Liberty Press Jan 2018 by Liberty Press Kansas

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WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. JANUARY 2018 | LIBERTY PRESS | Page 3

1 in 5 people living with HIV donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know they have it. KNOW YOUR STATUS. GET TESTED FOR FREE! No appointment necessary for those who qualify. 2318 E. Central, Wichita KS 316.262.2415 | hunterhealth.org This ad was prepared by Hunter Health with assistance from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). Any opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the policies of the KDHE or the CDC.

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Liberty Press

Volume 24, No. 5 • Editor: Kristi Parker • Contributors: Nolin Christensen, Greg Dalton-White, John DaltonWhite, Charlene Lichtenstein, Mama, Dr. Robert N. Minor • Staff Reporters: Grayson Barnes, Annette Billings, Ciara Reid, Jamie Rhodes, Beth Wasson • Cover Design: Troy Dilport • Graphic Designer: Troy Dilport • Webmaster: Ren Autrey • Publisher: Liberty Press, LLC • Printer: Valley Offset Printing • Opportunities: The Liberty Press welcomes volunteer writers and photographers throughout the year. If you're interested in contributing to our publication, send an e-mail to editor@libertypress. net.

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tinyurl.com/herscopes Charlene Lichtenstein’s groundbreaking 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.

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KANSAS NEWS........................6 NATIONAL NEWS..................9 MINOR DETAILS....................12 LEATHER LIFE.......................16 MAMA KNOWS BEST............17 OUT IN THE STARS...............17 ON THE COVER: Breaking the Code......................8 Fire and Ice GALA.....................13

Subscriptions are $18/year The “Liberty Press” and its contents may not be reproduced in any manner, either in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the publisher. All rights reserved. Unsolicited material may not necessarily be acknowledged or returned, is assumed intended for publication unless otherwise stated, and becomes the sole property of the Liberty Press. Letters to the editor and bylined columns reflect the views and opinions of the authors only and are not necessarily those of the Liberty Press, LLC or its staff. The Liberty Press reserves the right to refuse or restrict advertisements at the editor’s discretion. Advertisers and agencies assume liability for claims arising from the content of their ads. Publication of the name, photograph or likeness of any persons, organization or business in articles or advertisements in the Liberty Press in no way indicates or reflects their sexual orientation. First copy free, additional copies may be obtained for a nominal fee from the publisher.

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Signature Theatre produces Cuckoo’s Nest

By John Dalton-White WICHITA - Signature Theatre will begin its 2018 theatre season with Dale Wasserman’s adaptation of Ken Kesey’s novel, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, to be presented at the Wichita Scottish Rite Theatre Jan. 19-20 at 8pm and Jan. 21 at 7pm. A boisterous, ribald and ultimately devastating story of a mental hospital and its inhabitants, Nurse Ratched (played by Teri Mott) runs her ward with icy efficiency. With a firm hand on medication, treatment and basic necessities, her word is law and dissent is punished. Into this isolated world struts Randle P. McMurphy (played by Quinn Warren), a charming rogue who has chosen a stint in the mental institution rather than face prison. Brash and rebellious, McMurphy soon ignites a power struggle that can only end in their mutual destruction. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is best remembered for the Oscar-winning film version that starred Jack Nicholson. The original Broadway production premiered in 1963 and featured a cast that included Kirk Douglas and Gene Wilder. “Doing a show like this is challenging for your actors, which is important to me,” said Deb Campbell, who serves as Signature’s artistic director. “And it’s also challenging for audiences in the sense that it may make them uncomfortable or just make them think.” Due largely to the success of the film version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Nurse Ratched has achieved iconic stature as one of the greatest villains of all-time. Still, there’s a complexity about her and she’s far from being a onedimensional character. “The thing about Miss Ratched is that she’s not outwardly evil,” Campbell said. “That’s what makes her so evil — that her evil is subtle and is within the realm of normal everyday behavior. She’s not just this person who walks in and starts beating people; she subtly terrorizes and manipulates,

