October 27 - 4pm-7pm All Ages Event featuring family friendly activities including bounce houses and family Zumba and much more The mission of Better Together Dubuque is to strengthen our LGBT+ community to promote cultural vibrancy. For more information go toBetterTogetherDubuque.org
New LGBT healthcare clinic at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics Location: Iowa River Landing, 105 9th Ave Coralville, IA 52241
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Clinic, staffed by two primary care physicians, Dr Nicole Nisly (Internal Medicine) and Dr Katie Imborek (Family Medicine, starting in 2013) will be open for appointments every Tuesday evening from 5:00-7:30 p.m. We will focus on comprehensive primary care for adult LGBT patients delivered by providers and staff with expertise in the health care needs of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities. Appointments: 319-384-7444
Services provided include: • • • • • • • • • •
Routine physical exams and wellness Chronic disease management including anxiety and depression Same-day urgent care visits Gynecological services, including breast and pelvic exams and menopause care Contraceptive management HIV testing STI (sexually transmitted infections) testing and treatment Immunizations Cross sex hormone therapy Post-surgical care for those who have undergone gender affirmation surgery
“…it is very hypocritical of her to ask for a return to traditional values, when traditional values say she should have been in the kitchen, and not in office. Traditional values doesn’t just mean what you want it to mean. It can also mean some pretty bad stuff.” — Minnesota Vikings punter, Chris Kluwe, regarding Rep. Mary Franson, (R-Alexandria) attacking him as an opponent of “traditional values”.
Living with HIV A case management program serving those living with HIV/AIDS in north-central Iowa. 226 SE 16th Street Ames, Iowa 50010 515-956-3312
OCTOBER 2012
Diversity Focus to Host 6th Annual Student Leadership Conference 10/19
Diversity Focus will host its 6th Annual Student Diversity Leadership Conference on October 19, 2012 at Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, Iowa from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The goal for this conference is to empower and inspire participants to work towards a brighter tomorrow and to become successful leaders within the schools and communities. The Student Diversity Leadership Conference is for both high-school level students and educators in public, private and home school platforms. This year’s conference theme is “Step up for Diversity,” which will focus on taking a stand for diversity, being proud of who you are, and helping others to understand and accept diversity as a key to success, growth and knowledge. “We are excited about our student conference and the motivational speakers we have this year. Our goal is to connect with each student, and motivate them to understand their true potential,” says Chad Simmons,
Executive Director. “We will also be making a special announcement regarding the future of our leadership initiatives.” Students, educators and community members will participate in workshop sessions with different speakers. Various topics and issues will be discussed including power of choice, influence and bullying that will encourage students to make positive choices for themselves, their schools and their personal life. Educators and students can register online http://www.diversityfocus.org/ student. For more information about this event, please contact Diversity Focus (319) 363-3707. Diversity Focus was established in 2005 as a non-profit organization devoted to enhancing the diversity of the Cedar Rapids - Iowa City corridor. Diversity Focus Vision: Diversity is the crucial link to economic, cultural, academic, and technological success. Diversity Focus’ vision is that the Corridor community be the model of inclusion that values, nurtures, attracts, and retains people of diverse backgrounds, cultures and beliefs. For more information about Diversity Focus, please visit www.diversityfocus.org.
Section 1: News & Politics
OCTOBER 2012 SScontinued from page 1
HEARTLAND NEWS
Zach Wahls speaks at DNC
Zach Wahls speaking before the Democratic National Convention. Photo: 5portsCenter Iowa’s own Zach Wahls—made famous when his speech before the Iowa legislature’s on January 31, 2011 went viral on YouTube— spoke at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday, September 6, 2012. “Governor Romney says he’s against samesex marriage because every child deserves a mother and a father. I think every child deserves a family as loving and committed as mine. Because the sense of family comes
from the commitment we make to each other to work through the hard times so we can enjoy the good ones. It comes from the love that binds us; that’s what makes a family. Mr. Romney, my family is just as real as yours. “President Obama understands that. He supports my moms’ marriage. President Obama put his political future on the line to do what was right. Without his leadership, we wouldn’t be here. President Obama is fighting for our families -- all of our families. He has our backs. We have his.”
Death Certificate hearing postponed
Jennifer and Jessica Buntmeyer’s hearing on their right to have both of their names listed as parents on a fetal death certificate was postponed on Friday, September 14, 2012. Brayden Bruce Buntemeyer, conceived by in vitro fertilization, died in utero during Jessica Buntmeyer’s pregnancy. Both spouses included their names on the certificate, with Jennifer putting her name in the
“I think every child deserves a family as loving and committed as mine.”
space for “father” since there was no other choice. The Iowa Department of Public Health removed Jennifer’s name prior to issuing the certificate. A new hearing date has not been set.
Charlie Rogers’ case going to trial
On July 22, 2012, Lincoln, NE resident Charlie Rogers reported to police that she had been assaulted in her home, and that the three masked attackers had vandalized her home and carved anti-gay slurs into her skin. The reported hate crime drew national attention and galvanized the Nebraska LGBT community, which held numerous fund raisers and vigils for “Rainbow Jane”—the nickname given to Rogers before her name was publicly released in association with the case. However, investigators later announced that they believed the attack had been a hoax, and that Rogers therefore provided false information to police, a misdemeanor offense. She has plead not guilty and waived her right to a speedy trial.
ACCESSline Page 5 SScontinued from page 3
VILSACK who ruled in the unanimous Varnum v. Brien decision—including purchasing $80,000 of radio advertising to encourage Iowans to vote no for the justices’ retention. His statement that “traditional marriage is a sacred institution” highlights his inability to intellectually separate his own religious beliefs from the laws of Iowa and the best interests of all of Iowa’s citizens, including people of a variety of religions—and people of no religion. In this election’s final debate on September 27, 2012, King’s closing comments included the line, “Let’s move this country ahead to the next level of our destiny, let’s do it together.” After 11 years in office, it is clear that Steve King is not interested in working “together” with anybody but the hard-right social conservatives he has been campaigning for around the country while he should have been doing his job for Iowa. The only chance to “move this country ahead” will be without Steve King in office. Christie Vilsack is that chance, and western Iowa should jump at the
opportunity.
Iowa Governor’s Bullying Prevention Summit 11/27 The Iowa Governor’s Bullying Prevention Summit is intended to raise awareness about the pervasive problem of bullying, and to send the strongest possible message that our schools alone cannot stop it, that communities must become more engaged in taking the steps needed to address this issue. Although awareness is growing, many Iowans may be surprised at the extent of
bullying that takes place at school, from teasing to major incidents that make the news. The 2010 Iowa Youth Survey reported 50 percent of students surveyed said that in the last 30 days they had been bullied at school in one of the following ways: “I was called names, was made fun of, or teased in a hurtful way; other students left me out of things on purpose, excluded me from their group of friends, or
completely ignored me; I was hit, kicked, pushed, shoved around, or locked indoors; other students told lies, spread false rumors about me, and tried to make others dislike me; I was made fun of because of my race or color; I was made fun of because of my religion; other students made sexual jokes, comments, or gestures that hurt my feelings; I have received a threatening or hurtful message from another student in an email, on a website, on a cell phone, from pager text messaging, in an internet chat room, or in instant messaging.” This is unacceptable. Creating a caring environment at school is important for every student’s well-being. It affects how successfully youngsters can focus on learning as well as the other skills they need to develop to make the most of their potential and to be good citizens. Iowa schools and communities have been working hard on anti-bullying efforts. The summit is an opportunity to learn from some of them, as well as other state and national experts, about how to make schools a more civil, welcoming place for everyone. Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds are hosting the summit, which is open to the public. Registration will be required and the summit will be held Tuesday, November 27th at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines. It will be paid for with funding from the Iowa Department of Education, registration fees and generous support
from the private sector.
Video Submissions
Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds are inviting all Iowa middle schools and high schools to submit a video about what their school is doing to prevent bullying and what more might be done, prior to the Governor’s Bullying Prevention Summit. Each video should reflect the theme of “Preventing Bullying in Your School and Beyond.” The audience for the video will include students, teachers, school administrators, parents and community leaders. School, parents and businesses are encouraged to print out this flyer to help spread the word: https://governor.iowa. gov/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/ Bullying-Summit-Video-Contest-Flyer.pdf Branstad says students should use this as an opportunity to tell your school’s story about how bullying is being stopped, what more might be done, and how to better engage the community as a whole in bullying prevention efforts. Videos that meet all contest guidelines will be posted to Governor Branstad’s YouTube channel, with the public invited to choose their favorite between Nov. 12 and Nov. 21. Guidelines may be found at: https://preventbullying.iowa.gov/. The top vote-getter will receive a $500 prize to be used for bullying prevention efforts at their school, along with a visit by the governor and lieutenant governor for an all-school assembly. The video contest winner will be announced at the Governor’s Bullying Prevention Summit. The summit will be held on Nov. 27, at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines. You can register online at https:// preventbullying.iowa.gov/
ACCESSline Page 6
Section 1: News & Politics
OCTOBER 2012
Minor Details by Robert Minor What’s Love Worth, After All?
The government of the United States has no right to tell two consenting adults whom they can and cannot love. That’s the essence of the argument for marriage equality. Religions can believe anything they want, but love is none of the government’s business. Let religions fight with each other over this, for there are religious people everywhere disagreeing over who people should or shouldn’t love. When a society is built on fear and hate, whether religiously or otherwise inspired, those who dare to love whom they want are seen as subversive. They’re the ones willing to fight society’s fear and hate so they can live as people who love another. Groups that want to limit the definition of love so it fits nicely within their stifling boundaries get scared by love that knows no bounds. They visit their fears of what it would mean if they themselves loved boldly on those who don’t fit what feels safe to them. It doesn’t matter that real loving never always feels “safe.” It feels vulnerable, fears being unrequited, and fears that it is never more than temporary. There’s a real basis for those feelings, for the nature of loving is that one will eventually lose what one loves. It’s inevitable—whether
that be one’s pet, a friend, or a life partner, death always interferes, even if love itself is intended to last “forever.” And there are reasons love feels fragile. One is always risking, when one loves, that now or in the future it will be spurned. That means, then, that love is not only a risk but an important act of human affirmation. We need every act of love all the more because it is so human to love what can be taken away. We love because it’s worth the heartbreak. We love because it’s a force for change not only in our personal lives, but in the world. Love isn’t just between two people who commit to it. Real love can’t keep to itself. It might start with one other, but the loving between two lovers can’t contain itself from becoming a force for good. That’s why it’s a total misunderstanding for a couple to attempt to huddle away from the world out there to be caught up in each other. That’s fear—fear of being lonely, being hurt, losing, not being loveable. Love must change the world out there or it is mere neediness. Love is actually a force for liberation. To ask same-sex love to hide, keep to itself, not share itself with family and friends, is to ask a couple to feel phony, illegitimate, and lacking. The concealing of same-sex love by our society keeps love from changing our culture.
That means, then, that love is not only a risk but an important act of human affirmation.
And no matter how LGBT people want to act as if nothing will change if they have equal marriage rights, the fact is: much will. And it should. Every open loving relationship between two men will say to men of all sexual orientations that men do not have to beat, defeat, or kill each other. It will say that this is not inherent in men, but that men can share vulnerabilities, nurture each other, and find comfort in one another. Men do not have to be in competition. They don’t have to view each other as rivals or enemies. They don’t have to go off to a battlefield far away to kill or be killed by other another man. And that is so radical because it challenges our whole warrior culture and all the money made by sending men off to battle to destroy other men. Same-sex love is subversive. Every open loving relationship between two women will say to women of all sexual orientations that women do not have to find their fulfillment in a man. It will say that feeling like half a person without the other sex is not inherent in women. Women are whole and complete themselves. Women do not have to give up any of their inherent qualities to be subordinate in a marriage. They can take care of themselves, love themselves, and protect themselves. And that is so radical because it challenges all the sexism in our culture and all the money being made by convincing women they must do everything to attract men. Same-sex love is subversive. It’s so subversive that many don’t want to see it. They prefer to think that it must be only sex; and in a society so sick with selfimposed ignorance about all sexuality, that confuses what love means all the more. Love is subversive enough to be costly. But it’s worth the price because it changes ourselves and society. Love’s costliness makes it easy to get distracted with less dangerous relationships that fit nicely in the patterns dictated by our consumer-oriented society. Patterned relationships called “love” are peddled all around us.
Robert N. Minor, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies at the University of Kansas, is author of When Religion Is an Addiction; Scared Straight: Why It’s So Hard to Accept Gay People and Why It’s So Hard to Be Human and Gay & Healthy in a Sick Society. Contact him at www.FairnessProject.org. And same-sex love, whether that be deep friendships or romantic partnerships, costs even more. LGBT people have learned that it can be a great price as prejudice, law, religion, national boundaries, and cultural norms must be fought in order to love. In fact, LGBT people provide a real model of the sacrificial love that ought to be a religious parable. If love is the goal of religion and love is costly—costly enough in Christian beliefs to say that it brought a crucial death on a cross—then there remains no group that has taken up the cause of such love more sacrificially. Throughout history LGBT people have been tortured and killed for their love, have been fired for their love, have been rejected by their families and friends for their love, have been ridiculed and humiliated for their love. And their loving itself has been defamed, desecrated, and denied. Truly they are models of the importance of love. And so, in the middle of this Gay and Lesbian History month, we remember the history of sacrificial love. While in this fear-based society, we must champion all attempts at love, no matter how inelegant. They should be celebrated.
In fact, LGBT people provide a real model of the sacrificial love that ought to be a religious parable.
Section 1: News & Politics
OCTOBER 2012
ACCESSline Page 7
Religion of Anger by Tony E. Hansen There is at least one item that one should shy away from discussing when in civil company: religion. Assuredly, someone will offend someone else’s different religious belief or opinion. Yet, the reason that people make this claim is that religion tends to be a deeply personal aspect. The lightest comment by one can be an instant slap-in-the-face insult to another. The world seems ever more leaning towards finding the insult than light conversations. Considering how easy it is to offend someone here in America on the topic of religion, no one should be surprised that a video insulting Islam would be met with violence. With the recent riots in the Mideast provoked by extremist Christian elements, I could only think of how angry religion has become these days. There always has to be someone that wants to push the boundaries of what is acceptable and make the rest of the group look bad. The extreme religious factions here in America have made business more difficult and tourism more dangerous for all Americans. Foreigners have to be thinking how will America insult someone today instead of being that “beacon of light” and hope. Yet, there is something similar of both the crazies in Florida who promoted the crap that provoked the radical violence in the Islamic world as well as the crazies who sought violence as the primary reaction to them. Both follow an almost “demonic” kind of reasoning that insults modern religions. Both disregard any sense of security and justice for the rest.
Despite teachings of compassion and love as the basis for modern world religions, or even their foundations in the golden rule (do unto others as you would have done to you), we see instantly angry reactions from religious folks in all stripes without haste. Religion has turned first to anger “to fire first and then ask questions later.” These people are rejecting the fundamental teachings and instead worshipping their anger and hatreds. The promotion of this aspect of humanity is a sacrilege and an admonishment of the teachings of Jesus Christ, the Prophet Mohammed, the Buddha, and the many other reverences around the world. One does not find the merits of organized religion when people (extreme or mainstream) disregard the basic tenets of their religious doctrines. Instead of promoting the compassion and tolerance of those peaceful doctrines, these people focus efforts to incite riots, destruction and violence at everyone’s expense and regardless of considerations. Those people disregard facts and any notion of tolerance. They become fodder for spewing hate and more anger within the extreme elements that promote the worst of humanity (those anti-Christ-like ways.) Unfortunately, these people will also wallow in the misery of their hatred and anger. These people will not find peace regardless of how many are killed or of how many lives are ruined. They are exhibiting actual “gluttony” and “greed” to have all people believe in their perspective of God and religion. These
people can be guaranteed to turn blind eyes to genocide and even actively participate in the holocausts. These elements of Christianity, Islam, Judaism and others welcome shallow showmanship with a disregard of others with the loudest inconsiderate boasts. The Buddha teaches, “the shallow is easy to embrace, but the profound is difficult; that to discard the shallow and seek the profound is the way of courage.” I am not saying that all showmanship, like say Tim Tebow, is destructive because seeing someone who believes in their convictions clearly lets people know what they believe. Yet, showmanship, especially the extreme kind, is clearly at odds with Matthew 6:5, the Buddha and the Qur’an because real faith is within the self that can help guide one’s actions. Further, consider James 1, “You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; for your anger does not produce God’s righteousness.” The Qu’ran (3:134) suggests that those, “… who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good…” The quick, knee-jerk anger is denounced both in the Bible and the Qur’an, but you would never know that from Robertson’s CBN, Fox or Al-Jazeera reports. It is almost like these guys are helping to incite the violence in order to have something to report. “One tin soldier” cannot compete with the constant baiting these shallow “news” outlets and the extreme religious people project. As Dave Mustaine sings, “Ask the sheep for their beliefs, ‘do you kill on God’s command?’” The majority of all people do not hold these extreme views or the anger that has been on display. What we need is to reject the religion of anger and be each other’s keeper. To respect each other means not to force others to believe one way, but to allow people to believe. That is the essence of “freedom of religion.” To
Dr. Olson, Are all gay relationships open relationships? The short answer to this question is, No. This will not be a discussion about sin; save that for someone from the clergy. All relationships have rules. Some gay relationships accept sexual experiences outside the relationship while others do not, and the rules vary from one couple to another. Sometimes it appears that the primary difference between open and monogamous relationships is honesty. Your question originates, however, from a stereotypical misconception that all gay men and women are incapable of making long term commitments. Our culture dictates that sex is only acceptable within the context of a committed relationship; sex for pleasure is sinful. The question can presume that only heterosexuals value commitment and that they always honor it. Sex solely for pleasure is not uniquely homosexual, but we are more honest about it. By the age of 14 about 25% of all teenagers are sexually active and by the age of 19 the figure increases to about 75%. Nearly half the children in the US are conceived outside
a long term, committed relationship. Studies of heterosexual infidelity suggest that 60% of those who are unfaithful to their partner once are likely to be unfaithful again. If fidelity is the standard, heterosexuals aren’t doing that well either. Exclusive relationships are hard to maintain and increasingly difficult the longer the relationship. Opportunities to be unfaithful surround us. Fifteen minutes on the internet will deliver someone who wants to have sex “right now.” While these brief sexual encounters may be pleasurable, they are often less satisfying than the fantasies preceding them. When two people meet for “hook up” sex they each often find that the other has misrepresented him/herself. The casual sexual partner rarely behaves in the ways desired—and frankly, you probably don’t meet their expectations either. Hook up sex cannot approach the level of sexual and emotional intimacy that committed relationships are capable of, but a long term relationship demands dealing with the baggage that comes along with it. Casual sexual partners are idealized unrealistically while the long term partner is unrealistically
demonized. Problems escalate dramatically when the outside partner substitutes for resolving conflict in the primary relationship. Some relationships are doomed from the start, but even the best ones go through horrible times. Infidelity is often blamed: Did you have sex with that person? Whether or not there was sex is not the real problem. The right questions are: How did we lose our closeness? When and why did we stop wanting each other? How can we forgive the lies and re-establish trust? Do we need to consider re-negotiating the rules we first established? Sometimes open and honest relationships seem to be the most stable. They seem to recognize that as humans we are sexual beings and at times sexual desire clouds rational thinking. Sex for pleasure outside the primary relationship doesn’t always destroy relationships; lies and deception often do. Monogamy is a value strongly held by some; others permit “recreational sex” within a committed relationship. The important issue is that whatever the rule is, it is a mutual, honored and respected, and addressed honestly. Questions for Loren A Olson can be sent courtesy of ACCESSline, PO Box 396 Des
Instead of promoting the compassion and tolerance of those peaceful doctrines, these people focus efforts to incite riots, destruction and violence at everyone’s expense and regardless of considerations.
Shrink Rap by Loren A Olson MD
Fifteen minutes on the internet will deliver someone who wants to have sex “right now.”
Moines, IA 50302-0396.
Tony E Hansen is a web developer, organizer, researcher, writer, martial artist, and vocalist from Des Moines. For more information go to tigersndragons.com. have faith is to let go of perceptions of truth, to not be idolatrous to that perception, and to let the truth reveal itself. If we base our faith and beliefs in anger, then our religion is anger, hatred and negativity. The religion becomes nothing of what the good people have taught us. If we are more concerned about others’ beliefs, we are foregoing growth in ourselves. Be willing to speak about your religion and how it enables you, but also be mindful that religion is deeply personal that can be easily insulted. Steer the discussion away from heated anger and into how we share common interests, both in the spiritual and the physical. Maybe then we can live in each other’s neighborhoods, and maybe then we can walk in other countries without fear some jerk at home is going to create more anger of religion. Peace be unto you.
Loren A. Olson MD, DLFAPA is a board certified psychiatrist who has been engaged in the clinical practice of psychiatry for over 35 years. Dr. Olson has conducted independent research on mature gay men, and presented the initial results of this research at the World Congress in Psychiatry in Prague in September 2008 and throughout the United States. He writes for his own blog, MagneticFire.com, which has a strong following among mature gay men. He is the author of Finally Out: Letting Go of Living Straight, for more information go to FinallyOutBook.com or Facebook.com.
