QNotes, Sept. 9-22, 2016

Sept. 9-22 . 2016

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Tara Locklear: Artist with a purpose!

qnotes news & features

news. views. Briefs arts.

6 entertainment.

News Notes: Regional 9 News Notes: U.S./World Briefs 10 NC Pride preview

a&e / life&style 5 12 13 13 16 18 20 21 22 23

Famous bisexuals from history Camo Cameleon Carolinas Fashion Week Jewelry artist Tara Locklear The HIV vaccine HIV in America Health & Wellness Tell Trinity Q Events Calendar Our People: LeMond Hart

opinions & views 4 Federal judge grants HB2 injunction 4 HB2 and employers

Fashion is not just clothing and shoes. Accessories aree an important part of finishing off one’s appearance to bring a stylish presentation and polish. And, creations out of recycled materials are just the thing. page 13

more news & features

Research into HIV vaccines Scientists have been working steadily to manufacture a viable protol to thwart the spread of HIV/AIDS. page 16

Health & Wellness: Breathe Getting proper air exchange is vital to maintaining one’s wellbeing. page 20

Sept. 9-22 . 2016

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HB2 Update

Federal judge grants HB2 injunction, but the conflict continues UNC barred from enforcing bathroom dictates; appeal asks for state-wide injunction

by Maria Dominguez :: qnotes contributor WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Aug. 21 found LGBT advocates celebrating a significant victory. Federal Judge Thomas Schroeder ruled in favor of a preliminary injunction halting the implementation of the sections of House Bill 2 (HB2) most damaging to transgender citizens. The section in question requires that all people use the public restrooms and changing facilities that correspond to the gender recorded on their birth certificates.

The “commonsense” defense over “safety” concerns, often cited by HB2 proponents as the motivation for the legislation, was found by the judge to be baseless. Schroeder wrote in his 81-page ruling that “the unrefuted evidence in the current record suggests that jurisdictions that have adopted accommodating bathroom access policies have not observed subsequent increases in crime.”

News of the injunction was met with immense relief by Joaquín Carcaño, the primary transgender plaintiff in the case.

“Today, the tightness that I have felt in my chest every day since HB2 passed has eased,” Carcaño said. “But the fight is not over: we won’t rest until this discriminatory law is defeated.”

Schroeder’s injunction is effective until the judge hears all arguments in the clashing court cases that have been brought forth both for and against HB2, also known as the Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act. However, the injunction itself is limited.

“Though the district court importantly recognized the serious harm to three of our clients as a result of HB2,” explained Lambda Legal senior attorney Tara Borelli, “that recognition, unfortunately, didn’t extend to a ruling rectifying those harms for other transgender individuals in North Carolina.”

Schroeder’s ruling applies only to the University of North Carolina and the three transgender individuals who filed the lawsuit. The plaintiffs’ legal team, including the ACLU of North Carolina, Lambda Legal and the law firm of Jenner & Block, announced on Aug. 29 that they plan to appeal to further protect all transgender North Carolinians.

“We are optimistic that HB2’s days are numbered and are appealing Friday’s ruling in order to bring relief to all those who live in or visit North Carolina,” Borelli said.

Though multiple lawsuits have been filed, a single hearing to decide the fate of the law will be held beginning Nov. 14.

However, Gov. Pat McCrory believes that the conflict related to HB2 will not stop there.

“HB2 is actually irrelevant now,” Gov. McCrory said in a recent interview with Marc Rotterman. The governor continued, “one of the best kept secrets of the United States too, is this is all going to the Supreme Court.”

McCrory refers to the exchange of lawsuits between the Justice Department and a number of states that have resisted the Obama administration’s directive to include gender identity under non-discrimination protections. These cases, according to North Carolina’s governor, will likely be decided in the nation’s highest court.

As for HB2, ACLU of NC legal director Chris Brook is more than hopeful: “We’re confident justice will prevail in the larger case after the judge hears all the evidence at trial this fall so that all gay and transgender North Carolinians will be free from the harm of HB2,” Brook said. : :

From the Bench

HB2 does not absolve employers of LGBT discrimination liability A survey of workplace issues and possible solutions

by Kerry Everett :: guest contributor

W

ith all of the media attention surrounding HB2, many are under the impression that North Carolina’s “at will” employment state laws allow employers to treat LGBT workers differently. However, in many cases, LGBT employees in North Carolina are protected from discrimination under federal law.

Here’s what you should know Any employer with 15 or more employees, including part-time and temporary workers, is subject to Title VII of the Civil Rights of Act of 1964 (Title VII). This includes all government employees (state and federal). Title VII protects job applicants, employees and former employees against all discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion and national origin. Title VII also prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who oppose discriminatory employment practices or participate in an employment discrimination proceeding.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the agency of the United States government that enforces federal employment discrimination laws including Title VII. The EEOC recently issued a guidance document entitled, “What You Should Know About EEOC and the Enforcement Protections for LGBT Workers,” that discusses how the agency interprets and enforces Title VII’s prohibition of sex discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.

How are you protected?

The EEOC’s interpretation of Title VII renders HB2 largely moot in the workplace. Contrary state law is not a defense under Title VII. According to the EEOC, denying an employee equal access to a common restroom corresponding to the employee’s gender identity is an example of unlawful sex discrimination.

Requiring an employee to use a specific restroom when others are not required to do so, or having to walk a further distance than other employees to use a specific restroom is discrimination.

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The EEOC guidance goes on to provide a handful of other LGBT-related sex discrimination examples including: • Failing to hire an applicant because she is a transgender woman.

• F iring an employee because he is planning or has made a gender transition.

•H arassing an employee because of a gender transition, such as by intentionally and persistently failing to use the name and gender pronoun that correspond to the gender identity with which the employee identifies, and which the employee has communicated to management and employees.

• F ailing to revise employment records to reflect changes in gender identity.

• Denying an employee a promotion because he is gay or straight.

• Providing a lower salary because of sexual orientation, or denying spousal health insurance benefits to a female employee because her legal spouse is a woman, while providing spousal health insurance to a male employee whose legal spouse is a woman.

• Harassing an employee because of his or her sexual orientation.

•D isciplining an employee for displaying a picture of their same sex spouse.

Experiencing discrimination?

When filing a discrimination charge or lawsuit, there are strict deadlines that must be observed. An attorney can assist an employee through the EEOC process, as well as file a claim on their behalf.

Although the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals recently struck down a claim of sexual orientation discrimination under Title VII,1 the Supreme Court has been expanding the rights of LGBT persons in a constitutional context.

Given the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the Defense of Marriage Act, whereby they ruled that same-sex couples have the right to marry in every state,2 the 7th Circuit noted that the Supreme Court has “created a paradoxical legal landscape in which a person can be married on Saturday and then fired on Monday for just that act.”

Until Congress or the Supreme Court moves, the EEOC continues to encourage LGBT employees to file Title VII discrimination claims based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The EEOC and private attorneys may be able to successfully negotiate settlements for claims of discrimination and harassment prior to filing a lawsuit. An employment law attorney may also assist LGBT employees assert tort claims for intentional and/or negligent infliction of emotional distress, negligent hiring/ supervision/retention, and (in appropriate cases) Americans with Disability Act and Family Medical Leave Act for claims of gender dysphoria.

You deserve a friendly workplace An employer who treats LGBT workers any differently than non-LGBT workers in their terms, conditions, or privileges of employment could face a charge of discrimination and a potential federal lawsuit. Employers can ensure a LGBT-friendly workplace by treating all of their employees equally, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Employers should not allow employees to be discriminated against or harassed because of their sexual orientation or gender identity — period.

North Carolina employers should review their equal employment opportunity policies and practices to determine their exposure to possible discrimination and harassment claims based on an employee’s sexual orientation and gender identity. Attorneys can further assist employers and human resource departments in understanding employees’ individual rights in the workplace and the employer’s obligations and responsibilities. : : 1. Hively v. Ivy Tech Community College, No. 15-1720 (7th Cir., July 28, 2016).

2. Obergefell v. Hodges, 135 S. Ct. 2584 (2015) — Kerry Everett, an attorney specializing in employment law at Sodoma Law, P.C. in Charlotte, N.C.

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life

Observances: bisexual awareness month

Famous bisexual people throughout history September honors bisexual visibility

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff

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his month the community celebrates bisexual visibility, shining a spotlight on part of the LGBTQ community that is all too often ignored. Here is an anything-but-exhaustive list of bisexual individuals throughout history.

Hans Christian Andersen Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen is well known for having written some of the world’s most famous fairytales, including, “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” The Little Mermaid,” “The Snow Queen” and “The Ugly Duckling.” He also wrote novels, plays, travelogues and poems for an adult audience. While Andersen avoided sex and did not have any successful relationships during his life, he did fall in love with both men and women.

Josephine Baker

Edna St. Vincent Millay Writer Edna St. Vincent Millay won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1923, only the third woman to win the award. Millay also wrote prose under the pseudonym Nancy Boyd. Much of her writing explored female sexuality, feminism and antiwar concepts. She was married to a man, but both of them had lovers throughout the relationship. Millay was openly bisexual.

Greta Garbo Actress Greta Garbo was a star who successfully made the transition from silent films to “talkies” and was one of the biggest stars of the early film industry.

