QNotes March 19-April 1, 2011

March 19-April 1 . 2011

qnotes

qnotes

March 19-April 1 . 2011

inside March 19-April 1, 2011 Vol 25 No 23

I enjoy small town gays, the South is really amazing. …

They come to the show and get all dressed up, they’re so cute.

— Hunx (a.k.a. Seth Bogart)

23 6 a&e/life&style news & features

11 Drag Rag

6 Online war brewing in OBX

14 Perfect patio in 48 hours

12 News Notes: Regional Briefs

15 Five tips for fast home sale 17 Home improvements

opinions & views

17 2011 décor trends

4 Editor’s Note

18 Tell Trinity

4 General Gayety

19 Out in the Stars

4 QPoll

21 Simplify your life

5 On Being a Gay Parent

23 Heart to heart with Hunx

5 TalkBack

27 Q events calendar

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contributors this issue

ARAContent, Leah Cagle, Matt Comer, Kevin Grooms/Miss Della, Charlene Lichtenstein, Lainey Millen, Leslie Robinson, David Stout, Trinity, Brett Webb-Mitchell

front page Graphic Design by Matt Comer & Lainey Millen

Pride Publishing & Typesetting, Inc. Editor: Matt Comer, x202 editor@goqnotes.com P.O. Box 221841, Charlotte, NC 28222, ph 704.531.9988 fx 704.531.1361 Assoc. Ed.: David Stout, x210 editor2@goqnotes.com Publisher: Jim Yarbrough Assoc. Ed., A&E: Leah Cagle, x202 arts@goqnotes.com Sales: x206 adsales@goqnotes.com Production: Lainey Millen, x209 production@goqnotes.com Nat’l Sales: Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Printed on recycled paper.

Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2011 and may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent of the editor or publisher. Advertisers assume full responsibility — and therefore, all liability — for securing reprint permission for copyrighted text, photographs and illustrations or trademarks published in their ads. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers, cartoonists we publish is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or photographs does not indicate the subject’s sexual orientation. qnotes nor its publisher assumes liability for typographical error or omission, beyond offering to run a correction. Official editorial positions are expressed in staff editorials and editorial notations and are determined by editorial staff. The opinions of contributing writers and guest columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of qnotes or its staff. qnotes accepts unsolicited editorial, but cannot take responsibility for its return.

Editor reserves the right to accept and reject material as well as edit for clarity, brevity.

March 19-April 1 . 2011

qnotes

VIEWS

editor’s note

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by leslie robinson :: qnotes contributor

The sandwich-generation lesbian

Charlotte, on the cusp of change?

After years of little-to-no progress on LGBT issues in the Queen City, I’m starting to think we might be seeing the very early light of a bright spot in Charlotte. Or, at the least, that’s what I hope I’ve observed as small pieces toward progress fall into place here and there across the city.

For the most part, nothing has recently changed in any of our political, religious or social circles. Bill James is still attracting attention with his anti-gay rhetoric. County and city Democrats, who refuse to stand up to James or undertake real initiatives for change, continue to have no spine.

Surprisingly, however, what has begun to transform is the apparent level at which local LGBT community members are willing to speak out and take action in more visible and engaging ways. Those who worked — especially advocate Roberta Dunn — to make both behind-the-scenes and public inroads with the CharlotteMecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) kick-started what I hope will be a sustained trend toward real civic and social equality for LGBT Charlotteans. So far, I’ve seen nothing but positive signs that just such a trend really is occurring.

Following CMPD Chief Rodney Monroe’s forum at the Lesbian & Gay Community Center last fall, Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx took up an invitation to speak and answer questions from community members. New leadership at the center has been more engaged and open to community feedback. Just this month, the Pride Charlotte organizing committee — on which I hold a seat — announced that their annual festival would move to S. Tryon St., right into the heart of Uptown.

Charlotte’s LGBT community is coming out loud, proud and strong. Though it isn’t the first time we’ve done so, we’re reclaiming now after years of silent (and, I’d say, willful) subjugation our rightful place in the public square. Five years ago, Fred Phelps wannabe Flip Benham claimed a Crusades-like victory over Charlotte’s gays.

general gayety

by matt comer matt@goqnotes.com

“Charlotte Pride is back in the closet,” he told the city council in March 2006. “And it’s back in the closet because the church of Jesus Christ came out of the closet. And because you, city council, helped us to do that very thing.”

Creative Loafing reported at the time, “He still claims victory, even if Pride takes place somewhere other than its usual spot in Marshall Park. ‘Whatever they do in the closet, that’s up to them,’ said Benham.

‘They’re foul. It’s awful. It brings death.’”

And, for the most part, Benham has basked in his victory each year Pride organizers chose to confine themselves to private property. We gave into his game. He wanted LGBT people out of the public square and he got his wish. Willfully, we chose to withdraw from the public sphere and civic debate.

But this year, the Charlotte LGBT community’s virtual closet will be opened again. Try as he might, and we know he will, Benham won’t be able to push us back. This is the year, my friends, when Charlotte’s queers rise up and say: We demand equality. We demand it now.

We’ve waited long enough and we will no longer continue to reward or support politicians and other civic or religious leaders who fail to deliver on their promises and work to ensure all their constituents are equally protected by the full weight of law, policy and practice.

Corrections Our March 5 article, “’Game on’ in Tar Heel marriage fight,” erroneously stated that the Michigan Supreme Court had overturned domestic violence statutes. This was inaccurate.

Our article at goqnotes.com/10292/ has been updated to read: “The possible consequences aren’t hypothetical. Some states, like Michigan, have already rolled back domestic partner benefits as a result of similar constitutional revisions. Domestic violence statutes that protect unmarried or cohabitating partners have also come under attack in states like Utah and Ohio.”

We regret the error. : :

These rates only cover a portion of our true cost, however, our goal is to serve our community

Ever heard of the Lingerie Football League? It’s a women’s football league where the women wear helmets, shoulder pads, bras, panties and garters. Billed as “true fantasy football,” the teams have names like the Los Angeles Temptation and the Dallas Desire.

If this league catered any more to men there would be cigars at halftime.

But, I didn’t learn about the Lingerie Football League from a guy; I learned about it while visiting a lesbian website. The local site, theseattlelesbian.com, provided Lingerie League information and videos on its sports page. That in turn provided me with a reminder of my age, a keen sense of where I am on the spectrum of lesbian thinking and a headache.

I don’t react well when lesbians view women in the bootylicious way many men do. Maybe it’s because I’m 47 and remember how women fought to be viewed as more than tits and ass. Now to see lesbians encourage the ogling of women, to watch them match men drool-for-drool, well, that feels like a step backwards.

However, as I’m 47 and not dead, I’m mindful of the sentiments of a younger lesbian generation, which might be expressed like this: “Hate to tell you, grandma, but you older folks fought so that we could be whoever we want to be. We can revel in pure sexiness like guys do.

We can be as shallow as guys. So, thanks!”

Um, you’re welcome?

When I looked further down The Seattle Lesbian’s sports page, I found stories about the WNBA’s Seattle Storm. As a huge Storm fan, I was pleased to see them. As a reader teed off over the highlighting of the Undressed Football League, I assumed the site and I could now be friends again.

Not. The stories concerned three players and the site editor chose one action shot and two glamour shots. The two glamorized play-

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qnotes

www.charlottebusinessguild.org March 19-April 1 . 2011

LesRobinson@aol.com . generalgayety.com

What do you think about Pride Charlotte’s decision to move their annual festival to S. Tryon St. in Uptown?

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ers had on more make-up than RuPaul. So far on this lesbian site I’d seen sex and glamour — and that was just the sports section.

The experience made me feel old and on the curmudgeonly end of the lesbian spectrum. But, another experience with media had me feeling youthful and wildly open-minded.

I received in the snail mail the latest issue of a magazine called Lesbian Connection. I began getting the bimonthly publication last year and it’s now clear to me what an asset it is for dykes everywhere. LC serves as a lesbian forum, enabling readers, who provide most of the content, to tell their stories; it offers a worldwide list of lesbians willing to share information about their regions; subscriptions are on a sliding scale.

It’s also now clear to me that the average LC reader remembers Truman’s inauguration.

Okay, I exaggerate, but the magazine, founded in 1974, is something of a relic.

Birthed in the era of lesbian separatism, LC reflects its origins. Readers have names like “Artemis Passionfire” and “Flash Silvermoon” and while I wish I made those up, I didn’t.

I’ve read a lot about “womyn’s land” and combed through oodles of irate letters when the cover art on LC wasn’t PC. The magazine says it defines lesbians as “women-born-women,” meaning transgender women don’t count.

I wouldn’t say LC is stuck in time, but it’s moving arthritically through it.

I’ll continue reading and enjoying it and I’ll go back to theseattlelesbian.com. Both will keep me honest.

Now I know middle age is more than just a number. It’s when you feel connected to the generation behind you and the generation ahead of you — and when both generations annoy the crap out of you. : :

on being a gay parent by brett webb-mitchell :: qnotes contributor

When I get older, Losing my hair…

[Note from the author — The lyrics of “When I’m Sixty-Four”

by Lennon/ McCartney are throughout the

article. Enjoy!]

In 1967, the Beatles came out with their wonderful album (yes, I mean LP, vinyl disk), “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Heart Club Band.” I was 12 years old, on the edge of entering my teenage years, in Maplewood, N.J., and I saved my money for this album with an incredibly intricate, psychedelically colorful cover.

