QNotes March 28-April 10, 2014 by QnotesCarolinas

March 28-April 10 . 2014

qnotes

March 28-April 10 . 2014

inside

news & features 4 LGBT group marches in parade 4 Commissioner Ramirez dies 6 News Notes: Regional Briefs 8 News Notes: U.S./World 9 LGBT Democrats elect officers

qnotes

10 Charlotte loses two gay bars 10 State rejects gay plates

Charlotte area loses two gay bars in one arts. entertainment. news. views. week p. 10

a&e / life&style

Hartigan’s Irish Pub and Lake Wylie’s Rainbow In closed in late March. Pictured below, Margie Teal, owner of the Rainbow In and Rock Hill’s HideA-Way. Pictured right, Hartigan’s Irish Pub co-owners (L-R): Christa Reeves, Jill Phillips and Bethany McDonald.

13 Brunch with Lady Bunny 14 Boy George reclaims his crown 15 Playing the Field 15 Jane’s World 16 Precious Pets 19 Chad Michaels comes to Augusta 21 Tell Trinity 22 Q Events Calendar “We’ve been so lucky to just meet so many people. They’ve changed our lives. We bought it thinking that we were doing something for the community, but they came in and changed our lives dramatically.”

— Hartigan’s co-owner Bethany McDonald. Read more on page 10.

23 Our People: Kode Brown

opinions & views 5 Editor’s Note 5 QPoll

March 28-April 10 . 2014

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LGBT band marches openly in local St. Patrick’s Day Parade Parade organizers still affiliated with anti-LGBT Knights of Columbus by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com Hart had said. Later, Hart refused to issue any further comment to qnotes and accused the newspaper of distortion. “All of this is a bunch of stuff to get you publicity,” Hart said on March 13. “I’m not going to help you in that department anymore.” Hart also told The Charlotte Observer that his event was being “smeared.” Still, Hart and other parade organizers reversed course on the afternoon of March 14, telling The Charlotte Observer they would allow the Charlotte Pride Band to carry a rainbow flag. Other LGBT groups, including the Charlotte Royals Rugby Football Club and Charlotte Pride, have marched in the event previously. Neither were permitted to carry rainbow flags and were never identified by emcees as LGBT organizations.

qnotes connect March 28-April 10, 2014 Vol 28 No 24

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

contributors this issue

Paige Braddock, Matt Comer, Jon Hoppel, Lainey Millen, Gregg Shapiro, Barrett Slenning, Joanne Spataro, Trinity, Adam Wadding

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Design by Matt Comer, Lainey Millen Photography via Lady Bunny Mission:

The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBT and straight ally communities of the Charlotte region, North Carolina and beyond, by featuring arts, entertainment, news and views in print and online that directly enlightens, informs and engages the readers about LGBT life and social justice issues. Pride Publishing & Typesetting, Inc., dba QNotes P.O. Box 221841, Charlotte, NC 28222 ph 704.531.9988 fx 704.531.1361 Publisher: Jim Yarbrough Sales: x201 adsales@goqnotes.com Nat’l Sales: Rivendell Media, ph 212.242.6863 Editor: Matt Comer, x202 editor@goqnotes.com Copy Editor: Maria Dominguez Production: Lainey Millen, x205 production@goqnotes.com

news

The Charlotte Pride Band marches in the 2014 Charlotte St. Patrick’s Day Parade, making history as the first LGBT group to march openly with a rainbow flag and being publicly identified as an LGBT organization.

CHARLOTTE — For the first time, an LGBT community group was allowed to march openly in Charlotte’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Previous parade policies and practices had allowed LGBT groups, but forbade rainbow flags; past LGBT groups also had the words “lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender” or “LGBT” stripped out of their organization biographies. The Charlotte Pride Band was the only LGBT group to march in the parade, held March 16 this year. They carried a rainbow flag with their organization’s banner. Emcees at the parade’s grandstand announced the group as an “LGBT and straight ally” organization. On March 15, more than two dozen LGBT community leaders — including this writer and

Anti-gay Knights funding still in question The two dozen LGBT leaders had also asked the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA), a parade sponsor, to stop supporting the event and for its CEO, Tom Murray, to withdraw as grand marshal, due to the events’ af-

this newspaper’s publisher — released a joint statement calling on the Charlotte St. Patrick’s Day Parade Foundation to change its practices. Foundation board member Frank Hart had defended the ban on rainbow flags as late the week before the parade, telling qnotes see Parade on 11 that organizers considered the rainbow flag a “political” symbol. “Regarding your flag, our Related parade rules, which we send Commentary: Charlotte St. Patrick’s Parade organizers have yet out to all registered groups, clearly states that ‘No political to learn: ‘Exclusion is not an Irish thing’ goqntoes.com/27946/ or advocacy/cause banners are permitted in the parade’ Joint Statement from LGBT Leaders and we felt that the flag adgoqnotes.com/28108/ vocated a political position,”

Printed on recycled paper. Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2014 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.

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qnotes

Anti-gay former Mecklenburg commissioner Ramirez dies by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

CHARLOTTE — Former Mecklenburg County Commissioner Dan Ramirez, the first and only Latino elected to office in Mecklenburg County, passed away March 16 after his two-year battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease. He was 67. Ramirez, born to a poor family in Bogota, Columbia, moved to the U.S. in 1970 and to Charlotte in 1974. He was elected to a term on the Mecklenburg County Commission in 2004 and again in 2006. Ramirez was diagnosed with ALS in February 2012. Last year, Gov. Pat McCrory awarded Ramirez the state’s highest honor, inducting him into the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. During his time in office, Ramirez was largely known for his fiscal conservatism and had been praised for his friendly relationships across political differences. Yet, Ramirez also held decidedly anti-gay views. In 2004, he and other Republican county

March 28-April 10 . 2014

commissioners, then in the majority, voted for a resolution supporting the late state Sen. James Forrester’s attempts to pass a state constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. Forrester was ultimately successful when legislators passed a similar measure and voters approved the amendment in May 2012. Ramirez also opposed Mecklenburg County’s adoption of non-discrimination protections on the basis of sexual orientation, teaming up with former Commissioner Jim Puckett during the 2006 campaign. The two said then they wanted to repeal the protections and in a campaign ad attacked former Commission Chair Parks Helms’ support for equality. “Liberal County Commission Chair Parks Helms is out of control,” the ad’s narrator said, “raising taxes, wasting money and advocating gay marriage.” A funeral was held on March 19 at St. Matthew Catholic Church. : :

Dan Ramirez Photo Credit: Christopher A. Record, Charlotte Observer.

views

editor’s note by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Personal advocacy shows relationships’ power to change hearts and minds Late in 2012, local LGBT community leader and advocate Shane Windmeyer, executive director of the Charlotte-based national non-profit Campus Pride, made waves when he announced that he and his organization was suspending its boycott of Chick-fil-A. The national fast food chain had been embroiled in a bitter controversy over CEO Dan Cathy’s publicly-stated anti-gay marriage positions and the company’s spending, through its non-profit foundation, supporting far-right, anti-LGBT groups. At the time and thereafter, Windmeyer said the boycott’s suspension would aid in his personal conversations and dialogue with Cathy. The two men had struck up a friendship which Windmeyer said had allowed Cathy to get to know more gay people and learn more about LGBT equality issues. Later, Windmeyer said he had seen new IRS filings which showed a dramatic decrease in the level of funding from Chick-fil-A given to anti-gay groups. I had several months prior left a shortterm employment with Campus Pride when Windmeyer suspended the organization’s boycott of Chick-fil-A. Windmeyer, whom I consider both a personal friend as well as a colleague, had gotten to know me well over the past few years and I had shared with him my own religious views and background. We kept in touch about his growing relationship with Cathy as I encouraged him to keep up the dialogue. From everything Windmeyer told me about those conversations, it became crystal clear to me that Cathy was a bit like many of my own family members and friends. Christians, like all people, come in all shapes and sizes, understandings and, yes, ideological variation. Though many had painted Cathy an unchangeable bigot, I had the impression Cathy was simply like the majority of anti-LGBT Christians I have personally known. Ignorance, not hatred, is the bedrock upon which most prejudices are built, even if the result is often hateful or discriminatory action. Hatred can’t often be changed, but ignorance most definitely can,

and when it does, so do beliefs and understandings — but only if otherwise well-meaning Christians, as I’m certain Cathy is, open their hearts and minds. I believe Windmeyer was able to do just that with Cathy. I don’t think Windmeyer or any other advocate would claim Cathy is an LGBT ally; indeed, I believe he’s far from it. But, Cathy has proven, both in action and word, that he is listening, he is learning and he is growing. In early March, new IRS documents were finally released, showing Chick-fil-A putting a stop to nearly all the funding previously going to radically anti-LGBT organizations. Later in the month, in an interview in The Atlanta Journal Constitution, Cathy publicly credited Windmeyer for his growing understanding and Cathy said he never should have inserted himself or his company into such a controversial social debate. Cathy still has miles and miles to go on a journey toward full inclusion and affirmation of LGBT people, but he’s headed in the right direction. I firmly believe that religion-based bigotry is the primary cause of anti-LGBT discrimination and the continued suffering of LGBT people in this nation and across the world. Bigotry rooted in religion must be confronted with passion and spirit. True bigots must be called out; their actions held strongly against the light of truth. And, all of us, both LGBT people and straight allies, must do more, as Windmeyer did with Cathy, to reach out to those Christians and others of varying faith traditions who simply need room to learn, room to understand and room to grow. I watched as bloggers and LGBT activists blasted Windmeyer for his relationship with Cathy. Perhaps there are faults there; none of us are perfect. Even if so, Windmeyer and his decision to engage in conversation — instead of continued conflict — has been vindicated. We each have our own paths to walk. Some of us get to the destination sooner than others. If we want a truly just world, those who finish first should reach back and help even those who’ve yet to move off the starting line. : :

