march 28 & 29,
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2015 sat 8pm • sunMARCH 4pm
folly theater 300 west 12th, kcmo
Dustin S. Cates, artistic director
H M C ’ S 29 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
14/15 season
tickets: hmckc.org or 816.931.3338
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TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
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MARCH 2015
PHOTO BY JASON BELL
A LW AY S
MAR. 31-APR. 2 • CENTURY II CONCERT HALL 316.303.8100 • wichitaTIX.com •
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MARCH 2015
Liberty Press
Volume 21, No. 7 • Editor: Kristi Parker • Contributors: Greg Boaldin, Nolin Christensen, Sue Edgerton, Greg Fox, Jordan Hawk, Charlene Lichtenstein, Mama, Dr. Robert N. Minor, Stephanie Mott, Ben Rivers • Staff Reporters: Grayson Barnes, Elle Boatman, Jeanne de Grasse, Blake Hampton, Ciara Reid • Contributing Photographers: Dan Brennan, Blake Hampton • Cover Design: Troy Dilport; Photo by Dan Brennan • Graphic Designer: Troy Dilport • Webmaster: Ren Autrey • Publisher: Liberty Press, LLC • Printer: Valley Offset Printing
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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On the Cover:
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New Girls on the Block series to shine spotlight on KC transgender community Page 26
CONTENTS
IN EVERY ISSUE
TOPEKA POET releases new book................................................................. 7 GENDER AND SEXUALITY IN KANSAS CONFERENCE back at WSU..........10 SPOKEN-WORD ARTIST brings youth outreach project to Wichita..........15 SEVEN-PART KU PROGRAM examines politics on a personal level.........18 FIT FOR A QUEEN has clothes for all kinds of queens...........................20 LIBERTY PRESS' BEST OF GAY WICHITA winners............................... 23-24 VILLAGE PEOPLE part of lineup at Riverfest 2015..................................25 OLDEST GAY BAR IN KANSAS closes its doors........................................28 THEATRE THURSDAYS SET TO PROVOKE at Fisch Haus in March............28 STAND UP FOR LOVE PROTEST...............................................................29
POINTS OF INTEREST.................. 9 BRIDGES....................................... 9 MAMA KNOWS BEST.................. 14 COMIC........................................ 14 AROUND KANSAS...................... 22 OUT IN THE STARS.................... 27
Now, Don�t Miss The Deadline!
Regulars OP/ED letters...........................................................................................6 THE KANSAS GAYHAWK High school not all fun and games for everyone............................................................................................6 BOOKENDS The Glittering World.............................................................8 MINOR DETAILS Facing the Backlash of Religious Addicts....................13 WILL YOU? A Word of Gratitude............................................................16 TRANS-FORMATIVE Damn, Sam. Reaction of a Kansas Activist............21 LEATHER LIFE The Return of Drummer.................................................30
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OP/ED
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. We want to hear from you! Visit www.libertypress.net to answer our Readers Poll. Send your letters and feedback to editor@libertypress.net.
Letters Trying to use logic with bigots Dear editor: The February issue of Liberty Press has two interesting articles - plus the issue is on marriage. Jordan Hawk presents a younger view of marriage and where it is on her scale of priorities. (I don’t think the divorce rate is relevant to getting married or not.)
Bob Minor reminds us that using logic does not work with bigots. I too am guilty of saying, for instance, “Don’t they see that GLBT marriage won’t hurt straight marriage?” But, as he says, some people seem to need a man and a woman to know who’s the father and who’s the mother. Following Hawk’s thoughts, that is nonsense since most children today live in single parent homes and/or go from one parent to another - divorced, etc. Billy Glover
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.
MARCH 2015
The Kansas GayHawk: A Youth Perspective High school not all fun and games for everyone
H
igh school, when done right, is the epitome of hell on earth. I say “done right” because some people surprisingly do not struggle in high school. Those people are primarily uncaring, ungrateful imbeciles that aren’t capable of challenging themselves academically. People such as myself and my friend, Mitchell, are greatly skilled in biting off more than we can chew and still figuring out a way to make it through the school day without flipping out. Some people are under the impression that senior year flies by like a gust of cool wind, but it doesn’t. Senior year is more like climbing the last few miles of Mt. Everest. The simple act of breathing is unbearable on the lungs and the pressure; oh, God the pressure. You’re getting assignments left and right from
By Jordan Hawk venturing through high school, yet I have managed to keep a solid GPA and a positive outlook on the years to come. I’ll be honest, some days I just wanted to lay in bed and not have to face the incredibly annoying behaviors and voices of my fellow students. Some days there was either a deep pit in my chest or a thick, heavy rock on
"Some people are under the impression that senior year flies by like a gust of cool wind ... " different teachers, the college career coordinator is constantly tossing scholarship applications at you, and your parents are all up in your grill about getting stuff turned in on time. Senior year has its perks, but it should not be mistaken for a big fluffy ball of fun. I mentioned Mitchell earlier because he is a prime example of someone who is responsible and incredibly perseverant and I greatly admire him. Since I’ve known him he’s gone through some personal struggles, one or two that I can identify with, and regardless of his difficulties he will be graduating in May. Some people are not strong enough to make it through the darkness, but Mitchell always finds a way to get done what needs to be done and for that I am proud of him. I too have had my struggles
it. Despite my emotional trouble I continued to keep a serious focus on my studies and I did not allow myself to fall behind on my schoolwork. I’ll admit that it is difficult to truly convey to another person the type of struggles that people like Mitchell and I endure due to the conflicting nature of our academic and emotional hardships, unless of course that person shares in the experience. Anyway, all I have left to say; and you might find this super duper surprising, but high school is not necessarily fun and easy for everyone. Believe it or not the smarter you are and the harder classes you take the more stress and late nights you will endure. Adults tell our generation that being smart is a good thing and it is, but is it worth the stress and the agonizing pressure that accompanies it? l
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Topeka poet releases new book
What You Allow, Lingers by Annette Hope Billings
What you allow, lingers, what you invite, stays put, so speak rudely to discord and it’s sullen sisters, turn a cold shoulder to bigotry in all its disguises, ignore the bell when jealousy rings, stop violence at the door like a stranger, usher in joy like a long lost friend take its coat, its hat, entertain peace, chat up passion, pamper generosity, give the guest room to justice, make your life poorly suited for anything but goodness. Sweep the porch and place a welcome mat for love. When hate knocks, act like you’ve moved. from A Net Full of Hope By Sue Edgerton TOPEKA - Just hours after celebrating her retirement from 39 years of nursing with coworkers, friends, and family on Feb. 6, Topeka poet, Annette Hope Billings settled into a comfy chair at Oddfellow’s Fine Books and Collectables, 117 SW 6th Ave., in Topeka. She took up a pen filled and overflowing with love, gratitude, and blessings and went to work autographing copies of her recently published book of poetry A Net Full of Hope. This ‘inaugural‘ booksigning coincided with Topeka’s First Friday Art Walk. It was, for Billings, “an utterly amazing
experience.” She speaks passionately about her lifelong affinity with art and writing, about the loving labor of coaxing this work ever closer to its Jan. 29 publication, about the glee and excitement of holding the finished volume in her hands for the first time, and about the intimate joy of handing such a cherished gift to each reader. Along with the list of gracious acknowledgements to others, including her daughter, Tiffany, her grandchildren, and her life partner, Dawn, the book’s dedication is to her mother “Mattie Frances Billings, who taught me to stand in immense love, to walk in infinite grace, and, in lieu of a shadow, to cast a net full of hope.” Poet and novelist Max Yoho writes of A Net Full of Hope, “Here is so much wisdom and courage; so much love, compassion and honesty. Annette has wrapped it all in an eye-twinkle of orneriness.” Billings longed to write full time, but she assumed she would work in nursing until she reached “retirement age.” Instead, she decided to “take her turn to retire” as opposed to “waiting her turn to retire;” trusting Art (yes, with a capital letter) to take care of her needs. And it seems it will. She plans to re-release an earlier work, Hope’s Wife, which she selfpublished in 2002. She is also working on two new projects Descant for Daughters and At Dawn. She is rapidly adding public readings, book-signings and speaking engagements to her calendar. She will be at The Body, Mind, Spirit Fair at the Kansas Expo Center Mar. 7-8, and she will be
Get ready for SPRING! With hacky sacks, disc golf accessories, frisbees. Stop in today!
