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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MARCH 2013
FIRST MCC OF KANSAS
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH
In Remembrance...
Celebrate the Easter Season with Us! March 24 • 10:15 am • Palm Sunday Service March 29 • 6:30 pm • Good Friday Service March 30 • 10:30 am • Brunch & Egg Hunt March 31 • 7 am • Easter Sunrise Service at Linwood Park 8 am • Easter Breakfast at FMCC 10:15 am • Easter Worship Service
Rev. Jackie Carter, M.Div.
156 S. Kansas Wichita, KS 67211 (316) 267-1852 www.MCCWichita.com www.GodLovesYouPeriod.com Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 12:00 Noon And By Appointment
EVERY THURSDAY 6 TO 9 PM IS... FMCC BINGO NIGHT PDI BINGO HALL • 1010 W. 41ST STREET S. 3RD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH IS BO/GO $20 PACKETS GOD LOVES YOU.
PERIOD Experience the Revolution™
THURSDAY PROFITS BENEFIT FMCC • MON/SAT BENEFITS PDI
ATTEND CHURCH IN YOUR UNDERWEAR? ONLY IF YOU WATCH OUR LIVESTREAM SERVICE SUNDAY AT 10:15 AM AT WWW.GODLOVESYOUPERIOD.COM ANNUAL FEED & SCAVENGER HUNT • APRIL 20TH CHECK NEXT MONTH’S AD FOR DETAILS
MARCH 2013
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MARCH 2013
A Journey In The Light Ministries
Living, Reaching, Teaching, Preaching the Word of God in Unity
Pastor Danny L. Medell
A full gospel ministry that still teaches Christ, Him crucified and the message of the cross.
2231 S Bluff Wichita, KS 67218 Pastor’s Phone: (316) 925-1102 www.journeyinthelightministries.com
We are a church that accepts everyone regardless of their race, color, social status, sexual orientation, where they are or where they have been in life.
We invite you to join us for worship every Sunday at 11:00 am
Find Liberty Press here! Dodge City
Dodge City High School, Hastings Books & Video
El Dorado
Pathways Psychological Services
Hays
Open Roads Community
Center
Hutchinson
Kansas Equality Coalition meetings
Joplin, MO
Spirit of Christ Metropolitan Community Church
Junction City
Rockstar and Rodgers, Xcalibur Club
Kansas City
Hamburger Mary’s
Lawrence
Aimee’s Coffeehouse, Bourgeois Pig, Community Mercantile, Douglas County AIDS Project, Dusty
Bookshelf, Ecumenical Christian Ministries, Einstein Bros. Bagel, Hashinger Hall, Haskell Shout OUT, Henry’s, Java Break, KU’s Dean of Students office, KU’s Multicultural Resource Center, La Prima Tazza, Lawrence Public Library, Love Garden Sounds, The Mirth Café, NetworQ, Queers & Allies office, The Raven Bookstore, Rudy’s Pizzeria, Third Planet, Wheatfield’s Bakery, Wilde’s Chateau 24, Yello Sub, Z’s Divine Espresso
Manhattan
The Bluestem Bistro, The Chef Café, Dusty Bookshelf, Ecumenical Campus Ministry, First Congregational Church, Flint Hills Human Right Project meetings, K-State LGBT Resource Center, K-State Student Union, K-State Women’s Center, On the Wild Side, People’s Grocery, Planet Sub, Queer-Straight Alliance meetings, Radina’s Bakery & Café (two locations), Rockstar and Rodgers, Sisters of Sound Music, Strecker-Nelson Gallery, Unitarian Universalist
Fellowship of Manhattan, Varsity Donuts
Pittsburg
Body Intuition, Pitt State GSA meetings
Salina
Saline County Health Dept.
Topeka
The Blue Planet, The Break Room, Classic Bean (two locations), Field of Greens, Flowers by Bill, Lazio’s Coffee Bar, Metropolitan Community Church of Topeka, Positive Connections, PT’s Coffee Roasting Co., The Razor’s Edge, Reece Nichols Real Estate, Skivvies, Three Flowers Metaphysical, Topeka/ Shawnee County Public Library, The Upstage Gallery, Washburn Mabee Library, Washburn Union, YWCA
Wichita
Adult Superstore, After Dark South, The Anchor, Barnes & Noble, Bungalow 26, The Center, Circle Cinema, City Arts, College Hill United
Methodist Church, Crazy J’s Furniture & Sleep Shop, The Donut Whole, Fetish Lingerie, Fisch Haus, First Metropolitan Community Church, First Unitarian Universalist Church, Harris & Co. Frame Shop, Hunter Health Clinic, J’s Lounge, A Journey in the Light, Junk in the Trunk, Kirby’s, KU Internal Medicine - Midtown, Light & Sound Spa, Mead’s Corner, Moe’s Sub Shop, Monica’s Bundt Cake Co., Mystic Planet, Our Fantasy Complex, Patricia’s, Peace & Social Justice Center, Pine Valley Christian Church, Planet Hair, Planned Parenthood, Positive Directions, Rain Café & Lounge, Side Street RetroLounge, Spice Merchant, The Store, Twist Yarn Shop, Vagabond Coffeeshop, Vegas Video, Watermark Books, Wichita Public Library downtown branch, WSU Rhatigan Student Center (info desk), WSU - That Gay Group meetings, WSU - Women’s Studies office, Xcitement Video
Would you like to see your business or organization on this list? It’s free! Contact Kristi at editor@libertypress.net to arrange for delivery of complimentary copies.
MARCH 2013
Liberty Press
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
On the Cover:
Volume 19, No. 7 • Editor: Kristi Parker • Contributors: Paul Berge, Dave Brousseau, Chef Curtis, Nolin Christensen, Danny Cooper, Bobby Crow Feather, Steve Einsel, Greg Fox, Charlene Lichtenstein, Mama, Audrey McQueen, Dr. Robert N. Minor, Stephanie Mott, Ben Rivers, Kevin Stilley • Staff Reporters: Helen Barnes, Amanda Barr, Angie Combs, Alisha Petersen, Ciara Reid • Contributing Photographers: Jan Carduff, Tami Garcia • Cover Design: Troy Dilport, photo by Tami Garcia • Graphic Designer: Troy Dilport • Webmaster: Ren Autrey • Publisher: The Liberty Press, LLC
Heart of America Men’s Chorus prepares for Out of My Range
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Subscriptions are $18/year
The “Liberty Press” and its contents may not be reproduced in any manner, either in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the publisher. All rights reserved. Unsolicited material may not necessarily be acknowledged or returned, is assumed intended for publication unless otherwise stated, and becomes the sole property of the Liberty Press. Letters to the editor and bylined columns reflect the views and opinions of the authors only and are not necessarily those of the Liberty Press, LLC or its staff. The Liberty Press reserves the right to refuse or restrict advertisements at the editor’s discretion. Advertisers and agencies assume liability for claims arising from the content of their ads. Publication of the name, photograph or likeness of any persons, organization or business in articles or advertisements in the Liberty Press in no way indicates or reflects their sexual orientation. First copy free, additional copies may be obtained for a nominal fee from the publisher.
P.O. Box 16315 Wichita, KS 67216-0315 phone: (316) 652-PRESS [7737] e-mail: editor@libertypress.net www.libertypress.net © 2013 The Liberty Press
CONTENTS WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY kicks off Pride Week....................................... 9 HASKELL UNIVERSITY TO HOST SECOND EVENT marking National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.....................................................10 LIBERTY PRESS’ BEST OF GAY WICHITA WINNERS............................14, 18 VALENTINE’S DINNER a big success!..........................................................20 ‘IT GETS BETTER’ RESONATES at the Lied Center...................................25 REVIEW The Theatre Company’s Cabaret.................................................29 125 YEARS OF LIBERAL RELIGION Unitarians of Wichita celebrate milestone...................................................................................................29 FLINT HILLS PRIDE gets rolling!....................................................................34
Regulars OP/ED editorial cartoon, poll results........................................................6 EDITORIALLY SPEAKING The State of our Union......................................6 WICHITA BEARS PICNIC BASKET Corned Beef and Cabbage.................12 MINOR DETAILS Can Lincoln Still Happen Here and Now?...................16 LEATHER LIFE Service...........................................................................21 TRANS-FORMATIVE The Only Functional Response to Hate..................24 AUDREY ASKS Ginger Rose...................................................................26 BOOKENDS Don’t Let Me Go and Gay Men Don’t Get Fat....................30
Around Kansas listings are free to non-profit/volunteer-based groups. Send your additions or corrections to editor@ libertypress.net.
IN EVERY ISSUE DISTRIBUTION LIST..................... 4 POINTS OF INTEREST.................. 8 MAMA KNOWS BEST.................. 13 COMICS....................................... 31 AROUND KANSAS...................... 32 POLL QUESTION........................ 32 CLASSIFIEDS.............................. 33 WEDDINGS/ENGAGEMENTS...... 33 OUT IN THE STARS.................... 33
Liberty Press
The Liberty Press distributes 4,000 copies a month in cities throughout Kansas, including Dodge City, Lawrence, Topeka, Wichita, Manhattan, Junction City, Hutchinson, El Dorado, Hays, Kansas City, Pittsburg and Salina.
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OP/ED
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MARCH 2013
A Monthly Collection of Opinions and Editorials.
The opinions represented here do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Liberty Press. We reserve the right to edit and cut submissions for space and grammatical content.
