QNotes, Aug. 15-28, 2014

Aug. 15-28 . 2014

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CHARLOTTE

infocus charlotte

sponsored by

Annual LGBT Newcomer & Community Resource Guide

Hearts Beat As One Foundation

The Bar at 316 thebarat316.com

heartsbeatone.org

Charlotte Business Guild charlottebusinessguild.org

arts. entertainment. news. views.

sponsors 3 Profiles

Hearts Beat As One Foundation

Bar at 316

Charlotte Business Guild

features 4 Charlotte homeowners

embrace clean energy

9 Charlotte has neighborhood flair

resources 5 Annual events 5 Fun and relaxation 5 Local government 6 Queen City Eats & Coffee 6 Brewing up some friends 7 LGBT Community Resources 8 Your (LGBT-)Friendly

Neighborhood Grocer?

8 Nightlife establishments

Our regular news, columns and ads begin on page 11 following our special InFocus Charlotte special section.

The Hearts Beat As One Foundation (HB1) was started with a group of likeminded individuals who saw a need in their community to assist local charities with fundraising. We are a group of passionate fundraisers who have worked with other organizations in the past to raise funds.

So why start a new foundation? What makes us different? Our differences are exactly what make us unique. Like a human heart, which is made up of four chambers (atria and ventricles), muscular walls, all working as one. HB1 consists of both women and men, from all walks of life, white collar, blue collar, straight, gay, degreed and street pedigreed, all sharing the same passion to work together as one, so the Queen City thrives.

Since our inception in April of 2014, we have been credited with donating over $12,000 to local charities. With the generous support of our community, we were able to help charitable organizations like Safe Alliance, RAIN, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Campus Pride and Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, just to name a few. Our goal is to help local charities, and those who benefit from them, with new and exciting events as well as grow funding for projects such as the roll out of Dolly Parton Imagination Library program for children’s literacy in Mecklenburg County.

We are also excited to launch an Individual Giving/Membership Campaign where individuals can donate one-time to HB1, or on a monthly basis. Our goal is to raise $25,000 with memberships and individual gifts by the end of the year.

These funds will allow us to continue assisting organizations in need. We’ve created membership levels with benefits that increase the benefit to the donor past their funds benefiting their community. If members choose to participate, they will help guide the path of the organization as we craft the future of HB1 as well as help choose projects and organizations for HB1 Foundation to apply focus and resources.

HB1 is also fully transparent and will

see Hearts on 10

Opened in August 1989 as Liaisons, The Bar at 316 is one of the oldest, continuously-operating LGBT bars in the city. Under its current ownership and name since 2009, the bar has undergone remodeling and a transformation into a modern-day lounge that caters to every stripe of the community — with a diversity of activities and events planned throughout the week.

The Bar at 316 is one of only a handful of LGBT bars open seven days a week, and each night the bar offers drink specials, fun times and friends. Every Sunday and Tuesday, The Bar at 316’s popular karaoke nights pull in the crowds. On Saturdays, the Big Fun comedy Drag Hour with Patti O’Furniture and Buff Faye keep the party going. On Thursdays, the bar goes retro, with hits from the ‘80s, ‘90s and early 2000s. On Fridays, a house DJ rocks it out.

Customers can enjoy two bars — upstairs where all the karaoke, drag and other parties keep things rolling or downstairs in a more relaxed lounge environment. On both floors, patrons can step outside to the balcony and enjoy the breeze as they have drinks with friends and family.

The bar — situated in an historic twostory Dilworth home — is the right mix of classic and contemporary. Its surrounding neighborhoods, Dilworth and South End, are historic and charming environments filled with a variety of restaurants, retail outlets and more.

The Bar at 316 is the perfect location for special events, fundraisers and meetand-greets. The bar regularly sponsors and supports a variety of non-profits, including the Human Rights Campaign, Hearts Beat as One Foundation and Charlotte Pride. Just this year, The Bar at 316 has hosted after parties for the Human Rights Campaign and the Hearts Beat as One Foundation, including a special meetand-greet with comedian Leslie Jordan.

In August, The Bar at 316 will host, for the second year in a row, internationally

The Charlotte Business Guild is the LGBT Chamber of Commerce comprised of businesses, business owners, professionals and their strategic allies in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Presently the Guild boasts over 200 members. Our chamber holds monthly events and workshops designed to help develop and grow current member businesses, as well as support those non-members in the community who have an affinity for business. While membership is not required to attend most Guild events or workshops, the benefits of membership are great locally and nationally for members individually and as business members.

Guild Members receive: • Discounts: to Guild events and workshops, Exclusive member-to-member discounts with national companies like Avis, Hilton Hotels, Fifth/Third Bank, Liberty Mutual, UPS and FedEx , and local companies such as Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors and Your Custom Catering LLC. • Marketing: Free advertising with placement in the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce network directory, The Charlotte Business Guild monthly newsletter and website as well as being featured in our Membership Spotlight on all social media platforms. In addition, members receive discounts on ads with local LGBT newspaper qnotes as well as the national Gay Ad Network.

• A Network, that works: Access to a directory of all local and nationally register LGBT businesses and service providers. Monthly events that allow you to meet and network with other members on the ground. An opportunity to be our featured business at our monthly event which allows you to make a presentation about your services to our membership. 50 percent off membership to the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce and free membership to the national Gay and Lesbian

see Bar on 10

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Annual LGBT Newcomer & Community Resource Guide

Charlotte homeowners embrace clean energy Two same-sex couples among first in Solarize Charlotte project

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

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new grassroots, clean-energy project aims to make it easier for local homeowners to capitalize on green energy and lessen their dependence on fossil fuels.

Two same-sex couples are among some of the first homeowners in Charlotte to take advantage of the new Solarize Charlotte initiative.

Kim and Joselle Anthony and Scott Lindsley and Joey Hewell are placing several solar panels on their homes — reducing their power bill by using solar energy and giving back to the electric grid.

The new non-profit program, which ran for three months this summer, assisted homeowners with bulk purchasing discounts, free analyses of their needs and assistance with obtaining state and federal tax credits — up to 65 percent of the cost of the panels.

The Anthonys, who live near Steele Creek and Lake Wylie, have already had 18 solar panels installed on their home.

“It sounded like a huge number to me,” says Kim. “Our house is not that big; it’s a very modest home. I was surprised we could have 18 and we can actually have more than 18 with our current arrangement.”

The new solar panels have come a long way from the days of big and bulky panels of the past. Lindsley, who works in real estate, says the panels — soon to be installed on his and his partners’ home — will be an investment.

“I remember some people getting solar panels in the 1980s when I was a teenager,” Lindsley recounts. “They were huge. They took over the top of the house. It’s like comparing the DirectTV dishes today to the huge satellites 20 years ago. The aesthetic appeal was lacking back then. These aren’t very intrusive and they’re pretty simple panels.”

Future buyers, Lindsley said, will find the panels and the costs they save in power bills worthy of attention. He thinks showing potential buyers two similar homes at similar prices with one of the two having a power bill in the $30-$40 range will be an attractive selling point.

Kim and her wife have had their panels for less than a month. They’ve yet to get hard data on how much power they’re saving or the money they’ll save, but they estimate the panels will cover 55 percent of their power usage — saving as much as $1,000 a year over the next 25 years.

The installation for the Anthonys cost about $15,000. They’ll get 65 percent of that

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back through state and federal tax credits. The savings through the lifepan of the panels will result in a net gain.

Lindsley and Hewell will spend a similar amount for their panels. They’re also getting an on-demand water heating system. The two investments combined are expected to save the couple 60-70 percent on their power bill.

Though cost-savings is a motivating factor, the two couples say they have the environment in mind, too.

“I think we both are socially responsible for a lot of things, whether its conservation or animal issues,” says Lindsley. “Being able to generate power and not have to use fossil fuels is something we’d love to be a part of. It’s just the social responsibility angle of it, bolstered by the fact we can save a lot of money, too. It will take years to pay itself back, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to have that as Kim Anthony, left, and her wife Joselle Anthony on the roof of their home, where they had 18 solar panels installed. an extra bonus.”

Photo Credit: Jeff Redwine Kim says she and her a limited-time opportunity, but similar programs about what is important to us. It sends a meswife — who both took off exist elsewhere. The first Solarize project sage to Duke Energy, to our local politicians, to seven months to hike the entire Appalachian Trail began in 2009 in Oregon. Similar programs our neighbors and friends. It’s kind of just walk in 2008 — feel strongly about the environment, have been instituted in Durham, Asheville and the talk.” too. Even if it didn’t save money, Kim says she Carrboro. Clean Energy for Us will launch soon The two homeowners say they were and Joselle would have still made the decision. in Raleigh, and Cleaner is Cheaper’s installer, surprised how simple and easy it was working “There’s more to the bottom line than RED Group, will continue offering its services with Solarize Charlotte and they’d encourage simply the cost,” she says. in Charlotte. other couples to look or similar options.

Kim had a career change in the past few “The success of the program is indicative “I’d definitely encourage it,” says Lindsley. years after earning a degree in urban enviof the demand for solar, which is increasing “If everybody did it and generated just a little ronmental leadership. She learned a lot about both nationally and on the state level particubit, it would have a huge impact.” sustainability in her courses and wanted to put larly in North Carolina,” says Hanna Mitchell, Kim believes local projects like Solarize those lessons to practice in her own home. the solar project assistant for Greenpeace, one Charlotte are part of a growing trend toward “I became keenly aware of climate change of the Cleaner is Cheaper Coalition’s partners. cleaner energy. and very concerned about such a big problem “The solar project [in Charlotte] just ended, but “We see a lot of renewable energy being and how as an individual I could have an imwe’re seeing lots of other programs pop up.” adopted in many parts of our own country,” pact on something so huge,” Kim says. “I think For more information on the project and says Kim, pointing to wind energy developSolarize Charlotte is one way that we’ve found to see photos, video clips and more, visit ments in other states. we can have an impact on our own footprint. cleanerischeaper.com. : : For now, the Solarize Charlotte project was But, also, it sends a message to our community

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Annual LGBT Newcomer & Community Resource Guide

Annual Events A listing of annual LGBT and other community events in and around the Queen City and approximately when they occur each year. Learn more about the events at the web addresses provided.

