QNotes Nov. 24-Dec. 7, 2012 by QnotesCarolinas

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

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Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

inside

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Nov. 24-Dec. 7, 2012 Vol 27 No 15

arts. entertainment. news. views.

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contributors this issue

Paige Braddock, Rosendo Brown, Matt Comer, Kevin Grooms/Miss Della, Charlene Lichtenstein, Lainey Millen, David Stout, Trinity, Brett Webb-Mitchell

front page Graphic Design by Photo Credit:

news & features

5 Bruised, not beaten 6 News Notes: Regional Briefs

a&e / life&style

8 RAIN marks 20 years of service 9 AAS-C under new leadership 9 CDC fact sheet 10 New advances in HIV/AIDS care 11 Rosedale ID fundraiser nets thousands 12 HIV/AIDS resources 14 20 Questions 16 Drag Rag 18 Out in the Stars 19 On the map 21 Tell Trinity 22 Community Resources 22 Fabulance 22 Jane’s World 23 Q events calendar

opinions & views

4 Editor’s Note 4 On Being a Gay Parent 16 QPoll

Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2012 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.

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Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

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editor’s note by Matt Comer matt@goqnotes.com

Charlotte’s community is growing up This year marks platinum anniversaries for not one, but two different community organizations here in Charlotte. For two decades, the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN) and the Charlotte Business Guild have served community members in untold and myriad ways. No doubt, qnotes has long covered both groups’ events, successes and achievements, but no amount of paper and ink will ever accurately tell the story of how these groups, and others in Charlotte and across the Carolinas, affect people in positive, life-changing ways. Both RAIN and the Charlotte Business Guild were founded in 1992. It was one of several landmark years in Charlotte’s LGBT history in the early 1990s. In 1990, the Human Rights Campaign set up its first field com-

mittee in Charlotte, expanding efforts to help defeat Jesse Helms. In 1991, Tonda Taylor formed Time Out Youth. That same year, Charlotte hosted the international conference for Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians & Gays (PFLAG). In 1992, as RAIN and the Guild booted up, local activists began working toward the adoption of an LGBT-inclusive public accommodations ordinance. Though the effort would ultimately fail, being voted down by the city council in November 1992, it was a significant first step toward expanded legal rights for local LGBT citizens just four years after Charlotte’s first gay advocacy group, First Tuesday, was founded. Other community achievements would con-

on being a gay parent by Brett Webb-Mitchell :: qnotes contributor

North Carolina: The last state that amended its constitution with the purpose of outlawing marriage equality and institutionalized hate

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I woke up on Wednesday morning, Nov. 7, 2012, almost leaping out of bed with a big smile on my face, because I knew who was going to be president for the next four years. It is President Barak Obama, the nominee I volunteered for during the last two months. Along with this good news, I was elated to see how many other Democratic U.S. senators were elected, especially among women, and the new Democratic governors. I was disheartened about Gov.-elect Pat McCrory’s election, but that’s a topic for another column. I quickly opened up my computer and got onto the various websites that I check daily to see how the states where marriage equality was on the ballot were fairing. Lo and behold, Maryland and Maine voters approved marriage equality. Soon, Minnesota would do what we in North Carolina did not succeed in doing: they voted down an amendment outlawing marriage

equality. They are now in-line to be a state that welcomes marriage equality. A few days later, Washington state voters also approved of marriage equality. And, with that, the evil spell was broken. Voters across the board of both political parties and independents voted for marriage equality. The National Organization for Marriage (NOM), Family Research Council and the American Family Association forces had lost. The onerous hex was gone! After 33 states amended their constitutions to deny people marriage equality, four states heralded a new day in America. And, the last state to amend its constitution, perhaps in the history of the United States? North Carolina. The mastermind who perfected the art of amending state constitutions that denied my partner and me the right to choose to marry or be in a domestic relationship was the nefarious Karl Rove, e.g., “Bush’s brain,” “Turd blos-

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Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

tinue. In 1994, students at Winthrop University in nearby Rock Hill, S.C., formed their LGBT student organization. The same year, NC Pride brought its festival and parade to the streets of the Queen City. In the years to follow, Charlotte took a turn to the not-so-pleasant. Years of regressive politics resulted in controversies over the gaythemed play “Angels in America” and local arts funding. State Sen. James Forrester from nearby Gaston County introduced and then successfully passed the state’s Defense of Marriage Act. Community empowerment and capacity-building took a back seat as LGBT citizens put their advocacy into defense mode. In the face of such opposition, outcries for change were prompting growth again. New advocacy groups like the Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee were created. As the millennium came and went, local citizens began to push again for expanded civil rights and changes in local law and policy. The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte was founded. Groups like RAIN and the Charlotte Business Guild, among others, have been

through the thick of both the good times and the bad times. Scores of community leaders, professionals and volunteers have worked with the organizations, striving to keep people alive, to keep gay business flourishing and to provide support for those most in need. Our history and the history of organizations like RAIN and the Charlotte Business Guild are all intertwined. They tell a story of a changing society. They mark the ebb and flow of political culture, of discrimination, of loss, of challenge. More importantly, however, they share the collective experience, knowledge, wisdom, passion and commitment of real people with real courage working in the face of real obstacles toward real, lasting and positive change. That’s the real story. That’s what really counts. That’s what will shape the future. That is what history will remember. Charlotte’s LGBT community is growing up. Our organizations are becoming long-lasting institutions. With reminders of the past and remembrance of those who came before, we each will continue to move forward with unity — for the betterment of ourselves, our city and our world. : :

som.” Rove used marriage amendments as a “wedge issue,” part of a conservative strategy, placing marriage equality on statewide ballots during a presidential year. In language that was non-offensive, but hate-filled, these amendments were meant to be a “get out the vote” dog-whistle among conservative voters whom he assumed were largely homophobic and of the “Christian right” variety, or what columnist/ blogger Andrew Sullivan calls “Christianists.” My home state of Oregon was one of those states who amended their constitution to take away marriage equality in 2004. This same tactic was taken by the Republicans in the N.C. General Assembly as they originally tried to get the vote to amend the state constitution on Nov. 6, 2012, during the presidential election, thus getting more people to vote for the Republican nominee from both among the African American community, Republicans and Christianist party members. However, as a last minute agreement to get a veto-proof majority in the General Assembly, the legislators who drove this amendment without debate, compromised and let the vote be taken on the day of the primary elections, May 8, 2012. Again: North Carolina is the last state to amend its constitution, joining with the other states of the former Confederacy and beyond in denying

people rights and privileges others can freely participate in and use. What does this feel like to live in North Carolina now? U.S. Sen. John Kerry, then a young soldier, once asked, “How do you ask a man to be the last man to die in Vietnam?” at the end of the war. As a citizen of North Carolina, I find myself living in a place that may be the very last state to amend its constitution with words of exclusion rather than inclusion, with homophobia and anti-“gay marriage” being the dying war. As a gay parent in North Carolina, I shudder in the knowledge that my state — the state that gladly receives my taxes without treating me as an equal citizen as a straight parent and denies me the right to choose to be married or be in at least a domestic partnership — is the last state to amend its constitution on the issue of marriage. North Carolina is not my home state. Those who voted to amend the constitution embarrass me, but more sadly embarrass themselves, driving away new businesses and cultural opportunities, let alone revenue from weddings, receptions and honeymoon locations. It most likely will take another vote of the populace to undo this mark of shame in the state constitution. It is a dark stain of hate locked in the very fabric, the very laws, of the state. : :

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Bruised not beaten: N.C. gay activists see new roads to equality Equality NC wants to focus on local equality initiatives following anti-LGBT amendment and legislative losses by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

