July 19-Aug. 1 . 2013
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July 19-Aug. 1, 2013 Vol 28 No 06
arts. entertainment. news. views.
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Challenge and Change CLT Nightlife RAIN: Compassionate support TOY youth support Annual events Community Resources
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Graphic Design by Lainey Millen Photo: James Willamor, via Flickr. Licensed CC. Magnifying glass: freedigitalphotos.net.
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a&e / life&style
17 Tell Trinity 18 Out in the Stars 20 Playing the Field 22 Fabulance 22 Jane’s World 23 Q events calendar
Paige Braddock, Rosendo Brown, Matt Comer, Maria Dominguez, Jon Hoppel, Charlene Lichtenstein, Lainey Millen, Trinity
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5 Gay actor dies 6 News Notes: Regional Briefs
4 Editor’s Note 4 TalkBack 4 QPoll
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editor’s note by Matt Comer matt@goqnotes.com
Southern queers can’t get no love, y’all
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I, for one, have just about had it up to here with all the stereotypes about the South, y’all. And, it’s high time us southern queer folk start tellin’ it just like it is: Our wonderful accents don’t knock dozens of points off our IQs. Our traditional slower pace of life doesn’t make us lazy. The antics of our right-wing legislatures don’t make progress on LGBT equality impossible. It’s that last bit riiight thar that ‘nnoys me most. And, I ain’t the only one. “For far too long,” Equality North Carolina’s Executive Director Stuart Campbell told me earlier this month, “the South has been somewhat ignored by our community, but I think the fact of the matter is that the last region in our country that will receive full equality will probably be the South and unless we start working on it now, it will never happen.” Campbell believes, as do I, that some organizations and funders are beginning to see the writing on the wall. To make progress in the South, investment must be made. The strategy must be a little bit more strategic. The risks a little higher. Yet, all that work is made more difficult when stereotypes and ignorance about the South still abound in many LGBT and progressive leaders, thinkers, pundits and others elsewhere in the nation. I see and hear them first-hand, not only when I travel across the country, but also from northern transplants who move here or in online conversations with friends, acquaintances and colleagues. “Why would you live there,” they ask. “Why don’t you just move someplace else? The South will never change; it’s impossible! There’s nothing but bigots down there! Rednecks with fat beer bellies singing Country songs about dogs, trucks, tractors and guns.” And, you can see it in body language and hear it in other ways too. Have a strong southern accent? People will gawk at you like some rare animal on display for their personal entertainment and amusement. Or, people might immediately begin to use simpler words when they speak to you. Sometimes, their
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condescension can hardly be contained or they make seemingly complimentary comments that are anything but: “You sound like someone from ‘Gone With The Wind,’” is among the most memorable I’ve heard. (Just so we’re being clear: I’m not a slave owner, Confederate officer or the member of some bygone landed gentry family.) Lazy. Fat. Conservative. Stupid. Backward. Yeah, the South has some folks who fit those descriptions, but so does every other part of the country. The South isn’t the only place where conservative, rural ways get in the way of progress, but the South is painted with the strongest of these stereotypes. Taken altogether, they do real damage and create significant perception problems that pre-judge individuals and whole communities, many of whom are working tirelessly every day to ensure progress in a variety of ways — be it on the local level, small policy changes in schools or working to elect openly LGBT people to more and more offices across the South. The South isn’t hopeless and we are making progress here — just a little bit slower than others, perhaps. I think we do the best we can considering how many odds are stacked against us and how little support we receive. To wit, a recent study by Funders for LGBTQ Issues showed that in 2011 just $4 million of a total $123 million spent nationally by LGBT grant-awarding charitable groups went to the South. That’s just three percent of national funding despite the fact that over one-third of the nation’s population lives here. Funders for LGBTQ Issues will be discussing this funding gap at an upcoming summit, July 29-30, in Charlotte. “We’re starting to see momentum,” Campbell added in my conversation with him. “We’re seeing demographic changes in the South. And, all that adds to really an opportune time for folks to invest in the South and to redouble our efforts.” For the sake of the South, and all my LGBT siblings who live here, I pray Campbell is right. : :
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talkback Letters to the editor and comments from goqnotes.com. and facebook.com/ qnotescarolinas. Web comments are not edited for grammar or punctuation. LGBT Dems & Trans Inclusion Readers discuss and respond to allegations from transgender activist Janice Covington of exclusion by LGBT Democrats of North Carolina Vice President Concetta Caliendo (goqnotes.com/23693/): Stand by your principles, Democratic Women of Mecklenburg County. Once you let a trans*woman into your group, the agenda will be All Trans* Issues, All the Time. It’s happened all over the country, with Lesbian organizations, so that there are no Lesbian organizations that haven’t been co-opted by the Trans*Activist Agenda. — A Lesbian Democrat, June 28, web comment Dear “A Lesbian Democrat” Your TERF (trans-exclusionary radical feminist) agenda and what it represents is no better than the bigoted regressive agenda of the religious right. Trans people do NOT want to take over anything of yours or exclude you in any way, we simply want equal rights as American citizens just as you do. — Toni Browning-Early, June 28, web comment Concetta is an outspoken advocate for equal rights for all LGBT folks. Her loyalty is only surpassed by her love for her LGBT sisters and brothers. Her work will continue and we all benefit from it. Thank you Concetta. — Marsha, June 29, web comment This is absolutely an outrage. It is beyond me when I see prejudice and exclusion from people within another minority group. Sadly, I
So basically you’re just personally offended that they didn’t respond to you quickly enough? And many of the questions you’ve listed above do appear to be answered in the statements you refer to. Maybe you should read them again. It’s shameful to see you attack such a good organization with so little reguard to facts and a basic sense of fair play. — NC Democrat, July 5, web comment Matt you present it as it is. The past and present noinclusiveness of the LGBT Demacrates is very real.This is a exclusive club that does not include transgenders. Good job of bringing out the RATS. — Dragonfly, July 8, web comment
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LGBT Dems and Transparency Readers respond to editor Matt Comer’s editorial, “Lack of transparency casts doubt on LGBT Democrats’ ability to lead” (goqnotes.com/23788/):
Do you think the South is unfairly stereotyped and, thus, overlooked by leaders and organizations in the national LGBT and progressive communities? See the options and vote: goqnotes.com/to/qpoll
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No one who knows Concetta could never imagine her behaving in the manner of which she has been accused. — Leah, June 29, web comment
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have also experienced rude behavior from a very few gay men personally for being Trans. I don’t get it. There seems to be a hierarchy of priorities within the LGBT community and Trans and Bi are on the bottom of the list. I can understand Trans people who have come to the conclusion that they are not welcome in the Gay Community and want nothing to do with it. — Nikki H, June 29, web comment
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Longtime gay actor, director Alan Poindexter passes away Poindexter was star of 1996 ‘Angels in America’ production, led Charlotte Children’s Theatre for 10 years by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com
CHARLOTTE — The local theatre and “I don’t think anyone realized just how LGBT community is mourning the loss of one controversial that play would end up being,” of its longtime actors and directors. Alan Quillin recalled. Poindexter, 47, died on the evening of July 9. In many ways, the “Angels” controFriends said versy made Charlotte Poindexter had a national laughing been in and out stock. But, because of of the hospital Poindexter and so many the past week, others, Quillin said, it according to served ultimately to The Charlotte bring positive legacies. Observer. “The big thing I Barbara think came out of it was VanSchaick, the steady parade of whose daughpeople from businesses ter was close all across the comwith Poindexter, munity who stood up told the daily and said, ‘This is not newspaper that how we treat people Poindexter had and discrimination is been sick for wrong,’” Quillin said. “It several years. really brought corpoThough he rate support out of the recovered from an illness three years ago, closet and into the spotlight.” his “whole body shut down” earlier this Glenn Griffin, who worked with Queen month. VanSchaick declined to elaborate on City Theatre Company before starting earlier Poindexter’s illness. this year as operations director of the LGBT A life celebration is planned for Aug. 22. Community Center of Charlotte, worked As of press time, funeral arrangements have closely with Poindexter in Charlotte’s theatre not been announced. community. Poindexter had been professionally engaged with the theatre community for over three decades. Life celebration John Quillin, director of Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte, said Friends and former colleagues have planned a celhis group worked closely with ebration of Alan Poindexter’s life on Aug. 22, one day Poindexter. Several years ago, before his birthday. The celebration will be held 7-10 they hired him to act during a p.m. at McGlohan Theater at Spirit Square. Tickets will “Dance-along Nutcracker” event. not be required. Poindexter, Quillin said, was a “consummate professional.” “He was really such a great professional,” Quillin said. “We’re really going “He was an amazing actor, director, and to miss him. He was so creative and dedicated professional, and he is going to be missed to the craft of acting and theatre.” greatly,” Griffin said. “Whenever he directed In 1996, he took center stage during the me, he would bring out something wonderful middle of local controversies over Charlotte that I had never though about. He inspired me Repertory Theatre’s staging of the AIDSwhen it came to my own direction on stage, themed play “Angels in America.” Poindexter and inspired me with his fearlessness.” starred as Prior Walter, one of the play’s Last October, Poindexter unexpectedly main characters with AIDS. Poindexter’s resigned his 10-year tenure as artistic direcshort seven-seconds of nude performance tor at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. launched a firestorm of legal, financial Friends and colleagues have filled and social protests and battles. The next Poindexter’s Facebook profile with messages year, the Mecklenburg Board of County of condolence and support. Commissioners voted to strip public funding — The Charlotte Observer’s from local arts programming. Lindsay Ruebens contributed. Quillin said Poindexter handled the controqnotes is a member of the newspaper’s versy “with grace.” Charlotte News Alliance.
