June 9-22 . 2012
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qnotes
June 9-22 . 2012
inside June 9-22, 2012 Vol 27 No 03
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News Notes: Regional Briefs 411 on the DNC Protesters decend on Newton Staff changes announced
opinions & views
contributors this issue O’Neale Atkinson, Paige Braddock, Rosendo Brown, Matt Comer, Jon Hoppel, Kevin Grooms/Miss Della, Charlene Lichtenstein, Lainey Millen, Leslie Robinson, David Stout, Trinity, Brett Webb-Mitchell
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4 Editor’s Note 4 General Gayety 4 QPoll
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a&e / life&style 20 Questions Why we celebrate Playing the field Pride 2012 lineup Out on the map Drag Rag
18 On Being a Gay Parent 21 Tell Trinity 22 Out in the Stars 26 Fabulance 26 Jane’s World 27 Q events calendar
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June 9-22 . 2012
qnotes
by o’neale atkinson oneale@goqnotes.com
Pride, now more than ever
Happy Pride month everyone! I love that Pride is in June. Not only is it my birth month, but this June will mark one year since my move to North Carolina and I could not be more proud. While I must confess, I do miss Columbia (even in the summer heat!). This past year has shown me that I needed to make a change and I genuinely believe this was the best move I could make. Without a doubt my “I did the right thing” moment came as I was standing in the middle of Pride Charlotte last year in uptown. I had been in Charlotte for two months at the time and was working part-time for The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. For the first two months I was working with the Center, my primary focus was helping manage issues around the event and working with the Pride Charlotte committee. During the actual day of Pride Charlotte, I was managing volunteers for a few of the booths. I was running like a madman for most of the day when I remember just stopping and taking it all in for a minute. There were thousands of people all around me, all of them just happy being themselves and enjoying the festivities. Sure, there were protestors, but, honestly, I don’t remember much of them, they were absolutely the minority for the day. I have been to other Pride celebrations in South Carolina and in other parts of the country, but this past year was the first time I really felt it. It was an overwhelming rush of, well, pride! Having the opportunity to watch the process come together months in advance, I never quite grasped how big the experience would be until I was standing right in the middle of it. It felt so good to have taken a part in coordinating some of Pride Charlotte and to see it come to life in such a beautiful way. I remember talking to my mom shortly after last year’s Pride Charlotte and telling her
about the day. At one point she asked me why we have Pride festivals as a community. I did my best to explain my personal feelings about the importance of it with her and invited her to come to SC Pride with me in Columbia. When I met up with my mom outside of Finlay Park, she was furious. On her way into downtown she took her normal route which drove her straight down Gervais St. past the State Capitol and witnessed the wall of protestors standing around with hate-filled signs. “I wanted to swerve into them,” I remember her saying. My mother is no fool and knew that people were against the LGBT community, but that was the first time I think she saw exactly how hateful people can be. We put the protestors on the street behind us and walked into the park. It was a beautiful day and the atmosphere was fun and loving as always. As always my mom quickly made friends with strangers and had a blast. After a few hours and getting to see Martha Wash, we called it a day. Mom definitely understood why we need Pride celebrations and I was proud to be able to share that experience with her. With the passage of Amendment One and the recent outpouring of very direct opposition to the LGBT community here in North Carolina, I can understand how some may feel like the wind has left our sails, but now is not the time to lose heart. Now, more than ever, we must reinforce our sense of pride and share it for the world to see. For those of you who may have never experienced a Pride festival I encourage you to attend one or more this year. Bring a friend or a family member with you and share with them a part of our community. If you are a regular attendee of Pride festivals, I encourage you to step up this year and volunteer to work with Pride organizations. Help make Pride in your area the biggest and best it can be. : :
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June 9-22 . 2012
VIEWS
VIEWS
editor’s note
general gayety by leslie robinson qnotes contributor
Mainstream in the press
Being the old-fashioned type, I have a newspaper delivered to my door every morning. Being part of modern American society, I rarely have time to read it. But this week, I managed to scan a couple of issues and there in my old-fashioned newspaper were distinctly modern morsels. These items treated gays not as criminals or political footballs, but as members of society. Somewhere William Randolph Hearst is asking, “What fun is that?” Monday’s local section of The Seattle Times included the headline “Being Themselves at the ‘Pink Prom,’” and two photos from the weekend event. The top picture’s extended caption began, “’Vnitii Fair,’ or Barry Caadan, 22, of Seattle, helps put a necklace on ‘Isis,’ or Zac Burr, 19, of Marysville.” Marysville is about 30 miles north of Seattle. I’m guessing the phone lines in that small city are still burning. After explaining the prom is for “lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth,” the caption noted how long the two have been doing drag and that Burr performed in a show for the first time that morning. “I like making new friends, and I love feeling beautiful,” Burr said. Perhaps, in the period since these pictures ran, a fence has gone up around Marysville to keep Burr in. Or out. A newspaper is supposed to inform and The Seattle Times did its job in sending a photographer to the event, running the pictures and explaining to the clue-free — that would be most people, no matter how liberal Seattle is — the appeal of a pink prom and drag. Some of us might quibble that only female pronouns should’ve been applied to the drag queens in the caption. Maybe, but not long ago we’d have counted ourselves lucky that the newspaper didn’t use “it.” In Thursday’s paper I spotted a double helping of respect. The lead story in the sports section was a preview of the Seattle Storm,
as the women’s hoop team starts the WNBA season. The Times included factoids about each player and the info on new Belgian center Ann Wauters amounted to a lesbian full-court press. Wauters “enjoyed being pregnant simultaneously with her partner, giving birth to her son, Vince, on June 1, 2011. Legally married in Belgium, her wife’s daughter, Lou, was born May 12, 2011.” Wonderful. Honest. But, to a homophobe, that description is one very offensive foul. Such a person wishes for safer offerings from a newspaper, like, “Wauters enjoys watching soccer and her favorite food is Fruity Pebbles.” If that person threw down the sports section in disgust and headed for the fun parts of the paper in search of relief, he got another jolt. Next to the comics and under the horoscopes, the advice columnist answered a question from two lesbian mothers. Between that and the sports blurb, my horoscope should’ve said, “Observe how things tilt to your advantage today. Avoid beets.” The woman who wrote to “Ask Amy” said she and her partner have two young daughters. Her partner talks often about losing weight and diets, while she doesn’t. “Body image has been such a painful issue for both of us. I don’t want to pass that on to our daughters in this already diet/body image-obsessed world,” she wrote. Amy dispensed respectful advice to the parents that they should get in sync, see a nutritionist, involve the kids in food prep, never criticize anyone’s body in front of the children and perform other miracles. It was the same advice she’d have given straight parents. Unlike the pink-prom photos or the Storm blurb, this advice column is syndicated, so LGBTQ people around the country read it that day and saw true equality — the chance to be screwed up on an equal basis. : : info:
lesarobinson@gmail.com . generalgayety.com
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LIFE
20 Questions Rodney Tucker, Charlotte by David Stout :: david@goqnotes.com
Rodney Tucker is one of the glue guys of the Queen City’s LGBT community. You know the sort we’re talking about: seems to be at every event you go to and is involved in some capacity with every project of note. He worked at the Regional HIV/AIDS Consortium and RAIN before taking over the reins at Time Out Youth last December. He’s also one of the three original founders of Takeover Friday. Well, it’s no secret that 20 Questions is fascinated by these seen-itall, done-it-all types so we just had to dig deeper. Naturally, it took a while to carve out the time — being a glue guy eats up the clock, you know — but, eventually, it all came together. Who’s more likely into dom/sub leather play: Bigfoot and Wildboy, Electra Woman and Dyna Girl or H.R. Pufnstuf and Jimmy? Electra Woman and Dyna Girl, they have the costumes and the bodies. I think people would pay to see that. If you could trade jobs with any person past or present, whose would you choose? If you get to trade bodies with the job, I would pick Johnny Depp and become an actor. He always gets the greatest roles and pulls off being smoking hot and quirky at the same time. Do you know the rules of the card game Hearts? I was raised in a good Southern Baptist home, we didn’t play card games unless it involved adding or spelling. Are you better at giving constructive criticism or receiving it? I think everyone is better giving constructive criticism than accepting it. It’s difficult when you put your heart and soul into projects and the first thing some people want to share with you is the areas you could improve. I always try to lead with compliments. How do these films rank based on the number of times you’ve seen them: “Back To The Future Part II,” “Porky’s II: The Next Day,” “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” “The Empire Strikes Back”? This is a funny list. Hmmm, “Back To the Future Part II” followed by “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” I think. I’m pretty sure I never saw “Porky’s II” or “The Empire Strikes Back.” I did see the “Family Guy” tribute to “Star Wars”…but, I didn’t get it.
What leftovers are in your refrigerator right now? I have no leftovers in my refrigerator. I am a member of the clean plate club. Growing up, I hated leftovers, so I don’t force myself to eat them now. Can you do a cartwheel? Yes! In fact, I just did one so I could answer the question! Let’s hear it for 45-year olds. Which curse word do you use most often? Working at Time Out Youth, I try really hard to not use curse words, but when I slip, “shit” is the word that rolls out without thinking. One of the youth loved it when I said it last week What was the first music album you bought with your own money? The first album my mom let me get was a collection of Christmas songs. My first cassette that I bought just for me was Madonna’s “Like a Virgin.” Have you ever had any part of your body waxed? Yes, eyebrows only. I can’t imagine the pain removing hair anywhere else on my body. Ouch! How long has it been since you were on a bicycle? Last week! I love the new greenway and want to start riding to work a couple days per week. Do you personally know anyone who has performed in a gay porn film? Yes, I have made very poor dating choices and have seen a couple of my ex’s on screen. Ugh. Please, don’t tell mom. Which sub sandwich chain do you prefer? Subway is just around the corner from Time Out Youth. I hit it at least once a week. Maybe I will be like that Jarrod and lose a lot of weight eating. Can you remember your first crush? My first crush was on Michelle Hinson. We have found each other on Facebook and keep up with each other again. Her new husband sat beside me in school growing up and she finally ended up as Michelle Tucker, only married to Chris Tucker instead of me. Do you think mimes are entertaining? Mimes and clowns both bother me. At one of my favorite Takeover Fridays we had to ask two clowns to leave the event. A week later I was interviewed for a story about how Takeover discriminates against clowns. I told the reporter we were very concerned about skin care and thought wearing that much makeup could cause breakouts. They didn’t run the story. Roasted peanuts, boiled peanuts or peanut butter? I love nuts. When I was little my dad let me grow peanuts in the garden like Jimmy Carter; I guess that’s where my love affair with nuts began. I always have a container of roasted peanuts in my cabinet. How would you rank the following music shows from your most to least favorite: “American Bandstand,” “Hee Haw,” “Solid Gold,” “Soul Train”? “Solid Gold,” “American Bandstand,” “Soul Train” and then “Hee Haw.” When I was working on Not Your Mama’s Bingo in Hickory, I let one of the fabulous cast members borrow my Marilyn McCoo dress. Andy Gibb would have been impressed!
