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You’re welcome in Kansas City. From the moment you arrive to long after you leave, KC’s cool, cultural vibe and Midwestern hospitality are sure to leave an impression. No wonder About.com named it one of America’s Most Underrated Cities for Gay Travelers. See how Kansas City inspires you at VisitKC.com/LGBT.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
DECEMBER 2014
DECEMBER 2014
Liberty Press
Volume 21, No. 4 • Editor: Kristi Parker • Contributors: Paul Berge, Greg Boaldin, Dave Brousseau, Nolin Christensen, Equality Kansas, Greg Fox, Brian Hansen, Charlene Lichtenstein, Dr. Robert N. Minor, Stephanie Mott • Staff Reporters: Grayson Barnes, Jeanne de Grasse, Ciara Reid • Cover Design: Troy Dilport • Graphic Designer: Troy Dilport • Distribution Manager/Ad Sales: Sandra Hawk • 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:
Heartland Men's Chorus welcomes new artistic director Page 22
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CONTENTS
IN EVERY ISSUE
FRESH AND LOCAL: Cow & Sow Deli............................................................. 7 ODAAT LBGT AA GROUP reads new book Sober and Out......................10 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE IN KANSAS ................................................................12 THE CENTER CELEBRATES ONE YEAR in new location................................15 'I DO NOT LIVE WITH HIV, HIV is living with me'........................................26 LIBERTY PRESS' Gay Gift Guide....................................................................28
POINTS OF INTEREST.................. 8 DISTRIBUTION LIST................... 16 COMICS.................................. 17,20 CLASSIFIEDS.............................. 31 OUT IN THE STARS.................... 31 AROUND KANSAS...................... 32 BRIDGES..................................... 32
Regulars OP/ED editorial cartoon.........................................................................12 LEATHER LIFE Everything......................................................................17 WILL YOU? The Making of a Gay Rom Com in Kansas........................18 TRANS-FORMATIVE Faith and Marriage Equality: Welcome to the Party.................................................................................................20 MINOR DETAILS Come On, Stop Thinking of That Elephant..................25
The Liberty Press distributes 4,000 copies a month in cities throughout Kansas, including Dodge City, Derby, Lawrence, Topeka, Wichita, Manhattan, Junction City, El Dorado, Hays, Kansas City, Pittsburg, Newton, Hutchinson and Salina.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
DECEMBER 2014
Quitting tobacco may feel like a never-ending cycle, but this New Year’s you have a reason to quit for good. When you call or enroll online, a Quit Coach® staff member will work with you to change your behaviors and support you to become tobacco free.
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DECEMBER 2014
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Page 7
Fresh and local: Cow & Sow Deli
By Grayson Barnes
WICHITA - Tracey Coln, owner of the Cow & Sow Deli at 612 E. Douglas in downtown Wichita, pushed away the hand I had prepped for a shake and wrapped me in a big hug. I already knew she was a “honey” and “sweetie” kind of gal from talking to her on the phone, but she didn’t warn me about this! I needed a hug or two anyway, which I certainly got, along with a great vegan lunch. Coln’s warmth is certainly the drive behind her business, which celebrated its first year
this November. She chatted amiably while I sampled quinoa, pickled baby squash, copper pennies (a type of carrot and vinegar salad), and hummus on pita (with hydroponic kale). Every once in a while she’d get up and bring me back something else to try (lavender lemonade, homemade applesauce, ginger beer). Pretty much everything at the deli is homemade and seasonal, which are some of Coln’s overarching ethics. In addition, she wanted to focus on local foods and businesses, and provide a few grocery items for people who live in the area. She has a stock of eggs, bread, butter, and a few household items on the shelves for such cases. She was lucky enough to hit on a niche market in Old Town. There are established restaurants, newer ones, and coffee shops dotted throughout the area. No one, though, had a take-out style place or a grocery. She loves being in the growing downtown district and the other business owners have welcomed
her. “Everyone has been around to help,” Coln commented, “and we all look out for each other. The best thing is that it is getting more people downtown. I love it!” The Cow & Sow is situated in one of the historic buildings reworked by Eisner and Ramsey. As you stand on the “stoop,” the deli is through the left doorway and seating is through a door on the right. The seating area also houses Coln’s other business, the Renfro Studio. The studio can be rented for photography sessions or meetings. Coln and her husband, Curtis, are also musicians and hold concerts on Fridays once a month. At the deli, the very first item Coln conceived of selling was handmade sausage that was an homage to her upbringing in Conway Springs (the inspiration for the “C” and “S” in the deli’s name). She had to set that idea aside and, instead, she now has a variety of meats available that are allnatural, such as pastrami or Genoa salami. These can be had in a sandwich or purchased by the pound. Coln is quite proud of the fact that her meats have “no preservatives and no nitrates.” “We want to do everything from scratch,” she remarked when asked about her other offerings, “My soups are spicy and meaty.” In contrast, there is almost always a vegetarian choice. Twice a week there is a vegan soup. Coln’s cousin, Mo Barnhart helps with the vegetarian and vegan items. Her husband creates selections for the breakfast bar and the desserts, including a raw cheesecake. Sweet potato pie is on the menu too. When Coln mentioned this, I was going to beg, but other customers had gotten to it first. Coln’s goal of using fresh and local food is a double-edged sword. On one hand, she loves the opportunity to be creative with what is in season, but, on the other, some products aren’t always available, so she has to continued on page 21
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
DECEMBER 2014
DeMattias Matson named dean of Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Arts and Sciences at Wichita WICHITA - Ron Matson, who has served as interim dean for the Fairmount College of Liberal
State University since July 2012, was named dean of the college by Tony Vizzini, WSU provost and senior vice president.
Matson, longtime chairman of the Department of Sociology, was named interim dean when Bill Bischoff stepped down. At that time, Matson was selected from a pool of candidates reviewed by the LAS College Council.
Matson
The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education named Matson the 2011 Kansas Professor of the Year. Matson received his Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from the University of South Dakota. He attended the University of Colorado, Boulder, for his Master of Arts and doctoral degrees in sociology. In 1970, he joined the faculty
at Wichita State as a member of the sociology department. There he served continuously for 42 years and acted as chairman for 17.