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qpoll Do you believe personal relationships are the most powerful tools for LGBT-inclusive social change? See the options and vote: goqnotes.com/to/qpoll Errata The original print and online version of the “Voices for Progress: LGBT Young Professionals” feature on March 14 inadvertently excluded a portion of Sarah Alwran’s closing quote. The full quote should have read: “On a national level, the most pressing issues are putting an end to workplace discrimination (ENDA) and increasing overall awareness so that more LGB and ally individuals step up to the plate to fight for, not only marriage, but equality for our trans* community.” The “Charlotte Business Guild joins national LGBT chamber” story published online on March 10 and in our March 14 print edition incorrectly identified the name of the Charlotte Business Guild’s new young professionals, internship and mentorship program. It is the Aspiring Professionals Initiative. In the March 14 print and online story, “’Drag Race’ veteran to perform at Augusta Pride,” the date of the Augusta Pride parade was mistakenly printed as June 21. The event actually occurs June 28. We regret these errors. Ever see an error or something that needs correction or clarification? Send an email to editor@goqnotes.com.

March 28-April 10 . 2014

qnotes

news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen & Matt Comer

Charlotte College students volunteer time, talent

CHARLOTTE — Eleven students from Central Michigan University were in the Queen City from March 10-14 at Campus Pride to volunteer their time as part of Alternative Breaks, a national program that gives school students an option for vacation and break time during the academic year. It is under the umbrella of Break Away, a national non-profit organization. The volunteers, who were members of the LGBT community and straight allies, used this experience to further their civic responsibility. This was the first time that Campus Pride utilized the Alternative Breaks program. Those who participated and their majors were: Renee Renauer, 19, sophomore, biology; Brandon Robinson, 22, senior, psychology; Mari Poindexter, 21, graduate student, Master’s in business administration; Steven Taylor, 22, senior, family studies; Emily Huckabone, 21, senior, marketing (market research); Sarah Stack, 23, senior, childhood development; Laura Trombley, 23, sophomore, elementary education; Natalie Shaefer, 20, junior, art; Scott Stewart, 20, junior, public relations; Kirsten Hissong, 21, senior, psychology; and Airelle Hines, 20, sophomore, journalism. The lion’s share of their time was spent updating the Campus Pride map resource that shares information about campus organiza-

Students from Central Michigan University participated in an alternative spring break with Campus Pride (left to right, back to front): Renee Renauer, Brandon Robinson, Mari Poindexter, Steven Taylor, Emily Huckbone, Sarah Stack, Laura Trombley, Natalie Shaefer, Scott Stewart, Kirsten Hissong and Arielle Hines. Photo Credit: Lainey Millen

tions, support services and resources for LGBT students. The rest of the time, they used their talents in other projects ranging from taking photos, writing blogs and working with data. A number of local leaders spoke to the group. Among them, Rebecca Taylor, assistant dean, Davidson College, discussed resource creation for LGBT students. Jennifer Conway,

Action Alert: Rally around safe schools legislation WASHINGTON, D.C. — Micah Johnson, director of school outreach at Time Out Youth Center, 2320-A N. Davidson St., has called upon the community to contact its U.S. representatives and senators to support the Safe Schools Improvement Act (SSIA). They join other LGBT-affirming groups collectively raising their voices in support of safe schools for all students. March 31 is the one-year anniversary of the introduction of the bill’s current version. This piece of legislation was introduced by Rep. Linda Sanchez in the U.S. House and Sens. Bob Casey and Mark Kirk in the U.S. Senate. It provides for improvements in school safety across the country by including several key provisions, including requiring local educational agencies to “establish policies that prevent and prohibit conduct, including bullying and harassment based on a student’s actual or perceived race, color, national origin, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion and the actual or perceived race, color, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion of a person with whom a student associates or has associated.” The act also includes a provision requiring annual notice to students, parents and educators regarding prohibited conduct and grievance procedures for students or parents to register complaints. The full text of the bill is available online at beta.congress.gov/bill/113thcongress/senate-bill/403/cosponsors. North Carolina represents only a small contingency of states that have included anti-bullying designations with the 2009 passage of the School Violence Prevention Act.

qnotes

It covers sexual orientation and gender identity and expression, among other characteristics. It provides a vehicle for reporting data at both state and federal levels for evaluation and review. Time Out has created letter templates for both the Senate and the House of Representatives. They are available online. At press time, the SSIA has support of 43 co-sponsors in the Senate and 183 co-sponsors in the House. Several North Carolinian Congress members have yet to buy in. TOYC is encouraging everyone to contact their respective legislators to ask them to be part of this important initiative. The following House of Representative members from across the state who have not co-sponsored the bill are: G.K. Butterfield (D-Dist. 1); Renee Ellmers (R-Dist. 2); Walter Jones (R-Dist. 3); David Price (D-Dist. 4); Virginia Foxx (R-Dist. 5); Howard Cobble (R-Dist. 6); Mike McIntyre (D-Dist. 7); Richard Hudson (R-Dist. 8); Robert Pittenger (R-Dist. 9); Patrick McHenry (R-Dist. 10); Mark Meadows (R-Dist. 11); and George Holding (R-Dist. 13). The district 12 seat previously held by Mel Watt is vacant. In the Senate, Sen. Richard Burr (R) has not co-sponsored, but Sen. Kay Hagan (D) has. For contact information on representatives, visit house.gov and for senators, visit senate.gov. info: For more information, visit timeoutyouth. org. Draft letter for the U.S. House can be accessed at bit.ly/1iUyHAU and the Senate letter at http://bit.ly/1nTYnCh — L.M.

March 28-April 10 . 2014

student life program coordinator, Central Piedmont Community College, addressed allyship. Matt Comer, this publication’s editor, shared information on how the LGBT community is represented in the media; and Brandy Alexander, drag performer, spoke about her 50 years of experience in drag culture. Alternative Breaks had 13 separate groups who participated in this year’s Central Michigan program. One was in Asheville, N.C., at the YMCA of Western North Carolina and the other was in Charleston, S.C., at Carolina Youth Development Center. In neighboring Georgia, a group participated at Open Hand/Jerusalem House, a HIV/ AIDS resource center in Atlanta. info: campuspride.org. cmich.edu. — L.M. and releases

Dragon boaters elect officers

CHARLOTTE — One World Dragon Boat has elected its new 2014 executive leadership team. Those elected were: Dee Bauer, president; Suzie Knight, secretary; and Liz Mahood, treasurer. Bauer founded the sports non-profit organization in 2012 as a response to the passage of Amendment One. Bauer said in an article in The Charlotte Observer in January 2013, “We humans are all equal…However, we live in a society governed by laws, and as such, laws exist that deny certain citizens that equality. Life is tough enough without discrimination and bigotry.” Competing was a way to break down barriers of discrimination, she added. info: oneworlddragonboat.org. — L.M.

Lez band hits Queen City

CHARLOTTE — The all-female, lesbian, boot-stomping, alternative country-rock band Antigone Rising, pictured, will be at the Double Door, 1218 Charlottetowne Ave., on April 3 at 8:30 p.m. The quartet is comprised of Nini Camps (lead singer), Dena Tauriello (drums) and founding sisters Kristen Henderson (bass/vocals) and Cathy Henderson (guitar/vocals). They were the first band on Starbuck’s Hear Music (Lava Records) selling over 150,000 copies of their debut LP in 2005. They have toured with The Rolling Stone, Aerosmith and others. Kristen EllisHenderson garnered much media attention when she and her wife, business executive Sarah Kate Ellis (who was recently appointed president and CEO of GLAAD), were featured on the cover of TIME Magazine’s groundbreaking April 8, 2013, marriage equality issue. Joining the band on their tour is Hannah Thomas. This soulful rocker has diehard fans from all across Georgia and the Carolinas. She has shared the stage with the likes of the Indigo Girls, Michelle Malone, Zac Brown and more. She was the recipient of the GA Lottery

All Access Music Search. Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls described her music as “the soul of old country, and that will always be there, but she’s also a diehard rocker with some punk thrown in the mix.” Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show is at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10/advance (available online) and $10/day of show. They will also perform on April 2 at Awendaw Green Barn Jam at 4853 U.S. 17 North, Awendaw, S.C., northeast of Charleston, S.C. Antigone Rising goes on at 8:15 p.m. and Thomas hits the stage at 9 p.m. for this outdoor gig. Tickets are $5. Other Carolina dates for Thomas include: April 9, 10 p.m., One Stop, 55 College St., in Asheville, N.C., $5 advance/$8 door (with Peggie Ratuse and Big Al), and April 10, 9 p.m., Delancy’s Irish Pub, 117 W. Main St., Spartanburg, S.C. info: antigonerising.com. hannahthomasband. com. doubledoorinn.com. awendawgreen.com. — L.M.

