QNotes, Aug. 16-29, 2013

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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Aug. 16-29. 2013

inside

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Aug. 16-29, 2013 Vol 28 No 08

arts. entertainment. news. views.

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contributors this issue Paige Braddock, Matt Comer, Jon Hoppel, Charlene Lichtenstein, Lainey Millen, Trinity

news & features 4 4 6 8

New LGBTQ Law Center Charlotte Pride’s increased support News Notes: Regional Briefs Russians fight for LGBT equality

a&e / life&style 11 14 21 22 24 26 27 28 31

Jane’s World Charlotte is proud to be…

Andrew Christian coming to CLT Arts groups team up Pride: On Stage Tell Trinity Out in the Stars Playing the Field Charlotte leaders Q events calendar

front page Graphic Design by Matt Comer Photos of the June 29, 2013, St. Petersburg, Russia, Pride march courtesy Valentine Egorshin; republished with permission.

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opinions & views

are proud

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5 Editor’s Note 5 QPoll

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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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New law center serves LGBT community

Charlotte Pride sees increased biz support

Center celebrates official opening Aug. 16

Attendance also on the uptick at vendor fair

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

by Lainey Millen :: lainey@goqnotes.com

Left to right, Sarah Demarest and Kelly Durden opened a non-profit law center in Charlotte.

CHARLOTTE — A new non-profit law cenissues and end-of-life decisions. ter is opening its doors in the Queen City and “Not only is there a real need, but we its founders are hoping to fullfil unmet needs also see a frustration with the system, where of low-income LGBT people. people in the LGBT community felt there were “Legal services are inaccessible for a no options for them.” lot of people in the community, particularly Durden also said other non-profit agencies because of the cost,” said Sarah Demarest, often didn’t have the resources or knowledge a co-founder of the new Freedom Center for to best assist LGBT people. “There is a blind Social Justice LGBTQ Law spot for the needs of the Center. “Additionally, there LGBT community when it “Not only is there a real are a lot of attorneys who are comes to advance directives need, but we also see a uncertain how to deal with and simple wills,” she said. frustration with the system, LGBT clients, particularly Demarest said a statewhere people in the LGBT transgender clients.” wide survey of 300 people community felt there were Demarest, who graduthey took last year showed no options for them.” ated this year from Charlotte a substantial need for a School of Law, is joined center working specifically at the new center by attorney Kelly Durden. on LGBT-related legal issues. Eighty perThe center will be housed under the Freedom cent of respondents, she said, would prefer Center for Social Justice, founded and headed to consult attorneys with LGBT-specific

by Bishop Tonyia Rawls of Unity Fellowship experience.

Church Charlotte.

The new center hosts a launch party on Durden, who once worked for another Aug. 16 at the LGBT Community Center of non-profit legal services group, said many Charlotte. For more information, visit fcsj.org.

LGBT people often face difficulties accessing To schedule an appointment, email fcsjlaw@ services, especially for domestic violence gmail.com or call 980-298-6588. : :

we want your opinions and feedback Whether it’s letters to the editor, web comments, general suggestions, comments or ideas, qnotes staff welcomes your input. See, without you we’d really have no reason to be here. So, we delight in hearing what our readers have to say. Be sure to send in your thoughts, praises, criticisms and more to editor@goqnotes.com for general feedback or letters@goqnotes.com for letters to the editor. Thank you!

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Charlotte Pride Co-Directors Craig Hopkins and Richard Grimstad, Entertainment Chair Jonathan Hill and Parade Chair Dave Webb.

CHARLOTTE — Charlotte Pride, slated for Aug. 24-25, has done its due diligence in securing a vast array of corporate partners this year.

At the pinnacle as presenting sponsors are Bank of America, PNC Bank, Scorpio, Time Warner Cable and Wells Fargo.

A host of other businesses — large and small alike — have joined the presenting sponsors this year. It’s just one sign of increased support for this southern city’s growing Pride festivities.

Charlotte Pride organizers say they have also seen a marked increase in participation by small businesses and non-profit organizations attending as vendors at the two-day event.

“This will be the first year we can say that we are a sold out event and currently have a wait list of vendors wishing to come in,” Charlotte Pride Co-Director Craig Hopkins said via email. Recruiting exhibitors for this season’s festivities appears to have been “relatively easy,” Hopkins said. From a single email to past vendors, the applications snowballed in. The appeal seemed simple. “From a business perspective, they certainly see the value in having such a large audience available to them over two days. This year we have vendors coming from as far north as New York City, as far south as Miami and as far west as Houston and Chicago.”

Organizers said they had received 100 vendor applications and over 70 parade entries. The increased interest follows the organization’s separation from the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte in January.

The annual event had been held under the

auspices of the center from 2006-2012. The center’s then-board chair Scott Coleman said at the time that the separation was necessary for Charlotte Pride to “continue its growth momentum, and be taken to the next level.”

“This new independence…allows us to focus solely on the growth and development of the festival,” Co-Director Richard Grimstad remarked via email. Planning for this year’s event started with no “start-up funds or reserve in the bank,” Grimstad added. Early supporters, like The Scorpio and a grant from the Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund, paired with individual donor campaigns, gave the newly-independent organization the kickstart they needed.

Hopkins said they expect “somewhere between 45,000 and 55,000, based on last year’s attendance numbers.” The logistics in producing an event of this size has its challenges and Charlotte Pride has had to rely on its all-volunteer organization to make it happen. Hopkins said that they need for committed individuals to put in time to help to continue to bring the growing event each season.

To compound the challenges, this year the organization is staging the city’s first Pride parade in 19 years. “Despite all the organizational, operational and logistical challenges that come with developing and implementing an event of this size, we have been fortunate enough to see the support from our sponsors, vendors, volunteers and community grow with us, and we are so appreciative of this,” said Hopkins.

see Charlotte Pride on 11

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editor’s note

by Matt Comer matt@goqnotes.com

Proud to be…

In this special issue of qnotes, we’re profiling all the great events happening across the Queen City as Charlotte Pride gears up for another successful year of celebration. In this issue, we also asked community leaders across Charlotte to tell us what they’re proud of, why they are proud to live here or what they’ve been proud to accomplish. It’s refreshing to see and hear from so many leaders about what makes this city a special place.

For me, I’ve been proud to be a volunteer organizer of Charlotte Pride for several years.

I’ve served on Charlotte Pride’s organizing committee several times since 2008. Each time, I’m proud of what the Charlotte Pride team — all our organizers and countless volunteers — are able to accomplish. During the event, I look around and see smiling faces, many of them experiencing their first-ever Pride event, and I’m reminded of my first time at a Pride.

This year, my fellow volunteers and I have reached for the stars. The Charlotte Pride Festival, like last year, will take place over two full days, guaranteeing maximum exposure for small businesses, non-profits and sponsors, and ensuring more LGBT community members are given the opportunity to participate.

For the first time since 1994, a Pride parade has come back to the Queen City.

Every year I’ve been involved in planning this event, I’ve heard the same questions: When is the parade? Why don’t you have a parade? When are you all going to plan one?

I’m proud, finally, that Charlotte Pride will be presenting the first-ever all-local Charlotte Pride Parade.

But, what we are able to accomplish this year would not be possible without all the

people who came before us — people who organized Charlotte’s first Pride activities in the late 1970s, qnotes staff who produced annual Pride-themed picnics in the 1980s, folks who came together to plan NC Pride’s festival and parade in Charlotte in 1994, those who planned the first Charlotte Pride in 2000 and those who came together in 2006 to re-form the event into Pride Charlotte. In addition to our feature profiling community leaders’ reasons to be proud, I hope you’ll also read our special online-only story exploring the history of Pride in Charlotte. It’s a phenomenal read!

Come Monday, Aug. 26, I’ll be sore, my feet will be blistered and I’ll be screaming for a vacation. But, I’ll also be so very, very proud of all the sweat, tears and, yes, even blood I’m sure, that will have been poured into making this year’s Charlotte Pride the biggest and best Pride event this city has ever seen.