Wichita Men’s Chorus toasts the holidays WICHITA - Heart of America Men’s Chorus proudly presents CHEERS! A Toast to the Holidays, Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7pm and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 4:30pm at DeMattias Performance Hall on the Newman University campus (see map above). The 13 th Annual Holiday Concert will feature favorites from the HOAMC songbook along with new holiday music concertgoers will surely enjoy. The Chorus has invited some young men from Newman University and area high school choral programs to join in and participate in the merriment and music of the holiday season. As in years past, everyone is invited to bring new or gently-used coats, gloves, hats and scarves for a Warm Clothing Drive, which will benefit Inter-Faith Ministries’ Operation Holiday assistance program. Tickets are available by calling (316) 708-4837 and are priced at $15 with $5 student discount tickets available. l
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
DECEMBER 2014
ODAAT LBGT AA group reads new book Sober and Out
By Jeanne de Grasse
“It WAS amazing!” he WICHITA - In February 2011, said, “EVERYONE who was an amazing thing happened. a subscribing member got that Like so many other amazing issue, not just some, not just things that happen, it happened LGBT members. It was huge.” It to a huge, but specific group of was also the impetus for the new people. In February 2011, this book by AA Grapevine, Sober huge but specific group of people and Out, which the ODAAT held in their hands the issue of (One Day At A Time) LBGT AA AA Grapevine magazine that group in Wichita will be reading featured a big rainbow flag on and discussing together at their the cover and the words “Sober Thursday meetings. and Out!” LBGT members I asked him what the group’s were not just being mentioned first impressions were and how in the magazine, but featured the book was being received. and brought to the fore. This “We’re just getting started with was a milestone that one local the readings, doing about one Alcoholics Anonymous member story per week and so far, people are really liking it,” he said. “The vividly recalls. CISmagnet.eps 1 10/18/2011 2:23:51 PM book has been compiled from stories submitted to the AA Grapevine by members over the years, personal accounts by other LBGT AA members. Discussing them is generating great conversations in our meetings!” Having this book in print, in hand, and to work with, also
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helps the group feel even more connected with AA. “Such a boost for ‘us’ as LBGT people as part of the whole AA system,” he said. The AA organization IS inclusive and accepting, but this “helps us feel a little less on the periphery,” and, “is yet another piece of the ‘Come To The Table – Everyone Is Welcome’
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philosophy in action. It’s so moving to be part of such a huge, caring, supporting organization that can be found anywhere you go, any time you need it.” Another hoped-for outcome from this book is that it will affirm that the AA community worldwide is inclusive and, “would never disenfranchise us – we’re not treated like stepsisters.” Is it too late to join in on the readings and discussions? “No! Please come and jump in at any time. We may even start reading through it again after we’re done,” he said. ODAAT meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8pm at the First Metropolitan Community Church, 156 S. Kansas, in Wichita. The book discussions are on Thursdays. l
OPENS NOV. 30 & dashes through the holidays!
7PM SUNDAYS & 8PM TUESDAYS The festivities begin with the Forever Fabulous Cindy Summers showcasing your favorite Christmas carols as Patsy Cline, Judy Garland, & Karen Carpenter.
DECEMBER 2014
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
DECEMBER 2014
Same-Sex marriage in Kansas WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU:
- Any information on marriages being performed outside the counties listed above.
Provided by Equality Kansas As of press time, there are currently 25 counties in 12 judicial districts that are issuing marriage licenses in Kansas. They are: Brown, Chase, Cherokee, Clay, Cloud, Cowley, Crawford, Doniphan, Douglas, Harvey, Jewell, Johnson, Labette, Lincoln, Lyon, Marshall, McPherson, Mitchell, Nemaha, Republic, Riley, Sedgwick, Shawnee, Wa s h i n g t o n , Wy a n d o t t e . There are currently NO state agencies that are recognizing any same-sex marriage, whether performed in Kansas or out-of-state. This means
there will continue to be problems adding spouses to insurance, changing names on drivers’ licenses, and so on. This is despite the fact that, last week, Attorney General Derek Schmidt admitted on the record to the Associated Press that these marriages are “legal.” The ACLU is working with Equality Kansas members and leadership to prepare an amendment to the original federal lawsuit in front of Judge Crabtree. The amended complaint is expected to be filed before Thanksgiving. For information as it becomes available, check kansasequalitycoalition.org. l
- Any “denial of service” from a state agency or private business based on marital status. Please e-mail witt@eqks. org, and include your contact information including e-mail and phone number. Don’t forget to get the name of the person and position of the individual. - Marriages are still being denied in Butler, Elk, and Greenwood counties. If you live in one of those counties, we are looking for someone to help us bring legal action. To do that, you must apply for a license and be denied, and you must be willing to be publicly named in the lawsuit against the state.
A Journey In The Light Ministries Living, Reaching, Teaching, Preaching the Word of God in Unity
Pastor Danny L. Medell
A full gospel ministry that still teaches Christ, Him crucified and the message of the cross.
2231 S Bluff Wichita, KS 67218 Pastor’s Phone: (316) 925-1102 www.journeyinthelightministries.com
We are a church that accepts everyone regardless of their race, color, social status, sexual orientation, where they are or where they have been in life.