Triad Bingo ‘bonds’ the community

GREENSBORO — The Guilford Green Foundation will host it’s Green Queen Bingo, “BING007,” on April 25, 6 p.m., at The Elm Street Center, 203 S. Elm St. This fundraiser is chocked full of chances to win money and prizes. Enjoy cocktails with the queens at 6 p.m., prior to door opening at 6:30 p.m. Bingo starts at 7 p.m., with Big Shirli Stevenz serving as emcee. Game sponsorships, raffles and concession proceeds also go to support the foundation. Tickets are $15/regular and $10/student or military and are available at the door. For large groups, email info@ggfnc.org to learn how to purchase blocks. Sponsors are Custom Jewelers Gallery, The Q and Jake’s Billiards. info: ggfnc.org. — L.M.

Triangle Reality show stars visit home event

RALEIGH — The Beekman 1802 Boys, Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Brent Ridge, will make an appearance at the Southern Ideal Home Show on April 12, 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Blvd. They became LGBT community celebrities when they took home the firstplace win on “The Amazing Race” in 2012. The two city-boys turned rural farmers bring their urban charm to traditional goat milk products and other recipes. They met in New York City in 2000 and purchased the farm in 2007. Now they serve as hosts for “The Fabulous Beekman Boys” on the Cooking Chanel at 4:30 p.m. on Sundays. They will make a presentation and then be on hand to sign autographs.

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The Southern Ideal Home Show runs from April 11-13, showcasing over 300 home and garden experts. info: southernidealhomeshow.com. beekman1802.com. — L.M.

Center to host HIV workshop

RALEIGH — The LGBT Center of Raleigh will welcome the community to “HIV Now, a discussion about what’s really going on today” on April 17, 7 p.m., at the Contemporary Art Museum, 409 W. Martin St. The workshop explores the current state of HIV/AIDS. Joe Volpe, Ph.D., will serve as facilitator. He is a medical science liaison and HIV specialist with Monogram Biosciences. During the evening a number of issues will be covered. Topics covered include, but are not limited to: I heard I can take a pill instead of using a condom. What’s the truth about PrEP? Grindr and HIV: the truth about serosorting; news about a recent HIV cure; condom breakage and HIV testing; and undetectable viral loads and HIV+ partners. info: lgbtcenterofraleigh.com. — L.M .

Western Sisters leap into spring

ARDEN, N.C. – The SisterCare SpringFest will be held on April 26 at Lake Julian Park, 406 Overlook Rd. Ext. Currently, they are seeking contributions of services from the community for an auction. Participants will wear sandwich boards to

advertise what is being auctioned by a live auctioneer. There will be a raffle for a bicycle and music. All proceeds go to SisterCare. Every is welcome. More information will be available shortly. To donate, email Cindy Moors at sistercarewnc@gmail.com. info: sistercarewnc.weebly.com. — L.M.

Campus Scene Grads have first LGBT ceremony

WINSTON-SALEM — The inaugural Lavendar Graduation Celebration will be held on April 30, 6 p.m., at the Z. Smith Reynolds Auditorium at Wake Forest University through its LGBTQ Center. The community is invited to honor the students and allies for their contributions to the university. Interested Wake Forest students are asked to register in order to gauge interest. Visit docs.google.com/forms/ d/1Q9asZTxpx8tN86ZOfVaQK8duW-deOKnyo7_ VQFZ_1s4/viewform to join in. info: lgbtq.wfu.edu. — L.M.

Scholarship database launched

CHARLOTTE — Campus Pride announced the launch of the free National LGBT Scholarship Database in partnership with Point Foundation. This service provides LGBT and ally students with the largest, most comprehensive source of LGBT scholarship and funding

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resources in the nation, Campus Pride said. Campus Pride’s partner Point Foundation is the nation’s largest scholarship-granting organization for LGBTQ students of merit. Both organizations plan to improve the site and continue building it to be the nation’s premier source for information on LGBT scholarships. info: 704-277-6710. info@campuspride.org. info@pointfoundation.org. campuspride.org. pointfoundation.org. — L.M. and releases

Camp scholarships available

CHARLOTTE — Camp Pride Summer Leadership Academy will be held from July 1520 at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn. In its eighth season, the camp provides leadership skills building, organizational tools, as well as learning how to become a social justice advocate and leader on one’s campus. During this educational week, there is also an LGBT Professional Academy for Advisors, also known as Advisor Bootcamp. This will be the fourth year that it has taken place. LGBT and ally students are encouraged to bring their staff advisors. Registration for Camp Pride and the Bootcamp is $845 each until April 30 and includes room/board, educational program materials and meals. Sign up is available online. Scholarships are available for each track. They are made available through individual donations, grants and corporate sponsors. Application is available online. info: campuspride.org. — L.M.

March 28-April 10 . 2014

qnotes

news notes: u.s./world. Westboro founder Fred Phelps dies TOPEKA, Kan. — Fred Phelps, founder of Westboro Baptist Church, died on March 19. Phelps, known for his “God Hates Fags” anti-gay protests at LGBT events and military funerals, was 84. Phelps’ extremist protests often tested the boundaries of free speech, with state lawmakers and private citizens undertaking legislation or lawsuits to stop him and his church, largely made up of close and extended family, from protesting at or near funerals. Phelps first came to national attention for vocally protesting the funeral of hate crime victim Matthew Shepard, a University of Wyoming student who was brutally beaten, tied to a fence and left to die in October 1998. Born in Meridian, Miss., in 1929, Phelps was later accepted to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point in 1946 at the age of 16. He left in 1947, enrolling at Bob Jones University in Greenville, S.C. He dropped out after attending only three semesters. At 17, he was ordained as a Southern Baptist minister. In 1951, he finally earned a two-year degree from John Muir College, where he was profiled by Time magazine for preaching against “sins committed on campus by students and teachers … promiscuous petting … evil language … profanity … cheating … teachers’ filthy jokes in classrooms … [and] pandering to the lusts of the flesh.” In 1964, Phelps earned a law degree from

qnotes

Washburn University and became an awardwinning civil rights attorney, but was later disbarred from the Kansas Supreme Court in 1979. He later lost his federal law license in 1989. Phelps turned his attention to LGBT equality in 1991, first crusading against homosexual activity in a park near his church. Forty states eventually passed laws restricting protests at funerals, but a 2011 U.S. Supreme Court ruling held that the First Amendment protected Phelps’ and his church’s activities. Phelps protested in the Carolinas several times, including a November 1998 tour through the region where he protested at Bob Jones University and later at Wake Forest University, where they protested a Maya Angelou speech. In April 2001, in one of his last personal visits to North Carolina, Phelps visited Charlotte and protested at Independence Square at Trade and Tryon Sts. That event protested Bank of America and retiring CEO Hugh McColl for their inclusion of sexual orientation in the company’s non-discrimination policy. Phelps’ family and church continued to visit the state occasionally though Phelps himself did not always venture along, including a 2005 protest against a Durham staging of “The Laramie Project.” — Matt Comer. LGBTQ Nation (lgbtqnation.com) contributed.

March 28-April 10 . 2014

Fred Phelps, right, stands with his wife and four church members at an April 2001 protest at Independence Square in Charlotte targeting Bank of America. File Photo.

QUICK HITS A federal judge in Michigan struck down that state’s anti-LGBT marriage amendment, ruling it an unconstitutional violation of the U.S. Constitution’s equal protection clause. more: bit.ly/1evIEmJ

A gay high school student in Arkansas wants his school to allow their yearbook to print a profile in which he discusses his coming out experience. The school has said no and the district has defended the decision. more: bit.ly/1mlBsyi

A gay student in Hannibal, Mo., a suburb of St. Louis, says a private Baptist college, Hannibal-LaGrange University, initially accepted his enrollment but later reversed its decision after he came out. more:: bit.ly/1jdhllx

Lawmakers in Ethiopia are expected to pass a new law that would make convictions for same-sex acts unpardonable under that nation’s Pardon and Amnesty Law. more: bit.ly/1kQVqxI

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LGBT Democrats choose first officers for Mecklenburg Caucus will have voice in county Democratic Party affairs by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

New LGBT Democrats of Mecklenburg County officers with county party Chair Robin Bradford (center). Pictured (L-R): Natasha Tutt, Chad Sevearance, Bradford, Gary Leake, Cameron Joyce.

CHARLOTTE — About two dozen supporters and members of the newly-formed LGBT Democrats of Mecklenburg County gathered March 19 to elect their first slate of officers. Organizer Janice Covington had worked over the past few months to bring the new group into formation. It is affiliated with the statewide LGBT Democrats of North Carolina, an official state party caucus. The new local caucus will have a voice in affairs at the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party, as well. Covington said she hoped the new caucus will move the community forward. “This is an excellent way for our community to have a voice that we haven’t had in the past,” Covington told the group. “It’s something I’m proud of and my way to contribute to my community and the Democratic Party at the same time.” Four officers were elected at the meeting: Gary Leake as president, Chad Sevearance as vice president, Cameron Joyce as secretary and Natasha Tutt as treasurer. Leake has recent experience in local politics, serving as Charlotte City Councilmember Al Austin’s campaign manager in 2013. He’s lived in Charlotte since 1993, but only recently became involved in local politics and LGBT community work. Leake said he wants to bridge divides in the community.