(785) 776-2252
1128 Moro Manhattan, KS 66502 11am-6:30pm M-F • 11am-6pm Sat.
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Annette Billings signs copies of her new book A Net Full of Hope.
at The Merchant, for the Topeka First Friday Art Walk/Poetry Crawl on April 3. She also continues to co-host the monthly open-mic poetry readings, First Tuesdays with the Speakeasy Poets at Skivies Bar and Grill. Autographed copies of A Net Full of Hope are available from the author for $15.95 by e-mail to annettebillings@gmail.com.
Topeka retailers carrying the book are Oddfellow’s Fine Books and Collectables and Creative Corners Gallery & Gifts, 115 SE 6th Ave. For information on purchasing books and e-books on Amazon, and for more about the author visit Facebook.com/anetfullofhope or anetfullofhope.weebly.com. l
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T
By Ben Rivers
here is an annoying stigma placed on “genre fiction” in parts of the literary world. The term “genre fiction” is used in a derogatory manner most often against sci-fi, fantasy and mystery fiction. Really, it’s just ridiculousness. If prose is good it’s good, right? End of discussion. The Glittering World by Robert Levy (Gallery Books, $26) is a great piece of fiction, and could be considered “genre.” But like all good sci-fi and fantasy Levy is using fantastical premises to explore something much deeper. He is exploring what it means to be a human, what makes us human, and what
MARCH 2015
it means to believe in something beyond reality. The first main character we are introduced to goes by the name Blue. He has an otherworldly charm and pull over the people in his life, and lives with deeply repressed secrets. As a child Blue disappeared into the woods near his home, only to come back changed. We catch up with him, his best friend Elisa and her husband Jason, and the young tag- along companion Gabe as they travel back to Blue’s birthplace to sell his grandmother’s house. During their time in the hinterlands of Canada the disturbing past is revealed in little bits, and when another disappearance happens Blue’s history guides the search for the missing. So . . . what is so sci-fi/fantasy about that? Well, okay. I won’t write a book review that reveals the reveal. I hate it when people blurt out the secret of a movie. Granted this isn’t a movie, nor is the reveal that massive of a secret. However, my favorite part of Levy’s story is the slow fan dance he does with details. He entices his reader with beautiful, swirling prose; showing everything needed to paint a mental picture, but never painting the picture himself. So much fun to read. Best part, this is his debut novel. We have so much more to look forward to. l
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Kathy Richstatter
KS Realtor ABR, e-PRO, GRI, SRES Kathy@KansasRainbow.com
Heartland Men’s Chorus presents Modern Families KANSAS CITY - Another groundbreaking musical documentary from Heartland Men’s Chorus celebrates the changing face of American families - families of origin and families of choice. Stories from chorus members weave together songs of love, acceptance and community, including Not My Father’s Son from Kinky Boots and the audience favorite, In My Mother’s Eyes. The Lawrence Children’s Choir joins in for this uplifting celebration of family. Show times are Saturday, Mar. 28 at 8pm and Sunday, Mar. 29 at 4pm at the Folly Theater, 300 W. 12th St., Kansas City, Missouri. Tickets are $15-$40, available at
hmckc.org or (816) 931-3338.
New student support group at WSU WICHITA - Are you part of the Wichita State LGBTQ student community? If so, you might benefit from a new support group that started Feb. 17. The group can help students dealing with issues anywhere along a continuum - from the point of questioning sexuality to dealing with the challenges of coming out or struggling with relationship issues. The group meets from 4-5:15pm every Tuesday in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, RSC 208. For more information contact Dr. Meladee Garst of the Counseling and Testing Center at 316-978-3440. l
bridges Died: Joe Nisil, Jr., 56, DJ at Xcalibur Club, community photographer, and computer information specialist at the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, from lung cancer on October 22, 2014 in Junction City. He is survived by his spouse of 28 years, Scott Rich. Died: Cathy Linn, frequent performer at Our Fantasy and Miss Queen of Hearts '99, on February 5, 2015 in Wichita.
If you or someone you know is having an anniversary, received a promotion or award, or a loved one has passed away, we will publish it free in Bridges. E-mail editor@libertypress.net.
www.KS.PenFedRealty.com
316 316--641 641--3954
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MARCH 2015
Gender and Sexuality in Kansas Conference back at Wichita State
By Elle Boatman
WICHITA - WSU’s Sociology Department, the SOC Club, and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion are proud to present the second annual Gender and Sexuality in Kansas Conference and are expecting an even larger turnout, thanks in part to positive word-of-mouth from last year’s attendees. The inaugural conference boasted over 80 registered attendees with a 100+ headcount at the keynote address presented by Indiana University South Bend’s Betsy Lucal, author of the iconic What It Means to Be Gendered Me. Presenters from many area colleges including KU, Kansas State, and Friends University shared research on a range of topics including feminism and women’s rights, bisexuality in the black community, queer representation in American culture, and transgender
discrimination, to name only a few. Eighteen separate workshops and eight roundtable discussions followed similar intellectual pursuits such as how to be become more inclusive of gender and queer expression in higher education. “I really liked the diversity and draw from different places and we’re looking to build on that this year,” said Jodie Hertzog, a SOC Club co-advisor and one of the organizers of the conference. This year’s keynote address will be presented by renowned speaker, author, and bisexual activist, Robyn Ochs. At 6pm, Ochs will speak to recognizing and understanding middle sexualities such as bisexuality and pansexuality and the challenges to understanding and representing this segment of the LGBT community; earlier in the day, at 1pm, she will host a workshop focusing on activism and academia, and building
bridges on campus and in our communities. As for the workshops and individual presentations, Jenny Pearson, a WSU professor and conference organizer, is hoping to see the same quality as last year. “We’re inviting presenters from across Kansas who are involved in gender and sexuality research, theoretical or empirical,” she said, “and that includes students, faculty, staff, and community members.” Organizers look to increase the diversity and the effectiveness of the conference as well. “I’d like to see more graduate students,” Pearson said. “It’d be good to see more grad students from KU, K-State, and the other Kansas universities. We also want to work on more opportunities for networking among people in Kansas who are doing research on gender and sexuality.” The conference takes place on April 3 in the Marcus Welcome Center on Wichita State’s main
Keynote speaker at this year's conference is Robyn Ochs, author of Getting Bi: Voices of Bisexuals Around the World.