While my parents tolerated (barely) parts of the album, the one song they enjoyed was the honky-tonk “When I’m 64!” In many ways, it was a musical bridge for my parents and me, in which our generations met each other.

Now and then I would hear my mom and dad whistle the tune at various times of the day as they did chores around the house or while driving us to various activities.

Today, I am a combination of my parents.

And, what Beatles Lennon and McCartney

talkback

foretold is coming to pass: I’ve lost some hair, thanks to a natural receding hairline; I’m fairly certain my partner would lock the door at quarter of three in the morning; he needs a reminder about Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and the like; and I buy my own bottle of wine. He is handy in mending a fuse, though neither of us knit. I am the cook in the family, and he is the dishwasher. And, while I do not have grandchildren (yet) bouncing on my knee, I enjoyed bouncing both children upon my knees. I savored the time when they’d tumbled off of my back as a bucking bronco onto the family room’s carpeted floor when they were young.

I still tease my 18-year-old son that I can run faster than he can (yes, this is a challenge).

I am in the middle of my journey, my pilgrimage of this life. This morning I was told by my “younger” partner that I was “nearing retirement,” though being a scholar-activist does not pay much in terms of a retirement account. While I laugh and make great goofy faces with younger parents and their infants, I sigh and tell them I used to have young children too, oh, 20 years ago. Or, when I receive emails from abroad from a dad who is on the cusp of leaving his wife who has recently

Letters to the editor and comments from goqnotes.com.

Web comments are not edited for grammar or punctuation.

WBTV’s anti-gay sensationalism In response to “Correcting the record: WBTV’s anti-gay and sensationalistic tabloidism” (goqnotes.com/10136/) and “WBTV report on public sex questioned” (goqnotes. com/10106/).

And what do you expect from Charlotte NC? Reasonable media influence. Fire and brimstone from Heaven is more likely. I have grown to despise the South and it’s Talibangelical influence.

— kit, Feb. 24, web I thought Charlotte had gone forward as a star of the new south.

Of course there are always some people rooted in the dark days of human history, who need someone to demonize and hate.

All you have to do is look at the hatred and BS tossed at our first Black President to understand what parts of America are about.

Gay is the new [n-word] to some people who

dare to call themselves christian.

I have no objection to sending themselves to hell, but they could do it with out hurting other people. Just go work on the sabbath, eat pig and shellfish, wear clothes made of differing kinds of cloth etc etc.

Freedom to send themselves to hell is freedom so richly deserved. Especially for their ministers who also often justify slavery as per the bible.

— Stan James, Feb. 28, web N.C.’s marriage fight In response to “’Game on’ in Tar Heel marriage fight” (goqnotes.com/10292/).

It’s clear that amendments in other states have been used to impact things other than marriage.

Here’s a link to one Michigan Supreme Court decision: http://courts.michigan.gov/supremecourt/ Clerk/11-07/133429/133429-Opinion.pdf

VIEWS

given birth in his journey of coming out, I gulp and remember that I did something similar 13 years ago. And, those gay men who were my mentors in coming out, demanding justice where I used to teach, struggling to figure out how to live with another self-assured American male, are now in retirement on a faraway island in the Pacific, Palm Springs or have recently died, including my dad.

While not a grandparent (yet), I realize that the Beatles song that I sang lustily when I was 12 years old is starting to ring true in my 50s.

Who I am today is so not in the realm of who I thought I would be at that age, which is a good thing. I find myself giving more talks and keynote speeches on being a gay dad to young and younger audiences of people considering the possibility of parenthood as out lesbians or gays. I sat down (finally) with a financial adviser to see if I’m doing alright for my retirement. And, I am attending “Breaking Generation Silent” on Saturday, April 2, 2011, at UNC-Chapel Hill’s Friday Center, learning about the justice issues facing aging pioneers of the LGBTQ movement.

Then on Sunday morning, with my partner driving and dogs in the back of his Cherokee Jeep, we’ll simply go for a ride in the bucolic Carolina back roads, chatting with my kids via cell phone, or whistling a song that I learned when I was a young boy in New Jersey. : :

Considering the NC Supreme Court’s baffling 5-2 ruling in the recent Boseman v. Jarrell case, who knows what they would twist out of a marriage amendment — especially one written as broadly as Senators Forrester, Tillman, Soucek and their co-sponsors propose.

—Appellation, March 5, web I am gay, and support this amendment.

Sorry, but if you try and fight this amendment with scare tactics and bullying, I, along with all other gay North Carolinians who are not far-left nuts, will make sure that our voices are heard as well. This will be on the ballot, and it will be passed. Sorry, but you do not speak for all gay people, especially me. Take your antiRepublican hate speech and misinformation someplace else.

— Steven, March 5, web @Steve 5th, Mar, 2011 Why are you against two guys getting married? The marriage affects nobody but the two IN it! It doesn’t affect anybody else’s marriage!

Also, this story isn’t “repbublican-bashing”…it’s just matter-of-factly citing what some individuals who are republican have said.

—Ed, March 5, web

March 19-April 1 . 2011

qnotes

An online war is underway on North Carolina’s Outer Banks An Outer Banks native reflects on his past, his hometown and the controversy over a 2011 OBX Pridefest

by Miles Christian Daniels :: special to qnotes

Photo memories of Miles Christian Daniels’ childhood at the Outer Banks conceal the harmful effects anti-LGBT religious bigotry had on him throughout his youth.

It started with a blog post from Charles Tyler, pastor of Roanoke Island Baptist Church in Manteo, the birthplace of Virginia Dare and home of actor Andy Griffith. When Tyler caught wind that David Miller, who lives less than a mile from his church, was planning the area’s first-ever gay Pride celebration this summer, he took to the blogosphere.

“I know of no greater threat to the family that exists today than the homosexual agenda,” Tyler wrote on Jan. 26 on his church blog, “Pastor’s Corner.” He then called homosexuality “aberrant” and implied that homosexuals “persuade and influence” children. “I would recommend that families who love their children, keep them far away from the event OBX Pridefest,” Tyler admonished.

Miller immediately took his rebuttal to his Facebook wall.

“We are particularly upset over the accusation that we are providing children’s games and activities at pride fest as a means to lure children into our ranks,” Miller wrote.

Miller’s supporters, too, were outraged. “I’d be willing to bet that man (Tyler) doesn’t know a single gay person personally,” wrote one Facebook friend. The exchange, at times harsh, continues to play out within the “rant and raves” section of Craigslist, a popular online community. “Outer Banks Scumball Gays” read one recent headline.

I heard about the story after it had gone viral late last month and was picked up by several mainstream media outlets including United Press International.

For me, it hit especially close to home.

Although I live in San Francisco, arguably our country’s most liberal city, I spent my childhood and teen years in Wanchese, a conservative community that borders Manteo.

Most of my family still call the Outer Banks home.

I was eight years old and at a summer church camp when I first knew something was amiss in my own life.

qnotes

March 19-April 1 . 2011

His name was James. He was from another youth group.

It was nothing more than warm fuzzies, puppy love from a distance. No one “persuaded” or “influenced” anything about the situation.

I was gay.

Like most, I tucked it away and throughout my teen and most of my college years pretended to be just like my straight buddies. When “it” showed its ugly face, I dealt with it in secret, usually begging God profusely to take the “sinful” desires away.

Nightly panic attacks became so severe that the walls in my bedroom seemed to move in and out as if they were taking deep, long breaths. I heard hissing and ringing noises. I was mentally melting.

It wasn’t so much my sexuality that tormented me, but rather the fear that had been instilled from “men of God” like Tyler who stood behind a pulpit and preached sermons far scarier and damaging for a child than the puppet shows and sing-alongs Miller and his team have planned for their pride celebration.

After my sophomore year of college, I worked as a youth minister at an evangelical church in New Bern, N.C. I spent that year-and-a-half reading books and articles on how to not be gay and would sometimes phone Trinity Broadcasting Network and ask prayer counselors to perform the equivalent of an exorcism. Each morning, I went into the sanctuary and pleaded, usually with tears, my case before God. After my time in that little church, I went back to school at UNC-Wilmington. It was there, in an internet chat room, that I met my first boyfriend. He was a freshman. I was a junior. He lived his life openly. I did not.

I began to see my sexuality in a different light. What I had thought to be a perversion was now being lived out as a loving

connection between two people. The fact we both were male, had little to do with any of it.

I’ve been open about my sexuality for over a decade now.

My partner, Luis, and I have been together for three years and are in the process of adopting our first child.

Being gay has not been easy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Truth is, I don’t know any other way. It’s as much a part of who I am as my blue eyes and long, piano-playing fingers.

“It is not a healthy nor happy lifestyle,” Tyler concludes on his blog post.

I beg to differ and welcome him, or anyone else who shares this belief, into our home to see for themselves.

According to Miller, the show will go on.

Pride is the opposite of shame, shame that has been used to control and oppress LGBT persons throughout our history.

That shame, unfortunately for many of us, first took root in local churches, lead by ministers like Tyler whose sermons caused years of heartache, anguish and, in many cases, ostracism from family, community and friends.

It was Mother Teresa who once said, “I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love.” If only Pastor Tyler, and others like him, put these words into practice, they might just get their wish.