“It’s embarrassing for a city as large and as forward-moving as this city is to be factioned off in the LGBT community,” Leake told the group after being elected. “In most larger cities, the LGBT communities work together much more so than this community does. I want to get together with different organizations that are already established and work to bring those together to see what needs to be done and what walls still need to be knocked down.” Sevearance and Tutt are also officers with the Charlotte Business Guild. Joyce is a graduate student at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte and a co-chair of the Charlotte Business Guild’s Aspiring Professionals Initiative. The meeting was attended by a number of elected leaders, party officials and candidates, including state House Rep. Rodney Moore, Mecklenburg County Democratic Party Chair Robin Bradford, Democratic Women of Mecklenburg County Second Vice President Jyoti Friedland and former Charlotte City Councilmember Malachi Green. State Senate candidate Ty Turner was also present, as were representatives for candidates in the 12th Congressional District Democratic primary: George Battle, state Sen. Malcolm Graham, Matt Newton and Curtis Osborn. : :

queer insight. pure politics. qnotes is your source for the best progressive and LGBT politics news and commentary in Charlotte and the Carolinas. Read us daily: goqnotes.com

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CHANGE & TRANSITION:

Charlotte loses two gay bars Hartigan’s Irish Pub, Rainbow In closed in same week by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com CHARLOTTE — Hartigan’s Irish Pub, one of only two local nightlife establishments catering to lesbian and bisexual women, and Charlotte’s only LGBT restaurant and bar, closed its doors after an 18-year run on March 23. It’s closure was accompanied by the closure of the Rainbow In, an LGBT bar in nearby Lake Wylie, S.C. The owners of Hartigan’s Irish Pub, located at 601 S. Cedar St. in Uptown Charlotte, made the announcement to their customers and fans on Facebook on March 18. The establishment’s last day of regular business was March 23. “The reality is that the building is getting older; and after 3 different landlords in 6 years, we are unable to sustain the financial and physical burdens of a more than 100 year old building,” the bar’s statement read. “The plumbing, the heating and air conditioning, the electrical — it’s all seen better days (and boy were those some great days). It’s time to close up shop and let the bar and the memories live on in our hearts.” Originally opened in 1996, Hartigan’s was part dance club, part sports bar, part Irish pub and part restaurant. It attracted a diverse and unique clientele, with a mix of LGBT and straight ally patrons for lunches and dinners and women party-goers on the weekends. Co-owner Bethany McDonald said she and co-owners Jill Phillips and Christa Reeves had worked together to create a unique business. “We’ve been lucky. The three of us worked together really, really well,” said McDonald. “Hartigan’s had an amazing run and we’re going to leave an awesome legacy behind.” The bar often hosted special events for non-profit groups, including the annual Queen City Stomp over the past couple years. In 2012, Hartigan’s hosted a special delegate event during the Democratic National Convention

The owners of Hartigan’s Irish Pub pose at their bar for a feature in 2013 (L-R): Christa Reeves, Jill Phillips, Bethany McDonald. File Photo.

and ESPN named it among the top 29 best sports bars. In 2013, Showtime’s series “Homeland” included a scene which had been filmed at Hartigan’s. In 2011, the bar was the scene of a fatal incident involving two patrons in which one was stabbed and later died. In its aftermath, the community rallied around the victim’s family

and the bar itself. That incident seemed to have no connection to the bar’s closure. Hartigan’s toasted its legacy with a variety of events, including its last karaoke and trivia nights, a special Takeover Friday event and a drag brunch organized by Buff Faye, the drag alter-ego of community leader Shane Windmeyer.

One day after Hartigan’s announced its closure, Lake Wylie’s Rainbow In also announced it would close its doors. The Rainbow In had been closed for two weeks, as the owners were facing “unforeseen family circumstances.” “[I]t is with great sadness that we announce, the Rainbow In will not be reopening,” the bar posted on its Facebook page. “We would like to thank everyone and let all our entertainers know how much we appreciate everything that you have done for us.” The bar added, “We would like to take a minute and let you all know we have shared more laughter and good times than anyone could ever imagine. We made it a point to make sure we kept a Safe and Drama Free environment that everyone could enjoy. There is absolutely No Way that we can tag every person that has been here, but we do love and appreciate each and every one of you that have helped create so many wonderful memories.” The Rainbow In first opened in 2009 and was owned and operated by Margie Teal, who first started in the bar business in 1969. In 1983, she and her husband opened their first gay bar, The Hide-A-Way in Rock Hill, S.C. It is still running and owners say it will reopen soon. The Rainbow In and Hide-A-Way were the only LGBT nightlife establishments in Charlotte’s suburban areas. McDonald said she was grateful for the support during Hartigan’s last days. The community engagement and the people she met during her time there are what she’ll remember most. “We’ve been so lucky to just meet so many people. They’ve changed our lives,” said McDonald. “We bought it thinking that we were doing something for the community, but they came in and changed our lives dramatically.” : :

North Carolina rejects gay-themed license plates Gay words, themes not allowed on vehicles, per DMV policy by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

CHARLOTTE — Like state license plates agencies across the nation, North Carolina’s Department of Motor Vehicles receives requests for special, customized plates and must weed through them before approving the plates for use. In March, Raleigh news station WRAL went through all 6,000 of the recently-rejected plate requests in the state, many rejected “mostly due to sex, drug and profanity references,” they said. They put together an online gallery of 100 plates which caught their attention. qnotes got the same list and we were surprised to see a handful of seemingly unoffensive, non-obscene references to gay or lesbian people among the rejected. To be sure, there were other gay-related rejects, too. Many of them were slurs or indeed sexually obscene. (We’ve got a full list of gaythemed plates we found, but do be mindful that some of the plates do contain slurs or obscenities. The list is included in the online version of

qnotes

this article at goqnotes.com/28184/.) Yet, we were left wondering why the state DMV would reject plates like “4GAYLIB,” extolling someone’s position in favor of gay liberation, or plates as simple as “GAY” or “LESBIAN.” Plates like “GABOY” could either be read as “gay boy” or “Georgia boy.” We were definitely confused about the rejection of “FAERIE.” The Radical Faeries are a decades-old LGBT organization. For a state that still passes out Sons of Confederate Veterans specialty tags, you’d think we could at least get custom lettering like “FAERIE.” But, no. We reached out to DMV spokeswoman Marge Howell and asked, “Does the DMV have a specific policy as it relates to words which identify sexual orientation and/or the lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) community or pro-LGBT politics as exemplified in the nonoffensive examples noted above?” Howell’s reply: “The unauthorized text

March 28-April 10 . 2014

database for N.C. license plates has been compiled from thousands of words, phrases and acronyms that are accepted from a variety of sources nationally including other state vehicle registration agencies. NCDMV reviews requests for license plates on a case-by-case basis and allows for both plate owners and members of the public to have input into the process. NCDMV’s practices are governed by the requirements of N.C. General Statutes Chapter 20-79.4(179), which states: ‘Personalized. – Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate will bear the letters and numbers requested by the owner. The Division may refuse to issue a plate with a letter

combination that is offensive to good taste and decency. The Division may not issue a plate that duplicates another plate.’” The full list of gay-themed terms and more stylized gay-themed plates can be found online at goqnotes.com/28184/. ::

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Parade continued from page 4 filiation with he Knights of Columbus, a national Catholic fraternal organization that contributed $15.8 million to anti-LGBT marriage campaigns and other anti-LGBT causes from 2005-2012. A portion of proceeds from the parade and its related festival in Uptown Charlotte benefit the national Catholic group. Hart told The Charlotte Observer that members of the Knights of Columbus were volunteers at the event and were raising money to assist those with intellectual disabilities. CRVA’s CEO did not withdraw and participated in the parade. But, CRVA told The Charlotte Observer on March 14 that it hears “the concerns of members of the LGBT community and value their input. We also want to stay focused on our core mission in drawing visitors to experience the region.” CRVA Communications Director Laura Hill had told qnotes that neither she nor her organization were aware of the Knights of Columbus’ anti-LGBT advocacy efforts. CRVA’s past sponsorship of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade had been nominal, about $1,000 last year. But, Hill said CRVA has changed the way it handles event sponsorship. They no longer give cash, she said, but support events through marketing and promotions. Events like Charlotte’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration help promote the city as a destination, Hill said. CRVA supports a wide range of events throughout the year. “We tend to look at a lot of different events that come to us for that kind of support,” Hill said. “Everything from Speed Street, [St. Patrick’s Day], Taste of Charlotte, you name it. We’re looking at events that promote the destination as a whole. … Our destination plan speaks to all that Charlotte has to offer, whether it’s a special event, an attraction or a restaurant. That’s what we’re marketing to at the end of the day.” CRVA, Hill said, strives to support the entire community. “We obviously support the LGBT community and realize it’s an avid travel audience, but we also want to support events in Charlotte that are tourism draws and St. Patrick’s Day is one of them,” she said. : :

we want your opinions and feedback Whether it’s letters to the editor, web comments, general suggestions, comments or ideas, qnotes staff welcomes your input. See, without you we’d really have no reason to be here. So, we delight in hearing what our readers have to say. Be sure to send in your thoughts, praises, criticisms and more to editor@ goqnotes.com for general feedback or letters@goqnotes. com for letters to the editor. Thank you!

