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On Iowa! Sound Off I.C.!
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Vol. 5; Issue 1 September 2020 Campus Edition GoGuideMagazine.com Facebook.com/ GoGuideMagazine Publisher & Executive Editor Tim Nedoba
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Returning Home September 2020 A column by Erik Sosa GoGuide Magazine
For the past couple of weeks, I have
By E r
exhausted myself thinking about the direction of this article because so much has happened in the last couple of months that having time to think clearly is a luxury. I have been living in the Riviera Maya since March 15th, and this morning, I couldn’t get Guns & Roses’ “Welcome to the Jungle” out of my head. Although it may not be exactly where I thought this piece would go, it definitely felt like a good lead into whatever I end up conveying about my continued experiences here in Mexico. So, please excuse the randomness that is me. “Welcome to the jungle, we’ve got fun and games. We got everything you want honey, we know the names. We are the people that can find whatever you may need. If you got the money, honey, we got your disease.” Fun in the water and sun. Check. Eco-friendly outdoor activities. Double-check. And by disease, I’m pretty sure it’s sex, drugs and rock and roll. Corona Virus, not included. But to be honest, that point of view of life is for the traveler who has come to the Mayan peninsula to get away and escape the stresses of daily life. Living here, in what many consider to be paradise, is an entirely different story. Having the ability to move here and experience both worlds is what enriches my life and that of my family every day. My new normal is still acclimating to a less complicated pace of life here. To put it “In the end, as much as bluntly, Mary, if you want to live at a slower pace, I love the United States, you have to deal with its people and idiosyncraand have learned much. sies. Yes, change is difficult, but not as tricky as I’m just over its commertransporting your home across waters.
cialism, hypocrisy, and
injustice.” I know I digress, but I think we can all agree that moving sucks ass! Now, moving internationally during a pandemic, well, let’s just say it takes a certain breed of person to do it with skill and grace. Karens need not apply. When I was younger, I remember schlepping my belongings from place to place more of an inconvenience than the involved process it is today. If picking up your life and changing your daily routines isn’t hard enough, try, in conjunction, transitioning hormonal teenagers and an ex to a new environment with
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different people and customs. Yes, moving is indeed more stressful
Erik’s World is continued on page 15
#BlackLivesMatter Racial Justice is LGBTQ Justice A new column by Erica Barz Des Moines area activist GoGuide September 2020
Des Moines, IA-Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the city of Des Moines is hosting meetings on Zoom to maintain social distancing. Unfortunately, the city did not take into account that someone on their staff would need to be proficient in Zoom in order to make this a workable reality. White supremacists quickly figured out that city staff had no idea what they were doing and seized the opportunity to deploy several n-words and murderous threats before they can be muted.
Every one of these outbursts is horrific, and one sticks in my mind more than any other. The anonymous person started seemingly innocently enough, talking about his experience seeing Black Lives Matter demonstrations in Des Moines. Things changed quickly when he voiced his support for the Des Moines Police Department and said, in summary: “I’ve seen what kind of people attend these protests, and I’d like to ask DMPD officers to shoot every one of those n-words and f-words down.” My heart dropped into my stomach, but the city council pressed on while barely acknowledging what had just happened. It’s true that a large portion of the protestors in Des Moines, particularly the medics, are visibly members of the LGBTQ community. This person knew this and urged city officials with guns to smear the queers with bullets. I’m a white gay person. This was the first threat that could have conceivably been read as targeting me and many of my friends. It came from within the city itself, expressing familiarity with the people attending the protests. Knowing there are people living in my city that want to see me and my loved ones dead is not a fact I’m confronted with often. It’s a fact that Black people in Des Moines can’t escape. Every other deplorable threat on these calls is hurled at Black residents of Des Moines, a group also targeted by a racist criminal legal
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system.
The vast majority of the LGBTQ community in Iowa is white. It’s a matter of demographics; we live in one of the whitest states in the country, and that whiteness pervades our community. The privilege and relative comfort our whiteness grants us cannot prevent us from fighting for racial justice.
