QNotes, February 23, 2017

Feb. 23-March 8 . 2018

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qnotes news & features

arts. news. views. Briefs 5 entertainment.

News Notes: Regional

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News Notes: U.S./World Briefs Black Excellence Series The Healthy Geezer: Floaters SAGE Charotte in Development LGBTQ Senior Resources ‘Family Commitments’

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Charlotte Talks discusses hate groups and hate crimes arts. entertainment. news. views.

Feb. 6 - goqnotes.com/57923

The Charlotte Jewish Film Festival will screen ‘Family Commitments’ which focuses on a couple — one Jewish and one Muslin — as they deal with cultural differences.

2 transgender women shot and killed within 48 hours of each other, brings known US total to 4 Feb. 14 - goqnotes.com/58109

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more news & features …

City of Charlotte hosts virtual town hall on domestic violence Feb. 14 - goqnotes.com/58128

a&e / life&style 19 21 22 23

Tell Trinity Health & Wellness: Inflammation Q Events Calendar Our People: Jermaine Nakia Lee

Adam Rippon fan made card won Valentine’s Day Feb. 14 - goqnotes.com/58161

opinions & views

Legal Eagles

Health & Wellness

4 Guest Commentary: Science 10 Legal Eagles

LGBTQ seniors should address preparing legal documents with an attorney. page 10

Inflammation is the body’s way of letting one know that healing is needed. page 21

QPoll: Do you want Charlotte to host the 2020 Republican National Convention?

Feb. 17 - goqnotes.com/58211

Feb. 23-March 8 . 2018

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qnotes connect Feb. 23-March 8, 2018 Vol 32 No 22

arts. entertainment. news. views. goqnotes.com twitter.com/qnotescarolinas facebook.com/qnotescarolinas

contributors this issue

Christina Adeleke, Erin Barbee, Fred Cicetti, Nancy Culp, Jack Kirven, Lainey Millen, Jeff Taylor, Trinity, Connie Vetter

front page

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The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBTQ and straight ally communities of the Charlotte region, North Carolina and beyond, by featuring arts, entertainment, news and views content in print and online that directly enlightens, informs and engages the readers about LGBTQ life and social justice issues.

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guest commentary

by Christina Adeleke, Esq. :: guest contributor

Choose science over fear At the start of 2018, something really exciting happened in the world of HIV treatment and prevention: After more than 20 years without any substantive changes, North Carolina amended our HIV control measures to reflect modern science and the world we currently live in. These changes place North Carolina in the position of being a true public health leader in the South and could not have come at a better time. Although it has been widely reported, some people are often surprised to discover that there is a real HIV crisis in the South that urgently needs to be addressed. The South has the highest HIV diagnosis rate of any U.S. region, with almost half (49 percent) of all new HIV diagnoses occurring in the region. In addition to the prevailing stigma that people living with HIV regularly face, it became apparent that the public health community needed to do more in order to engage and incentivize people living with HIV to get into care and on HIV medication.

You are certainly excused if this is the first time you have heard about HIV control measures. These policies are often not known to the general public. In the early years of the HIV and AIDS epidemic, HIV was a deadly disease North Carolina has made strides with regard to its healthcare control measures that was quickly spreading without any available treatment. with regard to disclosure, condom usage and organ donation.

There was limited science and facts surrounding HIV and Photo Credit: magann via Adobe Stock that lack of knowledge was accompanied by widespread fear surrounding HIV transmission. In an attempt to curb the to sexual partners. Their medical provider is required to counsel them startling spike in HIV transmission, states across the country enacted HIV that they should notify partners about their HIV positive status. Of control measures and criminal laws that prohibited various behaviors by course, as public health advocates, we should encourage all individuals people living with HIV. The laws varied from state to state, but included to have open and honest conversations about sexual history and risk. restrictions on spitting and biting along with mandating certain behavior We should also be able to agree that the consequence of engaging in for those engaging in sexual activity. activity that bears no risk of transmitting HIV should not be jail time. It is At the time, we did not know that spitting or biting does not transmit important to note that people who do not follow their clinical treatment HIV, nor did we have the scientific breakthroughs at our disposal that we plan must still disclose their HIV status to their partners. do today. Fortunately, we have come leaps and bounds from the early 2. Condom usage is not legally required if the person living with HIV has years of the HIV epidemic and HIV is no longer a death sentence. With been virally suppressed for at least six months, if their partner is also HIV advancements in HIV science and treatment, it has now been established positive or if the negative partner is on PrEP. Of course, condom use is that if a person is virally suppressed and in HIV care and treatment, that still strongly encouraged in order to provide protection from other STIs. person has virtually no chance of transmitting HIV to another person.

3. N orth Carolina law has been brought into compliance with the federal Given the changing landscape, it was long past time to adjust our HIV HOPE Act, which allows organ donation for research purposes and control measures. organ transplantation between HIV-positive individuals.

Last November, after significant advocacy by people living with HIV The state of North Carolina has a vested interest in ensuring that the and their allies, the North Carolina Commission for Public Health voted state’s control measures are conducive to achieving the state’s public in support of modernizing the state’s HIV control measures, and the new health goal of addressing the HIV and AIDS epidemic by encouraging law went into effect early this year. Prior to the recent changes, North individuals to get tested, know their status and adhere to HIV treatment.

Carolina’s HIV control measures imposed the threat of criminal charges By updating the state’s control measures to reflect current science, we for behaviors and actions that posed little to no risk of HIV transmishave rejected stigma and the misconceptions about HIV transmission. sion, while also failing to consider the use of preventative measures that The recent updates made to North Carolina’s HIV control measures will substantially reduce the risk of HIV transmission, such as antiretroviral significantly improve the overall public health in our state and will play a therapy or PrEP. The new updates now reflect the advancements made in major role in positioning our state as a national leader in the fight against the current medical science related to HIV transmissions and treatment HIV and AIDS, and will push us one step closer to eradicating the HIV and is exciting news for our state. epidemic in North Carolina.

North Carolina’s new control measures made three significant changes: You can view the full text of North Carolina’s modernized HIV control 1. If a person living with HIV is in medical care, adherent to their clinimeasures online at bit.ly/2sBjy5q. : : cian’s HIV treatment plan and has been virally suppressed for at least — Christina Adeleke is the communications and development six months, they are no longer legally required to disclose their status coordinator at the NC AIDS Action Network.

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

Charlotte ‘Black Magic Brunch’ upcoming

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Black Magic Brunch series, launched by the Color of Change, will be held on Feb. 24, 12 p.m., at Central Piedmont Community College, The Harris Conference Center, 3216 CPCC Harris Campus Dr. The organization is hosting Black Magic Brunches all across the country to bring Black people together to celebrate and discuss issues affecting its communities. Attendees can enjoy food, discussion and collective visioning.

“We need our collective work and commitment to our community to be visible in all aspects of our lives — our homes, our place of business, our schools, and places of worship,” organizers said.

RSVPs are required and can be made online at bit.ly/2GpSlEZ. info: colorofchange.org.

Org seeks nominees

sponsibility (CSR) arm. As part of the launch, The Winters Group will be accepting grant applications to fund programs that are aligned with the Live Inclusively Actualized mission.

“Live Inclusively Actualized is our intentional effort to create a world where barriers no longer exist, where humanity and difference is accepted and celebrated and where we truly experience and all do our part to actualize equity and inclusion,” said Winters’ President and Founder Mary-Frances Winters.

Formally branded as Live Inclusively Actualized, the group will base its CSR strategy on three areas of giving: grantmaking, volunteerism and probono and discounted services.

It will partner with 501c3 organizations that serve historically marginalized communities and deliver programs that promote inclusion, equity and justice.

As part of its inaugural 2018 grant opportunity, The Winters Group is specifically requesting proposals from non-profit organizations that serve women and youth. “This is our way to give back to the world,” Winters said, “and support those organizations that are doing the much-needed work on the ground, every day in our communities. Giving back is just one way we can all live inclusively.” For more information on Live Inclusively Actualized and the 2018 grant opportunity, visit wintersgroup.com/liveinclusively-actualized.

To learn more about how you can Commit to #LiveInclusively in your home, workplace, and community, take the pledge at wintersgroup. com/live-inclusively-actualized/pledge. info: wintersgroup.com.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Freedom Center for Social Justice is currently soliciting nominations for transgender individuals in the Greater Charlotte area whose work, activism and/or lives deserve to be uplifted and recognized.

The center will be celebrating transgender individuals in honor of Trans Day of Visibility, and want to offer three to five individuals custom care packages as a thank you for all of their efforts. The observance day is March 31.

Nominations are due by March 12 and forms are available online at bit.ly/2o9RJwj. To offer an in-kind donation for care packPFLAG fundraiser donations sought age materials (gift cards, self-care items, etc.), CONCORD/KANNAPOLIS, N.C. — The email Jamila Reddy at jamilar@fcsj.org.

Concord/Kannapolis Parents and Friends of In other news, center Founder and Executive Lesbians and Gays chapter is holding its annual Director Bishop Tonyia M. Rawls was sworn in Spring spaghetti dinner, silent auction and on Jan. 27 as the inaugural chair of the recently raffle fundraiser on April 7, 6 p.m., at McGill established LGBTQ comBaptist Church, 5300 Poplar mittee of the NC NAACP Tent Rd., in Concord. N.C. Executive Board. This apAn advocacy award will be pointment came as a result presented during the evening. of several years of work that Entertainment will be provided the NAACP has been doing by the Gay Men’s Chorus of toward LGBTQ inclusion, proCharlotte who will present a tections and advancement. concert for the event.

Bishop Rawls, together The organization is seekwith organizers from the ing contributions for its raffle center, will be facilitating and auction. Those who wish statewide trainings for local to participate are asked to NAACP chapters on some consider donating items such of the tactics used by those as certificates, gift cards or who use sexual orientation tangible items. Deadline for and gender identity as a submissions is March 1.