March 28-April 10 . 2014

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March 28-April 10 . 2014

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A Drag Queen Before Brunch: Lady Bunny Famed queen comes to North Carolina in April by Joanne Spataro :: qnotes contributor

t’s well before Sunday brunch when I call legendary drag queen Lady Bunny. Although I’m still in my pajamas and she hasn’t brushed her teeth yet, she sounds ready for bottomless mimosas when she greets me on the phone with an exaggerated “Hellooooo!” and infectious giggle. Performing since the 1980s, Lady Bunny brings her wicked humor and sky-high blonde wig to Greensboro’s Warehouse 29 on April 5. In our interview, Lady Bunny talks about growing up in the South and paints an image that will never let me see bagels the same way again. Joanne Spataro: What can people expect from your upcoming show? Lady Bunny: It’s a fast-paced, energetic, twisted comedy review. I perform in the South a lot. They will boo me off the stage if I try to do country material in New York City. They ain’t having it! I love a chance to do that kind of stuff down South and get back to my roots. Where is home for you? I have lived in New York City for about 25 years, but was born in Wilmington. All of my people are from Greensboro. Greensboro is where my parents went to school and got married. My father was a professor at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. He took that job saying he wanted to be an eight hour drive from North Carolina so (his and my mom’s) parents could never just drop in. I said, “You learned me that lesson real well. Why do you think I moved to New York?” When did you know you wanted to be a drag queen? I kind of lived in drag as a child, I mean not overtly wearing pinafores and stuff. I grew up in the ‘60s and long hair was in and I just happened to have long hair that was beautiful and blonde like the wigs I wear today, but not as big as that. I remember when my teacher said she was going to cut my hair and she had recently cut another student’s hair. They just trimmed their bangs. My father rushed over to the school and said, “You touch one hair on my son’s head and this will go to the Supreme Court!” My dad was like the town liberal. You and Ru started out in the drag world together and are good friends. What do you think of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”? It’s great that the show is exposing different kinds of drag. There are drawbacks. “Drag Race” girls kind of eat up all of the bookings. The same thing used to happen before “Drag Race” with these pageants, where it was hard to get a booking if you weren’t Miss So-and-So. Queens ask me all the time how they can get on “Drag Race” and I’m like, you need to develop a talent. Then

“Drag Race” may come calling, but if they don’t, you can (still) have a full career.

see clubs drying up, I see a very important part of gay culture drying up.

You should have gotten an Oscar for your performance in “Starbooty.” (laughter) Oh dear! I would love to do that as a series. Maybe I should poke Ru about that.

Is there someone special in your life? No. Not relationship-oriented at all. I can count the men I’ve had sex with on one hand, as long as that hand is holding a calculator. I don’t like the person I become when I’m in love — very needy and very irrational. I have wonderful friends, so my needs for companionship are met. My goal has always been to complete myself. I joke (that) at 70, I’m going to bust out and say I’ve resolved all my issues. My head is totally together, (but) my butt looks like a bagel. : :

Would you please? My best friend Fitz and I would watch it. Ru and I really reconnected doing that. We were just reminded how much of a twisted sense of humor we have. What’s the future of drag? I am disturbed that Grindr and other dating apps are killing the business in gay clubs. I’m not going to begrudge anybody who wants to put a picture of their private parts on a dating app. I take issue with people being on Grindr so they are not going to clubs, because clubs were never just about hooking up for me. Clubs were for learning about fashion, dancing, conversation. As we

Lady Bunny in Greensboro Saturday, April 5. Warehouse 29, 1011 Arnold St. Greensboro. For more information, call (336) 333-9333 or visit facebook.com/warehouse29.

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Boy George returns to reclaim his crown by Gregg Shapiro :: qnotes contributor

not just bass. It was fun to have him around and to see how he’s grown as a writer and a musician. Back in the day, we wrote some incredible songs together. It was nice to have his energy on this record. He also helped to write (the song) “Love and Danger.”

fter an almost 20 year absence from recording original material, and a history of substance abuse played out in the public arena, you might think that This Is What I Do (Kobalt), gay singer/songwriter Boy George’s return to recorded music might sound like, say, Marianne Faithfull’s Broken English. But, you’d be wrong. Instead, Boy George’s voice, which isn’t as ravaged as Faithfull’s, but neither is it as unblemished as it used to be, is well-suited to the material. Beginning with opener “King of Everything,” co-written with former Culture Club band-mate Mikey Craig, George is diplomatic and graceful, particularly when he sings “What’s the word on the street/ Have I lost my crown/Or will I be king again?” In ways that only he can, George tackles religion and faith (“My God”), heartbreak (“It’s Easy”), journeys (“Any Road”), new love (“Nice and Slow”) and even politics (“Feel The Vibration”). Yoko Ono gets special attention here, including a shout-out in “Bigger Than War,” as well as a respectful cover of her “Death of Samantha.” I spoke with Boy George about the new album in March 2014. Gregg Shapiro: I’d like to begin by talking about the album cover for This Is What I Do. You are wearing a fabulous hat, as you have done on the cover of many of your albums. How many hats do you own? Boy George: Probably 40, maybe. They often go on to another life. Whenever I get asked for auction items, it’s usually a hat. The hats do get recycled quite a lot. Roughly, at the moment, I would say I have 30, 40. But, they go and change and they have other lives. Do you have an all-time favorite hat that you’ve hung onto over the years? I have a new hat which I haven’t worn yet [laughs]. It’s one of those things. The guy that makes my hats, a guy called Philip Treacy, is a very amazing milliner in London. He gave me this beautiful Swarovski crystal hat, which I have. I just don’t have anything to wear with it [laughs]. It’s such a number of a hat! I keep thinking, “What the hell will I ever wear it with?” Maybe it will appear on my tour. I don’t know.

I’ve always maintained that when a singer/songwriter records a cover of someone else’s song, that it’s a way to make a statement. Other than saying that you have great taste in music, what else does your cover of Yoko Ono’s “Death of Samantha” say about you? I’ve always loved the song. I think it’s a really beautiful lyric. A lot of people say to me, “Yoko Ono, she just screams.” They don’t think of her as a writer. It’s a song I always play to people when I talk about Yoko. I say, “Listen to this song.” I love her version of the song. There’s a great acoustic version of “Death of Samantha” that she does that I love. Lyrically, it feels like something I would have written. It’s a song I should have written or wish I’d written.

idea of it was a Patsy Cline type song. Very simple, to the point. Some of those great old country songs have a great title. “It’s easy when you’re the one who stops loving first” felt like a classic Patsy Cline/Tammy Wynette/Dolly Parton tune. That was thinking, absolutely, 100 percent behind that. I wanted to come up with one of those lines. The song was written around that line.

Do you have a cowboy hat to go with the country vibe of the songs “It’s Easy” and “Any Road” on This Is What I Do? I don’t, no [laughs]. That might be a little too literal.

I really love “Any Road,” a song with powerful messages, such as “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there,” and the spoken conclusion where you say, “I’m glad I’m not crazy like I used to be.” That particular song was written around the groove. We sat around and came up with that guitar line (hums the part). That was the starting point to create a mood. The idea was that I would narrate, speak, really. A lot of the lyrics came from stream of consciousness. I wrote that song in a very different way to the way I normally write. I played around with different visual ideas and came up with the lyrics that came from different place, but in the end, made sense.

Did you hear “It’s Easy” and “Any Road” as country tunes while you were writing them or did they evolve into that genre? I’m not someone who is frightened of country. It’s always been jazz, country, blues — it’s always crept into what I do. Certainly with “It’s Easy,” it was always going to be a country song. The

“King of Everything,” the opening track on This Is What I Do was co-written by Mikey Craig, a former Culture Club band-mate. What was it like to work with him again? It was great to have Mikey involved. I think Mikey’s become quite confident as a writer. He plays around with keyboards now,

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March 28-April 10 . 2014

The five songs closing the album are all in reggae style. What made you decide to arrange them in that fashion? Originally, when we started the record, it was all going to be reggae. That was our starting point because Richie (Stevens), who produced the record, is a white-boy reggaehead. He’s a great reggae drummer. That’s why the album has such a solid feel, because of his drumming. As things went along, we felt it was a little too restrictive. So, we allowed certain songs to be what they wanted to be. There’s a strong connection between reggae and country anyway. We decided that we wanted to be a bit more experimental and not so rigid about what we were doing. Music videos played an important role in your musical career. Do you plan to make music videos for any of the songs on This Is What I Do? There is a “King of Everything” video and a “My God” video. There are other ones planned. They’re not going to be like back in the day, 100 grand [laughs]. The video for “My God” we made in my house. It’s up online. It’s a great little video. I think the way you do things now is very different. You can do things on a budget. It’s almost come full-circle back to the beginning when there weren’t massive budgets and you had to be a bit more creative. I think that’s exciting. As someone who has spent a fair amount of time behind the decks as a DJ, are there songs on This Is What I Do that you would like to see remixed for club play? There are some remixes of (“Feel The) Vibration” which are going to be available pretty soon. There’s a really great remix package that we’ve done that we’re going to put out in America. I think they’re going to be free, not going to be sold. We started off with “Feel The Vibration” because that felt like the most obvious track to do as a dance mix. : :