Replace hurt and shame with love and acceptance, and the very need for gay pride events could very well cease to exist. : : — Miles Christian Daniels is a writer, filmmaker and blues pianist. He directed “Dixie Queen,” a 2003 documentary featuring Wilmington, N.C. drag queen Tara Nicole and explored her life, as well as that of other Southern drag performers and gay life and culture on North Carolina’s coast.

March 19-April 1 . 2011

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March 19-April 1 . 2011

March 19-April 1 . 2011

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March 19-April 1 . 2011

drag rag by miss della :: qnotes contributor

Spring is here, there and everwhere!

Hello kiddies — here we are again, back to talk about contests and the girls (and sometimes guys) who do them. I hope this finds everyone doing well and ready for spring and the time change that’s upon us as well. Oh, boy! Longer nights — can’t wait! Ha! Before we get started, I wanted to mention a few exciting pageants that are coming up where you can run into yours truly — and two of them are the same weekend!

Mike Rhinehart is having his Miss Gay Mid-East America prelim at Scorpio on Friday, April 1 and I feel a bloodbath coming on for those of you who like watching the boy queens compete. There are rumors of queens coming in from all around to be seen on the Scorpio stage (a Miss America stronghold and winner of many awards in that system) and for an ample prize package as well. Come on out and let’s cheer on Jessica Jade as she gives up the title and see Raleigh’s own Coti Collins who is the reigning Miss Gay America.

Three nights later, at Club Mekka in Miami, Alyson Thomas presents her Carolina Continental pageants — “regular,” PLUS, Elite and the Mr. I do know I’ll accompany Miss Carolina Continental Elite Macy Alexander and good sis Leslie Lain to the festivities. I’m told Versage may be on-hand to film. I know y’all saw Versage on the season opener of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” right?

More on this later!

The third contest I was mentioning is Miss NC U.S.ofA., coming up the third weekend of March at Warehouse 29 in Greensboro. Don’t miss it! I wonder if I’ll catch a glimpse of one of my favorite queens of all time, Kelly Raye?

A bitch can only hope!

Speaking of the “Drag Race,” by the time this comes out, contestant Stacy Layne Matthews will have already graced the stage of the Scorpio and had an on-stage chat with Roxxy C. Moorecox. I’ll follow up on that in an upcoming edition.

Since I mentioned Warehouse 29, it’s only fitting that I should mention the Mardi Gras contest they just had. My good sis Arabia Kinght-Addams was relinquishing the title and Monica Marlo won Talent, Gown and the crown! I’ve not seen this ole gal compete in ages! Congrats, sis, from one old school sis to another! Her runners-up were Cherries Jubilee (who won On-Stage and tied in Presentation with Monica) and Malaya Chanel Iman.

A new pageant that I’ll mention took place some time ago in Hickory at Club Cabaret — the Don’t H8 contest. This organization is made up of a group of folks who will be travelling to do musical numbers, dance routines, acting skits or a combination thereof. They did a Miss and Mr. contest with Monica Jeffries and Chip Matthews crowning the new folks — Barbara Mayberry with 1st RU Lexy and a newcomer to the stage, Stone Parque, and his RU Skyler. Miss Gay North America Supreme Ashley Adams hosted along with Jeff Reeves. Stone also recently just won Mr. NC Unlimited Classique while Diamonique won the Miss title.

In closing, I’ll tell you about what will (probably) be the final two benefits for my

sponsored kid’s housing and school fund — and they involve drag, of course, so it’s all good.

Buff Faye’s drag brunch in February at Hartigan’s was a lot of fun and a success — it featured Buff, Kiana Layne, Sierra Santana, Miley Virus and Brooke Divine. The total contribution ended up being $215 and I happen to know visiting artist Brooke made cute tips that day (her birthday) — so see Buff if you’d like to make some extra money on a Sunday afternoon. The following Friday night, I was at the Rainbow House at Myrtle Beach where Jessica Raye and her husband Nick hosted me and Morgan Richards was pouring the cocktails. In the show, Jessica, Imani Chip Matthews, Stone Parque, Barbara Mayberry, and Monica Jeffries Tate, Daisha Monet Tate appliances purchased and his school year and Kristina DeeVine, should be paid for as well. It really does take along with a most lovely owner Miss Micki, a village, Secretary Clinton! : : helped me raise $600 for my Gerardo in info: Drop me a line, OK? Honduras. In the last year, along with family TheTeaMissD@yahoo.com and friends, we’ve raised right at $13k! So, the land and house are paid for, there will be

March 19-April 1 . 2011

qnotes

11

BRIEFS

news notes: from the carolinas, nation and world compiled by Lainey Millen :: lainey@goqnotes.com | David Stout :: david@goqnotes.com | Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Carolina campuses consider dropping Chick-fil-A RALEIGH — After provoking ire from LGBT activists and bloggers over their donations to anti-gay groups and causes, restaurant chain Chick-fil-A might soon find itself without at home at two North Carolina universities.

Duke University is in the process of reviewing their relationship with the restaurant, reports Nubian Message. Some students at N.C. State University are also discussing whether to push for Chick-fil-A’s ouster from their campus. Students at nine colleges and universities across the country have ramped up efforts to see the restaurant banned from their campuses.

The brouhaha began in February when Chick-fil-A decided to provide food for a marriage seminar for a leading anti-gay organization in Pennsylvania. Jeremy Hooper of GoodAsYou.org also uncovered millions of dollars in donations to anti-gay causes by Chick-fil-A’s non-profit arm, the WinShape Foundation.

When the restaurant was successfully removed from Indiana University South Bend, Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy released a written statement distancing his company from the anti-gay group.

“Providing food to these events or any event is not an endorsement of the mission, political stance or motives of this or any other organization,” stated Cathy.

Cathy continued, “We will not champion any political agendas on marriage and family. This decision has been made, and we understand the importance of it. At the same time, we will continue to offer resources to strengthen marriages and families. To do anything different would be inconsistent with our purpose and belief in Biblical principles.’”

Justine Hollingshead, director for N.C. State University’s GLBT Programs and Services, has indicated that there is talk among a variety of student groups on how the university should handle this situation.

She feels that students, who have buying power, should have the last word on whether the establishment ought to be given the green light to

Charlotte Teens say school not supportive

CONCORD — FOX Charlotte reported on March 8 that a group of students who formed a gay-straight alliance (GSA) at Central Cabarrus High School were being subjected to bullying and harassment for a better part of the 2010-11 school year.

The club’s president Jessyca Blair has reported being attacked by a male student at school.

Ronnye Boone, a public information officer with the school system said they take harassment and bullying allegations seriously.

Help is available if requested.

State law requires protection for students against bullying and harassment. The 2009 School Violence Protection Act added “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” to the list of characteristics protected by statute.

— L.M.

Softball league ramps up

CHARLOTTE — Dust off that glove and head on down to one of two season kickoff events for the Carolina Softball Alliance, a non-profit league that welcomes all individuals and amateur athletes, regardless of sexual orientation.

Players are placed on teams according to their skill level.

On March 25, slide on down to Sidelines, 4544 South Blvd., from 7:30-9:30 p.m. The next evening tag the base at Hartigan’s, 601 South Cedar St., at 7 p.m. Volunteers will be there to accept registrations and share more about the league.

For more information, email info@carolina

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stay or be asked to exit.

Kelley Brackett, public communication specialist for N.C. State University dining and catering operations, told The Technician that the Chick-fil-A on campus has avoided significant criticism.

“We cannot speak for the Chick-fil-A corporation, but we haven’t seen any backlash from the recent controversy,” Brackett said.

The university is a franchise owner of one Chick-fil-A location on campus and will add another this spring.

Brackett also stressed that N.C. State University’s dining services remain open to everyone in the university community.

“University Dining welcomes all students, faculty and staff into all of our locations.

We also welcome anyone to apply to work at our locations. University Dining in no way discriminates against sexual preference, religious preference, race or gender,” Brackett said. “Chick-fil-A has always been one of our most popular locations and remains one of our most visited retail operations.”

— L.M. & M.C.

softball.org or visit carolinasoftball.org.

— L.M.

Benefit concert slated

CHARLOTTE — A One Voice concert to benefit Carolina Regional AIDS Interfaith Network, “When We No Longer Touch,” will be held on March 25 and 26 at 7:30 p.m. at Heaton Hall at Myers Park Baptist Church, 1900 Queens Rd. “When We No Longer Touch,” is an AIDS requiem telling a story of love, life, upheaval, loss, acceptance and reconciliation. This work, paired with additional songs celebrating hope and love, is dedicated to all in the Queen City living with HIV or who serve the HIV/AIDS community.

Tickets are $15/adult, $10/student. They are available online at onevoicechorus. com/performances/spring_2011.html, at Paper Skyscraper, 330 East Blvd., or at White Rabbit, 920 Central Ave. For more information, visit carolinarain.org.

— L.M.

PFLAG sponsors Pride

SALISBURY — Seems there is a new kid on the block. The Salisbury-Rowan Chapter of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays has taken the torch to present the town’s first Pride celebration on June 25 in the 100 block of E. Fisher St. from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Theme for the event is “Our City, One Goal, Equality For All.” The day’s activities will be filled with music and entertainment, games for children, food and arts and crafts displays.

Other patrons and sponsors are sought, as

March 19-April 1 . 2011

well as area businesses, groups and vendors to set up booths.

