QNotes Aug. 30-Sept. 12, 2013

Aug. 30-Sept. 12 . 2013

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inside

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Aug. 30-Sept. 12, 2013 Vol 28 No 09

arts. entertainment. news. views.

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contributors this issue Paige Braddock, Matt Comer, Charlene Lichtenstein, Lainey Millen, Rick Rothachker, Trinity, Brett Webb-Mitchell

front page Graphic Design by Lainey Millen Photo courtesy Sandra Bernhard publicity resources

news & features 5 6 8 9 10

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Chapel Hill may drop Russian tie News Notes: Regional Briefs ENC hires new executive MeckPAC releases endorsements Charlotte Pride attracts thousands

a&e / life&style 12 13 13 15 16 17 22 23

Fall Fashion Inspiration Art of Fashion Charlotte Fashion Week Sandra Bernhard Out in the Stars Tell Trinity Jane’s World Q events calendar

opinions & views 4 On Being a Gay Parent 4 Editor’s Note 4 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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Aug. 30-Sept. 12 . 2013

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on being a gay parent

editor’s note

by Matt Comer matt@goqnotes.com

by Brett Webb-Mitchell qnotes contributor

Pride: Bigger than ever because of you

Lessons from a sit-in Almost hidden from the public behind a main stair case in the large James E. Shepard Library at North Carolina Central University in Durham, N.C., is what remains from Durham’s F. W. Woolworth lunch counter. The formica counter top, the bright orange plastic seats, and the chromium spokes that made up the back of the seats look out of date in the modern library building. My Ethics and English’ classes begin at this historic point in the civil-rights movement: the sit-in at Durham’s Woolworth lunch counter on February 8, 1960.

Durham’s anti-segregation sit-in followed a similar protest in Greensboro a week earlier.

Organized by the NAACP chapter at North Carolina College (now NCCU), students Lacy Streeter, Callis Brown, Robert Kornegay. The sit-in got the attention of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Rev. David Abernathy, who came to visit Durham’s Woolworth’s lunch counter on Feb. 16. The store closed the counter after the sit-in demonstration and the students moved on to protest at other stores.

On Feb. 16, Dr. King preached at Durham’s White Rock Baptist Church, delivering the famous “Fill Up the Jails” speech, in which he advocated non-violent confrontation with segregationists for the first time in the South.

The sit-ins of Woolworth lunch counters spread from Greensboro and Durham, N.C., throughout the Southeast. In Lee Daniel’s movie, “The Butler”, one powerful scene took place in a Woolworth building in Tennessee, with the re-enactment of the violent reaction against African American young people simply sitting non-violently in the “white’s only” section of the lunch counter. In his “Letters from a Birmingham Jail,” King himself refers to the power of the simple non-violent sit-in movement as a way to combat racism and racial segregation in Birmingham, Ala., and other cities in the South (April 16, 1963).

My lessons from the Durham sit-in exhibit are three fold. First, LGBTQ individuals, parents, and our families face the same evil that is bred in the marrow of the bones of racists.

It is more than mere intolerance against us because we are “different” than our hetero-

sexual peers. In the fight for marriage equality in the past few years in N.C., I witnessed expressions of evil that took my breath away, whether it was done with a smile and a wink or with an angry email or anonymous letter I received in the mail. Racism and homophobia spring from the same root of the same tree: evil. Second, it is often in simple wordless gestures — like sitting down at a lunch counter where people were not welcomed because of their skin color — that paints the easiest picture for all to see of what injustice looks and sounds like. I am all for LGBTQ couples going up to the desks of county clerks and asking for a marriage license and then staging a silent sit-in when we don’t get one because of the parties that wish to wed.

Such actions make a simple point: this act of withholding marriage to two consenting adults who love each other is immoral. Last lesson: what I tried to do in this space for the last few years is talk about not only our rights as LGBTQ parents, but our relationships with those whom we love. Martin Luther King, Jr., wrote: “power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice, and justice at its best is power correcting everything that stands against love.” As a parent who is a person of faith, a teacher, a pilgrim, gay and a writer, my hope throughout the years of writing this column is that I have encouraged other LGBTQ parents to speak up and out when we experience small and large signs of evil against us and our families. I also hope that I have lifted up the beauty borne of the love we have for the significant people in our lives in our families, no matter what the configuration may be.

At the end of the day, what matters most are the relationships that teach us love. After all, those who sat at a lunch counter throughout the Southeast in 1960 simply wanted the freedom to sit down with the ones they love, like we do too, regaling each other with ordinary stories of extraordinary lives. What we are all learning is this: at the end of the struggle, no matter what evil throws in front of us, love will persevere and remain vibrant and full at the end of day. : :

Because of you, this year’s Charlotte Pride rocked! Charlotte’s LGBT community, along with straight allies and folks from across the region — and even the nation — turned out in droves for a two-day festival Aug. 24-25 that was bigger and better than ever. And, for the first time in 19 years, we successfully hosted a Pride parade! Since 2008, I’ve served on the Charlotte Pride committee, watching as the event got bigger and bigger each year. This year, the committee and all of its volunteers, sponsors and donors really made an impact, and for that I am grateful.

Pulling off a large-scale Pride event like ours is no easy feat. It takes months and months of planning. It takes the hard work and dedication of dozens and dozens of committed volunteers.

It takes corporations, both large and small, and non-profit community partners coming together to offer the financial and other resources that make it all happen. But, in the end of the day, it is because of the community itself that Charlotte Pride is a success. You turned out. You showed up. You lived and breathed the spirit of Pride and left a lasting mark on this city. Thank you for being out, loud and proud!

Thanks also goes out to all the people whose community and organizational leadership made Charlotte Pride possible — all the folks who back in the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s who began the initial work of building and empowering our community; all the people who banded together in the 1980s to form community organizations that brought us all together; the people, including organizers Darryl Logsdon and Kimberly Melton, who helped to present the NC Pride Festival and Parade in Charlotte in 1994; Jeff Schmehl and his fellow organizers who first founded Charlotte Pride in 2000; the LGBT Community Center, qnotes publisher Jim Yarbrough and past co-chairs Darryl Hall and Raine Cole, along with others, who shepherded Pride Charlotte from 2006 through 2011. Lastly are the leaders who have dedicated so much of their time and energy in recent years, including past co-chairs Dave Webb and Jonathan Hill, along with this year’s co-directors Richard Grimstad and Craig Hopkins.

Others, too, are deserving of mention.

Charlotte Pride emcees Big Mama D and Roxxy C. Moorecox have come back year after year to keep the crowd entertained between great musical acts. Their wit and their on-theirfeet thinking, along with the hard work of stage manager our stage manager Maddie Bock, kept the stage running smoothly.

Our volunteers are the best! Without pay and without glory, they take on the backbreaking work that keeps the festival operating like a well-oiled machine. Our volunteer team — comprised of Charlotteans of every

stripe, including mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, neighbors and friends — come together to do the not-so-fabulous, but oh-sonecessary work of setting up the stage and festival signage, transporting tent weights and water buckets and ice and beverages, manning beer tents and staffing information tents.