Bishop Tonyia Rawls major wedge issue primarily Tickets are $12.50 and during election cycles. raffle tickets will be available for purchase at Rawls explained, “These upcoming electhe event for $2 each or six for $10. Email Joan tions will have one of the most significant Gale to learn more or to purchase tickets at impacts on rights protections and advances for ckpflag@gmail.com.

LGBTQ people in N.C. in recent times. We are info: pflag.org/chapter/pflag-concord standing to help ensure that religious liberty kannapolis. for one does not turn into social oppression Roller Girls open season for another.” She continued, “All people are CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Roller deserving of all the rights, benefits and protecGirls opened their 2018 season on Feb. 17 at tions that citizenship and residency bring.” the Grady Cole Center. The All-Stars faced info: fcsj.org. off against the Wilkes-Barre Scranton Roller Radicals from Pennsylvania, and the B-Dazzlers Group announces grant opportunity faced the Soul City Sirens from Georgia.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Winters Group, Inc. During the bout, fans were encouraged to has announced the formation of Live Inclusively seek out “Ask Me” girls who were available Actualized (LIA), the firm’s corporate social re-

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Art auction benefits org CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The 18th Annual Art With Heart Auction will be held on Feb. 24, 7 p.m., at CenterStage NoDa, 2315 N. Davidson St. The event showcases the work of national artists. Sales of their pieces will benefit Safe Alliance, providing critical funds to assist women and children in crisis. Attendees will be able to enjoy hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer, music and wine pull.

There will be both silent and live auctions from an array of offerings.

Emcee for the event will be WSOC-TV news anchor Erica Bryant. Wade Cantrell will serve as auctioneer.

Since its inception in 2000, Art With Heart has worked with galleries and artists, both locally and around the globe, to raise more than $1 million for Safe Alliance.

Every dollar raised provides hope and healing to those impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault.

The annual Juried Art Competition, open to all artists to who donate original artwork to the auction, will be held during the event and is the centerpiece. Contributions in all media, which are available for viewing at Safe Alliance’s website, will be reviewed by juror Joni Purk of Charlotte Fine Art, who will announce the winner during the evening. The first place prize is a 75,000-mile voucher from American Airlines. All finalists will be recognized at the event.

Tickets are now available for $35/regular advance, $85/at the door and $50/bid from home and are available online.

This year’s featured galleries include Charlotte Fine Art, Shain Gallery, Allison Sprock Fine Art Gallery and Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art. The museum partner is Harvey B. Gantt Center.

Sponsors for the 2018 Art With Heart Auction include Bank of America, Angela Knight Designs, Art Aspects, ArtGuide, Beacon Partners, Charlotte Skin & Laser, Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated, Darton Group, Deloitte, Ed & Agnes Weisiger, J. Sam’s, Johnson & Wales University, Leigh-Ann Sprock, Mary Claudia Pilon, Robert A. Metzger Family, The Keith Corporation, Theresa and Robert LaPlaca, TIAA, WSOC-TV, Tea Huneycutt, Inc. and Yelp. info: safealliance.org. to answer questions about roller derby action, rules and players.

Fans can purchase tickets online at the Charlotte Roller Girls website, the Common Market or at the Sleepy Poet Antique Mall for $12/adult and $7/child in advance and $16/adult and $9/child on the day of. Children 5 and under are admitted free. info: charlotterollergirls.com.

Triad Museum seeks interns

GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Elsewhere museum is currently taking applications until March 16 for interns.

Those selected will live onsite for three to four months for a Spring, Summer and Fall session. They are paired with core departments (Communications, Operations, House, Programs) and work with a supervisor to refine their skill sets in advancement of emerging leadership and the organization.

Internships offer a professional, creative and hands-on opportunity to work alongside a small team of arts organizers, peer interns, artists and community partners within a collaborative work environment.

Applications are available online at goelsewhere.org/internships. info: goelsewhere.org.

Foundation party goes Parisian

GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Guilford Green Foundation Gala & Green Party, “Moulin Rouge,” will be held on March 24, 7 p.m., at Cadillac Service Garage, 304 E. Main St. A silent auction will take place during the evening. Items for sale are showcased online.

Two awards will be given out at the gala — Visionary Award and the Dawn S. Chaney Award. Honorees’ names were not available at press time as nominations were still being accepted. Visit bit.ly/2EN7kvf to name someone for consideration.

The fundraising party is also seeking sponsors — businesses or individuals who would like to provide financial or in-kind support for the Gala. Email info@ggfnc.org to learn more.

Accommodations for the event are available at the Proximity Hotel. Room rates are $229. Tell reservations that the room is being reserved at the special gala rate and the hotel will make a $50 contribution to Guilford Green.

Shuttle service will be provided to and from the gala, along with complimentary late check-out.

Use promo code GGF2018 when booking.

Tickets are $175. The annual event has sold out for the past several years and the community is encouraged to buy tickets quickly to ensure a spot. Visit tinyurl.com/GGF2018Gala to make a purchase. info: guilfordgreenfoundation.org.

Triangle UNC hosts speaker series

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The LGBT Center and Graduate School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will present their Biracial Multiracial LGBQ Undergraduate Student Leader Experiences Speaker Series on Feb. 23, 12 p.m., at the Graduate Student Center.

Bobby Kunstman will be the guest speaker.

The presentation is held to share the stories of five biracial multiracial LGBQ student leaders’ undergraduate experiences at a leading southern university. Through multiple interviews, participants shared stories of their background, educational journey and the impact they hope to have in the future.

Lunch will be served and registration is requested to allow for an accurate head count.

Visit tinyurl.com/yacmflv8 to register.

The Graduate Speaker Series is a program of Queer Grads, a collaboration between the LGBTQ Center and the Graduate School’s Program for Diversity & Student Success, with the goal to share the work of graduate and professional

see Carolinas News Notes on 6 Feb. 23-March 8 . 2018 qnotes 5

Carolinas News Notes continued from page 5 students, faculty and local researchers conducting research related to sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. info: unc.edu.

Imani MCC celebrates clergy

will be the guest preacher. All members and friends are being asked to bring a special monetary love offering for the pastor. This offering will be taken up separately during the service.

A potluck dinner will follow. info: stjohnsmcc.org.

DURHAM, N.C. — Imani Metropolitan Community Church begins the month of March Lez music legends on tour with several celebratory events.

CARRBORO, N.C. — The talents of lesbian An installation service will be held for Rev. legends will be showcased when The Reunion Vance E. Haywood, Jr. on Feb. 24, 2 p.m., at 622 Tour, featuring Cris Williamson, Barbara Higbie Maywood Ave. A reception will and Teresa Trull, make a stop in follow at the church. Clergy in the Triangle on March 30, 7:30 attendance are invited to wear p.m., at the Carrboro Arts Center, their traditional vestments and 300-G E. Main St. join in the procession. An RSVP Back from New Zealand is being requested via email where she now makes her home, to psc@stjohnsmcc.org or by blues/rock vocalist and songwriter calling 919-834-2611. A comTrull joins forces with old friends munity dinner will follow at 5:30 Grammy-nominated multi-instrup.m. at the Golden Corral off S. mentalist and singer Higbie and Saunders St. singer/songwriter Williamson for On March 3, 7:30 p.m., an evening of old and new favorat AMF Durham Lanes, 4508 ites. This concert marks Trull’s Durham Chapel Hill Blvd., the return to her North Carolina roots Rev. Vance E. Haywood, Jr. church will hold a bowling celfor a short visit. ebration to honor the fifth anniversary of Pastor Tickets are $30 and are available online.

Marilyn Bowens’ tenure. Participants can enjoy info: bit.ly/2C3dSVT. fun, food and fellowship throughout the evening.

Org ride boosts efforts Then the next day, the church continCARRBORO, N.C. — Planned Parenthood ues the celebration with its “Great Is Thy South Atlantic will hold their Ride for Choice on Faithfulness” worship service at 10 a.m., at April 29, 1 p.m., beginning at the Carrboro Town 3602 C-View St. Johnika Johnson-Perry will Commons, 301 W. Main St. serve as guest Psalmist and Rev. Annie Ross

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The afternoon ride is broken up into two options — one that nets 54 miles and one that nets 24 miles. This ride is appropriate for all levels of riders. It is supported by mechanics, support vehicles, rest stops and volunteers and seasoned cyclists.

After pumping the peddles, riders can enjoy beers, bratwurst and other treats at the Carrboro Town Commons. Options for vegetarians and drinks beyond beer will be provided.

Early bird registration at $35 for individuals is now available and teams with at least one new person will receive swag. Sponsorship level tickets range from $250-$750.

For more information, email mitchell.price @ppsat.org. info: ppsat.org.

Inclusivity makes it mark with glittered ash

RALEIGH, N.C. — Across the country and here in North Carolina, clergy have created a way to show support to members of the LGBTQ community by sprinkling a dash of glitter into the ash that they use on Glitter + Ash Wednesday in Christian churches during the advent of the Lenten season. The movement to do so was launched by New York-based Parity. It provides support to LGBTQ pastors, as well as offers encouragement to LGBTQ youth so that they can integrate their spiritual, gender and sexual identities, Raleigh News & Observer reported.

One example of that was at St. John’s Metropolitan Community Church where Rev. Vance Haywood Jr, who serves as senior pastor, offered this to his worshipers when they came for the imposition of ashes on Feb. 14, the News

& Observer shared. The combination of the symbol of the cross, representing the church and smudged in that shape on the forehead, with glitter, representing the LGBTQ community, is an acknowledgment that the two can do more than simply coexist, Haywood told the News & Observer. “The outside world has gotten this view of Christianity that Christ is against the LGBT community. They are one. When Christ died, he died for all people, not just for some.”

Other churches in North Carolina who participated were Parkway United Church of Christ in Winston-Salem, Faith Presbyterian Church in Greensboro, along with Christ the King Lutheran in Cary (which provided drivethrough imposition to meet the needs of its congregants). info: bit.ly/2EnvTLL. stjohnsmcc.org.