For more information or sign-up forms, write Pride Committee , P.O. Box 5207, Salisbury, N.C. 28147-0088 or visit salisburypride.com.

— L.M.

Triad Foundation opens grant season

WINSTON-SALEM — The Adam Foundation, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, is now accepting grant applications. The deadline is April 8.

The Foundation raises money in the community and distributes those funds to local agencies as grants in accordance with its mission statement.

For complete details on eligibility and guidelines or for more information, email grants@adamfoundation.org or visit adamfoundation.org.

— L.M.

GGF raises big bucks

GREENSBORO — The Guilford Green Foundation’s 4th Annual Women’s Party, held on Feb. 11 at Studio B, raised more than $43,000 to benefit grant programs for the Triad’s LGBT community. Over 190 women were in attendance.

“Events like this make it possible for Guilford Green Foundation to continue to support the Triad LGBT community through grants and other awareness efforts,” said co-chair Minita Sanghvi (pictured). “Thanks to these women, we not only exceeded our fundraising goal, but it cast a spotlight on the good work

of this organization.”

The Women’s Party was created to engage, attract and retain women donors and serves as the Foundation’s only women’s donor cultivation event. It also serves as a community building and networking/socializing event for the Triad community — specifically for lesbian, bisexual, transgender and allied women. Sanghvi was joined by Melissa Greer who also served as co-chair.

For more information, visit www.ggfnc.org.

— L.M.

Film fest reels out

WINSTON-SALEM — The 13th Annual RiverRun International Film Festival returns to the Triad from April 8-17.

The featured film, “We Were Here,” a documentary which takes a reflective look at the arrival and impact of AIDS in early 1980s San Francisco, comes to the festival with a partnership between the festival and Out at the Movies. It will be shown on April 15, 3:30 p.m. and April 17, 10 a.m. at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts’ ACE Theatre Complex, 1533 S. Main St. Tickets for the film, as well as the rest of the festival, are available online riverrunfilm.com.

— L.M.

Triangle Alderwoman, partner sign DP registry

CARRBORO — Alderwoman Lydia Lavelle and Alicia Stemper signed the town’s domestic partnership registry on March 4. But, they did not take this step lightly. They did it to “protest a push for legislation that would ban such unions in North Carolina,” the News and Observer reported.

Stemper is an investigator for the state capital defender’s office and said that she felt that defense of marriage was a misnomer.

Senate Bill 106 which was recently introduced would support marriage being between of a man and a woman, contrary to what is being sought by LGBT citizens.

Chapel Hill and Carrboro are the only two municipalities to offer domestic partnership registration.

— L.M.

Regional Poll shows positive trend

ELON — An Elon University Poll released on Feb. 28 showed that a majority of North Carolinians support marriage or civil unions for same-sex couples and oppose a constitutional amendment to prevent same-sex couples from marrying. The poll also revealed significant increases in public support for LGBT equality in just the last two years.

The poll showed 57 percent support for marriage, civil union or partnerships for samesex couples, with only 35 percent opposing any legal recognition for same-sex couples.

That represents 9 percent increase in support for legal recognition of same-sex relationships in the past two years. This year, 29 percent support civil unions or partnerships, while 28 percent support full marriage rights.

The survey also found a 56 percent of North Carolinians oppose or strongly oppose an amendment to the state constitution that would prevent any same-sex marriages, with just 38 percent supporting. Opposition to the amendment increased 5 percent in the last two years.

— L.M.

National SLDN communications director named

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A South Carolina native was named on March 10 as the new communications director for Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN), a national legal services and policy organization that for nearly two decades advocated for the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT). SLDN also provides legal services to those impacted by or fired under the statute.

Zeke Stokes, who lives in Washington, D.C., with his partner of three years, will be responsible for planning, implementing, managing and evaluating all communications for the group as DADT repeal moves through the certification and implementation phases.

He will report directly to the chief operating officer and work closely with the executive director on key communications strategies.

— Compiled from release

GOP will defend DOMA

WASHINGTON, D.C. — LGBT rights groups condemned U.S. House Republican leadership for formally voting to authorize intervention to defend the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in court. The Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group, convened by Speaker Boehner, voted 3-2 to authorize the House to retain legal counsel. Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-MD) voted against the action.

With at least nine cases challenging the constitutionality of DOMA, spanning three appellate courts and four district courts in six states, the March 9 vote sets up an expansive and expensive undertaking. In February, the Obama administration an-

nounced that the president had concluded that a key section of DOMA is unconstitutional and the administration would no longer defend the discriminatory law.

— D.S.

Lesbians burned by insurance co.

VONORE, Tenn. — On Sept. 4, 2010, Laura and Carol Ann Stutte’s rural Tennessee home was burned to the ground in an apparent hate crime. Six months later, the lesbian couple’s $206,000 homeowners policy remains unpaid and the Springfield, Mo., insurance company that owns the policy — American National Property and Casualty, a subsidiary of American National Insurance Company — shows no signs of following through on their obligations.

The fire was preceded by months of death threats from a neighbor. As the couple’s home went up in smoke, a detached garage had the word “QUEERS” spray-painted on the side in giant black letters.

To date, American National refuses to pay out the couple’s homeowners policy and refuses to pay their living expenses in full, as detailed in a policy rider — even though the company acknowledges that the couple continues to pay the premiums.

— D.S.

AG calls for marriage equality

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Attorney General Kamala Harris has filed a brief with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit asking that the stay on the U.S. District Court ruling in Perry v.

Schwarzenegger — which more than six months ago declared Prop. 8 unconstitutional — be lifted immediately, once again allowing

gay and lesbian couples in California to marry.

“For 846 days, Proposition 8 has denied equality under the law to gay and lesbian couples,” Harris stated in her brief. “Each and every one of those days, same-sex couples have been denied their right to convene loved ones and friends to celebrate marriages sanctioned and protected by California law. Each one of those days, loved ones have been lost, moments have been missed, and justice has been denied.”

At press time there had been no response from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

— D.S.

Obamas host anti-bullying conf.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The President and First Lady called for a united effort to address bullying at the White House Conference on Bullying Prevention. Approximately 150 students, parents, teachers, non-profit leaders, advocates, and policymakers came together March 10 to discuss how they can work together to make America’s schools and communities safe for all students.

“If there’s one goal of this conference, it’s to dispel the myth that bullying is just a harmless rite of passage or an inevitable part of growing up. It’s not,” said President Barack Obama. “Bullying can have destructive consequences for our young people. And it’s not something we have to accept.”

A delegation from the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network was on hand to press for the administration’s support for the bipartisan Safe Schools Improvement Act, a federal anti-bullying bill introduced by Sens.

Bob Casey and Mark Kirk.

— D.S.

Global Anti-gay couple can’t foster

DERBY, England — Eunice and Owen Johns, a Christian couple who were turned down as respite foster care providers because of their negative views on homosexuality, lost their legal challenge last month against the Derby City Council in the High Court.

Lord Justice James Munby and Justice Jack Beatson ruled that laws protecting people from discrimination because of their sexual orientation “should take precedence” over the right not to be discriminated against on religious grounds. They added that if children were placed with caregivers who object to homosexuality and same-sex relationships, “there may well be a conflict with the local authority’s duty to ‘safeguard and promote the welfare’ of looked-after children” Following the Court’s ruling, Eunice Johns said: “We have been excluded because we have moral opinions based on our faith and we feel sidelined because we are Christians with normal, mainstream, Christian views on sexual ethics. We are prepared to love and accept any child. All we were not willing to do was to tell a small child that the practice of homosexuality was a good thing.”

— D.S. info: Have news or other information? Send your press releases and updates for inclusion in our News Notes: editor@goqnotes.com.

March 19-April 1 . 2011

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SPRING GARDENING

Attaining the perfect patio in 48 hours Spring is a time of renewal with flowers and trees blooming, grass greening and warmer temperatures bringing us back to the outdoors. But before you can begin to truly enjoy the fresh air, there are many updates needed to help your patio areas recover from the harsh effects of old man winter.

Luckily, with a few spring spruce-up projects, you can achieve a patio revival in only a weekend that’s simple, yet looks sensational. Here are some quick patio primping tips from Krylon:

Wash away winter When we think spring, we think cleaning.

No matter what type of patio you may have, pressure washing is a simple way to make it shine. It offers instant gratification as layers of dirt, dust and grime are quickly blasted away.

Don’t have a pressure washer? No need to run out and buy one; most rental companies or home improvement centers offer reasonably priced daily rentals. Or it’s an opportunity to visit the neighbors you haven’t seen during the cold months to borrow theirs.

Bring new life to old furniture Once your patio area is clean, it’s time to bring out the seating. But have your table and chairs seen better days? The outdoor elements can wreak havoc on patio furniture. Fortunately, you can easily turn something ready for the trash into a new treasure by updating it with a coat of spray paint.

To start, lightly sand and clean the entire surface. Next, spray the entire piece of furniture with a new, updated paint color. For metal, wood or wicker surfaces, try Krylon’s Outdoor Spaces spray, or for plastic surfaces, try Krylon’s Fusion for Plastic spray paint. Both products are available in a wide selection of popular colors and finishes and offer superior protection to keep your patio furniture looking beautiful for years to come.