ACCESSline Page 8
Section 1: News & Politics
OCTOBER 2012
Remarkables by Jonathan Wilson When Life Begins: The Bible is Right
Supposedly based on the Bible, it is claimed by CHINOs (Christians In Name Only), and perhaps some others, that life begins at the instant of conception, thus pitting rights of an unborn fetus against rights of the pregnant woman who may have been raped (legitimately or not), who may have been the victim of incest, whose life and health may be in jeopardy, or who should not—for a number of reasons—carry an unintended and unwanted pregnancy to term. With life purportedly beginning at that instant and clothed with “equal” rights, it’s not just a little ironic that CHINOs jump so quickly to afford “equal” civil rights to twojoined-cells when they so tenaciously seek to deny equal civil rights to gay, already-born and law-abiding children of God. Go figure. God help us when they are able to figure out in utero which two-joined-cells will be gay. Beyond that anomaly, clinging to the notion that life and equal human rights simultaneously begin at the moment of conception creates all kinds of prickly issues. For one, it draws into question the legitimacy of contraception by chemical means, which is of more recent vintage, as well as contraception by IUD that has been used in crude form since the beginning of the twelfth century at least. The modern form has been in use for almost 100 years. Both the “morning after” chemical approach and IUD act after conception has
occurred. They both terminate a fertilized ovum. Are we really on a path to make that murder? Locking up doctors for that crime and the women for complicity? If CHINOs really believed that life begins at the moment of conception, funeral directors should be reaping a bonanza from them since about 25% or more of human pregnancies, regardless of CHINO status, miscarry. If they’re not having those funerals, it’s like not taking an umbrella to a rain dance—it betrays a disbelief in what is being said. A friend has suggested, rhetorically, that life should be said to begin when—and only when—you can buy a standard life insurance policy on the unborn fetus. Many of our legal structures in the estate planning arena trigger from a life “in being.” For legal purposes, one must be born to gain full civil rights and full recognition as a human being. And, if a pregnancy causes the death of the mother, but the baby survives, is it guilty of manslaughter—the unintentional homicide of another person? Should Miranda warnings be read to that baby right away, or just any time before it’s capable of talking and saying something incriminating? It may come as a surprise to some that
the Bible does speak authoritatively on the subject of when life begins, and it’s not at conception. We who revere the Scriptures don’t have to guess about this. In Genesis 2:7 it is said, “[T]hen the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and the man became a living being.” (emphasis added) Apparently, the man was not a “living being” before that moment. “Life” begins, therefore—according to the Good Book—when a fetus is capable of drawing breath. Paradoxically, Rowe v. Wade, puts protections in place in reliance on a similar threshold—viability. The CHINOs have some explaining to do. If God is responsible for every conception (even in cases of rape), and “life” begins at that moment, the miscarriage rate of about 25% or more of human pregnancies means that God—by intervention or declining to intervene—is responsible for pregnancy terminations in far greater numbers annually than Planned Parenthood, and by a long shot. Logic, of course, is not a characteristic found in a CHINO and, sadly, neither is recognition of what the Bible actually says on the subject.
tions race for the White House. “We also support the freedom of churches and religious entities to decide how to administer marriage as a religious sacrament without government interference,” the platform states. With one of Obama’s largest and most loyal voting blocks being African Americans who are also largely Democratic and conservative Christians, the big worry is not that African Americans would overwhelmingly cast a ballot for Mitt Romney; it’s that they might not come out in large numbers to the polls in November. “This is the first time in black church history that I’m aware of that black pastors have encouraged their parishioners not to vote, “ Rev. Jamal-Harrison Bryant of Baltimore told the Associated Press. Bryant has formed the Empowerment Network, a national coalition of about 30 denominations working to register African American parishioners. Bryant, too, opposes samesex marriage, and has stated that Obama endorsement of marriage equality is “at the heart” of the problem for black Christians. In 2008, according to the Pew Research Center, approximately 95 percent of the African American populace cast their ballot for Obama, and only 26 percent were in favor of same-sex marriage. Before Obama publicly announced
his support for marriage equality in May, according to Pew results in April, 49 percent of African Americans were not in favor of same-sex marriage while only 39 percent were. And since Obama’s announcement the numbers of those in opposition to samesex marriage have not declined among the black churched populace. As a matter of fact, some African American ministers have come out more forcefully against Obama. For example, the Rev. William Owens, president and founder of the Memphis-based Coalition of African Americans Pastors, is one of them. Given his influence and clout among black clerics in the area Owens feels that the president has gone too far in his extended hand toward civil rights to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) Americans. Owens told the Associated Press in late July that he “would lead a national effort to rally black Americans to rethink their overwhelming support of the president over the same-sex issue and “’save the family.’” Owens is outraged and feels the president is taking the African American vote for granted. While I would like to dismiss Owens rant as just another homophobic minister and an outlier in what I perceive will be a huge turnout of black voters for Obama, sadly, to date Owens has parlayed his outraged into a small but growing move-
It’s not just a little ironic that CHINOs jump so quickly to afford “equal” civil rights to two-joined-cells when they so tenaciously seek to deny equal civil rights to gay, already-born and law-abiding children of God.
Jonathan Wilson is an attorney at the Davis Brown Law Firm in Des Moines, and chairs the First Friday Breakfast Club (ffbciowa.org), an educational, non-profit corporation for gay men in Iowa who gather on the first Friday of every month to provide mutual support, to be educated on community affairs, and to further educate community opinion leaders with more positive images of gay men. It is the largest breakfast club in the state of Iowa. He can be contacted at JonathanWilson@DavisBrownLaw.com.
Obama’s Support of Marriage Equality by Rev. Irene Monroe Will Obama’s support of marriage equality keep some Blacks home on Election Day? African Americans have worked hard to get the vote and to get a man of African descent in the White House. In 2008 we came out in unprecedented numbers with Obama taking 95 percent of the black vote, thanks to the help of his biggest support base- American American ministers and their parishioners. In this 2012 presidential election Obama’s biggest support base will drop precipitously. And it will be because of both the Democratic Party’s and Obama’s pronouncement on marriage equality. Before the opening of the Democratic National Convention, the Democratic National Party released its 2012 platform. Its theme —”Moving America Forward.” One of the major party planks in the platform is its full-throated support of marriage equality. “We support the right of all families to have equal respect, responsibilities, and protections under the law. We support marriage equality and support the movement to secure equal treatment under law for same-sex couples.” Many Obama supporters embrace the platform’s theme of “Moving America Forward” but feel that the party’s support of same-sex marriage is risky if not outright political suicide in such a tight and conten-
Obama is the president of the United States, not the pastor of the United States. He’s the president of all the people, not some of the people.
Rev. Irene Monroe is a graduate from Wellesley College and Union Theological Seminary at Columbia University, and she has served as a pastor at an AfricanAmerican church before coming to Harvard Divinity School for her doctorate as Ford Fellow. She is a syndicated queer religion columnist who tries to inform the public of the role religion plays in discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people. Her website is irenemonroe.com. ment. He has over 3,742 African Americans ministers and their churches on board with his anti- Obama vote campaign. “The time has come for a broad-based assault against the powers that be that want to change our culture to one of men marrying men and women marrying women,” Owens told CNN after he launched his anti- Obama vote campaign event at the National Press Club. “I am ashamed that the first black president chose this road, a
TTREV MONROE cont’d page 9
Section 1: News & Politics
OCTOBER 2012
ACCESSline Page 9
Digging Deeper interview by Amber Dunham
In 2010, high school student Amber Dunham participated in a class assignment to ask someone 20 questions for an LGBT essay. The person Amber chose to ask was Alexis, a transgendered woman from the Iowa City area. This is the second portion of The Interview and will include questions from several individuals. Most of these people have already read
the first interview, and I have asked them to think about more questions they might want answers to. Some are again from Amber. Some of the other questions have simply unintentionally come up in ordinary conversations with people and were completely unplanned or unsolicited, but I consider them worthy of additional comment. Others simply seek more in-depth information on one of the previous 20 questions. Any questions or comments for Alexis can be sent care of this publication to Editor@ACCESSlineIOWA.com. 8) Do you ever have any regrets about your decision to transition from a male to a female, or have any second thoughts about undergoing the surgeries that you did? NO! I do not have any regrets or second thoughts about anything that I have done since I transitioned in 2003. If there is any regret, it would simply be that I was either not ready, or unable to find the courage, to transition much earlier in my life. I will admit that some things do take more time and effort as a woman, mostly those involved with my appearance. Yet I knew what I was going to get into when I crossed over to the other side of the street, and I’m happy to spend the extra time and money that it takes. Ok, there may be another regret that I do have. When I decided to go ahead with the surgeries, I basically had only saved just enough money in my investment funds to pay for the basic anatomical surgeries. That did not leave me any funds to pay for other cosmetic surgeries, such as facial
reconstruction that many undergo during their SRS process. As a result, I still have the natural bone structure I was born with, and while that gets me by, there are certain modifications I wish I would have been able to afford. Since my transition, I have undoubtedly had many more gains and pleasures than regrets. Since I no longer have to keep trying to live as two different people (see more on my pretransition turmoil in the first version of the interview) my thoughts are much more open to learning new and different things. This frees me to grow and develop into the girl I want to be, though this is still an ongoing growth and development process. As the years have gone on, and I have found myself increasingly integrated and accepted as a female, I am continually pleased with how people at work and where I live have come to accept me…at least for the most part. I realize that not everyone at work, or elsewhere in my life, agrees with the changes I made in my life
As the years have gone on, and I have found myself increasingly integrated and accepted as a female, I am continually pleased with how people at work and where I live have come to accept me… at least for the most part.
and I can respect that. There will always be some that have their own feelings on what I did, but for me, they are fortunately in a silent minority. At work, the majority of employees in my department are women of various ages. And I simply love how so many of them feel free to talk with me about virtually anything, including very personal subjects, as another female, and not as someone who simply used to be a guy. I can sometimes get a real education depending on the topic, and whenever I get hit with something new to me, but not new to other girls, I have learned
SScontinued from page 8
to take it in stride…which goes back to my advice for anyone who wanted to follow in my path. There I said that one needs to be able to “think on their feet” to be successful here. You never know what will come up in a conversation, and it works much to your advantage to avoid looking embarrassed or shocked or even surprised. It’s just girl talk. One of the best compliments I ever got came from someone who used to work with me, when she simply said “I can’t imagine you were ever a guy.”
disgraceful road.” Why are African Americans, especially conservative Christians, still stuck on this issue? One reason is that church doctrine throughout all the African American denominations haven’t changed on the topic of homosexuality, keeping the church tethered to an outdated notion of human sexuality, and a wrong-headed notion on what constitutes civil rights. Another reason is that many African American ministers still believe the institution of marriage, at least within the black family, is under assault, and LGBTQ people further exacerbate the problem. For these ministers, some of whom support LGBTQ civil rights but draw the line on same-sex marriage, espousing their opposition to same-sex marriage is a prophylactic measure to combat the epidemic of fatherlessness in black families. In scapegoating the LGBTQ community, these clerics are ignoring the social ills behind black fatherlessness, such as the systematic disenfranchisement of both African American men and women, high
unemployment, high incarceration, and poor education, to name a few. African American ministers have come out in support of Obama’s stance on marriage equality. For these African American ministers, the liability of Obama losing his 2012 reelection bid seems far greater than being publicly outed for not being in lockstep with their homophobic brethren. But their efforts to get their conservative parishioners to the ballot box must far exceed those in opposition. If the first African-American president loses his reelection bid because of certain black pastors’ homophobic views on marriage equality, that would be tragic, and history would not look kindly on their actions. Obama is the president of the United States, not the pastor of the United States. He’s the president of all the people, not some of the people. As African Americans who have battled for centuries against racial discrimination, we have always relied on our president and his administration to fight for and uphold our civil rights, because too many pastors across the country and throughout centuries wouldn’t “move America forward.”
Saturday, October 20th from 7pm to Midnight, CRPrideFest is hosting a Halloween Bash Dance and Costume Party. This night of fun is open to all! Kids are invited to participate in the games, and contests along with adults. Wear your costume! Gatherings (CRGatherings.com), located at 905 Third Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA will be the venue for this event. Adult beverages, drinks, and food will be available from Gatherings, and some baked goods may be for sale as a fundraiser
for CRPrideFest. There is no charge for this event, but a suggested donation at the door will go to support CRPrideFest and its endeavors. Balloons Etc. & Costume Emporium (CRBalloonsEtc.com), located at 420 2nd Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA is helping support this event by offering 10% off costume rental just for mentioning “CRPrideFest” (or formerly known as “CRU”). For more information go to CRPrideFest.com.
REV MONROE
CRPrideFest Halloween Dance & Costume Party 10/20
“What I want to ask Tony Perkins if I see him here is, ‘If you believe marriage is the very foundation of society, why would you deny us this right?’ I honestly believe it’s cruel to deny us this. If you believe we are real people, that is.”
~ Sarah Longwell, a Log Cabin board member in reference to Family Research Council President at the GOP Convention.
ACCESSline Page 10
Section 1: News & Politics
OCTOBER 2012
LGBT People Speaking Our Truths by Warren J. Blumenfeld I was asked to give a presentation focusing on bullying prevention to approximately 200 high school students in a moderately sized Midwestern city. My focus addressed the ways that bullying and harassment cannot be viewed simply as youth problems and behaviors, but rather, that we must investigate the contexts in which bullying “trickles down” from the larger society and is reproduced within the schools. I began by stating that my topic was not merely an academic research area of study for me, but rather that I find it extremely personal since I was bullied continually throughout elementary school, middle school, and high school during the 1950s and 1960s because I did not and could not conform to the strict gender role socialization dictated to me by a society that constructed only one norm for males, masculinity, and one for females, femininity. I talked about growing up gay during the so-called “McCarthy” era, a very conservative time in U.S. history, a time when any form of human difference was held suspect, a time before the rise of school clubs sometimes called “Gay/Straight Alliances.” I explained to the students the isolation and the low self-esteem I developed during my school years, and though very long ago, it still adversely affects me to this very day. I felt that the students and I shared an instant connection; they laughed at my awful punnie jokes (“Now remember, you can’t buy gender roles at a bakery!”), they asked wonderfully perceptive and honest questions, and generally, they seemed open and truly engaged. One student came up to me at the end of my talk telling me “That was cool, man!” Another told me that “My brother is gay, and I wish he could have heard your talk.” The next day, the organizer of the event emailed me to say that out of the 200 students,
five parents called the principle to complain, some upset that my presentation contained “statements about homosexuality,” and specifically that “made statements that he was gay and stated as fact that ‘homosexuality is something you are born with’ and that ‘my parents knew I was gay when I was 18 months old.’” I find it rather alarming that still today, one is condemned for telling people who one is. In fact, I never stated that “homosexuality is something one is born with” since I really don’t know and quite frankly, I don’t care. The event organizer also wrote to me that “Parents complained that this message was not totally about anti-bullying and anti-harassment and that with a captive audience their children were subjected to a politically charged message.” Yes, during my presentation, I did indirectly challenge some strongly held political beliefs: that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people should remain locked within a closet of denial and fear, that young people should not be “exposed” to positive LGBT role models, that we must not think critically about who we are and what we are taught and told, and that it is our duty to conform to societal “norms” even when these norms are not integral to who we are and what we value. I would argue that educators must structure learning for our youth that will enable them to work and live in a diverse community, country, and world, and provide a space for anyone and everyone who differs from the mythical norm of white, cisgender (gender conforming) male-masculine and
female-feminine, tall, thin, athletic, Christian, upper-middle class, Anglo-Saxon heritage, English-language proficient, U.S. born, and so on that they are fine the way they are and do not have to conform to a socialization process that denies their integrity, humanity, and their multiple identities. This we must impart to our youth, even, and especially, in the face of the backlash that surely comes when one challenges the ruthless status quo. We will always receive complaints by parents and others, though the minority, but we cannot allow the few to control and restrict the education for the many. Indeed, my challenge at this student assembly was extraordinarily “political.” I cannot think of an institution in our society any more “political” than education. Every statement educators make, every piece of curricular material, the people hired, the lessons taught, the choice of administrators, everything about the institution stands as political, especially when one attempts to challenge “knowledge” dominantly constructed at the expense of alternative voices and perspectives. If we as a country are to advance, however, if we are to make a world for our youth to prosper and grow as individuals and communities, then we must continue to be who we are and to speak our truths. I believe that students gained much from my presentation, and were very grateful that I treated them and their ideas not condescendingly, but with respect for their intelligence and their prior learning. We cannot allow the naysayers to ever silence us. That will only perpetuate the abuse on our youth thereby
continuing the risk factors ranging from depression and social isolation, to lowered educational outcomes, to suicidal ideation, attempts, and completion. This experience reminded me of a magazine cartoon I saw a few years ago. It showed an adult man and an adult woman, presumably two parents, sitting on a living room sofa, and two young people, a girl and a boy, seated on the floor in front of them. They were all gazing at a TV screen with the written announcement: “Due to the homosexual content of the following program, children might have to explain it to their parents.” To all young people, we still have much to teach our parents, but let the teaching and learning begin!
they had said that, ‘We’re the politicians for the white community’? We wouldn’t have gotten a right to vote, we wouldn’t have gotten the rights we enjoy today.” Got that? Because Obama said that he was a president for all Americans, not just the black ones, it’s the same thing as a white politician saying he or she is only a leader for white Americans and if a white version of Obama had been in charge nearly five decades ago then forget about civil rights. If Owens’s logic doesn’t hurt your brain then you don’t have one. Though I would like to point out that if we follow this logic then we can definitely forget about the black version of Obama ever becoming president, which would make Owens pretty happy since he has vowed that he and the CAAP are going “to take him on even more” now that Obama loves the gays (and, remember, “loves the gays” is synonymous with “hates the blacks”). When Mefferd remarks that gay activists seem to “lack fear of God” Owens concurs. “I would say that’s the case,” he says. “It’s like waving your thing in God’s face and saying, ‘You don’t matter.’ That’s exactly what I think.” Okay, wait, supporting gay rights is like waving your penis in God’s face? Is that what
he means by “thing”? Because if you ask the majority of Americans, gay or straight, what “waving your thing” means, they’re going to think penis. And why is this marriage business such a BFD to Owens? Because civilization and family and God and blah, blah, blah…And, of course, for the children. Because Owens cannot wrap his brain around same-sex parents. Owens says, “How can a man and a man be a parent to a child? By their nature, they cannot. How can a woman and a woman? My little boy takes both of us, he takes the love and
tenderness of a mother and he takes the love and whatever the dad gives he needs that, too. So to do different is disloyal, it’s not honorable to the child. We cannot say a marriage is right between the same sex.” This is coming from a guy who has claimed that “Homosexuality spreads because somebody [sexually] abused children” and said there’s no difference between a same-sex couple marrying and “a man deciding he wants to have sex with a dog.” Yeah, this guy is all about being honorable. If he despises Obama, I’ll take that as a sign that the president is doing something right.
This we must impart to our youth, even, and especially, in the face of the backlash that surely comes when one challenges the ruthless status quo.
Creep of the Week by D’Anne Witkowski William Owens
Can we just get one thing clear? If you’re black and Christian then the thought of samesex couples makes you puke and if it doesn’t then you are a “Judas” and/or not really black and/or not really Christian. Barack Obama, that means you. At least it does to William Owens, the leader of the Coalition of African-American Pastors. Owens, who according to a recent Huffington Post article lied about his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, is pretty pissed with Obama because of the whole marriage equality issue. In an Aug. 15th interview with right-wing radio darling Janet Mefferd, Owens lamented that Obama had basically flipped off African Americans by not telling gay people to go to hell. Like a real Christian would, obviously. “He’ll take up the cause of the Latinos, he’ll take up the cause of the homosexuals, but it’s like the African Americans don’t exist,” Owens lamented, pointing out that Obama likes everyone except for black people which I guess means he’s racist against himself. “And he said, ‘I’m not the president of the African Americans, I’m the president of America.’ What if the white leaders who were in office when the civil rights bill had passed, what if
If Owens’s logic doesn’t hurt your brain then you don’t have one.
Warren J. Blumenfeld is associate professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. He is editor of Homophobia: How We All Pay the Price (Beacon Press), and coeditor of Readings for Diversity and Social Justice (Routledge) and Investigating Christian Privilege and Religious Oppression in the United States (Sense). www.warrenblumenfeld.com
The repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell marked the end of a long and shameful era in our military’s history. The policy known as Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell denied the very dignity and humanity of our brothers and sisters in uniform. Our government asked these brave Americans to march into battle and serve their country while simultaneously telling them, ‘You are not equal; you must hide who you are in order to serve the country you love.’ ...the repeal does not address serious discrimination still facing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members. The repeal does not change the ban on transgender service members, nor does it repeal the strict regulations against service members who are living with HIV. And perhaps most egregious, the repeal does not address the government’s ongoing disregard for same-gender spouses of service members and veterans. Because of the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), Veterans Affairs will continue to deny veterans benefits to same-gender married spouses, and the military will continue to treat married spouses of active service members as legal strangers. ~One Iowa Executive Director Donna Red Wing in regards to the Anniversary of the Repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.
