QNotes July 4-17, 2014

July 4-17 . 2014

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qnotes news & features

arts. entertainment. news. views. Briefs 10 News Notes: Regional 11 News Notes: U.S./World

a&e / life&style 12 14 14 15 16 19 20 22 23

Black Pride fosters awareness An American Revolution Summer Sipping: Beer Jane’s World Favorite LGBT Bartender Tell Trinity Out in Print Q Events Calendar Our People: Malu Fairley

opinions & views 4 4 5 5

Editor’s Note Commentary: Black Pride TalkBack QPoll

You are invited…

QList — Best of LGBT Charlotte Awards Reception Hosted by ByDesign Furniture, 2130 South Blvd., Charlotte Thursday, July 17, 5:30-7:30 p.m. qnotes holds its very first QList-Best of LGBT Charlotte Awards Reception, hosted by ByDesign Furniture. Come mix and mingle with this year’s QList winners, including Best Non-Profit, Best Bar/Club, Best community leaders and more. Special guest host Roxy C. Moorecox and DJ Jonathan Hill.

Complimentary wine and other refreshments. An RSVP is required. Admission is free; in lieu of ticketed admission, gifts to help support the work of local independent LGBT journalism are encouraged.

RSVP and information available online at goqnotes.com/qlist/

LIST

Best of LGBT Charlotte - 2014

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qnotes connect July 4-17, 2014 Vol 29 No 05

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

contributors this issue

Paige Braddock, Matt Comer, Charles Easley, Peter Engels, Lainey Millen, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Trinity

front page

Graphic Design by Lainey Millen & Matt Comer Photography: Matt Comer 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.

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editor’s note

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Supreme Court sets dangerous precedent On June 30, the U.S. Supreme Court struck a decisive blow to the rights of women and opened the door to continued abuses to other minorities.

Ruling in favor of Hobby Lobby and two other corporations, the Court said closely-held, private, for-profit corporations could not be forced to comply with the new federal Affordable Care Act’s mandated contraception coverage if it violates the corporation’s and its owners’ religious liberties.

Pundits and legal analysts have classified the ruling as very narrow — applying to smaller, privately-held corporations and only on the question of contraception. But, the social and potential legal implications are as clear as day — to at least one dissenting justice and progressive folks across the country.

The ruling will, no doubt, open the doors to countless claims attempting to exempt corporations from complying with any law they find objectionable. All the reasoning they’ll need is a “sincerely held religious belief.”

And, though the initial case dealt only with contraception, I hold no illusions it will end there. The Court attempted to hand down a narrow ruling, and legal analysts and pundits are cautioning against over-reading the majority opinion. But, there’s a clear path now to broader challenges to the rights of all sorts contentious and often religiously opposed and debated healthcare issues.

“Would the exemption,” wrote Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, “… extend to employers with religiously grounded objections to blood transfusions (Jehovah’s Witnesses); antidepressants (Scientologists); medications derived from pigs, including anesthesia, intravenous fluids, and pills coated with gelatin (certain Muslims, Jews, and Hindus); and vaccinations[?]…Not much help there for the lower courts bound by today’s decision.”

The Supreme Court’s newest Pandora’s Box also holds great potential to affect a variety of other minorities, including LGBT people. Conservatives will, no doubt, make arguments to that effect using this ruling.

Republican Mecklenburg County Commissioner Bill James pointed the path forward for conservatives on the day the ruling was handed down, writing on his Facebook profile, “The justices’ 5-4 decision Monday is the first time that the high court has ruled that profit-seeking businesses can hold religious views under federal law. And it means the Obama administration must search for a different way of providing free contraception to women who are covered under objecting companies’ health insurance plans. If corporations can hold religious views (they can already have political views under Citizens United) then they could be opposed (as a corporation to homosexual rights, trans surgery, abortion, medical coverage for anyone that isn’t one-man one woman.”

James added, “This will cause liberals decades of headaches.”

It isn’t often, but I have to agree with James on this one. I find his analysis honest, straight-forward and certainly likely.

Future cases could include a corporation which doesn’t want to provide joint healthcare policy coverage to same-sex couples and a corporation that refuses to pay for transition-related care (surgery or not) for transgender employees. Taken further down the logical line of reasoning, some corporations might sue to exempt themselves from local or state (and, potentially, future federal) non-discrimination ordinances and laws prohibiting employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

And, at the state level, corporations and conservatives could begin anew their most recent push to enact so-called religious-freedom acts in state legislatures. In their case, Hobby Lobby relied upon the federal Religious Freedom Protection Act, of which dozens of state versions currently exist. Earlier this year, some states, like Arizona and Kansas, had attempted to pass more stringent state versions, potentially paving the way for small businesses like restaurants, hotels and other public accommodations to swing open wide the door to legal discrimination.

Make no mistake, the Hobby Lobby ruling will set the stage for legitimized discrimination, despite the Court’s long-held opinions providing a substantial government interest in preventing and prohibiting invidious discrimination. The Roberts court, despite some of its more progressive rulings (on the healthcare law and Defense of Marriage Act, for example) is very clearly building a dangerous legacy that could forever change this nation’s legal landscape — proving itself anti-worker, anti-health and anti-woman. Just a few days prior to the Hobby Lobby ruling, the Court struck down Boston’s ordinances providing a safety buffer for women seeking care at reproductive health facilities. On the same day as Hobby Lobby, the Court ruled against collective bargaining rights for workers.

With our system of government the way it is, there’s not much one can do to directly challenge the Supreme Court. The buck stops there, kiddos. Sort of. These recent rulings should serve as a wake-up call to all well-meaning citizens. Register to vote. Then actually go and vote. Pack our state and national legislatures full of progressive voices. Put a true progressive in the White House and governors’ mansions. Let’s provide true progressive checks and balances on this out-of-control Third Branch that seems more interested in the rights of corporations than the rights of those citizens for whom the Constitution was actually first written to protect. : :

Copy Editor: Maria Dominguez Production: Lainey Millen, x205 production@goqnotes.com Printed on recycled paper.

Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2014 and may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent of the editor or publisher. Advertisers assume full responsibility — and therefore, all liability — for securing reprint permission for copyrighted text, photographs and illustrations or trademarks published in their ads. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers, cartoonists we publish is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or photographs does not indicate the subject’s sexual orientation. qnotes nor its publisher assumes liability for typographical error or omission, beyond offering to run a correction. Official editorial positions are expressed in staff editorials and editorial notations and are determined by editorial staff. The opinions of contributing writers and guest columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of qnotes or its staff. qnotes accepts unsolicited editorial, but cannot take responsibility for its return. Editor reserves the right to accept and reject material as well as edit for clarity, brevity.

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commentary

by Matt Comer & Charles Easley

A conversation on Black Pride Editor Matt Comer and local writer, media artist and educator Charles Easley recently discussed the place and purpose of Charlotte Black Gay Pride. Often, people ask why there is a need for a “Black Pride.” Read the conversation below to learn more and a potential answer. And, if you want to get involved in conversations like these, be sure to attend Charlotte Black Gay Pride’s annual town hall, this year discussing the “-isms” within the LGBT community. It will be held on Thursday, July 17. See our event listing on page 13.

Matt: So, Charles, I’m curious. I really enjoy going to events like Charlotte Black Gay Pride. But, every time I’ve ever gone and posted about it on Facebook or other social media, friends and acquaintances ask me why we need events like them. I’ve always said I think it’s important for all communities within our larger LGBT community to have space for celebrating their unique cultures and identities. What’s your take?

Charles: I find that very interesting because I don’t think I have ever been questioned by my friends of color to why I attended mainstream Pride events in the past. Also, I would be curious as to how observant folks are to the presence or absence of minority groups at mainstream Pride events. The reality is that coming out and celebrating ones sexuality is a very different experience in some cultures. So having an event organized around a specific culture allows that group to support, celebrate and explore their unique challenges and experiences associated with the LGBT community.

Matt: That’s what I’ve always believed, too. I’ve often countered the questions I’ve been asked with this: “Why should LGBT people separate themselves and have an event celebrating their community? Why not just be a part of the straight mainstream?” The answer is nearly the same: LGBT people experience life differently than straight folks and they should have space to, as you say, “support, celebrate and explore their unique challenges and experiences.” People understand that, nearly always right of the bat. But, they still get hung up around issues of race, and it becomes very clear at that point that our community needs so much more conversation on matters of racial inclusion and diversity.

Charles: It is kind of funny that folks do not see that parallel. Most folks within the mainstream gay community enjoy many of the rights and privileges that come with being mainstream; while many from marginalized communities, on a daily basis, will more frequently address challenges regarding their race when compared to challenges associated with their sexuality. I get more flack from being black than gay on any given day.