Thanks to Charlotte Mayor Patsy Kinsey, who participated in the parade, sat with our parade judges when she was done leading it and spoke to our community from the stage. Thanks also for the mayor’s welcome letter in our Pride Guide and for her first-ever official proclamation marking the weekend as “Charlotte Pride Weekend.” Thanks also to Charlotte City Councilmembers LaWana Mayfield and Billy Maddalon, along with our parade grand marshals Wesley Mancini and Bishop Tonyia Rawls. Finally, thanks to our Champions of Pride Awards coordinator Shane Windmeyer and our inaugural award recipients Janice Covington, Beverly and Bill McIntyre and Juan Carlos Ramos.

Thanks, also, to my fellow media colleagues for being so diligent in your coverage. Nearly every media outlet in the city, both small and large, covered the festival and parade.

Last, but certainly not least, are the great group of people I am utterly proud to call my friends and my colleagues — the members of the Charlotte Pride Executive Committee.

These people have dedicated so many of their days and sleepless nights to making this organization and its events successful. Thank you Richard Grimstad, Craig Hopkins, Dave Webb, Jamie Hildreth, Jeff Sampson, Patrick Paige, Jonathan Hill, Douglas Lowe, Gary Carpenter, Paul Kelly and Ryan Kingston, along with our board of advisors, Rosalyn Allison-Jacobs and Chris McLeod. Thanks also to our core group of volunteers who joined the festival and parade staff and worked with us from early in the morning hours of Aug. 24 through late in the evening Aug. 25: Marc Alexander, Riley Murray, Billy Reasor, Jenny Richeson, Robert Ervine, Natisha Griffin, Greg Davis, Robert Penry, Joshua Bostwick and Kristee Bostwick.

There are many, many others I could thank.

The list is long. Each of these people have, in their own ways, contributed greatly to the success of the growth of Charlotte Pride. But, they have also contributed to a much larger picture.

The growth of Charlotte Pride is a reflection of our own larger community — the growth of the LGBT movement in Charlotte and the growth in Charlotte’s increasing level of inclusion and equality for all her citizens and residents.

Thank you, thank you, thank you — to each and every one of you who make living in Charlotte something of which we can all be very, very proud! : :

qpoll What was your favorite part of Charlotte Pride this year?

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

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Chapel Hill mayor: Time to drop Russian sister city Openly gay mayor, town council member call for split over anti-LGBT Russian laws

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

CHAPEL HILL — Mayor Mark Kleinschmidt and Town Councilmember Lee Storrow, both of whom are openly gay, announced on Aug. 22 that they would seek to drop their town’s sister-city relationship with Saratov, Russia.

The politicians’ move comes after increased scrutiny over Russia’s new anti-LGBT laws and growing reports of violence against LGBT people in that country. The two politicians have called the situation “heartbreaking.”

“Innocent individuals and families face persecution, violence and detainment for expressing themselves openly and nonviolently in the public square,” Kleinschmidt and Storrow said in a joint statement. “These laws are deplorable and do nothing but create hardship, suffering, and in some cases death, for innocent people.”

At a Council meeting on Sept. 9, the two will ask Chapel Hill Town Council to server its tie with Saratov, a relationship they say has been inactive for several years.

“Created decades ago, the relationship has been inactive as long as we have served on Council,” the leaders said. “The Town of

Chapel Hill currently has no communication or active relationship with Saratov, Russia, and due to the enactment of Russia’s anti-LGBT policies, we see no reason to keep the relationship even in name.”

They added, “We hope soon Russian society — as well as all societies foreign and domestic— will recognize that LGBT people deserve equal protection and freedom under the law. The law Russian’s passed against LGBT citizens is a law designed to address a problem that does not exist. LGBT citizens in all societies represent a great source of talent and value, able to contribute immeasurably to the betterment of a nation and a people.

Until Russian society is able to come to this basic truth, we see no ability to move forward in a productive sister city relationship with a Russian city or town.”

Kleinschmidt’s and Storrow’s announcement follows weeks of similar news from cities across the state and nation. Activists in Charlotte had made a similar request to cut ties with its sister city, Voronezh, where 14 peaceful LGBT activists were attacked in January. That story was explored in-depth,

Town Councilmember Lee Storrow

Mayor Mark Kleinschmidt

with interviews from a Voronezh human rights advocate, in qnotes’ Aug. 16, 2013 print edition cover story. Charlotte Mayor Patsy Kinsey was expected to address concerns over the

sister-city relationship at the Charlotte City Council meeting on Aug. 26 after we went to press. Log on to goqnotes.com/in/voronezh/ for the most up-to-date news on the story. : :

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

Former QNotes editor takes new post at Atlanta’s GA Voice ATLANTA, Ga. — David Aaron Moore, a former qnotes editor, will join the staff of Atlanta’s GA Voice. He replaces longtime editor Laura Douglas-Brown, who departs the publication on Sept. 3.

Douglas-Brown helped found GA Voice in March 2010 after the 2009 bankruptcy and closure of the city’s Southern Voice, where she also worked as editor.

Moore worked for Southern Voice before moving to Charlotte and becoming editor of qnotes in 2003 and served in that role until 2007.

Before his stint at Southern Voice, Moore also worked at LGBT magazine Etcetera and was editor of Jezebel Magazine.

“I’m excited about returning to the city and joining the respected team of GA Voice to offer LGBT media coverage for the state,” Moore said in a report from GA Voice. “It’s heartening to reconnect with friends and peers from the past and I’m looking forward to working with many new ones.”

Douglas-Brown will remain a part-owner and consultant to GA Voice. She is leaving to pursue other career opportunities.

“I can honestly say that I enjoy all aspects of GA Voice’s coverage, from news to features,” Douglas-Brown wrote in a farewell column. “But as our mission statement suggests, it is the world of activism, nonprofits and the broad struggle for human rights that most inspires me. That is where I want to focus my energy now, either professionally or in a career that gives me the freedom to volunteer for the issues that mean so much to me.”

— M.C.

Charlotte Queen City is playing bingo

CHARLOTTE — Back to School Bingo will be held on Aug. 31, 7-10 p.m., at the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, 2508 N. Davidson St. Doors open at 7 p.m. and games commence at 7:30 p.m.

Host for the evening will be Lana Cane.

Tickets are $20 at the door and includes nine games of bingo, bingo dauber and a sheet for the grand prize jackpot. Monies raised go to support the work of the center.

In other news, the center is seeking volunteers to help sustain the work that it does for the community.

Slots are available for those who want to help with fundraising, programming and special events. This is a good way to network with others, learn new skills, gain non-profit experience and support the center’s work.

Specifically, they are looking for a front desk person who can work MondayThursday evenings from 5-8 p.m., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday.

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They also need 10 volunteers to help with bar tending for the White Party slated for Sept.

