QNotes, Oct. 9-22, 2015

Oct. 9-23 . 2015

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Vaccinations now available for HPV, cancer

qnotes news & features

news. views. arts.

5 entertainment.

Pat McCrory at prayer rally 6 News Notes: Regional Briefs 8 News Notes: U.S./World Briefs 9 Commission adds protections

Information and resources aid patients in making important informed decisions. page 10

a&e / life&style 5 10

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Marian Tyson dies Vaccinations available for HPV, cancer Questions remain for trans men, women Charlotte gay rugby scene Charlotte Contempory Show Health and Wellness Tell Trinity Q Events Calendar Our People: Ann Hooper

Our People Ann Hooper is an activist and breast cancer survivor who shares her passion for the arts and the community. page 19

Gay rugby in the Queen City Guest contributor Mary Gross shares her first experience watching gay rugby athletes in tourney play. page 12

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life

In Memoriam

Long-time LGBT community supporter passes away Tyson provided safe haven for LGBT people to be themselves

by Lainey Millen :: lainey@goqnotes.com

Marian Frances Allison Tyson, 82, died on Sept. 24 at Levine-Dickson Hospice at Southminster in Charlotte, N.C. Marian and her husband, Floyd/“Okey,” were the original owners of The Scorpio, a nightclub that caters to the LGBT community. They wanted to create a safe haven for LGBT people to be themselves and not have to worry about being judged. And, this was done during 1968 when state and national laws were not so kind to the LGBT community.

An ally, Marian was regularly seen at the door collecting fees and making everyone feel at home. She checked IDs, kept order and ensured that the safety of the patrons was maintained.

The Scorpio originally opened on South Blvd., but moved later to S. Tryon St. before it landed in the early 1970s at the Freedom Dr. location where it still exists.

“They [Marian and Okey] started it because they had gay friends,” said current owner Donald O’Shields in 2014, noting how few other bars in the area catered to gay clientele. “They listened to their friends.”

The backdrop in those beginning years was at the precipice of gay liberation amidst the Stonewall Inn riots. What Marian and Okey Tyson began has been sustained for over 40 years and has served as a legacy to what they contributed to the community.

Shields began his sojourn with The Scorpio in 1979 when he called to inquire about applying for a job. Marian told him that she only hired

people she knew who came out to the bar. Shields shared, “I had only been to the bar one time but I told her she’d recognize me when she saw me. She asked ‘Can you come down here now?’ and when opportunity knocks, you always answer the door! I said I’d be right down, hopped in the shower, drove there, walked in and she said ‘I remember you, go on back there now.’” “…I was privileged to work for this precious woman from that night for the next 10 years, except for a stint in the Army. Then in January of 1989, Marian and her husband Okey decided to sell the bar they had opened over 20 years before. My partner Rick Wilds [d. 2008] and I were fortunate at the time to be in the position of purchasing The Scorpio and I am proud of the 36 years I have been here and so very thankful that this woman and man [who] gave a couple of guys the opportunity they did,” he added.

Shields’ sentiments regarding Marian’s death said it best. “It is with the saddest of hearts this week that I had to say goodbye to Marian for the last time. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. She truly touched many lives. Bye for now Marian, I love you so.”

Not only did the Tysons own and run a bar, but they also did the same with regard to their other family businesses, Tyson Tool Equipment and Ideal Tool Equipment.

Marian was preceded in death by her husband and parents, Howard and Clara Montgomery Allison. She is survived by her children, Diane Tyson and Michael Tyson, and sister, Martha Carpenter, as well as grandchildren Jamie (Crystal) Tyson and Trevor Tyson and great grandchildren, Scottie Tyson, Kevin Tyson and Arianna Conner.

Graveside services were held at Forest Lawn West Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be made to Levine-Dixon Hospice at Southminster, 1420 E. 7th St., Charlotte, N.C. 28204. : : — compiled from information from The Charlotte Observer, qnotes archives and personal interviews.

Gov. Pat McCrory appears onstage at prayer rally Sits with head bowed as religious leader bashes gays, says the U.S. ‘deserves judgment’

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes contributor

He proceeded to lay out a litany of what he sees as offenses, including “homosexuals praying at the inauguration.”

He also took issue with the removal of the Bible and prayer from public schools, abortion, which he said has left “55 million babies dead.”

In May of this year, McCrory vetoed a religious exclusion bill to allow court officials to avoid officiating same sex marriages if it goes against their beliefs, gaining praise from the

Gov. Pat McCrory attended a prayer rally on Saturday, Sept. 26, after previously trying to distance himself from an ad that ran in The Charlotte Observer ahead of the event. His office said it overstated his involvement.

“Come join me in a time of worship, prayer, fasting and repentance,” the ad said, alongside the governor’s picture and name.

The rally was organized by the far right, Christian Conservative group the American Renewal Project.

After speaking about substance abuse issues, McCrory asked for prayers, at which time religious leaders took to the stage and surrounded him where he sat.

They laid hands upon him and American Renewal Project founder David Lane spoke to the crowd, casting America as a lost country that “deserves judgment” and must be saved.

“The problem is us,” Lane said. “A Christian nation, founded for the glory of God and the advancement of the Christian faith, has left God.”

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LGBTQ community. The state House voted to override that veto, which is now law.

The community was less pleased with McCrory’s decision to exclude LGBT protections in an executive order he signed in July of last year, which prevents discrimination for state workers on the basis of “race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability and genetic information.” : : associated coverage: McCrory will veto bill: goqnotes.com/35349/ House overrides veto: goqnotes.com/35381/ LGBT protections missing from exec. order: goqnotes.com/30050/

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qnotes connect Oct. 9-22, 2015 Vol 30 No 12

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen

Gold issues statement HICKORY — Mitchell Gold, chair of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Home Furnishing, has issued a statement against religious zealots who say that being an LGBT individual is a sin.

“I believe the time has come to end the harmful teachings by some religious denominations that being gay (LGBT) is a sin, or whatever words they use to demean, call evil and cause enormous pain to LGBT people, especially to our vulnerable youth,” he said.

Gold has indicated that there has been a shift in attitudes about the LGBT community among some religious denominations and leaders, “From evangelicals to Presbyterians to Catholics to Conservative Jews.…

An evolution has taken place on understanding human sexuality and the “natural place of same-sex love in it,” he added.

“History has proven that using religious teachings to cause enormous harm to innocent people is wrong. I have faith in America to be better to all its citizen — but especially innocent, vulnerable youth,” Gold stated.

He has called for others to share the story of Faith in America’s efforts and to implore religious leaders to end harm to the LGBT community.

“Carl Siciliano, founder of the Ali Forney Center, Mitchell Gold [one of] the nation’s largest organization dedicated to Photo Credit: DCVirago via Flickr. homeless LGBT youth, and I are asking people to make Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 their voices heard by signing our petition on change. org.” They also want people to “get a more personal understanding of the stakes involved” by watching the short film, “Not a Sin,” presented by non-profit Faith in America. We hope they will share both with those they love and with those who can learn from its powerful message.