see Tucker on 23 June 9-22 . 2012
qnotes
BRIEFS
news notes: from the carolinas, nation and world compiled by Lainey Millen :: lainey@goqnotes.com | David Stout :: david@goqnotes.com | O’Neale Atkinson :: oneale@goqnotes.com
Town hall meetings roll out RALEIGH — Equality NC, along with the Human Rights Campaign, American Civil Liberties Union-North Carolina, Southerners on New Ground, NAACP-NC and other coalition partners, have taken to the road to host “What’s next?” for LGBT rights town hall meeting across the state in the aftermath of Amendment One passage on May 8. These meetings will provide an opportunity for supporters to look forward and learn how together the community can continue to fight for full equality by electing pro-equality legislators, being effective grassroots leaders and providing vital work by sharing personal stories. Other partners along the way include Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Raleigh, Unitarian Universalist of the Outer Banks, People’s Alliance of Durham, Wilmington PRIDE, Campaign for Southern Equality, Neighbors for Equality, Cateret County Against Amendment One, All of Us, Democracy NC, Rocky Mount PFLAG, Moore Against Amendment One, Equality Winston, Winston Salem Interfaith Alliance, Winston-Salem PFLAG, Adam Foundation, Hickory Ministerial Alliance, Mitchell Country GSA, Boone Unitarian Universalist Fellowship and Straight Allies Charlotte. The meeting schedule was kicked off at Tipsy Teapot on May 23 in Greenville, followed on June 4 in Raleigh at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Raleigh, 3313 Wade Ave. and Siler City
Charlotte A post-mortem on A1 two
CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Observer’s Steve Lyttle reported that California-based Missiongathering Christian Church, San Diego, erected a billboard in Charlotte on Billy Graham Pky. on May 30 apologizing for the passage of Amendment One. It read, ““Missiongathering Christian Church is sorry for the narrowminded, judgmental, deceptive, manipulative actions of those who denied rights and equality to so many in the Name of God.” WSOC shared that the church’s goal was to let the “LGBT community of North Carolina and like-minded allies there all people across the country that support them.” Openly gay Carborro Mayor Mark
Photo Credit: Todd Sumlin, The Charlotte Observer
qnotes
June 9-22 . 2012
on June 6 at the Earl B. Fitts Community Center, 111 S. 3rd St. During the rest of the month the organizations will traverse the state hosting the LGBT-focused town hall events. The list includes: Kitty Hawk, June 12, 7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Outer Banks, 831 Herbet Perry Rd.; Durham, June 13, 7 p.m., Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 4907 Garrett Rd.; Wilmington, June 13, 7 p.m., Front St. Brewery, 9 N. Front St.; Asheville, June 14, 7 p.m., First Congregational United Church of Christ, 20 Oak St.; Morehead City, June 14, 7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Coastal Fellowship, 1300 Evans St.; Greensboro, June 18, 7 p.m., College Park Baptist Church, Chapel, 601 Walker Ave.; Rocky Mount, June 19, 7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Church, 516 N. Church St.; Sandhills Community, June 20, 7 p.m., Southern Pines Civic Club, 105 S. Ashe St.; Winston-Salem, June 24, 7 p.m., Green Street Methodist Church, 639 S. Green St.; Hickory, June 25, 7 p.m., Grace House (Old Hickory Funeral Home), 102 1st Ave., N.W.; Bakersville, June 26, 6 p.m., DT’s Blue Ridge Java, 169 Locust Ave., (Spruce Pine); Boone, June 27, 7 p.m., Boone Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 381 E. King St.; and Charlotte, June 28, 7 p.m., Wells Fargo Auditorium, 430 S. Tryon St. For more information, visit hrc.org, equalitync.org or acluofnc.org. — L.M. Kleinschmidt voiced his opposition of a state boycott in protest of the passage of Amendment One, The [Durham] Herald Sun said. He told The Huffington Post, “I just found the conversation somewhat disturbing…I think we have been unjustly targeted with boycott talk.” Meanwhile, InterstateQ reported that straight bar Butter NC in the NC Music Factory was having a “Repeal Amendment One Party on June 7. Initially, the club did not say how the funds accumulated during the event would benefit any LGBT group, but later said that it would support a local one. Although not directly related to the Amendment One issue, in a bold move, Target recently announced that it was selling T-shirts that supported Pride. They are doing this with partner Family Equality Council as a way to support LGBT employees and consumers. Target’s LGBTA Business Council was responsible for the grassroots effort, Towleroad.com said. Monies received from the sale of the $12.99 item will be donated to the Family Equality Council with a $120,000 cap. It has riled marriage amendment supporters in Minnesota, the state’s public radio added. — L.M.
It’s a fabulous fundraiser for CP
CHARLOTTE — A week-long Queen’s Fab Fest presented by Queen City Theatre to benefit Campus Pride will be held June 23-30. This event features “Falsettos in Concert – a Theatre Gala” on June 23 at 8 p.m. at McGlohon Theatre, 345 N. College St.; “There Comes a Time – Miss Coco Peru is Back!” at 8 p.m. at Duke Energy Theatre, 345 N. College St.; “Outside the BOXX - An Evening with Pandora Boxx” with special opening act Trixie Zenyon on June 28 at 8 p.m. at Duke Energy Theatre; “Twisted Broadway – A Broadway Cabaret” on June 29 at 8 p.m. at Duke Energy Theatre followed by an after-party and drag show at Hartigan’s Irish Pub, 601 S. Cedar St.; and “The Wizard of Oz – Buff Faye’s First Annual Sing-A-Long” on June 30 at 8 p.m. at Duke Energy Theatre, including over $500 in prizes for best costume. Participants can also have a chance to win a pair of tickets to see Madonna in concert in November. Tickets are $15 for individual sales or bundle packages of $100 for all performances. Patron sales receive reserved seating. Visit queencitytheatre.com to make purchases. For more information, visit campuspride.org. — L.M.
TOY seeks volunteers
CHARLOTTE — Time Out Youth (TOY) is searching for volunteers to work in their Emergency Housing and Assistance program. Hosts are needed to provide support to youth in crisis between the ages of 18-23. Additionally, volunteers should agree to provide food and a safe, comfortable place to sleep for a couple of weeks to three months, depending upon the needs of the young person. House rules must be set up and the youth must pledge to abide by them. Clients arrive at TOY with a variety of issues. Some have even shown up with only the clothes on their backs and nothing else. They are often homeless and disenfranchised from their families. To volunteer or to provide other assistance to this program, email Laurie Pitts at laurie. pitts@timeoutyouth.org. — L.M.
It’s crunch time for tekkies
CHARLOTTE — A TechCrunch Mini Meetup will be held on July 11, 6-10 p.m. at a to-be-determined location, as well as in Raleigh on July 10, 6-10 p.m. This social networking event hopes to match developers and investors, as well as providing a spot for those who want to learn more about technology in their area. They are currently looking for sponsors and locations to house the meetings. Facilitators are focusing on LGBT founders, start-ups and employers and would welcome speakers to share their ideas with attendees. Some time may be spent on politics in light of recent developments in the Tar Heel State after passage of Amendment One, along with the effect legislated homophobia has on the startup community and entrepreneurship. For more information, email john@
techcrunch.com. Correspondence should include the city in the subject line. Or, visit techcrunch.com or plancast.com/category/ techcrunch/736795. — L.M.
Centers run for funds
HUNTERSVILLE — The LGBT Center of Raleigh and The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte teamed up to raise funds for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn., by participating in the North Carolina Warrior Dash on from May 19-20 at Rural Hills, 4431 Neck Rd. The 3.08-mile course is fraught with obstacles like rock walls, rope nets and mud pits. The 2012 event saw about 10,000 racing participants from 40 teams. The race is part of 54 international fundraising races that benefit St. Jude. The duo (pictured) managed to raise more than $12,000, the largest single purse of the event. This amounted to 15 percent of the total money raised. “It speaks volumes to the fact that LGBT citizens are productive, active contributors to their communities and the whole of society,” shared team member Keith Alyea of Charlotte, NC. “I can only hope that our strong participation at events like the Warrior Dash changes some hearts and minds.” “The commitment of our team to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital exceeded all our expectations,” said Dr. Matthew Cotter, team captain. “When they finished, team members were so proud of themselves and all their cuts and bruises. We look forward to taking a strong part in more events like this in the future.” Team members also contributed their race sneakers to the Green Sneakers program which added 50 cents for ever pound donated to the hospital. The shoes are cleaned and made available as affordable footwear around the world. For more information, visit warriordash.com. — L.M.
Eastern Costal groups help expand awareness
KITTY HAWK — The benefactor of OBX Pridefest’s fundraising efforts, held June 13-17, is Brandon’s Beacon of Hope-HIV-AIDS Foundation. By helping to provide necessary assistance to those living with HIV/AIDS, it helps to give a more local resource for it’s client base. During OBX Pridefest, participants may enjoy a movie night featuring “For the Bible Tells Me So” on June 13 at 7 p.m. at All
Saints Episcopal Church; catch a presentation of “The Lost Colony,” an outdoor historical drama, on June 14 at 8:30 p.m., an afternoon at the beach from 6-10 p.m., a Pride & Joy Booze Cruise aboard the Crystal Dawn at 6 p.m., Michael Walters one-man show on Jun 15 at 10 p.m., Gay Pride Festival on June 16 from 12-6 p.m., plus a plethora of other activities. For a complete list of events, visit obxpridefest.com. — L.M.
Triangle Heroes forum slated
RALEIGH — The History and Heroes: Affirming Faith Forum will be held on June 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the LGBT Center of Raleigh, 411 Hillsborough St., as part of their HealthWorks programming. Participants will gain insight into ways to diffuse negative messages from faith traditions which can deny the “gracious expression” of one’s live and cause conflict. Organizers say, “The confusing feelings that creep in with the misguided morality messages denying experiences of love and authentic self can threaten to take root. Remembering our history as well as our heroes is an antidote.” Discussion will center around role models who encourage access to avenues of validation and direct transformative actions. Support never goes unnoticed and heroes are found when least expected. Being loving and a just community is important, especially in the face of anti-LGBT hate-based rhetoric. It can threaten lives and well being. Through this process one learns how to disarm shame and guilt and build strength.
For more information, email info@lgbt centerofraleigh.com. — L.M.
Mad dash for musical
RALEIGH — On July 28, “The Music and The MadDness” will bring its multi-performer event to the Marriott Crabtree Valley, 4500 Marriott Dr. at 5:30 p.m. The show includes comedians Happy Cole (“Comic Strip Live”), Percy Crews II (BET’s “Comic View”), openly gay Sampson McCormick, as well as Marcus Anthony, who will bring the Motown sound to the stage. Co-hosted by GLO TV President Maurice Jamal and author and activist Uriah Bell who hails from Rising Voices Press and Truth Magazine. McCormick is a N.C. native from Evergreen, but now calls Washington, D.C. home. He has shared stages with Kate Clinton and Karen William. Anthony has opened for Patti LaBelle. Tickets are $35/VIP (reserved seating, servers and complimentary Barefoot products); $20/regular. Open mic registration is $10. To purchase tickets or to register for open mic, email July28@TheMusicand TheMadDness. For more information visit, triangleblack pride.org. — L.M.