RAIN AIDS Walk May This annual HIV/AIDS awareness and fundraising event is the largest of its kind in the Carolinas. carolinarain.org

Human Rights Campaign Carolina Gala February An annual black-tie fundraising event, the largest of its kind in the Carolinas. hrccarolina.org

The Happening May-June Annual Charlotte Gay and Lesbian Fund luncheon. fftc.org/clgf

Forté!

March A fundraising dinner for the Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte. gmccharlotte.org.

Stop The Hate March Campus Pride hosts a training for school administrators, faculty, staff and students on LGBT inclusion in higher education. campuspride.org Gay Charlotte Film Festival April An annual festival of established and up-and-coming LGBT films. gaycharlottefilmfestival.com House of Mercy AIDS Walk April Hosted annually in downtown Belmont, this fundraiser provides support for House of Mercy’s clients. thehouseofmercy.org Queen City Stomp April This annual country dance festival is one of an increasing number of gay country music and rodeo events. queencitystomp.com

Queen City Drag Race May Local drag stars perform at this annual team relay drag race. queencitydragrace.com Speed Street May Uptown Charlotte is transformed by this celebration of motor sports featuring endless entertainment on two stages and countless vendors.

600festival.com Time Out Youth Gala June An evening of music, food and fun benefiting Time Out Youth. timeoutyouth.org Taste of Charlotte June This foodie’s heaven event features a sampling of local culinary arts in Uptown Charlotte. tasteofcharlotte.com Stonewall Celebration June The LGBT Community Center hosts an annual celebration of the Stonewall Riots anniversary. gaycharlotte.com Pride Splash Day July An annual day of fun and sun,

hosted at the U.S. National Whitewater Center by Charlotte Pride. charlottepride.org/splashday/ Charlotte Black Gay Pride July Annual event celebrating the diversity of the LGBT community. Pride festivities, expos, town halls and events. cbgp.org Charlotte Pride August Charlotte’s annual Pride festival takes Uptown Charlotte by storm. charlottepride.org LGBT-Friendly College Fair August Campus Pride hosts its regional LGBT-Friendly National College Fair in Charlotte. campuspride.org Dining With Friends An annual collection of private and public parties raising funds for the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network. carolinarain.org/dining withfriends

Fun and relaxation Sports Carolina Panthers (National Football League) Carolina Hurricanes (American Hockey League) Charlotte Hornets (National Basketball Association) Charlotte Hounds Lacrosse (Major League Lacrosse) Charlotte Checkers (National Hockey League) Charlotte Knights Baseball (International League, Minor League team for Chicago White Sox) NASCAR Sprint Cup (various teams, scattered race locations)

Attractions Carowinds Carolina History and Haunts “Beyond the Grave” Charlotte Raptor Center Discovery Place Latta Plantation Nature Preserve - Buzzard Rock Trail McColl Center for Visual Art McDowell Nature Center and Preserve McGill Rose Garden Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center NASCAR Hall of Fame Ray’s Splash Planet Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve Rosedale Plantation U.S. National Whitewater Center UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary Concord Mills Mall (Concord) Great Wolf Lodge (Concord) Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (Belmont)

Museums

Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture ImaginOn Levine Museum of the New South Mint Museum of Craft + Design, Uptown Mint Museum of Art, Randolph Spirit Square Arts Center The Charlotte Museum of History The Light Factory Wells Fargo Museum

Parks The area has a plethora of fun facilities for everyone, including ones for dogs, skating, swimming, fitness, recreation and more. Mecklenburg County is gaining ground as having one of the finest greenway systems in the nation. Some of the parks have shelters. A number of parks are accessibly for those with disabilities. For everything parks-related, visit charmeck.org/ mecklenburg/county/ParkandRec. Highlights of popular locations are listed below.

Freedom Park Kilborne Park Latta Park Little Sugar Creek Greenway Marshall Park McAlpine Creek Community Park Park Road Park Reedy Creek Park Romare Bearden Park

Events Bark in the Park Carolina Renaissance Festival Charlotte Oktoberfest Charlotte Pride Festival in the Park First Night Charlotte Speed Street Yiasou Greek Festival

Festival in the Park September Charlotte’s annual arts festival overtakes Freedom Park. festivalinthepark.org

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art Carolinas Aviation Museum Charlotte Nature Museum Charlotte Trolley Powerhouse Museum

OUTSpoken October UNC Charlotte’s annual LGBT speaker series. outspoken.uncc.edu

Local government

Charlotte Business Guild Gala November A fundraising dinner for the Charlotte Business Guild. charlottebusinessguild.org

Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners (elected in even-numbered years/six from districts/three at-large) Charlotte Mecklenburg Government Center 600 E. 4th St., Charlotte, NC 28202 704-336-2472 charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/BOCC Regular Meetings: Tuesdays, 6 p.m., Meeting Chamber The commission is currently dominated by Democrats and is largely supportive of the LGBT community.

See our full list online at goqnotes.com/infocus2014/ for local, state and national resources.

Charlotte City Council (elected in odd-numbered years/seven from districts/four at-large) Charlotte Mecklenburg Government Center 600 E. 4th St.Charlotte, NC 28202 704-336-7600 charmeck.org/city/charlotte/citycouncil Regular Meetings: Mondays, 7 p.m., Meeting Chamber The current council is filled with Democrats who are supportive of the LGBT community.

Members LaWana Mayfield and Al Austin are the only LGBT elected officials serving.

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Queen City Eats & Coffee A sampling of the some of the best eateries and coffee houses Charlotte has to offer. All are LGBT-friendly and some are LGBT owned or with a large LGBT staff. In fact, all of the highlighted restaurants, delis and coffee shops below were compiled from nominations in qnotes’ annual QList-Best of LGBT Charlotte.

Foodies new to the Queen City will fall in love with these joints, with just about every option to suit any taste.

Amelie’s French Bakery 2424 N. Davidson St., Suite 102 704-376-1781 ameliesfrenchbakery.com Bringing Paris to Charlotte! Enjoy handmade French treats, desserts, soups, sandwiches and more. A second location in Uptown Charlotte, at the corner of S. Tryon St. and Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.

Dish 1220 Thomas Ave. 704-344-0343 eatatdish.com Southern food with a delicious modern twist, Dish offers a quaint lunch or dinner experience right in the heart of Plaza Midwood.

Winner of the 2013 and 2014 QList-Best of LGBT Charlotte’s Best LGBT-Friendly, Locally-Owned Restaurant.

Central Coffee Co. 719 Louise Ave. 704-335-7288 facebook.com/CentralCoffeeCo/ It might be small in size, but Central Coffee Co.’s staff have huge hearts for making some of the best hand-crafted coffee

creations around. Located near Plaza Midwood and Elizabeth.

Winner of the 2014 QList-Best of LGBT Charlotte’s Best LGBTFriendly, Locally-Owned Coffee Shop.

The Common Market 2007 Commonwealth Ave. 1515 S. Tryon St. commonmarketisgood.com With two locations in two very distinct and unique neighborhoods, the Common Market appeals to a variety of tastes and styles. But, whether you’re in funky Plaza Midwood or preppy South End, you’ll always be able to grab some of the best handmade and gourmet sandwiches and other treats around!

Lupie’s Cafe 2718 Monroe Rd., Charlotte 101 Old Statesville Rd., Huntersville lupiescafe.net If you’re in the mood for good, filling home-cooked meals, Lupie’s has got you covered. Her menu is just like your mama’s southern kitchen, complete with the best meatloaf and chickenn-dumplins around. Lupie’s also serves her iconic quiche and several varieties of chili. Those who choose to skip the meat have plenty of options, too, like vegetable platters, a vegetarian burger and vegetarian chili.

A sampling of delectable sweets from Amelie’s French Bakery.

Photo Credit: James Willamor, via Flickr. Licensed CC.

Mert’s Heart & Soul • 214 N. College St. Down-home, Cajun-inspired southern cooking in the most creative, inspiring dining room you’ve ever seen.

300 East • 300 East Blvd.

A Dilworth icon for 25 years, with one of the most happening weekend brunches around.

Other top picks:

Carpe Diem • 1535 Elizabeth Ave. Fine dining, local products and style combine for a classic evening in Elizabeth.

Lang Van Vietnamese • 3019 Shamrock Dr. Popular with a diversity of Charlotteans, Lang Van offers some of the best and most original Vietnamese dining around.

Flying Biscuit • 4241 Park Rd. • 7930-A Rea Rd. This iconic restaurant chain offers some of the best new creations and twists on your favorite southern classics. : :

Brewing up some friends The local brewery scene is picking up steam across the country and the Queen City isn’t being left out. Charlotte is home to several local brewing companies, including three who have spoken out and taken outwardly LGBT-friendly and -supportive stands.

Each of the three companies below have sponsored LGBT organizations or have staff or owners involved in LGBT and ally causes. Each also offers unique environments and a variety of brews for all tastes, including small batch and experimental brews offered only on special nights — NoDa on Tuesday, Triple C on Wednesday and Birdsong on Thursday.