which is actually even scarier. “It’s really interesting because early on in the play McMurphy says, ‘I’m used to being top man in every situation,’” Campbell said. “Well, then along comes Nurse Ratched, who is the top dog and is used to being the top dog for a decade at this ward.” Wi t h a p e n c h a n t f o r presenting plays that often deal with contemporary issues and deliver thought-provoking messages, Signature Theatre selected this award-winning, ground-breaking play, which is set in a mental institution in the 1960s. It offers a harsh and compelling view of both the individuals suffering from mental health conditions and the mental health professionals who are entrusted with their care and treatment. “I like doing these shows where a lot of really good actors can come together and do something dramatic and inspiring and sad and crazy and happy — all those things rolled into one — and this show, for sure, has all of those,” Campbell said, “This production plays out mankind’s efforts to retain some semblance of individuality, dignity and freedom in a world in which society demands that we conform.” Other cast members include: Chief Bromden (Steffan Rowe); Dale Harding (Dan E. Campbell); Billy Bibbit (Noah Segard); Scanlon (Paul Savage); Cheswick (Scott Oppegard); Martini (Walter Stewart); Aide Warren (Matt Gurley); Aide Williams (Matt Jacobs); Dr. Spivey (Greg DaltonWhite); Nurse Flinn (Dawn Schnake); Aide Turkle (Landon Hochstatter); Candy Starr (Sarah Wine); Sandra (Julie Williams). Kathy Woodward serves as the Assistant Director and John Dalton-White at the Stage Manager. Tickets are $18, $14 and $10 and can be purchased at the door or at selectaseat.com. l NOTE: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest contains occasional strong language and mature themes and is recommended for ages 15 and up.

Randle (played by Quinn Warren) and Nurse Ratched (played by Teri Mott) mince words during a rehearsal for the upcoming production of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.

Director Deb Campbell gives actor Quinn Warren dialogue notes during rehearsal.

PAGE 6 | LIBERTY PRESS |JANUARY 2018

Kansas News

ABBA MANIA returns to Orpheum in February W I C H I TA - T h e A B B A tribute band ABBA MANIA returns to Wichita’s historic Orpheum Theatre at 7:30pm o n Tu e s d a y, F e b . 1 3 . The band formed in 1999 and the show has been selling out theatres and concert halls internationally ever since. ABBA MANIA will be touring the U.S. again in 2018 with 30

shows over five weeks including a prestigious date in Las Vegas. It’s a very exciting time for all things ABBA as there is talk of an ABBA reunion concert in 2018 and a sequel to the hit movie Mamma Mia. Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anni-Frid, collectively known as ABBA, dominated the charts for nearly ten years and enjoyed nine UK number one hits. At their height they became Sweden’s highest export earners, amazingly, outselling Volvo cars. Sadly, in the early 80s, they decided to go their separate ways, but their music lives on. ABBA Gold was continuously in the album charts throughout the 90s and is one of the biggest selling albums ever. ABBA’s songs were written to be enjoyed live and ABBA MANIA’s concerts are two hours of songs, fully live. The show recreates ABBA’s sound not only perfectly, but respectfully too. Hits include Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, Take A Chance On Me and many more. Tickets are available through Select-A-Seat at selectaseat. com, 855.755.SEAT, or the

Select-A-Seat Box Office at INTRUST Bank Arena.

Heart of America Men’s Chorus seeks new members By Greg Dalton-White WICHITA - Are you a male between 18 and 80? Do you like to sing? Do you enjoy choral music? Then the Heart of America Men’s Chorus (HOAMC) might be the place to start. HOAMC is looking for men to join the ranks of the bass, baritones, 2nd tenors and 1st tenors for their Spring concert that will feature the songs of Disney. It is easy to join. Just show up

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.

for the first rehearsal on Jan. 16 at 7pm in the vocal music room located on the second floor of the DeMattias Performance Hall at 3100 W. McCormick. The chorus’ artistic director, Deanne Zogelman, will ask you to sing a bit with a small group to fit you into the right section of the chorus. That’s all it takes. Chorus members do pay a $40 fee (tax-deductible) to help support the financial obligations of purchasing music and accompanist fees. This concert will not require tuxes, but if you stay with the chorus a tux will be necessary. We have some scholarships available to help with this if it will cause a burden, or you can search at the various thrift shops in town to find one. l

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. JANUARY 2018 | LIBERTY PRESS | Page 7

Winter Exhibition Opening WE THE PEOPLE: American Art of Social Concern On view January 20 – March 25, 2018

For use on a light color background, on uncoated materials.