By Danny Cooper
W
Online Readers Poll 8 7 4 3 1 0
Results! 4% 0%
Partner/Fam I Like it Her Job 13% I'm Stuck Trying to Le Weather
Being LGBT, why do you live in Kansas? 8 7 4 3 1 0
35%
atching the most recent State of the Union address many things struck me as odd. All ideas regardless of merit or nonpartisan ideology were met with a partisan response. I thought that surely this was common practice among the political parties. I did a bit of research and looked back at past State of the Union addresses from former President George W. Bush and Bill Clinton to investigate whether this was commonplace. My findings were overwhelming unpartisan. From what I witnessed, regardless of what the topic, there existed decorum among those in the audience. No one shouted, “You
lie,” or refused to clap nor did they mouth or show clear nonverbal disagreements. So what has our president done that is so atrocious to illicit this response. I could suggest that his use of drones, his support for the Patriot Act and his inability to shut down Guantanamo Bay despite the overwhelming support to close the detention center. The only problem is that these ideas are widely ignored as simply national security measures. In 2000, in his State of the Union address, President Clinton asked America what went wrong. Regardless of his message about economic crisis and violence, his message
Partner/Family I Like it Here
4% 0% 35%
Job Partner/Family I Like it Here
I'm Stuck Job
17%
I'm Stuck Trying to Leave Trying to Leave
Weather Weather 31%
The State of our Union
31%
Sunday Worship, 10 AM FREE Community Meal Saturday, March 9, 5-6:30pm
“Ancient Words - Modern Questions” Adult Study Sunday, March 17 after worship Holy Week Services: Sample Seder Meal - Thursday, March 28, 6pm Good Friday Taize Worship - Friday, March 29, 8pm “Join in the Dance!” Easter Sunday Worship - March 31, 10am Metropolitan Community Church of Topeka 4425 SW 19th Street, Topeka, KS 66604 Phone: 785.272.1442 office@mcctopeka.org www.mcctopeka.org
MARCH 2013
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
rang clear that it is our goal as Americans to set things right. He expressed his desire for personal opportunity, the responsibility of all Americans to do their part and put forth the effort. He also cited the controversial Brady Bill which required further scrutiny before one could purchase a firearm. In most instances the chamber erupted in applause from both parties. Despite in 2000, Republicans were the majority in both the House and Senate. What has changed? What about Obama’s speech to the union was controversial? He spoke about everything from education to healthcare, to deficit reduction. He explained bipartisan initiatives that originated as Republican ideas, which he also supports. However, this time the chamber remained silent. Only when he touched on the topic of immigration reform did the Republicans seem to be in full support. What initially frightened me was when a Republican woman remained silent when the President addressed equal pay, fair treatment and the Violence
Against Women Act. What was even more frightening was that the Republicans decided to endorse Sen. Marco Rubio (FL) to address the country and rebut some of the important claims that President Obama addressed in his speech. What is bothersome is that not only did Marco Rubio vote against authorizing the Violence Against Women Act, he is an adamant supporter of the Defense of Marriage Act, he’s against gays serving in the military, and against the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. If Republicans are attempting to reach out minorities, including the GLBT community, why is Marco Rubio the best alternative to President Obama. What is the message they are trying to send? The message would appear to me that we are less focused on social equality, education, and being competitive in the world and more focused on what someone’s sexuality is. Furthermore, they seem to be pandering to all opinions regardless of their validity. We continued on page 32
walk to create a world free of MS
Be InspIred. Get connected. Walk Ms. Walk MS connects people living with MS and those who care about them. It is an experience unlike any other — a day to come together, to celebrate the progress we’ve made and to show the power of our connections.
Walk to create a World Free oF MultIple sclerosIs aprIl 6
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Greater Kansas City Garden City, KS Lawrence, KS Wichita, KS
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reGIster or volunteer Walk.MsMIdaMerIca.orG or 1-800-344-4867
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Free colon cancer screening kits offered
WICHITA – To help reduce the incidence of colon cancer in the Wichita community, free Fecal Occult Blood Tests (FOBTs) are once again available to individuals 50 years of age and older during the month of March – Colon Cancer Awareness Month. “Early detection is critical since colon cancer often produces no symptoms during early stages,” explains Jennifer Kelley, Community Manager for the American Cancer Society. “An FOBT is a cost-effective method to test for colon cancer symptoms. This annual test is painless and non-invasive and is conducted in the privacy and comfort of the patient’s home.” An estimated 1,250 new cases of colon cancer will be diagnosed in Kansas during 2013, and 490 people will die from the disease. However, colon cancer can be prevented if caught early. When found at its earliest, most treatable stage, colon cancer has a 90% survival rate. The American Cancer Society
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
recommends that everyone get tested for colon cancer starting at age 50. Free FOBT kits will be offered from Mar. 1-31 while supplies last at the following Walgreens locations: Central/ Hillside, 13th/Waco, Central/ West, Harry/Broadway, 55th/ Broadway, Harry/Edgemoor, and 13th/Woodlawn. For more information, visit cancer.org/bottomsupks or call (800) 227-2345.
will be awarded for the 20132014 academic year to a student who advocates for LGBT social justice with That Gay Group! members given preference. The scholarship can be found on the Office of Financial Aid website and a direct link to the application is listed here: http://webs.wichita.edu/ depttools/depttoolsmemberfiles/ finaid_scholarships/2014%20 Applications/Muma-Case%20 Scholarship%20App.pdf.
WSU LGBT social justice scholarship
Equal marriage rally
WICHITA - WSU is now accepting applications for the Muma-Case Equality Scholarship. The deadline is April 15. One $600 scholarship
WICHITA - On Mar. 26-27, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) will hear oral arguments on the constitutionality of The Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and
MARCH 2013
Proposition 8. Anticipation of these hearings has encouraged the creation of a grassroots campaign to organize rallies in states across the country. Light the Way to Justice (LTWTJ) launched in early February as “an organized, yet organic, effort to harness the power of grassroots passion into a national call to action and to peaceful demonstration for equality.” Light the Way to Justice is a collaboration between GetEQUAL and Marriage Equality USA, that want to “provide a vehicle for organizations to act locally in direct response to the hearings,” Brian Silva, Executive Director for Marriage Equality USA, said. Equality advocates nationwide will engage in demonstrations on Monday, Mar. 25. Currently 78 events have been scheduled in 37 states. Light the Way to Justice-Kansas will rally at the United States Court House, 401 N. Market, in Wichita at 7:30pm Mar. 25. A planning meeting will be held Mar. 4, at 6pm at Mead’s Corner, 430 E. Douglas. l
MARCH 2013
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Wichita State University kicks off Pride Week
By Ciara Reid, staff reporter
WICHITA - Wichita State University is about to have a lot to be proud of, as it gets ready to kick off a whole week’s worth of LGBTQ events Mar. 25-29 for the campus’ annual Pride Week. Patrick Moore is the president of WSU’s That Gay Group! (TGG). As one of the main sponsors of the Pride Week events, Moore says that the group aims to educate the campus community on LGBTQ issues, raise awareness, and promote a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Several events of the week will feature a speaker; one particular event will host Lieutenant Dan Choi, a military veteran who has become an activist for LGBTQ rights following his coming out on The Rachel Maddow Show
Divinty Masters has hosted the drag show since its inception three years ago.
in 2009. Another intriguing event is ‘Gay Acts.’ Moore describes this event as “members of TGG just studying, eating, talking… mundane acts that show that the LGBT community is no different than anyone else.” A new event for Pride Week is called Rainbow Flashmob – the flashmob term refers to the act of surprising the unsuspecting public with a group choreographed act such as singing or dancing . “It was inspired by other universities in the nation that have implemented such an event to promote what Pride Week is all about in a fun manner,” Moore says. One of the highlights of Pride Week is the drag show, scheduled for Friday, Mar. 29, now in its third year. The show features a Miss WSU pageant
Lt. Dan Choi, whose original appearance was canceled due to Superstorm Sandy, will speak Mar. 26.
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WSU Pride Week schedule: Monday, Mar. 25: Rainbow Flashmob, 12:30pm, Rhatigan Student Center patio Tuesday, Mar. 26: Lt. Dan Choi, 7pm, Hubbard Hall 208 Wednesday, Mar. 27: Gay Acts Thursday, Mar. 28: Wall of Support: Will You Be My Ally?, 11am-1pm, Hubbard Hall lobby; TGG Special Pride Meeting, 7pm, Devlin Hall 103 Friday, Mar. 29: Safe Zone Training, 3-5pm, Heskett Center 207; WSU Drag Show, 8-9:30pm, CAC Theatre competition and is open to any WSU student. Brad Thomison has performed as his drag persona Divinity Masters since 2008 and has hosted the WSU drag show since its inception three years ago. He won’t be entertaining the masses by himself – he’s included a few of his closest and most talented pals. “We are featuring Ivory James, a local show host who brings the glitz and glam of drag to the stage; Audrey McQueen, whose iconic look and great sense of humor shares smiles with everyone; Drag King Xplicit Ronee to bust a move and get all the boy-lovers hot and bothered, and one more ‘mystery queen’ who will have
you rolling in the aisles with laughter - but you have to attend to find out who that is!” he says. “The show is always a big hit and is one of the best attended student-life events on campus all year,” says Thomison. “We are anticipating more than 200 attendees this year and are excited to have such a strong presence on campus.” Despite the week being dedicated to showing pride for the LGBTQ community, Moore says there is no specific theme to the events. “We just work hard to get the message across to our community that we are all amazing and we can all work together to make this world even better,” he says. l
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MARCH 2013
Haskell University to host second event marking National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
By Bobby Crow Feather
LAWRENCE - For many, Mar. 20 will mark the first day of spring, for others it marks the seventh observance of National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. “I think that it is really important. A lot of times, we see people who are celebrating an event and we know it affects us, but we aren’t sure how. That’s why having our own separate day to focus on how it is impacting our people, our traditions, our culture, US; that’s why it’s important,” John WarringThunder said. “Native Americans represent a small segment of the population and one new infection truly jeopardizes a community in ways that many don’t quite understand or are not fully able to grasp yet,” Brenda Damon said. “One new infection could very well mean the end of a family, a clan, a specific group, and maybe eventually a people. It’s really scary when you step back and see the big picture.” That’s why Haskell Indian Nations University is hosting its second annual event to promote awareness in the Native community by discussing what
Shana Cozad will share her experiences as an HIV-positive Native woman, Mar. 8.