I’ll be thankful for all the hard work put in by our all-volunteer organizing committee and all the folks who will join us at the festival and parade grounds from long before sun-up on Saturday, Aug. 24 through long past sun-down on Aug. 25. I’ll be grateful, as ever, for all those community volunteers who will have shown up to volunteer for one-, two-, three- or more-hour-long shifts helping us to keep the festival and parade running smoothly and on time.

When this year’s Charlotte Pride has come and gone, we’ll all look back at how large our LGBT and ally community has grown, how much awareness we were able to raise and how much growth our city has seen in its acceptance and inclusion of LGBT people. And, for all that, I’ll truly be proud. : :

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news notes: carolinas. nation. world. compiled by Lainey Millen | Matt Comer

Chambers remembered as fighter for America Iconic attorney remembered for civil rights causes

by Jim Morrill :: jmorrill@charlotteobserver.com CHARLOTTE — As many as 3,000 mourners paid final tribute on Aug. 8 to civil rights attorney Julius Chambers, a man remembered as an “extraordinary drum major for justice” who changed lives in Charlotte and across the country.

The tributes came at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, where the sanctuary was packed with civic and political leaders from across the state as well as veterans — and beneficiaries — of Chambers’ landmark legal battles.

Chambers died Aug. 2 after months of declining health. He was 76. A native of Mount Gilead, he was not only a nationally known attorney but a renowned educator and mentor for a generation of young attorneys and African-American leaders.

The price of justice In 1964, Chambers opened North Carolina’s first integrated law firm in Charlotte. He attracted lawyers who have gone on to leave their own mark, including U.S. Rep. Mel Watt and civil rights attorney James Ferguson.

Chambers was remembered for helping the voiceless and challenging the powerful. Sometimes it came at a price.

Over the years, his enemies set his law office on fire, bombed his Charlotte home and his car. They also burned his father’s garage-general store in Mount Gilead. But Chambers was never vindictive.

“If you sit down and talk with people, you can accomplish a lot more than if you start off yelling and screaming,” he once told a reporter.

Following in footsteps Among the mourners were Attorney General Roy Cooper, former University of North Carolina System President C.D. Spangler and former Charlotte mayors Harvey Gantt and Richard Vinroot. In the balcony was former U.S. Sen. John Edwards, for whose presidential campaigns Chambers served as treasurer.

At the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, Chambers followed in the footsteps of another attorney, Thurgood Marshall, who went on to become the first African American on the Supreme Court. On Aug. 1, Ferguson put his former partner in the same pantheon as Marshall and other long-gone AfricanAmerican pioneers.

He talked about seeing them in a vision when “They all looked up at the door and in walked Julius.”

U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and Charlotte’s former mayor said Chambers, who fought not only for civil rights but against employment and other discrimination, touched people of all races.

“There are people on Tryon Street, people on Wall Street and all across America who owe their careers to this man,” he said.

“Julius Chambers wasn’t just a fighter for African-Americans. He was a fighter for America.”

— Originally published by The Charlotte Observer on Aug. 8, 2013. qnotes is a member of The Observer’s Charlotte News Alliance. Republished with permission.

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Charlotte SF trans teen to be featured at Charlotte Pride

CHARLOTTE — Nineteen-year-old transgender singer-songwriter and motivational speaker Ryan Cassata will speak with local LGBTQ youth on Aug. 23, 6:30 p.m., at Time Out Youth Center at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1900 The Plaza. The following day, on Aug. 24, 2 p.m., he will perform at the Wells Fargo State at Charlotte Pride’s PNC Bank Festival Zone.

Hailing from San Francisco, Calif., Cassata has already amassed many successes, including five records, touring, TV appearances, as well as hitting the stage of several of the world’s biggest LGBTQ music festivals. Even more impressive was his being awarded his high school’s first-ever Harvey Milk Memorial Award.

“Charlotte Pride believes strongly in our young people and we are proud to offer them this unique, empowering opportunity to hear from Ryan,” said Craig Hopkins, Charlotte Pride co-director.

Time Out Youth’s Executive Director Rodney Tucker added, “Ryan is a great example for our youth. He a great artist and activist that shows the power of [the] youth voice in the LGBTQ movement” Tucker also said that they were expecting a good crowd of LGBTQ youth and young adults. info: timeoutyouth.org. charlottepride.org.

— L.M. and from releases

Panel: Work places becoming more LGBT-friendly

CHARLOTTE — When Renee Brown and her wife decided to start a family, the decision came with an added layer of stress. Brown, who now works in Charlotte as Wells Fargo’s senior vice president and director of enterprise media, said informing her colleagues of her child’s impending birth included unique coming out experiences.

First would come congratulations, Brown said. Then questions. She used the situation as a “teaching moment” for her colleagues when necessary.

Brown also serves on the board of Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, a national organization working to ensure more equal and inclusive workplaces for LGBT people.

Brown joined three other women leaders in Charlotte on Aug. 4 at Park Road Books.

They shared their experiences of being out in the workplace and read passages from their new anthology, “Out & Equal at Work: From Closet to Corner Office,” released in January and containing the personal experiences and stories of 36 LGBT executives.

About a dozen people, including board members from the Charlotte Business Guild, attended the Aug. 4 reading. Panelists and audience members agreed: the corporate workplace is becoming increasingly more LGBT-friendly as more and more companies adopt fully-LGBT-inclusive non-discrimination policies and domestic partner benefits.

In cities like Charlotte, major corporations like Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Duke Energy are leading the way. Each have perfect or near-perfect 100 ratings in the national Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index.

— M.C.

Signature event date set

CHARLOTTE — The Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN) has announced that its annual Dining with Friends event will be held on Nov. 2.

People from across the area will gather at various homes and establishments in order to help bring awareness to RAIN’s work and to capture funds from its attendees to help support the programs and services RAIN provides for the city’s community. Each host will decide on the dinner’s theme and menu.

Hosts can sign up online and begin planning their events.

The finale will be held at Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St. Enjoy delicious desserts from local restaurants, along with champagne, coffee and cocktails. Cost is $30. The cap off is presented by Wells Fargo, Kiss 95.1 and Something Classic. info: diningwithfriendscharlotte.org.

— L.M.

news

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Triad Fundraiser slated

LEXINGTON — An end-of-summer fundraising party, “Wines of the World,” will be held on Aug. 24, 7 p.m., at the Municipal Club, 200 Country Club Blvd.

Proceeds will benefit Positive Wellness Alliance, A 2013 Adam Foundation recipient that supports people infected and affected with HIV/AIDS. Monies raised will go toward shoring up the organization’s annual budget funds. Its board will serve as hosts.

The evening will feature wine and food representing five regions of the world. A daily progression of items begin with breakfast and end with dessert. There will be plenty of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Wine parings include: New Age Torrontes from Argentina (served as a Mimosa Cocktail); Blouberg Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa; La Maialina from Italy; Frisk Reisling from Australia; and Castell De Raimat from Spain.

There will be a chance to win $1,000 in a reverse raffle drawing. Consolation prizes and silent auction bidding will flow through the night.

The event also includes music provided by Jessica Mashburn.

Sponsors are Tastings Wine & Beer Shop and The Buttercup Cafe.

Corporate sponsorships are still available.

Call Julie Meyer at 336-248-4646 or email jmeyer@pwanc.org for more information. info: positivewellnessalliance.org.

— L.M.

housing assignments beginning with the fall 2013 semester.”

Advocates for LGBT students conHistory showcased at center demned the vote.

RALEIGH — The City of Raleigh “The policy doesn’t serve to protect Museum presented “The LGBT History any student,” said Shane Windmeyer, of Raleigh” at a gathering at the LGBT executive director of the Charlotte-based Center of Raleigh, 411 Hillsborough St., Campus Pride. “It makes the campus more on Aug. 9. divisive. It makes housing and harassment Brandie Cline, a research intern a greater problem for all students.” and M.A. candidate in the U.S. History Windmeyer’s group works with LGBT and Museum Studies program at the college students across the country. In University of North Carolina-Greensboro, Charlotte, he said a transgender studiscussed the museum’s recent redent’s death by suicide earlier this year search. She also shared ways that comUNC-Greensboro intern Brandie Cline shares the City of Raleigh was influenced by housing problems. munity members can become involved Museum’s LGBT history project at the LGBT Center of Raleigh..