LGBTQ Black people in our state are leading protests in cities around the state, fighting for justice. White LGBTQ people need to join them and lend our power and resources to their cause. Bayard Rustin, a gay Black man and advisor to Martin Luther King, Jr., once said, “We need, in every community, a group of angelic troublemakBayard Rustin with Martin Luther King, Jr,. ers.” In whatever capacity you’re able, support the angelic troublemakers in your city working to make our state more equitable. EB
An Audio recording of A Forgotten Civil Rights Leader Bayard Rustin Says Coming Out ‘Was An Absolute Necessity’ Below are excerpts from the audio interview with Bayard Rustin that was first airedonNPR on January 10, 2019. The complete audio can be heard at https:// www.npr.org/transcripts/682598649
INTERSECTIONAL IDENTITY Rustin, however, believed the struggle against discrimination and prejudice was intersectional and must be fought at the same time “If I go and sit quietly at the back of that bus now, that child, who was so innocent of race relations that it was going to play with me, will have seen so many blacks go in the back and sit down quietly that it’s going to end up saying, They like it back there, I’ve never seen anybody protest against it,” said Rustin, who saw the incident as an opportunity to tackle racism
“I owe it to that child that it should be educated to know that blacks do not want
to sit in the back, and therefore I should get arrested, letting all these white people in the bus know that I do not accept that,” Rustin said. FIGHTING HOMOPHOBIA
Rustin then realized his identity as an African-American was equally as important as his identity as a gay man.
“It occurred to me shortly after that that it was an absolute necessity for me to declare my homosexuality, because if I didn’t I was a part of the prejudice,” Rustin said. “I was aiding and abetting the prejudice that was a part of the effort to destroy me.” GG
September’s Featured Podcast
Https://podcasts.Apple.Com/us/podcast/bayard-rustin/id1162447122?I=1000477051243
Life | Culture | Scene | Voice
GoGuideMagazine.com
National News
Creating Change Conference Goes Virtual In 2021 Leading Lgbtq+ Activist Conference To Be Held Online
Special to GoGuide Magazine September 2020
Washington, DC-For the first time in its 33-year history, the Creating Change Conference will be a completely virtual event. Given the ongoing public health crisis and current safety regulations, we will be unable to host Creating Change as an in-person convening in Washington, DC, in January 2021.
“We are disappointed we will be unable to gather in person, one of the most powerful elements of Creating Change, but the Task Force is committed to planning a virtual experience that is diverse, accessible, and addresses the many issues facing LGBTQ+ communities,” said Andy Garcia, Director of Creating Change.
“We are reaching out to the Creating Change family and convening a virtual host committee,” continued Garcia. “We will do our best to provide an experience that closely resembles what we’ve all come to expect from Creating Change. There are, of course, some things we won’t be able to replicate online, but we will also be able to include experiences and activities we’ve never been able to before. A virtual Creating Change conference also means we will be accessible to many more participants, including many who may have wanted to join us in person but have been unable to for various reasons,” continued Garcia.
The current vision for the Creating Change conference is an online preevent in the fall, followed by a multi-day online experience in January 2021. The goal of the Task Force staff and partner organizations is to create an exceptionally engaging, accessible, and relevant conference experience that promotes the values of the Task Force, as well as the work of our staff and partner organizations across the movement. Tentatively planned is a Queering Racial Justice Institute on October 10th, 2020. The multi-day conference will be held January 27-31, 2021. For more information go to www.creatingchange.org . GG
On Iowa!
On Campus LGBTQ+ Resources
Photo courtesy University of Iowa
September 2020 GoGuide Magazine By Tim Nedoba
There is one certainty at the University of Iowa. That is a firm commitment from the very top of the University of Iowa's LGBTQ+ community. President Harreld is on your side. President Harreld is the first UI president to host a Pride reception at the President's Mansion. An annual event only COVID-19 could prevent from happening in 2020. The first reception took place in 2017 (photos from that event are on this page to the right).
Pictured below is the Univesity of Iowa's Pride Alliance Center. It, too, is presently closed. However, it is usually a hub of activity every school year. It also serves as an excellent resource center. Most colleges on campus have LGBTQ+ student clubs as well. However, there is no central University hub to find each club. This search is left to the student. GG
Photo by Tim Nedoba
Photo by Tim Nedoba
Photo by Tim Nedoba
Sound Off I.C.! Will Iowa City's Vibrant Entertainment District Survive Covid-19? Voice your opinion at GoGuideMagazine.com September 2020 GoGuideMagazine.com By Tim Nedoba
Iowa City, IA - The Iowa City area has but one LGBTQ+ bar. It's located in downtown Iowa City in what is referred to as the downtown entertainment district. A district that has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite having only one gay bar, downtown Iowa City offers several entertainment options for the LGBTQ+ community, including University of Iowa students. Entertainment options that are only available in a post-pandemic environment.
