QNotes, July 29-Aug. 11, 2016

July 29-Aug. 11 . 2016

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inside

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CBGP rolls out trans panel!

qnotes news & features

news.Gay views.Pride arts.

5 entertainment.

Charlotte Black 6 News Notes: Regional Briefs 8 News Notes: U.S./World Briefs 10 Governor accepts no blame 10 HB2 Update

a&e / life&style 12 13 13 14 14 19 22 23

Charlotte Pride Festival Charlotte Pride moves forward Charlotte Pride Events Arts + Charlotte Pride Regional Pride Events Tell Trinity Q Events Calendar Dishing with Buff Faye

opinions & views

4 Avoiding name change nightmare 4 Guest Commentaries 15 Dream of a gay nation

Members of the area transgender community shared information and personal stories. page 5

more news & feature coverage

Dishing with Buff Faye Remembering Boom Boom LaTour: Her gently and caring nature lives on in the minds of thoses who knew her. page 23

HB2 Update The NBA has pulled its All-Stars Game from the Queen City citing HB2 discrimination as the key factor and shared that future locations’ non-discrimination policies would be reviewed. paage 10

July 29-Aug. 11 . 2016

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qnotes connect July 29-Aug. 11, 2016 Vol 31 No 07

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

contributors this issue Maria Dominguez, Buff Faye, Laila Ibrahim, Betty Littrell, Lainey Millen, Jesse Monteagudo, Lloyd Scher, Jeff Taylor, Trinity

front page

Graphic Design by Lainey Millen Photography: (background) Robert Harmon (heavenlydark.com), courtesy Charlotte Pride; (foreground) ajr_images via Adobe Stock Mission:

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

Pride Publishing & Typesetting, Inc., dba QNotes P.O. Box 221841, Charlotte, NC 28222 ph 704.531.9988 fx 704.531.1361 Publisher: Jim Yarbrough Sales: x201 adsales@goqnotes.com Nat’l Sales: Rivendell Media, ph 212.242.6863 Managing Editor: Jim Yarbrough, editor@goqnotes.com Assoc. Editor: Lainey Millen, specialassignments@goqnotes.com Social Media Editor: Jeff Taylor, jeff@goqnotes.com Production: Lainey Millen, x205 production@goqnotes.com Printed on recycled paper.

Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2016 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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views

Ask Lambda Legal

Avoiding a name change nightmare How to legally become the person you always wanted to be

by Beth Littrell :: Lambda Legal Senior Attorney

Q. I am a transgender woman who would like to legally change my name. I live in Savannah, Ga. and this issue has been a big deal lately after your client, Rowan Feldhaus, was denied a name change by a judge in Augusta. From reading the news articles, I know the judge’s decision will probably be overturned, but what do I do if I encounter this problem when I seek my name change?

A. For many transgender people, a name change is one of the most important steps toward matching their legal documents with their gender identity. Though there are few exceptions under which a court can deny someone the right to a name change, being transgender is not one of them. A judge cannot arbitrarily deny you a name change based on transphobic or sexist notions.

In Rowan’s case, the judge stated that he would deny the requested name unless Rowan

chose another middle name, because the name chosen, “Elijah,” was not gender-neutral and he “do[es] not approve of changing names from male to female — male names to obvious female names, and vice versa.”

This happened despite the fact that Rowan took all necessary steps and provided all the necessary information for a name change. He also provided evidence to educate the court about transgender people and the need for identity documents that accurately reflect their gender identity. He produced an affidavit from his therapist, who confirmed that Rowan is transgender and was diagnosed with gender dysphoria, and that changing his name would be an important part of his treatment. Rowan further testified that he was not delinquent on bills or trying to elude creditors by changing his name — generally considered the only

valid reason to deny a name change. But the judge still denied his request, even claiming it would be “dangerous” for a person not to know someone else’s gender by that person’s name.

The real threats to public safety come from those who refuse to respect name choices, gender identity or who abuse their authority because a name doesn’t fit a sexist stereotype.

We believe this type of sex discrimination is a violation of federal law and your constitutional rights. Lambda Legal will continue advocating for Rowan and others arbitrarily denied these important opportunities to be affirmed and protected equally under the law.

If you’d like to seek a name change and are concerned that you may encounter this problem, contact Lambda Legal’s Help desk for more information at 866-542-8336) or visit lambdalegal.org/help. : :

guest commentaries

by Laila Ibrahim

by Lloyd Scher

Conversion Lies

HB2 scars North Carolina

“But I’m a Cheerleader” was my introduction to conversion therapy. It’s a ridiculous comedy that satirizes the movement to “cure” people with same-sex attractions. I thought it was an extreme exaggeration, and it left me believing conversion therapy is a joke. Now I know that there is nothing funny about it. Conversion therapy destroys lives: emotionally, spiritually and physically. It’s an industry based on a lie that profits off of people’s deepest held convictions and their deepest held hopes for their children.

Before I learned more about conversion therapy I believed it was something that was done to teens and young adults by their parents. In my mind, the teens were the victims of ignorant and bigoted parents. As a Unitarian Universalist, a faith tradition that embraced LGBT equality for decades, I had a smug sense of superiority towards those parents.

I hadn’t considered the emotional and spiritual damage that was being done to parents by their very own churches, the institution they rely on for moral leadership. Since then I’ve learned: • Many of the leaders of the conversion therapy movement were and are LGBT people pretending they had been cured because they were so desperate for that to be true.

• In some religions parents are being told by their ministers — trusted authorities in their lives — that it’s their fault their children have same sex attractions.

• Many of the teens go to conversion therapy voluntarily, desperately believing in and praying for a cure.

The faulty premise of conversion therapy can be summarized: The LGBT person has an insecure attachment with their same-gender parents; the LGBT person has been sexually abused; and the LGBT person has a weak spiritual connection to Jesus and God. Prior to my research, I couldn’t understand how a parent could possibly send their child to conversion therapy, but now I see that the faulty premise of conversion therapy

preyed on parental insecurities. The parents feel guilty. They are being told it’s their fault. They’re being promised a cure, so they invest in the snake oil being promised by their religion.

And the pay-off? Salvation. Who wouldn’t invest time and money for their child’s eternal well-being?

Smug superiority is not a good look for anyone, but most especially for someone who aspires to plant seeds of love and justice in the world. I’ve learned this lesson many times in my life. When I look deeply at people I disagree with, I most often find a shared human impulse. The parents who desperately want their children to be straight are scared for their kids. That I can relate to.

I remind myself that my liberal parents had a less-than-stellar reaction to my coming out.

They tried. Really they did. But as I look back at the time so long ago, I realize they were afraid for me. They didn’t believe I would have a good life if I partnered with a woman. They were sure I’d have to live in secrecy or face rejection by society. Their fear was reasonable at the time.

They couldn’t know that I would get married, have children and be respected in the world.

I’ve watched many documentaries about conversion therapy. One of the most heartbreaking interviews was with a mother whose child had succeeded in committing suicide.

The despair in her eyes as she spoke about the choices she made that had added to her child’s depression haunts me to this day. I’m grateful to her for sharing her painful story. I pray that it, and so many other stories, will help parents to move past fear for and rejection of their LGBT children to a place of acceptance and support, secure in the knowledge that God’s love is that big. : : — Laila Ibrahim is the critically acclaimed author of “Yellow Crocus” and “Living Right,” available now on Amazon and all major booksellers. Connect with Laila Ibrahim on Facebook and at LailaIbrahim.com.

Charlotte has a population just short of one million, but astonishingly, because of Dan Bishop’s [N.C. representative from District 104 currently running for state Senate, District 39, both in Mecklenburg County] handiwork on HB2, it is now illegal for the city to make laws to protect its citizens from discrimination. At the same time, the bill prevents Charlotte elected officials from establishing a minimum wage that’s appropriate for our community.

Bishop wrote House Bill 2 in one day, and the General Assembly passed it without any meaningful discussion or debate, and Gov. Pat McCrory signed it into law. The result has been a disastrous backlash from corporations that have canceled their plans to locate in North Carolina, and from major events, concerts and conventions that bring much-needed revenue to local businesses.

PayPal, a large corporation that handles electronic payments, had planned to bring a facility here to Charlotte, promising 400 new jobs at an average salary of $70,000. But after HB2 was made law, PayPal immediately withdrew its plans to locate in North Carolina, because it needs to keep valued employees who are hurt by the law. That’s $28 million that legislators erased from the state’s economy.

Even when we repeal HB2, or the courts rule that HB2 is unconstitutional, it will take us years to recover our national and worldwide reputation as a beacon of the New South. So bringing jobs back to North Carolina will be an uphill battle, and that affects every citizen. But it’s a battle I intend to win.

I am running to keep Dan Bishop out of the Senate, end this hateful Republican-sponsored discrimination and regain North Carolina’s standing as a place where businesses come to succeed.

I need your support and vote to end this hate and discrimination.

Video: vimeo.com/174570019, Password: Lloyd If unable to open, visit my webpage: scher4ncsenate.com.

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life

Pride 2016

Charlotte Black Gay Pride wraps another successful year, looks forward After 11 years, CBGP looks to start hosting events year round

by Jeff Taylor :: Social Media Editor

C

harlotte Black Gay Pride has wrapped up another successful year, its 11th, after hosting three separate events over three nights, July 13, 14 and 15.

The kickoff on July 13 took place in the form of a praise event at Caldwell Presbyterian Church, which also played host to the sTep Up Town Hall event on July 14, where members of the transgender community spoke on a panel, sharing experiences from their lives and enlightening those gathered to listen and learn how to be better allies.

The final night was a meet and greet at LGBT nightclub L4 Lounge, where attendees enjoyed performances by singers, poets and artists of various types, while getting a chance to socialize and network.