“One of her friends said she was in the project. Her internship centers harassed out of housing and she couldn’t around assisting the museum with befind the housing she needed,” Windmeyer coming more inclusive of the city’s LGBT hisRegional said, calling the UNC board’s vote “insensitory through archival research, oral histories tive.” “This isn’t just about policy decisions System bans gender-inclusive housing and partnerships with LGBT organizations. and politics; it’s about real lives.”

CHAPEL HILL —The University of North The center was approached about helping The policy clearly includes all types of Carolina Board of Governors approved a new their intern and “we jumped at the chance,” campus housing — dormitory halls, suites ban on gender-inclusive, or gender-neutral, the center’s executive director, James Miller, and campus apartments. So, it is not yet clear housing on Aug. 9. said in an email. how the policy will impact co-ed suite- and The new policy is effective for all 17 camHe added, “We have one dedicated intern apartment-style housing. Justine Hollingshead, puses of the UNC system and is nearly identifrom the center and one from the city working director of North Carolina State University’s cal to a bill proposed in the North Carolina in tandem to collect stories and research difGLBT Student Center, said her school still has a Senate in April. ferent buildings/organizations/individuals who number of housing options for students in need.

“The constituent institutions shall not have contributed to the development of the assign members of the opposite sex to any “We’ve been fortunate enough to meet the LGBT community over the past 100 years.” institutionally owned and operated dormitory needs of our transgender students where they The presentation will be digitized and room, dormitory suite, or campus apartment are,” she said. “We do not anticipate not being made available on the center’s website, as unless the students are siblings, parent and able to continue doing what we’ve been doing.” well as through the community library. child, or they are legally married,” the new info: 919-996-2220. bkclineb@uncg.edu.

Read the full story at goqnotes.com/24205/. system policy reads. “This policy applies to — L.M. — M.C.

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As Charlotte Pride prepares for fun and celebration, LGBT Russians are bleeding for their right to simply be

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

“I’ll be there. I will come and kill you.

When it is over and you go home, I will catch you and smash your head.”

Odds are that’s not the message you received when you were planning your outing to this year’s Charlotte Pride, scheduled for Aug. 24-25 in Uptown. Yet, in Charlotte’s Russian sister city Voronezh, that’s exactly what LGBT activists heard in January as they planned a simple, peaceful protest of a then-impending anti-propaganda bill practically closeting all LGBT people and LGBT advocacy.

Russia’s treatment of LGBT people has been less than ideal for years. Our cover image this issue includes photos from the June 29, 2013, Pride march in St. Petersburg.

There, as with similar actions in Moscow and other cities, LGBT activists were met with violent force from nationalist and neo-Nazi counter-protesters, as well as violence and arrests from police officials for gathering in an “illegal” assembly.

Pavel Lebedev, 23, faced similar circumstances in Voronezh.

“I was there to explain that this law violates human rights and that thousands of people will lose their voice as a result of it,” Lebedev told the BBC. [Ed. Note — This writer attempted to arrange an interview directly with Lebedev through Voronezh human rights activist Alexey Kozlov, but was unable to speak to Lebedev before our deadline.]

“The authorities are promoting violence,” Lebedev continued. “The law implies that some people are inferior and compels them to shut up and stay out of sight.”

That law, which ultimately passed in June with a unanimous vote in Russia’s parliament, has sent the nation into a downward spiral of anti-gay hate and violence.

Voronezh: City of Heroes?

Located in southwest Russia, 515 kilometers from Moscow and about 270 kilometers from the Russian-Ukranian border, Voronezh is a city of nearly 900,000 people. It entered into a sister-city relationship with Charlotte in 1991.

Voronezh gay rights activist Pavel Lebedev was assaulted during a protest he organized in January.

His attacker was found guilty of assualt, but sentencing has been constantly postponed.

Photo Credit: Article20.org. Republished with permission

There, Lebedev and his co-organizers wished to speak out against a law they knew would harm them. Their Jan. 20, 2013, protest was met with significant opposition, as leading residents in the city encouraged as many as 1,500 people to show up in a counter-protest.

“Our task is to disrupt the event!” wrote a local lawyer and an organizer of the counter-protest. “Voronezh — City of Heroes, not a stronghold of perverts! We call on all the healthy forces of all normal citizens to join us!”

Lebedev and the other organizers were faced with a barrage of hate.

“On the 20th of January we will kill you,” read one threat. More followed: “I will come to [the protest] personally to kick you with my own feet,” read a second. “Jan. 20, 2013 from 5-6 p.m., you will die,” read yet another.

When the day came, Lebedev and his friends took to the town square. Across the street, hundreds or more stood in opposition with banners unfurled and slurs not far behind.

Snowballs, bottles and other items were hurled through the air. Shouts of “kill the fags” and “beat the faggots” were heard.

Counter-protesters attacked. Lebedev was kicked to the ground, as was a female gay rights protester. A third, 22-year-old Andrey Nasonov, was thrown to the ground and kicked until he lost consciousness. He was later treated for a concussion.

“After I’d been beaten, I was afraid, shaking,” Lebedev told the BBC. “I had tears in my eyes. But I cannot stay silent any longer.”

Police took little to no action during the protest. It’s that lack of protection for basic rights that Kozlov has spent years fighting against.

“We are defending the freedom of assembly and fight against all forms of discrimination,” Kozlov told qnotes in an interview via email.

As leader of the Charity Foundation for Ecological and Social Justice, Kozlov also serves as editor-in-chief of Article20.org, a website tracking human rights abuses in Voronezh and elsewhere in Russia and

named after an article in the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Kozlov’s group helped Lebedev and his friends organize the Jan. 20 protest in Voronezh. He said city officials there have taken little action to punish those who assaulted Lebedev and his friends.

On Aug. 2, Article20.org reported that a local court found one man guilty of assault, but stopped short of finding a hate- or biasmotivated intent. Lebedev’s chant, “Down with fascism,” the court said, “could offend the young man and provoke a fight,” Article20.org reported. The maximum penalty for the assault conviction was 12 months hard labor; the perpetrator received only two. That sentencing has yet to be enforced, said Kazlov. Other attackers have yet to be brought to justice.

“Only in the case of Pavel have police found the attacker,” he said. “We supported Pavel in that court case and in the three others, but police have refused to start those investigations.”

Olga Gnezdilova, an attorney representing Lebedev, said it is clear where government officials stand.

“It was obvious that police did not want to protect activists,” she said in an email interview forwarded from Kozlov. “The government does not treat these cases really seriously. Practically in all cases, police or courts recognize the crime as hooliganism [mischief] but not hatred motivated.”

Growing violence The growing legal hostility in Russia has given way to mass violence on the streets.

Kozlov said circumstances are growing more dire by the day.

“The situation is serious,” Kozlov said.

“Russian authorities are trying to make LGBT the ‘public enemy’ and it will cause more violations of the rights of LGBT people and direct violence against LGBT people and their supporters.”

see Russia on 12

An LGBT activist is attacked following a “Day of Kisses” protest against Russia’s anti-propaganda law in front of the State Duma in Moscow on June 11, 2013.

As many as 1,500 counter-protesters demonstrated against 14 gay rights activists’ protest in Voronezh. The counter-protesters’ signs read: “LGBT people prejudice our rights,””Voronezh is not Sodom,””We stand for morality,” “Mom, dad - good. Daddy, daddy - bad,” “Protect our children from the depravity.”

Far-right nationalists counter-protested and instigated violent attacks against gay rights activists in St. Petersburg on June 29, 2013. Here, one holds a bullwhip as he taunts the activists.

Photo Credit: Roma Yandolin, via Flickr. Licensed CC.

Photo Credit: Article20.org. Republished with permission.

Photo Credit: Valentine Egorshin. Republished with permission.