Will Iowa City businesses survive the pandemic? It's safe to say some will and some will not. Will the loss of some of these businesses have a long-term adverse effect on the local LGBTQ+ community's quality of life? Will the Iowa City be able to maintain its urban-like setting in a smaller Midwestern city? GoGuideMagazine.com reached out to area leaders to seek answers to these questions and get their thoughts on a post-COVID-19 downtown Iowa City. Many of our top city officials and business organization leaders responded to our request for comment. One notable absentee is Iowa City mayor, Bruce Teague. Despite several attempts, GoGuide has not yet received a response for a request for comment.
Geoff Fruin, Joe Reilly, Nancy Bird, Christopher Hunter, and Nick Pfeiffer their thoughts at GoGuideMagazine.com
Photo by Tim Nedoba
Local Feature
Marching Forward
GoGuide Sat Down With Beadology’s Karen Kubby September 2020 GoGuide Magazine By Tim Nedoba
Iowa City, IA-According to Beadology’s co-owner Karen Kubby, it’s an extremely challenging year to do business. However, don’t expect to hear doom and gloom from Kubby about the future of downtown Iowa City. In our interview, she never complained and was always upbeat despite admitting that at one point, she pegged survival of the store at 50/50. She now sees an 80% chance of survival. The reason, according to kubby, “the doors are now open.”
It’s important to note that all necessary safety measures are in place inside the store. These safety measures have been enhanced to ensure even more customer safety. There is a sign on the front that covers all the safety measures in place. Kubby spoke about the loyal client base at Beadology. It’s also about the relationship building with these customers that is so important. According to Kubby, “our customers are treated like friends.” It’s not been easy for Beadology. The store, like many others, was closed approximately April to June. According to Kubby, to survive during this period, “it took a positive attitude, being creative, and the support and special programing provided by the Iowa City Downtown District.”
During the shutdown is was necessary to find creative ways to interact with customers. It started with improving the website and allowing for interaction with customers through online and social media posting. Sales had dropped as much as 70%. The outlook was bleak. However, there was no give up in Karen Kubby and staff. The improved website allowed for better customer experience. Customers were still allowed to purchase items, and curbside pick-up was made available. The Iowa City Downtown District played a significant role in this area. According to www.Beadologyiowa. Com, the store carries beads from around the world, including stone, pearl, metal, organic, glass, crystal, and one-of-a-kind flamework beads. All finished jewelry is made in house. The classes are a big part of Beadology.
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The class list includes wirework, stringing, knotting, flamework, borosilicate glasswork, precious metal clay, seed bead weaving, and metalwork.
Karen kubby is president of kubby gyrls, inc. And co-owner of beadology Iowa. Her specialty is creating, and teaching is seed bead weaving. Yet, she dabbles in chain maille, Viking knit, wirework, and lampworking.
Beadology is located at 220 E. Washington St., Iowa City. They can be reached at 319.338.1566 Or by email at info@beadologyiowa.Com.
Beadology has a full-service website at www.beadologyiowa.Com, on Facebook at www.Facebook.Com/beadology-iowa-191502757594839/ and are live every Tuesday at 1 pm, and on Instagram daily www.instagram.com/beadologyiowa/channel/ with a spot on IGTV every Friday at 2:30 pm. GG
Beadology photo’s by Tim Nedoba
Erik’s World is continued from page 6 than divorce. Truth be told, I want to thank my ex-partner and my wonderful next-door neighbor for managing that whole side of my life. I was initially scheduled to come back home in July to pack a few essential items, possibly see the boys graduate from 8th grade, and bid farewell to loved ones.
Unfortunately, due to the riots and fear of having an unstable President possibly closing borders again, we put a kibosh on that stint. Here we are still trying to make a new life for ourselves. Until now, the boys have now been accepted to an international school in the Yucatán, and I feel so blessed that they are cooperating and being optimistic about our new endeavors. COVID does have its benefits. And now, with this new mindset, I’m beginning to plant my roots. And have started a journey to where I’m not only building a new home but creating a unique boutique BnB experience for the traveling artist. More information on that is forthcoming. A little self plugging never hurt anyone. But for now, let me end with this. Casa IndigeNOS is slated to be, but not limited to, a creative space for individuals in need of studio space on vacation. The fact that tourism is down because of COVID allows me to plan and structure a small business plan that has been in my entrepreneurial spirit for a long time. With so many ideas bouncing in and out, it’s tough to define right now what it will all encompass; however, what I do know is that I’ll work with a great team of family and friends to create a unique place for travels as well as for the community. In the end, as much as I love the United States, and have learned much. I’m just over its commercialism, hypocrisy, and injustice. It’s time for me to go back to my motherland and pave the way for my children to view life from a world perspective of community, culture, love, and respect for all things living. ES
Voice
VoteLikeYourLifeDependsOnIt
A new column by Troy Price Vice-chair Iowa Democratic Party - Stonewall Caucus September 2020
I was driving in my car in June 2015, listening to the radio when they broke in
for a special report – the US Supreme Court had just released their decision in Obergefell v. Hodges stating that marriage equality was now the law of the land.