Matt: That seems like a good example of white privilege. It’s not something a lot of white folks think about often, but it’s true — we can pretty much go anywhere, visit anywhere, be in any space, without ever thinking of our race. It’s not the same for black folks or other people of color. And, that’s

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views

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

Thank you The Charlotte Business Guild would like to take a moment and thank everyone from the community who celebrated our 22 year anniversary last evening. Each and every member of our community is important to the life and story of the Guild and to the businesses, professionals and organizations that it supports. We also are humbled by our elected and organizational leaders that took time out of their schedules to celebrate with us. Look how far we have come since 1992! Want to know what is going on? Check out the website at charlottebusinessguild.org or download our Charlotte Business Guild App! Again, thanks and we look forward to two more decades of service to the Charlotte LGBT community and supporters.

— Chad Sevearance, June 25, goqnotes.com Gay=Pedophile?

Readers react strongly to a GOP leader’s comments linking homosexuality and pedophilia (goqnotes.com/29991/): It is no wonder that many LGBT young people flee North Carolina as soon as they are able. Our corrupt “good ole boy” legislature seems to be firmly anchored in the 1950’s exhibiting a religious tenacity matched only by the Taliban.

— Jimmy Locke, June 25, goqnotes.com Well, you can tell election season is almost upon us. Gottya get that base riled up so theyll come out (so to speak) and vote in the kind of droves usually reserved for mindless cattle.

— Sean Martin, June 25, goqnotes.com This has become to norm in today’s GOP in both the Carolinas and across the country. This fellow isn’t some wayward county vice chair who some would explain away,this is the NC house speaker pro tem. Second highest GOP member of the NC legislature. The guy knows exactly what he is doing. Folks, the radical right wing fringe is indeed running the GOP from top to bottom. Can not see how anyone in the LGBT community could cast a Republican vote.

Frankly, I wonder how anyone with the smallest

bit of empathy for others would vote for these wretches.

— Jim Thompson, June 25, goqnotes.com The fight continues A reader reacts to the June 6 Editor’s Note, “A new Stonewall rallying cry: Leave no one behind” (goqnotes.com/29854/): I’m sorry, but I don’t agree that were are less active. We are becoming accepted, and as we are how we fight must change. We cannot riot now, not without alinating the people who have shown us support. We must work to speak out and to maintain an understanding of the issues. The fight continues, but how we fight must change to insure change continues.

— Erica Cook, June 22, goqnotes.com

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Cooper’s Amendment One defense Readers weigh in on North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper’s recent filings in the continued defense of Amendment One (goqnotes.com/29787/): Mr. Cooper, the interest of the state?

Really? What exactly is the interest of the state other than to discriminate? That is the worst reply you could possibly make! You know it’s discriminatory, not to mention you are only prolonging the inevitable and at a cost to the taxpayer. I usually have faith in our AG, but this has made me question you.

— Brian, June 11, goqnotes.com Denied because it would “significantly alter the status quo.” Isn’t that the whole point of the lawsuit/petition?

— Dave Connelly, June 11, goqnotes.com NC needs to stop living in the past and stop being so homophobic. If two people are in love what ever race or gender why the he’ll should it bother anyone. I think we have some changes to make in some of our old time values and politicians and why I am at it I also think priest should also be allowed to marry. Loving mother of a gay couple.

— Joan Perugini, June 13, goqnotes.com

Black Pride continued from page 4 what I think makes events like Black Gay Pride so important — it provides safe space for a community that oftentimes doesn’t have one.

I’ve attended the event before and I’ve always been impressed with how safe and accepting it is for black people, but also all people.

Charles: I attended the Black Pride event here in Charlotte last year and it was very successful. There was also a shared belief among the organizers and participants that I believe puts this discussion into perspective. Most folks

feel, myself included, that having a gay Pride event based on culture is about affirmation not exclusivity. All are welcome and encouraged to celebrate. : : — Special thanks to Charles Easley for engaging in this written conversation for our commentary. Easley is an educator, mentor and media artist. He blogs at Professor Locs (professorlocs.typepad.com/professor-locs/), is a columnist for Creative Loafing and has appeared on a variety of media outlets including NPR.

qpoll Do you believe that racism is a significant problem within the LGBT community?

See the options and vote: goqnotes.com/to/qpoll

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen & Matt Comer

Gays to give blood DURHAM — On July 11, the National Gay Blood Drive (NGBD) will be held to bring attention to and to encourage the lifting of the ban on gay and bisexual men from donating blood.

The drive — which is open to everyone — is organized by filmmaker and activist Ryan James Yezak with the help of local leaders and volunteers from 60 participating cities. This is its second year.

Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has a lifetime deferment for those men who have sexual contact with men.

“The policy is outdated, and as a result, otherwise eligible gay and bisexual men are unable to contribute to the nation’s blood supply and help save lives,” said Yezak. “In addition, the ban perpetuates inaccurate stereotypes and a negative stigma about the gay male population.

The current lifetime deferral focuses on sexual orientation, and we are calling on the FDA to change its policy so that it instead focuses on sexual behavior and individual risk.”

While hundreds of gay and bisexual men across the country took part in the inaugural drive last year, Yezak was most surprised by participation from a nearly equivalent amount of allies, including lesbian and straight individuals. Inspired by their support and involvement, Yezak decided to once again organize the NDBD, expanding it to show broad demographic support.

Henry Amador decided to throw support for the initiative and is hosting a blood drive from 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the American Red Cross, 4737 University Dr., Building #3. The event is a joint effort on behalf of the LGBTQ Center of Durham (see story below) and his DADsquared organization.

“I reached out to the organization [NGBD] as soon as I heard about the drive,” Amadaor said. “It resonated with me as a gay man. Donating blood was just something that I had come to believe that I was just not allowed to do. When I stopped for a moment to contemplate why, I was immediately saddened and moved to help make a change.”

He said that the project was definitely something he could see the future LGBTQ Center backing in the future. “Hopefully, however, we won’t need to for much longer!”

The group is asking gay and bisexual men to bring eligible friends who can donate blood on their behalf. “Eligible donors are not required to be pre-tested, they simply can’t be gay or bi men,” Amador stated.

Amador shared that Helena Craig, The Durham LGBTQ Center executive director, brought it to his attention since he worked with gay men (dads in particular). “She thought it might be a nice fit,” he said.

For years, opinion by some was that gay men were often not considered as blood donors because of the threat of HIV/AIDS. “That is simply inaccurate, engaging in risky sexual behavior should be what excludes a donor, not being a gay or bi man. This ban implies that only gay or bi men could be in danger of contracting and passing on the virus, we know that is untrue,” he added.

In conjunction with the NGBD, a White House petition was launched on July 1 that calls on the FDA to change its policy. If the petition receives 100,000 signatures by July 30, President Barack Obama’s administration will issue a response. Yezak believes that it is the most effective action possible right now to increase pressure on the FDA to change their policy.

Volunteers will be on hand to welcome participants and assist in signup. A NGBD T-shirt will be given to those who sign in as a thank you gift. Participants’ names will be added to the petition being sent to the White House.

A pre-drive appointment is encouraged to avoid wait time.

Another blood drive will occur in Winston-Salem, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., at the American Red Cross, 650 Coliseum Dr. Those who wish to participate must email createthechange3@aol.com to be scheduled and receive additional information. info: rdcrss.org/1oeJSX8. m.facebook.com/events/615462485236752. gayblooddrive.com. dadsquared.org. lgbtcenterofdurham.com. facebook.com/events/1552817674945862.

— L.M. and releases

Charlotte Seniors’ dinner upcoming

CHARLOTTE — The LGBT Aging Solutions Dinner group will hold a meeting on July 21, 7 p.m., at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Fellowship Hall, 1900 The Plaza. Topic will be Lifelong Housing Solutions and will be lead

by Carolyn Cook. A presentation and panel of speakers will be on hand to review housing and innovation for elders.

Unlike recent meetings, this one will not include dinner. An RSVP is requested.

The group has partnered with AARP while interested parties work together to address the

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issues and concerns of area LGBT elders. Last month, 32 were in attendance.

At the August meeting, Issues and Solutions Groups will be formulated. At press time, they were: housing; diversity training and support services; legal and financial; medical; and social. These special interest groups will meet between monthly meetings. Coordinators are being sought.

Group coordinators shared that AARP purchased rights to show “Gen Silent” and is looking to screen it over the next half year. The film’s showing will also include a panel discussion and dinner. info: clt.lgbt.elders@gmail.com.

— L.M.

Queen City makes fitness index

CHARLOTTE — The American College of Sports Medicine, Indianapolis, Ind., with support from the WellPoint Foundation, announced that Charlotte was named 27th in its American Fitness Index.

The data report, “Health and Community Fitness Status of the 50 Largest Metropolitan Areas,” reflects a composite of preventive health behaviors, levels of chronic disease conditions and community resources and policies that support physical activity, the consortium shared.

The metropolitan statistical area (MSA) of the Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill area scored 48.1 out of 100 possible points.

