Queen City Nerve - August 23, 2023

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 20; AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2023; WWW.QCNERVE.COM

@Q UEEN CI T Y N ERV E W W W.Q CN ERV E.COM PUBLISHER JUSTIN LAFRANCOIS

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EDITOR - IN - CHIEF RYAN PITKIN

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TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS & OPINION

4 Battle Lines by Ryan Pitkin

Public School Strong pushes back against the movement to undermine education

6 Election Guide 2023 by Ryan Pitkin

Mayor, city council and school board races in Charlotte

ARTS & CULTURE

8 The Lengths by Bruce Brightly Two Charlotte creatives set to open much-needed indie performance space 10 Lifeline: Ten Cool Things To Do in Two Weeks

MUSIC

12 The Power of Positive by Pat Moran Sayurblaires spread a message of trans joy 14 Soundwave

FOOD & DRINK

16 Setting the Bar by Rayne Antrim Tattooz & Booz eyes expansion for uniquely successful hybrid model

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LIFESTYLE

18 Puzzles 20 Aerin It Out by Aerin Spruill 21 Horoscope 22 Savage Love Thanks to our contributors: Grant Baldwin, Aerin Spruill, Bruce Brightly, Amber Kelly, Abdul Smith, Joan Marcus, Mrlo, and Dan Savage.

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NEWS & OPINION FEATURE

A LINE IN THE SAND

Public School Strong pushes back against the movement to undermine education

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BY RYAN PITKIN

Leaving the public forum at a Union County Public Schools (UCPS) Board of Education meeting in mid-July, it was easy to see when the mood had shifted among speakers who had just minutes before walked into the meeting full of fervor.

The half-dozen speakers were there that evening to voice their support for LGBTQ rights in Union County schools as a response to creeping policy changes seen as discriminatory against trans and LGBTQ students.

Having gone back and forth with speakers on the other side of the issue — anti-trans folks who repeated tales of the dangers posed by trans people in bathrooms and made allegations that consensual gender-affirming care is child abuse — the speakers who went in now stood in front of the UCPS Professional Development Center looking exhausted, as if the experience had taken 20 hours rather than 20 minutes.

One woman, a former UCPS teacher who came to speak in support of LGBTQ students, walked directly to her car in tears after having to sit through the vitriol of those who wanted to effectively erase any acknowledgment of the trans community in the district.

Regan Shaw, mother to a rising 10th grader in a Union County school, watched the woman with sympathetic eyes and, before following her to her car to offer support, said, “This is why it’s so hard to get people to show up.”

Out of 17 people who had signed up before the meeting to speak in support of LGBTQ rights, only five had shown up.

Despite the disappointing showing that evening, Shaw has seen progress in Union County, thanks in part to her involvement with Public School Strong, a statewide organization of progressive organizations and advocates who aim to push back against those trying to undermine trust in public schools through

divisive “culture war” issues like LGBTQ rights, Critical Race Theory and book banning.

At a time when Gov. Roy Cooper has declared a State of Emergency for Public Education and groups like the Florida-based Moms for Liberty that aim to undermine public education appear to be gaining COURTESY OF GAIL CHAUNCEY influence in the public realm, Public School Strong GAIL CHAUNCEY (FAR RIGHT) WITH FELLOW PUBLIC SCHOOL STRONG MEMBERS. hopes to rally the majority of parents who, according As the new school year approaches, Shaw She began attending UCPS board meetings to recent Gallup polls, support public education and and others with the Union County chapter of in October 2022, when the Central Academy of are satisfied with their children’s schooling.

Public School Strong plan to hold board members When Shaw heard about Public School Strong, Technology and Arts in Monroe announced plans a movement assembled by rural and working-class to do gender-neutral casting for their upcoming accountable for each and every attempt at enforcing the policy. advocacy organization Down Home NC, on the social production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

And they are not alone in the local Public School That announcement brought backlash from media forums she had begun to regular during conservative groups, which showed up at board Strong movement.

COVID, she knew she wanted to get involved.

“We really need to organize on a larger level meetings to voice their disapproval. Shaw attended to compare notes and just present a more united the meetings with others to stand against those The battle of Cabarrus County front because [Moms for Liberty] have been so groups.

According to Down Home NC, there are currently The controversy resulted in a policy proposal to dominant in our school board, and really, if you look Public School Strong chapters in 30 counties, with 13 at the whole county, they’re such a small minority,” ban all displays and insignia from classrooms that more going through the training process. Advocates Shaw told Queen City Nerve before that mid-July are not related to curriculum. It became obvious that in 22 more counties beyond those have shown meeting. “They’re just very well-organized. They’ve the policy was built to specifically target Pride flags interest in potentially launching a chapter. got all these marching orders from Florida, and the and insignia.

In Cabarrus County, Kim Biondi has had a long Plenty of parents pushed back, but the process history of political engagement that overlaps with pandemic really gave them this huge boost because the pandemic was tough for a lot of people, and very was drawn out and eventually people stopped her 21-year teaching career at Central Cabarrus High savvy political actors decided to move on that and showing up.

School.

Shaw, however, continued to speak at each use that.”

It picked up around 2017, when Biondi and her Shaw grew up in Louisiana but moved to the public forum she could. The policy was approved fellow teachers began to realize just how apathetic United Kingdom before the birth of her son. When just as the 2022-’23 school year ended, and Shaw county leaders had been toward teachers. he turned 10, her family moved back to the States, continues to demand board members better define They attended school board and county landing in Waxhaw. She said she wanted to return to what it means for a display not to be related to commission meetings to lobby for a supplementary the U.S. because schools in the U.K. were separated curriculum. pay raise. Though they succeeded, they made a “There’s so much in teachers’ classrooms that troubling realization in the process. by gender and most of them were tied to some local are non-curriculum related but still important church.

“Along the way, several of us realized that neither to teachers,” Shaw said.

“So if you strip that way, “There’s no separation of church, and I didn’t the school board nor the county commissioners had know that,” Shaw explained. “I knew that that’s an you’d have to get dumpsters to empty out the a good grasp on what was happening in the schools American principle, but I didn’t realize the schools whole school to enforce that policy without it in our county. They didn’t know what the curriculum were like that there. I just missed a lot about the being discriminatory. It would be just a wholesale was. They didn’t know, well, a lot of things,” Biondi American public school system, the ethos of them.” trashing.” said.

NEWS & OPINION FEATURE

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pornography in schools,’ you don’t counter by saying, the desegregation of schools and how they were the “It goes back to what Dr. Shaw said,” Chauncey ‘Teachers are not disseminating pornography,’ most vocal opponents of desegregation of schools. said. “He never really articulated what I understand because people tend to forget the argument, but And you start putting things together. History is to be true now, but it really is an inextricable “It was really disheartening and discouraging they remember pornography, and so that’s what never new. It just repeats itself. connection between the dismantling and sort of the because I had always just assumed, well, the people they associate.