ACCESSline’s fun guide
Our Picks for October 9/28-10/20, Theatre Cedar Rapids, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, Ad p.18 10/5, Bad Dog Bar & Grill, Saint Louis, Missouri, Midwest Leather Weekend, BadDogSTL.com 10/5, The Garden Nightclub, Des Moines, Iowa, Mr & Miss Cosmopolitan Iowa USofA, MissGayIowa.com 10/6, Grinnell College, Grinnell, Iowa, 2012 Leadership Summit, IowaPrideNetwork.org/Summit 10/12, The Blazing Saddle, Des Moines, Iowa,
The Indestructible Nelly Furtado Interview by Chris Azzopardi
Mr Iowa Leather 2013-Iowa Leather Weekend, TheBlazingSaddle.com 10/12, Club C02, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, New Kings on the Block Are Back, Club-CO2.com 10/13, Des Moines, Iowa, La Douleur Exquise: A Black Party, Ad p.17 10/13, Club Q, Lincoln, Nebraska, Designing Women, Club Q Lincoln on Facebook.com 10/13, Kings & Queens, Waterloo, Iowa, Omaha Invades Iowa CAAP Benefit, p.27 10/14, Junge Park, Davenport, Iowa, QC Pride Sports 3rd Annual Kickball Tourney,
QC Pride-Sports on Facebook.com 10/16, Omaha Public Library, Omaha, Nebraska, LGBTQ History House Party, Facebook.com/Forward.Equality 10/19, Hancher, Iowa City, Iowa, It Gets Better, Hancher.UIowa.edu 10/19-11/4, Des Moines Community Playhouse, Des Moines, Iowa, Becky’s New Car, Ad p.35 10/20, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Halloween Bash & Costume Party, CRPrideFest.com 10/20, Kings & Queens, Waterloo, Iowa, Miss Cedar Valley USofA, MissGayIowa.com 10/20, McElroy Auditorium, Waterloo, Iowa, CVDD’s Homecoming Roller Derby Bout, Ad p.14 10/26-11/11, Des Moines Civic Center, Des Moines, Iowa, Evil Dead The Musical, Ad p.19
...and November
11/2, The Garden Nightclub, Des Moines, Iowa, Mr/ Miss Vogue Iowa USofA, MissGayIowa.com 11/10, Sioux City Community Theatre, Sioux City, Iowa, Mr/Miss Midwest Icon Iowa USofA, MissGayIowa.com 11/11, Des Moines Iowa, Pride & Prejudice, Center, The Benefit a Veteran’s Day Salute, Ad p.36 11/29, Stephens Auditorium, Ames, Iowa, Kathy Griffin, Ad p. 12.
Nelly Furtado. Courtesy Joseph Llanes.
Pop singer on first drag experience, musical ADD and how she’s still like a bird
There’s a story Nelly Furtado likes to tell of her seeing two lesbian teens squeeze each other while crying as she sang “…On the Radio (Remember the Days)” on one of her first tours. Furtado doesn’t remember the venue. She doesn’t even remember what state she was in. But the emotion that connected all three of them hasn’t left her. “They were feeling it in a way that I never imagined,” says Furtado, 33. “That really struck a chord with me.” The same girls would likely find bravado and strength—and maybe even shed a few tears—after hearing the liberation, empowerment and sense of individuality beaming through Furtado’s first English-language studio album in six years, The Spirit Indestructible. Why has it been so long since you released an English-language album? Getting inspired again, making time for pursuits and hobbies and families and friends, and taking some time out to establish my label Nelstar. Nelstar was the first
project I did after Loose. My first signing was a group called Fritz Helder & The Phantoms. We put out their release and did some fun traveling with them and showcases, but eventually they broke up. Then I launched another album on my label, which was my Spanish album Mi Plan, and I wrote that with Alex Cuba. That journey ended with him winning Best New Artist at the Latin Grammys, and my album won Best Female Pop Vocal Album. What’s a new hobby that you picked up? Working on my label, more than anything. I’m obviously spending time with my family and enjoying being a mom and doing all the hands-on things that you don’t have as much time to do when you’re traveling around. And I actually picked up basketball! That’s been fun. Can you dunk? I can’t dunk, but I’m fast. I’ve got some moves. (Laughs) What kind of travels? Right before I started cutting some of the record I did with Rodney Jerkins, I went on this crazy tour of national parks and forests of the United States. It was this awesome journey. Sometimes you have to
Sometimes you have to get really unplugged to get inspired.
TTFURTADO cont’d page 31
ACCESSline Page 12
The Fun Guide
The New Kings on the Block October Breast Cancer Awareness Show 10/12
Show director Butterfly will be auctioning off the chance to cut 12 inches of her hair to be donated to Pantene Beautiful lengths charity. Photo courtesy of The New Kings on the Block. The New Kings on the Block will be back Friday, October 12th at Club CO2 for another exciting night of entertainment. The show begins at 11 pm and has a special Breast Cancer Awareness Month theme. Joining Butterfly as Co-MC will be comedienne Heather Nobiling from Sherrard, Illinois. For only a $5 cover charge fans will see an even bigger and better show before. Local comedienne Butterfly will be auctioning off the chance to cut 12 inches of her hair to be donated to the Pantene Beautiful Lengths charity during the shows intermission. Stylist Travis Zellmer will then present Butterfly at the conclusion of the show with her new shorter hairdo. In addition to the hair donation, several gift baskets featuring gift cards provided by local businesses will be raffled off and proceeds will be split between the American Cancer Society and local cancer survivor Kelly Calkins. A merchandise table will also feature custom New Kings on the Block promotional items with proceeds going towards charity. The New Kings on the Block have once again worked together to present a special group number during the show. This month
Holden Cider performs as Satan in a Mitt Romney bashing number. Photo courtesy of The New Kings on the Block. will feature a special memorial to those who did not win their battle with cancer. Many members of the group have been personally affected by breast cancer and this number will be a memorable event for all who will witness it. The show will also feature performances by JD Lesbiani, Tatem Trick, Maxwell Muffdyver, Jayden Knight, Charlie Diamond, Justin Cider and Holden Cider. New additions to the group making their Drag King debut include Good N. Plenty and Hunter Down. The New Kings on the Block have also added artist and marketing director Alana Hyatt to the group, as well as, stylist and creative consultant—Chelsea Joy Lob. Starting in November the New Kings on the Block will be holding a special Backstage Pass evening, to train and recruit new performers for the group. This event will be hosted by Papa Cherry, and will be held the first Tuesday of the month. Check out the Kings at facebook.com/NewKingsCR for more information, photos, videos, and updates from the kings. Club CO2 located at 616 2nd Ave SE still has a few orange cones in front remaining from the ongoing road construction project, but more parking spaces have opened up.
Group number featuring life sized oreos. Photo courtesy of The New Kings on the Block.
OCTOBER 2012
OCTOBER 2012
The Fun Guide
ACCESSline Page 13
ACCESSline Page 14 SScontinued from page 1
MORRIS It was the culmination of several different goals. After a breakup, I realized just
Jeremy Morris, Photo Courtesy of Richard Yates Photography. how much weight I had put on, but also how much of myself I hid in the closet. I set the contest as a goal I wanted to reach and set health related challenges for myself to get there. Several years back all of my leather and my desire to explore more kink had been put away. It wasn’t acceptable in the relationship I was in and I let it go. But it was always a part of me. I wanted to take the step and let the world see who I was as a kinkster but also find new avenues to work for the communities I loved. Tell us about the experience of being in the competition and what it was like to win. Iowa was a breeze, I ran with a friend and at the end of it I would have been happy either way. Little would I realize just how much the Blazing Saddle and leather community in Iowa does for its title holders. From the moment that you step up on the front of that stage with the sash on you can feel it and they just keep amazing you along the way. I had the privilege and honor to travel to 13 contests for my fellow IML brothers and meet so many amazing people along the way. In a span of six months I was sent coast to coast, met Kelly Clarkson and the Modern family women, spent time with more porn stars than I can count, stayed in the Coco Channel Executive apartments and had the chance to bring the male leather fetish community to design students at the Fashion Design Institute in NYC, stood on the steps of the Capitol with one
The Fun Guide of my best friends both in sash—and together the entire way and saw my local community grow by leaps and bounds... What did you accomplish while holding your title and what did you gave back to the community? This year has truly changed my life. I’ve had the honor of being invited to be a part of “Mama’s Family” MamasFamily.org, been presented with the Imperial Court of Iowa Board of Directors award, nominated for a Pantheon of Leather award, we’ve worked to establish a new leather and fetish organization in Iowa, brought awareness towards HIV/AIDS in the state and worked to end stigmas with Project HIM and the Mr. Friendly Project, and have been deemed an honorary member of several leather/fetish organizations around the country. As I prepare to step aside (leather titleholders never step down, we step aside to always help those that come after) there is a growing community again in Iowa, we’ve brought gear back into the bars and night life, demos are bringing more people safe and consensual education and play experiences helping to form more positive play environments, there are eyes outside of Iowa looking at our community and wanting to be a part of Iowa’s community, we’ve been able to raise great amounts for our local charities and we’ve only just begun. You are Mr. September in the 2013 Behind the Sash Calendar; how does it feel to be a pin up? HA... I laughed out loud when asked/ told I would be in the calendar this year. It took me many years to work back towards a positive image of myself and Richard Yates is a dear friend, amazing photographer and a big confidence booster in my life. From the moment I met him he has been a rock in my corner, a roommate in travel and always a person to make me smile. These calendars will start being available in Iowa during Iowa Leather Weekend. What have you learned during your past year as Mr. Iowa Leather? Enjoy life, love those around you, see the world and don’t live in the shadows when you know something isn’t right. Iowa Leather Weekend is October 12-14. What has you excited about the event? EVERYTHING. This is turning out to be one of the largest weekends we’ve seen in years. We’ve got porn stars and DJs coming in from LA, the leather vendor is coming in from Philadelphia, we have the honor of
TTMORRIS cont’d page 33
OCTOBER 2012
Des Moines Playhouse Hollywood Halloween 10/26
Hollywood Halloween 2011. Photo courtesy of Steve Gibbons. A crowd-pleaser now in its 10th year, Des Moines’ premier costume party Hollywood Halloween will take place on Friday, Oct. 26th, beginning at 7:30 p.m., at West End Architectural Salvage, 22 Ninth St. in downtown Des Moines. Tickets are $100 each, or $50 each for Young Professionals 35 and under. There is also a 10-Year Anniversary Patron ticket for two for $1000 that includes an exclusive VIP pre-party. Proceeds from the event support the Kate Goldman Children’s Theatre and education programs at the Des Moines Community Playhouse. For ticket information, contact the Playhouse at 515-277-6261 or visit dmplayhouse.com. Costumes at the event have ranged from the typical vampire and witch to Hurrican Katrina and Edward Scissorhands and one of his topiary creations. The evening will also feature a Playhouse and Halloween-themed
silent auction, with unique art items, jewelry, theatre tickets, and more. “Lounge Lizard” Steve Berry will serve as event emcee. Mary Miller Smith will serve delectable appetizers and beer and wine. A cash bar is also available. Local act Final Mix will perform, and a photo booth and fortune teller will be on site. Costumes are encouraged for those attending Hollywood Halloween, however, a limited edition event t-shirt, featuring this year’s theme, Boo...Delicious, is available online for $22 for those who prefer to skip costumes. A portion of the proceeds from the t-shirt sales benefit the Kate Goldman Children’s Theatre and education programs at the Des Moines Community Playhouse. About the Des Moines Community Playhouse The mission of the Des Moines Community Playhouse is to change lives by enriching, engaging, and entertaining the people of our community through producing high-quality theatrical presentations, avocational experiences, and life-long educational opportunities. The Playhouse is one of America’s oldest, largest, and most comprehensive community theatres with one of the most extensive education programs. Founded in November 1919, the 2012-13 season marks the Playhouse’s 94th consecutive year of service to its community. The Playhouse is a vital cultural resource for Greater Des Moines and the entire state of Iowa.
The Fun Guide
OCTOBER 2012
ACCESSline Page 15
Wired This Way by Rachel Eliason
Looking for a good fall read? Try GoodReads
I’ve written several times in the past about how technology is revolutionizing publishing. EReaders like the Kindle and the Nook, eBooks in general and print on demand publishing are making it easier than ever for people to get published. There is no lack of space in a virtual bookstore like Amazon. com, nor is there a front or back of the store. Small press and “Indie” (independent or self published) authors compete right along with the big boys. Fo r smaller communities, like the LGBT community, this revolution is a great thing. Stories that were routinely passed over for being too controversial or having too narrow of a readership can now see the light of day. LGBT authors are increasingly blurring genre lines, breaking stereotypes, tackling difficult subject matter and creating many new niches in the market. For the average reader there has been a serious downside to this revolution. There are literally millions of titles available at the click of a mouse. How do you possibly choose? On the upside a lot of it’s either free or very cheap. On the downside a lot of it is, to be blunt, crap. Who is to blame for all the crap? The big publishers point their finger squarely at Amazon. Amazon has usurped their role as “gatekeepers” of literature and made it too easy for a huge crop of would be writers to publish poorly written and unedited books. To a certain extent that’s true. Many writers point the finger right back at the big publishers. Narrowing profit margins have forced them to emphasize a few big blockbuster writers over developing new writers. To get published these days you need a platform, a readership or market ready for your book. But how do you get a readership without a book? Many newer authors are forced into self publishing by this dilemma. To a certain extent that is also true. Opportunistic individuals scour bookstores for older books, whose copyrights have expired, to scan into their computers and “publish”. The result is numerous poorly formatted versions of “classics” and the republishing of novels that were never classics to begin with. Entrepreneurs trying to sell the idea of “get rich publishing eBooks” emphasize marketing over content. Many small presses are now “author service companies” meaning they make their money selling services (like editing, cover design and marketing advice) to the author. They have little or no concern about providing a good reading experience for you, the reader. Revolutions are dirty. They often fall short of the ideals they were supposed to represent. The price of 2.99 eBooks is that some have typos, some are poorly written
and some are just plain clunkers. While lots of people want to point the finger of blame, nobody is offering up solutions. What can we do? I found my solution several months ago and I’ve been itching to share it with readers for some time. That solution is called GoodReads. GoodReads is a social media platform, similar to Facebook, for book lovers. GoodReads can be used in a couple of ways and can vastly improve your reading experience. Once you’ve set up an account, which only takes a minute or two, you can rate and review books you’ve already read. GoodReads uses a simple two part algorithm to suggest books to the user. What have other readers read and how did they rate those books? So if you rate book A five stars GoodReads will compare that rating to other readers who rated book A five stars and tell you which books they also rated highly. This simple formula gets better the more books your rate, which should keep you motivated to keep rating and reviewing. Rating a book takes only a couple of seconds, writing reviews is a bit longer but can help out the author and your fellow readers. You can also interact with fellow readers on GoodReads. You can friend people, just like you do on Facebook or elsewhere. The website also allows you to compare the books in your library to those in your friends library to see how similar your tastes are. If a friend has very similar tastes in books you can follow their reviews and see what they’ve been reading lately. GoodReads also has book groups. Groups can be based on genres, real world interests, identities or locations. Any member can start a group and there are literally hundreds. Many groups will have a book of the month or a group read, book discussions based on titles, series or specific plot topics. They also feature open forums where members can post questions or brag about a book they loved. Not too surprisingly the LGBT community is well represented on GoodReads. I am part of Queer Readers, YA LGBT books and LGBT fantasy fiction clubs. There are many more, such as M/M (male on male) romance, lesbian romance groups, etc. There are groups with titles like “Everything Lesbian” to “How to be Gay”. If you look hard enough I am sure you could find a group for Bisexual men who love Zombie novels. If not, start one. I learned a trick a few months ago for getting free books without pirating or creating bad feelings with hard working authors, who need the income. Groups like “Connecting Readers to Writers” are designed to help beginning authors, both traditionally and self published. Many authors will gladly give you a free copy in exchange for a written review. These groups also frequently feature givealways and contests of various types. They can be fun and you could win a free book.
If you look hard enough I am sure you could find a group for Bisexual men who love Zombie novels. If not, start one.
I don’t think we should write—rewrite the Constitution to prevent gay Americans from being able to marry the person they love. That’s my view. It’s your choice. —President Barack Obama at campaign event in Ames, Iowa.
Writing a review doesn’t have to be a scary proposition. It’s not high school English class and nobody is going to grade you on punctuation or spelling. Your review will be published directly under the book’s blurb, so don’t bother telling what the book is about. Just write a paragraph or two about whether or not you liked the book and explain why. Think about what sort of things would have helped you decide to buy or pass on a given book. “It had lots of typos”. “It was well written but not the kind of story I like.” Comparing the book to some big name author (in style, not necessarily quality) can be very helpful to the next reader. Is it more like a Sue Grafton mystery or an Agatha Christy? If your review gives away part of the plot be sure to mark is as a “spoiler” so readers know. Otherwise that’s about it. It’s not hard and it helps authors and other readers alike. Research has shown that people who own eReaders tend to buy and read more books. Having owned a kindle myself for nearly two years I would have to agree. I’ve always been a bookworm but I definitely read a lot more books now than I did before I got it. It’s just so much easier to find books, and to read on the go. While the occasional clunker never stopped me from reading, since starting on GoodReads I’ve had a much better reading experience. I’ve discovered several books that have gone on to my all time favorite books list. I’ve also discovered an enormous number of fast fun books in genres that I like. Before ending this article I can’t help but point out that several of the regular ACCESSline writers have written books as well. I have
Rachel Eliason is a forty two year old Transsexual woman. She was given her first computer, a Commodore Vic-20 when she was twelve and she has been fascinated by technology ever since. In the thirty years since that first computer she has watched in awe as the Internet has transformed the LGBT community. In addition to her column, Rachel has published a collection of short stories, Tales the Wind Told Me and is currently working on her debut novel, Run, Clarissa, Run. Rachel can be found all over the web, including on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Goodreads. a collection of short stories available on the Kindle and on Amazon.com with a novel on the way. Brett Stout has a novel out (SugarBaby Bridge) and Joshua Dagon has several novels at joshuadagon.com. If you get onto GoodReads, stop by my author page at Rachel Eliason and say hi.
ACCESSline Page 16
Just Sayin’ by Beau Fodor Recently, I planned a whirlwind wedding in just a few weeks, for a couple and their families—all from Perth, Australia. It was an epic journey for all of us, to say the very least, and it was also the start of a series of events that made me reflect on how far we have yet to go in regards to marriage equality. My faith and convictions as a gay man, as a gay wedding planner, and most importantly, as a gay-rights activist, were restored and re-invigorated by this wedding—more than any other time since the marriage equality vote went down in our great state. The nuptials brought out the best of Iowa, from over a dozen vendors, including; Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure, Ritual Cafe, Creme Cupcake, Stams, Beyond Elegance, Embassy Clubs, The Des Moines Botanical Center (and rock-star staff), and a very special local officiant—the Honorable Judge Robert B. Hanson. Judge Hanson’s 2007 ruling in Varnum v. Brien, found that Polk County Iowa clerk’s refusal to grant marriage licenses to six same-sex couples denied them due process and violated their right to equal protection under the Iowa Constitution. That ruling was upheld unanimously by the Iowa Supreme Court in 2009 but sparked a backlash that culminated in November with Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Marsha Ternus, Justices David Baker, and Michael Streit being voted off the bench. During the reception, one of the Brides’ fathers asked him, “Is there anything about the Varnum decision you think people don’t understand?” Judge Hanson offered all of us the basic
The Fun Guide
foundation of this issue in his response... “The Varnum decision had only to do with the constitutionality of the Iowa marriage statute under the Iowa Constitution, not under the federal constitution. There are significant differences in the way that the equal protection clauses in the federal constitution and the Iowa Constitution read. The equal protection provision of the federal Constitution actually uses the words “equal protection of the laws.” It uses that term, so, of course, there’s always been a debate as to just what that meant. The equal protection provision in the Iowa Constitution reads significantly differently. Under the federal Constitution (last clause of the 14th Amendment): “Nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty or property without due process of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” In the Iowa Constitution (Section 6, Article 1): “All laws of a general nature shall have a uniform operation; the General Assembly shall not grant to any citizen, or class of citizens, privileges or immunities, which, upon the same terms, shall not equally belong to all citizens.” (The Iowa Constitution) doesn’t ever use the term “equal protection.” It simply says the Legislature can’t give any citizens, or class of citizens, any privileges or immunities under the law which it doesn’t give to all citizens. So, when people make the allegation that the district court or the Supreme Court came up
with some remarkable interpretation of the equal protection provision of the Iowa Constitution, to me, it’s pretty clear. You can’t grant rights to one set of citizens that you don’t grant to all of them.” A few days later, while preparing dinner for a few of my clients in West Des Moines, I was reminded at how far we still need to go as a community and how important it is to continue this conversation. Especially with our brethren feeling that, “Gays should be against gay marriage...” I was told (and referred to the website “Gays Against Marriage”) that “gay marriage is in fact a threat, but not to families or straight marriage. It’s another nail in the coffin of outwardly acceptable gay sexual freedom.” Society has been moving toward greater freedom in many social areas: girls are empowered to be sluts, homosexuality is accepted more than ever, fetishes are represented in pornography, spoken of in public, and shown in media more than ever before. Many people see this as a threat to Out Christian Culture. Why are gay activists rejecting civil unions that are literally identical to state-enforced marriage contracts except in name? Because gays want to mimic the religious heterosexuals that hate them, and to send the message that gays can be just as boring and domestic as religious individuals; and because we gay men and women have a desperate desire to
They do not understand why gay men and women cannot just accept civil unions and leave marriage alone.