The Ulrich Alliance invites you to an evening of art and conversation to celebrate the winter exhibition We The People: American Art of Social Concern. Meet, mix and mingle with the eleven undergraduate, graduate students and adult learners of the art history class Realism/Activism/American Art who organized this major exhibition of works from the Ulrich Museum’s permanent collection. Co-curated by School of Art, Design & Creative Industries Assistant Professor of art history Dr. Brittany Lockard, and Ulrich Museum Director Bob Workman.

IMAGE: Gajin Fujita, KIIS Crew, 2002. Spray paint, acrylic paint, gold leaf on wood 60 x 96 in. Museum Purchase.

Saturday, January 20

For use on a dark color background, on uncoated materials.

NO BACKGROUND, on uncoated materials.

<--THERE IS A WHITE ONE

PAGE 8 | LIBERTY PRESS |JANUARY 2018

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.

‘Gut-level drama’ featuring gay character to be performed at Wichita Community Theatre

By Jamie Rhodes WICHITA - Wichita Community Theatre opens its 2018 season with Hugh Whitemore’s play Breaking the Code. Directed by Leroy Clark, the production focuses on Word War II hero Alan Turing. Two predominate things stand out with Turing: one, he was a brilliant mathematician who invented the computer and helped put an end to WWII by breaking Nazi Germany’s secret Enigma Code, and two, he was a homosexual. Due to Turing’s classified work during the war, most were not aware of his role in ending it until many years later. He didn’t receive any public credit for his brilliancy. What the public chose to see was his “crime” of homosexuality during a time when it was outlawed in Great Britain. After his conviction, he was punished with chemical castration undergoing a series of dangerous hormonal therapy drugs which left him impotent and incapacitated both physically and mentally. Turing died alone and forgotten after committing suicide. The beginning of the play takes place in 1952. Throughout the play, the audience can expect to see flashbacks of Turing’s life starting from 1929. Although the play does address Turing’s role in the war, it focuses primarily on his personal life as a gay man. “I think it’s a really good strong play,” director Leroy Clark said. “It deals with the unequal balance between intellectual intelligence and emotional intelligence. He was dominated by his intellect and all he cared about was his research and experiments, but emotionally he couldn’t connect with other people. Eventually, through a friend at school he manages to learn to conduct himself better.” The audience can see the relationship with his friend, Christopher Morcom, start to develop in the second scene of the first act when it flashes back to a 17-year-old Turing. Clark has written over 25 plays of his own, directed

over 100 and authored two playwriting books. With Clark’s extensive experience in the theatre and knowledge of the play, the audience should expect to develop a connection with the main character. “This is a kind of very intimate play. Most of the scenes only have about two or three people. And we will just concentrate on the acting and the movement and emotion and so on. It’s not a play with moving scenery and a lot of visuals and stuff like that. It’s just gut-level drama,” Clark explained. Breaking the Code opened on Broadway in 1987 and ran for less than a year. During the 80s LGBT rights movement, it was considered more controversial. “It definitely shows how homosexuality was viewed. This was a man, who was a genius, who probably saved the lives of 12 million people and shortened the war by two years. His contributions were outstanding and completely beyond the norm. And yet, because of who he was, they treated him so badly,” Clark said. Clark feels the cast has embraced their talents and will deliver a great performance: “I’m really pleased with the cast. I think it’s an excellent cast. They’re very talented.” Alan Turing is played by Mark Schuster, while Mark Stafford plays Turning’s friend, Christopher. The rest of the cast includes Dan Schuster, Crystal Meek, Charlene Grinsell, Andrew Johnson, Kyle Hepperly, Dave McIntire and Bob Lancaster. Breaking the Code opens Jan. 24 and runs through Feb. 4. Performances are at 8pm Wednesday-Saturday. Two Sunday matinees will be held Jan. 28 and Feb. 4 starting at 2pm. Tickets are $14 or $12 for military/senior/students. There is a special opening night ticket price of $10 on Jan. 24 only. Call for reservations, 316686-1282. Wichita Community Theatre is located at 258 N. Fountain. l

Above: Alan Turing was credited with ending World War II two years early, but his homosexuality led to a conviction that ended his life. Below: Director Leroy Clark has brought together a "very talented cast" to tell Turing's story in Breaking the Code, which opens Jan. 24 at Wichita Community Theatre.