“Health advocates and community leaders have come to expect the arrival of the American Fitness Index as an annual checkup regarding their community’s health and fitness levels,” said Walter Thompson, Ph.D., FACSM, chair of the AFI Advisory Board. “The AFI data report is a snapshot of the state of health in the community and an evaluation of the infrastructure, community assets and policies that encourage healthy and fit lifestyles. These measures directly affect quality of life in our country’s urban areas.”

To assist with measurement and to provide a baseline measure of health and fitness status, ACSM worked with the Indiana University School of Family Medicine and a panel of 26 health and physical activity experts on the methodology of the AFI data report.

Researchers analyzed the data gleaned from U.S. Census data, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), The Trust for the Public Land City Park Facts and other existing research data in order to give a scientific, accurate snapshot of the health and fitness status at a metropolitan level.

Raleigh, N.C., ranked 13th in the standings with 61.5 points. It beat out Atlanta, Ga., which garnered 56.0 points and obtained a 16th place rank. Others in the region were Richmond, Va., 21, 52.0 and Virginia Beach, Va., 22, 52.0.

For a complete list and downloadable report of Charlotte’s areas of excellence and improvement priorities, plus a breakdown of the components that helped make up its score, visit the AFI online.

Also, read our story on Carolinas LGBT sports teams online at goqnotes.com/29882 to learn more about what opportunities are available to get fit and enjoy camaraderie.

Not only are there sports teams and social groups that cater to the “athletically inclined,” but there are also area athletes who are working toward participation in the upcoming Gay Games to be held in Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, from Aug. 9-16. At press time, 17 participants hail from North Carolina.

Belong to a sports-related group or a team?

Let us know so we can share your news with our readers. Email editor@goqnotes.com.

Currently, there are rugby, softball, roller derby, bowling, kickball, tennis teams and leagues and more across the Carolinas that are either LGBTfocused or LGBT-friendly. info: americanfitnessindex.org. acsm.org. wellpoint.com.

— L.M. and releases

Band gearing up for Charlotte Pride

CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Pride Band (CPB) is in preparation mode to participate in the upcoming Charlotte Pride Parade, slated for Aug. 17 in Uptown Charlotte.

The two-year-old marching performers rocked out last year while marching down Tryon St., kazoos on hand.

“Marching in the Pride Parade was an incredible experience,” said out-going Charlotte Pride Band president Ron Vereen, who played a pivotal role in making CPB’s marching band dream a reality. “Part of our mission is to bring communities together through our music, and the Pride Festival enabled us to do just that. We had so much support and enthusiasm from the LGBT community and its allies on the day of the parade.”

Marching band rehearsals are beginning soon and the band hopes to see more of the community eager to join in. “The more the merrier,” says Vereen. “We want as many musicians and color guard as possible to participate. And, summer band is a great opportunity to give the band a test run if you’ve been considering joining.”

Outreach is an integral part of CPB’s mission. It made a second appearance at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, making history as the first LGBT group allowed to carry the rainbow flag in that parade. Their pep band has been a regular fixture at Charlotte Royals rugby games. And, a smaller ensemble has played for a variety of causes since it’s inception.

Artistic Director David Wallace said that CPB’s mission is to bring change through music.

“There are so many principles that we stand for individually: marriage equality in our home states, a more secure and accepting workplace, safer schools, the support of a loved one. The list goes on and on. But, what brings us together to perform is the understanding that we are a community, and the belief that we can make the

world a little better, or even just a bit more accepting, through our united performance.”

Interested parties are encouraged to contact the band for opportunities. info: charlotteprideband.org. charlotteprideband@gmail.com.

— L.M. and releases

Coastal Wilmington gets advocacy group branch

WILMINGTON — On June 28, Equality North Carolina expanded its work by establishing Cape Fear Equality as a branch of its advocacy organization.

WECT-TV reported that the launch took place at St. Jude Metropolitan Church. Speaker for the kick-off was Crystal Moore, the fired lesbian Latta, S.C., mayor who was relieved of her position due to her sexual orientation. On June 27 she was reinstated.

The organization will serve as an umbrella for a variety of LGBT area groups. info: equalitync.org/affiliates. capefearequality. org. facebook.com/capefearequality.

— L.M.

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Marriage moves forward again

DENVER, Colo. — Two federal courts issued affirmative rulings on the rights of samesex couples to wed on the same day in June.

In Denver, a three-judge panel of the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 on June 26 to overturn Utah’s state constitutional

In Marion County, Ind., one clerk’s office wed as many as 186 same-sex couples following the ruling.

Several other lawsuits are currently working their way through district or appellate courts. In North Carolina, four lawsuits are pending as the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals considers a case challenging Virginia’s constitutional ban.

During the last week of June, LGBT community members marked the one-year anniversaries of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decisions on California’s Proposition 8 and a case overturning portions of the Defense of Marriage Act. — M.C.

Defrocked pastor reinstated

amendment banning same-sex marriage recognition. The opinion blasted opponents for their religious freedom arguments, saying the ruling “relates solely to civil marriage.” A stay was issued in the 10th Circuit ruling, but one clerk in Boulder began to issue marriage licenses regardless.

In Indiana, a federal district court overturned that state’s similar constitutional ban.

Triad Movie screening nears

WINSTON-SALEM — Out at the Movies will present “Appropriate Behavior” on July 12, 7 p.m., at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, ACE Theatre Complex, 1533 S. Main St. The film traverses themes centered around relationships.

Rolling Stone called “Appropriate Behavior” the 2014 Sundance Festival’s most ready for prime time debut.

Admission is $7/adult; $6/students, seniors.

Tickets will be available at 6:15 p.m. in the theatre lobby. For advance and discount information, call Rex at 336-918-0902. info: outatthemovieswinston.org.

— L.M.

Foundation gears up for grants-giving

WINSTON-SALEM — The Adam Foundation, Inc., will be awarding $50,000 in grants and sponsorships at its upcoming 2014 Grant Presentation Ceremony on July 23, 6 p.m., at the New Winston Museum, 713 S. Marshall St. This year’s applications broke records with regard to requests, some from first-timers.

All funding applications go through a rigorous review process and the community is involved in the decisionmaking process.

Applications are initially reviewed for eligibility by the foundation’s Grants Committee. Returning applicants must submit a year-end grant report in order to be eligible for continued funding.

PHILADELPHIA — A United Methodist minister defrocked after presiding over the marriage ceremony of his gay son has had his credentials reinstated by a church appeals panel.

The decision came on June 24, allowing Frank Schaefer to return to the pulpit. Shaefer had decided to perform his son’s marriage ceremony in 2007 and later became an outspoken activist for LGBT equality.

“I’ve devoted my life to this church, to serving this church, and to be restored and to be able to call myself a reverend again and to speak with this voice means so much to me,” Schaefer told The Associated Press. The pastor said he will continue his advocacy work “with an even stronger voice from within the United Methodist Church.”

The United Methodist Church’s governing rules do not allow pastors to perform weddings for same-sex couples.

— M.C.

Northern Moravians approve ordination

BETHLEHEM, Penn. — The Northern Province of the Moravian Church in North America has approved new rules to allow the ordination of gay and lesbian clergy. The new measure includes those clergy who are single, married or in a “covenanted relationship.”

The decision came with a 181-62 vote at the Northern Province’s synod. The new measures will update the Northern Province’s Book of Order and includes a call to create a rite for blessing same-sex relationships, though it stops short of endorsing full marriage equality.

The Northern Province is comprised of congregations in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington D.C., Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, California, Ontario and Alberta.

The Southern Province — with congregations in North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia and Florida — is based in Winston-Salem, N.C. It has undertaken a study of issues surrounding LGBT inclusion, but has not taken the same steps as its northern neighbor. The Northern Province’s new measures have no affect on the operation of other provinces.

— M.C.

The applications that meet funding criteria are then assigned to members of a community review panel. This panel is made up of both LGBTQ individuals and straight allies. The panel submits its recommendations back to the Grants Committee for their final review and then funding recommendations are made to the foundation’s board for final decision.

The foundation’s Grants Committee met during the first week in June to listen to feedback from volunteers who reviewed and researched requests that span healthcare and research to arts and entertainment.

RSVPs are due via email by July 18 to grants@adamfoundation.org.

The foundation’s Silver Anniversary Celebration signature fundraising event will be held on Nov. 8, 7 p.m., at the Wake Forest Biotech Place, 575 N. Patterson Ave. Theme will be “The Silver Screen: Lights! Camera!

Action!. info: adamfoundation.org.

— L.M.

Triangle Durham center under exploration

DURHAM — A packed mixer was held on June 20 at Ninth Street Bakery Café to share with the community efforts toward development of an LGBT center in Durham.

Spearheading the effort are LGBT Center of Raleigh board members Helena Cragg and Tom McEvoy, along with Henry Amador. Other steering committee members are Milan Pham, Jamie Jennings and Kirk Royal.

