QNotes March 29-April 11, 2013

March 29-April 11 . 2013

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March 29-April 11 . 2013

inside

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March 29-April 11, 2013 Vol 27 No 24 arts. entertainment. news. views.

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contributors this issue Paige Braddock, Rosendo Brown, The Charlotte Observer, Matt Comer, Jon Hoppel, Charlene Lichtenstein, Lainey Millen, Trinity

front page Graphic Design by Matt Comer & Lainey Millen Photo Credit: Matt Comer Illustration: clker.com. Public domain.

news & features 6 News Notes: Regional Briefs 9 Staff transitions signal TOY growth

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a&e / life&style 5 Buncombe County ads DP benefits 10 RiverRun honors local gay couple 12 Queer Country 13 Spring, music in the air 15 Playing the field 16 Out in the Stars 17 Tell Trinity 18 Fabulance 18 Jane’s World 19 Q events calendar 21 Blumenthal brings in biggest Broadway Lights season

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opinions & views 4 4 5 5

Editor’s Note Editorial TalkBack QPoll

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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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editor’s note

by Matt Comer matt@goqnotes.com

Protecting our local LGBT history Local LGBT history must be preserved.

It is essential for our community’s past, our present and our future. Documenting our history in publicly-viewable and publiclyaccessible ways also acts to ensure that our community, its past struggles and its past victories, are not forgotten.

I was reminded of how important history is on a recent trip to Philadelphia. I traveled there in February for a weekend seminar for LGBT journalists. Near the end of the trip, we took a short tour of the city. I was absolutely amazed to find several LGBT-related historic marker signs scattered across the city. Such signs are a constant and visible reminder of the place of LGBT people in Philadelphia’s local history. That reminder is not only visible to LGBT people, but to all members of the local community. In essence, such historic markers act by themselves to create constant visibility and potential future progress for LGBT people.

Here in Charlotte, over the past several months, some local community members have been establishing nascent projects to help

document and preserve local LGBT history.

These community members have already begun the process of starting a formal community history project for Charlotte. Even here at the newspaper, we’ve brainstormed ways to help preserve our extensive, nearly 40-year library of LGBT history contained in the archives of The Free Press, The Front Page and qnotes, among other publications.

Community history projects can take many forms. We need them all, including oral histories, documented research projects and essays, historiographies, photo essays and more.

And, like Philadelphia, we need historic markers. Charlotte is full of historically-significant locations scattered across the city.

Such locations include The Scorpio. Though the club has been located at its present site on Freedom Dr. only since 1974, it was originally established in 1968, making it a pre-Stonewall gay bar that, 45 years later, is still in operation.

Other bars come to mind, too, such as the old Oleen’s, one of the first gay bars in Charlotte.

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March 29-April 11 . 2013

The building that once housed Oleen’s is now a Dunkin’ Donuts, but the immense history contained there is the beginning of a social fabric that was forced to develop in the shadows and without the privileges, like churches and civic groups, afforded to other minority communities.

The Bar at 316, formerly Liaisons, is a longtime LGBT gathering spot as well. The bar is still located next to the original Charlotte location of White Rabbit, once the one certain place LGBT community members could find LGBT-related community information, books and magazines long before acceptance of LGBT-themed material in mainstream retailers.

Early queer history in Charlotte, as in other cities across the U.S., does, indeed, revolve around bars and bookstores. Yet, there is so much more. Early newspapers like The Free Press operated in the mid-1970s. Early gay rights groups, religious groups and social groups also operated in the 1970s. Each of these historic milestones happened in real-life locations, be they homes, churches, bars or elsewhere. Each are deserving to be remembered and marked for future research and education. Historic markers would do the trick.

But, we must act fast. Important details in our local LGBT history are in danger of being forgotten — details which can only be recalled from memory and experience.

And, as the earliest generation of Charlotte’s LGBT leaders and visionaries age, it is

imperative that we begin to document their experiences and stories. Sadly, we have already lost some of these early leaders and, along with them, the stories they could have told about what it was once like to live as queer people here.

Our community is strong. It is growing.

It is achieving more. We are gaining acceptance where acceptance once seemed impossible. But, to truly know where we are going — and to understand it in all its wonderful complexity — we must know, understand and make available the details of our past. We must know from where we have come if we truly desire to create a more fulfilling and progressive future.

In the coming weeks and months, as community members continue their conversations, I hope I can play a role in documenting our local LGBT history. I hope you, too, will join us. If interested, feel free to reach out to Josh Burford, the lead organizer of the newlyestablished community history project, at joshburford@outlook.com. Or, begin your own conversations among friends and acquaintances. What makes the studying of history so great is that much of it begins simply with personal stories and recollections. Many of you have such stories. So do your friends. Talk about them. Write them down. Share them.

From such a simple beginning will spring a wealth of knowledge. : :

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Buncombe County adds domestic partner benefits 2012 amendment seems to have no effect

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

ASHEVILLE — Buncombe County commissioners voted 4-3 on March 19 to begin offering health and other benefits to the same-sex partners of county employees.

The mountain county, home to the liberal and artsy Asheville, becomes the fourth county in North Carolina to offer such benefits to LGBT couples, following Durham, Mecklenburg and Orange Counties. Several cities, including Asheville, already offer domestic partner benefits. Others include Carrboro, Chapel Hill, Charlotte, Durham and Greensboro.

“This move by the Buncombe County Commissioners sends a clear signal that LGBT employees of the county are valued and respected members of the workforce who deserve equal treatment,” the Rev. Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, executive director of the Asheville-based Campaign for Southern Equality said in a release. “We have seen many local employers, including Mission Hospital, adopt similar policies in recent years. If your goal is to attract and retain the best workforce, this kind of policy is now standard procedure.”

The decision, made along a party-line vote, allows LGBT couples and their dependents access to health and life insurance, use of leave time and all entitlements under the Family and Medical Leave Act. Commissioners voted to proceed with the benefits despite doubt cast by an anti-LGBT state constitutional amendment passed by voters in May 2012. The amendment defines marriage between a man and a woman as the “only domestic legal union” in the state.

Debate during the amendment campaign centered on a variety of topics, including the potential ban on protections like domestic partner benefits. Yet, the amendment has seemed to have no effect on the local policies. The Charlotte City Council, for instance, approved their domestic partner plan in June 2012, just one month after the amendment passed. Those benefits went into effect in January. North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper has yet to issue an opinion on the effect of the amendment. : :

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talkback Letters to the editor and comments from goqnotes.com. and facebook.com/ qnotescarolinas. Web comments are not edited for grammar or punctuation.

Progressive South In Tuscaloosa Alabama we have begun bridging the gap between the local community and the academic collegiate world. I, and many others, are part of Southerners on New Ground. A great organization that empowers LGBTQA+ Southerners to organize and work together. We have the right to stay. live, love and work in our communities. There is much work to be done. SONG members continue to recognize the intersectionality of our identities and lives and use everyones gifts to add to the uplifting of our community.

Working as liaison with community leaders and the available programs at the university level there are many challenges.

There has been some progress and we who are passionate about this work will continue to move forward.

— Jennifer L. Collins, Instructor, University of Alabama, Department of American Studies,

March 15, goqnotes.com, in response to Joshua Burford’s “Who’s left to Create Change in the South?”, goqnotes.com/21306/.

Buncombe Co. benefits I’m surprised there were 3 votes against it.

Asheville seems very progressive but apparently it is not as progressive as I thought.

— Nikki Hatch, March 21, Facebook, in response to Buncombe County’s approval of domestic partner benefits, goqnotes.com/21591/.

Downtown Asheville is progressive, get outside of that area and you’re right back in The Bible Belt.

— Jeff Manus, March 21, Facebook, in response to Buncombe County’s approval of domestic partner benefits, goqnotes.com/21591/.

join the discussion We welcome your letters to the editor (200 or words or less) and guest commentaries (600 words or less).

Submit them to letters@goqnotes.com.

March 29-April 11 . 2013

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news notes: carolinas. nation. world. compiled by Lainey Millen | Matt Comer

Triad Leader steps down

WINSTON-SALEM — The board of the Adam Foundation has announced that it’s president, A.J. DeLaOsa, has stepped down from his responsibilities in order to take on a career advancement in Florida. Vice President Larry Boles will take the helm.

“While I know The Adam Foundation will continue to shine, it is with a heavy heart that I leave our great community of Winston-Salem. However, I am excited to announce the leadership of AF continues to be strong, and I trust the skills and talents of Larry Boles as he takes center ring for the remainder of the year,” DeLaOsa said.

Work is still underway on numerous fronts for the foundation. They are in the height of grant season, as well as collaboration discussions with Equality Winston-Salem and AIDS Care Service. One long-term goal has finally come to fruition, the Adam Legacy Endowment Fund. It was launched with $25,000 and the foundation will have a summer kick off for a year-long campaign. info: adamfoundation.org.

— L.M.

Church says ‘no’ to weddings

WINSTON-SALEM — On March 17, Green Street United Methodist Church, 639 S. Green St., issued a statement on marriage saying that it is not going to perform weddings there until everyone can marry, thereby standing in “solidarity with LGBTQ members.”

In a formal release the church said: “On the matter of same-sex marriage, Green Street UMC sees injustice in the legal position of state government and the theological position of our see next page u

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March 29-April 11 . 2013

TOY to host prom

CHARLOTTE — Time Out Youth (TOY) will hold its annual prom on April 27, 7:30-10.30 p.m., at Grand Central, 1000 Central Ave. Theme is “A Night Beyond the Stars!”

