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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MAY 2015
MAY 2015 Renew your body, mind & spirit!
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MAY 2015
MAY 2015
Liberty Press
Volume 21, No. 9 • Editor: Kristi Parker • Contributors: Nolin Christensen, Greg Fox, Charlene Lichtenstein, Mama, Dr. Robert N. Minor, Stephanie Mott, Ben Rivers • Staff Reporters: Grayson Barnes, Elle Boatman, Blake Hampton, Ciara Reid • Contributing Photographers: Tom Leopold • Cover Design: Troy Dilport • Graphic Designer: Troy Dilport • Webmaster: Ren Autrey • Publisher: Liberty Press, LLC • Printer: Valley Offset Printing National Advertising: Rivendell Media, (212) 242-96863
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On the Cover: Original Village People inspiration, Felipe Rose, "still having a blast" Page 23
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CONTENTS
IN EVERY ISSUE
CLUB BOOMERANG SET TO OPEN, fill void..................................................... 8 FUN, FRUITY, SIMPLE, SINFUL - Steve's Jams and Jellies thrives.........10 STREET PERFORMER FESTIVAL combines with Art Car Parade in Lawrence.........................................................................................17 'BEARS' WITH LOCAL TIES use Jeb Bush website for LGBT causes.......18 LEAD DONORS HELPING RIVERFEST include children, families in need..24 LITTLE APPLE BIG PRIDE photos............................................................26
POINTS OF INTEREST.................. 6 MAMA KNOWS BEST.................. 14 DISTRIBUTION SITES................. 14 KYLE'S BED & BREAKFAST........ 15 AROUND KANSAS...................... 22 OUT IN THE STARS.................... 27
Regulars
Now, Don�t Miss The Deadline!
BOOKENDS Imogene in New Orleans and Double Exposure..................7 MINOR DETAILS The Present and Current Danger of the Cover Up......13 LEATHER LIFE D/s Relationships...........................................................15 TRANS-FORMATIVE Maybe We Could Act Like Democrats....................21 Liberty Press
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MAY 2015
and can be found at wichita. edu/lgbtclimatestudy.
Botanica art show to benefit Rainbows United WSU needs LGBT students’ opinions WICHITA - WSU is hosting its first ever LGBTQ Campus Climate Study to learn more about student experiences on campus and their perceptions of the climate, resources, and services available. All WSU students are invited to participate and provide feedback. The survey takes about 20 minutes
WICHITA - On Final Friday, May 29 from 5-9pm Botanica will host “Amuse Bouche: A Taste of Wichita’s Finest to benefit Rainbows United. The all-ages event is free and open to the public (including free access to the gardens). Featured artists include: Christopher Gulick, Dustin Parker, Ian Walker Stewart, Kent Williams, Lisa Rundstrom, Luke Swearingen, Marc Bosworth, Melissa Slates, Nicolette Perez, Patrick Duegaw, Robert Bubp
John Bates, left, and Kyle Vespestad reprise their roles in The Big Bang.
and Wade Hampton. Twenty percent of all art purchased goes directly to Rainbows United and is taxdeductible. Donations can also be made through www. rainbowsunited.org/pages/ amusebouche; or by calling 316.558.3406. Further info on the event can be found on Facebook.
Camp musical explodes at Roxy’s Downtown WICHITA - The Big Bang, starring John Bates and Kyle Vespestad, runs through May 23 at Roxy’s Downtown. Originally titled Free Food & Frontal Nudity when it premiered at the Cable Car Theatre in San Francisco in 1997, The Big Bang is the absolutely hysterical semi-historical possible megaproduction of the history of the universe, from creation to the present, and all set to clever, hilarious and sometimes “jawdropping” musical numbers! The show finds Boyd and Jed pitching their idea for a Broadway musical of historical magnitude (only $83.5 million to produce and with a cast of hundreds) to a roomful of potential investors - played by the audience. These two “borrow
from” a Park Avenue apartment’s elegant décor to transform themselves into a multitude of impromptu historical characters, effectively creating 200 props and inventively outrageous costumes from just what can be found in the apartment. The house opens at 6:30pm for catered dinner from Il Vicino Wood Oven Pizza. The show runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, with select Sunday matinees at 2pm. Tickets are $25 for show only, or $40 for dinner and show. All dinners are plated and served. Call 316-265-4400 for reservations.
WSU adds gender identity and expression to nondiscrimination policy WICHITA - On March 25, President Bardo approved a proposal to add “gender identity and expression” to WSU’s nondiscrimination policy. The statement of nondiscrimination now reads: Notice of Nondiscrimination Wichita State University does continued on page 27
MAY 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
By Ben Rivers Double Exposure by Bridget Birdsall (Sky Pony Press, hardback $16.95) Imogene in New Orleans by Hunter Murphy (Rolltop Publishing, paperback $15)
S
ummer. Can you smell it in the air? My mojito muddler is begging to be used. Oh, who am I kidding. I’m writing
this with a mojito. And I’m bringing you some summer book reviews. Imogene in New Orleans is a fun campy murder mystery. While visiting New Orleans with her son and his partner, the ever spry and sassy Imogene becomes part of a murder solving gang. While much of this novel feels like a practice in stereotypes, Murphy shows his knowledge of the South and in particular New Orleans. The settings are humid, vivid and have their own quirky character. I wish I could say the same for the characters, particularly their dialogue. At times, it was a chore to read the conversations between the characters. While I wanted to spend my entire summer with Imogene I just couldn’t get past the awkwardness of the drawl Murphy tries to craft for her. While Imogene is fun, Double Exposure is a more serious read.
Bridget Birdsall created the tale of a intersex teen who moves from California to Milwaukee to escape bullying. While this is not a breezy, cheeky read I gave an audible squee as I read the inside cover. I hoped that the book would deliver a compelling and empowering character for teens, be they intersex, cisgender, gender queer, transgender, or on any part of the spectrum. Birdsall delivered, and then some. In Alyx Atlas, we have a complicated, authentic young girl dying to fit in yet desperately just wanting to be seen for who she is. While Alyx’s struggle centers around being intersex, what teen doesn’t find him/ herself searching to fit in yet be authentic? I related directly to Alyx’s struggles, even though I am cisgender. Add to this the interesting characters in her family,
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especially her uncle Grizzly, and the earthly grounded Midwest of Milwaukee. The details are rich and the chapters are short, perfect for younger readers. This is a book I look forward to reading again. More importantly, I can’t wait to recommend this to teens. It’s well written, and has such an important message that anyone can connect. Maybe not a book to pair with mojitos, but I can put the drink down for this one. l
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MAY 2015
Club Boomerang set to open, fill void
By Blake Hampton
DUSTY RHODES I am excited to have the great services of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate to offer to you.