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pride

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Charlotte Pride continued from page 4

To prepare for logistical issues, Parade in Peace, a contingency of volunteers who Chair Dave Webb said via email that they have had specialized training in how to diffuse have “worked closely with the City of confrontations with hecklers. Webb shared, Charlotte and their various departments to “Charlotte Pride (and formerly Pride Charlotte) ensure that we have adhas worked with this group for dressed any operational a number of years. They are a “Adding the parade this and logistical issues.” wonderful group of volunteers year has been just another Between the committee who strive to eliminate and opportunity for the comand the city, they have mitigate any negative interacmunity to get involved and managed to work out all tion among our parade and fesshow their support.” of the details necessary tival attendees and protesters.” to produce a successful The Charlotte-Mecklenburg parade. Hopkins added, Police department will also be “Adding the parade this year has been just on hand to help “minimize any potential disrupanother opportunity for the community to get tion during both the parade and festival.” involved and show their support.” qnotes is a media sponsor.

Pride festivals are often beset by nay-sayers For more information on scheduled events, and anti-LGBT protesters and religious zealots. see the QEvents listing on page 31. : : To counter this, organizers utilize Partners info: charlottepride.org.

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Meetings: Program: Time: Membership: Information:

Third Tuesday of every month, except when there is specialized programming, plus monthly socials to promote networking and friendship A wide variety of topics of interest to appeal to the diverse LGBT community After work with a cash bar social and heavy hor d’oeuvres with dinner and program following Visit the website for application options and benefits.

Call 704.565.5075 or email businessguild@yahoo.com for more details or write to The Charlotte Business Guild P.O. Box 33371 | Charlotte, NC 28233

www.charlottebusinessguild.org

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Russia continued from page 8

One far-right, nationalist group, in particular, has taken to a Russian social media site to encourage mass anti-gay violence.

They have also targeted several young gay men and teenagers looking to meet up with others like them. The group schedules fake sexual encounters, and when their victims — one reportedly as young as 12 years old — meet them, the gang proceeds to emotionally harass and, in some cases, physically torture them.

The gang and their followers have videotaped many of their attacks. In some, the youth are stripped down and forced to hold sex toys while being chastised for their sexual orientation. In others, the young men are doused with or forced to drink urine.

In one video (youtu.be/H3XEiSiKy-Q), a 15-year-old boy is met at a Moscow park by a group of five or so individuals. For 20 minutes, the youth is intimidated with antigay rhetoric and slurs as the gang refuses to let him leave. He is questioned about his planned sexual encounter and told the video will be posted online and shared with his family and friends, despite his insistence that his father would beat him if he found out. At the end, a voice is heard saying, “Finish him. Finish him, guys. We will beat him with sticks.” Before he leaves, a bottle of urine is poured on his head. [Ed. Note — qnotes staff has reviewed several other similar videos, all of which we have opted not to share publicly due to their graphic nature.]

Several youth have committed suicide after the kidnappings and attacks. One young man has allegedly died as a result of injuries he sustained, according to one unconfirmed report by the U.K.’s Pink News.

LGBT activists across the globe have leapt into action as news from Russia has grown more serious. Some, including Olympic athletes themselves, have called upon the International Olympic Committee to pull out from their planned 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi or take stronger stands for inclusion and safety of athletes, Olympics staff and fans. In the U.S., some activists, led by gay columnist Dan Savage, have initiated a boycott of Stolichnaya and other Russian vodkas.

Global debate, local action?

On Aug. 2, the global debate finally reached Charlotte. Scott Bishop, chair of the Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee (MeckPAC), launched a public petition to Mayor Patsy Kinsey and City Council asking that they sever their ties with sister-city Voronezh.

Kinsey said no separation would occur, joining the city’s first openly LGBT elected official, Councilmember LaWana Mayfield, and its second gay official, Councilmember Billy Maddalon, in voicing reservations about a split.

“As a longtime advocate for LGBT rights in Charlotte and across America, I join Council Members Mayfield and Maddalon in strongly condemning anti-LGBT legislation and violence anywhere in the world,” Kinsey said in a statement on Aug. 8. “However, severing our ties with Voronezh would do nothing to help the LGBT community there. On the contrary, it

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would deprive us of the best means we have to ameliorate the situation.”

Mayfield said a relationship was not easily reparable once broken. Cutting ties, she said, could also send the wrong message.

“Dropping the relationship does nothing to show support to the LGBT community in Russia and some may even see this as abandonment,” Mayfield said. “It is better to encourage a peaceful dialogue than to cut the ties that bring us closer as citizens of the world.”

Maddalon said keeping the relationship alive could help Charlotte set a tone and direction for its peer in Russia.

“I’d love to be able to show them that, look, gay people in Charlotte even serve in city government and we do so with reasonable distinction; there is an alternative way to look at this,” he said.

Kozlov, though, knows exactly what is needed.

“First of all, I will continue to demand that the Voronezh city administration and police hold a proper investigation of the disruption of the picket — what we are trying to do now — and punish the violators,” he said.

Such actions come at a cost, including legal representation for Lebedev and other expenses, like communications, mail service and office supplies.

“If you can collect some money to pay for the lawyers and the expenses of the judicial process…we will be very thankful,” Kozlov told qnotes.

If the legal process fails, Kozlov isn’t opposed to Charlotte dropping its relationship with Voronezh.

“If they will not do that [hold a proper investigation], then severing the sister-city relationship can be the next step,” he said.

For MeckPAC’s part, Bishop has softened his call to completely sever ties with Voronezh, despite receiving nearly 300 signatures on their petition.

“It’s achieved its purpose because it has raised awareness with city leaders about what is going on over there and action has taken place as a result,” Bishop said.

And, though Mayfield still believes the city’s relationship with Voronezh should remain unchanged, she has offered herself as a personal voice for equality. In a recent comment thread on Facebook, Mayfield responded to a user’s suggestion she switch places with a Voronezh official in a “city council exchange.”

“If asked I would go to Voronezh to speak about the importance of tolerance and inclusiveness,” she said.

Kinsey said her office has reached out to the U.S. State Department and Human Rights Watch, an international non-profit human rights advocacy organization. Kinsey is expected to discuss recommendations on the situation in Voronezh at City Council’s next meeting on Aug. 26.

Continuing coverage: Follow developing news on the situation in Voronezh and Russia, as well as our previous reports and all future reports at goqnotes. com/in/voronezh.

[Ed. Note — Quotes from foreign sources have been edited for clarity and grammar.

Peter Alfredson assisted with translation.] : :

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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Charlotte is proud to be...

Community leaders share what makes them proud to be who they are and why they are proud to call Charlotte home I’m proud to be a part of Charlotte’s LGBTQ community because our community gets better and better every single day. For more than a decade, our LGBTQ community has been so active and vibrant that anyone could engage in at least one, if not more, LGBTQ activities/programs/events every single day.

Teresa L Davis, President, Charlotte Business Guild We’re proud to call Charlotte home because it is always growing, changing, and evolving. Charlotte is a city of endless possibilities, and the LGBTQ Law Center is grateful to call Charlotte our home.

Sarah Demarest and Kelly Durden, Freedom Center for Social Justice LGBTQ Law Center I am proud to be a part of a sisterhood of strong women dedicated to being a positive influence in the community for future generations.

Sukema Derios, Social Events Director/Co-Founder of Xi Epsilon Tau Sorority, Inc. I am proud to call Charlotte home for all of the amazing work that we have done as a city in the way of diversity inclusion.

Charlotte is a melting pot of so many different cultures, and when one considers that we’re in the Bible belt, we’re actually a fairly progressive place.

Anthony Dondero, Director of Outreach of UNC Charlotte’s Trans* Port

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I’m proud to call Charlotte home because it is a culturally and socially diverse city, filled with brilliant minds who know the value and true meaning of community.

Ann Gonzales, Co-Owner, Create-ster, LLC I’m proud to call Charlotte home because it is a growing city enriched with diversity and gives the best mix of both southern culture with a city vibe. If you are an entrepreneur or desire to start or grow your business, the residents of Charlotte should know your brand.

