QNotes, June 19-July 2, 2015

June 19-July 2 . 2015

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June 19-July 2 . 2015

inside

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news & features

Charlotte’s Stonewall Kickball wins statewide All Star Game.

More on page 19.

news. views. Briefs arts.

6 entertainment.

News Notes: Regional 7 Magistrate bill passed 9 TOY holds gala 9 News Notes: U.S./World Briefs

a&e / life&style 12 14 15 18 19 20 20 22 23

Queer Music in the Queen City Upcoming at the Mint Young and Positive, Part 3 Bianco Del Rio Charlotte kickball champions Jane’s World Tell Trinity Q Events Calendar Our People: Scott Weaver

TIme Out Youth hosts sellout crowd of 300 at annual gala at the Mint Museum, awards scholarships to two youth.

Read more on page 9.

opinions & views

4 Editor’s Note 4 TalkBack 5 Guest Commentary

June 19-July 2 . 2015

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qnotes connect June 19-July 2, 2015 Vol 30 No 04

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

contributors this issue

Paige Braddock, Jessica Capwell, Matt Comer, Carl Fillichio , Trevion and Norena Gutierrez, Lainey Millen, Joanne Spataro, Trinity

front page

Graphic Design by Matt Comer & Lainey Millen Photography: Graham Morrison

Photo is of the band “Dust and Ashes.” They’re a lessbian/queer folks, bluegrass, Americana band here in Charlotte.

Mission:

The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBT and straight ally communities of the Charlotte region, North Carolina and beyond, by featuring arts, entertainment, news and views content in print and online that directly enlightens, informs and engages the readers about LGBT life and social justice issues.

Pride Publishing & Typesetting, Inc., dba QNotes P.O. Box 221841, Charlotte, NC 28222 ph 704.531.9988 fx 704.531.1361 Publisher: Jim Yarbrough Sales: x201 adsales@goqnotes.com Nat’l Sales: Rivendell Media, ph 212.242.6863 Editor: Matt Comer, x202 editor@goqnotes.com Production: Lainey Millen, x205 production@goqnotes.com

editor’s note

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

It’s time to bring our local queer history home valued our community’s history and contributions and were seeking to save Over the past two years, Charlotte’s LGBT community has seen a it for future generations. Our community — across the state — responded resurgence of interest in our local queer history. University of North in kind, jumping at the opportunity to place their cherished personal papers Carolina-Charlotte staffer Joshua Burford, the catalyst behind the city’s in the safe-keeping of professionals who could ensure their survival. new LGBT community archive hosted by the university’s library, has nearly Those at schools like Duke and Chapel Hill who managed to make such single-handedly guided this renewed energy toward saving, preserving, early strides for historical inclusion should be applauded and thanked, cherishing and sharing our collective community’s past accomplishments their hard work and dedi— our trials, our tribulations and everything in between. cation commended.

This renewed interest has resulted in an avalanche of But it’s also time for newly discovered or rediscovered historical material. Much our history to come home. of this material made it into the city’s first comprehensive Local communities are LGBT history timeline, documenting the life and times of best able to benefit from LGBT Charlotteans from the 1940s through the present. The the collective wisdom of timeline was a key component of the Levine Museum of the their historical archives New South’s exhibit last year featuring a wide variety of naonly if those archives are tional LGBT historical milestones, another exhibit on Durham readily available. Making a native Pauli Murray and a photo exhibit on transgender and way for King’s, Kirsch’s and gender non-conforming individuals — in and of itself an other leaders’ papers to historic milestone in LGBT historical study in the Queen City. “come home” to Charlotte I’ve watched and listened as Burford and others have — either through permamade their rounds in the community — meeting with older nent loan or through the leaders and younger community members. I’ve learned of creation of archival copies new, invaluable tidbits of information that help to create a — would ensure local better, more complete narrative of where we’ve come from and where we’re going. qnotes, too, has contributed, doJosh Burford examining one of the LGBT history exhibits on community members have nating our nearly 30-year archive and more than 30 years of display at the Levine Museum of the New South last year. more accessible opportunities to come face-to-face archives for The Front Page, to the new community archive; with the history that has helped shape their city and community today. we’re told it was the single-largest donation to the archive yet.

There’s no doubt in my mind that most, if not all, archivists would Some of the most treasured pieces of our archive, though, will agree — local history belongs to the locals who produced and shepundoubtedly be found in the papers and files from the late Don King, this herded it and who were responsible for the accomplishments recorded by publication’s first editor and a longtime community leader who began it. The challenge here lies less in lack of desire or will and more likely in speaking out publicly for gay and lesbian equality in the mid 1970s. King, policy and procedure. who passed away last October, preserved his personal records — letters, That’s why I’m happy to know that Burford and other archivists across manuscripts and more — in near-pristine condition. the state and across the South are already talking, albeit informally, on But King’s records at the new Charlotte LGBTQ Community Archive how to make southern queer history more accessible to the people who aren’t complete, and neither are several other pieces of our history. Some made that history possible. of King’s papers, along with those belonging to former community leader Our history has a home — right here in our own local community. And Dan Kirsch, are held by Duke University’s special collections — donated with the help of dedicated, committed archivists like Burford and those to the Durham university years ago, long before any interest in LGBT at institutions like Duke, I’m happy knowing our history will be in safe archiving had taken hold in Charlotte. hands. Additionally, I hope that we’ll soon have a way to provide a hearty Duke University, along with neighbor University of North Carolinahomecoming to the treasures which will continue to inform us and shape Chapel Hill, were among two of the earliest champions for LGBT history in us into the future. : : North Carolina. Years ago, they took up the mantle and made it known they

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Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2015 and may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent of the editor or publisher. Advertisers assume full responsibility — and therefore, all liability — for securing reprint permission for copyrighted text, photographs and illustrations or trademarks published in their ads. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers, cartoonists we publish is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or photographs does not indicate the subject’s sexual orientation. qnotes nor its publisher assumes liability for typographical error or omission, beyond offering to run a correction. Official editorial positions are expressed in staff editorials and editorial notations and are determined by editorial staff. The opinions of contributing writers and guest columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of qnotes or its staff. qnotes accepts unsolicited editorial, but cannot take responsibility for its return. Editor reserves the right to accept and reject material as well as edit for clarity, brevity.

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talkback Comments from goqnotes.com. and facebook.com/qnotescarolinas. Web comments are not edited for grammar or punctuation.

Magistrate bill Readers respond to news that an anti-LGBT magistrate bill has become law. Read more about the story on page 5 or see the latest news from the legislature online at goqnotes.com/in/ncga/.

Flood the Magistrates Offices with SSM applications. Let the Magistrates recuse themselves. Flood their offices again in another 6 months. If one segment of the Citizenry can’t marry, let none marry.

— Krimson, June 11 the beautiful thing about the american government is that you have three separate but equal branches executive and legislative and judicial and even though the legislate branch (the general assembly) passed legislation that is clearly illegal and unconstitutional and the executive branch (the governor) vetoed the legislation and then the legislate branch (the general assembly) over rode that veto the judicial branch (state and federal courts) will have the last word on this issue and it will suffer the same fate as amendment one — Nicholas, June 11 So what’s next? Bigoted magistrates will stop marrying anyone who, back to ten generations, is descended from someone born out of wedlock (Deuteronomy 23:2), or any woman with braided hair or gold jewelry (1 Timothy 2:9). or anyone with a tattoo (Leviticus 19:28)? If they’re

going to enforce all of the rules suggested in the Bible shouldn’t they be required to enforce them all? Oh that’s right, they don’t even have to enforce the actual laws of the State of North Carolina in order to keep their jobs.

— Jimmy Locke, June 11 Pride history A reader responds to our June 5 feature on pre-Stonewall events (goqnotes.com/35450/).

Matt; thank you from an old timer for getting our history right. I remember walking past Compton’s and looking in the window, knowing we were not to go there. Our time in history was a scary time, the police harassment was real, I myself as a young transgender experienced it several times. It was a time of LSD, free love, before the AIDS epidemic. We had no organized support systems for the Gay community; we took care of each other. This was the time I and my partner Roberta Fuso [Sunny Rae], who today is my friend on Facebook, started inviting the less fortunate for Thanksgiving dinner to our small apartment in the Tenderloin, as you know I carry on this tradition to this day. My message to our young the Freedom movement is alive, stand up for what you believe; do not take the leftovers of society. Our community is moving forward at a pace never seen before, but do it with dignity and respect for others.

— Janice Covington Allison, June 9

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guest commentary

by Carl Fillichio :: Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Labor, US Department of Labor, Washington, D.C.

Here’s why we all need to #ThankFrank

Frank Kameny pictured in June 2009 with protest signs he used in the 1960s.

Photo Credit: DCVirago, via Wikipedia. Licensed CC. Like Cooperstown for our national pastime, our Hall of Honor immortalizes the giants renowned for the highest achievements in the counterweight to our pastimes — that is, our work. The names of these inductees inspire the same awe in those of us who are passionate about working families as Babe Ruth and Ernie Banks do for baseball fans: Sen. Edward Kennedy, who did more to improve workers’ lives than any legislator in our history …

Bayard Rustin, the mastermind behind our city’s most transcendent protest march for workers’ rights (and the Hall’s first openly gay inductee) … Dolores Huerta, whose bones were broken in the struggle for farm worker justice (and the only individual living Honor inductee) …

Mother Jones, who prayed for dead mine workers, but fought like hell for the living ones … The father of the American labor movement, Samuel Gompers.

And now, Frank Kameny. All his life he was told he didn’t belong, and he suffered for it mightily. He belongs now.

Frank took incremental steps to change — for the better — the nation’s largest employer: the United States government.

He played a pivotal role in the removal of homosexuality as a mental disorder by the American Psychiatric Association. He organized the first protest for gay rights ever

SUBSCRIBE!

Where would I be without the work I love?

There is nothing more rewarding to me than working on behalf of American workers.

Serving U.S. Labor Secretary Thomas Perez is both an honor and a joy, and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished as a public servant during my “tour of duties” as a political appointee in the Clinton and Obama administrations. The work is exhilarating, interesting every day and has become a central part of who I am.

But there was a time when it could’ve been taken from me in a heartbeat. Just because of another, equally central, part of who I am.