On Oct. 23, 2013, a town hall meeting was held at the LGBT Center of Raleigh, where conversations began on how to best serve

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Black Pride fosters awareness, celebrates diversity Annual Charlotte Black Gay Pride board members look toward events July 17-19

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com In two weeks, Charlotte Black Gay Pride will light up the Queen City with a bevy of events meant to inspire, connect, empower and motivate.

The group’s annual events — including a town hall, annual social mixers and its community expo — will get a large boost in attendance, too.

The national Center for Black Equity, a national federation of African-American LGBT community groups and Black Gay Pride organizers, will hold their conference in conjunction with Charlotte Black Gay Pride events.

Pride Chair Crystal Long says the opportunity to host a national conference is among the most exciting components of this year’s event.

“What we have is an opportunity to really put our best foot forward,” Long says. “We are really excited. I think it’s a really good opportunity to educate the community.”

The Center for Black Equity’s conference will include a variety of workshops and seminars, taking place simultaneously with Charlotte Black Gay Pride’s Community Expo on July 19.

Pride Development Director Francisco White says the combined Expo and conference will be a benefit for Charlotte and its LGBT community.

“The financial implications for the city can’t be ignored,” White says, noting last year’s various Charlotte Black Gay Pride events attracted

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12,000 people. They expect more this year, and have gotten the community support to pull it off.

“We have received a healthy amount of financial support,” White says. “We are definitely reaching out to the big banks and companies in the area. I just think it’s smart business — to be involved.”

This year marks White’s first year serving on the Charlotte Black Gay Pride board. After living in Boston for a while, White recently moved back to Charlotte and got involved.

“I just recognized it was a crucial part of the gay community here,” he says.

White also wanted to help combat some of the misconceptions surrounding Black Gay Pride.

“I know there is this misconception that the organization and its events are racially divisive or separatist,” he says. “In actuality, I think it exists because the larger gay community is really a microcosm of the larger racially-segregated and classist society.”

Black people face a variety of unique challenges growing up and coming out as LGBT, several Black Pride organizers say. Events like Charlotte Black Gay Pride give community members the opportunity to come together in solidarity.

“Just like there is a St. Patrick’s Day, just like there are a whole lot of other events or celebrations of different cultures, we have a Black Gay Pride to represent our culture and what it is to be black and gay here in America,” says Nate Turner, a first-year board

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member serving as the group’s community outreach coordinator.

Like White, Turner says he got involved to make a difference and help educate the community. Turner is most excited about this year’s community town hall.

“It’s going to introduce people to so many different facets or guess you could say ‘-isms,’ that’s basically what it’s about — racism, sexism and all the different kinds of discrimination,” Turner says.

And, discrimination can be very real, but so can unity. White points to Carrie Michele, winner of this year’s Miss Charlotte Black Gay Pride Pageant.

At the pageant on June 18, Michele was asked why she should be crowned Miss Charlotte Black Gay Pride and what Black Pride meant to her. She explained her parents were an interracial couple.

“I could have participated in Charlotte Black Gay Pride or Charlotte Pride,” Michele told the judges and audience, “but I chose Charlotte Black Gay Pride.”

White says Michele’s answer inspired him.

“I think it’s really symbolic of what our organization is all about,” he says. “I love that she’s biracial. It’s really symbolic of our inclusive organization and our events fostering social awareness and celebrating the diversity of the gay community and of Charlotte as a city.” : : Carrie Michele is crowned Miss Charlotte Black Gay Pride at a pageant on June 18. Michele, who is biracial, inspires Charlotte Black Gay Pride Development Director Francisco White, who says her win symbolizes the organization’s mission to foster social awareness and celebrate diversity.

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Pride Events July 17 Town Hall LGBT Community Center of Charlotte 2508 N. Davidson St., Charlotte Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the town hall running from 7-9 p.m. Black Pride’s annual town hall offers the community an opportunity to discuss important and critical issues facing the community today. This year’s town hall discussion is “The -isms,” addressing racism, sexism, classism, heterosexism, genderism and more. A mix and mingle will follow from 9-10 p.m. Open bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres.

July 18 Meet and Greet Charlotte Crowne Plaza 5700 Westpark Dr., Charlotte, 7 p.m.

Sponsored by the Center for Black Equity. Come get to know Charlotte Black Gay Pride organizers and other community leaders and members.

July 19 Pride Expo Charlotte Crowne Plaza 5700 Westpark Dr., Charlotte, Noon-6 p.m.

Charlotte Black Gay Pride’s annual community expo, with vendors, entertainment including the annual drag show, workshops, door prizes and a kids zone.

July 20 Mardi Gras Jazz Brunch Celebs Restaurant 445 W. Trade St., Charlotte, 1-4 p.m.

A Mardi Gras-inspired jazz brunch to close out the weekend of activities and fun.

For more information about these events and more, visit charlotteblackgaypride.org.

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life

An American Revolution

Stonewall and the riots that changed the world, even this sleepy Southern town After the riots, gay bars would turn into defacto community centers for LGBT people

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

C

harlotte’s gay bar scene has been decades in the making — and has it been a ride. From hole-in-the-wall hangouts home to prostitutes and hustlers to modern-day dance clubs hosting hundreds of patrons and viewed as entertainment destinations, local establishments have made their own unique history.

That history is important to Donald O’Shields, who, with his late partner, Rick Wilds, bought The Scorpio on Freedom Drive in 1989. O’Shields met Wilds, who passed away in 2008, while working in 1979 as a bartender at The Odyssey, a long-closed local gay club. They immediately hit it off, became lovers and eventually settled down together. That same year, O’Shields would take a bartending job at The Scorpio. Ten years later, the couple would own the historic nightclub — opened in 1968, a year before riots at a New York City bar would launch a nationwide upsurge in gay activism.

On June 28 each year, LGBT people across the globe Donald O’Shields celebrate the anniversary of the riots at the Stonewall Inn, a Greenwich Village gay bar owned by the mafia and often raided by police. Years of police harassment and arrests culminated in 1969, when patrons — mostly drag queens, transgender folks, poor youth of color and street hustlers — revolted. The ensuing three-day upheaval in the neighborhood would act as a sort of flash point for a nascent gay political movement. This year marks the riots’ 45th anniversary.

A year after the riots, on June 28, 1970, the first Christopher Street Liberation Day march was held in New York City. That early march would morph into the LGBT Pride parades and festivals scattered throughout the year and across the world today.

In 1968, Charlotte was a sleepy Southern town. The Scorpio opened amid a backdrop and history of oppression. Gay men cruised Trade and Tryon streets, and an arrest for gay sex

landed your name, address and mugshot on the front page of The Charlotte Observer, ending your career and your marriage, if you had one. Wearing drag or dancing with someone of the same sex was illegal.

The Scorpio’s original owners, Marion Tyson and her husband, Floyd, wanted to give gay people a safe space to be themselves.

“They started it because they had gay friends,” says O’Shields, noting how few other bars in the area catered to gay clientele. “They listened to their friends.”

The Scorpio originally opened on South Boulevard, moving later to South Tryon and finally landing at its current Freedom Drive location in the early ‘70s, just a few years after the tumultuous Stonewall riots.

That’s when O’Shields and Gregg Brafford began hitting up the bars, going out as soon as they turned 18.

Brafford, who owns Woodshed Lounge and has managed or owned gay bars in Charlotte since 1984, went to his first gay bar, the Brass Rail, in 1974.

“It was like being Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz,” he says. “You live your whole life in 1974 and you never knew anyone else in the world who was queer, and suddenly you find a whole world of queers. Thousands of them.”

Gregg Brafford O’Shields and Brafford both remember what it was like in those early days. Outside of the bars, the world was lonely and dangerous.

O’Shields says being openly gay in public spaces could have been a “death toll.” The bars offered safety, familiarity and community — the de facto “community centers” of gay life.

“It was like a family,” remembers Brafford. “For all these people, especially in all these little towns around Charlotte,

Charlotte was the center of life. For a hundred miles around Charlotte, people came from all over, weekends especially.”

And, everyone — literally, everyone — was welcomed.

White and black, gay and straight, out and closeted, drag queens and hustlers.

“It was a different world. The gay bars were tough places back then,” Brafford says.

The AIDS crisis of the 1980s changed the community, and with it the gay bars. Brafford says he lost as many as 500 customers over six years. O’Shields saw similar declines at The Scorpio.

“You would just quit seeing people. They’d stop coming out and you just wouldn’t see them anymore,” O’Shields says. “Odds are, people had died.”

The nature of gay bars changed, too, going “from whorehouse to the greatest saint it could ever be,” Brafford said.

When no one else was stepping up to help gays suffering through AIDS, the gay bars did. Brafford’s several establishments and The Scorpio hosted fundraisers to support early groups like Metrolina AIDS Project.

O’Shields says places like The Scorpio and its history shouldn’t be overlooked. “The fact that it’s been here and been able to make [it for] so long is important,” he says.