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SPORTS

Playing the Field Match-ups from across the Carolinas: Teams dig deep to secure wins by Jon Hoppel :: qnotes contributor Well it is March and the “Madness” is everywhere! But with any “disease,” there is a cure. And that cure is more Charlotte Sports! Roller Derby The Gastonia G Force had their home opening bout on March 16 down at Kate’s Skating Rink versus Kannapolis Rollergirls. The G Force were looking to bounce back from a tough defeat on the road March 1 against the Smoky Mountain Rollergirls, 180-118. The Kannapolis squad was just kicking off their season with this bout, but did not look rusty at all from the winter break. This was a defensive struggle from the outset as the teams exchanged the lead throughout the match. But, in the end, The One World Dragon Boat race team won by a nose at the Carolina Gastonia was able to win the Beach Heat as captured by a young photographer, a son of one of the bout with a late rally to hold off paddlers, showing the team how close they achieved their victory. Photo Credit: David E. Gonzales Kannapolis, 166-155. Next up for Boat/146389255492768 or their Gastonia are the website at oneworlddragonboat. Palmetto State org/. Rollergirls out of South Carolina Volleyball on April 6, while The Carolina Showstoppers Kannapolis takes have done it! They completed on the Charlotte an amazing undefeated seaRollergirls son by sweeping through their B-Dazzlers league’s tournament 3-0 to take on April 12 in home the championship. The Charlotte. For Showstoppers’ feat was made times and ticket even all the more impressive by information for winning their two matches in these bouts, the final with only five players check them on the court. They destroyed the out online at Belmont Crushers 25-8 and 25-13, facebook.com/ which had no answer for the big gforcederby and heavy spikes of Ron Tessener charlotterolleron the wing or the exceptional girls.com/. serving of Shawn Charlton and Bri Skinner. Congratulations to them Dragon Craig Maxwell catches a pass. Boat Photo Credit: Zechariah Sanders and we wish them the same type of performance next year. Last month, we brought you information on Queen City’s Rugby one and only Dragon Boat team, One World. The Royals have continued their winTheir season is quickly approaching now and ning ways into 2014 by beating two solid they are looking for men and women of any Southeast teams down in Charleston a month creed or color to come try out and/or support ago. First, Charlotte took on the Atlanta Bucks their crew. The first race for the team is on in game one of a three-team/three-game May 17 here in the Charlotte area. They will be mini-tournament. Charlotte capitalized early competing in the Charlotte Asian and Dragon on with a blocked kicked by Craig Maxwell, Boat Festival taking place on Lake Norman. who also tracked down the bowl in the try Check out the event’s website for time, locazone for a score. For the remainder of the half, tion, and ticket information. Atlanta controlled the ball and the tempo, but The rest of the team’s schedule is as follows: they were never able to convert any scoring Lake Lure June 14 chances. In the second half, the Royals wore Beaufort, SC July 26 the Bucks down and were able to score with Atlanta Sept. 13 their speed on the wings, winning 21-0. Carolina Beach Sept. 20 In the second game, Charleston and Disney Orlando Oct. 18 Charlotte faced off. The Blockade have never If you want any information not covered beaten the Royals and Charlotte was not about here, check out their Facebook page at to let that change. They overpowered and outfacebook.com/pages/One-World-Dragon-

ran their southern opponent early on, building up a three-try lead at half and finishing them off in the second, scoring three more times, winning 38-0. The most impressive feat of those two matches was the goose eggs put up by Charlotte’s defense. It had become their calling card, so teams know they will have to score multiple times to defeat them, if they can. Up next for Charlotte is a March 29 matchup with the UNCC men’s team and an April 12 matchup with Table Rock in Gastonia. These will be by far Charlotte’s toughest matches of the season as they prepare for the Bingham Cup in August. For more information, visit charlotteroyals.org /. : :

Danny Wadsworth battles for control of the ball. Photo Credit: Zechariah Sanders

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precious pets by Barrett Slenning :: N.C. State University

Prepare now: Pets and Carolina’s spring weather

North Carolinians know that severe weather can strike at almost any moment. Spring is the main season for severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in our state — that’s why March hosts “National Severe Weather Week”. It is important for all of us to pay attention to preparations now before the season starts and part of that preparation involves animals under our care. Carolina’s spring weather According to the National Weather Service, between 1950-2005 an average of just over

five tornadoes and 44 severe thunderstorms struck Central North Carolina each year. More than half occurred from mid-March through mid-June. Two-thirds hit in the afternoon and early evening, but more than 13 percent struck between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. This means most springtime severe weather events hit when many of us are away from home at school or work, but about one in seven hit while we’re at home and likely in bed. For just 2013, the entire state recorded 10 tornadoes and more 450 thunderstorms and damaging wind events that injured many North Carolinians, killed three people and caused some $17 million in damages, combined. The threat of springtime severe weather is real to our families and property, and it also threatens the animals that depend on us. What’s it got to do with pets? A fair amount of research has evaluated what happens to pets during sudden severe weather, especially when evacuations are ordered. For instance, we will look at the lessons learned from one study done in 2001 that reviewed a sudden train-related chemical spill in Wisconsin. Such “rapid-onset” disasters do not give people much time to prepare or respond, making these events similar to severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Hurricanes (our main threat in summer and fall) are considered “slow-onset” disasters, since people typically have days to prepare. Here are three facts uncovered in Wisconsin: • 60 percent of dogs and cats were not able to be evacuated by their owners. • Of those pet owners who left animals behind, more than 40 percent attempted to come back to rescue their pets — putting themselves and first responders at risk. • Evacuation with cats was only half as likely as evacuation with dogs. Households with cats were also less likely to evacuate their dogs. Typical reasons offered for not evacuating pets were that the owners were away when the event occurred, that they thought it would be safe for their pets to stay, that they expected to be gone a short time only, that they had too many animals to manage, and mostly, that the owners had not done any preparation for such an event. Why does it seem that cats are a special problem in these rapid-onset disasters? It turns

see Pets on 20

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March 28-April 10 . 2014

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Ask Dr. C…HIV and healthcare advice

Helping to keep you in the know with up-to-date information by Frederick Cruickshank ~ Medical Director

After many successful installments of “Ask Dr. C” in the past, Rosedale wants to bring back this opportunity to offer our readers’ information about infectious disease and sexual health from basic questions to in-depth explanations. It is important to educate yourself, get tested, and protect yourself! Send your questions to info@rosedaleid.com. Dr. C looks forward to responding to as many emails as possible. Does penis size really matter and what’s normal? — Nathan from Fort Mill From adolescence on, most men wonder at some point if their equipment is standard-issue, sub-standard or the potential subject of future folklore. But men shouldn’t worry as much as they do: partner’s report that the preferred penis size of a lover is approximately 13 inches, which is about 1 inch smaller than the average male penis. Relax, pal, that was just a joke to make sure you were reading instead of measuring yourself. The average penis is actually somewhere between 5 and 6 inches in length, and

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5 inches in circumference. But sexual partners will prefer them how they prefer them, so there’s nothing absolute when it comes to a preferred penis size. One study showed that the one thing partners do seem to agree on is that men spend too much time worrying about the size of their penises. That said, many men are consumed with thoughts about length, while others are more concerned about width. A penis that’s too large might cause discomfort or problems when it comes to the mechanics of intercourse. One that’s too small may not satisfy a particular person’s desires, either. Regardless of your partner’s preference, cleanliness, presentation, sexual attentiveness and imagination will get you far down the road. Regardless of size, do the best with what you have. And remember: There’s someone out there for everyone. As a male, I sometimes have trouble finishing. What’s going on? — Bobby from Charlotte It’s the kind of problem some men only wish they had: delayed ejaculation. While it may sound like a nice change of pace to some guys, it’s no blessing to those who experience this disorder. Delayed ejaculation is less common than premature ejaculation, but it’s still fairly common. Some men affected by this condition never (or extremely rarely) have orgasms. More often, it takes an hour or more of extreme thrusting to achieve orgasm, which may be accompanied by little or no ejaculate and a partner who needs aspirin. Delayed ejaculation has many possible causes, some of which are physical and

March 28-April 10 . 2014

some that are psychological. If you repeatedly experience delayed ejaculation, consult with your doctor to start looking at possible physical causes. Various diseases may lead to difficulty having orgasms: diabetes, vascular disorders and vascular damage are a few culprits. Spinal injuries you’ve experienced in the past may also be at fault. Heavy use of alcohol, prescription drugs, or street drugs can also result in delayed ejaculation. Even prescribed use of certain medications such as antidepressants can contribute to this condition. If your doctor is unable to find a physical cause, make an appointment with a psychologist or sex therapist. Guilt, stress, emotional trauma and anxiety can all affect you in physical ways, and they certainly can when it comes to sexual performance. What are the signs and symptoms of HIV? — Barbara from Charlotte Many people do not develop symptoms after getting infected with HIV. Some people have a flu-like illness within several days to weeks after exposure to the virus. They complain of fever, headache, tiredness, and enlarged lymph glands in the neck. These symptoms usually disappear within a few weeks. Following initial infection, you may have no symptoms. The progression of disease varies widely among individuals. This state may last from a few months to more than 10 years. During this period, the virus continues to multiply actively and infects and kills the cells of the immune system. The immune system allows us to fight against the bacteria, viruses, and other infectious causes. The virus destroys the cells that are the

primary infection fighters, called CD4+ or T4 cells. Once the immune system weakens, a person infected with HIV can develop the following symptoms: lack of energy, weight loss, frequent fevers and sweats, persistent or frequent yeast infections, persistent skin rashes or flaky skin, short-term memory loss, and/or mouth, genital, or anal sores from herpes infections. Because there might be an absence of symptoms, it is important to receive and HIV test if you think you may have been exposed. If you are positive, this allows your doctor to treat the virus before it has a negative affect on your health. At Rosedale we offer free HIV testing every day and our qualified health care professionals are always willing to answer your healthcare questions. Always remember that this is an advice column based on your questions and the best possible knowledge out there. We need your questions to help educate the community, so email them to info@rosedaleid.com and be sure to include a first name and location. All respondents will remain anonymous. We will try to do our best to answer, educate and inform from your responses to this column. Don’t forget to visit our website at rosedaleid. com and friend us on Facebook for community and clinical updates. Don’t forget to visit our website at rosedaleid.com and friend us on Facebook for community and clinical updates. — Sponsored Content —