This event is open to LGBTQ youth, ages 13-20. It is presented in an affirming, inclusive and chaperoned environment.

DJ Rob Yow will spin tunes and entertainment will be provided

by Buff Faye and Casanova Cowboy. Free formal photos will be made available to attendees.

Shuttle service will be available from Time Out Youth to Grand Central from 7-8 p.m.

Tickets are $8 single/$12 couples in advance, $10 single/$15 couples at the door.

The event is drug and alcohol free.

In other news, TOY will host a Breaking the Silence Rally on the evening of the Day of Silence on April 19 at 5:30 p.m. TOY Executive Director Rodney Tucker says that although it is targeted at youth, it is open to the community.

After spending the day in a quiet mode, participants will be able to get loud and proud in standing up to LGBT discrimination and harassment in schools. Live music, food and games will highlight the festivities.

The Day of Silence is a national project of Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN). Every year since 1996, students have been able to join forces with others across the U.S. in voicing their concerns, albeit silently, as a protest by taking a vow of silence for one day. The initiative started at the University of Virginia and has grown into a national call to action, with more than 8,000 middle school, high school and college and universities banding together to voice outrage against bullying and harassment.

Students may be silent during non-instructional time as a part of right to free speech accorded to by the Constitution. However, during class time, they may be called upon to answer questions or give input. Talking to teachers ahead of time about participation in the Day of Silence may make it easier for students to be able to remain silent during class time.

Online resources are available from GLSEN to assist those who wish to become involved. Activity guides and organizing outlines, as well as other items are located under the quick links area of the website.

Registration may be handled there as well.

For more on TOY, read the story on page 9. info: timeoutyouth.org. dayofsilence.org.

— L.M.

news

goqnotes.com/to/news denomination. North Carolina prohibits samesex marriage and all the rights and privileges marriage brings. The Leadership Council has asked that their ministers join others who refuse to sign any State marriage licenses until this right is granted to same- sex couples.”

The release further said that the United Methodist Church “prohibits its pastors from conducting same-sex wedding, excluding gay and lesbian couples from the holy sacrament of marriage.” The Leadership Council “has asked the pastor to refrain from conducting wedding ceremonies in [the Green Street] sanctuary for straight couples, until the denomination lifts its ban for same-sex couples.”

Currently, Green Street stands as the only reconciling congregation in the Western Carolina Conference. Their LGBTQ membership has grown in recent years.

To read the complete statement and other documents, visit greenstreetchurch.org.

— L.M.

Triangle Citizen lobbyists unite

RALEIGH — Equality North Carolina is all set to lobby the General Assembly on April 16 and all they need are LGBT and straight ally citizens to join the fight.

Take a break from regular activities in order to help make a difference. Training and support will be provided. Online registration is available.

Participants are encouraged to visit their legislators to let them know they have LGBT constituents and allies in their districts. Then take these experiences home and organize communities to take action. info: equalitync.org/lobbyday.

— L.M.

‘Future’ discussion on tap

CHAPEL HILL — Frank Bruni, of the New York Times, and Jonathan Capehart of the Washington Post and MSNBC, will head to the Tar Heel State on April 10, 5:30 p.m., to engage in a conversation on “The Future of LGBT Rights in America” at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Nelson Mandela Auditorium, Fed Ex Global Education Center.

The event is hosted by the university’s LGBT Representation and Rights initiative. It is co-sponsored by the Curriculum in Global Studies, the Program in Sexuality Studies, the Provost’s Committee on LGBTQ Life and the Center for Global Initiatives. info: Andrew Reynolds, 919-962-5443.

— L.M.

Festival approaching

RALEIGH — In just over a month, the LGBT Center of Raleigh will hold its family-friendly Out! Raleigh on May 4 along Fayetteville St. from the State Capitol to City Plaza.

This day-long festival comes complete with stage performances, speakers and a KidsZone. It is free, come rain or shine.

Vendor space will showcase business and non-profit organizations and businesses and restaurants in the area are encouraged to support and welcome attendees.

Sponsorships, supporters and volunteers are still being sought, along with vendors.

Applications and information are available online. info: outraleigh.org. lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.

— L.M.

‘1’ conference registration open

CARY — The We Are 1 Conference will be held April 17-20 at the Embassy Suite Hotel, 201 Harrison Oaks Blvd.

The theme for the welcoming and affirming “no limits” conference is “Where Fear Is Not a Factor.” Sponsored by the Infinity Diamond Club, it began in 2009 as a way to spirit grown and life-changing for women and men who invest their time in the four-day event.

A full slate of programs, workshops and more will keep attendees busy from early morning until late evening.

Those who wish to showcase their businesses or organizations can register for vendor space by April 10 for two- or three-day options.

Visit the conference site for complete details on costs, hotel reservations and more. info: weare1conference.com.

— L.M.

Regional Gay Dems form chapters

RALEIGH — LGBT Democrats across the state are jumping on board with the formation of county chapters. This initiative is being spearheaded by LGBT Democrats of North Carolina, President Ryan Butler (pictured) shared.

Right now, the first one to come on deck is from Orange County.

Lee Storrow, a Chapel Hill Town Council member, has been elected president. He is the youngest elected member of the council and one of the only openly LGB members.

He said, “I’m both thrilled and honored that Orange County has founded the first county chapter. This is an important step forward for the Orange County Democratic Party. We look forward to helping Democrats get elected in Orange County and across the state.”

Other officers include Carrboro Board of Alderman Member Lydia Lavelle, vice president, and John Hammond, secretary and treasurer.

In the Triad, an organizational meeting was held on March 24 at the party headquarters. At press time, a slate of officers was not established, but plans are in the works to move forward on the formation of a chapter there. To learn more, email Ralph Rodland at ralphrodland@gmail.com.

In Gaston County, Robert Kellogg, who serves as county chair, is spearheading the effort to form a chapter. A meeting is slated for April 28, 3-4:30 p.m., at Southern Crescent Private Lounge, 324 W. Main Ave. On the agenda at an upcoming organizational meeting will be election of officers, discussion of political vision and fellowship. For more information, call Kellogg at 704-953-8529 or email rkellowgg001@carolina.rr.com.

For more information on forming a chapter outside these targeted counties, email Butler at ryan@ryanbutler.net. info: lgbtdemocrats.org. facebook.com/ LGBTDemsOfNC. — L.M.

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from marrying, and therefore the State of New Mexico should issue civil marriage licenses to any same-sex couple who applies for one.

Marriage suit filed in New Mexico The couples are represented by the ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Two same-sex American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the couples seeking the freedom to marry filed ACLU of New Mexico, the National Center for a lawsuit on March 21 in Albuquerque’s Lesbian Rights (NCLR), the Albuquerque law district court after they applied for and were firm Sutin, Thayer & Browne, APC, and local denied marriage licenses by the Bernalillo cooperating attorneys Maureen Sanders, County Clerk.

Lynn Perls and Kate Girard.

The lawsuit claims that the New New Mexico is the only state in the country Mexico marriage statutes and New Mexico that does not either explicitly recognize sameConstitution do not bar same-sex couples sex relationships through marriage or civil unions or ban recognition of same-sex relationships by statute or constitutional amendment.

The couples are Miriam Rand, 63, and Ona Porter, 66, and Rose Griego, 47, and Kim Kiel, 44.

Miriam and Ona currently live in Albuquerque, while Rose and Kim reside in Santa Fe. Just days before the lawsuit was filed, Santa Fe city officials said they believe New Mexico law allows county clerks to issue Plaintiffs, from left: Kim Kiel, Rose Griego, Miriam Rand and licenses for same-sex marriages.

Ona Porter.

Santa Fe City Attorney Geno Photo courtesy ACLU of New Mexico.

Zamora agreed, saying that New

National/Global

Mexico law defining marriage is gender-neutral and lacks any prohibition on same-sex marriage.

— LGBTQ Nation

High school creates gender-neutral restrooms

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland’s largest public high school has reclassified six restrooms as unisex to create another option for transgender students and faculty who feel uncomfortable with traditional bathrooms.

The move is a first in the district and relatively uncommon nationwide for K-12 schools, which typically make staff or other small restrooms available, reported The Oregonian.

Officials at Ulysses S. Grant High School say four student restrooms and two staff restrooms — all single-stall — will be open to all students but create another option for the five to 10 transgender students at the high school.

According to The Oregonian, Grant High School Vice Principal Kristyn Westphal helped lead the initiative after school counselors raised concerns.

“We just need to make sure that all students are safe and comfortable here, and that they have their needs met,” Westphal told the newspaper. “If they feel unsafe using the bathroom, that’s a problem.”

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March 29-April 11 . 2013

Scott Morrison, a 17-year-old senior who was born a female but identifies as a male, says he stopped drinking water at one point so he wouldn’t have to choose between gender-specific restrooms.

Now, Morrison says he doesn’t have to struggle with the choice.

The state passed the Oregon Equality Act in 2007, joining at least 15 other states and Washington, D.C., in offering some legal protection for transgender people.

Earlier this year, Portland Public Schools’ general counsel Jollee Patterson sent administrators guidelines about how to deal with transgender issues, including bathrooms.

“This (bathroom) issue requires us to consider the need to support our transgender students, while also doing our best to ensure the safety and comfort of all students,” she wrote.

