In tech lingo a computer “power user” is someone who uses their computer’s advanced features on a regular basis. You don’t have to be a programmer or IT specialist to be a power user. Think about the last time you installed new programs, configured a new printer or setup a new internet connection. Who in your household or circle of friends was the one who did those tasks? They are your power user. (If you did it yourself, congratulations you are a power user.)

Brenda Kole – Director of Advocacy and Organizing for Planned Parenthood Voters of Iowa

Whether we like it or not, health care is a hot-button political issue that will shape the future of Iowa and the country. From the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to birth control access, many of the essential health services we rely on every day are being debated at the Statehouse and on Capitol Hill. It’s important to be informed about potential policy decisions that could affect our lives and our future—particularly those decisions made locally.

Miss Gay Iowa USofA owner/promoter Vanessa Taylor spoke of the competition for the crowning of MGI USofA 2013 this past December in Des Moines, Iowa. She discussed the contestants, judges, surprises of the night, and MGI USofA 2013 Chanel Savage.

Mental health is important to everyone; however, those of us within the LGBT community have more considerations when it comes to mental health. This month we will take a look at anxiety and depression and how it impacts lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals.

This weekend was my first Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend (MAL) 2013, held at the Hyatt Regency in Washington, D.C. on Capitol Hill. I had a great time telling people what the kink community is like in Iowa ("come visit and see for yourself!") while learning more about myself, what I'm into, and what leather means to people all across the country and the world. A leather weekend can be a different, unfamiliar world to most. But it's no reason not to experience one for yourself if you'd like to explore what BDSM is like outside your state, meet sexy people who you might not have the chance to see in person, and experience a part of leather culture.

President Barack Obama's inaugural address was the most inclusive speech a president has ever given. It was delivered on the 27th anniversary of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, and the President honored King's legacy when he eloquently spoke of how the many U.S. liberation movements, both current and historic, are interconnected.

"We, the people, declare today that the most evident of truths—that all of us are created equal—is the star that guides us still; just as it guided our forebears through Seneca Falls, and Selma, and Stonewall."

Iowa Leather has grown from a contest into an organization that seeks to bring the community more opportunities and education, beginning this year with Fetish February Events starting Friday, February 1^st. They have created quarterly events to keep the community engaged by providing new and exciting experiences, in addition to the Iowa Leather contest held the second weekend of October.

This February begins their Fetish February, four weeks of different kink themed events with International Leather titleholders participating and hosting.