NoDa Brewing Company 2229 N. Davidson St. 704-900-6851 nodabrewing.com

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One of the earliest and fastest-growing local brewing companies, NoDa Brewing Company has made a name for itself across the city, nation and world. In fact, the brewery scored a 2014 World Beer Cup Gold Award for its American-Style IPA, “Hop, Drop ’n Roll.” The brewery offers regular special events, including brewery tours, live music, food trucks and more.

Triple C Brewing Co. 2900 Griffith St. 704-372-3212 triplecbrewing.com Described by fans as a “jewel in the heart of South End,” Triple C Brewing Co. has a large and comfortable tap room and extensive outdoor, fenced-in seating perfect for bringing

along man’s (and woman’s) best friend. Like other local breweries, Triple C offers a variety of special events, including food trucks every day of the week.

Birdsong Brewing Co. 2315 N. Davidson St. 704-332-1810 birdsongbrewing.com Birdsong’s eclectic taproom attracts a crowd just as unique and diverse as its environment — drawing on the popularity of the NoDa and Plaza Midwood area’s funky climate. A large outdoor patio with ceiling fans awaits thirsty customers.

Need a snack? Grab a bucket of peanuts or head out to one of the many visiting food trucks who stop by. : :

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Charlotte LGBT Community Resources Advocacy

Media

Campus Pride 704-277-6710 campuspride.org

Creative Loafing clclt.com . 704-522-8334

Equality North Carolina equalitync.org HRC Carolina hrccarolina.org Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee (MeckPAC) meckpac.org North Carolina Gay and Lesbian Attorneys ncgala.org North Carolina Transgender Unity nctgunity.org The Freedom Center for Social Justice fcsj.org Safe Schools NC safeschoolsnc.com

Arts Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte 704-342-2251 atcharlotte.org Charlotte Pride Band charlotteprideband.org Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte 704-549-9202 gmccharlotte.org One Voice Chorus onevoicechorus.com Queen City Theatre Company 704-372-1000 queencitytheatre.com StillOut LGBT Photography Club stillout.org

Charlotte Observer charlotteobserver.com QNotes goqnotes.com Visit Gay Charlotte visitgaycharlotte.com

Faith Caldwell Presbyterian Church 1609 E. Fifth St., Charlotte, NC 28204 704-334-0825 caldwellpresby.org Charlotte Atheists and Agnostics charlotteatheists.com Havurat Tikvah 980-225-5330 havurattikvah.org Holy Covenant United Church of Christ 3501 W. WT Harris Blvd., Charlotte NC 28269 704-599-9810 holycovenantucc.org Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 1900 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC 28205 704-377-5439 htlccharlotte.org MCC Charlotte 1825 Eastway Dr., Charlotte NC 28205 704-563-5810 mymcccharlotte.org Myers Park Baptist Church 1900 Queens Rd., Charlotte, NC 28207 704-334-7232 mpbconline.org

New Life MCC 1900 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC 28205 704-334-0350 newlifemcc@bellsouth.net newlifemccnc.org

Temple Beth El 5101 Providence Rd., Charlotte, NC 28226 704-366-1948 keshet@beth-el.com beth-el.com

Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church 9704 Mallard Creek Rd., Charlotte, NC 28262 704-510-0008 puuc.org

Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd., Charlotte, NC 28211 704-366-8623 uuccharlotte.org

ReBirth Church 1825 Eastway Dr., Charlotte NC 28205 855-216-8800 rebirthchurch.com

Unity Fellowship Church 2508 N. Davidson St.., Charlotte, NC 28205 704-567-5007 ufccharlottenc.org

Seigle Avenue Presbyterian Church 600 Seigle Ave. Charlotte, NC 28204 704-338-1914 seigleavenue.org

Wedgewood Church 4800 Wedgewood Dr., Charlotte, NC 28210 704-523-6108 wedgewoodchurch.com

Sacred Souls Community Church 2127 Eastway Dr., Charlotte, NC 28205 980-237-0260 sacredsoulschurch.org St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 1510 E. 7th St., Charlotte NC 28204 704-376-8441 stmartins-charlotte.org St. Peter’s Catholic Church 507 S. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC 28202 704-332-2901 stpeterscatholic.org/index.php/ community-outreach/gaylesbian-ministry The Spiritual Living Center of Charlotte 650 East Stonewall St., Charlotte, NC 28202 704-665-1886 slccharlotte.com

Giving Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund 704-973-4500 fftc.org/clgf Southern Country Charlotte Queen City Stomp southerncountrycharlotte.com

HIV/AIDS Carolinas Care Partnership 7510 E. Independence Blvd., Suite 105 Charlotte, NC 28227 704-531-2467 carolinascare.org

House of Mercy 701 Mercy Dr. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4711 thehouseofmercy.org Mecklenburg County Department of Health 704-432-7352 PowerHouse Project 1416 Beatties Ford Rd. Charlotte, NC 28216 704-334-6076 powerhousecharlotte.org Regional AIDS Interfaith Network 501 N. Tryon St. 4th Floor, Charlotte, NC 28237 704-372-7246 carolinarain.org Rosedale Infectious Disease 103 Commerce Centre Dr., Suite 103 Huntersville, NC 28078 704-948-8582 rosedaleid.com

Stonewall Kickball facebook.com/stonewall kickballcharlotte

Social & Support Carolina Bear Lodge carolinabears.org Carolina Transgender Society carolinatransgendersociety. com Charlotte Bears charlottebears.com Charlotte Black Gay Pride cbgp.org Charlotte Business Guild 704-750-5224 cltbusinessguild.org Charlotte Gender Alliance trans.uncc.edu/ charlotte-gender-alliance Charlotte Pride charlottepride.org

Sports & Recreation

Charlotte Tradesmen charlottetradesmen.org

Carolina Softball Alliance carolinasoftball.org

Chi Psi Omega Fraternity chipsiomegafraternity.org

Charlotte Front Runners charlottefrontrunners.com

Convergence Riders convergenceriders.com

Charlotte Rainbowlers charlotterainbowlers.com

LGBT Community Center of Charlotte 2508 N. Davidson St. Charlotte, NC 28205 704-333-0144 gaycharlotte.com

Charlotte Roller Girls charlotterollergirls.cm

Different Roads Home 15905 Brookway Dr., Suite 4203 Huntersville, NC 28078 704-237-8793 differentroadshome.org

Charlotte Royals Rugby charlotteroyals.org

Hearts Beat as One Foundation 888-349-5558 heartsbeatone.org

Queen City Tennis Club qctc.org

One World Dragon Boat oneworlddragonboat.org

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Aug. 15-28 . 2014

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Your (LGBT-)Friendly Neighborhood Grocer?

Nightlife establishments

The Bar at 316 Bar/Lounge; Popular with: Mix 316 Rensselaer Ave. thebarat316.com

Cathode Azure Lounge/Dance; Popular with: Mix 1820 South Blvd., #106 cathodeazure.com

The Nickel Bar Bar/Dance; Popular with: Mix, African-American community 2817 Rozzelles Ferry Rd. thenickelbar.com

Petra’s Piano Bar/Cabaret/Lounge Popular with: Mix, Eccentric 1919 Commonwealth Ave. petraspianobar.com

Photo Credit: Ildar Sagdejev. Licensed CC.

Yeah, grocery shopping list are a pain, but they’re a necessity. And, if you’re new to town or you’ve just moved to the opposite side of the city, you’ll be searching for the nearest, most convenient and friendly grocery store you can find. But, do you know how your local grocer treats its LGBT employees? Check out our report card below.

Central Station Bar; Popular with: Mix 2131 Central Ave. charlottecentralstation.com

Grocery Stores

Employment policy includes: STORE SEXUAL ORIENTATION GENDER IDENTITY Aldi Y N Super Bi-Lo Y N Food Lion Y Y Costco Y Y Earth Fare Y Y** Fresh Market Y N Harris Teeter* N N Publix Y N Trader Joe’s Y Y Walmart Y N Whole Foods Y N * Harris Teeter was recently purchased by Kroger, which does include sexual orientation and gender identity in its non-discrimination policy. ** Listed as “gender or gender preference.”

Note: Information for Compare Foods and Lowes Foods could not be obtained.

Pharmacies

Employment policy includes: STORE SEXUAL ORIENTATION GENDER IDENTITY Cannon Pharmacy* Y Y CVS Y Y Rite Aid Y N Walgreens Y Y *Contacted for this listing, Cannon Pharmacy (Kannapolis-North) pharmacist and owner Michael Rea said: “Cannon Pharmacy will hire anyone without any consideration to sexual orientation or gender identity. Our employment requirements are simply how well a prospective candidate will serve our customers.”

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The Scorpio Bar/Dance/Drag; Popular with: Mix 2301 Freedom Dr. thescorpio.com

Chasers Bar/Adult; Popular with: Men 32717 The Plaza chaserscharlotte.com

Sidelines Sports Bar; Popular with: Mix 4544 South Blvd. thesidelinesbar.com

The Hide-A-Way Bar; Popular with: Mix 405 E. Baskins Rd., Rock Hill facebook.com/thehideawaysc

L4 Lounge Bar/Dance; Popular with: Women 2906 Central Ave. facebook.com/L4Lounge

The Woodshed Lounge Bar; Popular with: Men, Bear/Leather 4000 Queen City Dr. woodshedlounge.com.

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Annual LGBT Newcomer & Community Resource Guide

Charlotte has neighborhood flair New to Charlotte or just want to explore? Search no more!

Our handy guide to Charlotte’s hippest and most popular neighborhoods.

Uptown

Uptown Charlotte from Center City’s new Romare Bearden Park.

Photo Credit: James Willamor, via Flickr. Licensed CC.

Like the ruby at the center of the crown jewels, the Queen City’s Center City is both the heart and lifeblood of the metro area.