ENC looking for heroes
RALEIGH — Equality North Carolina (ENC) is on the hunt for nominations for local heroes for equality. These people have made “unprecedented sacrifices” to assist in the fight against Amendment One, plus helping to grow an equality-minded movement that’s now 100,000 strong.
To submit names, write three-five paragraphs providing ENC with the name of the equality hero, whether an individual or organization, and include a description of the selfless achievement and how it made a meaningful difference in the campaign against Amendment One. Also, send along a photograph of the individual or organizational staff or an image of the hero on the ground at an event put together by that nominee. Finally, supply the person’s email address and cellphone number so that ENC can contact the nominee about the profile ENC will be publishing. Note that not all profiles received will be published, but ENC will make attempts to include as many as they are able. Submitters should follow the prescribed outline above. For more information or to submit, email kay@equalitync.org. — L.M.
Western Mountain town makes Pride list
ASHEVILLE — This laid back hamlet has made cnn.com’s top five Pride destinations. President Barak Obama has issued a proclamation and LGBT Americans are finding ways to show the world how to celebrate in a rainbow of ways. CNN said that Blue Ridge Pride has grown tremendously since it started in 2009. It has a grassroots, hometown feel, “poignant given the recent amendment passed in North Carolina…’It’s a good time to show our support and solidarity in a state that’s had a setback,’ says Ed Salvato.” Salvato is a leading travel expert who also serves as editor-inchief of Man About World, “a soon-to-launch gay travel magazine for the iPad.” He says to
book early and to ask about Pride packages. Other locations that made the list include: Boston, Mass.; Tel Aviv, Israel; Amsterdam, Netherlands; and Atlanta, Ga. — L.M.
National/Global City unveils Harvey Milk St.
SAN DIEGO, Calif. — On May 8, the San Diego City Council unanimously voted to give final approval to rename a street after slain LGBT civil rights hero Harvey Milk. A celebratory unveiling of the new street was held May 22, Milk’s birthday, making San Diego the first city in the nation to have a street named for the groundbreaking political leader and activist. “A year ago, a group of community leaders came together around the notion the time had come to honor an LGBT civil rights leader in San Diego the same way we have given honor to other civil rights leaders such as Cesar Chavez and Martin Luther King, Jr,” said Dwayne Crenshaw, San Diego LGBT Pride executive director, following the historic vote. “Today marks a symbolic and significant moment in the movement forward towards the American value of equality.” Milk was shot to death by his fellow San Francisco Board of Supervisors member Dan White in 1978. He would have turned 82 this year. — D.S.
Polls: Marriage proponents up
BALTIMORE, Md. — A new Public Policy Poll of Maryland voters shows a decisive majority (57 percent) would vote in favor of same-sex marriage if it’s on the ballot this
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News Notes continued from page 7
Fall, while 37 percent would vote against. This is a 12-point swing in support from two months earlier and is due to growing AfricanAmerican support since both President Barack Obama and the NAACP have endorsed same-sex marriage. “Things are moving in Maryland,” said Josh Levin, campaign manager for Marylanders for Marriage Equality. “We’re approaching a supermajority who want to uphold the state’s new marriage law. The message of stronger families and greater fairness is resonating, and we’re confident Maryland will be the first state to win a ballot measure on marriage equality and religious freedom.” The Maryland data are in line with recent national polls reflecting majority AfricanAmerican support. An ABC News/Washington Post poll showed 59 percent of AfricanAmericans now express support for same-sex marriage — an 18-point jump from polls taken before the President’s announcement. — D.S.
Wahls supports Scout leader
ORLANDO, Fla. — On May 30, Eagle Scout Zach Wahls delivered a petition with more than 275,000 signatures to the National Annual Meeting of the Boy Scouts of America, calling on the Boy Scouts to reinstate Jennifer Tyrrell, a lesbian den leader in Ohio who was removed from her position because of her sexual orientation, and to end their long-held policy barring openly gay scouts and scout leaders. After delivering the signatures, Wahls met briefly with Deron Smith, public relation director with the Boy Scouts of America’s national office. Afterward he noted, “While today’s meeting was productive and thoughtful, the delivery of these petitions marks the beginning of this journey, not the end. I thought our dialogue today was an honest one, and I’m looking forward to continuing the conversation in the months ahead.” Wahls is the author of “My Two Moms” and the star of an online video in support of his two gay moms that went massively viral last year. — D.S.
ExxonMobil shareholder vote fails
DALLAS, Texas — A May 30 vote by ExxonMobil shareholders failed to garner enough support to add sexual orientation and gender identity to the company’s Equal Employment Opportunity policy. Following the vote, ExxonMobil remains the only Fortune 10 company without these protections. On the Human Rights Campaign’s latest Corporate Equality Index, ExxonMobil received a score of -25. In contrast, oil and gas companies such as Chevron, BP, Shell, and Spectra received scores of 85 or higher. Before Mobil Corp. was acquired by Exxon Corp., Mobil prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation and offered health benefits to domestic partners of its employees. After the 1999 merger, Exxon removed the non-discrimination policy and the domestic partner benefits program was closed to new employees. In response to protests at the 2010 shareholders meeting, David Rosenthal, ExxonMobil’s vice president of Investor Relations and secretary, issued a letter making it clear that the company will only institute LGBT protections if required by federal law. — D.S.
see News Notes on 23
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June 9-22 . 2012
LIFE
Why we celebrate Remembering Stonewall and looking at where we’ve come from by O’Neale Atkinson :: oneale@goqnotes.com
in the Gay Rights Movement, the reality is that there were events across the country prior to 1969 which provided the foundation for the movement. After being fired from his government job in 1958, activist Frank Kameny became one of the earliest and most influential advocates for equal rights of LGBT people. Although the United States Supreme Court denied his petition in 1961, his case is landmark as the first civil rights claim based on sexual orientation. Kameny is credited with bringing an aggressive and more militant stance to the Gay Rights Movement. He was responsible for co-found-
ing the Mattachine Society of Washington, an organization which fought throughout An early activist in the Gay Pride Movement, the late Frank the 1960s for gay civil rights. Kameny, continued to fight for equality even up to his death. Kameny and the Mattachine Society of Washington pressed for fair and equal treatment ith June in full effect, cities across of gay employees in the federal government the country are soon to be bomand worked with other groups such as the barded with rainbows as Pride Daughters of Bilitis to press for equality returns to celebrate the spirit of the LGBT for gay citizens. Inspired by the Civil Rights community and the movement for equality. Movement’s phrase “Black is Beautiful,” Day, and even week-long, celebrations are Kameny coined the phrase “Gay is Good” to scheduled filled with marches, parades, a counter social stigma about the LGBT comvariety of entertainment, street fairs, film munity in the 1960s. festivals and more. You can find rainbows on During the 1950s and 1960s, organizaeverything in online stores and a variety of tions such as the Daughters of Bilitis and unique and clever Pride shirts, so you can be the Mattachine Society coordinated some prepared for the events that will be running of the earliest demonstrations of the modern from now until later in the year. Gay Rights Movement. These two organiFrom an outsider looking into LGBT zations, in particular, carried out pickets culture, Pride month and Pride festivals can called Annual Reminders to inform and appear to be simply huge parties and even for remind Americans that LGBT people did not members of the LGBT community it is easy to enjoy basic civil rights protections. These be pulled into the fun of the celebration and to Annual Reminders began on July 4, 1965, at forget about the origins of the movement. Independence Hall in Philadelphia. For many members of the LGBT commuIn August of 1966, a riot in Compton’s nity, especially older generations, they know Cafeteria, a chain of cafeterias in San exactly what Pride represents and embodies Francisco, marked one of the first documented because they lived through the experiences LGBT-related riots in the country and sparked that have made Pride what it is today. For a response three years before the Stonewall younger generations, the origin of Pride may Riots. Compton’s Cafeteria in the Tenderloin be a bit more ambiguous; kind of like the outdistrict of San Francisco was one of the few sider looking in. Regardless of which category establishments where transgender clients you fall into, by remembering and recognizcould publically gather. At the time, crossing the origin of Pride and the movement it dressing was illegal and so having transgensymbolizes, we can honor the efforts of those der individuals in a bar was enough cause to who have brought the Gay Rights Movement allow police officers to raid establishments. to its current position today. This stigma ousted the transgender community For many, when asked to identify the from many gay establishments at the time. start of the Gay Rights Movement, they will reference Stonewall as the origin. While the Stonewall Riots of 1969 are a pivotal moment see Pride on 19
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qnotes
SPORT
Playing the field Match-ups from across the Carolinas: Softball tourney brings dozens of teams out by Jon Hoppel :: qnotes contributor
Softball The Big Peach Softball Tournament was held during Memorial Day weekend in Atlanta, Ga. The event brought together 47 teams in three divisions, all looking to bring home the coveted crystal peach trophy. Teams from Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, Massachusetts, Alabama, Ohio and Washington D.C., were represented in one of the biggest gay softball tournaments in the country. And, with only one major tournament left in the Southeast before the Gay Softball World Series, this was a great opportunity to see how teams stacked up. The A/B division was won by the Ft. Lauderdale Noize, who went undefeated and cruised past the Atlanta Sluggers to take the trophy. Taking home third place was the Atlanta Genesis, which defeated the Knoxville Cyclones B team in a grueling battle, with the walkoff hit by Shawn Carlton in the bottom of the 7th inning. The C division was the most competitive this year, consisting of 20 teams, from nine different cities. Walking away with the hardware this year was the Capital Punishment team out of Washington D.C., who rallied in the top half of the 7th inning to overtake the Knoxville Cyclones C team, 14-5. In the third place game, the Tampa Bay Hammerheads took down the Orlando Fury in extra innings with a 2 RBI double in the bottom of the 8th. The last division to finish on Sunday was the D division, which saw the Atlanta Aggression beat the Ft. Lauderdale Sluggers in back-to-back games to win the title. Lead by MVP and Charlotte’s own Jon Darcy’s pitching and clutch hitting, the Aggression were able to cruise to the championship in the second game. The favorites, the Sluggers, were undefeated go-
ing into the championship game. It was lead by another one of Charlotte’s own, Shane Windmeyer (a.k.a. Buff Faye), but were not able to maintain the momentum brought on by Buff Faye’s victory as the 2012 Miss Big Peach Softball Tourney Pageant held over the weekend. Placing third in the D division was the Houston Fetch, which also won the tournament’s Spirit Award for (you guessed it) Best Team Spirit.
