May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
inside May 14-27, 2011 Vol 26 No 1
16 news & features 6 12 12 14 14 15
News Notes: Regional Briefs Chronicling Carolina ‘Power of a pen’ Hate crime reported Students visit San Fran Guild hosts State official
a&e/life&style 16 17 18 20
HuDost has the most Drag Rag Summer culinary trends Summer attractions
connect goqnotes.com
twitter.com/qnotescarolinas facebook.com/qnotescarolinas Sign up for our weekly email newsletter at goqnotes.com.
20 21 22 23 25 27
Memorial Day Weekend events Hawaiian food fun Out in the Stars Tell Trinity On Being a Gay Parent Q events calendar
opinions & views 4 4 5 24
Publisher’s Letter General Gayety Editor’s Note Guest Commentary
contributors this issue
Leah Cagle, Matt Comer, Kevin Grooms/Miss Della, Charlene Lichtenstein, Lainey Millen, Daniel Myers, Tonyia M. Rawls, Leslie Robinson, David Stout, Trinity, Brett Webb-Mitchell
front page Graphic Design by Matt Comer & Lainey Millen
Pride Publishing & Typesetting, Inc. Editor: Matt Comer, x202 editor@goqnotes.com P.O. Box 221841, Charlotte, NC 28222, ph 704.531.9988 fx 704.531.1361 Assoc. Ed.: David Stout, x210 editor2@goqnotes.com Publisher: Jim Yarbrough Assoc. Ed., A&E: Leah Cagle, x202 arts@goqnotes.com Sales: x206 adsales@goqnotes.com Production: Lainey Millen, x209 production@goqnotes.com Nat’l Sales: Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Printed on recycled paper. Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2011 and may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent of the editor or publisher. Advertisers assume full responsibility — and therefore, all liability — for securing reprint permission for copyrighted text, photographs and illustrations or trademarks published in their ads. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers, cartoonists we publish is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or photographs does not indicate the subject’s sexual orientation. qnotes nor its publisher assumes liability for typographical error or omission, beyond offering to run a correction. Official editorial positions are expressed in staff editorials and editorial notations and are determined by editorial staff. The opinions of contributing writers and guest columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of qnotes or its staff. qnotes accepts unsolicited editorial, but cannot take responsibility for its return. Editor reserves the right to accept and reject material as well as edit for clarity, brevity.
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
VIEWS
Letter from the Publisher by Jim Yarbrough :: qnotes publisher
25 years and not done yet
Twenty-five years… How time flies, So much has changed, Our community has come so far, We have lost so many people, Our youth have no idea. We must keep on keeping on… For the youth who need to know our history, To honor the ones who paved the way, Because the job is not done yet. For 25 years now, qnotes has reported to and about the LGBT community — the good news and the bad news and sad news. There have been many joys and many tears. We have reported the passing of our own staff, our friends and colleagues — many from HIV/
AIDS — and we have reported many celebrations. Things like Lawrence v. Texas, Pride events, buildings bought, community centers organized, people who received awards for jobs well done, for dollars raised and social and educational events. We have been here for you — our community. The three reasons we have been here and will keep on keeping on is our readers, staff and advertisers. If not for all three, the paper would not be here. Our readers are ultimately the reason for qnotes. Whether you read us in print or at goqnotes.com, I’m grateful for you. I trust we have served you well over the last 25 years. We do this for you. Please give us feedback. We want to know if we are meeting your needs. Tell us what you want to see on
general gayety by leslie robinson :: qnotes contributor
Karger has a shot
SUBSCRIBE!
If you haven’t heard of Fred Karger, you have an awful lot of company. Karger is a retired political consultant from California. He’s also a gay activist and he’s running for the presidency. As a Republican. Clearly this is a fellow who fancies adventure. Does he stand more than a Popsicle’s chance in hell? Yes, actually. Karger, the first openly gay Republican presidential candidate, could win his party’s nomination under certain circumstances. Every other candidate has to drop out. It could happen. The acknowledged candidates, the possible candidates, and the waiting-till-later-to-make-a-grand-entrance candidates could all find themselves out of the campaign for one reason or another. Newt Gingrich, for instance, who converted to Catholicism in 2009, might decide he’d rather run for pope. Don’t scoff. As a serial adulterer who trumpeted family values, he’s got a leg up on finessing hypocrisy, which comes in handy in Rome from time to time. One of the Republican frontrunners, Mitt Romney, could similarly decide he’d prefer to head up his Mormon church. But, I think
it more likely he’ll leave the presidential field after he and Texas Gov. Rick Perry get in a shouting match over who has better hair. Tea partiers already harbor reservations about former mega-lobbyist and Washington power broker Haley Barbour, currently the governor of Mississippi. In February Barbour flew to Washington in a luxury jet paid for by Mississippi taxpayers to deliver a speech on the need to cut costs. When he takes that jet to a Tea Party rally, he’ll be pelted with Lipton and lose all fondness for caffeinated tea and all fondness for caffeinated campaigning. Jeb Bush has denied he’ll run in 2012. I think he will run and then inexplicably start speaking like his brother. After saying in a debate something like, “I believe the American people are embettered for our alien rights and other nations should immolate us,” he’ll check into a speech facility. Sarah Palin could meet a wolf that shoots back. Tim Pawlenty, the former Minnesota governor, is described as nice and oh-so bland. Hence, it isn’t hard for me to imagine him disappearing from the race. He might still be in it, but we just won’t be able to see him.
These rates only cover a portion of our true cost, however, our goal is to serve our community Mailed 1st class from Charlotte, NC, in sealed envelope. Subscription Rates:
☐ 1 yr - 26 issues = $48 ☐ 1/2 yr - 13 issues = $34
Mail to: P.O. Box 221841, Charlotte, NC 28222
______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ name:
______________________________________________________ address:
state: zip: ______________________________________________________ city:
☐ mastercard ☐ visa ☐ discover ☐ american express ______________________________________________________ credit card – check one:
exp. date: ______________________________________________________ card #: signature:
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
our pages and our website. We know times are changing — economically, socially and technologically. How does that affect your relationship with qnotes? Let us know. Our staff has always given more than people know. Low pay, tireless hours and their hearts — all for our community. I want to thank each and every one of them over the full 25 years. I want all of you to know how much I appreciate you and I want the readers to know how hard these folks have worked over the years —all of them: editors, graphic designers, writers, bookkeepers, delivery people, web designers, proof readers, ad sales people and support staff. Our advertisers are the only way this paper survives financially. Ad revenue is the only income we have. So, a big thank
you for all of you who have supported us over the years. I trust and believe it has been a mutually beneficial relationship. For those business owners who have not ever advertised, I have often said, if every LGBTowned business ran just a business card ad in qnotes, we could add many pages and editorial content to the paper. For the next 25 years, we will keep on keeping on. As a community, as a people with a common thread, we need to work together, give our resources and time, so we can make a better place, not just for ourselves, but for those that come after us. Thank you for the past and the great future ahead of us — and keep on keeping on. We will. : :
In March Gov. Mitch Daniels of Indiana proposed Republicans call a truce on social issues. Daniels holds socially conservative views, but believes the budget is too pressing to get sidetracked. Speaking of tracks, social conservatives will see that he gets tied to them. Lately Mike Huckabee has been feuding with fellow Fox host Glenn Beck. This prompts me to picture a campaign-busting scenario where Huckabee tells a reporter, “I still don’t believe in evolution, but I’m convinced Glenn Beck was sired by monkeys.” Jon Huntsman has resigned his position as President Obama’s ambassador to China. The fact that he worked for Obama means GOP primary voters would sooner choose Pee Wee Herman. Donald Trump’s nomination-flirtation will
end when it’s uncovered that he was born in Haiti. Rick Santorum, Ron Paul, Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, John Thune, Rudy Giuliani, John Bolton — for a variety of reasons, they all could drop out or be booted out of the Republican campaign. Fred Karger might be the last man standing, in which case the nomination will be his. The Republican forces will be led into battle by an openly gay man who five years ago campaigned to save the Boom Boom Room, a historic gay club in Laguna Beach. Diehard Republicans won’t find this part of his resume inspiring. But, if he’s all they have, they’ll learn to live with it. : : info:
LesRobinson@aol.com . generalgayety.com
qpoll On the occasion of our 25th Anniversary, qnotes wants to open dialogue with our readers and community. Instead of our traditional multiple-choice QPoll, we invite you to visit our website at goqnotes. com/to/qpoll to share your open-ended thoughts, suggestions, comments, concerns, criticisms and critiques. Thank you.