21 at 7 p.m. One does not have to be an expert in mixology to participate. info: gaycharlotte.com.

— L.M.

Triad Reconciling Methodists, Interfaith W-S conference scheduled

WINSTON-SALEM — Reconciling United Methodists and Interfaith Winston-Salem are sponsoring a statewide reconciling ministry conference for Oct. 18-19 at Green Street Church, 639 S. Green St. The programming is specifically tailored toward LGBTQ and straight ally United Methodists, however, persons of faith or other denominations are welcome.

On Oct. 18, attendees will be able to participate in workshops on LGBTQ and church inclusion topics. That evening a worship service will be held at 7 p.m.

The next morning more workshops are slated. Then attendees are encouraged to participate in the Winston-Salem Pride parade and activities.

Call the church for more information at 336-722-8379 or email reconcileumnc@ yahoo.com. info: greenstreetchurch.org.

— L.M.

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Triangle PFLAG seeks ad supporters

RALEIGH — Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) is seeking supporters for its annual signature ad in the Independent Weekly due to be published in September 2013.

This fundraiser’s goal is to show that people across the Triangle support the LGBT community.

PFLAG’s advocacy work, support and education goes a long way in bridging the to end discrimination. It is also there to shore up family members who are just coming to terms with a a loved one’s coming out process through education.

Signers support the ad’s statement: “We, the undersigned, affirm the lives of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people.

We condemn acts of bigotry and hatred. We join PFLAG in celebrating the lives of those we love and admire; acceptance and love…family values for a lifetime.”

In prior years over 200 individuals and families, as well as faith communities and organizations have signed on.

Contributions of $15.00 per individual/family or non-profit organization and $30.00 per business is requested. Send remuneration via mail to PGLAG Triangle, P.O. Box 51776, Durham, NC 27717 or through Pay Pal to burtrauch@gmail.com. Instructions for participating are online. Deadline is Sept. 13.

The ad will run in the Sept. 25 issue. info/contributions: plfagtriangle.org.

— L.M.

Center awards gala announced

RALEIGH — The LGBT Center of Raleigh, 411 Hillsborough St., will hold its annual awards banquet on Oct. 11, 6 p.m., at the Cobblestone Hall, 215 Wolfe St., Suite 100.

In its fifth year, the center said that the event and what it represents has seen a great deal of growth. During the evening, attendees will be able to bid on silent auction items, enjoy a tasty seated dinner and kick back during the entertainment section. The center will bestow is Distinguished Service Award to a Triangle “citizen who has broadly and energetically served this region’s LGBT community over the last few decades. It will also present its Community Impact Award. Names will be available at a later date.

Tickets for the gala are limited and has sold out every year. Cost is $100. info: lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.

— L.M.

Western Dinner plans set

HICKORY — AIDS Leadership Foothillsarea Alliance (ALFA) has announced its Dining for Friends 2013 event with a scheduled finale on Oct. 5, 7:30 p.m., at Rock Barn Golf & Spa. The finale features hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, dancing, entertainment and silent auction.

Hosts are responsible for inviting guests for a fun-filled dinner while they make a con-

tribution toward ALFA’s work. Parties can be anything from a simple bar-b-que to a full-on formal affair.

Community-wide events are sponsored by churches and civic organizations like spaghetti suppers, pancake suppers, pot lucks, etc., to raise money on that organizations behalf to donate to ALFA. Restaurants can participate in Dining for Friends’ Dine Out for Friends Restaurant Night by donating a portion of that night’s restaurant sales to the Dining for Friends Campaign.

All guests and hosts who contribute a minimum of $30 per person from individual Dining for Friends parties will receive a free admission to the finale. Other guests will be asked to make a $40 donation at the door. info: 828-322-1447, ext. 224. alfadirect@ alfainfo.org.

— L.M.

‘Real’ bingo time slated

HICKORY — Not Your Mama’s Bingo will be out in true Hollywood style when it brings its “The Real Housewives of Hickory Bingo” to the lower Piedmont on Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m., at La Rumba Night Club, 534 U.S. Hwy. 70 SW. Queenie Garbo will have her Bingo Verifying Divas cast with her as she hosts this humorous event. All proceeds will go to support AIDS Leadership Foothills-area Alliance’s clients and services.

Tickets are $20 and include admission, game sheets and daubers. A special 50/50 game sheet is an additional $5 and is the only

game played for money. All other game winners will receive prizes. info: notyourmamasbingo.com. alfainfo.org.

— L.M.

Regional ENC relaunches registry

RALEIGH — Equality NC has relaunched its wedding registry as a way to help build a movement for marriage here in North Carolina, staffer Jen Jones shared.

By making contributions to this initiative, LGBT and allied couples can ask their friends and family to help them celebrate by giving to the fight for marriage equality in lieu of gifts.

One-time or recurring contributions are great way to honor a couple.

Jones also said that ENC has heard from North Carolinians who are finally “getting married” in states that have marriage equality.

ENC hopes that eventually the rights that are afforded to those legally-married couplesoutside of the Tar Heel State will be available here, including 1,100 federal benefits. info: equalitync.org/weddings.

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

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Equality NC hires new executive Kay Hagan staffer Chris Sgro to begin Sept. 9

by Matt Comer matt@goqnotes.com

New Equality NC ED Chris Sgro

RALEIGH — North Carolina’s statewide LGBT advocacy group announced Aug. 19 that it has hired Chris Sgro as its new executive director. Sgro, who has most recently worked as director of economic development for U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan, will begin his tenure on Sept. 9.

“I am incredibly excited and honored to be able to take on this role,” Sgro told qnotes.

“I’ve been a constituent of Equality NC for sixand-a-half years at this point and I’ve always admired the organization.”

Sgro called Equality NC the state’s “flagship LGBT advocacy organization,” and said he was proud to work with the group. “LGBT rights have always been my passion no matter where my career has been,” he said. “I can’t be thinking of a better thing to be doing with my career than to be furthering LGBT rights with Equality NC.” Originally from Philadelphia, Sgro, 31, has lived in Greensboro with his husband Ryan Butler since late 2007. Together, Sgro and Butler are founding members of the LGBT Democrats of North Carolina. Sgro also has experience working on campaigns — including Hagan’s first U.S. Senate run — and with non-profits. He has previously worked with America Votes and CARE, a national antipoverty organization.

That experience, Sgro said, has prepared him to lead North Carolina’s LGBT community in a difficult time.

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MeckPAC releases primary endorsements Group issues more stringent guidelines, fewer endorsements for Sept. 10 primary

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

James “Smuggie” Mitchell

CHARLOTTE — The Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee (MeckPAC) has released its slate of primary endorsements in local city elections. The primary is slated for Sept. 10, with early voting already underway.

This year, the local advocacy group said it placed higher standards for candidates and changed the way they endorse. In the past, the group had often issued both full endorsements and indicated whether non-endorsed candidates were “receptive” or friendly to LGBT issues.