Call/Text 316.519.2112 Email: Dusty@DustysHomes.com
Web: www.DustysHomes.com
WICHITA - The new night club that has people all over the Midwest excited is about to open. Within the month Club Boomerang will be ready to entertain in a way that has been missed within the region since a n d the closing of the Fantasy w e d d i n g r e c e p t i o n s . The Complex in January. The owners, Josh Pfister location has a kitchen and a and Brad Thomison, have been dining area that will be utilized working night and day for to feed customers and the months in preparation of the entertainers as well as full bar opening night for Boomerang. to provide drinks. To make sure that everything is Many people, not only in absolutely spectacular, they’ve the LGBT community, but also been looking for the best go-go club- and party-goers want this dancers, DJ’s, cooks, bartenders, club to be successful. With a and location, and creating the place that has so many diverse best setting to insure the success entertainers it can become a of a club that the owners and place for people to feel more many others believe is necessary. open to express themselves. Club Boomerang’s main As much as Thomison and entertainment is to show off the Pfister want this club to be talents of drag performers of both entertaining the biggest goal is professional and amateur status. to have a place that is welcoming “Staff is being carefully selected to everyone. “Not only are so we know you are having the we doing this for us, but we best possible entertainment also think Wichita needs this experience from start to finish,” business. So we really want to Thomison said, with plans to put everything we have into it to feature local entertainers such make it successful,” Pfister said. as Ladies Man, Mackenzie The minimum age for the Carmichael, Candice Michelle, club is 21. Though if there is a high enough demand, the and many others. A highlight for the club will owners would make an evening be the amateur night contests for people over 18. The location - a night where as many as six is on the corner of 1st street and queens or kings will be featured Cleveland. There is parking in the Thursday night line-up along Cleveland and behind with the winner making a special Club Boomerang. There are appearance on Sunday. Also security cameras throughout the with drag performances there building and entrance. As well will be many go-go dancers - as a security staff so that people male, female, and non-binary can have fun and stay safe. - dancing from the dance floor The date and time for and moving throughout the club. opening night was still being “We expect it to be a growing decided as of press time. After and changing dynamic group opening night Boomerang’s and we’ll be doing perpetual club hours will be from 6pminterviews for entertainment 2am, Thursday-Saturday and 6pm-12am on Sundays. Stay DUSTY RHODES staff,” Thomison said. This way updated with Facebook at Club the club can create a reputation Boomerang Wichita for the where theexcited greatest consistency Call/Text 316.519.2112 I am to have the opening date. They are also is quality great entertainment. services of Better for good staff of all Email:looking Dusty@DustysHomes.com Besides the club scene Homes and Gardens Real Thomison and Pfister want to kinds. Contact information is Estate to offer to you. Web:also www.DustysHomes.com on the Facebook page. l use the space for private parties,
MAY 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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Children’s buttons remain $3!
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MAY 2015
Fun, fruity, simple, sinful Steve’s Jams and Jellies thrives
Both Ken Smith, left, and Steve Einsel now work full-time running Steve's Jams and Jellies. They started the business three years ago.
By Grayson Barnes WICHITA - Walking into the production area of Steve’s Jams and Jellies is like entering the storeroom of a Mason jar factory. Cases fill shelves, tables, and carts. However, these jars are full of some 78-plus succulent fruit and berry offerings, like peach, pineapple, cherry, and yes, even strawberry. The owners Steve Einsel and Ken Smith started the business three years ago. Both claim it was “an accident.” Einsel loves to cook and was often in the kitchen. An over-productive pear tree provided the inspiration for
a flurry of canning one season. Einsel loaded slices into quart jars and began making jams and jellies too. Friends received this initial bounty. Einsel just kept cooking. Finally, Smith felt Einsel would benefit from some technological assistance. This came in the form of a Ball’s Tru-Tech Jam-maker that was on sale for 70% off. Einsel and Smith avoid using artificial flavors and keep the ingredients simple. All products are obtained locally as much as possible. These are the reasons, besides their deliciousness, that Einsel’s
friends suggested that he sell the jams and jellies. The first flavor marketed was Pina Colada, which is from a recipe that came with the jam-maker. Smith developed another called Big Red that combines strawberries, raspberries, pomegranate seeds, and vanilla. After assembling about 30 selections, they offered them at the Wichita Farmer’s Market on 21st St. and Ridge Road for $5 a jar. Since then they have tripled their sales, expanded their flavors, bought a company van (aka “The Jam Van”), and are now at the Green Acres and Kechi farmers markets. “We have also been invited to Lincoln Heights at Oliver and Douglas,” Smith added. They have a strong presence on Facebook too. This growth has meant that Smith had to quit his job as a store manager and step in to help with production. In the beginning, they were only able to make about 40-45 jars a week. Now they prepare 300400. Both men say it’s crazy on “jam days,” with (now) three Jam-makers churning, fruit cooking on the stovetop, and crock pots bubbling. “We couldn’t do this without our customer base,” commented Smith. They thrive on the feedback they receive. Einsel, who has taught business, added, “It’s absolutely incredible that everything I taught my kids for years about customer service and customer loyalty is true. It’s overwhelming. People look for
Jammin' Beer Jelly is a new flavor that will debut in Andover on May 3.