Upcoming events: Tennis Registration for the 25th Annual Peach International Tennis Championships in Atlanta opened June 1 for all players interested in competing Labor Day weekend, the first weekend in September. The Peach is a fourday tournament played Friday morning to Monday afternoon. It has men’s and women’s singles, doubles and mixed doubles in divisions Open, A, B, C and D (with sufficient entries). It also plays 40-plus age divisions in some events if the number of entries warrants it. To register, visit glta.net/tournamentdetails/25th-annual-peach-international-tennis-championships and check them out on Facebook at facebook.com/#!/pages/ThePeach-International-Tennis-Championships/4 6161817980. Rollerderby On June 9 at the Grady Cole Center, the always entertaining and fiercely competitive Charlotte Rollergirls will be hosting the New River Valley Rollergirls and the B-Dazzlers will be hosting the Low Country High Rollers Bruisin’ Betties starting at 6 p.m.
see Playing on 20
The Atlanta Aggression. Charlotte’s Jon Darcey (fourth from the left, top row) played on their team.
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xuu on the DNC 3,502 Americans Sponsor “Powered by the American People” DNC Stock Car On May 25 at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Charlotte in 2012 Convention Host Committee, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) and NASCAR legend H.A “Humpy” Wheeler unveiled the official “Powered by the American People” stock car for the 2012 Democratic National Convention. Taking advantage of the best sponsorship deal in the history of the sport, 3,502 Americans from across the country contributed to the convention to have their name included on the car. The “Powered by the American People” stock car remained at the NASCAR Hall of Fame for the duration of Charlotte’s Speed Week, the celebration that led up to NASCAR’s Coca Cola 600 at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. “We are experiencing a lot of firsts here in Charlotte and I am proud to have played a part in the first official convention stock car sponsorship opportunity. It really reflects how many people want to leave their mark on this piece of Charlotte history,” Charlotte in 2012 Executive Director Dr. Dan Murrey said. The “Powered by the American People” campaign is a part of Charlotte in 2012’s grassroots fundraising effort. The 2012 Democratic Convention is the first in modern history to not take corporate, PAC, or lobbyist money. This new approach to fundraising means that more Americans can be a part of the efforts to power the Convention. “The success of the ‘Powered by the American People’ grassroots fundraising campaign is one more example of how this convention will be the most open and accessible in history. By putting their name on this stock car, these Americans own a part in the convention,” said DNCC Chief of Staff Travis Dredd. NASCAR legend H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler kicked off this grassroots fundraising campaign in an email asking Charlotte in 2012 supporters to contribute and become a sponsor of the stock car. A North Carolina native, Wheeler is one of the most decorated promoters in NASCAR auto racing and helped transform the 1.5-mile Charlotte Motor Superspeedway into one of the world’s leading sports facilities. Wheeler is a member of nine Halls of Fame, including the International Motorsports Hall of Fame. “I love seeing race cars being used to help raise money for such an extraordinary event for the city of Charlotte. I’m proud that this city is going to be the face of North Carolinian hospitality for the whole country,” Wheeler said.
Charlotte based firm selected for DNC artwork and design needs The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) named Zander Guinn Millan, Inc. (ZGM), a full-service woman-owned branding communications firm located in Charlotte, as the vendor for artwork and design services for the 2012 DNC credentials. “Zander Guinn Millan, Inc. has the experience, skillset and creativity that we’re looking for to design a functional and visually appealing credential,” said DNCC CEO Steve Kerrigan. “We’re excited to be working with this local company on our credential design, because credentials not only provide access to the main event, but are a keepsake from the convention that attendees will hold on to for many years to remember their experience in Charlotte.” The theme of the credentials will be “Americans Coming Together,” and ZGM will develop credential designs in coordination with the DNCC, the security printing vendor and other vendors. Additionally, the DNCC selected Miami artist Rosa Naday Garmendia to work with ZGM to provide the illustrations for the credentials. The DNCC evaluated proposals based on numerous criteria, including, but not limited to: experience, reliability, relationships to Charlotte, N.C., and the surrounding region, participation of union labor, women, minorities, LGBT, veterans and persons with disabilities and innovative proposed solutions. The DNCC and the Host Committee have adopted a diversity contracting policy for the 2012 Democratic National Convention that represents unprecedented progress toward both the inclusion and use of diverse businesses. The policy states that the DNCC has a goal of spending at least one third of its funding for contracts and projects with Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), Disability-Owned Businesses, LGBT-Owned Businesses and Veteran-Owned Businesses.
June 9-22 . 2012
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NEWS
Over 1,000 gather in Newton to protest anti-gay preacher’s comments Peaceful protest draws raucous counter protesters by Matt Comer :: Editor Emeritus
Over 1,000 people gathered in this small town about an hour outside Charlotte on Sunday to protest what they called messages of hate by Maiden, N.C. Pastor Charles Worley, whose comments at Providence Road Baptist Church during a sermon on May 13 made headlines during that week. Worley said he had “figured a way out — a way to get rid of all the lesbians and queers.” “Build a great big, large fence — 50 or a 100 miles long — and put all the lesbians in there,” Worley told his congregants. “Fly over and drop some food. Do the same thing with the queers and the homosexuals — and have that fence electrified so they can’t get out. Feed ‘em. And you know in a few years, they’ll die out. You know why? They can’t reproduce.” Comments from a 1978 sermon by Worley also raised eyebrows. Posted by the church, the old sermon included comments from Worley that “Forty years ago they would’ve hung [homosexuals], bless God, from a white oak tree!” Organizers had told media they were expecting 2,000-5,000 protesters, which prompted them to move from their original protest location at Worley’s church to the Catawba County Government and Justice
Center. Catawba County Sheriff Coy Reid told qnotes that he estimated attendance at anywhere from 1,400-1,600. He said every spot in the government center parking lot had at one time been filled. The lot holds 675 cars, Reid said, noting that many vehicles had come with at least two passengers. At a morning press conference, protest organizer Laura Tipton said she hoped to send a message of love. She also addressed reports of an attempted arson at Providence Road Baptist Church, where someone attempted to set fire to the building’s power box. “As a group, we condemn that act,” Tipton said. “We’re promoting peace, love and acceptance. We publicly condemn any violence directed toward Providence Road Baptist Church or its members.” Mike Mannarino, president of the local Catawba Valley Pride, said he was “outraged” at Worley’s comments. “Don’t fence me in,” he said. “I demand a public apology.” Those gathered to protest were vocal and the scene grew quite raucous at times as a few dozen counter-pro-
LGBT and anti-gay protesters face off in Newton over hateful comments made by Pastor Charles Worley during a sermon at his church.
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testers mingled with the crowd. Protesters chanted slogans like “Love, not hate,” and sang in masse “Jesus Loves Me” and “Jesus Loves the Little Children” to drown
out the intermittent preaching and jests. Earlier in the day, one counter protester
see Peaceful on 26
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LIFE
Pride 2012 lineup Festivals and parades across North Carolina and the surrounding area by qnotes staff
1 Wilmington Pride, Wilmington NC | 06.07-14 Wilmington celebrates their 5th Annual Pride Week this year with a fabulous line-up of events to kick off the Pride season. The celebrations culminate around their Pride Festival on June 10 from 12-6 p.m. There will be a community march at 2 p.m. and entertainment to follow. For a full listing of the week’s schedule be sure to check out their website and be mindful of changes to the schedule as the date draws near. wilmingtonpride.com. 2 OBX Pridefest, Outer Banks NC | 06.15-18 This year OBX Pride is partnering with Dare County based HIV-AIDS assistance non-profit organization Brandon’s Beacon of Hope. Brandon’s Beacon of Hope will be the festival’s second charity recipient, last year the festival supported the Outer Banks Hotline for battered spouses and children. OBX Pride has a long list of activities to have fun in the sun during their annual Pride celebration with plenty of time to enjoy the beach and the sights between events. obxpridefest.com. 3 SC Black Pride, Columbia SC | 06.20-24 Celebrating their 2012 theme, “Free 2b fierce,” South Carolina Black Pride is a nonprofit organization dedicated to unifying and celebrating the diversity, genius and beauty of the South Carolina people of color same gender loving lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning communities, in order to empower, promote and support the human rights of these communities. Visit their website and get all the details on this year’s events! southcarolinablackpride.com. 4 Augusta Pride, Augusta GA | 06.21-24 Just a short drive away from the Carolinas, Augusta Pride is gearing up for their 2012 festival and they already have a great lineup announced for their parade and festival on June 23. Events are scheduled before and after the main festival day and VIP tickets are already available online so you can be involved in every bit of the celebration. This is a great opportunity to celebrate Pride in Georgia without having to stray too far from home. Check out ticket pricing, hotel accommodations, event lineup and more on their website! prideaugusta.org. 5 Salisbury Pride, Salisbury NC | 06.23 Salisbury’s LGBT community is back again with their second local Pride festival! The street festival will be held along 110 S. Lee St. in Salisbury and is scheduled to run from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. For more information about the festival be sure to check out their website. salisburypride.com. 6 Charleston Pride Festival, Charleston SC | 07.12-15 Charleston South Carolina is “lighting the path to progress” with their 2012 Pride cel-
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ebration. Film festivals, parades, pageants, parties and more are on the list for this year’s festivities. The annual Pride parade will be on July 14 and will start on Durant Ave. and end on Virginia Ave. Go ahead and book your stay in Charleston for what is sure to be a beautiful and fabulous Pride. For more information please visit the Charleston Pride website. charlestonpridefestival.org. 7 Charlotte Black Gay Pride, Charlotte NC | 07.19-22 Charlotte Black Gay Pride is back again this year with a full lineup of events across the Queen City for participants to get involved with. Currently, Charlotte Black Gay Pride is still lining up their entertainment and events. If you would like to be a part of this year’s entertainment lineup there is still plenty of time to get involved. For more information about the various events or to be a part of Charlotte Black Gay Pride, visit their website and get involved. charlotteblackgaypride.com. 8 Triangle Black Gay Pride, Raleigh NC | 07.26-29 Shades of Pride, Raleigh’s third annual Triangle Black Gay Pride is packed with arts, entertainments, music, fun and more. The festival lineup features a huge variety of events and entertainment across the city during the festival. For information on hotels, tickets, workshops and the full schedule of events, visit Triangle Black Gay Pride’s website. triangleblackpride.org. 9 Pride Charlotte, Charlotte NC | 08.25-26 After a hugely successful Pride festival in the heart of Uptown Charlotte in 2011, Pride Charlotte is returning with a two-day festival in 2012! The annual Pride Charlotte festival is looking to be even bigger and better than before. While the festival has announced that hip-hop superstar Trina will be headlining this year, there is still more to be announced, as well as a line-up of events leading up to the first two-day Pride festival in the Queen City. To stay on top of everything Pride Charlotte, be sure to visit their website. pridecharlotte.com. 10 Triad Pride, Greensboro NC | 09.15 Triad Pride 2012 Festival will be Saturday, Sept. 15 at Festival Park in beautiful downtown Greensboro. Last year over 1,300 attendees took part in Triad Pride and they have pushed the date back this year to take advantage of all of the returning students to local colleges and universities ensuring that this year will be even bigger than before. Visit Triad Pride’s website as the date draws closer for more information on events. triadpride.org. 11 Upstate Pride, Spartanburg SC | 09.22 It’s all about peace, love and pride in Spartanburg during their annual Upstate Pride festival scheduled for Sept. 22. According to their website, Upstate Pride SC strives to empower the LGBTQI community and their straight allies to achieve civil equal-
ity and promote social awareness through education, advocacy and social networking. Limited information about this year’s events is available at this time so be sure to check their website for updates. upstatepridesc.org. 12 NC Pride, Raleigh-Durham NC | 09.20 Celebrating 28 years of Pride in North Carolina, NC Pride brings roughly 8,000 to 10,000 people together to celebrate LGBT Pride together. Details have yet to be announced, so be sure to visit NC Pride’s website for more information. ncpride.org. 13 Blue Ridge Pride, Asheville NC | 10.06 The Blue Ridge is united with pride and it shows! This year’s Blue Ridge Pride will take place on Oct. 8 at Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville. Details to be announced. For information on sponsorships, volunteering or being an entertainer, visit their website. blueridgepride.com. 14 Winston-Salem Pride, Winston-Salem NC | 10.13 Equality Winston-Salem is bringing back Pride to the city after the success of last year’s festival. The event is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 13 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. in downtown Winston-Salem. The festival’s parade will begin at 4 p.m. For more information and event details be sure to visit their website. equalitywinstonsalem.org. 15 Atlanta Pride, Atlanta GA | 10.13-14 Celebrating during this year’s National Coming Out Day, Atlanta Pride is definitely one to have on the calendar even if you aren’t a resident of Georgia. Details are still in the works for this year’s festival, so make sure to visit their website and plan accordingly for a fabulous time. atlantapride.org. 16 SC Pride, Columbia SC | 10.20 SC Pride is celebrating 23 years of organizing Pride Celebrations in South Carolina! This year the festival has made some big changes and moved location to Main St. The annual parade down Main St. is hosted live on WXRY 99.3FM with commentary by Ms. SC Pride 2006 Patti O’Furniture and Mr. Larry Hembree, the executive director of Trustus Theater. Start your Pride day by marching in or viewing the South Carolina Pride Parade! Details for the day to be announced. Upcoming pre-Pride events include Joan Rivers on July 13 at the Koger Center for the Performing Arts. Visit the SC Pride website for more information. scpride.org. If we missed a Pride festival or parade let us know so we can make sure to feature your Pride event in our online listing of this article. You can also submit your Pride festivities and other events online at goqnotes.com/qguide/ events/submit. : :
on the map nightlife Sunday
Barbeque & Bloody Marys, Bar at 316 free BBQ from 3-6 p.m. The Sunday Social Spades/Card Games & House Muzik, Nickel Bar from 5 p.m.-Midnight House Cast Show, The Scorpio with DJ 4Real. 11:30 p.m. Woodshed Sundays, The Woodshed free dinner buffet served at 6:30 p.m. karaoke, 9 p.m.