“And so I just decided,” Chauncey continued, blowing up of the public education system because who got elected know our schools and know what’s “So we tagged them as often as we could with “along with people like me and Kim and [CMS school it is the great equalizer. We put a whole lot of spins best for our county, and I don’t need to be watching ‘book banner,’ or ‘somebody who wants to make board member] Jennifer [De La Jara] and all of us, on it, and we try to sort of excuse it away, but these over them. But the more I spoke to them, the more decisions for my kids.’ ‘I don’t co-parent with book we realize that this is a cycle that we’re in, but we’ve are very simple concepts. Public schools, when they I realized, ‘Oh my God, they don’t know anything. banners.’We did that as often as we could. And when got to just fight as hard as we can to end that cycle.” came out and why they became such an issue with They don’t know about testing. They don’t know they started saying, ‘Well, we don’t ban books’ — It was a 2014 conversation that Chauncey had desegregation, it’s because it truly is an equalizer.” what a teacher’s day looks like. They have no idea.” when they started using the language that we used with famed civil rights activist and UNC Professor Chauncey has hope in what Public School Biondi and her fellow teachers formed an — I knew we would win.” of Law Dr. Theodore Shaw that inspired her to Strong can accomplish as a coalition, however, advocacy group called Cabarrus County with advocates representing a number of Teachers United, which built a presence at struggles and fights — LGBTQ rights, book school board meetings and on social media. bans, voucher funding, gun control and Things worsened during COVID, safety — coming together as one. however, and Biondi began looking for She hopes that, in Mecklenburg a way out. Convinced that the school County, the ability of Moms for Liberty to board had no care for teachers’ safety infiltrate the seats of power in such a “Blue” and only saw them as babysitters for area will be a wake-up call for Democrats parents’ children rather than instructors to and progressives to vote — and to do so students, Biondi took a partial retirement based on more than a party. in September 2021, the day after her 50th “Groups like this proliferate in Charlotte birthday. because they are able to do what they “What that did was it freed me up to already did, what Tricia Cotham is doing,” really be a pain in the ass to the school she said, referencing the state senator board, because now they couldn’t do who switched sides to give Republicans anything,” she said. “Now I was a parent a supermajority after being elected as a of students but not a teacher and they Democrat. “They’re able to neutralize the couldn’t threaten my job or threaten my power of this blue city. And I think that’s well-being or anything else that they had where we’ve got to start letting the public been doing.” know.

At the time, members of the Cabarrus “That’s the hardest part because County Schools Board of Education had PHOTO BY GRANT BALDWIN when you’ve got such a majority of seats REGAN SHAW OUTSIDE A UNION COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS MEETING IN MID-JULY. been working to form a so-called Literature being filled by Democrats, people come Review Committee to try to remove books look more closely at how conservative members on the blue ticket and say one thing and then serve from school libraries. Biondi’s group fought it of the North Carolina General Assembly were not a constituency that just seems to be assuming hard, filing suit in the process to prove that board A message in Mecklenburg County One might think that in a place like Mecklenburg only apathetic to the state of public education, but that they have our best interests at heart. That’s a members had worked with extremist parents in the adversarial to it. dangerous, dangerous precedent that we’re setting,” community to get the district’s superintendent fired County, with its more urban setting and widespread “He said, ‘All of us who are in civil rights and who she continued. “And that’s exactly what they are and replace him with one who would go along with Democratic representation, a group like Public School Strong may not be as necessary. However, as have been part of this movement understand what’s exploiting.” their plans. going on here in North Carolina. North Carolina is Despite all of this, and what she’s watched The suit, filed in September 2022, resulted in local PSS member Gail Chauncey can attest to, that is a beacon, but for the wrong reasons.

A lot of this happen over the last decade since her conversation bad publicity for the county and school board, and in far from the case. extremism is being tested in North Carolina,’” she with Dr. Shaw, Chauncey remains hopeful, and in It was during the pandemic that Chauncey that year’s election, two of the more extreme rightthe darkest times when that hope seems out of became aware of Moms for Liberty and the actions recalled. wing board members were ousted.

Since that time, she’s watched as Donald Trump’s reach, she pulls out a quote from one of her biggest Biondi — who is also a member of Public School they were taking to shore up influence. When she Secretary of Education Betsy Devos, followed by inspirations, Angela Davis: “Sometimes the future Strong and Red, Wine and Blue, another progressive became aware of the group’s collaboration with groups like Moms for Liberty, have worked to that you imagine to be most dreadful turns out parental political organization in North Carolina — the African American Faith Alliance For Educational undermine public education in America. to be the future that compels you to reach down said she used her experience teaching rhetorical Advancement, she knew she had to fight back.

It’ s all coming to fruition now as the NCGA passes very deeply into your being to uncover reservoirs “I put it together with the historical influences strategies as an AP English teacher during the fight. legislation that takes funding away from public schools of strength and perseverance that you had no “One thing that I’ve learned in my time as an that groups like Moms for Liberty have had over the to be handed to often-inaccessible private schools idea were there and you probably would not have organizer is not to use the language the other side years,” Chauncey said. “So you start putting things through vouchers — legislation that in part inspired discovered but for the disastrous times.” uses against you,” Biondi explained. “So when they together. You start looking at white women in slavery, Gov. Cooper’s emergency declaration in May 2023.

INFO@QCNERVE.COM say things like, ‘Whoa, teachers are disseminating white women in Reconstruction, white women and

NEWS & OPINION FEATURE

MECKLENBURG COUNTY ELECTION GUIDE 2023 The unmissable municipals

BY RYAN PITKIN

Municipal election season is here once again. In-person early voting for this year’s local primary elections for Charlotte City Council and mayor begin on Aug. 24, ending on Sept. 9, with a second primary scheduled for Oct. 10 if needed. General Election Day for Charlotte City Council, mayor and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 7.

There are only 10 early voting sites across Mecklenburg County this year, less than half the amount available during last year’s state and federal elections. For a look at where you can vote early visit tinyurl. com/voteearly2023.

As the mayoral election is citywide and only at-large reps on the school board are up for election this year, the only district races in the city this year are for city council. For a look at where your district is, as well as voting location and other info, check out the NC State Board of Election’s Voter Search tool at tinyurl.com/ VoterSearchNC. Note that if you vote early, you can vote at any of the 10 sites spread across Mecklenburg County this year.

REV. MICHAEL JOHNSON JR.

to include parental rights and values” and “create recognizing that a solid educational foundation is an environment that values classical education, the a critical component to ensuring a better quality of child development process, and age-appropriate life for future generations.” learning materials.”

Brian Kasher Important Note: Voters in North Carolina will be asked to show identification in order to vote this Juanrique Hall votebriankasher.com year. A simple driver’s license will do if you have one, but if you don’t, you can get a No Fee ID card from tinyurl.com/JuanriqueHall “I am public school educated and a life-long the DMV (tinyurl.com/IDNCDMV) or get a free photo ID from the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections by Hall is a longtime football coach at West supporter of public education, public school staff, calling 704-336-2133, emailing Vote@MeckNC.gov, or visiting the Charlotte office at 741 Kenilworth Ave., Charlotte High School who has in recent years and fully funding the education of our children,” Suite 202. been working closely with young people along the Kasher writes on his website. “I believe in our In Mecklenburg County, student or staff ID from Davidson College, KIPP Academy Charlotte, KIPP Beatties Ford Road corridor on violence prevention, community, our children, and the CMS staff. My Change Academy, Lake Norman Charter, Queens University, UNC Charlotte will suffice. This includes older ID joining the city’s first Alternatives to Violence concern as a CMS parent and taxpayer is the School cards without expiration dates. program in the area in December 2021.

Board and executive leadership.” He advocates for Any voter with a reasonable impediment to showing photo ID (lack of transportation, lost or stolen improving safety in schools by updating the district’s ID, disability or illness, family responsibilities, etc.) are considered permitted exceptions to the photo ID Omar Harris bond package. requirement and will be allowed to vote.