HIV/AIDS is and how it affects Native people. In 2012, the Haskell Social Work Club hosted a variety of presenters including Lisa Tiger, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma and a resident of Santa Fe, NM. This year’s event will feature a noted HIV activist and writer in Indian Country: Shana Cozad. The event will be hosted on the Haskell campus on Mar. 8. For more information, contact the Haskell Social Work Club sponsor at mholder@haskell. edu. For directions to the Haskell campus, visit www.haskell.edu. l
march 23 & 24,
MARCH 2013
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. sat 8pm • sun 4pm
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folly theater 300 west 12th, kcmo dr. joseph p. nadeau, artistic director
H M C ’ S 27 T H S E A S O N I S U N D E RW R I T T E N BY H OT E L P H I L L I P S
12/13 season
tickets from $15: www.hmckc.org or 816.931.3338
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MARCH 2013
Corned Beef and Cabbage 2-1/2 pounds corned beef brisket with spice packet 8 small red potatoes 5 carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces 1 large head cabbage, cut into small wedges 1. Place corned beef in large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Add the spice packet that came with the corned beef. Cover pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer approximately 50 minutes per pound or until tender. 2. Add whole potatoes and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are almost tender. Add cabbage and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove meat and let rest 15 minutes. 3. Place vegetables in a bowl and cover. Add as much broth (cooking liquid reserved in the Dutch oven or large pot) as you want. Slice meat across the grain. l
MARCH 2013
M
ama, How do remove a wine stain from carpet? Cleaning You do not drink wine where there is carpet! Duh! Maybe if you stopped with just one glass instead of the whole damn bottle you would not spill it. Call Steamatic. Dear Mama, How do you deal with or handle a nosy neighbor? Private I usually do things that will shock the hell out of them. By the way Iola, I know this is you writing me. Get over it! I own my house and I will look out my damn window any time I want. I have binoculars now! Hey Mama, I bought a watch at Wal-Mart last month for around $10 and the band broke. When I went to purchase another band it was more than what I paid for the watch. Why is it that way? Not signed I will tell you why, because we are a country that is very wasteful. The watch band is more than buying a new watch just like a men’s razor to get a blade or screen guard is more than buying a new one. This is an irritant of mine. I guess we have to look at the majority of customers shopping there. If you go shopping in PJs and hair not combed then you would not be concerned about being wasteful or your appearance. I’m sure a
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
lot of people meet their mates there. NOT! Mama, What do you think of Justin Bieber getting caught with marijuana? A fan I think he got so sick of himself he had to get stoned to tolerate his snotty little butt. He is an annoying little teeny-bopper! I’d rather have hemorrhoids than hear him sing or watch him! He better straighten out or he will be the male version of Lindsay Lohan! Dearest Mama, How are you going to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Easter? Green Egg Are you asking me out on a date? If you are, you better have the looks of Andy Griffith and the money of Donald Trump! I plan to have a beer on St. Patrick’s and dye eggs on Easter. I hope that satisfies your curiosity. If it did not then kiss my Blarney stone and go lay an egg! Thank you Wichita for all the support! Love, Mama! Catch Mama’s Annual Comedy Show to benefit Wichita Pride, Friday, April 5 at 9pm at Side Street! The show includes lots of fabulous talents and a surprise guest from Mama’s own family! l Have a question for Mama? E-mail MamaTHarper@aol.com or friend Thelma Harper on Facebook.
Win 2 tickets to Dreamgirls at Century II in Wichita, Mar. 19! Register at www.libertypress.net
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MARCH 2013
“We are honored to be chosen in these categories. The Bears may be seen at Bears in the Heat or La Cage performing campy drag, raising monies for charities, such as First MCC’s Loaves & Fishes, Positive Directions, the Sweet Emergency Fund and more. Our focus is Unity in the Community. Thank you for voting for the Wichita Bears.”
how very grateful and honored we feel to be the recipient of two “Best of Gay Wichita” awards voted on by the readers of the Liberty Press. It is such a great privilege to be selected for those awards. We are genuinely and deeply appreciative of your support through the years, and hope we can continue to be of service to not only our customers, but carry on our enduring and dedicated commitment to the gay/bi/trans community and its allies as well. We thank each of you for your support in this, our 32nd year of operation, and look forward to making many more new friends in the coming years!”
LGBT Organization Wichita Bears www.wichitabears.org “We are honored to be chosen in these categories. The Bears may be seen at Bears in the Heat or La Cage performing campy drag, raising monies for charities, such as First MCC’s Loaves & Fishes, Positive Directions, the Sweet Emergency Fund and more. Our focus is Unity in the Community. Thank you for voting for the Wichita Bears.”
hat a success! Thank you Bartender for the hundreds of votes Bobby Hise we received in our first try Fantasy Complex
at Reader’s Choice awards billed the Best of Gay Wichita! Votes came in online and by mail throughout January into the first week of February, and truly showed the diversity of our community. There were three categories that we decided not to award because there were too many nominees that split the votes. Those were Drag King, Realtor and Attorney. Congratulations to all the winners of the Liberty Press’ 2013 Best of Gay Wichita awards! We look forward to 2014!
LGBT Event Leather Camp Produced by the Wichita Organization of Leather Fetishes (WOOLF) www.woolfks.com or www.leathercamp. com “Thank you to the community for voting for WOOLF’s Leather Camp as the Best of Gay Wichita reader’s choice award for Best Event. We have been producing this event for eight years and are planning a blowout event for the 10-year anniversary in 2014. Please join us for Leather Camp 9 this coming Aug. 16–18, 2013.” LGBT Fundraiser La Cage aux Bears Produced by the Wichita Bears to benefit First MCC’s Loaves & Fishes food pantry www.wichitabears.org
The Christmas Bears
“Hello readers! First off I want to say, “Thanks” to everyone who voted for me as Best of Gay Wichita Bartender, also I would like to thank our customers who make my job possible. A huge thanks to Xplicit Ronee/Angie Peters, who taught me everything I know about bartending. A big thanks to Kelley [Hoffman] and Kelly [Little] for keeping the Fantasy a fun place for all of us to go. Lastly, thank you Kristi Parker for running the Liberty Press and keeping us informed! Thanks and see you all soon!” XOXO Bobby Hise/Chicken Little Dance Floor Fantasy Complex 3201 S. Hillside www.wichitagayclubs.com “The Fantasy Complex would like to express how very grateful and honored we feel to be the recipient of two “Best of Gay Wichita” awards voted on by the readers of the Liberty Press. It is such a great privilege to be selected for those awards. We are genuinely and deeply appreciative of your support through the years, and hope we can continue to be of service to not only our customers, but carry on our enduring and dedicated commitment to the gay/bi/trans community and its allies as well. We thank each of you for your support in this, our 32nd year of operation, and look forward to making many more new friends in the coming years!” Place to Grab a Beer South Forty 3201 S. Hillside www.wichitagayclubs.com “The Fantasy Complex would like to express
Place to Meet Women The Store 3210 E. Osie (316) 683-9781 “All of us here at The Store thank you for your patronage, and your friendship. We absolutely appreciate all your votes and look forward to being one of the best little places you’ll want to come and call home. Let’s rock 2013 with Good Times and Good Friends!!” Place to Meet Men Rain Café & Lounge 518 E. Douglas www.raincafeandlounge.com “We wish to thank all who voted for us and let you know we are thankful for your support and honored to have you as our patrons! We are proud to provide our city with a fun, quality venue that promotes a positive image to all of our community.” -Allen and William at Rain Theme Night The Store’s Glow Party 3210 E. Osie (316) 683-9781 “All of us here at The Store thank you for your patronage, and your friendship. We absolutely appreciate all your votes and look forward to being one of the best little places you’ll want to come and call home. Let’s rock 2013 with Good Times and Good Friends!!” Mixed Drink
The deliciously famous Bloody Binns!
The Store’s Bloody Binns 3210 E. Osie (316) 683-9781 “All of us here at The Store thank you for your patronage, and your friendship. We absolutely appreciate all your votes and look forward to being one of the best little places continued on page 18
MARCH 2013
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MA R 9 & CH 10!! !
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Minor
Details By Bob Minor
Can Lincoln Still Happen Here and Now?
O
ne lesson most moviegoers picked up from Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln was that the workings of Congress have always involved downright ugly wheeling and dealing. Votes were bought, sold, and traded to pass both good and bad legislation. The laudatory goal of that January 1865 backroom and back-alley horse trading was to pass the Thirteenth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution, outlawing slavery and involuntary servitude. Lincoln and Secretary of State, William Seward, were uncomfortable with offering direct monetary bribes to buy the necessary votes, but instead authorized agents to under-handedly contact Democratic congressmen with offers of federal jobs in exchange for their support. Americans can cling to the idea that their country is somehow virtuous, even uniquely so. But contrary to what we might want to believe about America as an exceptionally pristine nation moving in some providential way toward the expansion of liberty, the fact is that the good that’s been accomplished has often been achieved by moving politicians through appeal to their pocketbooks, their desire to amass fortunes, offers of opportunities for their personal futures, and other base, egotistic needs. There’s no evidence that such political motivations have disappeared. But what has changed is that what Lincoln had to offer as incentives is no longer effective. Honest Abe offered patronage appointments that guaranteed that lame duck politicians could live out their days in secure federal jobs. Back then that was an effective payment for their
vote. Today a similar offer of a government job has little appeal. It can’t compete financially with vastly more lucrative corporate, lobbying, or consulting jobs waiting to reward politicians who vote pro-corporate and, thereby, earn those positions before they exit government. Today’s reality is that even being voted out of office is hardly a penalty in the ongoing culture of “the best Congress money can buy.” To lose an
victories. Thus, Democrats are willing to move further to the right-wing while the right-wing jumps up and down in the same place. There are exceptions among the Democrats, probably none any longer among the Republicans in Congress. But for some reason Senate Democrats continue to elect Harry Reid as their leader even though he can’t seem to lead his majority to a win. Reid’s recent whining about Republican misuse of the filibuster follows his capitulation to Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell after expressing his frustration with Republican filibuster misuse in 2012. Reid caved, and one wonders what Harry got out of the deal for himself. Either Harry and the Democrats who continue to let him lead don’t know how things work and don’t pay attention to recent history, or they have a stake in keeping things the way they are.