Monday
Movie Night, Bar at 316 starts at 9 p.m. Monday Madness, Chasers pool tournament at 11:30 p.m. $25 cash prize and $25 bar tab. Boxing & Monday Night Football, Sidelines Free Pool, The Woodshed all day.
Tuesday
Karaoke with Metro Mike, Bar at 316 starts at 9 p.m. Pool Tournament, Central Station Twisted Trivia, Chasers with Tiffany Storm & Brooklyn Dior. Showtime at 12:30 a.m. Trivia Tuesdays, Marigny hosted by Roxxy C. Moorecox 7 p.m.
Midwood Madness, Petra’s half-price bottles of wine Karaoke, The Woodshed starts at 9 p.m.
Underwear Night, The Woodshed
Friday
Game Night, Bar at 316 Team Trivia and Line Dancing, Hartigan’s starts at 8 p.m. Karaoke, Petra’s hosted by Rachel Houdek. 9 p.m. Wicked and Wild Wednesdays, The Scorpio featuring Tiffany Storm with DJ 4Real. 11 p.m. Pool Tournament, The Woodshed starts at 10:30 p.m.
House DJ and Dancing, Bar at 316 Free HIV Testing, Connections the 4th Friday of every month. 8-10 p.m. A-List Fridays, Marigny hosted by SugaWalls Entertainment. 10 p.m. Feel Good Fridays Dance Night, Nickel Bar from 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Live Performances, Petra’s Roxy’s Rainbow Review, The Rainbow In starts at 11p.m. Life’s a Drag, The Scorpio with Tiffany Storm. 11:30 p.m.
Thursday
Saturday
Wednesday
Thursday Night House Party, Bar at 316 Pool Tournament, Central Station Rockin’ Well Thursdays, Chasers with Valerie Rockwell. Show starts at 12:30 a.m. Free HIV Testing, Connections the 2nd Thursday of every month. 8-10 p.m. Karaoke Night, Hartigan’s hosted by Roxxy C. Moorecox. 9 p.m. Team Boystown, Marigny starts at 10 p.m. $10 cover after 11 p.m. Drink-n-drown. SpeakEasy Thursday Open Mic Night, Nickel Bar from 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Karaoke Night, The Rainbow In free for members. $5 guests. $6 under 21.
House DJ and Dancing, Bar at 316 The Angela Lopez Show, Chasers show starts at 12:30 a.m. Live DJ, Hartigan’s Krewe Saturdays, Marigny Sexy Saturdays Special Events, Nickel Bar from 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Live Performances, Petra’s Urban Variety Show, The Scorpio with Elaine Davis. Midnight showtime.
Congregations MCC Charlotte Worship service every Sunday, 10:45 a.m.
Bible study every Tuesday and Wednesday, 7 p.m. New Life MCC Worship service every Sunday, 7 p.m. Monthly covered dish dinner and coffeehouse-style worship service on the first Sunday of every month, 6 p.m. Unity Fellowship Church of Charlotte Worship service every Sunday, 10:45 a.m. Bible 101: second and fourth Sunday of every month, 9 a.m. Wednesday night Bible study and discussion, 7 p.m.
Community The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte Promoting the diversity, acceptance and visibility of the LGBT community through programming and events. gaycharlotte.com White Rabbit North Carolina’s LGBT everything store. Complete line of Pride merchandise, plus books, magazines, DVDs, T-shirts, underwear and more. info: Don’t see your bar listed here? Submit your regularly scheduled events to editor@goqnotes.com
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15
Ask Dr. C…HIV and healthcare advice
Helping to keep you in the know with up-to-date information by Frederick Cruickshank ~ Medical Director
After many installments of “Ask Dr.C,” this is yet another opportunity to offer our readers information about their sexual health from basic questions to in-depth explanations. We are still receiving many of your questions and are working hard to provide responses to as many questions as possible to provide information for you and the community. The questions have provided us a forum to debunk myths and remove stigma from those living with HIV and AIDS. It is important to educate yourself, get tested, and protect yourself. We appreciate every question we receive! Dr. C looks forward to responding to as many emails as possible. I feel silly asking this because I think I should know, but is there a wrong and right way to use a condom? — Ben from Charlotte
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Ben, you shouldn’t feel silly! I actually wish more people would ask if they are unsure. According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, condom use is one of the most effective strategies for protecting yourself from STDs and HIV. Here are their suggestions for using condoms: “Before any genital contact, put the condom on the tip of the erect penis with the rolled side out. If the condom does not have a reservoir tip, pinch the tip enough to leave a half-inch space for the semen to collect. Holding the tip, unroll the condom all the way to the base of the erect penis. After ejaculation and before the penis gets soft, grip the rim of the condom and carefully withdraw. Then gently pull the condom off the penis, making sure the semen doesn’t spill out.” In addition to these directions on how to actually use a condom, it is important for condom use to be consistent. It is important to use a condom EVERY time you engage in sexual activity. Is there a connection between HIV and Tuberculosis? —Paula from Huntersville Paula, the answer is “yes.” People who do not have HIV and have strong immune systems
are usually able to fight the infection without ever getting sick. However, people who are HIV positive have a weakened immune system and are more likely to develop active Tuberculosis disease. If someone has active Tuberculosis disease that is untreated it can be spread easily to others through coughing. With treatment, tuberculosis can be controlled. Because people who are HIV positive are at higher risk for getting Tuberculosis, it is important for everyone who is HIV positive to get a Tuberculosis test regularly. This can be easily administered in any doctor’s office. Likewise, if a patient tests positive for Tuberculosis, it is important that they receive an HIV test since those with compromised immune systems are more likely to get Tuberculosis. It is also vital that people with a “normal immune system” get tested for Tuberculosis regularly as well to prevent the spread of the disease. I am HIV positive and currently applying for jobs in the area. Is it legal for a possible employer to require me to be tested for HIV or make me disclose my status? — Bob from Charlotte Bob, the answer to this question is no. There
are federal non-discrimination laws that are put into place to protect people who are HIV positive from discrimination for their status. These laws clearly state that an employer cannot require an employee or job applicant to disclose his or her status or take an HIV test to get a job or keep a current job. It is important that you are aware of these laws and know your rights because they were made to protect you! If you feel that you have been discriminated against it is your right to report such actions. I wish you the best in your job search! Always remember that this is an advice column based on your questions and the best possible knowledge out there. We need your questions to help educate the community, so email them to info@rosedaleid.com and be sure to include a first name and location. All respondents will remain anonymous. We will try to do our best to answer, educate and inform from your responses to this column. Don’t forget to visit our website at rosedaleid.com and friend us on Facebook for community and clinical updates! — Sponsored Content —
A&E
drag rag by miss della qnotes contributor
The girls got it going on!