— LGBTQ Nation

Starbucks CEO defends gay support

SEATTLE, Wash. — Starbucks chief executive Howard Schultz defended the company’s decision to support marriage equality and told investors at a shareholder meeting on March 20 that if they weren’t on board, they could

see News Notes on 11

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Staff transitions signal growth at Time Out Youth Three newest staffers bring new energy amid increased services and programming

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

CHARLOTTE — An influx of new staff gay-straight alliances and other high school members over the past several months at a LGBT student groups is growing. local LGBT youth services agency is signaling Pitts, who pulled double duty organizincreased growth for the organization, as it ing both youth programming and services, tackles school outreach, youth homelessness will be succeeded by two new staff people. prevention and other programs designed to Sarah Awlran, a Charlotte native and former support LGBT young people.

YMCA of Greater Charlotte employee, The transition, which has brought three joined as Time Out Youth’s director of youth new staff members to Time Out Youth since last programs in mid-February. She received summer, also marks the here bachelor’s degree in sociolend of a nearly five-year ogy from the University of North experience with the Carolina-Charlotte and she’s organization from outgocurrently pursuing a graduate ing youth services and degree in marriage and family programming director planning at Pfeiffer Unviersity.

Laurie Pitts. Joining O’Neale Atkinson also joins the organization as an the organization, coming on board intern in 2007, Pitts was as director of youth services on later hired to work for the April 1. Atkinson, who earned a group in February 2009. master’s in social work from the Her last day at the orgaUniversity of South Carolina, has nization was March 27. worked as the LGBT Community In her several years Center of Charlotte’s operations Laurie Pitts File Photo at Time Out Youth, Pitts manager since June 2011 and has seen the organizabriefly worked as qnotes’ editor tion grow into a stable, well-networked and in spring 2012. [Ed. Note — At press time, the outspoken advocate for Charlotte’s LGBT LGBT Community Center was still in the proyoung people. She credits some of the stabilcess of hiring a new operations manager. Stay ity to former executive director Steve Bentley. tuned to goqnotes.com for more on that story.]

Today’s growth, she said, can be attributed to Both Awlran and Atkinson are excited current director Rodney Tucker. about their futures at Time Out Youth and the “He has an incredible vision and isn’t afraid organization’s recent upward trajectory. to go for it,” Pitts said. “We’re also in a much “I’m excited to see where these changes more stable place than we have ever been lead us,” Awlran said. which gives us the leeway to look ahead.”

Atkinson is most excited about increasing With the increase in the organization’s capacity for in-house programming and the programming has come an increase in comincreased school outreach. munity support and awareness.

“I’m excited to engage with staff like “Historically the [wider] community didn’t Micah,” Atkinson said. “The more we can do know we were here and that was sort of by outreach in school and a have a presence in design,” Pitts said. “The goal was to create a the school system, the more we are casting a safe space for youth. We didn’t do marketing. wider net to engage more youth.”

We didn’t do outreach. We didn’t do a lot of Awlran said Time Out Youth’s current press or get a lot of media attention. In the past clients and youth members are adjusting to four years, that’s all changed. Our name is out the changes. there more and we’re letting more people in.”

“Just to see the welcome that so many Time Out Youth’s recent school outreach of the youth have given me,” she said. “They efforts are just one example of the group’s iniimmediately treated me like a member of the tiative to widen its appeal. Recently, the group family. That says a lot on their part.” partnered with the national Gay, Lesbian, Though the staff additions are positive Straight Education Network (GLSEN) to dissteps, the accompanying transition by Pitts tribute “Safe Space” kits to school counselors is somewhat bittersweet. She’s moving to and officials at every public middle and high Asheville with her wife and her daughter, school in the metro area. where she’ll be a stay-at-home mom. The School outreach coordinator Micah departure evokes a range of emotions.

Johnson, who earned his bachelor’s degree “The truth is, I have two families — I in psychology from Luther College and a have my wife and my child and I have my master’s in social work from St. Ambrose Time Out family,” Pitts said. “Some of these University, brings six years of experience of youth are just as much mine as my own kid child welfare, substance abuse and mental and I love them. I can’t imagine my life withhealth to his position. Johnson joined Time out them, but I think now is the perfect time Out Youth last summer. School officials and for me to leave and have someone else come students are responding positively to the in with some new blood with new ideas and outreach and Time Out Youth’s support of local new energy.” : :

March 29-April 11 . 2013

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RiverRun to honor local gay couple Film festival to feature transgender Canadian film

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Longtime LGBT activists and local arts supporters Frank Benedetti and Gary Trowbridge will be honored at this year’s 15th annual RiverRun International Film Festival in Winston-Salem. The festival, featuring over 140 different award-winning feature films, documentaries, animated films, foreign films and shorts, will include two screenings of director Madeline Carlin’s “We Will Prevail,” a short documentary following the couple both before and after the May 2012 passage of North Carolina’s anti-LGBT state constitutional amendment.

“Originally it started with a young lady from Elon College,” says Benedetti, 73. “She was working on a class project and asked if we would help her with it. She came out and visited with us and came back another time and took pictures and we said, ‘Okay, that’s the end of that.’”

Months later, the couple received a package in the mail with a DVD and a thank you note. Later, they learned the film was submitted to the festival.

“We review films for RiverRun and we

heard this was one of the films submitted,” Benedetti says.

Trowbridge, 72, adds, “Of course, they wouldn’t let us review that one.”

The couple says feedback for the film, which was also screened at last year’s North Carolina Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in Durham, has been positive.

“They (RiverRun screeners) enjoyed watching it very much and said there’s probably a genesis of a much larger story in that and they hoped she would pursue that.”

The film on the couple, who are longtime advocates for marriage equality, comes as the Supreme Court hears and considers two important marriage-related cases this spring and summer. On March 26, the court heard oral arguments in the cases on the federal Defense of Marriage Act and California’s anti-LGBT state constitutional amendment, Proposition 8.

see next page u Canadian drama centers on trans story line RiverRun International Film Festival will also screen the 2012 Canadian drama, “Laurence Anyways.” The film, directed by Xavier Dolan and filmed in French, stars Melvil Poupaud as transgender character Laurence Alia and Suzanne Clément as Laurence’s love interest Fred Belair. Set in the 1980s and 1990s, the film follows Laurence as he reveals himself to Fred and explores how the couple navigates Laurence’s transition. The story line is a rocky one, as Fred and Laurence eventually break up, Fred moves away and marries and their paths cross later in life. The film will be screened on April 13, 16 and 20 at various venues at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and in downtown Winston-Salem.

For more information on the film and tickets, visit riverrunfilm.com.

Melvil Poupaud stars as the title character in ‘Laurence Anyways.’

Photo courtesy RiverRun International Film Festival

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Frank Benedetti, left, and Gary Trowbridge, right, stand with their minister, the Rev. Charlie Davis, at their 40th anniversary re-commitment ceremony.

Photo courtesy RiverRun International Film Festival

A ruling could come as soon as June.

Benedetti and Trowbridge say they have fears and concerns about the pending Supreme Court cases.

“I have a fear about it because of the composition of the court,” says Benedetti. “I think they are overwhelmingly Catholic and overwhelmingly ultraconservative. I’m afraid their ideology will get in the way of constitutional rights.”

“I feel like if there is a bishop or cardinal who says if you vote this way or you do this, we’re going to withhold communion from you, they are going to listen to them,” adds Trowbridge, saying precedent has already been set for religious meddling in marriage debates. “Look at what the Mormon and

Catholic churches did with Proposition 8. They financed the whole thing.”

The couple knows marriage equality is inevitable — “The train has left the station,” Benedetti says — but don’t hold out as much hope that change will occur quickly enough to impact them.

“We have seen things change very slowly,” says Benedetti. “When we were your age, it was a whole different world. We are confident [it will happen], but we don’t think we’ll live long enough to see this.”

The couple’s short documentary will screen on April 14 and April 19 at Hanesbrands Theatre at the Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts, 209 N. Spruce St. For more information and tickets, visit riverrunfilm.com. : :

News Notes

For 2012, Starbucks delivered a 14 percent increase in net revenues over the prior year, reaching a record $13.3 billion. The company returned approximately $1.1 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and dividend payments.

In February, Starbucks joined nearly 300 other companies in filing a brief calling on the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a section of the Defense of Marriage Act that denies federal benefits and recognition to same-sex couples.

— LGBTQ Nation

continued from page 8 sell their stock and go elsewhere.

Last year, the Seattle-based company announced its support for legalizing samesex marriage in Washington state, prompting opponents of the measure — notably the antigay National Organization for Marriage — to launch a boycott of Starbucks.

At the company’s annual meeting, shareholder Tom Strobhar described Starbucks’ first-quarter performance as disappointing, and suggested that was due in part to the boycott.

“In the first full quarter after this boycott was announced, our sales and our earnings — shall we say politely — were a bit disappointing,” Strobhar said.

Unfazed, Schultz replied that the company’s decision to support marriage equality was not the bottom line, but about respecting diversity, reported KPLU. “If you feel, respectfully, that you can get a higher return than the 38 percent you got last year, it’s a free country. You can sell your shares of Starbucks and buy shares in another company. Thank you very much,” he said, to loud applause from the audience.

He said the company had delivered a healthy return last year, regardless of the boycott.

Transgender rights bill advances

OTTAWA, Canada — A bill that would make it illegal to discriminate against transgender people was approved on March 20 by the House of Commons. The bill now heads to the Senate, where it is expected it will be approved.

The legislation passed by a vote of 149137. Prime Minister Stephen Harper opposed the bill.

— M.C., LGBTQ Nation contributed National and international news content provided courtesy of and reprinted in partnership with LGBTQ Nation, a qnotes media partner.

For the latest national and international news, visit lgbtqnation.com.