I pulled over on the side of the road and cried. While my husband and I had been married for nearly two years at this point, it still was overwhelming. This was something that we were told would never happen. But the LGBT community did not stop, we did not quit, and we kept fighting in cities, states, and across the country, until it became the law of the land. I thought at that time that our community was finally making the progress that had so long been denied. But then came Donald Trump.
Four years ago, Trump and the GOP was swept into office up and down the ballot, many progressives and people in marginal communities had hope that it wouldn’t be that bad. He said a lot of crazy things on the campaign trail, but once in office he would level out. Unfortunately, they were wrong. We have watched in horror as policy after policy has been enacted rolling back the progress for “On November 3rd, we can our community. The Trump Administration has elect politicians that will put ended protections for Transgender students us back on the path to progand reinstated a ban on Transgender individress here in Iowa and across uals serving in our armed forces. They have the country. “ proposed a new rule that would allow health care providers to discriminate against LGBTQ patients. Last week, Trump’s labor department proposed a rule that would overturn an Obama-era executive order banning discrimination against LGBTQ individuals by federal contractors. And, this Administration even banned the Pride flag from flying outside embassies during Pride month. Closer to home, the GOP controlled state house banned Medicaid funds to be used for medically necessary transition-related surgeries for Transgender individuals and has yet to take any action banning the barbaric practice of conversion therapy.
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(Troy Price continued on next page)
Flashback to Iowa Caucuses
GoGuide Flashback
The Iowa Caucuses Were Highlighted Both By The Lgbtq Forum Held At Coe College And The Candidacy Of Pete Buttigieg. Cedar Rapids, IA - Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) issues were at the forefront of the 2020 election cycle's early stages. This was highlighted with a forum exclusively centered around LGBTQ issues held on the campus of Coe College in Cedar Rapids, IA.
With questions and answers from candidates for the Democrat nomination of the United States was the history-making first trans person, Angelica Ross, serving as the event host. Notable quotes from the evening:
Joe Biden articulated, "the courage it took and took for LGBTQ people to come out and how the country owes a gigantic debt of thanks to those that participated in Stonewall."
Kamala Harris spoke about allocating federal resources to places where youth can thrive as her means of investing in the future generations.
With husband, Chasten watching from the auditorium crowd, Pete Buttigieg reminded the audience of the importance of the forum's date is the eighth anniversary of the federal 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy being overturned. Elizabeth Warren read aloud each transwoman of color's name that has been murdered in the country to date and how the current administration is robbing the country of wealth and dignity. Editors note: Photo by Julia Freeman. Excerpts from an article by Julia Freeman
(Troy Price continued from previous page)
Local News
Who knows where we will be with I.C. Human Rights four more years of GOP control in Commission Marks Washington or Des 57th Anniversary Moines. The good news is – we have Iowa City, IA - August 20, 2020 marked a chance to end all the 57th Anniversary of the establishof this in just two ment of the Iowa City Human Relations short months. Commission, now known as the Iowa City Human Rights Commission. The On November 3rd, 7 original members appointed were: we can elect politiHelen Lemme, Irene Kenney, Richard cians that will put us back on the path Sidwell, S. Strauss, Emit Trott, Rev. Fato progress here in Iowa and across ther Lawrence the country. Joe Biden and Kamala Soem, and Harris have long records of fighting for Moni Costanour community. US Senate Candidate tino. Theresa Greenfield is a champion for our community. Democratic candidates for Congress and the Statehouse stand ready to pass legislation ending Duties of the Republican restrictions on our freeCommission dom, and enacting policies that will included: move us forward once again. Disseminating information to educate the public on illegal discrimination and So, make sure to fill out your absencivil rights; tee ballot request. When your ballot comes, immediately return it. Talk Making recommendations to the City to your friends, neighbors, and loved Council for such further legislation conones as well about the importance of cerning discrimination as it may deem this election. necessary and desirable; Make sure you do everything you can to get the vote out this year. Act like your life depends upon it, because for the lives and livelihoods of so many people – including the LGBTQ community – it does. TP
Planning programs and activities designed to eliminate racial, religious, cultural and other intergroup tensions including but not limited to sex, color, creed, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age and national origin. Visit www.icgov.org/ city-government/departments-and-divisions/equity-and-human-rights for more information.