Learn more online at Faith in America and the Ali Forney Center. Use the hashtag #LGBTNotASin when joining the conversation, as well as the hashtag #FollowFrancis to help get the message out in needed arenas. info: faithinamerica.org. aliforneycenter.org.

— L.M.

Charlotte Get ‘spooky’ for HRC

CHARLOTTE — The Human Rights Campaign will host its Fright Night at Scarowinds on Oct. 9, 5:45 p.m., at Carowinds Theme Park, 14523 Carowinds Blvd.

The special VIP experience is “spooktacular” and participants get early access into the park, thus allowing for head-of-line placement for attractions.

A photographer will be on hand to take individual and group photos. A section of Harmony Hall will be cordoned off for the HRC event throughout the evening. A full cash bar will be available and food will be available for purchase.

All HRC perks for the evening are included in the general admission ticket, as well as a one-year membership or renewal. No need to purchase both. One free speed pass is part of the package price. Tickets are transferable, but not refundable. Cost is $38/VIP. For those with park season passes, the HRC perk pass is $10 and entitles holders to the skip pass, DJ and early entry. info: hrc.org/scarowinds.

— L.M.

Compass to receive award

CHARLOTTE — The Compass Group USA will receive a Diversity Leadership Award for Corporations from the Society for Diversity at their retreat and conference on Oct. 21, 6:30 p.m., at the Hilton University Place, 8629 JM Keynes Dr. The conference runs from Oct. 20-23.

The organization acknowledges corporations, non-profits, educational institutions and

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individuals who have exceptional practices and define the leadership standard for diversity and inclusion.

Leah Smiley, president of the Society for Diversity, said, “This year’s nominees have demonstrated benefits that extend to all who interact with them.” For example, at Compass Group USA, diversity and inclusion drives its success. The diversity and inclusion strategy at Compass Group allows the company to keep its competitive advantage, providing an environment of inclusion where all its associates can come to work and bring their best selves. As a result Compass Group NA has experienced phenomenal growth in the last five years, the organization shared.

Recently approved for 10 re-certification credits by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), the conference and the awards dinner is open to the public. Tickets to the dinner are $150. Other associated costs to attend are available online along with dinner ticket purchase. info: retreat.societyfordiversity.org. compass-usa.com.

— L.M. and releases

Carolina youth conference slated

CHARLOTTE — The Third Annual Conference on Queer Youth will be held on Oct. 23, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, Student Union, 9201 University City Blvd.

School K-12 staff, helping professionals and community members will convene for this one-day event.

It is a unique opportunity for area representatives to network, dialogue and organize around issues important to the healthy development of LGBTQ youth in K-12 education. The

conference is presented through a partnership of Time Out Youth and UNCC’s Multicultural Resource Center.

Four day-long institutes will be presented aimed toward youth, educators, helping professionals and community organizers. Workshop topics include: Know Your Rights in K12 Schools (for staff and students), Connecting Social Science Research with Activism, Best Practices for Working with LGBTQ Populations, Transgender 101 and 201, and others.

The institutes will feature leaders in their respective fields, including Ann Clark, Superintendent of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools; Dr. Ellen Essick, NC Healthy Schools section chief of the North Carolina Department of Instruction; Dr. Holly Savoy, licensed psychologist in Charlotte; and Chris Brook, legal director of the ACLU of North Carolina.

The keynote speaker for this year’s conference will be Holden Cession, a local activist who is currently a North Carolina NAACP Moral Freedom Summer Organizer for Guilford County. Cession has been involved with the Queer People of Color Collective (QPOCC) and interned with the Bayard Rustin Center, where they co-organized the third annual Bayard Rustin Symposium at Guilford College.

Registration is free for youth and $25 for adults and is available online. info/registration: timeoutyouth.org.

— L.M. and releases

Triad It’s’ Time Warp’ time!

WINSTON-SALEM — The Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance, 1047 Northwest Blvd., will bring “The Rocky Horror Show” to the stage this month, complete with audience participation.

Performances are at 8 p.m. on Oct. 23, 24, 28-31, 2 p.m. on Oct. 25 and a special midnight show at 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 31, just in time for Halloween.

Cascading toilet paper and an array of other audience-participation props help bring this rock and roll sci-fi gothic classic back in full form in this revival, including the classic “Time Warp.”

Tickets are $18/adult and $16/senior (62+) and student and are available online. info/tickets: wstheatrealliance.org.

— L.M.

Movie fest scheduled

WINSTON-SALEM — OUT @ the Movies Fest will be held Nov. 12-15 with 20 screenings being shown at a/perture cinema, 311 W. 4th S.; Salem College, 601 S. Church St.; and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA), 1533 S. Main St..

The festival is presented by BB&T. Each feature will be preceded by a short.

Throughout the festival, there will be special appearances by film directors, performers and VIP events, along with Q&A sessions, brunch, among others.

All-Access Festival passes are currently on sale for $60 online. Passes are good for one admission to any of the screenings, the celebrity receptions and Sunday evening awards party. Tickets for individual screenings are $8 and will go on sale at a later date.

Announcement of the full slate of films will be made in mid-October.

Proceeds from the event benefit the North Star LGBT Center and UNCSA’s School of Filmmaking.

Visit the festival website to see the list of films, learn more about them, other special events and visiting personalities.

Read the expanded coverage online at goqnotes.com. info/tickets: OUTattheMoviesWinston.org.

— L.M. and releases

Foundation sets festival date

WINSTON-SALEM — The Adam Foundation has announced that its 26th Annual Adam Festival, “A Sure Bet!,” will be held on Nov. 7, 7 p.m., at The Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts, 251 Spruce St. N. Enjoy an evening filled with casino games, hors d’oeuvres, music, dancing and a silent auction. Dress is semi-formal attire.

Tickets are $40/advance, $50/at the door and includes two drink tickets and two chips for casino play. Tickets can be purchased online.

Sponsors are being sought. Levels are: $1,000/platinum, $500/gold and $250/silver. A festival high-roller pre-party will be held on Nov. 6. The foundation will email the location upon receipt of sponsorship. Contact organizers with interest by Oct. 31 to be included. info: adamfoundation.org.

— L.M.

Triangle Network hosts trans 101

RALEIGH — The Raleigh Business and Professional Network will hold its monthly dinner meeting on Oct. 14, 6:30 p.m., at P.G. Werth’s, 927 W. Morgan St. Elaine Martin will explain through her Transgender 101 presentation, information on transgenderism, key statistics and trends, challenges and more.

Registration is required to attend and is available online. info: raleighnetwork.org.

— L.M.

SAGE is cinema bound

RALEIGH — SAGE Raleigh is heading out to the movies on Oct. 18, 7 p.m., to see an AARPsponsored screening of “Freeheld” at the Rialto Theatre, 1620 Glenwood Ave. The film explores issues involving what happens when a lesbian couple beset with news is about one of them being diagnosed with cancer.