What is now unthinkable for me was a bitter reality for Frank Kameny. An astronomer with a Ph.D. from Harvard and World War II veteran, Kameny was fired from his U.S. Map Service job in 1957 simply because he was gay.

He never worked for a paycheck again.

Many know Frank’s story here in Washington, where I live and work, and where he made his home and ran as the first out congressional candidate for the District’s seat in 1971. But he is less celebrated in other parts of the country.

That’s going to change. On June 23, Frank Kameny is going to be inducted in the US Department of Labor’s prestigious Hall of Honor.

held in front of the White House, in 1965. He was a member of the first delegation to brief the administration on LGBT issues inside that same White House, under President Carter.

He will be forever thanked by LGBT government workers like me for helping usher in an age when we could serve openly, love who we love and bring our full selves to our work. But more than that: The American people owe him a debt of gratitude as well. Were it not for his decades of advocacy, our country would be bereft of some of the sharpest minds and hardiest spirits overseeing the people’s business.

Even a mind as great as Walt Whitman’s was wasted when he lost his government job soon after coming to Washington, it’s said because of the notoriety of his already-published “Leaves of Grass.” How many like him did we lose before Frank Kameny? How much good did we squander in those long decades of intolerance?

Because of Frank, we no longer have to ask.

To help commemorate Frank’s indomitable spirit and contributions this Pride Month, in addition to inducting him into the Labor Hall of Honor, we’re mounting a social media campaign called #ThankFrank. We’re asking other LGBT federal employees across the country and around the world, and all federal employees as well as our allies, friends, supporters and federal government customers and owners (that means the American people) to post the reasons Frank matters.

Check out our video at youtu.be/ IWnov6p3fWc to learn more and add your voice and story to thousands of others. Frank’s courageous efforts did more than help LGBT federal employees. He had a significant effect on American work, all American workplaces and the lives of countless American workers.

It’s time to #ThankFrank. : : — Learn more about the Hall of Honor online at dol.gov/dol/aboutdol/hallofhonor/.

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June 19-July 2 . 2015

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen & Matt Comer

Charlotte Guild celebrates with dinner

CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Business Guild will celebrate its 23rd anniversary with a dinner focused on “Workplace & Marketplace Equality: We Mean Business!” on June 23, 6:30 p.m., at the VanLandingham Estate, 2010 The Plaza.

The event will also feature entertainment and networking opportunities.

Guest speakers will be Charlotte City Councilmember Al Austin (Dist. 2), Scott Bishop, Human Rights Campaign board of governors member, and Mecklenburg County Commissioner Pat Cotham (At large). Special guest Sam Maiden, Southeast regional director for the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, will be in attendance.

Attendees will be able to learn about updates to work on Charlotte’s non-discrimination ordinance and a community education plan, and what to expect from the federal government concerning LGBT equity in supplier diversity, organizers shared.

“President Obama’s executive order implemented [on] April 8th [says] that federal contractors must not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. This order applies to those who are employed by or apply for jobs with federal contractors and subcontractors. It is estimated this to be a quarter of the American workforce. Our goal is to engage workers and let them know their rights under the new Executive Order,” they added.

Cost is $25 for members and $35 for nonmembers. Tickets are available online and sell out fast.

In other news, the guild has announced that it has revamped it website to provide for new, user-friendly features and enhancements. It features an enhanced membership directory, members’ portal, updated way to highlight members, alternative ways to pay for memberships, volunteer opportunities, ticket booth for events and a robust way to access the LGBTfocused VisitGayCharlotte’s and qnotes’ LGBT community calendar. info/tickets: cltbusinessguild.org.

— L.M.

TOY welcomes new staff

CHARLOTTE — Time Out Youth Center, 2320 N. Davidson St., welcomed Parker Smith to its team as its Trans Youth Outreach worker.

Parker has taken over the leadership of the center’s Q-Tribe discussion group in its third cycle which begins on June 25 and every Thursday evening between 6:30-8:30 p.m.

TOY is also seeking summer interns to help Photo Credit: from Facebook with the center’s operations, like answering calls, greeting guests, providing new people with tours of the agency and assisting staff. Hours are 3-6:30 p.m.

Internship applications are available online. They should be returned to O’Neale Atkinson, director

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of youth programs, in person or via email to oatkinson@timeoutyouth.org.

A graduation party will be held on June 19 for recent graduates. Email Atkinson to learn more. info: timeoutyouth.org.

— L.M.

Org slates open house

CHARLOTTE — Campus Pride will host an open house on June 25, 6 p.m., at its new offices at 6047 Tyvola Glen Cir. The new offices will enable the organization to further its goals, as well as provide greater accessibility to those it serves.

On hand for the event will be new staff members Tyler Eilts and Allison Marie Turner, both members of Campus Pride’s summer fellowship program.

For those interested in volunteer opportunities, the open house will provide an easy conduit to sign up and to learn more about the organization. info: campuspride.org.

— L.M.

Trans group formed

CHARLOTTE — Transcend, a new support group for transgender individuals and others has been created.

Its mission is to improve the lives of transgender people, as well as other individuals and groups who may be struggling with basic needs, in addition to a failure to thrive in society because of identity concerns or traumatic experiences.

Purposely, Transcend seeks to link and connect those it serves across the spectrum of gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, race, color, national origin, religion, belief, ability and familial status, Trey Greene, one of the organizers, said.

Their goal is to promote unconditional positive regard for individual authenticity, he added.

Transcend also engages the community and agencies in educational opportunities so they can become more aware of how to achieve more successful outcomes. To that aim, it works to create networking between resources and groups to create solidarity and a stronger option for its diverse clientele.

Policy change advocacy is a current goal of Transcend both in the governmental and agency sector. That way service gaps and needs that create health disparities among minority groups can be effectively addressed.

Other goals include linking adult mentors to youth and adults who are in transition, organizing fundraising efforts, in addition to hosting clothing drives.

Greene and Michelle Busiek are the founders. Each are transgender men who are in their last year of their master’s programs. Once licensed, they hope to provide therapeutical services and another benefit of Transcend.

They will be collecting clothing, binders and other basic needs at the GenderFusion event on June 26, 7 p.m., at Petra’s Piano Bar, 1919 Commonwealth Ave. The show will begin at 9 p.m. Entertainment includes a lip sync battle, as well as a T-shirt giveaway, raffle and more.

Tickets are available online at genderfusion. eventbrite.com. info: trey13green@yahoo.com. michellebusiek@yahoo.com.

— L.M.

Tattoo attracts national attention GREENSBORO — Gay and out southerner Jason Hatfield wanted to show his “solidarity” with Caitlyn Jenner, so he had the June 1 Vanity Fair cover photo of her tattooed on his left forearm on June 9, WXII 12 said reporter Bill O’Neil in a news clip.

The station was invited to watch as Hatfield received the tattoo.

The NBC News affiliate shared that Hatfield told WXII 12 that he knew what it was like growing up as gay in the South and to pretend to be someone else. “Caitlyn Jenner’s been so brave…As an athlete and everything that was done before she came out, she was incredible. And now she’s a thousand times the role model a Kardashian is!,” he said.

Taking four hours to complete, the tattoo was Hatfield’s tribute to the transgender community and the larger LGBT community. Hatfield thanked them all for their bravery.

In 1978 Jenner was featured on a Wheaties cereal box as a “Breakfast of Champions” spokesperson.

Brandon Thurston was the Triad artist who crafted the tattoo on Hatfield.

Annie Leibovitz, a renowned photographer, handled the photo shoot where Jenner’s unveiling to the world as a woman was done through the “Call Me Caitlyn” photo spread. The tattoo made the news from coast to coast in newspapers and magazines and broadcast networks and affiliates.

Photo Credit: WXII12 screenshot info: wxii12.com.

— L.M.

Triad Ragghianti steps down

GREENSBORO — Brenna Ragghianti, Guilford Green Foundation executive director, has stepped down from her responsibilities for the organization.

“I am proud of the work I accomplished during this transitional time for GGF reaching out to previously underserved audiences, strengthening community partnerships and working to diversify board leadership”, Ragghianti shared in a release from the organization. “I am confident that GGF will continue to do good work in the community. I look forward to spending time with my wife as I pursue other professional interests,” she added.

“Brenna’s efforts to make GGF more accessible within the LGBT community will be a lasting contribution,” Board Co-Chair Gary Palmer said. He also shared that the foundation will move forward to implement it recently adopted strategic plan. Under the leadership of 2015-16 Co-Chairs Melissa Greer and Jeff Smith, the board is also committed to efficiently and effectively fulfill GGF’s mission.

Office Manager Glenda Miller is handling the day-to-day administrative tasks during the transition period. info: ggfnc.org.

— L.M.

Triangle Dreams come to Pride

RALEIGH — Shades of Pride will host a “Linen & Lace Mid-Summer Night Dream of Pride” on June 26, 8 p.m., at Above and Beyond, 2526 Hillsborough St., as a prelude to its upcoming Pride celebration from July 23-26 in Durham, N.C.

DJ Chaz will provide the beats.

Cost is $10.

The Pride celebration, “Be U!!!! Celebrating Six Years of Triangle Pride,” will roll out toward the end of July with a town hall, meet and greet reception, Pride expo and a movie night.

Contributions are being accepted now. Email toya@shadesofpride.lgbtcenterofdurham.org to find out how to make submissions.

The expo will take place on July 26, 3 p.m., at Forest Hill Park, 1639 University Dr. Vendor space is available for $50 per table. An application is available online.

Email info@shadesofpride.lgbtcenterof durham.org to learn more.

Additional information about the four-day festival will be shared as it is made available. info: shadesofpride.lgbtqcenterofdurham.org.

— L.M.

Org holds grad dinner

DURHAM — Triangle Empowerment Center, 1415 Holloway St., held a Durham County Safe Spaces Graduation dinner on June 11.

The Safe Spaces initiative is part of Care And Prevention in the United States, an eight-week program designed for HIV positive African-American and Latino MSM to help them learn about HIV/AIDS issues and become more engaged in their care. The center is currently enrolling participants for its next session.

Time and date will be announced at a later time.

To learn more about the dinner and the program, email Miguel Hunter at mhunter@ dconc.gov.