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. JANUARY 2018 | LIBERTY PRESS | Page 9

National News Tennessee Williams Museum opens in Key West KEY WEST — An exhibit memorializing iconic playwright Tennessee Williams, who called Key West home from the late 1940s until his death in 1983, has expanded to become the Tennessee Williams Museum under new dual leadership. The museum evolved from the popular Tennessee Williams Key West Exhibit following its merger with the Key West Art & Historical Society, and is located at 513 Truman Ave. Williams lived in Key West as an openly gay man with his partner Frank Merlo, and had a pivotal influence on the island’s literary culture. The awardwinning playwright penned classics including The Glass Menagerie, A Streetcar Named Desire and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. According to founder and curator Dennis Beaver, the exhibit features the largest permanent collection of Williams memorabilia currently

on display for the public. Highlights include personal photographs of Williams at home with Merlo and friends, first-edition plays and books, a typewriter used by Williams when he lived in Key West, an artist-crafted model of his island home and even the original steps from the film adaptation of Williams’ play The Rose Tattoo, which was filmed in Key West. 15 best LGBT-friendly senior housing AUSTIN - SeniorAdvice.com released an article on the best 15 senior living communities for LGBT seniors. The company recognizes that the LGBT senior community is currently a very important part of the American population, and that the struggle for resources and housing can sometimes be difficult. According to the American Psychological Association, “more than 39 million people in the U.S. are age 65 years or older including 2.4 million people who identify as LGBT. It is estimated that as the baby boomer generation ages, the continued on page 10

Playwright Tennessee Williams, right, with his longtime partner Frank Merlo in front of their house in Key West.

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Top: The Resort on Carefree Blvd. in Ft. Myers, FL made the list coming in at number two. Bottom: Rainbow Vista is located amongst the beautiful scenery in Gresham, OR. National continued from page 9

older adult population will increase from 12.8% to an estimated 19% in 2030.” Although the LGBT community is growing steadily, the options for LGBT senior housing are not as flourishing. There are a handful of these communities across the country though, and SeniorAdvice. com has put together a list of the most welcoming. The top 15 LGBT-friendly senior housing communities: 1. The Palms of Manasota, Palmetto, FL 2. The Resort on Carefree Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL 3.Stonewall Gardens, Palm Springs, CA 4.Fountaingrove Lodge, Santa Rosa, CA 5.Triangle Square, Hollywood, CA 6.Rainbow Vista, Gresham, OR 7.Discovery Bay Resort, WA 8.The Residences at Seashore Point, Provincetown, MA 9.Birds of a Feather, Pecos, NM 10.A Place for Us, Cleveland, OH 11.Carefree Cove, Boone, NC 12.John C. Anderson Apts., Philadelphia, PA 13.The Pueblo, Apache Junction, AZ 14.Spirit on Lake, Minneapolis, MN 15.Townhall Apts., Chicago, IL There is generally less acceptance of the LGBT community among older generations, which can make it very difficult to find a supportive community within the senior demographic. It is estimated that “48% of LGBT older couples face discrimination” according to a 2014 investigation by the nonprofit Equal Rights Center. l

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. JANUARY 2018 | LIBERTY PRESS | Page 11