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news notes: carolinas. nation. world.
Pageant sees first lesbian contestant
compiled by Lainey Millen | Matt Comer
Charlotte Amendment One and the law presentation slated
CHARLOTTE — On Aug. 1, Connie Vetter, an attorney and member of the North Carolina State Bar and Mecklenburg County Bar, will present “Amendment One, DOMA, and Gay Law 101: Everything you should and need to know” at the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, 2508 N. Davidson, at 6:30 p.m. Vetter will share what impact Amendment One has had and how the state’s law affects LGBT individuals and couples, in addition to ways to protect oneself. Also, with the June 26 repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act, a discussion will ensue to go over the significance of the Supreme Court decision both on the national and state levels. With a focus primarily on the needs of LGBT individuals, as well as couples, Vetter is an experienced mediator. She previously has served on the boards of the Center, NC GALA Institute for Equal Rights, North Carolina Gay & Lesbian Attorneys, Mecklenburg Gay & Lesbian Political Action Committee, Equality NC, Time Out Youth and OutCharlotte. In 2004 she was appointed to the CharlotteMecklenburg Community Relations Committee by the Charlotte City Council. Vetter has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career. Her passion for educating people on legal issues continues as she shares her expertise with the community and beyond. info: gaycharlotte.com. — L.M.
LGBT endorsers prepare for campaigns CHARLOTTE — Community members with the Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee (MeckPAC) are preparing for this year’s local election season. As campaign filing got underway at the beginning of July, the group announced a significant expansion in their endorsement process. MeckPAC, founded in 1998, has long endorsed in Charlotte Council and CharlotteMecklenburg Schools races. For the first time
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this year, they will also review mayoral candidates in Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Matthews, Mint Hill and Pineville. “Our steering committee knows there are LGBT citizens and MeckPAC supporters in these towns and we want to provide an easy way for them to evaluate the LGBT inclusiveness of those running for office there,” the group said in a release. “If successful, we foresee a time when we can expand our reach to also include the town councils and commissions.” The highest-profile local race this year will be that for Charlotte’s mayor. Announced candidates include: Patrick Cannon, James Mitchell and Edwin Peacock. The filing period for this year’s local elections opened July 5 for candidates running for Charlotte City Council, the CharlotteMecklenburg Board of Education and the town commissions and mayoral offices of Mecklenburg County suburbs. Filing ended on July 19. The group says it will send candidate questionnaires to all who file for the elected offices on the ballot this year. The deadline for candidate responses is July 26. Read a longer version of this story at goqnotes.com/23857/ and stay tuned to qnotes for more news as this year’s local election season progresses. — M.C.
Pride Band forms marching contingent
CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Pride Band has announced it is forming their new Charlotte Pride Marching Band. The news comes just in time for this year’s Charlotte Pride, which will include the first local Pride parade in Charlotte since NC Pride visited in 1994. “Charlotte Pride is commemorating the first Pride parade in 19 years with a marching band,” the group said. “Not just any ol’ band, though — one that’s composed primarily of LGBT musicians of all ability levels who want to have a fun, visible (and audible) celebration of Pride.”
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COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Miss South Carolina 2013 pageant, a part of the Miss American Organization, has “come out” literally this year with its first openly lesbian contestant in the system’s history. Analouisa Valencia, a 20-year-old from Spartanburg and titled as Miss Lyman, decided that it was time to be open about her sexual orientation during the pageant’s run this season. Hiding who she was, Valencia said, made her less comfortable and confident competing for last year’s Miss South Carolina. “Coming out this year in the pageant world has made me become a lot more confident and comfortable with who I am and inspired so many people to make their dreams come true, no matter who you are or where you come from,” she said. Her mission was to inspire people and make things better for everyone. “I wasn’t going to compete this year, but God put me on a mission and I accepted fully. I promised I would do my best to inspire and make change happen for LGBT, minorities, underprivileged and special needs [people],” Valencia continued. The trailblazer’s Facebook post stated that she did not make it into the finals and felt she inspired others. As far as her knowing about her sexual orientation, she said she knew most of Photo Credit: Analouisa Valencia via Facebook. her life. “I loved Barbie. I thought she was incredibly beautiful. As time progressed and I got older, I started to develop crushes on female classmates.” When asked about whether or not the fallout of her disclosure had come with a price, considering that pageant systems are quite political, she said, “It hasn’t come with a price that I can tell. All I have received is positive feedback, encouraging words, prayers and endless support. That has made me so humble.” She added that the other contestants welcomed her with open arms, even though she feared they would not. In Canada, a transgender contestant, Jenna Talackova, competed in the Miss Universe Canada in 2012. She had originally been disqualified from the event, but with pressure mounting from activist organizations and the community, she was allowed to compete. She placed in the top 12 and tied for Miss Congeniality. Inspired by her, Valencia said she looked up to her for taking a stance and that Talackova was proud of herself and exhibited strength during the process. “I have had to have all those qualities, as well,” she commented when asked if she thought she’d have similar challenges. Her Talent presentation was a vocal rendition of “Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis. She told The Associated Press that she “became interested in pageants in 2000, when she joined a mentoring program for young girls called Palmetto Princesses and met Miss Spartanburg. The tiara got her hooked. She has been competing ever since.” Her platform centers around Special Olympics. She said she was a fan and that she had worked with it since she was eight and began coaching when she was 14. Valencia is biracial and bilingual. Her father is of Hispanic decent and her mother is African-American. She has two brothers. A former gymnast, she crossed over to singing when an injury sidelined her career. — L.M.
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The band is looking for brass, percussion and woodwind players. They are also seeking volunteers for their flag corps. The band is working with Charlotte Pride to form a color guard who will present national, state, local and community flags at the beginning of the parade on Sunday, Aug. 25 and
at an opening ceremony for the festival on Saturday, Aug. 24. For more information about joining the marching band, please contact David Wallace at director@charlotteprideband.org. If you are an active-duty service member, veteran or current or former Boy Scout member, leader or parent and are interested in joining the color guard, visit charlottepride.org/colorguard/ to learn how you can participate. — L.M.
Human Rights Campaign President Chad Griffin speaks on LGBT employee protections at a press event on Tuesday, July 9, 2013, with elected officials, business leaders and activists.