Treasurer Chelby Nettles said she was pleased with this year’s events and is already looking forward to what the group can do going forward.

“Last year was pretty phenomenal, celebrating the 10 years, so this year we spent some time regrouping to figure out the best way to go forward,” she said, adding that she hopes next year is even better.

Charlotte Black Gay Pride, much like Charlotte Pride, plans to begin holding events year round so that they are a more engaged and visible entity within the city’s landscape beyond Pride season alone.

They will also be looking for a new chair, as this year was current Board Chair William Samuel Singleton’s last. They are an all volunteer board and are always looking for new faces.

“Our plan is to move Charlotte Black Gay Pride beyond the summer months,” Nettles said. “We would like to do a bit more community outreach throughout the course of the year.”

“Last year, we had a 10-year reunion, so we did a few more things building up to the 10 year Rev. Debra Hoplins addresses those in attendance at a Charlotte Black Gay Pride event.

Tep Up Town Hall The transgender panel (left to right) are: Lara Americo, Rev Dawn Flynn, Ty’rell Lowery, Ilya Parker, and Janice Covington Allison.

and that was very well received and successful. It just left us a little drained this year,” she continued, laughing. “But we’re thinking we want to channel that same level of energy and try to have more community focused events like every other month.”

The transgender forum held on July 13 in particular may become a model for future events, Nettles reported. She hopes they will be able to continue their partnership with Caldwell Presbyterian Church in order to facilitate those town hall style meetings.

She stressed that the organization is hoping to encourage more “honest and true diversity.”

“People like to throw the word around a lot but you don’t always see the actions taking place. They only want diversity to be black and white and it’s so much more than that,” she said.

Nettles also said she is looking into the possibility of holding a job fair specifically for

the transgender community, who often face increased challenges when looking for employment. She also expressed an interest in holding what she termed “money wellness” events, because as she points out members of the LGBT community are often under-employed.

Charlotte Black Gay Pride will be working with Time Out Youth to co-host the Time Out Youth Charlotte Pride Dance, held on Aug. 12 at the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, from 6:30-8:30 p.m, Nettles said. They will be speaking with Charlotte Pride about how the groups can work together more in the future as well.

“We do get too comfortable playing with our own friends on the playground,” she said.

“When you open up your box and let a few more people in, everybody usually comes out a little richer for it.”

For more information on Charlotte Black Gay Pride visit them at their new website, charlotteblackgaypride.org. : :

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

Teens help House of Mercy BELMONT, N.C. — Earlier this summer, teen volunteers from Catholic Heart Workcamp volunteered at House of Mercy, a non-profit residence caring for low-income individuals living with AIDS. Youth from Virginia, Alabama, Kentucky, New Jersey and North Carolina spruced up the residence by spreading mulch, cleaning windows, as well as meeting House of Mercy residents.

House of Mercy resident Shelia Williams (right) appreciates the Catholic Heart Catholic Heart Workcamp volunteers.

Workcamp started in 1993 in Orlando, Fla., with 100 participants and has grown to over 13,000 serving communities annually. It provides opportunities to “restore homes and hearts, feed the hungry, lift the spirits of children, bring joy to the elderly and disabled and offer assistance while partnering with social agencies.”

In other news, the board of directors welcomed new members Jim Hall and David Guidry, in addition to hiring Nidia Esparza as House of Mercy’s bilingual coordinator of resident recreation and volunteers. info: thehouseofmercy.org.

Charlotte People, local station feature chorus

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte was recently showcased in a July 17 feature in People magazine, as well as on WCNC-TV. The chorus had spent time in Southpark Mall serenading shoppers on a Saturday afternoon. They chose individuals whom the group felt were in need of a song, giving listeners some solace and even resulting in having a smile being returned.

Director John Quillin shared that the chorus serenaded as a way to help alleviate the darkness that recent world events had presented.

“We’re just out spreading a little bit of happiness and joy,” Quillin told People.

WCNC-TV’s Michelle Boudin documented the serenading. Visit bit.ly/2a1IEh5 to see the video.

The chorus were participants in the Charlotte #KINDNESSMatters initiative. The “grassroots social media movement” asked people to “perform acts of kindness” and to document them with a challenge for “others to do the same.” info: people.com. wcnc.com. gmccharlotte.org. facebook.com/make.kindness.matter.

Derby gals hit 10

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Roller Girls (CRG) are hitting a milestone this season as it marks its 10th anniversary with a home bout on Aug. 13, 5 p.m., at the Grady Cole Center, 310 N. Kings Dr. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.

Playing homage to the home teams, ‘Fraid Knots vs. the Block ‘em Sock ‘em Rollers, the bout will be an intra-league event. Teams will consist of current Charlotte Roller Girls AllStars and B-Dazzlers skaters.

All former CRG skaters, referees and nonskating officials are invited to attend the bout and

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will be recognized at the half-time ceremonies.

Additionally, bout attendees can participate in Chuck-a-Duck by purchasing rubber ducks that will be thrown toward a target, for an opportunity to win CRG merchandise and prizes.

During the bout, fans are encouraged to seek out the “Ask Me” girls who will be on hand to answer questions about roller derby action, rules and players, the organization shared.

Beer, wine, soft drinks and food concessions are available for purchase.

An after-party will be held at The Barn at Pure Pizza, 1911 Central Ave., and is open to all skaters and fans.

Advance tickets are $12/adults and $7/children ages 6-12 and are available for purchase from team members, The Common Market, 2007 Commonwealth Ave., Sleepy Poet, 4450 South Blvd., and online. Onsite tickets at the center’s box office will be sold at $16/adults and $10/ children, cash only.

Sponsors for the season are OrthoCarolina, Pure Pizza, Husqvarna, The Common Market, Pabst Blue Ribbon beer, Dr. Tony Peters, Sleepy Poet Antique Mall, Be Yoga and 9 Round. info: charlotterollergirls.com.

One Voice featured at GALA

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — One Voice Chorus of Charlotte (OVC) was selected to perform at the closing ceremonies of the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA Choruses) quadrennial festival held July 2-6 at the Denver Performing Arts Complex in Denver, CO. GALA Choruses represent 225 LGBT and allied choruses internationally and the festival drew over 6,500 singers.

One Voice Chorus’s performance of “Glenda and Lauree: Certain Kinds of Love Never Die,” was selected by the GALA board of directors for an encore “Showstopper Performance” to close the international festival in front of an audience of 4.000 attendees. The

performance was also broadcasted live on the GALA Choruses website.

Gerald Gurss, artistic director of One Voice Chorus, composed the song after first hearing the story Glenda Elliot shared through the StoryCorps/OutLoud broadcast on National Public Radio. Gurss was moved by Elliot’s reflection on the love she shared with a woman named Lauree in the 1940s. At that point in history, the cultural ideal of “The American Family” did not include gay couples, and Glenda and Lauree did not know how to “understand their love.” As Glenda noted, “There were certainly no role models of what it meant to love someone of the same sex.”

Gurss’s composition featured Caroline Cave as the voice of Glenda, while the chorus assumed the voice of Lauree. Elliot, who lives in Birmingham, Ala., joined One Voice Chorus at the festival and was brought to the stage following One Voice’s closing performance with a standing ovation from the audience.

Upon hearing the song recounting her love, Elliot told Gurss, “You brought Lauree back to me.”

In addition to the performance by the 31 singers representing One Voice Chorus at the festival, One Voice’s small ensemble Sotto Voce performed and Gurss conducted a joint chorus performance of a new commission by Mari Esabel Valverde that highlighted the experience of transgender people.

Other North Carolina choruses performing at the GALA Festival included Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte, Common Woman Chorus (Durham), Cantaria (Asheville), Triad Pride Men’s Chorus (Greensboro) and Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus (Raleigh).

A video of the One Voice performance of “Glenda and Lauree” is available for viewing at youtu.be/jyRJdvClmVg. info: onevoicechorus.com. galachoruses.org.

Church social action work continues

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Metropolitan Community Church of Charlotte, 7121 Orr Rd., is asking the community for help for a few ongoing social action projects.

Their food pantry is in need of items for their food bank. Bring contributions on Sundays at worship services at 10:45 a.m. The pantry is open from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on Thursdays.

Additionally, soda can tabs are being gathered on Sundays to support the Ronald McDonald House. Proceeds from the sale of tabs help provide medical treatment for a child at the house.

Metal and aluminum cans are also being collected and the monies received for them at the recycling center provide additional income for the church.

The church is also searching for a piano player. Interested parties should email Rev. Wanda Floyd at revwfloyd@aol.com. A stipend will be provided. info: mymcccharlotte.org.

Triangle Stories sought for project

DURHAM, N.C. — Henry Amador-Batten is searching for LGBT families in the Durham area to share their stories as part of a Family Equality Council initiative. The council serves LGBT parents and families.

The project is a collaboration with Equality North Carolina who is partnering with StoryCorps/OutLoud to highlight voices of LGBT parents, prospective parents, their children and other loved ones. This is being launched

to preserve the stories of LGBT people across the country, with a focus on the South. With the passage of HB2 and other recent North Carolina activities, the coordinators find that it is a top priority to empower the voices of the LGBT community across the state.

Organizers will be recording the voices of participants at the North Regional Library, 7009 Harps Mill Rd., on Sept. 17, from 10 a.m.5 p.m. Only six families will be selected, so inquire quickly.

“We are looking to really show the diversity of Durham, families of color, trans parents or children, single parents and so on,” AmadorBatten said. To volunteer, email tquiroga@ familyequality.org. info: familyequality.org. storycorps.org. equalitync.org.

Biz adds new staff

RALEIGH, N.C. — Total Engagement Consulting by Kimer has announced that Elaine Martin has been hired as a part-time, on-call consultant to assist with transgender diversity.