Tickets on sale now! JANUARY 30-31

Century II Concert Hall

316.303.8100 •

• BroadwayWichita.com

Groups 10+: 866.314.7687

@BroadwayWichita

Broadway In Wichita

@BroadwayKS #KSBway

PAGE 12 | LIBERTY PRESS |JANUARY 2018

to accept equality for women through women’s suffrage and various waves of feminism, these Evangelicals became convinced that they must protect patriarchy and male privilege. Even conservative churches that had women ministers were criticized. Before the latest By Bob Minor (1) Nationalism. America is waves of feminism scared an exceptional nation with a them even further, a leading Why Do Those White Divine mission. Evangelical leader in 1941, John Evangelicals Really Love R. Rice, for example, wrote of Trump? (Part One of a Series) From the words of the earliest threats to Biblical Christianity Christians in America, this in his Bobbed Hair, Bossy country’s religious leaders Wives, and Women Preachers: h i t e E v a n g e l i c a l s really going on. Different people characterized it as “a city on a Significant Questions for Honest a r e t h e l a r g e s t down through history came to hill.” It was called the New Israel Christian Women Settled by the demographic group that old book with different and the location of the New Word of God. voting for and sticking with assumptions – Martin Luther Covenant community. Many Again and again, Evangelists Donald Trump no matter what King Jr., vs. Pat Robertson, for leaders and presidents from a n d l e a d i n g r i g h t - w i n g he does. Trump won 81% of example - and they therefore then on embraced American preachers shamed churches for their votes and 72% still aren’t find in the Bible (as well as exceptionalism. being effeminate. “Muscular ashamed to say that they support “tradition”) what supports those But it’s a basic, often quite Christianity” came to the United him. assumptions. explicit, unquestionable tenet States as a movement pushed T r u m p ’ s “ R e l i g i o u s No one takes the smorgasbord for these Evangelicals. Many so by popular evangelist Dwight Advisory Council,” made up that is the Bible “literally.” equate American exceptionalism L. Moody as early as the end of mostly of leaders of this same Everyone interprets. They take and Biblical teachings that their the 19th century to masculinize demographic, has held firm even literally what the church. while members of other councils w o r k s f o r The idea of abandoned ship. t h e m a n d “...[A]s victims of a changing culture a “biblical chain So the question many keep employ some around them [Evangelicals] feel cornered of command” asking is: with Evangelicals’ interpretive with the man of constant insistence on sexual scheme for like rats who must fight 'Culture Wars.'” the house just purity for others and their so- taking other below God and called “family values” trope, passages that would disagree churches must have an American in charge of everyone below why do these Evangelicals cling (“seemingly”) in other ways. flag standing near the pulpit. him swept up Evangelicals to Trump when he blatantly I n E v a n g e l i c a l c i r c l e s They’ll worry about saving in the 1960s with homeembodies almost everything there are numerous theories America from threats both school advocate Bill Gothard that a person could say and of interpretation even though internally and externally. touring the country. In 1991 the do that flaunts those values? they’ll insist that they “believe America must always be first “Promise Keepers” emerged On top of that, he displays a the Bible from cover to cover, and foremost among the nations. to pack football stadiums by clear ignorance of, and past and even believe the covers.” Talk of being a “world citizen” advising Evangelical men to hostility to, Evangelical beliefs Denying that they interpret is is a threat unless it starts with take back the authority they were themselves. part of their use of the Bible America saving the world. losing in their own homes. Those Evangelicals respond in the manner of a religion T h e y m i g h t s t r u g g l e In fact, the threat of LGBTQ with denial and ignorance addiction. creatively to find America in equality and the Evangelical and remain willing to be It’s not the Bible and any the Bible itself, but, at the very fight against marriage equality used for whatever Trump’s literalism that decides why least, nothing in the Bible can were premised on how this con is. Meanwhile, liberals they support Trump or come be seen to be anti-America as would destroy the traditional act astonished at what seems out against “sexual impurity” an essential ideal. That means, patriarchal (“straight”) gender to be the hypocrisy of these for other people. It’s other of course, that their American roles. And “traditional family Evangelicals for what they deeply ingrained interpretive Christianity is the version that values” rhetoric was built on the usually say about character, assumptions that they’ve finally gets it right again and is man being in charge of his very sexuality, and ethics when they internalized from the culture in supposed to be uniquely true. White Evangelical family. act with such fidelity to Trump which they’ve grown up. Historically, all religions and his Party. Threats to these internalized adapt to their cultures and adopt Next month: Part Two, with two More progressive believers assumptions feel like persecution dominant cultural symbols more of the six key elements read calls for quite different and provocations to battle. and assumptions. European of the lens that explains their responses to this president They see these assumptions and Christianity is not like American support for religious and and his party in this Bible themselves (as people who’ve – hence American Evangelicals political leaders even if they’re that Evangelicals flaunt as built their self-definitions on are convinced that Europe needs hypocrites. l their authority. It’s as if those these assumptions), then, as American Christian missionaries Evangelical claims that they’re victims of a changing culture to help them see the true version. Robert N. Minor, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus at the University of Kansas, just following the Bible as it around them and feel cornered is author of When Religion Is an is don’t hold up unless you’re like rats who must fight “Culture (2) Patriarchy. The Bible must Addiction; Scared Straight: Why It’s viewing the Bible through Wars.” teach “traditional” American So Hard to Accept Gay People and Why It’s So Hard to Be Human; and writes a certain, specific lens that These six assumptions aren’t gender roles. a regular column on relationships for Evangelicals use. exclusive to these Evangelicals, 50PlusPrime.com Contact him at www. And that’s a clue to what’s but their combination is crucial As American culture began FairnessProject.org.