Having recently moved to Charlotte from For more info on the new voter ID requirements, visit tinyurl.com/VoterIDNC. Virginia, Harris is a National Guard veteran who Tigress Sydney Acute McDaniel would like to be a voice for teachers. linktr.ee/seetigressrun A candidate for mayor in 2022, during the Claire Covington Shamaiye Haynes pandemic McDaniel started a weekly YouTube shamaiye.com broadcast called EVOLVE Weekly and began a 52CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG SCHOOLS BOARD claire4cms.com/ Covington is an attorney and mother of two Haynes says she saw first hand how the week series titled How To Implement A More Perfect OF EDUCATION (3 SEATS AVAILABLE) young girls in CMS who serves as a room parent disparities and the achievement gaps are stifling Union, in which she spreads awareness about the and PTSO board member of her daughters’ public to communities of low social economic status after legislative process and the roles of legislators. You Annette Albright school. She says she wants to ensure “that every enrolling two of her children in Title I schools in west can watch the series at her Linktree above. annette4cms.com A former CMS employee who sued the district child receives an exceptional education regardless of Charlotte. She started The Charlotte Community after being attacked by students in 2016, Albright socio-economic status, race, ability, sex, or gender” Think Tank “to examine solutions to the complex Liz Monterrey monterrey4cms.com has called for more safety in schools as the education while making “effective changes to the $2.2-billion issues and uplift the community’s voice. “ A first-time candidate and daughter of Cuban chair for the local NAACP chapter. She called on CMS industry known as the CMS School Board.”

Rev. Michael Johnson Jr. immigrants, Monterrey drew the endorsement of to improve its handling of reported rapes and sexual Bill Fountain michael4cms.com outgoing at-large member Jennifer De La Jara. Her assaults in school this year. electbillfountain.com One third of the “CMS Unite Slate” along with platform involves putting students first by driving This former Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Annette Albright and Claire Covington, Johnson is an opportunities for them and building a strong sense Peggy A. Capehart and marketing professional pulls from recent accomplished musician who pivoted to the business of communidad.

Capehart is an NC A&T grad and former educator from Fairfax, Virginia, who now has grandchildren in conservative talking points, saying he wants to world. According to Johnson’s website, “He strongly “invigorate the student-parent-teacher relationship supports early investment in children’s education, CMS.

COUNTY

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SHAMAIYE HAYNES

NEWS & OPINION FEATURE Lenora Shipp shippcampaign.com With Board Chair Elyse Dashew and De La Jara stepping down, Shipp is the only incumbent running for reelection in this year’s CMS Board race. The West Charlotte grad once worked as a teacher at First Ward Elementary School before becoming principal at Sedgefield Elementary, where her results in closing the achievement gap led to a position as a strategic principal at various other schools.

Clara Kennedy Witherspoon cspoon22.org Inspired by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Witherspoon builds much of her platform around MALCOLM GRAHAM DIMPLE AJMERA the idea of “viewing the child as a whole person.” REV. DR. MONTY WITHERSPOON She has worked 40 years in human service roles Rob Yates (I) city, and attracts investment.” Having graduated Victoria Watlington (D) including as a social worker for Head Start early lpnc.org/yates Having served as the District 3 rep since 2019, from the International Baccalaureate Program (IB) childhood education program, director of a general Libertarian Yates says that in his 14 years in at Myers Park High School in 2021, he’s currently Watlington is attempting to move into a citypsychiatric management mental health agency, and Charlotte, he’s “watched this city succumb to the enrolled at UNC Charlotte. wide position this year. “I’ve used my engineering, a CMS licensed school counselor. operations, and community service experience to worst perils of government mismanagement.” His challenge the status quo, craft new solutions, and platform focuses on student safety (the city does Charlene Henderson El (D) Rev. Dr. Monty Witherspoon champion the needs of residents in District 3 and not have any say in education), housing prices and charlenehenderson.com The stated mission of Witherspoon’s campaign violent crime.

Longtime Hidden Valley community leader across the city, including drafting the framework for is that he “will work to ensure that all students Henderson El lost last year’s District 1 primary by just Safe Charlotte and our city’s Corridors of Opportunity who graduate are college or career ready, have a Misun Kim (R) over 1,000 votes after her neighborhood was drawn plans,” she says. quality education and a safe learning environment misunkimformayor.com out of District 4, where she had wanted to run. This regardless of their ZIP code.” His focuses are on Kim’s platform includes fighting crime and year, she runs at-large on a platform of jobs, housing Steven J. DiFiore II (I) student achievement, safe learning environments, homelessness, bringing tech jobs to the city, and and public safety.

Having earned his bachelor’s degree in political support for teachers, strong community coalitions, “reestablishing American values in Charlotte,” which science from the UNC Charlotte in 2009, DiFiore’s and system-wide accountability and transparency. apparently means “disallowing any censorship in the James ‘Smuggie’ Mitchell, Jr. (D) professional experience includes working as a lighting controls specialist as well as in retail, area,” banning the federal government from “taking jamesworksforclt.com In January, a state investigation into a potential security, customer service, and information away” the 2nd Amendment, and working a bunch of COVID grievances regarding mask and vaccine conflict of interest involving “Smuggie” found technology. He has served as the recording secretary that he had broken no state law in his roles on city for the Libertarian Party of Mecklenburg County’s mandates into city policy.

CHARLOTTE MAYOR council and as a claimed part-owner of R.J. Leeper Executive Committee Construction LLC, a development firm with which CHARLOTTE CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE Vi Lyles (D) the city does business. He rejoined council in 2022 CHARLOTTE CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2 tinyurl.com/MeetTheMayorCLT after some years away, and is currently focused on Dimple Ajmera (D) As mayor of Charlotte since 2017, mayor pro economic development, affordable housing and Malcolm Graham (D) dimpleajmera.com/ tem for two years before then, and an at-large city malcolmgrahamclt.com Currently seeking a fourth term on Charlotte public safety. council rep for two years before that, you know what Graham served as District 4 rep on Charlotte City Council, Ajmera represented District 5 in east Lyles is about if you’ve been even passively engaged City Council from 1999-2005 before moving on to Charlotte before gaining the at-large seat she LaWana Slack-Mayfield (D) with local politics over the last decade. the N.C. Senate, where he represented Mecklenburg currently fills. Her focuses are on public safety, votelawanamayfield.com County for 10 years. In 2019, four years after Like Mitchell, Mayfield returned to council sustainability, affordable housing and economic Lucille Puckett (D) in 2022 after a three-year hiatus. “Our city has tragically losing his sister in the Emanuel AME opportunity. facebook.com/lucille.puckett.54 changed, the needs of our residents continue to church shooting in Charleston, he returned to city Puckett founded Take Back Our H.O.O.D.S. after her change yet challenges such as housing affordability, council as a representative of District 2, home of his Ben Copeland (D) 26-year-old son was shot and killed in front of her in transportation, small business growth, taxes & jobs beloved Johnson C. Smith University. benforcharlotte.com her front yard in 2016. She has been a strident antiNewcomer Copeland says his mission is “to foster with livable wages have remained,” she says. violence activist in the city since. Her platform focused a thriving community that prioritizes affordable on public safety, housing and helping the city’s youth. housing, enhances infrastructure, modernizes the

CITY

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Action Committee, serves on the Charlotte Business Chair of Charlotte’s Precinct 230. She’s running on a CHARLOTTE CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 Inclusion Advisory Committee, and represents platform of community, accessibility and integrity.

Curtis M. Hayes, Jr. (D) Mecklenburg County on the North Carolina State Executive Committee. According to his website, he hayesforcharlotte.com Warren F. Turner (D) Hayes went viral in early 2020 for his emotional values education and economic opportunity for warrenturner.info Educated in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, conversation about generational trauma following business owners, entrepreneurs and grad students Turner has lived in the Steele Creek area for more the death of George Floyd. “We must bring a calm and supports living wages for seniors, veterans and than 50 years. His platform is built on sustainable respectful dialogue to find meaningful solutions for working families. solutions with lasting impact in the areas of smart the people of Charlotte, let’s cut the drama & cut the CHARLOTTE CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 6 growth, transportation, public safety, housing privilege,” he says. affordability for elderly and young adults, and youth Marjorie Molina (D) Stephanie Hand (D) violence. stephaniehand.com instagram.com/votemolina/ Incumbent Molina has dedicated her first, A former executive operations manager and James Harrison Bowers (R) shortened term to finalizing a plan for the entire general manager in the airport industry, Hand lost jameshbowersforcitycouncil.com A conservative Christian, Bowers has a photo of Eastland Yards site. Following her election in 2022, her race with current District 6 rep Tariq Bokhari by himself posing with Mark Robinson on the front of she explained to Queen City Nerve how spending a mere 357 votes. Now she’s back to finish the job. his website if you’re curious as to what he’s all about. nearly 20 years living in Charlotte, more than half STEPHANIE HAND of which in east Charlotte, led her to engage in Tariq Bokhari (R) Gary Linn Young II (D) community work and eventually decide to run for tariqscottbokhari.com CHARLOTTE CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 4 votegaryyoung.com office.