During WWII, Garbo worked as a spy for the British government. She also became an art collector later in life. Garbo never married, but appears to have had relationships with both men and women, with recent biographies bringing her relationships with women to light.

Simone de Beauvoir Writer, philosopher and Great Garbo studio publicity photo. activist Simone de Beauvoir Photo Credit: Clarence Bull for was one of the most influential Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. Public Domain thinkers of her time. Her writing explored feminist theory, as well as existentialism, which came in the form of novels, essays and biographies. De Beauvoir’s longtime partner was fellow philosopher, writer and activist Jean-Paul Sartre, but she also had relationships with women throughout her life.

The alluring Josephine Baker, 1920s.

Photo Credit: The Coincidental Dandy via Flickr. Public Domain

Dancer, singer and actress Josephine Baker was the first black woman to star in a major motion picture, 1934’s “Zouzou.” Baker began her career in vaudeville and later rose to prominence while performing in France. Ernest Hemingway called her “the most sensational woman anyone ever saw.” Baker refused to perform for segregated audiences and was active in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. She was also noted for her support of the French Resistance during WWII. Her adopted son described her as bisexual, claiming she had relationships with both men and women, including artist Frida Kahlo. Baker was married four times.

Frida Kahlo Painter Frida Kahlo had a distinctive, individualistic style, often labeled with categories that do not quite stick, such as folk art and surrealism, which she rejected. She is most well known for her self-portraits.

When the Louvre acquired her ”The Frame” painting, it was the first work of a twentieth-century Mexican artist that they purchased. She would go on to gain much more notoriety after her death. Kahlo was married to fellow artist Diego Rivera and also had relationships with women throughout her life.

Jean-Michel Basquiat One of the most famous and critically acclaimed painters of the 20th Century, Jean-Michel Basquiat first gained notoriety as a graffiti artist living in New York City. His work married elements of figuration, abstract expressionism, neo-expressionism, graffiti, poetry and folk art. His work often dealt with socio-political issues and spoke out against colonialism and racism. He rose to fame early and created all of his work before his death of a drug overdose at just 27. Basquiat never came out as bisexual, but is said to have had relationships with both men and women. Author Jennifer Clement writes in her book Widow Basquiat, “He was attracted to people for all different reasons. They could be boys, girls, thin, fat, pretty, ugly. It was, I think, driven by intelligence.”

Leonard Bernstein Composer, conductor, writer and pianist Leonard Bernstein is best known for writing the score for “West Side Story,” as well as the film score for “On The Waterfront.”

He also wrote music for ballet, opera and orchestral performances, among others.

Bernstein was also a philanthropist whose efforts focused on increasing music, dance and theater instruction in schools. Bernstein left his wife when he decided he could no longer conceal his bisexuality, but returned to her when she became ill, caring for her until her death. He is also said to have had relationships with Leonard Bernstein, acclaimed conductor. both men and women before Photo Credit: Marion Strikosko, U.S. News & marrying his wife. : : World Report, 1971. Public Domain

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qnotes connect Sept. 9-22, 2016 Vol 31 No 10

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

contributors this issue

Maria Dominquez, Kerry Everett, Oriol R. Gutierrez Jr., Myles Helfand, Jack Kirven, Lainey Millen, Mikey Rox, Jeff Taylor, Trinity

front page

Graphic Design by: Lainey Millen Mission:

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

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

Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2016 and may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent of the editor or publisher. Advertisers assume full responsibility — and therefore, all liability — for securing reprint permission for copyrighted text, photographs and illustrations or trademarks published in their ads. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers, cartoonists we publish is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or photographs does not indicate the subject’s sexual orientation. qnotes nor its publisher assumes liability for typographical error or omission, beyond offering to run a correction. Official editorial positions are expressed in staff editorials and editorial notations and are determined by editorial staff. The opinions of contributing writers and guest columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of qnotes or its staff. qnotes accepts unsolicited editorial, but cannot take responsibility for its return. Editor reserves the right to accept and reject material as well as edit for clarity, brevity.

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

upcoming issues: Errata In our previous issue, we identified Mel Hartsell as a therapist and social worker in our “LGBT North Carolinians struggle in a post-HB2 world” article. She is not a therapist. We regret the error.

09.23.16: Fall A&E Guide Advertising Space Deadline: Sept. 14 10.07.16: LGBT Allies/Women’s Health Advertising Space Deadline: Sept. 28

Sept. 9-22 . 2016

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news notes: carolinas

Chamber gets ready for elections

compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

Lez eat quiche at WPAC

Charlotte ‘Help wanted’ at TOY

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Time Out Youth Center, 2320 N. Davidson St., is hiring a parttime program assistant to monitor the center’s drop-in space.

Work hours are 2:30-6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Pay rate is $10/hour.

Some of the duties are: engage with youth during program hours, provide tours of the facility, link youth to agency and community resources.

Candidates should have general knowledge of issues facing LGBT youth or a willingness to learn, ability to maintain confidentiality, work in a professional manner, have a clean background check, drug screening and favorable references, as well as reliable transportation. A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Applications are being accepted until Sept.

16. To apply, email oatkinson@timeoutyouth. org., fax 704-344-8186 or snail mail to Time Out Youth Center, Attn: O’Neale Atkinson, 2320 N. Davidson St., Charlotte, NC 28205. info: timeoutyouth.org.

Speed dating comes to the Queen City

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Queen City LGBT Speed Dating will hold its first social event for the fall season on Sept. 30, 9 p.m., at Advent, 933 Louise Ave. This launch party and speed dating event “functions like an actual party, but instead of the traditional table separation of genders, participants will stand (or dance) face-toface, alternating who they talk with as the DJ changes the song. It’s like the musical chairs of speed-dating but without the chairs,” says event sponsor Michael Calloway. “This is an extraordinary event, exclusive, and capped at 100 people to keep it intimate and easier to get to know someone,” Calloway added.

Spinning will be celebrity DJ Skroog MkDuk. Light hors d’oeuvres will be provided.

Attendees are asked to BYOB. Those over the age of 21 are welcome.

Organizers said that they were mindful of the lack of dating venues and feel that their soireés fill the gap by offering a unique, lively, and safe speed dating party experience for those who enjoy a smaller, more intimate setting.

Tickets are $20 and are available online. info: createamazingllc.com.

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CORNELIUS, N.C. — The Warehouse Performing Arts Center, 9216-A Westmoreland Rd., has mounted “5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche,” which begins its run on Sept. 9 and continues through Sept. 24.

The 1950s women are all self-described “widows” living in an unnamed middle-American town. They are meeting in a renovated community center for their annual breakfast, where the prize-winning quiche will be declared in a much-anticipated ceremony. The pending Communist threat of atomic attack forces the women in this “idyllic American town” to begin sharing their deepest secrets, which lead to some not-so-shocking confessions from the society’s leaders. Will they be able to keep their cool and preserve their history as the Red Menace closes in?

The comedy, written by Evan Linder and Andrew Hobgood, is directed by Sarah Provencal.

The Winner of the 2012 NYC International Fringe Festival, Best Overall Production, “5 Lesbians Eating A Quiche” is hosted by actress Michele Dixon along with five leaders of the Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein, Joanna Gerdy, Pam Coffman, Lane Morris, Stephanie DiPaolo and Nikki Stepanek.

Show times are 8 p.m. Thursday-Sunday and a 2 p.m. matinee on Sept. 18.

Tickets are $20/adult and $15/seniors and students and are available online. info: warehousepac.com.

Library hosts grant writing workshop

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, in collaboration with Foundation Center, will hold an advanced, twoday federal grant writing workshop from Sept.

14-15 at the Main Branch at 300 E. 7th St. for non-profit organizations.

The Federal Grant Writing Essentials workshop is aimed at organizations interested in federal grant funding, including beginning and experienced grant seekers. The workshop will help participants navigate the ever-changing world of federal grants, including identifying funding opportunities, constructing a fully funded grant proposal and developing a winning strategy for federal grants, organizers said. Each day will focus on topics that are essential to good practices in seeking federal grant funding. The workshop will be presented by Sudie Alexander, who currently works as the grants manager for the Charleston

Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce Melissa Morris (left), welcomed Export-Import Bank Chairman and President Fred P. Hochberg and Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts at the chamber’s August meeting where participants discussed the impact of HB2 on commercial activity.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce will hold its kick-off to its elections and after-hours networking on Sept. 27, 6:30 p.m., at Birdsong Brewing Co., 1016 N. Davidson St. Sponsors are Birdsong Brewing and Food Lion.

This free event is open to the public and is an open-call to members interested in joining the chamber’s board of directors for the upcoming year.

The organization typically hosts a holiday party and meeting in December. qnotes will provide more information on the chamber’s future meetings and events as they become available.

In other news, Fred P. Hochberg, Export-Import Bank chairman and president, met with the chamber in late August along with Mayor Jennifer Roberts. Participants discussed new challenges for LGBT individuals across the state, in addition to the LGBT-owned small business climate, and were able to voice concerns about the impact of HB2 on commercial activity.