Research Roundup Health study seeks participants

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Sarah Piperato, a graduate student at the University of South Carolina, is partnering with the University of North Carolina at Charlotte to conduct a sexual minority health study.

The focus of the investigations is on health and stress among sexual minority women in the Greater Charlotte area. Information is collected online through a 15-minute survey.

Participants must be 18 or older and identify with any sexual identity other than heterosexual. Those who complete the survey will be entered into a drawing to win one of four $250 Amazon gift cards. info: bit.ly/2BCchoQ.

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news notes: u.s./world compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

LGBTQ candidates increase across Texas

executive order attacking sanctuary cities.

These organizations work on behalf of LGBTQ immigrants, including asylum seekers and victims of trafficking. The case is currently pending before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. info: nclrights.org.

AIDSWatch, presented by The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, will be held from March 26-27 in Washington, D.C. The two-day event brings together hundreds of people living with HIV and their allies to meet with members of Congress and educate them about the important issues at stake for people living with HIV and AIDS in the U.S. Trainings will be held on day one and meetings on Capitol Hill on day two. AIDSWatch is implemented as a partnership between AIDS United, the Treatment Access Expansion Project and the US People Living With HIV Caucus. info: aidsunited.org/aidswatch.

GLAAD announced that it will honor multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning pop icon Britney Spears at the 29th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in Los Angeles on April 12.

Spears will receive GLAAD’s Vanguard Award, which is presented to media professionals who have made a significant difference in promoting equality and acceptance of LGBTQ individuals. info: glaad.org.

HOUSTON, Texas — At least 50 openly LGBTQ candidates are running for public office in Texas this election cycle, a number approximately three times higher than any previous election cycle in the Lone Star State.

Mark Jones, a political scientist at Rice University, said that the tripling of the number of LGBTQ candidates is a reaction to both the controversial “Bathroom Bill” legislation that passed Mark Jones out of the Texas Senate but was blocked by the more centrist Texas House in 2017, and the presidency of Donald Trump. Jones noted that the overwhelming majority of Texas’ LGBTQ candidates are Democrats and are part of a wave of Democrats (more than 100 for U.S. Congress alone) running for office this cycle, motivated in part by their opposition to Trump.

Jones added that while several LGBTQ candidates have been elected to the Texas Legislature, no openly LGBTQ candidate has

ever been elected to represent Texas in the U.S. Congress. However, that could change this cycle.

“Democrat Gina Ortiz Jones, who is running in Congressional District 23, has a realistic prospect of victory in both the Democratic primary and the general election,” Jones stated. “Other prominent LGBTQ candidates include Democratic gubernatorial frontrunner Lupe Valdez, Republican Texas Senate (SD-25) candidate Shannon McClendon and incumbent state Reps. Celia Israel, D-Austin, and Mary Gonzalez, D-El Paso.”

Overall, Jones said, the large number of LGBTQ candidates, including a few Republicans, underscores their growing acceptance among Texas voters and a decline in discriminatory attitudes toward the LGBTQ community in the state, especially among Millennials and Generation X. Evidence of this attitudinal change can be seen in the city of Houston, where Annise Parker served as the first openly lesbian mayor of a major city from 2010 to 2016.

Jones is a leading expert on Texas politics and his research on the Texas Legislature has been widely cited widely in the media, as well as by numerous political campaigns. info: rice.edu.

QUICK HITS —————————————————————————————— Mitchell Gold, co-founder and chairman of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, will celebrate his birthday with a bash at the company’s store in Beverly Hills, Calif. to benefit the Tyler Clementi Foundation. Special guests include Bellamy Young, Norman Lear, Lady Bunny, Bruce Vilanch, Dan Bucatinsky, Danny Seo and more. Gold, who also co-founded the non-profit Faith in America, joined the board of directors of the Tyler Clementi Foundation in September 2017. In November 2017, Faith in America joined forces with the Tyler Clementi Foundation to fight religious-based bullying. info: tylerclementi.com.

The Southern LGBTQ Health Symposium will be held on March 3 in Nashville, Tenn.

The Vanderbilt Program for LGBTI Health is hosting the first-ever event. The symposium will engage providers and students throughout the region on a variety of topics to better serve sexual and gender minority patients. info: healthlgbt.org.

The National Center for Lesbian Rights, Transgender Law Center, Centro Legal De La Raza and El/La Para Translatinas filed an amicus brief in City and County of San Francisco v.

Trump, the California case challenging Trump’s

Gay activist Jeffrey Girard has sued a hotel manager for abuses and threats he received after an altercation with another resident. The manager allegedly threatened to kill both Girard and his roommate, mocked him after he was assaulted and shined a high-powered flashlight directly and on purpose in Girard’s face, although being asked not to. Girard’s roommate is of Jewish heritage and the manager wore a swastika embellished T-shirt. The display was a taunt to the roommate. Girard also reported housing violations to government agencies about “cheap rent” Hotel Soto and the incidents were investigated by Adult Protective Services and the police due to Girard’s status as having a confirmed mental illness disability.

Violations were confirmed by the government agencies and included bug infestations, fire hazards and dilapatation. info: stand-nonprofit.wixsite.com/ stoptenantabuse/tenantstories.

Trystlynn Melanni Barber has become the first openly transgender employee to work for the Georgia Department of Corrections, the Georgia Voice reported. Department officials confirmed that her case was unprecedented.

Her transition paves the way for future transgender employees as training and policy adjustments have already begun to take place, the news organization added. info: bit.ly/2EKEOKV. Beginning on March 1, the Point Foundation will begin accepting applications for its LGBTQ Community Scholarship Program which aids students who wish to advance to four-year degree programs. Those accepted into the 2018 class will be announced in June in time for Pride Month. info: pointfoundation.org.

A transgender woman became the first in the world to exclusively breastfeed her baby despite not giving birth nor undergoing genderreassignment surgeries, the Daily Mail reported. Her partner was pregnant and chose not to breastfeed. Doctors introduced a regimen

news

of hormone replacement therapy and breast pumping with the target goal of producing eight ounces of milk a day for the three months prior to the birth of the child. That continued for six weeks, then was switched to a combination of breastfeeding and obtaining nutrition from other food sources for a six-month period. info: dailym.ai/2ofkIht. Britney Spears will receive the Vanguard Award from GLAAD at its Media Awards ceremony. info: glaad.org.

My True Colors Festival announced the winners of the second annual My True Colors Excel Pride Awards. A special presentation ceremony will take place on April 12 in Brooklyn, N.Y. Honorees are: Staceyann Chin, Champion of Justice Award; Laverne Cox, Trailblazer Award; Marjorie Hill, Community Impact Award; David J. Johns, Advocacy Award; Natalia Oberti Noguera, Business Innovation Award; Floyd Rumohr, Outstanding Leadership Award; and Linda Villarosa, Vanguard Award. info: mytruecolorsfestival.com.

Metropolitan Community Churches has announced that registration is open for its General Conference to be held from July 1-5, 2019 in Orlando, Fla. info: celebrate.mccchurch.org.

The Quest of Life Media & Broadcast, an Oregon non-profit organization whose mission will be to assist independent LGBTQ artists in fundraising for and marketing of new albums.

Quest has begun to provide centralized fundraising in the LGBTQ singer/songwriter community into one organization. It has started out with Partner Fundraising and Fundraising for Grants and one day may even include production studios to further reduce production costs. info: questoflife.org.

MSMGF has joined the Australian Federation of AIDS Service Organizations and HIV advocates worldwide in celebrating the Australian government’s recent move to publicly fund PreExposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV. This new policy will make this life-saving intervention more accessible and affordable to gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men. info: msmgf.org.

In what may be considered a publishing first, two magazines for LGBTQ readers are synchronizing the launch of their March 2018 DIVA and Gay Times issues, both of which feature activist, model and “gender capitalist” Rain Dove.

Photo Credit: Jack Pengelly

info: divadigital.co.uk. gaytimes.co.uk.

Fashion design company Burberry has used a rainbow to remake its iconic plaid, InStyle reported. The revamped pattern is “an emblem

see U.S./World News Notes on 16 Feb. 23-March 8 . 2018 qnotes 7

Black History Month

Black Excellence Series celebrates artistic expression A feeling of inadequacy brought by discrimination gives way to a movement based in power and self-acceptance

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff

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omeiro Hamilton-Davis, 27, says he never felt like he quite fit in while growing up in Charlotte, N.C. where he was born and raised.

“Being a black male, I thought I had to live up to a certain standard, about masculinity or about certain interests,” he tells qnotes. “I’m bisexual — I kind of consider myself gay as well — but just being a black male, and being gay or bisexual in the South, especially during the ‘90s and early 2000s, it was very hard, and I couldn’t find my own place to feel comfortable to be myself, whatever that was.”

Hamilton-Davis decided he needed to explore his interests in dance, acting and modeling in a more progressive place, where he hoped there might be greater opportunities, both socially and professionally.

So, in September of 2009, at the age of 18, he took off for Los Angeles, Calif. like so many artists with big dreams before him.

It didn’t quite work out like he hoped, and he found himself becoming rapidly disillusioned.

“Moving to LA was just to be able to love myself as a black male, as a black gay male, or bisexual, or whatever I consider myself. It was just really difficult,” he says.

“And even being in LA, I just didn’t really feel loved. It didn’t have that Southern charm to it. And this is where stereotypes are made” he contends. “I realized people would treat me a certain way without me even opening my mouth, and I think that affects my relationships.”

“I think people don’t really understand or value the chocolate man like I feel that I should be valued,” he adds. “I feel like people have me more fetishized. I’m more of a sexual object. I’m more of a side dude, I’m not husband material.”

He said the reactions he was receiving from the general public, as well as from guys at bars, and those in charge of casting — primarily either being ignored or actively put down — began to build up a pain and resentment within him.