The adaptation of the documentary shares the love story between Laurel Hester and Stacie Andree and their fight for justice when Hester, a New Jersey police detective, wishes to leave her pension to Andree, her domestic partner, and gets pushback from her superiors. The film stars Julianne Moore and Ellen Page.

Reservations for the showing are free on a first-come, first-served basis, are required to attend and are available online. Email Les Geller to learn more at lgeller@ lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.

On Oct. 24, SAGE will join forces with the trans and allies groups to hold its “All Souls’ Spooktacular Halloween Dance and AfterParty” at 6 p.m. at the LGBT Center of Raleigh, 324 S. Harrington St. Bring a side dish, dancing shoes and good “spirits!” info: lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.

— L.M.

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Martin to perform

DURHAM — ¡Hola! Ricky Martin will bring his “One World Tour” and Latino moves to the stage on Oct. 21, 7:30 p.m., at the Durham Performing Arts, 123 Vivian St. Special guests Wisin and pop duo Ha*Ash (Hamma Nicole and Ashley Grace) will join him as well.

The multiple Grammy Music Award and Latin Grammy Award winner Martin has completely designed the show with both classic and new hits, along with elaborate choreography and more.

Tickets are $55-$125 and sell out fast, so purchase quickly. info/tickets: dpacnc.com.

— L.M.

‘Race’ star stops in the Triangle

for her performance that blends strip tease and fetish with acrobatics. In “Kiss & Tell,” she combines her talents with many of the traditional elements of burlesque: from classic to fetish, circus, vaudeville and sideshow, set to a soundtrack spanning from brassy 1950s to contemporary pop. In addition, she will be supported by a cast of other performance artists, promoters said.

Part of her mystique comes in her costuming for her performances which she designs.

She was intimately involved in the creation of her “Drag Race” coronation gown with Anthony Canney from House of Canney.

Chachki has also released a five-track extended play fan favorite, “Gagged,” that is loaded with club tracks.

Her tour is being presented by Live Nation and Producer Entertainment Group. info/tickets: ritzraleigh.com. livenation.com/ artists/152467/violet-chachki.

— L.M.

Western Dining event approaching

RALEIGH — Violet Chachki, reigning queen of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” will bring her “Kiss & Tell” burlesque road show to the capital city on Nov. 7, 9 p.m., at The Ritz, 2820 Industrial Dr. A VIP meet and greet will take place at 7 p.m.

Chachki, an Atlanta, Ga., native, is an accomplished aerialist and has become known

HICKORY — AIDS Leadership Foothillsarea Alliance (ALFA) will host their “Party Like Gatsby” Dining for Friends Finale on Oct. 23, 6 p.m., at the Warehouse 18, 18 2nd St. S.E. Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, silent auction, dancing and live music by Victoria Club while winding down and celebrating the annual fundraiser.

Attendees are encouraged to dress in period attire. A Best Dressed Award will be given out during the evening.

Silent auction items up for bid are showcased on a link to their Facebook page on the ALFA website.

Tickets are $30/advance and $40/at the door. Party hosts and guests contributing $30 or more gain free admission.

In other news, at press time Not Your Mama’s Bingo has raised $7,285. Additional contributions are encouraged and welcomed to help sustain ALFA’s work in providing services to the community. info: alfainfo.org.

— L.M.

Women’s concert slated

SWANANNOA — Womansong will present its fall concert, “Tender Lady,” on Oct. 23, 7:30 p.m., and on Oct. 24, 3 p.m., at Warren Wilson Presbyterian Church, 701 Warren Wilson Rd. The concert will feature uplifting, entertaining and empowering songs with a focus on women. The title song, “Tender Lady” — written by Margie Adam and made famous by Cris Williamson — speaks to the pain many women endure and how music can help ease that pain. The concert will debut “There’s Hope,” an inspiring song by India Arie, along with other new pieces and beloved songs from the choir’s repertoire, organizers shared.

Proceeds from the concert will benefit Our Voice and Helpmate.

The chorus has a CD for sale entitled “I Will Carry You: Songs of Comfort and Healing.”

The title song was composed by Womansong member Lytingale. It also includes songs by lo-

news

cal composers Sue Ford and William Stanhope, among others. Now in its second printing, its first pressing sold out within weeks after a concert. Cost is $20.

Tickets are $15/adults, $8/children under 12 and are available online. info: womansong.org.

— L.M.

South Carolina ‘American Dream’ gala opens sales

COLUMBIA — SC Equality will hold its “The American Dream: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” Equality Awards Dinner and Gala on Nov. 7, 6 p.m., at the Marriott Downtown, 1200 Hampton St. The event will be a night of celebration surrounding one of the biggest years yet in the fight for equality — from the General Assembly in Columbia, S.C., to the U.S. Supreme Court and back to communities all across the Palmetto State.

Guests include statewide and local elected officials, major donors, community advocates, and supporters of South Carolina equality.

Tickets are $115/individual, $175/individual plus VIP reception and $1,125/reserved tables of 10. Pre-paid guests who contribute $1,200 or more (donors/sponsor guests) are admitted free. Verification is required via email to prepaid@scequalitygala.org. info: scequality.org. scequalitygala.org.

— L.M.

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news notes: u.s./world. compiled by Chris Tittel :: qnotes contributor

Academy exercises authority to expel five-year-old Across the street from Mt. Erie Baptist Church in San Diego, Calif., is Mt. Erie Christian Academy, an elementary school whose student population has just decreased by one due to institutionalized homophobia.

The parents of a five-year-old girl were recently notified that their daughter would no longer be able to attend the school, where she’d also gone to preschool and summer camp.

Why? Because this girl has two moms, a fact her parents Lashaune and Sheena say was already known throughout the church community.

“They told us, ‘oh this is not about your child,’ but it is about my child,” said Sheena, who asked that her last name not be used.

“If we knew from the beginning that this was unacceptable, they didn’t condone or believe in this, if it was such a big deal, we would have never started her off there,” she continued. “I would never put my child’s emotional well-being in an unstable setting like that.”

Just a few days before school was to start, Lashaune and Sheena were called into the school for a meeting with the pastor.

After a prayer, he broke the news.

“It was heartbreaking,” Sheena said. “I didn’t finish the conversation with them when they took us in the room because I just, I didn’t

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want to look at them any longer. I just couldn’t believe that they did that.”

The school’s non-discrimination policy was

revised in June 2015, and now reads: Mt. Erie Christian Academy is a religious, Bible-believing institution providing education in a distinct Christian environment, and it believes that its biblical role is to work in conjunction with the home to mold students to be Christ-like.

On those occasions in which the atmosphere or conduct within a particular home is counter to or in opposition to the biblical lifestyle that the school teaches, the school reserves the right, within its sole discretion, to refuse admission of an applicant or to discontinue enrollment of

a student. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, living in, condoning or supporting sexual immorality; practicing homosexual lifestyle or alternative gender identity; promoting such practices; or otherwise having the inability to support the moral principles of the school (Leviticus 20:13a; Romans 1:21-27; Matthew 19:4-6; I Corinthians 6:9-20).”