The road has been rocky and they’ve weathered quite a few storms — the AIDS crisis, in particular, and more recently the technological advances of the Internet and mobile hook-up apps like Grindr.

Gay folks don’t necessarily depend on gay bars to socialize anymore, says O’Shields, but, “We’re still here, and we’re still kicking.”

O’Shields knows The Scorpio will face more challenges as the years progress. What will the club look like in another 45 years? He doesn’t know.

“All I want to keep doing is giving them a place to come and have a good time, meet people, dance, socialize,” he says. “As long as they are wanting to do that and they are giving us a chance, we’ll stay in business.” : : — This article is provided in partnership with Creative Loafing and was originally published in Creative Loafing’s June 26, 2014, print edition. Learn and read more at clclt.com.

Creative Loafing is a qnotes news partner.

Summer Sipping: Beer Local or unique brews keep the party going

by Peter Engels :: qnotes contributor

A cold beer is the perfect match for any summer activity: grilling, lounging by the pool or on beach, or outdoor concerts. The tried-and-true Rocky Mountain lagers have always been a staple, but don’t forget to check out the amazing things being done in the craft beers industry. Try some of our summer beer picks: Unknown Brewing No Shame Wheat. Unknown is a relative newcomer to the Charlotte beer scene at just under 1 year old, but already has some killer beer. No Shame is available year-round, but a growler of this hazy wheat ale is at home during the summer.

Birdsong Doin’ Thyme Witbier. Doin’ Thyme is only around for the early summer, so don’t put off trying this one too long. A Belgian wheat base with aromatic thyme and coriander aromas and a bright herbal flavor. Refreshing on its own but has the backbone to pair well at your next cook out.

21st Amendment Hell or High Watermelon. Watermelon is as symbolically summer as a fat guy in a red suit means Christmas. This summer seasonal starts with 21st Amendment’s wheat beer, but then undergoes a second fermentation with fresh watermelon to make a beer that is dangerously easy to drink.

Magic Hat Elder Betty. Smelling of elderberries was at one time an insult, but Magic Hat has made it a thing to desire. Elder Betty is a German Weiss-style wheat beer infused with the tart flavors of elderberries. For a unique brew, definitely worth a try.

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Sierra Nevada Hoptimum DIPA. More a special limited release than a true summer beer, Hoptimum is a double IPA that will appeal to hop heads this season. Syrupy like a DIPA should be, Hoptimum boasts huge citrus hops and bitterness, with just the right amount of sweet malt to round the edges.

Bell’s Oberon. What does Michigan know about summer, anyway? Enough to churn out one of the most popular summer beers in the U.S. Light body, grainy flavors, smooth finish, and mildly fruity — Bell’s had an afternoon on the lake in mind for this summer seasonal. The can packaging makes it even easier to take it on the beach or the lakeshore.

Availability varies around the area and most are only here for a limited time. : :

SPONSORED CONTENT

Guarding against identity theft

by Judson Gee | JHG Financial Advisors America is enduring a data breach epidemic. As 2013 ended, the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics released its 2012 Victims of Identity Theft report. About one in 14 Americans aged 16 or older had been defrauded or preyed upon in the past 12 months, more than 16.6 million people.1 Just 8% of those taken advantage of had detected identity theft through their own vigilance. More commonly, victims were notified by financial institutions (45%), alerts from non-financial companies or agencies (21%), or notices of unpaid bills (13%). While 86% of victims cleared up the resulting credit and financial problems in a day or less, 10% of victims had to struggle with them for a month or more. 1 Consumers took significant financial hits from all this. The median direct loss from cyberthieves exploiting personal information in 2012 was $1,900, and the median direct loss from a case of credit card fraud was $200.

While much of the monetary damage is wiped away for the typical victim, that isn’t always the case.1 Tax time is prime time for identity thieves.

They would love to get their hands on your return, and they would also love to claim a phony refund using your personal information.

In 2013, the IRS investigated 1,492 identity theft-linked crimes — a 66% increase from 2012 and a 441% increase from 2011.2 E-filing of tax returns is becoming increasingly popular (just make sure you use a secure Internet connection). When you e-file, you aren’t putting your Social Security number, address and income information through the mail. If you just can’t bring yourself to e-file, then think about sending your returns via Certified Mail. Those rough drafts of your returns where you ran the numbers and checked your work? Shred them. Use a crosscut shredder, not just a simple straight-line shredder.

The IRS doesn’t use unsolicited emails to request information from taxpayers. If you get an email claiming to be from the IRS asking for your personal or financial information, report it to your email provider as spam.2 Use secure Wi-Fi. Never risk disclosing financial information over a public Wi-Fi network. Broadband is susceptible, too.

Look for the “https” and the padlock icon when you visit a website. Not just http, https.

When you see that added “s” at the start of the website address, you are looking at a website with active SSL encryption, and you want that.

A padlock icon in the address bar confirms an active SSL connection. For really solid security when you browse, you could opt for a VPN (virtual private network) service which encrypts

100% of your browsing traffic; it may cost you $10 a month or even less.3 Choose passwords that are really esoteric, preferably with numbers as well as letters.

Passwords that have a person, place and time can be tougher to hack.4 Check your credit report. Remember, you are entitled to one free credit report per year from each of the big three agencies (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax).1 If you get a call or email from someone you don’t recognize — it could tell you that you’ve won a prize, it could claim to be someone from the county clerk’s office, a pension fund or a public utility — be skeptical.

This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note — investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.

This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

Citations.

1 - dailyfinance.com/2013/12/31/scariestidentity-theft-statistics/ [12/31/13] 2 - csmonitor.com/Business/SavingMoney/2014/0317/Tax-filing-online-Seven-tipsto-avoid-identity-theft.-video [3/17/14] 3 - forbes.com/sites/amadoudiallo/2014/03/04/ hackers-love-public-wi-fi-but-you-can-make-itsafe/ [3/4/14] 4 - articles.philly.com/2014-03-18/ business/48301317_1_id-theft-coverageidentity-theft-adam-levin [3/18/14] Judson Gee may be reached at: JHG Financial Advisors, 704-536-3423 judson.gee@jhgfinancial.com Web: www.jhgfinancial.com Twitter: @JhgFinancial Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC

July 4-17 . 2014

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Jake Hillyer: Charlotte’s Favorite LGBT Bartender Cathode Azure bartender is the voter’s choice for their favorite local bartender in the inaugural Charlotte’s Favorite LGBT Bartender Contest

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

O

riginally from Tulsa, Okla., Jake Hillyer moved to Charlotte eight years ago at the age of 24.

He’s worked at several local gay bars and in the service industry for more than a decade. Now at Cathode Azure in South End, Hillyer says his coworkers have become like friends and family and he says there’s still an important place for gay bars in an ever-increasingly affirmative society. We sat down to chat and learn more about your Favorite LGBT Bartender — voted by a majority of readers who cast ballots in our first-ever bartender contest May 9-June 11. Our interview is edited for brevity and clarity.

What brought you to Charlotte?

My ex. Love brought me to Charlotte.

That’s a long way to travel, and you stayed.

I fell in love with the city and found a really good group of friends which kept me here, but I still miss my family.

Have you always worked in the service industry or was it something you kind of fell into?

I started bartending literally on my 21st birthday at Joe’s Crab Shack in Tulsa. I told them a year before while I worked there that I wanted to bartend. They said okay and here’s your opportunity.

Why did you want to bartend so badly?

When you’re young, it’s a very glorified position.

You think a bartender leads this really awesome life. They get to stay out late and go out and party when they aren’t working. It is true to some degree, but it’s a lot of work — a lot of work. Very late nights. You are on a complete opposite schedule from most everybody you know. It could be the simplest thing — when things are only open certain hours, you aren’t able to go. Or, if people want to get up early and go out to the pool, you won’t get any sleep if you decide to go with them.

making, the quicker time goes by and the more fun you have.

Cathode Azure is a unique place — sometimes a neighborhood bar, sometimes more clubby.

What do you enjoy most?

That’s a tough one. They both have their perks.

I would have to say I like being in a more highvolume environment. I think I shine better in an environment like that.

When you’re not working, what do you like to do? You’re already in a bar all the time.

It can be kind of tough being in a bar 24/7. I enjoy simple things. I’m a huge reader. I’m reading the “Game of Thrones” series right now.

Watching it, too?

Yes! I love it! I’m so obsessed with it. That season finale last time left it wide open. It was good!

What else do you enjoy doing?

I love just getting out and getting back to nature, going to the beach and being close to the ocean.

I was born in southern California and one of the things we did a lot was going out to the beach.

I’ve never felt more at home than near the water.

Did you go to school anywhere?

I went to Oklahoma State. My original major was veterinary medicine, then I changed it to linguistics and again to international politics with minors in French and Spanish. I can’t say I finished, but I would very much love to go back.