Y.”Starr” Gordon, CEO & Founder, SLE Group, LLC, Sophisticated Lyfe Entertainment I’m proud I found my way to the LGBT Community Center. My goal as Operations Director is to help the Community Center thrive by bringing new and innovative programing that will appeal to all members of the Charlotte LGBT Community, and to truly make it an all-inclusive place to go. Now that we are settling down in our new building, I want to help the Community Center thrive once again as it did on Central Avenue, and have it be an important part of the Charlotte LGBT Community Experience.

Glenn T. Griffin, Operations Director, LGBT Community Center I’m proud Charlotte has the largest LGBTQ Pride Festival between Washington DC and Atlanta. It is a testament to Charlotte Pride’s strength, our growth, and our visibility as an LGBTQ organization in a southern city.

Richard Grimstad, Co-Director, Charlotte Pride

I’m proud to call Charlotte home because of the rich history and progressive nature of the city.

Rodney Tucker, Executive Director, Time Out Youth Center

I’m proud I am lucky enough to be part of such dynamic city that has transformed over the years into such a forward thinking, forward moving, and progressive community.

Mario Newton, City Host for 2014 HRC Gala Dinner, board member of Step Up Charlotte I’m proud to call Charlotte home because my partner Ed Harrell and I feel welcomed as a gay committed couple in the South in a city like Charlotte. The community as a whole has as much to offer as a “big” city for us, while allowing or that smalltown feel.

Dale J. Pierce, President and CEO, Different Roads Home, Inc. I’m proud to call Charlotte home because it is a city that is still “becoming.” I have lived in major cities on the east and west coast, but never been part of the real shaping and framing of one. We have a window of opportunty, as Charlotteans, to build something truly magnificent here.

Bishop Tonyia M. Rawls, Pastor of Unity Fellowship Church Charlotte and Founder of The Freedom Center for Social Justice I am proud I have parents who love and accept me for who God created me to be.

Nathan Smith, Director of Development and Marketing, RAIN

into what it can be.

I’m proud to call Charlotte home because this community has given the opportunity to be me. It has challenged my idea of what the “south” is and at times given me an insight Daniel Valdez, Crisis Assistance Ministry

I’m PROUD that I live in Charlotte — a community that is so warm and generous; it has so many creative and passionate people who share their extraordinary gifts with our LBGT nonprofits. I’m also very proud of the many faith communities here who fought Amendment One and who continue to advocate for LBGT people.

Debbie Warren, Founder, President and CEO, RAIN I’m proud Charlotte has local City and County governments that value their LGBT employees by offering full benefits and employment protections.

I’m proud Charlotte is a community that recognizes that only with full inclusion will each of us reach our potentials and be able to offer our full selves to enable the city to reach its potential too.

Tom Warshaur, Community Engagement Manager, City of Charlotte/Neighborhoo & Business Services

for more of our proud to be coverage, see page 18 u

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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pride

Proud to be... continued from page 14

Chi Psi Omega members (left to right, front to back, listed below) and inset

I am proud to be a part of Chi Psi Omega Fraternity, Inc., an organization whose purpose is to serve the growing and diverse community of Charlotte.

Tania Cox, Frat Virtuoso I am proud to be a lesbian and OUT in NC! Because there was a time I wasn’t due to my religious upbringing — I have a supportive family and loving God who opens my family’s eyes and voice to my truth and allow me to be me!

Kellee Phillips, Frat A’Blaze

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goqnotes.com/in/pride I am proud to call Charlotte home because the diversity here makes it okay to be an out and proud wife to my wife, second mother to my daughter, leader at my church and a financial professional. I grew up hiding my truth to make people comfortable but now that Charlotte is my home, I can be free to express myself and the city embraces me for me!

Leslie Bond, Frat Bodacious

ideas, and beliefs. My only hope is that we begin to respect one another’s choices.

Kisha Fox, Frat Divinity

I am proud to call Charlotte my home because since I moved here in May 2010 everything has been positive in my life with no setbacks. I’m proud Charlotte has an openly gay community, and festivities like my hometown Chicago.

Devon Copeland, Frat Tenacious

I am proud I co-founded an organization that is truly making a positive impact in the community. I’m proud Chi Psi Omega Fraternity, Inc. is a safe space for dominant lesbian women to grow professionally in each of our skill sets all while servicing the community.

Samantha Mercer, Frat Assiduous

I am proud to call Charlotte home because it has given me a positive second chance at life and a HOME. I’m proud Charlotte has people of “Equality,” serving on boards and councils in positions of power.

Deanna Cooper, Frat Nonchalance I am proud to be a part of an organization that gives back to the community. I love my Frats. Ride or die, I can’t deny. Chiiiiiii Psiiiiii!

Nicole Grier, Frat Vigorous I am proud Charlotte is evolving into an inclusive city.

This city has become its very own melting pot of people,

I am proud I joined forces with my fellow founders to create our LGBT Greek organization. Through this org, we have been able to touch so many lives in such positive ways, from the homeless with our One Community Cares Initiative, to young students with our anti-bullying campaign, to my fellow Frats.

Diana Nutter, Frat Sublime

I am proud to call Charlotte my home because since coming here I have discovered who I really am. The city truly has come a long way and I’m proud to call it home.

Melinda Dixon, Frat Masterpiece I am proud to be a part of the current and active LGBT community. We have come a long way in 15 years. Our presence is known and people can see how active we are in supporting our community. I would not have been able to say that 15 years ago.

Christina Whitner, Frat Vehemen

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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pride

goqnotes.com/in/pride

Andrew Christian slated for Charlotte Underwear designer and models to participate in Charlotte Pride Andrew Christian, founder of the eponymous meanswear line and a cast member on Bravo’s “The Fashion Show,” is scheduled to visit the Queen City for Charlotte Pride, Aug. 23-25.

While perhaps best known for body enhancing and fashion underwear, Andrew Christian has been producing contemporary collections of urbaninspired menswear, swimwear, edgy tees and accessories since 1997. Christian’s underwear has been featured on “Good Morning America” and “Entertainment Tonight” as well as on the pages of the Wall Street Journal, Maxim, New York Magazine and the Los Angeles Times, just to name a few.

Christian will be hosted by SilverFly, a men’s boutique at The Metropolitan. Events include an invitationonly reception on Friday, Aug. 23 and a Pride after party at The Bar at 316 on Saturday, Aug. 24.

Christian, and some of his underwear models, are also expected to visit with Charlotte Pride attendees at SilverFly’s booth at the festival.

“It will be incredible to host such a creative designer that has embraced our community,” Fidel Montoya, SilverFly co-owner, said in a release. “SilverFly is excited to partner with Andrew Christian at a time when Pride has become such an influential event in our city.”

For more information, visit silverflybrands.com and charlottepride.org.

— compiled from release

Pride through the ages Online-only feature profiles past Pride organizers Take a journey through history as qnotes explores the history of Pride in Charlotte.

Dating back to as early as 1977, LGBT people in Charlotte have held LGBT Pride events, festivals, picnics, parades and other similar activities. As the annual Charlotte Pride grows, we’re taking a pause to remember those who made today’s growth and achievement possible. Read the story online at goqnotes.com/ in/pride/.

goqnotes.com

The logo, left, for NC Pride in 1994, when it visited Charlotte and presented the city’s first and only Pride march until this year’s parade.

daily news, blog posts and lgbt community event listings

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

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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pride

goqnotes.com/in/pride

Pride in QC Arts Charlotte LGBT arts groups team up for a ‘festival within a festival’ CHARLOTTE — LGBT arts groups and individual artists say they’ll team up to present their first-ever “festival within a festival” celebrating LGBT art and culture at this year’s Charlotte Pride.

“Flourish” is two days of music, film and theater at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and will be hosted Aug. 24 and 25. It is an official attraction at the the Charlotte Pride PNC Bank Festival Zone along S. Tryon St. The event is presented by the Queer Arts Consortium, a loose confederation of the city’s LGBT artists.

“Charlotte has perhaps the richest, most vibrant LGBT arts scene in the Southeast,” said John Quillin, managing artistic director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte and an organizer with the Queer Arts Consortium.

“We have three choruses, a band, a theater company, dance, photography, fine art, film, history — the list just keeps getting longer and longer. Performances and exhibits by Charlotte-based cultural groups reach over 10,000 people every year.”