GREENSBORO — Leaders with Equality North Carolina, the statewide lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) advocacy and education organization, said at their annual conference at the University of North CarolinaGreensboro on Nov 17, that they will begin shifting their focus to increase their support of equality initiatives on the local level in North Carolina. Stuart Campbell, executive director of Equality North Carolina, told a crowd of over 300 conference attendees that his group would begin to work on passing employment nondiscrimination laws in cities and towns across the state. “We’re going to have to grow the base,” Campbell said in his morning address, “by creating coalitions and working with folks on the local level with Equality NC Communications Director Jen Jones, right, presents Salem College student Sammi Kiley, left, with the organization’s inaugural Student Leadership Award at the Equality lots of different communities. NC Gala on Nov. 17. We’ll be building a movement that will ultimately lead to a Lessons from a neighbor statewide effort.” Equality North Carolina’s shift to more The move comes after a divisive constitulocal issues mirrors the strategy of other tional amendment battle and November elecadvocacy groups across the South faced with tions handed more control to Republicans. unfriendly legislatures. In May, 61 percent of Tar Heels voted to Activists in South Carolina faced their own approve an anti-LGBT state constitutional anti-gay amendment in 2006. It passed with amendment. The campaigns for and against 78 percent approval. Advocates there have the amendment racked up millions of dollars also been long-accustomed to working with in expenditures in a statewide campaign that Republican lawmakers. brought newspaper, radio and television adSouth Carolina Equality’s focus on local vertising and on-the-ground outreach to both equality initiatives has been successful. rural and urban parts of the state. Several cities and counties there include LGBT After the election, Equality North Carolina’s protections for public workers and citizens in prospects for LGBT-inclusive legislation are a variety of employment, housing and public dimmer. Republicans strengthened their accommodations laws, including state capital majority in the General Assembly and former Columbia and beach port city Charleston. Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory was elected the Ryan Wilson, executive director of SC state’s first Republican governor in 20 years. Equality, hopes successes on the local level Campbell said the group will be working to will eventually move statewide legislation. ensure support from new Republican allies. “In a state where 50, 60 or 70 percent of “Republicans in the legislature need the state is protected by some of these ordiexactly zero votes to pass anything they nances,” Wilson said, “then you can go back want,” Campbell said. “If we want to stop to the legislature and say, ‘Look, the world anything bad we’re going to have to find some has not come to an end. This is what our local Republicans to work with us. If we can’t find communities want.’ Then maybe you can pass them, we’re going to have to recruit them. a law statewide.” We’re going to need to find fair-minded candiSC Equality’s local work hasn’t come at the dates of any party to support us.” expense of State House lobbying. With LGBT advances in the legislature “Last year, the safe schools bill went all practically dead-on-arrival for now, the the way through one of the houses of the statewide group’s local focus will take the State House and was on its way through the organization to cities small and large. They second one before it encountered the end of want to work on local ordinances and policies the session,” he said. prohibiting anti-LGBT employment discriminaLike Equality NC, SC Equality has seen the tion, extending domestic partner benefits and importance of identifying allies in Republicanother measures. led government. “We plan to look at between two and four “Definitely, relationships were built with cities a year and expand on the ground at the moderate Republicans on things like safe local level if the laws are already there or enact schools,” Wilson said. “There are places them where they are missing,” Campbell said. where you can find common ground on bully-

ing or workplace discrimination. You have to sort of work beyond the ‘R’ and the ‘D’ designations and start finding folks regardless of party affiliation who will care… They exist. It is just a matter of building those relationships and empowering people from their districts to have a voice.” Despite recent setbacks, North Carolina activists see a variety of positive accomplishments and outcomes Campbell said his group will use to their advantage. “We demonstrated that we are a committed community,” Campbell said of the amendment fight.

“We came together. We worked really hard.” The amendment loss “awakened a sleeping giant,” Campbell said. “We turned out over 800,000 people who stood with us. We’re not as alone as it sometimes feels.” That power will come in handy when it is time to mobilize supporters again, Campbell said. ”We have to find a way to tap into that feeling of fairness and equality our friends and neighbors have and expand upon that.” Barber schools gala attendees in social justice Following their annual conference, supporters of Equality North Carolina gathered at downtown Greensboro’s Empire Room for a night of fundraising, reverie and calls to action. The Rev. Dr. William J. Barber, II, president of the North Carolina NAACP, was among several attendees honored with awards this year. He was also the gala’s keynote speaker. He called those present to action and unity on matters of social justice. “We might lose the battle, but

see ENC on 15

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

qnotes

compiled by Lainey Millen | David Stout | Matt Comer

Charlotte Guild to bestow awards

CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Business Guild (CBG), a member of the Charlotte Chamber Diversity Action Council, is hosting its 20th Anniversary Gala on Dec. 1, 6:30-11:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Charlotte SouthPark Hotel, 5501 Carnegie Blvd. Long-time activist Don King will be the guest speaker. The event will feature a cocktail/networking cash bar hour, followed by a plated dinner with choice of entrée, as well as entertainment, dancing and door prizes. During the evening, the guild will present its annual Community Service Award to unannounced recipients in the LGBT community leader, LGBT-friendly business and straight ally categories. Founded in 1992, the guild has managed the annual awards since 2004. Admission is $65 per person and can be obtained online at the guild’s website at charlottebusinessguild.org. — L.M.

Leaders honored

CHARLOTTE — Grassroots Leadership will honor two Queen City leaders at a special event on Dec. 13, 6-8 p.m., at Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte, 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd. Mecklenburg County Commission member Jennifer Roberts and Unity Fellowship Church pastor Bishop Tonyia Rawls will be given the Community Leader Award for their “enduring dedication to the common good.” Executive Director Bob Libal and founder Si Kahn will make the presentations. The function will also serve as a fundraiser, benefiting the work of Grassroots Leadership. The organization began in 1980 and helped to train and support “leaders, organizers, organizations, networks and coalitions that will make long-term positive change inevitable.” To reserve a spot, call 704-332-3090 or email mdorta@grassrootsleadership.org. For more information, visit grassrootsleadership.org. — L.M.

Chorus brings out reindeers

CHARLOTTE — One Voice Chorus will present “The Reindeer Games” on Dec. 7-8 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte, 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd. This holiday concert’s theme is a tribute to the London Olympics. Audience members can compete for glory or cheer on their favorite “OV-lympian, the promoters said. A reception follows. Tickets are $20, evening shows, and $15 for adults and $10 for children for the matinee. Proceeds go to support One Voice Chorus. Other concerts in the 2012-13 season are “Telescopic Hearts” on Feb. 17; “Songs of Wisdom” on April 5-6; and “Hollywood

qnotes

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

Squares: British Invasion” on June 6-8. Details will follow in subsequent qnotes’s issues. The chorus is also engaged in a challenge campaign that ends on Nov. 30. Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte Director John Quillin and Rick Haffner, said that if $2,500 is raised by the deadline date that they will match it. No contribution is too large or small. Outreach programs slated for December include performances for residents at the Charlotte Men’s Shelter, neighbors visiting Urban Ministries Center, foster families in the region, and public advocates working with the Community Building Initiative. For tickets, to make contributions or for more information, visit onevoicechorus.org. Checks may also be mailed to One Voice Chorus, P.O. Box 9241, Charlotte, NC 28299. — L.M.

Triad Chorus celebrates 14th season

WINSTON-SALEM — Triad Pride Men’s Chorus (TPMC) will hold a winter concert, “Celebrate,” on Dec. 8, 8 p.m., in Greensboro at Greensboro Day School, 5401 Lawndale Dr., and Dec. 15, 8 p.m., in Winston-Salem at Wake Forest University, Wait Chapel, 1834 Wake Forest Rd., as part of its 14th season, A Season of Pride. The concert also marks the end of an era for the chorus as its conductor, Woodson Faulkner II, steps down to pursue other ventures. TPMC will also be sponsoring a food drive for Triad Health Project in Greensboro and AIDS Care Services in Winston-Salem. Bring extra dried or canned goods when attending the concerts. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For tickets or more information, visit triadpridemenschorus.org. — L.M.

Triangle Gender-neutral housing approved

CHAPEL HILL — Members of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill Board of Trustees approved a proposal on Nov. 15 that would allow students to choose their dormitory roommates regardless of gender. The flagship public school becomes the first UNC System institution to approve the new housing option, which will be available to students next fall. The proposal was initially denied by Chancellor Holden Thorp earlier this year. A committee of several trustees unanimously backed the plan during the week of Nov. 12. Students at the school have been campaigning for the change for some time. They say being given the option to choose their own roommates will increase safety. Many LGBT students, they say, have faced bullying and harassment living with unfriendly or hostile roommates.

Foundation to launch in December CHARLOTTE — Twelve In Twelve (twelveintwelve.org), the non-profit organization founded by J.D. Lewis that took his two sons, Jackson and Buck, around the world for 12 months doing relief work on all seven continents and 12 countries, will launch The Twelve In Twelve Foundation at Harvest Moon Grille at The Dunhill Hotel, 237 N. Tryon St., on Dec. 12 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Admission is free and the public is invited. Lewis, an accomplished actor, playwright, acting coach and commercial talent who moved to Charlotte in 2007 to open an Actor’s Lab office and to raise his children, has established an official 501(c)(3) for Twelve In Twelve to facilitate other families making such international humanitarian trips and to continue to raise money and awareness for the organizations Lewis and his sons helped on their journey. qnotes featured the family prior to their journeys in its May 28, 2011 issue (goqnotes. com/11191/). Twelve In Twelve was created because J.D.’s 13-year-old son came home from school one day and said, “Dad, we have this great life…How come we aren’t doing more to make a difference in the world?” That sparked an idea that would change their lives forever. They created a not-for-profit organization and held grassroots funding-raising events to finance the cause. In July 2011, they headed out on a journey of a lifetime. At the time, they did not know that it was a world record, the first family to do humanitarian work on all seven continents in one year. The family traveled to St. Petersburg, Russia, where they volunteered in an orphanage for children with Down Syndrome. In Chiang Mai, Thailand, the father and his boys volunteered at The Elephant Nature Park, helping elephants rescued from abuse. The family say the Dalai Lama speak for four days and then took up English lessons for Tibeten refugees. In Nairobi, Kenya, they volunteered at an HIV clinic. The family even traveled to Antarctica, where they volunteered on The Ushuaia Ship and assisted scientists and crew. But, they didn’t forget about home. They traveled to the Deep South, volunteering with Operation Upward, a food program for inner-city kids in Jackson, Miss. The Foundation will help raise awareness, donations and supplies for the organizations they worked with worldwide. J.D. Lewis created an extensive photographic and film library along his journey. The 13,000 photo images and film footage will be developed into a documentary and will include interviews with those the family met along the way. The ultimate mission of Lewis’ Twelve In Twelve is to establish a local office, website and network of organizations, helping to guide other individuals and/or families interested in volunteering to positively impact the global community. Twelve In Twelve also seeks to inspire both children and parents to engage in the issues that are impacting the world by promoting the efforts of Twelve In Twelve volunteer families. For more information, visit twelveintwelve.org. — from press releases Photo Credit: Blyte Spirit Photography