“[F]or some reason Senate Democrats continue to elect Harry Reid as their leader even though he can’t seem to lead his majority to a win.” election means that one is going to enter a much better paid career through the revolving door into lobbying and consulting. Yet one will only earn such a reward if one has consistently voted for what benefits one’s future corporate employers. So, though we might ask why many politicians aren’t thinking logically, or in the light of what works economically, or for the betterment of the whole country, these have become less relevant questions. Sadly, it’s true in either party. It explains why Democratic leadership is repeatedly unwilling to actively confront Republicans, why they keep acting as if Republican leadership includes honest brokers, why the Democratic millionaires in the Senate appear to think that Republicans will miraculously repent and act in ways they haven’t in over a decade. Most in Congress, no matter what political party they claim, will financially benefit personally from Republican
Fool you once, Harry, shame on the Republicans. Fool you how many times now, Harry and your senators, shame on you. So, what motivates lawmakers today? Choose one or more: (1) Ideology. So entranced by their ideological stands, and so caught in ideological bubbles, or so caught in an Obama derangement syndrome, no set of facts will change them. They’re like advanced addicts for whom only personally hitting bottom could dislodge them. Otherwise, they’ll never identify with anything that’ll disrupt their entrenched worldview. (2) Power and Prestige. Once people have accumulated massive fortunes and found that money doesn’t bring fulfillment, they turn for personal fulfillment to the accumulation of power and adulation especially from those in the upper class whom they accept as worthy competitors. They’re more likely to be affected by the threat
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of losing their elected positions, unless, like Jim DeMint, they become convinced that they’ll accumulate more power in the world of lobbying. And another source of prestige is the attention they can get as FOX News personalities. (3) Money. There are lawmakers committed to corporate goals because they see this as the way to further their careers and accumulate millions after leaving politics. A legislative position is the place to increase their financial value to corporate America by making insider government connections and proving they are worth the money they hope to gain later. (4) Security. Politics is a tool to secure these lawmakers’ personal business interests by ensuring laws increasing their tax and other advantages. They see themselves as barriers preventing government from adding restrictions and financial costs to their wealth. (5) Benevolence and pity. No matter how much of it is moneyraising and at times kow-towing to people with money, politics is a chance to improve the lives of others even at personal cost. That price could be financial loss, but doing the right thing could even mean the end of political office. Staying in power can have multiple, often lower, motives. No matter how we want to believe that politicians will be moved by benevolence, logic, facts, the “good of the country” or “what’s best for citizens,” the reality is usually quite different. So, when we approach politicians, let’s abandon any illusions. Let’s do it realistically. Let’s recognize that we’re confronting self-centered reasons for hanging onto power. And then proceed in the light of Frederick Douglass’ realism: “Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and never will.” l 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.
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community and all the bars for their support. I especially have to thank Rick Finney and David Rowlette for insisting I perform at Side Street Retro-Lounge over six years ago as Mama! It means so much to me. Thank you.” Local DJ Michael K. Fantasy Complex
you’ll want to come and call home. Let’s rock 2013 with Good Times and Good Friends!!” Overall Bar Side Street Retro-Lounge 1106 S. Pattie (316) 267-0324 “Rick, David and the staff at Side Street would like to thank all of you for this prestigious award! We are proud to be a part of the Wichita gay community and to provide its members with Rick Finney and David Rowlette a place to gather, drink, dance and meet new friends. We look forward to many more years of service. We wouldn’t be here without you!” Hair Salon The Hair Force 1113 S. Rock Road (316) 684-3361 Gay-Friendly Restaurant or Coffeeshop La Chinita Mexican Restaurant 1451 N. Broadway (316) 267-1552 “Thank you for voting La Chinita Best Restaurant. We f e e l v e r y honored. Thank you so much for your continued support.” Drag Queen Scott Hollander as Mama “I am very shocked! I cannot believe I won this honor with so many other talented and titleholding impersonators in this community. I am truly blessed and honored by this award. I have to say thank you to the
“Thanks to all those who voted for me!! Most importantly, I must thank the clubgoers for coming out!! A special thanks to my biggest supporters, my mother Dawn, my best friend Mike Love, my husband Kenny Sutton, and Kelley [Hoffman] and Kelly [Little], and all the way from NYC, Singer Adam Barta! I also must thank all the club owners who have had me in their clubs over the years!” Local Musician/Singer Shaun-Michael Morse shaunmichaelmorse.com “Thank you Liberty Press and members of the gay community for honoring me with the Best of Gay Wichita Reader’s Choice award for Best Local Musician/Singer! I’d like to thank the many local theater companies, the wonderful people at First Metropolitan Community Church, my family for their love and support, and the Giver of the Gift.” Local Actor Dale Jones
“Wow, I wasn’t expecting this! Thanks to all who voted for me! I love the theater no matter on stage or backstage. And thankfully Wichita has abundant opportunities to do both. Thanks again!”
Theater Wichita Community Theatre 258 N. Fountain wichitact.org/ “WTC is proud to accept this honor bestowed on us by the Liberty Press and its readers. As an all volunteer arts organization we strive to bring the best of the classics, drama, comedies and newer thought-provoking productions to the stage. We are very grateful for the support shown to us over the years by our patrons and the Liberty Press.”
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Educator Steve Einsel
“I am honored to be selected for the Educator of the Year Award! Having taught high school for 33 years, I have enjoyed working with our youth. I have also enjoyed educating our community about ‘the Bears’ the past few years writing stories and articles about the Wichita Bears. Thank you all who voted for me!” Massage Therapist Brad Thomison Light and Sound Spa 4605 E. Kellogg www.lightandsoundspa.com “I am honored to be selected as the Massage Therapist winner for the Liberty Press’ first Best of Gay Wichita Award. I am a proud member of Wichita’s LGBT business community and I am very grateful for all of the friends and clients who voted for me. Thank you all for supporting local LGBT business - we are strong together!” Business Person Chef Curtis Isley Executive Sous Chef, Hyatt Regency “I was very surprised when I was notified that I was chosen as Business Person for Liberty Press’ Best of Gay Wichita 2013. No matter in which language it is said - Merci, Dank U Well, Toda, Danke, Mahalo, Grazie, Gracias or Thank you - I want to extend a sincere ‘Thank You’ to everyone that voted for me in this category.” Community Leader Rev. Jackie Carter First Metropolitan Community Church 151 S. Kansas w w w. m c c w i c h i t a . c o m o r w w w. godlovesyouperiod.com “Thank you, Wichita. I am honored and humbled to accept this award. I am grateful that you trust me to be one of the voices in our community speaking out for justice, equality and hope. I look forward to continuing to work together to create a brighter future for all people.” l
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I didn’t survive... LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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Breast Cancer Treatment
Depression & Suicide Attempts
Coming Out & High School Bullying
...to die early from smoking. When you’re ready, we’re here to help.
take in your health Stop by the PRIDE Health Fair for a Last Drag Quit Kit
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By Steve Einsel
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Valentine’s Dinner a big success!
WICHITA - The Wichita Bears’ Valentine Dinner was a huge success with a great meal, fun, games and a large donation to First Metropolitan Community Church’s Loaves and Fishes food pantry. The event held at the South Forty on Feb. 9 hosted over 40 people, singles and couples, for a great dinner of lasagna, salad and dessert. Wichita Bears VicePresident, Chef Curtis Isley prepared the food including vegetarian and gluten-free meals. Desserts were provided by the Bears — homemade decadent desserts such as cherry chocolate cake, coconut cake, cherry and blueberry heart-shaped cheesecakes and strawberry shortcakes. The attendees of the event helped raise more funds than projected with a donation of $500 to the food pantry as a result of the dinner, games and auction. A couple of games raised money from participation
of the diners - the toilet paper roll pass and musical chairs brought a lot of fun to the evening and money to participate and/or votes for the winning teams. Ken Smith donated a Valentine’s basket, Kelley Hoffman and Rollin Dillinger donated items, Steve Einsel donated homemade jellies and jams for drawings from dinner tickets. Because the food pantry serves over 200 people weekly, it is a stretch for the church to maintain at times, thus the Wichita Bears reached out to the community to help support the cause. Pastor Jackie Carter told Wichita Bears president Ben Breese that she had put an order in for food from the Food Bank on Friday. When asked how she was going to pay for it, her reply was, “God will provide.” Holding up the check that Breese had presented to her, she said, “And God provided as he has promised!” “We are so happy that our community came out to help support MCC’s outreach
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From left: Ben Breese, Curtis Isley, Kelley Hoffman and Claudia Griffith after the blindfolded dress-up for Valentine’s Day game. Blindfolded, unsuspecting victims didn’t know what they were in for!
providing food for the hungry,” Breese said. “Community service is one of the main hallmarks of the Wichita Bears and we enjoy working with Jackie and MCC
members!” Plans are to have a Second Annual Valentine’s Dinner next year. l
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Leather Life By Nolin Christensen aka Master C
This column is dedicated to explaining to others what the Leather lifestyle is about and what we do.