campus and is free to register and attend. Light refreshments are planned, but attendees should expect to provide for their own lunch. To follow conference updates visit www.facebook. com/events/309717955892858. l
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Minor
Details By Bob Minor
Facing the Backlash from Religious Addicts
W
e’re now in the throes of a backlash against equal rights for LGBT people that’s in full swing while many think the fight is over. Its ferocity and meanness has been predicted not only in this column but elsewhere, with numerous warnings for us to prepare for this moment. Anticipated in April is: It’s Not Over: Getting Beyond Tolerance, Defeating Homophobia, and Winning True Equality, a new book by Michelangelo Signorile. In it he warns that it’s a dangerous illusion to believe now that victory is inevitable. He writes of the bigotry of the current religious conservative backlash against LGBT rights while challenging the complacency and hypocrisy of supposed allies in Washington, the media, and Hollywood. I ‘m looking forward to his insights as one of the strongest and most well-informed analysts in the LGBT community. But before his book appears, let’s make sure we’re equipped with an understanding of how to deal with the right-wing backlash we’re seeing now all around us that’s not waiting until April. We’re experiencing it in statehouses around the country, among reactionaries in the U.S. House and Senate, and among regressive judges throughout state judicial systems. We’re seeing it in backlash referenda, bills trying to redefine marriage and adoption, states overriding local protection ordinances, the rollback of state executive orders for employment protection, and religious leaders calling even for executions of LGBT people. As discussed in this column in the last months, the current backlash is nationally orchestrated by sectarian religious organizations that have
used anti-LGBT fear-mongering to fund themselves ever since the fall of Communism took away that boogeyman. Until their movement is able to establish anti-Muslim bigotry as their scare tactic, LGBT people will continue as a well-worn evil threat on the horizon. As a reactionary movement based on religious symbols, fears, institutions, and icons, we need to be crystal clear about how we deal with this backlash sanctified by religion and led by religious leaders. We frankly cannot reach everyone, just as less than 50% of those in any recovery program remain clean and sober, but we can solidify the moveable middle that’s looking for conviction, sincerity, clarity, and the bold presence of the progressive alternative. To be blunt, the radical right-wing appeals to the 20% of America that is religiously addicted in the manner discussed in When Religion Is an Addiction. And now, more than ever, we must stop enabling them in this process addiction because we need to show people how nice and loving we are. The leaders - the Pat Robertsons, Rick Warrens, Tony Perkins - who appeal to the addicted are suppliers who deal in the addiction. They might or might not be addicted as well, or they might be pushers for financial gain, to fulfill their attention-getting needs, boost their egos, convince themselves that they’re right, gain political allies, or, who knows. But people listen to them not because they make sense in any way we’d think was sensible but because they supply the high the addicted need – the high of feeling righteous that counters the fact that the addicted users are afraid that they themselves are wrong as well as horrible,
worthless sinners who inherently deserve eternal punishment from the Judge of the universe. Addiction arises out of unbelief, not settled faith, even though the addicted will swear over and over otherwise. And that makes the exposure of their addiction even more difficult and painful for them – it lays bare their faithlessness. Just as the coming out of LGBT people to family and friends does people a favor – it exposes them to their homophobia and genderphobias and requires family and friends to deal with it. It forces them to grow, and that is often painful, involving anger, fear, and denial. If we’re able not to think and act out of our own hurts around religious abuse, we can see one important lesson - what we are dealing with when religious people are bigoted is not their religion. Religion is the excuse, the ruse, the cover-up for what in their lives has caused them to fall back on religious arguments. It protects them from facing head-on the dark depths in their psyches that maintain their bigotry and that they’d prefer to keep hidden. Therefore, we need to use religious and anti-religious arguments with care. If we are religious people who object to their bigoted use of religion, then we need to be examples to the world of how we use our religious beliefs, institutions, and actions for freedom, equality, and a common humanity. But, whether we’re religious or not, arguing about religion with the religiously addicted only enforces their addiction and proves them right in their own minds. Religion, the Bible, tradition, and God’s will, are the
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arguments they want to be in rather than any that calls upon them to examine themselves and the causes of their own bigotry. As an addict, the religiously addicted will do anything so as not to make the argument, disagreement, or discussion personal. And if it gets too personal, they’ll turn the argument on you, accusing you of being the offender, the problem – all addicts know how to make everyone else feel guilty. And addicts seek their high at the expense of everyone around them. To feel righteous, they don’t care who they hurt or offend, no matter how badly. Addicts, after all, can ruin their own families, reject their own children, and even destroy their own lives all to feel that high (of religious addiction – being righteous). What is most needed now is not meanness in return, but an intervention. Bigotry must be called that. Anti-gay brainwashing must be called that. Cruelty in the name of religion must be called that. And our own stories about where we – not God or the Bible or tradition – stand must be repeated loudly and clearly. Compassion for the addicted is different than being liberalnice. It’s being there, healthy, sincere, and open as models not only for the addicted but for the moveable middle that’s watching us to see what “healthy” humanity stands for. 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; and Gay & Healthy in a Sick Society. Contact him at www. FairnessProject.org.
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Mama, Have you had an idea that you thought would make you successful? Thinker
D
earest Mama, What is your favorite television show? A Curious Fan
I do not watch much television anymore. I am too busy with the ladies auxiliary club at church and bingo and bridge clubs. But I do catch one show. I love Downtown Abbey on PBS. Good drama, no sex or violence, good acting and great costumes. What more can this old lady want? A beer!
Oh geesh, we all have those kind of thoughts, but unless you act on it, nothing will ever come about. I have an idea for a television show. You take a television crew and follow Brownback around as he tries to run this state. We can call it Breaking Kansas because that is what he is doing! Ugh, he frustrates me more than Eunice ever could.
this. It is sunny and 70 out, then snowing or sleeting the next hour. It is just like a politician nice one minute and screwing up the next. I think mother nature is schizophrenic. Mama, Do you have a love interest, or do you date? Wondering
Hasn’t this Kansas weather been weird lately? Not Signed
(laughing) Are you kidding me? At my age the only date I have is the kind in a cookie. I do not have time to train another husband at my age. I trained one already and that old coot died on me. If I ever consider it, I have my eye on Bob Barker. He knows all the right prices.
Well Good Lord! Are you not from here? It is always like
What do you think of this news anchor Brian Williams
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situation on NBC? Not Signed I think it is just stupid. They have nothing else to report on? The whole story is a waste of my time and the American public’s time. I think we are getting too petty and hard up for news. Look at Bruce Jenner going through his stuff. I’d go crazy too if I had to live with the Kardashians. I guess he won’t be on a box of Wheaties, maybe a box of Special K. They wonder why I drink beer! Thank you for all your questions! Happy St. Patrick’s Day! l Have a question for Mama? E-mail MamaTHarper@aol.com or friend Thelma Harper on Facebook.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Spoken-word artist brings youth outreach project to Wichita
WICHITA - New Jersey artist Pandora Scooter has decided to reach out to some of the most vulnerable members of the LGBTQ community -- LGBTQ youth. LGB youth are two times more likely than their heterosexual peers to attempt suicide, and roughly 25% of transgender youth attempt suicide, according to a Centers for Disease Control report. In addition, LGBTQ youth are more likely to experience violence and victimization due to their sexuality or gender identity. Not much has been done to directly address the problem besides scattered nonprofits and hotlines. This is why Scooter has decided to take the matter into her own hands and travel across the country, talking to these youth about suicide and a way out. More specifically, she has put together a one-woman spoken word show called I Am Enough, which follows the struggles of Pan, a teenage girl roughly modeled after herself. The show, which lasts a little over an hour, follows Pan into the despair she feels as she discovers her sexuality in an unsupportive environment, and then back out into the strength and hope she feels when she realizes that she, too, is enough — gay, straight, bi, black, white, or purple. Scooter’s energy radiates throughout the
performance and touches the audience as she offers herself up as a platform to overcome the stigma of LGBTQ people and mental illness. There is a Q&A/Talkback at the end of each show. On her traveling list so far are Centers in: Pittsburgh, PA, Cleveland, OH, Columbus, OH, Tulsa, OK, Springfield, MO, Albuquerque, NM, Phoenix, AZ, San Diego, Riverside, Torrance, Santa Cruz, and Sacramento, CA, Spokane, WA, and Sioux Falls, SD. She wants to reach as many centers and youth as humanly possible in hopes of doing her part to better these statistics. Since many of these centers do not have the funds to sponsor Scooter’s tour, she has been asking those interested to donate to her Indiegogo fundraiser at www.indiegogo. com/projects/end-suicides-of-lgbtq-youth. Any amount is appreciated — it all goes to her traveling fund. For more information, visit www. pandorascooter.com/i_am_enough. Scooter’s performance at The Center of Wichita, 800 N. Market, will be Mar. 16 at 7pm, preceded by a social at 6pm. There is a $25 per person suggested donation. l
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Pandora Scooter will perform her one-woman show, I Am Enough, at Wichita's LGBT Center on Monday, Mar. 16 at 7pm. The New Jersey artist is traveling around the country raising awareness of LGBT youth suicide.
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Will You?
Healthy Pets for Happy Lives Mon. - Fri. 7:30 AM - 6 PM Saturday 8 AM - 12 PM
Daniel Thompson, D.V.M. Cindy Payne-Robertson, D.V.M. Lori Mitchell, D.V.M., C.C.R.P. Kelly Martin, D.V.M.