“Today, there are far more supportive and receptive candidates that we’ve found in the past,” MeckPAC Chair Scott Bishop told qnotes. “In fact, we didn’t find anyone we talked to and turned in a questionaire that we would put a warning out for. With that realization, we decided that we wanted to set a higher standard for who were were going to endorse.”

Among those higher standards were a questions on same-sex marriage and civil unions.

“Every single candidate we endorsed answered yes to both of those questions” said Bishop. “Even though City Council, the mayor and school board have no impact on whether members of our community can be married, we thought it was very important to know where they stand on that issue.”

The group has endorsed several candidates for mayor, City Council and CharlotteMecklenburg Board of Education.

At the top of the list, is Democratic mayoral candidate and current District

2 City Councilmember James “Smuggie” Mitchell. Mitchell is facing current Mayor Pro Tem Patrick Cannon, Gary Mitchell Dunn and Lucille Puckett in the Democratic primary.

Bishop said all the mayoral candidates, with the exception of Republican David Michael Rice, returned a questionaire and later met with the group. They chose Mitchell for his more solid support on LGBT issues.

“James Mitchell was working to ensure that the rest of his colleagues on Council voted to keep [domestic partner benefits] in the budget and not to remove it as a line item,” Bishop said of last year’s budget vote. “We spoke to James Mitchell early on in planning to request domestic partner benefits and he was very support of it at that time.”

Cannon supported the domestic partner benefits addition, too, but Bishop said there “were other things that made James Mitchell the stronger candidate.”

Republican candidate Edwin Peacock didn’t make the endorsement cut, either, despite his record of past MeckPAC support when he served on City Council.

“If we had decided to use the receptive category this year, he would have received that, as would have Patrick Cannon,” Bishop said. “We decided to endorse only the number of candidates we felt comfortable were very supportive on all our issues.”

The group did not endorse any Republican candidate for office this year, but said candidates from all parties showed some support for LGBT issues.

“In my opinion, this is probably one of the strongest LGBT-friendly slate of candidates we’ve had, and that goes across party lines,” said Bishop. : :

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

2013 Primary Endorsements Mayor Democratic: James “Smuggie” Mitchell Republican: No endorsement Libertarian: No candidate City Council At-Large Democratic: Vi Alexander Lyles, Claire Green Fallon, Beth Pickering, Nancy Wiggins Republican: No primary Libertarion: No primary City Council Districts 1 — Pasty Kinsey (D) 2 — Alvin (Al) Austin (D) 4 — Leonard Richardson (D) 5 — John Autry (D) CMS Board of Education Districts 4 — Tom Tate (Non-partisan)

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Charlotte gay pride parade draws crowd, cheers Civic leaders, corporations support city’s first Pride parade in 19 years

by Rick Rothacker :: rrothacker@charlotteobserver.com

Under blue skies on Aug. 25, a cheering crowd waving rainbow flags lined Tryon Street to revel in the first gay pride parade in Charlotte in 19 years.

Mayor Patsy Kinsey, as well as two openly gay City Council members, rode in the parade, joined by a marching band, floats, motorcyclists and a show of corporate support that ranged from a doubledecker Bank of America bus to the Wells Fargo stagecoach.

Attendance for the weekend of festivities was 70,000-75,000, including 20,000 for Bank of America Charlotte Pride Parade, said media chairman Matt Comer. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police don’t typically release crowd sizes for public events. The parade was revived this year after lacking the organization and community support it needed in previous years, he said.

Marcher Ken Wittenaur, 58, a Charlotte attorney, said the crowd was energizing.

“It was amazing to see so many people out here,” he said. “It was a real scene of inclusiveness. It was really touching.”

A record-breaking crowd was in attendance for the Charlotte Pride festival. Mayor Patsy Kinsey praises the entire community for their support during her remarks prior to the parade.

Wittenaur, married to fellow marcher Russell Leciejewski, said the equality movement is particularly important to the married gay couple. Over time, he said he hopes the parade continues to grow and attract more attendees.

The procession drew a diverse crowd of men, women, children and dogs wearing rainbow collars. It was also a magnet for corporate sponsors, including Bank of America, Time Warner Cable and Food Lion.

The backing contrasts with the struggles of the Carolinas’ Carrousel Parade, which organizers have canceled for this Thanksgiving because of a lack of corporate support.

Comer, the media chairman, said the weekend-long festival had about 50 corporate sponsors, about half of which were first-time backers.

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Bank of America was the title sponsor for the parade, and a bus packed with dancing employees was one of the favorites along the route.

“We believe that encouraging a diverse and inclusive workplace gives us the business advantage of understanding and meeting the needs of our diverse customers and clients around the world,” bank spokeswoman Nicole Nastacie said.

Kevin Toomb, a UNC Charlotte management and marketing professor, said supporting the pride festival is an opportunity for companies to showcase their diversity and their support for a specific demographic.

“They’re hoping to build share of heart,” Toomb said. “If you can have share of mind and heart, you can get share of wallet.”

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Finding fashion inspiration for the fall

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

W

hether it’s back to school or simply back to the routine of office and work life in the cooler, autumn air, fall brings a bevy of unique fashion experiences that can make any outfit pop.

Men’s fashion trends for the fall include a variety of mainstays you’re already aware of. You might just even have some of these items in your wardrobe already!

Color trends Pantone, the ultimate of color experts, says this year’s fall fashion color trends represent a unique shift toward a more unisex color palette. Our piece here focuses on men’s fashion, but women, too, should feel free to mix and match these colors into their wardrobe this fall.

Pantone’s color choices this fall are all about experimentation.

“Just as the leaves change in autumn, the consumer will enjoy the ability to change their ‘look’ and try a new approach to their wardrobe for brisk days ahead,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “The fall 2013 palette allows for that versatility and experimentation.”

Among those bold colors, Pantone says Emerald represents a more sophisticated and vivid green and should be paired with the more clean and classic Mykonos Blue or Linden Green. For more exotic and dynamic pairings, try Samba and Koi. For outerwear, look for coats and sweaters colored Turbulence and Carafe, two unique take-ffs on the traditional gray and brown.

Plaid is in Plaid might seem boring, but with this fall’s color trends, you can make it fresh. You might think plaid is dark or boring, but throw in a bit of blue, yellow or emerald into the mix and you’ll be shining. When shopping for plaid, keep an eye out for bright colors that can complement the feeling of crisp autumn mornings.

Re-use and recycle Buying a new, trendy business suit can be expensive. But, you don’t have to break the bank to get a fresh look for business meetings this fall.

Take a trip to the store and buy a slim and thin sweater. Turtlenecks (don’t go all crazy with those tall ones, though) compliment a nice suit.

Choose a traditional black or be bold with Pantone’s color suggestions like Samba.

Tops Chilly in the morning. Comfortable in the afternoon. That’s what most southern autumns are like, so you better prepare with great matching tops. Try a cool, long-sleeve button up and pair with a stylishly-designed sweater. Contrast the colors to make the outfit pop.