International, national and regional companies call Uptown home, as do small businesses, top-notch restaurants and nightlife establishments and some of the city’s best cultural attractions.

At the very heart of the city, Independence Square stands proudly at the intersection of Trade and Tryon Sts. On most nights, find a variety of public performers, artists and musicians singing, acting or play-

South End

Charlotte’s LYNX Blue Line snakes its way through South End. Photo Credit: James Willamor, via Flickr. Licensed CC.

ing out their talents for passers-by.

Retailers, too, often set up shop here.

And, from time to time, Charlotte’s centuries-long history of public activism stirs at Independence Square, where local lore and history geeks maintain the Mecklenburg Declaration was read aloud as citizens of Charlotte were among the first to declare independence from the British crown.

Up and down Tryon St. find some of the best food and drink around, along with museums and cultural attractions including the Mint Museum, Bechtler Musuem of Modern Art, Harvey Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture, the Wells Fargo Museum and the Levine Museum of the New South, which will feature its first LGBT history exhibit, “LGBTQ Perspectives on Equality,” through January 2015.

The Blumenthal Performing Arts Center and Spirit Square host regular arts, theatre and musical performances. For the kiddos, take a visit to Discovery Place, Charlotte’s premier science museum. A sports fan? Take a tour of the NASCAR Hall of Fame or grab tickets to the next Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets or Charlotte Knights games.

Each August, Uptown plays host to Charlotte Pride, the largest LGBT Pride festival and parade between Washington, D.C. and Atlanta.

Each May, join the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network for their AIDS Walk Charlotte, winding its way through the streets of Center City. : : more: findyourcenter.com — Matt Comer

South Charlotte has hidden LGBTfriendly gems

by Joanne Spataro

An aerial view of the central business district near SouthPark Mall.

Photo Credit: Bz3rk. Licensed CC.

South Charlotte is pretty straight-laced. You can’t swing a Vera Bradley purse without hitting a soccer mom in the yoga pants. There’s a Harris Teeter on almost every corner in its affluent Ballantyne, Providence Road and SouthPark neighborhoods.

Thankfully, it’s not all a den of suburban decay.

Temple Beth El is the place for the Jewish LGBT community. Located in Shalom Park on Providence Road, this synagogue has been LGBT-affirming for years. Rabbi Judith Schindler has even performed marriage ceremonies for gay and lesbian couples.

If you’re a lady who loves ladies, join Charlotte Lesbian Mingle on Meetup.com. Many of their weekly events are in the SouthPark area. They have hosted a group class at Painting with a Twist in the Sharon Corners Shopping Center and margaritas at Paco’s Tacos on Morrison Blvd.

What the area lacks in LGBT nightlife, it makes up for in upscale shopping. The shoe selection at Nordstrom in SouthPark Mall will melt even the most hardened fashionista. : :

Once the city’s industrial center, historic South End has transformed itself multiple times over more than a century, giving rise to today’s bustling dining, nightlife, retail and residential district. South Blvd. snakes its way from Uptown through South End, with restaurants, coffee houses, small businesses and condos flanking each side. To the east sits Dilworth.

One of Charlotte’s oldest “suburbs,” the historic neighborhood is filled to the brim with classic, stately homes and bungalows. To the west, the equally historsee more neighborhood profiles on next page u ic Wilmore continues to grow as the up-and-coming, diverse neighborhood complementing South End. The city’s first lightrail line, the LYNX Blue Line, makes living, working or playing in South End a breeze. Park your car and hop on the train to get around South End and easily connect to Uptown and the city’s southern neighborhoods and suburbs. The future Red Line extension will make it easier getting to and from South End from the city’s north end and University City.

For LGBT attractions, stop by The Bar at 316, one of the city’s oldest, still-running LGBT nightlife establishments.

Opened in 1989 as Liaisons, the one-time restaurant and bar still operates as a bar and lounge — open seven days a week with lounges on its first and second floor, which features a wrap-around outdoor balcony. Nearby, take a dive into Cathode Azure, one of the city’s newest LGBT lounges and dance clubs. : : more: historicsouthend.com — Matt Comer

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Annual LGBT Newcomer & Community Resource Guide

More of Charlotte’s hippest and most popular neighborhoods.

Plaza Midwood

NoDa

Funky businesses and nightlife make up the heart of Plaza Midwood, a stone’s throw from Uptown.

NoDa’s eclectic side comes out in its restaurants, bars and other local shops

Photo Credit: James Willamor, via Flickr. Licensed CC.

Photo Credit: James Willamor, via Flickr. Licensed CC.

NoDa is the city’s historic arts district, situated along N. Davidson St. mere minutes from Uptown and nearby Plaza Midwood. NoDa experienced its fair share of hard times over the decades, with a resurgence as an arts district beginning in the late 1980s and carrying through today.

Visit any number of art galleries, tattoo shops, unique clothing and other retailers, coffee shops, restaurants and funky bars and clubs. Several performance venues also showcase a slew of local, regional and national talent, including The Evening Muse, The Neighborhood Theatre and the Chop Shop.

As NoDa’s central business district has grown, so has the outer reaches of the neighborhood. Just south of the central district, visit the shops at NoDa @ 28th St., including local faves like Amelie’s French Bakery. Nearby is the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte and Time Out Youth Center.

On 36th St., the city’s only adult male nightlife establishment, Chasers, welcomes all for an experience that’ll keep you and your friends chatting (and maybe blushing) for days. : : more: noda.org — Matt Comer

About our InFocus sponsors.

Hearts Beat As One openly share project plans and financial records as requested by our Members.

Mark your calendar for some upcoming, exciting events involving Hearts Beat as One: Aug. 23, 2014 – Walk a Mile in Her Shoes benefiting Safe Alliance Aug. 23, 2014 – Sing for the Cure benefiting Susan G. Komen Foundation Fall 2014 – Dolly Parton Imagination Library program for Children’s Literacy Oct. 4, 2014 – Amazing Race Bar Crawl benefiting RAIN Nov. 21, 2014 – HB1 Foundation Package Auction Benefit at Charlotte City Club April 18, 2015 – White Ties and Tiaras – Hearts Beat AS One Foundation Ball When all our hearts beat as one, people…everyone…thrive.

Hearts Beat As One Foundation is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organiza-

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From its roots as a central business district and suburban streetcar neighborhood, Plaza Midwood has grown consistently over the past several decades into the city’s premier “funky” and eclectic neighborhood. Whatever your taste and whatever your style, you’re sure to find it in Plaza Midwood. Once proclaimed the city’s “gayborhood,” Plaza Midwood was home to the LGBT Community Center’s first physical location and several LGBT or LGBT-friendly bars and LGBT-owned businesses.

The neighborhood is known for its locally-owned and -operated restaurants and retailers, from the partly LGBT-owned and -operated Dish restaurant to the historic Diamond diner. At the Common Market — home to a delicious deli and huge selection of domestic and foreign beers — find neighbors of all varieties, from prep to grungy punk, hanging out and having a good time.

LGBT attractions include Petra’s Piano Bar, an LGBT-owned cabaret-style lounge as diverse and eclectic as the neighborhood in which it lives. Each Thursday, visit Snug Harbor for the best alternative LGBT nightlife experience around. Just down Central Ave., stop in at Central Station, a humble LGBT bar with good drinks and space to relax with friends. : : more: plazamidwood.org, plazamidwood.com — Matt Comer

continued from page 3

tion. A portion, if not all, of your tangible donations may be tax deductible. Please consult your financial advisor for more information. : : Bar at 316 famed underwear designer Andrew Christian and his models for Charlotte Pride after parties.

The Bar at 316 is a place to come with your friends and have a drink in a non-smoking, home-inspired environment. Our goal is to create intimate conversation areas to meet with friends as well as provide a relaxed neighborhood bar to have great drinks and listen to good music. : : Charlotte Business Guild Chamber of commerce. Placement on our mobile app and the opportunity to create push notifications to our vast network.

While the Guild and its Board of Directors exist “to facilitate economic proliferation for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and

transgender (LGBT) community and those who support equality for all,” the Guild also actively supports others outside of the business community. For example, the Young Professionals Initiative created a first-of-its-kind program connecting queer college students and recent grads with LGBT businesses owners for unique internship that provided not only invaluable real world experience in their area of interest, but also a safe environment for our LGBT young adults to learn.

For over 22 years Charlotte Business Guild has existed to establish and nurture a network of business contacts, encourage fellowship and support among business, professional and charitable pursuits and provide and promote positive role models in Charlotte’s LGBT community. If you would like to join the Guild please visit www.charlottebusinessguild.org today!

The Charlotte Business Guild is an affiliate of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce as well as diversity council member with the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce. : :

inside

Q

qnotes news & features

arts. entertainment. news. views.

18 News Notes: Regional Briefs 21 News Notes: U.S./World

a&e / life&style 13 Playing the Field 22 Precious Pets 28 Tell Trinity 28 Jane’s World 30 Q Events Calendar

opinions & views 12 Editor’s Note 12 TalkBack 12 QPoll

From our cover: Chad Sevearance, Nate Turner, Kendolyn Wright, Christine Robinson, Michelle Stephan, Tai Stephan, Jenny Richeson, Tonya Ashcraft, Clay Smith, Ashley Love, HollyJ, James Rice, Logan Smith, Gary Leake, Shann Fulton, Judson Gee, Ranzeno Frazier, Qumaine Goodman.