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C

ountry music megastar Brad Paisley debuted the title track to his 2011 album “This is Country Music” to a standing ovation at the 44th annual Country Music Association Awards in Nashville, Tenn., in November 2010. The song, instantly popular among Country fans the world over, drew its inspiration from decades of Country music history and lyrics from legends like Johnny Paycheck, George Jones, Conway Twitty, Tammy Wynette and Johnny Cash, among others.

“You’re not supposed to say the word ‘cancer,’ in a song,” the track begins. “And tellin’ folks Jesus is the answer, can rub ‘em wrong/It ain’t hip to sing about tractors, trucks, little towns, or mama, yeah that might be true/ But this is Country music and we do.”

Ultimately a reminiscent memorial to Country music’s past, the song also served to identify in the popular mind what Country music was and is. It also, perhaps, identified what many Country fans — largely stereotyped as conservative, red-state, Bible-belt dwelling rednecks — do not consider Country music, or, at least, the kinds of topics that should remain unspoken and hidden. For all the song’s good-feeling, heart-warming lyrics, there was no mention of Country’s more progressive and, even, LGBT-friendly legacy left by hit artists like Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson and others.

Progressive? Queer friendly? In Country music? Believe it or not, the three aren’t mutually exclusive. Even in the nearly rock-solidly-sealed closet of Nashville, progressive and LGBT Country music fans can find plenty of artists and songs to suit their more liberal tastes.

A land of contradiction Today’s Country music is the undoubted heir of centuries of American folk music, fueled by the traditional tunes immigrants brought to the South from Europe and Africa. Like the fusion in Country music — the banjo, for example, a traditional African instrument, is a mainstay in American folk and Bluegrass — the South itself is a land of unique complexity, cultural integration and, at times, contradiction.

The same region that fused the Irish fiddle, German dulcimer, Italian mandolin, Spanish guitar and African banjo is the same land that became the stronghold of slavery, Jim Crow and strict racial segregation. The same land where millions of African slaves lived and died under bondage is the same land, especially in North Carolina, where fusion Populist politics gave rise to popularly-elected black leaders and where, later, white supremacist leaders ousted those legitimately-elected black officials. In that same region where “segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever” became a rallying cry for radical racists during the 1960s, one of the most farreaching, inspiring and powerful social justice and civil rights movements the world has ever seen was birthed and came to fruition.

Some say politics and music shouldn’t mix.

Conservative commentator Laura Ingraham said as much in her 2003 book, “Shut Up & Sing: How Elites from Hollywood, Politics, and the UN Are Subverting America.” It was a sentiment one angry Dixie Chicks fan echoed when he wrote a death threat to the Chicks’ lead singer Natalie Maines, outlining when and where she would be shot unless she “shut up and sang.” Artists like Maines and the other members of the Dixie Chicks, who

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brazenly crossed the political-music divide, have often been boycotted by conservative fans, Country music radio and other Country music establishments. Yet, it is this highly contradictory, complex southern land upon which Country music draws its historic roots and to which it plays today. As the music itself attests, it’s nearly impossible to separate politics and history from the inspiration that gives rise to the lyrics Country musicians choose to include in their works.

Populist appeal The South that once boasted a strong yet oppressively-racist, landed aristocracy gave way to poverty and stymied economic development in the years following the Civil War. “New South” boosters, mostly racist southern Democrats, began rebuilding the South at the turn of the 20th century. Yet, poverty and infrastructure problems proved a continued obstacle in much of rural southern life. The 1890s’ Populist Movement was national in its scope, but, in the South, focused on important agrarian, “common man” reforms. In North Carolina, Populist reformers created a unique fusion between white and black farmers and elected nearly 1,000 African-American leaders across the state.

The Populists didn’t change all that much in American society, at least not initially. Their movement died out almost as quickly as it began, but their ideas and proposals, meant to embolden and protect the working class, lived on throughout the Progressive Era. Anti-trust laws, a progressive federal income tax, the National Weather Service and rural postal service, the direct election of U.S. senators and several states’ adoption of referendum processes can all trace their roots to the Populists.

It’s this history that still lives on in Country music, decades after the first defiantlyindependent, working-class “hillbilly music”

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singers made their first foray into the national music scene.

Groups like Alabama have profited greatly on populist ideals, harkening back to an era when common folk — both white and black — came together to fight an economic society where the rich only got richer while the poor continued to suffer in poverty.

“Cotton on the roadside, cotton in the ditch/We all picked the cotton but we never got rich,” the lyrics to the band’s 1988 “Song of the South” reads. “Daddy was a veteran, a southern Democrat/They oughta get a rich man to vote like that.”

The song goes on to praise the New Deal reforms of the 1930s, bemoaning the fall of Wall St., the short cotton and tall weeds.

“Mr. Roosevelt’s a gonna save us all,” the band sings, explaining the county’s takeover of the family’s farm, the father’s new job with the Tennessee Valley Authority and their resulting stability.

The 1985 “40 Hour Week” is another example of the band’s populist appeal.

“There are people in this country who work hard every day/Not for fame or fortune do they strive,” the band sings. “But the fruits of their labor are worth more than their pay/ And it’s time a few of them were recognized.”

The song goes on to praise the work of Detroit auto workers, Pittsburgh steel mill workers, Kansas farmers, West Virginia coal miners and a whole slew of blue-collar, oftenlow-paid workers like waitresses, mechanics, police officers and others.

Country music is replete with other examples of songs attesting to the struggles of and celebrating the empowering individualism of the working class. Johnny Paycheck’s “Take this Job and Shove it” is, perhaps, among the most famous, even for those who claim no Country fandom. Other iconic examples include John Conlee’s 1983 “Common Man”

and Alan Jackson’s 1999 “Little Man.” Living in harmony Most people think of white rednecks when they hear Country music. It might be a deservedly-earned reputation. Black Country singers with mainstream acceptance are few and far between, though Charley Pride and, more recently, Darius Rucker seem to have broken through the glass ceiling. (The first black Grand Ole Opry member, Country and Blues singer Deford Bailey, was inducted in June 1983, nearly one year after his death at age 82 in July 1982.)

Yet, despite the near-complete whiteness of Country, plenty of stars have paid tribute to desires for a more equal, tolerant and respectful world. Garth Brooks, who rose to his greatest popularity in the 1990s, is unabashedly liberal and not afraid to admit it. As a part of the Millennium March on Washington, he performed for a special Human Rights Campaign “Equality Rocks” concert attended by more than 45,000 people.

Brooks’ life experiences — he has a lesbian sister — no doubt played a crucial role in his views, which permeate several of his songs. The most moving, his 1992 “We Shall be Free,” won a GLAAD Media Award for its inclusion of what many perceived as the forward-thinking, LGBT-friendly lyric, “When we’re free to love anyone we choose.”

But, the song was much more than an ode to the equality of gay love. It strove for the perfection of a disharmonious world — the dream of working toward a world where “the last child cries for a crust of bread” or “when the last man dies for just words that he said,” where everyone has shelter, no one notices skin color and “the skies and oceans are clean again.”

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Spring, and music, is in the air Upcoming concerts

Fall Out Boys

It’s spring time. With warmer weather comes more opportunities to get out and see, do and hear. Take a gander at these upcoming concerts and musical events in and around Charlotte. Concert listings courtesy livenation. com, where you can purchase tickets and learn more about each performance.

Emmylou Harris // April 1 Country legend Emmylou Harris comes to Charlotte’s Belk Theater on April 1, performing with Rodney Crowell and the Richard Thompson Electric Trio.

Bob Seger // April 25 Bob Seger and his Silver Bullet Band will light up Time Warner Cable Arena on April 25.

Bob Dylan // May 1 Performing with Dawes, the American legend Bob Dylan comes to Time Warner Cable Arena on May 1.

2013 Country Megaticket // May 3 Country stars Keith Urban, Dustin Lynch and band Little Big Town team up for a blow-out concert at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre.

Fall Out Boy // June 1 Pop punksters Fall Out Boy, with its gayfriendly star Pete Wentz, heads to The Fillmore at the NC Music Factory.

Brad Paisley // June 7 Country star Brad Paisley books Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre with Chris Young and Lee Brice for his “Beat This Summer” tour.

‘The Package’ // JUne 19 In the mood for some old-school, boy-band fun? New Kids on the Block, 98-degrees and Boyz II Men are slated to headline Time Warner Cable Arena on June 19.

O.A.R. // July 13 American rocksters O.A.R. will perform with Andrew McMahon and Allen Stone at Time Warner Cable Arena.

‘Last Summer’ // July 25 Three alternative favorites, Barenaked Ladies, Guster and the North Carolina-native Ben Folds Five, combine forces for their “Last Summer on Earth” concert at Time Warner Cable Arena.

Events 600 Festival Food Lion Speed Street May 23-25 Charlotte’s favorite and largest Uptown street festival returns on Memorial Day Weekend, packing in three days full of NASCAR racing fun and music of all genres. As of press time, entertainers had yet to be announced. Stay tuned to 600festival.com for updates.

Uptown Charlotte Jazz Fest June 21-22 The Fourth Annual Uptown Charlotte Jazz Fest returns to Uptown with the sounds and rhythms of some of the world’s greatest jazz performers, this year including Brian Culbertson and band BWB comprised of guitarist Norman Brown, saxophonist Kirk Whalum and trumpeter Rick Braun. uptowncharlottejazzfest.com.

Summer Love Music Fest Aug. 18 This benefit concert raises funds for Live Out Loud and Area Fifteen in NoDa. It also serves to raise awareness for local Charlotte bands.

Six hours of music and vendors. facebook.com/summerlovemusicfest.

Charlotte Pride Aug. 24-25 The Queen City’s annual LGBT Pride festival returns to Uptown Charlotte bringing local, regional and national entertainment, including bands, singer/songwriters and drag performances. charlottepride.org.