1726 E 61st St N • Park City, KS , 67219 • (316) 744-0501
www.ctahvets.com • facebook.com/ctahvets
By Greg Boaldin
A Word of Gratitude
T
he outpouring of support for my film Will You Take This Man? has been so gratifying. Everyone involved in the film was so excited by last month’s cover and the beautiful article written by Ciara Reid. Some of the response has been enthusiasm for positive messages depicting the lives of gay men in Kansas. This is especially striking a chord in light of Gov. Brownback’s recent backward moves. To everyone who has sent messages, gone to our Facebook page and liked it, or approached me on the street to comment how excited they are about the project thank you. If you missed the article, be sure to go to libertypress.net and check out the archive.
MARCH 2015
At first there was some reluctance in taking something that I thought was about as good as I could make it and changing it. As I go through and work on it, the process has actually been very beneficial. Almost to the page I think the changes have made the script stronger. There are a couple sections where I feel that the changes were just to make changes, but I am working on rewriting the rewrites of those sections to continue to boost the final product. Having Our Voices Heard
I take the responsibility of creating something that people in Kansas can be very proud of – both those directly involved in the production of the film and the audience. Having our voices represented is so important to me. When I think about how repressive it can be to live and work in such a conservative place, the need to be heard feels even greater. Killing the Babies While we hear more and more voices and In screenwriting you often hear the adage more stories being told, I still know so many that you have to be willing to kill your men and women in the state whose voices babies. This refers to the need to sometimes are silenced. get rid of lines, scenes or characters that you Hopefully by telling the stories in Will have fallen in love with in order to make a You Take This Man? of a diverse group of friends, more people will feel like their voice script better. Well, I am now in full baby-killing is heard. If you would like to play a part in mode. After getting some great notes from the development of the film there are a few a couple of potential producers I have been things you can do. spending this month re-working the script You can go to the film’s Facebook page and like us, or follow us on Twitter to get and tightening it up. updates. You can also check out our website at willyoutakethisman. com to watch videos and learn more about the film. And of course, continue to watch for the monthly column to keep up with the slow but steady progress DUSTY RHODES of making the film a reality. l I am excited to have the
great services of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate to offer to you.
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MARCH 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Seven-part KU program examines politics on a personal level
LaSalvia
PAGE 18
By Ciara Reid, staff reporter L AW R E N C E - J i m m y LaSalvia, a Dole Fellow at the Robert J. Dole Institute of
Politics at the University of Kansas, is leading a sevenpart program titled “All Politics is Personal: a Gay Conservative Looks at the Culture Wars.” The program m e e t s o n We d n e s d a y afternoons beginning Feb. 18 and is free and open to the public. Each week’s program will begin at 4pm at the Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics and will last approximately an hour and a half. LaSalvia is no stranger to the personal aspect of politics. “Having spent my career working at the intersection of culture and politics as an openly gay conservative in the trenches of the culture wars, I have unique experience in this area,” he says. He explains that his experience working on issues relating to gay Americans
MARCH 2015
caused him to pay close attention to and study other Things to know cultural issues in politics. “Essentially, this study Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics group program is made up 2350 Petefish Dr., Lawrence of topics I’ve been directly 785.864.4900 involved with or topics that have interested me in my www.doleinstitute.org career in politics,” he says. www.jimmylasalvia.com “I wish we had more time because there are many topics that we just aren’t able to mind and thick skin.” get to in our short seven-week LaSalvia says the program format will allow for interaction program.” Each program will feature a between the guests and the guest speaker and an interesting audience. The first half of the topic that will most certainly stir program will feature LaSalvia the opinions of the audience. interviewing the guest. The “We aren’t talking about issues second half will be opened to such as tax policy or industry allow questions and discussion regulations, we are talking from the audience. about issues that deal with who Guests include University we are and how we live,” he of Pennsylvania Law School says. “Cultural issues are very Professor Tobias Wolff. Wolff, personal and emotional. We who has served as counsel in aren’t going to be afraid to ‘go numerous civil rights cases there’ on any of our topics, so regarding equal treatment for I tell everyone to bring an open continued on page 21
MARCH 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MARCH 2015
Fit for a Queen has clothes for all kinds of queens By Blake Hampton
WICHITA - A resale clothing store at 2817 E. Central has been providing size 14 and over clothing for about two years. Fit for a Queen, owned and operated by Pia Schwamman, carries a large selection of fashion items to choose from. The store has hats, dresses, accessories, shoes, and even a small section for large men’s clothing. Not only does Schwamman sell clothing, but she also works with Wichita colleges to supply costumes for play productions, as well as working with others to bring in unique and hard to find fashion items - like hats dating from the 60s and on. Though other retail stores like JC Penney’s and Kohl’s, have started carrying a selection of plus-size wear, many of the sizes only go as high as 24. Schwamman, being a plus-size herself, knows that it is hard to find good clothing that will fit. “For bigger sizes there is Catherine’s, but otherwise the rest is online.” Noticing these trends she decided to take action, “So I thought I would open a plus-size resale shop myself.” Schwamman is originally from the Philippines. From there she went to Iowa State University where she met her husband. In 1982 her husband was offered work at Boeing, the couple moved to Wichita, raised a family, and have lived there ever since. Before Fit for a Queen opened in October 2013, Schwamman worked at a doctor’s office.
When that office closed, she was home stuck for a while. “With my youngest child in college, I was at home watching TV,” she said. “I was having lunches and coffee with my friends. Then I thought I should do what I want to do. I should follow my passion.” Schwamman loves running the store even though it is hard work with many responsibilities - keeping clothes clean, organizing, labeling, bookkeeping, and coming up with ways for the store to stand out. “When somebody walks through the door and says, ‘Oh my gosh, look at all these bigsize clothes.’ That kind of makes you glad.” She does think back to when she was at home more sometimes, but she wouldn’t have it any other way. As she says, “I have no regrets. I love this work.” Now, two years later with what started as just a few dresses has expanded into a diverse and colorful inventory. She continually has unique items in the store to sell. Schwamman has recently taken on the project of selling products online. She posts pictures, price, and descriptions of an item on the Fit for a Queen Facebook page. Anyone interested in an item can send a Facebook message, or call (316942-0006) about the item for sale. She hopes that in the future she is able to put more focus into online selling, and advertising for the store. l
Whether you’re playing Queen Guinevere, impersonating Queen Latifah or are simply a plus-size woman, Fit For A Queen has clothes and accessories for you. Photos by Blake Hampton
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MARCH 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Page 21
my light even more truthfully, even more powerfully, and even more brightly than ever before. I do not stand alone. We will continue the fight until there is a light in the darkness that cannot be extinguished; until the darkness is no more. The day is coming sooner than you might think. Don’t ask me what’s the matter with Kansas. This is a great state. This
Damn, Sam Reaction of a Kansas Activist
S
everal years ago, I committed my life to trying to make certain that it was more possible for more LGBT youth in Kansas to see a light in the darkness. To know that they are precisely and perfectly who they are supposed to be. There are many others who have made the same commitment. In 2007 an executive order signed by then-governor Kathleen Sebelius provided protections for about 25,000 Kansas employees from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. On Tuesday, Feb. 10, Sam Brownback issued his own executive order, repealing those protections. In so doing, he took an action that extinguishes part of the light so many have worked to create. But the spark that is left will grow into a flame of truth and dignity. Why? Because the flame of truth and dignity is far more powerful than any amount of hate and discrimination. My message to LGBT Kansans is this. DO NOT let him tell you who you are. DO NOT let him tell you who you have to be or who you can love. DO NOT let Brownback or any other bigot tell you what your value is. You are perfect. Not only is there nothing wrong with being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender; it is beautiful. You are undeniably and exactly who you are supposed to be. I am not frightened by this monstrous action, nor am I afraid of this man. He does not speak for Kansas. He does not speak for God. Hate is not a Christian value. Hate is not a Kansas value. Hate is not an American value. The greatest possible gift I can give to this world is to be
my true, authentic self. Sam Brownback has no power to change that. Ideologues like Brownback are a dying breed. The future belongs to equality. Legalized discrimination is breathing its last breaths. But those who would see the light extinguished for young people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender are fighting the battle of desperation. They are pulling out all the stops and clinging to the dying branches of a tree that no longer has roots. They are no longer able, will never again be able, to stop the progression of human dignity and civil rights. However, in this battle of desperation, there are and will continue to be the last desperate acts of hate. Absolute and indefensible by their very nature, carrying the despicable and desolate mark of inhumanity. These horrifying and inexcusable acts are not all-powerful. In the movie Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, Princess Leia says, “The more you tighten your grip, Tarkin, the more star systems will slip through your fingers.” True that. We must stand together against the immoral designation of LGBT people as secondclass citizens. We must do this in Kansas, across America, in Russia, and in Uganda. We must do it anywhere the ugly twoheaded snake of homophobia and transphobia dares to make its nasty presence known. We are going to fight tooth and nail until we put an end to the evilness of Sam Brownback and other monsters like him. We will take the battle to him and any other person who tries to deny us our rightful status as full and equal human beings. That, is a promise. So I will endeavor to shine
LaSalvia continued from page 18
LGBT people, will join the Mar. 4 program to provide his input on the topic of religious liberty versus equal treatment under the law. The Mar. 11 program will feature Chris Geidner, the legal editor for Buzzfeed and National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association Journalist of the Year for 2014. Geidner will share his thoughts regarding the gay rights movement and gay marriage. Other high-profile speakers are in the works and will be announced as they are confirmed. LaSalvia says he is particularly looking forward to
is my state. You might want to ask me what’s the matter with Brownback. He’s not looking too good. l Stephanie Mott is a transgender woman from Topeka. She is the executive director of the Kansas Statewide Transgender Education Project, and a commissioner on the City of Topeka Human Relations Commission. Reach her at stephanieequality@yahoo.com.