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Senators split on ENDA
CHARLOTTE — The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) teamed up with local and regional businesses to push for passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act in July, as North Carolina’s U.S. Sens. Richard Burr (R) and Kay Hagan (D) split on the issue. The bill, which has languished in Congress for several sessions, passed 15-7 in an initial vote in the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee. Burr and Hagan both serve on the committee. The committee’s 12 Democrats, including Hagan, voted for the bill, as did Republican U.S. Sens. Mark Kirk (Ill.), Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) and Orrin Hatch (Utah). Kirk was a co-sponsor of the bill. Burr voted against the measure, which now heads to the Senate floor. HRC President Chad Griffin was on a week-long tour through the South when the bill came up for committee vote. In Charlotte, he gathered for a July 9 press conference with North Carolina advocates, business owners and elected officials to push for the bill. Also speaking at the press conference was Jim Overton of Self-Help Credit Union, Mitchell Gold of Mitchell Gold+Bob Williams and North Carolina state Rep. Marcus Brandon (D-Guilford). Others also appeared in support of the press event, including representatives from Greensboro’s Replacements Ltd., Ryan Butler of the LGBT Democrats of North Carolina, staffers and board members from Equality North Carolina, Charlotte City
Councilmember Beth Pickering (D-At large), Mecklenburg County Commission Chair Pat Cotham (D-At large) and Commissioner Kim Ratliff (D-At large). Read an expanded version of this article, with thoughts on the LGBT equality movement in the South, at goqnotes.com/23913/. — M.C.
TOY scholarship winner revealed
CHARLOTTE — Time Out Youth has announced that the Neil and Tim Griffin Scholarship recipient is Veronica Rivas. Rivas has been a participant at the youth-focused organization. She will receive $2,500 in grants to be applied toward her college education. She will be attending Western Carolina University in Asheville with plans to study biology and English. info: timeoutyouth.org. — L.M.
Triad New center opening WINSTON-SALEM — The Triad is expanding its outreach to the LGBT community. In August, North Star LGBT Community Center will open at 704 Brookstown Ave. This project will provide a bountiful array of resources and support, as well as a place for people to hang out.
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goqnotes.com/to/news Chair Teresa Carter said the center hopes to have its grand opening on Aug. 10, the Winston-Salem Journal reported. She also said that the name was derived from the first gay comic book hero, Northstar. Other officers are Christine Regan, vice chair; Grace Helper, treasurer; Kevin Cooper, secretary; and board members Mary Jamis, Jonathon Morris, Suzzane
Reynolds, Richard Rominger, Cheri Evans, Dirk Robertson and Rex Welton. The news source also added that a new non-profit organization has been formed to run the Pride Winston-Salem festival. It grew out of Equality Winston-Salem, which has presented the festival in past years. Pride Winston-Salem’s primary focus is on encouraging, empowering, promoting a positive image of the LGBT community. info: northstarlgbtcc.com. pridewinstonsalem.org. — L.M.
Foundation announces grant recipients
Winston-Salem Foundation’s Jonathan Halsey (left) received a $25,000 check from Adam Foundation President Larry Boles.
WINSTON-SALEM — The Adam Foundation held its annual grant recipients’ presentation on July 10 at 6th and Vine during its monthly martini night event. The 2013 awardees are: AIDS Care Service, $12,500; Positive Wellness Alliance, $10,000; Echo Network/ Storyline, $500; Q.O.R.D.S., $1,800; Equality NC Foundation, $2,500; Triad Health Project, $2,000; Green Street UMC/Interfaith Voice, $2,000; Triad Softball League, $1,000; Interfaith Winston-Salem/Compassionate Winston-Salem, $500; WinstonSalem Theatre Alliance, $5,000; North Carolina AIDS Action Network, $1,000; Youth Opportunities, $2,000; North Star LGBT Community Center, $2,000;
and Adam Foundation’s Adolescent Futures Initiative, $1,000. President Larry Boles also presented a check for $25,000 to Jonathan Halsey with the Winston-Salem Foundation to jump start the Adam Legacy Endowment Fund. The grants are bestowed to organizations and programs that support its mission of promoting the identity, strength and well-being of the local LGBT community and supports organizations serving persons living with HIV/ AIDS. This year had been record-breaking for the number of grant applications received. It is constantly seeking contributions to its funding endeavors. Anyone wishing to do so can find more information online on how to accomplish this. info: adamfoundation.org. — L.M.
ACS receives grant
WINSTON-SALEM — AIDS Care Service (ACS) received a $26,000 one-year grant from The Winston-Salem Foundation. “The generosity of The Winston-Salem Foundation will help ACS upgrade and update its marketing and development tools,” said Rivkah Meder, ACS director of development and community relations. “These enhancements will allow us to build greater community support and awareness.” According to the agency’s president, Jesse Duncan, “these funds are just in time as we prepare for our 20th year celebration of life and services in 2014. We’re still here.
People needing our services are still here. HIV is still here!” info: aidscareservice.org. — L.M.
Triangle Center seeks survey participants
RALEIGH — The LGBT Center of Raleigh, 411 Hillsborough St., has launched its annual engagement survey. The center’s executive director, James Miller, is encouraging community members to give important feedback on the center’s operations and programming saying, “We can only make it better with your input!” The survey takes 10 minutes or less to complete and helps the organization make better plans for the year ahead. Visit docs.google.com/forms/d/ 1WqvDLITnaXiAcpWa8jtgkJgyK7kSXdouHk ZmiJgcEmg/viewform to participate. info: lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.
Fest’s gala around corner
RALEIGH — The Crape Myrtle Festival (CMF) has announced that its 33rd Annual CMF Grand Gala will be held on July 27, 7-11 p.m., at the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh Memorial Auditorium Lobby, 2 E. South St. This has been a record-breaking year for CMF and they continue to welcome contribu-
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tions and volunteerism to maintain the work it provides for the community. A silent auction will be held to help raise funds for CMF. Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served. Dana St. James, Michelle Warren, Marilyn Merlot and other Drag Brunch performers will be on hand to entertain. Chairs for the event are Kurt Hurelbrink and Dan Woodard. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the
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door. Students can attend for $20. info/tickets: crapemyrtlefest.org.
— L.M.
Western ALFA raises voices
HICKORY — AIDS Leadership Foothillsarea Alliance (ALFA) has shared that is is hosting a Joyful Noise Gospel Festival on July 20, 4 p.m., at Exodus Missionary Outreach Church, 1763 Highland Ave., NE.
Gospel groups, church choirs and soloists will be on hand to provide uplifting and inspiring music. ALFA needs help restocking its food pantry. Attendees are asked to bring at least two non-perishable food items to leave at the door. info: alfainfo.org. — L.M. info: Have news or other information? Send your press releases and updates for inclusion in our News Notes: editor@goqnotes.com.
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Challenge and Change in LGBT Charlotte Local LGBT groups, businesses move forward amid transformed culture by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com
CHARLOTTE — Last month, the LGBT community witnessed history. One of the last remaining vestiges of federal anti-LGBT discrimination was wiped away when the Supreme Court struck down a portion of the Defense of Marriage Act. The ruling, while not perfect, removes yet another hurdle from full federal LGBT equality. The historic change came about on the anniversary of yet another historic event, the Lawrence v. Texas decision striking down anti-gay crime against nature laws. The 10 years between Lawrence and this year’s pair of pro-LGBT Supreme Court rulings are no ordinary decade. The world today has been transformed — legally, socially, religious, technologically and more. Some leaders in Charlotte’s LGBT community say those changes have brought both positive growth and challenges. “If you go back 10 years, or even seven or eight, back then the only place an LGBT person could really go was to gay bars and to have a community center was a necessity for them to have a place to rally around and get to know people and be comfortable and safe,” says Roberta Dunn, vice-chair of the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. Ten years ago, the Charlotte center was just two years old. The internet was still young and LGBT resources were sometimes hard to access. Mass online socializing was a new concept; Myspace had just been born and Facebook would come just one year later. “When I was coming out, everything just seemed to be self-discovery,” says Glenn Griffin, the Charlotte center’s operations director. “You could go to the clubs or visit Stonewall in New York City. That was all I could find.”