us. Customer loyalty has driven us.” Some of their best salespeople are their return customers, who advise new people standing at the booth, by saying, “You will like anything you get.” People also send the products to their friends, who then become customers. While they do a lot of research and development on existing and original recipes, sometimes their customers suggest flavors. “Since we work in small batches,” Smith explained, “we can try new or unusual combinations. If it flops, we’re talking six jars.” If it is a success, they can add it to their lineup, which is important, because they feel that variety continued on page 28
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
44th&B’WAY our anniversary
what we do best
ANCIENT BUT TIMELESS THOUGHTFUL AND JOYOUS DANCE AND DREAM UNLOCK IMAGINATION HAPPIEST OF HIJINKS
Century II Performing Arts Center / 225 W. Douglas 316.265.3107 / mtwichita.org
MAY 2015
MAY 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Minor
Details By Bob Minor
The Present and Current Danger of the Cover Up
T
he danger facing the movement for equality for LGBT people today isn’t just the furious backlash of the religious right-wing, but a response of the movement, which Michelangelo Signorile labels “victory blindness.” In fact, he writes in his new mustread It’s Not Over: Getting Beyond Tolerance, Defeating Homophobia, and Winning True Equality, we are in a “dangerous moment” - in spite of great victories, “discrimination, violence and tragic horror stories – in addition to the daily slights that all of us who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender have experienced for years – have not only continued, they’ve sometimes become more blatant. “It’s a moment in which all of us, LGBT and straight, who support equality risk falling prey to what I’ve come to call victory blindness. We’re overcome by the heady whirl of a narrative of victory, a kind of bedtime story that tells us we’ve reached the promised land, that can make everything else seem like a blur.” This victory narrative says that LGBT people have made it, or that the end of homophobia is inevitable, that they’re now as accepted as straight people. Therefore, the movement shouldn’t do anything to rock a boat that’s smoothly sailing toward Eden. LGBT people should be thankful for what they have, magnanimous in their responses, and patiently awaiting for the tide to further turn. They’re given that counsel from some of their own leading personalities who are high enough on economic and social ladders to feel personally safe and above the fray everyday LGBT people face. One danger in all this is that
the right-wing is constantly working on strategies to prevent anything further and to turn back what has previously been gained. At this point they’ve concluded that they can win in polls, legislatures, and courts with a nationally organized and highly scripted scenario that has them posing as the real victims of LGBT people whose gains are taking away their religious liberties. In legislatures they plan to pass more “religious freedom” bills and laws to overturn local protections. In the courts they hope that “religious freedom” for businesses (think the Hobby Lobby victory) and religious individuals will work better than blatantly singling out a protected category of people. And politically they are counting on younger generations who wouldn’t support discrimination to vote for those who support their freedom from government interference in people’s lives. All of this is modeled on their so-far successful fight to eat away at women’s reproductive rights or to curtail voting rights of minorities and others that are likely voters against them. So, just as they have been able to do that, there’s no guarantee that unless movements for equality are actively engaged in protecting gains and moving forward, America will be a place of full equality. What cannot be the strategy, no matter how it is counseled by insiders is what Signorile calls “covering.” Based on Kenji Yoshino’s book, Covering: The Hidden Assault on Our Civil Rights, covering is the precarious attempt to downplay the differences from the majority that a group of people have in order to convince the majority that the minority are not only “team players” but are just like
them. Covering is a reaction of fear that concludes that fitting in is the best strategy. It teaches that oppressed people should be thankful for what they’ve gained and fearful that any further demands for full equality and acceptance will result in the loss of any gains. Covering says that it is too much to ask for anything more, that doing isn’t magnanimous. It might not be going back into the closet, but it’s keeping silent for fear of the risks involved. As Signorile warns, covering is “a trap that allows equality’s enemies to foment a backlash.” Celebrations in 1973 of the Supreme Court decision for women’s choice in Roe v. Wade, didn’t anticipate the new and multiple curtailing of women’s reproductive rights in the 40 years since – the decision fomented a deceptively dangerous and more violent backlash involving political and legislative setbacks and even murders. Even in some of the safest cities, LGBT harassment and mistreatment remains blatant. And recent polls about marriage equality aside, employment, accommodation, and financial discrimination still exists. The reported number of hate crimes against LGBT people continues to be significant. Signorile references a telling study that was published in the November 2014 issue of the American Sociological Review. It supports the observation that though Americans might reject explicit discrimination against LGBT people and speak of full civil rights, they’d still rather not see LGBT expressions of any affection in public. In other words, though, they would respond to polls
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favorably, they still had an implicit bias against LGBT equality. And keeping the gains that have been made as well as moving to full equality requires confronting those biases not covering while the right-wing schemes to play on them. Just as LGBT people and their allies had to come out of their respective closets to make these gains, at this time of surprisingly fast victories we have to take off the covers and go for complete equality. Tolerance is not a worthy goal. That means we’ll have to upset some apple carts, reject magnanimity, and really act as if all people are worthy of full equality. It means not settling when there are incremental wins, for history, as Signorile documents, has shown that these were not actually won through the incrementalism that has stalled a federal Employment Nondiscrimination Act for decades and allowed the slow eating away at the gains previously won by women and minorities of all genders. It means we have to face our fears that provide the space for continued hate and develop, as Signorile points out, “a new attitude that is uncompromising and empowering. “There will be an impulse now to accept less than we deserve, especially with conservative and Republican voices increasingly proposing that we cut deals and make compromises on equality.” But the empowering and necessary approach is, instead, that LGBT people and allies come out from under any covers. 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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MAY 2015
I have one thing to say to them all, “GET THE HELL OVER IT!” Church is separate from State. Let it go! It is like Eunice not letting me forget how Ellen got all new dolls. Good Lord, move on with your life. Dear Mama, Do you think Hillary Clinton is going to run for President this next election? Wondering
What do you think of all these people fighting over religious beliefs versus laws or other beliefs? Pondering Life
Well, we can hope so. It is about time we have a woman running this country. I am tired of having all these men who are boobs doing it. It is time we have real boobs in the oval office.
I think everyone should just mind their own damn business. If someone lights a candle for a dark cloud in April because that is what they believe, it does not affect my religion. If someone wants to marry whoever they love, it does not affect me. What the hell are they fighting for? There are more important issues to resolve like hunger, cancer, war, crime, and finances than different beliefs. Wake up people we need to concentrate on more important things in life!
Mama, Did you know that the samesex couples that are getting married in Sedgwick County are still having trouble getting their marriage certificates in a timely manner? Not Signed
tinyurl.com/herscopes Charlene Lichtenstein’s ground-breaking astrology book HerScopes: A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians is the best in sun sign astrology! The secrets that are revealed about each sign continue to amaze. Makes a great gift.
Distribution Sites Derby
Derby High GSA
El Dorado
Pathways Psychological Services
Hays
Mokas
Hutchinson
Hutchinson Community College GSA, Hutchinson High School GSA, PFLAG Hutchinson, Prairie Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
Junction City
Devil's Tail
Newton
Bethel College Student Life Center
Kansas City
Hamburger Mary’s, LIKEME Lighthouse
Lawrence
Manhattan
Arlan's Fine Wines & Spirits, Auntie Mae's, The Bluestem Bistro, The Chef Café, First Congregational Church, K-State LGBT Resource Center, K-State Student Union, K-State Women's Clinic, Karnivore Bar and BBQ, Mimi's Cheese Shop & Other Delights, On the Wild Side, People’s Grocery, Queer-Straight Alliance meetings, Radina’s Bakery & Café (two locations), Riley County Health Dept., Rockstar Home Fusion, Sisters of Sound Music, Strecker-Nelson Gallery, Varsity Donuts
Community Mercantile, KU’s Dean of Students office, KU’s Multicultural Resource Center, Lawrence Public Library, Wheatfield’s Bakery, Wilde’s Chateau 24
Pittsburg
Pitt State GSA
Salina
Ad Astra Books and Coffeehouse, Chamucos Nightclub, Mokas, Mokas South, Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat, Salina Unitarian Universalist
It does not surprise me at all. Government will try to slow down progress all the time. I am sure some person in those departments is screaming something about their religious beliefs are against it.
Fellowship, Saline County Health Dept.