Other services provided by TEC are HIV/ AIDS and STD education and prevention, HIV counseling and testing, referral placement, Hepatitis C education, prevention and screening, as well as internet and Latino outreach. It

see Carolina News Notes on 10

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N.C. anti-gay magistrate refusal bill becomes law as N.C. House overrides governor’s veto

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

RALEIGH — A bill widely criticized as a discriminatory measure targeting LGBT couples was passed into law on June 11 as the North Carolina House of Representatives joined its Senate colleagues in overriding Gov. Pat McCrory’s veto.

Senate Bill 2‘s passage now allows magistrates and registers of deeds to opt out of providing civil marriage services based on their “sincerely held” religious beliefs. It had easily passed both the House and Senate before facing a veto from McCrory on May 27. The Senate overrode the veto on June 1.

The House moved quickly on the override vote in the first few minutes of its morning session on June 11, 14 days after McCrory’s veto.

There was no debate on the motion, though Democratic Leader Larry Hall (Durham) was given time to speak on the measure. He encouraged members to sustain the governor’s veto.

“The right reason the governor vetoed it was because it would sanction state employees being released from their sworn duties to the citizens of the State of North Carolina,” Hall said. “We should not be in the business of sanctioning state employees lying to the

government and to the citizens of the state, taking a sacred oath and then willy nilly at their convenience deciding they will not uphold their oath to the citizens of North Carolina.”

Hall added, “We owe more to citizens, we owe more to the taxpayers and the value of an oath given to the state and citizens of North Carolina.”

In a post-vote press conference Democrats decried the law’s passage.

Rep. Henry Michaux (D-Durham) said the law is unconstitutional and said it would “give a pass” to those officials unwilling to uphold the federal and state constitutions.

Rep. Cecil Brockman (D-Guilford) had attempted to speak on the floor. He wasn’t allowed, but spoke about it at the press conference.

“Anybody who feels any kind of passion for their neighbor or community would stand up and say something,” Brockman told reporters.

“It doesn’t make any sense. We live in 2015.”

Following the vote, McCrory released a statement expressing disappointment at the legislature’s decision.

“It’s a disappointing day for the rule of law and the process of passing legislation in North Carolina,” the governor’s written statement read. “I will continue to stand up for conservative principles that respect and obey the oath of office for public officials across our state and nation. While some people inside the beltline

are focusing on symbolic issues, I remain focused on the issues that are going to have the greatest impact on the next generation such as creating jobs, building roads, strengthening education and improving our quality of life.”

Advocates in the state condemned the law’s passage.

“We are disappointed to see the House vote against the the legal rights and best interests of LGBT people and of the entire state of North Carolina,” Chris Sgro, executive director of Equality North Carolina, said in a release.

“From the business community to local leaders to the governor, North Carolinians have stood up and said Senate Bill 2 is deeply problematic and discriminatory legislation. While it targets same-sex couples, in the process it creates problems for all North Carolinians who seek use of taxpayer-funded public services.”

Sgro added: “The North Carolina General Assembly should be focused on creating jobs and expanding public education rather than legislating against settled laws governing the freedom to marry. Equality NC will be working with its partners to determine whether this terrible bill will hold up to legal scrutiny.”

Critics of the bill say it is the most far-reaching and discriminatory of several anti-LGBT laws proposed in states across the country this year. Most of those bills had either stalled or were defeated, including in neighboring South Carolina and in states like Texas. : :

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news

TOY hosts gala, awards scholarships Sell-out crowd dines and dances at Mint Museum

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com CHARLOTTE — Time Out Youth Center hosted their annual gala with a sell-out crowd of 300 revelers on June 12 at the Mint Museum Uptown, awarding two local LGBT youth college scholarships and honoring a volunteer and supporter with a surprise community award.

The gala, hosted by NBC Charlotte anchor and reporter Ben Thompson, included cocktails and a silent auction in the museum’s main atrium, followed by dinner on the museum’s fifth floor. On the dining room’s balcony overlooking S. Tryon St., dinner-goers were treated to the sights and sounds of Uptown Charlotte as it hosted the annual Taste of Charlotte festival.

Speakers at the event included PFLAG Charlotte President Diane Troy, who gushed with pride for her openly gay son, Michael, and said TOY had helped her better serve the parents coming to PFLAG for support.

“All of you have accomplished a tremendous feat of courage and self awareness,” Troy said. “You are genuine and you shine.

It’s all about the journey — it’s not about where you were, it’s about where you are today.”

Time Out Youth Tonda Taylor Scholarship recipient Javier Guillen.

Time Out Youth Center Executive Director Rodney Tucker addresses the gala audience.

At the end of the evening, TOY made a surprise honor, giving TOY also featured a youth speaker, Parker longtime supporter and Stonewall Kickball Charlotte organizer Petrucick, who shared his experiences with the organiJason Boone its Community Service Award. Boone’s kickball zation and how it helped him thrive as a teenager. league raises funds for Time Out Youth.

“I didn’t think I would live to see my 18th birthday,” Gala attendees were also able to learn about TOY’s recent Parker told the audience. “In three months, I’ll turn successes and accomplishments over the past year. Executive 19. … Time Out Youth has saved my life. Without this Director Rodney Tucker told supporters that the group had agency, I wouldn’t be standing here.” become a national model for LGBT youth services. Over the The evening’s keynote speaker was Molly Barker, past year, the group has seen a 17 percent rise in the number of founder of Girls on the Run. She told dinner-goers the youth coming into the organization’s facility; 39 percent of those story of a youth she knows, who successfully transiyouth are first-time clients. Last year, the group also reached tioned and now lives authentically as a boy.

827 youth through its school outreach programs, participated in One of the highlights of the night was the awarding 116 community presentations and granted $4,480 in emergency of TOY’s annual youth scholarships, named in honor of assistance for youth clients. The group has also begun to expand founder Tonda Taylor. Javier Guillen and Kyle Coffino services in Charlotte’s suburbs and surrounding rural areas, both received $1,500. Coffino is a trans teenager and with its first discussion group beginning recently in Cabarrus a sociology major in the University of North CarolinaCounty and a group planned for next fall in Gaston County. TOY Greensboro’s international honors program. Guillen is an hopes to also expand outreach in Union County and northern undocumented youth who has faced significant financial Mecklenburg County, Tucker said. : : challenges in pursuing higher education and is currently enrolled at Central Piedmont Community College.

news notes: u.s./world.

ACLU files suit for trans high schooler GLOUCESTER COUNTY, Va. — Gavin Grimm, a 15-year-old high school student, is in for the fight of his life.

Grimm is a transgender man, and the teen has been thrust into the spotlight as Virginia’s school boards address concerns for transgender students around the commonwealth.

Back in November of 2014, Grimm spoke before his local school board meeting to fight a policy which would force him to use a restroom aligning with his birth gender, not as the gender he currently identifies.

“I’m fighting for my right to use the correct restroom … the men’s restroom,” he told VA Beach’s WAVY at the time. “There have been some parents in the community, or rather adults, that have had a problem with this.”

In December, his school board voted 6-1 to force trans students to use restrooms matching their born gender.

But in a lawsuit filed June 11, the Virginia ACLU, the ACLU’s National Lesbian, Gavin Grimm, via ACLU.

Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and HIV Project and Grimm hope to have that rule changed.

“I just want to use the restroom in peace,” said Gavin in an ACLU press release. “Since the school board passed this policy I feel singled out and humiliated every time I need to use the restroom.”

Grimm and his family alerted his school to his gender dysphasia before he started his sophomore year. He’d been using the boy’s bathroom without issue until the school board and parents from the community got involved.

“The school board’s policy is deeply stigmatizing and needlessly cruel,” said Joshua Block, a senior staff attorney at the ACLU Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and HIV Project. “Any student — transgender or not — should be free to use singlestall restrooms if they want extra privacy. Instead of protecting the privacy of all students, the school board has chosen to single out transgender students as unfit to use the same restrooms as everyone else.”

The ACLU had filled a discrimination complaint shortly after the vote and cited a Title IX rule which offers protections to transgender students, a point reaffirmed in a recent Department of Justice memo.

“High school is difficult enough for any student without having the school board publicly single him out for special restroom rules,” said Rebecca Glenberg, legal director of the ACLU of

Virginia. “Gavin is an extraordinarily courageous boy who is filing this lawsuit not only to protect his own rights, but the rights of all of the transgender students who come after him. We are proud to represent him.” : : — Brad Kutner, GayRVA.com, reprinted with permission.

Visit GayRVA.com for the full story.

QUICK HITS ————————————————— Pop star Nick Jonas was chosen to headline Pittsburgh Pride after embattled performer Iggy Azalea canceled her appearance.

Organizers of the event, the Delta Foundation, had been heavily criticized for their choice of Azalea, whom critics said had made past anti-gay and racist statements, and their walled-off response to the criticism. A separate “RootsPride” event was organized, with several groups choosing not to participate in this year’s Pride events. more: bit.ly/1f5genk A federal judge struck down an anti-gay marriage ban in the U.S. territory of Guam on June 5. The decision makes Guam the first federal territory to recognize same-gender marriage. The couple who sued, Loretta Pangelinan and Kathleen Aguero, were due to wed on June 20. more: bit.ly/1HvX1GD

June 19-July 2 . 2015

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Carolina News Notes continued from page 6

Discrimination thwarted for now COLUMBIA — Jeff Ayers, interim executive director and board chair for SC Equality, (pictured here speaking at the South Carolina Legislative Building) expressed his appreciation to those who helped stop anti-LGBT bills in their tracks at the state legislature.

When the 2015 session closed out earlier this month, the House and Senate failed to pass any of the six bills meant to discriminate against LGBT South Carolinians, Ayers said.

None made it out of committee and ranged from restricting marriage equality to limiting the rights of transgender people.

Ayers lauded the support of friends and allies in the fight, both individually and financially. He also praised legislative advocates for equality, such as Reps. Gilda Cobb-Hunter, Beth Bernstein and Leon Stavrinakis. Reps. Todd Rutherford, James Smith and Sen. Brad Hutto, who introduced pro-equality legislation seeking to ban anti-LGBT discrimination in the Palmetto State, were also acknowledged.

Community members were also cited and included. Rev. Tom Summers, Harriet Hancock, Ann Willbrand, Rev. TIm Bupp, Vickie Middleton, Malissa Burnette, Latta Police Chief Crystal Moore, Dayna Smith, S.C. Democratic Caucus Political DIrector and Spokesperson Tyler Jones and S.C. Equality lobbyist Benton Wislinski. “I could not have done it without all of you,” Ayers said.