Minor

Details

to their worldview, the lens they use to see reality and their scriptures. These assumptions are the key to understanding what they see in life and the Bible when they claim that they’re righteously following God and the Bible:

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. JANUARY 2018 | LIBERTY PRESS | Page 13

Winter Fire and Ice Gala Food, fun and fundraising to benefit Positive Directions | By Beth Wasson

WICHITA - If you’re looking for a little fun after the holidays the Winter Fire and Ice Gala might be the event for you. Happening Jan. 19 at Abode Venue, the evening promises fun, food, and a fundraising auction for Positive Directions Inc. (PDI), a local non-profit organization committed to the prevention of HIV. Tickets, only available online at postivedirectionsks. org, are $80 for the main event starting at 7pm, or $100 for early entry as a VIP at 6pm. Beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres and what Executive Director Brett Hogan describes as “eye-popping ambient entertainment” are included with the admission price. Without revealing too much, Hogan promises a “fun, funky night” with the likes of magicians, singers, and dancers performing continuously throughout the gala. Attendees are encouraged to dress for fun whether that is formal attire or a more casual choice. Underwriters for the gala include Spirit AeroSystems, X Y B a r, A b o d e Ve n u e , Douglas Design District, and B Young Salon along with many private donations. The fun continues with an after party at XY in Old Town. One

hundred percent of the ticket price goes to PDI for funding its services and community outreach. Positive Directions began in 1992 primarily as a case management and food pantry for those suffering from AIDS. The last two years the organization re-focused on education and prevention of HIV and other STD’s. As part of that mission, PDI offers free Rapid HIV testing with results in 20 minutes. No appointment is necessary, just visit the office at 416 S. Commerce St., Suite 108. Another very important part of PDI is its community outreach services including condom dispensers at many locations around Wichita such as Club Boomerang, XY Bar, The Hopping Gnome, J’s Lounge, Rain Café, and Rocky’s. With an emphasis on education, PDI employees speak to students and other groups giving updated, reliable information about HIV. There’s never a charge for any of PDI’s services. “There’s less talk of HIV today than there once was,” Hogan explains. “Which leaves many teenagers ignorant of important information about transmission of the virus and the need for safe- sex

practices.” There are also new treatments for those infected with HIV, yet most people never hear about it. “There are ads everywhere about drugs for watery eyes,” Hogan said, “but not about new drugs available for HIV.” Even though media attention is down, the annual infection rate has not varied much over the years. There’s over 1.1 million cases of known HIV-infection in the United States plus Hogan says, “one in every seven people don’t know they have it.” PDI needs help getting the message out that HIV and AIDS are still around. Hogan says that many high school

curriculums only include an average of 20 minutes on HIV, presented during a gym class. Unfortunately, misinformation is still rampant and Hogan notes that a large number of young people still think of HIV and AIDS as a gay man’s disease. P D I ’s f u n d i n g c o m e s from local and state grants, corporate and private donations. If you’d like to help, PDI can set up a monthly withdrawal donation with money coming directly from your bank account, similar to the way many pay utilities each month. If you’d like to volunteer, contact PDI as they are currently compiling a database of volunteer names. l

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2018 Engage ICT: Democracy on Tap Get your questions answered at KMUW’s Engage ICT: Democracy on Tap. These monthly community conversations feature a panel of local experts. Always at Roxy’s Downtown. Always free and open to all. Learn more at EngageICT.org.