OCTOBER 2012
Beau Fodor is the owner of PANACHE, an Iowa wedding planner who focuses specifically on weddings for the LGBT community. He can be reached at iowasgayweddingplanner.com or his blog PANACHE Points at blogspot.com. be seen as a “traditional family”. Those gays against gay marriage want to stomp on the brakes of all this progress. They want to drop all this wonderful freedom and mimic the ceremonies that celebrate the ancient domination of the Church over men—and of men over women. They do not understand why gay men and women cannot just accept civil unions and leave marriage alone. They see gay marriage as an end to sexual freedom, an affront to the Church, and an end to gay culture as we know it. This has transcended mere legal equality and the convenience of standard-form contracts, and crossed into ceremonial jealously. I do not agree with gays against marriage but it sure did make for entertaining dinner conversation… and pushed home the knowledge that the gay marriage conversation still needs to continue.
OCTOBER 2012
The Fun Guide
ACCESSline Page 17
ACCESSline Page 18
The Fun Guide
OCTOBER 2012
OCTOBER 2012
The Fun Guide
ACCESSline Page 19
ACCESSline Page 20
The Fun Guide
OCTOBER 2012
OCTOBER 2012
The Fun Guide
ACCESSline Page 21
A Scary & Sexy IC Kings Halloween Interview by Angela Geno-Stumme The IC Kings are ready to make your Halloween a Sin-sational event Thursday, October 25th at Studio 13 in Iowa City, Iowa. They discuss possible new songs, propstravaganazs, characters, social commentary, and surprise guests! Be ready to see more of the IC Kings then you have ever seen before! October is going to be your big Halloween show, tell me what is inspiring you this year?
IC Kings. Courtesy of ParanoidPeachezz Photography.
Hugh Jindapants. Courtesy of ParanoidPeachezz Photography. Hugh Jindapants I am a douchebag, so I inspire my-daaaang-self. I start by examining my muscles and well endowed nether regions. Sometimes I compliment myself on my fabulous wit and sparkling personality. Next, I admire my dreamy sidechops and douche patch. From there, I might think about any number of things: song choice, propstravaganzas, recurrent (and hilarious) characters, some post modern social commentary…that kinda thing. <smokes bubble pipe, looks stoic> Julius Fever: Hugh Jindapants is really an inspiration to me. Year-round that man brings full Halloween horror realness. Just looking at him makes me soil myself. So I figure if he can be such a freak-show year round, I can surely bust it out for this month’s show. Jacques Straap: Mostly, the classic rock radio station and the fabulous styles of Michael Jackson, Gomez Addams, and Freddie Mercury— and anything creepy. Like perv outside your window creepy! Franky D. Lover: As a group, we’re focusing more on the occult, spirits/ghosts and witchcraft than we have in the past, hence, the “Séance” title. I’m really excited about that focus. Also, personally, I’m really pumped to do something about raising the dead. What tricks (stage effects) and/ or fantastic costumes are being put together? Franky D. Lover: We’ll be playing with some new lighting effects! There’ll be some fabulous costuming, as usual, but we’re keeping most details shrouded in mystery. Jacques Straap: Like always I will be incorporating as much leather and glitter as possible. Julius Fever: I really want to put on a huge production, so I’m holding auditions for a 50 foot woman. If you know one, send her my way. If that fails, I’ll just substitute some infectious chimpanzees, in tuxedos, smoking cigars, of course. Barring all that, I guess
I’ll just go on in the nude because nothing is scarier than that. Hugh Jindapants This kind of information cannot be given out in advance. I can’t believe you would even ask me that. <scoff> That’s like asking Jesus, Hey uh, uh, Hey Jesus, what’s your next miracle gonna be, braa? What would Jesus do? He’d keep my drag show secrets under wraps, that’s what. Put THAT on yer bracelet. Can you give us a hint as to what songs or artists we can look forward to hearing? Franky D. Lover: There’ll be some spooky, magical, dark, crazy, hair-raising and panty-wetting music. The crowd might even be hearing some original pieces! Jacques Straap: F R E D D I E MERCURY. All day. Maybe. Julius Fever: It’s going to be a little Rocky. You could even call it a Horror. But I know you’ll want to take a Picture at this Show. Hugh Jindapants They will be awesomesauce, I can tell you that much. I try to pick music that is relevant to the theme, music that the audience will respond to, music that makes for an engaging live performance number. From there, I sprinkle in costumes, props, extras and all things ridiculous until it entertains the sh*!t outta me. That is the recipe for a Hugh show. Can you give me a story of one of your favorite past Halloween shows?
Jacques Straap: I am a virgin to the Halloweeny show so expect lots of surprised looks from my face region and the inability to sit down the morning after. Franky D. Lover: My favorite, past Halloween moments were from October of 2010, when we collaborated with Les Dames du Burlesque d’ Iowa City for our “Drag King Freak Show”. It was so much fun to throw ideas around and work together. We had Les Dames incorporated throughout the show, heckling us, stealing the spotlight and looking fabulous. Plus, we all performed an amazing final skit/ dance number to a mix of “Thriller”, complete with a fake fight scene and murder! Julius Fever: Last year my first number required me to dress like a mummy, which I did quite well. Too well, in fact, because after the number I had to frantically cut myself out of my sheet strips and masking tape costume. But dang, what a slimming outfit! Egyptian couture! Hugh Jindapants I have actually been at the Out & Equal Workplace Summit for the past two Halloween shows, so this is the first Halloween show I’ll be participating in since we did Thriller with Les Dames du Burlesque d’ Iowa City. THAT was the bomb diggity. I heard that the Dames are looking for a King fix themselves, they may just show up scantily clad, ready to melt your faces. But I ain’t one to gossip, so you ain’t heard that from me. If you could each give me one reason to come out to see your Halloween Spectacular, what would it be? Jacques Straap: I like short shorts. Come for the booty. Julius Fever: Because like most nights spent with Julius Fever, it is going to be funny, sexy, weird, and creepy. Also what else are you going to do? Watch TV? Get off your butt and come to the single largest congregation of queer hotties in Iowa City! Joey D.
That’s like asking Jesus, Hey uh, uh, Hey Jesus, what’s your next miracle gonna be, braa? What would Jesus do? He’d keep my drag show secrets under wraps, that’s what. Put THAT on yer bracelet.
Franky D. Lover. Courtesy of ParanoidPeachezz Photography.
The show will entertain, but even if you don’t come for the drag come for the wild party and welcoming crowd! Franky D. Lover: It’s no secret that our October shows are always mind-blowing. The great thing is that even though we incorporate Halloween, we bring in other influences to keep it fresh and entertaining every year. Honestly, this is my favorite holiday; it’s like drag Christmas (as many kings would agree), which is even more reason to go over-the-top! Our final group number is reason enough to come see the show! Hugh Jindapants Because you will Never, EVER be able to see this exact show in this exact moment EVER again. This will come and go and you will be there or forever live a life of regret. How’s that for a reason, b-words? Will there be any special guests for your October show? Hugh Jindapants Yes, but you have to come to see them. Hints: sexiness, props, and possible puppets. Franky D. Lover: We might be having some special guests... the va-va-va-voom kind that like to remove clothing. You’ll just have to come see for yourself! Jacques Straap: Kate Middleton’s rack.
Julius Fever. Courtesy of “Jennulius Fever”. Julius Fever: There’s a rumor that some local chicks want to shake their feathers with us. These “les dames” shake it in the burlesque style and aim to please. And if there’s one thing we love, it’s a good tease. Which Kings will be performing? Jacques Straap: All the hott ones. Franky D. Lover: Franky D. Lover, Hugh Jindapants, Joey D., Julius Fever and Jacques Straap will be pulling you into their spell along with the disarming Cinnamon. Our MC, Miss Kitty, will be purring gently to the audience throughout the show; just beware of her claws. There may be additions to the lineup closer to the show date too. What is the date of the show? Julius Fever: Thursday, October 25. First show at 9, second (different!) show at 10:30. $5 cover and spooktacular drink specials! Franky D. Lover: At Studio 13 in Iowa City, we’ll be starting the “Séance” at 9pm, so come early to wrangle a seat! Check our I.C. Kings page on Facebook (www.facebook. com/I.C.Kings) for more details and updates!
ACCESSline Page 22
The Fun Guide
OCTOBER 2012
The Bookworm Sez by Terri Schlichenmeyer “Thy Neighbor” by Norah Vincent c.2012, Viking, $25.95 / $27.50 Canada, 307 pages The crime rate was just too much. Oh, it wasn’t anything violent. Nobody got killed, it was nothing like that. But petty thefts happened too often in your area and minor vandalism was on the rise, so your neighbors organized a Crime Watch. Just thinking they’re being seen has chased away a lot of mischiefmakers and you feel safer. Keeping an eye on your neighbor’s house is a courtesy as old as civilization. But in the new book “Thy Neighbor” by Norah Vincent, one man takes “neighborhood watch” a bit too far. There was something particularly loath-
Across 1 Man, as a cruising goal 5 Homo leader? 9 Skelton’s Kadiddlehopper 13 Pansy supporter 14 Willy Wonka creator 15 “want is a room somewhere ...” 16 Start of the title of a memoir by 2-Down 19 Where G. Keillor began 20 Bit from Michael Musto 21 Rolling Stones ballad 22 David Pierce 24 Sentence enders 26 Bathhouse feature 28 Working hard 31 Jane Spahr’s title 32 “Oscar wiled away the time,” for example 33 Endora, to Samantha 35 Queens tennis stadium 39 Like Indians 41 More of the title 42 Tennessee city named for a foil 43 Not now 44 ABC’s 46 Pinafore 47 Augsburg article 49 State, to Cocteau 50 Like Kopay, from MLB 51 Robert Goulet musical 55 “See ya!” 57 “Scary Movie” Cheri 58 Bump from office 61 Sound from a small pussy 63 End of the title
some about Dave. Nick Walsh could barely bring himself to call Dave a friend. Dave was more like a parasite, acting like he cared after Nick’s parents’ murder-suicide when he only cared about himself. That’s why Dave was the first of Nick’s spying projects. After all, what else did Nick have to do but watch his neighbors? Avoid ghosts that skulked around the house, out-of-sight but not out-of-smell? Yeah, Nick was sure he could smell his parents, thirteen years after their deaths. It was easy to spy on Dave: Nick bought a kit from the Yellow Pages, installed cameras in a DVD player, and made it a present. Spying
allowed him to verify that Dave was a fat jerk. The next victim was Dorris, the divorcee across the road. She and her ex had some explosive fights. It was no wonder he left her. Then there was the Gruber family. Nick felt sorry for the wife and boys, especially the youngest one. His dad was some piece of work. The only person Nick didn’t watch was Mrs. Bloom, who’d lost her daughter and granddaughter. She was harmless. He felt a strange kinship with her. So between monitoring the neighbors, drinking down at the Swan, and spending time with Monica, a woman he’d met there, Nick’s
Q-PUZZLE: “*&^%$#@!”
66 On top of that 67 Baltic Sea tributary 68 Personal-ad stats 69 British carbine 70 Where to bet your bottom dollar 71 Left to pirates
Down 1 Novel ID 2 With 36-Down, lesbian writer with Tourette’s syndrome 3 Rescue Me star 4 Down wearer down under
pathetic little life was full. And then the pink notepaper started appearing in his mailbox. Someone was sending him poetry, written in his handwriting but it wasn’t anything he’d ever penned. Somebody was playing games. Suddenly, Nick knew he had to watch himself… Not quite a thriller, not exactly a mystery, “Thy Neighbor” turns out to be a little of both, and a twist. With his sardonic words and deep self-loathing, it’s obvious that author Norah Vincent’s main protagonist, Nick, is damaged. I got that, but I didn’t get much else from this book for several pages in. There are a lot of drink-hazy scenes, dialogue that goes in circles, and confusion that made it hard to stay focused. But then Vincent lets us see what Nick is seeing. When that happens, it’s hard to look away and it’s hard to feel sorry for Nick anymore. That he’s a voyeur becomes as reprehensible as what he sees, and what happens is a big surprise. Ultimately, I liked this book enough, even if it was hard to get into. If you can deal with that and some harsh language, then missing “Thy Neighbor” could be a crime. 5 Cut 6 Colette’s coffee 7 Sucker 8 Conduit bend 9 Rio festival 10 Hispanic family org. 11 Spanish hero 12 Sound system hookups 17 Connect with 18 It may be hard or soft 23 Rhett Butler’s final word 25 Go wrong 26 Petty quarrel 27 Instruction on a door 29 Culture Club’s “Miracle” 30 Items on hand 34 Come out 36 See 2-Down 37 Where you can’t go again 38 Toward the sunrise 40 Hans Christian of fairy tales 42 Vino venue 44 Newt, to Candace 45 Where to find lots of pricks 48 East of Eden director Kazan 51 Brown bubbly beverages 52 Not straight 53 Reagan’s Attorney General Ed 54 Some like it hot 56 Kahlo’s cohort 59 Brings into play 60 “Oh, what the hell” 62 Toward the sunset 64 No to Rimbaud • SOLUTION ON PAGE 30 65 Top off
OCTOBER 2012
The Fun Guide
ACCESSline Page 23
Under Construction : ACCESSline’s Heartland Recurring Events List
ACCESSline’s Recurring Events List is and has been provided by ACCESSline readers. With the added communities of ACCESSline’s Heartland Newspaper, the list is need of a large overhaul. We need readers to continue to help and update the list. Please submit recurring events to ManagingEditor@ ACCESSlineIowa.com.
Pumpkin Recipes from Bisschopswijn
Photo courtesy of Bisschopswijn
There is a good reason that the Jack-O-Lantern is a symbol of Halloween: pumpkins ripen just at the right time of year to be used as a fun decoration— or a tasty ingredient!—in late October. Since this time of year is also the season for mulling spices, The ACCESSline is happy to bring you recipes from Bisschopswijn that use both happy ingredients! (For more recipes, visit: Bisschopswijn.com)
Pumpkin Cake Cookies • ¾ cup brown sugar • ¼ cup margarine • ¾ cup cooked or canned pumpkin • 1 egg • 1 ¼ cup flour • ½ teaspoon baking powder • ¼ teaspoon baking soda • 1 teaspoon ground Bisschopswijn - Mulled Wine & Cider Spices Tip: place Bisschopswijn spices in a coffee grinder and grind until it becomes a powder • 1/8 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg Cream the sugar and margarine until light and fluffy. Add the pumpkin and egg, beat well. Add the remaining ingredients, mix well. Drop spoonfuls on a greased cookie sheet. Flatten each spoonful slightly. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-18 minutes or until slightly brown. Cool on a wire rack.
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Caramel Sauce • 4 eggs • 1 cup vegetable oil • 2 cups pumpkin puree • 2 cups sugar • 2 cup cake flour • ½ teaspoon nutmeg • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger • 1 teaspoon ground Bisschopswijn - Mulled Wine & Cider Spices Tip: place Bisschopswijn spices in a coffee grinder and grind until it becomes a powder • 2 teaspoons baking soda • ½ teaspoon salt Butter and flour a 10 inch cake pan. Heat oven to 350°. Beat eggs until smooth, beat in oil and pumpkin. Sift dry ingredients. Add to wet mixture by thirds. Pour into pan. Drop pan 2-3 times to release any air bubbles. Bake 30-40 minutes. Serve with caramel sauce.
ACCESSline Page 24
The Fun Guide
OCTOBER 2012
Jed Ryan : Leather and Fur Interview by Angela Geno-Stumme Jed Ryan (AKA “Mama’s New York Naughty Boy”) took the time to discuss the Leather Community and his newest Behind the Sash calendar project. Jed Ryan has the privilege to hold the titles of Mr. Rawhide NYC 2011 and Mr. North American Bear 2012, and he also finds the time to be the creator of the 2013 calendar—Behind The Sash. He is also an award winning journalist, photographer, and activist who has been covering the LGBT scene since 1994. You are quite a competitor, Mr. Rawhide NYC 2011 and Mr. North American Bear 2012, what inspired you to compete? And what are the differences and similarities in these two competitions? (Laughs) The funny thing is, I never considered myself a competitive person. I’m very shy. Really. I just go out of my way to overcome it! Since 1994 when I came out, I had been involved in the GLBT community mostly as a writer and photographer: a “behind the scenes” kind of guy! I view Titleholders as role models and leaders in the Leather and Bear communities, and then the moment came along a few years ago when I thought I could make more of a difference “out front” rather than behind a camera or keyboard. Rawhide is one of New York City’s oldest bona fide Leather and Levis bars, and it was my hangout at the time. It still is one of my favorite hotspots. When I won the Title of Mr. Rawhide 2011, I knew that it was the right fit. I got the chance to represent both a bar in my own backyard AND the Leather Nation as a whole. The Mr. North American Bear Competition was different. I drove 13 hours to Lexington, KY, and I expected dozens of huge, hairy Contestants from The Yukon to The Yucatan who would dwarf me. I was like, “How can I compete?“ But interestingly, all of the guys who entered the contest were my size: medium build. It reinforced my personal philosophy that Bears come in ALL shapes and sizes. It’s the attitude that makes a Bear a Bear, not how big you are. That said, having a little (or, a LOT of) hair never hurts! The Bear community is newer and we‘re still “finding ourselves“, if you will… but there‘s also a big overlap in the Leather and Bear communities. At a lot of events, you‘ll see us all hanging out together having a grrr-eat time. I always believed that leather and fur go well together. Don’t you agree? What have you learned in the last two years competing and what words of wisdom would you give to new competitors? I’ve learned that the Leather community really is an International family. You can travel all over the world, whether it’s a big Leather weekend in Berlin or a tiny Midwest Leather bar in Ohio… and chances are, you’ll meet guys or girls you know and can have fun with. I also learned that being a Titleholder is a great and privileged opportunity to promote your chosen philanthropic causes. That said, I must add that you definitely DO NOT need a Title to be a mover and shaker in the Leather Nation. Dozens of guys and girls who don’t have a Title make a difference on a daily basis. My advice to anyone who wants to compete is: Find a cause you truly believe in… and stick with it. Also, be prepared to really “put yourself out there” and be visible. It sounds too clichéd to say “Be yourself!” I prefer to say, “Find your signature style!” What did you accomplish while
Jed Ryan. Photograph by Richard Yates Photography holding your titles and what did you give back to the community? At Rawhide I had three fundraising bar nights with all the proceeds going to charity. I also produced a few fundraising events for the GLBT community as a whole. I supported other people’s worthy endeavors either through financial or promotional support, or just by being there in full formal Leather as a rep for the community. I was writing my bio the other day and went through the last two years. My BF Joe said to me, “You should be proud!” I said, “I should be TIRED!” I try to do my best… and I always hope it works. What do you feel are the most important philosophies within the Leather Community? And how do you try to live by those? The Leather community has decades of tradition and is very respectful of all of its brothers and sisters. We follow those traditions yet we‘re not afraid to break the rules when we need to. Almost every Leatherman or Leatherwoman I know is involved with some kind of philanthropic cause: whether it’s HIV/ AIDS awareness, gay rights, sexual freedom, etc… There are some members of the GLBT community who believe that Leathermen are too “bound” (no pun intended) by tradition, or lost in the ‘70‘s or ‘80s, or are defined solely by an affinity for kinky sex. They are quite wrong. I am proud to call myself a Leatherman… and what’s wrong with kinky sex anyway?! You are the creator, as well as, Mr. October in the 2013 Behind the Sash Calendar; what was the motivation for you
to create this calendar? My 2012 calendar was named “Men of the Sash”. At the time I believed—and still do—that nothing is more sexy than a guy in full formal Leather. Most of the guys in “Men of the Sash” were fully dressed with maybe some hairy chest showing. People seemed to like the calendar, but the common consensus was “More skin!” I am a huge fan of Richard Yates’ photography. Richard single-handedly reignited my libido with his erotic portraits of Leathermen and other hot guys. I approached him about using his work for a new calendar for 2013. He enthusiastically agreed, saying he wanted to do something for charity. He shot
all new photos of the models exclusively for this project. Last year, I made the mistake of showing too many pictures from the calendar on Facebook and other sites. This year I took some advice from my stripper friends: “Don’t show EVERYTHING right away!” So, people have to buy the calendar to see Yates’ hottest pictures. And trust me, they are worth it! Any year that begins with International Mr. Leather Woody Woodruff and ends with The Naked Barber Dick Savvy from Australia is gonna be a great year!!! What makes this calendar special and why should people run out to buy it? Some bitchy queen recently asked me why he or anyone else should buy MY calendar as opposed to, for example, the COLT calendar that uses professional models and has a lot of full frontal nudity. I said that true sexiness is always REAL, and all these guys in “Behind the Sash” are REAL. I told him that most assuredly, he would never get a chance to meet or, shall we say, “get to know”(!) any of the COLT models... but that he had a very good chance of meeting any of the sexy and smart men of “Behind the Sash” in person out and about. In the Leather community, many of these guys are bona fide sex symbols. Isn’t it SO sexy to see a handsome guy at a Leather run or event and then see him in a photograph naked or semi-naked? At least I think so. Richard Yates’ photography is sexy because all these guys are REAL. Plus, Yates’ photography itself is amazing. This guy I mentioned earlier was speechless… because he knew I was right! Also, all proceeds go to The Leather Archives and Museum in Chicago. What could be better than that? Is there anyone you would like to thank? Of course, I’d like to thank super-talented Sean Campbell, who suffered a lot of headaches in designing the calendar; Richard Yates, who took the photos; and all my Leather and Bear brothers who showed their stuff for the project. I also have to thank my boyfriend Joe Aiello, who has been endlessly supportive of me these last two years. And, last but not certainly not least, I want to thank ACCESSline for interviewing me! May 2013 be our hottest year yet! For more information on Jed Ryan go to JedCentral.blogspot.com and visit LeatherArchives.org to learn more about the Leather Archive & Museum, located in Chicago, IL. Behind the Sash is on sale now! Go to BehindTheSashCalendar.com to purchase it.