Hochberg underscored the economic importance of equal protection under the law, noting that more than 1.4 million LGBT-owned American small businesses contribute to the nation’s economy and continued job growth every day. He also emphasized the Obama Administration’s belief and his personal conviction that no person in America should face discrimination because of who they are or who they love. He also relayed that the entire Obama Administration remains strongly committed to advancing the cause of equality and justice for all Americans, including LGBT Americans. info: clgbtcc.org.

County Sheriff’s Office and is an active member of the Grant Professional Association and the Charleston Association of Grant Professionals.

Day one focuses on the fundamentals and day two gives participants the opportunity to learn more about tools, tips and strategies for improving one’s chance to receive federal grant funding.

Registration is $175 for one day and $300 for both and is available online. info: bit.ly/2c6wczr.

Pagans hold Pride event

BELMONT, N.C. — The Piedmont Pagan Pride Day 2016 will be held on Sept. 24, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park, 1400 Catawba St.

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Programming includes performance by transcendent songstress Wendy Rule, workshops, classes, interfaith panel and vendor options. There will be a Kids Zone for the younger set.

Participants are asked to bring non-perishable food items to the event which will be contributed to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.

The organization is based upon the elimination of prejudice and discrimination based on religious beliefs.

In other news, Pagan Pride Raleigh will be held in Raleigh, N.C. from Sept. 17-18, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., at the NC State Fairgrounds, Gate 5, 974 Youth Center Dr. This Central NC Pagan Pride event, which focuses on tolerance and acceptance, attracts more than 4,000 annually, many of which are from the LGBT community, and is filled with rituals, workshops, entertainment, kids activities, raffles and more. Pagan Pride Raleigh’s Brian LaRue said it was the second largest event in the world.

Admission each day is a contribution for the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC. Both celebrations are LGBT-friendly. info: piedmontpaganpride.com. cncppd.org.

Council offers grants

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Arts and Science Council of Charlotte-Mecklenburg has announced that it has opened up application for its new Cultural Vision Grants. These grants are targeted at those who are involved in arts, science, history and heritage programming, be they individuals or non-profit organizations.

“The grants will provide funds of up to $10,000 to pursue projects that strongly connect to the community’s Cultural Vision Plan, a vision for how the cultural sector can contribute to the community’s vitality through building community, increasing program relevance and innovation, and making arts, science and history central to Pre-K-12 education,” the organization shared.

Council Vice President of Cultural & Community Investment Ryan Deal said, “This new grant initiative will build on that current work by providing funding for new opportunities that strengthen connections to the community and build bridges across differences using arts and culture as a platform for understanding.”

Grants are not open to those who are already receiving council support. Project dates for grant usage is from Jan. 1, 2017 and conclude before June 30, 2018.

More information is available online.

Deadline is Sept. 23 by noon via a letter of intent. Full application guidelines are available online. info: artsandscience.org.

Triad Get stylin’ at bingo

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Guilford Green Foundation’s Green Queen Bingo has announced that Beauty Shop Bingo will be held on Sept. 16, 6

p.m., at The Elm Street Center, S. Elm St. This is the 50th installment of the long-running drag bingo which benefits the foundation.

Enjoy cocktails with the queens at 6 p.m., followed by the game show start time at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $15/advance, $12/student with ID and $20/at the door and are available online. info: ggfnc.org.

Superhero protests HB2

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Bret Parks, owner of Ssalefish Comics, 3242 Silas Creek Pkwy., is hosting a release event for a comic book series that features a transgender superhero who pushes back against HB2, WFMY-TV reported.

The new series will be unveiled to readers on Sept. 17, 12 p.m., where the first edition of Alters will debut at a launch and signing event where copies will be signed by series writer Paul Jenkins.

The protagonist is a “costumed transgender vigilante named Chalice [who] rips down bathroom signs in public places, replacing them with unisex signs,” the station reported. Chalice is the alter ego of a male college student named Charlie Young who is undergoing a transition to a female.

Proceeds from the sale will benefit Equality North Carolina.

news

Jenkins is no stranger to the comic industry. The Brit has been working in the field for over 20 years and has been “instrumental in the creation and implementation” of scores of recognizable entertainment icons. He has worked on projects such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, video games, film and new media. Jenkins is a multi-award recipient. He received one from MTV for a music video. Additionally, he netted an Eisner Award and a host of others, in addition to global recognition for his work. He has done comic books for DC Comics, Marvel Comics and Image Comics. info: ssalefish.com.

In Memoriam: Sherri Carmichael

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Transgender activist Sherri Carmichael died on Aug. 21 with her husband Drew by her side, Janice Covington Allison reported.

Carmichael had been active in the transgender community for decades. Her accomplishments included facilitating the Kappa Beta Transgender Support Group, the first one of its kind in Charlotte, N.C. before moving to Greensboro in the early 2000s for employment. There she also facilitated the Triad Gender Association and served on the board of directors for the Southeastern Transgender and Ally Initiative.

In 2007, Carmichael received the Transgender of the Year Award from TransCarolina.

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

Advocate nets installation

QUICK HITS —————————————————————————————— Lambda Literary has announced their 29th Annual Lambda Literary Awards (Lammy) call for submissions. Entries are due by Dec. 1 info: lambdaliterary.org.

NPR reported that a transgender teen traveled to North Carolina to a gender clinic, the only one in the South. info: npr.org.

While studying the rapid growth of the therapeutic boarding school industry, Jessica A. Pfaffendorf observed that troubled young men in at least one program most often displayed a type of “hybrid masculinity.” info: asanet.org.

A free webinar will be held on Sept. 15 that looks at the newly released and first-ever federal dataset that includes items on sexual orientation and risk-taking behavior among youth. It is being presented by GLSEN and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Division of adolescent School Health. info: glsen.org.

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Center for Civil and Human Rights, 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., is showcasing advocate Caleb Laieski’s exhibit in the LGBT Rights and Bullying section.

His subject is “Harassment in American School” which features Laieski’s experience and the ways he and others are placed in uncomfortable and troubling situations through verbal and physical harassment. “Not only does this discrimination undermine the educational experience of LGBT students, but LGBT teens are increasingly at risk for harming themselves.”

At 16, Laieski dropped out of school due to his having been bullied about his sexuality. And, some of his friends attempted suicide when beset with similar treatment.

Christian network relocates

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Gay Christian Network which originated in Raleigh, N.C., has announced its relocation to Ohio as part of their strategy to improve their efficiency and communication.

The change will allow the organization to serve the LGBT Christian community more effectively.

In other news, it is forming a new Diversity Advisory Board. It will meet quarterly via video conference beginning this month. The board is

Today, Laieski works as an LGBT rights advocate. He spends time with school officials, teaching them about the dangers of bullying. He also encourages LGBT students to seek help.

During his lifetime, Laieski has served as a youth and diversity liaison with Phoenix, Az. Mayor Gregg Stanton’s staff. Afterward he stepped into the role of a 9-1-1 dispatcher for Arlington County in Virginia.

His work did not stop there. He filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Food and Drug Administration with regard to the agency’s lifetime ban on blood donations from gay men. info: civilandhumanrights.org. caleblaieski.com.

looking for participants and those who wish to become an active member should email Bukola Landis-Aina, vice president of the network board and chair of the diversity board, at diversity@gaychristian.net.

Executive Director Justin Lee has been busy traveling around the world. He recently spoke at a gathering of the Polish National Catholic Church and is headed to Australia and New Zealand in October. info: gaychristian.net.

news

Ray Isaac has recorded a song to honor the Orlando Pulse shootings, their families and more. info: rayisaac.com.

The 2016 STD Prevention Conference will be held in Atlanta, Ga. from Sept. 20-23. More than 1,200 public health experts, clinicians and advocates will attend conference to discuss the latest science and define the next generation of STD prevention and control. info: cdc.gov.

Newark, N.J.’s archdioces has stood behind the firing of one of its guidance counselors who married her partner. info: ncregister.com.

A new book explores how gay babyboomers are aging. info: uic.edu.

It seems that Logo’s “Prince Charming” Robert Sepulveda Jr. may have been a high-dollar escort who says he gives money to charity through his non-profit, even thought it appears to have collapsed months ago. info: projectq.us.

For heterosexual couples, most Americans still believe in the traditional division of household

labor between husbands and wives, while for same-sex couples, they think the “more masculine” partner and the “more feminine” partner should generally be responsible for stereotypically male and female chores, respectively, suggests a new study. info: asanet.org.

Equality California-sponsored blood ban resolution has cleared the California legislature. info: eqca.org.

A study examined families’ journeys to accepting transgender children, with mothers playing a key role. info: asanet.org.

Victory Institute and partner organizations convened Colombia’s major political parties to discuss implementation of LGBT inclusion clauses in the historic peace agreement between the government and FARC guerilla movement. info: victoryfund.org.

Francis DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways Ministry, issued a statement supporting a gay priest who was removed from the ministry. info: newwaysministry.org.

The Pride Fund to End Gun Violence PAC announced the appointment of five new members to its board of advisors, including Barbara Poma, businesswoman and owner of Pulse nightclub and Billy Manes, editor-in-chief of LGBT magazine Watermark. All five new members are Orlando-area residents affected by gun violence, including two family members of victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting, and one survivor. info: pridefund.org.