There has been a growing need in the business sector to have a deeper understanding of transgender individuals and to best support them as employees in the workplace. And, the addition of Martin will help to bridge those needs. This expertise comes in handy and is timely in the aftermath of passage of HB2.

A frequent speaker on trans-related topics, Martin has shared her knowledge on being transgender, gaining spousal and familial support, sharing often curious-but-not-asked answers to burning questions, as well as transitioning in the workplace.

Martin has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master’s of Business Administration degree in Finance. She has trained senior executive teams. In addition to owning and running her own businesses and being a commercial pilot, she worked in the banking industry as a senior vice president and executive vice president responsible for teams of up to 1,000 people. Positions included responsibility for all operations, IT, lending operations, corporate marketing, government relations, human resources, product development and more.

On a personal level, Martin has served on numerous boards, including most recently as the Board Chair of Equality North Carolina from 2012–2014. She is now on the board of the Raleigh Business and Professional Network, which is an affiliate chapter of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. info: totalengagementconsulting.com.

Western Pride event unveils logo, theme

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Blue Ridge Pride has announced its theme, Color Our World with Pride and Love!, for its festival being held on Oct. 1, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., in Pack Square Park, 121 College St. In a release, the board of directors said that the theme was a response to recent events and legislation affecting the community. The positive stand of “love triumphs over hate” will show all the diversity and welcoming atmosphere of Asheville’s “proud LGBTQ community and allies,” they added.

The celebration includes continuous music, dancing and entertainment on the main stage.

Special emphasis on community is part of the Pride theme and festivities. Featured will be local entertainers and musical talent.

Sprawling over the entire area of Pack Square Park and up towards the Vance

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Monument, the festival encompasses over 100 booths of area organizations, non-profits, businesses and vendors. CNN has claimed “Asheville is one of the Best Pride Picks around the world.”

The “welcoming atmosphere of Asheville” and “the beautiful scenery” are among the top reasons expressed by past visitors for choosing to attend Blue Ridge Pride. It is expected that an even larger number of visitors will attend this year as a show of support and solidarity for the area’s LGBT community.

A complete schedule and up-to-date information can be found online. info: gayashevillenc.com.

Elder’s member takes state post

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — LGBT Elder Advocates of Western North Carolina has announced that its board member, Rebecca Chaplin, has joined AARP as its associate state director of community outreach and advocacy.

“When I joined the AARP team in May,” Chaplin shared, “I was excited to see that they have teams orientated around inclusivity as is evidenced from the Pride section of our webpage.

I’m planning to work with the friends of LGBT Elder Advocates to provide trainings in caregiver

programs, finances for people who are 50 plus and so much more.”

In other news, the organization is seeking volunteer support for the following: website management, volunteer coordinator, fundraising, event coordination and LGBT-friendly certification committee members. Visit the website to fill out a volunteer application. info: lgbtelderadvocatesofwnc.org.

South Carolina Coastal events near

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Alliance for Full Acceptance (AFFA) and the Jewish Community Center have announced that their Rock the Rainbow concert will be held on Aug. 6, 8 p.m., at the Tin Roof, 1117 Magnolia Rd. The musical evening is a fundraiser for the LGBT community, including the victims of the Orlando shooting.

For those who wish to perform, email the AFFA office at info@ affa-sc.org.

On Aug. 10, 5:45 p.m., AFFA will hold a meeting at the Charleston Marriott, 170 Lockwood Blvd.

Presentation will take place at 6:15 p.m. following a reception. info: affa-sc.org.

Black Pride approaches

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina Black Pride, Live Out Proud, will be held from Aug. 18-21 and is commemorating its 11th annual celebration.

During the four-day event, participants can enjoy a welcome reception on Aug. 18, 8 p.m., Ms. Scottos, 8712 Two Notch Rd.; Teach for America experience on Aug. 19; an allmen’s evening, “Candy Land: ‘Tell Me What’s Ur Flava’” featuring Atlanta’s Hot Boyz — Mustang, Captain Marvel and Superman, at Marion Hall, 1621 Marion St., on Aug. 19; a community expo from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Meadowlake Park, 600 Beckman Rd.; and Praise in the Park and Community Picnic at 1 p.m. at Sesquicentennial State Park, 9564 Two Notch Rd. on Aug. 21. With the exception of the all-men’s evening, all events are family-friendly.

The expo will feature vendors, entertainment, HIV/AIDS testing, films, food and other family fun.

More information is available online and through the group’s Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram.

The organization focuses on enriching the mind and bringing awareness to the LGBT community of color and those of common interest. It offers quarterly education sessions, roundtable discussions, social research assistance and a State of the SC Black LGBT Town Hall.

Other work South Carolina Black Pride does is it offers mentorship, college preparation, youth and young adult empowerment sessions, leadership development sessions and Gay Straight Alliance development.

South Carolina Black Pride’s celebration event is still accepting vendor applications, and depending upon the time of submittal, advertising space in the Pride Guide. See the online

news

forms to be included and explore the cost details for each option. Email Interim President Darius Jones at darius@southcarolnablackpride.com or call 803-729-1436 for more up-todate information or queries regarding vendor space and advertising options. info/costs: southcarolinablackpride.com.

Pride seeks sponsors, vendors

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Upstate Pride SC March and Festival, slated for Sept. 10 at Barnet Park, 248 E. St. John St., is approaching its deadline for purchasing advertising in its Pride guide on Aug. 10.

Those who wish to advertise, either without a standard and/or T-shirt sponsorship are asked to visit the organization’s website vendor registration page and select the appropriate items for the level of participation desired.

Ad dimensions and requirements are detailed, so advertisers will be able to see the specifications necessary to complete acceptable documents.

Talent entries are also be accepted. Signup is available online.

The festival and march features a full day of family-friendly activities to increase visibility, network with others, educate the public and entertain those who attend. A children’s area is also present to support parents during the event. The march takes place through the downtown district. info: upstatepridesc.org.

Have news or other information? Send your press releases and updates for inclusion in our News Notes: editor@goqnotes.com.

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news notes: u.s./world compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

TLDEF names new executive director NEW YORK, N.Y. — The Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund has announced the appointment of Jillian T. Weiss as its new executive director.

Weiss, a nationally recognized transgender rights attorney and law professor who brings three decades of legal experience to the post, succeeds Michael Silverman, who founded the organization in 2003.

“Jillian has a powerful track record of fighting for the rights of transgender people in the workplace. Her cases have resulted in landmark settlements and rulings increasing protections for transgender employees and sending an unmistakable message that employment bias will not be tolerated,” said Alaina Kupec and Joseph A. Hall, board of directors co-chairs. “Jillian is also one of the nation’s preeminent transgender discrimination scholars who keenly understands the power of the courts and progressive government in achieving transgender equality under the law.”

Prior to her appointment, Weiss was a tenured professor of law and society at Ramapo College of New Jersey and the founder of the Law Office of Jillian T. Weiss P.C. She has a Ph.D. in Law, Policy and Society from Northeastern University and a J.D. from Seton Hall Law School. Among her milestone cases are Jamal v. Saks & Co., an employment discrimination case against Saks Fifth Avenue, and Chavez v. Credit Nation Auto Sales, LLC, in

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which the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit ruled that a transgender woman may take her employment discrimination case against a Georgia auto sales company to trial.

In 2014, the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission chose her client’s case as the first of two to be litigated by the commission on behalf of a transgender employee. EEOC v. Lakeland Eye Clinic, PA, resulted in a six-figure settlement.

The Department of Justice followed suit in March 2015, in the case of US v. Southeastern Oklahoma State University, which is pending in an Oklahoma federal court. In addition, Weiss and the EEOC brought a transgender employment discrimination lawsuit against Deluxe Financial Services, Inc., one of the nation’s largest check-printing companies. The suit resulted in a large settlement and sweeping workplace policy changes at the company.

“I have dedicated my career to fighting for the rights of the trans community through my legal and academic work,” said Weiss. “At a time when our community faces an all-out legislative assault focused on issues like bathroom access, I am committed to ensuring that all trans people have the freedom to live authentic lives. As a transgender woman myself, I have experienced discrimination first hand. I am determined to combat systemic discrimination that inordinately burdens trans people, particularly people of color and others caught at the

intersection of multiple forms of prejudice, such as race, class and gender bias. I am honored to bring the totality of my experience to bear as TLDEF’s new executive director.”

Weiss is a past board member of Lambda Legal, has been Chair of the annual Trans Law Symposium, and has consulted with private and public organizations regarding gender identity policy and employee gender transitions, including Harvard University, Boeing and New York City. She begins her new role today. Michael Silverman will assist in the leadership transition. info: transgenderlegal.org.

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Antibiotic resistance threatens gonorrhea treatment

WASHINGTON, D.C. — According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) findings published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, there is an emergence of gonorrhea becoming resistant to azithromycin, a first-line antibiotic used to treat the sexually-transmitted disease (STD).

The CDC currently recommends a combination gonorrhea treatment with two antibiotics — an oral dose of azithromycin and single shot of ceftriaxone. Findings show that the percentage of gonorrhea isolates

with decreased susceptibility to azithromycin, an indicator of emerging resistance, increased more than 400 percent between 2013 and 2014 (from 0.6 percent to 2.5 percent of gonorrhea isolates).

The combination therapy currently recommended by CDC still works. To date, no treatment failures have been reported in the United States.

But signs of emerging resistance to azithromycin suggests that this drug will be next in the long line of antibiotics to which gonorrhea bacteria have become resistant — a list that includes penicillin, tetracycline, and fluoroquinolones.