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“No one should feel unsafe,” senior Zaina Alsous, one of the campaign’s student organizers, told The News & Observer. “Dorms are rites of passage, and no one should miss out.” Chapel Hill becomes the first public college or university in North Carolina to offer a gender-neutral housing choice. Nearly 100 other schools across the country already offer similar housing choices, including North Carolina private schools Duke University, Guilford College and WarrenWilson College. For more on the story and links to further coverage from The News & Observer, visit goqnotes.com/19182/. — M.C.

Western ALFA plans AIDS remembrance

HICKORY — The AIDS Leadership Foothills-area Alliance (ALFA) will host a World AIDS Day HIV/AIDS awareness event, “Universal Access to Care and Human Rights,” on Dec. 1 at First United Methodist Church, 311 3rd Ave. N.E. During the day’s programming, it will commemorate those lost and celebrate victories in treatment and prevention services. A reception will be held at 3 p.m., with a service following at 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 828-322-1447, ext. 224, email alfadirect@alfainfo.org or visit alfainfo.org. — L.M.

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National/Global Gay marriage by the numbers

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — On Election Day, the residents of Maine, Maryland and Washington affirmed that their states will recognize marriages for lesbian and gay couples. An analyses of Census 2010 data conducted by the Williams Institute suggests that approximately 35,000 same-sex couples live in these states and that over 17,000 will marry in the next three years. Many of these couples are raising children, ranging from 14 percent of same-sex couples living in Maine to 20 percent in Maryland. After the vote, same-sex couples can now marry in nine states in the U.S. and the District of Columbia. As a result, 20 percent of samesex couples now live in states where they can marry. Overall, 16 percent of the U.S. population lives in states where same-sex couples can marry. If the U.S. Supreme Court affirms or let’s stand the 9th Circuit opinion striking down Proposition 8 in California, 35 percent of same-sex couples in the U.S. will live in states where they can marry; and 28 percent of the U.S. population will live in states where samesex couples can marry. — D.S.

Business index shows growing support WASHINGTON, D.C. — In the 2013 Corporate Equality Index, released Nov. 14, a record 252 businesses achieved the top

rating of 100 percent, earning the coveted distinction of “Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality.” As a point of comparison, 13 businesses earned a 100 percent in the inaugural CEI 11 years ago, demonstrating that a new normal has arrived. The policies, benefits and practices companies must implement to earn a perfect score are best-in-class demonstrations of corporate commitments to LGBT workers. The top-rated businesses span across industries, geographies, and size. This year’s report at a glance (available in full at hrc.org/cei): • A record 74 major businesses and law firms publicly supported pro-equality legislation at the state and federal levels. • The 2013 CEI saw the largest growth in the survey’s history with 54 new businesses participating. The number of employers officially rated in the CEI has skyrocketed from 319 in 2002, to 688 this year. • This year’s CEI marks the first time a majority of Fortune 500 companies have nondiscrimination policies that cover gender identity (from 50 percent to 57 percent), while an astonishing 84 percent of overall CEI participants cover gender identity. • Transgender-inclusive healthcare coverage continues to rise. Now in its second year as a mandatory criterion for a company to earn 100 percent, 287 participating companies (42 percent) offer comprehensive healthcare coverage to their transgender workers, up from 19 percent last year. — D.S.

Trans observances held in Nov.

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Trans Awareness Week was observed earlier this month. It is a time devoted to raising visibility of trans people and the issues affecting their lives. The week culminated on Nov. 20 with the Transgender Day of Remembrance, a day to honor those who have lost their lives to transphobic violence. To mark the Week, LGBT media watchdog group GLAAD released four new videos in the “I AM: Trans People Speak” video series. GLAAD says the video campaign “can help us better educate people about what it means to be transgender and build understanding that leads to equality.” — D.S.

Business leaders attend summit

LONDON, England — On Nov. 13, at the first Out on the Street: Europe Leadership Summit, chief executives from some of the world’s largest companies came together with senior leaders from Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Barclays, Citi, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and more to discuss how the financial services industry can advance LGBT equality. This is the first time that so many senior leaders have convened to work for LGBT equality, in Europe. The event builds on the successful Out on the Street summits, held annually in New York, which earlier this year brought together over 200 senior leaders from across Wall Street, including the CEOs of Bank of America,

Goldman Sachs, KPMG and Elliott Capital. The summit focused on a number of topics of global interest to LGBT employees, straight allies and their companies, including: a crossindustry discussion on the importance of LGBT equality from a client perspective; the role and importance of having straight allies and how best to engage and “activate” them; and an in-depth comparative discussion of women’s experiences, both gay and straight, in banking. — D.S.

UPS pulls Boy Scout funding

ATLANTA, Ga. — United Parcel Service (UPS), a corporate donor of the Boy Scouts of America, has announced a new policy that will cease all future funding to the Boy Scouts until gay Scouts and leaders are welcome within the organization. Eagle Scout Zach Wahls (pictured), founder of Scouts for Equality, launched the campaign on Change.org just days after Intel Corporation, one of the Boy Scouts largest corporate donors, affirmed the company is no longer supporting the Boy Scouts of America. Like Intel, UPS gave hundreds of thousands of dollars to the Boy Scouts in 2010, despite the organization’s anti-gay policy. — D.S.

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

qnotes

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RAIN marks 20 years of service From the end of AIDS Crisis to today, Regional AIDS Interfaith Network founder and staffers devoted to life-changing relationships and service to community by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Trained as a minister and having worked in several congregations, the Rev. Deborah Warren didn’t foresee herself leading an HIV/AIDS organization. All that would change in the early 1990s as Warren was faced with the realities of the lingering effects of the harrowing AIDS Crisis. Warren had just begun an internship at Carolinas Medical Center. There, she met AIDS patients face to face. She heard their stories. She felt their pain. “I didn’t know that much about AIDS and, certainly earliest on, had that same kind of fear of contagion that other people had,” she says. “I would meet people who were going home from the hospital and most of the people I saw in the hospital didn’t really have enough support. You can imagine: a very sick person going home and trying to fend for themselves.” What she experienced pulled on her heartstrings. She wondered why more people of faith just like her weren’t doing more to help those who, at this time, needed more support than ever. In the 20 years since, Warren has turned her passion for service and care into a career and the organization she founded in 1992, the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network, or RAIN, has served literally thousands and thousands of those affected and infected by HIV. This year, the group celebrates two decades of community service and lives changed for the better. And, though the orga-

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Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

nization celebrates, its leaders are quick to pause and remember that growth for their group hasn’t come without its share of hard times. “I was at the hospital training as a chaplain and I also became the first chaplain assigned to the infectious disease clinic,” says the Rev. Debra Kidd, The community service of RAIN and its staff has long been essential — and rewarded. RAIN’s senior director of programs. Ten years ago, several staffers at RAIN were honored for their service. Pictured here on “Just to watch the loneliness, the pain. the front cover of the Oct. 26, 2002, print edition of qnotes are: (l-r) Rev. Amy E. Brooks, Patients would come in for their visit regional program director; Rev. Stephanie Speller-Henderson, minority program and walk in. The next time you saw them director; Rev. Deborah C. Warren, founder and executive director; and they were using a walker or a cane. The Rev. Debra K. Kidd, program director. next time they were in a wheelchair and “A lot of different communities started coming together,” the next time they couldn’t show up. It she says. “I’m most proud that we’ve brought so many differwas just devastating.” ent people together. That was not the intent when we were Warren and Kidd, affectionately dubbed “the Debbies” by founded, but the commonality we’ve all found is that we care those who know them, have patiently persevered since those about AIDS, whether you are gay or straight, African-American sometimes-horrific days. They say attitudes have changed. or Caucasian, liberal or conservative, if you live in the wealthy Medicines have effectively killed the notion that AIDS is a Myers Park area or an area with fewer resources.” death sentence. Families are growing into much better accepWarren says RAIN has opened the door to “cross-boundary tance of their loved ones. Warren says she’s also proud of the relationships RAIN has helped to build. see next page u