In total, at least nine local groups or individuals will participate in Flourish, including the Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte, One Voice Chorus, Charlotte Pride band, Queen City Theatre Company, Triptych Collective, StillOut LGBT Photography Club, the Gay Charlotte

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Film Festival, Stephanie Dykes and Joshua Burford. Additional participants will be announced as they are confirmed.

Gerald Gurss, artistic director of One Voice, Charlotte’s LGBT mixed chorus, said Flourish is designed so that audiences can drop in and stay for as little as 15 minutes.

“Something different is happening every 30 minutes in the performance spaces,” he said.

Christopher Lawing, vice president for programming at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, said the museum is excited about hosting Flourish, which will be presented in the museum’s lobby from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 24 and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 25.

“We’re delighted to help showcase Charlotte’s active and growing LGBT culture and arts,” Lawing said. “The museum is looking forward to welcoming Charlotte’s gay community into the Bechtler. We are waiving entry fees so that attendees of Flourish can interact with our current exhibitions while enjoying the festival.”

For more information on the event, announcements of additional participating groups and a schedule of activities during Flourish, visitqueerartsconsortium.org. : : — Compiled from release

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

Featured Team Member: J. Wesley Thompson, PA-C Wesley has practiced medicine for more than 25 years and provides general medical care and HIV/ AIDS care to Mecklenburg County and surrounding counties since 1997. He was the first physician assistant to be certified as an HIV Specialist in the state of North Carolina and one of the first in the United States.

Wes shares his most recent information on HIV Medications…

“I get asked a lot by patients, ‘Can I party with my HIV medications?’

We are excited to bring you the most up-to-date information and share our experiences with you through our new “Meet the Staff” columns in QNotes, in addition to our already popular “Ask Dr. C” column.

The short answer is that it is best not to use recreational drugs. The reality is that many people do. So, let’s talk specifics. Heavy daily alcohol use ramps up the liver’s metabolism of everything including your HIV medications, and that can cause low blood levels of your medications, leading to detectable viral loads.

Binge drinking shocks the liver and slows or stops metabolism of your HIV medications and the same low

blood levels of your medications can occur. Crystal (Meth or Tina), crack, and coke do not interact with your HIV medications, but do ramp up HIV’s replication capacity and leads to detectable viral loads.

Ecstasy and Mollys interact with some HIV medications and can cause life threatening events. Smoking marijuana does not interact with HIV or your HIV medications but does lead to emphysema. Opioids, which include: heroin, Hydros, Roxys, Oxys, etc. do interact with some HIV medications and must be carefully monitored if used legitimately. Benzodiazepines which include: Xanax, Ativan, Valium, and Klonopin also interact with some HIV medications and must be monitored carefully if taken legitimately. My advice would be to always discuss your “partying” with your healthcare provider, and be honest! We are here to help you have a healthy and happy life.”

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

— Sponsored Content —

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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goqnotes.com/in/pride

Pride: On stage Charlotte Pride brings national, diverse talent to the Queen City Charlotte Pride’s festival is slated for Aug. 24-25. Their Wells Fargo Stage will be packed with national, regional and local entertainment, including unique acts from LGBT and LGBTfriendly artists Mýa, Judith Hill and New Orleans’ Big Freedia.

Mýa Grammy Award-winning artist Mýa will perform at Charlotte Pride on Saturday, Aug. 24. Many know her from her 2001 collaboration on “Lady Marmalade,” with Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim and P!nk, but Mýa has made a name of her own as an internationallyknown and respected singer, songwriter, producer, dancer/choreographer, actress, designer, model, activist and philanthropist.

In Fall 2009, Mýa entertained the world as the highest-scoring contestant on ABC’s Season 9 of “Dancing With The Stars.” Mýa, who released her first album in 1998, went on to release two more, including a 2003 album featuring hit singles “My Love Is Like Wo,” “Fallen” and the club circuit favorite, “Whatever Bitch.” The artist is a philanthropist, too. From 1998 to 2001, she became the spokesperson for Secret to Self Esteem. In 2005, she founded TMATF: The Mýa Arts & Tech Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing disadvantaged youth growth and opportunity through arts and technology education. Mýa is also an advocate in the fight against breast

Judith Hill Judith Hill, who came to national stardom as a contestant on this season’s “The Voice,” will perform on Sunday, Aug. 25. In addition to penning and performing her own material, Judith — who wrote her first song at the age of four — has backed such artists as the late Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and Elton John. Hers is one of the stories told in the film “20 Feet From Stardom.” The film, which opened in select theatres across North Carolina on July 12, shines the spotlight on the untold true story of the backup singers behind some of the greatest musical legends of the 21st century. USA Today observed: “’20 Feet From Stardom’ features some of the catchiest and most memorable refrains, riffs and hooks sung by background vocalists, and tells the personal stories of some of the best voices in the business…in this film the stadium-filling rock stars play second fiddle.” Rolling Stone has praised Judith’s “stellar powerhouse vocals.” : :

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cancer; her mother is a 13-year survivor. In 2006 and 2007, she collaborated with the Lifetime Television Network in the Stop Breast Cancer for Life campaign, recording “My Bra,” a song sold on iTunes donating 100% of proceeds to breast cancer research. Mýa’s also been active in HIV and LGBT causes. In 2007, she was the internationally-featured artist in Heatherette’s Fashion Show for LifeBall in Vienna, Austria, to fight Global AIDS. That same year, she hosted a fundraiser for Skool’d to aid homeless LGBT youth and advocated equality by opening the Out 100 Awards. : :

Big Freedia Big Freedia (pronounced “FREE-da”) will perform at Charlotte Pride on Saturday, Aug. 24. Known as the Queen of Bounce, Big Freedia is at the forefront of the Bounce rap movement, a sub-genre of hip-hop born out of New Orleans and known for its call and response style and lightning speed bootyshaking dance. Big Freedia has gone from a local New Orleans phenomenon to a national one over the past two years. After appearing in two episodes of HBO series ‘Treme’ (as herself), Big Freedia, in 2010, released her debut EP, “Scion A/V Presents: Big Freedia,” produced by New Orleans’ BlaqNmilD. In June of 2012, she was featured on “Peanut Butter” with singer-actor-model RuPaul. This January, Freedia made her network television debut on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” : : — Compiled from press materials

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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goqnotes.com/to/arts

tell trinity

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

I love him, I love him not Dear Trinity, For the past two months, I’ve been dating two men whom I really like. One is fun and exciting, the other quiet and charming. I can’t decide which one to keep! What do you think?

Three’s Company, Philadelphia, PA

Opposites make life more challenging and interesting. People who have too much in common get bored easier. Now, pumpkin, even if they both really like you, one must get burned, that’s life. So, remember, the longer you wait, the deeper the burn.

Dear Three’s Company, I say, yes, live dangerously, but not for too long unless you enjoy heartbreaking blood baths! If you’re a quiet, introverted type, then take Mr. Fun & Exciting. If you’re a socialite who’s out till dawn, then go with Mr. Quiet & Charming.

To Trinity, My partner of seven years and I are having major sexual troubles. I’m going to ask him to try a threesome. I think this will bring the spark back into our relationship. Could this help?

Sparky, Seattle, WA To Sparky, First, I must ask, have you tried couples counseling and creating more romantic experiences, especially in the bedroom, i.e., candles, music, a fireman’s uniform? And, if you answered yes, then yes, a threesome may bring the spark back home. However, make sure you are both attracted to the third. Hiring someone, i.e., www.rentboy. com, may be safer than picking someone up on Craigslist. This way, baby, it’s all business rather than attracting a third problem, I mean partner! Good luck. (There’s always tradeoffs. Check out my cartoon for a tip on how I deal with it.)

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Dearest Miss Trinity, For the last few weeks, I’ve been having dreams in which I die. Each time I die differently. I’m scared! I’m about to make out a will.

What might this mean?