Because of gonorrhea’s ability to outsmart

news

the antibiotics used to treat it, the CDC has been closely monitoring early warning signs of resistance not only to azithromycin, but also to cephalosporins, the class of antibiotics that includes ceftriaxone.

Gonorrhea is one of the most common STDs in the U.S., and the 2014 STD surveillance report indicates that gonorrhea and other reportable STDs are on the rise.

The CDC is taking action by collaborating with state and local health departments and community partner organizations to extend the reach of existing STD prevention services. info: cdc.gov.

QUICK HITS ————————————————————————————————————————————————— The Equality Forum has stated that the selection of Gov. Mike Pence as Donald Trump’s running partner “completes a trifecta of hate on LGBT rights.” The trifecta consists of the Republican Party’s anti-LGBT platform, the selection of anti-gay Pence and Trump’s silence on the Equality Act. info: equalityforum.org.

Reps. Mark Pocan and Richard Hanna led a bipartisan letter to President Barack Obama urging him to direct all federal agencies to prohibit discrimination in federal government contracting and subcontracting based on the sexual orientation or gender identity of the business owner. info: david.kolovson@mail.house.org.

Logo has given the go ahead for a new reality dating competition series, “Finding Prince Charming.” This first-of-its-kind dating show, featuring a cast of all gay men, is currently in production and will debut on the network this fall. Lance Bass will host. info: logotv.com.

A residence historical marker dedication for Barbara Gittings was held in Philadelphia, Pa., on July 26. Gittings, considered the mother of the LGBT civil rights movement, lived in Philadelphia with her partner Kay Lahusen in the 1960s. Gittings was the editor of the first lesbian magazine, co-organized the Annual Reminders each July 4 at Independence Hall (1965-69) and helped lead seismic changes in both the American Library Association and the American Psychiatric Association. In addition to the Gittings’ marker, Oscar-winner Dustin Lance Black dedicated the Philadelphia Conference Historic Marker on July 27. It designates where 300 activists from around

the country met in February 1979 to organize the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. info: equalityforum.org.

percent of homeless youth identify as LGBT. The majority of the TomboyX team identifies as LGBTQ+. info: tomboyx.com.

Bend the Arc Jewish Action denounced a House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform hearing today on H.R. 2802, the so-called First Amendment Defense Act. The legislation would allow businesses, not-for-profits and even government entities to discriminate against LGBT Americans. info: bendthearc.us.

Union Theological Seminary gathered leaders of the Orlando, Fla. and New York LGBT faith communities for a public discussion about ways to build lasting bridges among faith groups and marginalized communities across the nation. They also hosted faith leaders and human rights activists at the Democratic National Convention. info: uts.columbia.edu.

Safeguarding American Values for Everyone will honor five South Florida young professionals on Aug. 18 for its 2016 Luminaries of Equality. info: save.lgbt. luminaryawards.org.

Sami Grisafe has unveiled her “All-UnAmerican” video which serves as an answer to Donald Trump’s “Make America Great” slogan. It was written as a response to the Orlando shootings, as well as for Alton Sterling, Philando Castile and the police officers in Dallas, Texas. “I feel that what we need most in America is unity. And, to me Trump represents division, not unity. I wrote the song to beg the question about who we want to be as Americans.” info: youtube.com/watch?v=NyLKSwSWOWs.

A study found that LGBT adults experience food insecurity and participate in SNAP at higher levels than non-LGBT adults. info: williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu.

An LGBT civil rights summit convened by the Equality Forum was held during the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia, Pa. info: equalityforum.com.

TomboyX has gifted 50 pairs of their signature underwear to Volunteers for America Youth Resource Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, for homeless youth. Statistics show that 40

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HB2 Update

Gov. McCrory heckles only openly gay member of the NC General Assembly Blames Rep. Chris Sgro for loss of NBA All-Star Game

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff :: Op-Ed Nothing is ever Gov. Pat McCrory’s fault. If there is anything he enjoys more than flying our state into the cliffs, it is claiming someone else made him do it.

He has repeatedly tried to blame the Charlotte City Council for their supposed “overreach” in providing equal protection to the LGBT community, also known as pulling us out of the dark ages, claiming it forced his hand and made him sign one of the most overreaching bills in state history, HB2.

It isn’t his fault we have lost countless conventions, concerts, jobs and now the 2017 NBA All-Star Game.

Sure, all of those came as a direct result of his signing HB2 into law, but they made him do it! If it were up to him, we would all just have kept on quietly discriminating against an entire class of people and everything would have been fine and dandy.

In his latest display, McCrory reportedly heckled the only openly gay member of the North Carolina General Assembly, Rep. Chris Sgro, telling him, “Congrats, you got what you wanted.”

He also apparently made it clear to Sgro that he has no intentions of a public debate on the issue.

Sgro spoke with INDY about the bizarre exchange. (See bit.ly/2a6eJT9 for the whole story.)

“The governor was on ‘Charlotte Talks’ this morning,” Sgro said. “He was just spouting a tremendous amount of mistruths in Charlotte’s role in losing the All-Star game and safety and security…so I went over to his press conference, and then he moved the press conference to a secure location that I didn’t have access to.”

The interaction between the two, described in his tweets, then took place, he said.

“No one got what they wanted, and the fault is with the governor,” Sgro added. “If the governor is going to continue to spread false information about HB2 and its impacts, as well as what happened with the All-Star Game, when he knows very well that it’ll move to a city with the protections Charlotte had, he owes a conversation to the LGBT community. And that’s something that needs to happen soon.”

McCrory’s official response to the loss of the 2017 NBA All-Star Game is another example of his lame attempts to pass the buck:

Gov. Pat McCrory shifts blame away from himself with regard to the NBA pulling its All-Star Game from Charlotte, N.C. He also dodges Rep. Chris Sgro on meeting with him to discuss HB2.

Photo Credit: North Carolina Department of Transporation

“The sports and entertainment elite, Attorney General Roy Cooper and the liberal media have for months misrepresented our laws and maligned the people of North Carolina simply because most people believe boys and girls should be able to use school bathrooms, locker rooms and showers without the opposite sex present. Twenty-one other states have joined North Carolina to challenge the federal

overreach by the Obama administration mandating their bathroom policies in all businesses and schools instead of allowing accommodations for unique circumstances. Left-wing special interest groups have no moral authority to try and intimidate the large majority of American parents who agree in common-sense bathroom and shower privacy for our children. American families should be on notice that the selective

corporate elite are imposing their political will on communities in which they do business, thus bypassing the democratic and legal process.”

This is not leadership. This is a sad temper tantrum from a defeated politician who needs to start taking responsibility for the dumpster fire he is turning North Carolina into with each successive month he is allowed to call himself our governor. : :

NBA announces it is moving all-star game from Charlotte Threatened loss of $100 million in revenue is now a reality

by Maria Dominguez :: qnotes contributor

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In the months following March’s impulsive legislation regulating bathroom use and non-discrimination protections, the state of North Carolina has lost millions of dollars of revenue due to the controversial nature of House Bill 2. Celebrities such as Bruce Springsteen and Pearl Jam have canceled shows in the state, corporations like Pepsi and American Airlines have expressed their disapproval and their support of a total repeal, and four federal lawsuits have been filed on both sides of the argument.

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Now, in one of the most financially drastic protests of the controversial law, the NBA has announced that it will be following through on its threat to move the 2017 All-Star Game out of Charlotte, where it was formerly planned to be held. This decision will cost the city of Charlotte and North Carolina as a whole an estimated $100 million.

The organization had long threatened to make this move if HB2 stayed on the books in its discriminatory form. In June, amidst rumors

of amendments to the law that were minor at best, the NBA released a statement that it did not support such minimal changes.

Now, the NBA said in a statement, “While we recognize that the NBA cannot choose the law in every city, state, and country in which we do business, we do not believe we can successfully host our All-Star festivities in Charlotte in the climate created by HB2.” The organization believes

see NBA on 18

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life

Pride 2016

Get ready!

Here comes Charlotte Pride 2016 A week of events culminates in the festival and parade, which gets bigger every year

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff

Over 120,000 came out for the Charlotte Pride Festival last season and more is expected this year.

And, nearly 3,000 participated in the Bank of American Pride Parade, making it the largest between Atlanta, Ga., and Washinton, D.C.

C

harlotte Pride returns, with its signature street festival and parade Aug. 20 and 21. A number of activities in the week lead up to it, occurring across the city.

The organization estimates there were over 120,000 visitors who attended Pride weekend alone, making it the largest LGBT event in the Carolinas.

The parade included nearly 3,000 people in over 120 marching contingents. That included large corporations, like Bank of America who sponsor the event, to smaller businesses and organizations.

The parade has been a feature of Charlotte Pride since 2013, which was the first LGBT Pride parade in the city in nearly two decades.

Awards are presented in categories such as Best Float Design, won

by Cupcrazed/RAIN last year, Spirit of Pride, for the best entry from a non-profit organization that displays the spirit of Pride, won by PFLAGs of North Carolina and Best Choreography, won by Carolina Gold Drum & Bugle Corps.

Those attending this year will have a similar experience, with a couple of notable additions.

Perhaps most notable of all is the outreach to LGBT youth in order to make this year’s Pride a particularly significant one for

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them by the introduction of a “Youth Zone,” located appropriately next to the Time Out Youth booth, which will provide a safe and relaxing space for LGBT youth ages 13-20 to spend time with friends and allies.

“There will be refreshments there, and it will just be a place for the youth to hang out. We’re excited to be able to provide that for them,” said Charlotte Pride Executive Director Kimberly Melton. “We really wanted to make sure that we supported and gave voice to our younger community.”

“We looked at it from a broad perspective and said, ‘Where do we see a need?’ And we really felt like that was a need,” she added. “So we talked to the youth about it and they agreed.”