Current law gives private religious institutions, including schools, carte blanche to adopt and enforce any policy they claim is in line with their religious beliefs.

Some, like San Diego attorney Eugene Iredale, think that might change in the next five to 10 years if a case like this were to be brought before the Supreme Court.

“Now the question is where do you draw the line?” Iredale said to the area’s local 10 News.

“If you have a religion that believed in human sacrifice or amputation of the arm or the hand for theft, would we permit that in the interest of permitting the free practice of one’s religion? I don’t think so, and one could argue that psychologically… this is as devastating to the little five-year-old girl as some of those other vicious practices.”

Meanwhile, Sheena and Lashuane’s daughter just wants her life back.

“I miss my friends. I miss my teachers,” she said.

— LGBTQ Nation (lgbtqnation.com), a qnotes media partner

Cowabunga, man!

Smithers comes out in March

The sexual orientation of The Simpsons’ Smithers, acidic assistant to perpetually prickly billionaire Montgomery Burns, has long been an open secret. He’s constantly spotted in Springfield’s gay neighborhood, once vacationed at an all-male resort and is often lost in lusty flights of fantasy involving Mr. Burns. Now, in the show’s 27th season, Smithers will finally be coming out once and for all.

Speaking with TV Line, executive producer Al Jean revealed the coming out party will be covered over a twoepisode arc.

“In Springfield now, most people know he’s gay, but obviously Burns doesn’t,” said Jean.

“We deal with that in two episodes… We actually do a lot with Smithers this year; he gets fed up with Burns not appreciating him and considers his options.”

While the show’s writers have long defined him “Burns-sexual,” audiences will finally get to know the real story — and the real Smithers.

The episodes will be airing in March.

— LGBTQ Nation (lgbtqnation.com), a qnotes media partner

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Commission adds protections Wake County joins other municipalities across the Carolinas on protections

by Lainey Millen :: lainey@goqnotes.com

RALEIGH — On Sept. 21, the Wake County Commission added sexual orientation and gender identity to its employment protections.

The county is the second largest by population in North Carolina.

Equality NC Executive Director Chris Sgro said, “This is an important first step towards the full complement of necessary protections for gay and transgender Wake County residents. We look forward to working with local governments all across the Old North State on the county and city levels to pass similar protections.”

“The fight toward full lived equality for folks living inside Wake County is far from over. ENC will continue its efforts with other community leaders and coalition partners to have these protections extended to every resident,” Sgro added.

Wake County became the eighth county or municipality in the state to include these or similar protections in ordinances. Others are Asheville, Boone, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Charlotte, High Point and Raleigh.

During September, the North Carolina General Assembly almost tipped in the other direction when its members were presented with legislation to strip local governments of their ability to pass ordinances which protected its LGBT residents in the areas of employment discrimination, housing and public accommodations. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of North Carolina (ACLU-NC) joined other advocates in fighting against this part of the proposed legislation.

“In the waning hours of the legislative session, the ACLU and our allies worked tirelessly to educate both members of the General Assembly and the public about the devastating discriminatory consequences of such a law. A broad coalition that included civil rights groups, faith leaders and local governments came together to stand up and fight — and today, we’re proud to tell you that we won!,” ACLU organizers shared.

“We applaud the Wake County commissioners for joining the growing list of county and city governments that have expanded workplace protections in the interest of fairness and equality,” said Susanna Birdsong, Policy Counsel for the ACLU-NC. “Everyone deserves a fair chance at employment and advancement in the workplace, and no one should ever lose their job because of who they are or who they love. Employers know that part of attracting and retaining the best employees is offering a workplace that is fair, where qualified individuals are not discriminated against based on characteristics unrelated to the job. The sad reality is, despite overwhelming public support for protecting LGBT workers in North Carolina, it is still legal to fire or refuse to hire someone because of their sexual orientation in much of our state.

We urge the General Assembly and other local governments across the state to pass comprehensive employment protections for LGBT workers,” Birdsong added. info: equalitync.org. acluofnorthcarolina.org.

Oct. 9-23 . 2015

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Breast Cancer Awareness

Vaccinations available against HPV, cancer Information and resources aid patients in making important informed decisions

by Chris Tittel :: qnotes contributor The Virus HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection. The virus is passed through intimate skin-to-skin contact, typically during vaginal or anal sex.

“HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get it at some point in their lives,” the CDC website reads. “HPV can be passed even when an infected person has no signs or symptoms.”

The virus comes in about 150 different types.

About 40 of those types can cause certain cancers in both women and men later in life.

“Though most HPV infections go away on their own, some HPV infections persist,” the website reads. “HPV infections that don’t go away can cause changes in the cells in the infected area, which can lead to genital warts or cancer. There is no way to know which people will develop cancer or other health problems.”

HPV gives rise to about 27,000 new cancers in American men and women every year.

The Vaccine Vaccinating against HPV early in life can help prevent cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, tongue, tonsils and throat later in life.

Health authorities recommend the vaccine for anyone between the ages of 11 and 26. This includes both men and women, regardless of sexual orientation.

The vaccine, administered in three doses over a six-month period, is considered safe, with no serious side effects.

“The benefits of HPV vaccination far outweigh any potential risk of side effects,” the CDC website reads.

Photo Credit: sudok1 via Dollar Photo Club

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homas Frieden needs your help in the fight to save the next generation.

In 2013, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) responded to a report on the effectiveness of a new vaccine to fight human papillomavirus (HPV).

The vaccine showed a 56-percent success rate in lowering HPV infections among teenage girls during the seven years since it was first introduced to the public.

Frieden was quoted in a CDC press release: “The report should be a wake-up call to our nation to protect the next generation by increasing HPV vaccination rates.”

At the time, only about 30 percent of teenage girls nationwide had received the vaccine.

Vaccinating 80 percent of these girls against HPV, Frieden said, could save about 4,400 of them every year from developing cervical cancer later in life.

“Through these promising results, public health experts and clinicians look forward to more people getting vaccinated for HPV,” the press release reads.

Bottom line: Vaccinating against HPV is vaccinating against certain types of cancer.

How can you become a superhero in the war on cancer? Learn more about HPV, get vaccinated and spread the word.

The Providers The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) helps qualifying families access HPV vaccine at little or no cost through county health departments.

For families with children up to age 19, NCDHHS partners with the federal Vaccines for Children program to help cover the cost.

These families qualify if their children meet one or more of the following criteria: • Enrolled in or eligible for Medicaid • No health insurance • Native American • Underinsured (private insurance that doesn’t cover HPV vaccine) Private doctors, federally qualified health centers and rural health centers also offer the vaccine. : :

HPV Vaccine in Mecklenburg County HPV vaccine is available at little or no cost to children and young adults up to age 19 who meet Vaccines for Children program guidelines. Vaccine is also available to anyone up to age 26 through private doctors, federally qualified health centers and rural health centers.