Bible Study for all ages Sunday at 10 am Praise and Worship Service Sunday at 11 am
DECEMBER 2014
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
DECEMBER 2014
You’ve Got To See it To Believe It! Nov 28 – Dec 31 seven nights a week 5:30-8:30 p.m Tickets $8 adults ($7 members) $6 kids (3-12) Buy tickets at botanica.org, area locations or at the door
Supported by: COLBY SANDLIAN
AeroFence, D&D Equipment, Henry Helgerson’s, Hillside Nursery, Indian Hills Ace Hardware, Johnson’s Garden Center, McClelland Sound, Overhead Door, Simpson Construction Services, Spangler & Reimers Construction LLC, Sutherlands, Tree Top Nursery, TSI
DECEMBER 2014
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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The Center celebrates one year in new location January’s Liberty Press. The Center’s Community Calendar will be up and working by the end of the year. This will be a central, one-stop shop to see what is going on all across Wichita. The LGBT Library is moving forward as cataloging the collection of books, videos and movies continues. The Wichita Gay Yellow Pages directory is available on
By Nolin Christensen WICHITA - December 2014 marks the month that Wichita’s LGBT center celebrates one year in its new location at 800 N. Market (corner of Market and Murdock). Lots of work went into getting the space ready for the community to use. Along with being a meeting place for many of the local LGBT groups and social clubs, The Center also has several programs and services for the community. The first program, Get Connected, an LGBTQIA youth
the Center’s website, www. thecenterofwichita.org. Starting in 2015, The Center is looking to expand by adding a patio to the west side of the building. Fundraisers are planned to help make this project are reality. The Center of Wichita is a taxexempt 501(c)(3) charity and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. l
group, is now three years old. Any youth ages 12-18 who are looking for a safe place to hang out and just be themselves, The Center is the place. The youth group meets every Friday from 6-9pm. Parental knowledge is required. Another program, the Wichita LGBT Health Coalition, continues to grow and add more healthcare providers and services to its directory. More information is available at www. wichitalgbthealth.org. The new LGBT Healthcare Bill of Rights was just published. Look for more information in
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
MAGNETIC CALENDARS FOR 2015 - CALL or TEXT
MAGNETIC CALENDARS FOR 2015 - CALL or TEXT
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DUSTY RHODES
Call/Text 316.519.2112
Call/Text 316.519.2112
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MAGNETIC CALENDARS FOR 2015 - CALL or TEXT
MAGNETIC CALENDARS FOR 2015 - CALL or TEXT
DUSTY RHODES
DUSTY RHODES
Call/Text 316.519.2112
Call/Text 316.519.2112
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Distribution Sites FOR 2015 - CALL or TEXT MAGNETIC CALENDARS Derby
DECEMBER 2014
Break, KU’s Dean of Students office, KU’s Multicultural Resource Center, Derby High GSA La Prima Tazza, Lawrence Public Dodge City Library, Lutheran Campus Ministry, Compass Behavioral Health Milton’s Cafe, The Mirth Café, Natural Call/Text 316.519.2112 Grocers, NetworQ, Pizza Shuttle, El Dorado Queers & Allies office, The Raven Email: Dusty@DustysHomes.com Pathways Psychological Services Bookstore, Rudy’s Pizzeria, South Web: www.DustysHomes.com Hays Wind Health Collective, The Vapor's Mokas Edge E-Cig Shop, Wheat State Pizza, Wheatfield’s Bakery, Wilde’s Chateau Hutchinson 24, Yello Sub, Z’s Divine Espresso Hutchinson Community College GSA, Hutchinson High School GSA, Manhattan PFLAG Hutchinson, Prairie Unitarian The Bluestem Bistro, The Chef Café, Universalist Fellowship Dusty Bookshelf, First Congregational Church, Flint Hills Human Right MAGNETIC FOR 2015 - CALL or TEXT JunctionCALENDARS City Project meetings, Grace's Asian Fusion Devil's Tail Cafe, K-State LGBT Resource Center, K-State Student Union, K-State Kansas City Women's Clinic, On the Wild Side, Hamburger Mary’s, LIKEME People’s Grocery, Queer-Straight Lighthouse Call/Text 316.519.2112 Alliance meetings, Radina’s Bakery & Lawrence Café (three locations), Rockstar and Email: Dusty@DustysHomes.com Ad Astra Acupuncture, Aimee’s Rodgers (two locations), Sisters of Coffeehouse, Bourgeois Pig, Bzar Sound Music, Strecker-Nelson Gallery, Web: www.DustysHomes.com Salon, Community Mercantile, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Douglas County AIDS Project, Dusty Manhattan, Varsity Donuts Bookshelf, Ecumenical Campus Ministries, Einstein Bros. Bagel, Newton Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Henry’s, Java Bethel College Student Life Center
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26, Camelot Cinema, The Center, Circle Cinema, City Arts, College Hill United Methodist Church, The Salina Cotillion, Cow & Sow Deli, Crazy J’s Ad Astra Books and Coffeehouse, Furniture & Sleep Shop, The Donut Call/Text 316.519.2112 Chamucos Nightclub, Mokas, Mokas Whole, Doo-Dah Diner, Earthwise Pet South, Peaceful Body Wellness Supply, Fisch Haus, First Metropolitan Email: Dusty@DustysHomes.com Retreat, Salina Unitarian Universalist Community Church, First Unitarian Fellowship, Saline County Health Web: www.DustysHomes.com Universalist Church, Harris & Co. Dept. Frame Shop, Heights High GSA, Hue Gallery, Hunter Health Clinic, J’s Topeka Lounge, Jim Starkey Music Center, The Break Room, Classic Bean A Journey in the Light, Kirby’s, KU (two locations), Field of Greens, Internal Medicine - Midtown, Lotus Flowers by Bill, Lazio’s Coffee Bar, Leaf Cafe, Mead’s Corner, Moe’s Sub Metropolitan Community Church of Shop, The Monarch, The Orpheum, Topeka, Positive Connections, PT’s Our Fantasy Complex, MAGNETIC CALENDARS FOR 2015 - CALL orPatricia’s TEXT (all 3 Coffee Roasting Co., The Razor’s locations), Picasso's Pizza, Pine Valley Edge, Reece Nichols Real Estate, Christian Church, Planet Hair, Planned Serendipity, Skivvies, Three Flowers Parenthood, Positive Directions, Metaphysical, Topeka/Shawnee Rain Café & Lounge, Reverie Coffee County Public Library, Unitarian Spice Merchant, The Call/TextRoasters, 316.519.2112 Universalist Fellowship of Topeka, Store, T - A Tea Bar,Tanya's Soup The Upstage Gallery, Washburn Mabee Kitchen, Twist Yarn Shop, Vagabond Email: Dusty@DustysHomes.com Library, Washburn Union, YWCA Coffeeshop, Vegas Video, Watermark Wichita Web: www.DustysHomes.com Books, Wellington Place Inn, Wichita Adult Superstore, Albero Cafe, Community Theatre, Wichita Public After Dark South, The Anchor, Library - downtown branch, WSU Artichoke Sandwich Bar, Book-ASpectrum meetings, WSU - Women's Holic (all 3 locations), Bungalow Studies office, Ziggy's Pizza Pitt State GSA
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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.