Topeka
The Break Room, Bunker Coffee Company, Central Congregational United Church of Christ, Classic Bean (two locations), Field of Greens, Flowers by Bill, Gravity Gallery, Lazio’s Coffee Bar, Metropolitan Community Church of Topeka, NOTO Burrito, Pinkadilly, Positive Connections, PT’s Coffee Roasting Co., The Razor’s Edge, Serendipity, Skivvies, Three Flowers Metaphysical, Topeka/Shawnee County Public Library, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Topeka, The Upstage Gallery, Washburn Mabee Library, Washburn Union, YWCA
Wichita
Adult Superstore, After Dark South, The Anchor, Artichoke Sandwich Bar, Book-A-Holic (all 3 locations), Bungalow 26, Camelot Cinema, The Center, Circle Cinema, Club
H a p p y M o t h e r ’s D a y, MOMS! Thanks for your questions! l Have a question for Mama? E-mail MamaTHarper@aol.com or friend Thelma Harper on Facebook.
Boomerang, College Hill United Methodist Church, The Cotillion, Cow & Sow Deli, Crazy J’s Furniture & Sleep Shop, The Donut Whole, DooDah Diner, Earthwise Pet Supply, Fisch Haus, First Metropolitan Community Church, First Unitarian Universalist Church, Fit For A Queen, Harris & Co. Frame Shop, Hue Gallery, Hunter Health Clinic, J’s Lounge, A Journey in the Light, Kirby’s, KU Internal Medicine Midtown, Light and Sound Spa, Lotus Leaf Cafe, Mead’s Corner, Moe’s Sub Shop, The Monarch, The Orpheum, Patricia’s (all 3 locations), Picasso's Pizza, Pine Valley Christian Church, Planet Hair, Planned Parenthood, Positive Directions, Rain Café & Lounge, Reverie Coffee Roasters, Spektrum Muzik, Spice Merchant, The Store, T - A Tea Bar,Tanya's Soup Kitchen, Vagabond Coffeeshop, Vegas Video, Watermark Books, Wichita Community Theatre, Wichita Public Library - downtown branch, WSU Spectrum meetings, Ziggy's Pizza
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.
MAY 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Leather Life By Nolin Christensen aka Master C
D/s Relationships
A
few years ago at the Leatherman’s Academy in Ft. Lauderdale, I was asked to present a class on D/s relationships. When I asked them why they wanted me to do this class, they responded, “Well of anyone I know, you probably know the most about it.” This article is a short synopsis of that class. D/s stands for Dominant/ submissive. There are several types of D/s relationships that exist in the Leather/BDSM world. These are: Sir/boy,
Madam/girl, Sir/girl, Madam/ boy; Master/slave or Mistress/ slave; Daddy/son, Mommy/ daughter, Daddy/daughter, Mommy/son, also called Daddy/boy, Mommy/girl, etc; Owner (Master)/animal (pony or puppy, etc); and Husband/ wife or Wife/husband. Now you might laugh about the husband wife relationship being a D/s relationship, but a GOOD marriage is one where one person is in charge and the other follows. Where you have both who are equal, this does not always work out and in order to make it work, it requires a lot of effort on the part of both individuals. It can work, but it’s not easy. Good working relationships are those where one person is in control. If both are trying to be in control, it is a sure bet it will end in failure. Now let me explain the similarities and the differences in these relationships. All of these D/s type relationships are where one person dominates another. All of these relationships are
consensual, that means BOTH parties are okay with the workings of the D/s dynamics. Sex may or may not be a part of the relationship (most are sexual). Sir/boy, Madam/girl, Sir/ girl, Madam/boy – these are most common of the D/s relationships within our community. The Sir or Madam owns/controls the boy or girl. This is commonly referred to as ownership of the submissive. There may or may not be a contract between the individuals. I strongly recommend that you do have a written agreement of some sort. That way everyone knows what their roles are and what is expected of them. These are the relationships that have collars. These collars are loose but unable to slide over the head. They have locks on them and only the Dominant has the key to the lock. The collar maybe 24/7 or may be only for events or special occasions. The dynamics of these relationships are as diverse as the individuals involved in them. They are based on the desires and wants of the Dominant and no two will be the same. Master/slave or Mistress/ slave – these are the second most common of the D/s relationships and are the most common
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relationship in the het BDSM community. In the het BDSM, all submissives are referred to as slaves. In the Leather community, slaves are exactly that, a slave, just like the slaves of old. The slave is owned by a Master or Mistress. They are the property of the owner. The slave does not have a voice or rights other than what is spelled out in the contract. It is VITAL that M/s relationships have a written contract. I would even go so far to have it notarized or witnessed. With problems in today’s world, it is a must to have this contract. Collars again are used in these relationships too, same rules as with the S/b, but one difference is on these collars the chain has larger links and the chain is tighter fitting around the neck, a choker type. There are even metal band collars. The collars are tight-fitting because it is based on the old period slave collars where it was impossible to stick something between their neck and the chain so they could not have it cut off or removed. The dynamics again are just as diverse as the S/b, but one thing about these, in a TRUE M/s relationship the slave will never speak in public. True 24/7 M/s relationships are continued on page 16
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MAY 2015
Mommy/son – these the individuals is in charge are a fairly common and the other gives up “Many relationship counselors few and far between. In many control. In other words a areas, they also are still illegal. relationship but have seen that D/s relationships probably the least true D/s type relationship. Check your local laws before getting involved in a true M/s understood. This are far more healthly than non D/s Too many chiefs and relationship should not enough Indians will relationship. relationships.” cause chaos. Nowadays, D a d d y / s o n , M o m m y / be built and based these relationships are CISmagnet.eps 1 10/18/2011 2:23:51 PM on a typical fatherdaughter, Daddy/daughter, son, mother-daughter type newest of the D/s relationships. being expanded to include The most common of these are dynamic. Now I’m talking Husband/husband, Wife/wife biological father son, mother ponies and puppies. There is relationships. no limit to the type of animal daughter, not two unrelated Any two individuals in any individuals. So these dynamics the sub may wish to portray. relationship should serious These relationships are usually should mirror and reflect how look into the D/s relationship a biological parent is with temporary and are played by dynamics. Many relationship individuals from one of the their child. No collar should counselors have seen that D/s be in these relationships. The other type of D/s relationships. I relationships are far more healthy don’t know of anyone who lives same way you would treat than non D/s relationships. your child is the same way a 24/7 Owner/pet relationship. There is one very important Even though there are pup soyou should treat this sub. The thing about D/s relationships. To same for the sub, the same n-so, they usually are not a 24/7 make them work, really work, puppy. way you treat your parent is the individuals involved must the same way you should treat Husband/wife or Wife/ discuss the D/s dynamics. This husband – What can I say your Dom. Too many people means communication. Talk substitute this relationship for here? We ALL know of a H/w to each other, don’t assume or W/h relationship. These are a Sir/boy, Madam/girl. They anything. Discuss who is the are different and should be the only D/s relationships that Dom, who is the sub, and exist outside the Leather/BDSM treated differently. what are the parameters of the Owner (Master)/animal world. However, many of those relationship. Talk about it, write in this type of relationship are (pony or puppy, etc) – these it out, and come to a mutual relationships are where the totally unaware they are in a agreement. By doing so, you too D/s relationship. Like I said Dom is the owner of an can have a healthy, wonderful individual who plays a specific earlier, the best working married and fulfilling relationship. l relationship is one where one of animal or pet. These are the
MAY 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Street performer festival combines with Art Car Parade in Lawrence
strength. She comes back to Lawrence after traveling worldwide breaking records for the Guinness TV show. Joining them for the first time is Bandaloni the One-Man Band from Kitchener, Ontario and Al Millar, aka Al A Kazam the Human Knot. Millar is originally from Australia.