Petals and pots with pizzazz Finally, it’s time to liven up your patio area with beautiful and aromatic flowers. But just as important as choosing the pretty petals, is planting them in the perfect pot. Terra cotta pots are ideal since they come in a variety of sizes and are inexpensive. For added pizzazz, you can update these planters with a splash

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of color. You can choose one color for all of your pots or mix it up. This is a great project that allows you to experiment with all of the colors that you love but were hesitant to commit to inside your home. If you change your mind, all you need is a new can of spray paint.

To start, turn each pot upside down on newspaper and spray the pot with your favorite shade of Krylon Outdoor Spaces spray paint. Once dry, you may choose to spray your vibrant pot with a clear, pearlescent or glitter spray to achieve the dazzling finish you desire.

With just these few simple projects, your patio will be festive and fashionable in just a weekend’s worth of work. For more information on other products or products from Krylon, visit www.projectsinacan.com. : : — Courtesy ARAContent

REAL ESTATE

Five tips for a faster sale in 2011

1

Start planning now Many homeowners wait until they have hired a Realtor to start strategizing about how to market their homes, but those who plan ahead will also come out ahead in the end. For example, it might have been too soon for buyers to start shopping for houses during the frigid month of February.

Times like those are better used prepping a home for a faster springtime sale and spring is just around the corner. Do minor repairs, add cosmetic paint to interior surfaces, update fixtures and appliances or just focus on getting rid of clutter and packing up items that can be stowed away to make rooms and closets look tidier and larger.

2

Pricing is the name of the game Once it is time to list the home, price it right the first time instead of engaging in too much wishful fishing around for an unreasonably high offer. Today’s buyers are pragmatic and they crunch the numbers before they even go out to see property. So, homeowners who hope to set a high price, and then later lower it if they do not get enough buyer interest, run the risk of losing valuable time as other competing homes sell because they are more sensibly priced. Keep in mind that the pool of qualified buyers who can get their mortgage loans approved in this economy is limited, while the inventory of wonderful homes at great prices is huge.

Don’t leave money on the table by offering a home too cheaply, but don’t price it so high that it gets priced right out of the market.

Open the curtains and blinds, turn on a few lights, take the pets to the park and feel confident that the buyer will see the home in its most attractive and marketable condition.

4

Don’t hurry up just to wait around It is also important to have Realtors screen buyers carefully ahead of time, to make sure they have strong financial support to make a purchase. Jumping at the first good offer that a buyer makes may be exciting, but it also means that the home will have a sale pending. That status typically discourages other potential buyers from looking.

If the home is held up by a pending transaction that later falls apart because the buyer did not qualify for a mortgage, precious time is

lost. This is especially true in springtime when home sales are more robust than at other times of year. By the time an LGBT seller realizes that the buyer isn’t qualified, it may be too late to take advantage of the busiest selling season of 2011.

5

Concede a battle to win the war Don’t blow a great opportunity to complete a sale because of minor squabbles or conflicting personalities. It is better to concede a minor negotiation of terms and conditions in order to close the sale than it is to win an argument by sacrificing the entire transaction. To ensure smoother negotiations, home sellers should only work with listing agents with whom they communicate exceptionally well and feel a natural rapport. LGBT sellers

often find those qualities easier by shopping for Realtors who are actively supportive of the LGBT community. : : — Courtesy GayRealEstate.com.

It is still a buyer’s market, and LGBT homeowners who hope to sell in 2011 are encouraged to be proactive about marketing their properties while avoiding common pitfalls. Now is the best time in years for homeowners to successfully market their property. Follow these tips and it is possible to not only attract qualified buyers but also enjoy a quicker sale — with potentially higher profits — while overcoming many of the aggravating hurdles faced by other sellers.

3

Convert lookers into buyers In a real estate market with fewer buyers, it is important to make every viewing count. If the home does not look its very best the first time a potential buyer makes an appointment and comes to tour it, they will not return again and they certainly won’t make an offer. Coordinate every showing with the Realtor to ensure that before the buyer steps onto the property the curb appeal is alluring, the home is clean and any excess clutter is gone or stored away so that the square footage of the house is not disguised, but emphasized.

March 19-April 1 . 2011

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qomunity

qonexions

u

Home Services

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March 19-April 1 . 2011

HOME DECORATING & REMODELING

Best home improvements for your renovation dollars Homeowners renovate for two basic reasons: money and fun. Or, more precisely, they undertake home improvements to improve their home’s resale value or their enjoyment of their house. The best home improvements, however, are ones that deliver on both objectives.

Americans will spend nearly $141 billion on remodeling in the first half of this year, according to Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies. If you’ll be among the many homeowners opting to improve, rather than move, you may be wondering what renovations are likely to give you the best balance of enhanced resale value and immediate enjoyment.

Here are five home improvements — from budget-friendly to big budget — that provide noteworthy return on investment (ROI) in terms of increased value and improved enjoyment:

Bedroom skylights offer privacy plus natural light with an ever-changing view of the sky both night and day.

Skylights You can lower your electric bill by installing skylights that will reduce dependency on artificial light and fill your home with natural light. You can obtain quality, energy-efficient, “No Leak Skylights” from Velux for around $800 per unit for a standard fixed skylight with flashing kit. You can find a local installer to provide a customized cost estimate at www.veluxusa.com. In terms of positive energy, the mental and physical health effects of exposure to natural light are well documented. They’re also an effective privacy preserver for bathrooms where you might not want a wall window.

Skylight and sun tunnels (skylights that use reflective tubes to bring sunlight into rooms without direct roof access) not only enhance the energy efficiency of your home, they just may make you feel better about living there.

Decks Whether you go for wood or composite, adding a deck is a great way to boost resale value, expand your living space and up your enjoyment of your home environment. On average, homeowners who add a wood deck can expect to recoup more than 80 percent of its cost when it comes time to sell, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2009-2010 Cost vs. Value Report. Composite deck additions return about 71 percent at the time of resale.

Kitchens It makes sense that the room where most families spend the bulk of their time would be a popular remodel — and one that pays off big in terms of value and comfort. Even a minor kitchen remodel — costing about $21,000 — will return about 78 percent of its value on resale, according to Remodeling Magazine. A major kitchen job, costing around $57,200, will recoup about $41,200, or 72 percent.

Baths Whether you’re tackling a major job that involves knocking out walls and changing fixtures, or just making cosmetic improvements like upgrading faucets and repainting, remodeling a bathroom goes straight to the heart of our craving for comfort. Americans view their baths as far more than a place to get clean and take care of other necessities. Even if you’re not creating a home spa, improving the bathroom is sure to boost your home’s resale value and increase your satisfaction with the room. Remodeling Magazine says the average bathroom remodel costs around $16,100 and returns up to 71 percent of that cost at the time of sale.

Basement/attic remodel With more families staying put in the homes they have, rather than moving up to larger homes, many Americans are looking for ways to expand their living space while staying in place. Attic and basement remodels are great ways to add usable, livable space at a fraction of the cost of building an addition. The lingering effects of the Great Recession have multiple generations living together under one roof again, and many of these families create bedrooms, bathrooms or even family rooms in unfinished attic or basement space. Everyone appreciates the extra room, and attic renovations and basement remodeling yield resale returns of 83 percent and 75 percent, respectively, according to the Cost vs.Value Report. : : — Courtesy ARAContent.

Décor trends 2011 :: Natural lights Invigorate your home décor with this year’s classiest spring trends

by Leah Cagle :: leah@goqnotes.com

After enduring an unusually long and snowy winter, my heart has never been so eager for the fresh warmth and sunshine of spring. If you too find yourself daydreaming of finer weather and renewed energy, then what better way to fight off these last dreary days of clouds and drizzle than by bringing all the crisp new colors and styles of spring into your home? Hold on tight for a crash course in all the new décor trends this season has to offer.

Texture The textures of the season are complimentary to the naturalness of the color trends, playing on bold consistencies found in the plant and animal world. Furs and wood finishes can bring the farmland feel into your home, giving off a basic yet detailed style. Layered pillows and textured paintings recreate the beauty of flowers and the full feeling of being surrounded by the softness of natural plant life.

The quieter color schemes allow for a lot of fun with the textures, so don’t be afraid to mix and match. Pair up a fur rug with a layered or beaded pillow to create dimension and an understated complexity.

Style Finally, staple your killer seasonal savvy with the fresh styles of furniture and accessories. Glass tables and chairs are wonderful for maintaining clear lines and creating a modern feel without distracting from the decoration in the rest of the room. Curvy lines on pillows and curtains can add a bold personality to any room, especially when featured in a room with otherwise boxy or straight lines. Finally, functionality is both crucial and stylish — floating shelves and strategic storage are definitely in this season.

Color The artistic folks at Benjamin Moore Paint Company have formulated five basic combinations to inspire your color palate in your spring decorative endeavors. Details at right.

“First Signs of Spring” includes cooler greys and a hint of warmth with the muted sand color to create the feeling of a late costal winter. The quieter shades hold a comfortable tension with the earthy tan, resulting in a neutrality that would work wonderfully in a bedroom or living room with a highlight of natural sun, reflecting a pleasant soft light. calm (OC-22), castleton mist (HC-1), horizon gray (2141-50)

“Spring in Full Swing” plays on the deeply saturated colors of an early rainy spring. With moss green, full grey, and a dark misty blue, this color combination captures all the drenched richness of color that surrounds us, creating an earthy, nurturing vibe. agave (AF-420), eternity (AF-695), solitude (AF-545)

“Spring Twist” brings a feel of soft citrusy zing to the eyes, combining a pale pink with delicious raspberry and soft tangerine orange. It’s zest and playful appeal make this color set a lively choice, bringing a bright yet sweet appeal. ivory tower (2157-70), coral essence (2007-40), beeswax (2157-40)

“Springtime in Paris” is a chic blend of pink pearl, purplish grey and rich icy blue, and it offers a sophisticated yet sensitive combination.