Even though the bills were stopped in the 2015 session, they can be brought up again next year. He encourages everyone to continue to advocate for the LGBT community “until all South Carolinians are protected equally under the law.” info: scequality.org.

— L.M. is always looking for volunteers who want to lend a hand. It also has groups tailored to the LGBT community, as well as one that also has straight women and lesbians melded together. info: triempowerment.org.

— L.M.

Gala date set for fall

RALEIGH — The Equality North Carolina Foundation has announced the date for its annual gala. It will be held on Nov. 21 in the capital city.

Organizers will provide more information, time, place, etc., as it becomes available. info: equalitync.org.

— L.M.

Western Road trip planned for Pride

BOONE — High Country Pride will head to the Queen City on July 9 to have a come out and play day in the sun at Carowinds.

Park admission is $40 which will be collected by July 1 for those who wish to attend.

For those who wish to purchase their own tickets online directly will pay $45.

A carpool will caravan to the park and participants are asked to chip in for gas money.

Trip details and payment information should be emailed to info@highcountrypride.org. info: highcountrypride.org.

— L.M.

Youth org seeks support

ASHEVILLE — Youth Outright’s Executive Director Jim Faucett has called upon the community to support the efforts of the organization and its youth by making a tax-deductible contribution.

He shared that support is critical at this time to continue to offer its constituents a place to receive information and guidance on dealing with bullying, isolation and other challenges experienced by today’s LGBT youth. They continue to be reached and empowered by Youth Outright.

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Recently, a representative of the state’s ACLU met with Youth Outright, sharing how to deal with constitutional rights to form GSAs and to take a same-sex partner to their high school prom, Faucett said.

Visit the website to make a contribution and to find out ways to support the organization and its youth. info: youthoutright.org.

— L.M.

Regional U.K. ‘Pride’ film gets two local screenings

BOONE/RALEIGH — Appalachian State University’s Weicholz Global Film Series will present “Pride” on July 1, 7 p.m., in the Schaefer Center for Performing Arts, 733 Rivers St., as part of its An Appalachian Summer Festival.

A reception will precede the screening at 6 p.m. and is open to all High Country LGBT community members and their families and friends, series curator Joh Pfeifer said. Prior to the showing a pre-film talk will be undertaken to share information about the movie.

“Pride,” which premiered in 2014, is inspirational, telling the true story about a group of London-based LGBT activists who raised funds for striking coal miners in Wales in 1984. The UK was still homophobic and there was strident union-bashing by the conservative Margaret Thatcher administration, Pfiefer shared. The award-winning comedy explores the “unlikely bonding of these two very different minority groups,” he added. It premiered at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival, receiving a standing ovation. LGBT film subjects were at varying stages of the coming out process at the time.

It stars Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Dominic West and Paddy Considine. The show’s author is Jason Buchanan and it was directed by Matthew Warchus.

Tickets are $10 and are available by phone at 800-841-2787 or online.

Concessions, including popcorn, beer and

June 19-July 2 . 2015

wine and cold beverages, will be available for purchase at the event.

The film will screen a second time in Raleigh on July 31, 9 p.m., at the North Carolina Art Museum’s Museum Park Theatre, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are free for members, $5 for non-members and free for children 6 and younger. They are available at the box office or online. Learn more about the event, including guidelines for visitors, including use of folding chairs, food, beverages, safety, etc., at the museum’s website at ncma. org. The summer theatre is held in an outdoor amphitheater. info: appsummer.org/schedule/id/pride. ncma.org.

— L.M..

South Carolina Pride celebration nears start

COLUMBIA — South Carolina Black Pride, “Primetime 4 Black Pride - 10 years of Standing in our Truth,” will held from June 24-28 in the state’s capital.

Kick off for the event will be a family bowling night on June 24, 7 p.m., at Royal Z Lanes Spring Valley, 8512 Top Notch Rd. Prizes will be awarded for the best and not-so-great bowlers of the night. Cost is $10 per person for the entire night. Food and beverages will be provided.

The following night there will be a “Blackbird” premiere and welcome reception, along with karaoke at Wet Willie’s, 800 Gervais St. A special guest will be in attendance.

On June 26, gather for a Primetime Summit and Town Hall Meeting at 1 p.m. at Cecil Tillis Center at 2111 Simpkin Ln. Educational presentations will be shared on health, advocacy and progress for the South Carolina AfricanAmerican LGBT population. It will close with a “state of the southern black LGBT community.”

On Saturday, head out to Expo 2015 at Meadowlark Park, 524 Beckman Rd. Vendors will be on hand displaying their wares and others will be available to share their company’s or organization’s information.

That evening a men’s Primetime event at 10 p.m. at Marion Hall, 1622 Marion St. It’s an evening of male entertainment featuring Mustang, as well as Masked Mysteries all in Tastee Treasures underwear. Host is Zavior M. Travez.

DJ Kei Jai will spin tunes. Tickets are limited and are available in advance only for $10. More information and tickets can be secured by text to 919-695-3406.

A Praise in the Park & Common Unity Picnic will close out the festivities on June 28, 11 a.m., at Sesquicentennial Park, 9564 Top Notch Rd. A $2 admission per person is required to get into the park.

Host hotel is the Holiday Inn & Suites, 8105 Two Notch Rd. Rooms are $89 per night. To make reservations, book using “South Carolina Black Pride” to receive the special rate. info: southcarolinablackpride.com.

— L.M.

ASO changes name

ROCK HILL — Catawba Care changed its name in May to Affinity Health Center and will continue to operate at its present location at 500 Lakeshore Pkwy.

The name change ushers in the center’s move to provide comprehensive healthcare needs beyond those living with HIV/AIDS, which it has done since its inception in 2000.

Board Chair Rev. Maurice Revell said in a release, “Our gradual, planned evolution to a community-based, primary healthcare provider

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began over the last couple years with the multiple changes in healthcare and as we saw that many of the roadblocks for services for individuals and families dealing with HIV also existed in the broader community.”

Although the name change was effective immediately in May, the center will be rolling out its expansion efforts with services and staff over the next six months to meet York County’s needs.

Results from the York County Community Health Needs Assessment supported the organization’s needs. The assessment was coordinated in 2012 to identify gaps in care and unmet needs for York County residents, Suzanne Wright, immediate past board chair, shared. The assessment, guided by a team made up of social service and healthcare providers across York County, was conducted by Duke University’s Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research.

Executive Director Anita Case said, “Increasing our services and staff allows Affinity Health Center to become a ‘medical home’ for patients, providing primary and preventative healthcare, including dental and mental health services.” She added, “The primary goal of our services has always been to help patients live longer, healthier lives through delivery of compassionate, excellent care. This continues to be our sole reason for being.”

Affinity will work with Early Learning Partnership of York County to serve children as part of the center’s expansion because of the partnership’s transition out of delivering health services to children.

The center provides essential medical services to the uninsured at nominal costs depending on income, as well as to those patients with Medicaid, Medicare and all other private insurance including Affordable Care Act plans.

Support and funding for Catawba Care stemmed from The Duke Endowment, Sisters of Mercy of North Carolina Foundation, Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina, Springs Close Foundation and United Way of York County. They will continue to provide the same level of support to Affinity. info: affinityhealthcenter.org.

— L.M.

Campus Scene N.C. student awarded

CHARLOTTE — Campus Pride has announced that it has bestowed its Voice & Action Awards on four collegiate recipients.

Among the award recipients is Wake Forest University student Gracie Harrington.

She won the group’s Sorority/Fraternity Award.

Harrington has led the Winston-Salem college’s Gay Straight Student Alliance and is an active member of her sorority. The organization cited praise for Harrington: “Gracie inspires me to live passionately and limitlessly, because she isn’t afraid to live out loud. She is reluctant to choose one path, because her potential is boundless. Her kindness permeates all boundaries, and ushers in positivity.”

Other award winners included: Vanessa Gonzalez, Rutgers University, Student Leader; Jesse Beal, Suffolk University, Advisor; and Lauren Neidigh, University of Arizona, Athlete.

The Charlotte-based Campus Pride is currently accepting applications for its advisory board. Undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to apply. Terms run from January to December. Board members meet monthly via conference call. See the website to download the form. Deadline is July 31. info: campuspride.org.

— L.M.

June 19-July 2 . 2015

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Queer Music in the QC From hip hop to folk, original musical talent springs forth a’plenty in the Queen City

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

H

omegrown sounds and cool vibes run deep in the Queen City. Charlotte is home to an evergrowing pool of unique musical talent, from singers and songwriters to full bands and instrumentalists. We’ve taken a look at some well-known names, up-and-coming talents and a wide diversity of genres to feature in our “Queer Music” issue. The bands and their members and singers are as diverse as their genres — with an affirming mix of LGBT and straight ally performers. With all this diversity, there’s one running theme that binds them all together — their love for their local communities and their passion for music.

MoJoMuzik Experience Members: Bertshalyn Bailey as singer/ songwriter and keyboardist (Honey Bee Bailey), Howard Jackson, drummer (Howie) and Marcus Cooper as Lead Guitarist (Kat Daddy) Founded in 2014, MoJoMuzik Experience got its start with lead singer and songwriter Honey Bee Bailey performing Sundays for Chi Psi Omega Fraternity Open Mic Nights at the NC Music Factory’s Wet Willie’s. The band performs a mix of it all, including neo-soul, R&B, old school, reggae, hip-hop and pop, inspired by John Legend, Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, Chuck Brown, Jill Scott and India Arie. Bailey always hopes the band’s audience takes away a great experience, saying: “I always hope that they first walk away saying they had a great time. They heard their favorite tunes and got to dance or snap their fingers.

Music incites so many emotions so through my performance I hope that it encourages, heals and unites the listeners.” See the band perform next on June 28 at Red@28th in NoDa. facebook.com/pages/Mojomuzik-Live/829117077171105.

Dust & Ashes Members: Heather Himes, Alea Tuttle, Tiffany Goodman, Jude Salinas This Americana band, which plays a mix of folk and old country, got its start in October 2014.