The National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce set records at its recent International Business & Leadership Conference. From an unprecedented number of attendees (1,000), to history-making policy announcements, to the most business connections and new ideas ever forged at an NGLCC Conference, this year’s was unlike any other, organizers said. info: nglcc.org.

Equality Federation and Lyft, a national ride sharing service, announced a new partnership to drive equality forward in the communities called home by offering new users to Lyft up to $50 off on their first rides. info: equalityfederation.org.

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news

Pride 2016

NC Pride festival, parade set for late September Statewide festival continues its legacy

by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

DURHAM, N.C. — The NC Pride and Parade will be held on Sept. 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., on the campus of Duke University, 712 Broad St. In its 32nd year, it kicks off with its 5k run at 8:30 a.m., followed by the festival, with speeches at noon and the parade at 1 p.m., breaking up the celebration. The event brings the LGBT community together from Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and Carborro, as well as the surrounding area.

The celebration also includes a night festival in Raleigh and Durham and across the Triangle from 10 p.m.-4 a.m.

Additionally, there will be a NC Pride drag bingo event on Sept. 17, 6 p.m., at Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4907 Garrett Rd., to benefit the Alliance of AIDS ServicesCarolina. Vivica C. Coxx will serve as hostess.

Tickets are $15 are are available for purchase online at bit.ly/2bOmHpM. As of press time, the schedule of entertainers and other festival-related information was not available.

Vendors, either non-profit or for-profit, individuals, groups, organizations or companies, who wish to showcase their services and products can find important information and details online, including costs and specifications. There are prices for submissions before Sept. 16 and after Sept. 16 and up to the day of the festival.

Application for places in the parade are

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available online. Deadline is Sept. 15. Entry fees are: business, commercial, political candidate and parties — $125/marchers, $200/float (small business and local organizations) and $375/float (large corporations and organizations with over $1 million in sales); non-profit organizations and groups — $60/marchers, $75/vehicles and $150/ floats. Full details and requirements are included on the applications. Check-in time caps out at 11 a.m. The parade route begins on the campus and follows along W. Main, Broad, Green and 9th Sts., and then back to W. Main St. to the starting point.

The reviewing stand will be located at the corner of W. Main St. and Broad St. NC Pride is also seeking convertibles, horseback riders, golf carts, flatbed trailers, horse carriages and antique cars for the parade. Email info@ncpride.org to learn more.

Food vendors seeking to sell at the festival site must be Duke University and Health Department approved. An application detailing all requirements is online.

Accommodations are available at host hotels: Raleigh — Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, 421 S. Salisbury St., 919-834-9900; Durham — Double Tree by Hilton, 4810 Page Creek Ln., 919-9416000 and Millennium Hotel, 2800 Campus Walk Ave., 919-383-8575; and Chapel Hill — Hampton Inn, 1740 Fordham Blvd., 919-968-3000.

For more information, visit ncpride.org. : :

Sept. 9-22 . 2016

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Fall & Winter Fashion

M

ilitary fatigues and apparel are all the rage for the fall season and readers can be part of the “in crowd” with an assortment of options to look sharp and drill ready. Now they see, now they don’t in this selection of camouflage apparel and accessories designed to help you stand out while you blend in. Can you say, “ten-hut?” Be attention-getting and strut your stuff. 1-2-3-4…

Camo Chameleon Be set to stand out this season

by Mikey Rox :: guest contributor

2 Drop and Give ’Em Twenty Herschel Supply Co’s. Charlie Wallet in woodland camo helps you eliminate lopsided back-bugle from suit pants and skinny jeans with its slim, streamlined design that provides just enough space for an ID and a couple cards. Available at jackthreads.com, $20.

3 Precious Cargo Your EDM-festival fashion game gets lit like a glow stick in these leather laser-etched jogger-style cargo pants in shimmering silver from designer Daniel Won. Available at danielwoncollection.com, $1,195.

7 Desert Kween 1 Bombers Away Wear white after Labor Day like a maverick with Alpha Industries’ stark snow-colored camo bomber jacket in a vintage fit that features a zip pocket on the sleeve; two-button-closure hand pockets; and ribbed collar, cuffs and hem. Available at theidleman.com, $193.

You’ll turn more than a few high-and-tights during Fleet Week in Daniel Won’s laser-perforated Anthony camo tee made from genuine lambskin. Available at danielwoncollection.com, $695

5 Bag Drag Show your support for America’s Armed Forces by turning old military uniform tops into functional, practical duffel bags complete with semi-leather sides and nylon-webbing handle from Military Apparel Company. Available at militaryapparelcompany.com, $55.

6 Tied & True

4 Private Parts Ditch your military-grade tighty-whiteys and prepare your troops for battle in the G.I.-inspired camo-print MeUndies available in boxer shorts, boxer briefs, trunks, and traditional briefs. Available at meundies.com, $24.

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Camouflage goes formal — because who isn’t on the hunt when they’re lookin’ fly AF? — with this wool tie from The Hill-Side, a Brooklyn-based, brother-run company known for its blue collar-ish aesthetic.

Available at J.Crew, $124.

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life

Fall & Winter Fashion

Fashion Week returns to the Carolinas Charlotte, Winston-Salem and Greensboro celebrate design, boutiques and models

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff

F

ashion Week events take place in Charlotte, Greensboro and Winston-Salem in September and into early October, bringing together both emerging and noted designers, boutiques and models.

Charlotte Fashion Week Sept. 20-24

Greensboro Fashion Week Sept. 22-25

Winston-Salem Fashion Week Sept. 30 — Oct. 2

Key events: Sept. 21 — Public kickoff event at Ferguson Showroom, 129 W. Summit Ave., Charlotte, 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 22 — Runway show featuring boutiques at McBryde Hall, Winthrop University, 695 Scholars Way, Rock Hill, doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.

Sept. 23 — Runway show featuring the emerging and recyclables competitions, in partnership with Opera Carolina, Hilton Center City, 222 E. 3rd St., Charlotte, doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.

Sept. 24 — Runway show featuring kids fashions Hilton Vince Camuto Center City, 222 E. 3rd St., Charlotte, doors open at 11:30 a.m. and the show starts at 12 p.m.

Sept. 24 — Runway fashion show and gala, featuring a sit down dinner and dancing, Hilton Center City, 222 E. 3rd St., Charlotte, doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.

Notable designers: Designers with work in Charlotte Fashion Week shows include, but are not limited to, Italian-American women’s footwear designer Vince Camuto, most famous for co-founding Nine West; Premal Badiani, founder of Poshaac - Couture and Accessories; and Tygerian Burke, founder of Tygerian Lace.

Charlotte Fashion Week will raise money for Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger relief organization. More information and tickets are available online at charlotteseen.com.

Key events: Sept. 23 — Emerging designers runway show, 203 S. Elm St., Greensboro, doors open at 6 p.m.

Sept. 24 — Retailers and boutiques runway show, 203 S. Elm St., Greensboro, doors open at 6 p.m.

Sept. 25 — “I Do” runway bridal show, 203 S. Elm St., Greensboro, doors open at 4 p.m.

More information and tickets are available online at greensborofashionweek.com.

Key events: Oct. 1 — Runway shows throughout the day and into the evening, featuring designers and boutiques and an evening body art show, Marriott Downtown Winston-Salem, 425 N. Cherry St. Oct. 2 — Runway show featuring youth designers, retailers and boutiques, Marriott Downtown Winston-Salem, 425 N. Cherry St. Meet the designers reception and art exhibit immediately following.

More information and tickets are available online at wsfashionweek.com.

Artist combines industrial, cultural elements into fashion Tara Locklear’s creations are made from recycled skateboards

by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

Tara Locklear, a studio jewelry artist who resides in Raleigh, N.C. and is a graduate from East Carolina University with a BFA in Metal Design, brings a fresh and eclectic style to her wearable creations by using as her base material recycled skateboards.

“Bringing industrial and cultural building blocks of our daily environment into focus for viewers is the foundation of my work,” Locklear shared. Her research, exploration,and formation of these materials are at the very core of her practice. “From recycled skateboards holding the footprint of past riders to cast concrete, the trademark of masons, my materials all have inherent beauty, strength, and a value beyond their functioning identit,” she added.

She uses the overlooked items to prompt discussions of memories and more. And, they serve as a life script to the viewer. Assembling materials in a sculptural format helps convert her idea that jewelry “is and can be anything the wearer desires.”

Inspired by urban environments, her designs are comprised of industrial and re-purposed elements resulting in an interpretive visual dialogue of jewelry. Her work has been shown in across the U.S. and Canada.

Locklear exhibited and was co-curator for Monochrome Noir at Velvet Da Vinci Gallery and 50/50 Equal Parts at The Gray Gallery in Greenville, N.C. Her work can be found currently at Heidi Lowe Gallery in Rehoboth Beach, Md., J.Cotter Gallery in Vail and Beaver Creek, Colorado, Gallery Lulo in Healdburg, Calif. and Light Art and Design in Chapel Hill, N.C. She has recently taught workshops at Brooklyn Metals Works in Brooklyn, N.Y., Pratt Institute in New York, N.Y. and Society of Contemporary Craft in Pittsburgh, Pa. She is a recent 2014 Society for Contemporary Craft Lydon Emerging Artist Program Finalist.