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. JANUARY 2018 | LIBERTY PRESS | Page 15

JEWELRY

SAVERS

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We specialize in custom We don't want a million dollars, Free jewelry cleaning just a million friends. jewelry design & repairs when you mention this ad

www.jewelrysaverswichita.com 316-683-9215 2431 N Greenwich Rd, Suite 109 Wichita, KS 67226 K-96 & Greenwich, in front of Cabela's

PAGE 16 | LIBERTY PRESS |JANUARY 2018

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.

Leather Life By Nolin Christensen aka Master C

Keep warm with our Winter clothing! Bajas & Hoodies, Gloves & Mucklucks!

(785) 776-2252

1128 Moro Manhattan, KS 66502 11am-6:30pm M-F • 11am-6pm Sat.

Editor’s note: This column may contain content that is offensive to some people.

The New Year

ell, it’s that time of year again, New Year’s. It’s the time where everyone makes New Year’s resolutions. Well for this year I’m going to suggest something new. Activism. I know you may have your reservations about being an activist. But it’s really quite simple. But, you’re saying you are unable? Or that it may out you? Or someone might find out you’re kinky? Well, you don’t have to be “out” about it. It’s simple. So what is this simple activism, you ask? It’s something you might already do. It’s the ability to vote. Yes, it’s that easy. Vote. Vote every time there is an election. Vote for those who will help the community. And when I say community I mean multiple communities. The poor, the marginalized, the LGBT, and the kink communities. Vote for someone who will keep these safe. Vote for someone

who supports them. So often people vote on principles that can’t be followed through; such as religion. This is because religious beliefs are personal and are something that can’t be regulated by law. Also, what one believes is not necessarily something that someone else will believe. So when you vote, leave out the religious aspect and vote for social justice. Vote for someone who will stand for those who can’t stand for themselves. The homeless, the veterans, the poor, the ill. Because it is with a vote that we change things. We vote out those who are not listening to those who put them there. We vote out those who are only following or listening to those with money. And we vote in people who will vote for policies that will help the vulnerable. So this year, vow to become a voter activist. It’s something you can do in private and it’s something that no one will know about and it’s something that only you will know how you voted. If you’re in the kink community, it’s vital that you vote for people who will help to protect your community. Because we are a fringe group and marginalized community we all too often don’t get people who will support us. So we need to vet those who are running for office. We need to ask hard questions to get the right answers. Then vote for those who will do the will of the people. l Master C is the current president of WOOLF, the local leather club. Contact him via www.woolfks.com or at MsterC69@gmail.com/

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. JANUARY 2018 | LIBERTY PRESS | Page 17

All we can do is hope or pray if you’re religious. Unless changes are made I am afraid it is going to continue. We need to change laws not just for guns, but mental health as well. Until then we can hope that love wins! Dear Mama, Do you like fruitcake? Hungry at the Holidays I like fruitcake about as much as like the President. I’d rather eat Eunice’s beef stew than fruitcake and even look at Darth Cheeto! Mama, Do you think all this gun violence will ever end? Worried

Mama, What is the deal with all these Hollywood people getting in trouble for sexual harassment? Not signed This is what happens when certain men are given to much power. Just look at our leader and the things he said in that locker room. Some people are just pigs! Good Lord, I would have slapped the crap out of any one of them if they had tried or said anything inappropriate to me! My gosh, even my own kids know not to behave like that! Even Eunice! Bubba bring me a beer!

Dear Mama, What are your goals for the New Year? Old acquaintances Iola, I know you wrote this damn question, neighbor! I can tell you one of them is not to be nicer to my neighbor! Stick that in your pink tutu, Iola! I am too damn old to make goals I know I won’t keep. I will yell more and drink beer! I know I can keep those goals!! I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and I hope you have a Happy New Year in 2018! l

Recipe For Receiving a Fruitcake: 1. Act surprised and pretend you like the gift. Don’t overdo it. 2. Take it home and pretend to taste it so if the gift giver asks you can have a nice response. 3. If you have a person on your Christmas list you are not fond of re-gift the fruitcake. 4. If above step does not apply throw the damn thing in the trash! Have a question for Mama? E-mail MamaTHarper@aol.com.