“Trying To Pick My Favorite Republican Candidate Is Exactly Like Deciding Which STD Would Be Just Right For Me.� source unkown
An Overview Of The STD Program At The Iowa Department Of Public Health September 2020 Special to GoGuide Magazine By Iowa Department of Public Health
Iowa City-The Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Program is a part of the Bureau of HIV, STD, and Hepatitis at the Iowa Department of Public Health. The STD Program works to improve the sexual and reproductive health of Iowans by mitigating the effects of STDs and reducing their spread in our communities. There are a number of strategies the program employs to strive toward these goals. The STD Program gathers data on the incidence of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia throughout the state. Data are examined and made available in aggregate form to healthcare and public health professionals, as well as the general public, so that they are made aware of the impact of STDs in our communities.
Secondly, the STD Program maintains a safety net network of clinics throughout the state where individuals who are uninsured, underinsured, or seeking confidential services may be tested for certain STDs. This is done in partnership with the State Hygienic Laboratory at the University of Iowa and the Family Planning Council of Iowa. Additionally, the STD Program ensures that treatment medications are made available to these clinics so that individuals who are diagnosed with or exposed to certain STDs have the opportunity to receive recommended medications.
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Finally, the STD Program maintains a partner notification program. The program is vital in reducing the spread of HIV and other STDs. A team of highly trained staff known as Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS) work with individuals who have been diagnosed with HIV or syphilis (and sometimes other STDs) so that their sex or needle-sharing partners may be confidentialy notified of their exposure and connected with recommended testing and treatment. In addition to the STD Program, the DIS are also supported by the HIV Prevention and Ryan White programs in the bureau. IDPH works closely with Polk, Linn, Scott, and Black Hawk counties who also maintain DIS staff. The ultimate goal of the STD Program is to end transmission of STDs in our communities so that no one has to endure the deleterious health consequences of untreated STDs. The program is primarily supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The state of Iowa also provides support that is utilized for testing and treatment.
STD Q&A
What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)? Is that different than STIs? STDs are infections that are transmitted from person to person by sexual intercourse. Many can be transmitted by any kind of sex, including anal, oral, and vaginal. One of the few STIs where transmission by oral sex is nearly impossible is HIV. An STI is a sexually transmitted infection. There is debate about which term is best and they are often used interchangeably. Many argue that STI is a more appropriate term because there is more stigma with the word “disease� and most people associate the word with someone who has symptoms, which may not be the case for many of these infections.
Who gets STIs? Anyone who has sex can get an STI! No one is immune. Depending on the particular STI, some populations are more affected than others. For example, adolescents and young adults (e.g., people younger than 30) tend to be more affected by chlamydia and gonorrhea. Gay men and other men who have sex with men tend to be more affected by syphilis. There
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are also disparities among racial and ethnic minorities, such as Black, Latinx, and American Indian populations.
Why are some populations more affected than others? There is no single reason. Reduced access to services and decreased condom use are contributors. Inadequate support of public health programs, sexual health education, and research focused on STIs have made the situation more challenging over the past few decades. Societal and systemic factors have a major impact as well, such as stigma and systemic racism. Historically, systems and infrastructures have been built around white, heterosexual, and cisgender populations. This leads to poorer outcomes for vulnerable and marginalized populations in our communities whose needs and opportunities often differ from more privileged populations. Do I really need to worry about STIs? Even if I get one, can’t I just get a shot and it’s taken care of? It’s true that STIs are treatable. Some of the most common ones are even curable. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can all be cured with a course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. It’s important to remember, though, that untreated even these curable infections can cause serious long-term health consequences. That’s why getting diagnosed and treated early is so important so that you can prevent serious harm to your body. Not to mention reduce the risk of transmission to others. Some STIs cannot be cured (mostly ones caused by viruses) but there are excellent medications that can reduce and even sometimes eliminate symptoms. I would know if I had an STI and needed to get tested, right? Not necessarily. Not everyone who has an STI gets symptoms. And even when symptoms appear, they may be confused with other conditions. Although painful urination is a well-known symptom of chlamydia and gonorrhea, many may have no noticeable symptoms at all! When should I get tested? How often you should get tested depends on which STI we’re talking about, the populations of which you’re apart, and your individual risk. Generally it’s a good idea to get tested for infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV if you have new or multiple sex partners or you and your partner are not practicing mutual monogamy.
Sexually active adolescents and young adults should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia at least once a year, regardless of symptoms. Individuals who regularly have new sex partners may want to get tested as often as four times a year so that if they do acquire an asymptomatic infection, it can be diagnosed and treated early.