International Puppy 11/9 International Puppy will be holding its 2013 Contest November 9 – 11, 2012 at the Flamingo Resort in St. Petersburg, FL during Tampa Bay Leather n Fetish Pride Event and in conjunction with Tampa Bay LeatherSIR & Leatherboy contest. International Puppy 2013 was created November 2011 to celebrate the puppy community. This Year, ALL Puppies from anywhere in the world (Leather, Rubber, or whatever) are welcomed to compete in our contest without going through a feeder contest. Application Fee is only $10.00 and the Winner gets: • Title of International Puppy 2013
• Winners Patch in Leather • Medallion • Travel Fund to come back the following year for their Step Down and be a Judge • $1000.00 Cash Prize • And other Prizes REMEMBER: Currently we have opened our contest to ALL pups no matter if you are part of a feeder contest or not! If you’re interested in starting your own puppy contest or adding a puppy category to your existing contest and becoming a feeder for IPC, contact our U.S. Liaison Tyger at midwestpuppy@gmail.com, or if you’re outside the U.S contact Sir Joseph at office.manager@puppygraphics.com.
OCTOBER 2012
Section 3: Community
ACCESSline Page 25
FFBC:Michael Streit by Bruce Carr Luther PRIDE - On the Rise Our guest speaker on Friday morning, September 7, was Michael Streit, one of the three Iowa Supreme Court justices who were removed from office by well-funded right-wing forces in Iowa’s November 2010 judicial retention vote. Justice Streit discussed that election and its implications for the next retention vote coming up this fall. Justice Streit’s fascinating and quickwitted remarks disclosed his deep thought and serious concern about the relation of law and politics. A highlight was his description of the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage awards presented to him and his two colleagues (former Justice David Baker and former Chief Justice Marsha Ternus) at the Kennedy Presidential Library in Boston last May. It was, he noted, a large and valedictory occasion—the audience included three sitting Iowa Supreme Court justices and enough friends and relatives of the honorees that Carolyn Kennedy, president of the library foundation’s board of directors, thanked “half the state of Iowa” for attending. But the three ousted justices all struck warning notes in describing their firing for an unpopular decision that they still regard as correct. Streit recounted a handwritten letter that the justices had received a few days after the unanimous Varnum decision on gay marriage was issued. He showed us a framed blow-up of that repulsive (and frightening) letter—addressed, simply, to “Cocksuckers!”—in which the writer recounted that he had “defended the likes of you” as an American soldier in Korea and elsewhere, “but I now think I served the wrong side… Hitler treated queers the way they should be treated—in the gas chamber… You are bastards.” “This brought home to me what the gay community and their family members struggle with every day,” Streit said. But he hoped that the awards would act as “a ripple of hope that creates a current, and this current will sweep away such prejudice and paranoia.” Speaking and interacting with people has been extremely important to Justice Streit since he began his career as a lawyer, and then over 28 years as a judge and
justice. He continually enjoys presenting to a diversity of groups from law school students to attorneys, from Rotary Clubs to trade associations. For 15 years, he has also taught Iowa contract law in the bar review school for new lawyers taking the bar exam. Justice Streit received the Distinguished Alumni award from the University of San Diego for his service to the profession and the Iowa courts. He has served on a wide range of boards and committees, including the Board of Counselors of Drake Law School, and he founded the Iowa Judicial Institute in 1992. The Institute provides in-depth educational opportunities for Iowa judges at the Drake and Iowa Law Schools each year seeking to improve the professionalism and knowledge of judges as they serve Iowa citizens. As a member of the Blackstone Inn of Court, Justice Streit served for two months in the British courts in London, Oxford, and Birmingham. As part of that experience he sat both on the bench with judges and in court with the barristers. “I don’t look good in the traditional British wig,” he quipped. Born in Sheldon, Iowa, Michael J. Streit received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Iowa in 1972. In 1975, he graduated from the University of San Diego School of Law. He practiced law in Chariton until 1983, then served as assistant Lucas County attorney and Lucas County attorney before being appointed as a district court judge in 1983. Justice Streit was appointed by Gov. Terry Branstad to the Court of Appeals in 1996, then by Gov. Tom Vilsack to the Iowa Supreme Court in 2001. He was removed from the Iowa Supreme Court in 2010 by failing to win a retention vote, after a national campaign in protest of the Court’s unanimous 2009 decision in Varnum v. Brien, which struck down a statutory same-sex marriage ban as unconstitutional. Justice Streit and his wife live in Johnston and have one son. He can be reached through Ahlers & Cooney, P.C., where he is Of Counsel in the firm’s Litigation, Dispute Resolution, and Investigations practice area: 515-243-7611 and ahlerslaw.com.
I won’t sugercoat it, won’t hide it in fancy words, won’t wrap it in a swaddling of morality and fear; if you vote to restrict the rights of another person, you are trying to make them your slave. You are telling them that the very birthright that makes us human, the right to free will and choice, the right to happiness and freedom, no longer applies. You are flat out stating that a person is no longer a human being, that YOU should decide what’s best with no care for independent thought, that YOU alone know the only way to do things. I call this oppression. I call it tyranny. I call it cruel and unjust and undeserving of consideration by anyone who would live free of shackles. America, the America I was brought up in, the America I want my children to live in, is a land of inclusion, not exclusion. “Bring me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to be free”. There’s no addendum to the Statue of Liberty that says “But hey, fags, get the JACKBOOT TO BACKSIDE out. Blacks, we don’t want you either. Muslims, Buddhists, Jews, don’t even think about it.” This country was built on the idea that everyone is equal under the law, everyone deserves the same rights and respect to free will, everyone can pursue happiness. I will happily lay down my life to protect your right to believe whatever you want, but when your actions are oppressive, we’re gonna have some problems, because now you’ve crossed the line dividing your free will from someone else’s. There is only one thing I will not include in my life, and that is an action that tolerates discrimination. —Vikings punter Chris Kluwe in regards to Minnesota’s same-sex marriage ban on November’s ballot.
Luther College’s GSA, PRIDE - People for the Rights and Inclusion of Diversity and Expression, is proud to boast that their active membership has been on the rise. Current President of the Student Body and President of PRIDE, Charles Banta ‘13, recounts his first two years at Luther having 5-10 active members. Within the past couple years the group’s membership has doubled sequentially from 15-20 active members last year, to this year with more than 40 members regularly attending meetings. Charles claims this could be from the Luther Administration providing for the first time a required workshop entitled “Strange Like Me”, which covered
a range of topics including sexism, racism and homophobia, that engaged First Year Students and got them interested. While PRIDE’s primary goal is to provide a positive atmosphere where students can seek support from fellow peers and advisors, the group also has weekly meeting topics ranging from Gay’s and God to Safe Sex Night, often bringing in guest speakers including various staff/ professors on campus and local LGBT couples/families. Membership is open to all students/faculty/staff and meetings are held every Wednesday at 8pm in the Mott Room—Union. For more information contact Charles at Pride@luther.edu.
Diversity Focus would like to invite you to enjoy the past, present and future of Diversity Focus with our sponsors, partners and community at Diversity Focus’s 2012 Annual Meeting. The Annual Meeting will occur Thursday, October 11th from 5pm-7pm The location will be at CSPS Hall, 1103 3rd St SE Cedar Rapids, IA 52401. Attendance is free and appetizers from around the world will be served. Please register to attend at
http://dfannualmeeting.eventbrite.com/ Diversity Focus Vision: Diversity is the crucial link to economic, cultural, academic, and technological success. Diversity Focus’ vision is that the Corridor community be the model of inclusion that values, nurtures, attracts, and retains people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. The mission of Diversity Focus is to lead in the promotion of diversity, cultural awareness and inclusion in our Corridor community.
Diversity Focus Annual Meeting, Cedar Rapids, IA 10/11
ACCESSline Page 26
Section 3: Community
OCTOBER 2012
Celebrating “US” During National Coming Out Day by Royal Bush, Multifaith Chaplain October is full of great traditions, celebrations and note worthy dates. My birthday falls in October. It was in 1998 that a young man was tortured and left to die in Wyoming. He died on October 12. In 2009, President Barack Obama signed the Matthew Shepard act into law. So I say that one of the most important celebrations in October for “OUR” community, more now than ever, is celebrating National Coming Out Day (NCOD) and for each and every human being who identifies as GLBT to stand tall, be proud and share with family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, fellow students, teachers, those in your circle of influence, your sexual orientation and gender identity. NCOD is internationally observed, a day that members of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender (GLBT) communities celebrate
publicly who they are, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The extremists and fundamentalists have us beat in raising money to combat equality. They also have a very strong connection and voice with many politicians which seem to give them an edge up on the GLBT communities most of the time. As each year passes, newer generations are able to think freely, and think for themselves are determining that the old argument of labeling the GLBT community as pedophiles and freaks does not hold water and is rarely used. Many, now, are realizing that when you take theology out of “their” argument today, there is nothing left to prevent equality from happening. We have to remember that “they” don’t have our faces, our stories, our strength, our
“US” needs to realize the power we have and the power that comes from being out, living freely and being ourselves.
love, our life, simply put they don’t have us! “US” needs to realize the power we have and the power that comes from being out, living freely and being ourselves. I do believe that by coming out, sharing our stories, being bold, standing up, and being that “face” of equality when the time comes to vote on politicians, issues and laws those that know us well, will remember our faces, story and importantly love and they will vote using facts not fiction that continues to manufactured. I ask each reader to consider sharing your own story with someone who may not know you are GLBT this coming out day. I ask that you be strong. I ask that you invoke the power, the love and the strength of the many that have came out before you, the many that will come out after you, and for the many that are not in a safe place to do so today. We need to be strong for each other. As the song goes… we are singing for our lives and we can be gay and straight together! Happy Coming Out Day 2012
Multifaith Chaplain Royal D. Bush serves Inclusive Life, Council Bluffs, IA & Omaha, NE. He holds a Bachelor Degree in business administration. He studied at Andersonville Theological Seminary. He holds a current certificate of spiritual counseling with the International Institute of Faith Based Counseling. He can be reached by phone at (402) 575-7006, by email at chaplainroyal@ inclusivelife.org, and at inclusivelife.org.
Know Your Resources in HIV Testing, Treatment and Care by Michelle D. Hayes, RN
For the past ten years I have worked as a Registered Nurse in a variety of healthcare settings and I have had the privilege to take care of patients that have informed me that they are HIV positive. While some of these patients were being treated for illnesses related to HIV, many were not. The latter type of patients deal with many of the same health related issues that any other person in their age group might deal with, but with HIV these patients often wonder if the medical issue they are facing is related to the fact that they are HIV positive. People are living with HIV like many people with other chronic illnesses, such as diabetes. I do one of the best things that I can do for my patients and educate them on their illness and help them to know their resources. Resources include where to receive HIV counseling, treatment and support. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 5 people do not know that they are HIV positive. The Iowa Department of Public Health reported in June that as of the end of 2011 there were 120 people living in Iowa that are HIV positive. For a state that has a population of just over 3 million, it doesn’t take a statistician to realize that the number of people in Iowa that are HIV positive could be in the thousands. Since 1995, the average life span for a newly diagnosed HIV patient rose significantly from 7 years to 24 years because of new combination treatment therapies called Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART). With further research and treatment advancements, the average life expectancy may increase beyond 24 years. In May of this year, the US Food and Drug Administration approved a new once-daily pill called Stribild, which combines four different medications into one pill. Only having to take one pill versus multiple pills throughout the day will enable patients to maintain their treatment regimen much more effectively. Even the best treatment regimen available will not work,
however, if someone doesn’t know that they are HIV positive, know what treatments are available and have a good support system in place. Because there are many different barriers to HIV testing and treatment, the US Federal Government developed and has implemented the National HIV/AIDS Strategy. The vision for the National HIV/AIDS Strategy is: “The United States will become a place where new HIV infections are rare and when they do occur, every person, regardless of age, gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or socio-economic circumstance, will have unfettered access to high quality, life-extending care, free from stigma and discrimination.” So, what does that mean for you if you live in Iowa? Iowa law states that ALL health care providers are required to offer HIV testing to anyone at risk for HIV infection, including: persons testing positive for a sexually transmitted disease; persons with a history of injection drug use; male and female sex workers and those who trade sex for drugs, money or favors; sexual partners of HIV-infected persons; and persons whose sexual partners are identified in the groups listed above. It is important to remember that even though someone might not fit into any of those at risk groups—that doesn't mean they have no risk of becoming HIV positive. Iowa law states that ALL health care providers are required to provide counseling at the time a person is informed of a confirmed positive test result. The counseling must include discussion of the emotional effects of HIV; precautions necessary to avoid transmitting the virus; the physical effects of HIV; where to obtain additional counseling; and explanation of the Partner Notification Program. Throughout the state there are counseling, testing and referral sites, and care provid-
ers which has increased access for those living in rural areas. The Iowa Department of Health Bureau of HIV, STD and Hepatitis website (idph.state.ia.us/HivStdHep) has information on the HIV/AIDS Program. The Care and Support Services page provides links to information on client services, medical HIV case management and the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP). AIDS Project of Central Iowa (The Project), originally known as the Central Iowa AIDS Project, has been voluntarily serving people living with HIV since 1987. It is now the largest HIV/AIDS service and prevention agency in the state of Iowa. Their website (aidsprojectci.org/) provides information on free HIV testing; news, events and benefits; living with HIV; and multiple resource links. Founded in 1986, The Project of the Quad Cities is a non-profit HIV/STI/AIDS Service Organization that provides support to persons living with HIV/STI/AIDS as well as their families and friends in Iowa and Illinois. Their website (Apqc4life.org) also provides information on free HIV testing; news, events and benefits; living with HIV; and multiple resource links. Given that there are so many resources available today for people to become informed about HIV; one of the barriers still remains constant. That barrier is an individual's personal fear of being
Michelle lives in Des Moines, Iowa, with her partner, Walter, and their two children. She is a graduate of Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa, and has been a Registered Nurse for almost 10 years. She has worked in a variety of healthcare settings throughout Central Iowa and in Utah. informed that they are HIV positive. Delay in diagnosis and treatment can dramatically affect a person's quality of life and life expectancy, yet individuals still delay testing and treatment because of the fear that they may have a life altering illness. Remember, 1 in 5 do not know that that they are HIV positive. Testing, early access to care, and good support can make all the difference when it comes to the longevity and quality of your health if you are HIV positive. If you think you are at risk, please get tested. If you have been diagnosed HIV positive and need help, be your own advocate and become familiar with the resources in your area.
The Project of the Quad Cities Calender
Founded in 1986, The Project of the Quad Cities is a non-profit HIV/STI/AIDS Service Organization that provides support to persons living with HIV/STI/AIDS as well as their families and friends in Iowa and Illinois. www.apqc4life.org Symptom Management Group—Every Wednesday from 1-2:30 pm Life Skills Group—Every other Wednesday from 10-11:30 am Coffee Hour—10-11:30 am on Wednesdays when the Life Skills Group does not meet; A relaxed and casual atmosphere Groups meet at our Moline office. We also offer free HIV testing Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm. For more information call Susie or Mollie at 309-762-5433
Section 3: Community
OCTOBER 2012
ACCESSline Page 27
From the Pastor’s Pen by Rev. Jonathan Page Gay: Our Essence or a Construct
Sometimes old debates are worth revisiting, like, “who is the greatest gay diva?” Judy? Barbra? Madonna? Lady Gaga? (gasp!) Amidst myriad salon discussions, one in particular underlies so much of current gay politics that it demands some attention. Enough hangs in the balance that perhaps thinking about it again might lead us to new places, and that alone makes the repetition worthwhile. I am talking about the classic debate between “essentialists” and “constructionists”. “Gay” is a loaded concept by any standard. Ask anyone on the street what gay means and that person might give you a whole host of responses. At its most basic, gay describes a sexual orientation, a propensity to feel sexual attraction for someone of the same sex. Yet, as we all know, the term gay means far more than that, and it means different things to different people. To a group of rabid Steve King supporters, gay means a sexual predator who lurks near school yards a la Brian Cox’s character in L.I.E. Interestingly, to them it also means an extremely effeminate man who hates America, goes to endless circuit parties, and resides near Judas in the ninth circle of hell. For your average suburban mother, gay means a man with unparalleled aesthetic taste who came highly
recommended at the last neighborhood cocktail party as “the must-have” hair dresser in town. “And he has the cutest little dog!” So what does it mean to be gay? Is it a social “construct” derived from the unique history and circumstances of being gay in America, or is there something “essential” about gayness beyond sexual attraction? Anyone who knows gay people will tell you that there is a vast range of gay behaviors, mannerisms, and ways of being. Trying to place “gay” within any one stereotype is laughable. Yet, at the same time, people claim that they can identify someone who is “obviously gay.” What underlies this “obviously gay” distinction? Is it purely the result of a societal construct, or is it something more? In 1990, Judith Butler published her famous book Gender Trouble in which she argued that both sex and gender were “constructed” categories. Especially in a world in which gender reassignment surgery and hormone treatments blur the lines between the genders on a biological level, can gender and sex be said to be anything other than a historical construct? Even our language is gendered to such an extent that it shapes the way we see gender and sex. Words like “man” and “woman” or “gay” and “straight” immediately shift our focus to binaries of sex and gender expression that some, especially in the gay community, find oppres-
Trying to place “gay” within any one stereotype is laughable.
sive. Even a cursory reading of gay history in America shows the tremendous pressure that gender constructs have on expressed sexual identities. In the early 20th century terms like “fairy” or “trade” helped determine how gayness was lived and embodied. Similarly, the advent of gay marriage is increasingly limiting what it means to be gay in popular culture. As predicted, with the rise of this new category of being in society, younger gays are tripping over themselves to out-mainstream the straights. Unlike their straight peers, gays in college are obsessively looking for a husband because that is the best way to exhibit what it means to be gay today. Suburban straights want gay married neighbors because they are the uber-neighbors, the very best expression of the middle class suburban social community. Clearly, societal constructs and vocabulary have an immense impact on what it means to be gay. But, is it all a construct? Is being gay, as we think of it, rooted in anything deeper? Some would say that a long-term monogamous relationship is essential to what it means to be human. Marriage is not a constructed term, but a “natural” one. By allowing gays to marry with society’s blessing, we are merely unleashing the “normal” impulse within the gay community, something that has been repressed through various forms of oppression and marginalization. Similarly, those same people might argue that oppression and marginalization led to what we think of as gay characteristics: a highly sexualized culture, transgressive gender expressions (think of the limp wrist), expressive ways of dressing and acting, artis-
FFBC member Jonathan Page is senior pastor of the Ames United Church of Christ, 217 6th Street, Ames, Iowa. Sunday service at 10:45. He can be reached at jon@Amesucc.org. tic pursuits born of isolation and the need of an outlet for deeply held feelings. Perhaps gay marriage is one more step on the road to true “normalcy” where “gay” might cease to be a category at all. Then again, maybe there is something essential to being gay that makes us different from straights, something more than simply attraction. Whichever way you cut it, these ruminations have a profound impact on gay ethics, those usually unwritten norms that govern our behavior. The essentialist vs. constructivist debate also has major consequences for civil rights because the debate frames how straight people perceive us. While the resolution of the debate is unclear, it is still important to consider. Any thoughts?