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March 29-April 11 . 2013

life

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SPORTS

Playing the field Match-ups from across the Carolinas: Team season off and running

by Jon Hoppel :: qnotes contributor

Well kids, it’s been an exciting first few months here on the Charlotte sports scene. In case you’ve missed any of it, here’s a recap.

David June running to make points.

Photo Credit: Robert Harmon

meet and get accustomed to the league, field, players, and coaches.

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Danny Wadsworth passing to Jon Hoppel.

Photo Credit: Robert Harmon

Joseph Pennington of Atlanta being tackled by B.J. Smith, Alex Grauer and J.T. Wentz.

Photo Credit: Robert Harmon

Rugby The Charlotte Royals played their first home game of the season March 9 against the always formidable Atlanta Bucks. If you remember, the Royals tied the Bucks last season, 10-10, at Atlanta’s annual Ruck-A-Buck tournament, so both teams were eager to get more substantial result this time.

Charlotte came out sluggish to start the game, getting out hustled in rucks and to loose balls. Several careless turnovers led to the first score by the Bucks: a quick penalty that was taken by the scrum half, Joseph Pennington, while Charlotte was lackadaisical getting back on defense.

Luckily, that and a quick tongue-lashing from their none-too-pleased coach, Amanda Vestal, woke the team up and got their focus adjusted. The team answered back quickly by winning a scrum 15 meters out from Atlanta’s try line and converting it into a score by inside center, Jon Hoppel.

With the score evened, Charlotte never looked back. Outside center David June, 8 man J.T. Wentz, and fly half Danny Wadsworth all followed with scores before the half ended.

The Royals were able to keep the Bucks off the scoreboard the second half while continuing to find the try zone, with the final score being 5-64.

Earning man of the match for the forwards was J.T. Wentz, and for the backs was Danny Wadsworth. Up next for the Royals is an away game March 23 in Charleston, S.C., versus the Blockade, followed by a home match against Table Rock, April 13.

Box Score: Wadsworth (24pts), June (15), Hoppel (10), Wentz (5), Colin Howard (5), Garrett Jordan (5).

Tennis It’s getting close to April, which means the Queen City Tennis Club will be starting up again. These men and women play and compete in all skill levels and experience and welcome those interested in enjoying the game of tennis. This group meets every Sunday morning from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Park Road Park (although location is subject to change based on tournaments) starting in April, and runs through October. If you want to find out more, go to their website: qctc. org. And, be on the lookout for their big yearly tournament versus the Triangle Tennis Club from Raleigh, the Carolina Cup, happening some time in June.

Softball Well, their season is almost here. But, signups for the Carolina Softball league are still available on their website, carolinasoftball. org. The league would like to ask any new players to the league to attend one of two clinics being held at Revolution Park so you can

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out in the stars

by Charlene Lichtenstein :: qnotes contributor

March 29 - April 11 Don’t become an April fool when so many planets cluster in Aries and square retrograde Pluto. What this means is that seemingly innocent actions can totally upend our personal landscapes. Think you have a great idea? That is great but wait, wait and…wait some more.

ARIES (03.21-04.20) The temptation will be to try as many new people and experiences as possible. Your focus spans many interests, from latent projects to love. But, the universe has a way of letting you know that the landscape is changing quickly and today’s good idea is tomorrow’s second thought. Give things time to percolate, gay Ram, at least until the taste replicates the aroma.

TAURUS (04.21-05.21) In this cosmic swirl of intuition and just-pure fantasy, can you really tell fact from fiction? Not likely, queer Bull. So, if you find that your imagination is conjuring all sorts of crazy scenarios, take a step back and think about it for a second. There will be time to chase your dreams. To this time period, however, dream boats can be scuttled on a craggy rock…or two.

GEMINI (05.22-06.21) Friends are sending you all sorts of sensual signals. The air is rife with sparky love. Will you bite or just be devoured? It is up to you, pink Twin. The ball is in your court, so to speak. And, you have to decide if you are ready to complicate your platonic life for one lusty moment. If the answer is yes, go into it with your eyes wide open, among other things.

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CANCER (06.22-07.23) The harder you work and try to get ahead in your career, the more you may upset certain close relationships. Maybe this is a good, refreshing change, gay Crab. Or, maybe it is just to be expected as you need to devote so much attention to the task at hand.

Whatever your motivation, be sure that the ends justify the means when you finally get to the top of whatever heap.

LEO (07.24-08.23) Life is one big adventure, but as you begin your momentous journey, you may find yourself tied down by trivial tasks and time wasters. Freedom and adventure is right around the corner, proud Lion, but you will have to find a way to clear off your desk, finish up loose ends on the job and get your health in ship shape for cruise season. Then set sail to seek some seamen.

VIRGO (08.24-09.23) Queer Virgins certainly have “it” right now as their sexy animal magnetism is turned on full force. You not only attract anyone you set your sights on, you also have great fun doing it. Almost too much fun. So, be somewhat choosy, turn on your charisma and see who is lured to your bright light. Will it be like moths to a flame? I would not be surprised.

LIBRA (09.24-10.23) Proud Libras strive for harmony and balance in their lives. But, certain situations may tip your scales. Love relationships can now impact long-standing family issues. As much as you would like both sides

to see eye-to-eye, they may be head-to-head.

Hopefully, with some careful maneuvering, by the end of this time period, you will have them cheek to cheek.

SCORPIO (10.24-11.22) Don’t let the daily frustrations of life spill into your job. And, don’t let any job frustrations cause you to complain.

It won’t do any good and will make it harder to regain your footing. Be the strong, silent type now, proud Scorp. Let the vagaries of life swirl around you while you meditate on happier times. Even better, escape and let the bureaucracy go on without you.

SAGITTARIUS (11.23-12.22) Fun is on your personal agenda, whatever ”fun” means to you. So, whatever you find enjoyable and fulfilling, do it all through this time period. Just check on the costs involved to be sure that what you like to do is within your budget. Gay Archers can get carried away by an inspiration. You don’t want inspiration to cause much monetary perspiration.

CAPRICORN (12.23-01.20) If you find that you are chafing under restrictive family rules, break free now and give yourself a chance to re-invent yourself with your own rules. Some rules are naturally made to be broken. For those pink Caps who are planning a residential move, expect to be surprised by the choices out there. Will you go rural from urban? Let’s not bet the farm.

AQUARIUS (01.21-02.19) What you think is quickly said could upend careful behind-thescenes negotiations. At least that is what Aqueerians seem to want at this time. You are full of big ideas and are ready to share them without careful editing. My advice is to contemplate the impact of your ideas and carefully test the waters before you launch them. There is time to unleash your torrent later.

PISCES (02.20-03.20) Good times with friends is on your agenda. But, be sure that you have the money to party hearty and float your pals when their wallets are empty. Guppies can exceed their budgets because of a combination of too many needy friends and too many great things to do.

Have fun, but save a little for a rainy day too. Oh, do I feel a drop? Or is it just a bunch of drips? : : © 2013 Madam Lichtenstein, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Entertainment. info: Visit 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.

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tell trinity

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

Moving beyond the evil queens Dear Trinity, I’m a drag queen who competes in pageants.

Some of the other queens are evil to me for some reason. Is it me?

Drag Dramas, Fort Lauderdale, FL Dear Drag Dramas, I think it’s time I read you, “A Drag Queen’s Tale.” Long ago on a small island ruled by drag queens and their admirers, there lived the talented Lovely Lovely. One day she/ he entered a pageant with Hatefully Yours, the island’s most evil queen. But, because

everyone was so jealous, no one told Lovely Lovely just how evil Hatefully Yours could be.

One stormy pageant night Hatefully Yours replaced Lovely Lovely’s lip-sync CD of “When Love Takes Over” to “Bad to the Bone.” To make a long pageant short, Hatefully Yours won and was flown to Las Vegas for an International Pageant. Lovely Lovely who lost was flown to a drag rehab clinic in Hollywood, Calif., where she met and married Moses, a rich, Jewish, gay doctor and they lived happily ever after. Unfortunately, while Hatefully Yours was in Vegas her hotel room caught fire, destroyed all her drag and was never able to compete again. So, remember, pumpkin, “It’s not important as to why someone is nasty, but rather who in the end marries the rich doctor.”

Hey Trinity, I want to go to my first circuit party. What should I expect?

Circuit Wonders, LA, CA Hey Circuit Wonders, Circuit parties are full of really cute, hunky and happy guys. There are often drugs and alcohol and lots of famous DJs. Plus, there’s usually a theme where people dress up in costumes or single-colored outfits, i.e.,

Montreal’s Black & Blue and Miami’s Winter (White) Party. Have fun, but, darling, be aware. If the eye candy doesn’t kill you the drugs just may. (Keep from being dazed and confused. See my cartoon for a little insight on how I deal with the party scene.)

Hello Trinity, My new boyfriend invited me to go with him on a business trip to Alaska. When he discovered my matching earmuffs, mittens, boots and coat, he sweetly asked me to “upscale” my wardrobe. What should I do?

Wardrobe Woes, Madison, WI Hello Wardrobe Woes, Love means compromising, not accessorizing. Matching winter outfits work great at the Antarctica gay Pride parade, but for everywhere else a nice leather or tweed, long or short jacket over anything smart, will entice him into inviting you on more trips. Remember, honey, simple (and I mean simple), but stylish scarves, hats and clothes can promise you’ll see the world with him. Lastly, forget loud patterns on business trips. It trips out the businessmen.