A three-term rep in District 6 and two-time A North Carolina A&T State University Renee Johnson (D) honoree in Queen City Nerve’s Hall of Shame, grad, founder of a sports agency with the NBA, reneeperkinsjohnson.com/ Bokhari’s top priorities are economic development Vinroy Reid (D) and chairman and president of the Charlottefor local business owners, improved transit and Having served on the council since 2019 vinroyreid.com Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce, Young following 30 years of public service, Johnson says Born in Kingsvale, Jamaica, Reid is known as better public safety through increased funding for has also served on the board for the McCrorey YMCA, she has unfinished business. “Your right to live in a the owner of Mama’s Caribbean, but he’s also a the CMPD. Charlotte Chamber of Commerce, Charlotte Regional city that promotes equity for all, economic growth founding member of the African Caribbean Political INFO@QCNERVE.COM Business Alliance, Charlotte Community Relations and smart land planning, which is exempt from Committee, Charlotte Business INClusion Advisory special interests, is what I will continue to do when Committee, and others. re-elected,” she says.

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CHARLOTTE CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 3

Wil Russell (D) wilrussell.com Tiawana Brown (D) As a construction manager based in Charlotte tiawanabrown.com for 20 years, Russell believes he understands the Born and raised in Charlotte, Brown launched importance of providing families a safe, affordable Beauty After the Bars after serving four years place to live. Russell’s platform prioritizes an in federal prison on fraud charges. Through her improved transit system, a safer and more affordable organization, she helps women who are returning community and supporting small, local businesses home from incarceration. In April, Brown celebrated — enough to have drawn a rare endorsement from the grand opening of her organization’s first Mayor Lyles.

Sisterhood Alliance for Freedom and Equality (SAFE) Home in Mint Hill and will soon open more. Olivia Scott (D) She’s running to improve public transportation and voteoliviaforcharlotte.com traffic infrastructure as well as increase workforce Scott is a former University of North Carolina development opportunities and public safety.

Charlotte student and current social media advisor with the Mecklenburg County Register of Deeds. She Melinda Lilly (D) previously ran for representative on the CMS Board runwithmelinda.com of Education for District 3 but was defeated in 2017.

Throughout her near-decade with the Alliance for Climate Education, Lilly developed and participated in dozens of youth leadership training sessions, digital climate campaigns, and civic engagement projects. She has served as Chair of the LGBTQ+ Democrats of Mecklenburg County and

ARTS FEATURE

THE LENGTHS

Two Charlotte creatives set to open much-needed indie performance space

BY BRUCE BRIGHTLY

“Groups like Ladyfest CLT, Baran Dance, Moving Poets, and Movement Migration are making waves in dance right here in Charlotte and I would love to be able to provide a space for these groups to flourish.”

Seneca’s thinking about the sort of artists he’d like to see working at The Long Room ran a little further afield, highlighting visual artists like Bill Temples and wunderkind Makayla Binter as well as Nouveau Sud’s Jarrell Wallace and Cathy Youngblood’s a capella vocal ensemble Caritas.

If I may throw in my two cents, I’d love to see performances by Charlotte New Play Initiative or Mixed Metaphor Productions in the space — the What is The Long Room?

Asked about the impulse behind the new interesting contours of which lend themselves to venture, operations manager Harkins told Queen imaginative staging.

It’s not called The Long Room for nothing, after all, City Nerve, “The idea of having our own space for and in addition to the length of the room, the space Argentine tango and other types of dance was always there. We talked about a bar/coffee shop, we features a second-level gallery that looks down on the talked about a studio, we talked about renting the main floor. I’d love to see what our more imaginative space permanently to another business for revenue, directors and choreographers could do with the but once the events idea came up it started to stick.” surgical theater vibe of something like that.

While the artistic possibilities are intoxicating, Founder and owner Seneca added, “Creative Harkins and Seneca remain sober in their assessment people in Charlotte struggle to find space, and we of the financial picture. are often at the mercy of those who own space, be “We are setting up The Long Room to be friendly it corporate developers who want to see a profit, to a wide variety of events and social gatherings of breweries who need to sell alcohol, churches which all kinds,” said Seneca. “We also hope to infuse the are unlikely to host, say, an LGBTQ ecstatic dance party … I wanted to take one big swing in my life arts into the more conventional events we host by and open a space where my value system, one that having art available for sale, connecting artists with event hosts, and offering our own dance services.” prioritizes the arts, holds sway.”

“To be fair, we do need a stream of income to get Harkins and Seneca are impressive for their our business model rolling,” added Harkins. “I think creative chops, but what really makes this feel like balance will evolve over time when we have a better it might have legs is the fact that there is a business idea of who is most interested in renting the space.” plan in place that provides a fiscal foundation to the So what does the future look like for The project while maintaining a certain level of agility Long Room? Both Harkins and Seneca imagine and room for evolution. By positioning The Long a bustling space where a diverse cross section of Room as an event space available for weddings, receptions, corporate events, bar mitzvahs or artists, audiences and citizenry can ply their craft drawing down the moon, Harkins and Seneca will and simply live their lives. They hope that The Long fill two neglected niches in the Plaza-Belmont Room will thrive and provide inspiration for other sector: affordable event space and a potential spaces like it. And I hope so, too.

I would love to see The Long Room become not artistic home for the artists and audiences who are only an event space, not only a performance space, more comfortable in the less stuffy environs outside but one of those mythical third spaces — somewhere of the I-277 loop.

Who might those artists be? Harkins was ready that people show up to because they know that they to go with a list of local dance companies that she will feel comfortable and there’s a good chance they admires and hopes to see active at The Long Room, will be delighted and surprised by something.

I hope The Long Room reminds people that, stating, “The scene here is so underground and between home and work, there is the city of grassroots, with everyone working for themselves Charlotte, a place with culture all its own unlike and risking a lot financially to have performances, not to mention performing in spaces that aren’t anywhere else in the world precisely because of the really safe, dancing barefoot on cement floors in people who make their lives here.

The Long Room is scheduled to open in fall 2023. warehouses or rolling around in dirt at an outdoor

and anyone who has seen a dance performance at a bar knows they are not spaces designed so the audience can see what actors or dancers are doing.

No shade, y’all, just facts.

There are performances at Goodyear Arts sometimes, but it’s certainly not a theater, and the experience can be punishing for artists and audiences (someone please write a grant to cover air conditioning in that place).

A healthy arts ecosystem requires affordable space for people to create and to show their work.

When it comes to performance, this becomes doubly important. Theatre and dance are live, time-based arts. They happen right here and right now. You have to have room to move around and you have to have room for the audience. Space.

Without affordable space, the only work that can happen is work that has major funding. Work that has major funding has a lot going for it. It’s usually very nice to look at. It’s usually quite polished and inoffensive. Sometimes it even manages to defy the odds and still have artistic integrity and be emotionally effective. What it is not, oftentimes, is accessible. Accessibility means a lot of different things but, for the sake of this conversation, it comes down to, “Can I afford to be there?” and “Do I feel like I belong there?” This is true of artists and audiences.

So what is needed to supplement our palaces in Uptown are spaces where artists who are up-andcoming, experimental (i.e. weird), or just plain poor can make work and share it with an audience. And these spaces are lacking in Charlotte, which is a huge problem.

