In March 2010, Fred Phelps and his gang went to Richmond, Virginia to protest local LGBT and Jewish organizations. Instead of fighting the hate with more anger, four local moms came together and used the visit as an opportunity to spread kindness through the community. In less than a week, they founded Pennies in Protest, raised over $14,000, and gave it directly to the targeted organizations.

The moms have finished setting up a “how-to” website that teaches anyone, anywhere how to do what they did: www.penniesinprotest.com.

One of them also made a video, available on YouTube, about the effort in Richmond.

Sarah Allen-Short of Pennies in Protest says, “Anyone is free to use the name and materials on our website, including sample letters, press releases, tweets, etc. We even have a photograph of the thank you note we sent to the Westboro Baptist Church on behalf of the GLBT and Jewish organizations who got all the money. The thank you note was a very fun and satisfying part of the process!”

 

WICHITA – The Sweet A’fair is back! From 6–9pm on Thursday, Sept. 16 everyone will again gather at #6 Crestview Lakes for the annual “family” get-together. Details are the same - park at 21st and Oliver and take the free trolley, which will drop attendees off directly at the picnic and return them to their car afterwards.

The food and theme used to change every year, but ever since Popeye’s fried chicken made an appearance there’s been no looking back! And of course there is live music, cotton candy, silent and live auctions and lots of friends.

The suggested donation is $25, which will raise funds for the Sweet Emergency Fund.

Additional contributions are generated though over 150 items in the silent and live auctions. Items include original art pieces, jewelry, gift baskets, food and beverage packages, household and garden items, entertainment and spa certificates and many more unique items – including Fritz Capone memorabilia.

In the early 90’s the Sweet Emergency Fund raised funds to help patients living with HIV or AIDS, who were unable to afford their medical expenses. Twenty years later, people are living longer but often with additional medical issues beyond HIV. The Fund annually helps hundreds of patients in Wichita whose medical expenses are not covered through insurance or Ryan White grant funds.

For more information contact Michael Madecky at 316-293-3405 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

 

 

 

MANHATTAN - The Flint Hills Human Rights Project is now accepting applications for the 2010 Praxis Scholarship.

The Praxis Scholarship rewards college students, both undergraduate and graduate, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, who have demonstrated positive reaffirmation for the LGBTTIQ community through their service, artistic, academic/research, activism, or advocacy efforts.

At least one $500 scholarship will be awarded to a full-time student at Kansas State University, Manhattan Christian College, Manhattan Area Technical College, Barton County Community College-Ft. Riley, or Highland Community College-Wamego. They can be either undergraduate or graduate students.

An application, essay and letters of recommendation must be submitted by midnight, Sept. 17. E-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to request an application.