VIEWS
editor’s note by matt comer matt@goqnotes.com
History is a humbling force
Humbling. That’s how I feel every time I sion rates while battling real and threatened begin to thumb through old issues and arfunding cuts from local, state and federal chives from qnotes. It’s a feeling I once again governments. had the opportunity to enjoy as the qnotes Flipping through old editions of qnotes staff worked to put this 25th anniversary issue and The Front Page and reading old reports together. of HIV’s and AIDS’ spread across the country Despite the realities of the new media and Carolinas was scary. I can’t imagine what landscape and its slow, but steady, transition it would have been like to live through it. And, to digital platforms, there remains something that’s where the humbling part comes in. My real and something life has been poignant about printed made easier by newspapers. Sit a whole host of back and flip through people — most enough copies of old of whom I’ll newsprint and years never meet or — or even decadesknow — who old black ink will soon did live through cover your fingertips the 1980s. They — pieces of hisfaced what at tory transmitted to you the time likely both mentally as you seemed like an read the material and apocalypse. physically as you turn While friends each page. and family got As a student of sick and died, history I have a great they continued deal of respect for it. to fight for It’s a powerful force equality, social that can teach us lesjustice and civil sons about ourselves, rights. Amazing. about other people How many and about problems or people today scenarios with which would have the we are currently faced fortitude to do or stumped. History what so many can also memorialize tens of thouus, especially those sands did during The Front Page, on July 12, 1983, devotes for a second who fight for equalthe worst years time its entire front page of news to “The AIDS ity and social justice. of the AIDS Crisis,” the first time the phrase appears prominently As a 20-something, I Crisis? How in the newspaper. The paper includes an eight-page have very little firstmany would take Charlotte Observer “special report” on AIDS as an hand knowledge of to D.C. streets insert. The reported number of cases nationwide rises a mainstream world — as hundreds to close to 2,000. wherein LGBT people of thousands lived mostly invisible and marginalized lives. or even a million or more of our forebears Though things aren’t perfect now, we are, addid — in nationally-organized marches that mittedly, better off today than we were when demanded equality? this newspaper was founded in June 1986. Our community and its young people, As the first issue of this paper rolled off the including people not yet born, have a lot for printing press, the nation was still roiling from which to be grateful. Sometimes, I don’t think the height of the AIDS Crisis. The Front Page, we show our gratitude all that well. And with which we merged in 2006, had diligently though I might not say enough myself, I know covered the epidemic since 1982. What startI’m thankful for the history of our communities, ed out as GRID, or gay-related immunodefiboth locally and nationally. I’m thankful for all ciency, and had more than 500 reported cases the dedication and hard work by community nationwide in September 1982, had grown to leaders — some named and remembered, 2,000 just a little over two years later. Issue others lost to history — who made historic after issue of The Front Page documented the strides in LGBT equality even as they faced crisis as numbers grew and GRID became such great personal odds and trials. Finally, AIDS. Friends and acquaintances, family and I’m grateful that organizations like qnotes and lovers — nearly a whole generation — were The Front Page and other LGBT newspapers lost to the disease’s ravages. have been there to document these valiant HIV/AIDS would continue to be a domipeople, the places they visited and changed nant and life-shaping force for the Carolinas’ and the Pride they exhibited. LGBT communities. The virus, AIDS and their qnotes’ history is the history of our comaffect on both those infected and the entire munity. Yours. Mine. We’re all in this fight community would serve as more than enough together. We were during the AIDS Crisis, and fodder for news stories, features and, sadly, we still are today. Together, we can continue obituaries throughout the late ’80s and entire to build upon the victories of our community’s ’90s. Even today, HIV/AIDS education, prevengreatest heroes, and, then, in 25 years from tion, treatment and funding get top billing on now, others will once more look back and say, our news spreads as AIDS service organiza“We are thankful.” : : tions fight increasing infection and transmis-
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
BRIEFS
news notes: from the carolinas, nation and world compiled by Lainey Millen :: lainey@goqnotes.com | David Stout :: david@goqnotes.com | Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com
Anti-gay groups plan marriage rally
RALEIGH, N.C. — Anti-gay organizations in North Carolina are planning to hold a rally to promote the proposed anti-LGBT constitutional amendment that would ban recognition of marriage, civil unions and domestic partnerships for same-sex couples in North Carolina. Return America, a Wallburg, N.C.-based group headed by Dr. Ron Beaty of Davidson County’s Berean Baptist Church, is planning the event. It will be held on Hallifax Mall at the North Carolina Legislative Building on May 17. Attorney and Christian Law Association founder David Gibbs, Jr. (pictured) is scheduled to speak at the rally. The Davidson County religious advocacy group will be encouraging congregations across the state to attend. “We are also asking every individual who believes in traditional Biblical marriage to make May 17th a priority day,” Return America states on its website. “The future of our children and grand children may
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
be determined by the outcome of this Rally.” The North Carolina Family Policy Council, a state affiliate of the Washington, D.C.-based Family Research Center, is also promoting the event. “The upcoming Marriage Amendment Rally is an important way for North Carolinians, who are concerned about the escalating attacks on the institution of marriage, to show lawmakers that they want the opportunity to vote on a Marriage Protection Amendment,” Bill Brooks, president of the North Carolina Family Policy Council, said in a release in his organization’s website. “Despite the change in leadership in both chambers, lawmakers are under tremendous pressure from homosexual activists and their allies to ignore this important legislation. We can counter their efforts by attending the Marriage Amendment Rally on May 17, and
showing our opponents and lawmakers that the citizens of North Carolina are serious about protecting marriage in North Carolina.” The Family Research Council was named last year a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. Equality North Carolina has responded to the rally with a “Bucks for Bigotry” campaign. The group says it will raise $10,000 in response to the rally. The money will be used to shore up the group’s several education, engagement and advocacy initiatives as pending constitutional amendments await hearing in the state legislature. “We’re excited about the Bucks for Bigotry Campaign because it’s important to take a stand against bullies who try to demonize LGBT North Carolinians,” said Kay Flaminio, Equality NC’s Director of Development. “We’re making this our virtual rally against bigotry and reminding them that their bigotry only makes us stronger!” Return America has held anti-gay rallies in Raleigh before, one as recent as 2009 and one in 2007. Attorney David Gibbs also spoke at the 2009 event, where he said of marriage equality, “Why not polygamy, or three or four spouses? Maybe people will want to marry their pets or robots.” Efforts to counter-protest the May 17 rally are unknown at this time. — M.C.
Charlotte Love is in the air
CHARLOTTE — Sotto Voce Chorus and Time Out Youth are holding a “Love Notes” recital on May 26 at Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter, 2701 Park Rd., at 7 p.m. Monies raised at the event will go to benefit Time Out Youth’s continued work toward empowering LGBT youth. Tickets are $5. For more information, visit onevoice chorus.com or timeoutyouth.org. — L.M.
Western Hike for Hope results in
MORGANTON — Stormy weather did not stop the second annual Hike for Hope on April 16. Over 100 hikers hit the trail at the Catawba River Greenway in support of HIV/AIDS services for the region. In its second year, Hike for Hope raised over $22,000 for ALFA. Proceeds from Hike for Hope remain in ALFA’s nine-county service area and go directly to funding the agency’s programs of medical case management, prevention education and HIV testing and counseling. Hike for Hope events featured community booths from medical providers, non-profits and lots of breakfast foods and coffee. Sally
Learned, executive director of Burke United Way, shared a welcome to the participants, acknowledging the 24 years ALFA had worked with United Way. Kathy Crowder, nurse practitioner at Fairgrove Primary Health, Burke County resident and key note speaker, challenged the crowd to “put hope into action.” “By volunteering and becoming a voice against the stigma associated with HIV/ AIDS,” Crowder urged, “you are increasing life-saving access to prevention and care.” For more information, visit alfainfo.org. — L.M.
Regional Summit explores inclusivity
ATLANTA — The “Facilitating Campus Climates of Pluralism, Inclusivity, and Progressive Change at HBCUs” (historic black colleges and universities) summit was held on April 29 at Spelman University. Attendees included students, staff, faculty and LGBT community advocates from across the U.S. This was accomplished as a result of a grant received three years ago from Arcus Foundation which was bestowed upon the college’s Women’s Research and Resource Center. According to Cascade Patch, the advocacy project was the first time a range of HBCUs convened to engage in dialogue about lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues on Black college campuses. Discussed were ways to institute sexual orientation and gender identity training modules for faculty and staff orientation. The news organization added that activities on campus calendars that are designed to increase awareness, promote critical dialogue and engage scholarship about LGBT people and communities were also recommended. North Carolina Central University (Durham) and Bennett College (Greensboro) was two of the participating universities. — L.M.
Campus Scene Summer event welcomes hero
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Daniel Hernandez, Jr., the student intern credited with saving the life of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) after the Jan. 8 shooting attack in Tucson, Ariz., will serve as a guest keynote and receive an honorary National Voice & Action Leadership Award at Camp Pride on July 19-July 24, in Nashville, Tenn., at Vanderbilt University. Hernandez, who is an openly gay college student at the University of Arizona and serves on the City of Tucson Commission on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Issues, was thrust into the national media spotlight following the January tragedy. Though he’s publicly rejected the label “hero,” his student leadership, service to his local LGBT community and work with Rep. Giffords has inspired young, LGBT students across the country. The Voice & Action National Leadership Award will be given to Hernadez on the final evening of camp where he will also deliver a keynote to the camp participants. The award focuses on the work of undergraduate college students who are creating positive change for LGBT and ally issues within their communities. Campus Pride’s Summer Leadership Camp is a one-of-a-kind leadership program that brings together over 60 LGBTQ and allied young people from across the country for five days of student leadership development, campus organizing techniques, conflict man-
agement, social justice advocacy, diversity education and more. Registration for Camp Pride is limited and still open. Cost is $895. This year Camp Pride will also conduct an Advisor Bootcamp, special track for advisors. Students and advisors can register online for Camp Pride or learn more about the Unsung Heroes Scholarship honoring Frances A. McDaniel and other award opportunities at campuspride.org. — L.M.
Divas share their stories
CHARLOTTE — Four alumni from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” have headed out to college campuses nationwide to share their stories of acceptance and discrimination. These Divas of Diversity, through a partnership between Hope’s Voice and Campus Pride, help to narrow the gap in learning about issues surrounding discrimination, as well as providing a plan to implement once they have left. Drag 101 and/or Diva for the Day are workshops that participants can select to gain better understanding. During the event, colleges can choose between Bebe Zahara Benet, Pandora Boxx, Shangela or Shannel as the program spokesperson. It is topped off with a drag show performance. Donations for bookings are accepted and help benefit Campus Pride, as well as other charities. Hope’s Voice provides workshops to battle against discrimination to forge acceptance. For more information, visit campuspride. org or hopesvoice.org. — L.M.
National Law firm drops DOMA
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Within days of the last issue going to press, it was announced that the law firm of King & Spalding had filed a motion to withdraw from defense of the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act that bans federal recognition of same-sex marriages. The firm received harsh criticism for accepting the case — which it took at the request of the U.S. House of Representatives. GOP congressional leaders decided to take up the legal defense of the law after President Barack Obama announced that his administration would not defend it. — D.S.
Civil unions bill approved
DOVER, Del. — Last month, the Delaware House of Representatives voted 26-15 to approve a civil unions bill that will provide same-sex couples who enter into such arrangements the same rights, protections and obligations now granted to married couples in the state. The Senate had approved the measure earlier, and the governor has announced he will sign the bill into law. It will go into effect on January 1, 2012. — D.S.
COLAGE summit this month
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Later this month, COLAGE, an organization for people with LGBT parents, will present the Voices Raised! Leadership Summit, the first-ever conference of its kind specifically for people of color. The gathering will be held May 27-30 in Oakland, Calif. Some of the workshop topics the summit will feature are written storytelling, using social media to amplify the voices of people of color and LGBTQ families, intersectionality of movements and identities,
media trainings, and strategies to connect with peers across the country. — D.S.