Greater Omaha GLBT Network Calendar
The mission of GOglbt is to advance growth and equality for its members, businesses and allies by providing educational, networking and community-building opportunities. We typically meet the first Thursday every month at a traveling location to see the community and be seen. For more information or to be included on the e-newsletter list, please email us at info@goglbt.org. GoGLBT Meeting Wednesday, October 3, 2012, 5:30pm - 7:00pm Council Bluffs Community Alliance (CBCA) Biweekly Meeting-Iowa Friday, October 5 & 19, 2012, 5:30pm - 8:00pm Council Bluffs Community Alliance (CBCA) promotes the city of Council Bluffs as a developing gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender family community, and to assure the equality of all Council Bluffs’ residents. Please email councilbuffscommunityalliance@yahoo.com or visit their Facebook page.
Council Bluffs Community Alliance (CBCA) Weekly Meeting-Iowa Every Friday, 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm CBCA also meets at Barleys, 114 W. Broadway in Council Bluffs every other Friday at 5:30 PM - 8:00. The Wimmins Show Every Sunday, 11:30am - 1:00pm The Wimmins Show online at kzum. org, or if you live in Lincoln, on 89.1. The Wimmins Show focuses on music by, for, and about women, featuring lesbian and feminist artists. Hosted by Deb Anderson and other guest programmers.
“What I want to ask Tony Perkins if I see him here is, ‘If you believe marriage is the very foundation of society, why would you deny us this right?’ I honestly believe it’s cruel to deny us this. If you believe we are real people, that is.” — Sarah Longwell, a Log Cabin board member in reference to Family Research Council President at the GOP Convention.
ACCESSline Page 28 DIRECTORY NOTICE
The ACCESSline community directory is updated each issue. LISTINGS ARE FREE but are limited by space. Free online listings are available at www.ACCESSlineAMERICA.com. Information about new listings must contain a phone number for publication and a contact (e-mail address, land address, or website) for our records. For more information or to provide corrections, please contact Editor@ACCESSlineAMERICA.com or call (712) 560-1807.
The ACCESSline is expanding our resource directory to include heartland resources outside of Iowa. Please bear with us as we continue improving our resource directory. NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Breur Media Corporation : Website Consultation, Design, Programming, and Hosting. HIV and STD Testing Sites near You, including places where you can get tested for free: hivtest.org/ Crisis or Suicide National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: suicidepreventionlifeline.org Information on Mental Health National Alliance on Mental Illness: nami.org Counseling, Information and Resources about Sexual Orientation GLBT National Help Center: glnh.org or 1-888-843-4564 Information on Mental Health for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender nami.org Information on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Health, cdc.gov Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund 1133 15th Street NW, Suite 350, Washington, DC 20005, victoryfund.org 202-VICTORY [842-8679] Human Rights Campaign, National political organization, lobbies congress for lesbian & gay issues, political training state and local, hrc.org, 1-800-777HRCF[4723] Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund I I E. Adams, Suite 1008, Chicago, IL 60603 lambdalegal.org, 312-663-4413 National Gay & Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF) ngltf.org - taskforce.org 1325 Massachusetts Ave NW, Ste 600, Washington, DC, 20005 National Organization for Women (NOW) 733 15th ST NW, 2nd Floor Washington, DC 20005, now.org 202-628-8669 PFLAG National Offices 1133 15th Street NW, Suite 350, Washington, DC 20005, info@pflag.org - pflag.org, 202467-8180 The Trevor Lifeline |Crisis and suicide prevention lifeline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. (866) 4-U-TREVOR - (866) 488-7386 Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All calls are toll-free and confidential - thetrevorproject.org/
Iowa ORGANIZATIONS
Equality Iowa P.O. Box 18, Indianola, IA 50125, equalityiowa.org - 515-537-3126 Faithful Voices Interfaith Alliance of Iowa’s marriage equality project. faithfulvoices.org Imperial Court of Iowa Non-profit fundraising & social, statewide organization with members from across the State of Iowa. PO Box 1491, Des Moines, IA 50306-1491 imperialcourtofiowa.org Iowa Chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) Janis Bowden, President, IA NOW janleebow@aol.com PO Box 41114, Des Moines, IA 503111 Iowa Gay Rodeo Association (IAGRA) 921 Diagonal Rd, Malcom, IA 50157 polebender60@yahoo.com 641-990-1411
Section 3: Community Iowa PFLAG (Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gay) State Council, PO Box 18, Indianola, IA 50125 http://community.pflag.org/Page. aspx?pid=194&srcid=-2 515-537-3126 or 641-583-2024 Iowa Pride Network 777 Third Street, Suite 312, Des Moines, Iowa 50309 - Iowapridenetwork.org, Executive Director: 515-471-8062, Outreach Coordinator: 515-471-8063 LGBT Youth in Iowa Schools Task Force PO Box 1997, Des Moines, 50306 515-243-1221 One Iowa 500 East Locust St, Ste 300, Des Moines, IA 50309 - 515-288-4019 - OneIowa.org The Quire Eastern Iowa’s GLBT chorus, thequire.org
NEBRASKA ORGANIZATIONS (LIST in progress)
Citizens For Equal Protection-402-398-3027 1105 Howard St, Suite #2, Omaha, NE 68102. cfep-ne.org - info@cfep-ne.org The Imperial Court of Nebraska Meets the third Monday of Every month at the Rainbow Outreach Resource Center at 17th and Leavenworth in Omaha, NE. Meetings start at 6pm and are open to the public. PO Box 3772, Omaha, NE 68103 Nebraska AIDS Project Omaha Office (Home Office) 250 South 77th Street Suite A Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 552-9260 - Email us: info@nap.org (also serving Southwest Iowa)
Ames, Iowa
First United Methodist Church 516 Kellogg Ave, Ames, IA 50010, Contemporary worship Sat 5:30; Sun 8:30 & 11am acswebnetworks.com/firstunitedmcames/ 515-232-2750 ISU LGBTA Alliance GLBT Support, Activism, Social Events, Newsletter - 515-344-4478 L East Student Office Space,2229 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50014-7163, alliance@iastate. edu - alliance.stuorg.iastate.edu Living with HIV Program 226 SE 16th Street, Ames, IA 50010, Ask for Janelle (Coordinator), 515-956-3312 ext 106 or 800-890-8230 Lord of Life Lutheran - 515-233-2350 2126 Gable Lane, Ames 50014, Services Sundays at 9:00a.m.; Wed. 7:00pm. PFLAG Ames Youth and Shelter Services Offices, 2328 Bristol Drive, Ames, IA 5001, 2nd Tuesday, 7pm - pflagames.org 515-291-3607 Romantics Pleasure Palace 117 Kellogg Street, Ames, IA 50010-3315 romantixonline.com 515-232-7717 United Church of Christ-Congregational 6th & Kellogg, Ames, 50010, Sunday Continental Breakfast, 9:00am; Sunday School, 9:30am; Worship 10:45am. uccames@ midiowa.net 515-232-9323 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ames 1015 Hyland Ave. Services: 9:30 am and 11:30 am, Sunday, uufames.org uufa@aol. com 515-292-5960 Unity Church of Ames - unityofames.com 226 9th St, Ames, IA 50010-6210, Sunday service and Sunday school 10:30am. Wednesday mediation 6:30pm Daily dial-a-blessing 515-233-1613
Arnolds Park, Okoboji, Spencer, Spirit Lake, Iowa
The Royal Wedding Chapel 504 Church Street, Royal, IA 51357 712-933-2223 TheRoyalWeddingChapel.com Wilson Resource Center An Iowa Great Lakes area gay-owned, nonprofit community based organization. PO Box 486, 597 W. Okoboji Rd., Arnolds Park IA 51331-0486 - 712-332-5043 F.JosephWilson@aol.com. wilsonresource.org
BURLINGTON, Iowa
Arrowhead Motel - arrowheadia.com 2520 Mount Pleasant St, Burlington, IA 52601-2118 - 319-752-6353 Faith Lutheran Church E L C A 3109 Sunnyside Ave, Burlington, IA 52601 HIV/AIDS Screening @ Des Moines County Health Department in Burlington, 522 N 3rd By appointment between 8:00am to 4:30 319-753-8217 Confidential RISQUES IV (adult store) 421 Dry Creek Ave, West Burlington, IA 52601 (319) 753-5455, Sun - Wed 8am-Midnight Thurs - Sat Open 24 Hours, LoversPlayground.com
Steve’s Place 852 Washington St, Burlington, 319-7545868 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Services start at 10:30 am, 625 N 6th St, Burlington, IA 52601-5032, (319) 753-1895 uuburlington.org
Cedar Falls - Waterloo, Iowa
Adult Cinema 315 E 4th St, Waterloo, IA 50703-4703, (319) 234-7459 Black Hawk Co. Health Department Free HIV testing (donations accepted); MW, 1:00pm to 3:00pm; Thurs, 1:00pm to 4:45pm 1407 Independence Ave. (5th fl), Waterloo 50703 319-291 -2413 Cedar AIDS Support System (CASS) Service, support groups & trained volunteers for persons with HIV/AIDS in Waterloo/CF call Elizabeth or Karla, 319-272-AIDS(2437). cvhospice@forbin.net Cedar Valley Counseling Services Promoting personal growth and development in a strengths-based environment, Joan E. Farstad, MA, Director. 319-240-4615, cvcounseling.com farstd@cvcounseling.com. Cedar Valley Episcopal Campus Ministry. In Lutheran Center, 2616 College St, Cedar Falls, IA - 319-415-5747, mcdinoiwa@aol. com, episcopalcampus.org Community AIDS Assistance Project (CAAP) - PO Box 36, Waterloo, IA 50704 LGBTA Support Group at Hawkeye Community College, Call Carol at 319-296-4014 or carol.hedberg@hawkeyecollege.edu Iowa Legal Aid Free civil legal service available to low income persons who qualify under income/asset guidelines. 607 Sycamore, #206, Waterloo, IA 50703 1-800-772-0039 or 319-235-7008 Kings & Queens 304 W. 4th St, Waterloo, IA, 319-232-3001 Romantix Waterloo (Adult Emporium) 1507 La Porte Rd, Waterloo, IA 50702 319-234-9340, romantixonline.com Stellas Guesthouse 324 Summit Ave, Waterloo, IA Private B&B, Overnight accommodations for adults only. 319-232-2122 St. Lukes Episcopal Church - 319-277-8520 2410 Melrose Dr, Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Services: Sunday 8:00 & 10:15, Thurs 11:30 st-lukes-episcopal.org St. Timothys United Methodist Church 3220 Terrace Drive, Cedar Falls, 50613 sttims-umc.org, 319-266-0464, info@sttimsumc-org, “Welcome of all persons, including those of all sexual orientations and gender identities.” Together For Youth 233 Vold Dr, Waterloo, IA 50703, TogetherForYouth.net 319-274-6768 UNI-LGBTA Alliance-Student Organization, 244A Bartlet Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls 50613 - lgbta@uni.edu 319-222-0003 United Church of Christ Cedar Falls 9204 University Avenue, Cedar Falls 319-366-9686 Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk County - 319-266-5640 3912 Cedar Heights Dr, Cedar Falls, IA
Cedar Rapids/marion, Iowa
Adult Shop 630 66th Ave SW, 319-362-4939 Adult Shop North 5539 Crane Lane, 319-294-5360 CRPrideFest (formerly Cedar Rapids Unity) Social activities, non-profit Pride festival organization. PO Box 1643 Cedar Rapids 52406-1643 - CRPrideFest.com Christ Episcopal Church “We have a place for you.” 220 40th Street NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404, 319-363-2029 ChristEpiscopal.org Belle’s Basix - 319-363-3194 Open 5pm to 2am M-F, Sat & Sun 3pm-2am 3916 1st Ave NE, Cedar Rapids Club CO2, A GLBTQA Nightclub, 616 2nd Ave SE, 319-365-0225, Open 7 days a week 4PM2AM, Happy hour from 4-8 pm, club-co2.com Coe Alliance GLBTQ and straight students, staff and people from the community. Coe College, 1220 First Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402. coealliance@coe.edu or Erica Geers, faculty advisor at 319-8616025
Community Health Free Clinic 947 14th Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 - 319-363-0416 - communityhfc.org Free Medical Services provided for the uninsured and underserved patients of Cedar Rapids, Marion and the surrounding areas in Eastern Iowa. CSPS Legion Arts Contemporary Arts Center - 319-364-1580 1103 3rd St. SE, info@legionarts.org Diversity Focus, 222 2nd Street SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401, 319-363-3707, DiversityFocus.org, Lead in the promotion of diversity, cultural awareness, and inclusion in the Corridor community. Eden United Church of Christ 351 8th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404 (319) 362-7805 Sunday School 9am - Worship 10:15am Foundation 2 Crisis Counseling 24-hour telephone crisis counseling. f2crisis@aol.com or www.f2online.org 1540 2nd Ave. SE Cedar Rapids, IA 319-362-2174 or 800-332-4224 Linn County Public Health 501 13th NW, Free confidential HIV testing, 319-892-6000 Linn County Stonewall Democrats For more info, contact linnstonewall@ gmail. com People’s Church Unitarian Universalist A welcoming congregation. 4980 Gordon Ave NW, Cedar Rapids, IA, 11am Sunday. 319362-9827 - peoplesuu.org PFLAG CR, Linn Co and Beyond Support Group meets on the 4th Thursday at 7pm except for Nov Dec - call for details. 319-431-0673, pflaglcb@gmail.com The Linn County Stonewall Democrats Meet 2nd Wednesdays, Blue Strawberry, 118 2nd St SE in Cedar Rapids, IA. Contact Harvey S. Ross, HRoss007@aol.com. Tri-ess, Iota Kappa Phi Chapter P.O. Box 8605, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52408 We are a transgendered organization supporting crossdressers, their families, and friends. - ri-ess.org, 319-390-6376, georgia523@ yahoo.com - marlenemarschel@yahoo.com Unity Center of Cedar Rapids “A center of positive, practical Christianity.” 4980 Gordon NE, Cedar Rapids unitycr.org - (319) 393-5422
CLINTON, Iowa
18 and Beyond (aka ABC Books), 135 5th Ave South, 563-242-7687 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Clinton 309 30th Avenue North, Clinton, IA 52732 (563) 242-4972 - uuclinton.org, Sunday services at 10:30 (year-round), Where YOUR spiritual and ethical journey is welcome! Rev. Ruby Nancy, minister
Council Bluffs, Iowa
Council Bluffs Community Alliance “…will promote the city of Council Bluffs as a developing gay, lesbian, bisexual & transgender family community, & to assure the equality of all Council Bluffs’ residents.” CouncilBluffsCommunityAlliance.org Council Bluffs NOW PO Box 3325, Omaha, NE 68103-0325 Romantix Council Bluffs (North) (Adult Emporium) 3216 1st Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51501-3353-romantixonline.com515-955-9756 Romantix Council Bluffs (South) (Romantix After Dark) 50662 189th St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503 romantixonline.com, 712-366-1764
Decorah, Iowa
Decorah Human Rights Commission Contact: City Clerk, 400 Clairborne Dr, Decorah, 563-382-3651, Meetings: First Tuesdays, 5:30pm Luther College Student Congregation Contact Office for College Ministry 700 College Dr, Decorah, IA 52101, 563-3871040. Luther College PRIDE-Diversity Center, 700 College Dr, Decorah, IA 52101 Contact Charles 563-210-6570 PFLAG Northeast IA (Waukon/Decorah) Beginning May 23rd: meeting at Northeast Iowa Peace and Justice Center, 119 Winnebago Street, Decorah, IA (lower level), corner of Winnebago and Main Street, Meetings: 4th Mondays, 7pm-9pm Call Jean @ 563-535-7680 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Meets alternating Sundays at 10:30am, Decorah Senior Center, 806 River St, Call Bill at 563-382-3458.