For more information, visit taralocklear.com. : :

Tara Locklear’s creations are industrial in appearance and are created from recycled skateboards and cast concrete.

Shown here is a brooch and a necklace.

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news BUILD THROUGH

News Notes continued from page 7

Triangle Network welcomes manners expert

RALEIGH, N.C. — The Raleigh Business and Professional Network will hold its monthly meeting on Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m., at P.G. Werth’s, 927 W. Morgan St. Joining them will be Steven Steven Petrow Petrow, author and authority on modern manners.

Petrow is a columnist for the Washington Post, Digital Life for USA Today, the New York Times and Everyday Health. He hosts and executive produces “The Civilist” podcast, a WUNC-TV and Public Radio International co-production.

Reservations can be made online. info: raleighnetwork.org.

Youth group resumes

DURHAM, N.C. — Upsidedown, a group for youth 12 and under, will resume meetings on Sept. 11 from 2-4 p.m.

The organization is available to those who are “transgender, genderqueer, gendervariant, questioning, lesbian, gay, or bisexual, and all of their allies,” said executive director Amy Glaser. It meets twice a month for “friendship, support and changing the world,” she added.

Participants are able to engage in projects and activities as a group.

Its older counterpart, iNSIDEoUT, is available for those who are 13-19.

Both groups’ boards are busy planning Pride activities, electing board members for the school year and more.

A fall leadership retreat will be held from Sept. 30-Oct. 2 at Kerr Lake. Email insideoutamy @gmail.com to learn more.

Both organizations are seeking volunteers to assist in programs. Email Glaser for more details and how individuals can support the two groups.

Additionally, new faces are encouraged to join the board, especially transgender individuals and people of color who have legal expertise or skills in fundraising and financial management.

An adult allies brunch will take place on Nov. 6, 12 p.m., at the old Carrack Art Museum, 111 W. Parrish St. info: upsidedown180.org. insideout180.org.

Equality gala announced awardees

RALEIGH, N.C. — Equality North Carolina Foundation has announced its champions of equality recipients who will be recognized at its 10th Annual Equality Gala to be held on Oct. 15 at the Raleigh City Center Marriott, 500 Fayetteville St. The Bob Page Equality Champion Award goes to Madeline Goss. She and her partner Luke and her daughter live in Raleigh, N.C. She advocates for the LGBT community, especially for transgender individuals.

Charlotte, N.C. Mayor Jennifer Roberts is the Jamie Kirk Hahn Ally Award recipient. Roberts has been at the epicenter of the fight for LGBT rights when her guidance and leadership helped to bring LGBT inclusion to the Queen City with a non-discrimination ordinance. Since then the North Carolina General Assembly enacted one of the most anti-LGBT pieces of legislation with the passage of HB2. That occurred on the coattail of the ordinance being voted in the affirmative. As a leader and as an ally, Roberts has been stalwart in her fight for LGBT rights.

The Legislative Leadership Award for the House of Representatives goes to Rep. Larry Hall who represents Durham County, N.C.’s 29th District. He was a staunch opponent to Amendment One and has been on the battleground against HB2.

Sen. Terry Van Duyn will receive the Legislative Award for the Senate. Van Duyn is being honored for her commitment to improving LGBT North Carolinians’ lives.

The foundation’s Organization of the Year Award will be presented to the North Carolina NAACP. This year the organization has stood alongside the LGBT community in its fight against HB2, as well as their dedication to equality for all.

Early bird registration for the gala is now open and is available online. Tickets are $135/individual, $50/active duty military, $175/individual plus VIP reception, $100/military plus VIP reception, $1,125/tables of 10 and $1,600/tables of 10 plus VIP reception. Pre-paid guests of donors, sponsors, etc. do not have to pay but must verify by email to bgraumann@equalitync.org in order to be accepted for the rate. info: equalityncfoundation.org.

Network adds staff

RALEIGH, N.C. — The NC AIDS Action Network has announced the addition of Matt Martin as its new grassroots advocacy coordinator.

Martin is a Western Carolina University graduate. He most recently worked on the Turn Out Charlotte and Turn Out NC campaigns with Equality North Carolina. Prior to that he served as a middle-school band teacher in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools system in Charlotte, N.C. During the fall, Martin will lead the network’s outreach efforts across the state. He is currently looking for volunteers to assist him at Greensboro Pride on Sept. 17 in Greensboro, N.C. and NC Pride on Sept. 24 in Durham, N.C. Email him at matt@ncaan.org. info: ncaan.org.

Center names top volunteers

RALEIGH, N.C. — The LGBT Center of Raleigh, 324 S. Harrington St., has announced its 2016 Volunteers of the Year.

Artie Cline and Kellie Burris “captured the attention” of the center during the past year, organizers said.

They will be presented with their awards at the center’s gala, Boots on the Ground,” on Oct. 7, 7 p.m., at the Sheraton Hotel Downtown Raleigh, 421 S. Salisbury St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

The evening’s program includes a seated dinner, silent auction and entertainment by Peter Lamb and the Wolves.

Burris, the Program Volunteer of the Year, spent time rejuvenating the Women’s Initiative at the center, along with other commitments to center programs. Her first foray into service was with the center’s library.

Cline, the Center Volunteer of the Year, serves as a welcoming committee of one

for visitors who go to the center. In fact, he is the longest continuously-serving volunteer for the center.

The Distinguished Service Award, Community Impact Award, Ally of the Year and Organization of the Year recipients will be made available at a later date.

Silent auction items include, but are not limited to, tickets to the North Carolina Symphony, a Whole Foods gift basket and membership for two at the NC Museum of Art. Tickets are $125 for individuals, $1,000 for tables of 10 and $125 for special guest sponsorship until Oct. 1 when the price for single tickets goes up to $150. info: lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.

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Western Ally visits youth org

HICKORY, N.C. — Outright Youth of Catawba County and Stand Up Speak Up will welcome Jane Clementi as their guest on Oct. 3, 6:30 p.m., at the Crowne Plaza, 1385 Lenoir Rhyne Blvd. S.E. Jane Clementi, who will share her heartwrenching story with attendees, is the mother of Tyler Clementi who took his own life due to bullying. Upon his death his mother formed and co-founded with her family the Tyler Clementi Foundation, which dedicates itself to ending online and offline bullying schools, workplaces and faith communities.

Tickets are $25 which includes a buffet dinner and are available online.

The event is sponsored by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams and Catawba Valley Medical Center. info: outrightyouthcv.org. standspeak.org.

South Carolina Takeover expo, gala sells out

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Takeover Grand Strand held its Business Expo and Gala on Aug. 20 at the Marina Inn at Grand Dunes to a sell-out crowd of LGBT community members and allies.

Keynote speaker was Stonewall National Museum & Archives Executive Director Chris Rudisill from Florida who also serves on the board for Equality Florida. A poignant Dance of Love tribute to Orlando was presented and is available for viewing at bit.ly/2bS506Q. Local artist William H. Miller contributed his “Community Pride” acrylic on canvas as the event’s raffle item. The art piece was also turned into 100 signed and numbered commemorative posters which sold at the Expo. info: takeovergrandstrand.com.

A tribute to honor Orlando with dance was part of the Takeover Grand Strand’s Gala festivities.

Photo Credit: Carl Kerridge Photography

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Positive Thoughts

The HIV vaccine search The International AIDS Vaccine Initiative marks 20 years

by Oriol R. Gutierrez Jr. :: QSyndicate contributor

M

ark Feinberg, M.D., Ph.D., is the new president and CEO of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI). He took over as head of the organization in September 2015. He leads a global team of scientists, clinicians and advocates in the search for preventive HIV vaccines that are safe, effective and accessible.

Prior to joining IAVI, Feinberg was the chief public health and science officer for Merck Vaccines. He served 11 years in total at Merck & Co. in various leadership roles, working on the pharmaceutical company’s vaccine and infectious disease efforts,

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which included rotavirus, human papillomavirus, shingles and HIV. Most recently, he led the company’s efforts on a promising Ebola vaccine.

Feinberg has more than 30 years of experience in HIV care and research. He was on the faculty at the University of California, San Francisco, Calif. and the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Ga. He was on the medical staff at San Francisco General Hospital and Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, and he was a medical officer in the Office of AIDS Research at the National Institutes of Health.

What are your thoughts on IAVI marking its 20th anniversary this year?

It’s both a chance to reflect on what the organization has accomplished, as well as to think about its future. This year also marks 20 years since the advent of effective antiretroviral therapy. Before IAVI, that was a time when the most effective approaches to treating HIV had not yet been codified. However, the discussions to create an entity like IAVI predated the biomedical success of effective therapy.

IAVI is committed to the overall goal of ending AIDS. We recognize that AIDS will only come to an end if an effective vaccine is devel-

oped, but while that work goes on, every aspect of the response to HIV needs to be maximized.

That includes getting as many people as possible who have HIV to know they have the virus and getting as many people with HIV on therapy as soon as they are able. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) should also be widely available.

When an HIV vaccine is developed, it will coexist with other treatment and prevention modalities. That creates complexity, but it also creates opportunity and is a testament to how much progress has been made in 20 years.

That said, the needs remain enormous. Most people living with HIV don’t know their status,

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most with the virus are not on treatment around the world, and most who could benefit from PrEP have no way of getting access to it.