O
Service
ne of the underlining fundamentals of the leather community is service. Submissives serve their Doms and the Doms serve the community. This is the bedrock of our community. All respectable communities have this quality. This is the same for the religious community (or at least it SHOULD be) as well as for any nation or group of people. A wise man, Hubert Humphrey once said “...the moral test of government is how that government treats those who are in the dawn of life, the children; those who are in the twilight of life, the elderly; those who are in the shadows of life; the sick, the needy and the handicapped.” When we provide services to those who can’t provide for themselves, that is when we are truly great. Although religion, government and nations serve the masses, each of us individually can serve on a one-on-one service to someone. That is what occurs within the leather community. When you are in the service of others and not for yourself that is when one is truly happy. Selfish people are always miserable, why? Because deep down within the deepest depth of the human core, is the need to serve. On the way to that deepest depth is the need to feel wanted. We need to figure out that to fulfill that need to be wanted and needed,
we need to serve. Once you put aside your own wants and desires and you serve, you will find that personal wants, desires and needs will occur. When serving others, you feel complete. It took me a long, long time to figure this out (yeah, I’m hard-headed!). But once I came to this realization, then my life started to become more and more whole. In the leather community, it is this one-on-one service to another that has aided this community to endure and survive. For a true submissive, their deep down nature is to serve. They are happiest when serving their Dominant. Within our community, the submissive has two mottos: “to honor, serve, and obey” and “to give your life, heart, and soul to your Dom.” (Note: These same two mottos can also be used by those in the religious communities, whereas the leather community it is their Dom, the religious community it is to their God.) The other part of our community is the Dominant. How does the Dominant serve? In our community we have a mentoring system. It is here that the Dominant serves. They serve by mentoring others about our lifestyle. The submissive serves the Dom and the Dom serves the newcomers, and thus it causes the cycle to keep repeating. The Doms also serve by helping the leather community at-large by leadership and mentoring others within our community. If you would like to learn more about service either within the leather community or just how to properly serve another, mentor with someone in the leather community. Besides the Doms, the submissives can also mentor someone in this regard. But remember, for proper leather protocol, before approaching a submissive, please ask their Dom first. If you are interested in learning more about the leather community in Wichita, you are welcome to join WOOLF for our monthly meeting and social night out. Visit us at www. woolfks.com or ask any of us when you see us out. l
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The Only Functional Response to Hate
H
e has changed so much. He has really grown. He is doing good things. These are the words the man said. Talking about me. A couple months ago. At a gathering for celebration of my seven years sans alcohol. My celebration was ended in a cruel, intentional moment of pure ignorance and prejudice. Evidence clearly concluded that this was no accident. A purposeful act. Intended to bring pain to me. Its mission was accomplished. All I could think of was that I needed to respond, rather than react. I suppose the interspersing of a breath or two has resulted from the knowledge gained by activism. That effectiveness is not nearly so much a product of reaction, as it is a product of response. And I did respond. Simply making it clear that what had happened was unacceptable, but steering clear of causing
additional harm. The gathering soon came to an end, and true friends who witnessed the inexcusable attack on my soul, came to my side. Needing to know for their own well-being, as well as mine, that I was okay. A particularly wonderful friend suggested that we hop over to the neighborhood coffee bar, and visit for a bit. I was all too happy to receive his genuine act of love. As we visited for perhaps an hour or two, I began what would be a month-long adventure of processing all the things I thought required by those two or three minutes of purposefullydelivered pain. I had the power. I had the power to bring harm to my perpetrator. Serious, significant harm. Yet I do believe that the only functional response to hate is love. Through grace greater than me, I chose to do no harm. A couple weeks later, on
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Thanksgiving evening, the same woman. What my heart believed, friend who comforted me, and that my mind knew was not true, a very dear sister-friend, were was that this man’s inability helping me talk about the things to see me as a woman was a about which I needed to talk. statement about how all men see You might not want to hear this, me. If a man does not see me as she said, but you might not have a woman, how on earth will he a right to the answer you’re see me as a person with whom looking for. Of course, she was he can share his life. right. I was trying to understand For a month, my heart why it had all happened. And held tightly to the idea that she was right. I do not have the my prince would never come right to possess that answer. I because he would not be able was holding onto something that to see me as a woman. There was not mine. is a new mutually-agreed-upon A n d s o , t h e m a t t e r o f understanding between my heart processing moved from the and my mind. My prince will see arena of why did it happen, to me completely as a woman. And the arena of why did it hurt so he is out there somewhere. Just badly. There was never any waiting for the right moment. conscious thought that what I have always been me. I happened was about me, or my just lived in a very small, dark womanhood. My mind never world for a very long time. I did considered it. Not even for a not become a woman. I stopped single moment. But my heart pretending to be a man. My, how doesn’t always have access to much different it is, to live in the same information as does my the light. My heart is healed. At mind. least, my heart is healed enough Another couple weeks later, to feel sorrow for a man who still sharing a meal with my very lives in a very small, dark world. dear sister-friend, the answer And I still believe that the to this question – which I do only functional response to hate have a right to – had become is love. I am blessed to have a clear. As luck would have it, I great many people in my world find myself attracted to men. If who teach me this on a daily sexual orientation were a choice, basis. Strange that I should learn I would make a different one. more about love by standing up However, I don’t get to choose to hate. my sexual orientation. I suppose the interspersing On the rare occasions when I of a breath or two has resulted am referred to in the masculine from the knowledge gained by these days, it is nearly always activism. That effectiveness is 2:23:51 PM by a man. AlmostCISmagnet.eps never by1 a10/18/2011 not nearly so much a product of reaction, as it is a product of response. And I did respond. Simply making it clear that what had happened was unacceptable, but steering clear of causing additional harm. l Stephanie Mott is a transsexual woman from Topeka. She is the executive director of the Kansas Statewide Transgender Education Project and state chair of the Kansas Equality Coalition. Reach her at stephanieequality@ yahoo.com.
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‘It Gets Better’ resonates at the Lied Center
By Ciara Reid, staff reporter
LAWRENCE - The it gets better performance at the Lied Center on Feb. 16 was the culmination of a week’s worth of activities focused on the issue of bullying, and the energy of the performance perhaps had a lot to do with how entrenched the cast and its director Liesel Reinhart became in the community in just a matter of days. The show is the creation of Reinhart of Speak Theater Arts, and is a partnership between the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles (GMCLA) and the it gets better project. Reinhart and the cast members spent the entire week in Lawrence – on the University of Kansas campus and throughout the community at middle schools and high schools - participating in various activities that focused on the issue of bullying in the LGBTQ community. The impact this tour has made so far can be measured by this fact: several members of the community chorus at the show’s premiere stop at the University of Iowa last October made the trip to see the show at the Lied Center. The cast, which features six members of the GMCLA (Jason Currie, Tyler Houston, Tod Macofsky, Mario Mosley, Sacha Sacket and Drew Tablak), spent the week working with choral members from Lawrence middle schools and high schools on a group performance integrated into the end of the show. Activities throughout the week included meetings with the GSA group from Lawrence High School and a panel on LGBT issues from around the world. Even ‘nerd night’ at Pachamama’s got involved in the it gets better frenzy; both Reinhart and the show’s producer Bill Bowersock presented. Not only did the activities serve an important educational purpose, they have also spurred action beyond the event’s culmination: the World Café Allies Group activity resulted in the creation of a Facebook page of the same name that has garnered over 1,000 likes in less than a week. Throughout the performance, the actors took turns stepping
outside of their characters to share their own personal experiences with coming out and the issue of bullying. Sacket’s experience was particularly intriguing; having been born in Iran and raised in San Fernando, California, a place he said was surprisingly a lot like Iran but “with more Applebee’s.” He also shared an original song he wrote after he learned of a young man’s suicide because he was bullied. All the cast members’ stories were heartfelt and at times, hilarious. Tablak’s story was a perfect blend of both and extremely powerful; growing up, he told the audience he wished he was told that it was possible to be both Christian and gay. The show opens in Tyler Houston’s character CJ’s bedroom. A victim of bullying, he goes online to find relief, and with each click of the mute button, a new character comes to life in his room. The audience was treated to a visual and musical narrative that was often times laugh-out-loud funny, but also deeply attentive to the issue of bullying and the fact that it truly does get better. The interactive structure of the show allowed each performance to be completely unique to the community. The show featured a local it gets better video of a female-to-male transgendered person, and then the cast brought him on stage for a short interview. During the post-performance ‘talk back’ session with the cast, the audience had the opportunity to ask questions about the show or the issue of bullying. Questions ranged from asking Mosley how long it took him to dress in drag for the show (“It’s a process,” he said) to how teachers could better handle bullying situations in their schools. Reinhart and her cast continue to spread the message of it gets better to several other campuses nationwide on their tour. If the other universities experience what the University of Kansas and the Lawrence community have throughout the week, the positive impact will be felt long after the performance itself. l
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H
ello once again Kansas! It has been such a busy month for me. I hope everyone in the Sunflower State is doing well! This month I am excited to announce that I had the pleasure of interviewing a longtime friend and sister of mine, Ginger Rose! Ginger and I started drag together around the same time almost three years ago, and she has definitely grown a lot since she started. I’m very excited she is my March interview! So let’s get this dang interview started! I give you Miss Ginger Rose! Audrey McQueen: Well hello Ginger, thank you so much for doing an interview with me today!
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Ginger Rose: It’s great to finally meet you in person! Ha! AM: I know, right, it always is great meeting one of your idols such as myself. Just kidding! My first question for you today is, how did you get your drag name? GR: I got my name from a few friends bouncing around ideas and it stuck. Plus it made a connection for my character to my grandmother Jessie. We were the only Gingers in the family, both have a love for roses, as well as being the only gays in our family. AM: Do you have any current titles? GR: I’m currently Miss Gay
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Ginger Rose
Wichita Newcomer 2012.