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anuary brings a bang for our buck as four planets square volcanic retrograde Uranus. Whatever drives your plans, whatever speeds your goals, expect a surprise and a possible detour. Be careful of falling rock zones. . .

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APRIL 20) Your career may be due for a massive change or adjustment as your carefully planned professional path suddenly shifts. But don’t panic, proud Ram. Sometimes the fates deliver just what you need most, even if it requires greater patience and balance on your part. You may ultimately be happily surprised at the direction your life takes when you go with the cosmic flow.

LEO (JULY 24 - AUG. 23) Get your priorities in order, proud Lion. Then forget the whole thing as priorities shift and take on a wacky life of their own. You may decide to escape from all of your responsibilities and explore new vistas and make new discoveries. Some things that you will discover will be surprising. But that is what happens when you take a calculated risk. No risk, no reward, honey.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 - DEC. 22) As much as you love having a good time, check your budget to see if your partying ways are affordable to you now. Everyone wants you in their corner. Gay Archers are known for their generosity, but at some point you have to view the bottom line. Things will have a way of getting totally out of hand. Maybe that is how you really like it??

TAURUS (APRIL 21 - MAY 21) Expect a shocking revelation to cross your path that will not only shake up your world view, but also catapult you into international fame . . . or something like that. Queer Bulls like their comfortable space, but the fates now conspire to launch you into Outer space. Will you rub elbows with exotic celebrities? Will you hobnob with global glitteratis? Oh whoohoo!

VIRGO (AUG. 24 - SEPT. 23) Fun will have a way of getting totally out of hand before you realize it. Queer Virgos are invited to all of the hot parties and big events. It may be too much all at the same time. But that is what will make your life so exciting, extra romantic and completely creative. Go with the gay flow and see where you wash up on shore. Will it be a sand bar?

CAPRICORN (DEC. 23 - JAN. 20) You will find yourself in the center of all of the attention now, pink Cap. This can feel great or make you feel a bit uncomfortable. The main thing is that you have an escape sanctuary when you can rest, meditate and recharge. But your home life may be more excitable than you would like right now. What to do? See where life leads. Maybe to the top. Maybe to the bottom.

GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) Pink Twins can be forgiven if they mistake a friendly signal for a more passionate one. You think that things are on an even keel, but your love boat can tip. Keep a sense of humor as your platonic and intimate relationships get mixed up. Who knows what can happen when the excitement builds in intensity and passion. Will you get caught with your pants down? Let’s hope so!

LIBRA (SEPT. 24 - OCT. 23) This seems like the right time to make some big domestic decisions. But any decision you make could be in store for a change or a reappraisal. Consider what you really want in a relationship, proud Libra. Then toss it out the window because the fates have other plans for you. Ever hear about a liberal Democrat marrying a conservative Republican? Just wait!

AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 - FEB. 19) As much as you would like to keep a secret, there will be many chances for you to accidentally spill the beans. So forgive yourself in advance for any indiscretions and try to forget anything that you cannot share. You might also not be as eloquent as you would like to be. Aqueerians can speak from the heart. But beware giving others heartburn.

PISCES (FEB. 20 - MAR. 20) SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) You feel very popular now, but be a bit wary You will try to be very clear in your about lending or spending with friends. Your CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) instructions at work. But be prepared money could evaporate faster than you think Trying to balance your career obligations for no one really understanding or as the festivities rev up and everyone joins with those of a partner’s can result in a big listening to you. Chalk it up to the in. Pals mean well, but they can get you totally caught to-do. Stress can build. Everyone wants stars, gay Scorp, and give your bossing up in the moment (and the expense) of fun. Join in, but something big and time-consuming from you and it may get totally out of hand. around a rest. It will be better for you to de-stress try not to boss the course of events, Guppie. You will Gay Crabs can tip the scales if they try and relax at work if you can. Let others do their wind up with the bill. too hard to please everyone. My advice is to only please thing and you do yours. Ultimately it will thing up together. I think. yourself. Others will simply have to adjust. (c) 2018 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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WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.

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WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL. JANUARY 2018 | LIBERTY PRESS | Page 19

PAGE 20 | LIBERTY PRESS |JANUARY 2018

WE WERE GAY BEFORE IT WAS COOL.