Airy colors give a light, wispy feel with the whole blend being anchored fittingly with the smoky grey. calm (OC-22), castleton mist (HC-1), horizon gray (2141-50)

“Sail Into Spring” blends an ultra-pale pinkish orange with cool lavender and charcoal grey to produce a tart, fresh visual experience.

Inspired by a sea breeze feel, this pattern encompasses the pleasant combination of warmth and cool so characteristic of sea-side springtime. calm (OC-22), castleton mist (HC-1), horizon gray (2141-50)

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tell trinity by trinity :: qnotes contributor

Celibacy: Is it right for me?

Hey Trinity, I’m not becoming a priest, but I thought I’d try celibacy. Do you think it’s a good idea?

The C. Word, Annapolis, MD Hey, The C. Word, Sure, taking a break from sex and selfmanipulation saves your chi, makes you more creative and makes you hungrier for meeting someone special.

But, pumpkin, if you’re going ce… ce… ce… celibate because you’re tired of anonymous sex or dating losers, then try again. Celibacy is for people of “the cloth” or people recovering from a disease, including sex or intimacy addictions. You may not need to abstain from sex, but rather forgive your past experiences, choose healthier experiences and abstain from your fears of intimacy!

Dear Trinity, After a breakup, a job loss and an eviction notice, I’m hitting bottom. I’m always depressed and never have energy. Any advice?

Bottomed Out, Nashville, TN Dear Bottomed Out, You should feel sad for a few days to a couple of weeks, but then it’s time to fight back. Besides calling all your friends, searching the internet as well as newspapers for help to find a lover, job and a home, then try oversleeping, exercising, dieting

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and taking a little trip away. Staying active, honey, is the only way to beat depression. Remember, busy people rarely have time to be depressed! (My cartoon can show you how I handle this awful mire.)

Dearest Trinity, I’m 39 and fairly stable with a job, money, etc. My boyfriend of almost a year is 21, holds a full and part-time job, is very honest and never asks for anything. I buy him flowers weekly and take him out. But, my friends feel I treat him too good. Is there “too good?”

Too Good, Seattle, WA Dearest TG, Giving is totally fine, but remember men get bored easily if they don’t have to work for something. So, sweetie, let him work a little, which it sounds like he does. Also, tell your jealous friends to let you learn about love, dating and giving to your hearts desire. And, if it doesn’t work out, I’m available!

Hello Trinity, My boyfriend and I have just celebrated our sixth month.

Isn’t it time to suggest moving in, getting married or something?

Sixth Month Itch, Toronto, ONT Hello Sixth Itch, Sure, by month six you should be on your way toward some future plans. However, if it’s going well, must you pull out your “to do” list just yet? Maybe wait till the 11th or 12th month to start talking. If you’ll be together forever what’s a few more months?

P.S. Also read:

Trinity’s Sound Tips For What To Still Not Talk About Even In The Sixth Month Of A Relationship 1. Don’t talk about moving in together. It’s too soon! (Unless you find a two-bedroom apartment for $500 in Montreal or $1,000 in NYC.) 2. Don’t talk about marriage. Not just yet!

3. Don’t talk about open relationships, threeways or threesomes unless you have no sex life and still want to stay together.

4. Don’t talk about your past sexual escapades. Everyone has parts of their past that no one needs to know about, ever!

5. Don’t talk about buying property together. Baby, it’s unnecessary.

6. Don’t talk about his or her financial issues. You don’t want to get that close to anyone, just yet!

7. Don’t talk about his or her family’s problems. As a matter of fact, never talk about them, especially about his or her mother.

8. Don’t talk about the benefits of plastic surgery even if you have to look at his or her double chin and crossed-eye forever!

9. Don’t talk about borrowing money even if one of you has a lot more than the other. Refer to the song: “Money Changes Everything.”

10. And, lastly, don’t talk about religious conversions, sex changes or the Republicans! It’s way too upsetting! : : — With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity was host of “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama, and now performs globally. info: www.telltrinity.com . Trinity@telltrinity.com Tell Trinity, P.O. Box 23861 . Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33307 Sponsored by: Provincetown Business Guild 800-637-8696 . www.ptown.org

out in the stars by charlene lichtenstein :: qnotes contributor

March 19 - April 1 There is some powerful energy in the air when the Sun moves into Aries.

It’s time to jump start things, enter into new, exciting territory and take charge! But let’s also know when to take a break and re-charge for the next surge.

PISCES (02.20-03.20) Reap your just rewards now. Guppies are usually careful with their dough. It is nice to note that scrimping and saving pays off. Let a few pennies shake loose and enjoy your gotten gains. Yet, there will always be a hint of need even with your financial flush.

There is nothing so comforting as to feel that big bulge in your wallet. Hmm, or is it in your pocket?

ARIES (03.21-04.20) Who is that celestial presence who outshines all us mere mortals? Okay, it’s just a proud Ram who is hogging the spotlight.

So, what else is new? There is nothing that you cannot do. Use this time to get some new things in motion and meet scads of new people who can help you along. You are infused with spit and fire and you start spreading it around. Yuk. TAURUS (04.21-05.21) There are things that go bump in the night. There are spooky ghouls that rise up and surprise you. But, queer Bulls are fearless, feckless and fancy free, at least right now. Toss off your “straight’ jacket. Fight all dragons and set your course for a new proud you. If that path happens to take you on a cruise through the islands in search of a kindred spirit, that’s not bad either.

GEMINI (05.22-06.21) It’s a great time for gathering the masses, so make all your moves a group effort. How did you get so popular? Don’t waste this powerful energy on just playing around. You have a way of capturing the social dynamic and having it dance to your own tune. Choose your marching music and get ready to implement your grand plan — happy hour, on the hour, every hour.

CANCER (06.22-07.23) Professional opportunities seem to fall into your lap. Gay Crabs are encouraged to make a grab for power. You feel invincible and unstoppable. Try to do it unobtrusively and covertly as is your wont rather than rely on an obviously pushy maneuver. To your own self be true and be your truest in a corner office surrounded by your closest cadre.

LEO (07.24-08.23) If you feel closed in and suffocated, then welcome a liberating energy. Proud Lions feel the urge to break free and explore the universe. Plan a grand getaway or, if money is tight, cruise some new neighborhoods or websites. The most important thing is to get out of your own skin and into someone…er…something brand new. How tight a fit do you need?

VIRGO (08.24-09.23) Kootchi coo queer Virgo.

You are too cute for words. You are bursting with confidence that makes you especially sexy and alluring. You manage to catch the eye of every desirable suitor. Gosh, what a change of pace! Dive into the scene and make a splash.

Ah, if you could only bottle it and save it for the next drought. But, you now find yourself chronically parched.

LIBRA (09.24-10.23) Do you feel the need for connection? Proud Libras suddenly do not want to be alone and yearn to be part of a pair. Those currently in a relationship find ways of making the bonds even tighter. Those who are currently unattached manage to cast their vote for a few electable candidates. Who will win your loyalty? Explore and probe their positions.

SCORPIO (10.24-11.22) Work and exercise are highlighted. Proud Scorps get into the swim.

There is nothing that you cannot accomplish now if you set your mind to it. Do not waste precious time. Tackle all unresolved issues, handle

all long-standing projects and transfer the pile of “to dos” from your inbox to your outbox.

Sounds like a good idea to me!

SAGITTARIUS (11.23-12.22) How much riproaring fun can gay Archers possibly have?

I don’t know, but you are sure to test your party-hearty limits now. There will be ample opportunity to let loose and relax with a range of pleasurable pastimes. Romance may be in the air for those with a keen sense of smell.

Don’t be too full of your own aroma to catch the whiff of a certain wallflower.

CAPRICORN (12.23-01.20) Rather than fight the fates on this one, use the next week or so to enjoy the confines of your home rather than trot afar. You now have the will and the way to improve your surroundings. Become a happy homemaker and entertainer extraordinaire. Pink Caps might consider planning a family reunion to show off who they are and what they can do.

What can you do?

AQUARIUS (01.21-02.19) Aqueerians are fairly boisterous. Shout it out loud, proud and queer, compadre. Your opinions must be unleashed and disseminated. No one will have the heart to ask you to pipe down and you may even find that there is a troop of happy campers willing to follow your every lead. As long as you have the crowd, crowd into your favorite knoodle spot. : : © 2011 Madam Lichtenstein, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Entertainment. info: Visit www.TheStarryEye.com for e-greetings, horoscopes and Pride jewelry. My book “HerScopes: A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians” from Simon & Schuster is available at bookstores and major booksites.

NETWORK print and online advertising solutions with qnotes and goqnotes.com call or email us today 704.531.9988 adsales@goqnotes.com

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HOME DECORATING & REMODELING

Spring cleaning challenge 2011 :: simplify This season don’t just clean up — clean out!

by Leah Cagle :: leah@goqnotes.com

Simplifying your home is far from easy. A few months ago when I moved from my college apartment into an intentional community in Plaza Midwood, I faced my first massive downsizing adventure. At the start, it seemed only a bleak undertaking of saying tearful farewells to my favorite things and hesitantly conceding item after item to my “get rid of” pile.