Himes, the band’s gender queer lead, says she was inspired by a vast list of diverse artists, including Neil Young, Willie Nelson, Ryan Bingham, Brandi Carlile, Scott Avett, Dallas Green and James Vincent McMorrow. Salinas jumped into the band just one month ago and says she is a classically trained flutist; her inspirations include classical greats like Mahler and Brams. The band has been whipping up a growing fan base, performing frequently at Snug Harbor, Evening Muse, Double Door Inn, Hattie’s Taproom and more. They say they recently auditioned to perform at Charlotte Pride.

Photo Credit: Graham Morrison

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Himes says their music is unique and meaningful: “Our four-part harmonies and very genuine raw lyrics are the two things people are most taken with. The lyrics are for the most part about my life experiences and growing up as a queer kid in the Bible Belt South. The rejection, confusion and challenges it brought and how I’ve journeyed into a place of self love and acceptance in spite of those things.” Additionally, she wants her queer audiences, especially, to walk away with a stronger sense of southern and gay pride. “I didn’t think the two could coexist, but thank God they are beginning to,” Himes says.

Reverbnation.com/dustandashesqc. facebook.com/dustandashesqc.

Lovesucker Members: Crystal Crosby and Zoltan Von Bury Formed in the summer of 2013, Crosby and Von Bury joined forces when Von Bury was looking for a female vocalist. The indie rock/ gypsy soul band says most people describe them as “dark funk,” but Crosby says it’s hard to pin down. “With our sound spanning so many generations, genres and planes, the only way to describe us is to experience us,” Crosby says. “We bring love, but our way. We may be the bad guys, but don’t tell nobody.”

They’ve performed at Tremont Music Hall, The Rabbit Hole, Tommy’s Pub and other venues.

The two’s inspirations take a full range from their childhood musical experiences to loves for late 70s and 80s acts like Joy Division, Depeche Mode and others. Von Bury wants their audiences to connect with the music itself, saying, “I hope our audience sees the real deal, unfiltered, unpolished. I hope they are really listening because we are telling the untold story. Our songs stick with you, you will feel it when we play live.” lovesucker.com.

Malachi Malachi’s art is a mix of singer, songwriter, comedian, drag performer and more. A performance with Malachi is unlike any other.

He first got his start in 2006 at Club Myxx, where he says “many of Charlotte’s best urban performers got their start,” adding, “Club Myxx was my first ever club talent show. I was totally booed off the stage in the month of December. I came back in January and rocked that building and the rest is history.” Malachi’s claim to fame, perhaps, is his parodied twists on well-known pop hits. Though it’s comedic, Malachi says the artistry is still strong. “My music is unique and even though it’s a parody the musicality is there! The attention to harmonic detail and perfection is what I strive for,” he says.

“I’ve always said, ‘Just because it’s a parody or it’s vulgar doesn’t mean it can’t sound amazing.’ And the live performance is crazy mix of a singing, rapping, butch queen up in pumps drag queen explicit type Weird Al. It’s a performance that is very unique that you won’t find very often, if ever.” Malachi performs regularly at The Scorpio, The Bar at 316, Cathode Azure and Snug Harbor. He performs next at The Scorpio on June 20 and was recently announced as an emcee for this year’s Charlotte Pride Festival main stage. facebook.com/MrYouSeeItMalachi. youtube.com/c/ArronYouSeeItMalachi.

Photo Credit: Tommy Feldman and Brandon Schauf; Make-up by Carrie Chanel

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Miami Dice Members: Josh Faggart, Shaun Olson, Scott Weaver Miami Dice formed one year ago, the coming together of two talents, Faggart and Olson, from the band Cement Stars and Scott Weaver of Babyshaker and Snagglepuss. The band describes their sound as “Italo Disco” and “Chill Funk.” Weaver, whom many also know from his DJ gigs and the popular Thursday night Shiprocked! parties at Snug Harbor, says Miami Dice has a “wide crossover appeal” among all communities. “We try to bring a sense of style to the band,” he says.

“You can dance or just chill listening to Miami Dice.” Their inspriations include everyone from Stevie Wonder to Glass Candy. Weaver, who takes on the band’s trumpet, vocals, percussion and synth, says he wants audiences to walk away with “a good feeling, a song in their head, the desire to seek out and listen to our music, and the inspiration to make their own.” When he was young, he was drawn to music the very first time his parents took him to see The Carpenters. “I wanted to get up there and sing with them,” he says. “Later, [it was] the dawn of MTV. Once I saw Adam Ant and Blondie, I was hooked.”

The band performs regularly across town, with upcoming performances on June 19 at Discovery Place’s Science on the Rocks and June 27 at The Chop Shop for CLTURE Fest. facebook.com/pages/MIAMI-DICE/356280505612. soundcloud.com/miami-dice.

Rolfe Neigenfind With a mix of Americana, rock and soul, Neigenfind has been drawn to and performing music since he was five. “It was something internal I think,” he says. “From the moment I heard music on the radio, I knew I had to find a way to do it, too.” He started professionally when he was in college and today performs across the city, including venues like Krazy Fish, Aria, Dean & Deluca, Napa, Petra’s and others. He’s inspired by Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton, Sam Cooke and Prince, and says, “I bring an element of ‘old soul’ to the table that I’m not sure most people my age have — or so I’ve been told.” Neigenfind wants his audience to hear his music and find something that resonates with them. “Getting a group of people to share an experience is a pretty profound thing and in those moments something bigger happens whether the audience realizes it or not.” Learn more about his upcoming performances via his website.

RolfeNeigenfind.com.

Photo Credit: Chris Austin

Photo Credit: Justin Smith

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About the QC’s music scene

W

e asked our featured artists this issue to give us some of their thoughts on Charlotte’s music scene — positive takeaways or things they think are missing. Here are some of their thoughts.

Charlotte is where I got my start and in that start my nerves got the best of me but Charlotte music scene has always shown me love. Free music events for artist to display their work.

— Honey Bee Bailey, MoJoMuzik Experience This city seems very aware of our physical health and is so proactive in that way. We eat organic, we bike and yoga our brains out. But the inside stuff, matters of the spirit and heart seem neglected. I believe music can restore people internally sometimes.

— Heather Himes, Dust & Ashes I’m new to town, but from what I’ve seen, I don’t think it’s missing much. Coming from Los Angeles where everything and everyone is made of plastic (not in a literal sense) it’s super refreshing to come to a city where there’s lots of people who are working diligently to better the thriving music/arts scene. There’s great venues here with lots of incredible bands/solo artists performing all the time, get off Instagram and go see them!

— Jude Salinas, Dust & Ashes I love Charlotte’s music scene. It’s thick with community and creativity. Roll into any open mic and you will surely find support amongst the privileged and the feral children, alike. The only thing missing are more and more fans. Shocking how so many people, not all, will drop so much at the movies or chain coffeeshops but won’t get out and experience live music. It’s not sexy. I’d love to see bigger or national acts frequent venues here. Many seem to drift past us, opting for other smaller towns to play in instead and I’m too new back from So. Cal. to track why but I’m working on improving relations between venues, bands and fans because like everyone else here, I love the city The Queen has become!

— Crystal Crosby, Lovesucker Many things are missing, smaller good-sounding venues, more bands that are taking chances, literally doing something different that makes the average music fan want to leave their house and engage in something new and exciting. Too many trend jumpers, but that seems to be in every scene.

— Zoltan Von Bury, Lovesucker

Scott Whitesell, David Lauderbaugh Whitesell and Lauderbaugh began recording their first album in 2013. Whitesell, who takes on vocals, songwriting and keyboard, teamed up with Lauderbaugh, who takes the lead on guitars and percussion in the Adult Contemporary band. Whitesell says his music is autobiographical.

“Sometimes I record comical songs about keyboard warriors, others deal with serious topics such as my struggles with AIDS and cancer,” he says. But it’s always best when “avid listeners” own his music for themselves, he says.

Whitesell has been playing piano since he was three and singing since he was 14. His inspirations include Coldplay, Ray Lynch, Walter Afanasieff, Thomas Newman, Howard Shore and Sergei Rachmaninoff. The two don’t often perform publicly together, but they have cut an album, “Weight of the World,” available on iTunes and Whitesell’s website.

Whitesell says they are unique: “ We are also a full-service band to singer/songwriters who wish to record an album with full instrumentation and vocals. Our differing musical experiences and training mean that we can provide musical backing for just about anyone.” scottwhitesellmusic.com. dklrecording.com.

Charlotte’s music scene is missing more collaboration between producers and artists. I think people don’t know who or what is around. The positives are that there are some amazing talents within the Charlotte music community!

— Malachi Personally, I have always been a fan of female-fronted, or all-girl bands, so for me, there’s always more room for that. Also, politically outspoken and active bands are important. I do think that there’s more diversity and quantity of really good bands in Charlotte, as well as venues, than ever, and that’s a great thing!

— Scott Weaver, Miami Dice I think the music scene in Charlotte is a small but supportive one. There is some major talent in this town and the older generation of musicians here are accessible and generally willing to help guide young cats like myself.

— Rolfe Neigenfind I am glad for the venues, particularly in NoDa, but I wish there were more indie opportunities in the South Charlotte area other than playing in the back of restaurants.

— Scott Whitesell

June 19-July 2 . 2015

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What’s coming to the Mint Museum?

by Jessica Capwell :: jcapwell@charlotteobserver.com

T

hree of the Mint Museum’s next five exhibitions will draw from its permanent collection, but a traveling exhibition will showcase the work of a Charlotte artist active in the 1930s.

On view from the Mint’s collection will be American art, British ceramics and photography. Traveling shows focus on the work of Charlotte native Eugene Thomason and Italian fashion designer Franco Moschino.

Working with its permanent collection will be less expensive than bringing in outside collections, said Hillary Cooper, director of advancement and communications.

“We do realize some savings by focusing on our permanent collection and dealing with two collectors,” she said.

The museum is excited to bring pieces out of storage and showcase the diversity of the collections, Cooper said.

The financial benefits are not driving the Mint’s focus on the permanent collection, said museum President Kathleen Jameson.

“One of the great joys for me at the Mint,” she said, “has been learning more about and discovering the Mint’s treasures.”

Upcoming exhibitions: • “ America the Beautiful: Works on Paper From the Mint Museum,” July 2-Oct. 4, Mint Uptown. This exhibition will showcase prints, drawings, pastels and watercolors from the Mint’s permanent collection of American art.