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Q

qnotes connect Aug. 15-28, 2014 Vol 29 No 08

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

contributors this issue

Paige Braddock, Matt Comer, Lainey Millen, Joanne Spataro, Trinity

front page

Graphic Design by Lainey Millen Photography: Matt Comer Location: Romare Bearden Park Mission:

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

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

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

charlotteobserver.com/1166/ a local news partner of The Charlotte Observer

upcoming issues: 08.29.14: Fall & Winter Travel Advertising Space Deadline: Aug. 20 09.12.14: Fall A&E Guide/NC Pride Prevue Advertising Space Deadline: Sept. 3

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editor’s note

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Charlotte has many reasons to be proud This issue, through the generous support of the Hearts Beat as One Foundation, The Bar at 316 and Charlotte Business Guild, qnotes publishes its annual LGBT newcomer and community resource guide, “InFocus: Charlotte.” It’s a project we began several years ago. Similar to The Charlotte Observer’s annual “Living Here,” the guide serves as an overall introduction to LGBT Charlotte to newcomers just moving to the Queen City. For residents, it serves as an annual resource guide, highlighting LGBT and LGBT-friendly community groups, restaurants, bars, coffee shops and neighborhoods.

This year’s guide is the largest we’ve done, again, thanks to our sponsors. But, the guide’s growth is indicative of the overall transformation of Charlotte over the past several years. I moved to Charlotte in 2007. As a native of Winston-Salem, I had a keen outsider’s perspective on the “Great State of Mecklenburg.” I saw both pros — Charlotte’s large and active LGBT community — and cons — what I perceived as an overall conservative and cautious culture. The Charlotte of seven years ago, though, has shifted and changed dramatically.

As this issue hits the streets, Charlotte Pride will be in full force, taking over the streets of Uptown for its largest street festival yet and the second year of the Bank of America Charlotte Pride Parade. I joined as a volunteer committee member for Charlotte Pride in 2008 and I’ve been active almost every year since in some for or fashion — sometimes as a voting board member and others, including this year, as a volunteer.

Like the rest of the city and its LGBT community, Charlotte Pride, too, has grown and changed.

All of our community’s growth and achievements over these past few years put the Charlotte to which I was introduced seven years ago to shame. Our community, its leadership and the full diversity of the individuals that comprise it are more outspoken, more committed to change, more committed to making a difference. And, we’re broadening our horizons as our community begins to understand that our full movement cannot be whole unless we address even non-LGBT issues that affect a variety of our community members — issues like poverty and homelessness, access to affordable and quality healthcare, workplace discrimination,

housing discrimination, access to fair and equitable legal services and representation and more.

Groups like the Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee, Time Out Youth, the Freedom Center for Social Justice and the LGBTQ Law Center have been at the forefront of these changes. New groups, like the Hearts Beat as One Foundation are taking outreach to new levels — fully including and drawing upon the strengths of straight allies. The Charlotte Lesbian & Gay Fund and the growth in its annual grant awards are funding the critically important work in our community. The Charlotte Business Guild — through its own growth and transitions in leadership — is forging ahead with new partnerships with some of Charlotte’s most mainstream of establishment organizations, the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce included.

Seven years ago I looked out on a community I perceived as cautious and silent. My finger tips furiously typed out fiery editorials calling on community leaders to take more public stands. Looking back, it’s clear that even as I called for quick change and transformation, a slow evolution over decades of dedicated community leadership was finally coming to its full fruition — and, as it came of age, it did so more quickly than anyone, myself included, could have ever imagined. From zero openly gay representation to two openly gay members on Charlotte City Council. From a mayor who ignored our very existence to mayors — Anthony Foxx and Patsy Kinsey — who took on the arduous work of fixing past mistakes and recognizing our equality. From a Pride festival tucked away in the corners of Uptown to one of the city’s largest civic events and largest LGBT Pride events between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta. From small social services in groups like Time Out Youth to a plethora of services offered by a variety of non-profit groups dedicated to serving needs ignored elsewhere.

Charlotte has a lot to be proud of — and we’re continuing to grow like never before. It’s because of you, and your friends and co-workers and family members and people all across this region, some you’ve met and know and many you don’t. Together, we’re building a stronger, more healthy, more equal Queen City for all. That should make each of us smile with Pride. : :

talkback Letters to the editor and comments from goqnotes.com. and facebook.com/qnotescarolinas.

Web comments are not edited for grammar or punctuation.

Readers respond to McCrory’s continued silence on LGBT equality, the subject of the Aug. 1 editorial, “McCrory can’t ignore LGBT equality” (goqnotes.com/30543/): McCrory had an opportunity, but has chosen the Jessi Helms line against the rights of minority cultures of who are citizens of the State of North Carolina. He was a sorry Mayor and now is a sorry Governor; his epitaph will go down in history as a forgotten person in the annals of time. Or just a footnote about discrimination in the south.Its a pity.

— Janice Covington, Facebook, Aug. 1

in the past and felt very pleased with the two different Prides here in Charlotte.

— Luis A Ramos Jr., goqnotes.com, July 27 A reader’s simple takeaway from Attorney General Roy Cooper’s decision to no longer defend Amendment One (goqnotes.com/30519/):

“It’s time to stop making arguments we will lose”….Translation; “North Carolina never had a good reason to pass this marriage ban in the first place. We should never have listened to the lies we were told” — Wayne, goqnotes.com, July 28

join the discussion We welcome your letters to the editor (200 or words or less) and guest commentaries (600 words or less).

Submit them to letters@goqnotes.com.

He is the lion that never roared.

— Robert John Kellogg, Facebook, Aug. 1 “... McCrory’s name will be synonymous with those who attempted to take away the rights of others.” Great line. So true. McCrory simply is a very wrecthed pol. Let’s hope he is a one term governor.

— Jim Thompson, Facebook, Aug. 1 Conversation continues on the similarities and differences between Charlotte Pride and Charlotte Black Gay Pride (goqnotes. com/30280/): I have been to both Prides here in the Queen City and I have volunteer for both Prides

qpoll What do you think about the current state of LGBT Charlotte? Has acceptance and equality grown? Are we better off today than a few years ago? Are we headed in the right direction?

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

goqnotes.com/to/life

life

SPORTS

Playing the Field Match-ups from across the Carolinas: Seasons end and tourneys awaits

by Jon Hoppel :: qnotes contributor It is hot outside these days. But, that has not stopped the LGBT athletes of the Carolinas from playing the sports they love! Here are a couple events you may have missed and a look ahead at two of the biggest LGBT tournaments in the world.

The Knoxville Cyclones sport their medals and trophy after tournament play.

Photo Credit: Bryan Anderson

Softball The Carolina Softball Alliance completed their 12th season on July 27 by crowning the Carolina Showtime champions for the second straight year. The regular season and tournament champs looked unstoppable most of the year. Buoyed by team regulars Jessica King, Dana Howard, Katie Geis and Brice Taylor, Coach Mark Herring was able to blend in several new faces with those stalwarts to find a successful team chemistry. One of those new faces, Gregory Clemmons, shined over the last month of the season, propelling Showtime through the dog days of summer to help the team recapture the championship over the Carolina Xtreme. Congratulations goes out to all the players, coaches, supporters and board members that keep the league moving forward.

The following weekend, Knoxville hosted their annual K-Town Klassic, which is essentially

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen & Matt Comer

Commemoration slated CHAPEL HILL — A commemoration of the ordination of 11 women to the priesthood 40 years ago will be held on Aug. 24, 4 p.m., at The Episcopal Church of the Advocate, 8410 Merin Rd. The festivities will feature The Rev. Carter Heyward, one of the “Philadelphia Eleven” who will preach. A native North Carolinian born in Charlotte, Heyward has spent her life working to stretch the boundaries of how feminists think about justice, as well as consciousness transformation for those women who seek to become priests. She is a lesbian feminist theologian and teacher as well as a member of the clergy. She was graduated from Myers Park High School and received her undergraduate degree from Randolph-Macon Women’s College in Virginia, her Master’s from Columbia University in New York and her Master of The Rev. Carter Heyward Divinity from Union Theological Seminary, Photo Credit: Water Women’s Alliance also in New York. Heyward also spends her time working with the Democratic Party and is a fiddler. More recently she serves as Free Rain’s founder and board chair which provides horseback riding in a therapeutical environment in the North Carolina mountains.

Following a brief reception, a panel discussion facilitated by The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry, with Dr. Sam Laurenet, The Rev. Dr. Lauren Winner, Heyward and seminarian Hershey Mallette, will take place at 6 p.m.

Book authors will sign books available for purchase at the event. Twenty percent of all book sales, as well as the offering for the Eucharist, will go to the Diocesan Harvest for Hospitality Campaign. info: theadvocatechurch.org.

— L.M.

Presentation and The Power of the Vote.

During the evening enjoy dinner on one’s own, networking and TFAAN party.

The conference ends on Aug. 31 with an interfaith service.

Some of the presenters and moderators include: Rev. Brendan Boone, St. John’s MCC; Dr. Lisa Griffin; Dr. Rhett Brown; Todd Rosendahl and Sarah Alwran, Time Out Youth; Kelly Durden and Sarah Demarest; and a host of other local and national leaders.

Awards will be presented to: Pioneer Award, Andrea Jenkins and Louis Mitchell; Rising Star Award, David Michael Battle; Ally Award, Rev. Dr. William Barber, President of the NC NAACP and Keith Morrison, Superintendent, Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools; Youth Award, Blake Brockington and Andraya Williams; and Bobbie Jean Baker Award, Ms. Tracee Daniels.

Registration is available online. info: tfaan.org.

— L.M.

Stretch for equality

CHARLOTTE — The inaugural HER Human Rights Campaign Yoga event, Om for Equality, comes to the Queen City on Sept. 6, 10 a.m., at Flex at SHU, 1426 S. Tryon St. It is presented by Progressive Urban Realty and SHU. An after party will follow at 11:30 a.m.