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Chad Michaels to take the stage at Augusta Pride 2014 AUGUSTA, Ga. — Fourth-season “RuPaul’s Drag Race” veteran and runner-up Chad Michaels will be making a visit to Augusta during the annual Augusta Pride festival this June. All-star contender Michaels recently confirmed to perform during the weekend festival, which is going into its fifth year. Michaels will be one of multiple — still to be announced — performers who will take the stage the night of Friday, June 27 during the Beats on Broad outdoor dance party. He’ll also join Augusta Pride’s parade on Saturday, June 28. Michaels will join fellow “Drag Race” alum Latrice Royale, who we profiled in the March 14 print edition. This year’s festival will be Michael’s second consecutive trip to Augusta Pride. Proving to be a crowd favorite, Michaels was one of the most current and known names to take the Augusta Pride stage. Shooting to television fame in 2011, Michaels was able to take the top three position on season four of the hit LOGO TV drag show hosted by RuPaul. Michaels was invited back for an All-Star season in which he ended up taking the crown.

Michaels is known to be one of the most successful queens in today’s drag industry and has had a long-lasting career as one of the top and best known Cher impersonators. Michaels is also one of the few famous queens to use his actual male birth name — choosing to change from his original performance name, Bridgett Love. As a producer and performer, Michaels currently works with The Dreamgirls Revue, the longest running female impersonation show in California. Not stopping there, Michaels has had the opportunity to work with big celebrity names, including Elton John, Christina Aguilera and Cyndi Lauper. Michaels will also take part in a meetand-greet and will take pictures and sign autographs for VIP pride members after each of the performances. To become a VIP member, a minimum of $100 must be donated to the Augusta Pride committee. : : info: prideaugusta.org Enjoy more regional features from across the Carolinas at goqnotes.com.

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by Adam Wadding :: Augusta correspondent

daily news, blog posts and lgbt community event listings Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter: goqnotes.com/subs

March 28-April 10 . 2014

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life

Pets continued from page 16 out that more than half of the owners simply couldn’t catch their cats. This may help explain why being a cat owner also meant a household was less likely to evacuate their dogs: they could have spent so much time trying to catch the cats that they simply ran out of time to get anything else before they had to evacuate their qnotes continues its new pet column this issue. It runs every other issue, featuring expert advice and commentary for your beloved pets. Are you a pet owner and have advice or a funny story? Own a business catering to the needs of pets and want to chime in? We’re accepting submissions for the new column. Email your ideas or writing, approximately 600 words or less to editor@goqnotes.com.

qnotes

families. Also, even if they caught their cats, people often could not safely transport the animals: few had cat carriers. Most dogs can have a rope or lead put around their necks and be led or carried to a vehicle. Without a good carrier available, however, cats are much more apt to fight and injure the people trying to save them. Hence, cats get left behind and often suffer as a result. What does this mean for me and my pets? The above information helps us to better plan for our own animals in two ways. First, earlier warning is better warning. Since 13 percent of springtime severe weather events hit North Carolina during the night and early morning, get a weather alert radio or download weather alert apps for your phone.

March 28-April 10 . 2014

Weather alerts will go off when the severe weather is likely, giving you and your family valuable time to get things ready. Second, pull together the equipment you’ll need to move your pets today and put it in an easy to get to place. Most important: If you have cats (or birds, or lizards, or …) be sure you have species-appropriate carriers for them. These should be in a readily accessible room or closet and all members of the house need to know where they are. In addition — though not part of the above research — be aware North Carolina dogs and cats are required to have current rabies vaccinations. Keep animal identifications and rabies tags and certificates in an obvious place as a shelter will need them to admit your pet. Lastly, if you’ll be gone for any length of time, some food, dishes, medications and bedding

or toys will go a long way towards decreasing your pets’ stress. There’s much more to being prepared — there are numerous on-line resources from the N.C. Department of Agriculture, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, American Kennel Club, the Red Cross, Federal Emergency Management Agency and others — but we’ve learned some new things: Early warning. Carriers to fit your animals. Vaccine certificates and paperwork. Prepare now and know you and your animals will be ready to cope with the next springtime severe weather event. — Barrett Slenning, an associate professor in the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, is an expert in epidemiology and animal biosecurity risk management.

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tell trinity

ward of a mental hospital! (My cartoon sure can show this in spades. Check it out!)Â

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

Hey Trinity, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m going on a second date and I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to act too excited or too nervous. Any second date suggestions so I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t blow it? Second Date, Oklahoma City, OK

Finding your own wisdom and common sense Dearest Trinity, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been following your column for years now. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re so wise! How can I acquire wisdom and common sense like you? Wanting Wisdom, Spokane, WAÂ Dearest Wanting Wisdom, While age and experience should bring wisdom and common sense, it often brings stubbornness, righteousness and negative reactions

to unfamiliar ideas. If you want wisdom and common sense then a) study â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;? in school, b) take risky adventures in search of â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;? and/or c) go on a spiritual journey to find â&#x20AC;&#x153;it.â&#x20AC;? You must also be willing to d) unlearn all that you have learned about â&#x20AC;&#x153;it,â&#x20AC;? e) let yourself relearn what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re learning about â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;? and f) get burned on your journey finding â&#x20AC;&#x153;it!â&#x20AC;? Pumpkin, you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really think this was going to be easy or make sense, did you? Dear Trinity, I am having an awful time dealing with my loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jealous outbursts. He says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Latin men are typically jealous!â&#x20AC;? OK, I used to think it was cute, but now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s making me insane! Help! Jealousy Jail, Philadelphia, PA Dear Jealousy Jail, Many men, including Latin men, do destroy themselves and their relationships with jealousy. Maybe itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s insecurity, maybe itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cultural or maybe itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just having too much time on oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hands. So, honey, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve tried letting your lover know heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;too much!â&#x20AC;? and letting him know heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;out of line!â&#x20AC;? then threaten to take him to a place where obsessive, insecure people play together, like the psych

Hey Second Date, Going on a first date means being inquisitive, polite and calm. Going on a second date means all that as well, plus this time be even more comfortable about what you say and do, testing the waters a little. Oh, and slipping in a little kiss this time wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hurt either. Also, sweetie, remember, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t talk excessively about your problems, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t act overly self-assured and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give away all your private â&#x20AC;&#x153;propertyâ&#x20AC;? just yet! Good Luck! Hello Miss Trinity, My partner says I worry too much. I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hereditary. Any thoughts on how to worry less? Worrying Less, Green Bay, WI Hello Worrying Less, Worrying is a deep tradition passed down from generation to generation. It is not easy to erase centuries of worrying unless of course, darling, you try these: Trinityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trouble-free Tips For Dealing With Worrying â&#x20AC;&#x2021; 1. Listen to Pharrell Williamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Happy.â&#x20AC;? And, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t listen to depressing love songs like

a&e

Mileyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wrecking Ball!â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x2021; 2. Worrying creates negative possibilities! When you worry, you manifest negative karma and scenarios for the universe to bring into fruition. â&#x20AC;&#x2021; 3. Let your mother worry for you. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we have mothers! â&#x20AC;&#x2021; 4. Take deep breaths, exercise, get plenty of rest and have a glass of wine now and then. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll do you wonders! â&#x20AC;&#x2021; 5. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think about what worries you! If you can distract a child you can distract yourself. â&#x20AC;&#x2021; 6. If your troubles today wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter a year from now, then what the hell are you worrying about it now for? â&#x20AC;&#x2021; 7. G et physically away from what worries you. Go to the beach, the movies or take a walk in the park. Get you mind away from your troubles. â&#x20AC;&#x2021; 8. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really think that by worrying you will change the outcome. Give your worries away to a higher power. Let it go! â&#x20AC;&#x2021; 9. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let your thoughts take you on an insane journey alone! Talk to friends about what worries you. Get support. 10. Lastly, instead of using words like â&#x20AC;&#x153;I hopeâ&#x20AC;? use â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure,â&#x20AC;? instead of â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wonderâ&#x20AC;? use â&#x20AC;&#x153;I knowâ&#x20AC;? and instead of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll kill him for staying outâ&#x20AC;? use â&#x20AC;&#x153;I trust that bastard!â&#x20AC;? info: With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spiritually Speaking,â&#x20AC;? a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org. Learn more at telltrinity.com.

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March 28-April 10 . 2014

qnotes

Q SEP APR

C A L E N DA R APRIL-MAY 2014

To see more upcoming events, visit goqnotes.com/calendar/ Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/

Antigone Rising Double Door Inn 1218 Charlottetown Ave., Charlotte 9 p.m.