A vaccine would be the best possible solution to address a lot of the barriers that currently limit the impact of available interventions in protecting at-risk populations. A characteristic that distinguishes a vaccine from therapy or PrEP is that you can have a defined regimen of administration that would take place over a short period of time and would offer long-term protection.

What is IAVI’s mission?

IAVI is focused on the goal of developing an HIV vaccine. That includes work that we do in our own research labs and programs. But I think even more important than that is our commitment to maximizing the success of the overall HIV vaccine field. That means that we want to put in place resources that can support the work of investigators outside of IAVI, whether they’re from academic labs or government labs.

One example of that is a service that we provide to investigators who don’t have experience taking promising ideas from the laboratory into the clinic. That involves all kinds of complicated issues, like properly manufacturing the vaccine candidate, assuring its quality, dealing with regulatory issues and designing appropriate clinical trials.

Many of the most brilliant scientists don’t have

that expertise and it wouldn’t be the best use of their time to try to acquire it.

We provide that as a function to investigators. In many ways, what IAVI has designed itself to be in 2016 is an organization that seeks to identify opportunities for greater collaboration in the field. And it seeks to both identify and solve barriers that exist. We are advancing candidate vaccines that have demonstrated promise.

What are some of IAVI’s successes?

IAVI, our scientists and our collaborators have made major contributions to understanding the immune response in people with HIV and to using that information to guide vaccine development. In the course of that work, we have a much more detailed understanding of the structure of the key components of HIV that will likely be the target of protective immune responses, and we have a much better idea about how to design vaccines.

Part of that work has led to the isolation of a series of monoclonal antibodies, both

by IAVI and other investigators, that are now being explored for passive administration to prevent HIV infection.

The goal would be to serve the same purpose as oral PrEP, but you might administer it once every three or six months via an injection rather than having to take a pill every day. There are lots of other, even more promising, antibodies including a number that IAVI and partners helped discover, isolate

and characterize, that are also being explored as therapeutic or curative agents.

Are there other interventions, including immunologic ones like broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies, that could help promote clearance of infected cells that are not somehow reached by drugs themselves?

Are there ways of activating the expression of HIV proteins that could then be targeted by immunologic intervention, such as antibodies, to work in concert with the antiretroviral drugs to cure people of HIV? And if it’s not a definitive cure, can you achieve a so-called functional cure? That exploratory research is going on.

Why is this process so difficult?

Developing an HIV vaccine or some modality to cure people of HIV is dependent upon solving many complicated — and currently incompletely understood — aspects of the biology of HIV infection. They’re much more complicated than anything the scientific community has ever been asked to solve for before.

HIV causes an infection that the immune systems of people with the virus aren’t able to get rid of and persists in them throughout their lives. We don’t yet have vaccines that protect against infections the immune system itself is not naturally able to clear.

Making an HIV vaccine means that we’ll have to do better than the immune system normally does itself. There are a number of exciting ideas about how to do that. Will they work? I don’t know. Is it important to find ways of testing them as quickly as possible? Definitely.

The main barrier is the science, but other barriers relate to how effectively people work

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together to address complicated challenges like this one, which involves a long-term effort.

It involves stakeholders from the public sector, the private sector, academia, government and non-profit organizations. We’re gratified to see increased collaboration in the field. We want to do everything we can to foster that.

What can individuals do to help?

I started working in HIV in 1984. I had no idea at the time that I would be spending my entire career on it. This will outlast me for sure. One of the real challenges is the level of public attention to HIV has waned. Maintaining a durable commitment for as long as it’s going to take to get rid of AIDS is something that I think is an important area for advocacy, not only for IAVI. Individuals can make sure that the world doesn’t forget about the importance of continuing to pay attention to this issue. Continue to advocate for the development of new innovations. In addition, there is always the opportunity for participation in research studies. There’s a lot of work that will need to be done that will require clinical trials involving both people with the virus and HIV-negative people. Without the commitment of people who have been in clinical trials to date, we wouldn’t have the modalities that we have today. : : — Oriol R. Gutierrez Jr. is the editor-in-chief of POZ magazine. Find him on Twitter @oriolgutierrez. This column is a project of Plus, Positively Aware, POZ, The Body and Q Syndicate, the LGBT wire service.

Visit their websites at hivplusmag.com, positivelyaware.com, poz.com and thebody.com for the latest updates on HIV/AIDS.

Sept. 9-22 . 2016

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Positive Thoughts

HIV in America Hatred and acceptance

by Myles Helfand :: QSyndicate contributor ”If you have a deadly disease, it is only proper that other people be warned against getting infected by you,” the comment began. It went quickly downhill from there. ”The HIV infected should be placed on a mandatory tracking list and be tattooed with the BIOHAZARD symbol, just above the genitals, as fair warning,” it continued. ”They should also have a distinctive license and license plate for the protection of LEO’s [law enforcement officials] they encounter,” it concluded, just for good measure.

All of this, ironically, was recently posted in an article on TheBody.com entitled, ”What Does HIV/AIDS Stigma Look Like in Your Life?”

I deleted the comment, of course; TheBody. com isn’t a place for people to beat each other down. But in a twisted way, I appreciated the commenter’s inadvertently perfect crystallization of what HIV stigma looks like in the U.S. today — more than a generation after we learned what the virus is, how it works and how dangerous it can be for all of humanity when we ignorantly condemn a broad swath of society for living with it.

There’s so much about the comment that we could unpack and dissect, but the one that really sticks with me is the feeling it holds at its core that HIV somehow renders a person non-human.

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That it makes them a thing: one of “the HIV infected.” An object to be isolated, tagged as toxic, and cordoned off from the uncorrupted.

I mean, I suppose I could try to address the comment by mentioning pneumonia, influenza, tuberculosis, malaria, hepatitis B or C, infectious diarrhea and the vast, varied constellation of microbes that have attempted to use the human body as an incubator for as long as human bodies have existed on Earth — and which the commenter is likely exposed to (or may even expose others to) on a near-daily basis. In some cases, exposure to that microbe occurs through the biologically imperative action of having sex. In others, it’s through the biologically imperative action of breathing air.

Or I could try to explain why it’s kind of unlikely that a person with HIV who’s driving down a highway will have condomless sex with the police officer who stops them for speeding. Or that, even if a porn video broke out in the middle of that traffic stop, the officer still wouldn’t be at risk if the person was on HIV treatment and had an undetectable viral load.

Or I could ask what additional personal characteristics should warrant such a high level of warning for others who might encounter those people in the world. What level of abstract theoretical risk should trigger a tattoo-

or license plate-level notice? Just HIV? Maybe syphilis, too? All infectious diseases, for good measure? How about mental illness? Epilepsy?

Unstable blood sugar levels due to diabetes?

Texting while driving?

A part of me feels there’s not much point in responding, because any reply I make would be a rational response to a completely irrational train of thought. For more than 30 years, the global HIV community has tried to use research, science and education to counter presumption, ignorance and silence. Yet we still find ourselves surrounded by people who believe that HIV stigma and discrimination isn’t just acceptable, but that it’s necessary.

It’s exhausting. It’s demoralizing. It can make resistance feel pointless.

And, I’m sorry to say, I don’t have any answers.

Look, I realize I’m not remotely the first person to write about how much HIV stigma sucks, and I unfortunately won’t be remotely the last person who’ll write about it either. I also don’t pretend I’ve got a magic solution to the problem; if anything, I think it’s dangerous for us to pretend there is one out there, just waiting to be discovered. Doing so ignores the reality of how wide a turning radius we often have as a society.

We may be more interconnected as a species today than we’ve ever been, but in many ways we’ve also become more fragmented, more easily distracted and more forcefully isolated (both online and off). We’re also more closed off from points of view that might change our minds — as well as from people whose minds we might be able to change.

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I don’t think there’s an ideal way to counter stigma and bigotry. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to acceptance. I’m not even writing this article to offer advice; there’s plenty of that already out there, on my website and those run by the other writers who share this column (among many other people).

I’m just writing this article to say that I know.

I hear the stigma, I see it, and I accept that it exists — and I hate that it does. I can wipe away a single destructive comment, but I can’t make the stigma go away. Instead I acknowledge it.

I’m just one person. But if you feel this way, too, then there’s two of us in this boat. If you know another person who does, then we’ve got three. Maybe it’s not unreasonable to suspect there are a whole lot more, even though this fragmented world of ours can often make it feel like there aren’t.

Maybe, just maybe, if enough of us acknowledge HIV stigma, and make the world aware that we acknowledge it, we’ll find there are enough of us on this boat to help humanity slowly turn away from it.

Or maybe it’s enough, for some of us, just to know we’re not alone. That try as some might to label and judge, they can’t take away our humanity. : : — Myles Helfand is the editorial director of TheBody.com and TheBodyPRO.com.

Find him on Twitter @MylesatTheBody.

This column is a project of Plus, Positively Aware, POZ, TheBody.com and Q Syndicate, the LGBT wire service. Visit their websites at hivplusmag.com, positivelyaware.com, poz.com and thebody.com for the latest updates on HIV/AIDS.

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Walking the Good Road Together

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

Newcomers don’t have to be outsiders?