AM: Very nice. I must add she competed for Miss Kansas USofA Newcomer last month and was stunning as usual! Do you have any inspirations? GR: I have too many to count! Of course I give credit to MacKenzie Carmichael, Brown Sugar, and Erotica Romance, but also to all my sisters and friends! AM: How would you describe your first time doing drag? GR: My first time was a mess! Let’s not talk about that night! Ha! AM: What would you say was the best moment while doing drag? GR: My favorite moment was when I won MGWN. It was the last time I saw my grandmother before she passed and it was great to see how proud she was of me. AM: I like that! So where can
we see you perform? GR: Every Friday night on the weekend pass with Jamie Ray Downes and a few others! AM: Plus me! Ha! Do you have anything else you would like to add to close out this thing? GR: It was a blast speaking with you! And don’t forget to add me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter for any important updates and performances! Thank you so much Ginger for doing this interview with me today! I hope everyone enjoyed this month’s article. Some important dates coming up: Cancer is a Drag Mar. 8 at Fantasy, a benefit for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, starting at 9:30pm as well as the Miss Gay Wichita Pageant Mar. 22 at Fantasy starting at 9:30pm! Thank you all so much for reading. And this is what Audrey Asked! l
We now take American Express!
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LIVE ON STAGE! LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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“ALL YOU’VE GOT TO DO IS DREAM!” TICKETS
$35
START AT
MAR. 19-21 • CENTURY II CONCERT HALL wichitaTIX.com • 316.219.4849 •
Tickets at the WichitaTIX Box Office. Groups (15+): 1.866.314.7687 Wichita Theater League
@BroadwayKS
.com
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Heart of America Men’s Chorus prepares for Out of My Range
By Helen Barnes
BOOM -- there it is!) The original music WICHITA - The next show for and lyrics for Out of My the Heart of America Men’s Range are by Michael Chorus (HOAMC) is titled Out Shaieb, and the book of My Range (and other age- was written by Shaieb related performance issues). It and Brent Lord. Both is scheduled for Saturday, Mar. men form the artistic 9 at 7pm and Sunday, Mar. 10 team of FatLab music. at 4:30pm, at the De Mattias Shaieb and Lord created Fine Arts Center at Newman an inside look at a gay University. Out of My Range men’s chorus in Out of will be an exciting look into the My Range. The songs inner workings of a gay men’s d e s c r i b e t h e a r c o f chorus. preparation, struggle, The music for the show was e m o t i o n ( l o w s a n d HOAMC performing in last summer’s 10th anniversary concert, Reflections. Photo by Tami Garcia initially commissioned by the highs), and success that takes Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus place as a chorus readies itself itself in and out of the story is strong, too. According to Eric what it means to be a gay man Nachtigal, spending time with out of Minneapolis/St. Paul. for a performance. HOAMC members heard it at What is interesting about and how one navigates out in his peers is “uplifting and you the Denver GALA Choruses the focus is that, instead of the rest of the world. Out of can get support.” Festival this past year. Excited individuals as characters in the My Range examines this with This feeling was echoed by what they heard, HOAMC musical performance, the chorus sensitivity and humor. The show by Travis Zirkle, who says his m e m b e r s t a l k e d D e a n n e is the character. As such, the also explores what it means favorite thing about being a part Zogleman, their director, into music is designed to bring the to be a man in a world where of HOAMC is that “you can doing the show. Overwhelmed audience back to the whole – this the barometer for masculinity be who you are and there isn’t by the interest exhibited by the group of men of various ages and generally doesn’t include a love any judgment.” Zirkle has also started a blog about HOAMC chorus members and because of backgrounds who have at least of show tunes. In order to see for myself how and is keeping a video-diary of her love for the guys, Zogleman two things in common and one Out of My Range was shaping up, the practices, which he has been honored their request. of them is music. This probably wasn’t a This group is something to be I attended a recent rehearsal. The posting. You can get a preview difficult decision, as most of reckoned with, too, as one song personality of the chorus is really of Out of My Range from the the works speak to the solidarity asserts that the boys in the chorus coming through a mere three practice clips by logging on of community and the friendship are “a force of nature and you weeks out from the show. There to heartofamericamenschorus. that can be found when working can’t ignore us.” Yet there is the were a few rough spots, as in any blogspot.com. So far, the blog with people of like mind. One recognition that each individual rehearsal, but everybody was has been pretty popular, logging song proclaims that its singers subtly lends to that power: “the working hard and their attitudes over 600 “reads” from ten different countries. are “better together” and can chorus is a multi-faceted entity.” were high. It helped that Zogleman is Hobert added that people “always find that silver lining,” Other songs speak to the safety regardless of whether “buildings that can be found in numbers. positive, energetic, and right should come see the show crumble.” Additionally, One composition offered advice on top of everything. (Let me because it is something that humor is evident in the songs, by reminding everyone that say at this juncture I am in awe will “promote the acceptance along with the recognition when it looks like the world is of people who can hear that of diversity in our community. that the audience is part of the treating one badly, be sure to rely an eighth note pause should Everyone will also get to see an chorus’ larger raison d’etre. The on friends. “If it doesn’t work be here and not there – wow!) inside look at the chorus.” He same song mentioned above and the bell don’t ring, have the The chorus was responsive believes it will be a lot of fun in jokingly prepares those listening chorus come in person and sing.” and doing their best to meet a very relaxed atmosphere. with the phrase, “here comes The descant that weaves Zogleman’s high expectations. I slipped away from the A few of the members even self- rehearsal as the guys were the key change...” (wait for it -corrected some little slip-ups preparing to practice a dance before Zogleman said anything, number. When I got to the door, too, showing that the concern a number of them yelled after Keep warm with for a superior performance was me, “tell everyone to come and obviously shared by the crew. have fun and laugh!” Now I can our new Winter I enjoyed my experience, and report to them that I did my job, clothing! my time with the chorus passed so the rest is up to you. Bajas & Hoodies. quickly. The best part of the Along with original music, evening was the chance to talk Out of My Range will also Gloves & Mucklucks! to the guys during a break. f e a t u r e H O A M C ’s s e l e c t One of the members, Ron ensemble, Voices of the Heart, Hobert, was excited about the which will be performing four 1128 Moro show, “I thought it was something songs. Tickets are $15, with that would connect back to the some discounts available. For Manhattan, KS 66502 gay community.” The internal more information, visit www. 11am-6:30pm M-F • 11am-6pm Sat. connections in the chorus are hoamc.org/. l
(785) 776-2252
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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The Theatre Company brings Cabaret to life
125 years of liberal religion
REVIEW By Alisha Petersen
WICHITA - The First Unitarian Universalist Church of Wichita (First UU), at 7202 E. 21st St., celebrated its 125th anniversary this past year. In 1887, a group known as both the Emerson Society and the Sunday Circle decided to form a Unitarian church. Since then the church has made advancing liberal religious thought and action in Wichita its primary mission. Over the years, First UU has been at the forefront of social and civil rights movements. In the 1930’s, Unitarians (they hadn’t yet added ‘Universalist’ to their name) all over Kansas derailed the campaign of an antiSemitic fundamentalist preacher who was running for the U.S.
WICHITA - The Forum Theatre Performing Arts and Events Center at 147 S. Hillside hosted The Theatre Company and its performance of Cabaret. Opening on Valentine’s Day, the show runs through Mar. 3. I attended a college performance of the musical many years ago, and was interested to see how it would compare. When we walked in the door we were greeted by two girls from The American Rose Theatre of Burlesque. They were dressed in gorgeous, brightly colored costumes and led us to our seats. The costumes for the cast were also beautiful. As the play went on the costumes become darker in conjunction with the theme. Towards the end the Kit Kat Klub dancers were dressed in similar black outfits with blonde wigs, signifying the Nazi desire for homogeneity. The seating, while tight, was comfortable and we had a great view. There were two levels to the stage, a main acting area and a balcony for the Kit Kat Klub orchestra. During the performance I was impressed to see a few of the musicians switching between two or more instruments. The lower level was made up of a rotating center stage and stable side areas. Two enormous Nazi flags flanked the stage, making it impossible for the audience to forget that this is a musical designed to teach us about the horrors of the past. The cast was amazing. Ray Wills, Wichita native and Broadway star who plays Ernst, the Nazi supporter, has appeared in over 1,000 performances of The Producers, as well as spots in Ugly Betty, Law and Order: SVU and The Guiding Light. When I saw this musical originally, it was at a private, church-owned university in Iowa. It came as a surprise to me when I saw all the characters that were gay or bisexual! I started noticing it most when my partner leaned over during a scene and asked if I’d noticed
Ray Wills, originally from Wichita, played Max Bialystock in The Producers on Broadway.