DECEMBER 2014
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Leather Life By Nolin Christensen aka Master C
J
Everything
ust recently I was out at a bar and someone approached me interested in the leather scene. When I asked him what he was “into” he replied, “everything.” Oops, hold the train!! Everything, really? Are you kidding me? I quickly tried to correct him and explain that everything is a very broad area and everything to me is a whole lot different than everything to someone else. To me, everything is anything from simple cuddling to choking someone to the point they pass out. So people need to be really careful about saying they are
into “everything.” I don’t know of anyone who is really into “everything.” No one has that type of interest. I like a lot (and I mean a lot) of things, but I’m far from having an interest in everything. There are some things that even I won’t do or try. So when someone says everything, my guard immediately goes up. After contemplating this, I figured out something. There are many people who are becoming interested in and want to get involved in various types of play. And this is all because they have seen something in a sex/porn video. Now don’t get me wrong, I like videos too, but I’m far from getting infatuated with them. This is because I know that videos are staged and don’t really portray what really happens in a scene. (This is because I personally have experienced many of these scenes). There is a huge difference between what you see in videos vs. what happens in the bedroom or play session. So what is my point here? Well, it has to do with keeping yourself safe. When people negotiate a play scene, they should not say they are into
“everything.” This creates a no boundaries area. And the person you are negotiating with is going to think, wow, I can do anything I want. This is going to get someone hurt. You need to specifically state exactly WHAT you are into. Just because lots of things sexually excite you, that is wholly different than what type of play excites AND fulfills you. You need to have your list of things you like regardless of how long that list is and specifically state to others what is on that list. Otherwise, you’re going to find yourself doing or have done to you, something that you have never imagined or fantasized about. This is because there are all sorts of folks out there with all sorts of desires and interests. And no two are going to be the same. Some things I consider to be vanilla play can be considered extreme to someone else. So when you are looking to play with someone, make sure you know the boundaries for all those who are playing. And then, most of all, RESPECT those boundaries. If you are interested in how to figure out what you are “into” and how to negotiate boundaries, this is a place for you to start. Starting in January 2015, WOOLF will begin a series of
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classes designed to help those who are new to the lifestyle. These classes will serve as a reminder and refresher course to those of us who have been involved for many years. January's class on “Protecting Yourself in an S&M World,” will have do’s and don’ts that everyone needs to follow. February will be “Leather Protocols” learning the dos’ and don’ts within the Leather community. March we take a break and will have our WOOLF Pack Weekend, All Tied Up. April we return with “Negotiating and Communicating in the Leather World,” where we will discuss how to properly negotiate with someone you are wanting to play with. And May we will wrap up with “Mentorship and Vetting,” where we will talk about the importance of mentoring with someone and how to vet (checkout/verify) if someone is a person you can trust to keep you safe. WOOLF meets every third Saturday at The Center at 6pm with class starting at 7pm. Anyone 18 or older is welcome to attend. However, 18-20-yearolds MUST be accompanied by a WOOLF member. If you are interested in what we do and the classes we offer, contact one of the board members at www. woolfks.com. l
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Will You?
By Greg Boaldin The Making of a Gay Rom Com in Kansas
A
bout a year ago, I was ending a night with friends when the topic of queer cinema came up. The discussion centered around how it seems that every film with gay themes is either a coming of age film, soft-core porn, or heavy and sad. It was asked, “Why can’t there be a film about us and the funny things that happen in our lives?” My response was, “There can be, and we can make it.” I’d been writing for a sketch comedy troupe, and before that doing some “stand-up” comedy at the Loony Bin in Wichita. Those experiences led me to write a couple of TV pilots, but I set all of that aside to write Will You Take This Man. Tw o m o n t h s l a t e r, I had a completed script and started sharing it with friends of mine in the film industry. The response was very positive and the team for the film’s production started to materialize almost magically. Will You Take This Man is a romantic comedy very loosely based on stories and situations from my life and the lives of some of my friends. It centers on a fictional interracial couple, Martin and Antoine. In the film, they have
DECEMBER 2014
been keeping their relationship a secret from Martin’s father and his connected friends because Martin’s mother always said, “Don’t tell your father, it will kill him.” The movie starts at Martin’s father’s funeral where he gets a letter from his father that reveals that he knew all the time and was supportive of the relationship. This convinces Martin to live an honest life from that moment forward, and leads him to propose to Antoine at the reception following the funeral. All of that happens in the first 10 minutes. The rest of the movie is about how that proposal and the preparations for their wedding (an event Antoine’s not sure he wants) create catalysts for their friends and family to look at their own lives. They face places where they have been less than honest in their relationships and begin to come out of their own closets. The ensemble cast provides many of the laughs in the film and cover a wide range of experiences. From Martin’s upscale mother and perfect sister, to Antoine’s loudmouthed mother and wise grandmother, to their friends: trampy Casey, brassy drunken Maria, bemused James, and snarky Andrew, all have secrets they must face. If you’re interested in continued on page 21
DECEMBER 2014
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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Faith and Marriage Equality: Welcome to the Party
T
he recent appearance of pastors and churches declaring their willingness to perform marriages for samesex couples has led to some of the most amazing imagery of the marriage equality struggle. Imagery the likes of which seemed all too impossible not long ago, especially in the deeply red states of America. The pictures and stories of courage and love have been a welcome and wonderful sight. People of faith standing tall with smiles and warm hearts and celebrating the joys of victory, love is love, fair is fair, right is right, we have arrived. To many of these institutions of faith, I would say, “Welcome to the party. Perhaps you might think about getting into the game.” If progressive-minded institutions of faith have been waiting for the environment to become safe, they might want to consider the fact that the LGBT children of God have been living and dying in the same unsafe environment that they were afraid to enter. Marriage equality only changes that marginally. Violence will still happen. People will still be fired because they are gay. Transgender people will still be evicted for having the courage to live authentically. Young people will still take their own lives because they can’t imagine a world where they can be accepted for who they truly are. This is not to say that there haven’t been examples of faith institutions who have been in the game from the beginning. In my own home (indelibly red) state of Kansas, Rev. Jackie Carter and First Metropolitan
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Community Church in Wichita have shined a lonely guiding beacon of light for years, actively involved in improving the daily lives of LGBT (and other marginalized) Kansans. The problem is that First MCC is more of an exception than it is the rule. Many churches have been temporary safe havens for LGBT people and the list of these churches has grown remarkably over the last few years. MCC of Topeka was the safe haven I found over eight years ago that gave me a place to be me and started me on my journey of authenticity. Other institutions of faith are getting involved, even in places like Kansas. The Unitarian Universalist Fellowships in Manhattan and Topeka publically declared support for marriage equality before
it became a reality. Central Congregational UCC in Topeka held a series of rallies at the Kansas State Capitol in support of everything from Medicaid expansion to reproductive healthcare to LGBT rights. College Hill United Methodist Church in Wichita hosted the second annual TransKansas Conference in July. Central Congregational UCC in Manhattan has been the perennial starting point for the Little Apple Pride Parade. And these things are not just happening in Kansas. Similar stories of faithbased courage have been in the news across the country with amazing regularity. Marriage equality is not the end-all game-over victory we need. When LGBT people make up 3-5% of the population, but 40% of our homeless youth are LGBT, there is work left to be done. When 41% of transgender people will attempt suicide, there is much left to do. Celebrate? Yes, by all means, celebrate. Celebrate with all your worth and stand up tall among the true heroes and heroines who have taken us to this moment. Then feast your eyes on the mountains left to climb and prepare your
DECEMBER 2014
hearts for the battles left to be fought. Do not be afraid to enter onto the daily battlefields of the marginalized and oppressed. As people of faith, it is the only place we are ever asked to go. It is the only thing we are ever asked to do. 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.