This is where brave souls like Matt Seneca and Sarah Hayes Harkins come in. Seneca is an actor and educator with a long established love for tango, the exquisitely slinky and sharp Argentinian dance form.

Harkins, a principal dancer with Charlotte Ballet for more than a decade, is equally invested in the formal rigor of Ballet and increasing accessibility to the art form.

The two met during the pandemic and bonded over their shared love for dance and common passion for making dance available to people who space of some kind.

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In a city like Charlotte, it’s entirely possible that even the most actively engaged performing arts audiences don’t realize that they are in the midst of a life and death battle.

“What could possibly be wrong,” they may wonder. “I see so much theatre and dance! I saw something at the Knight Theater on Tuesday, the Belk on Wednesday, the Booth on Thursday, Charlotte Ballet’s smaller space on Friday. We took our niece to see something at ImaginOn on Saturday and then there was a jazz thing at The Stage Door Theater on Sunday.

“There is so much performance! An embarrassment of riches!”

And in many ways, this is true. Of course, all of those hypothetical performances happened inside of the I-277 loop and, with the exception of ImaginOn and Charlotte Ballet, they were all programmed by the same organization and likely written, designed, directed and performed by people who live in New York City.

It would be hard to fault your average Charlotte theater patron for thinking there weren’t actors or dancers living and making work here.

And the reasons for that are Legion. No, not the brewery. What we’re talking about is a little closer to the collective from the New Testament … you know, the demons? But I digress. We are not here to talk about whether or not there are demonic forces or ancient curses at play in keeping Charlotte’s local performing artists struggling for light and air.

We’re here to talk about one major factor and some possible hope for the future; we’re here to talk about space.

Quick! Name five theaters outside of the I-277 loop. There’s Theatre Charlotte in Myers Park, aka The Barn. There’s The Arts Factory at Johnson C. Smith.

There’s … um … OK, there’s … Oh yeah, there’s criminally underused theater-cum-lecture-hall The Van Every at The Mint Museum on Randolph Road.

Are there others?

Snug Harbor and (especially) Petra’s have picked up some slack by hosting various performance events but they are really music venues and bars,

are hungry to move. Harkins tutored Seneca in ballet and he in turn invited her to learn tango.

Out of this came a beautiful artistic partnership that has blossomed into a business partnership as the pair prepare to open The Long Room, an event and performance space located at 1111 Central Avenue, where the east Charlotte corridor intersects with Hawthorne Lane — those borderlands where Belmont meets Plaza Midwood and Elizabeth (think where Green with Envy once stood and where Haylo Healing Arts Lounge still operates today).

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QUEEN CITY COMEDY EXPERIENCE SNEAK PEEK SHOW

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ONGOING 8/24-9/3

RICH SKELETON

‘A SOLDIER’S PLAY’

Eclectic electronic/prog-rock/soul-jazz trio Rich In a segregated Louisiana army camp in 1944, the Skeleton features Leonardo Solis, whose lush murder of a rancorous Black sergeant stirs deeplayered keyboards, electronic effects and treated seated animosity and corruption among the soldiers guitars provide the mood and textures for Solis’ under his command. When a clean-cut captain dark, often winsome brand of dreamlike electronic arrives from the north to investigate, truths are pop. Co-owner of Four Finger Records with Leo Solis, confessed and a shocking secret is revealed. Based bassist Jeremy Smith lays down the foundation for in Rock Hill, the Free Reign Theatre Company takes several artists including Charlotte post-rock outfit a run at this play, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Thousand Dollar Movie. Drummer and percussionist Drama in 1982 and was adapted to film as A Soldier’s Al Sergel is a genre unto himself. The inventive Story in 1984, featuring one of Denzel Washington’s polyrhythmic virtuoso has played on Billboard- earliest big-screen performances. charting albums and singles and has performed More: $25; Aug. 24-Sept. 3, times vary; Tom with Grammy-nominated artists, while still finding S. Gettys Art Center, 201 E. Main St., Rock Hill; time to compose quirky pop masterpieces. freereigntheatre.com/ More: $10; Aug. 24, 8 p.m.; Tommy’s Pub, 3124 Eastway Dr.; facebook.com/tommyspub

AL SERGEL OF RICH SKELETON Courtesy of UnifyVisual Marketing

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THUR 8/24

During an extended weekend from Sept. 6-10, Charlotte will again play host to the Queen City Comedy Experience, which includes performances from big-name stand-up comedians like Chris Tucker and Shawn Wayans, live podcast recordings for Small Town Murder, and a number of other comedy shows.

This preview show features a look at the different show formats, stand-up from some local organizers, improv and more. It’s a variety show that will leave you wanting more … which is sort of the point, because more is coming in September. Much more.

More: $15; Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Stage Door Theater, 155 N. College St.; blumenthalarts.org

SAT 8/26 JOSHUA COTTERINO, RODOLPHE COSTER, RADDRE

Joshua Cotterino’s new wave synths and bouncy refrains summon 1980s icons Depeche Mode, but a closer listen reveals Cotterino’s unforced outsider’s edge. With layers of delay, flange and analog haze, haunting tunes like “No Food for X-Mas,” suggest an alternate ’80s in which outliers like Fad Gadget were as big as The Cure. Legendary Belgian artist and activist Rodolphe Coster didn’t release an album under his name until 2022’s High With The People.

Here, post-punk martial beats fold into soaring strings and liturgical chants. On “Racks,” Raddre entwines R&B, glossy production and oddly wistful rap.

More: $7; Aug. 26, 8 p.m.; Petra’s, 1919 Commonwealth Ave.; petrasbar.com

SAT 8/26 ILLOGICAL COMEDY

One would think local comedian Brian O’Neil collected plenty of experience for comedy fodder in his previous job as a school counselor, but either he went to that well too many times as he’s come up over the years or he’s too good for gimmicks. We’re going with the latter. O’Neil hosts this monthly show featuring his own dark thoughts buoyed by performances from fellow local comics Ashley Braswell and Greg Capra. Braswell’s low-energy style lulls listeners into a false sense of safe space while Durham-based Capra has opened for acts like Paul Conyers, Jeremy Alder and Matt White.

More: Free; Aug. 26, 8 p.m.; Devil’s Logic Brewing, 1426 E. 4th St.; tinyurl.com/IllogicalCLT

‘A SOLDIER’S PLAY’ Photo by Joan Marcus

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SUN 8/27 HATTIE’S 2023 SUMMER BASH

Do you think one of the coolest bars in town is going to go out (of summer) like a sucker? The Plaza team is throwing down hard with a whole-ass pig pickin’, all the games you come to expect from Hattie’s and then some, drink specials, and a killer lineup of local music acts. Drop by ready to see performances by King Cackle, Thousand Dollar Car, Omara & Jade Moore, Half Measures feat. Melissa, Lil Skritt, and Whiskey Richards.

More: Free; Aug. 27, 2 p.m.; Hattie’s Tap & Tavern, 2918 The Plaza; facebook.com/hattiesclt

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DADDY’S BEEMER, STAGBRIAR, GROOVE SKELETONS

DADDY’S BEEMER Courtesy of Daddy’s Beemer

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GRAVITY

TECOBY HINES Courtesy of Mrlo

9/2

SAT 9/2-9/3 RICOCHET: WORKS IN PROGRESS

Have you ever heard a theatre director — or creative of any type for that matter — claim their work has been shaped by community outreach and engagement only to wonder, “Well, when did that happen?” Here’s your chance to engage with local troupe the Nouveau Sud Circus Project, as they call on the community to help them embark on a new creative journey to address an issue that affects us all: gun violence. With a series of vignettes utilizing their signature acrobatic language and the contemporary circus arts as vehicles, NSCP will look for answers to the recurring questions around gin violence, developed using feedback from these Works in Progress sessions.