OCTOBER 2012 Des Moines, Iowa
AIDS Project of Central Iowa Free HIV testing, prevention supplies, care services, food pantry, information. 711 E. 2nd, Des Moines, IA 50309, 515-284-0245 Blazing Saddle 416 E 5th St, Des Moines, IA theblazingsaddle.com - 515-246-1299 Buddies Corral 418 E 5th St, Des Moines, IA - 515-244-7140 Church of the Holy Spirit-MCC, Pastor Pat Esperanza - Sunday service 10:30am at the 1st Christian Church 2500 University, Des Moines, chsmccdmia@ aol.com 515-287-9787 Des Moines Diversity Chorus [A gay-friendly mixed chorus] Rehearsals on Mondays at 7 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Beaver Ave. at Franklin St., Des Moines. All are welcome, no auditions. PO Box 65312, West Des Moines, IA 50265, Julie Murphy, Artistic Director jahmurphy@hotmail.com, 515-255-3576, desmoinesdiversitychorus.org Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus 515-953-1540, 4126 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines - administrator@dmgmc.org Des Moines Pride Center @ One Iowa (temporary location) 419 SW, 8th St., Des Moines, IA 50309 Family Practice Center - 515-953-7560 Safe, supportive LGBT health care. 200 Army Post Road, Ste 26, ppgi.org First Friday Breakfast Club Educational breakfast club for gay/bisexual men. Meets first Friday of each month. Contact Jonathan Wilson for meeting topic and place. 515-288-2500 info@ffbciowa.org ffbciowa.org First Unitarian Church 1800 Bell Avenue, Services Sundays at 9:30 & 11am - 515-244-8603, ucdsm.org Franklin Family Practice Dr. Joe Freund, MD 4908 Franklin Ave., Des Moines, IA 50310 515-280-4930, ucsinformation@ucsdsm.org, UCSOnline.org/FranklinFamilyPractice The Gallery (adult store) 1000 Cherry St, Des Moines, IA 50309-4227 - (515) 244-2916 Open 24 Hrs, LoversPlayground.com The Garden 112 SE 4th Des Moines, IA, 515-243-3965 Wed-Sun. 8pm-2am grdn.com Gay & Lesbian AA & AI-Anonymous Mon 7pm; Tue-Thu 6pm; Sat. 5:30pm, at Drake Ministries in Ed. Bldg. 28th & University Gay and Lesbian Issues Committee 4211 Grand Avenue, Level-3, Des Moines, IA 50312 - 515-277-1117 Lavender Victory Fund Financial assistance for women in need for medical emergencies. lavendervf@aol.com Le Boi Bar 508 Indianola Rd, Des Moines, IA Liberty Gifts 333 E. Grand Ave, Loft 105, Des Moines, IA Gay owned specialty clothing, jewelry, home decor. 515-508-0825 MINX Show Palace - 515-266-2744 1510 NE Broadway, Des Moines, IA 50313 North Star Gay Rodeo Association of IGRA, Iowa Division of North Star, NSGRA@ NSGRA.org or 612-82-RODEO Primary Health Care Inc., David Yurdin, 2353 SE 14th St., Des Moines, 503020, Works with GLBT ages 16 to geriatric, 25 years of experience. 515-248-1427 Rainbow Union, Drake University ru@drake.edu PFLAG Des Moines - 515-243-0313 1300 Locust , Des Moines, IA 50312 Plymouth Congregational UCC Church and the Plymouth GLBT Community 4126 Ingersoll Ave. 515-255-3149 Services at 9am & I lam Sunday. PlymouthGLBT.com Polk County Health Department Free STD, HIV, and Hepatitis B & C testing. HIV. Rapid testing also offered. 1907 Carpenter, Des Moines, IA, 515-286-3798. Pride Alliance, AIB College of Business Gay and straight students celebrating diversity. Contact: Mike Smith, Advisor, PrideAlliance@aib.edu - aib.edu/pride Pride Bowling League for GLBT & Supporters - Every Wednesday, 7 PM, Air Lanes Bowling Center 4200 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA 50321-2389. Email pridebowlingleague@ gmail.com or 515-447-2977. Raccoon River Resort Accommodations for men, women, or mixed in campgrounds, lodge, Teepees or Treehouses. Reservations: 515-996-2829 or 515-279-7312
TTDIRECTORY cont’d page 29
OCTOBER 2012 SScontinued from page 28
DIRECTORY
Ritual Café - ritualcafe.com On 13th between Grand and Locust. Gay owned, great music, awesome food & coffee. 515-288-4872 ritualcafe@aol.com Romantix North Des Moines Iowa (Bachelor’s Library) 2020 E Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317, romantixonline.com 515266-7992 Spouses of Lesbians & Gays Support group for spouses of gays and lesbians. 515-277-7754 St. John’s Lutheran Church 600 6th Ave “A Church for All People.” Services Sat 5pm, Sun 7:45, 8:45 & 11am. See web page for other services. 515-243-7691 - StJohnsDSM.org TransformationsIOWA Monthly meetings for the female to male, male to female, transgender community, cross dressers, gender queer, questioning, and their significant others. For location and info, email at r.eliason@hotmail.com or call 515-979-6959 Trinity United Methodist Church 1548 Eighth Street - 515-288-4056 Services Sundays 10am, trinityumcdm.org Urbandale UCC - An open & affirming congregation. 3530 70th St., Urbandale, IA 50322, 515-276-0625, urbucc.org Walnut Hills UMC Join us at 8:30 or 10:45am for Sunday worship. Sunday classes & group studies at 9:30am. 515-270-9226, 12321 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50323, whumc.org Westminster Presbyterian Church 4114 Allison Ave - WestPres.org Sunday services 8:45 and 11am. Of note is their GAY-LESBIAN-STRAIGHT AFFIRMATION GROUP, GLSA 515-274-1534 Women’s Culture Collective (WCC) A lesbian social group. Des Moines, IA iowawcc.org Word of God Ministries, Sunday service: 3:00pm, at 3120 E 24th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50317, Gay, lesbian & straight affirmation 515-707-5947. Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure Open daily. Gay-friendly, 515-244-7694 2723 Ingersoll, Des Moines, IA
Dubuque, Iowa
Adult Warehouse - 563-588-9184 975 Jackson St, Dubuque, IA Dubuque Friends Worship Group (Quakers) Join us at an unprogrammed worship service on Sunday at 10am. Welcoming and Affirming, 563-582-9388 St. Mark’s Community Center, 1201 White Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 PFLAG Dubuque/Tri-State Carnegie Stout Library, 3rd Floor Conference Room, 360 W. 11th St. 3rd Tuesday, 7pm 563-581-4606 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Dubuque - “The uncommon denomination.” general services at 10am. 1699 Iowa St, Dubuque, IA uuf-dbq.org 563-583-9910
ELKADER, Iowa
Bethany Church (ELCA) - 563-245-1856 307 3rd St NE, Elkader IA 52043 Pastor Jim Klosterboer. Inclusive. Welcoming. A “Reconciling in Christ” congregation of LC/ NA. alpinecom.net/~bethanychurch bethanychurch@alpinecom.net, Schera’s Restaurant & Bar 107 S Main St, Elkader, IA 52043, Scheras.com, E-mail: info@scheras.com Fine dining featuring Algerian & American Cuisine. 563-245-1992
Fort Dodge, Iowa
Romantix Fort Dodge (Mini Cinema) Sun-Thu 10am-12am, Fri & Sat 10am-2am 15 N. 5th St, Fort Dodge, IA 50501-3801 RomantixOnline.com - 515-955-9756
Grinnell, Iowa
Broadviewwildflowerseed.com, Broad View Wildflower Seed, 428 Hamilton Ave., Grinnell, Iowa 50112, Manager/Owner: John C., chicoski7@yahoo.com Saints Ephrem & Macrina Sunday services at 10am. (Affiliated with the Orthodox-Catholic Church of America.) Divine Liturgy is served Sundays during the College academic year 1:30 p.m., Herrick Chapel, Grinnell College Campus, 1226 Broad Street, Grinnell, IA, 641-236-0936
Section 3: Community Stonewall Resource Center Open 4:30pm to 11:30pm, Sun through Thurs and by Appointment., Grinnell College, 1210 Park Street PO Box B-1, Grinnell, IA, 50112, srcenter@ grinnell.edu 641-269-3327 United Church of Christ-Congregational, ‘An open and affirming church.’ 902 Broad St, 641-236-3111
INDIANOLA, iowa
Crossroads United Church of Christ (UCC) An Open & affirming congregation. Services: Sunday 10:30am, Summer worship: June, July, Aug, @ 9:30 am, worshiping in the Lounge at Smith Chapel, Simpson College, corner of Buxton and Clinton. Mailing address: P.O. Box 811, Indianola, IA 50125 515-961-9370. crossroadsucc.org
Iowa City, iowa
AA (GLBT) 319-338-9111 Meetings Sundays 5 - 6pm at First Baptist Church, 500 North Clinton Street. For more info, call IC Intergroup Answering Service, Congregational Church UCC An Open and Affirming Congregation, Sunday Worship 10:15 a.m. 30 N Clinton St (across from Ul Pentacrest) 319-337-4301 - uiccic.org Counseling Clinic 319-354-6238 Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender sensitive and supportive counseling for individuals, couples, families and groups. Sliding Fee. 505 E Washington St., Iowa City, IA 52240 Counseling and Health Center Client-centered therapy. Les-Bi-Gay-Trans always welcome. 616 Bloomington St, Iowa City, IA - 319-337-1679 Crisis Center 319-351-0140 1121 Gilbert Ct, Iowa City, 52240 Emma Goldman Clinic 227 N. Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA 52245 319-337-2111or 1-800-848-7684. Faith United Church of Christ An open and affirming congregation. 1609 Deforest Street, Iowa City, 52240 Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 319-338-5238 bob.faithucc@g.com, faithucciowacity.org GLBTAU-U of lA Student support system and resource center, info, activism, events, and other community involvements. 203 IMU, University of IA, Iowa City, IA 522421317 - 319-335-3251 (voice mail) glbtau@uiowa.edu Hope United Methodist Church Worship Service at 9:30am. 2929 E. Court St., Iowa City, IA - Contact Rev. Sherry Lohman. 319-338-9865 Human Rights Commission (City of Iowa City Human Rights Commission) 319-356-5022; 391-356-5015; 319-356-5014 Fax 319-887-6213 humanrights@iowa-city.org ICARE (Iowa Center for AIDS Resources & Education) Practical & emotional support, youth programs, information, referrals and support groups. 319-338-2135 3211 E 1st Iowa City, IA 52240-4703 Iowa City Free Medical Clinic Free & strictly confidential HIV Testing. 2440 Towncrest Dr Iowa City, Call for appointment 319-337-4459 Iowa City NOW PO Box 2944, Iowa City, IA 52244 Iowa Women’s Music Festival P.O. Box 3411, Iowa City, IA 52244 319-335-1486 Men Supporting Men 319-356-6038, Ext 2 HIV prevention program. Discussion Groups, Educational Series, Safer Sex Workshops, Book Club. Andy Weigel, email: aweigel@ co.johnson.ia.us New Song Episcopal Church 912 20th Ave, Coralville, IA. Sunday services at 10am. Rev. Elizabeth Coulter, Pastor. Rev. John Harper, Associate. 319-351-3577 Pride Committee WRAC, 130 N Madison, Iowa City, IA 52242 Bridget Malone - 319-338-0512 Charles Howes - 319-335-1486 Romantix Iowa City - 319-351-9444 (Pleasure Palace I) 315 Kirkwood Ave, Iowa City, IA 52240-4722 - romantixonline.com Studio 13 13 S. Linn St. (in the Alley) Iowa City, IA Open 7pm ‘til 2am, daily 319-338-7145 U of I Lesbian, Gay & Bisexual Staff & Faculty Association, c/o WRAC, 130 N Madison, Iowa City, IA 52242, 319-335-1486 Unitarian Universalist Society of Iowa City Inclusive & free religious community nurturing intellectual & spiritual growth & fostering ethical & social responsibility. uusic.org 10 S. Gilbert, Iowa City, IA Sunday services: 9:30am & 11:15am. 319-337-3443
United Action for Youth (UAY) A GLBTQA youth group providing support and counseling for teenagers and young adults processing sexual identity issues. Meets Mondays 7-9pm at UAY 410 Iowa Ave. Iowa City, IA. 319-338-7518 or Teen Line, 319-338-0559. The Ursine Group Bear Events in the Midwest. PO Box 1143, Iowa City, IA 52244-1143 - 319-338-5810 Women’s Resource Action Center (WRAC) Leads & collaborates on projects that serve U of l and the greater community, offers social & support services, including LGBT Coming Out Group. University of Iowa, 130 N Madison, Iowa City, IA 52242 - 319-335-1486
Marshalltown, iowa
Adult Odyssey (Adult Video Store) 907 Iowa Ave E - 641-752-6550 Domestic Violence Alternatives/ Sexual Assault Center, Inc., 132 W Main St. 24 hour Crisis Line: 641-753-3513 or (instate only) 800-779-3512
MASON CITY, iowa
Cerro Gordo County Dept. of Public Health 22 N. Georgia Ave, Ste 300 Mason City, IA 50401. Free confidential AIDS testing. 641421-9321 PFLAG North Iowa Chapter 641-583-2848, pflagmcni@yahoo.com, Carlos O’Kelly’s Mexican Cafe @ 7 p.m. Wed.
Mount Vernon, Iowa
Alliance Cornell College 810 Commons Cir # 2035 - alliance@cornellcollege.edu - orgs.cornellcollege.edu/alliance/
Pella, iowa
Common Ground (Central College) Support group for GLBT students and allies. Contact: Brandyn Woodard, Director of Intercultural Life woodardb@central.edu 641-628-5134
Quad Cities, iowa
AIDS Project Quad Cities Info, education & support. Davenport, IA 52804, www.apqc4life.org 319-762-LIFE Black Hawk College Unity Alliance Serving GLBT community at Black Hawk College. 6600 34th Ave, Rock Island, IL 309716-0542. Connections Nightclub 563-322-1121 822 W 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52802 DeLaCerda House 309-786-7386 Provides housing & supportive services, advocacy and referrals for people living with HIV/ AIDS. P.O. Box 4551, Rock Island, Il. 61201 Good Samaritan Free Clinic 309-797-4688 Provides free primary medical care to patients age 16-64 who are working but have no medical insurance. gsfc@mchsi.com 602 35th Ave, Moline, IL GoodSamaritanFreeClinic.org The Hole-In-The-Wall 309-289-2375 A Private Membership Men’s Club, Located 3 miles east of Galesburg, IL. just north of I-74 at Exit 51. HoleInTheWallMensClub.org Holy Spirit Catholic Faith Community Meets one Sunday per month for Mass at 6:30pm at MCC-QC, 3019 N. Harrison St, Davenport, IA Mailing: PO Box 192 East Moline, IL 61244 For more info, call 309-278-3359 Lucky Shamrock 313 20th St, Rock Island, IL - 309-788-7426 An Irish Pub open to all types. Mary’s On 2nd 563-884-8014 832 W. 2nd St. Davenport, IA MCC Quad Cities - Svcs Sun 11am, Bible study Wed 7pm 563-324-8281, 3019 N Harrison, Davenport, IA 52803 Men’s Coming Out/Being Out Group Meets 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7pm. QCAD.OutForGood@GMail.com 309-7862580 PFLAG Quad Cities 563-285-4173 Eldridge United Methodist Church 604 S.2nd St., Eldridge 1st Monday, 6:30 pm Prism (Augustana College) 309-794-7406 Augustana Gay-Straight Alliance, Augustana Library - 639 38th St, Rock Island, IL, Contact Tom Bengston Quad Citians Affirming Diversity (QCAD) Social & support groups for lesbian, bi, and gay teens, adults, friends & families; newsletter. 309-786-2580 - Community Center located at 1608 2nd Ave, Rock Island. Quad Cities Pride Chorus (Call Don at 563324-0215) At the MCC Church in D’port, 7pm Wed. qcswede64@aol.com Rainbow Gifts www.rainbowgifts.net - 309-764-0559
T.R. Video Adult books & video, 3727 Hickory Grove Rd, Davenport, IA. 563-386-7914 Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Quad Cities, Rev Jay Wolin, Sunday Service 11am - 563-359-0816 3707 Eastern Avenue, Davenport, IA 52807 Venus News (Adult) 902 W 3rd St, Davenport, IA. 563-322-7576
Red Oak, Iowa
First Congregational United Church of Christ (open and affirming) - 712-623-2794 608 E Reed St, Red Oak, IA 51566 Rev. Elizabeth Dilley, Pastor uccwebsites.net/firstcongredoakia.html firstconguccredoak@yahoo.com
SHENANDOAH, Iowa
PFLAG Shenandoah 1002 South Elm Street - 712-246-2824
Sioux City, IOWA
Am. Business & Professional Guild. Gay Businessmen. Meets last Sat. of the month; ABPG, P. O. BOX 72, Sioux City, 51102 - abpguild@yahoo.com Grace United Methodist Church 1735 Morningside Avenue - 712-276-3452. Jones Street Station (Bar) 712-258-6922 412 Jones St., Nightly 6:00pm to 2:00am. Mayflower Congregational Church 1407 West 18th St - 712-258-8278. Morningside College Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual Alliance Contact Professor Gail Dooley, Advisor Morningside College GSA. 1501 Morningside Ave, Sioux City, IA 51106-1717 dooley@morningside.edu - 712-274-5208 PFLAG Siouxland PO Box 1311, Sioux City, IA 51102 siouxlandPFLAG@aol.com Romantix Sioux City 712-277-8566 511 Pearl St, Sioux City, IA 51101-1217 St. Thomas Episcopal Church Service Sun 10:30am 406 12th St, Waverly, IA Rev Mary Christopher - 712-258-0141 Western Iowa Tech. GSA widemal@juno.com for info. Zaner’s Bar - 712-277-9575 -3103 N Hwy 75, Sioux City, IA 51105. Monthly drag shows & events; hometown bar for Imperial Court of Iowa’s Western Chapter zaners-sioux-city@hotmail.com
Sioux falls, south dakota
Toppers, 1213 N Cliff Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57103, (605) 339-7686, Su-Tu 7:00pm - Close : We-Sa 3:00pm - 2:00am, sdtoppers.com Center for Equality, 406 S Second Avenue in Sioux Falls, 605-331-1153, centersforequalitysd.org
Waverly, Iowa
Cedar Valley Episcopal Campus Ministry. 717 W. Bremer, (St. Andrew’s Episcopal) episcoplcampus.org - 319-415-5747 Gay, Lesbian Bisexual Student Alliance Wartburg College, Waverly, IA 50677. Contact Susan Vallem - 319-352-8250 St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 717 W. Bremer. We welcome all to worship with us on Sunday at 10:30am. Bible discussion Wed. 6:45pm 319-352-1489 Rev. Maureen Doherty, Pastor
NEBRASKA (CONTENT IN PROGRESS) HASTINGS, NEBRASKA
PFLAG Hastings - pat@datacc.net
Lincoln, Nebraska
Club Q Lincoln 226 South 9th St, Lincoln, NE 68508 402-475-2269 Indigo Bridge Books The Creamery Building, 701 P St, Ste 102, Lincoln, NE 68508 - 402-477 7770 “Indigo Bridge Books strives to provide a solid, relevant Gender Studies section with a focus on LGBT titles. indigobridgebooks.com Nebraska AIDS Project (Lincoln Office) 1921 South 17th Street, Lincoln, NE 68502 (402) 476-7000 - nap.org OUTLinc Bringing Lincoln’s LGBT Community Together outlinc.org Panic 200 S 18th St, Lincoln, NE 68508 402-435-8764
ACCESSline Page 29 PFLAG Cornhusker Chapter PO Box 82034, Lincoln, NE 68501 Meetings 4th Tuesday, Unitarian Church of Lincoln, 6300 A St, 7-9pm pflagcornhusker.org PFLAG Helpline: 402-434-9880 - Confidential Support & Information - We’re Here For You ! Planned Parenthood of the Heartland Sexual and Reproductive Health Care, Transgender Care - (402) 441-3302 2246 O St, Lincoln, NE 68510 The Rainbow Clinic in the UNL Psychological Consultation Center “…a specialty outreach service to the GLBTQ community. Psychological services, including individual, couples & family therapy, are provided within the UNL Psychological Consultation Center by regular PCC staff…open year round; day & evening appointments available. $10 for intake & $25 for therapy sessions. Application can be made for reduced fees based on federal poverty guidelines. 325 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588 402-472-2351 unl.edu/psypage/pcc/ Star City Pride starcitypride.org - info@starcitypride.org The Unitarian Church of Lincoln 6300 A Street, Lincoln, NE 68510-5097 (402) 483-2213 - unitarianlincoln.org Sunday from 10am to 11am
Omaha, Nebraska
AIDS Interfaith Network 100 N. 62nd, Omaha, NE Call Br. Wm. Woeger, 402-558-3100 Citizens For Equal Protection-402-398-3027 1105 Howard St, Suite #2, Omaha, NE 68102. cfep-ne.org - info@cfep-ne.org DC’s Saloon - (western/levi/leather) The Midwest’s hottest GLBT Country & Dance Bar! 610 S 14th St, Omaha, NE, Open everyday 2pm-1am Front Runners/Front Walkers Walking/jogging club. P.O. Box 4583, Omaha, NE 68104, 402-804-8720, frontrunners.org GLBT Rainbow Outreach Omaha Serving GLBT community in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. Also office for Imperial court of Nebraska. 1719 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE, rocc.org - 402-341-0330 Greater Omaha GLBT Network - goglbt.org “…to advance growth & equality for its members, businesses & allies by providing educational, networking & community-building opportunities. Meetings 1st Thursday every month locations at a traveling location to see the community and be seen. For more info or to be included on the e-newsletter list, please email us at info@goglbt.org. Heartland Gay Rodeo Association (HGRA) (Midwest Division of the International Gay Rodeo Association) PO Box 3354, Omaha, NE 68103, hgra.net - 402-203-4680, Serves Iowa and Nebraska Heartland Pride ”…to develop a high impact and relevant cultural festival & events annually that promotes equality & unity for the LGBTQ & Allies Communities of Western Iowa and Greater Nebraska. heartlandpride.org Imperial Court of Nebraska P.O. Box 3772, Omaha, NE 68103, 402-5569907 Inclusive Life “Religious and Non religious care, services and ceremonies for all!”, 105 S. 49 Street, Suite E, Omaha, NE 68132, (402) 575-7006, inclusifelife.org The Max 1417 Jackson at 15th, Omaha, NE 68102 6 bars in 1 - 402-346-4110 MCC Omaha 819 South 22nd, Omaha, NE 68103, Sun 9:30AM & 11:15 AM. Wednesday “ReCharge” Worship, Wed 7pm - 402-345-2563 PFLAG Omaha Mead Hall, First United Methodist Church, 7020 Cass St. (Omaha), 2nd Thursday, 7, 6:30 Social, 402-291-6781 River City Gender Alliance Peer support, friendship, and understanding for crossdressers, transgenderists, and transsexuals. PO Box 4083 Omaha, NE 68104, 402-291-6781, info@rcga.us - rcga.us River City Mixed Chorus Gay/lesbian chorus, PO Box 3267, Omaha, NE 68103, Call Stan Brown, 402-341-7464 Tri-ess Chapter, Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter, Omaha, NE 68107, Transgendered organization supporting crossdressers, their families, and friends. tri-ess.org, 402-960-9696, Judy marlenemarschel@yahoo.com Youth Support Group for GLBT Youth 13-21, meets twice monthly. Omaha, NE - 402-291- 6781
ACCESSline Page 30
Section 3: Community
OCTOBER 2012
Ask Lambda Legal : Police Harassment by Thomas Ude I’ve never been arrested, but it seems like I get a harder time from the police than some of my friends. Am I imagining this? The LGBT civil rights movement has its roots in standing up against police harassment. In 1969, at the Stonewall Riots, bar patrons fought back against unwarranted, targeted police treatment of LGBT people. Today, for many populations, statistics continue to show disproportionate rates of arrest and detainment. New York City’s police department’s “stop and frisk” policy targets already marginalized communities, including lowincome people, people of color, LGBT people, people living with HIV, and immigrants. In 2011, for example, young black and Latino males (age 14 to 24) were less than 5% of the city’s population, but were targeted in over 40%of the stops. Indeed, the number of stops of young black men alone exceeded the number of young black men in the entire city population. Law enforcement problems also exist at the federal level. For example, the Department of Homeland Security’s Secure Communities program—which purportedly prioritizes the deportation of the “most dangerous and violent offenders” who pose a threat to public safety and national security—has actually resulted in the arrest and detention of immigrants for minor traffic infractions. According to www.immigrationpolicy.org, between October 2008 and September 2011, in Maricopa County, Arizona, 60% of those deported had minor convictions or were non–criminals; in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana,
87% had minor convictions or were non– criminals. Nationally, 26% of those deported under Secure Communities had no criminal convictions. These kinds of abuses contribute to mistrust, doubt and fear of the police in our communities, and may prevent people from calling the police when they are the victim of a crime. According to the Bureau of Justice from 2006 to 2010, 20% of victimizations of persons living in urban areas went unreported, 33% of violent crimes against people age 65 or older went unreported, and 65% of sexual assaults went unreported. An astounding 76% of victimizations that occurred while at school went unreported. These numbers are troubling, and they are increasing: the percentage of unreported violent crime that was not reported because the victim felt the police would not or could not do anything to help nearly tripled from 2005 to 2010. Lambda Legal has a long history of standing up to police mistreatment, joining court briefs opposing anti-immigrant laws and joining a coalition in New York to challenge the City’s stop and frisk policy. Currently, Lambda Legal is gathering information on this issue by conducting a survey about the experiences of LGBT people and people living with HIV when dealing with police, school security, courts and the prison system. Whether your experiences have been positive, negative, or mediocre, everyone’s input is necessary to capture the full scope of our community. Take the survey: https://www.surveymonkey. com/s/protected-and-served-survey If you think you have been discriminated
against or have been the victim of harassment because of your sexual orientation, gender identity or HIV status, call our help desk at Lambda Legal’s Help Desk at 1-866-5428336, or see http://lambdalegal.org/help Police Harassment By Thomas Ude
Thomas W. Ude, Jr.