But after the first few boxes started filling up, my spirits started to lift. By the time I was dropping off my things at the Free Store in NoDa, my feelings had certainly and distinctively shifted — I felt lighter, freer, even liberated.

It’s truly amazing how much stuff I accumulated on the basis of “need” that I rarely miss now.

There’s an old Aborigine saying that reads, “The more you know, the less you need.”

Concepts of simplicity like this are difficult to process in the midst of a greed-driven economy like that in the U.S. But, despite all the constant hype of needing bigger, shinier, newer things, could it be that perhaps less really is more?

Don’t take my word for it — try it out for yourself! Start small by choosing just one room, one closet or one drawer to simplify, then go from there. Below you’ll find a few amateur tips on how to begin.

Step One :: Bite the bullet The most difficult step in simplifying is actually getting rid of things — taking the clothes off the hanger, packing the paintings in a box. This requires a thoughtful reevaluation of needed items versus wanted extras

versus superfluous desires.

A friend (or two) can be extremely helpful in this stage, offering sobering advice if you get too emotionally attached or a steady opinion if you start to get too carried away.

With items you own in bulk, such as clothing or games, try out the “turn trick.” Simply make sure all the clothes hangers, games or any other belongings you are evaluating are facing the same way. After you use each, turn it in the other direction. Doing so will help you keep track of which items you have used and which you have not used. Once a preset amount of time has passed — two weeks, a month, six months — rid your closet or shelf of any unused items.

Step Two :: Trash, give or sell Once you have accumulated your “get rid of” pile, begin sorting your items. Divide them into three sections: trash, give or sell. Once you’ve separated them, consider donating them to a local clothing ministry or other service like Goodwill (goodwill.org). In Charlotte, check out The Free Store (facebook.com/ pages/Free-Store-Charlotte/130216280367360) and The Urban Ministry Center (urbanministrycenter.org). Each welcome your lightlyused, good condition donations.

Should you decide to go the selling route instead, team up with some friends to organize a yard sale. Or, pack up your things nicely and take them to the local Plato’s Closet to make some quick cash. Whatever you decide, the items are off your hands and into the hands of someone who needs them!

Step Three :: Lasting habits If maintaining a sense of simplicity is of value to you, it’s important to set a few goals for yourself.

First, create a way to track your purchases; keep a rough limit of purchases you can make per week or items you can have in a room to keep yourself in check.

Also, keeping in touch with people in need is a powerful way to keep yourself in check, remembering first the needs of others before desires of your own.

So go on — lighten up your space, free your mind and help someone else out while you’re at it.

Happy simplification! : :

Photo Credit: Steven Burleson

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Heart to heart with Hunx

by Gregg Shapiro

L

ed by Hunx (a.k.a. Seth Bogart), formerly of queer dance unit Gravy Train!!!!, Hunx & His Punx puts the gay back into garage on “Too Young To Be In Love” (Hardly Art). Described as the first “proper” studio album by the band, the 10 songs smell like black leather motorcycle jackets and boots, Brylcreem and Final Net, cigarettes and Dentyne. The band’s girl-group grind is filtered through Hunx’s distinctly queer perspective which is revved up on songs such as “He’s Coming Back,” “Keep Away From Johnny,” “The Curse of Being Young,” “If You’re Not Here (I Don’t Know Where You Are)” and “Tonite Tonite.” I spoke with Hunx shortly before he and the band embarked on tour.

Gregg Shapiro: Your moniker Hunx (from the name of your band Hunx & His Punx) stems from your time in the band Gravy Train!!!!.

How did you come up with it?

Hunx: That’s a good question. It rhymes with the other names in the band [laughs]? It was kind of a nickname that my friend Chunx (from Gravy Train!!!!) used to call me.

GS: A term of endearment?

Hunx: Yeah.

GS: When you were going through the process of coming up with a name for your own band, were there other band names under consideration before you selected Hunx & His Punx?

Hunx: I don’t know why I decided that actually.

It seemed appropriate, to bust out on my own [laughs].

GS: Does your retaining the name indicate that you consider there to be a through line from Gravy Train!!!! to Hunx & His Punx?

Hunx: I don’t think so, no. I think that it was never my intention so I don’t know why I picked that name I just think Hunx is a cool name [laughs].

GS: Like Gravy Train!!!!, Hunx & His Punx is a mixed gender band. How important is that mix to you?

Hunx: Well, I love being in bands with girls, number one. But I guess that’s all I really know. So I have to say highly important.

GS: Could you ever see yourself in an all male

band or would you really rather prefer to be in a mixed band?

Hunx: It’d have to be like an all-gay super group. [laughs] GS: Who would be in the super group?

Hunx: My friend Cody from The Sun. Myles Cooper, the guys from Limp Wrist and, maybe Jonny Make-Up? Like a really obnoxious, over the top, gay group [laughs] GS: Okay. Did you grow up listening to the girl groups of the sixties or did you seek out the music on your own?

Hunx: My parents listened to some of them, like The Supremes. And this is like really embarrassing but I think that I was really into (the movie) “Sister Act” [laughs], and like men’s versions of girl groups. I got like really into that as a kid.

GS: So you would count the movie “Sister Act” as an influence among all the other influences?

Hunx: A huge influence.

GS: Well, I bet Whoopi Goldberg would be happy to hear that.

Hunx: I mean like a really early influence.

GS: Many of the girl group hits were written by songwriting duos such as Barry Mann & Cynthia Weill, Carole King & Gerry Goffin, Ellie Greenwich & Jeff Barry. Do you have a favorite among those songwriting teams and a favorite song from that time as well?

Hunx: I can’t even think of who wrote what right now. I know Ellie Greenwich strikes a bell with me.

GS: She wrote “Leader Of The Pack.”

Hunx: Yeah, yeah, yeah, her for sure. Didn’t Ellie Greenwich write “Be My Baby”?

GS: Yes, she co-wrote that with Phil Spector and Jeff Barry, her other song writing partner.

Hunx: That’s a good team!

GS: Yes, in spite of Phil Spector being a little touched.

Hunx: Oh my god, have you read the Ronnie Spector book?

GS: No. Hunx: Oh my god, it’s crazy.

GS: Did you hear her newest Christmas CD?

see Hunx on 25

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Hunx showcases queer perspective continued from page 23

Hunx: No. I was totally not in a Christmas mode this year. But my friend saw her do a Christmas show a few years ago and said it was the best thing ever and I was such a fool for not going.

GS: The songs on the album swing back and forth between the exhilaration of “He’s Coming Back” to the sadness of “Too Young To Be In Love” and “If You’re Not Here (I Don’t Know Where You Are), which has that great line about teardrops on your telephone. Is that an honest reflection of your outlook on life, highs and lows?

Hunx: It kind of is yeah. It’s a very honest look, and especially like musically because I guess I started writing about stuff more as like an outlet, you know? If I was feeling really sad or like heartbroken writing songs made me feel better. So, yeah, it totally is.

GS: You have referred to Hunx & His Punx’s music as “young oldies,” and youth and being

young figure prominently in songs such as “The Curse of Being Young” and the title cut “Too Young To Be In Love.” What age do you think is the right age to be in love?

Hunx: [laughs] There’s no right age to be in love. I mean, I actually think being young and in love is really sweet. It’s just kind of a reflection on looking back at being in love when I was really young and thinking it’s weird.

GS: What was weird about it?

Hunx: It’s just intense, I think. And it’s uncontrollable, something you can’t help, and it’s kind of tragic, but also really amazing.

GS: Was it unrequited love?

Hunx: No, it wasn’t unrequited love. I guess I was in a super long relationship, like eight years or something, from when I was like 18…looking back on it just seems like really intense.

GS: Do you still speak with this ex?

Hunx: Yeah, we’re friends now.

GS: Bad boys also play a significant role in the songs “Keep Away From Johnny” and “Bad Boy.” Do you think it’s better to be a bad boy or to be in love with one?

Hunx: I think it’s better to be in love with a bad boy. Because they’re really hot and at the end of the day you’re not as troubled as them even if you’re sad about it.

GS: Have you ever been in love with a bad boy?

Hunx: I’ve never been in love with bad boys but I’ve had many crushes, but they end up straight so it doesn’t really go that far. Gay bad boys are kind of hard to come by. They’re not the kind I like. I mean I like gay boys a lot, don’t get me wrong, but gay bad boys kind of take on a different look in my mind, and the meaning of what’s bad. Like, crystal meth I’m not really that into it.

GS: That’s good to hear. You’re going to be embarking on a tour in April and May 2011.

What are you most looking forward to about that tour?

Hunx: Well, I love playing in the South. I can’t wait to go to Nashville because I’ve never been there.

GS: Why do you like playing in the South?

Hunx: I feel like people just get crazy. I don’t like stopping in the South, like at truck stops.

Gravy Train!!!! almost got killed a couple times.

I enjoy small town gays, the South is really amazing. They’re almost crazier than people I know here. They come to the show and get all dressed up, they’re so cute. I’m excited to go to New Orleans. We’re playing at Quintron’s house, who I really love and I haven’t seen in a long time. I’m just excited to go on our own tour, we’ve never done that in the United States.