“I just felt that after growing up in North Carolina, and moving here, I just wasn’t happy with myself. I felt ugly, I felt unproductive,” he admits. “I felt lonely, because I didn’t have anyone that I was dating.”

But along with experiencing anger and upset, he also began to feel himself growing in his passions and inner resources.

Hamilton-Davis, who makes his living as a substitute teacher, decided it was time to take matters into his own hands, to create the world he wanted to see, where he, and those who look like him, could be represented in a way that he just wasn’t seeing in broader culture.

“I wanted to be able to become a model, and I wanted to do my own projects. So I decided I wanted to be my own model, and direct it and produce it. Also [I wanted] to give

Character: Our Ancestors. Photo Credit: @divine_creativity via Instgram

Character: North-central Kenyan Samburu Warrior. Photo Credit: Photo Credit: @divine_creativity via Instgram

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life

other dark-skinned black males, or dark-skinned black women, a chance to feel really, really beautiful,” he says.

He began to share this concept with his friend Victoria Ansa, herself an artist, and the idea began to take a fuller form than the “skeleton of an idea, like a photo series” with which he started.

“She added onto it the fact that we could turn it into a video, and she took over the whole costume design aspect, and added her own flav to it,” he says of Ansa’s vital influence to the project. “So, after bringing it up to her, we have just been taking it under our wings and running off with it.”

❝ The Black Excellence Series looks to connect, educate and celebrate black voices, history and bodies through artistic expression. ❞ — Romeiro Hamilton-Davis The end result of all that brainstorming was a four-part photo and film series, exploring the history, the present and the future of the black experience.

“It’s like a visual timeline that shows the history of blacks, including many others who were affected by the African diaspora,” says Hamilton-Davis. “It starts in PreColonialism. It’s kind of a mix between fiction and non-fiction.”

“Black Excellence starts with a series called ‘Afri,’ which is an ode to those Africans during Pre-Colonialism who were affected by the age of discovery, by the age of capitalism and imperialism,” he continues.

“Following that, we have ‘Afrocentric,’ which is our second series, and that is an ode to those blacks who were in America in particular, those who were basically the catalyst or the pioneers of capitalism, those who aided to build this country,” he explains.

“Following that, we’ll have ‘Descendants of Afri,’ which is acknowledging blacks and those descendants of today. I want to show that we are those figures, that we can Character Nina Simone. Photo Credit: @divine_creativity via Instgram

Character: Huey P. Newton. Photo Credit: Black Excellence Series via Instrgram

make a difference, that we are those black figures who have made a difference, and we can [continue to] do the same,” he adds.

“After that, we will have a fourth and final series to represent blacks of today and the future.”

Hamilton-Davis says he would like to help build a more inclusive standard of beauty through his work, so that the inherent beauty in all types of people can be more fully expressed and appreciated.

“I find that a lot of people are like, ‘Well, everyone is beautiful, it’s about the whole world.’ And I’m like, I get that, but no one really gives 100 percent shine to dark-skinned black men and black women, and as soon as we point toward them, it automatically goes to, ‘What about everyone else? What about All Lives Matter?’ And it’s not that I’m against All Lives — I’m for everyone, absolutely everyone,” he explains. “But my concern is for the darkskinned black man and the dark-skinned black woman, who are constantly, constantly at the bottom.”

He also wants to encourage an interest and respect for black history in part, he admits, because it took him many years to be able to fully embrace it himself.

“I shied away from black history growing up,” he reveals. “I did not want to be black. I did not like being black, and I am kind of discovering it as an adult.”

He hopes the Black Excellence Series will help others, of all ages, come to the same place.

“Black Excellence is about showing pride in black culture, and for people to love the heritage and where they come from,” he concludes.

In order to achieve this goal, the project is looking for funding to help launch a festival where the work can be displayed, including an unveiling of “Descendants of Afri,” with African cuisine, performances and a panel discussion.

Funds are being raised through a GoFundMe that can be found at gofundme.com/blackexcellencefest. More work from the Black Excellence Series can be viewed at black-excellence-series.tumblr.com. : :

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Legal Eagles

LGBTQ seniors benefit from handling legal documents with counsel Naming responsible parties to handle issues for us if we are unable is essential

by Connie Vetter, Attorney at Law :: guest contributor

However, talk with an attorney and tax advisor before getting married because there are some disadvantages in certain situations. For example, in North Carolina we are responsible for our spouse’s medical bills if they are unable to pay them. As we age and have more medical issues, this is an important consideration. Also, marriage can impact a person’s eligibility for some governmental assistance programs, previously received alimony and drawing on a former spouse’s social security, among other things.

Here is more good news: gay and lesbian seniors (and others) who were discharged from the military solely because of their sexual orientation and who were given a less than honorable discharge, can apply to have it upgraded. With the correct discharge status, they are eligible for a host of military benefits, including VA medical benefits, loan assistance, burial benefits and more. For LGBTQ seniors, access to these benefits can make a difference. (Note: it is not Working with an attorney to get one’s legal documents in order is important for clear whether this applies to discharges based on everyone, especially those in the LGBTQ community. gender identity).

Photo Credit: JackF via Adobe Stock LGBTQ seniors (and frankly, everyone else) can use the law to our benefit by doing a Last Will and s LGBTQ people, the legal issues we face are the same as Testament or Trust that provides for the people we love and everyone else and different from everyone else. LGBTQ controls how our property is handled at our death, how our seniors are part of the Baby Boomer generation. But, we pets are taken care of and how our burial, cremation or other may not have the classic safety nets other Baby Boomers have: final arrangements are handled, among other things. A will is spouse, children and supportive family. However, there are legal particularly useful for someone who is transgender and wants to options available to us that we can use. state their wishes about the name, pronouns and proper attire to Here is good news: now that same-sex couples can marry, be used at their funeral.

LGBTQ seniors are eligible to draw on our spouse’s social Importantly, doing a will or trust is generally much easier than security benefits and may be able to go on our spouse’s medical people think it is. benefits. Also, our spouse is considered “next of kin” for mediA Health Care Power of Attorney is also important. In a Health cal decision making and inheritance (but that doesn’t mean we Care Power of Attorney, LGBTQ seniors (and others) choose who shouldn’t still be doing our wills and other legal documents!), and we want to make medical decisions for us if we are unable to do can receive retirement benefits or pension.

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so. It can also state what name and pronouns we want the medical provider to use if we are hospitalized. If someone does not have a Health Care Power of Attorney, only the person’s family will be consulted to make medical decisions. Other loved ones, such as a partner and friends, will not be able to make medical decisions.

LGBTQ seniors can also do a MOST Form. MOST stands for Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment and is the actual medical order signed by our doctor to carry out our wishes for specific medical treatment. It is a medical form and is done with our doctor.

Another important document for LGBTQ seniors is a Living Will. In it we say whether we want artificial life support or other extraordinary medical measures if we have certain serious medical conditions. When we do a Living Will, we take control of the decision-making and relieve our loved ones of making that difficult decision. Also, a Living Will is different from a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate). A Living Will covers several medical situations and is a legal document done with an attorney. A DNR is a medical form and is done with the doctor.

A Durable Power of Attorney is another legal document useful for LGBTQ seniors (and others). This document allows us to pick a trusted person to stand in for us to make important decisions if we cannot do it ourselves. It also can help avoid being declared legally incompetent by a court if we are no longer able to make our own decisions. If that happens, the court chooses who our legal guardian will be. Legal guardianship is a good and necessary legal process for someone who needs it, but it is better to avoid it and make our own choices about whom we trust and want to help us if we need it. Please know that a Durable Power of Attorney is a very powerful legal document and should not be done without an attorney. People who do not fully understand the power they are giving in the document can end up having their money and property taken by an unscrupulous person.

As LGBTQ seniors, we have legal options we can take and decisions we can control. The key is to not put it off any longer.

We are not getting any younger, are we? : :

Gay & Gray: LGBTQ Seniors

‘Floaters’ affect elders’ sight The Healthy Geezer

by Fred Cicetti :: guest contributor

Q. I’ve been noticing this thing in my eye. At first I thought it was an eyelash. Then I realized the thing was actually in my eye.

One of my friends told me it’s a “floater,” and not to worry. What exactly is a “floater” and should I see a doctor?

To allay any fears you may have, I should tell you that floaters are usually nothing to worry about. I have them myself. More than seven in 10 people experience floaters. Now for some biology.

The lens in the front of your eye focuses light on the retina in the back of your eye. The lens is like the one in a camera, and the retina is like film. The space between the lens and retina is filled with the “vitreous,” a clear gel that helps to maintain the shape of the eye.

Floaters occur when the vitreous slowly shrinks over time. As the vitreous changes, it becomes stringy, and the strands can cast shadows on the retina. These strands are the floaters. They can look like specks, filaments, rings, dots, cobwebs or other shapes. Floaters are the most vivid when you are looking at the sky or a white surface such as a ceiling. They move as your eyes move and seem to dart away when you try to look at them directly.

In most cases, floaters are just annoying. When you discover them, they are very distracting. But, in time, they usually settle below

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the line of sight. Most people who have visible floaters gradually develop the ability to make them “disappear” by ignoring them.

When people reach middle age, the vitreous gel may pull away from the retina, causing “posterior vitreous detachment.” It is a common cause of floaters, and it is more likely in people who are diabetics, nearsighted, had eye surgery or suffered inflammation inside the eye.

These vitreous detachments are often accompanied by light flashes. The flashes can be a warning sign of a detached retina.

Flashes are also caused by head trauma that makes you “see stars.” Sometimes light flashes appear to be little lightning bolts or waves. This type of flash is usually caused by a blood-vessel spasm in the brain, which is called a migraine. These flashes can happen without a headache and they are called an “ophthalmic migraine.”

If your floaters are just bothersome, eye doctors will tell you to ignore them. In rare cases, a bunch of floaters can hamper sight. Then a “vitrectomy” may be necessary. A vitrectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the vitreous gel with its floaters.