Tickets are $12 for yoga and party or $5 for the party only.

Enjoy music by DJ Little Betty and dance the afternoon away. Sip on beer from local breweries and munch out on fare from food trucks.

Tickets are $12/advance, $15/at the door and include the class, bottled water and HRC membership. info: facebook.com/events/549586351812423/.

— L.M.

Youth conference seeks proposals

Charlotte Seniors’ dinner upcoming

CHARLOTTE — The LGBT Aging Solutions Dinner group will hold a meeting on Aug. 18, 7 p.m., at Flying Biscuit Cafe, 4241 Park Rd. Presenter will be Julie Hutt, director of education and community outreach for PACE of the Southern Piedmont.

Reservations are due by Aug. 15.

The meeting will also provide opportunities for participants to sign up for Issues and Solutions groups. Currently, there are five: housing; diversity training and support services; legal and financial; medical; and social. info/reservations: clt.lgbt.elders@gmail.com.

— L.M.

Theatre mounts ‘Performers’

CHARLOTTE — The Queen City Theatre Company will present “The Performers” from Aug. 21-Sept. 4, 8 p.m., at the Duke Energy Theatre, 345 N. College St. The comedy is written by David West Read and is directed by Glenn T. Griffin. It recounts the ups and down of life and love in the adult entertainment industry. This marks the play’s regional premiere.

An award-winning cast includes: Alyson Lowe, Kristian Wedolowski, Scott A. Miller, Veda Covington, Karen Christensen and Hank West.

A late performance will be held on Aug. 29 at 10:30 p.m.

Tickets are $22-24. Student and senior discounts are available. A special discount is available on Aug. 26 at a rate of $15. Purchase

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tickets online at carolinatix.org/events/detail/ the-performers. info: queencitytheatre.com.

—L.M.

Trans conference announces schedule

CHARLOTTE — The organizers of The Transgender Faith and Action Network (Trans*FAAN) conference at the University Hilton Hotel, 8629 JM Keynes Dr., slated for Aug. 29-31 have announced their program schedule.

On Aug. 29, Bishop Tonyia Rawls will lead interfaith prayer and deliver opening remarks.

Following here will be an opening plenary panel, “How Welcoming Are We Really?”

Breakout sessions during the day include Clergy in Specialized Fields, Trans 101 for Allies, Changing Policy in a Changing World, The Transitions Within the Transition, Your Health: The Mind and the Body, Aging: Let Me Tell You A Story, Trans Youth in Schools: Multiple Perspectives, Our Special Walk: Partners of Trans* People, and Know Your Rights.

Keynote for the lunch will be Angel Collie from MCC. She will speak on Education that Leads to Success. That evening an opening reception and young folk gathering for those 16-30 will round out the schedule.

On Aug. 30, an awards breakfast will be held. Afterward breakout sessions resume with Name and Gender Marker Changes in NC and Beyond, What’s Moving The Landscape?, Trans Youth In Action, Trans Employment: Old Challenges and New Opportunities, The Power of Trans History, HIV and the Trans* Community, LGBT and the Bible, Trans Religious Leaders

CHARLOTTE — The 2014 Carolina Conference on Queen Youth, “Building Support and Envisioning Justice for LGBTQ Youth in Their Schools and Communities,” will be held on Oct. 17, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, Student Union. The event is being held with support from Time Out Youth Center and the Lesbian and Gay Fund.

The conference brings together middle and high school students, teacher, counselors, activists and other practitioners who work with LGBT youth.

Organizers are currently seeking presentation and workshop proposals from individuals and organizations. These should be clearly tied to the conference focus and grounded in the celebration and support of queer youth in the South.

Standard presentation length is 60 minutes.

Topics may include, but are not limited to: policies and practices to support southern regional LGBT youth in public schools; best practices to support queer youth of color in their schools and communities; innovative and successful strategies to improve the school climate for LGBT youth and educators; the incorporation of queer experiences into the curricula; anti-oppression and anti-bullying programs that center the experiences of queer youth; intersectional analysis of queer youth communities in the South; and professional training for educators who wish to better serve queer youth in their schools and communities.

Email proposals by Sept. 2 to conference@ timeoutyouth.org with the proposal title in the subject line. Presenters will be notified by Sept. 10. info: timeoutyouth.org.

— L.M.

news

McColl to offer creativity trainings

CHARLOTTE — The McColl Center for Visual Arts is launching a “Think Like an Artist” series, offering community members and groups creative experiences led by an expert facilitator and professional artist. The museum claims the curriculum will help participants “fulfill their creative capacity, unleash their curiosity and summon the courage to act on their ideas.”

The first of the seminars was held June 5-6, with individuals first having the opportunity to participate in the new two-day program.

The McColl Center’s Innovation Institute is overseeing the new project.

“Since launching in 2005, the Innovation Institute has delivered powerful artist-led programs to more than 50 global companies designed to increase creativity capacity,” Suzanne Fetscher, president and CEO of the McColl Center for Visual Art, said in a release. “Participants in our programs graduate with the skills they need to make bold moves they otherwise would not have made that change their futures — some transition to more fulfilling careers, start successful business, transform company operations and even launch new products.”

McColl Center says it is the only non-profit in the country offering the unique individual creativity seminar.

With the enhanced program curriculum, participants learn to “think like an artist,” experiencing the artist’s creative process: risk taking, courage in the face of failure and working through ambiguity,” McColl said in a release. “Expert facilitators show participants how seeking different perspectives actually improves and maximizes creative efforts. Gaining this new and different perspective helps individuals to see patterns that allow them to break out of habitual thinking.”

Classes are held from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. each day are are limited to 15 participants.

Tuition of the two-day program is $1,200, including materials, breakfast, lunch and parking.

Other program dates are Sept. 18-19 and Nov. 7-8. For more information or to register, visit the McColl Center online. info: mccollcenter.org/innovation-institute/ open-enrollment-individuals — M.C.

Planned Parenthood plans luncheon

CHARLOTTE — A luncheon to benefit Planned Parenthood Health Systems, “Care More. Judge Less.” will be held on Oct. 22, 11:30 a.m., at the Mint Museum, 500 S. Tryon St. Keynote speaker will be Leslie Kantor, vice president of education for Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

Planned Parenthood has been providing education and healthcare to the Charlotte community for more than 40 years.

Individual sponsorships are available at the following levels: Guardian, $5,000, program recognition, four lunch plus four VIP reception tickets and breakfast with Kantor; Champion, $2,500, program recognition and four lunch plus four VIP reception tickets; Protector, $1,000, program recognition and three lunch plus three VIP reception tickets; Ally, $500, program recognition and two lunch plus two VIP reception tickets; and Defender, $250, program recognition and one lunch plus one VIP reception ticket. Individual tickets are $100 per person.

Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased online at pphs.org/cart.

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news

news notes: u.s./world.

Anti-gay Tennessee politician loses reelection bid

Stacey Campfield

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — An anti-gay Tennessee state lawmaker who has spent much of his legislative career sponsoring anti-LGBT bills, and who once blamed AIDS on a gay man having sex with monkeys, was soundly defeated Aug. 7 in his bid for a second Senate term.

State Sen. Stacey Campfield (R-Knoxville) garnered 28 percent of the vote in his district’s GOP primary, losing to Richard Briggs, a Knox County commissioner, reports The Tennessean.

Campfield, first elected to the state House in 2004, and to the Senate in 2010, has a long history of controversial statements and anti-gay legislative initiatives.

He repeatedly sought to ban teachers from mentioning or discussing gay issues in public schools through his failed “Don’t Say Gay” legislation. In 2012 he drew fire after telling a satellite radio host that HIV and AIDS originated from a gay airline pilot

having sex with a monkey and that it was nearly “impossible” for AIDS to be contracted through heterosexual sex.

Campfield, a 46-year-old confirmed bachelor, has also said homosexuality is a “learned behavior.”

Earlier this year, Campfield compared the insurance requirement under President Barack Obama’s health care law to the forced deportation of Jews during the Holocaust, writing in a blog post that “Democrats bragging about the number of mandatory sign ups for Obamacare is like Germans bragging about the number of mandatory sign ups for ‘train rides’ for Jews in the 40s.”

Following his defeat, Campfield posted on his blog a video of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” under the subject line, “That was fun.” : : — LGBTQ Nation (lgbtqnation), a national news media partner of qnotes.

QUICK HITS ——————————————————————————————————————————————————— Voters in Chattanooga, Tenn., on Aug. 7 rejected a proposal that would have allowed the city to offer health benefits to domestic partners of city employees. The measure was rejected by nearly 63 percent of voters. more: bit.ly/1nzI9Z7

Uganda’s high court has struck down its draconian anti-gay law, which sentenced some LGBT people to life in prison. The court said the measure was passed illegally and without quorum in the nation’s parliament. Proponents of the law will seek to have it restored. more: bit.ly/1mtyi7x

Opponents of an equal rights ordinance in Houston, Texas, will sue the city after failing to collect enough signatures for a repeal referendum. more: bit.ly/1sFaC54

A growing number of young Muslim Americans are challenging longheld religious beliefs proclaiming homosexuality as immoral. more: bit.ly/1owNFvA

News Notes continued from page 18 info: pphs.org. marcie.shealy@pphs.org. 704536-7233, ext. 6542.

— L.M.

Triad Bingo time approaches

GREENSBORO — Green Queen Bingo’s Legends of Bingo will be out in full form on Sept.

12, 6 p.m., at the Elm Street Center, 203 S. Elm St. This fundraiser is chocked full of chances to win money and prizes. Enjoy drinks with the queens at 6 p.m. before the doors open at 6:30 p.m. Bingo begins at 7 p.m. Game sponsorships, raffles and concession proceeds also go to support the foundation.