Frequent visitors can see works that are not displayed regularly due to paper’s sensitivity to light.

• “ VIVA MOSCHINO!” will bring fashion with an Italian and ironic flair from a private collection in Chicago to Charlotte Oct. 31-April 3, 2016, Mint Uptown. Moschino’s ensembles have been worn by female celebrities including Princess Diana and first lady Michelle Obama, Katy Perry and Madonna. As the first retrospective of Moschino in America, the exhibit will feature pieces from the Cheap & Chic line ranging from the 1980s to 1994 when Moschino died.

• “ Portals to the Past: British Ceramics, 16751825” opens Nov. 21 and runs indefinitely at Mint Randolph. Visitors will view pieces from the museum’s pottery and porcelain collec-

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June 19-July 2 . 2015

From “New York to Nebo: The Artistic Journey of Eugene Thomason” opening Nov. 21, Mint Museum Uptown. Eugene Healan Thomason, “After Hurricane Hazel,” 1954.

Photo courtesy of the Mint Museum.

tion and see how chocolate and coffee were served in the 1800s.

• “From New York to Nebo: The Artistic Journey of Eugene Thomason,” Nov. 21-March 7, 2016, Mint Uptown. The exhibition is organized by the Johnson Collection of Spartanburg, which focuses on Southern art. Charlotte native Thomason was a major catalyst for the art scene in Charlotte during the 1930s when the Mint Museum was founded in 1936. Thomason painted for about 40 years in Charlotte and Nebo, near the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Among scenes of New York, Ireland and North Carolina will hang a portrait of Thomason’s friend and American realist painter George Luks.

• “Here & Now: 80 Years of Photography at the Mint,” April 16, 2016-Sept. 18, Mint Uptown.

Jameson will return to her roots as a photohistorian and curate the exhibit, tracing the evolution of the Mint’s photography collection from the museum’s birth in 1936. Included artists include Vik Muniz, Dorothea Lange, Ansel Adams, and Annie Leibovitz. : : — Originally published by The Charlotte Observer on June 14, 2015. qnotes is a member of the Observer’s Charlotte News Alliance.

Reprinted with permission.

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life

Young and Positive: A Son’s and Mother’s Journey, Part 3 Trevion’s BHIS (Big Headed Idiot Syndrome) / Hot-lanta and How Tre got HIV (maybe)

by Trevion and Norena Gutierrez :: special to qnotes Trevion: Trevion’s BHIS (Big Headed Idiot Syndrome) My mom and I used to volunteer as ushers for the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center before all this HIV-positive stuff started.

We knew that John Legend was coming to Charlotte and we signed up to usher at his show. I am an aspiring singer/songwriter and have been in love with John Legend’s work since I was 13. As it turns out, I got cancelled to work the show, but my mom being the loving individual she is gave up her spot for me.

And that is where it all started.

The show was great. At the end, I was determined to meet him. Against all instruction, I snuck backstage to see him. When I walked into the dressing room, John wasn’t there. At least, I thought he wasn’t. So, in order to look like I was being productive (because I wasn’t supposed to be in there at all), I began picking up trash while absentmindedly singing. And that’s when I heard his voice. “You’ve got quite the voice there.”

I turned and there he was — John Legend.

I couldn’t stop smiling and I remember my hands shaking. He politely shook my hand and wished me well. And that was that.

I was later fired for “insubordination,” because someone saw me sneaking backstage and told my manager. Later that night, I guess the interaction with John gave me “BHIS” or “Big Headed Idiot Syndrome,” which is a common thing with me. I’m really impulsive. As soon as I got home, I packed some clothes, my song lyrics, some snacks and my iPod. Then I headed off to Atlanta to get discovered, at least that is what I intended. I had no idea that this was the worst decision I could make.

I hooked up with at least five people within an hour of being in Atlanta (with condoms).

I felt invincible. That is, until I realized I had nowhere to stay. And, that I was still not discovered. This realization scared me so much that I didn’t sleep at all that night. I wandered the Atlanta streets until I met a man who wanted me to be with him, like get married! I am pretty sure he didn’t know me and I tried to tell him that our “relationship” was going too fast after an hour. Plus, he was just as homeless as I was. I wasn’t attracted to him at all in any way shape or form, in fact, I was repulsed by his appearance. However, he gave off this sense that he knew Atlanta well and that he would take care of me. So I agreed to be his boyfriend. He would protect me, right? Wrong.

After two nights, we lost each other. Or more like, he saw someone else that was more attractive than me and ran off with him. Betrayal of Trust #1. I started hanging out with a friend of his. We ate at restaurants and ran out on the bill, stole CDs and kissed random strangers. The first night we slept in the rain — that was the coldest, wettest, most aggravating night of sleep I have ever had. In the morning, he too ran off with someone else. Betrayal of Trust #2. By this time, my food had just about run out and

I felt desperate. I started prostituting myself for food coupons and money. I wasn’t going to let myself starve.

On a rainy Wednesday night, I slept under this gazebo in Piedmont Park. I was reading a book, minding my own business when I was approached by two well-dressed, clearly educated men. They offered me permission to sleep on their couch for the evening in exchange for sex. This wasn’t unusual at the park; people have had sex there since before I was born. I accepted their offer and we began to walk towards the apartment building on the other side of the park through

Norena: Hot-lanta and How Tre Got HIV (maybe) “Where the heck is he?” It had been at least 30 minutes since I asked Trevion to take the last of the boxes from our old apartment to our new apartment in the same complex.

We had been moving for two days and I was exhausted. I had been fortunate enough to be scheduled to volunteer as an usher at the Blumenthal and tonight was John Legend!

He is a “Legend” of sorts in our family as Trevion and I often sang to each other, “All of me loves all of you,” mostly in the kitchen for some reason. I was not able to sign Trevion

while I finished cleaning the entry floor. As I was down on my hands and knees focused on doing a good job with the tile, I said a little prayer, “Thank you God for my sons. Thank you for all we have.” I closed the door and took the keys to the rental office and left them in the drop-off box. It was a beautiful night.

Everything was going to be okay. Losing my job and moving from our three-bedroom to a one-bedroom apartment was going to be a change but a necessary one. We would get through it.

“Tre? Tre? Where the heck are you?”

I asked into our box-filled new apartment.

Trevion participates in an impromptu duet with a member of Dust and Ashes at Charlotte Pride’s open auditions on May 23. the trails. Once we were out of public sight, they stopped up to volunteer the show and even though Okay. He went on a walk which he was walking and one of them put a hand over my we were in the middle of a residential move, known to do for some “teenager space” mouth. Betrayal of Trust #3 — the Ultimate. we left to the theater. I gave up my volunto himself. The apartment was a mess, like The other one threw my backpack to the teer assignment so Trevion could see John someone had thrown up moving boxes and side and ripped my pants down. They both Legend. As it turned out, they needed an plastic garbage bags. I noticed it was 11 p.m. proceeded to rape me, taking turns until they extra usher and I got to see him too. It was a I jumped into the shower. It was 11:20 p.m. were satisfied. great concert and we returned home from the now. Where is Trevion? I texted two neighWhat I remember the most is that while show in a quiet content mood. Trevion didn’t bors at the risk of them hating me for the hour. one raped me, the other tried to comfort have much to say as he seemed a million No, they hadn’t seen or heard from Tre today. me by telling me “everything was going to miles away in his dreams of one day being as Okay. I decided to stay calm until midnight be okay.” It all felt so rehearsed to me. It famous as John. and then if he was not back, I would get in was not the first time they had done this.

“I need your help as soon as we get back the car and drive around the complex and the The next morning I was sore and scared, to the apartment,” I said to Trevion. “And then immediate neighborhood. Oh, please God, but I was determined to at least look okay. I you must get ready for school tomorrow — Trevion didn’t run away again. Please God, had some dirty clothes and enough money you have got to find whatever you can in all no, no, no. We weren’t arguing, we weren’t those boxes.” We got to the old apartment and I handed him the two boxes to carry see Young/Trevion on 16 see Young/Norena on 16

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life

Young and Positive continued from page 15

Trevion to wash them. I made my way down to this little shopping center and went into the laundromat. I washed my clothes, but I was still “dirty.” Then a little miracle happened and I found a card. It was a shelter for LGBT youth. I called, and they came to pick me up within the hour. I called my mom. She rejoiced in knowing I was okay. She is so loving, and I think that’s what really got me through me

self-diminishing thoughts about what had happened. By the end of the week, I was on a bus back to Charlotte. My mom came and picked me up. I came home. The next day I went to school like nothing ever happened.

While Atlanta wasn’t the best “vacation” I’ve ever had, I learned more about not being okay, and about how resilient I truly am. With each day, I realized how much of a survivor I am. : :

Norena mad, we just had this nice evening, he wasn’t sad or was he? Yes, we moved and maybe he is more upset about that then he led me to believe. A hundred thoughts flooded my head.

Fast forward four months to a hot day in July. A small framed woman with big brown eyes introduces herself as Trevion’s trauma therapist. She explains that today is the day that Trevion would like to share with me what happened when he ran away to Atlanta after the John Legend concert. I look at his face, he is very, very nervous. Half smiles, half blank stares, half “OMG Momma.” She goes on to explain that all that is required of me is to listen. I don’t need to respond or comfort him or do anything but be here right now with Trevion. I think I can do that. The therapist smiles and says, “He’s done a lot of work and this is something

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he wanted you to know, so you can understand him better and be there for him.”

Trevion begins slowly. He starts by apologizing that he didn’t say anything to me or even leave me a note that he was running away to Atlanta after the John Legend concert. I flash back on the crazy mother I was boarding a Greyhound Bus at the Charlotte bus station and calling his name frantically that night. He is sorry for the worry and pain that must have caused me. Nice mommy wants to say, “Its okay,” but I know I am not being honest. I say nothing as instructed. I keep the thought in my head and nod to acknowledge his apology.

He starts in about Atlanta and how he went there to make it big with his music and figure everything out by himself. Then he got hungry, he had no place to sleep and he had no money.

Then a homeless guy stole his iPod, but he was really nice when he stole it. I remember to breathe. This all sounds normal. I feel my body tense up like somebody is about to punch me in the stomach. I am aware of my facial expression. I tell myself that I can process it later, right now it is about showing love and compassion for this precious child. I consciously unfurrow my brow.