A salt solution replaces the vitreous. The vitreous is mostly water, so patients who undergo the procedure don’t notice a difference.

However, this is a risky procedure, so most eye surgeons won’t recommend it unless the floaters are a major impediment.

Floaters (shown as specs, left) in the vitreous fluid in the eye.

Photo Credit: American Academy of Ophthalmology

Depiction of how floaters look in vision field (below).

Many new floaters can sometimes appear suddenly.

When this happens, it usually is not sight-threatening and requires no treatment. However, a sudden increase in floaters could mean that a part of the retina has pulled away from its normal position at the back wall of the eye. A detached retina is a serious condition and demands emergency treatment to prevent permanent impairment or even blindness.

What should you do when you notice your first floater? It’s a good time to get that eye examination you’ve been putting off. : : All Rights Reserved © 2018 by Fred Cicetti

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life

Gay & Gray: LGBTQ Seniors

Elders in Charlotte set sights on starting SAGE chapter Charlotte LGBT Elders group at core of organizational process

by Erin Barbee and Nancy Culp :: guest contributors

C

harlotte is ready for a Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) chapter. LGBTQ elder voices are ready to be heard!

SAGE is the country’s largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ older adults.

Founded in 1978 and headquartered in New York City, SAGE is a national organization that offers supportive services and consumer resources to LGBTQ older adults and their caregivers, advocates for public policy changes that address the needs of LGBTQ older individuals, provides education and technical assistance for aging providers of LGBTQ seniors and LGBTQ organizations through its National Resource Center on LGBT Aging and cultural competency training through SAGECare.

SAGE leads in addressing issues related to LGBTQ aging.

In partnership with its constituents and allies, SAGE works to achieve a high quality of life for LGBTQ older adults, supports and advocates for their rights, fosters a greater understanding of aging in all communities and promotes positive images of LGBTQ life in later years.

LGBTQ seniors are able to enjoy camaraderie, gain support and have access to a plethora of resources when engaged in a SAGE chapter. Additionally, meetings and gatherings provide vital information for elders so they can live a more comfortable life as they age.

Photo Credit: Marcel Mooij via Adobe Stock

Erin Barbee (left) and Nancy Culp (right)

A new organization has been formed to assist in bringing SAGE to Charlotte. The Charlotte LGBT Elders group was pioneered by former Time Out Youth Center Capital Campaign Development and Strategy Consultant Dan Kirsch in October 2017. Kirsch passed the baton to Erin Barbee and Nancy Culp after he moved out of the area. This organization is partnering with SAGE to create a sustainable organization that will serve the 55 plus age group of LGBTQ seniors of Charlotte.

The focus will be on key component issues and concerns facing aging LGBTQ individuals. A list is provided below, along with some expansion of ideas in each category to further explain a plan of action, challenges and other topics for consideration and development purposes when looking at elder needs and starting a SAGE chapter locally.

Since October, the pioneers have hosted planning meetings to establish how it wants to move forward. They have also corresponded with SAGE representatives to provide them with guidance and advice from other successful chapters.

“We found that Charlotte has an increased focus on Millenials and is building a city to attract them, but there is a lack of conversation and consideration given to our aging population.

Additionally, the LGBTQ aging population gets even less consideration,” Barbee shared.

“Our wish list would include solidifying the chapter in Charlotte, becoming a voice for change in the aging LGBTQ population and combatting the feelings of isolation and lonliness.

We also hope to become a resourse in the community for places of business, senior living communities and healthcare facilities when they need education about how to provide services and care to the LGBTQ elder,” she added.

The next meeting is slated for March 28 and is in partnership with the Freedom Center for Social Jusitce. A meet and greet will begin at 5:30 p.m. at Aldersgate Retirement Community.

Programming for the meeting will be screening the film “Major!” at 6:30 p.m. that offers insight into the world of Miss Major Griffin-

Gray, a Black transgender elder and activist. After the screening panel discussion will take place.

Financial • Financial isolation • Gender bias in income • How expensive it is to get old (how to afford to be retired for 40 years) • End-of-Life Planning (wills, Power of Attorney, Do Not Resuscitate directives, longterm care, Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment, etc., as well as figuring out how to pay for co-housing, etc.)

• Legal system slipping away from gains that were made Health • Discrimination against the LGBTQ elder by caregivers (including children) • Long-term care (assisted living facility/skilled nursing facility) • Short-term/long-term care (staffing, insensitivity) • LGBTQ-friendly doctors and pharmacists (networking) • Training for workers in higher care to address the physical and emotional needs of the LGBTQ elder which have led to misunderstanding, discrimination and fear • Affirming caregivers • Death-related resources • Transgender access to medications • Community education (wills, Power of Attorney, end-of-life, etc.)

• Organizational housing concept (your home goes to the organization and you are cared for) • Affording nursing care if needed

Housing • Co-housing • Universal design for housing • Appropriate housing in an appropriate neighborhood • Affordability issues • Naturally occurring retirement communities Social • Isolation (who you gonna call?)

• No rights or legal support • Lack of a resource center • Lobby and advocacy intergenerational communication • Lack of aging network/LGBTQ “Next Door” • Need for connection to LGBTQ individuals, support in Charlotte Partner • Reasonably priced legal assistance to be able to legally care for a partner • Daytime care for those partners that need care • Going back in closet to get care • Legal system slipping away from gains that were made • What happens if you get sick • Family support • Partner isolation (no children or family to care for the LGBTQ elder) What’s next? “We need you in order to make this grow, and we need to share the SAGE message and resources with LGBTQ elders in Charlotte. If you are interested in knowing more about the Charlotte LGBT Elders group, ‘like’ the Facebook page online at facebook.com/charlottelgbtelders,” Barbee said. Email Erin Barbee and Nancy Culp to join the group and attend social and educational events at charlottelgbtelders@gmail.com.

To learn more about the work that SAGE does and the resources it provides, visit sageusa.org : :

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Gay & Gray: LGBTQ Seniors

Helping hands

Resources for LGBTQ seniors, family and caregivers compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff [Editor’s Note: qnotes’ research into finding senior resources was only as good as what was available online and from other sources.

Should readers find errors and wish to send corrections to the list or want to have a group or service listed, email qnotes with “Senior addition” in the subject line to editor@goqnotes.com. qnotes wants to make these listings as accurate as possible to maintain integrity of the information provided.]

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ll across the Carolinas and the U.S., LGBTQ “gay and gray” elders seek out valuable resources and tips to make their lives more comfortable and easier to navigate.

See the listings below to make research efforts more streamline and to provide options for cruising into the senior years.

Social North Carolina Prime Timers of Asheville ashevilleprimetimers.com.

Prime Timers of Charlotte primetimersww.com/charlotte.

Senior’s Social Group northstarlgbtcc.com.

RDU Prime Timers meetup.com/rdu-pt.

South Carolina Charleston, S.C. Prime Timers primetimersww.net/charlestonsc.

Columbia, SC Prime Timers primetimersww.org/columbiasc.

Prime Times of Myrtle Beach primetimersww.com/ primetimersmb.

Support

elder-clinic.law.wfu.edu.

Carolinas

Gay_ARP Focuses on social events for AARP-aged members of the LGBTQ community. harriethancockcenter.org/gayarp.

A.S.P.I.R.E. (A Sacred Place Inviting Realistic Experience) Provides community support for individuals from marginalized populations. aspirecarolina.org.

Alzheimer’s Association/Western North Carolina Provides patient and family services, information and referral, education and advocacy in the 49 western North Carolina counties, serving over 100,000 people living with Alzheimer’s disease. alz.org/northcarolina.

Centralina Area Agency on Aging Supporting aging adults with choice, dignity and independence. centralina.org/centralinaaging/ services-in-area.

Elder Law Clinic at Wake Forest University Provides free legal services to the community in Forsyth and surrounding counties.

Just 1 Call Information and assistance for seniors and adults with disabilities living in Mecklenburg County, N.C., as well as their families and professional caregivers. bit.ly/2s5Z6aX. LGBTQ Elder Advocates of Western North Carolilna Local grassroots organization founded to address the aging issues and concerns of the LGBTQ community through Land of The Sky Council. lgbtelderadvocatesofwnc.org.

North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services Works to promote independence and enhance the dignity of North Carolina’s older adults, persons with disabilities, and their families through services,

benefits, and protections; to ready younger generations to enjoy their later years; and to help prepare for the changing demographics. ncdhhs.gov/divisions/daas.

SAGE Raleigh Raleigh, N.C. bit.ly/2s5XNZI. SAGE Wilmington of the Cape Fear Coast Wilmington, N.C. thefrankharrfoundation.com/ sage-wilmington.

National All About Seniors Comprehensive resource and referral directory available for older adults, caregivers and healthcare professionals. allaboutseniors.org.

American Association of Retired People (AARP) / LGBT Pride Inclusive resources for LGBTQ seniors, as well as regular AARP member services options. bit.ly/2oh0Kmw.

health problems. caregiver.org.

FORGE/Transgender Aging Network (TAN) An initiative of FORGE (national transgender anti-violence organization) which works to improve the lives of current and future transgender/SOFFA (significant others, friends, family and allies) elders. forge-forward.org/aging.

GRIOT (Gay Reunion In Our Time) Grassroots organization which addresses the needs of LGBTQ seniors, especially people of color. griotcircle.org.

LGBT Aging Resources Clearinghouse of the American Society on Aging (ASA) Provides information for people ages 50-plus. asaging.org.

Eldercare Locator Public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging to find assistance on a number of issues. eldercare.gov.

LGBT Cultural Competency Training Provides a suite of in-person and online trainings for all levels of staff and volunteers to assist in the best ways to create an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment for the LGBTQ older adult population. lgbtagingcenter.org/resources/ website.cfm

Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA) LGBT Caring Community Online Support Group Online support for LGBTQ caregivers of adults with chronic

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Foundation Works toward protecting the needs of LGBTQ elders. thetaskforce.org/issues/aging.

life

LGBT+ National Aging Research Center Resources and studies pertaining to LGBTQ seniors, including health, aging, and others. age-pride.org.