Are you new to Charlotte or are you looking for an alternate healthcare resource? For those who are, let me share a little bit about Different Roads Home. Different Roads Home is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that offers support services to people with chronic illness, primarily HIV and AIDS. At disposal for our clients is an onsite food pantry where you can pick up goods once a week every 60 days. We also have a great support group called Positive Impact that is for HIV positive, a housing deposit assistance grant, an onsite computer lab, a mentorship program, as well as many other community and educational outreach programs. We also have opportunities for volunteers and office assistants, in addition to needing special event help. You can reach out to us at 704-237-8793 at our office to hear all about these services and offerings.

Also, at this point, I think it is important for me to mention our strategic partnership with our clinical partner Rosedale Medical (Formerly Rosedale Infectious Diseases), located in Huntersville, N.C. At Rosedale they offer the highest quality medical services for not only HIV and AIDS patients, but they also serve general medicine needs in a safe space for LGBT individuals as well as PReP education. They have an onsite lab, a nutritionist, a

mental health counselor, a team of patient advocates and the first-ever Walgreens’ onsite full service pharmacy! You can literally have all your medical needs met at Rosedale Medical for HIV care or compassionate general medicine. Under the leadership of Dr. Frederick Cruickshank, Rosedale has a stellar reputation in the area for service and quality. Call them today at 704-948-8582 to schedule an appointment or answer any questions.

Having your healthcare team is important, but finding ways to stay connected and fit ,too, helps to enhance your wellbeing.

If you are into making friends and staying active, try Stonewall Sports. Stonewall Sports (stonewallcharlotte. leagueapps.com) has a little bit for everyone in the LGBT community. This sports league has offerings like kickball, bowling, dodgeball, volleyball, and soon softball. The other great thing about Stonewall is their commitment to the community and their dedication to giving back. I personally participate in several sports and have made some strong and lasting friendships with this league.

Charlotte also has plenty of professional sports options, whether it is going to a Panthers’ NFL game, a Knights baseball game or a NBA game with the Hornets. There are museums, concert opportunities, great nightlife scenes and a thriving spiritual community. Charlotte also has a great foodie scene emerging from high-end restaurant chains, to local establishments, to food trucks.

The biggest thing I would say to anyone new to Charlotte is don’t be afraid to reach out and join the community as soon as you can. Being part of a greater

community will only enhance your ability to connect with individuals and assimilate yourself into a welcoming environment. By welcoming diverse and talented individuals into our community here in Charlotte, we will not only help them feel more at home, but we will also enhance our own culture and diversity.

I notice that Charlotte is a melting pot for many.

Ironically, I come from a small town in Upstate New York and my small town has many graduates that have found their way to Charlotte. I often refer to our fair city as a gateway to the South. This great country of ours itself was founded on the principles of inclusion and diversity. As we grow in our own expansion and reputation this is how we can welcome others.

One last thing I would be remis to mention is Theatre Charlotte. This local community theater has been around for over 90 years and produces some of the highest quality theater in the area, if not in the country. Different Roads Home is proud of their long tradition and our partnership with them. In October we are doing a first-ever co-production with them as a fundraiser as we produce the Del Shores’ classic comedy “Sordid Lives.” Ann Walker, will reprise her original role as Aunt LaVonda. You can visit carolinatix.org to get great seats to this amazing production that will be running for three nights only, October 13-15. Don’t forget to check out Theater Charlotte’s regular season on their website as well. There are opportunities to see great shows and even participate as a volunteer.

Overall, Charlotte has so much to offer newcomers and natives alike. Thanks to Jim and Lainey here at QNotes as well for always bringing the most comprehensive coverage and articles about the local LGBT community.

Sept. 9-22 . 2016

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life

health and wellness

by Jack Kirven :: personal trainer, qnotes contributor

Eight patterns of wellness Part 1 of 8: Breath In this series, I’m going to share some thoughts about the eight patterns that comprise the eight-week program that is Integre8t Wellness. With these fundamentals in place, you can expect to see enhanced results from your fitness plan. These concepts apply to all fitness and wellness programs, because they are the foundation upon which you will build your cathedral. You have to have that in place before you build the soaring walls and towers or add any of the stained glass windows.

The first, and therefore most essential pattern, is breath. You can survive weeks without food and days without water, but only minutes, or even seconds, without air. Most people generally take breathing for granted. But in those times when you are congested, sick or in someway obstructed, it certainly comes front and center. Rather than pay attention to your breath only when it’s short, learn to become aware of it as a tool that improves your wellness at every level.

Oxygen is essential for your body’s process of accessing and using energy.

All cells in your body are like tiny furnaces, and you can ignite them to burn even more calories as you exercise. It makes perfect sense: Think about how a bellows makes a fire burn hotter. What happens if oxygen escaping a tank comes into contact with a spark? At the cellular level, something rather similar is happening.

With your cells’ nuclei are mitochondria — the bodies that use energy. By breathing purposefully, you allow more energy to be used (resulting in your body temperature going up — you are a flame enveloped in flesh!) and more waste products to be removed. But what is purposeful breathing?

Inhaling through your nose with an open throat while consciously pulling with strength from your diaphragm will create a sound like a wind tunnel in your head. This isn’t a hard, extended sniff that whistles in your nostril, but rather a deeper more powerful internal suction. You will find that breathing from your belly, rather than your chest will allow you to take powerful inhalation — it can often stimulate yawning or light headedness while you first get accustomed to it.

The opposite is to exhale through your mouth, again exerting slowly from your belly.

The back of your throat will be relaxed and open, and a sound similar to a very slow motion cough will come out. In fact, that is a good way to figure out how to engage in exhaling — cough. Test this out. When you cough, you reflexively bare down within your core. This powerful, stabilizing force is the place from which you should breathe. Rather than your chest expanding and contracting, drop down and let your belly inflate and

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deflate like a balloon. This is how babies breathe. Watch one while s/he is sleeping.

Why is this helpful? For one, it helps to energize and cleanse the body. Secondly, it hones focus. Whether for meditation, exercise, mitigating stress or centering your thoughts or emotions, purposeful breathing improves the quality of whatever you are doing. Be particularly mindful of how breath can help when you are working out.

For conditioning, use the tempo of your breath to establish movement rhythm.

Swimming, walking, jogging, biking and other forms of aerobic exercise (by definition) require lots of oxygen. Finding a breathing pattern will help you get through the workout and will magnify your results.

For strength, the rule of thumb is to inhale before you begin a repetition and to then exhale

Breathing correctly aids in one’s wellbeing.

Photo Credit: D.R. via Adobe Stock

a moment after you begin the exertion. Going back to the image of fire: When you’re doing pushups, chest presses, squats and other exercises that require you to work upward away from gravity, imagine that you are a rocket ship.

To take off, they blast fire down toward the ground, pushing the rocket up into the air. Use your breath in a similar manner. Exhale to move upward away from the ground. I just realized it’s a rather funny image, if you think about that while doing squats. : : info: Jack Kirven completed the MFA in Dance at UCLA, and earned certification as a personal trainer through NASM. His wellness philosophy is founded upon integrated lifestyles as opposed to isolated workouts. Visit him at jackkirven.com and INTEGRE8Twellness.com.

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tell trinity

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

Are bisexuals “towing the fence” or just being more open-minded?

Hey Trinity, My girlfriend of five months recently announced that she’s bisexual. Aren’t bisexuals towing the fence? And won’t she have trouble being in a committed relationship?

Confused, Providence, RI Hey Confused, On the contrary, bisexuals simply have an ability to feel attraction for both genders. They are definitely not towing the line nor non-committal, that’s a myth. Being bi means, “I see beauty in both sexes” not, “I must sleep with both sexes.”

Straights and gays have no more or less trouble with commitment than bisexuals. I personally think most of us are born bisexual and learn to express our divine sexual purpose as we grow.

Sweetie, if you really love her, then stay openminded and keep talking about it with her. Aren’t relationships a bitch sometimes?

Dear Trinity, My ex has been stalking me for over a month now. Even though I got a restraining order and had his phone and emails blocked, he still finds ways of reaching me! Help?

Stalked, Trenton, NJ Dear Stalked, Being stalked is one of the worst situations

anyone could ever experience. Unless you turn to the police, plus spend time and money getting this person out of your life, you often end up powerless! It sounds like you’re doing what you can, but the one thing that always helps me in dealing with stalkers, ex-lovers and/or the paparazzi is to take a vacation to a tropical island. Honey, it really is the best revenge! (See how I wave bon voyage as I take a muchneeded respite from a tireless stalker when you check out my cartoon.)

Dearest Trinity, I just started dating a guy, and we fell in love.

Now he wants me to move in with him. We’ve been dating just over a month. Is it too soon?

Fast Moves, Kansas City, MO Dearest Fast Moves, There are two sides to this coin. One side says, “A month? Are you crazy?” The other side says, “you only live once!” Eventually you alone must decide. However, the more time a couple spends together before moving in together, the better chances the relationship has of surviving or ending before too much is at stake. Don’t be afraid of time! My vote is always wait as long as you can before moving in together because, pumpkin, if it does work out, you’ll never have your own private space again, ever again! Get the picture?

a&e

Hello Trinity, I started a new job. Now I’m facing a lot more competition at work then ever before. I never had to be this competitive. Help!