Bottoms Try pants that are lean and trim. Keep your brightly-colored tops on full-display by keeping your pants muted. Anchor the entire outfit with strong and sturdy shoes. We hear chunky soles are back!

For the chillier times As autumn winds down, you’ll find the temperature quickly nosediving. But, don’t jump into winter too soon. Grab a light topcoat to wear over your outfit, but keep it light! Muted grays and blacks are too wintery.

Try Pantone’s Carafe or a lighter-colored brown. : :

Plaids are all the rage on the runway for the 2013 fall fashion focus season Designers have brought back tried-and-true colors like the ones featured below, as well as exciting other color combinations to accent this year’s fashion scene.

Classic Red Tartan

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Classic Burbury

Aug. 30-Sept. 12 . 2013

Classic Black and White

life

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Art of Fashion to benefit Mint Museum

Neiman Marcus will be lighting up its runway on Sept. 12 in celebration of the Mint Museum! Their event, “The Art of Fashion,” will include an exclusive fall trends runway presentation for both men’s and women’s fashion, Neiman Marcus beauty bar makeovers, live music from DJ Sami, a VIP cocktail lounge (for Mint members only) and more. Special guest at the runway presentation includes InStyle Magazine Editor-at-Large Hal Rubensteign.

Admission is complimentary, though seats can be reserved for a $50 contribution to the Mint Annual Fund. All admissions require an electronic RSVP. For more information or to RSVP, email RSVPCharlotte@neimanmarcus.com.

The event will take place at Neiman Marcus Charlotte at SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Rd., and begins at 6:30 p.m. with drinks and refreshments. The runway presentation begins at 7:30 p.m. : :

Preview: Charlotte Fashion Week With over 6,000 attendees in 2012, Charlotte Fashion Week is quickly becoming one of the most hopping style events in the Queen City each year.

The event includes five days of activities, chock full of creations from national, regional and local designers. The event also benefits Susan G. Komen Foundation. For more information on the event, visit charlottefashionweek.com. A list of events is below.

Kick-off Party Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m.

The Residence Southpark 4300 Sharon Rd. Sept. 11, 6:30 p.m.

Bridal Evening Mint Museum Uptown 5th Floor, 500 S. Tryon St. After Party Bubble 210 E. Trade St. Sept. 12, 6:30 p.m.

Suits and Stilettos Featuring gentlemen’s and women’s attire, shoes, cigars, cars, sports, golf).

NC Music Factory Courtyard 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.

After Party Bamboo Sky 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.

Sept. 13, 6:30 p.m.

Emerging Designer’s Competition Children’s Designers, Boutiques and Recyclable Product Runway.

Hilton Center City Ballroom 222 E. 3rd St. After Party Label Charlotte 900 NC Music Factory Blvd.

Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m.

Fashion Designers, Children’s Designers, Boutiques, ImaginOn Teen Designer Competition and Recyclable Product Runway Hilton Center City Ballroom 222 E. 3rd St. After Party Label Charlotte 900 NC Music Factory Blvd.

Aug. 30-Sept. 12 . 2013

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Ask Dr. C…HIV and healthcare advice

Helping to keep you in the know with up-to-date information

by Frederick Cruickshank ~ Medical Director

After many successful installments of “Ask Dr. C” in the past, Rosedale wants to bring back this opportunity to offer our readers information about HIV from basic questions to in-depth explanations. The questions have provided us a forum to debunk myths and remove stigma from those living with HIV and AIDS. It is important to educate yourself, get tested, and protect yourself! Send your questions to info@ rosedaleid.com. Dr. C looks forward to responding to as many emails as possible.

I was diagnosed as HIV positive 3 years ago. I was just wondering how important it is for me to take my medications? If I stop taking them for a while, is that okay?

— Steve from Gastonia Steve, I often have patients ask me about their medications. I cannot over-stress the importance of taking your medications regularly. When you stop taking your medications, even if only for a short period of time, it makes them less effective in the management of the virus. When you stop taking the

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medication, the virus is able to replicate and mutate.

When the virus mutates, it changes, and can build a resistance to the current medications that you are taking. Ultimately, this can result in you having to change your medications and even take more pills than you currently do. In addition, you could get very ill. If you are having trouble remembering to take your medications, I suggest you put them somewhere you will see them everyday. Some of my patients say that it helps to have them on the counter in the bathroom so they see them when they brush their teeth, or on their nightstand so they see them when they go to bed. Also, it may help to use a pillbox to organize your medications for the week. If you are not taking your medications because of the side effects, I strongly suggest that you talk to your provider about a medication that works best for you. We have seen exciting changes over the past years to make HIV medication regimens easier to manage. We have multiple one-pill-a-day options. Currently, researchers are working on ways to manage your medication dosage even more easily by creating a dose that could be administered monthly or even quarterly.

Should people with HIV get immunizations, like flu shots? ­— Rachel from Charlotte Rachel, this is a great question. Many patients think that because they are positive that it is not safe for them to receive flu shots because of their compromised immune system. The opposite is actually true. The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all HIV-positive

Aug. 30-Sept. 12 . 2013

patients receive a seasonal flu shot. People who have HIV are at a much higher risk to suffer from serious health related complications if they have the flu. This could result in serious damage to the heart or lungs and even hospitalization. It is important to take all precautions possible to protect yourself before you get sick. The serious flu-related complications are much more severe than any side effect that may result from receiving the immunization. As the weather is changing, flu season will soon be upon us. Talk to your doctor about any concerns about immunizations, and make a plan to prevent yourself from becoming ill. There are many places to receive a flu shot that are convenient and inexpensive, including your local pharmacy. Walgreens has a “flu shot locator” tool on their website at walgreens. com. At Rosedale, we offer flu shots to all patients in the fall. You can call and schedule to receive one here in our office!

Should I tell my doctor about my sexual health concerns even if I am just there for a routine check up? Sometimes, it is embarrassing to discuss topics that are so personal.

— Rosie from Huntersville I cannot over-stress the importance of being open and honest with your medical providers. I understand that it may feel uncomfortable to discuss your personal life, but we are trained to listen to that information, and see how we can manage your health.

In order for us to best meet your health care needs, we need to have all of the information to make an

educated decision on the best treatment options for you. Often times we cannot make a diagnosis or even know to run a test if we do not know you are experiencing a symptom or feel you are at risk.Your sexual health is just as important as heart health or digestive health. Often people may feel more reserved as it is not as socially acceptable to talk about your sexual practices or concerns. I suggest that you make sure that you are seeing a provider that you feel comfortable discussing whatever concerns you may have. At Rosedale, our specialty is infectious disease, but we also address sexual health concerns, primary care health concerns, and provide a comfortable healthcare environment for our LGBT community. We strive to make scheduling new patient appointments easy as it only takes a phone call to our referral coordinator, Ashley Young.