We’ve opened for bands here and there, but we’ve never gone on like a major tour. So, I’m really excited to do that. : :

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March 25-27 • Charlotte GayCharlotte Film Festival The Lesbian & Gay Community Center of Charlotte hosts its annual GayCharlotte Film Festival. Various venues. gaycharlotte.com.

April 15-17 • Charlotte Queen City Stomp Hundreds of participants from across the country and southeast flock to Charlotte for Southern Country Charlotte’s annual Queen City Stomp, an LGBT Country-Western dancing festival including evening parties and dances and daytime dancing lessons and more. For more information, including registration, event details and lodging options, visit queencitystomp.com.

March 19 • Charlotte Petra’s Got Talent Petra’s begins a search for huge talent.

Calling all performers: vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, comedians, drag performers, stupid dog tricks and more! Cash prizes for the top three and bookings for first place. Visit petraspianobar.com for official contestant rules. Audience will decide the winner. Petra’s Piano Bar and Cabaret, 1919 Commonwealth Ave. 10 p.m.-midnight.

March 22 • Charlotte Creative Showcase Student artists and designers at the Art Institute of Charlotte will exhibit their works for fellow students, faculty, staff and the public. Knight Theatre, Levine Center for the Arts.

7 p.m. artinstitutes.edu/charlotte/.

March 22 • Charlotte Bonds Across Ponds TEDxCharlotte, Crossroads Charlotte, International House and McColl Center for Visual Art team up for for this special conversation on making friendships and bonds across lines of difference. 721 N. Tryon St. 6:30-9:30 p.m. tedxcharlotte.com. crossroadscharlotte.org.

March 24 • Durham Same-sex domestic violence Shades of Pride, Imani Metropolitan Community Church and Calvary United Methodist Church present, “Coming Out of the Closet about Same Sex Domestic Violence.” The event is free and open to the public. Representatives from Interact and the Durham Crisis Center will be on hand to provide information, share resources and answer questions. Guest speaker, Rev. Dr. Aleese Moore-Orbin. Calvary United Methodist Church, 304 E. Trinity Ave. 6-8:30 p.m.

March 25-26 • Charlotte ‘When We No Longer Touch’ One Voice Chorus and other local musicians including soprano Jenny Chen perform “When We No Longer Touch” by Kristopher Anthony. Heaton Hall, Myers Park Baptist Church, 1900 Queens Rd. 7:30 p.m. $15/adult. $10/student. onevoicechorus.com.

March 26 • Greensboro GGF Gala Guilford Green Foundation hosts its annual Gala. Cocktails, small plates and silent auction, followed by dessert and coffee, and music and dancing. Proximity Hotel, 704 Green Valley Rd. 7:30 p.m.-midnight. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit ggfnc.org.

March 26 • Charlotte Bootcamp 2011 Just Twirl presents “Boocamp 2011 — Ask.

Tell. Twirl.” with DJ Duo Travis and Eric.

Military-theme attire suggested, but not required. Visulite Theatre, 1615 Elizabeth Ave. 9 p.m. 21+. Tickets and more info at justtwirl.com.

March 26 • Charlotte underBEAR Party Woodshed Lounge and Bear Encounters host their “underBEAR Party.” Woodshed Lounge, 10 p.m. 4000 Queen City Dr. woodshedlounge. com. bear-encounters.com.

March 27 • Durham ‘Over Jordan’ Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus presents “Over Jordan — A Sunday Afternoon Gospel Celebration.” A TGMC fundraising event, with special guest gospel music sensation Mr. Robin Davis. VIP ticket package includes catered lunch and concert, $35. Concert only, $15. Tickets at www,tgmchorus.org/events.

Eno River Unitarian Unversalist Fellowship, 4907 Garrett Rd. 2-4 p.m.

March 31 • Charlotte UNCC Pride Drag Show Pride, the LGBT student organization at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, hosts its annual drag show, “Scarlet Fever.” The event will raise funds for AIDS Walk Charlotte.

UNCC Student Union on Craver Rd. 8 p.m.

For maps and directions, visit home.uncc. edu/directions.

March 31 • Raleigh ‘Sing for the Cure’ Kick-Off Social The Common Woman Chorus, the Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus and The Mint host a casual event to promote the upcoming Triangle premiere performance of “Sing for the Cure.”

Proceeds benefit the choruses and Susan G. Komen for the Cure-NC Triangle. Cash bar, free appetizers. Suggested donation of $20.

The Mint, 219 Fayetteville St. 6-8 p.m. tgmchorus.org/events.

April 1-3 • Chapel Hill Southeastern Unity Conference The GLBTSA at the University of North Carolina hosts their annual, progressive gathering of LGBTIQ students, young adults and others dedicated to creating dialogue, exploring strategies for grassroots organization and supporting common activism. The student-run conference is held on the UNC campus and is open to the greater LGBT and allied community. For more information on conference events and registration, visit studentorgs.unc. edu/unity/.

April 2 • Charlotte Amazing Race Bar Crawl [Ed. Note — This event was originally scheduled for March 5 and has been rescheduled for this date.] The Regional AIDS Interfaith

we want your who/what/where

Network (RAIN) hosts their annual Amazing Race Bar Crawl. Teams compete through a series of bars to complete the race and raise money for RAIN and its services. Event begins at Brixx Wood Fired Pizza, 225 E. 6th St. carolinarain.org.

April 2 • Chapel Hill Breaking Generation Silent: Facing the needs and challenges of LGBT elders This free event kicks off with a viewing of the one-hour 2010 documentary film, “Gen Silent,” focusing on the realities that many LGBT seniors are facing: the need to go back into the closet to avoid discrimination from aging providers and bullying from fellow seniors in long-term care settings. A panel discussion will follow to further explore the social, medical and financial needs of LGBT elders.

Registration is encouraged: bit.ly/lgbtaging.

The William and Ida Friday Center, 100 Friday Center Dr. 1-4 p.m. 919-962-6418. ssw.unc. edu/diversity/about/aging.

April 3 • Raleigh ‘Over Jordan’ Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus presents “Over Jordan — A Sunday Afternoon Gospel Celebration.” A TGMC fundraising event, with special guest gospel music sensation Mr. Robin Davis. Church of the Good Shepherd, 121 Hillsborough St. 2-4 p.m. VIP ticket package includes catered lunch and concert, $35.

Concert only, $15. Tickets at tgmchorus.org/events.

April 8-17 • Winston-Salem RiverRun Film Fest A bevy of cinema venues and other spaces across the City of Arts make way for this year’s RiverRun International Film Festival.

Sponsored by the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Arts Council and Reynolds American, among others, the 10-day event features a variety of feature-length and short films from all genres and across the world. A special screening of “We Were Here,” a documentary exploring the impact of HIV/AIDS in 1980s San Francisco will be presented at various times and venues April 15-17. For more information on venues, films, tickets and more, visit riverrunfilm.com.

April 9 • Belmont 20th Anniversary AIDS Walk Join House of Mercy’s 20th Anniversary Walk for AIDS to raise AIDS awareness and funds to benefit the organization’s low-income residents living with advanced AIDS. First 300 walkers raising $50 or more will receive Walk T-shirts. Sotte Voce of One Voice Chorus and Honorary Walk Chair Eric Thomas, WBTV Meteorologist, will welcome walkers at 10 a.m. A picnic reception with music on the House of Mercy grounds follows the

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arts. entertainment. news. views. three-mile walk through historic downtown Belmont. See thehouseofmercy.org/11walk. htm for donation forms, map and team information.

April 15-17 • Charlotte Queen City Stomp Hundreds of participants from across the country and southeast flock to Charlotte for Southern Country Charlotte’s annual Queen City Stomp, an LGBT Country-Western dancing festival including evening parties and dances and daytime dancing lessons and more. For more information, including registration, event details and lodging options, visit queencitystomp.com.

April 17 • Durham ‘Sing for the Cure’ Kick-Off Social Common Woman Chorus and Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus co-host a casual event to promote the upcoming Triangle premiere performance of “Sing for the Cure” on June 12 at the Meymandi Concert Hall. Proceeds benefit the choruses and Susan G. Komen for the Cure-NC Triangle. Cash bar, free appetizers. Suggested donation of $20. Revolution Restaurant, 107 W. Main St. 3-6 p.m. tgmchorus.org/events.

April 23 • Charlotte Plaza Midwood Spring Party Music from more than half a dozen bands and musicians. Artwork from community artists.

Food from the Diamond. This and more at the Plaza Midwood Spring Party, hosted by Petra’s. 1919 Commonwealth Ave. petraspianobar.com.

May 3 • Charlotte Walk against domestic violence The Avon Foundation presents Walk the Course Against Domestic Violence. Walk up to 18 holes (5 miles) alongside tournament players’ wives and families at Quail Hollow Club, a PGA TOUR course, to raise funds and awareness for the domestic violence cause.

All proceeds benefit local domestic violence organizations. $35 per person ($25 before 4/22), under 12 free. Quail Hollow Club, 3700 Gleneagles Rd. 6-9 p.m. 866-646-2866. walkthecourseagainstdv.org.

May 7 • Charlotte AIDS Walk Charlotte One of the largest AIDS fundraisers across the Carolinas, AIDS Walk Charlotte raises funds for the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network. To register walk teams or learn more, visit aidswalkcharlotte.org.

Submitting an event for inclusion in our calendar has never been easier: visit goqnotes.com/qguide/events/submit March 19-April 1 . 2011

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