More: Free; Sept. 2, 7:30 p.m. & Sept. 3, 3 p.m.; Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St.; facebook.com/ NouveauSudCLT

BLACKTRAPEZE Courtesy of Blacktrapeze

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Instructors with Bloom Movement Artistry — a fringe performance group that focuses on circus arts such as aerial silks, hoop/lyra, straps, sling, trapeze, and dance — welcomes a special guest for this aerial showcase. Enya White, aka Blacktrapeze, is a circus artist from Montreal, Canada, known for her work with Cirque du Soleil, specifically in her signature set piece from the troupe’s Mexican-themed LUZIA show, which sees her swinging through a waterfall and pulling any number of other gravity-defying stunts. She’s performed her signature dance trapeze act & taught circus in over 29 cities in 9 countries.

Add Charlotte to the list.

More: $25-$60; Sept. 2, 8 p.m.; Bloom Movement Artistry; 6150 Old Pineville Road; bloommovementartistry.com/ 8/27

TECOBY HINES, KING NOLI AND THE BLEUS

Snug Harbor hosts catchy alternative groups from Tecoby Hines does not miss. His 2020 release across the Carolinas, with each band capturing the Drip was recognized as Best Debut in Queen City spirit of 1970s soft rock in its own way. By turns Nerve’s Best in the Nest that year, and his follow-up gentle and jazzy, Charleston’s Daddy’s Beemer projects, 2022’s Days Under the Sun and this year’s examines love and angst with ringing guitars, Soul Sip have only solidified his place as one of his smooth vocals and sunny grooves on their latest city’s most insightful and eloquent rappers. He’s LP Tangles. Guitarist Roger Caughman, bassist joined by King Noli, aka the Magician of Keys, who Cameron Powell and drummer Brendan Bull flesh performed at some of the country’s best-known jazz out Stagbriar’s bright percolating tunes, but the bars before settling in Charlotte; and The Bleus, a Columbia band’s heart is siblings Emily and Alex highly talented rapper who’s been setting vibes in McCollum’s telepathic songwriting and exquisite Charlotte since moving here nearly a decade ago. blood harmonies. With tunes like “Rainbow Tide,” More: $12-$15; Sept. 2, 7:30 p.m.; Evening Muse, Boone’s Groove Skeletons attain swinging soul jazz 3227 N. Davidson St.; eveningmuse.com perfection.

More: $12; Sept. 1, 9p.m.; Snug Harbor, 1228 Gordon St.; snugrock.com

SAT 9/2

HATTIE’S 2023 SUMMER BASH Photo by Grant Baldwin

sat 9/2

MUSIC FEATURE

THE POWER OF POSITIVE Sayurblaires spread a message of trans joy

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BY PAT MORAN

On “Double Helix,” the energetic tune that kicks guitars and drums. The band, which includes three off Sayurblaires’ debut album, You No Longer Live trans women musicians including Fullagar, plays an Inside My Head, I’m Just Waiting for You to Take Shape, upcoming gig at Snug Harbor on Aug. 26.

Blaire Fullagar’s treated vocals thread through a Fullagar will also play a solo set during The cloud of swarming harmonics, coiling electronics Milestone’s all-acoustic show scheduled for Sept. 2, and galloping beats. alongside Bo White, Bob Fleming Duo and Family “The background is in the foreground/ I’m fading Friend. into the thickness/ Laugh through war, cry in love just With Sayurblaires, Fullagar exceeded her wearing all our weakness...” songwriting goals, but that hasn’t made her any less Fullagar’s music is consistently upbeat, but the modest. message here is mixed, blending anxiety and doubt “I don’t think I set out to achieve anything other with a tentative trust that we can emerge from trials than expressing myself and making good music,” she PHOTO BY ABDUL SMITH BLAIRE FULLAGAR much stronger. It’s a fitting message from Fullagar, says. “I’m still after that.” who is a trans woman.

Sayurblaires’ guitarist and lap-steel player Colin says.

“I’ve been isolating in my room while the world From teen beats to woman in the On Bandcamp, Fullagar describes the completed Read. forgot the seasons/ You won’t be there to hold my In the meantime, Fullagar had moved to album with this sentence: “Waking up and suddenly wind hand, but I don’t think that I need it...”

Charlotte and written many of the songs that ended splitting into two. Leading two separate lives in Fullagar took piano lessons as a child growing “The song was written in one day,” Fullagar up on You No Longer Live Inside My Head, I’m Just the same body … how can I make this look like a up in Concord, but says she never got very good. In tells Queen City Nerve. “At the time, I was in a Waiting for You to Take Shape. She released “Double murder and not a suicide?” her teens she started producing beats and writing codependent relationship and I was … hoping that “I’m describing transitioning,” Fullagar says “The Helix” on her birthday: Feb. 4, 2022. songs. In 8th grade, at the age of 14, Fullagar I’d be fine independently.”

“It was always planned to be the single of an idea of the album was that pre-transition me and dropped her first album.

Inspired by bands like The Brave Little Abacus, album,” Fullagar says, although the shape and post-transition me split into two different people In 2019, she launched the band Feelings Club Crying, and South Korean outfit Parannoul, which narrative of the album wasn’t yet fully formed. and they were living on the same timeline.” In this with her best friend Chris Clary. The band released use MIDI tracks and samples to create emo albums, Nothing on the record was written on guitar or metaphors scenario, post-transition Fullagar was an EP, Know All Your Enemies (2018), and an album, Fullagar set herself the straightforward task of piano, Fullagar says. Instead, she drew in notes using trying to figure out how to murder pre-transition A Day in the Sun (2020), swelling to a seven-piece writing and recording an LP with no bass, guitars or the pencil function on her Digital Audio Workstation Fullagar. over time. drums — just synths, samples and vocals, all played “Then I came to realize that there isn’t really a [DAW].

“Feelings Club made cute and naively produced and performed by Fullagar.

“I didn’t really perform anything on that pre-transition being,” Fullagar explains. “[Instead] indie pop,” Fullagar says. “It’s music that people who It took two years to accumulate and record album other than vocals,” she says. “Everything the album asks, ‘Were you even there at all? Was know very little about music make because they the tunes that comprise You No Longer Live Inside is deliberately manual to see if I could pull off an there ever someone who felt shame in the way that think it sounds fun, cute and emotive.”

My Head, I’m Just Waiting for You to Take Shape, a emotive aspect from something so procedure-like I present?’ To put it simply, ‘Was there ever a boy Notwithstanding, Fullagar calls her time in period that coincided with Fullagar’s transition. As there?’” and formal.”

Feelings Club a formative experience. Though the the album came together, a narrative of Fullagar’s Questions about identity and self-acceptance Fullagar, who was also transitioning throughout band split up in early 2023, members have kept in concurrent emotional journey emerged. the album-making process, says she received surface throughout the album on songs like touch and plan to collaborate in the future.

After the album dropped in December 2022, support during her transition but still felt alone. “Portside’s a Funny Place, But You’ll Grow to Like Fullagar also played keyboards and did Fullagar’s songs resonated with other musicians, so it Here,” in which distant disconcerting screaming That’s changed since. production work on the one-off online pandemic she adapted the tunes to be played by a full band.

“A year or two ago I definitely had friends and doubles the cloud layer of catchy childlike vocals project Happiness Jones’ Dream Songs in 2020.

Sayurblaires quickly went from being a one-woman family who loved me, but it is incomparable to the amid head-bopping verses and catchy K-pop style She also played keys and provided production show to an ongoing ensemble including bass, support system that I have now in my life,” Fullagar choruses. for Hey There Rabbit, a band launched by current

MUSIC FEATURE

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Ziskind saw Fullagar play at a shows and, like add a second guitarist to the lineup.