Mecklenburg County Health Department, Charlotte.....................................................................704-336-4744 Mecklenburg CHD Refugee Health Program, Charlotte...............................................................704-432-2496 C.W. Williams Community Health Center, Charlotte.......................................................................704-393-7720 Centro Medico Latino PC, Charlotte..................................................................................................704-333-0465 Northcross Medical Center, Huntersville.........................................................................................704-896-3313 South Lake Pediatrics, Huntersville...................................................................................................704-801-3097

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life

Breast Cancer Awareness

Despite years of breast cancer research, questions remain for transgender men, women Education, self-advocacy, key to making a difference now and in future

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes contributor

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esearch into breast cancer is extensive, but it is still severely lacking when it comes to transgender men and women. In spite of the fact that we know more about breast cancer now than ever before, we know little about how it affects the transgender community.

It has left those individuals wondering about their risk of developing breast cancer with more questions than answers.

JoAnne Keatley, director of the Center of Excellence for Transgender Health at the University of California, San Francisco, told BuzzFeed (bzfd.it/1QRdg2t) back in 2012 that this is primarily due to the people who control research money thinking transgender health issues are a political hot potato. Federal grants are unavailable as a result and even private donors shy away.

While some progress has been made socially in the past few years, with an overall increase in transgender awareness, things have not progressed scientifically at the same rate.

The American Cancer Society recognizes and outlines the issue with their Transgendered and Transsexual Individuals Access to Care and Cancer Disparity Fact Sheet (bit.ly/1OPByw).

They point out that there have not been any studies looking into the incidence of breast cancer in transgender individuals.

There have only been three documented cases of breast cancer among this population, but, they note, “that is likely a significant underestimate, given the hesitance of many transgendered individuals to reveal their transsexualism to their physicians.”

The Women’s Health Initiative published a large study in 2002 that suggested a connection between Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in cisgender (that is, non-trans) women and an increased breast cancer risk. Consequently, many assume there is an increased risk among male to female transgender women who begining hormone therapy.

Female to male transgender men undergoing HRT may also face an increased risk, as excessive testosterone can be converted into estrogen. Additionally, transgender men may be uncomfortable with the idea of getting a breast exam or self administering one.

Many are also likely unaware that even after chest reconstruction surgery, some of the breast tissue cells may remain.

Putting this information in the hands of those about to begin HRT would be a step in the right direction, as many are never informed of the potential for increased risk.

Justine Matlock, a 23-year-old trans rights activist living in Charlotte, N.C., said she was aware of the increased risk of breast cancer, but only as a result of her own research.

“I was aware, but only because I had to be,” Matlock said.

“Being trans, most people inherently ascribe political aspects to my identity, and being who I am, I got pissed. I feel like an exception to the rule, because in order to get people to fundamentally understand me, I spent two years of my life being a hardcore activist.

“At the very beginning of my transition? I had no idea,”

Photo Credit: Richard Villalon via Dollar Photo Club

Matlock continues. “I didn’t even know how to get hormones, much less [was I aware of the increased risk for] breast cancer.”

Transgender men and women also face substandard care more often than their cis counterparts. Many physicians aren’t adequately educated on transgender identity and health issues.

Bad experiences in the past may cause a transgender person to avoid going to the doctor in the future, which makes early detection of cancers or other health problems less likely.

According to The American Cancer Society, female to male transgender individuals who have undergone HRT are also at a higher risk for ovarian cancer due to the amount of testosterone ingested. Transgender men may also feel uncomfortable with screenings looking for ovarian cancer.

Meanwhile, male to female transgender women may be at an increased risk of prostate cancer due to reduced levels of testosterone and, again, some increased potential for hesitancy to consent to screenings.

Of course, other factors, both genetic and environmental, play a role in the risk for developing breast cancer. Quitting or not starting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, and getting screenings, especially as one gets older, are all important steps to take in order to decrease the risks.

But individual action can only go so far.

A concerted effort to educate physicians, transgender individuals, and the wider public about these issues would go a long way to help address the issue. Well-funded research studies would also provide the possibility for illuminating this issue at long last and getting some answers on how transgender men and women are affected by breast cancer, as well as other cancers.

Until that happens, there will remain a cloud of confusion, ignorance and denial on these important health concerns for a community that is all too often ignored. : :

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life

SPORTS

Playing the Field What I learned from my first gay rugby tournament

by Mary Gross, Charlotte Agenda :: guest contributor

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Hosted by the Charlotte Royals, the Queen o some people, the phrase “gay rugby” may seem odd. But City Crown is the first International Gay Rugby when I found out about Charlotte’s gay rugby tournament on tournament in Charlotte. In fact, it’s the first Sept. 26, I wasn’t really surprised. one in all of North Carolina.

Back in my rugby playing days I was surrounded by talented Since I clearly didn’t see homophobia in female athletes who identified as LGBT. My gay teammates and I my own rugby experience, I needed to talk to worked out hard and partied hard. It didn’t matter who they dated someone who has lived it. Thank goodness or who I dated (no one), I had their back out on the field and I Craig Maxwell, the Charlotte knew they had mine.

Royals club manager, agreed But that was women’s to give me his first-hand rugby. I never realized that perspective. men’s rugby was any different.

“Despite the fact that sevIt is different. A lot different. eral professional athletes have recently come out When I first heard about as gay… it’s all too clear to gay men that athletics the Queen City Crown (held at is still an area where discrimination is a reality,” the Rugby Athletic Center), I he said. “Especially in a sport as traditionally thought it would be the perfect masculine as rugby, gay athletes worry about setting to grab a few beers and (and have faced) verbal and physical intimidation watch some good-looking legs on and off the field.” run up and down the field.

Maxwell and his teammates formed an But then I started researchinclusive team to give athletes a place to play ing gay rugby.

Mary Gross in her collegiate days playing rugby. their sport without this intimidation. But they don’t What stood out were the Photo Credit: Charlotte Agenda just play gay teams. A big part of their schedule is articles about World Rugby and playing straight teams, which helps to break down the stereoInternational Gay Rugby coming together to help end homophotypes that have been created in rugby. bia in their sport.

And by watching the matches on Sept. 26, you wouldn’t know See how naive I was? I didn’t even realize there was hothat this was a “gay” rugby tournament. It was just as tough as mophobia in rugby. regular rugby, just as intense as regular rugby and certainly just Clearly this tournament was about much more than beer as dirty as regular rugby. drinking and checking out a good set of calves.

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Tournament play in Charlotte, N.C., at the Queen City Crown.

Photo Credit: Charlotte Agenda

The only way I could even tell I was watching gay rugby was when I stood behind the team’s bench on the sidelines.

It’s not every day you hear “I feel like I’m in that Flashdance scene” and “I’m going to go Mean Girls on their a**” at a men’s rugby match. Plus, when I left, Demi Lovato was blaring over the loud speakers.

Demi Lovato or not, when the athletes were competing it was clear that they weren’t concerned about one another’s sexual identity. They were focused on their next tackle, their next ruck, their next try. On the pitch there’s no social agenda.