Oh, boys and girls, here we are all over of course). LaWanda’s runners-up included again. How many times have I said that over Sunny Dee-Lite, Alexis Mateo, former EOY the past 15+ years? And, here we are still Nina D’Angelo and Margeaux Powell, carrying on. Did you see my responses to the first finalist MA ever produced to my the 20 Questions in the most recent qnotes? knowledge. Other finalists included Kennedy I had a blast answering those. Too bad the Davenport, former Miss Continental photo has some age on it. I need to work Domanique Chappelle, former EOY Vanessa on that! I sure appreciate David Stout’s DeMornay, Saellah V., Chanel Cavalier Van brilliant introduction. I thought it really was Cartier, Tiffany Richards and Miss East Coast “the tea!” Y’all sure know how to make a Myah Ross Monroe. Best Non-finishing bitch feel good! My personal thanks to Roxy finalist was Anjila Cavalier, Most Beautiful C. Moorecox for passing out my number to was Sunny Dee-Lite (Jamie Monroe would newspaper writers. We’ll see what she’s up have been my pick) and Miss Congeniality to next go ‘round, I swear! was Aspen Love. A big congrats goes out This time our promo is of Whitney Paige to Scorpio here in Charlotte for winning of Little Rock, AR, by way of Dallas, TX, and Best Regional preliminary again and to Greg Clarksville, TN. I rarely forget where people Fulk who designed and won the Best Set are from, dear. Whitney and I have been Design for his work at Carl Caulder’s Miss friends for years and I am ashamed that I SC prelim. That is one of many awards Greg have left the March has won for his results of the Allflawless work on a American Goddess set for a regional or At Large contest out state pageant. Work of the Rag! Well, obit, baby! viously, she won and In other systems, her runners-up were we have a little tea Mercedes (former to share such as Miss Continental recent prelims to PLUS), Tonna Continental including DeMoore, Delores Atlanta Devine which T. Van Cartier and my sister-girl Lisha Envy Van Michaels. Paris won with RU Next time, we’ll look Summer Knight; Heart at the names for Allof America winner American Goddess was Priscilla Devine taking place in and RU Coco Mattel; June in Dayton, OH. Miss PA Premiere Can you say good Sasha Colby with contest? RU Sasha Nolan; It is with great and Minnesota, honor that I mention Kourtney Van Wales. the results from both In the America arena, U.S.ofA. contests we have Michelle that just took place McCausland wining in Dallas, TX. My Missouri with RU good sis Layla LaRue L’Oreal; Southern won the coveted Elegance Jessica Whitney Paige, reigning All-American Goddess At Jade with RU Sasha Miss Classic title Large, of Little Rock, Ark., formerly of Dallas, TX. and I’m so happy for Chambers, formerly Photo Credit: IOS Photography of Charlotte; and Miss her! She needs to continue to compete Mid-Atlantic Paige as long as she feels she should — what an Passion and RU Deva Station. Our condolencexcellent entertainer and person. Her RUs es here go to Miss Gay America Kirby Kolby included Alexis Principle, former Miss NC who lost her dear, sweet, precious mother a America Sharde’ Ross, Cocoa Chandelier month ago. Katherine, we are thinking of you and Dina Jacobs. Other finalists included and sending our love as you “go through it.” Ashley Houston, Martinique Bouvier, Misty She has a good seat to overlook you during Knight, Gizelle Bevon Ashton and Felicity your reign, sis. (Wink, wink!) Layne. I hope the ole gal will remember to I guess you all saw Sharon Needles send me a promo for the Drag Rag so I can win the most recent “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” secretly covet her mug. Talk about a hateful She is already scheduled to come back to make-up job! Damn. NC in the Fall to celebrate All Hallow’s Eve As for Miss U.S.ofA., our girl Luscious with us. Speaking of reality drag TV stars, ended her reign as the only Carolinian ever I just saw Carmen Carrera on ABC’s “What to win the “crown jewels.” Hats off to our Would You Do?” She played a transgender girl for putting NC on the map once more. waitress to see how people would react to That’s three queens in a row, in different her. I still say “she” was a fine boy! LOL! systems, of course. Luscious crowned Also coming up in this area, Buff Faye will her Scorpio sister LaWanda Jackson of be doing a “Wizard of Oz” songs sing-aHouston, TX. How neat that she was Miss long at Spirit Square as part of Queen City Classic first, then wins what we call the Theater Company’s FabFest in June. Check “regular,” or what I like to call the “original” contest (At Large and Classic came later, see Drag Rag on 26
June 9-22 . 2012
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VIEWS
on being a gay parent by brett webb-mitchell qnotes contributor
North Carolina vs. Mississippi?
After the vote on Amendment One was held and passed by the citizens of North Carolina, Governor Beverly Perdue spoke out about what we, as a state, looked like to the rest of the nation: “People around the country are watching the state and are confused…North Carolina was a progressive and a forward thinking state that stood up for civil rights…we look like Mississippi” (May 11, 2012). The comment raised a reaction from both those who voted for and against the Amendment. Those who voted for the Amendment, along with Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant, took great umbrage at the comment. Those who voted against the Amendment wondered where Gov. Perdue was while some of us were working on phone banks, going door to door and distributing material against Amendment One. To this day Gov. Perdue has not come out in support of marriage equality, having voted for the state Defense of Marriage Act when she was a state legislator. In light of the passage of Amendment One — now part of North Carolina’s Constitution — it is interesting to note one thing about the population of Mississippi that surpasses that of North Carolina’s citizenry. Although Mississippi ranks 42nd in the nation for the number of same-sex
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couples per household, it leads the nation in the percentage of same-sex couples raising children, a study by the Williams Institute (a gender orientation and identity public-policy organization based at the University of California, Los Angeles) reported. Nationally, 22 percent of same-sex couples are raising children, but in Mississippi 33 percent are raising children. Mississippi has a total of 6,286 same-sex couples” (Jackson (MS) Free Press, Aug. 26, 2011). Mississippi!? That means there are more same-sex couples with children who feel safe, if not comfortable, living in Mississippi than the once-progressive-but-always-conservative state of North Carolina. Maybe it has to do with the cost of living, the “live and let live” or regardless of your politics, or who you live with, “blood is thicker than water” attitude of some Southerners. Perhaps it is the quieter rural, backwater life some people have chosen to live, being honest and smart about who knows about one’s relationship with a partner and child or children. This fact about Mississippi reminds me of something I do not want to forget in light of North Carolina’s Amendment One’s passage. While, for some same-sex couples and their children, there are many advantages to living in the thriving metropolitan parts of North Carolina, we live in a state of 100 counties, where there are many same-sex couples and children who live in one of the 6900 small cities, towns, villages and rural hamlets in N.C. Same-sex couples in Robbinsville, Lincolnton and Warrenton, as well as those who live in rural parts on a farm or in the mountains of this state also felt the impact of the Amendment’s passage, but chose to be quiet about expressing resentment, if not downright anger, about how the vote went down. A story: When I was interim senior pastor at First Presbyterian Church, Henderson (an hour’s ride north of Raleigh in rural Vance County), I was delighted to meet lesbian and gay couples raising children side by side straight couples with children. They worked in the surrounding county, paid taxes, joined swim-golf clubs and contributed to the community life. Discovering that I was a Presbyterian pastor who is gay, they even started to come to worship to check both the congregation and me out. Granted, there was an unspoken, but firmly held “don’t ask, don’t tell” etiquette that guides all conversations. But, they were there, queer and happy. Our sisters and brothers who are lesbian and gay are in each and every county of Mississippi and North Carolina, no matter how big or small, liberal or conservative, the county may be. We who are LGBTQ are everywhere and our numbers are growing. We are part of the rich, vibrant life of not only the large cities, but the small farms, county public schools and the small independent coffee shop with the only espresso machine in the county. Along with our children, being smart and honest, we will continue to educate, share our lives, our relationships and slowly, but decisively, change the very fabric of the places where we live. : :
Pride history tells story continued from page 9
On the night of the riot, police were called to deal with a group of transgender customers who were reportedly being loud. When the officers attempted to arrest one of the suspects a riot began and spilled outside of the establishment and into the streets of the Tenderloin. The following day Compton’s would not allow transgender people into their establishment. This led to further picketing of the establishment from a more organized and outraged LGBT community. From the aftermath of the Compton’s Cafeteria riot came a much more organized series of resources for the transgender community, especially in San Francisco. In 1968 the National Transsexual Counseling Unit was founded. The NTCU was the first such peerrun support and advocacy organization in the world offering social, medical and psychological support for transgender individuals. On the morning of June 28 1969, LGBT community members rioted following a police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar at 43 Christopher St. in the Greenwich Village area of New York City. Historically, the Stonewall Inn was known as a Mafia run bar which openly welcomed gay and lesbian customers, an uncommon trend for establishments in the 1960s. A majority of the gay clientele included drag queens and transgender individuals, as well as many other members of the local LGBT community. While police raids on bars like the Stonewall Inn were not uncommon, the reaction from the LGBT community on this evening in June spontaneously escalated into a riot which carried over into a string of protests for the following days and weeks. In November of 1969, the Eastern Regional Conference of Homophile Organizations (ERCHO) proposed the first Pride march to be held in New York City. ERCHO proposed that the Annual Reminder be held annually on the last Saturday in June to honor the spontaneous riot at Stonewall which served as a catalyst for the Gay Rights Movement. The Annual Reminder was dubbed the Christopher Street Liberation Day demonstration. The organiza-
tion encouraged other homophile organizations of the time to put on similar demonstrations on the same day as a sign of solidarity and national support for Gay Rights. On June 28, 1970, the first anniversary of the Stonewall riots, Christopher Street Liberation Day occurred with a march on Christopher St. This was the first Gay Pride march in U.S. history and covered 51 blocks to Central Park. Similar marches occurred across the country in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago. Following the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in 1970, the organization of the Gay Rights Movement grew exponentially across the country. Of the years following the Stonewall Riots, Kameny noted that “by the time of Stonewall, we had fifty to sixty gay groups in the country. A year later there was at least fifteen hundred. By two years later, to the extent that a count could be made, it was twenty-five hundred.” As we approach the 43rd anniversary of the Stonewall Riots and enter into the 42nd national Annual Reminder, much has changed for the LGBT community since the pre-Stonewall era. In 2012 alone, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in California ruled Proposition 8 unconstitutional and in violation of the 14th Amendment, Washington and Maryland have become the seventh and eight states respectively to legalize same-sex marriage and the President of the United States has endorsed same-sex marriage alongside the Vice-President. On May 31, the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit found that Section 3 of the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional. This year, as we work within our communities to put together Pride events and celebrate the diversity and the spirit of the LGBT community, let us not forget those who fought before us so that we can freely demonstrate. There is still much work to do as we continue to fight for our complete inclusion and equality. Pride season should continue to serve as an Annual Reminder for us all of where we have come from so that we may continue to push forward together to where we want to go. : :
The birthplace of the modern Gay Rights Movement, The Stonewall Inn burst into riots in June 1969 during a police raid resulting in weeks of protests and more.
Photo Credit: Joseph Ambrosini
June 9-22 . 2012
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Playing the field continued from page 10
Tickets to this event can be purchased online at charlotterollergirls.com. Rugby And, lastly, the Charlotte Royals headed to the UK to participate in the Bingham Cup,
in Manchester, England, June 1-3. Yours truly was there to cover the action and will be bringing you all the details when we get back. Until then, enjoy your Summer, be active and play some ball!
The Ft. Lauderdale Sluggers. Charlotte’s Shane Windmeyer (second from the end, top row) was a member of their roster. Community Marketing Survey needs you. LGBTSurvey.com.