“I wanted to be out in the cold in a small dress to Fullagar, who plays guitar in the band along signify strength, [the idea] of pushing through Becht, jumped at the chance to play with Fullagar.

“I thought [Fullagar played] some of the most with George and Read, has been busy adapting and something.”

“You’re trapped in this body/ But how much noise unique music in the Charlotte music scene,” Ziskind rearranging Sayurblaires songs for the full band can you make/ When the door isn’t open/ Can anyone The girls and boys in the band says. “I thought [joining Sayurblaires] was the configuration. hear me?”

“I wrote [the songs] like a guitar would be When Fullagar wrote and recorded You No greatest opportunity ever.”

The tune, initially entitled “Pressure,” was Longer Live Inside My Head, I’m Just Waiting for You to Sayurblaires is the first band Ziskind has played able to play them, [with] power chords like guitar inspired by a friend, Fullagar says. chords,” she says.

Take Shape, and even after the album dropped, she bass in. “[They were] denying themselves any ounce of harbored no notion of the songs being performed George and Fullagar had met at the first full With each song, Fullagar converted the MIDI pride in being themselves,” she says. “[The song] is by a full band. Gradually, however, the idea began band bill at Abdul’s, a DIY spot on the Charlotte part to a guitar tab file. Then she edited each tab for my reaction to them building up all all four harmony parts in the band. this shame in their brain.”

“While the songs aren’t exactly like The linchpin of the album is the record, I think they have their own a medley that merges two songs, charm,” Fullagar says. “They are a lot more “Woman in the Wind/All Hail the emotional. I have a lot more connection to Queen.”The medley is also supported them now, having played them live now

by Sayurblaires’ debut video, shot by so many times.”

Carl Dudra.

All the changes have been for the In the video, night falls over best, Fullagar maintains. a darkening patch of woods. The I feel [the songs] have more intention camera, mimicking infrared night behind them than ever before.” vision, either stalks or suddenly “Three of us in the band are trans,” comes across Fullagar, who holds still says Becht, referring to herself, Ziskind like a woodland creature and often and Fullagar. “It’s really cool to see trans meets the camera’s gaze. Flashbulbs women onstage making great music.” go off amid stuttering action, and She and Fullagar remember a trans the camera captures Fullagar’s woman coming up to them after one of pupils, which glow like the eyes of their shows, thanking the band for being animal caught in the headlights. This an inspiration. Ziskind hopes all members approach imparts a chilly Blair Witch in Sayurblaires’ audience come away with vibe to Sayurblaires’ music. a similar message.

“The video was definitely “Trans people can exist in this world inspired by horror [movies],” Fullagar and be safe, happy and surrounded by says people who love them,” she says.

With daybreak the mood and Fullagar hopes trans people realize melody changes, marking the they can be happy, and that a good life passage from the turbulent “Woman is possible. That said, she doesn’t see in the Wind” to the brighter “All Sayurblaires as a particularly political Hail the Queen.” A flash cut reveals SAYURBLAIRES band. The group boasts three trans PHOTO BY AMBER KELLY Fullagar in a summery dress, women musicians, Fullagar says, because playing a portable keyboard in a she thinks community is important, and sunlit mountain meadow. A pop lilt seeps into the to take hold. In early 2023, Fullagar attended house show circuit. When “Double Helix” dropped, therefore has a lot of trans friends. previously stark and fractured music. To sweet yet a rehearsal by the band Mary’s Letter, a group he fell in love with the tune and subsequently “I definitely lean towards featuring [trans robotic vocals and a sweeping Beach Boys-style containing some former Feelings Club members. responded to Fullagar’s band post. George currently women] in my band over other people who were melody, Fullagar flashes a thumbs up.

“I knew I needed a full band after that,” Fullagar splits time between Sayurblaires and his own interested due to the fact that they were trans “’Woman in the Wind’ and ‘All Hail the Queen’ says. project, Bluestone Motel. women, and the narrative of the album largely leans represent a shift in the album’s theme,” Fullagar says When Sayurblaires played its first show in April into trans life,” she says, insisting that she does not, She posted a note on her Instagram story, “Whereas the first half of the album is doomed and saying she was seeking musicians for a band. Becht at The Milestone, Read was in the audience. He had however, see Sayurblaires as an activist group. nihilistic, I’m trying to approach those two tracks remembers seeing the post. met Fullagar at a show in 2019 and worked with her “A lot of queer art does focus on misery and with more pride in myself and comfort.” in Hey There Rabbit. doom,” she says, “but I consider us a band with a “I was like, ‘Fuck yeah, I want to play in your Fullagar remembers that she and Dudra came band’” says Becht, who first met Fullagar at a show.

“I’d been a fan [of Fullagar] for a while,” Read message of trans joy.” up with the camera shots on the fly in the mountains Becht says she’s played in several groups but has says.

PMORAN@QCNERVE.COM of Tennessee.

Soon after the band’s debut at The Milestone, only enjoyed playing in two bands, her main project “It was a really cold but fun shoot,” Fullagar says. Rugg and Sayurblaires.

Read joined Sayurblaires when Fullagar decided to

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23

ROCK/PUNK/METAL Witchaven w/ Traitor, Nemesis, Krvsade (The Milestone) Massa Nera w/ Raatma, Black Matter Device, The Microbes (Snug Harbor) Weathers w/ Magic Whatever (Neighborhood COUNTRY/FOLK/AMERICANA Theatre) Joe Vann w/ Bloomsday (Evening Muse) Counter w/ Bona Lisa, Neighborhood Alien, Shakey SINGER-SONGWRITER/ACOUSTIC Deville (The Rooster) Russell n’ Woods w/ Nathan Davis (Goldie’s) Impending Joy w/ Rob Robinson, Sayurblaires (Snug Singer/Songwriter Showcase (Starlight on 22nd) Harbor) COVER BANDS The Bleeps w/ Witch Motel, The Welcoming (Starlight Funk of the ‘70s (Middle C Jazz) on 22nd) EXPERIMENTAL/MIXED-GENRE OPEN MIC Singer/Singwriter Open Mic (The Rooster) Joshua Cotterino w/ Rodolphe Coster, Raddre (Petra’s) COUNTRY/FOLK/AMERICANA Josh Meloy (Amos’ Southend) THURSDAY, AUGUST 24 Hunter’s Travesty (Comet Grill) ROCK/PUNK/METAL Heidi and the River Down (Evening Muse) Blightmoth w/ Oh! You Pretty Things, O’Callah, SINGER-SONGWRITER/ACOUSTIC Complaint Club (The Milestone) Elora Dash (Primal Brewery) POP/DANCE/ELECTRONIC/DJ COVER BANDS Nathan Angelo w/ Jesse Ruben (Evening Muse) Mandyl performs Frankie Beverly & Maze (Middle C Woody & the String Pullers w/ Dan Hood (Goldie’s) Jazz) A Y2K Party feat. Faye, DJ Pucci Mane (Snug Harbor) P-Daddies (Visulite Theatre) COVER BANDS Gena Chambers (‘80s Dance Party hits) (Middle C SUNDAY, AUGUST 27 Jazz) ROCK/PUNK/METAL SINGER-SONGWRITER/ACOUSTIC Clutch (The Fillmore) Josh Daniel (Comet Grill) Ego Death Machine w/ Bend, Ennie Arden, January Knife (The Milestone) FRIDAY, AUGUST 25 JAZZ/BLUES ROCK/PUNK/METAL Omari & the Hellhounds (Comet Grill) The Lenny Federal Band (Comet Grill) Vaughan & the Chillcats (Middle C Jazz) EXPERIMENTAL/MIXED-GENRE POP/DANCE/ELECTRONIC/DJ Rap & Metal Collide (Multiple acts) (The Rooster) Beatfreaq (Starlight on 22nd) JAZZ/BLUES SINGER-SONGWRITER/ACOUSTIC Zach Person w/ Cosmic Collective (Camp North End) Square Roots w/ Rod Fiske (Goldie’s) A. Ray Fuller (Middle C Jazz) Seth Fox (The Rooster) COUNTRY/FOLK/AMERICANA LATIN/WORLD/REGGAE Charles Walker w/ Kiera Massi (Evening Muse) Bronco (Ovens Auditorium) Crawford & Power w/ Matt Minchew (Neighborhood Celtic Session Sunday w/ Alan Davis & Friends Theatre) (Tommy’s Pub) Coughing Dove (Petra’s) Parker McCollum (Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre) MONDAY, AUGUST 28 POP/DANCE/ELECTRONIC/DJ ROCK/PUNK/METAL Natural Fiasco w/ Leisure McCorkle (Goldie’s) Firebreather w/ Ape Vermin, Mean Green (Snug Sidequest: A Hardcore Rave Night (The Milestone) Harbor) Deep Fried Disco (Snug Harbor) JAZZ/BLUES Ape Audio Presents (Starlight on 22nd) The Bill Hanna Legacy Jazz Session (Petra’s) ChemLab w/ Sashimi, Bassarid, Dark Adaptation, OPEN MIC Hexxus, Poetic (Tommy’s Pub) Find Your Muse Open Mic feat. Xtine_G (Evening Muse) COVER BANDS Dead Letter Office (Amos’ Southend)