Dearest Trinity, I recently got laid off again. I have some money saved, but I’m bored to death. What now?

Jobless, Seattle WA Dearest Jobless In Seattle, Not to worry my lazy, I mean, lost child, here’s,

Trinity’s Smart Tips For What To Do Once You’ve Been Laid Off 1. V olunteer for a religious group, soup kitchen, retirement home or a political campaign.

2. T ravel, visit friends or family, go to museums, concerts or cultural events and enjoy this time off.

3. T ake classes in American history, art history, world history or the history of how you keep getting laid off.

4. Pack some bags and move to a new location.

Turn this challenge into an adventure.

5. C lean out your basement, closet or garage and have a yard sale or work the flea markets.

6. S tart a hobby like painting, drawing, sculpting or making art from the junk you discovered while cleaning out your house.

7. P ut down the antidepressants, get on the internet and look for a full-time J.O.B.!

8. J oin a gym, take a yoga class or join an athletic group, i.e., hiking, baseball or (job) hunting.

9. But, don’t start exercising your addictions for drugs, sex or becoming a couch potato!

10. B ecome an advice columnist, writer, comedian, actor and recording artist. It worked for me! info:With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org. Learn more at telltrinity.com.

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Queer Country continued from page 12 When all that comes to be, Brooks sang, then “we shall be free.”

Other popular Country stars have made their gay-friendliness known, too. Dolly Parton comes immediately to mind, putting her famous brand behind her support with her 2005 “Travelin’ Thru,” a song written and sung for the transgender-themed film “Transamerica.”

The same year, Willie Nelson and Emmylou Harris recorded songs for the breakthrough hit movie “Brokeback Mountain.” Nelson also released “Cowboys Are Frequently, Secretly

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(Fond of Each Other)” that year, a song originally written in 1981 by the Texas-born Ned Sublette. Nelson said at the time that the song had “been in the closet for 20 years.”

“The timing’s right for it to come out,” Nelson said in a statement at the time of the song’s release on Valentine’s Day 2005. “I’m just opening the door.”

Increasing inclusion Though you might not readily see it, gay-friendliness is increasing in Nashville.

Country star Toby Keith — famous for his spat with the Dixie Chicks — said in 2011 that he had no problem with marriage for same-sex

March 29-April 11 . 2013

couples or openly gay members of the Armed Services.

“Somebody’s sexual preference is, like, who cares,” he told “CMT Insider.”

Yet, even in a world where conservative Toby Keith comes out in favor of LGBT equality, there remain few openly gay Country stars. k.d. lang is an obvious example, but she left Country and turned to Pop not long after her debut.

Chely Wright, whose hit “Single White Female” placed number one on the Country charts in 1999, became the first major Country music performer to come out as gay in May 2010.

It remains to be seen whether a major Country artist will come out during the peak of their popularity, though it’s more likely a question of “when” than “if.” And, recent tides in Country point, perhaps, to a brighter, less stereotypically-conservative genre.

Brad Paisley, with all his nostalgic theSouth-is-so-wonderful sentimentality, has at least been consistent with his progressive ideals. Despite calls for boycotts from some Tea-party-crazed conservatives, Paisley’s success continues to grow as fans devour his liberally-enthused lyrics in songs like

“American Saturday Night” and “Southern Comfort Zone,” each anthems calling the South, and America as a whole, to progressivism, multiculturalism and inclusion.

A southern booster, for sure, Paisley isn’t blind or deaf to the past. His 2009 “Welcome to the Future” was supposedly inspired the night then-U.S. Sen. Barack Obama won the 2008 election. In it, Paisley paid tribute to that painfully complex southern history that, even after nearly 150 years since the end of the Civil War, saturates nearly every corner of southern politics, religion and culture.

“I had a friend in school/Running back on a football team/They burned a cross in his front yard/For asking out the homecoming queen,” the song’s last verse states. “I thought about him today/And everybody who’s seen what he’s seen/From a woman on a bus/ To a man with a dream/Hey, wake up Martin Luther/Welcome to the future/Hey, glory, glory, hallelujah/Welcome to the future.” : : more: Read and watch special online extras for this article, including explorations of feminism and other LGBT topics in Country music, online at goqnotes.com/queercountry/.

Queering the big screen April 25-28 • Charlotte GayCharlotte Film Festival The 5th Annual GayCharlotte Film Festival is slated for April 25-28 at Theatre Charlotte! Don’t miss the line-up of 10 incredible LGBTQ-themed movies including hilarious features and thought-provoking documentaries.

Theatre Charlotte, 501 Queens Rd. Various dates. Various times. $8/online. $10/door. $65/10-ticket “flex pass.”

GayCharlotteFilmSeries.com.

March 29 • Charlotte We Are Pride Charlotte Pride teams up with sponsor The Scorpio for a benefit night raising funds for this year’s 2013 Charlotte Pride Festival. A portion of entry fees and your donations will benefit Charlotte Pride. Featuring shows from former Miss Charlotte Pride title holders. The Scorpio, 2301 Freedom Dr. Doors 10 p.m., showtime Midnight. thescorpio.com. charlottepride.org.

March 30 • Charlotte Big Gay Sing The Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte joins with over 100 performers from a variety of groups like the Charlotte Pride Band, Charlotte Roller Girls, Charlotte Royals Rugby Team, Southern Country Charlotte, Time Out Youth and others for “The Big Gay Sing.” Halton Theater, Central Piedmont Community College.

8:04 p.m. $20-30. gmccharlotte.org.

April 6 • Charlotte Amazing Race Bar Crawl Supporting AIDS Walk Charlotte. Cost is $150 per team. For more information or to register, visit barsagainstaids.org.

April 6 • Charlotte Songs of Wisdom One Voice Chorus presents an eclectic evening of song featuring choral and organ works with British connections, in collaboration with the Charlotte chapter of the American Guild of

Organists. First United Methodist Church, 501 N. Tryon St. 7:30 p.m. $15/advance. $20/door. onevoicechorus.com.

drag show. Cooper’s, The Gathering Place, 122 E. Fisher St. 8 p.m. For more information, visit salisburypride.com.

April 9 • Charlotte Trivia for charities Trivia nights have returned to Petra’s, with a new twist! The winning team receives $100 given to the charity organization of its choice.

Teams should be two-six people and must be signed up between 7:30-8 p.m. to play. Second and fourth Tuesdays only. Petra’s, 1919 Commonwealth Ave. 7:30 p.m. petraspianobar.com. facebook. com/lanacanetrivia.

April 16 • Raleigh Equality NC Lobby Day Equality North Carolina hosts their annual lobby day and day of action at the North Carolina General Assembly. The day starts off with a training at the North Carolina Museum of History and then lobbying with state legislators. For more information and to register, visit equalitync.org/lobbyday/.

April 12 • Charlotte Being Gay, Going Grey The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte presents an art exhibit of photography, paintings and the written word exploring LGBT aging. Opening reception, April 12. LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, 2508 N. Davidson St. 7-10 p.m.

704-333-0144. gaycharlotte.com.

April 13 • Charlotte Walk for AIDS The House of Mercy hosts its 20th annual Walk for AIDS, raising awareness and funds for the House of Mercy’s services. For more information, entry and support, visit thehouseofmercy.org.

April 13 • Salisbury Pride Drag Show Salisbury Pride presents a fundraiser and

Submit your event to our new calendar!

April 19-21 • Charlotte Queen City Stomp Southern Country Charlotte presents its annual Queen City Stomp, with weekend dance lessons, evening parties and their Saturday “Cattle Call Ball” fundraiser for the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, One Voice Chorus and Time Out Youth. Main events at Hartigan’s Irish Pub, 601 S. Cedar St., and host hotel Residence Inn, 404 S. Mint St. For registration and more information visit, queencitystomp.com.

April 20 • Charlotte Prime Timers Anniversary Prime Timers of Charlotte, an organization for “slightly older gay and bisexual” men, will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their local chapter. Special speaker at the program is Rob Howard, president of Prime Timers World-Wide. Musical entertainment will

Q

events goqnotes.com/qguide/events

also be provided, with a special after party at Sidelines Sports Bar. Park Road Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 3900 Park Rd. 6-9 p.m. $15/members. $25/friends and guests.

704-236-3775. primetimersww.com/charlotte.

April 27 • Charlotte Film Festival: Guest Speaker Director Robert L. Camina will be a special guest speaker following a screening of his “Raid of the Rainbow Lounge” during the GayCharlotte Film Festival. The 103-minute documentary recounts the widely publicized and controversial 2009 police raid on the 40th anniversary of the raid on the Stonewall Inn at a Fort Worth, Texas, gay bar that resulted in multiple arrests and serious injuries and a resulting local and national outcry. Theatre Charlotte, 501 Queens Rd. 3 p.m. $8/online. $10/door. gaycharlottefilmseries.com.

April 28 • Gastonia LGBT Democrats chapter formation A new county chapter of the LGBT Democrats of North Carolina will be formed. Southern Crescent Private Lounge, 324 W. Main Ave. 3-5:30 p.m. For more information, contact Robert Kellogg, 704-953-8529 or rkellogg001@ carolina.rr.com.

You can now submit your event to a special 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 (gaycharlotte.com) and Visit Gay Charlotte (visitgaycharlotte.com).

March 29-April 11 . 2013

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life

goqnotes.com/to/life

Playing the field continued from page 15

Also, this Easter, Birmingham, AL is hosting their annual Southern Shootout. This is one of the biggest softball tournaments in the southeast and next article we will have a full break down of the results.