Always remember that this is an advice column based on your questions and the best possible knowledge out there. We need your questions to help educate the community, so email them to info@rosedaleid.com and be sure to include a first name and location. All respondents will remain anonymous. We will try to do our best to answer, educate, and inform from your responses to this column. Don’t forget to visit our website at rosedaleid.com and friend us on Facebook for community and clinical updates.

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

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Headed South: Comedian Sandra Bernhard comes to Columbia Comedian dishes on southern ‘cuckoo birds,’ live performances, ‘Roseanne’

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

C

omedian Sandra Bernhard has a career miles and miles long, including stand-up comedy, TV and music. She’s even written books. Of it all, she tells qnotes that performing live is her favorite. Come Sept. 7, she’ll get the chance to take the stage in Columbia, as SC Pride gears up for their annual festival and parade later that month. We spoke to Bernhard via phone before her trip down south. Check it out below.

You’re coming to Columbia soon. Have you ever performed there?

I don’t think I have. I think this may be the first time.

I’ll be excited to see how the crowd responds. The world has changed so much, obviously with the gay visibility and things changing so quickly. My crowd is always where I need it to be and it’s not always exclusively gay.

I feel really good about it. I’m excited to come down. I’ve always enjoyed the South. There’s a gentle flow to it.

There’s a lot of interesting people who have come from there. And you can get away form the cuckoo birds, but they are everywhere.

We’ve got plenty of cuckoo birds in the South, too (laughs).

Some of them are interesting cuckoo birds! (laughs)

You think about some of the great literature and culture that’s come out of the South. There’s some great people.

You identify as a member of the LGBT community, as bisexual, correct?

I don’t really identify by my sexuality in that sort of way at all. I just feel like my work as a performer and an artist has transcended all of that and I never thought it was necessarily important to define myself by my sexuality. I just cover all the bases. My message has always been to get in your particular groove and accept everyone else’s, roll with the punches and be universal and transcendent. Obviously, I’m a huge champion of the gay community and I am in a long-term relationship with my girlfriend. It just goes in a little bit of a different direction for me as an artist.

You’ve carried this message of equality throughout your entire career.

Yeah, I started performing when I was 19, so I’ve been in it for 39 years.

see Bernhard on 18

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goqnotes.com/to/arts out in the stars

by Charlene Lichtenstein :: qnotes contributor

September 2013 their accuracy and acumen. Strength is in silence now. Make noise later.

SAGITTARIUS (11.23-12.22) Even a mild flirtatious and friendly come-on gets totally out of control as friends might misinterpret your intent. Confusion reigns! Gay Archers often make an unintentional ruckus with their words, but now it takes on a life of its own. Expect a platonic melee that upends your romantic plans. One day you will sit back and laugh at all of this. For now, have a beer.

CAPRICORN (12.23-01.20) Your ambitious professional plans may come under greater scrutiny as the month progresses. But, that is not a bad thing, pink Cap. In fact, you probably need a reality check to see if where you are going is where you want to go. Make an excuse to take a work break to relax and recharge at home. There are things (or folks) there that (or who) need your attention.

AQUARIUS (01.21-02.19) Pending legal issues can get a little out of control this month, so see if you can rest your case quietly, without all the demands and theatrics. Compromise is good. Then, travel and see the world. Or, travel and see the neighborhood. The most important thing is to expand your horizon so you can see love and life in a new light. Make it a glow and not a strobe, Aqueerius.

goqnotes.com

Thoughts run amok this September as Mercury forms a Grand Cross with retro Pluto and Uranus. Sparkling ideas can spark a fire, so be careful when you strike up a conversation. Is it hot in here or is it you? Ouch!

VIRGO (08.24-09.23) Can money buy you love?

Maybe not, but it will be a tempting course of action for you this month. Queer Virgins are in love with love and enjoy lavishing partners with assorted trinkets. I hope you get what you think you are paying for once the champagne runs dry. Build your dreams on solid rock and not on shifting sand. Unless you like collecting shells.

LIBRA (09.24-10.23) It is possible to charm others to your way of thinking this month. But, what will you do with all of your ardent admirers, some of whom are beginning to annoy you. Proud Libras need to be very discerning before they spread on their personal oil.

Quality, not quantity, is the secret to your personal success. And, don’t slip on your own slippery overflow.

SCORPIO (10.24-11.22) If you listen very carefully, you will hear something secretive and juicy and totally surprising. But, what will you do with this fascinating information? Rather than pass it on, let it sit and mull for a while.

Things are still in transition and can change very quickly. Queer Scorps are respected for

PISCES (02.20-03.20) Words of love and lust can take you to new heights of passion. You become immersed in the thrills, the spills and the chills of a certain lusty relationship.

Whew! Is that what you really want? If so, jump right in. If you are seeking something more sedate now, be aware that what you say can lead to mischief. Maybe you can use your lips for something other than banter.

ARIES (03.21-04.20) Even though you have many opinions about a certain relationship, you know better than to voice them this September. Gay Rams are advised to wait and see what happens before they bleat their displeasure. Who knows? Things may evolve to a state where you can sit back and be quiet.

Maybe. Maybe not. But you have nothing to lose by listening…for now.

TAURUS (04.21-05.21) Work is not a quiet haven, but that is okay. Queer Bulls can achieve Nirvana if they can get out from the center of any office politics. Consider taking a wellearned vacation. Or, taking on a project where you can work on your own. If you are tossed into the storm, try to stay on the sidelines or pretend you have a conference call in your office.

GEMINI (05.22-06.21) Pink Twins are burning with great ideas, some of which will prove to be exciting and dramatic. So, don’t hold yourself back from doing anything creative.

Of course, too much time spent on imaginative antics could upset your staid professional image. It is hard to look seriously ambitious wearing nipple clamps and a speedo. But, if anyone can pull it off, you can.

CANCER (06.22-07.23) You make a startling entrance into any family reunion or gathering. Is it your style? Is it your flair? This could change people’s perceptions of you for years to come.

So, if you are meeting and greeting, be sure to check yourself in the mirror first to see if you really are who you think you are. If you like who you see, go with it. If you need a revamp, now is the time to vamp.

LEO (07.24-08.23) Proud Lions may not be able to contain themselves and that is because they are brimming with energy-filled ideas.

If you only had an entourage to help you get things done! But, you don’t. What you need to do is find ways to accomplish a lot with very few resources. Once you get the ball rolling, others will want to get in on your act.

Start rolling. : : © 2013 Madam Lichtenstein, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Entertainment. info: Visit TheStarryEye.com for e-greetings, horoscopes and Pride jewelry.

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

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daily news, blog posts and lgbt community event listings Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter: goqnotes.com/subs

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tell trinity

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

Can an ex cheat on you if you’re not dating Well Trinity, I was with this girl for a month until I found out she was telling other people she was single.

Now, I found out that she’s in a threeway with two other women. Isn’t that cheating? And, do we have a chance of getting back together? I still love her!