DECEMBER 2014 Will You? continued from page 19
getting more involved in the film, or learning more, check out the official film website at willyoutakethisman.com and sign up for the film’s “guest list.” You can like the film’s fan page on Facebook or follow the film on Twitter at @takethisman. Better yet, you can contribute to the development process by contributing to the film’s Kickstarter campaign at bit. ly/takethisman. The campaign officially ends on Dec. 5, but people can contribute past that date and be eligible for exclusive prizes, rewards, and experiences. Cow & Sow continued from page 7
make changes. This means her menu varies a little. She makes up the difference by being upfront about what is in the food. “If anyone wants to know, we are happy to tell them,” she beamed. There are people in her life with allergies and sensitivities, which is why her lineup includes gluten-free breads. This transparency has resulted in people coming up and thanking her profusely for doing what she does. And, of course, Coln gives them a hug. Lately, Coln has started to do more catering. She said that they were doing it on the side, but the demand increased. She is also in the process of coming up with some boxed lunches and premade to-go salads for either walk-in customers or perhaps delivery. This past year, the Cow & Sow Deli was at Zoobilee. “We served hundreds of people during that,” Coln added. During the holiday season,
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
It’s all been very exciting, fairly humbling, and an incredible opportunity for knowledge and growth. And now it’s time to share the experience with a broader audience. That’s where this column comes in. I am incredibly excited that the editorial staff of the Liberty Press has asked me to write this monthly column to have you all share the journey of the making of this film from development, to filming, to postproduction, to distribution. You will be privy to all the ups, downs, developments and setbacks in making this movie. That is, if you follow the columns. Will you? l she suggests ordering a sweet potato pie. “We make it every day,” grinned Coln, “so we’ll just make a few more.” She is also going to put together gift baskets with products from local businesses that the deli features. Although she stays very busy working two businesses, Coln believes that the people she gets to interact with provide her with the most reward. “I really love meeting the people of all ages, all kinds,” Coln said, “I am a people person, in case you couldn’t tell!” Needless to say, along with a belly sated with delicious, fresh food, I left with yet another hug. To give Cow & Sow Deli a try, stop by (316-260-2523). It is open from 10:30am-4:30pm Monday-Wednesday, 10:30am7pm Thursday and Friday, and 11am-4pm on Saturdays. For information on daily specials, like them on Facebook, or visit www.cowandsowdeli.com. The Renfro Studio is also on Facebook and the web address is www.theRenfroStudio.com. l
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DECEMBER 2014
Heartland Men’s Chorus welcomes new artistic director
By Ciara Reid, staff reporter
KANSAS CITY - The Heartland Men’s Chorus (HMC) has announced Dustin Cates as its new artistic director. A life-long Kansas Citian, Cates says he has always enjoyed attending HMC performances and appreciates their impact on the community. A search committee that included chorus members, past board chairs, community arts leaders, donors and chorus staff conducted an extensive nationwide search to fill the position. Cates is thrilled to become the next artistic director of HMC. “If you would have asked me a year ago if I would be doing anything but teaching high school choral music I would have told you that you were nuts,” he says. “Second only to my husband and our little boy, teaching high school choir was my life’s greatest joy. The
opportunity I had to impact the lives of the students that sat in my classroom every day was a reward like none other.” An opportunity presented itself last spring; Cates was given the chance to work with HMC as a guest conductor for last spring’s concert, I am Harvey Milk. Through this experience, he was able to get to know the men in the chorus. “They shared with me their stories, I saw the support and genuine care they had for one another and most importantly I saw the powerful impact they had on our city,” he says. “I quickly came to realize that, while I was stepping out of a role where I felt as though I was making a difference, my leadership role as the artistic director of Heartland Men’s Chorus allows me to continue to work to make our city and our world a better place in some pretty amazing ways!”