the discussion with Buzzfeed’s Geidner. This program, LaSalvia says, will be a few weeks before the Supreme Court hears the arguments in the marriage cases, and attendees will have the benefit of hearing about Geidner’s experience as a Supreme Court reporter covering this issue. LaSalvia hopes people learn something new, whether they attend one or all of the programs. “Maybe it’s a point of view they haven’t considered before, or maybe it’s a strategy they didn’t know about, whatever it is, I hope everyone can take away some bit of new knowledge,” he says. l
Join us on a Lenten Journey
Sunday Mornings at 10:15AM In Person: 156 S. Kansas in Wichita Watch LIVE Online: www.MCCWichita.com GOD LOVES YOU.
PERIOD Experience the R evolution ™
FIRST MCC
OF KANSAS
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH. Rev. Jackie Carter, M.Div
www.GodLovesYouPeriod.com • (316) 267-1852 Office Hours: M-TH 9 -12 And by Appointment
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. celebration held in September.
Social Freethinking Parents Group, Are you raising kids without religion? You're not alone. Freethinking Parents meet 2-4pm, third Sundays at Botanica, Wichita. Info: www.facebook.com/ groups/586131888148529/
Community Centers The Center, 800 N. Market, Wichita, (316) 285-0007 www.thecenterofwichita. org
MARCH 2015
usd260.com, tkellenbarger@usd260. com
Support
F re e S t a t e H i g h S c h o o l G S A , Lawrence, sponsors: Hilary Morton hmorton@usd497.org, and Kim Grinnell kgrinnell@usd497.org
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.
Highland Park High School's Parity, Topeka, LGBTatHP@outlook.com, facebook.com/LGBTatHP.
Heart of America Men’s Chorus, Wichita, (316) 708-4837, www.hoamc. org
Hutchinson High School GSA, faculty advisor: Mr. Westmoreland, chairperson: Kara Vaughn.
Junction City Teddy Bears, c/o Kevin Stilley, 2 Oak Valley Dr., Manhattan, (785) 556-8188, trlrhouseman@webtv. net
COMCARE Crisis Intervention Services, 934 N. Water, Wichita, (316) 660-7500 free 24/7, www. sedgwickcounty.org
The Independent School GSA, Wichita, sponsor: Matt Hanne matt. hanne@theindependentschool.com
Flint Hills PFLAG, Manhattan, (785) 340-2815, meets on the 1st Saturday, 10am-noon, call for location.
K-State LGBT & Allies, meets every Thursday at 5:30 in Leadership Studies room 123
Get Connected, Wichita, (316) 2850007, LGBTQIA youth group for ages 12-21. Meets at The Center, 800 N. Market, every Friday from 7-9pm.
NetworQ, Lawrence, KansasNetworQ@ yahoo.com, www.KansasNetworQ.org, meets at Maceli’s, 1031 New Hampshire Wichita Bears, presidentwichitabears@ yahoo.com, www.wichitabears.org
KU Queers & Allies, University of Kansas, Lawrence, (785) 864-3091, qanda@ku.edu, www.ku.edu/~qanda
Wichita Organization of Leather Fetishes, (316) 201-6242, www. woolfks.com
Lawrence High School GSA, sponsors: Shannon Draper SDraper@usd497.org, and Lindsay Buck LBuck@usd497.org
HIV/AIDS Client Emergency Fund administrered by the Junction City Teddy Bears, c/o Kevin Stilley, 2 Oak Valley Dr., Manhattan, (785) 556-8188, trlrhouseman@webtv.net, for people in the Manhattan/Junction City area
Wichita Prime Timers, ICTPrimeTimers@aol.com, www. primetimersww.com/Wichita, social group for mature gay men.
Headquarters Counseling Center, Lawrence, (785) 841-2345 free 24/7, www.hqcc.lawrence.ks.us
Manhattan High School GSA, mhs_ gsa@hotmail.com
Healthy Transitions, for heterosexually married gay men in KC. A phone and face-to-face interview required, Mark McCarthy, LPC (816) 931-0011x4.
Hunter Health Clinic, 2318 E. Central, Wichita, (316) 262-3611, FREE HIV confidential or anonymous testing with Spanish and Vietnamese interpreters.
A Journey In The Light Ministries, 2231 S. Bluff (St. Christopher ’s Episcopal Chapel), Wichita, Sunday Praise and Worship services at 11am.
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
College Hill United Methodist Church, 2930 E. 1st, Wichita, (316) 683-4643, www.collegehillumc.org, Sunday Celebrations at 8:30, 9:40 and 11:00am.
Kansas State University LGBT Resource Center, 207 A/B Holton Hall, Manhattan, (785) 532-5352, lgbt@kstate.edu, www.k-state-edu/lgbt
Health
LGBT Health Coalition of Sedgwick County, Wichita, (316) 285-0007, www. sedgwickcountylgbt.org Positive Connections, 1001 SW Garfield Ave, third floor, Topeka, (785) 232-3100, www.pcneks.org Positive Directions, 414 S. Commerce, Wichita, (316) 263-2214, (316) 2635214, www.pdiks.com Sedgwick County Health Dept., 2716 W. Central, Wichita, (316) 660-7300, www.sedgwickcounty.org South Wind Women's Center, 5107 E. Kellogg, Wichita, (316) 260-6934, www.southwindwomenscenter.org, LGBTQIA-friendly health services. The Sweet Emergency Fund, KUSM-W MPA, 1010 N. Kansas, Wichita, (316) 293-3405
Politics/Activism E q u a l i t y K a n s a s , w w w. 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. Peace and Social Justice Center of South Central Kansas, 1407 N. Topeka, Wichita, (316) 263-5886, director@ wichitapeace.org, www.wichitapeace. org Wichita Pride, info@wichitapride. org, www.wichitapride.org, annual
Spiritual
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. First Unitarian Universalist Church of Wichita, 7202 E. 21st St., (316) 6843481, officemanager@firstuu.net, www. firstuu.net. Lutheran Campus Ministry, 1421 W. 19th, Lawrence, lutheran@ku.edu Metropolitan Community Church of Topeka, 4425 SW 19th, (785) 2721442, office@mcctopeka.org, www. MCCTopeka.org, services Sundays at 10am. Pine Valley Christian Church, 5620 E. 21st St., Wichita, (316) 685-2421, churchoffice@pvcconline.org, www. pvcconline.org Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan, 481 Zeandale Road, (785) 537-2349, www.uufm.net, services Sundays at 10:45am. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Topeka, 4775 SW 21st St., (785) 2729233, www.uuft.org, services Sundays at 10:30am.