What is the test like? How do they do it? Again, that depends on which STI we’re talking about. Tests for syphilis and HIV, for example, are blood tests. Chlamydia and gonorrhea on the other hand is done with a urine sample or swab. It’s important to remember that with chlamydia and gonorrhea you should asked to be tested at every body site you use for sex. For example, if you have receptive anal intercourse, you should ask for a rectal swab. A urine test would not be enough. You can have chlamydia or gonorrhea in one body part but not another, which is why it’s important to get a specimen from every part of your body that you use for sex (i.e. urine specimen for inservtive intercourse and vaginal, throat, or rectal swabs for receptive intercourse).
Where can I go to get tested? There are several options for testing. For some, clinic hours may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic so it’s best to call ahead. If you have a regular clinic you go to for other health and wellness checks, they should be able to test you. If you’d prefer a different option, you can look for testing locations at myiacondoms.org or gettested.cdc.gov. Some larger county health departments offer testing. In the Iowa City area, the Free Medical Clinic is an option and for University of Iowa students, Student Health is also available. Johnson County Public Health will expand their testing capacity within the next few months. Editors note: The preceding information was provided by the STD Program Manager | Bureau of HIV, STD, and Hepatitis | Division of Behavioral Health | Iowa Department of Public Health.
People Who Are Hiv+ Are Not Prohibited From Covid-19 Research Studies
Change.org Petition Debunked by GoGuide Magazine September 2020 GoGuide Magazine Staff reports
Iowa City, IA - The University of Iowa is participating in large-scale, international clinical trials to study the safety, tolerability, immunogenicity, and efficacy of vaccines against COVID-19. The University is required to follow all protocols as assigned by the research client.
A representative of UI confirmed to GoGuide that HIV status does not rule you out of a vaccine trial. In an email to GoGuide, Change.org stated, “This isn’t a Change.org-started petition (we don’t start petitions, but people or organizations use our site to start petitions of their own). Chang.org went on to state, “AIDS Action Baltimore” is the owner of the petition. Visit https://clinicaltrials.uihealthcare.org/search/studies?q=Covid-19&idx=studies&p=0 and sign up for a COVID-19 study or search for any of the other studies currently underway at UI. Many, if not most, are paid studies. GG
The Curtain Will Rise Again at Hancher Auditorium Due to COVID-19 The 48th Season Remains In Limbo September 2020 GoGuide Magazine By Tim Nedoba
Iowa City, IA-As Hancher makes plans for its celebratory 50th season, the
chances of a 48th season remain “in the hands of science,” according to Charles Swanson, executive director at Hancher Auditorium. However, as the article’s title suggests, Swanson offers this encouraging thought, “the curtain will rise again.”
If Broadway is a barometer for theater in the United States, it will be late spring at the earliest before we begin to see large scale performances again. This most likely applies to Hancher Auditorium on the campus of the University of Iowa as well.
Hancher will not be silent this fall. The school music and school of dance plan to take advantage of the ample space to hold classes that will allow for maximum social distancing. As Swanson stays, “Hancher will continue to make a difference in students’ lives at the University of Iowa.” Hancher has had so many“shining moments” creating special memories none of us can forget. GoGuide Magazine would like you to share your favorite memory with online at GoGuideMagazine.com. SOON THE CURTAIN WILL RISE AGAIN. GG
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www.GoGuideMagazine.com
GoGuide
“Butch Cassidy: The True Story of An American Outlaw” by Charles Leerhsen That man there? He’s just a nice guy. Book review by by Terri Schlichenmeyer: The Bookworm Sez
Kind and generous, respectful and friendly, he’s a true gentleman, and he’s never judgmental. He loves children and animals, truth and honor. He’s a good sport, a good man – and in the new book “Butch Cassidy” by Charles Leerhsen, he’s a good shot, too. Eight years before the film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid was released in 1969, the last of Cassidy’s Wild Bunch “went into the ground.” Her name was Laura Bullion and, says Leerhsen, she was one of a small handful of female groupies who followed the outlaw gang, led by the man played by Paul Newman. “It was easy,” Leerhsen says “to be smitten by Cassidy...”
Born Robert Parker in a tiny cabin in Beaver, Utah, Cassidy grew up uninterested in both his parents farm, and his ancestors’ Mormon religion. He was too fun-loving, too full of mischief and an appreciation for guns, horses, and gambling to settle down – and yet, unlike many Wild West scoundrels, he was well-read, kind and goodhearted which, in the hearts and minds of Old West citizens, set him apart from all the others during his life of crime. Later, though apparently not deceitfully, he began using “Cassidy” as a surname, alternating with his given name.