More Information: Kansas City Christmas Folly Theater, 300 W. 12th, KCMO Dec. 5-7, Tickets range from $15-$40 hmckc.org
Not in Kansas City? CHEERS! A Toast to the Holidays by the Heart of America Men's Chorus DeMattias Performance Hall, Newman University, Wichita (see map on page 8) Dec. 13-14. Tickets $15, $5 students (316) 708-4837
In addition to his guest conductor role, Cates says his previous experience prepared him well for this artistic director position. He attended college at the University of MissouriKansas City Conservatory of Music and Dance. He taught high school choral music for 11 years, and served on the music ministry staff at the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, and performed with theater companies throughout Kansas City. “I work to be the kind of person who sees every experience as preparation for what comes next,” he says. “Each of these experiences has shaped who I am and the kind of artistic director I strive to be for Heartland Men’s Chorus.” Cates joins HMC as the organization prepares to begin its 29th season. The first show of the new season will be Kansas City Christmas, HMC’s official annual kick-off to the holidays. “The concert features seasonal classics that we know and love, fun holiday songs and some outrageously hilarious and campy numbers as only HMC can do,” Cates says. Given the amount of buzz
Kansas City has experienced recently (how about those Royals?), Cates says the holiday show will cast the spotlight on local pride. “Especially with the recent national spotlight on our city I think there is a sense of civic pride that I’ve not encountered in a lifetime of living here,” he says. “With Kansas City Christmas, we will celebrate that civic pride, some of Kansas City’s finest composers, performers and of course, Kansas City’s own, Heartland Men’s Chorus.” The second show under Cates’ direction will be an original musical documentary that celebrates and tells the story of the changing face of the American family. The final show of the year will celebrate the music of famed contemporary musical theatre composer Stephen Schwartz, whose works include music from Wicked, Godspell, Pippin, and Prince of Egypt. Cates says the concert will also include the Midwest premiere of Testimony, a work written by Stephen Schwartz utilizing material from Dan Savage’s It Gets Better Project. l
DECEMBER 2014
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Michael Feinstein: The Sinatra Project Saturday, May 9
Sunday Morning Worship Service
10 AM *Please note this is a new start time for Worship!
Merry Christmas
For unto us a child is born... May we all rejoice in celebration for having been given the GREATEST gift of all‌
JESUS Follow us on Twitter
New events just announced! Tickets on sale now. Order by January 5 and receive 50% off any spring show (up to 4 tickets). Use discount code: PRIDE jccc.edu/TheSeries | 913-469-4445
Performing Arts Series
Johnson County Community College
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
DECEMBER 2014
DECEMBER 2014
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
Minor
Details By Bob Minor
T
Come On, Stop Thinking of That Elephant
en years ago, my Minor Details column raved about the best book to come out of any political season before or since: “Stop whatever you’re doing. Drop whatever you’re reading – even if it’s one of my books. The most important political book of the year is out and it’s a $10 paperback of only 124 pages. (So, you know Bill Clinton didn’t write it.)” I thought Thomas Frank’s What’s the Matter with Kansas? How Conservatives Won the Heart of America (Metropolitan Books) was the most insightful book of 2004. It’s still number two, but the new book by wellknown Berkeley Professor of Cognitive Science and Linguistics, George Lakoff, has trumped it. Entitled Don’t Think of an Elephant: Know Your Values and Frame the Debate (Chelsea Green), this popularly written manual with a forward by Howard Dean, is, as the cover says, ‘The Essential Guide for Progressives.’” Ten years later, let me repeat: it was, and still is the essential guide for progressives, especially in its 2014 second, revised edition: The All New Don’t Think of an Elephant: Know Your Values and Frame the Debate ($15). So, whether you have or haven’t read it before, the latest Democratic disaster in this last election means it should be read now. I wish that if the Democratic Party had really read it back then (supposedly Barak Obama did and actually followed it in his first presidential campaign), they would have practiced its principles. We wouldn’t be buried under the avalanche of messes that brought us George Bush, the Tea Party
and this year’s elections results, while dreaming that future demographics are what will automatically make Democrats winners. But Lakoff ’s is also the advice that every progressive activist needs to consider and study, whether they’re attached to one of the two mainstream corporate parties or not. His insights apply across the whole gamut of progressive causes and to the whole movement. And not considering them is devastating. Lakoff finds the key to understanding what’s going on in our culture today in terms of two different models of the family held by Americans and applied to the nation and the world. Right-wingers speak from a “strict father model” of doing things where a strong, strict father is needed to protect the family in a dangerous world, to teach his children right from wrong through punishment, and to instill discipline in his charges who will be rewarded with prosperity. Lakoff shows how this “frame” is applicable to every issue – foreign policy, war, the economy, marriage equality, or equal rights. A major mistake liberals make is failure to recognize that this frames the basic agenda of conservatives. All issues for conservatives come back to it, and invoke it. And therefore how liberals frame the debate is more important than the facts, the statistics, or the information we constantly cite. Conservatives have known this – he shows how they’ve worked at it for the last 40 years. Liberals and progressives, L a k o ff s h o w s , f r a m e t h e world instead in terms of a “nurturant parent” model which
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is not masculinity-centered one likes and leaves out the rest, and emphasizes opportunity, which is actually more of history. fairness, openness, two-way But arguing and repeating their c o n v e r s a t i o n , c o m m u n i t y label “traditional” even to deny building, and trust. it affirms the frame in the minds These two models are in of the moveable middle instead fundamental conflict. So, of invoking our own frame. when liberals get caught up The book is full of advice the in individual issues without Democratic Party should heed if thinking, speaking, and acting it really does want to win over in terms of the model they value, America. But its key idea is: they lose the broader, long-range “When you argue against cultural momentum. someone on the other side using It’s also the case that there their language and their frames, is no “centrist” frame. And you are activating their frames, therefore it’s important to strengthening their frames understand how we can best in those who hear you and convince people who would be undermining your own views. in the moveable middle. For progressives, this means Most people are in fact in avoiding the use of conservative that middle and that means they language and the frames that actually hold both frames in their the language activates. It means thinking. And the way to move you should say what you believe them in our direction is to affirm using your language, not theirs.” the progressive frame over and The chapter on “How to Take over, and never affirm for them Back the Public Discourse” the