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A&E
tell trinity by trinity qnotes contributor
You are never gay enough
Dear Trinity, Why do gay people always have to push the limits, like the way they dress, act and the art they produce? It’s often so over the top. When is too much, too much? Too Much, Baltimore, MD Dear Too Much, Gay people often push the limits, set higher standards and even make some people say, “Quick, grab the kids!” Look at gay Pride parades versus a Veteran’s Day parade. Look at Mapplethorpe and Warhol versus a painting of a ship in the harbor. Look at Paul Lynde, Richard Simmons or look at me. To these gays I say, “Thank God!” Why, without very gay people, we’d still be living in dusty caves, wearing smelly animal skins and using wooden clubs to score our next mate. You know what, pumpkin, I think its time for an over the top, triple vodka martini, extra dry, extra twists and kill me with the olives! Dearest Trinity, Am I a fool to think that if I wait long enough, then one day I’ll meet the love of my life? Or, am I just wasting my time dreaming? Dreaming, Oberlin, OH Dearest Dreaming, Of course, if you wait long enough you’ll meet the person of your dreams or you’ll keep compromising till you get a puppy. But, as long as you’re as aggressive and assertive as a bee seeking, honey, you will find your honey, Honey. We deserve everything the universe has to offer. Just wish for what you want and don’t be attached to how long it takes or what happens on the way. And, if worst comes to worst, then you’ll end up like me, an eccentric advice columnist, with an international singing carreer, a WIG ministry and a life-size cut-out of Bill Goldberg by your bed. (Mercy, see how I’m handling it these days via my cartoon.)
ing” and “pleasing your partner.” These words demonstrate that you probably put a lot of work into lovemaking, thus you deserve a little R & R after a climax, but so does your partner. So, darling, try having mutual climaxes, try taking turns climaxing with some hugging, spooning and embracing in between act one and two and try going second now and then. And, ah…sorry, I must go take a cold shower now. Hey Trinity, I went to visit the Dalai Lama via the internet, of course, and found out that he has a top 20 list similar to yours. I was very impressed! I’ve sent it to you. And, oh yes, I love your column. Your #1 Fan, Minneapolis, MN Hey #1 Fan, Thanks for the list and your support. I’ve decided to print some of the Dalai Lama’s tips for a healthy life. And, please, sweetie, read them mindfully. Trinity’s Enlightening Tips From The Dalai Lama 1. When you lose, don’t lose the lesson. 2. Follow the three R’s: Respect for self, Respect for others and Responsibility for all your actions. 3. Don’t let a little dispute injure a great friendship. 4. Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly. 5. Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck. 6. When you realize you’ve made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it. 7. Open your arms to change, but don’t let go of your values. 8. Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer. 9. In disagreements with loved ones deal only with the current situation. Don’t bring up the past. 10. Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it. — With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking” a weekly radio drama performed globally and is now minister of WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings. info: www.telltrinity.com . Trinity@telltrinity.com Sponsored by: WIG Ministries Gay Spirituality for the Next Generation! www.wigministries.org
Hello Trinity, During lovemaking I find it almost impossible to be passionate after I reach a climax. I get tired, lazy and unable to focus on pleasing my partner. I know it’s normal, but I’d like to figure out how to get past it. Dead Beat, Tucson, AZ Hello Dead Beat, I noticed that you use the words “lovemak-
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A&E
out in the stars by charlene lichtenstein qnotes contributor
June 9 - 22
If you feel a tug on your heartstrings, it will most certainly be caused by Mercury which plucks into mushy romantic Cancer. We feel our oats. Prepare to take charge, take action and just take, take, take. GEMINI (05.22-06.21) Pink Twins will contemplate their bottom line. Money becomes the be-all end-all as you plot the most profitable course of action. Much time and energy will be spent on maximizing your profits. But, in the end can it really buy happiness? Well, if not, it can certainly buy extravagant comforts and fair-weather, party hearty comrades. Oh, let it rain! CANCER (06.22-07.23) Your personal star begins to glitter and glow. Pack the sunglasses! This is no time to sit in the background and blend in with the wallpaper. Get out there and mingle, gay Crab. You have a good window of opportunity to expand your social circle with some interesting new faces. Who knows where your assorted amours are hiding? You soon will know. LEO (07.24-08.23) Do you feel particularly intuitive? Well, you should. Proud Lions break through the fog and see a bit into the future. Secrets are revealed, conspiratorial plans are uncovered and hidden enemies and their machinations are overcome. So, listen for the rustling underpinnings, let your heart speak to you and go with your gut. Agh! Who can concentrate with all this noise? VIRGO (08.24-09.23) Friends will lead you into all sorts of mischief, if you are lucky. Queer Virgins can fill up their dance cards with some familiar faces. Is there a gem in the trash? Who knows
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where it can lead? Dance the night away. Don’t stay home and watch paint dry. Create plenty of memories with a certain someone who can help you paint the town pink. LIBRA (09.24-10.23) Proud Libras are infused with a certain spark. Every move you make and even every fleeting whim is inspired and calculated to succeed. Certain powerful folks sit up and take notice. You may be poised for greatness and not even know it. Will you capitalize on this internal fire or just be content to toast your chestnuts for a while? Hey, whatever turns you on. SCORPIO (10.24-11.22) It is difficult to sit home and contemplate your navel. There are too many exciting things waiting for you beyond your front door. Expand your horizons, learn a few new tricks and be open to exotic strangers. Queer Scorps need to get out and about to explore a few new watering holes. Who knows where love may hide? You may be surprised at how wet you get. SAGITTARIUS (11.23-12.22) At heart you are a shy and retiring soul, but there will be none of that right now. Your love life is whipped up to a peak. There is something electric and sexy about you now that attracts many admirers. Gay Archers are ready for action! Choose the best of the seven deadly sins (lust and gluttony?) and take them to the extreme. Just forget sloth! CAPRICORN (12.23-01.20) Turn all your attention to partners in particular and relationships in general. What is and is not working? What else can you do to increase the excitement? Do something extravagant and bold to shake things
up. Those single gay Caps who are fishing for a catch can locate the best pond now. And, yet, the quality of your catch will all depend on your bait. AQUARIUS (01.21-02.19) Work becomes more exciting than usual. You can find ways to increase your productivity. This is an excellent time to get some long-standing projects off your desk. Oh, goody. But, before you feel like a rat on an ever-speeding treadmill, channel some of that energy into productive, toning exercise. You can attract more diners with buff icing than with plain pound loaf. PISCES (02.20-03.20) Guppies are ready and raring to play. You will have a choice of fun venues where you can let loose and dissipate. You can also channel this energy into an artistic course of action and get involved with something earth shaking. Unravel a puzzle, encounter a secret admirer or create a mystery yourself. Inspiration strikes! Or, something like that. ARIES (03.21-04.20) Don’t be content to let others set the pace in love and call the shots. (As if you ever do.) You are now set on a collision course where you must take the wheel and drive. And, you can avoid the pitfalls. The trick is to listen carefully and survey the landscape before you take any action. Preparation is pivotal, gay Ram, as is a discerning eye. Heck, make it two eyes. TAURUS (04.21-05.21) You have quite a few strong opinions that may not be ready for a primetime audience. Can you patiently hold them in and let them germinate? Forgetaboutit, queer Bull. Now, you simply cannot contain yourself. Throw your heart to the wild wind, give your thoughts room to roam and see how your ideas generate action. Just be sure to hire a personal censor. : : © 2012 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.
News Notes continued from page 8
SEIU votes for trans inclusion
DENVER, Colo. — The member-delegates of the 2.1 million-member Service Employees International Union (SEIU) passed a resolution May 29 at their 2012 national conference here which states that SEIU local groups and members will bargain for transgender-inclusive health care coverage as part of their contract negotiations with businesses and employers. Historically, transgender people have been categorically denied health care coverage for medically necessary treatment, irrespective of whether treatment is related to sex reassignment/affirmation. Until recently, nearly all U.S. employer-based health insurance plans contained “transgender exclusions” that limited insurance coverage for this population. “This is a tremendous step forward in the fight for workplace equality for LGBT people,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “Our friends at SEIU recognize that all workers should be treated equitably, and that includes being free from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. — D.S.
Lawsuits seek marriage rights
CHICAGO, Ill. — Lambda Legal and the ACLU have filed separate, coordinated lawsuits on behalf of 25 couples respectively challenging the constitutionality of an Illinois law that denies gay and lesbian partners the freedom to marry and limits them instead to civil union status. The filings come one year after Illinois implemented civil unions for same-sex couples and just weeks after President Barack Obama from Illinois endorsed same-sex marriage. The lead plaintiffs in the ACLU case are Tanya Lazaro and Elizabeth “Liz” Matos of Chicago’s Northwest Side. Lazaro is a Chicago Police Department detective and Matos works as a system analyst for a trading firm in Chicago. They have a two-year-old girl, Jaiden, and just recently had a second girl, Sophia. “It is remarkable that Tanya risks her life each day to go out into the City of Chicago and keep people safe, but the law does not recognize fully the family that we have built together,” said Matos. — D.S.
Tucker’s 20 continued from page 5
Is the phrase “shut up and look pretty” apropos for anyone you know? Yes, Rodney Hines. [Ed. Note: Hines is another Takeover co-founder and owner of The Furniture Connector.] Sometimes people just refer to us as “The Rodneys” and like to ask us which is the good or evil twin? After a couple of vodka tonics, I have to remind Hines to “shut up and look pretty” which makes me either the good one or the controlling one depending on how you look at it. How much of the Olympics will you watch this summer? I love the Olympics, so I expect to watch a lot of it. At a fundraiser this weekend, I bid on an official opening ceremony shirt. If 8 is great and 9 is fine, what would 10 be? 10 would be big, bald and beefy. Nobody really likes a skinny boy. : :
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NEWS
qnotes welcomes the return of former editor Matt Comer Current Editor O’Neale Atkinson to work full-time with community center compiled by qnotes staff
qnotes has announced a series of staff changes as current editor O’Neale Atkinson departs and former editor Matt Comer returns to the position. Atkinson will be stepping down to pursue a fulltime position with The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte while Comer will be leaving his position with Campus Pride to return to qnotes. “O’Neale has a great passion for the LGBT community in Charlotte and it has shown with his work here,” said qnotes Publisher Jim Yarbrough. “We’ll miss him and look forward to working with him through his work at the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte.”