Things today, are different, Griffin says. “Things have gotten much more out in the open,” he says. The internet — perhaps the most transformative communication tool in the history of humanity — has played a significant role. “You can go online now and find any answer you want or find 10,000 answers,” he says, noting the ease of access doesn’t necessarily solve all LGBT resource challenges. “At the same time,” Griffin adds, “you’re still alone. At the center, what we are striving to do is have groups and a community come together.” Jim Yarbrough, who owns and publishes this newspaper, says he, too, has experienced the powerful changes of the last decade. His White Rabbit, which sells books, magazines, Pride-ware, clothing, novelties and other items, hasn’t been immune to the changes. “I think that LGBT bookstores as a rule have struggled a lot over the past 10 years, because our community has become a lot more mainstreamed,” he says. Online book retailers have cut into print publishing profits. Large booksellers are more likely to carry LGBT titles. Like the center, which finds itself adapting to new needs, Yarbrough says that White Rabbit is moving forward. “I think it’s important to make changes and to stay up with the times, changing merchandise, changing your look, but that’s with any retail business,” he says. But, in a time where LGBT resources and products are available at the click of a mouse, are groups like LGBT community centers and LGBT-themed stores, and even newspapers, still relevant?
Out in the open: Charlotte’s LGBT community has changed and become more outspoken over the past 10 years. Still challenges remain, and leaders say they are being faced, for groups like the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte and businesses like White Rabbit (pictured). Dunn, Griffin and Yarbrough all say yes. “I think the LGBT store, not necessarily a bookstore, still serves the community with a variety of merchandise that they can’t find anywhere else or, at least, is harder to find anywhere else,” Yarbrough says. “They can feel comfortable coming here to buy. Some people are still not out or still aren’t comfortable.” Dunn and Griffin say the center is fulfilling needs that didn’t exist a decade ago. “Our Gay & Gray group,” says Griffin. “Before, you never would have heard of
something like that. That group of people is now older and they are out and they need resources.” The center, says Dunn, will remain a central community resource. “We have to really change operations and outreach, but we are still the focal point for LGBT people,” she says. “You look at the list of events the center holds — it’s a page full.” Dunn adds, “It’s just the comfort and relaxation of going in and being around folks just like you.” : :
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Charlotte nightlife: A scene for all LGBT bar and club owners talk about their establishments’ history, their love of the biz
The Bar at 316
Central Station
Jeffrey Edwards
Eddy Sansone
Opened in August 1989, The Bar at 316, then known as Liaisons, got a refreshing makeover and reboot in December 2009. Current owner Jeffrey Edwards was among the business partners that kept one of Charlotte’s oldest gay bars alive. Today, he’s the bar’s sole owner. The history of the place and those who came before doesn’t escape him. “Everyone who owned it, owns it now and work here are just genuine people,” he says. “It’s the Cheers of Charlotte.” The old house, located in the historic Dilworth neighborhood, has its own charm. “It’s like having a house party at someone’s house,” Edwards says. “I went to Liaisons probably for 13 years before it ever came available. That was our hangout. I had just fallen in love with the place.” Bar at 316 is open seven days a week, says Edwards: “We’re always here.” info: 316 Rensselaer Ave. thebarat316.com.
Originally from New York and raised in New Jersey, Central Station’s Eddy Sansone moved to Charlotte eight years ago. This year, he became owner of the Central Ave. hangout, whose motto, “Everyone stops here,” is reflective of Sansone’s vision for business. “Especially this bar, when I hire bartenders, I tell them: ‘No drama, you can’t judge anybody and no cliques,’” Sansone says. “Charlotte is big on cliques. Coming from New York, we don’t have that. So, that was one thing I wanted to change.” info: 2131 Central Ave. charlottecentralstation.com.
Cathode Azure Doug Lemmone Cathode Azure owner Doug Lemmone grew up in New York City and went to Florida after college. A relatively new Charlottean, Doug says he moved here after being the victim of a staff reduction. With that, he set out on a new course, opening his South Beach-inspired bar in South End last September. He says his goal was to create a space a bit more upscale and he’s happy with the location he chose for his business. It’s next to the light rail and in close proximity to other LGBT bars and friendly establishments. “I tried to build an attractive location,” Lemmone says. “They come in here and experience the staff and the music. The customers really fit right in and they like it.” Lemmone says Cathode Azure is excited about participating in this year’s Charlotte Pride, where they will plan on having a tent and potentially helping to staff a beer tent. info: 1820 South Blvd., #106. cathodeazure.com.
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Chasers Basil McIntire Brian Hemric Located near Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood, Chasers is the city’s only gay adult male club. Owned for years by The Scorpio’s Rick Wilds, who passed away in 2008, and Donald O’Shields, the bar was bought by coowners Basil McIntire and Brian Hemric in 2011. Both had worked there previously; Hemric is still manager at The Scorpio and McIntire started working at Chasers in 2006. Before then, McIntire had worked in manufacturing. “I got a little tired of the day-to-day monotony of manufacturing,” says McIntire. “Here you get to socialize with people like yourself all the time. I remember what manufacturing was like. I don’t miss that at all. I especially enjoy working here at Chasers. I like the atmosphere here. I enjoy all the customers, the interaction.” info: 32717 The Plaza. chaserscharlotte.com
Hartigan’s Irish Pub Bethany McDonald Jill Phillips Christa Reeves Originally opened in 1996, Hartigan’s is, perhaps, one of the most unique LGBT nightlife establishments in Charlotte. — part dance club, part sports bar, part Irish pub and part restaurant. As a result, the bar and restaurant is home to a
diverse and unique clientele. Though, says co-owner Bethany McDonald, there are challenges. Hartigan’s location in Uptown puts it outside the “cool kid radius,” as McDonald calls more “hip” and popular neighborhoods like Plaza Midwood or South End. And, so, she and fellow co-owners Jill Phillips and Christa Reeves work hard to ensure they are reaching out and helping to make a difference. All that work has paid off. Last year, Hartigan’s was able to host a special delegate event during the Democratic National Convention. ESPN named it in the top 29 best sports bars. The three women each say they have a passion for serving the community through Hartigan’s. They’ve offered space for fundraisers and non-profits and host a diversity of groups and events throughout the year. They’ve also managed to attract more mainstream customers from the nearby Bank of America Stadium and are looking forward to potential increases once the new Charlotte Knights baseball stadium is built. info: 601 S. Cedar St. hartigans.com.
The Hide-A-Way The Rainbow In Margie Teal Margie Teal, owner of Rock Hill’s The Hide-A-Way and Lake Wylie’s Rainbow In, has been a bar owner for nearly half a century. She started out as a bar owner in 1969 and, in 1983, with her husband, opened her first gay bar, The Hide-A-Way. “We were opening a bar, and just a week or two before we opened, my husband decided to open it as a gay bar,” she says. The Rainbow In, formerly a straight bar called The Roadhouse, opened as a gay bar in 2009. Local nightlife laws had changed several years prior, making business at The Roadhouse difficult. “It affected my business, so I just decided to switch it over to a gay bar,” she says. Teal’s two bars are the only LGBT nightlife establishments in Charlotte’s suburban outreaches. Teal says she serves many local people, though LGBT folks from Charlotte still come by. “For some people, they think it’s a long way, but Rainbow In, we’re right there at the state line.” info: Hide-Away, 405 E. Baskins Rd., Rock Hill. Rainbow In, 4375 Charlotte Hwy, Lake Wylie. therainbowin.com.
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L4 Lounge Tamalea Pierce Jannet Amistad L4 Lounge is Charlotte’s newest LGBT nightlife establishment. Its owners, Tamalea Price and Jannet Amistad, say they hope to make a difference, offering a unique place to those who want a comfortable place to relax with friends. Located just east of Plaza Midwood, the bar sits amid a diverse neighborhood. That diversity is reflected in its patrons. The bar was recently remodeled and Price and Amistad are committed to supporting their community. In the spring, the bar held a special prom for LGBT adults after another similar event was cancelled last minute. Community members who attended said they were thankful for the L4’s hospitality. info: 2906 Central Ave. facebook.com/L4Lounge.
providing something that’s not always the norm,” Howard says. “I’m blessed to have the bar as my business, but I think it’s important for all of us to experience different cultures. By having different options, that’s what’s more important because the business is about the customers.” info: 2817 Rozzelles Ferry Rd. twitter.com/nickel_bar.