Tickets are $15/regular and $10/student or military and are available at the door. For large groups, email info@ggfnc.org to learn how to purchase blocks.

In other news, the Female Gurl Groove Artist Showcase will be held on Sept. 28, 7:30 p.m., at Blind Tiger, 1819 Spring Garden St. Groove to the music of Carmen Sturgill & One Night Stand, Tanya Ross and the Tanya Ross Project and Queens Remedy.

The charity event benefits the foundation.

Tickets are $10 and are available online or at the door. info: ggfnc.org.

— L.M.

It’s time to go out to the movies!

WINSTON-SALEM — Out at the Movies is hosting another evening of film screening on Sept. 13, 7 p.m., at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Ace Theatre Complex, 1533 S. Main St.

Viewers will be able to enjoy “Anatomy of a Love Seen,” written and directed by Marina Rice Bader. Bader also stars in the film, along with Constance Brennerman.

The story explores love between two characters who, while filming, fell in love with each other during a love scene. What happens next is the core of the film’s action.

Tickets are $7/regular, $6/seniors, students and are available in the lobby at 6:15 p.m.

Proceeds benefit the UNCSA School of Filmmaking. info: outatthemovieswinston.org.

— L.M.

Triangle Center hosts potluck

DURHAM — The LGBTQ Center of Durham will hold an alcohol-free Fun Day potluck and cookout for the community on Aug. 24, 1 p.m., at Piney Wood Park, 400 E. Woodcroft Pkwy.

Organizers will provide will provide water, hot dogs, hamburgers and veggie burgers. Grills will be fired up and ready to cook at 4 p.m.

Attendees can enjoy food, music, fun activities and camaraderie. info: facebook.com/events/830209563658502/.

— L.M.

Youth group revamps for fall

DURHAM — iNSIDEoUT has announced that it has revamped it’s organization, just in time for back-to-school.

They have been meeting every week over the summer to hang out and prepare for the upcoming year. There are plans for two retreats on the horizon.

They also launched a new website and updated their adult ally database.

In the meantime, they are holding a board camping retreat on Aug. 22-24 so that they can bond, create a vision and make plans for the year.

On Sept.12-14, iNSIDEoUT will host a senate of GSA/QSA leaders’ leadership retreat.

Participants will be able to meet other youth from across the state. They will also be able to introduce the iNSIDEoUT Senate which will be comprised of representatives from schools, GSAs and QSAs who can receive benefit from the connections made through the organization.

Support will be made available for those who want to form a GSA or QSA at their school.

Leaders of other youth-led LGBT groups that are not a GSA/QSA are welcome.

The event is free, however a $20 contribution is suggested. For those interested in attending, email boardinsideout@gmail.com.

The location will be supplied to registered participants. Parental release for those under 18 is mandatory, as well as consent forms for those over 18, are due by Sept. 7. The forms are available for download online.

On Oct. 11, they are holding an Adult & Donor Appreciation Brunch.

The organization also has a group, Upsidedown, for children ages 6-12. They are launching a new website soon. iNSIDEoUT always appreciates contributions to help sustain its work. info: insideout180.org.

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

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precious pets courtesy N.C. State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Dog Olympics and Canine Blood Donors Mark your calendar: Dog Olympics set for Sept. 13 The Companion Animal Wellness Club at North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine will host the Dog Olympics from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, 2014, with fun competition, canine demonstrations, rescue groups, free microchip clinic and a special “custom cart” Paralympics Parade for dogs with spinal cord injuries.

The Dog Olympics is a charitable event that celebrates the human-animal bond and raises money for local animal rescue groups. Canines of all breeds, shapes and sizes are invited to participate in athletic and non-athletic competition such as Best Trick, Doggie Limbo, the High Jump, Longest Tail, Musical Sit, Howling and Rollover Rover.

The Raleigh Kennel Club will operate a free microchip clinic (one pet per family) with trained personnel implanting a microchip that can be scanned with a handheld device ensuring a lost dog will be returned to its owner.

Among the demonstrations scheduled are the Cary K9 Unit; Treibbal with Superior Dog Training; Flyball with Dog Gone Fast; Canine Good Citizenship Testing, agility and rallying demonstrations with the American Kennel Club; and the ParaOlympics parade, which focuses on the bond owners of paraplegic dogs have with their pets.

An Olympic Village will feature 18 rescue groups and shelters, canine health informa-

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tion booths including the CVM Seizure Studies Program, NCSU Libraries, vendors offering canine-related goods and services, food trucks and a bake sale.

Admission for owner and competing canine athlete is $5 with the cost covering an entry fee for one event and a photo of the canine champion on the Olympic platform. Each additional event and photo is $2. Admission for owner and a noncompeting dog is $2. Admission for individuals is $1 while children age five and younger are free.

All proceeds support the rescue groups in attendance. All dogs must be current on vaccinations and kept on leash when not performing in a ring.

The event will be held on the “Hearth” of the N.C. State Centennial Biomedical Campus located at 1060 William Moore Dr. in Raleigh near the intersection of Hillsborough St. and Blue Ridge Hwy. The rain date is Oct. 4. For more information call 919-513-6662 or email the Dog Olympics at ncdogolympics@gmail.com.

For more information, visit cvm.ncsu.edu/ news/olympics/index.html.

Canine Blood Donor Program The Veterinary Health Complex at North Carolina State University is looking to expand the canine blood donor program and is offering incentives to owners whose dogs qualify as donors. N.C. State’s veterinary blood bank is necessary to ensure an adequate blood product

supply for the many sick and injured dogs that are referred for specialty care or that are admitted to the Small Animal Emergency Service.

“In order to provide advanced quality care for our patients that require blood transfusions, we strive to maintain a reserve of blood products so that this life-saving measure is quickly available,” says Dr. Sarah Musulin, clinical assistant professor of emergency and critical care who manages the Canine Blood Bank in the Randall B. Terry, Jr. Companion Animal Veterinary Medical Center. “Our trauma and surgical patients create a demand, of course, as do those dogs referred to us because they are anemic or have bleeding disorders from medical conditions.”

The need for blood donations has grown with the increase in owners requesting lifesaving measures for their animal companions.

As a tertiary care facility, the Terry Center cares for the most seriously sick and injured dogs that are referred by private practice veterinarians The blood bank coordinator, Alicia Ossi, and her team collect and process whole blood donations and separate some units into components such as packed red blood cells and plasma for special storage. These blood products are available for use within the hospital clinics, as well as by area veterinarians.

The current canine donor pool is comprised of community-owned dogs as well as personal pets of faculty and staff at the College of Veterinary Medicine. The donor program provides dog owners incentives such as comprehensive healthcare screenings, including annual physical examinations, vaccinations and blood work to ensure that donors are healthy and free of infectious disease.

life

To be considered, donor dogs should be of excellent temperament, weigh more than 50 pounds, must be between the ages of one to five, have a clean health history and should have the likelihood of remaining in the area so they can serve as donors for up to three years.

Following an initial screening that can be completed by telephone, donors will be blood typed and screened for infectious diseases such as any tick borne illnesses. Those who are evaluated as universal donors will then receive a comprehensive healthcare screening, which will include blood count, blood chemistry profile, a urine analysis and a physical examination.

The dog may become a donor if tests reveal a healthy pet that is not overly stressed by the experience. The donation process, which is performed approximately every eight weeks for a maximum of three years, is painless and involves a local anesthetic. A mild sedative can also be applied if appropriate. The owner may be present for the donation, wait while the donation takes place or can return later in the day to pick up the pet.

“We only select dogs that are easy-going and not stressed by the process,” says Dr. Musulin. “It is very important to us that the donor and owner are comfortable. We follow up each donation with a treat of choice, like peanut butter and canned food. It’s a positive experience for both donor and owner. The donor receives excellent care and the owner has the satisfaction of knowing that the pet may help save the life of another dog.” : : — For more information, visit Canine Blood Bank at ncstatevets.org/bloodbank/, email vhcbloodbank@ncsu.edu or call 919-513-6999.

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Sports continued from page 13 the last LGBT softball tournament before the Gay Softball World Series being held in Dallas, Texas, in September.

This year’s field of teams was the biggest yet, which led to multiple softball complexes having to be used. However, that did not dampen the level of play.

The Knoxville Cyclones huddle up before a game in tournament play.

Photo Credit: Bryan Anderson

Knoxville’s home teams played particularly well on their home soil. The Cyclones, which had teams in all three divisions (B, C and D), placed in the top three in each division.

Atlanta’s top teams also performed well, placing five teams in the trophy rounds.

Results B Division 1st Atlanta Show Stoppers 2nd Knoxville Cyclones 3rd Atlanta Crew C Division 1st Atlanta Enuff Said 2nd Atlanta Sting 3rd Knoxville Cyclones D Division 1st Knoxville Cyclones 2nd Trampa Sloppy Seconds 3rd Atlanta Wild-Ones Next up for most of these teams is the tournament of the year, the World Series. Texas plays host to one of the most competitive LGBT tournaments in the country, with even more teams and players than last year.

For more information on this event, go to www.dallasseries2014.com.

Rugby The Charlotte Royals finished their last tune up practice for the Bingham Cup on Aug. 1. In the next few weeks, they will begin their long, arduous trip to Australia to bring home the championship to North Carolina. This is the largest international rugby tournament in the world and earning the championship win would be historic for any team, much less an American team that has only been around for 10 seasons.

The Royals would like to pass along their immense thanks and gratitude for all the help they have received in preparation for this journey down under from all of the players, friends, sponsors and, most importantly, family.

Wish them the best of luck and follow their exploits on facebook via Charlotte Royals page at facebook.com/CharlotteRoyalsRFC. : :

hey! what’s happening?