This will compliment the “Family Zone,” which has been present in years past as well, where children and families can spend time doing crafts, playing dress up and various games.

LGBT youth will also be featured on the main stage as a key part of this year’s entertainment.

At press time, qnotes was still waiting on an announcement concerning this year’s performers and MCs. Security is always a concern at Pride, as it is at any large street festival, but this year it is especially pertinent with the shooting at the Orlando LGBT nightclub Pulse still on the public’s mind.

“We take the security and the safety of our festival and parade goers very, very seriously,” Melton said. “Fortunately, also does the city of Charlotte, the police department and the city offices.

“So, we meet every year, have a roundtable discussion and make sure that we do everything in our power to create a safe atmosphere. The police are taking this

seriously, like they do with any other large public event, and are making sure that they have multiple different divisions on hand. We are joining as a team to make sure that we do everything in our power for a safe and successful festival and parade.”

Over 200 vendors and non-profit organizations will be on hand in the PNC Bank Festival Zone on S. Tryon St., between Trade and Stonewall Sts. This year will also include an expanded food court with more dining options.

Festival goers will also want to check out “Flourish: A Celebration of LGBTQ Arts & Culture,” inside the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, as well as the Campus Pride LGBTQFriendly College Fair at Levine Avenue of the Arts. Both will be held on Saturday, Aug. 20.

For comprehensive event information, see page 13.

For more information on Charlotte Pride visit them online at charlottepride.org. : : Photo Credits: Photo by Robert Harmon (heavenlydark.com), courtesy Charlotte Pride.

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life

Pride 2016

Charlotte Pride keeps it moving forward With the hiring of its first ever executive director, and a plan for more year-round programming, the organization continues to take shape

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff

T

his has already been a transformative year for Charlotte Pride, moving from an all-volunteer organization to hiring its first-ever executive director, Kimberly Melton.

Melton is a familiar face to those in the community, having served in a number of positions with a number of LGBT organizations over the years.

She was on the board of Queen City Friends and WOW, the first lesbian organizations in Charlotte, back in the 1980s.

She also created a group called Lambda Connections, to bring together lesbian and gay businesses so they would be more visible, and helped launch Time Out Youth, One Voice Chorus and OutCharlotte.

In 1994, Melton was part of a team that brought North Carolina Pride March to Charlotte, N.C. and in 2013 was an honorary grand marshal in the 2013 Charlotte Pride Parade, which was the first one held in the city in nearly two decades.

Though he did not return qnotes’ calls, Charlotte Pride Board of Directors President Craig Hopkins said in a press release at the time of Melton’s hiring, “We are excited to have Kimberly on board. With the breadth and depth of her experience, she will be able to make our annual signature event, the festival and parade, an even bigger success and assist us as we move forward with more year-round programs including Charlotte Trans Pride, Charlotte Latin Pride, the GayCharlotte Film Festival and other educational and cultural events to empower, enrich and strengthen the LGBTQ community.”

The GayCharlotte Film Festival has been in existence since 2009 and both Trans Pride and Latin Pride were formed in 2015.

The film festival took place this year from April 21-24, at Theatre Charlotte and was a success, Melton reported.

“We had a great turnout, and it was varied, and we had some superb films. We are really looking forward to, once Pride is over, working to make it bigger and better for 2017,” she said.

Films included: “While You Weren’t Looking,” which explores the changing political and social climate of post-

Apartheid South Africa and what it means to be gay and lesbian in that climate; “The Same Difference,” a documentary about being a lesbian or bisexual woman in the black community; and “4th Man Out,” about a man coming out to his straight, blue collar friends, to name but a few.

The festival kicked off with a first-ever shorts competition.

“Stealth,” about a transgender middle-schooler, with a transgender teen actress in the lead role, was selected by the audience as the best short film of the night.

Melton believes it is her experience with project management and event planning, along with her intimate knowledge of the local LGBT community, which makes her a good fit for the position.

“I think the thing that interested me most about this position was the possibilities,” Melton said.

“The organization of Charlotte Pride brought me in to help expand the programming and how we can support, educate and enrich the community.”

The exact nature of the organization moving beyond merely being a festival and parade event and into a more year-round player remains to be seen. There are few specifics as to what that will look like at this time, but Melton explained that they are already seeing an increase in the community reaching out to them.

“Because we are getting out into the community more, we are having organizations reach out to us to say, ‘Hey, do you want to do this with us?’” she said. “We are open and exploring to everything as long as it meets our criteria.”

She points to a recent vigil, held on Sunday, June 12, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, for the victims of the shooting in Orlando

at the LGBT nightclub Pulse, as an example of what they can do moving forward and what having a dedicated employee at the Charlotte Pride offices means to the group.

“It was a joint effort and… it was very meaningful, and, of course, due to the nature of the event it had to be done quickly,” Melton remembered.

The event was organized under the Charlotte Latin Pride banner — the shooting occurred on Latin Night — with assistance from interfaith organization MeckMin. “The Orlando vigil is a perfect example — the fact that that had to be done quickly. We were able to address all of the needs of the media; we did multiple interviews at the time that was convenient with the media. We were instantly there on Sunday for the media, when they needed it. And, so it’s that kind of thing that is very, very, very challenging to do when you are a volunteer-only organization,” Melton said. “So this gives us a bit more flexiblity with hours that we can communicate and conduct business.”

“We have had the most incredible group of volunteers maintaining Charlotte Pride for years,” she added.

“I have so much respect for the individuals who have been working on this for years and doing it in a volunteer position. On a daily basis, I think how did they do it? If I’m doing this 50, 60 hours a week, how in the world did the individuals do it that were working a full-time job and then doing it?” she asked.

“But there is only so much a volunteer can do. Most people work a full-time job. So what this [having an Executive Director] will allow is to be able to pick up the phone during the day and have a business conversation.”

That should put the organization in a solid position to become an increasingly significant and influential actor in the local and regional LGBT communities.

For more information, visit charlottepride.org. : : Photo Credit: Photo by Jennifer Hogan (hoganimaging.com), courtesy Charlotte Pride.

Charlotte Pride events grace the Queen City From small soireés to a parade, there’s plenty to enjoy

by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

D

Charlotte Pride: Official events, partner activities

Aug. 13 Charlotte Latin Pride Expo Highlights organizations and resources for the LGBT Latin community, workshops, speakers and entertainment.

Noon-6 p.m.

Midwood International & Cultural Center, 1817 Central Ave., #215 info: charlottepride.org/latin.

Aug. 12 Time Out Youth Charlotte Pride Dance An evening of dance and fun.

Open to youth 13-20.

Cost: $5 donation for the LGBTQ Center of Orlando.

6:30-8:30 p.m.

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1900 The Plaza info/tickets: timeoutyouth.org.

Aug. 14 Annual Interfaith Service Annual Interfaith service celebrating the dignity, value and worth of all people. With clergy from a diversity of faith traditions.

Refreshments following the service.

4 p.m.

First United Methodist Church, 501 N. Tryon St. info: charlottepride.org.

uring the week leading up to and including the Charlotte Pride Festival and Parade, the LGBT and allied communities have a plethora of fun and enlightening activities to choose from. Here is a list of them:

Aug. 15 Trans Pride Keynote & Social Free evening social mixer featuring keynote speaker Candis Cox, other special guests and community panelists discussing the effect of HB2 in Charlotte and North Carolina.

6:30 p.m.

Levine Museum of the New South, 200 E. 7th St. info: charlottepride.org/trans.

Aug. 16 Trans 101 What is gender identity? Charlotte Pride, Time Out Youth, PFLAG Photo Credit: Photo by Robert Harmon (heavenlydark.com), courtesy Charlotte Pride.

see Pride Events on 16 July 29-Aug. 11 . 2016 qnotes 13

goqnotes.com/to/life Pride 2016

Center, arts groups augment festival Arts celebration featured during Pride CHARLOTTE, N.C. — “Flourish: A Celebration of LGBT Arts + Culture” will take place on Aug. 20, 12 p.m., at Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, 420 S. Tryon St. The “festival within a festival” is presented by the Queer Arts Consortium and provides an opportunity for LGBT artists, writers, dancers, musicians, poets, subject-matter lecturers, etc., to present, exhibit and perform during the annual Charlotte Pride Festival.

“We have established criteria for selecting artists, exhibitors, performers and presenters, and we are working to present a combination of performers from past years along with performers who are new to “Flourish” in order to fully represent varied aspects of LGBT arts and culture,” said John Quillin, event organizer.

Proposals were submitted by a July 22 deadline and the consortium will release its selections in the near future. Visit their website in August to learn who will be featured.

The organization’s members are: Charlotte Pride Band, Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte, Gay Charlotte Film Festival, One Voice Chorus of Charlotte, Queen City Theatre Company, Stillout Photography, Triptych Collective and the University of North Carolina Multicultural Resource Center.

“The Queer Arts Consortium is a loose confederation of Charlotte’s gay and lesbian arts community. We started out just to coordinate performance calendars, but we’ve evolved to something much more. We promote operational and performance collaborations, help arrange reciprocal marketing, and joint audience devel-

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opment,” said Gerald Gurss, artistic director of One Voice. info: queerartsconsortium.org.

Response by artists frames exhibit CHARLOTTE, N.C. — “Open Occupancy: Artists Respond to HB2” will be held from Aug. 19-Sept. 10 at the McColl Center for Art + Innovation, 721 N. Tryon St. Provoked by recent attacks on LGBTQ rights by our state government (HB2), Charlotte area artists and advocates began a conversation about reclaiming the narrative of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression; from one of fear, bigotry and public exclusion to one of respect, tolerance and public inclusion. This conversation has grown into a series of provocative temporary art installations in seven of the public restrooms at the McColl Center, organizers said.