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life, positively experiences” and says life-changing relationships have been built. In their daily work, Warren and Kidd are on guard against changing funding models and other challenges facing those tasked with prevention and education. The biggest change, Warren says, is a shift from national and governmental funders from a broad-based prevention strategy to one targeting only HIV-positive people. “Earlier on we had a much more robust community education program,” Warren says. Despite the challenges, Kidd says RAIN has stuck to it. Their record sometimes surprises people, she says, who might not have guessed the organization would live so long. Warren is confident the organization will continue to grow. Her dream: full care for those with HIV. “I look forward to developing a model with a clinical partner where we truly serve all the needs of people with HIV,” Warren says. “We’ll have strong medical treatment and medication with the wrap-around supportive services.” Kidd knows the future will bring changes. She and Warren, along with other RAIN staff, are ready. “”We’re going to keep going,” she says. “We’ll show you. It’s hard. It might morph and do something else or different and it’s already done that in 20 years and had to. I look forward to the challenges what that’s going to be.” : :

Under new leadership, AAS-C continues service The Alliance of AIDS Services - Carolina (AAS-C) continues its more than 20-year service to the Triangle area as they continue to welcome new executive director Stacy Duck into its fold. Duck was hired on Aug. 6 and brough with her a wealth of experience from her service as executive director of the Chatham Social Health Council in Siler City, N.C. Duck has 22 years of experience in mental health and five years of experience with HIV prevention and education, including 12 years with the State of New York’s Developmental Disabilities Services Office. Duck has also contributed to numerous scholarly articles on Latino men and their sexual health in conjunction with ongoing research at Wake Forest University’s School of Medicine. AAS-C serves people living with HIV/AIDS, their loved ones, caregivers and communities at large, through compassionate and non-judgmental care, prevention, education and advocacy. Dating back to a 1989 consolidation of a number of grassroots AIDS service organizations in the Triangle, AAS-C currently provides an array of services to people living with HIV/AIDS in an eleven-county region. These services include medical and non-medical case management, pastoral counseling, nutritional counseling and a food pantry, prevention, testing and education. For more information on AAS-C, how you can get involved as a volunteer or for more information on services, visit aas-c.org. : : — compiled from press release

HIV in the United States: At A Glance CDC estimates 1.2 million people in the United States (U.S.) are living with HIV infection. One in five (20 percent) of those people are unaware of their infection. Despite increases in the total number of people in the U.S. living with HIV infection in recent years (due to better testing and treatment options), the annual number of new HIV infections has remained relatively stable. However, new infections continue at far too high of a level, with approximately 50,000 Americans becoming infected with HIV each year. In 2010, an estimated 47,129 people were diagnosed with HIV infection in the 46 states with confidential name-based HIV infection reporting since at least January 2007. In that same year, an estimated 33,015 people throughout the U.S. were diagnosed with AIDS. Since the epidemic began, an estimated 1,129,127 people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with AIDS. An estimated 17,774 people with AIDS died in 2009, and nearly 619,400 people with AIDS in the U.S. have died since the epidemic began. By Risk Group Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) of all races and ethnicities remain the population most severely affected by HIV. • CDC estimates that MSM account for just 2 percent of the U.S. population, but accounted for 61 percent of all new HIV infections in 2009. MSM accounted for 49 percent of people living with HIV infection in 2008 (the most recent year national prevalence data are available). • In 2009, white MSM continued to account for the largest number of new HIV infections of any group in the U.S. (11,400), followed closely by black MSM (10,800). • Young, black MSM were the only risk group in the U.S. to experience statistically significant increases in new HIV infections from 2006-2009 — from 4,400 new HIV infections in 2006 to 6,500 infections in 2009. • Since the epidemic began, almost 300,000 MSM with AIDS have died, including an estimated 6,863 in 2009. Heterosexuals and Injection Drug Users also continue to be affected by HIV. • Heterosexuals accounted for 27 percent of estimated new HIV infections in 2009 and 28 percent of people living with HIV infection in 2008. • Since the epidemic began, more than 80,000 persons with AIDS, infected through heterosexual sex, have died, including an estimated 4,434 in 2009.

• HIV infections among women are primarily attributed to heterosexual contact or injection drug use. Women accounted for 23 percent of estimated new HIV infections in 2009 and 25 percent of those living with HIV infection in 2008. • Injection drug users represented 9 percent of new HIV infections in 2009 and 17 percent of those living with HIV in 2008. • Since the epidemic began, more than 175,000 injection drug users with AIDS have died including an estimated 4,759 in 2009. By Race/Ethnicity • Blacks continue to experience the most severe burden of HIV, compared to other races and ethnicities. Blacks represent approximately 14 percent of the U.S. population, but accounted for an estimated 44 percent of new HIV infections in 2009. Blacks accounted for 46 percent of people living with HIV infection in 2008. • Since the epidemic began, more than 250,000 blacks with AIDS have died , including 8,782 in 2009. • At some point in their life, approximately 1 in 16 black men will be diagnosed with HIV infection, as will 1 in 32 black women. • In 2009, the estimated rate of new HIV infections among black men was six and a half times as high as that of white men, and more than two and a half times as high as that of Hispanic/Latino men and of black women. In the same year, the estimated rate of new HIV infections among black women was 15 times that of white women and over three times that of Hispanic/ Latina women. Hispanics/Latinos are also disproportionately affected by HIV. • Hispanics/Latinos represented 16 percent of the population but accounted for 20 percent of new HIV infections in 2009. Hispanics/Latinos accounted for 17 percent of people living with HIV infection in 2008. • Since the epidemic began, an estimated more than 95,000 Hispanics/Latinos with AIDS have died, including 2,853 in 2009. : : — Last modified and reviewed on March 14, 2012, by the Centers for Disease Control Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention (cdc.gov/hiv) and the National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (cdc.gov/nchhstp).

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

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New advances could help keep HIV at bay Truvada, OraQuick newest tools for prevention efforts by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Two new advances in HIV/ AIDS prevention and testing could mean big changes for those at-risk of infection. This summer, the Federal Drug Administration offered their approval to new uses of AIDS medicine Truvada and to an athome HIV test. Dale Pierce, practice manager and Ryan White Program director at Rosedale ID in Huntersville, says the two new advances offer plenty of hope for prevention. Yet, he describes both as a sort of “double-edged sword.” Pierce, who is HIV-positive, said his experience taking HIV/ AIDS medications played a crucial role when he and his partner, who is HIV-negative, discussed Truvada. His partner had considered using the medicine for its newly-approved prevention method. Known as a pre-exposure prophylaxis, OraQuick’s new at-home HIV test will benefit some who might find it uncomfortable to visit health centers or other pubor PrEP, Truvada can be taken lic spaces for free HIV testing events. daily by an HIV-negative person Photo Credit: Agência Brasil, licensed under Creative Commons. to help reduce the risk of HIV transmission. of a positive result. Generally, though, the test is a good step toward “As someone who has gone through having to take the medications increasing the availability of HIV testing for more people. and dealing with its side-effects and how the medicine alters your life“It is easer access to testing for those people who might be fighting style, it wasn’t something we were willing to try,” Pierce says. “At this the stigma, who may not want to go to free testing events or the health point, we are more focused on practicing safer sex and being aware of department,” Pierce says. what’s going on.” At the end of the day, Pierce is glad to see the improvements. But, Though Pierce and his partner have opted not to use Truvada, he says he’s quick to remind: “There is no 100 percent sure-fire means to stop it can be of practical use to those at-risk. He offers some warning, hoping [HIV] transmission,” he says. Knowledge, awareness and safer sex that the potential reduction in infection risk doesn’t give some a false practices need to be at the forefront of everyone’s mind. : : sense of security. Safer sex practices, he said, are key to prevention. Pierce says he’s more hopeful about OraQuick, the new at-home — Compiled from the Federal Drug Administration and from HIV test from OraSure. He has his worries — chief among them the information provided by the AIDS Community Research availability of medical and psychological counseling in the aftermath Initiative of America (ACRIA).