The USA Breakdancers, a favorite at last year's festival, are returning.
LAWRENCE - What do you get when you join a contortionist with a wrought iron VW? Or a one-man band with a telephone car? That’s what will happen in Lawrence on the last weekend of May as the Busker Festival partners with the Art Tougeau Art Car Parade. The Lawrence Busker Festival features street performers with such unique skills as fire-eating, acrobatics, magic, swordswallowing, breakdancing and feats of strength. The Art Tougeau Art Car Parade is an equally different event that displays “Art Cars” that are decorated and customized in often outlandish style. Putting the two events together came up after the Lawrence Busker Festival decided to move from the heat of August to cooler dates. The combination of the two events will allow audiences to enjoy the display and creation of Art Cars while being entertained by buskers from all over the world. This year’s artist lineup includes a lot of new acts coming for the first time to Lawrence. The USA Breakdancers were the public favorites last year and bring back their athletic, high-energy dance styles to the streets. Their leader, Julio Santiago, is a former Cirque Du Soleil performer in their Michael Jackson tribute show. Mama Lou Strongwoman also returns with her Guinness Record-breaking shows of
EXTRA ACTIVITIES Workshops in juggling, magic, balloon-making and drumming will be offered to kids ages 6-12 on Saturday, May 30, from 9:30am-12:30pm at the Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire. Fees are $10 per workshop or $25 for all four. Registration is at lawrencebuskerfest.com/attend/ attend_workshops.html For the fifth year the Lawrence Busker Festival will also be presenting the Busker Ball on Thursday, May 28 at the
Al A Kazam, the Human Knot, makes his debut this year at Lawrence's Busker Festival.
Granada Theater in downtown Lawrence. This is a preview show of the street performers who will be in the festival held in air-conditioned comfort and on a stage. Beer and food are available and a chance to meet the performers after the show. Tickets at www.thegranada.com. l
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MAY 2015
‘Bears’ with local ties use Jeb Bush website for LGBT causes
C.J. Phillips and Charlie Rainwater hope to open a dialogue through their website and blog.
By Ciara Reid, staff reporter LAWRENCE - If you happened to watch The Rachel Maddow Show on Feb. 9, you surely caught the segment featuring C.J. Phillips and Charlie Rainwater, a couple living in Oregon, with family ties to Lawrence, KS. Maddow had them on her show to discuss their website, jebbushforpresident. com. How were they able to purchase such a relevant website, since it is heavily anticipated that Jeb Bush will soon announce his presidential candidacy? Turns out, Phillips and Rainwater were ahead of the game, and bought the domain in 2008 for a whopping $8. The couple lived in Austin, TX at that time, and did not like George W. Bush’s stance on LGBT issues. One day, the couple had the idea to purchase the website and use it for LGBT advocacy purposes. They figured it was a sure bet that someday in the future, Jeb Bush would run for president. It’s clear from the welcoming
page of jebbushforpresident. com that Phillips and Rainwater are using the website for good. The words “We’re all in this together” grace the top of the page, and below it, are the words “so many times we find ourselves in situations where we can’t relate to each other, don’t understand each other, or feel like there’s nobody who wants to listen to our point of view. Let’s change that.” Under the Discussion tab, Phillips and Rainwater post blogs about various LGBT issues, from the recent controversial Indiana religious freedom law, to a discussion about where someone can be fired for being LGBT. The couple, who refer to themselves as bears and have been together for almost 20 years, told Maddow that so far, they have not been contacted by Jeb Bush’s people to purchase the site. And just in case they are forced to surrender the site, they told Maddow that they have a backup website: cjandcharlieforpresident.com. l
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MAY 2015
Maybe We Could Act Like Democrats
T
he strategy of the Kansas Democratic Party (KDP) seems to have lost connection to a lot of the reasons why people become Democrats to begin with. Civil rights are a foundational plank in the Democratic National Platform, and supporting the dignity of LGBT Americans is at the very core of what it means to be a Democrat. It leaves this Democrat wondering why it’s so difficult to get the KDP to stand up for our own precious values. It leaves me knowing that we will continue to lose election after election until party leadership learns, once again, to act like Democrats. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that the current strategies are not working. Among the strategies seems to be the idea that the way for Democrats to get elected in Kansas is for them to act more like Republicans. The idea seems to be that you don’t want to get out there on the margin issues. You know, where the marginalized people live. This strategy does nothing to create energy in the Democratic base and fails to offer a real
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
primary. Michael Poppa, former chair of the Kansas City Metro chapter of Equality Kansas, came out of that primary along with JoAnna Rush. Poppa won a seat on the Roeland Park City Council in the general election. In Roeland Park Ward 3, Erin Thomson came out of the primary, as did Linda Mau. While Mau took steps to try to overturn the Roeland Park LGBT protections, Thomson posted on her website that she was in favor of diversity and non-discrimination. In the general election, Thomson won. Meanwhile, in Topeka City Council District 6, James R. Lord was running against Brendan Jensen. Lord had testified in front of the city council against the domestic partner registry and the addition of gender identity.