Student groups Derby High School GSA, kljacobs@
Maize South High School GSA, sponsor: Shelly Walston swalston@ usd266.com, meets 2nd Fridays. Pitt State GSA, Pittsburg State University, pittstategaystraightalliance@ gmail.com Spectrum: LGBTQ & Allies, Wichita State University, Twitter.com/ Wsuspectrum, meets Thursdays at 7pm in the Lucas Room (RSC 265) when classes are in session. Wichita East High School GSA, Tdavis2@usd259.net Wichita Heights High School GSA, nmagoon@usd259.net Wichita North High School GSA, (316) 204-5621, kellykk00@yahoo.com, rhorning@usd259.net, cwidmer@ usd259.net, meets every Wednesday at lunch in room A213. Wichita Northeast High School GSA, Jbell2@usd259.net Wichita Northwest High School GSA, amcdonald@usd259.net, meets every Monday after school. Wichita Southeast High School GSA, (316) 807-2271, psychsteve2@yahoo. com Wichita West High School GSA, astucky@usd259.net
GLSEN Greater Wichita, wichita@ chapters.glsen.org.
HIV+ Men’s Support Group, Wichita, (316) 293-3405, mmadecky@kumc.edu 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 PFLAG Lawrence/Topeka, (785) 235-3831, sffeist@msn.com, www. pflagnekansas.org, meets 1st Sundays, 2-4pm at MCC of Topeka, 4425 SW 19th. PFLAG Wichita, info@ictpflag.org, www.facebook.com/WichitaPFLAG, meets 2nd Thursdays, 6:30-8pm at College Hill United Methodist, 2930 E. 1st. The Face of Trans*, www.thefaceof trans.com Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center, 355 N. Waco, Suite 100, (316) 2630185 office, (316) 263-3002 crisis line 24/7, advocate@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
MARCH 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Place to Meet Women The Store 3210 E. Osie (316) 683-9781
Place to Meet Men and Overall Bar Rain Café & Lounge 518 E. Douglas www.raincafeandlounge.com
T
hank you to everyone who voted in this year’s Best of Gay Wichita Awards! It was a great success with the most votes yet in our three years of awards. Again there were categories that we decided not to award because there were too many nominees. Those categories were: Theme Night, Mixed Drink, Realtor, Attorney, Business Person, and Therapist/ Psychologist. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners!
Bartender Brett Fleming, Rain Place to Grab a Beer J’s Lounge 513 E. Central www.jsloungewichita.com “Thank you, Wichita, for another great year at J’s Lounge. We are approaching 13 years of business. We are excited for the new year and the new changes at J so keep coming by the best gay bar in Wichita for the best service and drinks and a good time with your friends and family. Thank you once again.” --Russell
Gay-Friendly Restaurant or Coffeeshop Espresso To Go Go Disco, 102 N. St. Francis Unicorn, 120 E. 1st St. www.espressotogogo.com
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“I would like to say thank you to the Liberty Press for putting on these awards. I would also like to say thank you to the people that voted for me and a special thanks to Kelly Hoffman and Michael Kasselman for allowing me to do what I love. I look forward to the future of Wichita’s gay community and look forward to continuing to DJ for this community. “ Live Theater Mosley St. Melodrama 234 N. Mosley www.mosleystreet.com
“Thank you, Wichita, for honoring Mosley Street Melodrama as 2015’s BEST LIVE THEATRE! This is our 17th season and we very much appreciate the support that the LGBT community has given us through the years. We take great pride in being a destination that welcomes people from all walks of life and makes them feel appreciated and comfortable. Thanks again and stay proud of who you are!” Massage Therapist Joshua Pfister and Brad Thomison Light and Sound Spa 1157 N. Piatt Ave. www.lightandsoundspa.com
“All of us at Espresso To Go Go are so proud to receive this award! It has been our goal to create an environment that is filled with all the love and joy that we have in our hearts as a beautiful refuge from the tired old bullshit that can bring a mofo down! The disco balls and unicorns that inhabit our stores symbolize the carefree, whimsical and joyful life filled with fun that we wish for ourselves and all of our patrons. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!” Local DJ CJ Vers, Fantasy Complex
“Brad and Josh are honored to be selected as the Best Massage Therapists for 3 years in a row. We work hard to bring high quality, professional services to our community and we are proud to serve you! Thank you to all of our friends, clients, and family members who have helped make our business a success, and to everyone who nominated us for this award. Also, thanks to the Liberty Press for showcasing LGBT businesses and individuals who help make our community great. “ Hair Stylist Danny Jimenez Ta n g l e d U p Salon 2900 E. Douglas (316) 613-3434 “Thank you for all the support and votes for this year’s best hair stylist of gay Wichita! I’d like to thank the Liberty Press for sponsoring the awards, and for showing Wichita all the professions and talent that our community has to offer. I am a Wichita native, and am proud to be a part of it. “ --Danny Jimenez
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MARCH 2015
Dance Floor Fantasy Complex “Our Fantasy DJ staff/light and sound crew wants to give a big shout out and thank you to everyone that makes the dance floor important . . . and that’s YOU!! We appreciate your patronage and helping make us your favorite dance floor!” --Michael Kasselman, C.J. Dwyer, Chuck Fletcher
Other Business Steve’s Jams and Jellies Stevesjams.com “Steve’s Jams and Jellies is honored to be selected as recipient of 2015 Best of Gay Wichita’s Best Other Business! Since we started our business about 18 months ago, we pride ourselves in providing over 80 homemade unique and unusual jams and jellies in the Wichita market. The acceptance of Wichita of our product is totally awesome! Look for us at Kansas Grown Farmers Markets April through October and at our online store (www.stevesjams.com). Again, Thank You for your support!” --Steve & Ken
MARCH 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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Village People part of lineup at Riverfest 2015 Button price goes up for the first time since 2006
WICHITA - Wichita Festivals, Inc. revealed the artwork for Riverfest 2015 and offered a sneak peek at the upcoming festival at a press event at Emprise Bank, sponsor of the 2015 artwork contest. Wichita-based artist Roger Strunk won this year’s button and poster artwork competition with his interpretation of Admiral Windwagon Smith as an astronaut with the Wichita skyline in the background to capture this year’s theme, “Button Up. Have a Blast!” The astronaut Admiral and his corndog-wielding turtle sidekick, Ace, will adorn advertisements, merchandise and admittance buttons Riverfest 2015, May 29-June 6. A version of the poster artwork will be featured on the adult button. The child’s button, which was introduced for kids 6-12 in 2013, will feature Ace. Children five years old and younger get into
[ROxY’s] ed erents unfiltPres
@
ROXY’S DOWNTOWN
412 1/2 e douglas 316.265.4400
the festival for free. Jarvis also announced that for this first time in nearly a decade, the cost of the adult admission button will increase. Beginning May 8, the adult button price will move to $10. The price for the popular child’s button will stay at $3. Before that date, adult buttons will be offered for an early-bird pricing of $5. “Since 2006, the entertainment industry has changed and event costs are way up. Rather than scaling back our efforts or putting attendees and our volunteers through multiple price increases in the next few years, we’re looking to the future, planning for a high-caliber event, and asking folks to pay just a little more than a dollar a day to enjoy it,” said Jarvis. Buttons are offered at the early-bird price now through May 7 online at selectaseat.com or by calling Select-A-Seat at (855) 755-SEAT. Attendees can purchase early-bird buttons in person at the Select-A-Seat box office at Intrust Bank Arena or at the Wichita Festivals office April 17-May 7. Starting May 8, fullprice buttons will be available at button retail outlets, including Dillons and QuikTrip. Highlights of the 2015 festival were also revealed. “A robust schedule of concert headliners is planned for our two main stages at Kennedy Plaza and
He’s back... from the dead!
WaterWalk, including classic disco act the Village People. Our Kansas Health Foundation River Run race series will move to the second Saturday of the festival,” Jarvis said. “Capitol Federal’s large fireworks show will move to closing night. Meineke hot air balloons and Ackerman’s Backyard will be back.” l
FINAL FRIDAY LATE-NITE FINALE the
DEAD IN Ty Hour R A M Variet
DOORS OPEN & DRINKS FLOW AT 10:30 PM SHOW STARTS AT 11 PM
The Dead Martin Variety Hour is Wichita's twisted monthly take on the variety shows of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Featuring local acts of ALL kinds and ALL levels of talent, plus surprise guests, recurring characters, and a lot of booze. All presided over by everyone's favorite undead crooner, Dead Martin!