Roller Derby The Charlotte Roller Girls All-Stars won their first bout of the season March 2 when they beat the Gate City Roller Girls on the road in Greensboro, 164-59. It was an ’80s themed match called “Breakfast Clubbed,� and that is exactly how Gate City felt after going down 105-25 at half. The home team tried to “club� back in the second half, but it was too little too late. Earning roller girl of the bout was Leah

Davidson, aka Hitsteria, who played jammer for the All-Stars.

The All-Stars took on the Cape Fear Roller Girls at home on March 23 and won the bout 185-157.

The CLTRG B-Dazzlers next take on the Five 40 Roller Derby squad at home April 6.

For more information on the team or tickets to their bout, check out their Facebook page at facebook.com/CharlotteRollerGirls or website at charlotterollergirls.com. : : Charlotte Roller Girl All-Stars and the Gate City Roller Girls Photo Credit: Charlotte Roller Girls Facebook Gallery

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March 29-April 11 . 2013

a&e

goqnotes.com/to/arts

Blumenthal brings in biggest, Broadway Lights season Gay-themed hit ‘Book of Mormon’ slated for December 2013

by Lawrence Toppman :: ltoppman@charlotteobserver.com

Current Tony-winning musical, previous Tony-winning musical, current Tony-winning revival of a musical.

More shows than ever before and more opportunities to swap tickets you don’t want. And as of this year, no fee to join the pay-as-you-go plan.

That’s the biggest news about the 2013-14 Broadway Lights series from Blumenthal Performing Arts, which begins in November with Matthew Bourne’s new version of “Sleeping Beauty” and ends in autumn 2014 with “Once.”

In between come the revamped “Evita” and the revised “Porgy and Bess,” the lighthearted “We Will Rock You” and the deep-hearted “Ghost,” the frolicsome “Peter and the Starcatcher” and — wait for it — “The Book of Mormon,” which arrives Christmas week.

Throw in the seven shows in the Broadway Extras group, if we count the “Lion King” announced last year and coming this August, and you can see 15 productions overall.

Blumenthal president Tom Gabbard, who coordinated the season with vice-president of programming Douglas Young, says the Blumenthal has never offered so many titles before.

“We do try to match supply to demand,” he says. “Last year, we offered only two extra titles, because our sense was that the market here was fragile.

“This year, there are a variety of indicators that the market is strong. … ‘Fela!’ had trouble selling tickets in other cities but sold

out two nights here. We were at 95 percent on ‘Wicked’ before it opened. And because we have only one multi-week run next season (‘Book of Mormon’), we’ve booked more titles.”

Theatergoers with sensitive ears will appreciate the move away from acoustically troubled Ovens Auditorium. The Blumenthal will place all these shows in its Belk, Knight, Booth or McGlohon theaters; it uses Ovens as a backup, when a long run keeps a show out of its own heavily booked venues.

“While we won’t be hosting any Broadway Lights events in the upcoming season, we know we’ll have many more opportunities to potentially partner with Blumenthal Performing Arts in the future,” said George Hite, general manager of Bojangles’ Coliseum and Ovens Auditorium. “Ovens will continue to uphold its 55-plus year legacy of entertainment through continued programming of quality events.”

People who like straight plays will be happy (and surprised) to learn that the Blumenthal is bringing three in one season for the first time: “Starcatcher,” the comedy “Potted Potter” (think of Reduced Shakespeare meeting J.K. Rowling) and “The Mountaintop,” Katori Hall’s fictional depiction of Martin Luther King Jr.’s last night before his assassination.

Traditionally, the Blumenthal has let season ticketholders swap one show in the series for any other production in its facilities, including the Charlotte Symphony, N.C. Dance Theatre or Opera Carolina. This year, you can swap two. (If the

2013-14 Broadway Lights Season Tickets went on sale on March 24 for Blumenthal Performing Arts’ season of touring shows. The packages entitle you to seven shows (or eight, if you want “Peter and the Starcatcher”); season ticket-holders get first crack at single tickets for those shows and the seven titles in the Broadway Extras list. For more information, call 704-372-1000 or blumenthalarts.org. Visit goqnotes.com/broadway lights2013/ for full details on the upcoming Broadway Lights season. new ticket is more expensive, you pay the difference; if it’s less expensive, the Blumenthal gives a refund.)

Buyers have always been able to pay off their tickets over 10 months with credit-card deductions, and Gabbard says 40 percent of the buyers do that. But for the first time, that longterm plan carries no surcharge.

Most unusually, 12 of the 15 titles have never been here.

That suits his desire to “set a high standard by trying to get first national tour companies.”

The biggest coup is “Book of Mormon,” which opened two years ago today on Broadway and still sells the highest percentage of available seats there.

Plays with religious themes can raise eyebrows in Charlotte, but Gabbard doesn’t expect the Tony winner to do so.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints even bought ads in the playbill for the Los Angeles run. One showed a man smiling next to the words “I’ve read the book.” Another had a smiling woman saying, “The book is always better.”

Says Gabbard, “In their quirky way, the show’s creators honor faith: What people believe is important. The Salt Lake Tribune called this show ‘sweet,’ and it is.” : : — Originally published by The Charlotte Observer on March 24, 2013. Reprinted via the Charlotte News Alliance.

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2013 QNotes Reader Survey Thank you for taking the 2013 QNotes Reader Survey. The questions below will help us serve you better by keeping us informed of your experiences, expectations and suggestions for the newspaper. We hope that you will share your thoughts with us and be the lucky winner of our $100 cash giveaway. If your name is selected, then you get the cash. To be eligible to win you must: be at least 18 years of age; fill out this reader survey completely; write your name, address and phone number in the space provided; refold the survey so the QNotes address shows; seal the survey with cellophane tape; and mail it back to QNotes by April 30, 2013. Postage is required; apply first-class postage (46 cents). You can also take this survey online at goqnotes.com/readersurvey/.

The winner will be selected by random drawing from all completed surveys received by April 30, 2013. The winner will be notified by email or phone call.

Name_____________________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________________ City_________________________________________ State________ Zip______________ Phone Number______________________________ o Home o Work o Mobile Email Address______________________________ o Yes, subscribe to weekly email newsletter.

Tell us about yourself 1. In what year were you born? __________ 2. Which range contains your age? o Under 18 o 35-44 o 18-20 o 45-55 o 21-24 o 55-64 o 25-34 o 65+ 3. What is your gender identity? Mark all that apply. o Male o Female o Transgender o Intersex o Other_____________________________ 4. How do you identify your race/ethnicity?

Mark all that apply. o Black (of African descent) o Asian (of Asian descent) o White (of European descent, non-Hispanic) o Latino/a or of Hispanic descent o Native North American o Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander o Mixed ethnicity o Other_____________________________ 5. How do you identify your sexual orientation?

Mark all that apply. o Lesbian or gay woman o Gay man o Bisexual woman o Bisexual man o Queer o Questioning o Heterosexual/Straight man o Heterosexual/Straight woman o Other_____________________________ 6. What is the highest level of education you have attained? o Less than 9th grade o Some high school, no diploma o High school/GED diploma o Some college, no degree o Bachelor’s degree o Graduate or professional degree o Doctorate 7. Do you have any children or pets?

Children: o Birth how many _____ o Foster how many _____ o Adoption how many _____ Pets: o Dog how many _____ o Cat how many _____ o Other how many _____ 8. What are your living arrangements?

9.

Mark all that apply.

o Alone o With parents o With legal same-sex spouse o With legal opposite-sex spouse o With roommate(s) o With partner/significant other o With kids Do you and/or your partner/spouse currently: Mark all that apply.

o Own house o Own condo o Own vacation home

o Own commercial property o Own investment property o Own time share o Rent house o Rent apartment o Rent condo o Rent mobile home 10. What is your individual income? o Under $25,000 o $25,000-$49,999 o $50,000-$74,999 o $75,000-$99,999 o $100,000-$149,999 o $150,000-$249,999 o $250,000 or more o Prefer not to answer 11. What is your household income? o Under $25,000 o $25,000-$49,999 o $50,000-$74,999 o $75,000-$99,999 o $100,000-$149,999 o $150,000-$249,999 o $250,000 or more o Prefer not to answer Your beliefs…

12. What is your political affiliation? o Democratic o Republican o Libertarian o Independent o Other_____________________________ 13. Are you registered to vote? o yes o no 14. Did you vote in the last presidential election? o yes o no 15. How did you vote? o Strictly by party o Strictly by candidate 16. For whom did you vote in the last presidential election (optional)? o Barack Obama o Mitt Romney o Other 17. Do you profess any spiritual beliefs? o yes o no (if yes, answer 18-21) 18. In which of the following faiths are you currently active or do you identify? o Christian (non-denominational) o Jewish o Muslim o Roman Catholic o Orthodox o Catholic o Lutheran o Presbyterian o Church of God o Methodist o Unitarian Universalist o Episcopalian o Baptist o MCC o Wiccan/Pagan o Buddhist o Hindu o Other_____________________________ 19. Do you attend regular worship services? o yes o no 20. Which statement best describes how often you regularly attend worship services? o At least once per week o Almost every week o About once per month o Seldom/For special events or holidays o Never 21. Do you financially support your spiritual institution? o yes o no

Gauging your perceptions…

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The following questions are designed to gauge your Name Of Location perception of QNotes. Please answer quickly with ___________________________________ the first answer that comes to your mind without 39. How many times have you read a QNotes referencing outside material. There are no right printed edition in the past three months? or wrong answers. Knowing how you perceive the o 0 o 1-3 o 4-7 newspaper will help us better address misconcep40. How many times have you visited QNotes’ tions about the newspaper by being clearer or more website in the past one month? intentional in our marketing, distribution, news o 0 o 1-2 o 3-6 o 7-10 o 11+ production and other areas.

