FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: REX RIVERS 316-269-0913 or NOVEMBER 7, 1993 PHYLLIS WISNESKI 316-684-4227 EQUALITY KANSAS ELECTS BOARD TO FIGHT THE FAR RIGHT Salina, KS (EGCM) Equality Kansas, a coalition of groups and individuals formed to fight the encroachment of the far religious right into the political arena, just formed their official board of directors. A volunteer interim board was set up while the group was formed until membership grew to the point where a vote could be taken on the official board members. The seventeen board positions were filled by nominees from all over the state of Kansas representing individuals, minority and women's groups, parents groups, gay and lesbian organizations, AIDS activists and moderate religious leaders. In addition to elections, Equality Kansas discussed outreach plans, lobbying strategies, and sponsored a one hour taped panel discussion to be broadcast over cable television. "Equality Kansas is strong and will overcome all obstacles placed in our path by the religious right with their hate agenda," said Jim Watson, the groups newly elected Co-Chair. "Right wing extremists and bigots beware! Equality Kansas is here to stay and ready to fight." The elected board of Equality Kansas are as follows: Co-Chair, Kathy Greenlee of Lawrence Co-Chair, Jim Watson of Wichita Secretary, Doug Glaze of Wichita Treasurer, Kathryn Minick of Wichita Urban Outreach Co-Chair, Dennis Dobson of Topeka Urban Outreach Co-Chair, Pat O'Brien of Kansas City Rural Outreach, Michael Eaton of Liberal Media Co-Chair, Phyllis Wisneski of Wichita Media Co-Chair, Rex Rivers of Wichita Legislative Co-Chair, Carla Dugger of Kansas City Legislative Co-Chair, Sue Ledbetter of Wichita Family & Friends Co-Chair, Beverly Barbo of Lindsborg Family & Friends Co-Chair, Beverly Fiedler of Wichita Religious Concerns, Reverend Robert Lay of Salina At Large, Kevyn Jacobs of Manhattan At Large, Ann Marie Lochner of Wichita At Large, Chris Pouppirt of Hays In addition, Scott Curry of Wichita was appointed as lobbyist. Those interested in finding out more about Equality Kansas are encouraged to write the organization at: Equality Kansas; Post Office Box 116; Topeka, KS 66601-0016, or call 316-269-0913 in Wichita, 913-587-0016 in Manhattan.