I think Maxwell said it perfectly: “Part of our club’s mission statement is to break down barriers in athletics. We’re out on that field for the same reason as everyone else: because we love the sport.” : : — reprinted with permission from the Charlotte Agenda

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Oct. 9-23 . 2015

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Mint Museum exhibitor and craftsman featured at Charlotte Contemporary Show includes over 100 artists

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes contributor

F

‘Blue Silos and White Elevator’

Sterling silver, copper, kiln-fired glass enamel. 16” tall.

goqnotes.com

or three days — October 16, 17, and 18 — the Park Expo Center, 800 Briar Creek Rd., in Charlotte, N.C., will play host to one of the largest and most eclectic art, design and fashion shows of the year. More than 100 artists and crafters will show and sell their work, including sculptural and functional art in glass, wood, porcelain, metal and mixed media. Fashion and jewelry will also be on display.

Robert Farrell will show his metalwork, which has been acquired by a number of museums around the country, including the Mint Museum here in Charlotte, and, most recently, the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Farrell describes himself as a lover of old things — antiques, toys, houses — as well as nature. Both influences are evident in his work, which has a sense of quiet stillness about it, while at the same time remaining powerful and affecting.

“I hope that people see the beauty in the ordinary structures and objects that surround us, objects that are disappearing and objects that instantly evoke a particular time in the history of our world,” Farrell says. “The objects that I’m creating seem to have the same effects on my clients as they do on me: they make me smile, they make me sad, they make me remember, all at the same time.”

Farrell was born in the town of Fort Atkinson, Wisc., in 1960, and lived in a house that his great-grandfather built. He also partly grew up in Venice, Fla., and now splits his time between the two small towns, in the same two houses he grew up in. They are the only houses he has ever lived in, in fact.

His adolescence, by his own account, was not an easy one. But the discomfort he experienced socially may have been the very thing that spurred his creative development.

“When I was a kid, I was fat,” Farrell says. “And I was gay, even before I knew what it meant. Kids can be pretty brutal, and even though I loved school, loved learning and loved my teachers, junior high and high school were, at best, difficult. I gravitated toward the things I was good at, namely art and English. Art, in particular, earned me positive attention that I welcomed.

I never made a conscious decision to pursue art in general or metal specifically.”

‘Winter’ In spite of the newfound positive (two white pieces) attention, troubles Sterling silver, copper, kiln-fired glass remained. enamel. 18” tall.

“In junior From the collection high, I discovered of the Philadelphia alcohol and pot Museum of Art. — it was the ‘70s — and ended up dropping out of high school my junior year, not because I didn’t like school, but because I couldn’t cope with the harassment,” Farrell recounts. “I went to an alternative high school, then on to junior college for a couple of very blurry years, and then moved back up to Wisconsin to go to college.

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

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‘Meditation’

Sterling silver, copper, kiln-fired glass enamel, 23k gold leaf. 24” tall.

“I took general liberal arts courses and focused on English while taking a variety of art classes for fun. I seemed to be best at creating three dimensional objects and concentrated on functional ceramics. After several semesters, my ceramics professor told me that this time I was going to make non-functional, hand-built objects and I freaked out and dropped the class. I had taken a couple of metals classes and switched my focus there, primarily making jewelry.”

He quickly found success.

“While still in college, I entered a state-wide college-level exhibition and won first place for a large sterling silver and amber neckpiece,” Farrell says. “The juror was Ruth DeYoung Kohler, of the Kohler Company. I also entered my first retail, juried show, The Milwaukee Lakefront Festival of the Arts, and received one of 10 awards. Metals, it seemed, was the way for me to go.”

Eventually the tables began to turn again, and Farrell found himself slipping into a state of despair once more.

life

“When I hit 50, I had just come out of an exhausting relationship, had lost focus, was bored with my own work — in short, I was at a low point and felt empty,” he remembers. “I had always loved old things. I lived a life surrounded by antiques, loved the study of ancient civilizations and their buildings and ceremonial artifacts and loved structures of all kinds.”

It was an interest informed by both his early surroundings and later travels.

“Having grown up in the Midwest, and spending years driving around the country going to shows, rural structures, particularly those in varying states of decay, had always floated around in my subconscious,” he says.

“I had always wanted to make a silo, or a water tower, or a barn. I took an enameling class at a local art center in Venice that was taught by a 92-year-old woman named Marion Worthington.

The first class changed the direction of my career, I discovered color.”

As it turns out, he was in the exact right place at the exact right time.

“I was at just the right level of misery — I was alone, broke, disappointed with life, hadn’t had a drink in 20 years but had found no serenity and I thought, ‘What the hell, I’m going to make a silo.’ And I did, and I sold it. So I made a water tower, and I sold it.

“For the first time in almost three decades, I was making work that I was emotionally connected to and, in turn, discovered that other people were emotionally connected to the imagery I was using as well.”

Farrell says he has never felt more inspired than he does right now.

“I’m making the best work of my career at this point,” he says. “Each piece seems to be more satisfying than the one before. I have more ideas than time, and am very grateful.” : :

‘Green Water Tower and White Elevator’ Sterling silver, copper, kiln-fired glass enamel.

16” tall.

Oct. 9-23 . 2015

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life

health and wellness

by Jack Kirven :: personal trainer, qnotes contributor

Healthful sweeteners: Satisfying your sweet tooth without undermining your wellness Having a sweet tooth isn’t necessarily bad unto itself. In fact, our palettes evolved so that we would crave the foods we need. Our differentiated taste buds helped us to survive during the eons without consistent and constant food sources. Umami/savory taste buds cause us to crave proteins and fats. Ever had an urge for something salty? This underscores a need for minerals. Sour and bitter have become rather neglected in the American diet, but both motivate us to get vitamins from plant sources (and also protect us from poisons). Meanwhile, a yearning for sweetness comes from the body’s need to use carbohydrates for energy. Each flavor category has a distinct function in the human diet, so none of these impulses are unhealthful at their core.

The problems arise when we experience imbalances in our cravings. We adapted over millions of years to be extraordinarily adept at surviving famines, which happened with startling frequency over the millennia. In modern, industrialized societies hunger is largely obsolete; however, our metabolisms don’t know that. We crave calorically dense foods, because our bodies are always alert for opportunities to store fat as a buffer against the next extended fast.

In the last few decades, there has been a mistaken notion that all fats should be eliminated from the diet and replaced with any type of carbohydrate at hand. Isolating sugars

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Stevia is better than other sugar-free sweeterners, but is still not a fully healthy choice for wellness.

Photo Credit: Daniele Depascale via Dollar Photo Club.

from their whole plant sources triggered a staggering uptick in diabetes, heart disease and various other ailments that never existed in broad numbers in the past. Now these diseases are at epidemic proportions. Enter artificial sweeteners. These zero-calorie substances were supposed to help people lose weight and avoid metabolic diseases. They have, however, made the problem even worse.