Each restroom features the work of a McColl Center alumni artist, inspired by dialogue with local LGBT advocacy groups.

Their responses range from the serious to the whimsical, and show that creativity can be a powerful response to prejudice.

Special hours will be made available during the Charlotte Pride Festival and Parade on Aug. 19, 12-5 p.m., Aug. 20, 12-8 p.m., and Aug. 21, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Artists who are participating in the exhibition are D’Angelo Dia, Raymond Grubb, John W. Love, Tom Thoune, Andrea Vail, Jason Watson and Rosalia Torres Weiner. info: mccollcenter.org.

— Lainey Millen

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life

Pride organizations & celebration dates across the Carolinas: Charleston Pride Festival Aug. 6-14, North Charleston, S.C., charlestonpride.org.

South Carolina Black Pride Aug. 18-21, Columbia, S.C., southcarolinablackpride.com.

Charlotte Pride Festival and Parade Aug. 20-21, Charlotte, N.C., charlottepride.org.

South Carolina Pride Sept. 3, Columbia, S.C., scpride.org.

Upstate Pride Sept. 10, Spartanburg, S.C., upstatepridesc.org.

OBX Pride Sept. 9-11, Outer Banks, N.C. (Nags Head, Manteo, Kill Devil Hills), obxpridefest.com.

Greensboro Pride Sept. 17, Greensboro, N.C., greensboropride.org.

Catawba Valley Pride Sept. 17, Hickory. N.C., catawbavalleypride.org.

NC Pride Sept. 24, Durham, N.C., ncpride.org.

Blue Ridge Pride Oct. 1, Asheville, N.C., blueridgepride.org.

Pride Winston-Salem Oct. 15, Winston-Salem, N.C., pridews.org.

Photo Credit: Rawpixel.com via Adobe Stock

More information on each of the events will be forthcoming in future qnotes issues when more details have been released. Check back to learn more. qnotes regrets if it inadvertently omitted anyone from the list. If our readers find an error or omission, please email us at editor@goqnotes.com with event details. Information will be used to update the listings. : :

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life

Jesse’s Journal

The dream of a gay nation A place where everyone is free

by Jesse Monteagudo :: guest contributor

The dream of a gay nation was born in the “heroic age” that followed the Stonewall Uprising (1969-1971), when militants tried to imitate the work of Zionists and other nationalists to create an autonomous “gay nation.” L. Craig Schoonmaker, head of the aptly-named Homosexuals Intransigent!, argued that gays could never achieve equality as permanent minorities in a country where the straight majority rules. According to Donn Teal’s activist history, The Gay Militants, Schoonmaker urged gays to “become the majority” by designating “certain geographical areas for demographic takeover by homosexuals. We should leave the farms and villages, the small towns and small cities, and come to specific neighborhoods of specific big cities. We should take over entire election districts and cities, and vote our people in to speak militantly for our rights. The blacks have done it. Puerto Ricans, Italians, Irish, and others too. It works.” Schoonmaker’s plan was to “create a homosexual majority in Manhattan’s 19th and 20th Congressional Districts — which we have designated the ‘First Gay-Power District.’”

Schoonmaker’s master plan did not go well with other activists, who were involved with more pressing and practical issues. Dick Leitsch, at the time president of the New York Mattachine Society, complained that “Craig Schoonmaker wanted to agitate for a gay homeland. I told him, we have one already. It’s called Cherry Grove [Fire Island].” Meanwhile, on the Left Coast, activist Don Jackson had what Teal called a “broader, non-city dream of gay takeover to establish a gay counterculture, a refuge for persecuted homosexuals, and a gay tourist Mecca.” “I have a recurring daydream,” Jackson said. “I imagine a place where gay people can be free. A place where there is no job discrimination, police harassment or prejudice. A place where love rules instead of hate. A beautiful valley in the mountains, remote enough from cities so we will not be hassled, yet close enough so transportation is rapid. A place where a gay government can build the base for a flourishing gay counter-culture and city.” Jackson’s daydream was to take over Alpine County, at the time a sparsely-populated rural enclave in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, and turn it into a “Stonewall Nation.” Alas, Los Angeles’ press-hungry activists Morris Kight and Don Kilhefner took this idea of a “Stonewall Nation” and turned it into a huge publicity stunt, which frightened the conservative residents of Alpine County into passing ordinances that would prevent a possible gay takeover.

More recently — on June 14, 2004, to be exact — gay Australian activists who never heard of Craig Schoonmaker or Don Jackson expressed their dissatisfaction with Australia’s ban on same-sex marriage by taking over Cato Island, an uninhabited islet in Australia’s Coral Sea Island Territory, and declaring it to be an independent “gay kingdom.” Renamed “The Island of Heaven,” Cato Island became the capital of “the Gay & Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Sea Islands,” complete with a rainbow flag and an upside-down pink triangle as its coat of arms. It was the most momentous event of its kind since the 1980s, when Key West “seceded” from the Union and briefly became “the Conch Republic.”

Critics called “the Gay & Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Sea Islands” a publicity stunt or a joke. Whatever it was, it was in the fine tradition of LGBT militancy. On “independence day” (June 14) the founders of the gay kingdom raised the rainbow flag on Cato Island and sent the governor general of Australia a formal notice of independence. The kingdom’s “Declaration of Independence,” posted on its website (gaykingdom.info), is a long, ponderous tract which obviously owes much to Thomas Jefferson’s more famous (and shorter) Declaration. A “Gay Constitution” was also concocted, which declared the island to be a constitutional monarchy.

Australian activist Dale Parker Anderson (who, we are told, is a direct descendant of England’s gay King Edward II) became “His Imperial Majesty Dale I, Emperor of the Gay & Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Sea Islands.” (Nothing less than an Emperor would do.) Needless to say, the Australian government has refused to recognize this new gay kingdom in the Coral Sea. Undaunted, the founders of the Gay & Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Sea Islands proceeded to bestow upon itself all of the accoutrements of modern nationhood. “I am what I am,” as sung by Gloria Gaynor, was named the national anthem and “the Pink Dollar” became the national currency. The Kingdom also produced “camp postage stamps” to be sold as fundraisers. Meanwhile, “His Majesty’s gay government” announced plans to give diplomatic recognition to [the] nations of Taiwan and Tibet,” to legalize euthanasia, and to open its borders “to gay immigration and ingathering of gay exiles. Every homosexual now has the right to emigrate to the kingdom [on the Gayflower] and after his arrival should he desire to settle here may obtain permanent residence status.

The Kingdom will also be a tax haven and will derive its income from other means.” On military matters, “the Kingdom has declared itself neutral; it does however have a small army of gay activists located around the world it can call on in times of emergency.” Finally, “the Gay Kingdom has Consulates located in the major cities of most states and nations in the world.

Most of the Consulates are located in the offices of the gay press of these nations.”

The Emperor Dale assured the Sydney Star Observer that “we’re very serious about” the Gay & Lesbian Kingdom. “The [Australian] government’s obviously not going to recognize it but if we can force them to do something about it, then they can’t ignore it.” Without taxes, the gay kingdom will have to depend on tourism for its income, though His Imperial Majesty admits that “it’s a bit hard to get there because there’s no harbor and you have to park the boat off the reef and wait for a wave.” Alas, like too many LGBT groups before or since, the Gay Government soon split over personalities and procedures; and “queer republicans” tried to overthrow the Emperor Dale. Since 2005, several factions have seceded from the Kingdom and gone their own gay ways, forming the Gay and Lesbian Commonwealth Kingdom and the Unified Gay Tribe in the United States and the Gay Homeland Foundation in Germany.

Recently the group Planting Peace, led by the LGBT ally Aaron Jackson, visited Antarctica and “claimed” it as “the world’s first LGBT-

friendly continent,” raising the rainbow and transgender pride flags over the ice to the bemusement of the native penguins and seals.

Meanwhile there is nothing left of “the Gay & Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Sea Islands” but a website, a Facebook page and a Yahoo group. : : — A version of this article first appeared in GayToday.com.

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Pride events continued from page 13 and MeckMin are sponsoring an event to dispel the fear around talking about the transgender community.

7 p.m.

Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd. info: charlottepride.org/trans101.

Aug. 17 Charlotte Latin Pride Mixer Evening of fun, dance, music and friendship for the local LGBTQ Latin community.

Time and Location TBA. info: charlottepride.org/latin.

Aug. 19 Charlotte Pride Kickoff Cookout Grab a burger, play a game of beer pong, flip cup or giant Jenga and grab a drink on the deck.

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5:30 p.m.

Bar at 316, 316 Rensselaer Ave. info: charlottepride.org. bar316.com.

Aug. 19 Takeover Friday Kickoff to Charlotte Pride weekend.

Free and everyone is welcome to attend.

Features DJ Little Betty.

7-11 p.m.

Le Méridien Charlotte, 555 S. McDowell St. info: takeoverfriday.com.

August 20 After Party with Jujubee Join Jujubee of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” fame and a cast of local performers and continue the party into the night.

11 p.m.

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Chasers , 3217 The Plaza info: chaserscharlotte.club.