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the Democratic Party was active in trying to get out the vote in Topeka. But its focus was in District 4 and District 8, and there were explicit instructions to focus on the issue of economic development, but not to focus on the issue of equality. I should also share with you that a leader in the Kansas Democratic Party has such an unfortunate misunderstanding of LGBT issues that they referred to me, in public, using a male pronoun. Needless to say, I walked away from those efforts and spent my time trying to get choice to unaffiliated voters. out the vote in District 6 and The end result is that Democrats speaking out about equality. The and moderates have a far greater results speak for themselves. tendency to stay home on Continuing to reject the election day. importance of making equality Cases in point include the a major campaign issue not only Roeland Park and the Topeka serves to leave LGBT residents city council elections that took of Kansas without p lace o n A p r il protection, it continues 7. In the months “Why is it so difficult to get the to fail as a campaign leading up to the strategy. The evidence election, Roeland Kansas Democratic Party to stand that supporting equality Park vaulted into up for our own precious values?” is an effective strategy the 21st century by has become increasingly declaring that its LGBT citizens should have Jensen ran radio spots on Topeka difficult to ignore. the same rights as all citizens stations stating that he thought I am going to suggest that and passed anti-discrimination all citizens should be treated Kansas Democrats make a choice before we lead ourselves protections based on sexual equally. Jensen won. orientation and gender identity. Looks like we are starting to again to slaughter in 2016. I am During this time, Topeka also see a pattern here. But there is going to suggest that we stand made advances toward equality more to this story. In Roeland up for human dignity and civil with the establishment of a Park, the Ward 3 general election rights. I am going to suggest domestic partner registry and had 32.6% voter turnout. In that maybe, we could act like adding gender identity (sexual Ward 4, a whopping 43.1% of Democrats. l orientation was already included) registered voters turned out. to the protected classes for City In Topeka, the voter turnout in District 6 was not as impressive Stephanie Mott is a transgender woman of Topeka employment. from Topeka. She is the executive So let’s take a look at how as those numbers, but still, 21% director of the Kansas Statewide the equality issue fared in the of registered voters actually Transgender Education Project, and Roeland Park city council voted. This is a considerably a commissioner on the City of Topeka Relations Commission. Reach elections. Ward 4 incumbent higher percentage than voted in Human her at stephanieequality@yahoo.com. the other Topeka districts. Looks Michael Gliniecki, who voted a g a i n s t p r o t e c t i n g L G B T like equality is an issue that is citizens from discrimination, turning out people to vote. didn’t even make it out of the I should share with you that
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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/ Heart of America Men’s Chorus, Wichita, (316) 708-4837, www.hoamc. org
Community Centers The Center, 800 N. Market, Wichita, (316) 285-0007 www.thecenterofwichita. org Kansas State University LGBT Resource Center, 207 A/B Holton Hall, Manhattan, (785) 532-5352, lgbt@kstate.edu, www.k-state-edu/lgbt
Health
Junction City Teddy Bears, c/o Kevin Stilley, 2 Oak Valley Dr., Manhattan, (785) 556-8188, trlrhouseman@webtv. net NetworQ, Lawrence, KansasNetworQ@ yahoo.com, www.KansasNetworQ.org, meets at Maceli’s, 1031 New Hampshire Wichita Bears, presidentwichitabears@ yahoo.com, www.wichitabears.org Wichita Organization of Leather Fetishes, (316) 201-6242, www. woolfks.com
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.
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.
LGBT Health Coalition of Sedgwick County, Wichita, (316) 285-0007, www. wichitalgbthealth.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
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. Kalpa Bhadra Kadampa Meditation Center, 721 W. 13th St., Wichita. (316) 263-1533, weekly meditation classes, prayers and workshops. See calendar of events at www.MeditateInKansas.org, everyone is welcome.
Politics/Activism
Lutheran Campus Ministry, 1421 W. 19th, Lawrence, lutheran@ku.edu
E q u a l i t y K a n s a s , w w w. kansasequalitycoalition.org, chapters across the state.
Metropolitan Community Church of Topeka, 4425 SW 19th, (785) 2721442, office@mcctopeka.org, www. MCCTopeka.org, services Sundays at 10am.
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
Pine Valley Christian Church, 5620 E. 21st St., Wichita, (316) 685-2421, churchoffice@pvcconline.org, www. pvcconline.org Prairie Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 1809 E. 30th, Hutchinson, (620) 663-8002, www. prairieuufellowship.org Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan, 481 Zeandale Road, (785)
MAY 2015
537-2349, www.uufm.net, services Sundays at 10:45am.
(316) 807-2271, psychsteve2@yahoo. com
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Topeka, 4775 SW 21st St., (785) 2729233, www.uuft.org, services Sundays at 10:30am.
Wichita West High School GSA, astucky@usd259.net
Student groups
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.
Derby High School tkellenbarger@usd260.com
GSA,
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 Highland Park High School's Parity, Topeka, LGBTatHP@outlook.com, facebook.com/LGBTatHP. Hutchinson High School GSA, faculty advisor: Mr. Westmoreland, chairperson: Kara Vaughn. The Independent School GSA, Wichita, sponsor: Matt Hanne matt. hanne@theindependentschool.com K-State LGBT & Allies, meets every Thursday at 5:30 in Leadership Studies room 123 KU Queers & Allies, University of Kansas, Lawrence, (785) 864-3091, qanda@ku.edu, www.ku.edu/~qanda Lawrence High School GSA, sponsors: Shannon Draper SDraper@usd497.org, and Lindsay Buck LBuck@usd497.org Manhattan High School GSA, mhs_ gsa@hotmail.com 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,
Support
COMCARE Crisis Intervention Services, 934 N. Water, Wichita, (316) 660-7500 free 24/7, www. sedgwickcounty.org Flint Hills PFLAG, Manhattan, (785) 340-2815, meets on the 1st Saturday, 10am-noon, call for location. Get Connected, Wichita, (316) 2850007, LGBTQIA youth group for ages 12-21. Meets at The Center, 800 N. Market, every Friday from 7-9pm. GLSEN Greater Wichita, wichita@ chapters.glsen.org. Headquarters Counseling Center, Lawrence, (785) 841-2345 free 24/7, www.hqcc.lawrence.ks.us Healthy Transitions, for heterosexually married gay men in KC. A phone and face-to-face interview required, Mark McCarthy, LPC (816) 931-0011x4. 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
Is an organization you're involved in listed in Around Kansas? Help us keep it current! E-mail editor@libertypress.net with corrections/current info.
MAY 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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Original Village People inspiration, Felipe Rose, "still having a blast" Iconic 70s group to perform at Riverfest in Wichita By Ciara Reid, staff reporter WICHITA - They are instantly recognizable – especially if they’re all together: the cop. The soldier. The construction worker. The biker. The cowboy. The Native American. They are the Village People, the band responsible for some of the most iconic songs – Macho Man, In the Navy, and of course their top hit Y.M.C.A. – and the group will be performing at Wichita’s annual Riverfest on June 3. The Village People have been touring the world for decades. The group has already traveled the globe in the early months of 2015; making stops in Bogotá, Colombia; Hong Kong, China; and several performances across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. The rest of the year has the Village People performing several shows stateside (including Riverfest, of course), Amsterdam, Switzerland, Canada, Spain, and Puerto Rico. They perform at fairs, cruises, festivals, universities, casinos, and various other events. Almost 40 years after the release of Y.M.C.A, the group is still thrilling audiences around the world. The Village People’s journey began in 1977, when Jacques Morali, a producer and composer, and his partner, Henri Belolo, discovered Felipe Rose, whose father was Native American, dancing in his Native American costume in Greenwich Village. Rose’s visual representation brought about the idea to create a group of icons in the Village, each one representing a different American social set. Shortly after discovering Rose, the two recruited Victor Willis as the lead singer and policeman. Alex Briley was brought on board by Willis to symbolize the solider. Belolo and Morales held auditions for the other performers. Soon, the Village People was complete. The Village People have been racking up the accolades throughout several decades. The group has sold more than 100 million records. They have been on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine, and even starred in their own major feature film, Can’t Stop the
Felipe Rose, who was discovered in Greenwich Village, became the initial member of the Village People. His father was Lakota Sioux.