Tickets only $10 plus a two drink minimum.
[No Zombies will be harmed in the making of this production]
& we’re always
looking for new
acts!
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MARCH 2015
New Girls on the Block
Series to shine a spotlight on KC transgender community By Ciara Reid | Photo by Dan Brennan
IN 2005, A FILM STARRING Desperate Housewives star Felicity Huffman was released. Transamerica tells the story of a transgender woman, Bree (played by Huffman) who goes on a road trip with her estranged son. Huffman won the Oscar for Best Actress, and the film garnered critical praise and several awards. Yet, the public’s knowledge, understanding, and acceptance of the transgender community remained minimal at that time. Fast-forward a decade. Orange is the New Black made Laverne Cox the first open transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award. Transparent, a show starring Jeffrey Tambor in which he plays a transgender woman named Maura, has earned praise and awards. And
Bruce Jenner, the patriarch of one of the most popular families in America right now (the Kardashians, in case some may not know), who is speculated to be in the process of transitioning to a woman, has the opportunity to educate millions. The awareness and support of the transgender community has never been higher. And starting April 2 on the Discovery Life Channel, a non-scripted television series called New Girls on the Block will contribute to the landscape. The five-part series, which was filmed late last year, follows a group of transgender people in Kansas City. The cast was recommended by Caroline Gibbs, director of the Transgender Institute in Kansas City. Cast members include AiYana and Jaimie;
AiYana fathered three children before her transition, but has not seen her children in more than a year. Jaimie is a former Army officer who is experiencing opposition for her participation in women’s triathlons. Cast members Robyn and Andrew have been best friends for years and fell in love after Robyn’s transition. Kassidy and Chloe are going through their transitions together and have been roommates for several months. Macy and Sharon are married; Macy went through the transition from male to female after they married, and they are currently working through their relationship. The show will give viewers a glimpse of what it means to be transgender – the struggles of trying to gain acceptance and understanding from family
and friends, and the euphoria of becoming the person each woman was meant to be. For Kassidy, her main motivation for joining the cast is to show others that they can succeed as a transgender individual. “I can share my story, and show that you can get through it, that it will be okay,” she says. The increase in awareness and support for the transgender community in recent years has helped the cast members in their transition process. Instead of feeling isolated and alone in their experience, many transgender people have some form of support system to help them through the transition. “When you get a new car, you always see it on the street,” Chloe says, explaining that the same thing happened to her as she transitioned. “You see so
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many stories because you are going through it.” The filming process has been therapeutic for many of the cast members. “I dug deeper in my own mind than I expected to,” Chloe says. Chloe and Kassidy began their transitions at about the same time; they are about a month apart regarding hormone treatments. Kassidy’s parents struggled at first, but she says they are now supportive and happy for her. While some of Chloe’s family has been very accepting, some relationships are strained. Her two older brothers are not as accepting; her younger brother, she says, is one of the greatest
T
pillars of strength she could ask for. Her mother has been very supportive, though she says her father can “barely regard my existence.” Despite the strain on relationships, Chloe says she is happier since she transitioned. Sharing their experience on the show was mostly a positive experience, but the exposure does have a downside. “The vast majority of the world does not know we are trans,” Kassidy says. “They just see us as normal women. It’s a risk we take, outing ourselves as trans.” The transition has been complex for Macy and Sharon; married before Macy told Sharon about her desire to transition, the couple is currently figuring out
hey always say that March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb, but I am not so sure. Let’s just say that March comes out any way it darn pleases, especially when expansive retrograde Jupiter thunders through the cosmos. That works for me.
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what the transition means for their relationship. Macy knew she was different at an early age. At that time, information on transgender issues was scarce. “There wasn’t really a word for it,” she says. She became skilled at keeping her secret hidden, and began lifting weights in high school in an attempt to look more masculine. “I got good at running away from it,” she says. But after Macy and Sharon got married, the secret flared up again. “Imagine being transgender and suppressing it,” Macy says. “It’s like trying to hold a beach ball under the water.” Viewers will see that there is a lot of love between Macy and Sharon, but will also see the strain on the couple as they navigate through such unchartered waters. From Sharon’s perspective, the fact that her once-husband is now living life as a woman is and was a shock that still takes some getting used to. “We are still working through it,” she says. “I was very surprised and shocked;
ARIES (MAR. 21 - APRIL 20) LEO (JULY 24 - AUG. 23) Anything creative or just plain fun has If you are meeting and greeting, you the capability to get totally out of control are able to make an interesting and this March. Everything is spiky, scrappy impressive first impression this March, and full of electric energy just waiting proud Lion. But it could mean that to be exploited. Proud Rams who think you come on too strong and bowl over they will be in for a quiet and contemplative month will folks, overwhelming those who do not know you well. be roused, rambled, rode, hogtied and branded. Hmm. You could come off a bit pushy, overly dramatic and Maybe that is your ultimate plan? excessive. Of course nothing succeeds like excess . . . Hmm. TAURUS (APRIL 21 - MAY 21) Any home project that you have had on VIRGO (AUG. 24 - SEPT. 23) your planning board can now be set into There is so much going on behind the motion. But be warned, queer Bull, these scenes that it can spill over onto the stage simple projects are not what they appear to of your life. Are you prepared to have all be. Nothing is simple, as you will find out. of your secrets bared? If so then go for Everything will be big, bigger, biggest until it becomes it and show it off, queer Virgo. If there are still a few totally overblown. Hold off on anything that demands a things you would like to be kept secret, try to manage strict time deadline. All other stuff can run amok. your press as best as you can. Everyone loves to know a few secrets. Try to keep it at a very few. GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) You think you are charming and compelling, LIBRA (SEPT. 24 - OCT. 23) but check yourself out in the mirror as you Your social life takes on a crazy deliver your personal pitch. Suddenly whirlwind life of its own now. That is you see that you are much more effusive, not a bad thing - your calendar fills up dramatic and wild than you need to be. Will with all sorts of fun and interesting things to do and you you still be able to talk your way into anything? Probably, have never felt so popular. But at the end of the day, you but that “anything” will want to form strong connections and friendships. could be on the mouth of a volcano. Ready, set, jump! Quality, not quantity is the secret to success, proud Libra. Are you ready to choose? CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) There are no cheap thrills this March, SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) but that shouldn’t worry you, gay Crab. Even if you feel like your professional In fact you have been carefully planning path is on course, there may be things this spending spree for a while. So take that happen this March that will cause the first step, but keep a watchful eye on you to reassess or change direction. Take the bottom line. There is no sense wasting your money. everything in stride, queer Scorp. Any But an occasional splurge is always a happy event. And executive slights are temporary, even spoiling a certain you-know-who is always worth it. if it seems monumental. Keep your eye on the prize, the enormous paycheck and eventual early retirement.
I didn’t know what to do.” While Sharon’s story in particular can inspire many who are in a similar position, she herself is searching for support. The experience of filming the show has helped. “The show has given me an opportunity to express myself and see things differently,” Sharon says. “I learned a lot. It’s been very helpful for me.” Sharon hopes couples who are sharing a similar experience become inspired by their story. “You don’t necessarily have to run away from a situation,” she says. “Stay and work things through.” Macy hopes the show will give people the opportunity to see that transgender people are just like everyone else. “We are just normal people,” she said. She hopes that the show will give people in similar situations the courage and inspiration to be themselves. And those who aren’t transgender? “They may be able to relate to us,” she says. “There is something in it for everyone.” l
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 - DEC. 22) Any travel plans should be carefully reviewed lest it winds up as a big goose chase. Gay Archers who yearn to expand their horizons may see so much expansion that they get a headache. Take everything in stride and enjoy whatever crazy experiences the cosmos sets for you this March. Who knows where you will eventually wind up? Or wash up? CAPRICORN (DEC. 23 - JAN. 20) Sexy pink Caps will have energy to burn this March. But where will you burn it? Channel your enthusiasm and oomph into more productive, possible long-term relationships and not just for a quick singe. Connections that you make now could change the direction of your life and endear you to powerful people. Will you use your new found influence for good or evil? AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 - FEB. 19) Are partners giving you what you need in a relationship? If so, celebrate and give them lots of attention and affection. Ramp it up. If not, use this time to re-connect, communicate and implement positive changes with significant others. Those Aqueerians seeking new love can find it in the most unusual places with the most unusual people. And that is not so unusual for you! PISCES (FEB. 20 - MAR. 20) Any drudgery or routine task that you undertake this March will go smoothly and will almost seem like fun. (I said “almost.”) You will never be as focused and efficient as you are now. So there is no need to procrastinate any longer, Guppie. Tackle that pile of things to-do and prepare for a cathartic spring cleaning. And think of how shiny your summer will be!