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Quick Facts Truvada Approved by the FDA in July to reduce the risk of HIV infection among uninfected individuals. Recommended for use by those who are at a high risk of infection or those with HIV-positive sex partners. Used daily as a preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Must be used in combination with safer sex practices. Shown to reduce HIV infection among MSM by as much as 42 percent and among heterosexuals by as as much as 72 percent. Available by prescription only. Critics have concerns that availability of the new drug could discourage safer sex practices. For more information, visit truvadapreprems.com. OraQuick Approved by the FDA in August. A rapid home-use kit used for self-testing. Provides results within 20-40 minutes. Test uses sample of fluid from moth. One line appears on stick if test is negative. Two lines indicate HIV antibodies were detected. Follow-up confirmation testing with more robust, lab-based testing methods is recommended to confirm result. Unable to determine HIV infection within the first three months of potential exposure. False negatives possible after three months. Available for sale in stores and online to all people age 17 or older. Critics have concerns that the in-home testing leaves individuals without immediate or effective counseling, referral care and the psychological impact of testing among casual sex partners or in other adverse situations. For more information, visit oraquick.com. : :

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Rosedale ID fundraiser nets thousands HIV/AIDS clinic provides food pantry, free testing by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Nearly 350 people attended a special movement,” Pierce said. “It really opened this evening of music, awards and fundraising generation’s eyes to what people really went in early November at Rosedale ID’s annual through during the early stages of the fight.” Evening of Hope and Inspiration. The event, Pierce said education and awareness are featuring gospel singers Christy Sutherland becoming increasing important as time slowly and Lynda Randle also featured their annual moves further and further away from the chalInspiration Awards presented to radio hosts lenges of the 1980s AIDS Crisis. Matt Harris and Ramona Holloway and youth “We are starting to see a rise in cases of activist Jordan Mitzel. younger gay males coming in Dale Pierce, to Rosedale and finding they Rosedale’s practice are HIV-positive,” he said. “It manager and Ryan doesn’t seem like it has the White Program director, same weight that it did back said the event was a then.” success. Proceeds He added, “The great thing will benefit their food is that it is manageable and pantry, named in honor there are great treatments and of Jeanne White Ginder, people are living longer…but the mother of 1980s the fact is that there still is no AIDS victim Ryan White. cure and people are still dying. Ginder was also present It does alter your lifestyle.” at the event. Rosedale, a medical clinic Youth activist Jordan Mitzel, who has which offers full treatment and “We took donations raised thousands of dollars for the prior and through sponcare to those with HIV, has Regional AIDS Interfaith Network’s sorships, we had a lot of begun to offer free testing every Charlotte AIDS Walk, speaks after local businesses…step Tuesday at their Huntersville receiving an Inspiration Award. up,” Pierce said of the offices. Soon, he said, they might Network President Debbie Warren, support. “We’re looking expand their free testing. Several an Inspiration Award recipient in at, after expenses, attendees at their fundraiser 2011, stands in the background.  $5,000-$6,000. It doesn’t Photo courtesy Dale Pierce asked if Rosedale could do testsound like a lot in the ing events at their churches or big scheme of some of the larger fundraisers other organizations. Others also learned about in town, but helping people with $30 or $35 gift different ways they could be involved. cards can have a huge impact on people who “We did a good job this year of … drivmight not have food for the holidays.” ing home the awareness factor and getting Pierce said the event also served as a way people more educated,” he said. “Several to raise awareness. The diversity of the audipeople talked to me…and didn’t know there ence was astonishing, he said. Many people, was a Charlotte AIDS Walk. They wanted to he said, had not heard of Ginder or her son. know when it was and how to get involved. “We got a lot of really good responses There were people who came just for the hearing feedback from people who had never music portion of the event and then signed up heard Jeanne speak, which I thought was really to volunteer with us.” important for people who might not have known You can learn more about Rosedale ID, who Ryan was or the significance of the Ryan their services and their food pantry at White Program or the effect his mom had on the rosedaleid.com. : :

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

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life, positively Carolina HIV/AIDS resources AIDS Service Organizations in North Carolina

Triad

North Carolina is blessed to have a plethora of community resources and programming for those living with HIV/AIDS. Several groups throughout the state work to keep the public educated, provide testing and counseling and support and case management to those who test positive. To the right are resources for the Triad, Triangle and Charlotte.

AIDS Care Service 206 N. Spruce St., Winston Salem, NC 27101-2747, 336-777-0116 aidscareservice.org AIDS Care Service provides housing, food pantry services, client services, Ryan White HIV case management and a variety of support services for Latino and people of color clients. Triad Health Project 801 Summit Ave., Greensboro, NC 27405, 336-275-1654 triadhealthproject.com Triad Health Project provides case management and other client support services, HIV testing and prevention outreach, medical, social service and legal referrals, food pantry and nutritional resources and education, support groups and education, art and exercise programs.

Triangle Alliance of AIDS Services-Carolina 324 S. Harrington St., Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-834-2437, info@aas-c.org aas-c.org Alliance of AIDS Services-Carolina provides case management, HIV/STD testing and counseling, emergency assistance for rent and utilities, transportation assistance, housing information and referrals, mental health, substance abuse or support group resources, referrals and programs.

Charlotte Carolinas CARE Partnership (formerly Regional HIV/AIDS Consortium) 7510 E. Independence Blvd., Suite 105, Charlotte, NC 28227, 704-531-2467, info@carolinascare.org carolinascare.org Carolinas CARE Partnership provides free HIV/STD testing and counseling, housing assistance, peer training, case management and other services, prevention and education. Carolinas CARE Partnership also houses the popular D-UP program, a peer education outreach effort among young men of color who have sex with men. House of Mercy 701 Mercy Dr., Belmont, NC 28012, 704-825-4711 thehouseofmercy.org House of Mercy provides end-of-life nursing, housing and medical care for persons living with advanced AIDS. Services include physical therapy and medication assistance. Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN) P.O. Box 37190, Charlotte, NC 28237-7190, 704-372-7246, info@carolinarain.org carolinarain.org RAIN (Regional AIDS Interfaith Network), founded in 1992, engages the community to transform lives and promote respect and dignity for all people touched by HIV through compassionate care, education and leadership development. Services include CARE Management, Peer2Peer support & outreach, support groups for youth, faith-based training, chaplain services and caring volunteers who provide practical support to persons living with HIV and AIDS. RAIN also provides HIV awareness and prevention education programs to thousands of people each year and is the only HIV non-profit in the Charlotte metropolitan area providing direct client services.

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20 Questions LeMond E. Hart, Charlotte by David Stout :: david@goqnotes.com

What do you enjoy for breakfast that’s not a traditional breakfast food? A cup of coffee, a banana and a Muscle Milk. Which pair is more obviously a couple: Yogi Bear & Boo Boo, Dr. Quest & Race Bannon or Mr. Peabody & Sherman? Yogi Bear & Boo Boo, of course. Always at rest areas and in the woods! Jus’ sayin’. Are you happier with 95-degree days or 32-degree days? 95. Like Nelly says, “It’s getting hot in here…” What’s your favorite song from the disco era? “Disco Fever.” Do you make your bed everyday? It’s a must! Being prior military and having a little bit of OCD, my whole day would wrecked if the bed did not get made. How do these films rank based on the number of times you’ve seen them: “The Avengers,” “Fantastic Four,” “The Incredibles,” “X-Men”? “X-Men,” “X-Men,” “X-Men” (see the sexiest action hero question below) and “The Incredibles,” because it was cute! Which circus act would you most like to learn to perform? I want to be shot from the cannon! Have you ever ridden in a hot air balloon? No, but I have jumped out of an airplane. Would you attend a pole dancing exercise class? Attend one? I think I could teach one! LOL! Which old skool rap act is your favorite? It’s gotta be Wu-Tang Clan, particularly on the track “Triumph.” Are there more ink pens, safety pins or thumb tacks in your home? There are ink pens galore in here…I’m in school. Have you ever been bitten by fire ants? In the military, I sat on an anthill in the woods. That was no fun! Who’s the sexiest action movie star ever? Hugh Jackman…hands down! I am married to Wolverine in my gay cartoon life. Don’t judge me! LOL! How often do you wear cologne? Err duh! I’m gay. Which “culture challenged” TV family would you rather live beside: Al and Peg Bundy, Dan and Roseanne Conner or Fred

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and Lamont Sanford? I guess Dan and Roseanne. I would already know that she was “family” from her attire; Fred G. Sanford and I would fall out over that dirty yard; and, Peg would get on my nerves! Chicken McNuggets, chicken salad or chicken livers? Chicken salad, please! I hate livers and processed foods! Which is greater, your ring finger size or your shoe size? My shoe size is bigger. ;-) Did you ever have a jheri curl? Did I? I was Lil Michael Jackson! Mine was not too moist though. “Juices and Berries!” Have you ever played “Spin the Bottle”? Yeah and I’m shy! What’s your go-to word or phrase to express frustration or anger? This is working on my nerves!! : :

Photo Credit: Mert Jones Photography

In a typical day LeMond Hart wears several different hats…and sometimes several different shirts, pants and shoes, too. You see, in addition to being a student, a partner in a long-term relationship, a father figure and a veteran, he’s also a model. And, he just turned 40 on Nov. 22. LeMond graduated from Charlotte’s Independence High School in 1991. He gave the military eight years, then resettled in the Queen City with his life partner Jerry Crayton. Currently, LeMond is in school pursuing a degree in Health Information Technology. He’s also an in-demand model for photographic and runway work. We wanted to get to know this well-rounded man a little better so we did what we do. Now you do what you do and keep reading.