New York’s Antigone Rising and Atlanta’s Hannah Thomas team up for a performance in Charlotte. Thomas is a veteran Charlotte Pride performer. Antigone Rising has opened for the Rolling Stones and one of its singer,s Kristen Henderson, was recently feature don the cover of TIME Magazine. Tickets are $10. doubledoorinn.com Walk for AIDS SEP APR Sisters of Mercy campus 701 Mercy Dr., Belmont 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. House of Mercy hosts its 21st annual Walk for AIDS through historic Belmont. Donations go to House of Mercy, a non-profit home serving low-income persons living with AIDS. The walk is three miles. First 250 walkers raising $50 or more receive a free Walk for AIDS T-shirt. A picnic lunch and music follow on the House of Mercy grounds. Visit their website for more information, a map, donation form, team information and more. houseofmercy.org –––––––––––––––––––– Boots & Barrels Marigny 1440 S. Tryon St. #110, Charlotte 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Join Southern Country Charlotte for its monthly Saturday night Country dance as it prepares for this year’s Queen City Stomp in May. Free admission for Southern Country Charlotte members and $5 for non-members. 18 and up. southerncountry charlotte.com

Barney Frank M Space, 530 Lady St., Columbia 6-7:30 p.m.

SEP APR

The SC Equality PAC hosts an evening with former U.S. House Rep. Barney Frank, raising money to support proequality candidates for office in 2014. Tickets are $50 for general admission. scequality.org Trans* Employment LGBT Community Center of Charlotte 2508 N. Davidson St., Charlotte 6-8 p.m. The Freedom Center for Social Justice hosts an information session introducing the community to its Trans* Employment Program. The program leverages relationships with national and regional partners to increase job readiness and employment opportunities for transgender people in North Carolina and beyond. The event is free. fcjs.org

Men of All Cultures SEP APR Together LGBT Community Center of Charlotte 2508 N. Davidson St., Charlotte 6:30-8 p.m. The new local chapter of the national Black and White Men Together continues its outreach with another biweekly meeting in April. Other upcoming meeting dates include April 24, May 8 and May 22. Men of All Cultures Together - Charlotte is a multicultural organization dedicated to providing a supportive environment for gay men to work and play together. It strives to understand racial and cultural differences and to celebrate our diversity. lgbtcharlotte.org

SEP APR

qnotes

SEP APR HAPPY

EASTER

from the staff of qnotes.

This spring One Voice Chorus (OVC) sheds light on a critical issue within the LGBT community: Homeless LGBT Youth. With Time Out Youth and Urban Ministry Center, One Voice Chorus reaches out to hear the stories of LGBT youth who have been (or are) homeless. The chorus premiers a documentary and commissioned compositions. The concert also celebrates the families that LGBT people of all ages create for themselves. A Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund grant and promotional partnership from WFAE 90.7 helps OVC present this concert. Tickets and more information available online. onevoicechorus.com Begins evening of April 14 Continues though April 22

HAPPY PASSOVER from the staff of qnotes.

March 28-April 10 . 2014

SEP APR

19 22

SEP APR

Submit your event to our calendar! 22

One Voice: ‘Home’ Myers Park Baptist Church 1900 Queens Rd., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

Amazing Race Bar Crawl SEP APR Brixx Woodfire Pizza 225 E. 6th St., Charlotte Noon-7 p.m. Amazing Race Bar Crawl is a yearly fundraising event for the Regional Aids Interfaith Network (RAIN). Teams of five race to a series of bars in Uptown Charlotte to complete the race. At each destination teams will purchase five drinks and complete a challenge. Each challenge will offer teams various rewards and penalties including possible additions or deductions to the team’s time. Challenges also determine whether the team is given an easy or difficult clue to the next destination. visit carolinarain.org

CONNECT with the Guild Celebs Restaurant & Lounge 445 W. Trade St., Charlotte 6-8:30 p.m.

The Charlotte Business Guild holds its quarterly CONNECT networking mixer/social, an informal after-work atmosphere with food, drinks, door prizes and entertainment and an opportunity to meet the guild board and network with local professionals. charlottebusinessguild.org Continues on May 3 SEP MAY Queen City Stomp Marigny 1440 S. Tryon St. #110, Charlotte Come be a part of the Southeast’s biggest and best LGBT Country dance weekend. Two-night event Friday and Saturday, with day-time dance lessons and evening events held at Marigny Dance Club. Friday cover is $10. Saturday cover is $15. The event is a fundraiser, with 2014 beneficiaries including Time Out Youth and One Voice Chorus of Charlotte. Details and register available online. queencitystomp.com

Recurring Charlotte Events: PRISM Young Adults: Weekly discussion held each Monday, 5 p.m.-7:30 p.m. For young adults ages 18-25. LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. lgbtcharlotte.org. Men’s Yoga: Weekly yoga sessions for men hosted by certified instructor. Each Monday, 7:30-8:30 p.m. LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. Time Out Youth Center: Weekly support and discussion groups, Tuesday-Thursday, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monthly group for youth ages 11-14. timeoutyouth.org. MeckPAC: Monthly meeting of local LGBT political action committee. First Tuesdays of each month, 6:30-8 p.m. LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. StillOut Photography: Local LGBT photography club. Meets monthly on fourth Tuesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. facebook.com/StillOutPhotography. Friends Indeed: Men’s depression support group. Every other Tuesday, 6:30-8 p.m. LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. Weekly HIV & Syphilis Testing: Hosted at the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte each Wednesday, 5-7 p.m. HIV Support Group: Open support group for men and women who are HIV-positive. Hosted second Wednesdays of each month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Different Roads Home. differentroadshome.org. LGBTQ Adult Education and Discussion Group: Weekly on Thursdays, a safe place for LGBTQ adults to meet and discuss important issues and topics. Hosted at LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. Each Thursday, 6-8 p.m. PFLAG Charlotte: Monthly support group meeting. Second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m., Time Out Youth Center. pflagcharlotte.org. Tradesmen: Monthly social meeting first Saturday of each month. 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m. The Woodshed Lounge. charlottetradesmen.org. Have a recurring weekly or monthly event, social, support or discussion group? Let us know. Submit your event at our online calendar at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/.

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

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OUR PEOPLE

Q&A with Kode Brown Assistant Manager, White Rabbit by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Kode Brown, 28, works as the assistant manager of White Rabbit, where he’s worked since 2010. Believe it or not, he’s a Charlotte native (you don’t always see ‘em around!). He graduated from Providence High School in 2004. At White Rabbit, he’s in charge of a slew of tasks, including decorating the store’s front window and a new YouTube video series exploring the store’s offerings. What did you do after high school? I worked at a pizzeria, Avanti Italian Restaurant, for six years. I started out as a salad maker and ended up being a manager. I liked it, but they changed owners and I decided I would leave. I moved to Sumter, S.C., to live with my father for a about seven months and came back to Charlotte in November 2009. What is it you enjoy about working at White Rabbit? You meet lots of different types of people here. I like seeing the diversity of the gay community. It’s fun. I like that I’m comfortable being in my own skin and that I get to help other people be comfortable in theirs. Do you see a lot of customers who are just coming out of the closet or new to the community? We do get a lot of people who are just coming out. We try to give them info about what’s going on in the gay community. We hand them a qnotes and tell them here’s what’s going on in Charlotte and in North Carolina and what the community is providing.

What’s your most memorable experience at the store? We get such a variety of different people here. It’s a great experience. You meet transgender people. You meet drag queens. You meet butch guys and feminine guys. You meet so many different types, any thing is memorable. We even get straight people. Every day is a new experience. You meet someone new, weird or funny. People can make you laugh or some have sad stories. Everyday is memorable. What kind of underwear do most people buy? A lot of the guys are buying boxer briefs or jock straps. Since you’re selling them, it’s only fair to ask: what do you prefer? I prefer boxer briefs. They are long enough on your thigh but still give you the same support as a brief.

life

What kind of movies do you like? I like romantic comedies and super-hero action movies, but the last movie I saw was “American Hustle.” What’s your favorite TV show? Glee. It’s my favorite because of all the musical aspects. I’m still a thespian at heart. Did you act in high school? All four years. I did both musicals and plays, both behind scene on tech crew and on stage as an actor. I really enjoyed “Hello, Dolly!” and “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”

What’s your favorite music? It’s mostly Pop and R&B and lately I’ve been trailing off to Country. I have a mixture. I’m very eclectic. I’ve been listening to [female rappers] Azealia Banks and Iggy Azalea. It’s really funny, because I’ll go from that to Country’s Luke Bryan and back to someone like Pharrell. It goes to so many extremes, it’s really funny.

What’s up with this new White Rabbit video series? The videos are based around White Rabbit and what it offers the community. It’s not just about underwear. We talk about our cards for special occasions, movies and we’re going to talk about books. It’s all generally what we offer in the store for the community. The idea came when I was just hanging out with a friend and him inspiring me. He said you have a face and a voice, let’s do some videos. He edits all the videos. We’re having fun with it and we’re going to keep going until there’s nothing left to talk about, but there’s always something new to talk about. In the future, we’re even going to try to do interviews with people in the community, so people, watch out! I’m coming for you!

When you’re not working, what do you like to do? I go to the movies a lot. I’m not a club person, so I don’t go out much. I hang out with my friends and mostly I’m just a homebody.

— Learn more about White Rabbit at whiterabbitbooks.com, follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/whiterabbitstore or see their new video series at youtube.com/user/WhiteRabbitstoreNC.

March 28-April 10 . 2014

qnotes

March 28-April 10 . 2014