(c) 2015 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 is the best in sun sign astrology. Order now at tinyurl.com/herscopes.
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Oldest gay bar in Kansas closes its doors By Kristi Parker
arrangements with the state on the tax issue. When Little WICHITA - “At this time the was reached, he didn’t want to business is closed and the comment on the closing. property is up for sale,” Kelley Some posts on the club’s Hoffman, co-owner of the Facebook page showed the Fantasy Complex said. Since employees of the bar were 1981 the Fantasy has been a surprised as well and hadn’t mainstay is Wichita’s LGBT been told of the impending closure. community. Linn Copeland, who first Hoffman prepared this opened the bar, provided a safe statement: “It has been an gathering space for everyone to absolute pleasure working with enjoy. From drag shows, to a the many wonderful staff and high-energy dance floor, to the entertainers through the years, attached South Forty country and we truly appreciate the close bar and The Harbor restaurant friends and memories made it seemed like there was a place there to last a lifetime. “No one knows what the for everyone. But after Copeland passed future brings, and perhaps the away in 2005 the club hasn’t property will again someday be seen the same level of success. gay-owned and operated. That Copeland left the property to is all up to the Copeland Trust her two older sisters, who have and her heirs. I owe a good since rented it out to a couple of deal of who I am, along with different operators. The latest tremendous amounts of respect have been Kelley Hoffman and and cherished times, to Linn Kelly Little, who have brought Copeland and her family. stability and success back to the “I hope we at the Fantasy have in some way touched you space. On Monday, Jan. 26 Little all in a positive way and helped was taken by surprise when the you maybe, just maybe, smile owners changed the locks. They when the going got tough. I wish had been behind on the rent and to you, the LGBT community, had some back taxes due, but and its allies nothing but love, he thought they were working pride and dignity as you go it out. He had already made forward. And to the countless CISmagnet.eps 1 10/18/2011 2:23:51 PM numbers of you that have given your time and efforts to help work at the club? I appreciate you more than I can say. “This is not goodbye, as the Fantasy simply never dies. She may age, and change, and it’s players move around the board, but she is still there whether in brick and mortar or a passing thought of good times with friends. She will always be there. l
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Theatre Thursdays set to provoke at Fisch Haus in March WICHITA - Wichita audiences will have a chance to catch a provocative, contemporary theatre production every Thursday night in March at 8pm at Fisch Haus, 524 S. Commerce. The lineup includes Cock by Mike Bartlett on Mar. 5, Oleanna by David Mamet on Mar. 12, The Mercy Seat by Neil Labute on Mar. 19, and Offending the Audience by Peter Handke on Mar. 26. Tickets are $10. Shows are one night only, but each will offer a special “preview” night on the Wednesday before opening. Inspired by the success of Jazz Tuesdays at Fisch Haus, Fisch Bowl, Inc., the nonprofit board for Fisch Haus, decided to attempt a similar series with theatre. This year’s theme for Theatre Thursdays is “provocation” as each play forces the audience to grapple with a personal understanding of sexual identity, gender bias, selfishness in times of tragedy, and the nature of theatre itself. Cock by Mike Bartlett premiered on Broadway in 2012. It tells the story of a man who breaks up with his longterm boyfriend and starts a relationship with a woman. Torn between the two, a dinner is arranged for all parties to come together to determine who the man is and what he wants. A comic discussion of identity and sexuality, the play is specified to be performed with no props or set. The play features Lewis Mize, Michael Webber, Karen Wild, and David Bailey. The director is Susan Guntly. It
will perform on Thursday, Mar 5. Oleanna by David Mamet is a contemporary classic and tells the story of a professor and his female student. The student is unhappy with her grades and blackmails the professor with the threat of accusations of sexual harassment if he doesn’t change her grades. The play features Mark Anderson and will perform on Thursday, Mar. 12. The Mercy Seat by Neil LaBute was one of the first theatrical responses to 9/11. It tells the story of a woman and her employee who is having an extra-marital affair with her. Believed to be at work in the towers on the morning of 9/11, they were actually together having a tryst. After the attacks, the employee questions whether or not to take this opportunity to leave his family for good by pretending to be dead from the attacks. The play features Allison Bridget-Chambers and Justin Ralph. It will perform on Thursday, Mar. 19. Offending the Audience by Peter Handke is an anti-theatre piece of absurdist art. In it the actors constantly remind the audience that they are not at a play and provoke the audience to question their motives and expectations for what an evening of theatre should be. The director is Nathan Filbert. It will perform on Thursday, Mar. 26. For more information, visit www.fischhaus.com. l
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Stand Up for Love: Protest Feb. 14, 2015 Photos by Dan Brennan
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Leather Life
MARCH 2015
By Nolin Christensen aka Master C
The Return of Drummer
M
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any of the older gay men might remember Drummer magazine that was in circulation between 1975-99. In my opinion, 214 issues of probably the hottest masculine male magazine that was ever produced. And as a result of this magazine, the Mr. Drummer contest was formed. The Mr. Drummer, and later Drummerboy, contest ran from 1980-2001. Well, the Drummer contest is back. Now called Drummer North America (or DNA) it is a contest for gay men, featuring: Drummer, Drummerboy and Drummer Bootblack. Unlike contests restricted to only leather or rubber, or a specific power dynamic such as Master/slave and Sir/boy, DNA contest titles are open to a broader spectrum of fetish identities of gay men — from rubber, uniforms, skinhead and leather, to sports kit, military and punk. DNA is as diverse as your own DNA. DNA contests are open to gay-identified, biological and trans men in the fetish/ kink communities, who are residents of Canada, the United States and Mexico. While DNA is a celebration of gay masculinity and the contests are open exclusively to gay male contestants, DNA weekend embraces and welcomes our kinky lesbian sisters to join the celebration and participate among the ‘Women of Drummer.’ This past weekend I had the privilege of attending the 1st annual DrummerNA. It was a
fantastic weekend. The weekend included the Drummer contest, various workshops, and a great time to socialize with old friends. I have always had a passion for Drummer; I own the full set of Drummer magazines, my partner who passed was a Drummer titleholder, and my current two partners and I were deeply involved in the contest circuit that followed the old Drummer, International Leather Sir/boy. And now once again, coming full circle we are back to DrummerNA. What I like about Drummer is the macho gay image that it portrayed. I’ve always been attracted to masculine men and I love the type of play that they do. Kinky, rough, hard. I loved the saying by Henry David Thoreau that Drummer has always used, “If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.” Yes, I have always heard a different drum when it comes to sex. As early as I can remember I was attracted to men. And growing up on a ranch and farm, I had a particular liking for the hot masculine men that were found on those ranches and farms. And kinky?? Oh, you have no idea. Until I found a Drummer mag in college, I thought I was the only gay male who liked to do the things I learned and tried while growing up. So, yes, I have a fondness in my heart for Drummer and I’m excited that Drummer is back. DNA, I just love that acronym, DNA. So come and join us at DrummerNA and spread some of your DNA. Join us and come get your kink on!! For more information about Drummer North America, please visit drummerna.com/. Or come talk to me or someone at WOOLF. WOOLF meets every third Saturday at The Center of Wichita at 6pm with class starting at 7pm. l
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