two of the Kit Kat Klub men on stage holding hands. In the musical I saw p r e v i o u s l y, h o m o s e x u a l characteristics were severely downplayed. I had NO idea in the original that Cliff was bisexual and had an ongoing relationship with the character Bobby while he was with Sally. It made the play more interesting for me. As is expected with opening night there were some flaws in the performance. There were a few late sound cues, a dropped pineapple, some shaky chair dancing, and a stage right door that wouldn’t stay closed. Even with these small mishaps, I thought it was a wonderful performance. The Forum Theatre was originally a church, built in 1923 as the Hillside Christian Church, and then became the Immanuel Baptist Church in the 1980s. Immanuel Baptist moved out eight or nine years ago and the building was abandoned until Grant and Janet Rine bought and restored it in 2009. Next up for The Theatre Company is Hello Dolly! starring Karla Burns as Dolly Levi, Huron Breaux as Horace Vandergelder and Lindsay Sutton as Minnie Fay. The show runs Mar. 21-April 7, Thursday, Friday, Saturday evenings at 8pm; Sunday matinees at 2pm. For ticket information, call 316.618.0444 or visit www. forumwichita.com. l
Unitarians of Wichita celebrate milestone By Helen Barnes
Senate. The Social Action Committee from First UU organized local and state chapters of the American Civil Liberties Union in the 1960’s. Shortly after, a church member who was an attorney served on the national board of the NAACP, taking the lead in the fight against segregation in Wichita and Kansas. In recent years, others have worked to support liberal causes and advocate for justice in the areas of environment, race and gender. For those unfamiliar with Unitarian Universalism (UU), there is a joke that if a UU finds him or herself on a road where
one turn is marked “To Heaven” and the other is marked “To a Discussion of Heaven,” the UU will pick the second. This is because UU beliefs focus more on what might be possible rather than what already exists. So a UU would be more excited about talking about everyone’s version of heaven and risk missing out on the biblical one. This drive to explore the connections between everything is the fabric of Unitarian Universalism and is reflected in one of their principles, which is to “promote and affirm respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.” To UU’s, people are a valuable part of this connection;
there should be justice, equity and compassion in human relations. These are two more UU principles which the congregation in Wichita supports wholeheartedly. Such ideas inspired the members to go through the process of becoming a “Welcoming Congregation.” Everyone, from the children on up, participated in an educational program that helped them learn about LGBTQ people and their concerns. Currently, 63% of the churches in the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) hold “Welcoming Congregation” continued on page 31
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
By Ben Rivers
o in January I found two books that went too far for me in the sex department. Over the past month I have continued to examine if I am in fact a prude. Thankfully the first book I am reviewing this month came into my life, and reassured me that my puritanical upbringing does not have total sway over my life. J. H. Trumble’s debut novel Don’t Let Me Go (Kensington, $15) is not only one of the best LGBT novels I have read, but simply one of the best novels I have read in a long time. His story centers on Adam and Nate and their relationship which
blossoms in a Texas high school. A horrific event happens which binds them together, but their relationship is tested when Adam graduates and moves to New York City to pursue an acting career. Trumble does so much right in this novel. We are introduced to the main characters as Adam moves to New York City, and it is through flashbacks that we experience the formation of their relationship, and the horrific event that changes their lives. Several of the inhabitants of the novel are clichés – sassy gal pal who is in love with gay bestie, sports-obsessed father who does not understand his gay son, all-loving grandmother who openly embraces her gay grandson. But the interactions and dialogue that Trumble crafts are so compelling and real that the clichés work. What is most brilliant about Don’t Let Me Go is that
Trumble shows us this world, and avoids telling us what to feel. He does this best when it comes to the horrific act, and intimate moments. The reader must construct these moments for her/his self using the bits of information that Trumble provides. It is after reading Don’t Let Me Go that I realize what bothered me so greatly about
MARCH 2013
Gulliver Takes Manhattan by Justin Luke Zirilli and If I Told You So by Timothy Woodward. There is no mystery in Zirilli and Woodward’s novels. Every detail of the intimate moments their characters experience are catalogued. The reader is not allowed to be a part of the story. Trumble has so deftly accomplished what Zililli and Woodward could not. To round out this month’s reviews, we have Gay Men Don’t Get Fat by Simon Doonan (Plume, $15). This collection of essays by the Barney’s icon and fashion champion is light, quippy, and delicious. I did feel
MARCH 2013
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. First UU continued from page 29
status. Unitarian Universalism is also one of the few religions that ordains openly LBGTQ people. In 1971, the UUA instituted sexual orientation curriculum in its religious studies programs and started including adult religious curriculum on LGBTQ lives and issues
a certain amount of irony reading this book, as I am a fat gay man. However, Mr. Doonan covers this issue in the chapter entitled, “Operation Goldilocks.” This is a fantastically fun read, and also a history lesson in gay culture of the 60s and 70s. Well, with Mr. Doonan it is always a lesson in gay culture. I ran the battery down on my Smartphone by looking up the multitude of phrases and references that he drops. So this is my one warning for this read – be sure to have a fully charged battery on your Smartphone, unless you are a fashion diva extraordinaire. l
the following year. In order to have the depth of experience necessary to properly serve their congregants, UU ministers are required to demonstrate an understanding of the breadth of human sexuality. Since 1984, the UUA has publicly supported commitment ceremonies and marriages for any
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couple no matter the gender of the partners. UU congregations are also encouraged to work for marriage equality in their communities and on a national level. For more information on First UU, call 316-684-3481, join them on a Sunday, or visit the website at firstuu.net. l
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. First Unitarian Universalist Church Peace and Social Justice Center of of Wichita, 7202 E. 21st St., (316) 684South Central Kansas, 1407 N. Topeka, 3481, officemanager@firstuu.net, www. Wichita, (316) 263-5886, director@ firstuu.net, A Welcoming Congregation. wichitapeace.org, www.wichitapeace. org Kalpa Bhadra Kadampa Buddhist Center, 721 W. 13th St., Wichita, (316) Wichita Pride, info@wichitapride. 263-1533, info@meditateinkansas.org, org, www.wichitapride.org, annual www.meditateinkansas.org celebration held in September.
Community Centers The Center, 1602 E. Waterman, Wichita Kansas State University LGBT Resource Center, 207 A/B Holton Hall, Manhattan, (785) 532-5299, www.kstate-edu/lgbt Open Roads LGBT Community Center, Hays, (785) 259-6526, openroadslgbt@gmail.com, www. openroadslgbt.org
Health Body Intuition Massage Therapy & Wellness Center, 302 E. 4th, Suite E, Pittsburg, (620) 875-1928, www. facebook.com/bodyintuitionpittsburg, offers spiritual and emotional wellness and massage therapy to those affected by HIV/AIDS. Douglas County AIDS Project, 346 Maine, Suite 160, Lawrence, (785) 8430040, www.douglascountyaidsproject. org Hunter Health Clinic, 2318 E. Central, Wichita, (316) 262-3611, FREE HIV confidential or anonymous testing with Spanish and Vietnamese interpreters.
Lutheran Campus Ministry, Lawrence, lutheran@ku.edu
Free State High School GSA, Lawrence, (785) 832-6050, phatcher@usd497.org, welcomes all queer, questioning and straight ally youth to talk about issues. Meets Wednesdays.
Headquarters Counseling Center, Lawrence, (785) 841-2345 free 24/7, www.hqcc.lawrence.ks.us
Metropolitan Community Church of Topeka, 4425 SW 19th, (785) 2721442, office@mcctopeka.org, www. MCCTopeka.org, services Sundays at 10am.
HIV+ Men’s Support Group, (316) 293-3405, mmadecky@kumc.edu Lawrence/Topeka PFLAG, 785-2353831, sffeist@msn.com
Haskell Shout OUT, Haskell Indian Nations University, Bobby. crowfeather@haskell.edu, dedicated to actively seeking to bridge the Native LGBTQ community and their straight allies by promoting Openness, Understanding, and Tolerance. Meets Thursdays at 6pm in Stidham Union.
Pine Valley Christian Church, 5620 E. 21st St., Wichita, (316) 685-2421, churchoffice@pvcconline.org, www. pvcconline.org
KU Queers & Allies, University of Kansas, Lawrence, (785) 864-3091, qanda@ku.edu, www.ku.edu/~qanda Lawrence High School GSA, (785) 330-2391, ArlaKan@usd497.org, welcomes all LGBT, questioning and straight youth to talk about issues. Meets almost every Friday at 3:05pm in the LHS library. Manhattan High School GSA, mhs_ gsa@hotmail.com Pitt State GSA, Pittsburg State University, pittstategsa@gmail.com That Gay Group!, Wichita State U n i v e r s i t y, ( 3 1 6 ) 9 7 8 - 7 0 1 0 , thatgaygroup@gmail.com, www. wichita.edu/tgg
Social Heart of America Men’s Chorus, Wichita, (316) 708-4837, www.hoamc. org
LGBT Health Coalition of Sedgwick County, Wichita, (316) 285-0007, www. sedgwickcountylgbt.org
NetworQ, Lawrence, KansasNetworQ@ yahoo.com, www.KansasNetworQ.org, meets at Maceli’s, 1031 New Hampshire
Positive Directions, 414 S. Commerce, Wichita, (316) 263-2214, (316) 2635214, www.pdiks.com Regional AIDS Project, Manhattan, (785) 587-1999 or (785) 238-5338 Junction City, rap@flinthills.com Sedgwick County Health Dept., 2716 W. Central, Wichita, (316) 660-7300, www.sedgwickcounty.org The Sweet Emergency Fund, KUSM-W MPA, 1010 N. Kansas, Wichita, (316) 293-3405
Politics/Activism Kansas Equality Coalition, www. kansasequalitycoalition.org, chapters across the state. Kansas Statewide Transgender Education Project, (785) 215-7436, stephanie.mott@k-step.org, www.kstep.org, provides transgender education and resources.
Get Connected, Wichita, (316) 4913778, LGBTQIA youth group for ages 12-21. Meets at The Center, 1602 E. Waterman, every Friday from 7-9pm.
Student groups
KU Internal Medicine-Midtown, KU School of Medicine, 1001 N. Minneapolis, Wichita, (316) 293-1840, (877) 472-8227 toll-free, (316) 293-2652 HIV Program
Positive Connections, 1001 SW Garfield Ave, third floor, Topeka, (785) 232-3100, www.pcneks.org
MARCH 2013 fhpflag.org, meets 3rd Tuesdays, 7pm, First Congregational Church, 700 Poyntz Ave.
Junction City Teddy Bears, www. jctbears.com/index.htm
Wichita Bears, presidentwichitabears@ yahoo.com, www.wichitabears.org Wichita Organization of Leather Fetishes, (316) 201-6242, www. woolfks.com Wichita Prime Timers, ICTPrimeTimers@aol.com, www. primetimersww.org/Wichita, social group for mature gay men.