Legislative update Part I
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Mike Honda (D-CA) is reintroducing the Reuniting Families Act, a bill that that would ensure visas are allocated efficiently and alleviate lengthy wait times that keep legal immigrants and their overseas loved ones separated for years. The bill also eliminates discrimination in immigration law against LGBT Americans and their foreign-born partners. Sen. John Kerry (D-MA) is lead sponsor of a similar bill in the Senate. — D.S.
Legislative update Part II
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Pete Stark (D-CA) has reintroduced The Every Child Deserves a Family Act. This legislation would expand the number of qualified foster and adoptive parents for youth in the foster care system by banning all discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity or marital status in foster and adoption agencies that receive federal funding. This change would potentially open up hundreds of thousands of new homes to youth in need of placement. — D.S.
Pres. Clinton calls for N.Y. marriage
NEW YORK, N.Y. — Former President Bill Clinton wants New York legislators to approve marriage rights for same-sex couples. In a statement to elected officials, he asserted, “For more than a century, our Statue of Liberty has welcomed all kinds of people from all over the world yearning to be free. In the 21st century, I believe New York’s welcome must include marriage equality.” In addition to Clinton’s efforts, N.Y. Gov. Andrew Cuomo said he will travel the state to build support for a marriage equality bill. — D.S.
Global Gay wedding causes a stir
KUMASI, Ghana — Gay partners Akwasi Boakye and Kwame Amankwa were joined in a traditional wedding on Easter Sunday. The ceremony, which was symbolic since same-sex marriage is not legal in Ghana, was attended by hundreds of members of the local LGBT community. According to reports, Boakye filled the role traditionally reserved for the bride, festooned with false eyelashes, acrylic nails and face make-up. When Kumasi Chief Nana Agyin Frimpong II heard about the ceremony, he banished the couple from the town, but they had apparently already departed for a honeymoon in Accra. No additional details were available at press time. — D.S.
No ‘gay’ internet domain names
ANKARA, Turkey — The word “gay” and its Turkish equivalent, “gey” have been banned from Turkish internet domain names. Earlier this month, the Turkish Telecommunications Directorate sent the nation’s web-hosting firms a list of 138 words that are not allowed in domain names. The list was accompanied with a warning that websites using any of the prohibited words will be shut down. Along with the banned words, websites also cannot have the number 31 in their domain names because it is Turkish slang for male masturbation. — D.S.
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
10
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
11
Chronicling Carolina qnotes documents LGBT history in 25 years of community service The story of qnotes’ history is about more than its own achievements; it’s about the community — the people, places and pride of the past 25 years of Carolinas history. People like community leader and qnotes’ first editor Don King, whose Closet Buster Productions helped to herald new eras of LGBT awareness and public engagement in Charlotte. Places like Charlotte’s Lesbian & Gay Community Center or Raleigh’s LGBT Center and the decades long push for community organizing for spaces to call all our own. Pride, like the series of statewide and local Pride festivals and parades that have grown and spread like wild kudzu across the state since 1981. qnotes and its sister paper, The Front Page, with which it merged in 2006, have documented these events and more. The pages of the voluminous, dusty and yellowed archives of these two papers and their predecessors tell a remarkable story of courage and conviction, oppression and prejudice, perseverance and triumph. The Front Page, which began publication in 1979, provided some of the best LGBT-inclusive reporting on the earliest days of the AIDS Crisis. Before it, Charlotte’s Free Press served Carolina LGBT communities when they started up in 1975. Students, too, have played key roles in LGBT journalism in our state. Students at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill established their Lambda, a publication still in print today, in 1974. Other LGBT publications devoted to entertainment and nightlife have dotted the Carolina LGBT media scene in decades past, as well. But, this May 14, 2011, print issue of qnotes — which marks a total of 25 years of continuous and uninterrupted publication — provides a chance to reflect upon our history. Naturally, a newspaper’s history is part-and-parcel of the communities it chronicles. So, while qnotes look inward, we’re forced to look out and, once more, tell the stories of the people whose dreams, passions, hard work and determination have culminated in proud LGBT communities both small and large across the Carolinas.
And so it began In 1969, the gay rights movement came out of the closet in full force. Demonstrations at New York City’s Stonewall Inn sparked action, protest and advocacy in communities both small and large. The Carolinas weren’t immune. Two years after the historic Stonewall Riots, North Carolina native Bob Bland moved back to his home state from New York and founded the Triangle Gay Alliance. He and others rented a home for the group, which acted as an early social, activism and support organization for LGBT people across the state.
Years later, Bland’s Triangle Gay Alliance and the de facto community center they established would serve as inspiration for activists who issued calls for a similar space in Charlotte. The Triangle Alliance was just the beginning. LGBT community members, and especially students, began to organize at a dizzying clip. Maintaining a flow of communication and providing a space for LGBT news and commentary became important. In 1975, North Carolina’s first gay newspaper, The Free Press, was founded in Charlotte. Lambda, the newsletter of the Carolina Gay Association at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, followed just a year later. Both publications set the stage for a blossoming LGBT media environment, though The Free Press closed shop just four years later. “When that folded, there was nothing, really,” former Front Page publisher Jim Baxter told qnotes in 2006. “Art [Sperry] and I talked a lot for several years about how change might happen for the gay community in North Carolina. We agreed a statewide effort would be needed. In order for that to happen some dependable mans of statewide communication would be needed. That’s how The Front Page got started.” That same need for communication and organizing sparked qnotes’ original birth as a newsletter of Queen City Quordinators (QCQ), a fundraising organization begun in 1981 by Don King and lesbian activist Billie Stickell. The newsletter — a four-page leaflet printed on copy paper — debuted in September 1983. QCQ continued the newsletter’s publication for the next two years, though a lack of volunteer manpower put the publication on the skids. In 1986, however, QCQ revived qnotes. It morphed into a monthly tabloid newspaper and King was brought on as the first editor. Growth and change Over the next few years, qnotes would continue to grow, even as it faced challenges. In the fall of 1987, staff changes nearly led to qnotes’ shuttering. Four QCQ members — Dean Gaskey, Joel Smith, Robert Sheets and cur-
‘Your sword can be a sermon or the power of a pen’ Charlotte bishop applauds role of qnotes in building a ministry and community by Bishop Tonyia M. Rawls :: Founding Pastor, Unity Fellowship Church Charlotte
On Monday, May 2, 2011, I had the honor of sharing a moment with Jim Yarbrough, founder and publisher of qnotes. We discussed some of the exciting things that were coming up in each of our areas of work, like the church’s 2011 launch of the Lighthouse Project. This is a development plan that includes the addition of a new building that will include community office and meeting space, public art and green space for the East Charlotte neighborhood we reside in. His good news was that qnotes was about to celebrate its 25th anniversary as the premier regional publication for news and information about all things related to the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer community. If I were in church I would say I want to testify, but since this will be read by a broad audience, I would like to share a bit about the role qnotes has played in our work within community and
12
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
encourage everyone who can to take another look at why it is so critical to support qnotes. In July of 1999, I was commissioned by Archbishop Carl Bean to open the Unity Fellowship Church Movement’s first church in the Bible Belt. As a graduate of Duke University, my first inclination was to move to Durham, however, Charlotte kept coming up in terms of a community we should consider. It was a city I had only flown through prior to that moment, but ultimately decided to visit because there were several things present that fit the criteria we had set. The first thing was the presence of an arts and film festival, OutCharlotte, which celebrated the lives of LGBT people. The second thing Charlotte had was a gay newspaper, qnotes. As a denomination committed to social justice, equality and inclusion for all of God’s children, it was important to be in a city that had exhibited a commitment to these principles and, in turn, the building of a more just society. After the first visit, we knew Charlotte would be our home. Even before we opened our doors in 2000, qnotes helped keep us informed about what was happening in the region and who we needed to get to know in the faith community, social networks, city government and all of the other essential places. Once we arrived, they became a great partner. Through adver-
tisements and write-ups on the spiritual, as well as social justice issues, we were concerned about and engaged in, qnotes played a key role in our introduction to a community that at that time had very few affirming houses of worship and even fewer places for LGBT people of color to gather. Whether it was equitable distribution of resources for students or adequate funding for critical HIV/AIDS medications, we stood together using the sermon and pen as our weapons of choice in the fight for justice and the building of a great community. Over the years we both have grown. When thinking of our journey, I was reminded of the line in the Broadway play “Ragtime” that said, “Your sword can be a sermon or the power of the pen”; how critical both have been for the opening of doors not only in community, but also in the hearts and minds of men and women. As qnotes moves toward its next 25-year mark, we must never underestimate the power of the printed word on paper, as well as online. Together we must invest our time and resources in those things that best serve us. Unity Fellowship Church Charlotte will never forget the role qnotes has played and continues to play in helping us live out our mission. We hope you will not either. : :
rent publisher Jim Yabrough — kept it going and operation of the paper was transferred to the non-profit Charlotte Advocacy Network. Soon thereafter, QCQ folded. qnotes expanded its circulation and news coverage, extending out of the Charlotte area and across the entire Carolinas region. In December 1989, Yarbrough purchased the rights to the publication. For a time, Yabrough operated the paper as a side business. He and a few close friends published it from his apartment. Eventually, the paper came to sustain itself; qnotes moved into its first office and Yabrough began operating the paper full-time. By June 1986, the decade-old publication had upped its publishing frequency from monthly to every-other-week. In 1998, qnotes took the plunge into new internet waters. In 2006, the now-20-year-old qnotes took a giant leap forward. Yarbrough and Front Page publisher Jim Baxter merged their operations. At the time, Yarbrough described the merger as beneficial to the papers and readers. “We’re very excited about this accomplishment,” he told then-editor David Moore. “We’ve talked about doing it for years and it finally seemed like the time was right. This is great for readers across the Carolinas because of the new content we’ll be carrying and for the advertisers because of an expanded distribution base and our subscription service.” Challenges ahead qnotes’ merger with The Front Page represented a new era in Carolina LGBT media, bridging the gap between Charlotte’s and Raleigh’s communities, and those in between, with a single news and entertainment resource. Big changes and challenges, unforeseen at the time, sat upon the horizon. News publishing companies both large and small began to feel the heat from increased competition from digital news and entertainment sources. A new platform for news delivery and consumption was on the way. The internet had seen phenomenal growth throughout the 1990s. By 2000, 31 percent of those living in the developed world had access. In 2004, access had grown to 54 percent. In the background, upstart journalists, amateur commentators and part-time news analysts harnessed the power of the ‘net and the
growing blogosphere. Websites that had started operation under the control of a lone blogger began to grow into influential news and opinion leaders. As the new century’s first decade came to a close, the news industry was also hit by the burden of an economic recession. Declining ad revenues and rising debt shuttered many a print publications’ doors. Even LGBT media felt the impact, losing — at least for a time — the Washington Blade and Atlanta’s Southern Voice, among other publications. Staffers in D.C. and Atlanta have since given birth to new and successful incarnations of their former publications. In the Carolinas, however, qnotes remained vigilant. Though not immune to the economic difficulties and upheavals in the media market, the publication continued its bi-weekly print schedule. In 2009, it revamped its website in an effort to embrace new technologies, grow readers and expand timely, relevant and in-depth news and entertainment coverage across the Carolinas. Staff continue their commitment to bringing news and entertainment to readers across various platforms and to growing a new, 21st-century publication that leaves room for a traditional print newspaper and online presence to compliment each other. Looking toward a bright future Transitions in media consumption and new economic realities have changed qnotes and other news publications. Yet, despite these challanges, the publication is still here and still fulfilling the same mission laid at its feet a quarter century ago. What does the future hold for qnotes? As new readers find new ways to interact with the publication, qnotes will continue to adapt and meet the community where it is. If there’s one thing most newspapers, and especially qnotes, have proven, it’s that we’re a hearty, persevering bunch. For 25 years, qnotes has served our communities with diligence and care, and we’re looking forward to continuing that proud tradition for years and years to come. : : — Compiled by Matt Comer from staff reports, interviews, archives and other historic documents.