right-wing frame. gives 11 things progressives can Here’s where those on the left do. The final chapter on “How to make their mistake. Believing in Respond to Conservatives” lists compromise or bipartisanship 28 bullet-points. or some other mediation, they I’d even settle for our political actually affirm the right-wing heroes just getting one point frame by giving it credence and down: “Don’t move to the right compromising with it. ... It alienates the progressive Even stating it in order to base and it helps conservatives deny it actually invokes and by activating their model in supports the right-wing position swing voters.” l in these so-called centrists. N. Minor, Ph.D., Professor Instead, for example, of calling Robert Emeritus of Religious Studies at it brainwashing (what it is) we the University of Kansas, is author call what anti-gay-profiteers do of When Religion Is an Addiction; “ex-gay therapy” or “conversion Scared Straight; and Gay & Healthy a Sick Society. Contact him at www. therapy” as if it actually is in FairnessProject.org. therapy. And even saying “socalled” before the terms reinforces the right-wing frame of the matter. When we engage in a debate about whether sexual orientation is a choice or not, we enforce the idea that the view that it is a choice is valuable. When we talk about “traditional marriage,” we give value to the frame that there is such a thing as one traditional form Healthy Pets for Happy Lives of marriage even when we recognize Daniel Thompson, D.V.M. Mon. - Fri. that “tradition” is Cindy Payne-Robertson, D.V.M. 7:30 AM - 6 PM really just a madeSaturday Lori Mitchell, D.V.M., C.C.R.P. 8 AM - 12 PM up category where Kelly Martin, D.V.M. one chooses out of 1726 E 61st St N • Park City, KS , 67219 • (316) 744-0501 all of history what www.ctahvets.com • facebook.com/ctahvets
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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
DECEMBER 2014
‘I do not live with HIV, HIV is living with me’ By Brian Hansen
WICHITA - Only 15 minutes is required for an individual to know his or her HIV status, and for some, this can be the longest 15 minutes of their life. For a young man or woman, hearing the news of a positive status can be terrifying. Martin Wilson, Prevention Coordinator at Positive Directions, Inc. (PDI), knows this feeling all too well. Even with the advancement in modern medicine, many think an HIV-positive status is the end of the road. Wilson is a living testimony of the contrary – it is the beginning of a long journey. What was once known as “gay cancer,” over one million Americans are currently living with HIV. While AIDS has become less taboo in modern days, an estimated one in six of these Americans are unaware of their status. Eleven years ago, Martin Wilson was a young man waiting to hear the results of his HIV test. At the time his knowledge
of HIV and AIDS was almost non-existent. “I had friends who were positive, and I was also one of those people who would push away,” he says. “I didn’t want to believe that someone close to me had [HIV] in fear of losing them.” At the time, he wasn’t aware of PDI or some place like it to receive information or to feel safe. Although he learned medications were available, Wilson believed his diagnosis would inhibit his chance at a
he said. “At the time I didn’t feel safe because I didn’t know enough to feel safe.” Fast forward 11 years and we find Wilson in the position he is in today; helping others who were sitting in the same seat, waiting to hear the results of his or her HIV test. He lives in such a way to inspire others experiencing the same fear he once did. “There are a lot of men and women that would rather not know. You need to know,” he says. “Your body should be the most “I live my life just like you, important thing except I take medicine. At one to you and you take care point we all take some sort of should of it.” Wilson realizes medicine to stay healthy.” his knowledge of normal life. He admits drugs his HIV status has enabled became a comfort for him and it him to move past any fear or took the death of a close friend uncertainty and live his life just like anyone else. Wilson’s life for him to ‘wake up.’ “If I would have known then is a testimony that living HIVwhat I do know, things would positive is in no way a death have gone much differently,” sentence. Living HIV-positive does not place limitations on a person’s success or ability to live out a dream. “I live my life just like you, except I take medicine,” he said. “At one point, we all take some sort of medicine to stay healthy.” Wilson currently lives with a partner of six years and is a loving father, and legal guardian, to two happy children. He made his dreams come true despite
being positive. A disease once associated with death has become nothing more than a pill taken with water. And to those recently diagnosed with HIV, Wilson says, “You are going to be okay. I’m not living with HIV, HIV is living with me. Your life will not stop. Do not let this be a hindrance to you. This is not the end. I’m happy you found out, now you can live your life. Don’t ever stop loving yourself.” PDI offers free HIV testing to the public -- regardless of sexual orientation -- as well as many other resources for the education and prevention of STDs. For more information call 316-2632214. l
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DECEMBER 2014
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Heart of America Men’s Chorus
cc
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proudly presents
c
c cA Toast toc c c the Holidaysc
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sts e u G al i c e nd p a S U h an Wit m w e ls N o o m h o fr h Sc g i H Area
9
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please bring coats gloves hats and scarves for our warm clothing drive
$15/seat $5 student 70 8 . 4 8 3 7
Saturday/Dec 13 - 7pm Sunday/Dec 14 - 4:30pm
ccc
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cc c Newman University DeMattias cPerformance Hall
3 1 0 0 W e s t M c C o rm i c k W i c h i t a
HOA MC SAV E T H E DAT E S B i ng o at Rai n jan 15
Rehears als S t ar t Ja n 1 3 HOAMC.ORG
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DECEMBER 2014
Artsy Gift Baskets Big Bottom Market offers unique artisanal gift boxes packed with amazing products from CC Made, Flying Goat Coffee, Further, Inna Shrub, Mendocino Mustard and locally made jams. Gift boxes may also be customized. LP’s local reviewer found the preserves to be bursting with fruit flavor and natural sweetness and the mustard sweet with just enough kick – like a Chinese mustard without the pain. www.bigbottommarket. com.
Liberty Press’ Gay Gift Guide Boots
First Comes Love First Comes Love: Portraits of Enduring LGBTQ Relationships (Soleil Press) by award-winning photographer Barbara Proud. Portraits and love stories of 65 long-term LGBTQ couples, together 10– 59 years. Endorsed by Freedom to Marry and HRC. Foreword by Edie Windsor.
The new Boots No7 Men Hydrating Shave Kit is now available for $20 at Walgreens a n d Wa l g r e e n s . c o m . T h e kit includes the Boots No7 Men Anti-friction Shave Gel, Boots No7 Men Post Shave Recovery Balm, Boots No7 Men Energizing Face Wash and an exclusive Boots 3 Blade Razor.
Love is Love Founded by gay couple Sam Street and Jonathan Tack, Proposition Love Jewelry features a Love is Love Collection - a stunning assortment of rings, pendants, bracelets and earrings, available in both silver and gold. Priced from $48-$1,495. The entire collection is available o n l i n e a t w w w. propositionlove.com. SPECIAL: Liberty Press readers can take advantage of specials when ordering directly through www. propositionlove.com and using promo code: Love Is Love for 25 percent off and free shipping!