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Despite its appeal as an American legend, however, the “it’s possible that story of Butch Cassidy and Harry “Sundance” LongabSundance wasn’t augh might’ve merely enfolded into history, were it not Cassidy’s best friend. for Hollywood, although Tinseltown messed with the Their bones may not myth. Reel men and real men were two different things lie in South Ameriand, says Leerhsen, it’s possible that Sundance wasn’t ca, and historians Cassidy’s best friend. Their bones may not lie in South America, and historians believe that Cassidy may have believe that Cassidy may have been been bisexual; indeed, Cassidy’s mother commented bisexual...” on it. About the bank heists, train robberies, and horse thefts: Cassidy was a criminal but was Hollywood correct in portraying him as an “extraordinary human being?” “Oddly enough,” says Leerhsen, “the answer, it seems, is yes...”
Thankfully, that doesn’t mean a cliched riding-off-into-the-sunset scene inside “Butch Cassidy.” There’s no such sentimentality here; instead, you’ll find lots of delightful set-you-rights and the chance to meet a roguish scoundrel who’s hard to historically hate – a notion that many of Cassidy’s victims would have surprisingly agreed with. In explaining why that’s so, author Charles Leerhsen shows why Cassidy’s exploits loomed so large in the West but were then largely forgotten for so long. In this, readers may get the sense that the movie memorializing didn’t please Leerhsen, and that he is no fan of the general Hollywoodization of history. But that’s one small part of what’s here. The real appeal of this book – what’s fully half the fun of it – is the sense that Leerhsen isn’t just telling this tale. He’s growling it, grizzled-like, perhaps over campfire and cowpoke stew, surrounded by rustled cattle. Absolutely, historians will want this book. For sure, L’Amour and McMurtry fans will enjoy it. As for lovers of a good tale, well, if you want something different this summer, “Butch Cassidy” will be a nice change. GG
c.2020, Simon & Schuster $28.00 / $37.00 Canada 304 pages
Butch Cassiday mug shot from history.com
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Reach Out Marketing Special Events and Media Sales. Facebook.com/ROMLLC ROMLLC publishes GoGuide Magazine and GoGuideMagazin.com. ROMLLC is the event coordinator for Coralville PrideFest September 5, 2021, at Iowa River Landing. Facebook.com/CoralvillePride.
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Sunday, September 5, 2021 Email tim@romllc.us for sponsorship, booth space information, entertainment ideas, volunteer information.
Non-Profit OneIowa 2020 Gala Recap
Eastern Iowa Lgbtq Health And Wellness Conference
Virtual Event Raises $150,000 Des Moines, IA - One Iowa, the statewide organization that advances, empowers, and improves the lives of LGBTQ Iowans, celebrated its 11th annual Gala on August 22nd. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual fundraising gala was forced to go virtual. This didn't stop Iowans from showing their support. More than $150,000 was raised at this year's first-ever virtual event. A statement from the organization reads, "One Iowa wants to thank all of you for your unwavering support as we celebrated our 11th Annual One Iowa Gala this past Saturday." The statement continued, "As I look back on the past nine months, I am not sure I could have anticipated what would be thrown at our tiny nonprofit. Fourteen anti-LGBTQ bills, a global pandemic, and a challenge to become an anti-racist organization – all in the span of a few months. Through it all, the hope of this team never wavered...Thank you for believing in what One Iowa does every single day. We promise never to stop advocating for LGBTQ Iowans." The 2020 One Iowa Gala honorees.
Donna Red Wing Advocate of the Year: Alexandra Gray Courageous Six Award: Chris Godfrey Sharon Malheiro Outstanding Leadership Award: The Cedar Rapids Gazette
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University of Iowa - This conference is aimed at addressing the health inequities and disparities LGBTQ Iowans continue to experience in our state. Health care professionals and community members alike gather to hear from key experts, participate in interactive workshops, and collaborate and connect with one another. Attendees will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to cultivate safe and welcoming healthcare environments for LGBTQ Iowans throughout the state. The event takes place on the campus of the University of Iowa campus on October 2 from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
To learn more about this conference visit https://oneiowa.org/event/eastern-iowa-lgbtq-health-and-wellnessconference/ or the University of Iowa Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Questioning (LGBTQ) Clinic at https://uihc.org/lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender-queer-and-questioning-lgbtq-clinic
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Downtown Cinema At Filmscene “There is no substitute for the big screen, but we can still create community through cinema!” -FilmScene
Iowa City, IA – Another casualty of the COVID-19 pandemic is the temporary closure of FilmScene. FilmScene is Iowa City’s only downtown cinema. It’s probably best known for showing critically acclaimed films and independent releases.