Thomas W. Ude, Jr. is Senior Staff Attorney for Lambda Legal and he coordinates Lambda Legal’s work to address government misconduct and support for discrimination, and has included matters in many of Lambda Legal’s issue areas, including government misconduct, employment discrimination, recognition of same-sex relationships and parent-child relationships, transgender rights and the rights of people living with HIV. Ude graduated cum laude in 1989 from the University of Michigan Law School and clerked for Senior U.S. District Court Judge T. Emmet Clarie in the District of Connecticut. He received his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Connecticut, graduating Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude. He is admitted to the practice of law before the courts of the states of Connecticut (1989) and New York (2008), and before the U.S. District Courts for the District of Connecticut (1990), Southern District of New York (2008), Eastern District of New York (2008) and Northern District of New York (2009). Until recently, Ude served on the boards of directors of Love Makes a Family, Connecticut’s marriage equality organiza-
tion (from 2007-2009), and the Connecticut Women’s Education and Legal Fund (from 2001-2010).
OCTOBER 2012 SScontinued from page 11
FURTADO get really unplugged to get inspired. I feel like if you really live your life, you’re going to put all your energy into your songs and your songs are going to feel alive and like they’re living and breathing; if you don’t feel alive, your music’s not going to feel alive. At the end of the day, I want people to press play on that album and really feel like it’s taking them somewhere; like that energy is taking them over. That’s why, I think, I take all these musical detours in my career. You’ve gone from the pop-folk of your 2000 debut, Whoa, Nelly! to hip-hop on Loose. What about dance music inspired the change? When I was a child, every birthday I would ask for old Casio keyboards and sound-effect machines. I had a collection. I remember trying to sample Billy Joel into my tape recorder from vinyl when I was 4 years old. I was just always obsessed with technology in music. Even when I first moved to Toronto from this small town of Victoria, I engaged myself in the trip-hop and electronica of Toronto. I sang at urban talent shows. I made trip-hop music. I used to cut electronic tracks of my DJ friends in Victoria when I was in college. So it’s been a natural love affair. Although, from time to time, I like to unplug and be like, “Will this song sound good on acoustic guitar?” Urban and hip-hop music really influenced me a lot as a young teenager, and it’s fun for me. On this new album I’m working with Rodney Jerkins, who produced a lot of my favorite urban tracks as a kid – and I didn’t even know that until I was already deep into the recording process! (Laughs) A lot of really trippy things happened. It was almost like my 14-year-old teenage self, who was already writing lines and songs, wanted to meet Rodney Jerkins but didn’t even know it. Here I am years later working with him and making this crazy urban track that talks about me being 14, putting my big hoops on and my cross-colored jeans. Would you say your reinventions are more trend-grabbing or musical evolutions? It’s probably a little bit of both, I guess. I have a lot of different sides to myself, and that’s always good. When you have a deep musicality and a real good gauge of a lot of different musical styles and an attention deficit disorder—really, let’s just call it that. I mean, it’s more obvious with each album that
Section 3: Community I have a bad case of attention deficit disorder. But I am a chameleon. I do gravitate toward things that I like and that I find popular and cool, and I do have a way of blending in. I’ve always been that way, though. I was the kid in school that dressed like a hippie one day, then a rapper the next day and then prep the next day. That’s just who I am. I like that you don’t deny trendgrabbing. Why bother? Will you ever return to the pop-folk sound on Whoa, Nelly! and Folklore that made you a star? People really hold those two albums dear. I just think there’s nothing like your debut. You’ll never be the person you were when you did your debut. There’s an innocence there, a real naivety and a beautiful idealism that’s awesome. And just musically you spend all your time making music and then, when you start making records professionally, you don’t have as much time to explore sounds in music. That’s why I took a break for this album. I really wanted to chill and bring the music back, so I think fans of those first two albums are really going to enjoy this new one, because there’s a lot of breadth to the album musically. Did you go to any gay clubs as a teenager? Yes! I will never forget coming to Toronto: I was sleeping on my sister’s couch at the age of 17 and my sister took me to this awesome gay club, which was the first time I saw beautiful queens on stage. I’d never seen them before. And I’m coming from Victoria, this little town, and I’m going, “Oh my god, there’s a whole other world out here.” I was transfixed. I remember we’d go to a rave all night and then catch a Greyhound to Montreal and do it all over again. I’d have my bottle of water and just dance all night. It was really about the dancing and getting lost in the music for me. That’s never changed. I really feel like music can take you places. This was proven to me again when I saw Tiësto play at the Winter Music Conference in Miami about three years ago and, near the end of his set, I actually began to cry because the music was so emotional. It reminded me that dance music, just by itself, can really take you to emotional places. He actually produced one track on my album called “Thoughts.” It’s not typical Tiësto. What song do you think your gay fans will be into most? I have a really good dance track called “Waiting for the Night”—an ethnomusicol-
Nelly Furtado. Courtesy Richard Bernardin.
ACCESSline Page 31
ogy track that’s got accordion and a dance beat. It’s all about this summer I spent in Portugal as a teenager waiting to run into this boy while on the island. It’s just a really fun, upbeat song. “The Most Beautiful Thing” is really special, I think. And “Spirit Indestructible” is all about how strong our spirits are and how we can really conquer anything. Great things have happened in the (gay) community in the last couple of years. Who’s the closest gay person to you in your life? One of my best friends who I just adore and have known since childhood. He’s a wonderful guy—and a diva in the best way! (Laughs) Are you talking about more than just earrings with “the bigger, the better” line on the first single from the Nelly Furtado. Courtesy Richard Bernardin. album, “Big Hoops”? (Laughs) It’s funny: One of my gay bigger, the better. friends said the same thing! He said, “Oh, You were like a bird 12 years ago. this one’s dirty.” What animal best represents you now at Are you a size queen? this point in your life? No, no! But no matter what you’re I’ve really been connecting with eagles doing — and whether you’re in the bedroom lately, because the eagle represents the or walking down the street—you’ve gotta spirit, so this bird thing just ain’t going have that thing that makes you feel tough nowhere! and gives you swagger. Whether it’s a hoop Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q or a watch or a special memento, or maybe Syndicate, the international LGBT wire it’s just the way you did your hair that day— service. Reach him via his website at something that makes you feel good. The www.chris-azzopardi.com.
ACCESSline Page 32
Section 3: Community
OCTOBER 2012
Breast Health by PPH Medical Director Dr. Jill Meadows Preventive health services are vital to your overall health and well-being. For many women, accessing basic screenings like breast exams can be challenging. Fear and cost are the two most common barriers a woman faces in getting the care she needs. As part of Breast Health Awareness Month, we want to help eliminate the fear associated with screenings and share new funding programs available for low-cost exams. This year, more than 2,000 Iowa women will be diagnosed with breast cancer; more than 400 will die from the disease. For women of all ages a clinical breast exam is an important part of basic health care. Early screenings can detect warning signs or symptoms before they become serious health concerns. Breast exams can help detect cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage, and save your life. This month, Planned Parenthood is
implementing a new breast health initiative to help Iowa women get the screenings they need at a price they can afford. Through a new grant program women can access low or no-cost clinical breast exams at their local Planned Parenthood health center. We recommend that women ages 20 to 39 get a clinical breast exam as part of a wellwoman exam every 1-3 years. A woman over 40 should get a clinical breast exam and mammogram every year. If follow-up care is needed, Planned Parenthood of the Heartland’s breast health program provides funding subsidies for services like biopsies, ultrasounds or mammograms. Recent research indicates that breast self-exams do not reduce breast cancer mortality. While self-exams are no longer recommended, we strongly encourage breast self-awareness. Knowing what your breasts normally look and feel like is vital
to detecting a potential health risk. There are no specific techniques or frequency required, but every woman should be familiar with her body and talk to a health care provider as soon as possible if she notices any changes. It’s important not to let fears and concerns get in the way of your health. Detecting a problem may be scary at first, but it could save your life. As part of Planned Parenthood’s new breast health program, we are increasing our education efforts to help women identify potential breast health issues early, and teach women how to lower their risk for cancer. Staying at a healthy weight and getting regular exercise is important to overall good health. Limiting alcohol and not smoking can also lower your risk for breast cancer. If you are a mother, breastfeeding is recommended. Overall, simple lifestyle changes and regular preventive care is the best way to stay healthy. October is a great time to educate and empower yourself on how to live a healthy life. Take time to think about your respon-
I was barely eight years old—a human tabula rasa—when I first saw what made girls different from boys. Thus reads the first sentence of my book, Getting to Ellen: A Memoir about Love, Honesty and Gender Change. It’s been a long time coming. I’m not entirely done, either—it will be February, 2013, before it goes on sale. Much of the process has been equivalent to herding cats. For one, I’m not a trained writer. In fact, it’s way worse than that. As many readers know, I was a lawyer, schooled in legal writing, the kind of prose that begins with, “May it please the Court.” Horrible stuff, actually. Far too linear and plastic. I wrote that way for nearly thirty years. To tell my own story, I plodded along hit and miss. It started with walking into the Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis in January, 2009 where I eyed twenty genetic women and one wispy man. The man didn’t last, but every woman stuck it out through a four month memoir course. Midway through the course, I announced, “I want to write my story.” My first stab at writing—a short piece about my father’s death—was wordy and unfocused, yet there was something about it that my classmates liked. “It’s a powerful story even if the writing leaves something to be desired,” one smiling woman said. I went back to my computer. With a revision in hand, I confessed, “I know this probably isn’t good enough.” The class instructor answered, “You have to own it, Ellen.” It was perfect advice. From then on, I owned whatever I wrote. My goal: write as a human for other humans. There’s not enough of that. I knew I needed experience with actual print publications. I approached The ACCESSline and offered to write about life from a transgender person’s perspective. Thankfully, the paper’s editor was willing to take a chance on me. I submitted a first proposed column.
It was crap, and the editor pushed me to do better. The next draft was a little better, but nowhere near good enough. After following some further helpful suggestions, I finally returned with words etched from my heart. In February, 2010, The ACCESSline published that first column, “Listen to Yourself: You May Hear Something Important.” Since then, the paper has printed 30,000 of my words under the banner, Inside Out. The number of words humbles me. I contacted Lavender Magazine in Minneapolis and asked if it wanted a columnist with a different take on life. Fourteen months ago, my column, Skirting the Issues, debuted. People email every month—many aren’t transgender—to say that my words resonate with them. Strangers have approached me on the street to say they liked a column. It boggles my mind. Of course, it feeds my ego, something that I am well aware of. I couldn’t have imagined any of this three years ago. Yet, there’s something bigger here, too. I pushed myself to go forward with my memoir. I took a sabbatical from my law career to begin Getting to Ellen. I started the book in between surgeries that changed my body to match my female spirit. I wrote every day, six or seven hours a day. I wrote so much that I burned out a Dell laptop. The book became paramount. I hired an editor. “It’s a great story,” she reported, “but, you’ve got a long way to go in your writing.” She had published an acclaimed memoir, and I listened. Luckily, I found a writing group with writers who were better than me. That was key, of course—you never learn from a writer who isn’t as good as you. It rubbed off. Eventually, I wrote at least B grade. I call it “Motel 6” writing—you get the basics, but not much more. Still, it works. Better writers have a “Hilton” style—nicely adorned prose
with all the comforts, words that make the reader gush. For me, the lawyer, Motel 6 is good enough. I ended up with a real manuscript. Then I revised it a million times. A friend asked, “Aren’t you done with that thing yet?” I started to give talks about my life story. Invariably, people came up to me. “When will your book be out?” many asked. “I’m working on it,” was my constant reply. Last month, I found myself in Memoir Hell. It was the final push, the last big revision before the book starts the proofreading and pre-production phases. I was up at three or four every morning to get in a few hours before my day job. At the end of the day, I was back at the computer. I looked out the window as two of the most gorgeous weekends of the summer floated by. I gained a good ten pounds and drank way too much wine. I hunkered down in my condo. Marie Callender became my best friend. I never imagined it would be so much work. There are a few people—particularly certain family members and friends—who wonder why I’d want to splash my life across 300 pages. Some have lives intertwined with mine. We’re talking fear and embarrassment here. Throw in that there are already a number of books that tell the “transgender story,” and one may ask why I’d go to the trouble. Is it really all ego?
This year, more than 2,000 Iowa women will be diagnosed with breast cancer; more than 400 will die from the disease.
Inside Out: The Book by Ellen Krug
Dr. Jill Meadows is Planned Parenthood of the Heartland Medical Director. sibility, the risks, and help raise awareness of all the women in your life. Communicate the importance of breast health with your sisters, mothers, aunts and all the special women in your life.
My goal: write as a human for other humans. There’s not enough of that.
Ellen Krug, writer, lawyer, human, is presently completing her memoir, “Getting to Ellen: Crossing the Great Gender Divide,” which will be published in 2012. She lives in Minneapolis and works as the executive director of a nonprofit serving the underrepresented. She welcomes your comments at ellenkrug75@gmail.com. I’d like to think not. Another writer who has seen much of my book says this: I see your story as universal. It tells how it’s possible for each of us to make one small decision after another. Eventually, we’re led to the place where we declare a major change based on our choice to embrace an integrity that makes it impossible to do anything but live our own truth. “Live our own truth?” If you ask me, that’s a pretty good review for any memoir. Maybe more than one person will see the book that way. I can only hope.
“The Constitution should not be used to oppress people. The constitution’s used to protect people. Love is by far bigger than government can ever be.” Minnesota should defeat this amendment “to show the rest of the United States that nobody influences Minnesotans on what’s right or wrong.” ~Former Governor Jesse Ventura on Proposed Minnesota Same-Sex Marriage Ban
OCTOBER 2012 SScontinued from page 14
MORRIS having Mama Sandy Reinhardt in Iowa for the first time, Project HIM is partnering up with their annual Black Party and so much more. Plus, it is the Blazing Saddle where it is ALWAYS a double and NEVER a cover. What is new this year for Iowa Leather Weekend? This year we’ve been able to do so much more than in previous years. With all eyes looking to Iowa Leather this year it is attracting people from all over the world. The leather vendor will be a big highlight of the weekend—Le Chateau Exotique—FetishWear.com. Our MC for the weekend is the executive coordinator for International Mr. Leather—Jon Krongaard. This year’s contest will follow almost every step of the International Mr. Leather contest to help better prepare our contestants for the contest in Chicago. What do you suggest people not miss? There is so much going on that you won’t want to miss any of it. Thankfully the Holiday Inn Downtown Des Moines has group rates available for anyone needing a space to stay. But a few key things happening: Friday Night—Bear Party and contestant “Meat” and Greet at the Blazing Saddle—Then don’t miss out on the Underwear party at Le Boi after. Saturday—Mr. Iowa Leather Contest— Silent auction with ticket packages available for International Mr. Leather and Mister International Rubber. After the contest is Project HIM’s annual Black Party with DJ
Section 3: Community Gary Iriza (Former IML) and porn star Kieron Ryan. Sunday—We start the new Mr. Iowa Leather’s year with a victory brunch and beer bust. Talk us about the Mr. Iowa Leather 2013 competition. Who can compete? Anyone can compete in from Iowa or one of the surrounding states. Get your applications from the Blazing Saddle. Is there an age requirement? The International Mr. Leather contest requires a contestant to be 21 years or older and in Iowa we keep it that way also. What are the different parts of the competition? Interview—private session with just the contestant and panel of judges Bar wear—what are you wearing out for gear night? Pecs and personality—Here is the fun part; grab your jock, and a pair of boots, show us who you are and be ready for a fun on-stage question. Leather Image—Who are you as a Leatherman? Show us. During this portion each contestant will Jeremy Morris-Mr. Iowa Leather 2012. Photo courtesy give a 90sec speech on a topic they Behind the Sash 2013 calendar and Richard Yates choose. Photography. What advice would you give What words of wisdom would you this year’s competitors? give the new Mr. Iowa Leather 2013? Remember—It is not about what Treasure your year, it will fly by and if someone else can do for you because of your you let it, this experience will change your title, but what you can do with your title for life in so many amazing ways. others. Is there anyone you would like to
ACCESSline Page 33 thank, as your year as Mr. Iowa Leather comes to an end? First off thank you to Mongo, Stinky and the Blazing Saddle—from day one you’ve been there every step along the way and hope I’ve made you proud this year. Neil O’Sullivan and Gerard Thompson— You two have been my rocks, there to help in any way, forcing me to relax and always being there for a hug and a smile. Your home has become my sanctuary and hearing you from the stage at IML will be a memory that will last with me forever. Taler and Eric—Well I know I put you through hell during IML but you two kept me moving, made sure I ate/slept/showered and I’m honored to have experienced so much of your growth and development while traveling with me. My IML brothers and Jon/Joey—can’t even begin to express what you mean to me, you’ve welcomed me into your family and we’ve done amazing things Titan’s of the Midwest—we’ve come a long way, from four people sitting at the bar discussing what we’d like to see, to now a formal organization working to provide so much for our community and reach out to the next generation To the Iowa Leather family—Thank you for your help, devotion, guidance and one hell of a ride. We are starting a new phase of our community and we’ve only just begun. For more information on Jeremy Morris you can find him on Facebook at Jeremy Morris - Mr Iowa Leather 2012. For more information and to purchase Behind the Sash 2013 calendar go to BehindTheSashCalendar.com. For more information on Iowa’s Leather weekend go to TheBlazingSaddle.com.
ACCESSline Page 34
Section 3: Community
OCTOBER 2012
Project HIM Offers Midwest Leather Weekend Schedule of Events 10/5-6 Innovative Approaches to Gay/Bisexual Men’s Health About one in five individuals living with HIV doesn’t know of their positive status in the U.S. These individuals account for approximately 50% of the newly sexually acquired HIV cases each year. Recent numbers from the Iowa Dept. of Public Health indicate a spike in new HIV+ cases specifically for gay and bisexual men between the ages of 15-24. However, despite these numbers, the vast majority of gay and bi men remain HIV negative. Project HIM celebrates this fact, and allows gay and bi men to take control of their health in their own unique way. Project Healthy Iowa Men (HIM) is a program of the AIDS Project of Central Iowa office in the East Village of downtown Des Moines. Alarmingly, beginning in 2013, Project HIM will be the only funded behavioral HIV prevention program in the state. Project HIM is taking a different avenue when it comes to men’s health; it is the first of its kind to reach men in the physical sense via outreach and events and in the virtual communities through websites and social media. Project HIM offers connections and resources not readily available to all gay and bi men. Project HIM isn’t just about testing; health involves many different facets, whether it is the physical, emotional, mental, or sexual. The goal is for gay and
bi men in the community to be active in improving all aspects of their health. Components of Project HIM include outreach in person and online through “Street Team” members and an innovative website where men’s health along with role model videos of local guys talking about their testing experiences are featured. The use of online resources is a common trend among many different types of gay and bisexual men. Recently, Project HIM, along with Catchfire Media upgraded the current website to offer a wide range of information easily accessible to all. Resources on the website include links, blogs, and an “ask the expert” section featuring specialists in a certain area of health. Users can submit their own questions confidentially to these experts. Another component of the website includes videos of various role models in the Des Moines area. Be sure and check out the newly launched website at www.projecthim.org. About Project HIM: Project Healthy Iowa Men has one mission: to stop HIV in its tracks. But we’re doing things a little differently… No guilt, no shame, we’re here to help you do what you do… in the best way you can! To learn more, please visit us at ProjectHIM.org
Midwest Leather Weekend is the home of two great events: the Mr. Midwest Leather Contest and the new Midwest Puppy Contest. Both events will take place in October, 2012, in St. Louis, Missouri. The events will be hosted at Bad Dog Bar & Grill, 3960 Chouteau Avenue, St. Louis, MO. The Mr. Midwest Leather Contest is open to contestants throughout the 13 Midwest states: Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri, Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio, North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, and Kentucky. This year we are excited to be joining forces with the inaugural Midwest Puppy Contest which is open to the same 13 states. There were over 300 at just the Mr. Midwest Leather Contest last year so, yes, the attendance this year will be even greater. Friday, October 5 2012-9pm Introducing the Midwest Puppy Contest! Produced by Bad Dog Enterprises, Inc. and Christopher Tyger Roth, this event is licensed under the auspices of the International Puppy Contest. The event will feature
men who enjoy puppy play and the Alphas who train them. The contest is open to puppies from the thirteen Midwest States. The Puppy Mosh Pit Immediately following Contest Party with the Puppies and their Men after the Contest. Saturday, October 6 2012-10pm The Mr. Midwest Leather 2012 Contest! Produced by Charlie Schoenherr, this Leather title covers thirteen Midwest States. The current Mr. Midwest Leather 2011, Mike Prater, will be handing off the title to the next Mr. Midwest Leather, who will be representing the community at IML in 2013. The Midwest Leather Ball Immediately following Contest Party after the Mr. Midwest Leather Contest with the Leather Men of the Midwest Sunday, October 7 2012 11am-2pm Midwest Leather Weekend Brunch Join the participants of the weekend events for brunch. Meet the contestants, judges and staff and have a great meal.
The Mr. Midwest Leather Contest is open to contestants throughout the 13 Midwest states: Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri, Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio, North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, and Kentucky
OCTOBER 2012
Section 3: Community
ACCESSline Page 35