Petra’s Jerry Brown Curtis Tutt
Sidelines Kevin Cooper John Sinclair
Marigny Dance Club Nathan Richards Peter Presta South End has found itself in the midst of phenomenal growth over the past several years. Marigny Dance Club, with its touch of New Orleans flair, has certainly been a part of the craze. “The spirit of southern decadence and olde New Orleans is born under the flashing lights and chandeliers of Charlotte’s premiere dance club Marigny,” the club says on its website. Opened in the fall of 2011, the club sought to bring a different atmosphere to gay nightlife. Owners Nathan Richards and Peter Presta have since worked to support the community in a variety of philanthropic ways. The bar even got the chance to host a party for the Stonewall Democrats during the 2012 Democratic National Convention. info: 1440 S. Tryon St., #110. marignycharlotte.com.
The Nickel Bar Milton Howard The Nickel Bar is Charlotte’s only LGBT establishment catering primarily to an AfricanAmerican community. Owner Milton Howard, the city’s only black gay bar owner, opened the bar in February 2009. His bar, Howard says, is always about the people. “It’s all about the customer and
gay anymore. It’s the only way you can stay viable. … There’s a limited number of gay people.” O’Shields says the local community knows that they have a home at The Scorpio. “Rick and I, one of the things we would advertise is ‘Welcome Home,’ because we learned a long time ago that gay people are going to go to other places, but they always know, that in the end, they’ve got a home here. They can come here. They can come back. We’re here for the gay community. That’s the way it’s always been and always will be.” info: 2301 Freedom Dr. thescorpio.com.
Opened in 2007, Petra’s has become one of Plaza Midwood’s most diverse, LGBT-friendly hangouts. Owners Jerry Brown and his partner, along with friend and co-owner Curtis Tutt, say their mission is to bring the whole community together. “We are a welcoming place for all people,” Brown says. Tutt says Petra’s has transformed from a primarily gay bar to a diverse Plaza Midwood establishment. “There used to be a perception that ‘I can’t go there because I’m not gay,’” Tutt says, “but every time they come in, they love it. We are as eclectic as our neighborhood is.” And, at the center of their strategy: Celebrating their staff and their patrons. “Whenever you have all these different people here and they’re all enjoying the night, it’s a great feeling,” Tutt says. info: 1919 Commonwealth Ave. petraspianobar.com.
The Scorpio Donald O’Shields In business since 1968, The Scorpio is Charlotte’s longestrunning LGBT nightlife establishment and, possibly, in the state. Owner Donald O’Shields and his late partner, Rick Wilds, who passed away in 2008, bought the bar in 1989. O’Shields had worked there as an employee for several years before hand. In his time, he’s seen the community change. “It’s changed pretty drastically,” he says. “Use to, gay people went to gay bars. Now, I’d say, a third to half the business is not
Opened in August 2007, Sidelines is Charlotte’s only LGBT sports bar, but you won’t find the words “LGBT” or “gay” on their website or Facebook. That’s by design, says co-owner John Sinclair. He and business partner Kevin Cooper say their bar is a welcoming and friendly place for all people. Gay-owned and operated, Sidelines supports plenty of LGBT community groups, ranging from LGBT sports groups to Time Out Youth and One Voice Chorus, among others. But, when anyone walks through the doors, Cooper and Sinclair want them to feel at home. “Be a good neighbor,” is their business philosophy — to which they say they’ve been committed even after the ups-and-downs of the economy and the 2009 closure of the neighboring Eagle. The bar celebrates its sixth anniversary party on Aug. 3. Stay tuned for more details, Cooper and Sinclair say. info: 4544 South Blvd. thesidelinesbar.com.
The Woodshed Lounge Gregg Brafford For 29 years, Gregg Braffod has been an icon in the local gay bar scene, managing or owning several since the mid-1980s. He started out as manager and part owner of O’Leens in 1984, opened the old Brass Rail in 1986 and in 1998 opened up Central Station. O’Leens closed in 2000, followed by the Brass Rail in 2001; Brafford sold Central Station in 2008. Today, Brafford keeps court at The Woodshed Lounge, which he opened in 2002. In all that time, Brafford says he’s seen significant changes to the city’s nightlife. “The bars have changed; the city has changed,” he says. What stays the same, Brafford says, is what he’s found to work for him: “I love the people. I feel very lucky. I’ve had wonderful and loyal customers who are not only patrons but also friends. That’s worked out good for me.” info: 4000 Queen City Dr. woodshedlounge.com.
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RAIN: Compassionate support Dedication and perseverance by staff, volunteers champions cause by Lainey Millen :: lainey@goqnotes.com
CHARLOTTE — With over 20 years of service to the community, the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN) has been at the forefront in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. And, it has done so with a vast array of people from varied walks of life, as well as a plethora of services to meet the needs of those it serves. Its founder, president and CEO, Rev. Debbie C. Warren, spearheaded the initiative in 1992 and has championed its work ever since. Even with the outpouring of support, over the past two decades, however, Warren said, “North Carolina is tremendously underserved in some areas. It’s very difficult to find safe, affordable housing and mental health services for our clients. Dental and vision services are also lacking. Transportation is a huge issue for clients, as funding has been reduced in recent years.”
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Over the years, the complexion of the agency has changed and adapted to the needs of their client base. “In many respects, RAIN is a completely different organization from how it started 21 years ago,” Warren said. “We grew out of all-volunteer efforts of members of the faith community to care for people who were very sick, frail and dying from AIDS.” RAIN attempts to stay on the cutting edge of research when implementing its services. “We stay current with HIV advocacy efforts,” Warren said. “Each year we take HIV leaders to Raleigh to meet with members of the N.C. General Assembly. Some years we’ve been able to take HIV-positive people to visit members of Congress in D.C. I am proud to be a founding member of the North Carolina AIDS Action Network (NCAAN). Last year, we
worked with AIDS United and NCAAN to host an HIV-forum during the Democratic National Convention. Former White House staffer Jeff Crowley and two members of Congress spoke to 80 advocates.” The need for advocacyis more important than ever with gaps created due to sequestration and the loss of Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program funding and other government support. Also, Gov. Pat McCrory and legislative leaders in North Carolina did not opt for Medicaid expansion. There is uncertainty on how Ryan White will be funded when the Affordable Care Act rolls out. Other cuts to the state budget can hamper RAIN’s efforts with regard to the possible $8 million ax to the AIDS Drug Assistance Program. All this is extremely disconcerting as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
reported in December 2012 that new infections had risen by 22 percent for young gay men and 6,000 gay men were dying with AIDS annually. “If HIV continues at current rates, the CDC says more than half of college-aged gay men will have HIV by the time they’re 50,” Warren warned. “For someone who’s worked in HIV for 22 years, I find that sobering. HIV Advocacy has to be integrated with our community’s efforts if we want the generations coming behind us to experience all the fullness that life has to offer — health, as well as full acknowledgement of our relationships.” For more information, to make a contribution or to volunteer, call 704-372-7246, email info@ carolinarain.org or visit carolinarain.org. : :
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Time Out Youth: Sheltering the next generation Local emergency housing program fills resource gap for LGBT youth by Maria Dominguez :: maria@goqnotes.com
CHARLOTTE — Time Out Youth’s Host Home Program has been benefitting LGBT young people in Charlotte for more than 20 years. Since its founding in 1991, Time Out Youth (TOY) has grown into a pillar of the Queen City’s LGBT community, offering a safe space, discussion groups, social events, and even emergency assistance. The Host Home Program assists LGBT young adults, age 18-21, that have been displaced from their homes. TOY Director of Youth Services Sarah Alwran discussed the program with qnotes. “We do an intake — find out what they need immediately, what resources do they have, what kind of support do they have available and how can we either increase those resources or give them the resources that they need. And, on top of that, we will find a housing match,” Alwran said. The program does have strict requirements for the youth, who agree to a background check and to remain drug-free. “They have to be actively seeking employment, employed, or in school or trying to get into school. They have goals; we do an action plan with them,” Alwran told qnotes. “It’s pretty intensive, consistent case management.” Estimates on LGBT youth homelessness vary from as low as 20 percent to as high as 40 percent, according to studies from the National Alliance to End Homelessness and National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. Youth in Charlotte are not immune to housing challenges. Last year, TOY reported 419 percent increase in the number of youth utilizing their emergency housing program. For many youth, traditional homelessness resources are not an option. “It makes shelters very unsafe for them, especially for our trans youth whose gender markers are not changed,” Alwran said. “They are not admitted to a shelter that does not match their gender marker and that’s a very dangerous situation.” In addition to homelessness, some youth also experience other extenuating challenges. “Being homeless and being kicked out because of sexual orientation or gender identity puts them at greater risk for sexual abuse, physical abuse,
especially on the streets,” Alwran noted. “A lot of them are dealing with heavy-hitting mental illness, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation.” Alwran believes TOY can help build a more supportive community for young people. LGBT adults who might have once found themselves with similar challenges are in a position to become a housing provider and give back. “It’s really important not only for our youth, it’s important to our providers,” Alwran said. “I think it’s really great for them to come together as a community and reach out to youth. A lot of them are LGBT identified and so they’ve been in the position to know what it’s like to come out or to not have family support.” In an effort to support the Host Home Program’s continued growth, TOY hosts an informational session for the program where potential housing providers can learn more about about volunteering with the program. The most recent meeting was on July 16 at TOY’s offices at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1900 The Plaza. : :
Annual Events Charlotte Black Gay Pride July 18-21, 2013 Annual event celebrating the diversity of the LGBT community. Pride festivities, expos, town halls and events. cbgp.org. Charlotte Pride Aug. 24-25, 2013 Charlotte’s annual Pride festival takes Uptown Charlotte by storm with the Queen City’s first Pride Parade since 1994. charlottepride.org.