What’s your favorite drink?

It’s kind of funny how a lot of people would think a bartender would like something very crazy and outlandish or something so complicated to make.

Most of us don’t. We like simple things. For me, it’s whiskey and a beer. That makes me happy.

Is Cathode the first gay bar where you’ve worked?

No. I worked at Sidelines for a little over two years while I was also working at Jason’s Deli. I also worked at the Eagle, but it was brief. I only worked a couple shifts. It was just work overload — working at the deli and on Fridays and Saturdays working at Sidelines and trying to pick up a couple shifts at the Eagle as well.

What’s a memorable night or humorous event from your bartending career?

I would have to say it was New Year’s Eve in 2006. It wasn’t so much what the patrons were doing, but what the employees were doing. I was supervising at a bar out in Tulsa. It was a really interesting night and, actually, I probably shouldn’t say what a lot of them were doing. But, it was a very fun night. We all had a good time.

Is there a difference between working at a gay bar versus working at a straight bar?

You get hit on a lot more. You feel like you’re more on stage, in a sense. It does have its ups and downs, but I’d say the ups definitely outweigh the downs.

Most of my friends in the city are gay, so I get to see them all the time, so it’s really cool in that aspect.

These days, lots of gay people can feel comfortable going out to primarily straight places. Is there a place for gay bars?

I think we’ll always have gay bars around. It does seem like they are phasing out a little bit, especially here in Charlotte with several closing recently. It’s because gays are more comfortable going out and feel more accepted. I remember growing up — it wasn’t that long ago, just 10 years ago when I was 22 — whenever you went out to straight bars, you didn’t tell people you were gay. We would go to gay bars and hang out with people like us. Now, it’s not as important, but it’s still nice to go out and mingle with people who identify just like you. I think we’ll always have gay bars around. : :

Do you kind of form a family working at a bar?

Most definitely. You spend a third of your life working, so it’s only natural you become friends and family even with the people we work with.

We are definitely a family here at Cathode.

Do you prefer a busy night or slow night?

Busy. The busier we are, the more money I’m

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life

Jimmy Smith: Petra’s a microcosm of community Runner-up, Charlotte’s Favorite LGBT Bartender

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

J

immy Smith, 47, has been working at Petra’s Piano Bar for going on six years. In that time, he’s seen a big transition from the bar. When it opened, it served an overwhelmingly LGBT clientele. Several years ago, new owners decided to morph the bar into a gay-inclusive neighborhood bar that molded to the broader inclusiveness, eccentricities and eclectic feel of Plaza Midwood.

Smith says the owners took a gamble — one that’s paid off and created a new kind of neighborhood bar even more inclusive of LGBT people than ever before. Our short chat with Smith, the runner-up in our first-ever Charlotte’s Favorite LGBT Bartender Contest, is below. It has been edited for brevity and clarity.

You’ve told me before you don’t like labels when describing your sexuality.

I’ve said that for quite some time, yes. I don’t like labels. But, I use the word gay.

Why is that?

I think we’re so used to looking at things in society as either/or, black/white, left/right and gay/straight. I think, really, all of us fit into some kind of continuum. We’re really more of a grey. I appreciate the need for a label in terms of self-identification purposes and fitting into a group, but to say, “Oh, I’m gay,” there’s a lot of my history that wasn’t gay.

That description sounds a lot like the environment here at Petra’s, in terms of the kind of crowd it attracts. It’s clientele does span a spectrum. Is that why you like working here and have been here so long?

It very much is so. I’ve worked in gay bars, in particular a big gay bar in Nashville called Tribe. When I first came to Petra’s, it was predominately a gay bar. It was cool. It was great, but when the new ownership took over, we all sat down and had a meeting and discussed where we wanted to go and we thought we wanted to broaden our horizons — be a neighborhood bar, be a safe space for gay people and lesbian people and bisexuals and transgender people, but also cast a wider net. It really has worked for us. We have on any given night here a mixture

of people in terms of race, sexuality, gender and age. It’s a really beautiful thing.

Some nights Petra’s is like a traditional neighborhood bar, but on others you host concerts, you have a Jazz night or you have cabaret performances. What’s your favorite type of event?

That’s a really difficult question to answer. In my 16 years of bartending, I’ve worked so many different venues. Each type of venue has a different thing to offer. What’s unique about Petra’s is that it offers all of that in one place. You’re not bored with the same thing happening every single night as an employee working here. You’ve got an extreme amount of talent walking through the doors and any night is really a different night. We have our core group of people, our loyal Petra’s crowd and then we attract people I’ve never seen every single week. It’s really cool and keeps things interesting.

What’s maybe the most memorable or humorous time you can remember working here or elsewhere?

Oh, there are so many to think of. In terms of being here, it’s that transition that took place with us.

That was really significant. That was a really big gamble. The old Petra’s was pretty much phasing out. A lot of people were ready to write our obituary and we’ve lost several bars right here in Charlotte in the last few months. We heard some criticism, but we pushed forward anyway. We’ve opened up our doors and watching it all fall into place has been a beautiful thing.

In some respects, has that transition made the bar even more inclusive? Petra’s does, indeed, still attract many, many LGBT people.

That gamble has paid off on both ends. One of our most successful nights is every other Friday. It’s a Jazz night and mostly has an

African-American audience. In the very beginning we had a tiny little bit of concern about it being a gay bar, but as time has gone on, and we’ve been with these guys for two years now, it’s just not an issue at all. Even on those nights, we have members of our transgender community come in, relax and have a good time. As a bartender, watching this take place, it’s just the way it should be — a microcosm of our entire community. : :

Our other Fave Bartender contestants quotes wants to thank our other contestants in this year’s inaugural Charlotte’s Favorite LGBT Bartender Contest. The winning title could only go to one person, but each of these folks are winners in our book and got plenty of votes from their most loyal patrons! Keep up the great work!

Jannet Corless L4 Lounge What do you enjoy most about working as a bartender? What I love most about bartending is the scene. I started gogo dancing and bartending in California. I love the attention, beautiful women and watching people have a good time. From the different drinks to the tricks of the trade. Every night’s a different drink set and a new crowd. I’ve been everywhere from hot spots to starting a new bar from the bottom. In any crowd or situation, I’m a hit. ;) One out of five lesbians should know me by name or by Asian persuasion. I am a veteran at bartending and lead bartender at Charlotte’s hottest new sexy ladies lesbian bar. I turned bartending not only into my job, but my atmosphere from dream to reality.

Liam Johns Petra’s Piano Bar What do you enjoy most about working as a bartender? After six years of working in EMS as a paramedic, I wanted a job that kept me on the edge of my feet. The interaction with people in my neighborhood enriches my life as I grow to meet the LGBT and straight community. Being out as a transgender man and working as a bartender,

I feel I give further encouragement to others to feel safe and accepted in themselves. I help create a more safe and accepted, unconditional nightlife experience for my patrons. Thriving to uphold utmost satisfaction, including ensuring a safe way home at night.

Leah Larson L4 Lounge What do you enjoy most about working as a bartender? I enjoy meeting new people and bringing smiles to people’s faces! I work for one of the best lesbian couples I know. I love serving the LGBT community.

Ryan Lynch Cathode Azure What do you enjoy most about working as a bartender? One of the biggest pleasures of working as a bartender at Cathode Azure is my ability to meet all walks of life as members (and some allies) of the LGBT community.

The diversity of people within our community is astounding!! And I get paid to have fun and help all these people relax after long work weeks. What makes a great bartender in the first place? They get you your drink quickly and make you feel great while doing it. I’m a well-known and attractive, muscular, and tattooed bartender that strives to make every customer feel like we’re the only ones in there and are having a personal conversation.

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News Notes continued from page 11 the LGBT community in Durham. Discussion centered around the creation of a LGBT center there. McEvoy and Cragg became co-project leaders of a steering committee and began discussions with area leaders to gauge the needs of the LGBT community and how to accomplish project goals. And, Amador was selected to serve on the group’s communications committee.

Currently, the organizers are seeking input from those whom the center would serve.

Fiscal responsibility is crucial and the Raleigh center offered to sponsor the effort.

Now the Durham steering committee is asking everyone to join their email list and like the Facebook page. Of course, getting the word out is important too and stepping up to sit on the steering committee is essential as well. For those who do not have the time to devote to a more intense commitment are still needed.

To meet the short- and long-term financial requirements for establishing the center, fundraising efforts are underway. Contributions are being sought and can be made online. info: lgbtcenterofdurham.com. facebook.com/lgbtqcenterdurham.

— L.M.

Center seeks coordinator

RALEIGH — The LGBT Center of Raleigh, 324 S. Harrington St., is searching for a volunteer coordinator.

Applicant should be a good, responsible team player and skilled at public speaking, while exud-

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ing a sense of humor and outgoing personality.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to assisting with volunteer orientation on the first Saturday of each month and scheduling volunteer events; community outreach to organizations and colleges for volunteers.