Music, which also starred Steve Guttenberg and Bruce Jenner. In 2008, the group received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Today, the Village People includes Rose – the founding member of the group; Raymond Simpson as the cop and lead singer; Briley as the solider; Eric Anzalone as the biker; Bill Whitefield as the construction worker; and Jim Newman as the cowboy. Rose, Briley, Anzalone, and Simpson are longtime members, while Whitefield and Newman are more recent members of the group. So how have the Village People maintained success after all these years? “We still bring the wow factor,” Rose said in a recent interview with Liberty Press.
Having just returned from a slew of shows in Hong Kong and Australia, Rose is enjoying time at home before hitting the road again for several shows in the United States, followed by shows in Amsterdam and Switzerland in late May before stopping at Wichita’s Riverfest in early June. “I am still having a blast,” he says. He understands how fortunate he is to be able to see the world and perform treasured songs that everyone can sing and dance along to – no matter what part of the world, everyone knows the moves to Y.M.C.A. “I have a wonderful life,” Rose says. “I get to tour the world, get paid great money for it, make continued on page 30
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MAY 2015
Lead donors helping Riverfest include children, families in need
WICHITA – Grene Vision Group and Meineke Car Care Centers have galvanized Wichita Festivals’ Celebrations for a Cause campaign, donating 1,000 Riverfest buttons each and challenging the community to welcome those served by local charities to Riverfest. Celebrations for a Cause was reintroduced in 2013 as part of an effort to ensure Riverfest would be an inclusive community event. Businesses and individuals can purchase Riverfest buttons to be donated to local nonprofits for distribution to their families and clients. Whoever purchases the buttons can designate the organization who will receive them. C u r r e n t l y, P o s i t i v e Directions, First Metropolitan Community Church or the Sweet Emergency Fund hasn't been chosen as a recipient. With the recent inclusion of the LGBT community in various Riverfest events, and with the Village People performing this year, hopefully that will change. “These generous lead donors have given us a tremendous boost as we try to include in Riverfest as many as 5,000 worthy citizens who might otherwise have missed out on their community’s most unifying event,” Mary Beth Jarvis, president and CEO of Wichita Festivals, Inc., said. “We are delighted to be a part of this caring community, and we want to help ensure everyone gets to enjoy the wonderful entertainment and
cultural events of Riverfest,” Kayli Smith, COO of Grene Vision Group, said. “As a locally owned company in the Wichita and Hutchinson area, we believe it’s important to invest in our community. Being able to assist others is something that is part of our core values, and Riverfest gives us a wonderful opportunity to give back,” Steve Blasdel, president, Meineke Car Care Centers, said. In the past two years, agencies including Big Brothers/ Big Sisters, Catholic Charities, DUI Victims Center of Kansas, Envision, Kansas Humane Society, KETCH, Starkey, the Wichita Children’s Home and area churches have received buttons. Donors may give online at wichitariverfest.com or wichitafestivals.com or by calling Wichita Festivals at 316-267-2817. The nine-day festival takes place May 29-June 6 in downtown Wichita. Celebrating its 44th year, the festival offers a wide range of entertainment for all ages, including concerts, sports activities, fireworks, the Cox Kids’ Corner and much more. Riverfest admission buttons are available now for the early-bird price of $5 for adults at the INTRUST Bank Arena box office and at Wichita Festivals’ office at 444 E. William. Beginning May 8, retail buttons – at $10 for adults and $3 for children ages 6-12 – will be available at local QuikTrip, Dillons and other locations. l
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Little Apple Big Pride April 11, 2015 Photos by Tom Leopold
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Points of Interest continued from page 6
not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, political affiliation, status as a veteran, genetic information or disability. It is to be printed on all university publications including catalogs, newsletters, magazines, brochures, folders, posters and flyers. Complaints are to be handled by the Executive Director of the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, (316) 978-3186. l
to win tickets!
This month win tickets to Belle and Sebastian!
T
he sky lights up with a spark this May as every personal planet takes a dip in Gemini. We are chatty, flirty and in the center of the social eye. Will you need sunglasses for all the glare? Whoohoo!
ARIES (MAR. 21 - APRIL 20) Anything and everything you say this May will reach the most important ears. So watch the who, what, where, when and why of all your opinions. Bold gay Rams can speak with authority and get personal projects in motion. Use the media to create a persona and take yourself to the lofty heights. Anything is possible . . . except solitude. TAURUS (APRIL 21 - MAY 21) Put your green eye shades on and focus on your finances now. You might find a few extra dollars lying around the house or an unexpected windfall from a secret admirer. But don’t count on any extra pennies from heaven, queer Bull. That would be a nice surprise. But your real payoff is through careful investment, slow savings and smart advice. Sigh. Oh well . . . GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) Not only are you a sizzly center of attention, you are also ripe and ready for a new collection of anything - and that goes for people, places, things and ideas. Decide what direction you want to go, pink Twin, and start walking. Pack a few breadcrumbs so you don’t get lost. Oh do I see a flock of birds overhead? CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) If you suddenly get a pang of dogoodism feelings, chalk it up to the energy of the cosmos and do what your heart compels. In fact, a bit of charitable work will pay off in more selfish and profitable ways than you expect. It will bring you into new circles where you impress others with your generosity. Make the most of your innate goodness, gay Crab.
LEO (JULY 24 - AUG. 23) SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 - DEC. 22) May is the month to plan your social A certain one-to-one relationship - for calendar to a perfect combination either business or pleasure - will figure of fun and strategy. There are some prominently in your May activities. Do groups that you should consider you have a new business brewing? Or is joining, but the entry might be tricky. there an affair of the heart that is ready to There are some groups that will welcome you with rumble? Decide your next best move and move it as the open arms. Choose a couple of both and see where it month progresses, gay Archer. You are a person who needs all leads you, proud Lion. Fame? Fortune? Possibly. people and that makes you the luckiest person in the world. But certainly friendship. CAPRICORN (DEC. 23 - JAN. 20) VIRGO (AUG. 24 - SEPT. 23) May is the month to buckle down and What are your long-term goals, queer really get some long procrastinated and Virgo? And how are you going to achieve petty projects done. You will feel so them. If May brings you anything, it will much better and will then have time for bring you a vision as to how to go forward more pleasant endeavors. Practical pink in your life. This may prove to be scary, Caps know intuitively that a messy desk but it can also prove to be exhilarating. Don’t be afraid is stressful. Now you have the time and the inspiration to take the first step. After that it is auto pilot. Sitting to get it all done. Well, maybe inspiration isn’t the right on the sidelines just ain’t in the cards. word. Try perspiration. LIBRA (SEPT. 24 - OCT. 23) Expanding your horizons and getting out of your humdrum routine will never be as easy as it is in May. So open up your eyes, see where you are and take action, proud Libra. Maybe all you need is a vacation. Maybe enrolling in a class will give you some new ideas. Whatever your time and budget will allow, make the effort and see how your vistas can change.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 - FEB. 19) Not only can you have great fun this May, you will also create a happy spectacle for any of your many personal causes. Get on the social media wave, plan some stupendous party events and get right in the middle of the action. Thinking of running for political office? You may never be as popular as you are right now. But I think you are far too honest, Aqueerius.
SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) If things go from lukewarm to boiling hot in your love life, thank your lucky stars and make your best moves this May. Queer Scorps who are looking for a new love interest will find someone interesting. Those who are happy where they are will make their current relationship even better. So take a chance on love and see what amazing things can happen.
PISCES (FEB. 20 - MAR. 20) Family will figure prominently in your life so see how you can get some reunions together and rebuild some bridges between branches. Guppies love to be surrounded by loved ones and you can solidify or reconstruct even complicated relationships now. But see which ones are worth saving and see which ones are just too tough to tackle at this time. You will have help later.
(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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FMCC May Events “A Net Full of Hope”
Book Signing and Poetry Reading by Annette Billings Saturday, May 9th 6:00PM
Free Family Karaoke Night!
Friday, May 29th 6:00PM Sandwiches and Snacks Sponsored by Zipper Karaoke
Attend Church in Your UNDERWEAR?* *ONLY if you watch our Livestream Service Sunday at www.GodLovesYouPeriod.com
Meaningful. Empowering. Worship. 10:15AM Sundays GOD LOVES YOU.
PERIOD Experience the R evolution ™
FIRST MCC
OF KANSAS
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH
Rev. Jackie Carter, M.Div.
156 S. Kansas • Wichita, KS 67211 • (316) 267-1852 www.MCCWichita.com or www.GodLovesYouPeriod.com Office Hours: M-TH 9 -12 And by Appointment
MAY 2015
Jams and Jellies continued from page 10
drives sales too. Patrons also share ways to use the confections as more than merely a toast topping. One lady from the Ukraine told them that her mom prescribed raspberry jelly for colds. Another woman shared that Chocolate-Raspberry is perfect for removing the gaminess from venison. Ginger-Rhubarb is a favorite with foodies. A new flavor, called Jammin’ Beer Jelly, will be the special ingredient at a cook-off sponsored by the Andover Schools Foundation. “Eat, Drink, and Jam” is on May 3, from 12-4pm at Kellogg and Andover Road. Einsel and Smith will have their booth there too. When asked about next steps, they want to find a space for a certified kitchen so they can add pepper jellies and other vegetable-based products. At the same time, they want to remain small enough to remain available for their customers. “We love talking to people, so we don’t want to end up with a retail presence – we’d completely miss out on the personal relationships we’ve developed.”
They are researching the possibility of working with some craft breweries for additional beer-based flavors. They have also added two-ounce sizes in some of the flavors, which will be perfect for gift baskets. “Since we are a small business, we can offer a lot,” Smith said. “We do special labels, corporate and welcome gifts, closing baskets, weddings, parties, class reunions, you name it, we are flexible, we serve anyone, and we don’t discriminate.” Of course I had to ask them what they preferred when it was time to grab a taste for themselves. Einsel’s favorite is grapefruit: “It’s just like the fresh fruit.” Smith enjoys eating and making Black Forest (dark chocolate, cherries, and amaretto). I snagged a jar of gooseberry. It was smooth and full-bodied. A hint of vanilla drew out yet softened the slight burr typical of that treasure. Who would have thought that jam could be discussed like a fine wine? For more information on Steve’s Jams and Jellies, check them out on Facebook. They are also on Yelp and Google Plus. l
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
MAY 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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Rose continued from page 23
people laugh, and everyone gets really excited.” The group’s songs and energetic performances are timeless and enjoyed by people from many generations and backgrounds. At their recent show in Hong Kong, Rose says a nine-year-old boy asked him to sign his arm. The Hong Kong audience
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
was eclectic. People were dressed like the Village People, others dressed in Star Wars attire, while some were dancing in nothing more than tiny bikini swimsuits. Rose described the scene as part Halloween, part Mardi Gras. “These people were way over the top,” he says in a complimentary way. The Village People also perform at gay pride festivals
around the United States. They performed approximately 10 gay pride festivals last year alone. And contrary to what people might think, not everyone in the group is gay. There is a mixture of gay and straight, Rose says. Rose says the individuals in the group all appeal to different people – and that’s part of their draw. “Everyone in the audience can look at us, and think ‘the construction worker is my type’,” he says as an example. Everyone in the group is a fan favorite. “The group can bring that type of diversification,” Rose says. Depending on the type of event, a Village People show can be 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or a short three-song set. Rose says the set list includes the hits people know and love, as well as a few cover songs. The group recorded a new single, Let’s Go Back to the Dance Floor, a couple years ago, and they perform the song in their sets.
MAY 2015
With such an expansive tour schedule, Rose says he has become a savvy traveler. “Don’t try this at home,” he jokes, before offering some insight into the mind of a touring professional, “You really have to be an expert traveler.” Rose says that the group enjoys a comfortable dynamic, which is vital when spending a lot of time with one another as they travel all over the world for shows. “You have to be able to laugh, and to give each other time away,” he says. More Information: The Village People perform at the “Wet n’ Wild Disco Dance Party” at Riverfest on June 3, from 5-10pm on Kennedy Plaza. For more information, visit wichitariverfest.com. To learn more about the group, including future tour dates, visit www. officialvillagepeople.com. l
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MAY 2015
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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MAY 2015
WE HAVE FOOD!
club Boomerang
Join us for dinner 6:00PM - 10:00PM
Appetizers 10:00PM - Midnight
Grand Opening Weekend Fri & Sat - Open 6PM - 2AM, 21 to Enter, $4 cover after 9PM
Friday, May 15 - Grand Opening Party
Saturday, May 16 - The Boomerang Boys-10:00PM Featuring “Men of Skin” from KC Sun- Open 6PM - 12AM, 18 to Enter-$5 cover after 8PM. 21 to Drink-No Cover.
Sunday, May 17 - Boomerang Cast Drag Show-9:00PM Hosted by Divinity Masters
This is your weekend party place! Entertainment Every night
Starting May 21, 2015: Thursdays - The Brown Sugar Show, 10:00PM Open 6:00PM - 2:00AM 18 to Enter, $8 Cover after 9:00PM 21 to Drink, $4 Cover after 9:00PM
Fridays & Saturdays - The Boomerang Boys, 10:00PM Open 6:00PM - 2:00AM 21 to Enter, $4 Cover after 9:00PM
Sundays - SundayFunday with Audrey McQueen, 9:00PM Open 6:00PM - 12:00AM 18 to Enter, $5 Cover after 8:00PM 21 to Drink, No Cover
1400 E 1st - FREE Nearby Parking in neighboring lots www.clubboomerang.com