Spiritual A Journey In The Light Ministries, 2231 S. Bluff (St. Christopher ’s Episcopal Chapel), Wichita, Sunday Praise and Worship services at 11am. First Congregational United Church of Christ, 700 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, (785) 537-7006, www.uccmanhattan. org, Sunday services at 10:45am; Taize services Thursday at 7pm, An Open and Affirming Congregation. First Metropolitan Community Church of Kansas, 156 S. Kansas, Wichita, (316) 267-1852, www.mccwichita.com, www.godlovesyouperiod.com, Sunday services at 10:15am.
Support Central Plains Area Agency on Aging, 2622 W. Central Suite 500, Wichita, (316) 660-5120, www.cpaaa.org, CPAAA is available to assist seniors, caregivers, and adults with disabilities through life’s transitions and with various levels of support. COMCARE Crisis Intervention Services, 934 N. Water, Wichita, (316) 660-7500 free 24/7, www. sedgwickcounty.org Flint Hills PFLAG, Manhattan, (785) 410-3130, fhpflag@sbcglobal.net, www. Editorial continued from page 7
need a time-out for a minute to really look at answers that aren’t “common sense” answers, but answers that honestly address the problems we face. While I don’t agree with everything that President Obama has done, I also didn’t disagree with everything his predecessor did either. Our country’s economy is in a slow recovery, we are performing worse in education, health services, and development than our developed neighbors. How can we solve some of these issues if our elected officials become the party of “no”? Why do we as citizens accept this behavior from the people we elected to do a job and that aren’t doing it? We have to be able to acknowledge good ideas regardless if they come from someone we don’t like. We have to be able to sit down and solve the bigger issues through negotiation and problem solving. We may not always like each other, and we may not always get along, but it is an overstatement to say that most people do not share a common ground. It is this common ground that makes us Americans, not gay Americans, or black Americans or purple Americans.
O n e D a y A t A Ti m e , Wi c h it a , Alcoholics Anonymous meetings held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8pm at First MCC, 156 S. Kansas. PFLAG Hutchinson, PO Box 2488, Hutchinson, (620) 899-2345, pflaghutch@gmail.com TransYouth of Kansas, Topeka, Paula@ tyks.org, www.tyks.org, providing support for transgender youth and their families. Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center, 355 N. Waco, Suite 100, (316) 2630185 office, (316) 263-3002 crisis line 24/7, wasac@wichitasac.com, www. wichitasac.com, free, confidential sexual assault services to all genders and sexual orientations. Medical & legal advocacy, support groups, adult & child crisis counseling, educational programs. l
As Obama said in his State of the Union address, “Fiftyone years ago, John F. Kennedy declared to this Chamber that ‘the Constitution makes us not rivals for power but partners for progress…It is my task,’ he said, ‘to report the State of the Union – to improve it is the task of us all.’” In order for us to succeed we must recognize that we are not rivals, but just Americans striving to achieve a common goal. l Danny Cooper is a graduate in Theatre and is currently finishing his 2nd and 3rd degrees in Political Science and International Studies. He has traveled and worked throughout Latin America, South Korea and most recently the Middle East. Follow him on twitter @brasildan.
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tinyurl.com/herscopes Charlene Lichtenstein’s ground-breaking astrology book HerScopes: A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians is celebrating its 10th anniversary! The secrets that are revealed about each sign continue to amaze. Makes a great gift. Classifieds are available for $5 for the first 15 words. E-mail editor@libertypress.net for other options, and pricing.
M
arch may come in like a lion and out like a lamb, but that doesn’t mean that we have to. With all these planets springing from mellow Pisces to charging Aries, it is time to come out loud, proud and roaring to make a scene. Just don’t chew the scenery.
ARIES (MAR. 21 - APRIL 20) If you are feeling a burst of energy and have a need to do some outreach, go with the cosmic flow and see where life leads you. Gay Rams gain their own successful steam after getting a helping hand from a few influential friends. So grease some palms, press some flesh and see who you can impress. How hard will you press? Oh let’s just see. TAURUS (APRIL 21 - MAY 21) There are those who hide in the background and plot - for good or ill. And there are those who, like you, are able to discern friend from foe. Do what you need to do to clear the air, turn on the lights and dust in the corners this March. Get rid of your excess baggage that has been holding you back from success. If not now, then when? If not you then who? GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) Friends are there for you when you need them. In fact, you find that there are many pals willing and able to help you now. Save a few good deeds for a rainy day and be sure to give as good as you get. Pink Twins are perfect party planners. What better way to say thank you than with an event that will have tongues wagging for weeks. Hmm, is that all that wags? CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) Professional opportunities present themselves and you need to be in the right position to exploit them. That means being present in the office, working hard and keeping your antenna attuned to the political signals. Gay Crabs are poised to make their mark this March. Let’s hope that it is more than a couple of tire skids on your career path.
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Weddings/Engagements
Angela Boetta, 32, originally from Junction City, KS married Jennifer Jaindl, 40, originally from Germantown, MD in a small, intimate ceremony at the Montgomery County District Courthouse in Rockville, MD on Friday, Feb. 15, 2013. Colors were black, fuchsia and silver. Angela wore a black one-strap dress with a fuchsia sash, Jennifer wore a black suit minus the jacket with a fuchsia tie. The couple was surrounded by friends and family. There was a small reception after the ceremony.
LEO (JULY 24 - AUG. 23) Adventure awaits you if you are ready to take the risk. Proud Lions may have itchy paws. So scratch them in some faraway place. If money and time are tight, there are ways to expand your horizon without breaking the bank. Try something or someone new closer to home. The spicier the better; Of course hot can sometimes be too hot . . . but not now. VIRGO (AUG. 24 - SEPT. 23) Queer Virgins are very sexy this March and why not? It is spring and there is more spring in your step. You seem to know just what to do and say to draw admirers to you. So get ready for your close-up and choose the right venues that can highlight your enormous attributes. Who will you lure into your web? It depends on whose sites you set. I’m all atwitter! LIBRA (SEPT. 24 - OCT. 23) Partnerships are high on your to-do list. For those proud Libras who are part of a pair, see how much you can spoil your soulmate. For those who are considering other options, this is the time to look. Seek and you shall find. But of course it all depends on where you look. Will it be the library or the local lothario bar? Oh let’s guess. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) Work seems to be piling up but with your optimistic attitude and sense of “can do” you are ready for anything that life serves you. Roll up your sleeves this March, proud Scorp, and see how much you can accomplish. You will be surprised at how a little effort can have a big impact . . . especially if you find a way to delegate the nastiest tasks.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 - DEC. 22) Fun is on the menu so be prepared to go off your diet. Gay Archers are usually a bit lucky. Now you maximize your good vibes to benefit not only you but others too. Plan wild get-togethers and see what mischief can be made. Before you know it, March marches on and you will be back to the grind. In the meantime, grind away on as many party trains as you can. CAPRICORN (DEC. 23 - JAN. 20) Concentrate on home-based projects and see how much you can accomplish now. Pink Caps love to be surrounded by beautiful and expensive objects. So why is your home in need of an upgrade? Renovate, redecorate and make it a pink palace. Before you know it your home is an epicenter of social activity. Toss a bash or two. Maybe just for a certain someone? AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 - FEB. 19) There are some ideas that just need time to gestate. So allow some time to contemplate. But don’t hold back on your opinions for too long, lest they become irrelevant. Aqueerians are always there with a pithy opinion. The secret to your success is to know when to let them loose and when to simmer. You will know which is which now, but you may not care. PISCES (FEB. 20 - MAR. 20) Money is honey this March. Use what you have to make the rough patches of your road to success a bit smoother. You may soon find that spending a little can lead to greater riches. Guppies with challenges at work now find other outlets that provide, if not a full salary, at least something that gives you pin money. Invest all wisely. Tomorrow you bathe in gold.
(c) 2013 THE STARRY EYE, LLC., All Rights Reserved. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Lichtenstein’s blog www.thestarryeye.typepad.com covers everything new age. Her astrology book HerScopes: A Guide to Astrology For Lesbians is the best in tongue-in-cheek astrology. Order now at tinyurl.com/Herscopes.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Flint Hills Pride gets rolling! JUNCTION CITY - Fundraising for Flint Hills Pride got off to a good start the first weekend in February with two successful events. On Saturday, Feb. 2, the Xcalibur Club’s “Fat Saturday” was held. This event was hosted by Old Car Kevin, and cohosted by FHP King and Queen 2012, Jack Les Bo and Carlotta Junicelli. Also performing were Mystie
Massengil, Lil Kim Chi, P.J. Ryan, KenLynn Lineoleum, Trinity, and The Letter “J”. Performers donated all of their tips to Flint Hills Pride 2013. In addition, a string of giant Mardi Gras Beads was auctioned off for $50. This string of beads has been auctioned off for three years running, and always gets donated back to be sold again the following year. A total of $339 was raised from this event.
On Sunday, Feb. 3, the annual Super Bowl Sunday Top Chef Grid Iron Challenge was held. Local cooks bring their best culinary creations to be judged by their peers in an all-you-caneat buffet. The theme this year was Cajun/Creole in honor of the game being held in New Orleans. In addition to food sales, there were cash donations and a total of $307 was raised. FHP 2013 also held their first meeting after the buffet.
MARCH 2013
Officers were elected as follows: Chairman--Zan Bertolino, Vice Chair--Kerrie Baker, Secretary-Melissa Hecker, Treasurer-Kevin Stilley. A theme was chosen from several entries: Pride--Is it in you?, submitted by Kerrie Baker. A logo based on this year’s theme will be chosen at the next meeting in March. Winners of both the theme and logo contests will receive a free FHP 2013 t-shirt. Watch the Flint Hills Pride and Xcalibur Club’s Facebook pages for updates. l
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Intrust Bank Area
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MARCH 2013
3201 S. Hillside Wichita, KS
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DJ Michael K. Presents the 5th annual men’s underwear contest! Open to all guys. 1st place $75 cash prize! Plus, a ton of runner up prizes!
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