When the brain detects sweetness, it tells the pancreas to excrete insulin. Insulin is what causes the body to store fat. When insulin is floating around in the blood, the body must store energy. That is the purpose of insulin. Artificial sweeteners trigger this insulin response much stronger than natural carbohydrates, so even more food is stored than might otherwise be. To make matters worse, artificial sweeteners are connected to kidney failure, Alzheimers, diabetes, obesity, suicidal bouts of depression and a host of other health problems. Clearly, these substances should be avoided as much as possible.

What to do then? First, gradually retrain your palette away from sweetness. High fructose corn syrup and other processed sugars are practically impossible to avoid, if you eat a diet high in processed ingredients. Reduce your intake of these pre-packaged “foods.” Begin implementing whole carbohydrates, like fresh fruits and vegetables, into your meals. Whole grain breads, pastas and crackers can work too. What is helpful about these sources of carbohydrates is that they come with fiber and fiber slows down the digestive process. This allows your body time to gradually absorb the starches and sugars, mitigates the insulin response and keeps the bowels functioning properly.

Stevia products are better than chemistry projects gone awry; however, it is highly processed and, therefore, suspect. What’s left? Raw honey is an excellent alternative to practically any other sweetener. It is not a low calorie food, so use it intelligently. It is sweeter than sugar, so you shouldn’t need much. Raw honey does not cause insulin spikes; it provides a host of enzymes, minerals and nutrients; if locally produced, it can reduce inflammation and springtime allergies; and it has antimicrobial properties. Be certain that your honey is raw, otherwise you will be consuming what is tantamount to artificial pancake syrup. : : 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

Get rid of boredom forever Dearest Trinity, It seems like I so easily get bored which eventually puts me into a depression. How do I fight it?

Bored, Albany, NY Dearest Bored, People who keep busy with projects, hobbies, work or keep an active social calendar rarely get bored, ask any workaholic, athlete or socialite. Boredom is the “lack of activities you create in your life, not life itself.” Start building an active daily calendar, i.e., think theater and events, volunteering, joining a gym and/ or creating your own events to keep you busy.

Remember, pumpkin, boredom leads to depression, activities lead to happiness!

Hello Trinity, I’m about to get married, but I keep thinking, “What if I end up divorced, left alone or losing everything?” Is it normal to think about divorce when one is about to get married?

Divorce Doubts, Jacksonville, FL Hello Divorce Doubts, Almost every couple waiting in that long, marriage certificate line at city hall has flashes of divorce. It happens to me every time. Thinking about divorce before getting married is healthy and even healthier if you put something down

in writing, like a prenuptial. You can always borrow my line, “If you love me you’ll make sure I’m taken care of emotionally and financially.

(Hey, my cartoon sure will show you how my thinking on this subject plays out in my head.)

Dear Trinity, A few months ago I started dating a great guy, but recently he got sick and is now dying. With hospital stays and home visits, it’s becoming very hard to keep up the relationship. Would I be evil to stop dating him?

It’s All Changed, Montreal, QC Dear Changed, The most difficult challenges in life often prove to be the most transformational. Thus, you have two choices, a) continue dating and truly learn about love and compassion or b) stop dating and ruin someone’s last few months on earth.

Oh, or c) keep dating, but have a separate, quiet (maybe even romantic) life on the side until he passes. Sweetie, if you choose c), I’m sure you’ll learn that being a good caretaker also means taking care of your needs as well!

Hey Trinity, When it comes to being seductive, I fall flat. I just don’t know how to be flirty. Help?

Falling Flat, Chicago, IL

a&e

Hey Falling Flat, Seduction takes practice, patience and persistence not pushiness. Also, darling, try reading: Trinity’s Sassy Tips For Being Seductive 1. C lothing: Showing your assets, hiding your flaws and visiting your local leather shop have made coming home after work some people’s greatest pleasure!

2. P ackaging: When pageant contestants want to seduce judges they have their teeth whitened, dress tightened, hair styled, body smelling great and exude charm. Get the picture?

3. E xercise: You don’t have to be muscular or shapely to seduce everyone, but to seduce someone you may want to exercise along these lines!

4. W omen: If you’re a good listener, easy to talk to, like to go with the flow and appreciate adventure, the night could go on forever.

5. Men: Charm, sensitivity, kindness and attentiveness are your built-in seducing mechanisms. Use it, don’t abuse it!

6. Home: An unmade bed, dishes in the sink and a dirty bathroom seduces zoo animals.

Humans just get discussed whether they say something or not! If you can’t clean, hire someone!

7. G lasses: It’s hard to give great eye contact or kiss someone’s face passionately with glasses on. Need I say more?

8. S tudy: Watch how other people dress, act and move when they are being seductive,

then steal everything you think would work for you!

9. Attitude: Thinking like a seducer or seductress will get you further faster than thinking that you’re a boring, unattractive dish spunge!

10. Lastly, Self Esteem: Seduction is about feeling good, being charismatic and calm, rolling with the punches and having fun! It’s about adventure, not about fear or avoiding mistakes. Now get out there and live. 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.

Oct. 9-23 . 2015

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EVENTS October 2015 Alamance Pride Festival Downtown Burlington 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Burlington celebrates their Alamance Pride Festival featuring community groups, vendors, music acts and food and beverages.

Alamance Pride is a free event. More information is available online. alamancepride.org.

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Continues through Nov. 1 SEP OCT MO Seminar’ PlayMakers Theatre 150 Country Club Rd., Chapel Hill 7:30 p.m., some 2 p.m. shows Four aspiring young writers pay big money to learn from a legendary novelist, but their work and their egos will be thoroughly dissected. A fast paced, no-holds-barred comedy about power, sex and the nature of art.

This PlayMakers Repertory Company production stars actor Ray Dooley.

Tickets range from $15-$45. More information and tickets are available online. playmakersrep.org.

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‘The Year We Thought SEP OCT MO About Love’ Studio Movie Grille EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., D290, Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

Carolinas Pride Theatre Ensemble, a project of Freedom Center for Social Justice, hosts a screening of “The Continues through Oct. 18 Year We Thought About Love” as a SEP OCT MO South Carolina Pride in fundraiser for the organization’s theatre Leather 2015 work. What happens when a diverse Columbia group of LGBT youth dares to be “out” on stage talking truthfully about their lives? The documentary goes behind the scenes of the oldest queer youth theater in America. In a twist on the common image of LGBT youth as victims, the film reveals the troupe members as artists and activists, celebrating the fullness of their lives in both thoughtful and hilarious ways. Tickets are $10 and are South Carolina Pride in Leather is a non-profit organization, and will be available online. hosting a series of events during SC tugg.com/events/40280.

Pride this year. These include a family friendly cookout, sumo wrestling, charity poker, and lube wrestling. Saturday cookout only tickets are $20, weekend event tickets are $40. Funds raised will go to support LGBTQ and leather charities. More information and tickets are available online. scprideinleather.com.

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Submit your event to our calendar!

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

AIDS Walk & 5K Run SEP OCT MO Dix Park, Umstead Dr., Raleigh 9 a.m.