Love’s Triangle, Minneapolis, MN Well Love’s Triangle, First, you can’t get VD from a doorknob and

you can’t be cheated on by someone you’re not dating. Second, yes, you can get back together, but why? She’s obviously exploring her sexual freedom and doesn’t seem the least bit interested you. Sorry, but it had to be said! If you have that much love for her, why not give it to someone who wants it.

Baby, it’s time to love yourself as much as you love her and release her to the triangle of love!

Hey Trinity, I can never seem to get ahead. Even when I make a good pay check for the week it never lasts. I know you give dating advice, but I need a little financial advice.

Money Woes, Des Moines, IA Hey Money Woes, There’s three ways to make money, “make it, invest (some of) it or save it.” Think savings bank, IRA or “under the mattress!”

(My cartoon can give you tips on how I handle this challenging question.)

Hello Trinity, Everytime I go out hoping to meet potential dates, I end up wasting time with guys who inevitably only want sex. Am I the only gay man on earth who goes to bars

hoping to meet future dates, not just one-night stands? What am I doing wrong?

Not Only Sex, Boston, MA Hello Not Only Sex, If you’re truly going to bars looking for future dates, then don’t waste time flirting with guys who, a) are from out of town, b) are overtly sexual and/or c) you think just want a quickie.

Otherwise, you’ll never meet Mr. Right just Mr. One Night, which isn’t bad, but it won’t get you a second date. Pumpkin, you have to be strategic with your time at the bars, not just seduced by sexy guys. Stay aware!

Stay Aware, Trinity Dear Trinity, I know I shouldn’t ask, but isn’t there something I can do to punish someone I was dating for standing me up on our last and final date.

Isn’t some revenge appropriate?

Revenge, Albuquerque, NM Dear Revenge, No! Living your own life to the fullest is the best revenge. But, if you still don’t believe me, sweetie, then try reading: Trinity’s Empowering Tips For What You Can And Can’t Do To Someone Who Stands You Up 1. You can’t scratch his car, break his windows or kill his cat because you must trust

that he or she will be taught a lesson of greater punishment.

2. You can’t continuously call her home and then hang up just to bother her because you’re not 12 anymore. You grew up, remember!

3. You can’t go to his work and harass him because it was just a date.

4. You can’t call the police and have her arrested on bogus charges such as kidnapping, burglary or attempted murder, although it would be fun!

5. And, lastly, you can’t have him beaten up, scared or maimed because you don’t want to waste that much energy on any date!

6. But, you can go on with your life and be more choosy of who you date.

7. You can ignore her when you see her knowing that she missed out on someone really great.

8. You can let other people know that he has no integrity!

9. You can discard her phone number, rip up her letters and toss out her toothbrush!

10. And, lastly, you can imagine something really, really awful happening to him just for a few minutes. What the hell, he deserves it! 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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Bernhard heading south continued from page 15

In that time, how have you seen the industry change — for the better or worse?

Obviously, the biggest revolution has been social media and the internet and reality TV — the advent of so many cable channels and trying to fill all that airtime has kind of watered it down a little bit. When I began, there were just three channels. It was more intimate. There were a lot less people performing back then. It wasn’t a free for all. I miss that time. The people who got into had a passion for it. More people had real talent.

Do you think platforms like YouTube make it easier for young comedians to make their break into the industry?

I think it gives them a leg down. How can anyone tell what you can really do on YouTube with a 10 or 15 minute spot. The longevity and care that go into making a long career can’t be achieved in that way. You’ve got to get up every night. You have to go to the clubs and get up there and hone your craft. A lot of people still do that, especially with improv

groups. I don’t particularly enjoy watching people on YouTube. My daughter is 16, she watches stuff and says “You have to see this and that.” She watches it in a different way and relates to it in a different way, but for me it’s not something I enjoy watching.

Your comedy — where does your inspiration come from? Everyday experiences and life?

Yeah, I think a lot of it comes from my life and traveling, being a mother and being in a

long-term relationship. I try to bring a fresher and more ironic twist to it.

How have you found your craft and comedy changing as the world as changed. Have you found it easier to be more outspoken, to push the boundary today than 30 years ago?

I think it was easier when I started out because you were pushing up against less.

Everything wasn’t already on the table. You go on the internet now and everything is staring you in the face and almost anyone can weigh in on anything. The wonderful thing about when I was starting out was that you could be a real revolutionary like Woodie Allen and Richard Pryor and Lenny Bruce — the people who were really forerunners in their field.

Things were much easier to expose. Today it’s exposed, but is it really under the right cirucmstances? In a weird way, I miss the early days of my performing experience.

You’ve done all sorts of things in your career — stand-up, TV, movies, books. Of all of it, what do you enjoy most?

I think performing live is definitely my favorite because it’s always on my terms. If I decide in the middle of my show that I want to go off-book and do a piece that is coming from the moment, I get to do it. I do love doing TV and movies, too, because it supports my live performing and it is a break from the live performing. In terms of sheer pleasure and excitement, though, there’s nothing like performing live.

You gained a lot of fame with your time on “Roseanne.” What was it about that performance, looking back, that you really loved or didn’t particularly like about it?

There was nothing not to love about during “Roseanne.” It was one of the last, last great sitcoms of that type, where she broke all the new ground and talked about things in the sociological American way that nobody else had ever done before. She examined the working class family and really brought light to it and humor to it that nobody else had ever done. It was such a pleasure. And, it still holds up. The show is never not on TV. It is being shown constantly on a loop almost every day of the year.

That speaks for itself, considering the show has been off the air for 10, 15 years now. : :

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Parade draws thousands to Uptown Charlotte continued from page 10

At a ceremony after the parade, Kinsey said she was “absolutely blown away” by the Charlotte business community’s support for the event.

“I think it’s great for Charlotte,” Kinsey said of the parade in an interview. “I’m happy to be asked to do it. I would have been here anyway.”

Push for equality Protesters were not a big presence along the parade route, but a few did make their opinions known.

Richard Pope, 62, waved a King James Version Bible at the marchers as they went down Tryon Street.

“I’m out here preaching the Gospel,” Pope said. “It’s a shame the city allows something like this to go on.”

Many of the attendees welcomed the inclusive atmosphere of the parade but said more work needed to be done to protect the rights of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender population in North Carolina.

Celena Black, 21, of Charlotte wore a sandwich board at the parade to promote Equality North Carolina, a group that advocates for equal rights for members of the LGBT community. In particular, she was gathering signatures to help end workplace discrimination.

“It’s past time for people to be treated fairly,” she said.

Denver residents Jeff Martin, 50, and Dean Green, 49, got married in Maryland on July 27, Martin’s birthday. They arrived more than two hours before the parade to reserve curbside seats.

Martin said the parade was great but added: “I wish the state was more friendly to us.”

In 2012, N.C. voters approved Amendment One, which bans gay marriage in the state.