Old Lesbians Organizing for Change (OLOC) Network of lesbians over the age of 60 working to make life better for their members and by confronting ageism. oloc.org.

The National Resource Center on LGBT Aging Technical assistance resource center aimed at improving the quality of services and supports offered to LGBTQ older adults. lgbtagingcenter.org.

Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) Organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ older adults. sageusa.org.

SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline Resource for LGBTQ older adults and their allies to find support and services. sageusa.org/programs/hotline.cfm.

Silvernest Silvernest is an online home sharing service that pairs aging homeowners with qualified housemates, giving seniors an aging-in-place alternative. silvernest.com.

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news

U.S/World News Notes continued from page 7 for optimism and inclusiveness” and will also be a tribute to the charities working to protect the LGBTQ community from discrimination. info: instyle.com.

One in five LGBTQ employees is afraid to request time off to care for a loved one because it might disclose their LGBTQ identity, according to a Human Rights Campaign report released on the 25th anniversary of the Family and Medical Leave Act. info: bit.ly/2FXr2kX. Trulia’s new online tool can help prospective homeowners find neighborhoods that protect against LGBTQ discrimination. info: thepennyhoarder.com/life/lgbtqdiscrimination.

GLAAD announced the release of amp, an online series featuring content and stories created by and for young changemakers to share experiences and amplify LGBTQ voices, the organization said. The digital series will include op-eds, creative writing, photography, art, videos and other original content from a host of young creators including GLAAD Campus Ambassadors, staff and interns, as well as advocates, activists and artists. info: glaad.org/amp.

CenterLink and The Johnson Family Foundation announced that eight LGBTQ community centers have each been awarded

a grant dedicated to increasing the variety and quality of mental health services they provide. info: lgbtcenters.org.

A Christian group that considers being gay to be immoral has bought a building that until late last year housed one of Ohio’s oldest gay bars, Bretz Nightclub. info: stltoday.com. amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, announced a pair of research grants that renew its support for innovative approaches to HIV cure research. Totaling nearly $1 million, the investment grants will allow two collaborative teams of HIV researchers and bioengineers to embark on a second phase of projects initiated with amfAR funding awarded in February 2017. info: amfar.org.

A school system in New York held its first summit for LGBTQ students, providing them with a safe place to discuss issues of gender and sexuality. info: bit.ly/2E0IcRm. Hillsborough, N.C.’s Adam & Eve have announced results in their annual sex survey, where over 1,000 adults were asked how they felt about gay and lesbian couples adopting a child. While 12 percent of the respondents (12 percent of the women and 13 percent of the men) admitted they were not sure how they felt,

and 14 percent (9 percent of the women and 20 percent of the men) said they did not think gays and lesbians should adopt, an overwhelming 73 percent (79 percent of the women and 67 percent of the men) believe that same-sex couples should be able to adopt a child. info: adameve.com.

Canada’s technology community will unite at Venture Out, a conference aimed at building an inclusive and diverse future for LGBTQA youth and professionals, from March 15-16. info: ventureout.ca.

Mount Sinai Hospital and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health are offering a surgery training course that will feature both didactic and live genderaffirmation procedures from April 26-28. This course is being offered to surgeons, surgical residents surgical fellows and pre- and postoperative care providers. More information and registration are available online. info: livesurgerycourses.com.

The Black AIDS Institute’s president and CEO Phill Wilson has announced his retirement as the organization has positioned itself for a new strategic plan to prepare for the “next generation of Black HIV/AIDS response.” The institute has brought in new board members, staff and programs in this new wave of its existence. info: blackaids.org.

The Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Herzing University-Brookfield announced a new scholarship, Pride in Healthcare, for LGBTQ individuals working in the healthcare industry. info: wislgbtchamber.com. herzing.edu.

The National Coalition for LGBT Health will hold the 16th annual National LGBT Health Awareness Week from March 26-30. info: healthlgbt.org.

The American Military Partner Association announced that Comcast NBCUniversal and USAA will be joint presenting sponsors of the 5th Annual AMPA National Gala to be held on May 12 in Washington, D.C. info: militarypartners.org.

Gay figure skater Adam Rippon has provided the LGBTQ community with a relatable athlete. info: usatoday.com.

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a&e

Big Screen

Festival features gay-focued film Charlotte Jewish Film Festival partners with Charlotte Pride, Gay Men’s Chorus for screening of gay comedy

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Jewish Film Festival (CJFF) has partnered this year with Charlotte Pride, with its Reel Out Charlotte film fest, and the Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte for a special screening of “Family Commitments.”

The directorial debut of German filmmaker Hanno Olderdissen, the comedy centers on the relationship between David and his boyfriend Khaled (Maximilian von Pufendorf and Omar El-Saeidi), who are engaged to be married.

The taboo of a Jewish man marrying a Muslim man is explored, with the intensity turned up by David’s overbearing mother and Khaled’s homophobic father. If that was not enough drama, and fodder for satire, in walks an old acquaintance claiming to be pregnant with David’s baby.

When the festival screening committee chose the film, Director of Cultural Arts at the CJFF and Levine Jewish Community Center’s Susan Cherin Gundersheim told qnotes she “was thrilled and a little surprised.”

“Our film committee watches probably 50 films…and then we choose a slate of 10 to 15 films,” Gundersheim shared. “One of our secondary goals over the last five years has been to expand the type of films that we’re looking at to include films that would give us the opportunity to interface with other micro communities.

“We won’t choose a movie that’s not good in order to do that,” she continued, “but it’s been a very diverse group of organizations over the last, let’s say five to six years, and a very diverse group of partners.”

That has included Reel Out Charlotte and the Gay Men’s Chorus in the past as well.

Last year, the CJFF screened the documentary “Who’s Gonna Love Me Now,” about an ex-Israeli paratrooper who attempts to reconcile with his religious family in Israel after finding out that he is HIV-positive.

The Gay Men’s Chorus sang after the screening, which they will also do after the screening of “Family Commitments.”

“The screening committee voted on putting that film [“Who’s Gonna Love Me Now”] in the festival hands down, which to me was a huge turning point. Because I really wasn’t sure,” Gundersheim shared.

“Typically, we have an older demographic, and we have people who have served on the screening committee since the inception of the film festival,” she explained.

She said that while there was no pushback or backlash whatsoever on the choice to screen “Who’s Gonna Love Me Now,” there were conversations that took place among the committee that showed there was still room for education on these important issues.

added. “Because the bridges across those communities gives us an action step, something we can do in the day to day feeling of helplessness that there has been.

“Agency wide, it’s a concept that we’re not free until we’re all free,” she < A movie still from ‘Family Commitments’ with (left to right) Khaled and his boyfriend David (Omar El-Saeidi and Maximilian von Pufendorf).

> Director Hanno Olderdissen

“It was very clear based on some of the conversation that this was a really great opportunity to, again, share time, and space, and art with the communities, so there can be learning and experiences,” she said.

Those conversations need to take place now as much as ever, she stressed.

“In the recent times, we have seen a huge rise in antisemitism,” she said, noting that the Charlotte Jewish Community Center had been the victim of bomb threats on more than one occasion last year alone.

“Through that, I think we’re even more motivated and inspired to reach out to other communities who are marginalized and discriminated against, and show support, and educate, and expose, and share time, and share food, share space,” she

added. “And that’s an agencywide initiative in everything that we’re doing. The arts obviously really lend itself to those opportunities, which is a great thing.”

Other films spotlighted as part of this initiative this year include the Sammy Davis Jr. documentary “I’ve Gotta Be Me,” and the romantic comedy “Keep the Change,” about two adults on the autism spectrum who fall in love.

“Charlotte Pride is excited to continue our partnership with the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival in 2018. By co-presenting important films with our community partners, we are able to showcase and highlight the diversity of the LGBTQ community and its stories and faces,” said Charlotte Pride Programs and Events Manager Jerry Yelton.

“Family Commitments” will screen at Regal Ballantyne Village Stadium Theaters, 14815 Ballantyne Village Way, in Charlotte at 7:15 p.m. on Mar. 3. Tickets are $11 and can be purchased online at bit.ly/2obRr7f. : :

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goqnotes.com/to/arts

tell trinity

by Trinity :: qnotes contributor :: trinity@telltrinity.com

My ex, his boyfriend and World War Three(some) Dear Trinity, A month ago, I became friends with my ex’s new boyfriend. It was just coincidental. But my ex has gotten really stirred up and is trying to destroy the friendship. His boyfriend still wants to be friends, but I’m stuck in World War Three.

Help?

Stuck, Albany, NY

something called sex appeal. So, check your hair, teeth, clothes, breath, body odor and body to see if they’re appealing enough for someone special to want to yank you out of bachelorhood. Pumpkin, if animals, plants and Paris Hilton need to use sex appeal… so do you!

(Check out my cartoon to see how “refined” a gentleman has to be to capture my attention!)

Dear Stuck, “Just coincidental,” come on, who wants an ex boyfriend becoming friends with a new boyfriend? Maybe Satan? Honey, it’s time to spend “your time” dating and meeting new men, not being involved in your ex’s new relationship. It’s called boundaries. Just put your friendship on hold for a bit, that’s all, and leave them alone for a while. (And that’s a period at the end of that sentence!)

Dearest Trinity, My boyfriend just broke up with me. Is there anything I can do to get him back?

Return To Sender, Omaha, NE

Hello Trinity, What do I have to do to get someone to go out with me? I have a good job, my own home, and I’m very nice. What more should someone want?

Is There More, St. Louis, MO Hello Is There More, Sorry, but 200 years ago you could have a job, be nice and find a mate; today you need a little

Dearest Return To Sender, I wish men weren’t such stubborn creatures, but they are. You could try to spend time as friends, get him to talk about your relationship problems and see if you both can work it out.