Major events in our history
Key events and happenings throughout qnotes’ 25-year history. September 1983 — qnotes is founded in its first incarnation as a monthly newsletter of the non-profit Queen City Quordinators. October 1983 — The newsletter reports on the first case of AIDS in Charlotte. June 1986 — Queen City Quordinators establishes qnotes as a monthly print newspaper. January 1987 — In an editorial, qnotes editor Don King makes one of the first public calls for a community center in Charlotte. His call goes unanswered until the establishment of the Lesbian & Gay Community Center of Charlotte in 2000. May 1988 — qnotes is published using a desktop publishing system for the first time. July 15, 1988 — The board of Queen City Quordinators votes to dissolve the organization and authorizes qnotes to begin operating independently under the for-profit umbrella of the Charlotte Advocacy Network, Inc. (C.A.N., Inc.). December 1989 — qnotes is bought by current publisher Jim Yarbrough. May 9, 1993 — Former editor Richard Epson Nelms succumbs to AIDS while living in Greensboro. June 1, 1996 — qnotes begins publishing bi-weekly at its 10th anniversary. September 2002 — Former editor Dan Kirsch is hired as the first executive director of the Lesbian & Gay Community Center of Charlotte. May 2006 — qnotes and The Front Page announce a merger at qnotes’ 20th anniversary. January 2010 — qnotes rebrands, dropping the dash from its name and promoting a new website, goqnotes.com. — Be sure to follow us throughout our anniversary year for more great features on the people, places and pride of the past 25 years of LGBT Carolina history!
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
13
Gay man says beating was hate crime Surveillance video casts doubt on victim’s initial account by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com
SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Police in the Upstate of South Carolina are investigating a second assault and alleged hate crime following April’s reported beating in Rock Hill. On May 3, 20-year-old Vonte Fuller told Spartanburg TV news station WSPA that a group of men assaulted him at Sidelines Sports and Spirits at 93 Kensington Dr. at approximately 3 a.m. on Sunday, May 1. Fuller said the men poured a pitcher of beer on him and hit him in the head and face with several beer bottles. He told WSPA that the men shouted, “I hate you faggots and … you punks are sick. And all ya’ll going to die slow.” Fuller says bar security simply cleared the bar and failed to call police. As he waited for an ambulance, his attackers left. Fuller was taken to the hospital where he was treated for cuts to his face, head and arms. There, he says, a police officer failed to take a report. A report was finally filed when Fuller went to the police station with his family later that day. WSPA reporter Graeme Moore asked Spartanburg police why no police report was taken while Fuller was at the hospital. Lt. Regina Nowak said the officer, who has not been identified, will be investigated by the department’s office of professional standards for a violation of department policy. “Bottom line: a report should have been taken,” Nowak said. “We have a duty to file that report, even if [the officers] don’t agree [that a report needs to be taken.] Police have also released video of the incident. The clip contains no sound and shows a scuffle involving several people in the bar. Spartanburg Police Capt. Randy Hardy, who supervises the criminal investigations division, told GoUpstate.com that the video might throw Fuller’s account into doubt. “He says they did this to him because he is gay. I don’t think the video shows that,” Hardy said. “But there may be somebody who was there who remembers the incident, who may be willing to come forward to give us additional information.” Nowak told qnotes via phone that some details of Fuller’s original account don’t match video surveillance and later statements he made to police. In particular, Nowak said there are some instances where Fuller might have antagonized potential suspects in the bar. She also said Fuller admitted to police that he taunted one potential suspect after he
says the man called him an anti-gay slur. “I’m not saying he isn’t a victim; obviously he is a victim,” Nowak said, pointing to Fuller’s several serious injuries, “but we haven’t talked to the other parties and we haven’t gotten their side of the story. All we have is the victim’s account and video. We have a lot of stuff to follow-up on; some of the parties not being local complicates that.” Nowak said police are attempting to work with Fuller to identify individuals in the video. Three potential suspects, whose names appear on the initial police report, live in nearby Gaffney. Nowak said a female friend gave those names to Fuller. According to the police report, Fuller sustained a laceration to the head requiring four staples. Lacerations on his forearm required eight stitches. Fuller also received several cuts on his nose. Though the department is not currently investigating the case as a hate crime, they do have the option of asking the FBI to participate, in which case federal hate crime charges could be pursued against any future suspects. Elke Kennedy, mother of murdered, 2007 anti-gay hate crime victim Sean Kennedy, says more should be done to investigate Fuller’s assault. “Local authorities are not investigating this case as a hate crime because we don’t have hate crimes in South Carolina,” she said in a statement. “I call on the FBI and urge them to investigate this as a hate crime and to charge these men with a hate crime for this brutal crime, that was clearly the result of Vonte Fuller’s sexual orientation.” The alleged hate crime against Fuller is the second such incident in recent weeks. In April, 19-year-old Joshua Esskew claimed a man at a Rock Hill gas station hit him in the back of the head with a glass bottle after calling him a gay slur. As many as eight other men joined in the attack that left Esskew unconscious and with cuts, scrapes and bleeding on the brain. Five men, including Esskew’s original attacker, have been arrested and charged with aggravated assault in connection with that case. : : — At press time, this story was still developing. For the most up-to-date news on this and more, visit goqnotes.com.
Students visit San Fran RALEIGH — North Carolina State University’s Center for Student Leadership, Ethics & Public Service offers its students opportunities to expand their experience in the area of volunteerism and help make a difference. And, this year it teamed up with the GLBT Center. In March, a group of 14 LGBT and straight travelers ventured to San Francisco to study homelessness among the LGBT community as part of the school’s Alternative Spring Break initiative. Statistics presented by the school say that 2.8 million youth are homeless in the U.S., and 40 percent identify as LGBT persons, about the size of the capital city.
14
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
Participants explored the disportationate social issue in a city that played a large role in the beginning of the LGBT Civil Rights Movement. During the trip, students grew to understand the needs of the LGBT community’s homeless. They had a chance to visit historic Castro St., MCC San Francisco, the National AIDS Memorial Grove and more. Advisor for the excursion was GLBT Center Director Justine Hollingshead. Team leader was Matthew Woodward, vice president of the Union Activities Board and NASPA undergraduate fellow. — Lainey Millen
Local groups host State Dept. official Charlotte Business Guild, partners present U.S. State Department diversity officer John Robinson by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com
goqnotes.com
CHARLOTTE — On the heels of a whirlwind, one-day visit from the U.S. Department of Justice’s assistant attorney general for civil rights, the local LGBT community will once again host a federal government official. The Charlotte Business Guild, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), Equality North Carolina and Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee (MeckPAC), will present John Robinson, director of the Office of Civil Rights for the U.S. State Department, at the Guild’s May 17 meeting at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Uptown Charlotte. Organizers say Robinson will deliver a presentation on diversity in the workforce and discuss topics such as diversity and leadership, the repeal of the anti-gay “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy of the U.S. military and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity in State Department policy. Robinson will also review milestones reached on behalf of the LGBT population since 1950. Renae Elam, president of the Guild, told qnotes that Robinson’s visit has created a sense of excitement among the local community. Elam was instrumental in snagging Robinson for the event, having met him at a Charlotte Chamber event last year. “When I meet someone I think would be an interesting speaker for our group and relative to who we are, it doesn’t hurt to ask,” she said. “I’m surprised that he agreed to come. He’s such a high-ranking official at the State Department, but he seems like a really nice guy.” Robinson last visited Charlotte in September 2010. In addition to the Chamber event, he keynoted an Inclusion Summit at J.C. Smith University. Robinson’s upcoming speaking engagement at the Guild follows an April 14 visit to Charlotte by U.S. Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Thomas Perez. He and U.S.
Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina Anne Tompkins visited Northwest School of the Arts where they spoke about bullying and anti-gay harassment. Later that day, Perez and Tompkins also met with various LGBT community leaders. Charlotte’s stature as a growing urban center and as a city with a large and diverse LGBT community has gained notability in recent months. The announcement that Democrats will hold their 2012 nominating convention here has heightened media attention and local pride. Elam admits the Democratic National Convention might have been part of Robinson’s decision to come back to Charlotte. The Guild event will be held on May 17 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 201 S. McDowell St. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. A $20 admission includes appetizer, dinner entrees, dessert, coffee and tea. A cash bar is available. The event includes free parking and is open to the public. Visit charlottebusinessguild.org for more information. : :
daily news, blog posts and lgbt community event listings Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter: goqnotes.com/subs
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
15
HuDost has the most Band collides unlikely partnerships in musical style, personal background, community causes by Leah Cagle :: leah@goqnotes.com
Since her very first day of post-graduation freedom, with a major in visual arts and a minor in chamber music in her pocket, Moksha Sommer has dedicated her life to performing. Sommer’s amazingly supportive parents had known she was destined for the stage since their little girl informed them at the young age of six that she wanted to take piano lessons. Performing as a child, touring as a teen and launching directly from college into a full-time career, Sommer has always maintained a life saturated with a love for music and performance. The band creates a sound self-declared “neo-folk world rock with country and eastern fusion” — an appropriately eclectic description of their diverse musicians and styles. “We come from completely different musical backgrounds,” Sommer says of the harmony created by the diversity and congruity of her primary musical partner in the band, Jemal Wade. “He comes from a completely Folk Punk Rock background. Whereas, I come from classical and even in my teens I started studying Eastern European.” Despite drastically different musical foundations, the two have studied music together in several countries, most influentially India and Turkey, in order to learn new musical energies to bring into their sound. The power of music to combine the unlikely doesn’t stop with the varied band members or creative ensemble either. HuDost has witnessed first-hand the way that music can unify people.
16
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
“We even do things where we have like Arabic songs and we will be in the deep south and audiences that are primarily Christian based start singing with us, singing Arabic chants, and it’s that kind of thing where, that wouldn’t happen even vaguely if it weren’t for music,” Sommer says. “It is a place of coming together… Music can be one of the very few things that just naturally brings things together.” Dedicated to working with a proenvironmental focus, HuDost recently performed at an event sponsored by Whole Foods and appeared on stage at the Shakori Music Festival. In addition, HuDost has two upcoming relatively close upcoming shows, including a performance at The Tipsy Teapot in Greenville, S.C., and a local performance in NoDa at Charlotte’s annual FemmeFest on May 21. “We absolutely just love coming to Charlotte because of the kind of musical community that is there,” Sommer says. “It’s such a special crew of folks that are in that area.” In addition to enjoying the experience of creativity and connectedness HuDost’s Moksha Sommer. She and bandmate Jamel Wade will perform at Charlotte’s FemmeFest on May 21 with other musicians and music lovPhoto Credit: Jane Feldman ers, Sommer recognizes the strong power and influence to bring about social and actually possibly responded to. Music is beautiful, that offers insight into it.” change through music. just a reflection of what needs to be heard at To learn more about the band, visit hudost. “Musicians are often the voices of areas the time,” she says. “It makes it so that also com. To purchase tickets for their upcoming that need to be changed. It’s the thing that things that could be very touchy or painful to performance at FemmeFest, visit charlotte is actually taken in, it’s taken in by culture, delve into can be examined in a way that’s femmefest.org. : :
drag rag by miss della :: qnotes contributor
Spring’s bursting out all over the land with pageants galore, yes, ma’am! Howdy folks, and welcome back to my column where we chit-chat about pageants and the queens who do them. I did want to start with a little oversight from the last time, like I always do! Seems I always forget something. When I was at the Miss NC U.S.ofA. pageant several weeks ago, I forgot to mention that in the presentation of titleholders, I left out Aiesha Paris, who is the reigning Miss East Coast U.S.ofA. She will be making the trip to national competition in just days after this comes out. Now, that’s a good young’un and I just wanted to say I’m sorry for leaving her out. Miss Della’s getting older, sugar, and forgetful, it seems. I mentioned making that trip with Miss NC America, Emery Starr (the Divine Miss Em). She has joined Queen City Burlesque, belonging to a cast of all-female dancers. Let me know when the first show is, sis! Queens qualifying to the Miss NC America pageant include Miss Piedmont Starla DaVinci and runner-up Jennifer O’Connor; Miss Metrolina Nina Fierra and RU Jade Paris; Mecklenburg County Brittany O’Brian and RU Carmen Banks; and Miss Central Tara Storm and RU Carmendy Starr. Recent prelim placements to Miss Gay America include Miss Maryland Chi Chi Ray Colby and RU Araya Sparxx and Miss Missouri Madison Elise and RU Tajma Stetson. Prelim winners to Miss NC EOY include Miss Bat$#!t Jayda Colby and RU Onyx Jade Addams; Miss Triad Star Dea Nyx Chanel; Miss Randolph County Daniella Delicious Dust; Miss Greensboro Kimora de la Diva; and RU Cheshire Reval Dust. Seems like it’s all about the touring contestants from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” here recently. First it was Stacey Layne Matthews at Scorpio, then the big shindig in Asheville, then Alexis Mateo came to Scorpio and went home much wealthier. Now, Alexis and Yara Sofia are coming to the Hideaway in Rock Thrill and Shangela and Shannel are coming to Scorpio with plans for a big surprise in July. Get ready, hunny! On the national scene, we have results from three pageants and I know I’m missing a few more! Congrats are going out to Dena Cass who won the All-American Goddess At-Large contest back in March. She won Talent on final night, tied for Interview with Alexis Nicole Whitney, tied for Creative Costume with Lady Jetta, and won Onstage Response/ Q & A. Alexis won gown. The finalists included Victoria Taylor, Kandi Barr, Armani Nicole Davenport, Monica Van Pelt, Addison Taylor, 4th RU Envy Van Michaels, 3rd RU Lady Jetta, 2nd RU Ginger Ale and 1st RU Alexis Nicole Whitney. Dena will make an appearance later in the year here in NC when she comes to Mike Rhinehart’s NC All-American Goddess prelims in early to mid-December. More details coming fast!
On the Continental scene, we have a new Miss PLUS and a new Miss Elite! Finalists for Miss PLUS included Chy’enne Valentino, Christian Valentino, Kara Belle, Noel Leon, Alexis Zadora, Terri D’Mour, Desarae Pendavis, 2nd RU Ginger Minge, 1st RU (whom I hear was her best ever) Ivy White (our reigning Miss Scorpio) and winner, Miss Chelsea Pearl on the evening of her birthday! I heard Sister Girl had come out for crowning in a gown of a winner. Period. Congrats are due to the one giving up her title, Roxxy Andrews, who just makes me sick — a fierce ‘boy queen’ who is one of the best make-up artists in the industry. She didn’t get that last name for nothin’, baby. The next night was the finals for Miss Elite. Electra, a former Charlotte resident, was relinquishing her title. Finalists included Ginger Valdez, Sonya Ross, Jodie Santana, Viva Divine, Chanel Exotique, 2nd RU The Legendary Misty Knight (who did a gorgeous Talent from what I’m told), 1st RU Ashley Kruiz and winner Daesha Richards. Next time, we’ll have tea from Miss U.S.ofA. and Miss U.S.ofA. Classic. Best wishes to all of our girls from the area competing, including Jessica Raye, who recently won Miss North Classic, Miss NC Dy’Mond Cartier and her RU London Dior, Miss East Coast Aiesha Paris and her RU Jessica Raynes Starr. : : info: Drop me a line, OK? TheTeaMissD@yahoo.com
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
17
Meeting Date: Program:
Time: Cost: To Reserve:
Tuesday, May 17, 2011 John Robinson U.S. State Department Director of the Office of Civil Rights and Chief Diversity Officer Crowne Plaza 201 S. McDowell St. Cash Bar Social/Heavy Hor d’oeuvres @ 5:30 pm Program starts @ 6:45 pm $20 Call 704.565.5075 or email businessguild@yahoo.com for more information or pay online via PayPal at www.charlottebusinessguild.org
www.charlottebusinessguild.org
18
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
Five culinary trends that will make summer entertaining sizzle Summer entertaining season is about to heat up. Barbecue and traditional cookout fare will always have a place in warm weather menus, but sometimes you just want to shake things up a little — and bring some new ideas and flavors to the picnic table. If you want to spice up your summer entertaining, radio host, cookbook author and Certified Sommelier Jamie Gwen recommends you try these five hot culinary trends: 1. The “It” wine for summer Summer fare calls for a companion wine that’s clean, crisp and food friendly — and that’s Italian Pinot Grigio. While domestic varieties are lovely for sipping, Italian Pinot Grigios, like those from Ecco Domani, DaVinci and Maso Canali, tend to have a fresh, clean taste that pairs better with food, and especially with the lighter cuisines of summer, Gwen says. In fact, culinary professionals are five times more likely to prefer Italian Pinot Grigio to domestic when pairing with a summer meal, according to a recent online survey of members of the International Association of Culinary Professionals. What’s more, you can find a fine Italian Pinot Grigio to fit a range of budgets — from about $10 to $11 for Ecco Domani, $12 to $13 for DaVinci, and $18 to $19 for Maso Canali. 2. The new cupcake Cupcakes were everywhere last year, from swanky Hollywood soirees to beach weddings. This year, French macaroons are the new cupcake. Made from almond flour or almond paste, French-style macaroons are available in a variety of flavors, such as passion fruit, chocolate, coffee and orange. They’re a light and airy sweet complement to a summer meal, especially when filled with buttercream or lemon curd. 3. The spice superstar This year, Spanish paprika (pimenton) nudges out chipotle and Sichuan peppercorns as the spice superstar of the season. Paprika is a key ingredient in Spanish cooking and Spaniards use it in everything, from chorizo to scrambled eggs. Hot enough to stand up to summer’s sizzle, this smoked paprika is great for grilling, and adds zesty flavor to grilled chicken and meat. 4. Meatless Mondays Eating lighter, especially during summer months, is a definite trend for 2011. More Americans will be getting on board with the “Meatless Monday” initiative that encourages consumers to reduce their meat consumption by 15 percent. Reducing meat consumption can lead to better health for you and a better environment for all, proponents say. Plus, light salads and vegetarian dishes make for ideal warm-weather fare.