It’s also home to the Pride Film Series. In an email to GoGuide, Andrew Sherburne, interim executive director and co-founder of FilmScene, writes, “We are currently looking at ways to present our Pride at FilmScene series in person or virtually later this fall.” (FilmScene continues on page 31)
In The Heart Of Iowa City’s Entertainment District Iowa City, IA - The COVID-19 pandemic and a coinciding remodeling project have shuttered The Englert Theatre from visiting in person. According to the Englert website, construction will include several upgrades to the theater including a complete restoration of the famous Englert marquee.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy great performances being shared through the “Best Show Ever” weekly podcast produced by the theater and hosted by Jamie Ellis. The weekly podcast is available at the following link. A list of upcoming show topics is also available. GG Best Show Ever Podcast: https://anchor.fm/englert?utm_source=Englert+Theatre+Newsletter&utm_campaign=562fc56782-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_05_18_04_46_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_15f0c0f591-562fc56782-272485479
GoGuide file photo, May 2020
The Complete Visionaries Series By Julia Freeman Now Available Online The Corridor - GoGuide Visionaries was created with the goal to showcase a collection of community members doing amazing things in the local area. Each has a unique perspective and purpose that resonates with lgbtq+ persons and humanity alike. This collection of visionaries has paved the way across generations. Thank each of them for their bravery, visions, attention, and time to share with all of us.
This collection of visionaries was selected and featured in GoGuide Magazine by Julia Freeman. GoGuide Media has created a complete online collection for all to enjoy and admire. GoGuide Media is forever grateful to Julia Freeman for her hard work and dedication to this amazing project. The complete series is available online at http://www.Goguidemagazine.Com. Aron le Fèvre Director of Human Rights at Copenhagen 2021 Copenhagen, Capital Region, Denmark
(FilmScene continued from page 29)
Savage Love By Dan Savage A GoGuide Local Exclusive Available Only At GoGuideMagazine.com
Editors note: This is a sex advice colJust because you can’t visit in person, it umn and contains doesn’t mean a great film can’t be enjoyed. material that is not FilmScene is offering select releases now appropriate. Here is a sample of the mateavailable to stream at home. A portion of the proceeds to benefit FilmScene. Screen- rial you can expect to ings available at https://icfilmscene.org/ find in this column. This is a exerpt from virtual-screening-room/ this weeks column. The complete column is always available at Supporters are encouraged to become a GoGuideMagazine.com.
member or a donor at www.icfilmscene. org.
Savage Lovecast
No Choke. by Dan Savage
I'm a 29-year-old straight woman in Pennsylvania. My question is to do with choking and consent. I've had two experiences in the past six months or so where someone has tried to choke me without my consent. The first time this happened, I coughed immediately but he tried multiple times during sex. I was caught so off-guard that I didn't say anything until the next morning. I told him I wasn't okay with that and that it was too much. The second time, I shook my head as soon as he put his hand on my throat and he stopped immediately. I told him, “That scared the shit out of me.” He apologized for startling me and said he wouldn't do it again. My question is, why is this a thing? ------------> GoGuide photo by Tim Nedoba
Expect Anything But N
Photo’s by Tim Nedoba | Layout by GoGuide Media
Normal This Semester
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September 2020 GoGuide Magazine Compiled by Staff reports
Studio 13
Studio 13, located at13 S Linn St, Iowa City, is
Iowa City's only gay & lesbian bar. It's the only 19 and up gay club in Iowa. However, it's not just a club. Studio 13 serves as a community center and a safe zone. If you're new to Iowa City and over 19, visiting Studio 13 should be high on your priority list this semester. Of course COVID-19 is the major issue of this year. Studio 13 is currently closed until September 20 by order of Governor Kim Reynolds.
Photo by Tim Nedoba
All are welcome and Studio 13. According to its website, "Diversity is both important and essential to the community and environment at Studio 13. Studio 13 embraces our responsibility to create a welcoming environment for all community members, including underrepresented persons; persons with disabilities; men, women, straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons." "The gay bar is the more visible and still most important safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community. It is like no other in terms of acceptance and the ability to be around others who understand the struggles and what it is to be LGBTQIA+. I have worked very hard to make Studio a welcoming and open environment to everyone," Jason Zeman, Corridor Entertainment Group. Visit Corridor Entertainment Group at www.icnightlife.com. GG
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Photograph by Tim Nedoba for GoGuide Media
Photograph by Tim Nedoba for GoGuide Media