With time, sweetie, he may or may not come back, and you may or may not want him back.

Yet, if you did something bad, try Plan B: flowers, apology letter and a fancy dinner. Give it time, yet don’t waste time!

Hey Trinity, My other half wants to try an open relationship.

I’m confused. Is there anything good that can come out of such an agreement?

Trying To Be Open, San Jose, CA

a&e

Hey Trying, Since open relationships are about agreements, you can agree or disagree on any part of it.

Some open relationship couples don’t talk about it, some only have threeways, some do it a lot, some hardly do it at all, yet most just want the option. Still confused, baby? Then try reading: Trinity’s Positive Arguments For Starting An Open Relationship 1. T he Frequency: You don’t have to do it every week. You can agree on it just once or just once a year.

2. T he Discussion: You don’t have to talk about it every time you do it, if you agree not to.

3. The Cheating: You‘ll never get caught cheating or being cheated on because of your new agreement.

4. The Guilt: You never have to feel (that) guilty about it because you agreed it’s now OK. 5. T he Togetherness: You can agree to practice it strictly with your partner or separately.

6. T he Threeways or Threesomes: You can agree to invite a third person home for one night (threeway) or for one whole year (threesome).

7. T he Smarter Sex: Once you’ve agreed to be open, you’re both more likely to practice safer sex because the situation feels less criminal.

8. The Stimulation: If your relationship isn’t very sexual or adventurous, this agreement may put the flame back into everything.

9. T he Off Button: It’s not a jail sentence. You can agree to try it or end it at any time.

10. Lastly, The Respect: You no longer have to sneak around. You can respect each other, your trysts and your agreements. info: With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org. Learn more at telltrinity.com.

Feb. 23-March 8 . 2018

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++++++++ Sponsored Content ++++++++

from the Rx pad……

by Rx Clinic Pharmacy, a comprehensive onsite service of Ballantyne Family Medicine

Eating Disorders

By Brittany Winstead

The beginning of each year is high time for diet and exercise.

We are all looking for a fresh start by making resolutions to take our health into our own hands. With this being said, cutting calories and losing weight can become an obsession that leads to serious health issues. This is the reality for people with eating disorders. In order to promote awareness of eating disorders, National Eating Disorders Awareness Week is February 26-March 4. Understanding these disorders and recognizing the warning signs could benefit you, your friends and your loved ones.

What are eating disorders? Eating disorders are a collection of serious mental disorders typically sharing the common trait of over-evaluation of body shape and weight. Some of the more common eating disorders include: anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. People suffering from anorexia typically fear gaining weight, or display persistent behaviors that interfere with gaining weight despite low weight. They typically do not recognize the seriousness of their current low body weight. Anorexia is separated into two subtypes. The restricting type includes people who accomplish weight loss by dieting, fasting and/or excessive exercise.

The binge-eating/purging type may consume large amounts of food, and will purge by inducing vomiting or misusing laxatives, diuretics, or enemas. They may also purge without ever eating excessively.

People who suffer from bulimia will frequently consume unusually high amounts of food, then inappropriately compensate the intake by purging. During the binge episode, the person feels as if they lack control over the amount of food they are eating. These behaviors are driven by body shape and weight, but unlike anorexia, people with bulimia are typically an appropriate weight or possibly slightly overweight. Binge eating disorder is different from anorexia and bulimia because people who binge eat do not restrict or purge the

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calories they consume. People who have binge eating disorder eat unusually high amounts of food and feel as if they have lack of control during the episode, like people with bulimia, but do not purge. These episodes are normally associated with eating more rapidly, feeling uncomfortably full, over eating without ever feeling hungry, eating alone due to embarrassment of the amount consumed, and feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty after the episode.

Who is at risk? Eating disorders do not discriminate. They can affect people of any age, race, gender, etc. There are, however, some factors that put people at a higher risk for developing an eating disorder. Some biological risk factors include: having a close relative with an eating disorder or mental health condition, female sex, and history of dieting. Some psychological risk factors include: perfectionism, body image dissatisfaction, history of an anxiety disorder, and behavioral inflexibility, which is characterized by following the rules and doing things the “right way.” Some social risk factors include: size and weight prejudice, weight-based teasing or bullying, buying into the concept of the “ideal body,” LGBTQ community, and limited social interactions and support.

What are the warning signs? Someone with an eating disorder may not have all the warning signs, and the warning signs differ from person to person. However, recognizing these warning signs is very important because eating disorders can be deadly if left untreated. Some of the emotional and behavioral signs of an eating disorder include: dramatic weight loss, weight loss and dieting as primary concerns, making comments about being overweight despite weight loss, denying feeling hungry, feeling uncomfortable eating around others, skipping meals or consuming small portions, disappearing into the bathroom after meals, excessively drinking water, wearing baggy clothes to hide the body,

cutting out entire food groups, maintaining a rigid exercise regimen despite fatigue or illness in order to burn off calories, stealing or hoarding food, mood swings and difficulty concentrating. Some of the physical signs of an eating disorder may include noticeable fluctuations in weight, stomach and gastrointestinal complaints, menstrual irregularity, dizziness, fainting or weakness, cuts and calluses across the top of fingers from inducing vomiting, discolored teeth and cavities, bloating from fluid retention, dry skin, brittle nails and hair, hair loss, swelling in the cheeks or jaw, fine hair growth over the entire body, yellow skin, cold hands and feet, poor wound healing, and weak immune system. These are some of many warning signs to look out for when you or a loved one may be concerned about the possibility of an eating disorder.

If you or a loved one have concerns, please seek medical attention. Recovery from an eating disorder is possible and the sooner someone can get help, the greater chance for a full recovery.

Resources: Gwirtsman, Harry E., et al. “Chapter 26.

Eating Disorders.” CURRENT Diagnosis & Treatment: Psychiatry, 2e Eds. Michael H. Ebert, et al. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2008, http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/ content.aspx?bookid=336&sectionid=39717898.

National Eating Disorders Association. [Internet]. New York, NY: National Eating Disorders Association; c2016 [cited: 2018 Jan. 24]. Available from: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/.

Sigel, Eric J. “Eating Disorders.” CURRENT Diagnosis & Treatment Pediatrics, 23e Eds. William W. Hay, Jr., et al. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx? bookid=1795&sectionid=125736648.

goqnotes.com/to/life

life

health and wellness

by Jack Kirven :: personal trainer, qnotes contributor

Inflammation undermines health What are its sources, and how can it be reduced? tions should pay particular attention to avoiding The purpose of inflammation anything that causes inflammation, especially Inflammation is one of the responses your problematic foods and alcohol. body experiences as it defends itself from inInjuries trigger inflammation when damfections, heals itself after an injury or contends aged cells leak a chemical trail that white with unknown substances. Although it’s an imblood cells can follow to the site. Fluids, cells, portant component of maintaining your health, proteins and other substances accumulate if it persists too long it can create a panoply at the epicenter of the damage. This can also of diseases. In fact, chronic inflammation is at constrict movement, so another symptom of the root of most of the symptoms we associate inflammation can be immobility. with aging.

Many foods trigger the immune system as Although acute inflammation that lasts only well. Whether it be by way of allergic reaca short time is necessary for healing, if it pertions, or because they contain substances that sists longer than a few days, the body can begin cannot be processed to destroy healthy by the body, diet cells. Your system then is one of the most has more difficulty significant sources removing them. This of chronic inflammais why it’s important to tion. If these foods are control irritation that eaten for a long time, continues too long or they perpetuate the occurs too frequently. cycle of irritation. This There are many situin turns damages cells ations where simple repeatedly, and this pains can run amok. eventual breakdown Allergies are an creates aging. example of the body Foreign suboverreacting to a forstances that cannot eign substance. Those be dissolved or caritchy eyes during the ried away also cause pollen season can ongoing complaints. swell, constrict blood Inflammation can effect any part of the body and The body cannot use flow, block the sinuses can cause discomfort, pain and/or distress. proteins to break and cause a bottlePhoto Credit: Romario Ien via Adobe Stock down substances like neck. Suddenly, you silica shards and hydrogenated oils. It cannot have an infection after your chronically active carry away heavy metals and chlorine. These immune system has been under duress. The materials accumulate and cause recurring and allergen, which normally isn’t a true problem constant immune responses. requiring such an intense reaction, weakens your system and then allows truly detrimental Disease pathogens to gain a footing.

According to The National Institutes of Health, “An increasing body of evidence Symptoms shows that chronic inflammation causes and Typically there are four signs that you are advances many common diseases. This opens inflamed, and each stage was originally denew possibilities for treatment and therapy scribed by its Latin equivalent: redness (rubor), by blocking the inflammatory processes… heat (calor), swelling (tumor) and pain (dolor).

Inflammation has long been a well-known The redness is caused by the expansion symptom of many infectious diseases, but moof capillaries, which allows a greater flow of lecular and epidemiological research increasblood to deliver nutrients, proteins and white ingly suggests that it is also intimately linked blood cells to the site of infection or injury. It with a broad range of non-infectious diseases, also allows for the removal of waste and damperhaps even all of them.” aged or dead cells.

Whether it be cancers, Lupus, recurring The heat and swelling that emanate during infections, Alzheimers or almost any other inflammation come from this increased flow condition, inflammation plays a critical role. For of blood. They can also accompany a poolthis reason, it should be avoided as much as ing of fluids outside and around the damaged possible. Many sources of these irritants are cells. This is called edema, and it causes the self-inflicted. Smoking, drug use, excess sugar discomfort we associate with illness and injury (including alcohol), processed foods, tanning by distorting surrounding tissues. and many other lifestyle choices contribute to aging and infirmity by creating a constant Causes onslaught of immune triggers. Many people Disease and infection stimulate immune could potentially save themselves a great responses such as fever. When the body can deal of money, trouble and grief by examining contend quickly with the pathogens, your whether they are making healthful decisions or fever breaks, and the cooties are taken away. overindulging in detrimental practices. : : When these bacteria, fungi, viruses and other illnesses resist your immune system, all the info: Jack Kirven completed the MFA in symptoms pile up. This creates the negative Dance at UCLA, and earned certification as a feedback loop that becomes dangerous and personal trainer through NASM. His wellness requires treatment. It also happens when the philosophy is founded upon integrated lifestyles body attacks its own tissues, as if they were as opposed to isolated workouts. Visit him at foreign invaders. This results in autoimmune jackkirven.com and INTEGRE8Twellness.com. disorders. Those who suffer from these condi-

Feb. 23-March 8 . 2018

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EVENTS

Submit your event to our calendar!