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O’Neale Atkinson
Hired in January, Atkinson is a native of South Carolina and has lived in Charlotte since June 2011, where he has also worked part-time as administrator of the LGBT Community Center. Prior to moving to North Carolina, Atkinson completed his Masters in Social Work at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. He has worked with a number of organizations in South Carolina on social justice issues and is eager to work as an advocate for the LGBT community in Charlotte. Atkinson has served as part-time administrator for the Center while working as editor for qnotes. The Center has announced that for the first time in over four years they will have a full-time staff person. Atkinson has been promoted from his part-time position as Center administrator to
operations manager and now has a full-time schedule. The Board of Trustees is very pleased that Atkinson has accepted this position and will continue the great work he has done to grow and build the Center into a truly unique place in the community. In his new role, Atkinson will continue to manage the day-to-day operations of the Center. He will also take on new responsibilities expected to positively impact the LGBT community in Charlotte. Board Chair John Stotler said, “I cannot think of anyone that the board would trust more with the continued growth of the Center. O’Neale is a perfect fit for the future and we expect that the Center will grow exponentially with his guidance.” “Being a part of the qnotes staff for this period of time has been an excellent opportunity for me,” said Atkinson. “My work with the paper has allowed me to very quickly become
more knowledgeable about the Charlotte LGBT community and has served to further my dedication. I am excited to be able to follow my passion and work more extensively with The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. I believe both the Center and qnotes deserve dedicated and passionate staff who will help both entities grow; I cannot think of a better person for qnotes than Matt.� A native of Winston-Salem, N.C., Comer was hired as qnotes’ editor in October 2007. He served in the role until January, when he stepped down to work as communications manager for Campus Pride, a national, Charlotte-based LGBT organization serving college and university students. “My short time away from qnotes has given me opportunity to honestly explore my professional interests and personal passions,� said Comer. “I am excited to return to qnotes and renew my work in community and advocacy journalism on behalf of LGBT Charlotteans and North Carolinians. My part-time work with Campus Pride this spring was both fulfilling and enlightening. The work they do is important and I urge every member of our community to offer them your generous support.� Campus Pride, the nation’s leading educational organization for student leaders and campus groups working to create a safer college environment for LGBT students, announced that with the departure of Comer, they will be actively looking for his
successor. Comer will step down from the organization on June 15 Matt Comer to return to his position as editor of qnotes. “Though his time with our organization has been short, we have enjoyed having Matt on our staff,� said Campus Pride Executive Director Shane Windmeyer. “Matt has contributed much to our communications strategy and we wish him well as he returns to working as editor of qnotes. I know that journalism is Matt’s first love and passion. We wish him well and appreciate his support of Campus Pride and our important work on college campuses across the country.� Comer will remain with Campus Pride as an independent consultant working on the organization’s planned online overhaul of its website. “I am deeply committed to the mission and vision of Campus
Pride,� said Comer. “Though national in its scope, Campus Pride’s presence in Charlotte and in North Carolina is a blessing for our community. I look forward to working with Shane and Campus Pride’s board in creating new opportunities for outreach through a new and expanded online presence.� A job description for the parttime Campus Pride position is available online at campusprideblog. org/blog/job-opening-campus-prideseeks-new-communications-  program-manager. Comer is the recipient of the 2008 Ed Madden Media Advocacy Award from the South Carolina Pride Movement and was named in November 2011 as Equality North Carolina’s “Equality Champion� for the Charlotte region. He attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and last year enrolled at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte where he is completing his studies in American history and politics. : :
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June 9-22 . 2012
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Peaceful protest draws ire
Drag Rag
was caught off guard when a peacekeeper working with protest organizers to keep participants separated from counter protesters saw someone he recognized. The peacekeeper told qnotes that one of the counter protesters, a man in his mid-20s or early-30s, once hit on him at a local adult bookstore. The counter protester denied the accusation while holding a sign that condemned gays. The counter protester left the protest early. Despite the size of the protest and the presence of counter protesters, law enforcement officials reported that participants on both sides of the issue remained peaceful though some had to be calmed down after a few heated arguments and debates. Catawba Sheriff Reid said there had been no arrests or other disturbances save one warning citation issued to an anti-gay street preacher for a violation of a city noise ordinance.
out their Facebook page (don’t ask me!) or carolinatix.org for more info on Buff’s show, the visits from Coco Peru and Pandora Boxx, and the gender-twisting Broadwaysongs show, as well. Speaking of shows, I just saw a great one at Scorpio this past Sunday night. Miss Charlotte America Valarie Rockwell served as a fantastic emcee and did a number. She was joined by the current Miss Scorpio Eden Parque Divine, former Miss Gay America Kerri Nichols (looking good, mama!), and former
continued from page 12
A total of 50 law enforcement personnel were on hand Sunday, including officers from the Catawba County Sheriff’s Department, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and from the police departments in Newton and Lincolnton. Reid also noted there were no health or medical emergencies. Protest organizers have been distributing free bottles of water to participants. As the protest drew to a close, Tipton said she believed they had gotten their message across “loud and clear.” “I hope that the LGBT community and anybody that is different and considers themselves an outsider knows that there is support and love for them,” she said. “I hope they know that in a small community, if this many people will come out to support them, they have love and acceptance everywhere.” : :
Community Marketing Survey needs you. LGBTSurvey.com.
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continued from page 17
Miss NC U.S.ofA. and World National, Brooke Divine-Storm LaReese. On a sad closing note, I will dedicate this column to Monica Marlo of Greensboro, NC who passed recently. Monica was as old school as it got and had been competing in contests for years. She had recently started winning contests and being out more for emcee gigs and such. Lord, I sure will miss that ole thing — she had a smile for everybody. : : info: Drop me a line, OK? TheTeaMissD@yahoo.com
Puppets are out!
June 14 • Columbia “Avenue Q” — Pride style Winner of the Tony “Triple Crown” for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, “Avenue Q” is part flesh, part felt and packed with heart. “Avenue Q” is a laugh-out-loud musical that tells the timeless story of a recent college grad named Princeton who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. There, he meets Kate (the girl next door), Rod (the Republican), Trekkie (the internet sexpert), Lucy the Slut (need we say more?) and other colorful types who help Princeton finally discover his purpose in life! Featuring puppets created by The Columbia Marionette Theatre! “Avenue Q” will leave you rolling in the aisles with the most original experience in the Midlands this summer. Proceeds benefit SC Pride and The Harriet Hancock Foundation. Trustus Theatre, 520 Lady St. scpride.org/avenueq.
Q
events qnotes goqnotes.com/qguide/events
June 7-14 • Wilmington Wilmington Pride Week Wilmington celebrates their 5th Annual Pride Week this year with a fabulous line up of events to kick off the Pride season. The celebrations culminates around their Pride Festival on June 10 from 12-6 p.m. There will be a community march at 2 p.m. and entertainment to follow. For a full listing of the week’s schedule, be sure to check out their website and be mindful of changes to the schedule as the date draws near. wilmingtonpride.com. June 9 • Greensboro Triad Pride Men’s Chorus Spring Concert The Triad Pride Men’s Chorus (TPMC) is proud to announce its upcoming Spring concert, “The Grass Is Always Greener…”, a program celebrating shared hopes and dreams for better places and better tomorrows. This concert is upbeat, exciting, positive and fun! You’ll hear wonderful classics like “Somewhere Out There”, “The Promise of Living” and “Always Look on the Bright Side.” Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door and may be ordered online or charged by phone by calling 336-589-6267. 8 p.m. Greensboro Day School, 5401 Lawndale Dr. triadpridemenschorus.org. June 9 • Charlotte Carolina Cup Tennis Match The annual match between LGBT tennis clubs from Charlotte and the Triangle, with the winner keeping The Carolina Cup! Singles
and doubles will be played, with all skill levels represented. Come out, support and watch some fun and competitive tennis. This event is free and open to the public. 1-4 p.m. Park Road Park Tennis Center, 6220 Park Rd. qctc.org.
available for participants of Gay Splash Day, so be sure to visit Pride Charlotte’s website to get details on how to get your tickets. 10 a.m.8 p.m. U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pky. pridecharlotte.com/gaysplashday.
June 15-18 • Outer Banks OBX Pridefest This year OBX Pride is partnering with Dare County based HIV-AIDS assistance nonprofit organization Brandon’s Beacon of Hope. Brandon’s Beacon of Hope will be the festival’s second charity recipient, last year the festival supported the Outer Banks Hotline for battered spouses and children. OBX Pride has a long list of activities to have fun in the sun during their annual Pride celebration with plenty of time to enjoy the beach and the sights between events. obxpridefest.com.
June 20-24 • Columbia SC Black Pride Celebrating their 2012 theme, “Free 2b fierce,” South Carolina Black Pride is a non-profit organization dedicated to unifying and celebrating the diversity, genius and beauty of the South Carolina people of color same-gender loving LGBTQ communities, in order to empower, promote and support the human rights of these communities. Visit their website and get all the details on this year’s events! southcarolinablackpride.com.
June 16 • Charlotte Gay Splash Day 2012 Join Pride Charlotte and the U.S. National Whitewater Center as they celebrate the 2nd Annual Gay Splash Day as the Queen City gears up for Pride Charlotte 2012 in Uptown! Along with Gay Splash Day, the U.S. National Whitewater Center will host the inaugural Brew Stash Bash, a Carolina craft brewery tasting with performances by the Farewell Drifters, Brown Birdand Cory Chisel & the Wandering Sons. The music portion will be set up like a Whitewater River Jam and remain free and open to the public. Special pricing is
we want your who/what/where
June 22-23 • Durham 2012 Summer MSM Retreat Triangle Empowerment Center and PowerHouse Project are calling all minority gay, bi and MSMs (men who have sex with men) to a summer retreat to address building healthy friendships and intimate relationships, strengthening the black gay community, self-identity, increase knowledge on safe sex and instill empowerment in a friendly and non-judgmental environment. William Square Apartments, Community Room, 501 E Carver St. For more information about the retreat, email triangleempowermentcenter@yahoo. com or call 919-423-8902.
arts. entertainment. news. views. June 23 • Charlotte “Falsettos” — A musical by William Finn Queen City Theatre Company brings a night of music and theater to the McGlohon Theatre for two nights only with “Falsettos,” a musical comedy about life, love, sex and loss. The characters renegotiate the definitions of family and what it means to care for and about someone. The story revolves around Marvin, his ex-wife Trina, his psychiatrist Mendel, his son Jason and his gay lover Whizzer Brown. We also meet Marvin’s lesbian neighbors, Dr. Charlotte, an internist and Cordelia, a kosher caterer. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Book and Best Original Score, and with an extraordinary cast of local artists, this is a theatrical event that you will not want to miss! Any donations and proceeds from this event is part of the Queen’s Fab Fest and benefit Campus Pride for LGBT Youth. McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. queencitytheatre.com. June 23 • Salisbury Salisbury Pride Salisbury’s LGBT community is back again with their second local Pride festival! Entertainers include Roxy C. Moorecox, Jamie Monroe, Amy Broome, The Ashley Jo Farmer Band, Charlotte Pride Band, Nadirah Dance Company and more. For more information about the festival, be sure to check out their website. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 110 S. Lee St. salisburypride.com.
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Business Guild Monthly Dinner: Tuesday, June 19, 2012, 5:30-8 p.m. Speaker: Scott Bishop – Our LGBT Key to the 2012 DNC! LGBT Community Center of Charlotte 820 Hamilton St. @ the NC Music Factory $20 admission Reservations: businessguild@yahoo.com Purchase tickets online: www.charlottebusinessguild.org Business Guild Social: Wednesday, June 13, 2012, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Petra’s Piano Bar – Play “Name That Tune” Game starts at 6:30 p.m. Compete for dinners/drinks/advertising opportunities 1919 Commonweath Ave. (in Plaza-Midwood)
www.charlottebusinessguild.org June 9-22 . 2012
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June 9-22 . 2012