We want your news and event notices today. Be sure to send them to editor@goqnotes.com.

Thank you!

Aug. 15-28 . 2014

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Meet the Staff of Rosedale ID Making a Difference in Healthcare!

Nutritional Counseling

Featured Team Member: Heidi Litchner, RD Heidi lives in Sheryl’s Ford, North Carolina, with her husband Jeff and two new puppies. She has been very passionate about nutrition for patients living with HIV/AIDS since the late 1990’s. She is gregarious and welcoming to all people she comes in contact with.

Rosedale ID is happy to announce the return of nutritional counseling for all its patients. What does nutritional counseling entail? We’ve all heard “you are what you eat” and many of us desire to eat a healthy diet, but think that it may be too costly to do so. Not true! Learn how to stretch your dollar, take advantage of farmer’s markets, plan menus and cook with healthy techniques.

If you’re HIV-positive, nutrition and HIV is a subject you’ll want to pay special attention to. That’s because your body will undergo changes, both from medications and the disease itself. For example, you may experience extreme weight loss, infections, or diarrhea.

Another common change is lipodystrophy (fat distribution syndrome) which can cause body shape changes and increases in cholesterol levels. Making improvements in your diet can improve your health and how well you feel. A registered dietitian (RD) can give you even more guidance.

Medical nutritional therapy can assist you in making the lifestyle changes that are necessary to minimize side effects, avoid food-drug interactions and help you

maximize the actions of any prescribed medications.

Don’t sabotage your meds!

Body Composition testing is available by BIA also — a painless test that helps you manage other conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, GERD, food allergies/sensitivities. Learn that you are not condemned to a life of tasteless, boring foods if you are dealing with other issues.

Appointments with Heidi are available every Tuesday. All counseling provided is free to the patient and can be as frequent as needed. Call us at 704-9488582 to schedule your appointment today!

Call us today to become a new patient and have the opportunity to become part of the Rosedale family!

Don’t forget to visit our website at www.rosedaleid.com, friend us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for community and clinical updates!

— Sponsored Content —

Aug. 15-28 . 2014

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a&e

tell trinity

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

Flip phones vs smart phone hookup apps Dear Trinity, My lover and I recently purchased “modern” cell phones. We had the old flip phone ones forever. Now my lover spends all his free time on the hookup apps on his smartphone.

However, many moons ago we separated due to his infidelity with meeting people on the internet, which is, coincidentally, also how we met. He promised that I would be his last chat, but it’s not the case anymore.

Help!

Lost in Cyberspace, Charlotte, NC Dear Lost, When your lover’s an alcoholic you must keep your booze outside the house.

Similarly, when you’re lover is cell phone hookup app addict, you must also choose to go back to flip phones. When the one you love has a problem that threatens your relationship, you do not have a choice, honey. So, immediately, exchange those smartphones for flip phones. Keep talking about his issue and keep on top of it, or start packing! Having a smartphone and him will obviously never be a choice you get to make! Good luck.

Dearest Trinity, I saw you recently in Montreal, Canada, where you talked about going to Campus and Stock Bar, two of the all-male lap-dancing clubs.

Really, don’t you think showing your face in those place is advocating immorality?

Moral-boro Man, Montreal, Canada Dearest Moral-boro Man, I’d love to say that the sex industry is evil and naughty, but I truly believe the opposite. It’s part of our gay community and part of our society for thousands of years. In the heart of what appears to be evil is often good. Sweetie, both those clubs made me feel oh so good! (See how this plays out for me when you check out my cartoon.)

Hey Trinity, I dated a guy for five months when I lived in California. We dated up until I left.

Unfortunately, before we met I already had plans to move back East, so I did. Recently, he visited and begged me to move back. Even though I really love him, I just started a new job and I’m all settled in. Any advice?

Stay Or Go, Provincetown, MA Hey Stay Or Go, I’m afraid, since you’re already settled in, there’s just one respectable thing to do, quit and move back! Pumpkin, life’s too short!

Unless your salary can fly both of you back and forth for a while, you must follow your intuition.

And, if it says go, well then go and have an adventurous life and don’t look back! Did you know that Queen Elizabeth’s uncle gave up the throne to marry a commoner, which is how Elizabeth eventually became queen. See the movie W.E. Hello Trinity, Every time I have a one-night stand, I end up in some sort of complicated situation rather than just having a good time. Why me?

One Night Stand-Off, Rehoboth Beach, DE Hello Stand-Off, Before going home with a stranger, darling, you must ask certain key questions and listen for certain key answers such as in: Trinity’s Pinnacle Questions To Ask A One Night Stand Before Going Home With Him Or Her (Note: everything in parenthesis is implied not said!)

1. Do I stay the night (or are you hiring a driver to take me home)?

2. Is your house clean? (Do you have a housekeeper and staff?)

3. Do you have pets (that shed)? And, if so, do you (and I have to) sleep with them?

4. Do you have to work early (at a well-paying job) tomorrow?

5. Where do you live (not the name, but a private home, condo or ranch-style estate)?

6. Do you plan on feeding me (a buffet breakfast) in the morning?

7. I s there parking (with security)?

8. D o you snore (like an animal)?

9. D o you have protection (that includes insurance — home, health and theft)?

10. L astly, what’s your last name (just in case you’re a distant relative)? 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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C A L E N DA R AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2014 To see more upcoming events, visit goqnotes.com/calendar/ Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/

Continues through Aug. 17 Charlotte Pride Uptown Charlotte Join Charlotte Pride for a two-day street festival, entertainment and the Bank of America Charlotte Pride Parade. Events span both Saturday and Sunday, with the parade on Sunday. Headlining entertainers include LeAnn Rimes, Sevyn Streeter, Bianca Del Rio and more. A full schedule of events can be found online. charlottepride.org

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Continues through Sept. 4 SEP AUG ‘The Performers’ Duke Energy Theatre 345 N. College St. Various dates/times Queen City Theatre Company presents the regional premiere of “The Performers,” a comedy recounting the ups and downs of life and love in the adult entertainment industry. For more, see our brief on page 18. Tickets and more performance information available online. queencitytheatre.com

Sing for the Cure SEP AUG Halton Theatre 1206 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

Sing for the Cure is a gala concert featuring a 100-voice choir, an orchestra and critically-acclaimed jazz singer Ann Hampton Callaway, benefiting Susan G. Komen Charlotte. Information and tickets available online. singforthecurecharlotte.org

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Durham Potluck SEP AUG Piney Wood Park 400 E. Woodcroft Pkwy.

1 p.m.

The LGBTQ Center of Durham will hold an alcohol-free Fun Day potluck and cookout for the community. Organizers will provide will provide water, hot dogs, hamburgers and veggie burgers. Grills will be fired up and ready to cook at 4 p.m. Free. facebook.com/events/830209563658502/

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Town Hall Series SEP AUG North Star LGBT Center 704 Brookstown Ave., Winston-Salem 6-8 p.m.

GetEQUAL hosts the first in a series of town hall discussions bridging divides and learning from each other in the community. Other dates will include Sept. 23, Oct. 17-19 in Yadkin County, Nov. 25 and Dec. 23. facebook.com/GetEQUAL.NC –––––––––––––––––––– Exchange Series Sensibly Chic Designs for Life 830 Lamar Ave., Charlotte 6:30 p.m.

The Charlotte Business Guild will present “From Passion to Panic.” This interactive panel will contain local small business owners and entrepreneurs that are making it work! Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar.

Panel discussion including: Fabi Preslar, president of SPARK Productions; Dianna Ward, executive director of Charlotte B-cycle; William Wilson, CEO of William Wilson Clothing; Dan Mauney, owner, SHU & Brief.

Free for members. $5 for non-members. charlottebusinessguild.org

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Walk a Mile in Her Shoes NoDa Brewing Company 2229 N. Davidson St., Charlotte 9 a.m.

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is a Men’s March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault and Gender Violence. All proceeds benefit Safe Alliance. In spirit of the old saying “you can’t understand someone’s experience until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes,” Walk a Mile in Her Shoes literally asks men to walk a mile in women’s high heeled shoes. The event is a playful and fun opportunity for men to raise awareness in their community about the serious causes and effects of sexualized violence.

Sponsored by Hearts Beat as One Foundation. Registration and more information at safeallianceevents.org/participant/94115.

SEP AUG

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Upstate Pride Continues through Aug. 31 SEP SEPT SEP AUG Barnet Park Transgender Faith and 248 E. Saint John St., Action Network Conference Spartanburg Hilton Charlotte University 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Place The annual Upstate Pride SC March and 8629 JM Keynes Dr., Charlotte Festival.

A conference for trans community, upstatepridesc.org friends and allies. Dynamic inclusion of networking, faith, workshops and updated information regarding health/ SC Pride wellness, legal protections and more.

SEP SEPT Main Street Visit website for more information on workshops, sponsorship and registration. Downtown Columbia Noon-10 p.m. fcsj.org The 25th annual SC Pride HER Yoga: Om for Equality SEP SEPT Festival Flex at SHU and 1426 S. Tryon St., Charlotte Parade, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. featuring Join the Human Rights Deborah Campaign for its inaugural HER HRC Cox. Yoga event: Om for Equality! Enjoy a morning of yoga (10-11:15 a.m.) and stay scpride.org for an afternoon of music, beer and food — or just join HRC for the party!

Groove with favorite DJ Little Betty and enjoy the fares of some of our favorite local breweries and food trucks!

Men are welcomed to attend! General admission for yoga and after party is $12 in advance or $15 at the door. After party admission is $5.

Tickets and more: action.hrc.org/site/ar? id=120641&view=Detail

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

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