“We may have to move if the climate doesn’t drastically change,” Green added. : : more: See more photos from Charlotte Pride at goqnotes.com/in/pride/ — The Charlotte Observer is the largest daily newspaper in the Carolinas.

CharlotteObserver.com is the most visited news and information website in the region. qnotes is proud to be a member of The Observer’s Charlotte News Alliance.

Republished with permission.

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Pride by the numbers Initial estimates from Charlotte Pride organizers varied, but staff released their final attendance numbers late on Sunday, Aug. 25. Staff said 80,000 people attended their two-day festival throughout the weekend, including an estimated 45,000-50,000 at the parade, where 80 entrants and 1,500 people marched. Organizers also said the event was a financial success. The festival sold out of vendor spaces and nearly 50 corporations, small businesses and non-profit organizations sponsored the events. Of those, about 22 were first-time sponsors. No arrests were made during the event.

news

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Sgro named new E.D. continued from page 8

“I think for any social-justice-minded advocacy organization in North Carolina right now, we all face a challenging political atmosphere,� he said. “But, I think that atmosphere really provides a tremendous opportunity for groups to build off the concerns that are out there that North Carolina is changing and turning away from its traditional North Carolina values of fair-mindedness.�

Sgro will replace outgoing executive director Stuart Campbell, who was hired in 2011 as the organization geared up for the 2012 Amendment One campaign. Like Campbell, Sgro knows positive, LGBTinclusive action in a Republican-controlled legislature will be difficult. “I certainly acknowledge that any efforts in terms of legislative action at

the state level are going to be long-term, end-game oriented,� he said. “I think it’s incredibly important that we don’t give up on the notion of working with our legislators. I don’t foresee in the next session or two that we’ll make tremendous headway on our issues, but the conversations need to be ongoing, so that in the near future we can work with current officials and start to build a bench of LGBT-friendly officials at the legislature.�

Sgro said he will plan to continue Equality NC’s recent push for action on the local level, including employment non-discrimination policies and similar measures. “We need to work with municipal governments,� he said. “There is ample opportunity to do so across North Carolina, not just in

the largest urban areas, but also in rural and suburban areas.�

His experience in Hagan’s office will prepare him to work at the local level, Sgro said. “Between the campaign side of Sen. Hagan’s office and now working on the Senate side, what I’ve been able to do is be in every corner of North Carolina, meeting with constituents, other government officials, municipal governments and the business community statewide,� he said. “I’ve been in 97 of 100 counties over the course of the last six years.�

Sgro added, “I think that gives me a unique perspective into what North Carolina’s priorities are and how to convey that LGBT rights and equality are really part of that set of priorities.� : :

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Aug. 30-Sept. 12 . 2013

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Q

events goqnotes.com/qguide/events

Aug. 30 • Charlotte Barn Dance Southern Country Charlotte goes out for their monthly barn dance. Join in for a night of great dancing and support a great cause at the same time. Hartigan’s Irish Pub, 601 S. Cedar St. 9 p.m. Free for SCC members. Free for non-members before 11 p.m. $5 after 11 p.m. southerncountrycharlotte.com.

Aug. 31 • Columbia President’s Ball SC Equality hosts a night to remember as it hosts past presidents of their organization for the SC Equality President’s Ball. The Big Apple, 1000 Hampton St. 8 p.m. $50. For more information, scpride.org/presidentsball/.

Aug. 31 • Charlotte Bingo The LGBT Community Center hosts Back to School Bingo with host Lana Cane. Tickets are $20 at the door benefiting the center. 2508 N. Davidson St. 7 p.m. gaycharlotte.com.

Sept. 3 • Charlotte Chorus rehearsals One Voice Chorus begins its fall rehearsals for their annual holiday concert, to be held this year on Dec. 6-7. Meets each Tuesday. Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte, 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd. 7 p.m. onevoicechorus.com.

Sept. 5 • Davidson LGBTQ Issues and Schools Time Out Youth hosts a screening of the film, “What Do You Know? Six to Twelve Year Olds Talk about Gays and Lesbians,” along with a talk-back session from Welcoming Schools, a national program of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Kisha Webster, associate director of Welcoming Schools, serves as special guest and facilitator. Davidson College Presbyterian Church, Congregation House, 218 Concord Rd. timeoutyouth.org.

Sept. 7 • Columbia Sandra Berhard Comedian Sandra Bernhard comes to Columbia for a benefit for SC Pride. Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene St. $20-$40.capitoltickets.com.

Sept. 12 • Charlotte Dining with Friends Host party for Dining with Friends, with information on how to register as a Dining with Friends host and to organize your own event

this fall to benefit the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network. Ashton South End Apartment Homes, 125 W. Tremont Ave. Sign up at diningwithfriendscharlotte.org.

Sept. 14 • Charlotte Trans*Closet Join Trans*Closet and Prism for a special event receiving and distributing needed clothing for transgender members of the community.

Information on donation materials and volunteer opportunities, contact transclosetclt@gmail. com. LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, 2508 N. Davidson St. Noon-3 p.m. gaycharlotte.com.

Sept. 27 • Charlotte Bingo ALFA hosts “Not Your Mama’s Bingo” benefiting the organization and its work on HIV/ AIDS. La Rumba Night Club, 534, U.S. Hwy. 70 SW.7:30 p.m. $20. notyourmamasbingo.com.

Pride Season in Carolina Upcoming LGBT Pride festivals and other events across the Carolinas this fall.

OBX Pridefest The OBX Pridefest will be held on the weekend of Sept. 13-15 at the First Colony Inn and resort beaches of Nags Head.

OBXPrideFest.com.

Triad Pride Triad Pride is planned for Saturday, Sept. 14 and will be set in Festival Park in downtown Greensboro from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. triadpride.org.

Update SC Pride Upstate SC Pride March & Festival is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 14 at Barnet Park in Spartanburg, S.C. upstatepridesc.org.

SC Pride The South Carolina Pride Parade will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28 at noon on Main St. in Columbia, S.C. Awards will be given for the most spirited and most colorful floats. scpride.org.

North Carolina Pride North Carolina Pride will be held on Saturday, Sept. 28 in Durham at the Duke University East Campus. The festival will go from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., with the parade at 1 p.m. That night, the Raleigh Nightfest and Embrace Party occur on Hargett St. in Raleigh from 6 p.m.-4 a.m. ncpride.org.

Blue Ridge Pride Blue Ridge Pride happens in Asheville on Friday, Oct. 5. The organization also sponsors several other events benefitting Blue Ridge Pride, including the White Party Weekend (June 21-22) and the Gay 5K and Rainbow Romp, July 13 in Carrier Park. blueridgepride.com.

Pride Winston-Salem Pride Winston-Salem is planned for Saturday, Oct. 19. The festival and parade will be in downtown Winston-Salem. Times and other details will be announced at a later date. pridewinstonsalem.org.

Submit your event to our calendar!

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

Aug. 30-Sept. 12 . 2013

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Aug. 30-Sept. 12 . 2013