The coordinator must attend all Out! Raleigh meetings and orientations and be willing to work two shifts per month at the center.

Attention to detail is imperative, as well as promptness.

Interested parties can email ktaylor@ lgbtcenterofraleigh.com to be considered or for more information. info: lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.

— L.M.

Student center interviewing director candidates

DURHAM — The GLBT Center at North Carolina State University is in the process of interviewing candidates for a new director.

Heading up the search committee is Associate Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity and Equity Amy Circosta.

On May 19, longtime director Justine Hollingshead stepped down for her position to assume the role of assistant to the vice chancellor and dean for the Division of Academic and Student Affairs, The Technician reported.

Three potential candidates, out of 40 applicants, have been identified and each must visit the school to give presentations as a part of the vetting process. The first one, Parker Hurley, visited the school on June 25.

The remaining hopefuls, Renee Wells and Jenny Kurtz will handle their presentation process in early July at 100 Winslow Hall

from 1-2 p.m. Students and the public are encouraged to attend.

Hurley is a Ph.D. candidate in the Higher Education program at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and serves as LGBTQA coordinator and director of the Bayard Rustin Center at Guilford College.

Wells is assistant director at Michigan Technological University’s Center for Diversity and Inclusion.

Kurtz was recently director of the Center for Social Justice Education & LGBT Communities at Rutgers University, but has vacated her position recently.

The selection will be made after the final presentations with a target start day of Aug. 1 for the one chosen. info: ncsu.edu.

— L.M.

Church sells building

RALEIGH — St. John’s MCC had a problem that most would find welcoming. They had outgrown their facility at 805 Glenwood Ave. and found a need to secure a new church home.

Their Glenwood Ave. property netted 9,000 sq. ft of space, but they had only been able to use 4,000 sq. ft. of it due to structural and other aging issues. Even with creativity, the building simply did not work anymore.

The mortgage was paid off in November 2013. This had been accomplished through a successful 2012-13 capital campaign, as well as a personal gift.

St. John’s was approached by a developer who was interested in the property. The church hired a broker in December and in February voted to sell the property.

news

“With a firm offer and closing date set for June 2, the congregation began exploring options. After a methodical search, the decision was made to lease 622 Maywood Ave. This facility has more parking, over 7,000 sq. ft. of worship, office and meeting space and 1,200 sq. ft. of secure storage. In addition, it comes with a large yard area for kids and outdoor activities,” Mike Gauss, director of public relations, said.

During May, church members spent time freshening up the property and landscaping the grounds.

And, on June 8, they held their first service at their space.

Currently, the board has decided to “test drive” the facility to see if it meets the needs of the congregation for the long haul.

Consensus was that they did not want to jump into a mortgage and get locked in without an exit plan. info: stjohnsmcc.org.

— L.M.

Western Beach party planned

ASHEVILLE — A beach party themed event, hosted by Dance Divas, will be held on July 19, 7:30 p.m., at Eleven on Grove, 11 Grove St. DJ Linda will spin tunes. Beach Bum Betty will provide snacks. A cash bar will be available.

Attendees are encouraged to wear beach attire. After 9 p.m., participants can gain free entry to Scandals with a stamp from the bartender.

Admission is $10. info: etledder@charter.net.

— L.M.

goqnotes.com/to/arts

tell trinity

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

Threesomes and escorts and the internet, oh my!

Hey Trinity, My boyfriend of almost two years just moved in. But before he moved in, we often enjoyed threesomes. Now, jealousy over a third person has become a problem, so we’ve stopped having threesomes and we’re trying to be sexually exclusive to each other. However, he likes the extra attention and I’m afraid if he’s denied this flirtatious side, then he’ll become frustrated with himself and eventually me. I don’t want

him to be someone he’s not. Help!

Jealousy Jammed, Nashville, TN Hey Jealousy Jammed, I hate to stir up the martini, but now that you’re both living together and trying to be sexually exclusive, you’re going to have to find ways of chasing and scoring each other. You, my little selfless pumpkin, are going to have to let him learn “the art of commitment.” Since you’re “trying” to be monogamous, allow for a few mistakes on the way! Remember, every committed, long lasting, successful relationship must make room for mistakes. So, until you both can have jealous-less threesomes, he and you will have to choose your commitment for each other over a third delicious, sexy, hunky…damn, this isn’t gonna be easy!

Good luck.

Dear Ms. Trinity, After a few months at my new job, I started noticing how many of my coworkers schmooze the boss. Even my own boss plays games just to get ahead with her boss. Don’t you think manipulation is unhealthy and ridiculous? Or, should I join the real world?

Work Worries, Las Vegas, NV

Dear Work Worries, Everyone should have morals and ethics when it comes to work, but, honey, in the real world a little healthy “over” kindness (wink, wink) wouldn’t hurt your climb up the ladder to success. Plus, schmoozing the boss is thousands of years old. (My cartoon sure is telling of how my work ethic plays out.)

Dearest Trinity, I’ve decided to use Grindr, Scruff and Adam4Adam to find a boyfriend. But, how can I know if someone is telling the truth about who they really are? Any advice is appreciated!

Internet New Born, Raleigh, NC Dearest New Born, I applaud you for taking your life by the keyboard. Internet dating is very much like blind dating, which means you’ll never really know who that other person is. It won’t be until you start dating that you’ll find out all the troubles, I mean challenges, that come with meeting strangers and dating. Your lesson as an internet dater is to take risks while following your intuition and being safe and aware that anyone can say they’re anyone, especially a criminal. Oh, and sweetie, if you find yourself in uncomfortable and confusing situations, then don’t worry.

I wake up every day that way!

Hello Trinity, I was hoping you would answer my long-awaited question, “How does someone go about hiring an escort?”

Escort In Need, Chicago, IL

a&e

Hello In Need, That’s easy, I mean difficult, baby. After spending months researching bars and street corners, I mean books and service ads, here are: Trinity’s Tempting Tips For Hiring A Sex Worker (Escort or Prostitute) 1. Do not look on the streets. Look on gay websites like Rentboy or Masseurfinder.com.

2. Ask questions that are very specific about your needs. You’ll be thankful later.

3. Call and talk to a few people. It’s your money, so spend it wisely.

4. N ever prepay or mail money, ever! And, never pay with a personal check!

5. If you have someone to your home, make sure it’s just as easy to have them leave.

6. P ut your valuables away. Everyone has a price for being dishonest.

7. If you’re going to videotape someone, share that information first!

8. Respecting your escort always means protecting each other’s health.

9. Having all your fantasies fulfilled can be addictive, so keep your wits about yourself.

10. A nd, lastly, easy come easy go. So, make the hour last! 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.

July 4-17 . 2014

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goqnotes.com/to/arts

a&e

out in print

by Terri Schlichenmeyer :: qnotes contributor

For Today I Am a Boy “For Today I Am a Boy”

by Kim Fu c.2014, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt $23.00 /higher in Canada 242 pages

goqnotes.com

You’ve planned for it, dreamed of it, wished it would happen. You imagined yourself with it and envied those who had it: family, vacation, money, success, a sibling, a pony.

Whatever it was, it’s been your most fervent desire since forever.

Yes, you’ve wanted it your whole life but, as in the novel “For Today I Am a Boy” by Kim Fu, you might not have fully realized it.

Peter Haung should have inherited the keys to the kingdom.

He’d been the answer to his parents’ prayers: a long-awaited boy, given a Cantonese middle name that meant “powerful king.” He would be the son who would not shame his father.

It was a role that Peter didn’t want.

Truth was, he didn’t know what he wanted.

All his life, he admired his beautiful oldest sister, Adele. She was patient, generous and agreeable, the sort of person others took advantage of. Peter wanted to be Adele — but he didn’t want the things she did to get by.

He loved steadfast Helen, but she seemed incapable of anything but study. Constantly reminded that her destiny was law school, she knew that she was nonetheless a disappointment to her parents. Books couldn’t change her gender, but they could get her out of Fort Michel , Ontario .

Sassy, cute Bonnie was the little sister to whom Peter was closest in age and camaraderie. It was Bonnie who participated in Peter’s schemes, Bonnie whose hair Peter styled.

They shared a bed when they were young and pretend-games as they grew — the latter of which was a secret, lest they anger their father.

Father would be livid if he knew that Peter wore his sisters’ clothes and make-up. Their father never touched them — in anger or affection — yet the feelings that welled up in Peter would certainly have made him furious.

Peter tried sports and dating girls. He tried to get used to “the thing” that extended from his groin and he tried a religious “camp” to fix his longings. He tried all his life to be a good son — and maybe that was the problem…

Here’s a little warning for you: from the very first sentence of the prologue, it’ll be hard to resist “For Today I Am a Boy.” That’s because this is an absolutely gorgeously-told story that author Kim Fu hands us — but it’s so appealingly melancholy, too: for the first two-thirds of this book, Peter is unsure of his own desires, other than to become like his sisters. Fu gives him a sense of confusion that’s almost surreal at times — we sometimes can’t decide whether he’s thinking or doing and it’s difficult to predict what will happen to him.