41. QNotes’ website is updated with new 22. QNotes is a: stories/posts: o Newsmagazine o Newspaper o Magazine o Too often 23. QNotes’ printed editions are published: o A sufficient amount o Once weekly o Not often enough o Once every two weeks o I don’t read QNotes’ website o Once monthly 42. Do you think QNotes’ website should be o QNotes no longer publishes in print updated: 24. QNotes’ printed edition is: o Two-three times per day o All black-and-white o Once per day o All color o Five or more times each week o A mix of black-and-white and color o Two or three times each week 25. QNotes has a website: o Once a week o yes o no o I don’t read QNotes’ website 26. QNotes is available to readers for free.

43. How do you most often read QNotes?

The cost of production is paid for by: o In Print Only o Online Only o Advertisers o Grants o Print and Online o Donations o Investments If you answered “In Print” complete questions 27. QNotes is primarily targeted to: 44-48 and skip questions 49-54 and continue the Mark all that apply. survey at question 55. If you answered “Online o Lesbians o Gay men Only” skip questions 44-48 and then complete o Bisexual men o Bisexual women questions 49-54 and then continue the survey at o Transgender people question 55. If you answered “Print and Online” o White people please complete all questions below. (of European descent, non-Hispanic) 44. If you most often read in print: o Black People (of African descent) Why did you pick up this particular issue o Latino/a People or of Hispanic descent of QNotes? Mark all that apply. o Frequent reader o Free publication o Other race(s) o Color o Calendar o Younger audience (under 35) o Logo o Advertising o Middle-aged audience (35-55) o Front page cover o Older audience (over 55) o Other_____________________________ 28. QNotes is a: 45. How do you characterize your reading habits of o Carolinas newspaper QNotes printed edition? o Charlotte newspaper o Cover-to-cover o Browse o North Carolina newspaper o Specific columns only 29. The “Q” in QNotes stands for: 46. Where are you most likely to pick up a QNotes o Queen City o Queer printed edition? o Something else/I don’t know o Retail store o Adult bookstore 30. QNotes has been publishing for: o LGBT bookstore o Street box o More than 25 years o LGBT organization o Restaurant o Between 15-24 years o AIDS service organization o Bar/club o Between 5-14 years 47. Where would you prefer to pick up your QNotes o Less than 5 years printed edition?

31. QNotes’ name is: o Retail store o Adult bookstore Mark all that apply. o Accurate o Historic o LGBT bookstore o Street box o Campy o On-point o LGBT organization o Restaurant o AIDS service organization o Bar/club o Celebrated o Respectable 48. How many others read your copy of QNotes? o Confusing o Sensible o0 o1 o2 o3 o4 o5 o Dated o Silly 49. Please provide us with a brief comment or o Something else: statement giving us some insight why you choose ___________________________________ not to read QNotes’ website: 32. I believe QNotes’ name: ______________________________________ o Should be changed ______________________________________ o Should be kept the same ______________________________________ 33. If QNotes’ name were changed it should be ______________________________________ changed to something: If you most often read online: o more modern sounding 50. How do you most often find QNotes’ website? o more akin to a traditional newspaper name o Visit directly o Referred from search o more obviously LGBT (e.g., including “gay” or o Referred from a QNotes social media profile “LGBT” in name) (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)

34. I perceive QNotes as primarily a: o Referred from a friend on a social media site o Bar rag o LGBT news publication (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) o LGBT arts and entertainment publication 51. How do you prefer to find QNotes’ online news? o Mix of LGBT news and arts o Visit directly o Referred from search o Progressive/Liberal publication o Referred from a QNotes social media profile o Conservative publication (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)

In Order To Serve You Better… o Referred from a friend on a social media site (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)

35. How long have you been reading QNotes?

52. Do you read QNotes’ website on a: o 0-1 year o 2-5 years Mark all that apply. o Desktop computer o 6-10 years o 11-15 years o Laptop computer o 16-20 years o 20 or more years o iPhone 36. Do you look forward to reading QNotes? o iPad o yes o no o sometimes o iPad mini 37. Are QNotes printed edition distribution points o Android smartphone convenient to you? o Android tablet device o yes o no March 29-April 11 . 2013 qnotes 23 o Other ____________________________ o I don’t read QNotes’ printed editions

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Your participation and feedback is greatly appreciated. The winner of our survey prize will be notified as soon as possible. If you have any questions or further comments, please feel free to contact us at surveys@goqnotes.com. Thank you.

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(1-very important, 2-important, 3-somewhat important, 4-least important)

1 2 3 4 No Opinion City govt. news o o o o o County govt. news o o o o o State govt. news o o o o o LGBT/Friendly Biz o o o o o Restaurants/Culinary o o o o o Nightlife Events o o o o o Nightlife Photos o o o o o Parties/Fundraising Events/Photos o o o o o Non-LGBT progressive topics like: Immigration issues o o o o o Justice/Crime o o o o o Economy o o o o o Women’s issues o o o o o People of color o o o o o Education o o o o o Health o o o o o HIV/AIDS/STDs o o o o o Profiles of local people o o o o o Profiles of local groups o o o o o Memorials/Obituaries o o o o o News/listings of regular events like: Support groups o o o o o Social groups o o o o o Civic groups o o o o o Religion events/ services o o o o o LGBT sports o o o o o Non-LGBT sports o o o o o New movie releases o o o o o Concerts/music events o o o o o LGBT arts o o o o o 24Non-LGBT arts o o 29-April o o 11 . o qnotes March 2013

69. How many times have you attended the following in the past three months?

0 1-3 4-7 8-12 13+ LGBT bar o o o o o LGBT-friendly bar o o o o o Church o o o o o LGBT fundraiser o o o o o LGBT social event o o o o o Movie o o o o o Theater o o o o o Opera o o o o o Dance performance o o o o o Classical music concert o o o o o Popular music concert o o o o o Choral concert o o o o o Art gallery o o o o o Museum o o o o o 70. Have you traveled to any of the following cities in the past 12 months? o Atlanta o Dallas o Key West o Los Angeles o New Orleans o New York o Provincetown o San Francisco o Washington, DC o Chicago o Miami/Fort Lauderdale o Orlando 71. Have you traveled to any of the following in the past 2 years? o Canada o Mexico o Europe o the Caribbean o Other foreign location 72. Do you have any final comments, suggestions, constructive criticism or feedback? ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________

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58. Would you like to see any of the following added to QNotes? o Travel Features o Political Cartoons o Nightlife events o Neighborhood-specific spotlights/maps/events o Other__________________________________________ 59. Do you participate/vote annually in QNotes’ “QList,” Best of LGBT Carolina? o yes o no o I didn’t know QNotes did a “Best of” contest 60. QNotes would best serve the community by publishing a printed edition: o Every two weeks o Weekly o Monthly o Online only/No print edition 61. If you have a specific need, how likely would you be to choose a QNotes advertiser who meets that need over a non-advertiser? o Very likely o Likely o Unlikely 62. How likely are you to patronize a business because they advertise with QNotes? o Very likely o Likely o Unlikely 63. Do you know of a business that would benefit from advertising in QNotes?

Name of Business: __________________________________ 64. How likely are you to patronize an LGBT-owned business? o Very likely o Likely o Unlikely 65. How likely are you to patronize an LGBT-affirmative business? o Very likely o Likely o Unlikely 66. How likely are you to use a coupon published by a business in a QNotes ad? o Very likely o Likely o Unlikely 67. In your opinion, does color in an ad make the ad more noticeable? o yes o no 68. Do you read any of the following?

Mark all that apply. o Charlotte Observer o Creative Loafing o News & Observer o Independent Weekly o News & Record o Winston-Salem Journal o YES! Weekly o Charlotte Business Journal o Charlotte Magazine o Pocket Rocket Charlotte o GA Voice (Atlanta) o Washington Blade o ProjectQAtlanta.com o Pam’s House Blend o Towleroad.com o Queerty.com o LGBTQNation.com o The Advocate/advocate.com o Out Magazine/out.com o Other __________________________

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53. Why do you prefer to read QNotes’ content online?

Mark all that apply. o More convenient for me o Accessibility o Saves time o Print locations not convenient o Simple preference o Content finds me via social media o Content updated more often o Other __________________________ 54. Please provide us with a brief comment or statement giving us some insight why you choose not to read QNotes’ printed edition: ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ 55. Would you like to see more, less or the same of the following in QNotes?

More Less Same AIDS coverage o o o Activist issues o o o Arts coverage o o o Bisexual issues o o o Drag: queen/king o o o Editorials/Opinion o o o Interviews/Profiles o o o Lesbian issues o o o Letters to the editor o o o LGBT people of color o o o Local/regional news o o o Local politics news o o o National politics news o o o National/Global news o o o Organizational profiles o o o Religion/Spiritual o o o State politics news o o o Transgender issues o o o 56. Which best describes your opinion of the following QNotes columns/sections?

Like Like Dislike Dislike

strongly strongly 20 Questions o o o o Guest Commentaries o o o o Drag Rag o o o o Editor’s Note o o o o Fabulance (comic) o o o o Jane’s World (comic) o o o o Letters To Editor o o o o News Notes: National/Global o o o o Local/Regional o o o o On Being a Gay Parent o o o o Out in the Stars o o o o Playing the Field/Sports o o o o Tell Trinity o o o o Q Events Calendar o o o o 57. How important do you think it is for QNotes to include the following topics in its local news, arts and entertainment coverage?