“Two men… a park….. Nowhere to sleep…… they held me down….. They raped me….” I could only take in a few words though I knew I was listening. It was that shock thing again. I tried to breathe. I finally said, “I am so sorry, mijo, I am so very sorry this happened to you.” My internal dialogue kicks in, “Did I do that right?” When I signed those adoption papers 16 years ago, there were no instructions for how to raise this child or how to just “be there.” I just sat. We all sat there for a moment.

Trevion said, “Well, that went better than I thought it was going to!” I thank the therapist for her work with my son. Trevion smiles and says, “They have really good Mexican food down the street, I want a Chile Verde burrito!”

And now we are on burritos.

For days I reel from what I now know about this trauma in Tre’s life. I never ask him if there were condoms used, I am not sophisticated enough to think of that. I work through my guilt of not believing him when he returned from Atlanta and he whispered in a quiet moment, “I was raped.” I replay that over and over again.

I thought he was lying. I didn’t know what to believe anymore. Finally, 10 days after our trauma conversation with the therapist, I break down. I imagine taking my Magic Mom Wand and scooping him up as the 18 months old child I adopted 16 years ago. I hold him in my arms while we rock in the rocking chair until he stops crying and then falls asleep. My tears stream down as I process what has happened to my precious boy. : :

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Bianca del Rio:

‘The Joan Rivers of the Drag World’ Famed queen chats prior to upcoming July 3 Charlotte show

by Joanne Spataro :: qnotes contributor

B

ianca del Rio and I first met at last year’s Charlotte Pride on a boiling Saturday afternoon. Our air-conditioned trailer behind the Wells Fargo stage was our respite from the heat. I was a first-time co-emcee trying to not sweat through my red polyester jumpsuit. She donned a navy onesie while in full face and a wig high enough to hit the ceiling.

While we sat on the couch, she offered to split her pack of Starbursts.

“Would you like STRAW-berry?” she said, her raspy, booming voice putting the straw in strawberry. She ate one lemon and orange square in a single mouthful. She then told me about her upcoming appearance on “In Bed with Joan” hosted by Joan Rivers. It was a rare moment of quiet — all 45 minutes of it — for a drag queen who spends most of her time on the road since her win on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season six last May. Bianca has been lauded as “The Joan Rivers of the Drag World,” an honor for a lifelong devotee of the late comedian’s acrid sense of humor, relentless work ethos and inability to be put in a box.

But with a sold out tour for over a year, almost 20 years in the drag business and an upcoming roast to celebrate her 40th birthday, Bianca del Rio truly is the Bianca del Rio of the drag world.

That tour, “Rolodex of Hate,” stops in Charlotte on July 3 at Spirit Square’s McGlohon Theater. I got to reconnect with Bianca while she had a rare free 10 minutes before a show.

Joanne Spataro: I loved your fabulous Tin Man outfit on the “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 7 finale.

Bianca Del Rio: Oh thank you. Just a little glitter. Just a little something.

You were probably coughing up glitter for days.

I’ll tell you, the maid at the hotel was not happy with me the next day. There was glitter left in the tub. It was a nightmare.

Whose idea was it to cover you in silver glitter?

I’ve done glitter on my face years ago and I wanted to do it again, but I didn’t have the full effect of what I wanted and then I started thinking about it. I was questioning what am I going to do, is it going to be too much, blah blah blah. My friends didn’t think it was a good idea and I still did it anyway. It was just a blur. Because I don’t have much time anymore, it’s just becomes let’s roll with it and if they don’t like it, fuck it!

What do you value most in life?

Work. I like work because that’s the only thing I have control of.

I can’t be in control of anything else. I can’t control if I’m in a relationship, I can’t control when someone dies, but I can control my work ethic and keep plowing and going through it. It’s been a great year for me and you want to keep it rolling. There’s still work to be done. Gotta keep moving.

What can people expect from “Rolodex of Hate” in Charlotte?

A portion of the show is scripted, but at the beginning of the show I do a good 10 minutes of whatever’s going on in my world and then after that I do my question and answer.

Expect the unexpected, but expect a lot of hate because that’s what it is.

How do you feel about being the one getting roasted for your 40th Birthday Roast on June 18?

I’m actually excited and looking forward to it. It was supposed to be a fundraiser for the movie I’m doing and a friend of mine was unaware that it was going to be a roast. I think that’s what made it a lot more fun, because the people they have chosen are all good friends of mine. I’m curious

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about what they have to say. They’ve all said something hateful anytime we go to lunch, so it couldn’t be any different for me.

That’s usually my type of person, anybody who can sit back and dish bullshit.

Didn’t (legendary drag queen and friend) Lady Buddy tell you good luck, but you’re not going to win “Drag Race?”

Oh totally, oh yeah. She wishes that my plane is going to crash anytime I fly, and recently she told me she said she doesn’t want my plane to crash — she much prefers that I took Amtrak, so you know, that’s the kind of people I deal with.

At least she’s staying topical on plane versus train accidents.

Just like her ointment. Topical.

If anyone in the world could roast you, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Oh my God, there are so many of them. There are a couple of people that I love. There’s a drag queen named Charles Pierce, who’s no longer with us, but I would have loved because he’s quite a genius. Of course, Joan Rivers is another favorite of mine and one that everybody thinks is dead but is still working is Don Rickles.

When did you realize you could make a career using comedy to insult people?

I was always in theater and it led to me onstage and then drag. The talking in a bar was when I started to do it, and, of course, when you are in New Orleans, drinking is 24/7 and in that city, bars are 24 hours, 7 days a week. You deal with a certain type of clientele, so my tolerance was built up doing that for five days a week for 10 years. That’s where I learned “the craft” of going after the people because you really can’t argue with someone behind a microphone.

Since you are working so much, what would be your ideal day off?

When I’m home in New York, it’s catching up on life, everything from laundry to tending to my dog. There’s never an off day.

But I am taking a week in July for my 40th birthday. I’m going to Puerto Vallarta, which I’m excited for, first time I’ve ever done this and a bunch of my friends are heading down there to have a good time. It’s going to be kind of weird, but I’m looking forward to it. : :

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SPORTS

Charlotte kickballers: ‘We are the champions!’

Charlotte team brings home statewide trophy against Greensboro, Raleigh teams

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com “We are the champions, my friends!”— That’s what could be heard in a video posted on Facebook by a few Charlotte Stonewall Kickball players following the statewide All Star Game on June 6, when the Queen City faced off against the Greensboro and Raleigh Stonewall Kickball leagues.

Charlotte brought home the trophy after battling out in a championship game against Raleigh, won 7-3.

Organizer Jason Boone says about 55 players participated in this year’s Stonewall Kickball North Carolina All Star Game, representative of three of the state’s four leagues.

Wilmington, which recently formed, was also present, but among the 150-200 fans cheering from the sidelines.

The tournament consisted of four games.

Charlotte and Raleigh battled it out first, Charlotte winning 6-0. Next up was Charlotte v. Greensboro, with a final score of 7-2. Before the final championship game, Raleigh and Greensboro duked it out, ending 22-4.

Boone says he’s grateful for all the fun had that weekend, a date chosen specifically to make the statewide event community focused.

“We scheduled the All Star tournament purposefully on that weekend, to try to promote as a true community weekend, helping drive attendance at the Friday night TOY gala as well as the Sunday HRC/Pride/PFLAG community picnic,” Boone says.

He’s also happy so many from the community came out to Veterans Park to cheer on the players. “The support we have received from the community has simply been amazing,” he says.

Players in Charlotte’s All Star team on June 6 included: Jarrod Clay and Brice Taylor (co-captains), Jamie Allison, Andrew Brian, Shakira Clarke, Jordan Craig, Robert Duelfer, Roger Howard, Joey Hewell, Richard Huggins, Kenan Hunt, Robert Jennings, Cory Kaufman, Justin Landon, Nick Miller, Tato Pureco, Corrie Scott, Ryan Webber and Zach Wheeler.

In July, Charlotte Stonewallers will join other sports aficionados in Washington, D.C., for the national Stonewall Sports championships, with players from a variety of sports, including kickball, dodgeball and darts. The Charlotte league will send two teams, “Queen City Ballers” and “Sons of Pitches.”

Charlotte Stonewall Kickball league members pose with the North Carolina All Star trophy after their win against Raleigh on June 6.

Photo Credit: Jason Boone

By the way, Charlotte’s Stonewall Kickball teams do more than just kick around a ball.

Together, they collectively raise funds for Time Out Youth.

For more information on the Stonewall Kickball league in Charlotte, visit facebook.com/stonewallkickballcharlotte. For more on the national Stonewall Sports, visit stonewallsports.org. : :

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tell trinity

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

“Drugs” — are they really that bad?

Hello Trinity, I’m not a big druggy, but I like smoking weed and such every so often. Don’t you think getting high now and then opens your mind and gives you a higher awareness? Is it really so bad?

Lets Study Drugs, Humboldt, CA Hello LSD, For thousands of years, through meditation rather than drugs, Buddhists have reached such altered states that one can painlessly walk on fire or put a needle through one’s arm.

And on the other hand, Native Americans, also for thousands of years, have used natural, mind-altering substances like peyote, magic mushrooms and marijuana to raise their

consciousness, especially during a “vision quest.” In the end, darling, natural is safer than chemical and too little is healthier than too much. Oh, and always… share!

Dearest Trinity, It sounds funny, but when I look attractive I get stared at and then I get very uncomfortable.

Sometimes it’s even a problem. What do you do?

If Looks Could Kill, Austin, TX Dearest If Looks Could Kill, Everyone hates to be stared at…well, almost everyone…but it’s part of life, part of culture and part of being attractive. Just imagine how the opposite feels. The best way to deal with being

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stared at, pumpkin, is to keep your head up high and self-esteem higher and/or keep a bodyguard nearby. Oh, and I promise, unfortunately it won’t last forever.

(My cartoon shows you how I strut around minding my own business.)

Dear Trinity, For about a month I’ve been dating someone. Sometimes she’s good and sometimes I can’t stand her. I don’t want to end it because it’s not “perfect,” but it’s just not perfect? What’s a good enough reason to stop dating someone?