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ENC sets new course continued from page 5

we’vealready won the war…by pulling on the right strings of justice, love and humility,” said Barber, who was an instrumental ally in a coalition of groups which opposed the state’s anti-LGBT constitutional amendment. The amendment, among other issues, Barber said, was a wake-up call for young North Carolinians. “Young people who have been tought that North Carolina was reasonable and progres-

sive,” Barber said, woke up on May 8 to a figurative “ice-cold water shock.” “Even here in North Carolina — though our black and Latino brothers and sisters have always known it — the Tar Heel soil is fertile for hate and fear,” Barber said. The civil rights leader called forcefully for a new politics of change. “We must have a 21st century fusion politics where we stand together not sometimes

The Common Market

what God said so little and so little of what God said so much.” Barber’s keynote was followed by award presentations. Durham Democratic state Rep. Larry Hall received the group’s Legislator of the Year award. Salem College student Sammi Kiley was the group’s inaugural student leader honoree. Recipients of this year’s Bob Page Equality Champion Awards included Asheville’s Rev. Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, Charlotte’s Chris McLeod & Krista Tillman, the Triad’s Rev. Julie Peeples, Durham blogger Pam Spaulding and Wilmington’s Sherre Toler. : :

Pl Marketplace az aM idw ood

For those looking for a bit of the unusual, a bit of the hip or a bit of that small-town general store feeling, there’s no other place like The Common Market. Owners Blake and Cress Barnes have run the business for a decade this year, expanding from their one original Plaza Midwood location to a second in South End. The owners say their award-winning deli, their craft beer and wine, cheeky gifts and a warm sense of community keep customers, as diverse as the neighborhood around them, coming back for more. The Common Market is currently offering a variety of special events and sales as it gears up for its 10-year anniversary part on Dec. 8, including a “Hell of a Day” wine sale, a break dance competition, local arts displays, sampling for locally-made food and performances by the band Shana Blake and the Pivotal Souls as well as special acts from fire throwers! Visit Common Market: 2007 Commonwelath Ave. and 1515 S. Tryon St. Learn more: commonmarketisgood.com

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

C harlotte

Neighborhood store prepares for 10th anniversary

but all the time,” Barber said, calling for stronger and more united stands against anti-LGBT discrimination and on prison reform, health care, education, immigrant rights and voting rights, among other topics. “If we stay together long enough and strong enough, we will win,” Barber said. Barber called out divisive religious leaders who he said are misleading followers and abusing the teachings of the Bible. “You go and tell Franklin Graham,” he said of the son of evangelist Billy Graham, among others, “you want a real conservative and you ask them why they say so much of

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drag rag by Miss Della qnotes contributor

It’s tea time at the pageant scene! As I sit down to write another tardy Drag Rag, it occurs to me, as it does every once in a while, that I have not rounded up much tea this time. It seems the pageantry calendar is dry about this time, with the exception of a few tidbits. Pageant enthusiasts notice this every once in a while and it seems like it happens before and after the holidays. Don’t ask me why! I mentioned to you all that I would eventually round up the names of the runners-up from Mr. and Miss Unlimited from a couple months ago. Our handsome Mr. Unlimited My’Kel Knight-Addams was happy to oblige. His runners-up included Raquan Demornay and Charlotte’s Scooby Damone Knight-Addams. For the ladies, runners-up to Alexis Nicole Whitnmey included Dorae Lorenz and Charlotte’s London Nicole Dior. Also, there was a Miss West Virginia United States at Large held recently and although a judge’s scores got missing and it was not originally called out this way, after the dust settled, Paisley Parque won Evening Gown, Talent and Americana Sportswear. She was crowned and Charlotte’s Cierra Nicole was

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Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

first runner-up and she won On-Stage Q & A. I do know the Miss America prelims are not scheduled to start up until around March, but hopefully a tour will be scheduled for the new MGA, Sally Sparkles, so she can tip through NC sometime soon. By the next time we meet up here, we will have an EOY prelim or two to talk about and, hopefully, some Continental and U.S.ofA. stuff as well. I understand the reigning Miss U.S.ofA., LaWanda Jackson, has been visiting and working a good bit in Raleigh at Legends. LaWanda, do get to the Queen City sometime as well, my dear! This time, our promo is of the newest Miss Gay U.S.ofA. At Large, Dorae Saunders, who is also the reigning Miss Scorpio at Large (and is a former Miss Scorpio, along with a million other titles, it seems). Surely many readers remember she was a finalist a couple years ago on “America’s Got Talent” and she also appeared in the movie “Trantasia,” based on the Most Beautiful Transexual pageant held in Las Vegas a few years ago. It will be good to see her again the next time we run into each other at a pageant or a show somewhere. I’m sure she’ll be beaming, as I’ve watched her

Dorae S. Saunders of Columbia, S.C.: the newly crowned Miss U.S.ofA. At Large

compete (and judged her a time or two) for years now and she has come into her own. Just a couple weeks ago, the All-American Goddess prelims took place at Scorpio. Promoter Brooke Divine-Storm LaReese was spread thin playing hostess to everyone — and spent a pretty penny, too. Many titleholders were in the building to be presented or to perform or both. Many were mentioned in the previous Rag, but I was disappointed to learn that Dena Cass nor Alexis Nicole Whitney would be joining us. It was good to see several folks, including Savannah Leigh, Shae Shae LaReese and head judge Jennifer Warner who reigns as Miss United States Icon. I can say I was blown away by the professionalism exhibited by both All-American Goddess titleholders, Whitney Paige and Asia O’Hara. One can really tell Whitney gained a lot of her training from the days of competing in the Miss America system, that’s for sure. Top notch and pure drag all the way! Before coming to Charlotte, Whitney stayed in Nashville with friends Brandy Andrews and her roomie Mo and they were in awe of this drag legend. (And, Brandy loved cooking for her!) Oh yeah — the results! Tia Douglas is the new NC All-American Goddess and her runner-up was Aria B. Cassadine. For the AtLarge girls, Nina Fierra won and her RU was Phoxee Roxx. Before going to press, I heard from a dear old friend of mine, my little sis Brandonna DuPree, now making her home back in Minnesota by way of a short stint in DC. She was in DC for a pageant, Miss United States, and she was calling to pour some pageant tea, as she had just placed as 1st RU there and won Interview, Gown and Most Beautiful. She told me she travelled with the ever-popular Tiffany T. Hunter of Continental fame, who now also makes calls Minnesota home. I had no idea! Anyway, the winner was Mercedes Munro of California. she won Talent. Aunye Diamond of Maryland was 2nd RU and she won presentation. The pageant was held at Club Omega. Hopefully next time, we’ll have a lot more pageant tea to be thankful for! Happy Belated Turkey Day! : : info: Drop me a line, OK? TheTeaMissD@yahoo.com

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

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out in the stars by Charlene Lichtenstein :: qnotes contributor

November 24 - December 7 The Sun enters affable, honest Sagittarius. Our hopes and aspirations know no bounds even if a few of the niceties fall through the cracks. So, while we may not be the smoothest of operators, we still know how to maneuver around obstacles. SAGITTARIUS (11.23-12.22) Things right now highlight your glowing personality. People of influence gather around you and anxiously await for your ideas. Use this hot intensity for niceness instead of nastiness. The temptation may be to settle an old score, but wise, gay Archers understand that revenge is one of the few dishes that is best eaten cold, along with potato salad. CAPRICORN (12.23-01.20) Think beyond your own petty concerns. The universe demands a more humanitarian effort from you. So rather than continue to view life from the sidelines, volunteer, donate and get involved in any worthy cause. What a change of pace for you! And, yet, smart pink Caps also realize that the more they give, the more they get. No not in aggravation! AQUARIUS (01.21-02.19) Compadres are mere putty in your hands. Folks gravitate to you as you command the group dynamic. This is fine as long as you don’t let the party turn into a great performance. There is a time for the conquering diva and a time for democratic camaraderie. Choose the latter, Aqueerius. Life moves on and the blush will soon be off your particular rose. PISCES (02.20-03.20) Guppies are not ones to kow tow to the rich and powerful. It almost seems beneath them. But, if you were to think of it as “greasing the wheels” to your eventual success, it may be a bit more palatable. And, it will be so easy for you to do now. Really, what is the harm in oiling a few large cogs? It is fine as long as you don’t do it with your tongue. ARIES (03.21-04.20) Even if you are no longer a student, you can still learn a thing or two. Your curiosity is piqued and you yearn to expand your knowledge. Good. Don’t be lazy, gay Ram. Get off your duff and scratch your itchy hooves through school or travel. You can snare a foreign comrade in this wild journey. Two travel as cheaply as one if they bunk together. TAURUS (04.21-05.21) Queer Bulls can charm the pants off just about anyone now. You simmer in your sexuality, so try to blow a few fuses as you increase your voltage. Choose your conquests wisely; you may not know when enough is enough and it would be a shame to waste energy on liaisons who are bull dozing guzzlers. Then again, it could be rather fun. GEMINI (05.22-06.21) Feel free to discuss any nit picky issues with partners now. But,