Nightmare, Houston, TX Dearest Nightmare, Jeremy Taylor, the expert on dreams has many books out, but you’re in luck ‘cause I studied with Jeremy in California while getting my Masters of Divinity. According to Jeremy, dying in dreams does not mean real life dying, it means change, transition, a deep fear having to be faced, a life-changing experience coming before you. Your subconscious processes differently than your conscious, thus

dying in a dream makes it easier for you to face a fear that you may not be able to face consciously.

Now, darling, on a different note, make out a will anyway, you should always have a will!

Dream fearlessly.

Hey Trinity, I just moved to D.C. and I am going to my first gay party ever. I’m scared.

First Timer, Washington DC Hey First Timer, Parties and group situations are challenging, I don’t care what Paris Hilton says. So, honey, grab a dirty martini and start reading:

Trinity’s Winning Tips For Behaving At A Party 1. When at a party, you must act differently than you would at a funeral or a political rally!

2. Don’t arrive empty handed. Always bring, at least, a box of cookies!

3. Dressing up for a party is not the same as dressing down to take out the trash.

4. When you’ve had too much to drink, shut up and go for a walk! Please!

5. You need not pretend to be the life of the party, but you need to pretend you’re partially alive.

6. If you’re out to get your sexual needs met, you need not let everyone know this fact!

7. When I’m nervous, I pick up a food platter and start serving. In minutes I know everyone!

8. If you need to comment negatively on everyone, then you also need to be beaten to a pulp!

9. Drinking too much and driving is like, drinking too much and driving! Dah! 10. The difference between group therapy and a party is, in therapy you tell everyone your problems and expect them to listen and at a party you tell everyone your problems and expect them to walk away. 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.

a&e

goqnotes.com/to/arts out in the stars

by Charlene Lichtenstein :: qnotes contributor

August 16 - 29 Mars in Cancer consolidates and considers action carefully. This is good. It gets you ready for the next step. So, prepare for when Mars enters Leo later this month and you pick up steam to forge ahead. You’re learning a thing or two. Show ‘em what for.

LEO (07.24-08.23) The low level cosmic rumblings in the far distance begin to move closer and increase in volume. But, these are not destructive rumblings. They are a reckoning and a welcome one at that. Proud Lions are at an impasse and secretly hope that something dramatic will cause them to make a decisive move. Get out and about. And, it’s about time!

VIRGO (08.24-09.23) Who let you off your leash? Queer Virgos are full of fun and cannot be contained. And, why should they be? They have been chomping at the bit and waiting for a chance to make very merry. You are blasted into outer space. You are a celestial being who knows how to have a good time. Let’s see who gets caught in your gravitation pull. Or, is it push?

LIBRA (09.24-10.23) Even proud Libras with a self-directed attitude should now be able to reap the karmic rewards for all their professional efforts. Little do you realize there is someone in the chain of command who is watching your every move. Don’t be surprised if it all manages to link up. Will you rise to the level of your competency or sink to new depths? Uh oh.

SCORPIO (10.24-11.22) Break out of your usual skin. The tried and true is tired and blue. The familiar is all-too boring. Find an excuse to escape to new vistas and taste a new slice of life. You are only encumbered by a narrow vision. Open your eyes. Queer Scorps can become international sensations. Will we feel the earth move or will it just jostle our tea cup?

SAGITTARIUS (11.23-12.22) Your informal and drab appearance seems to morph into something sexy and alluring now. How did you do that? Who knows? Gay Archers now seem to know just what to do and just what to say to attract almost anyone they choose. But, don’t let the magic dissipate by procrastination.

Once you pick your tomato, be sure to whip up a spicy diablo sauce.

CAPRICORN (12.23-01.20) Take the temperatures of your various relationships and see if

they are warm, lukewarm, cool or cold. Pink Caps have a chance to turn up the heat with lovers and improve their connections. You have learned quite a bit about others’ needs and motivations over the past few weeks and may be able match your supply with their demand. Unless they are too demanding.

AQUARIUS (01.21-02.19) You work in a much smarter and more organized way and can plow through a series of detailed projects.

Concentration and aptitude is at a peak. But, all work and no play makes for a washed out Aqueerian. So, delegate the really awful stuff if you can. There is nothing that you can’t do.

And, now there is nothing that you can’t get others to do for you. Hint. Hint.

PISCES (02.20-03.20) Creative blockage is very frustrating, especially now as you generate so many great ideas and have no place to take them. If you have been waiting for the right time to release them into the atmosphere, this is the time. Let your gay muse amuse. Guppies can be very eloquent, wise, measured and offer a slice of pure genius.

Well, at least right now.

ARIES (03.21-04.20) Maybe there has been a bit of an uneasy truce between you and certain family members over the past few weeks.

Gay Rams, ever cognizant of the potential impact of their anger, have thought it best to

stew quietly and idle by the docks. Well, that ship has now sailed. You now have permission to call things as you see them. Do more than whisper.

TAURUS (04.21-05.21) Have something on your mind? Is it starting to weigh on you?

Unload and release it now. Queer Bulls often refrain from saying anything that might be considered rude or controversial. They prefer to be thoughtful, conservative and wise. Get off your buns and take a chance on being frank and spill the beans. Add some mustard with relish.

GEMINI (05.22-06.21) If the ups and downs of the financial markets have gotten you dizzy, take stock of your portfolio. Pink Twins are particularly focused on their monetary prospects. Thankfully, the fates now reward those who have done their homework and built their equity through sweat and study. Are you a bull or a bear? It really doesn’t matter as long as you are not piggy.

CANCER (06.22-07.23) Tired of doing all the work while others grab the credit and the spotlight? Gay Crabs are ready to drop their mops and claim their rightful place. And, you won’t have to do it on your own. There are guardian angels waiting to reward you. You are placed right in the center of the action.

Prepare for it…and wear clean underwear in case you are overexposed. : : © 2013 Madam Lichtenstein, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Entertainment. info: Visit TheStarryEye.com for e-greetings, horoscopes and Pride jewelry.

My book “HerScopes: A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians” from Simon & Schuster is available at bookstores and major booksites.

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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SPORTS

Playing the Field Match-ups from across the Carolinas: Summer softball season winding down

by Jon Hoppel :: qnotes contributor

Well, summer is rapidly coming to an end.

The school year is almost here, summer vacations have come and gone and Christmas is only four months away. So, before you hunker down in front of your TV and watch football every weekend until next summer, get out in the sun (or your local roller derby venue) and check out these local happenings!

LGBT softball teams in the country, competing in 5 divisions: Masters and A-D. To qualify for the Series, you must have either won your local league’s championship or runner up, depending upon the amount of teams that are in your league. To check out all outstanding events and competitions planned, check out their website at dcseries2013.com.

Softball The Gay Softball World Series is taking place this year in Washington D.C., Aug. 27-31.

This is the largest gathering of all the best

CSA On Sunday, Aug. 4, the Carolina Softball Alliance completed their rain-soaked season with their end-of-the-year tournament. Six

Charlotte teams, Carolina Pride, Yellow Jackets, Arlo’ Bait and Tackle, Team 3, Team Anuvia and the Pounders, endured the oppressive heat and humidity to vie for the league’s 9th championship.

The Pounders, led by coach Lauren Bendig, took on Wes Caulder’s Team 3 in the opening game. Like all the games that day, it was very close and low scoring throughout.

Team 3 was able to take control with a 5th inning rally that put them ahead by three, but they were unable to hold on to that lead in the bottom of the 6th inning when Jason Ray of

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the Pounders scored on a two-out single by Shawn Carlton, tying the game. In the final at bat for Team 3, they were able to steal the win with an infield single by Chris Gaulden, scoring a player from 3rd.

That game set the tone for the rest of the day. Pride vs. Anuvia followed and was just as entertaining. Anuvia, the 6th seed, struggled all season finding the right lineup, but when they did, they gave Pride, the 2nd seed, all that they could handle and then some. Led

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by George Smith and Daniel Beam, who both went 3-4, Anuvia was able to just outhit the slugger-heavy Carolina Pride in a real defensive battle and advance to the finals with a 5-4 win.