Searching For Reasons, Cambridge, MA Dear Searching, First, don’t think of dating as an expensive restaurant where you’re supposed to have the perfect experience, rather think of it as free therapy, as a way to practice your communication skills and learn more about your likes and dislikes. Second, let dating teach you how you yourself react in different situations and how patient and compromising you are or are not. And third, a few good reasons to stop dating include extreme boredom, constant fighting and impatience, too many addictions or personality disorders and, lastly, when nothing ever goes right. Honey, dating is free, so keep dating until you absolutely know you’ve learned your lesson well. Good luck!

Hey Trinity, After a year it all changed. My boyfriend used to work so hard at keeping our relationship strong.

I don’t know if he’s aware of it or not, but lately, everything he does seems destructive. How do I get him to see that he’s going to destroy us?

You Better Work, Atlanta, GA Hey You Better Work, Whether it’s conscious or unconscious, he needs to know when one part of a relationship stops working the whole thing gets destroyed.

I must have a list on that subject somewhere.

Ah, here it is:

Trinity’s Thoughtful Acts That Destroy Or Keep A Relationship Acts That Destroy A Relationship 1. B oring, unromantic, stale nights, weekends and vacations at home.

2. A ddictive drinking, drugs, stubbornness and quick outbursts.

3. C onstant controlling, complaining, manipulating and lying.

4. L ate nights at the office, on the cell phone or on the internet.

5. L ack of communication, integrity, patience and respect all destroy a relationship.

Activities That Keep A Relationship 1. P atience, generosity, a forgiving attitude and unconditional love.

2. A rriving early to the house, early to help, early to listen and early to bed!

3. C reativity, open-mindedness, positive reassurance and an upbeat attitude.

4. T he times left alone, the times left with friends, the times allowed to make mistakes and the times when no one is being rushed!

5. Excessive and romantic nights, weekends, surprises and vacations all show that you want to keep someone coming back for more! : : info: With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org. Learn more at telltrinity.com.

BUILD THROUGH

US

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June 19-July 2 . 2015

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EVENTS June-July 2015 Carolinas Care Partnership 5K Reedy Creek Park 2900 Rocky River Rd., Charlotte

8 a.m.

This is a great trail race in a scenic park in Charlotte. Run through woodlands, around ponds and back to the dramatic finish. Great for the coach-to-5K crew and those hardcore over-achievers.

Awards given for top spots by age and gender. Proceeds benefit Carolinas Care Partnership. carolinascare5k.racesonline.com.

–––––––––––––––––––– Salisbury Pride 100 E. Fisher St., Salisbury 11 a.m.

Salisbury Pride’s annual festival, featuring local vendors, entertainers and more. For a full schedule of events, see our feature at goqnotes.com/35419/. salisburypride.com –––––––––––––––––––– Voices Out Loud!

Caldwell Presbyterian Church 1609 E. 5th St., Charlotte 5 p.m.

Charlotte Black Gay Pride hosts a celebration of gospel classics. More information to be announced. charlotteblackgaypride.com.

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Submit your event to our calendar!

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

Charlotte Business Guild SEP JUN MO Anniversary Dinner The VanLandingham Estate 2010 The Plaza, Charlotte 6:30 p.m.

The Charlotte Business Guild celebrates their 23rd anniversary with guest speakers: Sam Maiden, southeast regional director of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs; Scott Bishop, Human Rights Campaign Board of Governors member; Charlotte City Councilmember Al Austin; and Mecklenburg County Commissioner Pat Cotham. $25/members. $35/nonmembers. cltbusinessguild.org.

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Moral Monday: Equal Protection Bicentennial Mall 1 E. Edenton St., Raleigh 5 p.m.

Moral Monday organizers join hands on a Wednesday in protest of anti-LGBT legislation recently passed by the North Carolina legislature.

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Wake LGBT Dems SEP JUN MO launch party 710 E. Jones St., Raleigh 6-7:30 p.m.

Celebrate the LGBT Democrats of Wake County’s official launch. Funds raised benefit the new chapter of the statewide political caucus. Tickets start at $20 with sponsorship levels up to $500. Tickets and more information available online. facebook.com/LGBTDemsofWake. lgbtdemsofwake.org.

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Meet Ginny Deerin SEP JUN MO Dudley’s on Ann 42 Ann St., Charleston 7- 9 p.m.

Meet openly lesbian Charleston mayoral candidate Ginny Deerin. $10 suggested donation. ginnyformayor.com.

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Bingo Recruitment Party Location TBA. 8 p.m.

RAIN hosts a Bingo Verifying Diva (BVD) recruitment party. As Gay Bingo prepares to return this November, RAIN needs new minds, Kickball End of Season new ideas and new energy to throw on SEP JUN MO Party some heels, a wig and volunteer their The Bar at 316 time and talents. Don’t want be a BVD, 316 Rensselaer Ave., but still want to help out? No worries!

Charlotte They will be recruiting for a variety

7:30-10 p.m. of volunteer positions throughout the Stonewall Kickball Charlotte celebrates evening’s festivities. Location to be anthe end of their season with awards and nounced via Facebook. other recognition for players. facebook.com/ facebook.com/stonewallkickballcharlotte events/1444363559193884/.

SEP JUN MO

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GenderFusion Petra’s, 1919 Commonwealth Ave., Charlotte 7-11 p.m.

A lip sync battle featuring diverse couples across the gender spectrum, also with a T-shirt giveaway, binder drive, raffle and more. Proceeds benefit Transcend, a new local trans support, education and advocacy group. $10/online. $15/door. Information and tickets are available online. genderfusion.eventbrite.com.

To see more upcoming events, visit goqnotes.com/calendar/

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Bianca Del Rio SEP JUL MO McGlohon Theatre at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St., Charlotte 8 p.m. qnotes and Charlotte Pride in association with Murray & Peter proudly present a night of outrageous comedy (and a little hate on the side lol). Here comes “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 6 winner Bianca Del Rio with the “Rolodex of Hate” comedy special. Warning: Adult content. This ain’t no lady. Sold out around the world and now it’s your turn to #lovethehate. All reserved seating, $50 and $35. Limited VIP meet-and-greet tickets also available for $75. Tickets on sale online at carolinatix.org or call 704-372-1000 or visit blumenthalarts.org.

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Dixie’s Tupperware Party SEP JUL MO Booth Playhouse 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

Dixie’s Tupperware Party stars Dixie Longate, as the fast-talking Tupperware Lady, who has packed up her catalogues and left her children in an Alabama trailer park to journey across America. Critics and audiences have howled with laughter as Dixie throws a good ol’ fashioned Tupperware Party filled with outrageously funny tales, heartfelt accounts, free giveaways, audience participation and the most fabulous assortment of Tupperware ever sold on a theater stage! Purchase tickets online at carolinatix.org or purchase through charlottepride.org/ event/dixies-tupperware-party/ where a portion of proceeds will be donated back to the community organization.

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Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/

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life

OUR PEOPLE:

Q&A with Scott Weaver DJ, musician, singer and star of the party

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com was the most underground sort of punk rock clubby kind of stores. It was called Superior Feet; they had originally started selling Doc Martens and then expanded into clothing and hair color and all that.

What brought you to Charlotte?

Music brought me here. Actually, it was Hope Nicholls, who owned the store. She was very active in touring bands. I met them when they came through my home town. I knew her as a rock star. When I was in high school, she was in a big alternative band called Fetchin Bones. I saw her on MTV. Hope is one of those people that maybe now people are not as aware of all that, but in the ‘80s and ‘90s she was really prolific. I came because she offered me an opportunity to house sit and help run the store while she was gone. I came here thinking it would be a short gig that I would do. I didn’t have a plan.

I met people and started projects and just never left.

What was growing up like for you?

I grew up in the ‘80s and came to maturity during the AIDS Crisis. I was very affected by that — having your sexual awakening at the same time you’re reading the news and having it equated with a death sentence.

Scott Weaver plays trumpet with Miami Dice during a performance at the Charlotte Pride Festival and Parade in 2014.

Photo courtesy Miami Dice.

If you don’t know Scott Weaver, you need to. Stat! Get to Snug Harbor or any of the other places he DJs or performs and hit him up for conversation. You won’t regret it. I had the opportunity to sit down and chat with Weaver over coffee on a morning before going to press with this print edition focusing on LGBT and friendly musicians in the Queen City. Weaver, 45, has been planning parties, DJ-ing and singing more than 20 years. He’s most well-known by some for his Thursday night Shiprocked! parties at Snug Harbor, but Weaver, is openly gay, also an astute musician, playing trumpet and doing vocals currently for the band Miami Dice (read their profile in our cover feature on page 12). In the past, he’s also played with Snagglepuss and Babyshaker. Here’s more about Weaver. Our interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

Matt Comer: Where are you originally from?

Scott Weaver: It’s most recognizable as Muscle Shoals, Ala., but it’s actually called the Shoals Area. Muscle Shoals is the most famous of the four little towns because of the recording industry there in the ‘60s and ‘70s.

How long have you lived in Charlotte?

I moved here in August of 1995 to Plaza Midwood and that’s where I still live. I first worked for a store that’s now long since been gone, where Twenty Two is now. At the time it

How did that affect you?

It’s always carried over. That’s why I’ve always gotten condoms from RAIN or Planned Parenthood and provide them at my parties.

That was always imprinted on me — if you’re going to party and all that you should still be aware. I’m not puritanical. I like people to have fun and I hope they get laid, but I just want to make sure they have the option to make a good decision.

How long have you had a passion for music?

I was always a music geek. I sang in chorus, the chamber choir and played in band in high school. By the time I was a senior in college, I began to plan parties. I convinced local business owners to let me take over and book acts.

I wanted to try to make a scene happen, because I was so tired having to drive to Atlanta, Nashville or Birmingham every weekend to see the entertainment I wanted to see. My first party was in 1992.

You’re an openly gay musician and performer.

What’s that been like and your interaction with the larger community?

I think that as acceptance has grown, in a lot of ways the community itself and how we present ourselves to the world — and I understand the politics of it — has changed to want to fit in and get equal treatment that way. That’s just always pissed me off. Some people tell me I don’t “seem like” a gay person. What’s a gay person supposed to “seem like”? Being out and being gay and refusing to be marketed in any other way other than “I’m just me and I can play rock and roll in your straight world” — that’s me. : :

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