February-March 2018 A Night In Rio: SEP FEB MO 9th Annual Brazilian Carnaval Experience Neighborhood Theatre 511 E. 36th St., Charlotte 7 p.m.

The Latin American Coalition will host its ninth annual Brazilian celebration, A Night in Rio. Enjoy Brazilian Carnaval through live music, delicious authentic food, drinks and dancing. Carnaval will take place on N. Davidson St., starting at the YMCA to the Neighborhood Theatre, where there will be free samba lessons, dance performances by Brazilian Fusion and NC Brazilian Arts Project, and a performance by the award-winning Brazilian carnaval band, Grupo Saveiro. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the day of show. Tickets and more information are available online. riocharlotte.com.

–––––––––––––––––––– Queen City Black Heritage Festival The Carole Hoefener Center 615 East 6th Street, Charlotte 1-5 p.m.

The 2018 Queen City Black Heritage Festival, with the theme “Past, Present, & Future,” will feature over 40 blackowned companies. Food, crafts, culture, art and more will be on display and on offer, including some giveaways. This is a free event. Those interested in being vendors can register at bit.ly/2DtUJ04.

More information is available online. facebook.com/events/783328995186770.

Fetish After Dark Faerietale Fantasy Ball Shiners 435 Dolly Madison, Ste. M, Greensboro 10 p.m.

Presented by Shiners & Zoo City Fabrications, this fetish event will feature performances and demonstrations.

There will also be a full dungeon play space and discounted toys.

A raffle to benefit Planned Parenthood will also be held. A $5 cover will be charged for those between 18 and 20, which includes unlimited soda. More information is available online. facebook.com/events/333579363795694.

SEP FEB MO

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Continues through Feb. 28 SEP FEB MO Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to dazzle audiences with contemporary works that span timely topics as well as the past. Tickets start at $25. More information and tickets are available online. blumenthalarts.org.

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You can submit your event to our comprehensive community calendar presented by qnotes, the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Visit Gay Charlotte. Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/ and get a threefor-one entry. All Charlotte-area events will appear on each of the three calendars at qnotes (goqnotes.com), Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce (clgbtcc.org) and Visit Gay Charlotte (visitgaycharlotte.com).

Dinner & A Movie: SEP FEB MO ‘Brother Outsider: The Life of Bayard Rustin’ Providence Baptist Church 1201 Oakland St., Hendersonville 5:30 p.m.

Civil Rights activist Bayard Rustin is most famous for organizing the 1963 March on Washington, where Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his famous “I Have A Dream” speech. The openly gay Rustin dedicated his life to protesting injustice and advocating for rights. He was posthumously given a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013.

The documentary “Brother Outsider: The Life of Bayard Rustin” will be screened, followed by a discussion on the film.

A potluck dinner will begin at 5:30 p.m.

More information is available online. facebook.com/events/128042074664882.

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Feb. 23-March 8 . 2018

Food Truck Friday, Light Rail Extension Party 2161 Hawkins St., Charlotte 5-11 p.m.

Join with the community and celebrate the launch of the Lynx Blue Line.

Get off at the East West and enjoy a night of live music, craft beer, wine, cider and food trucks at Sycamore Brewing. This is a free event.

More information is available online. ftf-southend.com.

SEP MAR MO

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Abari Block Party SEP MAR MO Abari Game Bar HIV Criminalization: 1721 N. Davidson St., SEP MAR MO Screening: ‘Family Moving Beyond Blame and Charlotte SEP MAR MO Commitments’ Stigma 12 p.m.-12 a.m.

Regal Ballantyne Village LGBT Center of Raleigh Abari will celebrate two years with its Theatre 324 S. Harrington St., Raleigh second annual block party. There will 14815 Ballantyne Village 12-2 p.m be two stages, with bands including Way, Charlotte “Punishing Disease” author and sociolo- Flagship, Junior Astronomers, Bassh, 7:15 p.m. gist Trevor Hoppe, of the University at Patois Counselors, and more. Food Reel Out Charlotte Albany, will join Carolyn McAllaster, of will be provided by Casa, Rocky Top and Charlotte Pride Duke University School of Law, Barbecue, and The Dumpling Lady. partner with the and Hector Salgado, of Alliance Local vendors will also be on hand Charlotte Jewish Film of AIDS Services – Carolina, in selling their goods and wares. More Festival to present a panel discussion on HIV crim- information is available online. the film “Family inalization. The National Black abarigamebar.com.

Commitments.” The Justice Coalition’s Mandy Carter will film follows two men, one Jewish and moderate. The event is co-sponsored by one Muslim, as they navigate their own the LGBT Center of Raleigh and the North relationship and that with their families. Carolina AIDS Action Network (NCAAN) The Gay Men’s Chorus will perform. and is free and open to the public. More Tickets are $11 and are available online. information is available online. bit.ly/2obRr7f. facebook.com/events/393818021058361.

To see more upcoming events, visit goqnotes.com/calendar/

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Continues through Mar. 18 The Most Incredible Thing Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts Times vary Javier de Frutos and the Pet Shop Boys’ “The Most Incredible Thing” makes its American debut.

Audiences of all ages will appreciate this fairytale pop ballet of Hans Christian Andersen’s fable about a King who holds a competition to determine who can make the “most incredible thing.” Family Matinees on Saturdays and Sundays offer interactive activities in the lobby at 1 PM, followed by the full-length performance. Tickets for children are just $15, with an adult ticket purchase. Regular tickets start at $25. Tickets and more information are available online. blumenthalarts.org.

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Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/

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life

Our People:

Q&A with Jermaine Nakia Lee Songwriter. Actor. Director. Playwright.

Producer. Community Activist.

by Torie Dominguez :: guest contributor

I

n his own words, Jermaine Nakia Lee embraces the following roles: Songwriter. Actor. Director.

Playwright. Producer. Community Activist. His professional Facebook page, TheArtistJNL, adds Master Teaching Artist to that list. In a personal profile he professes himself an “iconoclast.” He does his best to live up to them all.

white supremacy, abandonment, the HIV crisis, and equality. I believe that the performing arts are a universal language that can be used to bridge gaps and help us see our likeness.

What helps you relax when you’re feeling stressed?

Listening to R&B songstress Anita Baker or 1920s-1930s jazz sends me into a state of euphoria…passionate lovemaking as well.

That’s just not an activity I can engage in while at the workplace. Well I guess I could, but that wouldn’t be professional.

What cheers you up when you’re feeling down?

One wouldn’t be able to tell by my stature but I love to eat, especially to dine out. I am definitely a “foodie.” I enjoy experiencing foods from different regions of our country or other cultures. It truly makes me happy. Good meals, especially those made with love, have pulled me out of some dark places

A campaigner for social justice, as well as a passionate creator, the Miami native founded and remains artistic director of Carolinas Pride Theater Ensemble, while owning and operating the multi-function studio community NoDa@28th.

Among his own works are musicals celebrating groundbreaking African-American artists of decades past (“For the Love of Harlem”) and exploring the continued disproportionate, devastating impact of HIV/AIDS on African-American, Latinx, queer, and low-income populations (“A Walk in My Shoes”).

Lee previously held a post with the nonprofit PowerHouse Project, which provides HIV-related support services including free rapid testing, co-founded Charlotte Black Gay Pride and Carolinas Gay Pride Movement, and in 2015 was awarded Charlotte’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medallion.

The renaissance man shares with qnotes some words of wisdom, favorite relaxation techniques, and what he still aspires to achieve.

Which of your achievements are you most proud of?

My greatest achievement thus far is fatherhood. My oldest son Josiah and baby boy Jediah bring more meaning and purpose to my life than I could have ever imagined. I am so in love with them.

What is your greatest passion?

I have many intense passions. Those passions shape and frame my life. But I am super passionate about the performing arts: theater, dance, vocal performance and songwriting. I’m a published playwright who is primarily inspired to pen musicals. I have been fortunate to write the book and songs for three published works.

My productions so far address homophobia, substance abuse, depression, sex workers,

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

When pursuing a long-term relationship, it’s important to become the kind of partner you want.

So often we feel that having expectations for a partner that we ourselves don’t possess or even have a desire to possess. I am currently in a new and sweet love relationship. I met my boyfriend as we both were marching at the city’s MLK parade. We met while engaged in community which is a passion for both of us. Take careful consideration as to the kind of partner you want and then consider what circles that person would find themselves. If you aren’t already connected to those environments, make it your new way of being. It works. Best device I was recently given.

How do you spend your free time?

My boyfriend, my family and I love to travel.

For me, experiencing how other people live and breathe is the spice of life. I always return from vacations with a deeper sense of my humanity and the world around me.

We’ve all heard that smell is the sense most strongly tied to memory. What scents do you find most evocative?

I am moved by masculine scents. Other than the natural scent of my man, I love sandalwood. It’s bold and smooth all at once…how I aspire to present myself.

And finally, how would you like to be remembered?

When I transition, I want people to remember that I love my family, I loved my friends and I love my community with all my being. I want them to have a rich body of work that will include theater productions and songs that are an extension of me. I want the virtues that I strove for to be evident in my sons. I love for them to continue some of this work in the arts in and community. : : For more on Lee, read an extended Our People on Lee online at goqnotes.com.

Feb. 23-March 8 . 2018

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