Festival Zone Charlotte Pride Festival PNC Bank Festival Zone S. Tryon St. between Trade and Stonewall Sts. Aug. 20 • “Flourish: A Celebration of LGBTQ Arts & Culture” (Saturday only, 12 p.m., Bechtler Museum of Modern Art) • Campus Pride LGBTQ-Friendly College Fair (Saturday only, 1-4 p.m., Levine Avenue of the Arts) Aug. 20-21 • Know Your Status & Learn More Testing (Aug. 20-21, Tryon St., between MLK & Levine) • Food Court (Aug. 20-21, 3rd & Tryon Sts.)

life

• C harlotte Pride VIP Experience (Aug. 21-21, Trade & Tryon Sts.; $150, online at charlottepride.org/vip) • Bud Light Karaoke Lounge (Aug. 20, 1-7 p.m.; Aug. 21, 3-6 p.m.; Trade & Tryon Sts.) • PFLAG Charlotte Family Zone (Aug. 20, 12-6 p.m.; Aug. 21, 1:30-6 p.m.; 4th & Tryon Sts.) • Youth Zone (Aug. 20-21; youth 13-20, next to the Time Out Youth Center booth) • Youth Entertainment (Aug. 20, afternoon; Wells Fargo Stage, Stonewall and S. Tryon Sts.) Festival Parade Bank of America Charlotte Pride Parade Aug. 21 1-3 p.m. from 9th and N. Tryon Sts. to Independence Square at Tryon and Trade Sts. info: charlottepride.org

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news

goqnotes.com/to/news

NBA continued from page 10 that the purpose of the event is to “bring together all members of the NBA community — current and former players, league and team officials, business partners, and fans,” including those who identify as LGBT. The NBA’s statement alludes to a key result of HB2; the social climate of the state has changed severely during the six months following the legislation’s approval. From loud-and-proud protests against the law, to gatherings of faith leaders praying for support of HB2, there has been an undeniable environment of ideological conflict verging on outright hatred. This sense of bitter strife was reaffirmed by Gov. Pat McCrory’s response to the NBA’s decision, a statement which The New York Times described as “blistering.” McCrory condemned “the sports and entertainment elite” and other opponents of HB2 for “misrepresenting our laws.”

Outspoken opponents of the law have praised the NBA’s decision, including Chad Griffin, president of the national organization the Human Rights Campaign.

“Every day that HB2 remains on the books, people across North Carolina are at risk of real harm,” Griffin said in a statement.

“We appreciate the leadership of the NBA in standing up for equality and call once again on lawmakers to repeal this vile HB2 law.”

The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) released another statement praising the NBA’s decision.

“On behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) youth across the country, GLSEN thanks the NBA for sending a strong and clear message that discrimination is unacceptable,” said Executive Director Dr. Eliza Byard. “When the chips are down, true allies make the tough call. Right now, the defense of civil rights for all communities must be front and center for all of us.”

Political candidates have not missed the chance to comment as well. Linda Coleman, a candidate for North Carolina lieutenant governor, responded that the NBA’s announcement is “yet another sad example of how the reckless Republican agenda in Raleigh is hurting our economy.”

At the local level, Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts expressed her deep disappointment, reminding readers that “Charlotte has shown its commitment to equal rights and inclusion and will continue to promote those values.”

The Professional Golf Association (PGA) seems to be inclined to follow suit with the NBA. The PGA said in a statement, “As we look to future events, our willingness to consider coming back to the state of North Carolina will be severely impacted unless HB2 is overturned.”

The PGA did, however, clarify that their upcoming tour will remain in North Carolina, citing that the Quail Hollow Club where it will be held “is a private facility not subject to all the provisions of HB2, at the 2017 PGA Championship we plan to allow spectators to use the restroom that conforms with their gender identity or gender expression.” They will decide later what their future plans are as the battle with HB2 continues. If it does not get overturned, it will impact their decision going forward.

With such a major financial blow to the state, it remains to be seen whether the legislature will take action and perhaps call another special legislative session — this one to repair the damage that the infamous March session provoked. : :

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tell trinity

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

Where to find good, immediate advice Dear Trinity, I love your column very much, however sometimes I need advice right away. My friends always have advice, but you know how that goes. Sometimes I just need objective advice like yours, but immediately?

Needing Advice, Norfolk, VA Dear Needing Advice, Often the very needy ask advice from their bartender, neighborhood ice cream man or supermarket cashier. Others, a bit wiser, go to professional counselors, social workers, group meetings or doctors. Yet paying for advice still doesn’t guarantee the best answer either. In the end advice is exactly what it is — “advice,” not the holy word or the last word. So always try to a) take your time, b) get advice from as many professionals as you can afford, c) do what feels right in your heart, even if it sounds crazy, d) stay away from people claiming “the right answer” and, lastly, always be accepting of your mistakes, especially, sweetie, if you didn’t get the advice from me!

Hey Trinity, Whenever I go out on a date, I worry about everything and I mean everything! Help?

Worrisome, Tucson, AZ Hey Worrisome, Being nervous on a date is like being nervous on an airplane flight. So, keep breathing, no

coffee or stimulants, no fantasizing about catastrophes and, lastly, honey, drink a glass of wine before and during your flight, I mean your date. It helps calm your nerves and loosen you up! Good journeys!

Dearest Trinity, After I found out my husband cheated on me, I was so upset I wanted to castrate him. I know an “eye for an eye” is wrong, but it was normal to want some sort of revenge. I want him to know the hurt he caused me! What should I do?

Wanting Revenge, Washington, DC Dearest Revenge, Yes “an eye for an eye” is wrong, however, an eye for “a little eye opening” may prove to be equally as satisfying. The most important thing to remember, pumpkin, when “paying someone back” is to keep it practical, legal and full of important lessons. When I need to teach my lover a lesson, instead of “giving it to him,” I “take it away from him” where it counts the most, in the bedroom and in the kitchen! (Revenge can be sweet. Just make sure you use my cartoon as an example of what works for me!)

Hello Trinity, Understanding sex and exploring my sexuality is challenging enough, but trying to understand

a&e

the different fetishes hurts. Do you have some insight into fetishism?

Fetish-ly Frustrated, Chicago, IL Hello FF, Since you know that fetishism means, “worshiping or having blind adoration for an “object” which gives you excessive “sexual” pleasure or stimulation…” then, baby, why don’t you read: Trinity’s Profound List Of Fifteen Possible Fetishes 1. Animals — i.e. gerbils, goats, donkeys and sheep.

2. Body Accessories — including jewelry, belts, gloves, hats, socks and footwear.

3. Body Alterations — piercing, tattoos, scars and amputees.

4. Body Fluids — urine, spit, sweat and feces.

5. Body Parts — including feet, hands, armpits, breasts, buttocks and genitalia.

6. Body Tortures — through biting, pinching, burning, slapping, spanking, whipping, electricity and breath controlling.

7. Body Types — width, height, age, hairy, smooth, muscular or naturally built, nerdy, androgynous, masculine, feminine, racial or ethnic.

8. Dressing Up — in leather, rubber, plastic, vinyl, lingerie, drag or uniforms (especially military, white or blue collar, athletic, medical or religious apparel).

9. (Using) Devices — such as clothespins, clamps, handcuffs, gags, weights or masks.

10. Hair or Lack Of — body hair, facial hair or hairstyles.

11. Life’s Extra Pleasures — i.e. foods, perfumes

or scents and cigars.

12. P ornography — such as videos and magazines.

13. S&M: Aggressive Activities — such as domination, bondage and verbal abuse.

14. S&M: Passive Activities — such as submission, being bound or kept.

15. Lastly, Used Undergarments (including those from an unknown person) — wearing, smelling, feeling and seeing. (If I missed any “sit down” and email me. “Did I make myself clear Daddy!”) 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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— Sponsored Content —

Walking the Good Road Together

by Dale J. Pierce, President and CEO of Different Roads Home

Wisdom from Snoopy & Schultz?

Could it be that simple that some of the greatest secrets in life and of our times came from a writer who created a misfit gang of children that never grew old and a dog that shared so much wisdom without uttering a word? I think it can be so. Anyone that knows me, knows that Charles Schultz and his “Peanuts” gang are my fallback; a fallback to a simple time when wisdom was given in four or five comic cells every Sunday. In reading though a book that was given to me recently called “Peanuts: A Guide to Life,” I was stricken on how the most profound of words from a beagle we all know and love can be so timeless.

Snoopy said, “It’s better to live one day as a lion than a dozen days as a sheep.” What if all of us in this country took that advice right now? The violence and discord that is separating us can be, at least, partially attributed to the sheep. Be the lion. Don’t sit back and let the establishment or status quo dictate what is on the news or on your mind. Wouldn’t we be better off if more people roared more loudly about equality, peace, and acceptance? It is easy to say that we

want things to get better, but what are YOU doing to make it better. You cannot sit back and expect things to happen.

You have to take charge and make them happen.

Following up on that, my favorite beagle once said, “There’s no sense in doing a lot of barking if you don’t have anything to say.” Pretty profound for a fictitious beagle. I have no doubts that leaders in our community and the nation are nothing but sincere in their distrust of forces that are bringing about so much trouble to our consciousness as of late. But what are we really trying to say by “barking” so loud? Let’s come up with solutions and not just a platform for attention, a vote, or even worse, just hearing ourselves talk. There are solutions when we work together. Things can change. We have to be that change.

The great beagle also said, “Keep looking up…That’s the secret of life…”

Wow. No matter how you interpret this quote, it rings as true everyday as when it was first published. A higher power leads people to a belief that faith and trust can help improve the way in which we live. If you don’t see it as quite so literal or religiously philosophical, then think of it this way. Keep pressing on.

The beagle also said, “Be yourself and no one can ever tell you are doing it wrong”. How true is that? Being unique is something that the LGBTQ community does well and something where it also suffers. We can be that bright and shining star and celebrate our diversity, but we have to use our power and the hate that is brought against us in order to make the changes we want. Let the anger fuel our fires.

If we lay down and take all the ignorance, violence, and discrimination, we all suffer.

Different Roads Home tries to embrace all these qualities. Without taking sides on political or religious issues, we always try to stand on the side of what is right and not wrong. We hold support groups for HIV Positives, transgender individuals, and we have a food pantry for anyone suffering from chronic illness. Our events and education focus on inclusivity and fairness to all people. We don’t want to divide a community or culture, but by the things we do, we hope to unite a community, an “army” of warriors that will make the difference.