5. Korean fusion Food lovers and creative chefs have been blending cultures and ingredients forever, but you can expect to see even more melding of flavors this summer. Korean influences and spicy flavors will be particularly pervasive, popping up in cuisines found everywhere from food trucks to backyard barbecues. Korean flavors will excite the palate and make for an even more delicious summer. : : — ARA Content
Summer dishes: Italian Pinot Grigio Here are two summer dishes that feature Italian Pinot Grigio. You can further enhance the flavor by serving them with an Italian Pinot Grigio from Ecco Domani, DaVinci or Maso Canali. BBQ Shrimp with Pinot Grigio Butter Serves six. Ingredients: 1/2 cup Italian Pinot Grigio 2 sticks of butter, cut into pieces and softened 2 teaspoons garlic, finely chopped 2 teaspoons yellow onion, finely chopped 1 tablespoon Italian parsley, finely chopped Zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange Salt and pepper to taste 2 to 2 1/2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 tablespoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Directions: Place the Italian Pinot Grigio in a sauce pot and reduce to two tablespoons. Place butter, garlic, onion, parsley, zests, salt and pepper in a food processor. Add the reduced wine and pulse until it is uniformly mixed. Season the shrimp with salt and toss with olive oil. Grill shrimp until cooked and top with Italian Pinot Grigio butter. Chicken and Avocado Salad Serves four. •Ingredients: For dressing: 1/2 cup Italian Pinot Grigio 1/3 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons Italian parsley, chopped 1/4 teaspoon chili powder Zest of 1 lemon 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 6 grinds of black pepper from a peppermill For salad: 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed 3 tablespoons sweet peas 4 radishes, quartered and thinly sliced 1 avocado, peeled, pits removed, chopped Lettuce, as desired Directions: To make the dressing, reduce Italian Pinot Grigio in a saucepan to two tablespoons, then mix with next six ingredients. For salad, combine chicken, sweet peas, radishes and avocado with the dressing and toss to coat. To assemble, serve chicken mixture on a bed of lettuce drizzled with olive oil.
Positive Postings
Rosedale partners with qnotes to provide HIV/AIDS healthcare-related topics by Dale Pierce ~ Practice Manager/Ryan White Program Director
Most of you are probably looking at this space and wondering what’s going on? Well, Rosedale Infectious Diseases is happy to announce their “partnership” with qnotes on an exciting new page for the paper. Each and every issue for the next year, we will be filling this space with interesting and informative news on living a “positive” life. In rotation we will be posting three sections. The first will be a question and answer for you the reader to email in questions about HIV, STD and related health issues to be answered by Dr. Frederick Cruickshank, Medical Director of Rosedale; the section will be called “Ask Dr. C.” Feel free to start emailing your questions toinfo@rosedaleid.com and make sure you put “Ask Dr. C.” in the subject line of your email. All your personal information will be kept confidential; we will just use a first name and
location, much like a “Dear Abbey” type of column. Another section will be called “Positive Postings,” which will be edited and compiled by Dale Pierce, Practice Manager of Rosedale and HIV Advocate. We will try to make these issues interesting and timely for the readers, but also please feel free to email ideas for this space too if you have things that you really want to read more about. The final section that will rotate in is going to be called “Positive Profiles.” In this section we will highlight the story of one individual at a time in our area that is infected or affected by HIV and how they make their journey the most positive walk they can. We at Rosedale ID are extremely excited to have this opportunity to have this space and opportunity to share this new concept with qnotes. From it’s inception in 2006 Rosedale ID has strived to set itself apart from a typical HIV medical facility by providing the most compassionate and knowledgeable care to those in our area in a family focused environment. Having undergone a major remodel in our office in Huntersville this spring, the space is even more friendly and welcoming than ever. Our website has also gotten a face-lift as of late and is now updated and ever changing on a more consistent basis. We hope that we can archive
some of these articles there too, in case you miss one or two. We promise to remain on the leading edge of your healthcare and continue to reach out in the community, through as many avenues as possible to “take the negative out of being positive.” HIV is a disease that is still commonly misunderstood and most certainly it does not always get the attention it deserves. Although manageable in most cases today, it is still an issue that we feel should be at the forefront of our nation’s and community’s consciousness. Are people with HIV living longer? Yes. Are people with HIV finding new, better and easier treatments? Yes. Are people with HIV healthier and living more productive lives? Yes. But, are people still suffering, being misunderstood and even dying? Yes. Together and only with education, funding and understanding can we make greater strives to eliminate this disease. The HIV/AIDS community lost one of our biggest advocates and most powerful voices very recently with the passing of Dame Elizabeth Taylor. Elizabeth not only founded AMFAR, but fought tirelessly till her death in 2011 for the rights of all people. HIV advocacy was her passion and it showed in her radiance for life and activism. We will miss her greatly. So, now more than ever on this year, 2011, we recognize the anniversary of the 1981 finding by the CDC
of the first case of an illness, later identified as AIDS. It is time again for us to dust off our red ribbons and stand tall and be more vocal for those infected and affected by this horrible disease, while honoring and remembering those who lost their battle. Change can come if we all work together, but sitting on the sidelines is no longer an option. We all need to get involved to make a positive change. One thing we are doing at Rosedale ID, which is also an easy way for you to get started right here in your community is to participate in the Charlotte AIDS Walk on May 7, 2011. All the monies raised at the walk are kept right here in this area for our community. Rosedale is proud to be a presenting sponsor of the Charlotte AIDS Walk and we hope you can participate as well. To find out more about the largest HIV awareness event in the Carolinas, go to aidswalkcharlotte.org. The walk is presented by Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN) and all the proceeds will help them to maintain their programming as the leading HIV/AIDS service organization our area. Thanks for taking the time to read this section and we hope that you will stay tuned each and every issue, so that in some small way, we can start to make a stronger voice for our community as a whole. — Sponsored Content —
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
19
Carolina bursts with summer attractions Day-trips, staycations or summer excursions find plenty to fill fun agendas There’s just about something for everyone this upcoming summer season. Maybe you’re staying in town for those lazy, summer days. Maybe you’re taking day-trips to fill your leisurely calendar. Or, maybe shortdistance or weekend summer excursions are more your style. Whatever it is, you’ll find it across Carolina and the South. Take a gander at some of these exciting events we found.
elpueblo.org El Pueblo celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month and presents the largest Latin American cultural event in the Carolinas. The festival includes two food courts with more than 30 vendors, live music and other entertainment, kids’ activities, other cultural exhibits and more.
To the beach!
Taste of Charlotte June 10-12 • Charlotte www.tasteofcharlotte.com North Carolina’s largest food festival takes over the Queen City’s Uptown streets with 100,000 visitors and offers a mix of family entertainment, shopping, live music, kids’ activities and a variety of beer and wine and more than 100 menu items for sampling.
Carolina Beach Film & Fireworks Series Ongoing, May 29-Sept. 4 pleasureislandnc.org/calendar.asp Weekly fireworks and a family-friendly film at Carolina Beach. OBX Pridefest June 25-27 • Nags Head, Outer Banks obxpridefest.com The Outer Banks’ first Pride festival is a three day celebration of music, laughter and family and it’s at the BEACH in Nags Head! Over 30 entertainers, musicians, singers, dancers, comedians and bands.
Community N.C. Juneteenth Celebration June 18 • Durham spectacularmag.com/ NCJuneteenthCelebration.html The Juneteenth Celebration & Unity March begins with a processional and ends with a celebration featuring national and local entertainment, kids’ activities, crafts and art and more! N.C. Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Aug. 11-14 • Durham festivals.carolinatheatre.org/ncglff/ Durham’s Carolina Theatre rolls up its sleeves for another year of national, regional and local LGBT film premieres, showcases, celebrity appearances and parties! La Fiesta del Pueblo 2011 Aug. 27-28 • Raleigh
20
qnotes
Food
Carolina Mountain Ribfest July 8-10 • Asheville wcpshows.com/ribfest.html World-class BBQ chefs serve up mouthwatering, award-winning BBQ ribs, chicken, brisket and pulled por. Live national, regional and local entertain with adult and children’s rides, games and activities. Time Warner Cable BBQ & Blues Festival Sept. 9-12 • Charlotte charlottebbqandblues.com Time Warner Cable BBQ & Blues (formerly Blues, Brews & BBQ) takes over Uptown Charlotte with approximately 80 BBQ teams competing for over $20,000 in prizes. Brewgrass Festival Sept. 17 • Asheville brewgrassfestival.com Over 40 American breweries showcase their creations with a great lineup of national and regional bluegrass musicians. Be sure to pick up our upcoming June 11 print edition for more in-depth info on this year’s Pride season! — Matt Comer
May 14-27 . 2011
Memorial Day Weekend Memorial Day is the official kick-off to summer for most Americans, which means Memorial Day Weekend is often marked by festivities ranging from simple backyard barbecues to elaborate vacation getaways. Charlotte LGBTs who opt to stay close to home for the holiday will find plenty to do around the Queen City. The major homo-centric offering of the weekend is Twirlicious, a multi-location celebration comprised of a half-dozen events — two on each of Friday, Saturday and Sunday — collectively dubbed “Adventures In Wonderland.” Twirlicious is presented by Just Twirl, a party and events promotion company founded and operated by life partners Jason McCraw and Zuni Johnson. A great deal of thought was put into organizing the second annual affair, Johnson told qnotes, to ensure its appeal to a wide cross-section of the LGBT community. “Twirlicious 2011 will feature a variety of events all around town,” Johnson explained. “There will be plenty of music and fun, of course, but we didn’t want the weekend to be all dance parties this year. We feel like we’ve planned something for everyone with the six events we’re promoting.” Twirlicious begins Friday night with a special 8 p.m. production of “Chess: The Musical” presented by Queen City Theatre Company, followed by the “Down The Rabbit Hole” party at The Bar at 316. The fun resumes Saturday at noon at Loft 1523 with “Eat Me, Drink Me” — two hours of free mimosas and a waffle bar. That evening revelers will travel “Through The Looking Glass” for a dance party at Marigny nightclub featuring renowned NYC DJ Joe Gauthreaux. You’ll need your water wings Sunday for “House Of Cards,” a chartered party boat cruise around Lake Norman that sets sail at 1 p.m. The festivities conclude with the “Mad Hatter’s Tea” at Dharma Lounge beginning at 6 p.m. Folks looking for more mainstream jollity can spend the weekend partying with 400,000 of their fellow citizens on Food Lion Speed Street. Now in its 17th year, Speed Street will once again transform Uptown Charlotte into a showcase of motor sports “with non-stop entertainment on two stages, appearances by top Sprint Cup Drivers, dynamic exhibits for all ages and an amazing assembly of NASCAR show cars and simulators.” Scheduled festival performers include country star Josh Turner (“Why Don’t We Just Dance”), classic rockers Eddie Money (“Take Me Home Tonight”) and Starship (“We Built This City”) as well as legendary R&B bands Rose Royce (“Car Wash”) and Midnight Star (“Operator”). The Coca Cola 600, the impetus for Food Lion Speed Street, takes place Sunday afternoon at Charlotte Motor Speedway. For more information on Twirlicious, visit twirlicious.com. Full details on Food Lion Speed Street can be found at 600festival.com. : : — David Stout
Add some Hawaiian fun to your summer With summer approaching quickly, you’re probably dreaming about all the fun you’ll have gathering with friends and family. Why not spice things up by adding a little island culture to your plans? Instead of a barbecue, plan a luau. For table decorations, floral sarongs or fishnets would work well. Silk flowers — or fresh, imported Hawaiian flowers — will help to enhance your luau theme. Load Hawaiian music into your sound system to get everyone up
and dancing. And, make sure you highlight the luau theme with tasty and healthy Hawaiian dishes like Mango-Maui-Guava Salsa served on low-calorie, low-fat Old London Melba Toast made with all-natural ingredients and whole grains. : : — ARA Content
25
th
anniversary 1986-2011
follow qnotes throughout the year as we continue to celebrate our quarter of a century of continuous service to the LGBT community.