The Alliance of AIDS Services holds its 15th annual AIDS Walk & 5K Run at the 308-acre Dix Park in Downtown Raleigh. The event is expected to draw over 1,000 people and will raise funds to help people living with HIV/AIDS in the Triangle area of North Carolina. Both a timed run and an untimed fun run will take place. $25 for adults and $12 for children under 12. Registration is available online. racereach.com/r/aids-walk-5k-run.

–––––––––––––––––––– Pride Winston-Salem 2015 Downtown Winston-Salem 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

Pride Winston-Salem will celebrate their LGBT community with a day of vendors, information tables, entertainment and a parade. Singer Debby Holiday will perform on the main stage. Pride WinstonSalem is a free event. More information is available online. pridews.org.

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Forbidden: Queer and Undocumented in Rural America’ Film Screening UNCC Student Union 9201 University City Blvd.,

Charlotte

7 p.m.

UNC Charlotte and Levine Museum of the New South partner to present a documentary about Moises Serrano, a self-described undocu-queer from North Carolina. Followed by a talk back session with filmmakers Serrano and Tiffany Rhynard. This is a free event.

More information is available online. museumofthenewsouth.org.

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To see more upcoming events, visit goqnotes.com/calendar/

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Carolina Conference on Queer Youth University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Student Union, Charlotte 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

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In its second year, the Carolina Conference on Queer Youth is a partnership between the university’s Multicultural Resource Center, Time Out Youth and the Charlotte Lesbian & Gay Fund. The conference is intended to bring together K-12 teachers, school counselors, middle school and high school students, college students, community members and local activists to discuss a range of topics on Queer Youth identity.

Free to those who sign up online. campusevents.uncc.edu/carolinaconference-queer-youth.

South Carolina Pride Main Street, Columbia Celebrate with South Carolina Pride, featuring a 5K run, the Pride parade, vendors and live entertainment. Performers for this year include musical group Exposé, rapper Trina and “Ru Paul’s Drag Race” stars Phoenix, Jujubee, Trinity and Roxxy. More information is available online. scpride.org.

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SEP OCT MO

Mandyland Presents: Devil’s Night The Chop Shop, 399 E. 35th St., Charlotte 9 p.m.

Kinky dance party featuring DJs, burlesque dancers, sideshow performances, fetish stations, a sexy devil walk-off contest and more. Costumes and sexy dress encouraged but not required.

Tickets are $10 early bird, $15 advanced and $20 day of the show. Early bird tickets available via Eventbrite. More information is available online. facebook.com/ events/1479074692396058/.

–––––––––––––––––––– Buff Faye’s Halloween Party Bus Charlotte 8 p.m.-1:30 a.m.

The Buff Faye Halloween Party Bus is back, taking revelers bar hopping to LGBT and LGBT-friendly Charlotte bars. Join drag queens Buff Faye, Bella Nichole Jade and Bethanne Phetamine for a night of fun, with proceeds going to benefit Campus Pride. Tickets are $25 and are available online. donatenow.networkforgood.org partybus.

Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/

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life

OUR PEOPLE:

Q&A with Ann Hooper LGBT activist, breast cancer survivor

by Chris Tittel :: qnotes contributor different things, most notably the suicides that can come from excessive bullying and even the raw emotional hurts that we carry our whole life.

And, I’m not just talking about picked on on the playground. Picking on someone can build up.

We’re just beginning to see some of the longterm emotional scars that people who’ve been bullied carry around. And, there are people who are bullies who, when they wake up out of those childhood and teenage years, think: What in the world did I do? How did I harm a person? It’s not just an LGBT issue, but a huge percentage of gay youth are picked on or humiliated.

Ann Hooper takes a break during a hike along the coast of Maine.

When Ann Hooper tells you music can change the world, believe her for she’s somewhat of an expert on what it takes to change the world.

Over the past 20 years, she has championed everything from LGBT rights organizations to breast cancer research.

Hooper and Kathryn Mahan, an accomplished musician and conductor and Hooper’s partner, recently teamed up on an anti-bullying project to benefit the Tyler Clementi Foundation, which promotes safe social environments for LGBT youth and their allies.

Ann is also an avid hiker, with beautiful memories of extended treks along the Italian Riviera and up the slopes of Scottish hillsides.

Indeed, there is no mountain too high for Hooper to conquer in her quest to help others.

Tell me about your work in the LGBT community.

I started in the early ‘90s as a volunteer with the One Voice Chorus. It was sort of an exciting involvement in that many of the singers at that time didn’t even put their last name in the program. It was a time when people really weren’t out. They were still afraid of losing jobs. But, they realized the importance of our gay culture. Because of the association with the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses, we understood the importance of representing our culture through music. There were songs written specifically for the gay community that were performed by One Voice Chorus. It was an exciting time for people to gather in a big place, in a concert hall and hear our local chorus. I was also on the board of Out Charlotte and had the privilege of working with Dan Kirsch, who was a real mover and shaker in the ‘80s and ‘90s in Charlotte. I did a lot of training and helped put on a cultural event each year.

Around 2002, I began doing some work for the Human Rights Campaign.

Tell me about your latest project.

I’ve partnered with Kathryn to share the power of the gift of music with people. On Sept. 3, we had the Stand Up, Sing Out concert. We wanted to raise awareness to the problem of bullying.

It’s a huge problem that encompasses so many

Do you sing?

No. [laughs] Well, I make up songs. I sing to my dogs. I hum around. I remember the lyrics of the songs from my teenage years. It’s just crazy how I remember that. I might not remember where I put down my reading glasses, but I remember [those songs].

Why is music so important?

Music can change the world. We don’t realize how important music is in our life. We sing “Happy Birthday” on one of our most important days. We sing at weddings. We sing at funerals. It helps to define. Everybody remembers when they were teenagers the songs that they danced to. Some of the many, many beautiful songs that have been written to reflect the gay culture are going to be more and more important to us as we remember our roots, as we continue to become more assimilated into the general life.

Why is this work in the LGBT community so significant to you?

I learned a lot about social justice from my parents. My mother was a member of the American Civil Liberties Union. I grew up on the idea that everyone is equal, everyone is the same, treat others as you would want to be treated, that sort of thing. That wasn’t always present on my mind as I was trying to work or build a career.

But, I do think I have reached a point…[pause] I have only so many years left. I feel like I’m slowly becoming — or maybe quickly becoming — one of the elders in our community. There’s only so much time to get the work done to make that difference. It’s important we all find [the time]. The equality and respect for our fellow human beings, it’s just astounding to me that we seem to be going backward. It’s hurtful to me. I feel pain about that.

As a breast cancer survivor, what’s the leading message you’d offer to women and men in terms of prevention?

The most important thing is to get people to do self-checks and have mammograms.

Tell me something about yourself that most people don’t know.

I have a deadly addiction to some reality television. I’ve watched every episode of “Survivor,” I have to admit. My taste in television can range from “Scandal” on Thursday evenings to my soap opera, “Days of Our Lives,” which I have kept up with. I don’t watch it every day, but with a soap opera you can tune in about once a month and figure out what’s going on. : :

Oct. 9-23 . 2015

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Oct. 9-23 . 2015