What kind of a world do we want to leave for future generations? For me it is one where the simple words of a genius writer and cartoonist breathed life into a group of beloved and timeless characters. Take action, speak out, and stand tall. We only are as strong as our weakest links, so trying to separate and divide the community or nation is only going to suffer all the children of this world. You can join us in the fight by donating, volunteering, or just spreading the love. Visit us at www.differentroadshome.org or call us at 704-237-8793 and find out where your voice and talents fit in.

July 29-Aug. 11 . 2016

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EVENTS July-August 2016 Rowan Chamber Dragon Boat Festival High Rock Lake, Salisbury 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

The third annual Rowan County dragon boat race will be held in Salisbury, where local and regional teams of all skill levels will compete against one another in a series of heats. Food vendors and entertainment throughout the day. There will also be a drummer parade. Families are welcome but pets are not. More information is available online. rowanchamberdragonboat.com.

–––––––––––––––––––– Jessica Wild Chasers Charlotte 3217 The Plaza, Charlotte 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m.

Jessica Wild, of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” fame, will put on a show alongside birthday girls Amber Rochelle and Janice Covington, as well as hostess Kasey King. Male go-go dancers will also perform. More information is available online. chaserscharlotte.club.

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Submit your event to our calendar!

You can submit your event to our comprehensive community calendar presented by qnotes, the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce 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), Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce (clgbtcc.org) and Visit Gay Charlotte (visitgaycharlotte.com).

Stand Against HB2 Raja SEP JUL SEP AUG MO MO Brooklyn Arts Center at St. Chasers Charlotte Andrews 3217 The Plaza, Charlotte 516 N. 4th St., Wilmington 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m.

12-11:30 p.m.

Raja Gemini, winner of Over two dozen “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 3, will North Carolina appear at musicians will Chasers come together Charlotte for to raise their Kasey King’s voices against disLegends criminatory HB2. show. Tiffany Performers include Storm and Jon Lindsay, Bruno DJ Pepito Rose, Johnny will both be Folsom 4, Tres celebrating Chicas and 6 String birthdays, Drag. Tickets cost adding to the $15 in advance, $25 festivities. for VIP balcony seats and children 12 Male go-go and under get in free. Tickets and more dancers will information are available online. also perform. facebook.com/events/1750959401784707/. More information is available online. chaserscharlotte.club.

–––––––––––––––––––– Big Fun Drag Show Continues through Aug. 13 SEP AUG MO Presents Tempest DuJour Charleston Pride The Bar at 316 Various locations and times 316 Rensselaer Ave., Charlotte Patti O’Furniture will host a performance by “RuPaul’s Drag Race” fan Charleston Pride 2016 will feature events favorite Tempest all week, culminating in the Charleston DuJour. Her Pride Parade on Aug. 13 at 9 a.m. on performance King St. The parade route will travel from and comedic Ann St. down King St. to Broad St. and abilities helped then to Colonial Lake. Other key events launch her into include a roller derby, drag shows and post-show stardom even though she a comedy show. More information is was eliminated early. More information available online. is available online. charlestonpride.org. bar316.com.

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Alyssa Edwards Bar at 316 316 Rensselaer Ave., Charlotte Hosted by birthday girl Buff Faye, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Alyssa Edwards will take the stage at Bar at 316 to show why she was selected to return for the second season of “All Stars.” More information is available online. bar316.com.

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Stronger Communities: SEP AUG MO LGBTQ+ Suicide Prevention” Renaissance Asheville Hotel 31 Woodfin St., Asheville 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

The North Carolina Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the nation’s largest suicide prevention organization, will host a conference for local mental health providers and other interested parties concerning the increased suicide risk in the LGBTQ community.

Those in attendance will learn about suicide risk, the latest research findings and explore strategies for improving the situation. Presentations will be given by national experts and will include a special presentation by North Carolina native Jacob Tobia, host of NBC OUT’s Queer 2.0. Conference registration is open and required to attend. bit.ly/2a0WWhM.

Continues through Aug. 21 South Carolina Black Pride Various locations and times, Columbia South Carolina Black Pride 2016 takes place over several days with the goal of unifying and celebrating the diversity the South Carolina black LGBT community and allies. There will be a kick off at Ms. Scotto’s, 8712 Two Notch Rd., where there will be food, drinks and karaoke. There will also be a community expo event on Aug. 20 at Meadowlake Park, 600 Beckman Rd., and a closing community picnic at Sesquicentennial State Park, 9564 Two Notch Rd. More information is available online. southcarolinablackpride.com.

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PFLAG Concord/Kannapolis SEP AUG MO Cookout Member’s home 4 p.m.

Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Concord/ Kannapolis will hold its annual cookout and celebration at a member’s home.

Those wishing to attend are encouraged to email ckpflag@gmail.com for further details and to sign up to bring a dish.

More information is available online. pflag.org/chapter/pflag-concordkannapolis.

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life

dishing with buff faye

by Buff Faye :: qnotes contributor :: info@bufffaye.com

In loving memory: Boom Boom’s flowers live on Loss is such an emotional word for many of us. When we lose something, it is followed by mixed feelings of sadness, depression and grieving. Asking why? And why now?

On July 4, I lost someone whom I admired, whom I loved and who has been part of my “chosen” family for years now — Boom Boom LaTour. The love and laughter she gave all those around her will be missed dearly. Not only is Boom Boom a drag legend and icon for many, but she was also a mother, a grandmother to me personally. And I know many in our drag community feel the same.

When I lose people I love today, I try to deal with the pain of loss by focusing on the treasure chest of memories and lessons learned from these loved ones. In that way, I believe they will always be present and we will never truly lose them in our souls. I asked some drag queens about Boom Boom to share some of those lessons learned and memories.

Boom Boom taught me no matter if there are ten people in the audience or 100 people, always perform like you are performing for a crowd. The fans are the ones who love you and make you.

— Amber Rochelle She taught me to be not so timid and to stand up for myself.

—Gypsy Starr Boom Boom taught me to go for my dreams.

Never let anyone steer you away from what you want.

Don’t ever let anyone push you around! I left out the cursing. LOL. — Cierra Nichole When I moved to Charlotte in 2010, I knew I could impress everyone with kicks, splits, jumps and everything else that included high energy. I remember Boom Boom attending a show at Night Owls where I performed .

I asked her, “How was the show”? She looked and said, “Very wild, it hurt.” Then in 2013 Boom Boom stopped me on my way out of the club and said: “I’ve been seeing clips of your performances and wanted to let you know I’m so impressed. I knew you would stop being wild eventually, keep practicing your craft and do what makes you happy, good job.”

—Aiesha Paris Boom taught me the importance of working hard for what you want. I owe a lot of my experiences to those brief conversations we shared. I remember promising Boom that I’d be the next “big girl” MGNCA, so we will see how that goes. LOL. I miss her so much.

—Nina Fierra Determination. Fight. Hope. While driving around Charlotte, of course I was lost, and he was being my GPS and said “Girl you gotta always know where ya are. (in life too.) Doesn’t matter where you’ve been. Sometimes you’re not sure where you’re going, but if you know where you are right now, you won’t ever be lost.”

— Anna Hairfield Boom Boom taught me to care for others no matter what your diffrences and to always be yourself. Stand out from the crowd.

— Sierra Santana

The thing that Rick taught me was to remember that you get out of drag what you put into drag. Always entertain the crowd no matter how you had to do it, and also, and I quote: “Have fabulous hair, queen. It makes all the difference.”

— Shana Nicole I was scared of Boom Boom for a lil’ while because all I heard of was that she was so mean. This was mid 80s. It wasn’t ‘til I stayed the night with her and Toni and during the “naring of the back” in their bathroom, I fell completely in love with him.The love I saw him give away over the years was like no other.

— Kelly Ray I met Boom when I was 19. Boom Boom taught me to pay attention to the details. I can hear her now “Miss Thaang the difference in good and great is in the details.” She also taught me to have a thick skin and to take chances...Find out who I am as an entertainer and perfect that uniqueness. That advice helped me in my everyday life as well. I’ve grown up, achieved dreams, overcome obstacles, and most of all, developed a true sense of self that I am proud of.

— Kerri Nichols I have so many memories of Boom Boom and lessons learned. But here is what I will always remember to keep Boom Boom alive in my soul.

Boom Boom loved taking care of her flowers.

I would chat with her often at Scorpios and see how she was doing. I loved these moments to catch up with her and hear her stories. Regardless, Boom Boom would always bring up her flowers. What flowers she planted new this week. How her flowers she planted last year had come back. How hot it was, and how she watered her flowers so they would survive the heat. She was thrilled with every flower that bloomed giving her so much enjoyment. It wasn’t until she passed away that I understood. All of us were her flowers. She had been taking care of us all along. Boom Boom would water us to help us grow, prune us back when we needed it and all the while loving us with all her heart everyday of her life. Each of us were as different as a flower in her garden. Exactly the way she loved us and wanted us to be.

Boom Boom is no longer with us on this Earth physically. But we have not lost her. Her lessons and memories live on along with her beautiful flowers — each of us.

Let us all take care of Boom Boom’s flowers, take care of one another. Let us each grow new flowers in her memory and keep our drag community strong. That is what Boom would want us to do. Legends live forever. Love you, Boom. : : — Buff Faye calls the Queen City her home and considers herself the Stargazer Lily of drag queens (plus she loves to raise money for charities). Find her at your favorite bars and hot spots. Plus don’t forget her monthly Saturday night shows, monthly drag brunch and Friday night party bus. Learn more at AllBuff.com.

Follow on Twitter @BuffFaye

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