That will-he-won’t-she guessing — the only thing more perfect for this novel is its ending.

This is a relatively short book that you’ll want to make last. It’s moving and sad, but hard to put down — and if that’s what you need, then “For Today I Am a Boy” is what you want. : :

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July 4-17. 2014

daily news, blog posts and lgbt community event listings

Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter: goqnotes.com/subs

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July 4-17 . 2014

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Q

C A L E N DA R JULY 2014

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

Open House Harriet Hancock LGBT Center 1108 Woodrow St., Columbia 1:30-4 p.m.

Stop by for burgers, hot dogs and other refreshments. Learn more about the center and meet members of PALSS (Palmetto AIDS Life Support Services of South Carolina). Bring a salad, side dish or dessert. lgbtcentersc.org

SEP JUL

06

LGBT Democrats SEP JUL LGBT Community Center of Charlotte 2508 N. Davidson St., Charlotte 7 p.m.

The LGBT Democrats of Mecklenburg County hold their monthly general body meeting. facebook.com/LGBTDMC

08

Charlotte Pride Band Wedgewood Church 4800 Wedgewood Dr., Charlotte 7-9 p.m.

You are invited to join the Charlotte Pride Band. All those interested in color guard, marching percussionists and instrumentalists are invited to attend the band’s regular summer practices every Thursday through Aug. 14. charlotteprideband.org.

SEP JUL

10

Pride Splash Day SEP JUL U.S. National Whitewater Center 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy., Charlotte All-day Join Charlotte Pride for a day of fun, sun, fitness and music. Take in the Whitewater Center’s various outdoors activities and stick around for their evening RiverJam, featuring LGBTfriendly Chapel Hill bluegrass band Mipso, who helped to campaign against Amendment One. Information and instructions on how to get Whitewater Center tickets supporting Charlotte Pride available online. charlottepride.org/splashday/ –––––––––––––––––––– Studs-n-Suds Car Wash Sidelines Sports Bar 4544 South Blvd., Charlotte 1-4 p.m.

Come support the Charlotte Royals Rugby Football Club, with proceeds benefiting the team. charlotteroyals.org

12

Men’s Night Out SEP JUL SHU 1426 S. Tryon St., Charlotte 6-8 p.m.

SHU hosts a “Men’s Night Out,” with vendors from a variety of local retailers, including SilverFly, Jeffre Scott Apothecary, Carolina Tactical Gear, Eat The Bear nutrition products, Breathe Massage and Breathwork, BRIEF and others. Organizers also hope to include a bourbon and craft beer tasting.

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July 4-17. 2014

BEAR-B-QUE The Woodshed Lounge 4000 Queen City Dr., Charlotte 5-8 p.m.

Charlotte Pride hosts a BBQ dinner courtesy of Carolina Barbecue Co. Advance tickets available online for $10.

Admission at the door is $15. Proceeds benefit Charlotte Pride. charlottepride.org/bbq/

SEP JUL

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QList Awards Reception ByDesign Furniture, 2130 South Blvd., Charlotte 5:30-7:30 p.m. qnotes holds its very first QList-Best of LGBT Charlotte Awards Reception, hosted by ByDesign Furniture. Come mix and mingle with this year’s QList winners, including Best Non-Profit, Best Bar/Club, Best community leaders and more. Special guest host Roxy C. Moorecox and DJ Jonathan Hill. Complimentary wine and other refreshments. An RSVP is required. Admission is free; in lieu of ticketed admission, gifts to help support the work of local independent LGBT journalism are encouraged. RSVP and information available online. goqnotes.com/qlist/

Submit your event to our calendar!

22

Continues through July 20 SEP JUL Charlotte Black Gay Pride City-wide Charlotte Black Gay Pride returns to the Queen City with a town hall, meet and greet and annual extravaganza.

See page 12 for more details. charlotteblackgaypride.com

SEP JUL

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LIST

HRC Recruitment Party SEP JUL Petra’s Piano Bar 1919 Commonwealth Ave., Charlotte 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Come learn more about the Human Rights Campaign and how you can get involved in Charlotte and North Carolina.

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Out for Hillary Cathode Azure 1820 South Blvd., Charlotte 6-8 p.m.

Are you out and ready for Hillary? Come get pumped up for the next presidential campaign and throw your support behind Hillary Clinton.

Tickets are $20.16. Hosts can jump in for $201.60 (or bring along 10 guests).

For more information, email neisha@ readyforhillary.com.

SEP JUL

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Best of LGBT Charlotte - 2014

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

goqnotes.com/to/life

life

OUR PEOPLE:

Q&A with the Rev. Malu Fairley Chaplain, Charlotte Black Gay Pride

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

A native of New York, the Rev. Malu Fairley has spent the bulk of her life thus far in the South, split between Charlotte and Atlanta. In 1993, she and her family moved to the Charlotte area. After high school, she moved to Atlanta where she was an undergrad at Spellman College and attended graduate school at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology.

She’s been back in the Queen City since 2010. Fairley, who identifies as a queer woman, centers her life around family, faith and community service. Our interview with Fairley has been edited for clarity and brevity.

Matt Comer: What did you study in school?

The Rev. Malu Fairley: I was at Spellman for undergrad. I started out with a dual degree in physics and engineering, but ended up with a degree in philosophy. Me and the higher levels of math do not get along well. I then attended Candler School of Theology, where I got a masters of divinity.

Had you always been interested in spiritual work and the church?

It’s interesting how you phrased that. Because, yes, I have always been interested in working with the spirit, but the church, no.

How did you come about your interest in faith work?

That was a surprise to me. I grew up going to church — more consistently with family here in North Carolina. I was in and out of church. I took a few years off between undergrad and graduate school and in that time I got really clear — I’m going to dedicate my life to this, okay. I thought it was a joke, but it just unfolded. I consider my ministry to be continuously unfolding.

Where do you work?

I’m in full-time ministry as a chaplain at Carolinas Healthcare System. I work in with the palliative care and hospice network. In terms of my church, my ordaining church, where I’m also a member, is Wedgewood Church. I regularly lead worship and preach there.

You’re also Charlotte Black Gay Pride’s chaplain. Not all Pride groups have a chaplain. Is this the first year they’ve had one?

The formality of the position is new, but even the founding members saw that it was very important to have a focus on spiritual health, wellness and advocacy. That’s always been a part of the mission and vision of Charlotte Black Gay Pride.

When did you first join the group and why did you get involved?

I joined in February of 2013. In part, I was looking to figure out how to be involved in the community here. I’d moved in 2010 for family and career and was very focused on those and then realized I was just lacking community, especially after being in Atlanta — I had a footprint all over that city. I saw there were going to be some community town hall meetings and discussions at the LGBT center when it was at the Music Factory. I started going and walked into some intense conversations on what and who Charlotte Black Gay Pride was going to be, who was going to be on the board and what the organization is going to be. I had just the intention of being a community member, but I was in that space and hearing what was happening and kind of felt I could serve in this way. I’m very passionate about the intersection of spirituality and sexuality — that’s true no matter what the sexual orientation, but add in the dynamics of being queer or QUILT BAGPIPE or however people want to define themselves, that passion stirs in me even more. And, even if your not Christian, there are a lot of people who are culturally Christian, especially in the South, and have a lot of wounding around having a sexual or gender identity that doesn’t fit into the norm.

Part of my work on faith is providing healing.

What do you do with your family in your free time?

I do spend a great amount of time with my family, my son and my parenting partners. My mom is here and my sister is here and my siblings are just a few hours away. This is the first time we’ve all lived this close to one another. I also consider my family to be both given and chosen; some people might not be biological family, but they are still family. I like going out and about and spending time in nature. More and more, it’s important to me these days. Parks are really fun. My son and I went four-wheeling for the first time recently. That was, oh my goodness, that was fun.

What’s your favorite genre of music?

I’m not a big fan of favorites. It all depends on what mood I’m in. I just recently downloaded SoundCloud to my phone and I’m in love with that. I can switch around from Latin to deep house to Hip Hop. I love all of it. I might listen to neo-soul one day and John Legend and another day I might want to hear some heavy metal. I guess my favorite of all the SoundCloud genres is ambient music. I can listen to that anytime.

You’ve experienced the seasons in New York and in the South? Which is your favorite?

What I would take from New York is the fall.

I love a New York fall. There’s nothing like it.

If I could take that and bring it down here, I’d keep everything else the same — the South’s winter, spring and summer and New York’s fall, with the leaves turning and the crispness of the air and the fashion. It’s just a different feeling in the city. It’s beautiful, the energy of it. I was also born in September, so my birthday month always gets me excited. : :

July 4-17 . 2014

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July 4-17. 2014