Mango-Maui-Guava Salsa Ingredients: 2 cups thawed frozen mango chunks, diced 1 cup thawed frozen guava or 2 cups kiwi chunks, diced 1 red bell pepper, seeded, de-ribbed and finely diced 1/2 red onion, finely diced (add to taste) 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced 1 clove garlic, minced 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced Juice of one lime 1 box Old London Melba Toast Whole Grain or Spicy 3 Pepper Directions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with Melba Toast.
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
21
out in the stars by charlene lichtenstein :: qnotes contributor
May 14 - 27 We hit a planetary trifecta as Mars, Venus and Mercury all move into Taurus. Suddenly, we find that our hearts, minds and actions are in sync. Full speed ahead, compadres. No parking, unless you are asked to. TAURUS (04.21-05.21) There is something about the way you carry yourself that has everyone talking. Perhaps, it is because your every move is dramatic and eye catching. Okay, maybe it is simply your wardrobe. Are the 1970s back? Queer Bulls love to strut their stuff upon the stage of life. Now consider strutting with a bit more style and panache before they bring out the hook! GEMINI (05.22-06.21) Pink Twins can let their intuition run wild. You may dream of the winning lottery numbers or of a great new way of making money the old-fashioned way. But, dreaming won’t make it happen. The cosmos advises you to consult a few good (and knowledagable) friends about money, love and life in general. Get out of the wading pool and dive in the deep end. CANCER (06.22-07.23) There is a time to be sociable and a time to tend to your own success. Set your sights on success, money, achievement and more money. Balance needs to be achieved, pink Crab. Good thing that you can spread your charm over new terrain and win over the power set. You are especially attractive to those who do not know you well. Same old story. LEO (07.24-08.23) Aggressive is one word for it; pushy is another. Your first impressions are rath-
22
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
er memorable. Proud Lions turn their thoughts to career matters, but may find themselves weighing the corporate compromises they must make with their sense of fair play and personal affirmation. Thank you for scraping up the semblence of a conscience. What will you do with it? VIRGO (08.24-09.23) “I need to get out of here and see what the world has to offer.” So sez your inner voice. “But what do I have to do (read: endure and compromise) to be a success on the world stage?” So sez your family. “Who gives a rat’s ass what the world thinks? Let’s have another round of beers, gang!” So sez your friends. Who can think with all this yapping going on! LIBRA (09.24-10.23) Life is an interesting balancing act. Proud Libras effortlessly maneuver through any tight spot by turning on the charm that you have in dollops. But, before you slip on your own oil, be sure that friends are willing to take up the slack for your laziness. You soon realize that even a small effort can have mammoth impact. SCORPIO (10.24-11.22) Your attention is diverted from your daily affairs to affairs of the heart. Queer Scorps ache for attention and adoration and are willing to put themselves out on a limb to get it. (So, what else is new?) Last minute travel leads to romance, at least while you are away from home base. Keep the flame stoked with cyber flashes. Are you a hot bot? SAGITTARIUS (11.23-12.22) Gay Archers are swept off their feet when they least expect it. It can happen at any time, in any place from your gray cubicle to the Red Square. At least, that is what is promised. Will the anticipation match the experience? It is entirely up to you, lover. How flexible are you? They say that it is hard to teach an old dog new tricks. Prove the skeptics wrong. CAPRICORN (12.23-01.20) Pink Caps have a sense of sexual adventure. Set out and explore the terrain. You find yourself joining in the fun and feeding your imagination with all sorts of creative possibilities. Try something new and see if you can jolt your artistic impulses. There is something stimulating in the air so don’t waste time. The possibilities are endless. But, how endless is your stamina? AQUARIUS (01.21-02.19) Prepare for a shakeup at home as you ponder a move, re-examine partnerships and possibly even catch a glimpse of you sideways in the mirror. A new broom will sweep clean and buff in all areas. Aqueerians may be feeling a bit staid and static, but you find that as things march on, you feel more energized and ready for change. Don’t forget about your socks. PISCES (02.20-03.20) Genius is never recognized in its own time, Guppie. And, that is a pity since you have so much to offer in terms of calculating observation and pithy comment. Chalk it up to jealousy and seed your trails as you continue your life journey. The lesson to be learned is that you must listen to your own voice no matter what, even if it kvetches. Oy! ARIES (03.21-04.20) Every toad will resemble royalty. Maybe that is because you seek the comforts of life and feel so achy breaky that any stray look or comment will get your heart aflutter. Rein it in, gay Ram, and be as practical as you can for now. Direct your actions to more mundane activities like planning for your financial future. Now that should set your heart pounding! : : © 2011 Madam Lichtenstein, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Entertainment. info: Visit www.TheStarryEye.com for e-greetings, horoscopes and Pride jewelry. My book “HerScopes: A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians” from Simon & Schuster is available at bookstores and major booksites.
tell trinity
That only happens on afternoon soap operas (what’s left of them). So, yes, you’re wrong for cheating, even if your lover by trinity :: qnotes contributor cheats on you. However, sweetie, you’re right to do someHelp, I’m trapped in a thing less dramatic, such as sit down together like two sane adults and talk about your problems. Either agree to try an raunchy sex scene open relationship or agree to separate for a while, but end the Hey Trinity, drama today! (My cartoon is a real tell-all, if you want to know I met this guy at the bar and brought what I’d do.) him home for some lovin’. Well, he turned into a sex pig, spitting, swearDearest Trinity, ing, choking and more. I’m not vanilla, I have a wonderful boyfriend. The only trouble is, he likes to but when sex gets too dirty or painful take his shirt off at the club and therefore insists on shaving it turns me off. How do you know if regularly. He looks great, but it’s so prickly! I’d prefer him au someone wants a natural. How can I “scene” rather than bring this up? It’s a just good sex? sensitive manner? Sex Or X, Denver, CO Seriously Over Stubbled, Hey Sex Or X, Laguna Beach, CA With one-night stands, you have to take a stand. Dearest SOS, Just ask them, “What do you like and then Before opening a can listen for key words like, kissing, passion of worms, I always and affection verses bondage, spitting and start with a bottle raunch. Some people are way more Xof wine. It sets the rated and can easily make you feel vanilla mood. Once he’s for just wanting good ole sex. Honey, you feeling tipsy, let him really have to be clear before letting a know how great he complete stranger take you to his dungeon! is, how much you love him and how Hello Trinity, much his shaving is My lover and I don’t have sex anymore and making your love life I’m sure he’s cheating on me. Am I wrong if “uncomfortable”! I cheat on him? Pumpkin, if he loves Sex, Lies And Cheating, Boston, MA you he’ll toss the razor. But, if he’s an egotistical, selfish, man with low self-esteem Hello Sex Lies And Cheating, (like most men), he’ll never see your point, unless of course you First of all, sex is a gift not a tool with which to punish someone. do the same (hint, hint)!