Competition Jitters, Detroit, MI Hello Jitters, Being competitive is an art and a science. Not only should you take courses and read up on it, but, darling, you should also read: Trinity’s Tough Tips For Being Competitive 1. J ealousy from peers is normal. If they can handle your successes, fine, if they can’t, stay away from them!

2. R esearch everyone in your field to learn why some made it and others failed!

3. S tudy everyone and anyone who had or has anything to do with what you’re competing for.

4. Practice, practice, practice!

5. Ask, “How can I be better?” You know you’re good, but you have to keep finding out how to be better!

6. Getting noticed means have a gimmick!

There are a million people doing exactly what you are doing, so do it differently!

7. S tay away from people who don’t believe in you, your dreams or your goals!

8. G ive it time! As with any activity, you’ll get better with time until you become a leader

in your field. Then your competitors become your allies!

9. A ccepting what makes your heart beat with excitement means accepting your dreams and all of its challenges!

10. L astly, remember Einstein failed third grade, Lincoln lost more elections than he won and Edison failed 10,000 times before perfecting the light bulb! So, don’t give up! : : 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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EVENTS September 2016 Continues through Sept. 11 SEP SEP MO South Carolina Pride in Leather Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Columbia-Airport 110 McSwain Dr., West Columbia South Carolina Pride in Leather holds its three-day event full of activities for members of the LGBTQ community and their allies. The group was formed as a non-profit last year. In addition to socializing, attendees can view the main event, The South Carolina Leather Contest. A full weekend pass costs $75, with reduced cost tickets available for those only wishing to attend the contest and formal dinner, just the contest or just the Saturday night party. More information and tickets are available online. scprideinleather.com.

Submit your event to our calendar!

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

Continues through Sept. 25 17Days Arts and Culture Festival Greensboro Various locations and times Artists of all types will take place in this festival, carrying the theme “Fabric of Freedom,” celebrating Greensboro’s history as a “crucible of freedom and social justice.”

It is presented by ArtsGreensboro and funded by a National Endowment for the Arts Our Town grant. The 76th National Folk Festival will be held Sept. 9-11 as part of the larger festival. Over 300 artists of all types will take part. More information is available online.

17daysgreensboro.org. nationalfolkfestival.org.

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–––––––––––––––––––– Continues through Sept. 11 OBX Pridefest Various locations and times OBX Pridefest is a three-day event full of activities and events in the Outer Banks region, including Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills. There will be beach time at Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head on Friday afternoon, a sunset cruise and Pridefest kickoff party, a Friday night concert featuring Steve Grand at Pamlico Jack’s, in Nags Head, the Saturday afternoon Pride Festival at First Colony Inn in Nags Head, a Sunday morning drag brunch at Pamlico Jack’s and more. Tickets and more information are available online. obxpridefest.com.

Upstate Pride Barnet Park 248 E. St. John St., Spartanburg 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

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Upstate Pride is a full day of familyfriendly activities, with more than a dozen performers ranging from drag queens to comedians to magicians.

The day will also include vendors, food, street performers, a photo booth and a children’s area. There will also be a one-mile march through Downtown Spartanburg. More information is available online. upstatepridesc.org.

–––––––––––––––––––– ‘Better Half’ film screening 2016 Stronger Together: SEP SEP MO Out at the Movies HIV/AIDS Advocacy Conference Winston-Salem Winston-Salem State University University of North Carolina FL Atkins Health Sciences Building School of the Arts 601 Martin Luther King Dr., WinstonACE Theatre Complex Salem 1533 S. Main St., Winston-Salem 8:45 a.m.-4 p.m.

7 p.m.

NC Aids Action Network and the NC Tony and Leo have been together for Harm Reduction Coalition (NCHRC) years and have present a conference to discuss the discussed having a challenges of fighting and living with child. When a sickly HIV/AIDS. Attendees can participate in infant is abandoned breakout sessions where topics involvat a local hospital, ing how to improve lives and fight for the Tony sees it as a rights of people living with HIV/AIDS and sign. Director, writer how to reduce harm will be discussed. and producer Michelle Clay, as well as NCHRC will also provide technical actor Jamie Fauth, who plays Leo, will assistance on starting a legal syringe participate in a Q&A after the film via exchange program. Registration is Skype. Tickets cost $7, $6 for seniors. available online at bit.ly/2aYpnQg. More More information is available online. information is available online. outatthemovieswinston.org. ncaan.org. nchrc.org.

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Greensboro Pride SEP SEP MO S. Elm St., Greensboro 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

A full day of fun and entertainment will make up Greensboro Pride, which will feature vendors, food, entertainment and a kid’s area. The organizers have promised that this year’s event will be bigger and better than ever before. More information is available online. greensboropride.org.

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–––––––––––––––––––– Catawba Valley Pride SALT Block 243 3rd Ave. NE, Hickory 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Continues through Oct. 9 SEP SEP MO ‘Mothers and Sons’ Gaddy-Goodwin Teaching Theatre 301 Pogue St., Raleigh Dates and times vary Raleigh Little Theatre presents “Mothers and Sons,” a powerful contemporary drama. It centers around a woman who pays an unexpected visit to the partner of her late son, who is now married and has a son of his own. She is challenged to face how society has changed in recent years and to imagine the life her son might have led. More information and tickets are available online. raleighlittletheatre.org.

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Event SEP SEP MO Stand Up Against HB2 Neighborhood Theatre 511 E. 36th St., Charlotte 12 p.m.-11 p.m.

Musicians will stand up against HB2 and in support of organizations Equality NC and QORDS with performances starting in the afternoon and Catawba Valley Pride will celebrate the continuing into the LGBT community and its allies in the night. Acts include region. The festivities will happen on the The Loudermilks, lawn of the SALT Block and will include Cuzco, Jon Lindsay, a variety of vendors. There will also be a short pride march. So short, in fact, that Dust & Ashes, The Business People, Jr. Astronomers, Bless These Sounds they call it the World’s Shortest Pride Under The City and more. Tickets are Parade. More information is available $15 in advance and $20 on the day of online. the show. Children 12 and under get in catawbavalleypride.org. free. Tickets and more information are available online.

Celebrate neighborhoodtheatre.com/ Bisexuality Day event/1273045-stand-against-hb2-northcharlotte.

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Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/

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life

Our People:

Q&A with LeMond Hart Charlotte’s thrift fashion guru shares the inspiration for his creativity

by Maria Dominguez :: qnotes contributor

Having been active in the fashion world for the better part of 20 years, LeMond Hart has seen and done it all. The 43-year-old (“25 on Facebook”) has modeled all over the world, but returned to his hometown of Charlotte with his husband of 18 years. Hart’s store, the House of LeMond on Monroe Rd., was founded on the principles of individuality and thrift. Every item in the shop is as unique as its memorable owner, providing customers with an affordable way to express their own personality through fashion — just as Hart was inspired to do.

What inspired your love of fashion?

Fashion is my ministry. Fashion allows me the opportunity to pay forward what was already done for myself. Fashion saved my life.

The love of fashion saved my life. My mom was murdered when I was 12 years old and I was really introverted and everything, and my band teacher back in 8th grade caught my attention because he used to dress real dapper… he pulled me to the side one day. I didn’t really have people that I could confide in, and he kind of came in and acted like a big brother / dad type figure, and that little bit of attention he showed me and encouragement, he gave me some insight…. He changed my perspective.

He showed me how to tie neckties and stuff like that, and that got me started.

Did that experience inspire your store right now?

Absolutely, and thrift shopping allowed me an opportunity to start dressing really well.

People appreciated that, I got some modeling opportunities … Everything I’m doing now is what I’ve learned throughout my entire experience traveling around the world, and now I get to serve, I say #tothekids.

Where have you traveled?

Munich, Germany; Verona, Italy; New Jersey, Oklahoma, California, Africa, and I’m going back to Ghana next year, Jamaica, Puerto Rico.

What brought you back to Charlotte?

One, being a native of Charlotte and understanding how it was growing. I wanted to be on the ground floor of that. Having the opportunity to have traveled, I’ve had the experiences and seen models going through different cities. I saw how models in New York had a network of people that they deal with, and if you’re not in that network, people don’t want you. Why do that when I could establish a platform here?

What makes your personal style unique?

I don’t do boxes, so when most people say to think outside the box, I’m already there.

Even with my vintage styling, I love vintage clothing because of the details, the patterns and textures that are a lot bolder than today’s creations. So what I do is take those pieces and present them in a more modern way. I use the traditional pieces and modernize them.

It allows my guys to go to places or attend different events as the individuals that they are. You don’t have to worry about running into someone with the same piece on … if there’s more than one, I’m not going to buy it.

What’s your favorite avenue for creativity?

I just recently created, I call it the “Renovated House Collection.” It’s a jean jacket line. The jean jackets are brand new, and then I go to fabric stores and purchase like high-end leather and upholstery, and I completely deconstruct the jacket and recreate it. I’ll add like leather sleeves and hoods and things like that.

I just did one custom for Rico Burrino (SP?) for his video that he did last week.

Do you have hobbies aside from fashion?

I love exercising. I love being with my husband. My husband and I like to go on bike rides.

How would you describe your happy place?

My happy place is being in my store!

What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?

I’m low-key introverted. : :

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