Next, Team 3 took on the number 1 seed, Arlo’s B&T, coached by Mark Herring, for the right to advance to the final. Superb defense was played by both teams, highlighted by stellar plays made in the outfield by Team 3’s Kristen Knox and Arlo’s Shane Solberger. The game down to Team 3’s last at bat, with two

Team Anuvia, CSA Champs. Photo by Jessica King

outs and a runner on second in a 3-1 game.

But, this time Team 3’s luck had run out and Arlo’s B&T advanced.

The final shaped up as a huge mismatch on paper. Anuvia had finished the season with the league’s worst record, 2-6, and were facing the regular season champs, who went 6-2. But, you don’t play the games on paper.

Anuvia came out hot and put up 4 and 5 runs up on the board in the first two innings and gave the crowd the offensive outburst they had been waiting to see all day. From there, they cruised to easy victory 13-3. It was an exciting day of softball at Revolution Park and there will be more to come when they start their fall league in mid-September. For information on the league, check out their website at carolinasoftball.org.

Ktown Klassic This regional softball tournament was held the last weekend in July in Knoxville, TN. It is one of the last tune-up events before teams embark for the World Series. It featured four divisions, Women’s competitive/recreational

Reverse Twerks from Atlanta. Ktown Klassic C division champs. Photo by Bryan Anderson

and Men’s C/D, with teams from all over the Southeast competing.

Here is a wrap up for how each division shook out: C Division: 1st Atlanta Reverse Twerks 2nd Knoxville Cyclones C 3rd Cincinnati Broadway Monkeys D Division: 1st Nashville Mean Streak 2nd Knoxville Cyclones D 3rd New Orleans Avita de Lis

Women’s Comp: 1st Knoxville Fuzion Women’s Rec: 1st Philadelphia 369er’s Bar and Grille 2nd Knoxville HERricanes Next time we will have the results from the Softball World Series, updates on the continuing great seasons for the Charlotte Roller Girls and the Gastonia GForce Roller girls and the schedule for the Charlotte Royals Rugby team’s season. Enjoy your summer! : :

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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events

We are Pride!

Aug. 24-25 • Charlotte Charlotte Pride Join thousands of LGBT and ally Charlotteans and others from across the region for the largest LGBT Pride event between Atlanta and Washington, D.C. Uptown Charlotte. Learn more about the events, festival and parade details, the entertainers and VIP pass purchases online at charlottepride.org. charlottepride.org/ prideweek/.

Aug. 18 • Charlotte Open Mic goqnotes.com/qguide/events Chi Psi Omega Thru Aug. 24 • Charlotte Fraternity presents ‘Les Liaisons Dangereuses’ their monthly open mic night, Queen City Theatre Company this month benefiting Equality presents a reinvention of North Carolina. Wet Willie’s, the classical French novel, 900 NC Music Factory Blvd., “Dangerous Liaisons,” by C1. 7 p.m. Cover: $5 donation.

Pierre Choderlos de Lacios. charlottepride.org/ Duke Energy Theatre at Spirit prideweek/.

Squire, 345. N. College St. Various Days/Times. $22-24.

Aug. 19 • Charlotte For ticket purchases call 704Moral Monday 372-1000 or visit carolinatix.

The state’s famed Moral org or queencitytheatre.com.

Monday is coming to Charlotte! Raising awareness Aug. 16 • Charlotte about the extreme attacks LGBTQ Law Center

by North Carolina’s General The Freedom Center for Assembly on teachers, votSocial Justice LGBTQ Law ing rights, health care and Center will host its grand education. Marshall Park, 800 opening and silent auction.

E. 3rd St. 5-7 p.m. facebook.

LGBT Community Center of com/events/192261537615359/ Charlotte, 2508 N. Davidson St. 6:30-8:30 p.m. fcsj.org.

Aug. 21 • Charlotte facebook.com/fcsjlaw.

Pride Love Speed Dating Connect with the woman or Aug. 16 • Lake Wylie man you’ve had your eye on Roxxxy Andrews for this year’s Charlotte Pride.

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 505E Restaurant and Lounge, 5’s Roxxxy Andrews performs 505 E 6th St. 6:30 p.m. charlotte live with Jessica Raynes Starr, pride.org/prideweek/.

Adam Cole Raye, Bethann Phetamine and Jackson Aug. 22 • Charlotte Russo at The Rainbow In, 4376 Pre-Pride ShipRocked!

Charlotte Hwy. 8 p.m. $15/21+.

The ShipRocked! Crew pres$20/18-20. charlottepride.org/ ents their annual Charlotte prideweek/.

Pride party. Musical guests Malachi and Your Fuzzy Aug. 16 • Charlotte Friends. Snug Harbor, 1228 ‘Rocky Horror’ with a twist Gordon St. 10 p.m. No cover, Charlotte’s “Rocky Horror” but donations for Charlotte cast, That Type!, presents Pride are appreciated and a special “gender bender”accepted. charlottepride.org/ themed show. Guys will play prideweek/. girls and girls will play guys!

Admission is only $6.60.

Aug. 23 • Charlotte Cinebarre, 8008 Providence Ryan Cassata Rd. 11:20 p.m. charlottepride.

A special event and speaking org/prideweek/. engagement for local LGBTQ youth and young adults with Aug. 18 • Charlotte Charlotte Pride performer Buff Faye’s Pride Brunch Ryan Cassata. See news Join Buff Faye and the gang note on page 6. Time Out as they raise some money for Youth Center at Holy Trinity Charlotte Pride! Hartigan’s Lutheran Church, 1900 The Irish Pub, 601 S. Cedar St. Plaza. 6:30 p.m. charlotte Noon. charlottepride.org/ pride.org/prideweek/. prideweek/.

Aug. 23 • Charlotte Aug. 18 • Charlotte Pride Takeover Interfaith Pride Service Takeover Friday’s annual PreThe Charlotte Pride Executive Pride Takeover at The Westin Committee and volunteers Hotel, 601 S. College St. 7 p.m. gather with a diversity of charlottepride.org/prideweek/. interfaith religious leaders for their annual Interfaith Aug. 23 • Charlotte Pride Service. Reception folLuminosity lows. Caldwell Presbyterian Lights, Cameras and Neons!

Church, 1609 E. 5th St. 4 p.m.

Free neon body paint, free

glow sticks and more. L4 Lounge, 2906 Central Ave. 9 p.m. $5/21+. $10/18-20. charlottepride.org/ prideweek/.

Aug. 24 • Charlotte Cherry: Pride Women’s Party Pandora Events presents the official Charlotte Pride women’s event, “Cherry,” hosted by Dani Campbell, with DJ Pat Pat, plus Hunter Valentine performing live.

Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th St. 9 p.m. Tickets available online via charlotte pride.org/cherry/ or at White Rabbit, 920 Central Ave. Aug. 24 • Charlotte Andrew Christian Party SilverFly hosts a Charlotte Pride after party with underwear designer Andrew Christian and his models at The Bar at 316, 316 Rensselaer Ave. 9 p.m. charlottepride.org/ prideweek/.

Aug. 24 • Charlotte Mandance Cathode Azure presents “Mandance,” a Charlotte Pride after party. Cathode Azure, 1820 South Blvd., Suite 106. charlottepride.org/ prideweek/.

Aug. 24 • Charlotte Hartigan’s After Party Hartigan’s hosts a Charlotte Pride after party with DJ, drink specials and giveaways.

Hartigan’s Irish Pub, 601 S. Cedar St. 9 p.m.charlottepride. org/prideweek/.

Aug. 24 • Charlotte Marigny After Party Marigny hosts DJ Peter Presta and Just Circuit’s 2013 Up-and-Coming DJ Nominee DJ Jalil Zi, with Billboard performer Renee Stakey.

Marigny Dance Club, 1440 S. Tryon St. 9 p.m. marignycharlotte.com.

Aug. 25 • Charlotte Pride After Party The Scorpio presents the official Charlotte Pride after party on their Legendary Sunday, featuring Detox Icunt, Coco Montrese and Alyssa Edwards of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” with DJ RageN’Ray. Doors open at 10 p.m. Showcase at 11:30 p.m.

The Scorpio, 2301 Freedom Dr. thescorpio.com. charlottepride.org/ prideweek/.

Aug. 16-29 . 2013

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