Dear Trinity, I’m new to the dating scene. I just got out of a 10-year relationship to the only person I ever dated. Do you have any fast learning dating advice? Back After 10 Years, Honolulu, HI Dear Back After 10, I’ve been working on a book, but it won’t be ready anytime soon. However, darling, an old TV series called “Sex In The City” pretty much covers it all. Take a weekend and rent the six seasons. But, for now, read: Trinity’s 10 Most Critical Aspects of Dating (According To “Sex In The City”) 1. The most critical aspect of dating is sex. “Be good in bed!” 2. The second is, “have a stylish apartment and date people with style!” 3. The third, “when you start feeling something, it’s working!” 4. Fourth, “wait a while before talking about your exes.” 5. Fifth, “know that it all happens for a reason!” 6. Sixth, “there’s no such thing as easy. Even if your date is easy, easy doesn’t last forever!” 7. Seventh, “Accept that when a man’s not interested he’s just not interested!” 8. Eighth, “Just when you figure it all out, you may not have!” 9. Ninth, “The chances that it may not work out are far greater, especially when you don’t work at it.” 10. And, the last most critical aspect of dating is, “Dream, take risks, tell it like it is and always try to look your best!” : : — With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity was host of “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama, and now performs globally. info: www.telltrinity.com . Trinity@telltrinity.com Tell Trinity, P.O. Box 23861 . Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33307 Sponsored by: Provincetown Business Guild 800-637-8696 . www.ptown.org
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
23
guest commentary by Daniel Myers :: qnotes contributor
Working towards equality in the American workforce To end discrimination-based sexual orientation and gender identity in the American workforce, the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community must work together for the passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), a bill that would provide job protection based on employees’ sexual orientation or gender identity in both the public and private sector workforce. Debated since the 1970s, ENDA was reintroduced this year by Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) in the U.S. House of Representatives on March 30. A 2007 task force study found that 8-17 percent of LGBT American workers were being fired from their jobs each day. Employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is completely legal in North Carolina, South Carolina, Arizona, Virginia, Florida, New Mexico, Utah, Missouri,
24
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
South Dakota, North Dakota, Alaska and many more states. This is disturbing information to all LGBT persons who want passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Bill. LGBT persons are considered a minority and it’s our civil right movement. To end sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination against LGBT persons in the workforce, there are several steps that need to be taken. First, the LGBT community must all unite together to help the passage of ENDA. Secondly, urge the 112th Congress to pass the ENDA. Lastly, the LGBT community must also take a stand and let corporations know we have suffered enough and convince them to help passage of ENDA. First, to do this we must gather together all of our LGBT partners, communities, nonfor-profit associations and every American that believes sexual orientation and gender
identity should be protected by law in the American workforce. As a community, LGBT persons must stand up for our rights. To do this we can get help from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), which is a non-for-profit that assists with issues for the LGBT community. With the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) on our side we are able to get the funding to raise the awareness to end the sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination in the American workforce, and rally those who support change. The LGBT community can also have rallies to raise awareness to the issue. The LGBT community can find support from everyday Americans that believe we are all equal and should be protected from discrimination in the American workforce. Secondly, we must call on Congress to make it fair that every person in the U.S. is equal in the American workforce and free from any type of discrimination. We must rally support from leaders of this Congress and our fellow members of the LGBT community. ENDA is being stalled and, now with Congress split, this bill will have a hard time passing until we push
it to the front desks of the House and Senate committees on health, education and labor. We must persuade Congress and the president to do something about this now. Change is what Americans of all races, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and religion have been promised by this president and he must act by signing ENDA into law. Lastly, the LGBT community must take a stand to those who do not want change in corporate America. We have allowed corporate giants to come in and run the workplace with no qualms or respect for employees. Change is needed. The LGBT community isn’t going anywhere. Discrimination against us just because we happen to be different and love someone of the same sex is unfair and biased. We must push for and create diversity groups to help CEO’s, managers and other coworkers understand that everyone, no matter sexual orientation or gender identity, is equal. We must act and treat everyone with respect. We can also do this by exploring each
see next page u
person’s lifestyle, how we all are different, and create a comfortable work environment free of discrimination. In conclusion, the LGBT community must continue to fight with the help from HRC, urge every member of Congress and our fellow Americans who want to put an end to sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination in the American workforce. ENDA needs to be signed into law. We must put a stop to the hatred and bullying and mistreatment of people because they are different. This is what being an American is all about: being different, free and able to be the person you want. Being suppressed into something you aren’t just isn’t right. We must get this bill passed by Congress thus allowing more Americans the right and liberties of all that are equal. We are all equal in God’s eyes and that is why ENDA must be passed by Congress. : :
on being a gay parent by brett webb-mitchell :: qnotes contributor
He’s a gay parent My “boss� in the church was very direct with me, not holding anything back in telling me how she tells churches that are interested in me as their pastor: “The first thing I tell them is ‘He’s a gay parent.’� With that emotionally charged phrased — in which being openly gay is still considered breaking the law in the Presbyterian Church (USA) — I never hear back from a church. Miffed about this title, I asked my friend John (another minister who is a dad who happens to be divorced and is straight): “Does she call you a straight parent when introducing you to a group.� He chuckled softly and simply shook his head no. Having authored the book “On Being a Gay Parent,� which is also the title for this column in qnotes, I live the life of a common criminal in my denomination. This means I’m radical, dangerous, delirious. In reality, I am part of a large crowd of other parents who are LGBTQ and ordained in my denomination and other Protestant denominations. However, unlike them, I am out of my closet. I first crept, and then burst out of it more than 16 years ago. I still see them, and talk with them, as we catch each other’s eyes, they wink or nod my direction, do the standardized “double-take� glance, as they hope we’ll “connect,� later, after the church meeting at First Presbyterian Church of (fill in the blank).
“He’s a gay parent.â€? I realize, sadly, that I will probably live with this title for the rest of my life. While I lived in the closet, married to my children’s mother, I was simply “a parent.â€? I wasn’t a “straight parentâ€?: I was simply a parent, in which it was assumed that I was straight. But in a world overpopulated with straight parents, with many parents who are LGBTQ not out, those of us who are out have become an interesting anomaly. I’ve met moms who are lesbian whose children are in daycare centers in which they are always introduced to new parents as “the lesbian moms.â€? And I know another gay dad who is always introduced at his child’s soccer game as “the gay dad.â€? In some regards, what I experience with the label of the “gay dadâ€? is similar to others who are part of a minority group in this country, like the “African-American writer,â€? the “deaf teacher,â€? or my friend Richard, who is a “gay, first-generation Mexican-American, Catholicâ€? writer. These labels and categories, which may in part explain part of our experience in life, tend to trap us in society’s one-dimensional stereotype. It reduces the complexities of our lives, simplifying the great challenges we face, regardless of our race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, ethnicity, nationality, age, or ability. There is simply no homogenous, formulaic community known simply as “the gay communityâ€? or “the African American community.â€? Who am I? I am a son, brother, dad of two young-adult children, divorcee, a partner, who also happens to be a Minister of the Word and Sacrament; a pilgrim, a director of a religious non-profit, a professor, a writer, who is Caucasian, middle-class, transplanted Yankee‌who happens to be gay. : :
qomunity qonexions u 16/5:65 3(> 6--0*, 3HYY` > 1VOUZVU (;;695,@
7OVUL! -H_!
7 6 )V_ /PJRVY` 5*
31VOUZVU'31VOUZVU3H^6MĂ„ JL JVT
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
25
26
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011
Q
events qnotes goqnotes.com/qguide/events
arts. entertainment. news. views. May 14-29 • Charlotte RENT Theatre Charlotte, Charlotte’s Community Theatre, presents the acclaimed, 1996 Pulitzer-prize winning Broadway musical, “RENT.” 501 Queens Rd. Various times. Various prices. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit theatrecharlotte.org.
Party Time
Twirlicious Memorial Day Weekend
May 27-30 • Charlotte A Memorial Day Weekend full of exciting events by Just Twirl. This year’s theme is “Adventures in Wonderland.” Events include six different activities throughout the Queen City. See events below and visit justtwirl.com for more details and tickets and pass purchases. May 28, 9 p.m. Through the Looking Glass May 27, 8 p.m. Over-sized festive decor, incredible lights and ‘Chess, The Musical’ lasers and music from International DJ/Remixer We’ve got the entire theater to ourselves for this one special night! Private Joe Gauthreaux (NYC, LA) await you at our Saturday night main event at showing of the famous rock theater production provided by Queen City Marigny Dance Club. $15 at the door. 18 and up with I.D. Theatre Company! Duke Energy Theatre. $20/advance. $25/door. Limited seats available. May 29, 1-4 p.m. House of Cards Boat Cruise May 27, 10:30 p.m. Our infamous house boat cruise on Lake Norman returns with DJ Andy Z Down the Rabbit Hole (CLT) providing the tunes and bus shuttles from Charlotte/Cornelius also Twirlicious’ kickoff party with DJ Eric B (CLT), drink specials, the cast and included! $40/advance. $50/door. Limited space available. 18 and up with I.D. crew of “Chess” and more! No cover. 21 and up only. The Bar at 316. May 28, Noon-5 p.m. Tea Time Fun afternoon social/tea dance offering incredible views of the Charlotte skyline, great music by DJ Mike Pope (ATL) and mimosas & waffle bar from Noon-2 p.m. $10 at the door. 18 and up with I.D. Loft 1523.
May 14 • Charlotte Queen City Drag Race The second annual Queen City Drag Race heats up! Competitions, music, drinks and food! Proceeds benefit Human Rights Campaign and Pride Charlotte. Hartigan’s Irish Pub, 601 S. Cedar St. 1-6 p.m. queencitydragrace.com. May 14 • Charlotte The Casting Couch Join the Charlotte Pride Band and take a seat on the “casting coach.” Charlotte Pride Band presents fun and well-known music from the big screen. Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte, 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd. 8 p.m. $10. charlotteprideband.org. May 14 • Raleigh OutRaleigh The LGBT Center of Raleigh presents its downtown festival celebrating diversity — an historic first for the capital city. Festival will include vendors, children’s area, entertainment and more. City Plaza, Martin St. For more information, including festival schedule and a location map, visit outraleigh.com. May 17 • Charlotte Guild: U.S. State official visits The Charlotte Business Guild hosts U.S. Department of State Director of the Office
of Civil Rights and Chief Diversity Officer John Robinson. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 201 S. McDowell St. 5:30 p.m. $20. charlottebusinessguild.org. May 19-June 11 • Charlotte ‘Chess: The Musical’ Queen City Theatre Company presents the London version of “Chess: The Musical,” by the composers of ABBA and lyricist of “Evita.” Duke Energy Theatre at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. Various times. Various prices. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit queencitytheatre.com.
May 29, 6 p.m.-midnight Mad Hatter’s Tea Closing Party Our closing party tea dance will feature the incredible sounds of DJ David Marc (NYC) at Dharma Lounge. $10 at the door. 18 and up with I.D.
600 speeds into Charlotte Motor Speedway. Join thousands of revelers Uptown for the 17-year-old three-day Food Lion Speed Street featuring artists Rose Royce, Midnight Star, Pat Green and Josh Turner. For more information including festival layout and schedule, visit 600festival.com. June 2-5 • Charlotte Antiques show From apartments to million dollar homes, you’ll find unique items to fit any style and budget at the International Collectibles and
Antiques Show! Including: home decor, antiques, furniture, collectibles, art, jewelry, crafts and more. Metrolina Tradeshow Expo, 7100 Statesville Rd. icashows.com/ICAShows. June 3-11 • Charlotte ‘Hello Dolly!’ Join the kickoff for CPCC Summer Theatre’s 38th season in the beautiful Halton Theatre for a production of “Hello, Dolly!” And, from June 17-25, don’t miss “Will Rogers Follies: A Life in Revue.” Halton Theatre, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. 8 p.m. $10-$21.704-330-6534. tix.cpcc.edu.
May 21 • Raleigh AIDS Walk+Ride Alliance of AIDS Services-Carolina hosts their annual walk and bicycle ride in downtown Raleigh. Register walkers, learn more about the ride and more at aidswalkandride.org. May 25 • Charlotte Fourth Annual Happening The Charlotte Lesbian & Gay Fund presents their annual luncheon event, presented by Wells Fargo. Proceeds benefit the Fund. 2011 grant recipients will be highlighted. Omni Hotel, 132 E. Trade St. fftc.org/Page. aspx?pid=953. May 26-28 • Charlotte Food Lion Speed Street Charlotte comes to life as annual Coca Cola
May 14-27 . 2011
qnotes
27
28
qnotes
May 14-27 . 2011