country music and rodeo events. queencitystomp.com. RAIN AIDS Walk May, 2014 This annual HIV/AIDS awareness and fundraising event is the largest of its kind in the Carolinas. carolinarain.org. The Happening May, 2014 Annual Charlotte Gay and Lesbian Fund luncheon. fftc.org /page.aspx?pid=953.
Festival in the Park Sept. 20-22, 2013 Charlotte’s annual arts festival overtakes Freedom Park. festivalinthepark.org.
Queen City Drag Race May, 2014 Local drag stars perform at this annual team relay drag race. queencitydragrace.com.
OUTSpoken October, 2013 UNC Charlotte’s annual LGBT speaker series. outspoken.uncc.edu.
Speed Street May, 2014 Uptown Charlotte is transformed by this celebration of motor sports featuring endless entertainment on two stages and countless vendors. 600festival.com.
Human Rights Campaign Carolina Gala Feb. 23, 2014 An annual black-tie fundraising event, the largest of its kind in the Carolinas. hrccarolina.org. Stop The Hate March, 2014 Campus Pride hosts a training for school administrators, faculty, staff and students on LGBT inclusion in higher education. campuspride.org. Gay Charlotte Film Festival April, 2014 An annual festival of established and up-and-coming LGBT films. gaycharlottefilmfestival.com. House of Mercy AIDS Walk April, 2014 Hosted annually in downtown Belmont, this fundraiser provides support for House of Mercy’s clients. thehouseofmercy.org. Queen City Stomp April, 2014 This annual country dance festival is one of an increasing number of gay
Taste of Charlotte June, 2014 This foodie’s heaven event features a sampling of local culinary arts in Uptown Charlotte. tasteofcharlotte.com. Stonewall Celebration June, 2014 The LGBT Community Center hosts an annual celebration of the Stonewall Riots anniversary. gaycharlotte.com. Canine Couture June, 2014 Charlotte Pride’s annual festival featuring man’s best furry friends. charlottepride.org. Pride Splash Day July, 2014 An annual day of fun and sun, hosted at the U.S. National Whitewater Center by Charlotte Pride. pridesplashday.com. LGBT-Friendly College Fair August, 2014 Campus Pride hosts its regional LGBT-Friendly National College Fair in Charlotte. campuspride.org.
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Charlotte LGBT Community Resources Advocacy Campus Pride 704-277-6710 campuspride.org
One Voice Chorus onevoicechorus.com
704-334-7232 mpbconline.org
Queen City Theatre Company 704-372-1000 queencitytheatre.com
Havurat Tikvah 980-225-5330 havurattikvah.org
Temple Beth El 5101 Providence Rd. Charlotte, NC 28226 704-366-1948 keshet@beth-el.com beth-el.com
Holy Covenant United Church of Christ 3501 W. WT Harris Blvd. Charlotte NC 28269 704-599-9810 holycovenantucc.org
Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd. Charlotte, NC 28211 704-366-8623 uuccharlotte.org
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 1900 The Plaza Charlotte, NC 28205 704-377-5439 htlccharlotte.org
Unity Fellowship Church 2127 Eastway Dr. Charlotte, NC 28205 704-567-5007 ufccharlottenc.org
Charlotte Rainbow Action Network for Equality rainbowaction.org
Media
Equality North Carolina equalitync.org
Creative Loafing clclt.com
HRC Carolina northcarolina.hrc.org
Charlotte Observer charlotteobserver.com
Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee (MeckPAC) meckpac.org
Pocket Rocket Guide pocketrocketguide.com
Arts
QNotes goqnotes.com
Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte 704-342-2251 atcharlotte.org
Visit Gay Charlotte visitgaycharlotte.com
Carolina Actors Studio Theatre 704-455-8542 nccast.com
Charlotte Atheists and Agnostics charlotteatheists.com
Charlotte Pride Band charlotteprideband.org Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte 704-549-9202 gmccharlotte.org
Faith
MCC Charlotte 1825 Eastway Dr. Charlotte NC 28205 704-563-5810 mymcccharlotte.org Myers Park Baptist Church 1900 Queens Rd. Charlotte, NC 28207
LGBT Community Center 2508 N. Davidson St., Charlotte, NC 28205 704-333-0144. gaycharlotte.com Hours: M-Th 5-8 p.m. F 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sa 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Su Closed Serving the LGBT community of Charlotte: • Providing a welcoming, fun, safe, and inclusive gathering place for meetings and events • Enhancing access to resources by serving as a central point of information and referrals to local organizations • Initiating and cooperating on programs serving the LGBT population • Hosting social events and promote a sense of community • Presenting opportunities for learning, topical dialogues, and forums for discussion
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New Life MCC 1900 The Plaza Charlotte, NC 28205 704-334-0350 newlifemcc@bellsouth.net newlifemccnc.org Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church 9704 Mallard Creek Rd. Charlotte, NC 28262 704-510-0008 puuc.org Seigle Avenue Presbyterian Church 600 Seigle Ave. Charlotte, NC 28204 704-338-1914 seigleavenue.org St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 1510 E. 7th St. Charlotte NC 28204 704-376-8441 stmartins-charlotte.org St. Peter’s Catholic Church 507 South Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28202 704-332-2901 stpeterscatholic.org/index. php/gaylesbian-ministry Spiritual Living Center 1025 E. 35th St. Charlotte, NC 28205 704-665-1886 slccharlotte.com
Wedgewood Baptist Church 4800 Wedgewood Dr. Charlotte, NC 28210 704-523-6108 wedgewoodchurch.com
Giving Charlotte Gay and Lesbian Fund 704-973-4500 fftc.org/Page.aspx?pid=953 Southern Country Charlotte Queen City Stomp southerncountry charlotte.com Wesley Mancini Foundation 704-375-4275, ext. 11
Pozitively Speaking pozitivelyspeaking.com
Charlotte Tradesmen charlottetradesmen.org
Regional AIDS Interfaith Network 501 N. Tryon St. 4th Floor Charlotte, NC 28237 704-372-7246 carolinarain.org
Chi Psi Omega Fraternity chipsiomegafraternity.org
Rosedale Infectious Disease 103 Commerce Centre Dr. Suite 103 Huntersville, NC 28078 704-948-8582 rosedaleid.com
Sports Carolina Softball Alliance carolinasoftball.org Charlotte Front Runners charlottefrontrunners.com Charlotte Nude Yoga charlottenudeyoga.com Charlotte Royals Rugby charlotteroyals.org Queen City Rollers charlotterollergirls.com Queen City Tennis Club qctc.org
Social & Support
PFLAG Charlotte pflagcharlotte.org Prime Timers primetimersww.org/ charlotte/ Time Out Youth 704-344-8335 timeoutyouth.org TransFaith In Color Conference transfaithincolor.org
Students & Youth CPCC Spectrum Club facebook.com/groups/ CPCCSpectrum Charlotte School of Law LGBT Legal Society facebook.com/pages/ Charlotte-Schoolof-Law-LGBT-LegalSociety/137640902992701 Gay Straight Alliance Davidson College www2.davidson.edu/student life/stu_orgs/gsa/GSA.htm
Carolina Bear Lodge carolinabears.com
GLoBAL Winthrop University winthrop.edu/studentorgs/ default.aspx?id=6197
Carolinas Care Partnership 7510 E. Independence Blvd. Suite 105 Charlotte, NC 28227 704-531-2467 carolinascare.org