Cher Christmas! How do adults know when something is for boys and when it’s for girls? Last year 8-year-old Luca wanted a Barbie Magic Hair since he wants to be hair stylist so he wrote a letter to Santa. What he got instead was . . . a bicycle! A mistake that big - well, Luca can’t run the risk this year with the white ice skates he wants. He’s seen Cher on TV – and he definitely “believes.” So he writes to her instead! Cher Upon a Midnight Clear by Matteo Bianchi ($8, Fourcats Press), is a sweet, charming story for all those who wish there had been a little more gender flexibility in their own childhoods.
DECEMBER 2014
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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DECEMBER 2014
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KS Realtor ABR, e-PRO, GRI, SRES Kathy@KansasRainbow.com www.KS.PenFedRealty.com
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DECEMBER 2014
LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.
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If you would like to go on outings in the Wichita/ SouthCentral Kansas region and are female or MTF, this 59-year old transwoman would like to meet. No sex. Please contact michelletg58@ gmail.com.
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tinyurl.com/herscopes Charlene Lichtenstein’s ground-breaking astrology book HerScopes: A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians is celebrating its 10th anniversary! The secrets that are revealed about each sign continue to amaze. Makes a great gift.
D
ecember puts a big package under your tree with Sun, Mercury and Venus moving into Capricorn and conjuncting powerful Pluto. Personal issues hit a high note . . . or is it a screech or a swoon? Have you been naughty or nice?
ARIES (MAR. 21 - APRIL 20) The main focus of your holiday cheer will be centered in your career advancement. Gay Rams need to keep their eye on the prize and get going to wherever they are headed professionally. But that doesn’t mean that you ignore friends and family. It means that you can enlist their help through sage advice or a profitable connection. Milk it and whip it up.
LEO (JULY 24 - AUG. 23) Office celebrations and the resulting shenanigans ramp up this festive time of year. Proud Lions are apt to get into the mix and match with co-workers. This can mean that you make new unexpected friends at work, but it can also mean that you create your own set of work-related complications. Oops. Heck, start to draft your New Year resolutions next month.
TAURUS (APRIL 21 - MAY 21) Winter vacations are in the cards for any queer Bull in need of a great escape. The vistas are encouraging, wide and beckon you. If you can’t get completely away, at least plan some short weekend, toots. It will expand your vision, give you some fresh ideas and possibly lead you to some life -changing opportunities. Don’t wait for the e-mail. It is face-to-face time.
VIRGO (AUG. 24 - SEPT. 23) Not only are you the party hearty hound of the holidays, you are also sought after to breathe new life into old, dreary gatherings. Who are you and what have you done with queer Virgo? How did you get all of this festive energy? Why ask why - just go with the happy flow and see where you wash up ashore. It could be Maui! Of course it can also be the Gowanus Canal.
GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) There will be some pivotal decisions to be made this December and many involve deep personal relationships. Will someone new sweep you off your feet or will you amuse your current muse under the mistletoe? Life will bring its surprises and rewards to even the most undeserving of you, pink Twin. So hang your stocking with care and see who stuffs it.
LIBRA (SEPT. 24 - OCT. 23) Proud Libras should consider inviting far flung family over for the holidays and increasing the good domestic karma. It has been too long. But if this doesn’t fit in with your plans, at least try and spruce up your abode and make it seem more inviting. Hang some tinsel and mistletoe. You never know who will drop in with a gift. Ho ho ho.
CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) Celebrate the holiday season with a This is the time of year to put all of your certain special someone, gay Crab. It is dreams and desires into a long “to do” a great time to improve any important list. You communicate extremely well personal relationship, whether for now and have an extra bit of charisma business or pleasure. For those seeking and oomph to convince even the new connections, the chances of success skeptics. Proud Scorps who think but surge with power through the month. That is, if you go do not do, will lose out on a great opportunity. Those out and look. You cannot phone it in . . . although some who just do without thinking may head in the wrong of you may try. direction. Plan accordingly.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 - DEC. 22) This holiday season may lead to unexpected and over-the-top splurges. There are sooo many fabulous gifts, extravagant experiences and general spoiling going on now. Will you seek to gratify any crazy urge, gay Archer? If so then be prepared for the eyepopping bill at the end of the month. They say the best things in life are free . . . or, if I might add, at least on sale. CAPRICORN (DEC. 23 - JAN. 20) This can be a very fertile time for you, pink Cap. Your plans begin to take shape and anything that has been on your plate now comes up to bat. The secret to your success this December is the connections you make and the helping-hands you get from the most surprising people. Take no one for granted and be jolly to all. You never know who your secret Santa will be. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 - FEB. 19) There is something mellow, cosmic and other worldly about this holiday season. Maybe it is all of the happy celebrations that warm your heart. Or maybe it is the serendipitous good luck that brings you exactly what you need when you need it. Spread your good cheer, Aqueerius. There will be plenty of time to break down the barricades next month. PISCES (FEB. 20 - MAR. 20) Your social life is energized this December as pals reach out to you and even lost connections reconnect. Friendships may have a tendency to get a bit mushy and sentimental now. But that is what Guppies really like. Embrace those who have been supporting you all through the year. It is a time of gathering and grouping. Or is it groping? I get confused.
(c) 2014 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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LIBERTY PRESS - WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. Wichita Pride, info@wichitapride. org, www.wichitapride.org, annual 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 Kansas State University LGBT Resource Center, 207 A/B Holton Hall, Manhattan, (785) 532-5352, lgbt@kstate.edu, www.k-state-edu/lgbt
Health Douglas County AIDS Project, 346 Maine, Suite 160, Lawrence, (785) 8430040, www.douglascountyaidsproject. org
Heart of America Men’s Chorus, Wichita, (316) 708-4837, www.hoamc. org 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 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
Spiritual
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. 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
DECEMBER 2014
Student groups
Support
Derby High School GSA, kljacobs@ usd260.com, tkellenbarger@usd260. com
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.
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, (316) 807-2271, psychsteve2@yahoo. com
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) 4913778, 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
Wichita West High School GSA, astucky@usd259.net
bridges
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan, 481 Zeandale Road, (785) 537-2349, www.uufm.net, services Sundays at 10:45am.
Anniversary: Robert Gass and Stephen Watt will celebrate their 16th anniversary on December 5, 2014. Stephen and Robert were legally married in Des Moines, Iowa on September 30, 2013.
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Topeka, 4775 SW 21st St., (785) 2729233, www.uuft.org, services Sundays at 10:30am.
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.
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