be warned — when pink Twins become too comfortable in relationships, they may begin to take partners for granted. As charming as you think you are, remember to be especially caring and thoughtful now. If not, ask for forgiveness with buckets of champagne and crates of attention. CANCER (06.22-07.23) It’s a time of great accomplishment in your day-to-day job. Gay Crabs should make the best use of this beneficent energy by unleashing new ideas, beginning prized projects and planning your best moves at least three moves ahead. Also, use this time to revamp your diet and exercise regime. It is never too early to prepare for festive nude holiday celebrations. LEO (07.24-08.23) Unleash your creative, gay muse. Paint, dance, write or create something beautiful. If you’re no Picasso, then put your juices to work planning a delightful party or five. It is a time for romance, so add a dash of fun into an otherwise monastic life. Proud Lions needn’t stay home nursing their memories. Get out there and flip your tail around town, honey. VIRGO (08.24-09.23) Queer Virgins often decorate their homes in early functional office style. This time period demands a warmer, charming and comfortable home decor. So, trade in your modern, steel highback chair for something a bit more cushy and inviting. When you begin to feel cuddly, who knows who you can lure into your web to snuggle with you. How fly is that? LIBRA (09.24-10.23) If you have something… anything…meaningful to say, say it with conviction. Proud Libras can sugarcoat any harsh comments and be diplomatic with almost anyone. Create connections and rebuild any frayed ties. If you give even the most beastly folks a chance to redeem themselves, you may even find something genuinely nice about them. And, then again. SCORPIO (10.24-11.22) They say you should never count your chickens before they’re hatched and, yet, you can now hatch a very clever investment strategy. Even secretive strategists offer you tantalizing tidbits of fiscal information. Make good use of every snippet of advice, do your homework and carefully invest your dough. Gather those nest eggs and sit on them a while, proud Scorp. : : © 2012 Madam Lichtenstein, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Entertainment. info: Visit TheStarryEye.com for e-greetings, horoscopes and Pride jewelry. My book “HerScopes: A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians” from Simon & Schuster is available at bookstores and major booksites.

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qnotes

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

on the map nightlife

Midwood Madness, Petra’s half-price bottles of wine Karaoke, The Woodshed starts at 9 p.m.

Sunday

Barbeque & Bloody Marys, Bar at 316 free BBQ from 3-6 p.m. The Sunday Social Spades/Card Games & House Muzik, Nickel Bar from 5 p.m.-Midnight House Cast Show, The Scorpio with DJ 4Real. 11:30 p.m. Woodshed Sundays, The Woodshed free dinner buffet served at 6:30 p.m. karaoke, 9 p.m.

Friday

Game Night, Bar at 316 Team Trivia and Line Dancing, Hartigan’s starts at 8 p.m. Karaoke, Petra’s hosted by Rachel Houdek. 9 p.m. Wicked and Wild Wednesdays, The Scorpio featuring Tiffany Storm with DJ 4Real. 11 p.m. Pool Tournament, The Woodshed starts at 10:30 p.m.

House DJ and Dancing, Bar at 316 Free HIV Testing, Connections the 4th Friday of every month. 8-10 p.m. A-List Fridays, Marigny hosted by SugaWalls Entertainment. 10 p.m. Feel Good Fridays Dance Night, Nickel Bar from 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Live Performances, Petra’s Roxy’s Rainbow Review, The Rainbow In starts at 11p.m. Life’s a Drag, The Scorpio with Tiffany Storm. 11:30 p.m.

Thursday

Saturday

Wednesday

Monday

Movie Night, Bar at 316 starts at 9 p.m. Monday Madness, Chasers pool tournament at 11:30 p.m. $25 cash prize and $25 bar tab. Boxing & Monday Night Football, Sidelines Free Pool, The Woodshed all day.

Thursday Night House Party, Bar at 316 Pool Tournament, Central Station Rockin’ Well Thursdays, Chasers with Valerie Rockwell. Show starts at 12:30 a.m. Free HIV Testing, Connections the 2nd Thursday of every month. 8-10 p.m. Karaoke Night, Hartigan’s hosted by Roxxy C. Moorecox. 9 p.m. Team Boystown, Marigny starts at 10 p.m. $10 cover after 11 p.m. Drink-n-drown. SpeakEasy Thursday Open Mic Night, Nickel Bar from 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Karaoke Night, The Rainbow In free for members. $5 guests. $6 under 21.

Tuesday

Karaoke with Metro Mike, Bar at 316 starts at 9 p.m. Pool Tournament, Central Station Twisted Trivia, Chasers with Tiffany Storm & Brooklyn Dior. Showtime at 12:30 a.m. Trivia Tuesdays, Marigny hosted by Roxxy C. Moorecox 7 p.m.

Community

Underwear Night, The Woodshed

LGBT Community Center of Charlotte Seeks to promote diversity, acceptance and visibility of the LGBT community through original and collaborative programming and events and by providing an inclusive, welcoming and affordable environment for all. 1 820 Hamilton St., Suite B11 Charlotte, NC 28206 704-333-0144 gaycharlotte.com

House DJ and Dancing, Bar at 316 The Angela Lopez Show, Chasers show starts at 12:30 a.m. Live DJ, Hartigan’s Krewe Saturdays, Marigny Sexy Saturdays Special Events, Nickel Bar from 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Live Performances, Petra’s Urban Variety Show, The Scorpio with Elaine Davis. Midnight showtime.

White Rabbit North Carolina’s LGBT everything store. Complete line of Pride merchandise, plus magazines, books, DVDs, T-shirts, underwear, swimwear, athletic shorts, hats, hoodies, socks, and more. 920 Central Ave. 2 Charlotte, NC 28204 704-531-9988 . phone 704-531-1361 . fax info@whiterabbitbooks.com

info: Don’t see your bar listed here? Submit your regularly scheduled events to editor@goqnotes.com Nightlife content the responsibility of each business listed.

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Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

qnotes

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qnotes

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

a&e

goqnotes.com/to/arts

tell trinity by Trinity :: qnotes contributor

Being neat can go a ‘tidy’ bit overboard? Hey Trinity, My roommate’s very anal. She likes the kitchen and bathroom kept clean a certain way and that’s not all. How do I get her to be less anal and more relaxed? A Pain in the Butt, NYC, NY Hey A Pain in the Butt, Anal, being obsessively attentive to detail, is only a problem when someone else wants to have things done their way. Very successful people are usually dedicated to detail, i.e., a good lawyer or architect. Nonetheless, pumpkin, always communicate your problems to your roommate in a timely manner and try to compromise. One day you may end up on the other side. Dearest Trinity, My live-in lover of three years hardly talks to me anymore. Now, I found out he has mail sent to his mom’s house. I feel like he’s hiding something.

How can I get him to talk? Speak No Evil, Savannah, GA Dearest Speak No Evil, You could snoop around for more clues and try to investigate, but if you weren’t born a Sherlock Holmes or Watson then think E=mc2 or Energy equals Mass, times (2)Acceleration. In other words think a solution (energy), introduce the problem to him (mass) and then force a meeting (acceleration). However, sweetie, before stirring up the energy, make sure you’re ready to discover that he, a) may have fallen out of love with you, b) is having an affair, c) doesn’t know how to communicate well or d) needs to be tied up, drugged and made to talk. Be aware, be careful and take action before a bomb gets dropped on you! (You can get some sound hints when you check out my cartoon.) Dear Trinity, My boyfriend likes hanging around the house in his underwear. I hate it, for many reasons. How do I keep him dressed? Underwear Blues, Miami Beach, FL

Dear Underwear Blues, In most homes of taste and style, what he’s doing is a big faux pas, a no-no, a virtue confined to hillbillies and trailer trash! Nowadays, you can buy tastefully bi-useful underwear that passes for acceptable day wear, even nicer. Buy some and fill his drawers with them and slowly over bleach the white ones. And, if that doesn’t work, put him on steroids, place web cam’s everywhere and make some money, honey! Smile for the camera. Hello Trinity, Recently, at a party, the hostess pulled me aside and told me to stop asking her guests so many personal questions. She said, “Your embarrassing everyone, including yourself!” Trinity, what’s so horrible about being inquisitive? Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, Reno, NV Hello Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, Nothing, except, when you’re in public there are questions that are not appropriate! But, darling, just in case you’re still clueless here’s… Trinity’s Memorable Tips For Questions Never To Ask In A Crowd 1. Lindsey, you look great! But, can you show my friends your face lift and liposuction scars? 2. When you’re at the gym Johnny, do you still lock yourself in the toilet stall and do “you

know what?” 3. K yle we’re all dying to know, after you were on “America’s Most Wanted,” how did you get out of that kidnapping and murder charge? 4. Do you still cheat on your taxes, Terry? And, where on earth do you hide all that money? 5. A ndy, I heard you’re an illegal alien. Why don’t you tell everyone how you slipped past immigration? 6. I know you stopped having sex, Steve, because of all the arrests, but why’d you stop hiring escorts? 7. E ddie, is it true that when you have extramarital activities your partner likes to watch? 8. N ow remind me again, Dave, when you have sex, are you a dominant top or a submissive bottom? 9. D anny, do you have any marijuana to sell me? I heard you’re a dealer now. 10. By the way, Leslie, you look so androgynous lately! Are you still taking hormones and thinking about having “the” surgery? : : — With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking” a weekly radio drama performed globally and is now minister of WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings.