Carolina Transgender Society carolinatransgender society.com
Multicultural Resource Center UNC Charlotte mrc.uncc.edu/sex-gender
Charlotte Bears charlottebears.com
House of Mercy 701 Mercy Dr. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4711 thehouseofmercy.org
Charlotte Black Gay Pride cbgp.org
Pride JWU Johnson and Wales University facebook.com/pride.jwu.7
HIV/AIDS
Mecklenburg County Department of Health 704-432-7352
Charlotte Business Guild 704-750-5224 charlottebusinessguild.org Charlotte Gender Alliance charlottegenderalliance.info
Resource listings courtesy:
Safe Queens University safequeensgsa.wordpress.com Time Out Youth 704-344-8335 timeoutyouth.org
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tell trinity by Trinity :: qnotes contributor :: trinity@telltrinity.com
Leaving on a jet plane, don’t know when… Hello Trinity, My woman and I broke up. It got so sour that we ended up in court. Now, she’s dissing my name all over town. How do I stay where I am ‘til all the gossip stops? Broken Hearted, Provincetown, MA Hello Broken Hearted, First, let’s start by practicing forgiveness. Forgiveness is key to everything. Second, let’s start practicing good self-esteem. Loving yourself makes everything secondary. And, lastly, let’s start practicing vacationing. When my name goes bad all over town, I take a vacation until the gos-
sip dies down. Disappearing is also very popular in Hollywood and D.C. Remember, darling, time heals everything! To Trinity, A few years back, you used to always mention Bill Goldberg of the WCW (World Championship Wrestling). I finally had a look at him. He’s a great looking man, but I don’t see a halo around him. Don’t you think you were obsessing? Don’t you think you should leave him alone? He’s already in a relationship. Practical, Dallas, TX
are a great turn on for me. I wear lacy panties under my business suits and Levi’s. I’m not a drag queen, TV or TS. Are there any groups or societies of men who think as I do? No TS, DQ or TV clubs. Masculine Panties, Minneapolis, MN Dear Masculine Panties, The internet is full of groups that will fit your needs. This feeling or fetish crosses all straight, bisexual and gay lines. So, if you like the sensual feeling of lingerie, the soft, sliding essence of silk or the lusty designs of lace, then enjoy it for what it is. Because, it’s your God-given gift to express
your femininity. So, you go, honey, and be proud! Dearest Trinity, A while back, you did a top 10 tips on how to scan someone’s home to tell if they’re not gay. I thought it was great but what about how to tell if they are gay? Clueless, Atlanta, GA Dearest Gay Clueless, Sorry, I didn’t mean to leave anyone out. This is something everyone should know. So, baby, here are:
To Practical, I’m sorry you couldn’t see the halo. Maybe you need glasses. I see the halo every time I look at his big, muscular… And, yes, I know he’s involved. I have my lawyers working on it as we speak. Please, let me, the world around you and yourself have unreachable dreams. Maybe he’s not monogamous. Not everyone is. Now, pumpkin, sing along with me, “Goin’ to the chapel and I’m gonna get ma-a-a-ried. Goin’ to the chapel of love.” Impractically yours. (I just swoon when I think of this hunky man. Gander at my cartoon to see when.)
Trinity’s Undercover Tips For Telling If Someone Is Gay By Searching For Clues In Their Home 1. Living room— no oversized pool table, flashing beer signs or wall-to-wall wood paneling. Gay! 2. Kitchen— no rusty Teflon pots, generic saltine crackers or dead floral arrangements. Gay! 3. Bedroom— no unmatched (period) furniture, stained bedspreads or Rockwell knockoff’s. Gay! 4. Bathroom — no towels with an odor, toilet seats with a crack or tacky wall murals. Gay! 5. Video Collection — no “Baseball’s Greatest Hits,” “Habits of an Orangutan” or “Biography presents Dr. Laura Schlesinger.” Gay! 6. Wall Decor — Erte, Herb Ritts or anything Marilyn Monroe. Gay. (Thank God!) 7. The bar — does not have Stouts or Pilsners, but does have the finest of Vodkas. Gay! 8. Answering machine — uses phrases like: “Whatever your pleasure. Life cannot be measured. But, let’s first see the treasures!” Definitely gay! 9. Cutlery drawer — the finest of cutlery, from the most renowned designers, with a separate drawer for matching cloth napkins. Gay! 10. Lastly — no signs of anything with John Wayne mounted on a horse, singing a county version of the “Republican National Anthem.” Then, absolutely gay! : :
Dear Trinity, I’m an adult, professional, masculine and gay. Wearing fine lingerie, silk, satin, nylon and lace
info: With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org. Learn more at telltrinity.com.
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goqnotes.com/to/arts out in the stars by Charlene Lichtenstein :: qnotes contributor
July 19 - August 1 Sun in Leo heats up our otherwise cool existence. Our lives become vibrant and colorful and we feel as if we could charm the world with one big toothy grin. Show us your pearly whites and see how far the fluffy stuff carries you forward. CANCER (06.22-07.23) Gay Crabs discover gold among the dross. Even riskier investments pay off monetarily, so keep an eye on the bottom line and know when to buy and sell. After all is said and done, you may be content to rest on your laurels. Don’t. Use your good fortune to push one step further up the food chain. Dine on prime rather than chuck. Hmm, then again. LEO (07.24-08.23) This time period marks a time of increased charisma where everyone seeks to orbit around your gravitational pull. While it will be tempting to lie back and watch the revolution, try not to get lazy. You make excellent first impressions and can easily set new projects into motion. Proud Lions pack more charm per square inch than usual. Hmm, how many inches is that really? VIRGO (08.24-09.23) Feeling confined and pent up? There is nothing to stop you from clearing out your cosmic debris right now. Queer Virgins should not hold back. Blow the door off your closet and clean it out. Fear of fall out? Check out this added bonus: Those who don’t have your best interests at heart are thwarted in their vile and dastardly plans. Aha! LIBRA (09.24-10.23) This time period heralds in a sociable time of friends, festivities and frolic. Your presence is demanded at every top event and your fan base increases. So, why do you feel that you are working so hard? Well, proud Libras not only find themselves the leader of the Pride parade, they also become organizers, pepsters and even clean up crew. Popularity has its price, it seems. SCORPIO (10.24-11.22) Make your assorted marks in the corporate sphere now. Queer Scorps pack a political wallop and generate enough fabulous ideas to keep the attention focused solely on themselves around the office. Don’t be content to sing in the chorus. Outshine the competition by getting out front. Grab your pinstripped costume and put on a grand performance. Bravo!
SAGITTARIUS (11.23-12.22) Gay Archers expand their world view. You can no longer be content to come and go with the usual boring routine. Suddenly, life holds more promise and excitement. Good. Expand your horizons any way you can — travel, study or even traipse through the internet. Grab a bit of the rainbow and seek your passion. Or, will it grab you? Only if you are lucky. CAPRICORN (12.23-01.20) Prepare for a surge in your sexual allure. You won’t even have to try to upgrade your look. You can come as you are — and you will! Pink Caps draw more bees to their hive than ever before and create a swarm. Don’t dissipate the vibes by flirting with any old honey. Try instead to set your sights on one particularly attractive stinger and create a new buzz. AQUARIUS (01.21-02.19) Aqueerians have a tendency to overdo and can feel physically drained and spiritually dreary now. Although it can feel like a down energy cycle, turn your attention from selfish pursuits to selfless relationships. Go the extra mile and you will find that the benefits far outweigh the costs. At any rate, others will feel better and that is what really counts. Yeah, right. PISCES (02.20-03.20) Rewards come to those Guppies who have put in the greatest effort at work. You now gain greater insight into the easiest and most successful course of action in any detailed work assignment. While the temptation will be to take the easy path, any true application and effort will pay extra dividends. Cash them through the summer when you can debrief on the beach. ARIES (03.21-04.20) This time period unleashes your chains and frees you up to have tons of fun, fun, fun. Be all you can be musically, artistically, dramatically and just plain partywise-ically. Gay Rams go to great lengths to demonstrate their creativity. Can you smell the romance in the air? Oh, wait a minute — it’s just something that has been left on the stove for too long. TAURUS (04.21-05.21) A home is more than just four walls. Queer Bulls need to feel mentally charged in order to make their personal living space feel like their own spiritual refuge. Thankfully you find ways to fulfill this purpose and bring the forces together to create a homey harmony. Share this joy with close friends. Why not invite a few close buddies over for a chat and chew? GEMINI (05.22-06.21) Take a strong position and state your case. Your speech has verve and panache. Not only do you pack a diplomatic punch, you also easily grasp pithy ideas and high concepts. So, don’t wait for the translation. Read between the lines and speak your mind. An impassioned cry from the vast void can be heard if a pink Twin tweets it, or so a little bird told me. : : © 2013 Madam Lichtenstein, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Entertainment. info: Visit TheStarryEye.com for e-greetings, horoscopes and Pride jewelry. My book “HerScopes: A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians” from Simon & Schuster is available at bookstores and major booksites.
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SPORTS
Playing the Field Match-ups from across the Carolinas: Skates, homeplates by Jon Hoppel :: qnotes contributor
Welcome back! We here at qnotes hope that you have been enjoying your summer and getting out there to support your local LGBT sports teams and athletes. In case you have not been though, here is what you might have missed and what you should make sure you do not miss in the next month! Roller Derby The Charlotte Roller Girls hosted a double header June 23 at the Grady Cole Center. The All-Stars took on the Soul City Sirens of Augusta, Ga., in the opening bout, followed by Charlotte’s B side, the B-Dazzlers, taking on the Kannapolis Roller Girls. The latter of the two proved
to be the more challenging for Charlotte because after 10 minutes into their bout, the All-Stars already had an 89-0 lead. The onslaught continued throughout, leading to a 238-2 score at halftime, and a final score of 378-37.
Charlotte Roller Girls B-Dazzlers retirees Tasty Murder and Addie Finitum took to the ring for the last time during the June 23 bout against the Kannapolis Roller Girls.
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Playing the Field continued from page 20
In the second bout, the B-Dazzlers got off to a strong start, going up by 20 points early. But, that lead was chiseled away by Kannapolis and by halftime the B-Dazzlers held a slim one point advantage, 62-61. The lead switched hands many times in the second half and was even tied late in the bout at 93 all. But Charlotte was able to finish strong and pull away for a 137-105 victory, remaining undefeated at home this year. This game also marked the retirement of two exceptional athletes from the B-Dazzlers squad, Tasty Murder and Addie Finitum. The Charlotte teams wish them the best of luck as they step away from the sport they love. MVPs for the All-Stars: MVP Jammer — Do U Juana MVP Blocker — Drew FearMEmore MVPS for the B-Dazzlers:
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MVP Jammer — Addie Finitum MVP Blocker — Mustang Stella Charlotte next takes on the Chemical Valley Roller Girls, at home, July 21. Go to their website for ticket information at charlotterollergirls.com. Also in June, the Gastonia G*Force roller derby team traveled down to South Carolina to take on the Spartanburg Deadly Dolls. This bout started similarly to that of the Charlotte All-Stars, with Gastonia taking a commanding 112-44 lead into halftime, but unlike the Sirens, The Deadly Dolls showed renewed fight and heart when they returned from the break. They were able to get within 20 points at one point in the second half with back to back scoring jams. However, the deficit from the first half was too great and Spartanburg was unable to dig itself
out its hole, losing to the G*Force 153-130. Next up for Gastonia is a trip to Fayetteville, N.C., on July 13 to take on The Rogue Roller Girls. For information on bout schedules or if you are curious about participating, check them out on Facebook at facebook.com/gforcederby. Softball The Carolina Softball Association will be concluding their season on July 21 with their end-of-the-season tournament. It will be held
at Revolution Park starting at 2 p.m. Come out and watch as the six-team league crowns their city champion. Also taking place in July is the K-Town Klassic from July 27-28. Knoxville, Tenn., hosts this two-day tournament which brings in teams from across the Southeast to compete in C, D and women’s divisions. If you are interested in taking part or taking a team to this event, go to their webpage at ktownklassic. com and register! : :
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Splish, splash! July 27 • Charlotte Campus Pride Pool Party Come out and support Campus Pride, the Charlotte-based national non-profit serving LGBT college students, at a special pool party featuring 2012 Athlete of the Year Jack Mackenroth, allAmerican swimmer, HIV activist, celebrity fitness model and “Project Runway” fashion designer. Home of Greg Jenkins and Shawn Rawleigh, 447 Wonderwood Dr. 1:30-4 p.m. Minimum $75 donation requested. Drinks & hors d’oeuvres. Pool attire. campuspride.org.
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Through July 21 • Charlotte Charlotte Black Gay Pride Celebrate with Charlotte Black Gay Pride and a week-long series of special events. cbgp.org. July 20 • Charlotte Center Bingo The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte hosts its monthly bingo. July theme and guest bingo diva yet to be announced. 2508 N. Davidson St. 7-10 p.m. gaycharlotte.com. July 20 • Charlotte SCC ‘Saddles Up’ The guys and gals of Southern Country Charlotte head back out for a night of fun at Saddle Up Saloon, Charlotte’s newest Country Western bar. The group visited last month and it is returning for another night of line dancing, good drinks and good fun. Saddle Up Saloon, 820 Hamilton St., Suite B11. 8 p.m. southerncountrycharlotte.com. July 25-28 • Durham Triangle Black Pride Shades of Pride presents the fourth annual Triangle Black Pride. shadesofpride.org. July 26 • Charlotte Electric Run The boys of Just Twirl invite you to join them on their team in the Electric Run Charlotte. A unique twist on the traditional 5k. A takeover event and after party are also planned. electricrun.com/charlotte and justtwirl.com. July 27 • Charlotte Pride Parade Q&A Charlotte Pride hosts an informational meeting to answer questions about participating in this year’s Charlotte Pride Parade. Caldwell Presbyterian Church, 1609 E. 5th St. 10:30 a.m. charlottepride.org. Aug. 1 • Charlotte Amendment One, DOMA and Gay Law 101 Attorney Connie Vetter hosts a discussion and presentation on post-Amendment One and DOMA court decision law as it relates to LGBT individuals and couples. Come with questions and comments! LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, 2508 N. Davidson St. gaycharlotte.com. Aug. 6 • Charlotte Film: LGBTQ Issues and Elementary Schools Time Out Youth presents a special screen-
ing of the award-winning film “What Do You Know?” The film features young people ranging in age from 6 to 12 and their thoughts on gays and lesbians. The event will also feature a talk-back session with Welcoming Schools, a national program of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. The program’s associate director, Kisha Webster, will be in Charlotte for the event. LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, 2508 N. Davidson St. 7 p.m. timeoutyouth. org. gaycharlotte.com. Aug. 16-25 • Charlotte Charlotte Pride Week Charlotte Pride partners with community organizations and businesses to present 10 full days of activities culminating with its Charlotte Pride Festival and Parade on Aug. 24-25. More details on Pride Week events to be announced soon at charlottepride.org. Aug. 16 • Charlotte LGBTQ Law Center The Freedom Center for Social Justice LGBTQ Law Center will host its grand opening and silent auction. The center aims to eliminate barriers to justice and assist marginalized community members by providing direct legal services, community education and community resources to the LGBTQ community in North Carolina. LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, 2508 N. Davidson St. 6:30-8:30 p.m. fcsj.org. facebook.com/fcsjlaw.
Submit your event to our new calendar! You can now submit your event to a special comprehensive community calendar presented by qnotes, the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte and Visit Gay Charlotte. Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/ and get a three-for-one entry. All Charlotte-area events will appear on each of the three calendars at qnotes (goqnotes.com), the LGBT Center (gaycharlotte.com) and Visit Gay Charlotte (visitgaycharlotte.com).
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