info:

telltrinity.com . Trinity@telltrinity.com. Sponsored by: WIG Ministries, Gay Spirituality for the Next Generation! wigministries.org

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

qnotes

Community Resources: Faith Institutions [Ed. Note — Each issue, qnotes will rotate various community resources and list them here. These community groups are here to serve you and we know of no better way to simply inform the public of their good works than by giving you the opportunity to connect with them and get involved. Don’t see your group listed and want to join in? Shoot us an email with “InFocus addition” in the subject line to editor@goqnotes.com.] Charlotte Atheists and Agnostics charlotteatheists.com MCC Charlotte 1825 Eastway Dr., Charlotte NC 28205 704-563-5810, mcccharlotte.org Myers Park Baptist Church 1900 Queens Rd., Charlotte, NC 28207 704-334-7232, mpbconline.org Havurat Tikvah 980-225-5330, havurattikvah.org

qnotes

Holy Covenant United Church of Christ 3501 W. WT Harris Blvd., Charlotte NC 28269 704-599-9810, holycovenantucc.org Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 1900 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC 28205 704-377-5439 htlccharlotte.org/ New Life MCC 1900 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC 28205 704-334-0350, newlifemccnc.org Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church 9704 Mallard Creek Rd., Charlotte, NC 28262 704-510-0008, puuc.org Seigle Avenue Presbyterian Church 600 Seigle Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204 704-338-1914, seigleavenue.org St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 1510 E. 7th St., Charlotte NC 28204 704-376-8441, stmartins-charlotte.org

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

St. Peter’s Catholic Church 507 South Tryon St., Charlotte, NC 28202 704-332-2901 stpeterscatholic.org/gay_lesbian_ministry Spiritual Living Center 1025 E. 35th St., Charlotte, NC 28205 704-665-1886, slccharlotte.com Temple Beth El 5101 Providence Rd. Charlotte, NC 28226 704-366-1948, beth-el.com

Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte 234 Sharon Amity Rd., Charlotte, NC 28211 704-366-8623, uuccharlotte.org Unity Fellowship Church 2127 Eastway Dr., Charlotte, NC 28205 704-567-5007, ufccharlottenc.org Wedgewood Baptist Church 4800 Wedgewood Dr., Charlotte, NC 28210 704-523-6108, wedgewoodbaptist.com

Two for Twenty Charlotte Business Guild 20th Anniversary Dec. 1 • 6:30 p.m. The Charlotte Business Guild will host its 20th Anniversary Gala on Dec. 1, 6:30-11:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Charlotte SouthPark Hotel, 5501 Carnegie Blvd. Tickets are $50 for individuals, $90 for couples and $400 for a table of 10. Late registration after Nov. 20 is $65 for individual tickets. Celebration includes a cocktail and networking hour with a cash bar, plated dinner, annual Community Service Awards presentations and music. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit charlottebusinessguild.org. Regional AIDS Interfaith Network 20th Anniversary Dec. 8 • 7 p.m. The Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN) celebrates 20 years of service. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Special guests include Jack Mackenroth of Project Runway and Miss America 2010 Caressa Cameron-Jackson. Tickets are $75 for individuals, $65 for congregation tickets and $45 for young social leaders. CenterState @ NoDa, 2315 N. Davidson St. 7 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit carolinarain.org. Dec. 1 • Hickory AIDS remembrance The AIDS Leadership Foothools-area Alliance (ALFA) will host a World AIDS Day remembrance event. First United Methodist Church, 311 3rd Ave. N.E. 3 p.m. Free. For more information, call 828-322-1447, ext. 224, email alfadirect@alfainfo.org or visit alfainfo.org. Dec. 1 • Charlotte Tradesmen Charlotte’s only Levi/Leather club meets the first Saturday of every month at The Woodshed Lounge, 4000 Queen City Dr. 6 p.m. charlottetradesmen.org. Dec. 2 • Greensboro Winter Walk for AIDS Triad Health Project will hold its 21st annual Winter Walk for AIDS. The event is a fundraiser for the organization. It will be held at War Memorial Stadium. For more information, contact Ken Keeton or Shana Carignan at 336-275-1654 or visit triadhealthproject.com/ events/winterwalk.php. Dec. 3 • Charlotte TedxWomen The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and TedxCharlotte present a special viewing party of TEDxWomen, a conference addressing issues important to women. Speakers include “The Vagina Monologues” writer and playwright Eve Ensler, photographer and activist Tillet Wright and International Criminal

Court Chief Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda and others. Limited seating. Free tickets available at eventbrite.com/event/4737282339/efbevent. Foundation For The Carolinas, 220 N. Tryon St. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Dec. 3 • Winston-Salem Dining with Friends AIDS Care Service kicks off its Dining with Friends fundraiser. Events can be planned anytime between Dec. 3, 2012, and Feb. 3, 2013. For more detailed information on how you can get involved, call Development Officer Rivkah Meder at 336-777-0116, ext. 103, email rmeder@aidscareservice.org or visit aidscareservice.org. Dec. 7-8 • Charlotte ‘Reindeer Games’ One Voice Chorus presentes their winter concert. The theme is a tribute to this London Olympics. For more information on the concert, the chorus’ other upcoming events or the group’s fundraising campaign, see our story on page 6. Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte, 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd. Dec. 7-8, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8, 2 p.m. $20/evening shows. $15/adult matinee. $10/child matinee. onevoicechorus.org. Dec. 7 • Charlotte Holiday Jazz The Bechtler Museum kicks off the holiday spirit with a performance by Ziad Jazz Quartet featuring Noel Freidline and jazzy renditions

Submit your event to our new calendar!

of songs like “The Christmas Song,” “Frosty the Snowman,” “Winter Wonderlan,” “Little Drummer Boy” and more. The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, 420 S. Tryon St. 6-8 p.m. Free/members. $12/members. Cash bar. Tickets can be purchased online at bechtler. org or by phone at 704-353-9200 or at the museum’s visitor services desk.

events goqnotes.com/qguide/events

tor Bishop Tonyia Rawls will be honored with the Community Leader Award from Grassroots Leadership. Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte, 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd. Reservations can be made at 704-332-3090 or via email at mdorta@grassrootsleadership.org. grassrootsleadership.org.

Dec. 8 • Greensboro Winter Concert Triad Pride Men’s Chorus presents their annual holiday concerts. Mix of traditional, pop and funny holiday favorites. Greensboro Day School, 5401 Lawndale Dr. 8 p.m. $15/advance. $20/door. triadpridemenschorus.org. Dec. 12 • Charlotte Twelve In Twelve J.D. Lewis and his two sons, Jackson and Buck, will launch their new foundation to support volunteerism, following their worldwide journey which took them to 12 countries in 12 months for relief work. The foundation will exist to raise awareness, donations and supplies for organizations with which they worked across the globe. For more on the family and the event, see our feature on page 6. The Dunhill Hotel, Harvest Moon Grille, 237 N. Tryon St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. twelveintwelve.org. Dec. 13 • Charlotte Leaders honored Mecklenburg County Commissioner Jennifer Roberts and Unity Fellowship Church pas-

Dec. 14-15 • Charlotte GMCC Christmas The Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte presents “The Last Big Gay Christmas Ever.” Traditional Christmas classics with Hannukah comedy from the Maccabeats and a new commission from Eric Lane Barnes, “The Shouldn’t Be Carols.” St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 1510 E. 7th St. 8:04 p.m. $20. gmccharlotte.org. Dec. 15 • Charlotte Twirl to the World 2012 Just Twirl parties up the holidays with their fourth annual Twirl to the World holiday party starting with a social hour at 8 p.m. followed by a night of dancing at 10 p.m. Admission is $5 with a new unwrapped toy or $15 without. Marigny Dance Club, 1440 S. Tryon St., Suite 110. justtwirl.com. Dec. 15 • Durham Jingle Balls Bingo AAS-C brings a bit of holiday flair to their popular Drag Bingo series. Join staff, volunteers and community members for this merry time of fundraising and fun! Durham Armory, 220 Foster St. 6 p.m. $20. aas-c.org.

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

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012

qnotes

Nov. 24-Dec. 7 . 2012