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26

ROCK/PUNK/METAL Jake HaldenVang Band w/ Scoot Pittman (Goldie’s) Seismic Summer (Multiple acts) (The Milestone)

CHRISTIAN/GOSPEL/RELIGIOUS Madison Ryann Ward (Neighborhood Theatre)

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 POP/DANCE/ELECTRONIC/DJ Ryan & Woody w/ Matt Stratford (Goldie’s) SINGER-SONGWRITER/ACOUSTIC Sam on Someday (Evening Muse) OPEN MIC Open Mic Night feat. Jupiter May (Starlight on 22nd)

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30

ROCK/PUNK/METAL Fractured Frames w/ Detest the Throne, Until they Bleed (Amos’ Southend) Willingdon w/ Ambyr, Lynsea (Petra’s) True Lilith w/ Leaving Echoes, Evilleaf, Neptune Flyer (The Rooster) Three Doors Down (Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre) HIP-HOP/SOUL/R&B Tecoby Hines w/ King Noli, The Bleus (Evening Muse) R&B Only Fest (PNC Music Pavilion) The Social Contract w/ Trvy & The Enemy, Louis. (Starlight on 22nd) JAZZ/BLUES Gregg Karukas (Middle C Jazz)

ROCK/PUNK/METAL Weedeater w/ King Parrot, Shanked (Snug Harbor) COUNTRY/FOLK/AMERICANA Pete Bernhard w/ Clyde McGee, Lightnin’ Luke, Ryan POP/DANCE/ELECTRONIC/DJ Church of Sinetology (Snug Harbor) Lockhart (The Milestone) SINGER-SONGWRITER/ACOUSTIC ACOUSTIC/SINGER-SONGWRITER Thirsty Horses w/ Lisa De Novo (Goldie’s) Kyle Dills w/ Scoot Pittman (Goldie’s) Bo White w/ Bob Fleming Duo, Family Friend, Sayurblaires OPEN MIC (The Milestone) Singer/Songwriter Open Mic (The Rooster) Joseph Gallo (Primal Brewery) COVER BANDS Tony Bennett Tribute (Middle C Jazz)

THURSDAY, AUGUST 31

LATIN/WORLD/REGGAE Intocable (Ovens Auditorium)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

ROCK/PUNK/METAL Greg Howe w/ Ernest Tibbs, Joel Taylor (Amos’ Southend) ROCK/PUNK/METAL Kerosene Heights w/ Stress Fractures, Smoke Detector, XBound w/ Auroras Hope, When We’re Sober, Ian Perkins Tourneforte, Leaving for Arizona (The Milestone) (The Milestone) Venus Invictus w/ A Life Worth Taking, Encre Noire, Caldera Drivin N Cryin w/ Stevie Tombstone (Neighborhood Theatre) (The Rooster) JAZZ/BLUES JAZZ/BLUES Roy Daye Jr. (Comet Grill) Omari & the Hellhounds (Comet Grill) Willie Walker & Conversation Piece (Middle C Jazz) Marcus Click (Middle C Jazz) HIP-HOP/SOUL/R&B SINGER-SONGWRITER/ACOUSTIC Hip Hop Rodeo (The Rooster) Jay Hoff w/ Spencer Rush (Goldie’s) ACOUSTIC/SINGER-SONGWRITER POP/DANCE/ELECTRONIC/DJ Caleb Davis Band w/ Jake HaldenVang (Goldie’s) Hazy Sunday (Petra’s) POP/DANCE/ELECTRONIC/DJ LATIN/WORLD/REGGAE Patt and Sara w/ Benji Hughes, Kerry Mac (Petra’s) Wave to Earth w/ slchld (Amos’ Southend) Stimulator Jones w/ thefamilyorchestra, Taylor AP OPEN MIC Williams, Queenie Luv (Snug Harbor) Sunday Open Mic (Starlight on 22nd)

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

ROCK/PUNK/METAL ROCK/PUNK/METAL The Lenny Federal Band (Comet Grill) Red Rocking Chair (Comet Grill) Tu-Ner (The Milestone) SINGER-SONGWRITER/ACOUSTIC Lynyrd Skynyrd w/ ZZ Top (PNC Music Pavilion) Spencer Rush (Goldie’s) Daddy’s Beemer w/ Stagbriar, Groove Skeletons (Snug POP/DANCE/ELECTRONIC/DJ Harbor) Danna Paola (The Fillmore) JAZZ/BLUES Brandon Stevens (Middle C Jazz) CLASSICAL/INSTRUMENTAL ‘Spiderman: Across the Universe’ Live in Concert (Belk Theater)

ROCK/PUNK/METAL COVER BANDS Red Rocking Chair (Comet Grill) Joe Hero (Foo Fighters tribute) w/ Adhesive (Stone Temple Forever We Roam w/ Blind Tiger, Voices in Vain, Fault Union Pilots tribute) (Amos’ Southend) (The Milestone) Vinyl (’70s and ‘80s rock) w/ RC Roadshow (Goldie’s) Guns n’ Roses (Spectrum Center) Bad Romeo (‘80s rock) w/ String Theory (The Rooster)

VISIT QCNERVE.COM FOR THE FULL SOUNDWAVE LISTING.

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FOOD & DRINK FEATURE

wall and neon signage adjacent to a huge plasma TV, The tattoo parlor is located upstairs, overlooking one of many scattered throughout the restaurant. the VIP room. The upper level has a small bar and A grand staircase in the middle of the restaurant some high-top tables for dining. The tattoo artists leads visitors to the second level, showcasing more bar reside on the perimeter of that upstairs space. space with tattooing and piercing studios toward the “We currently have eight tattoo artists and back. The second floor also overlooks the ground level, two piercers who work Friday through Sunday due allowing visitors to enjoy every angle of the space. to higher volume,” Williams explained. “Then on Tattooz & Booz eyes expansion for uniquely successful As the morning brunch rush starts to wind Wednesdays and Thursdays, we run a split crew, so down, the party starts to ramp up. The restaurant we have about five on hand during the week.” hybrid model transitions into a nightclub of sorts, transforming You can schedule a consultation for a piercing

BY RAYNE ANTRIM with purple LED lights and flashing colorful lights as or tattoo on the shop’s website. During the a DJ spins. consultation, you have an opportunity to connect It’s a Sunday in the Queen City and you’re looking for a spot to brunch. You’ve tried all the hyped up When the couple found the two-level space, with a Tattooz & Booz artist and discuss what kind of spots in South End, Plaza Midwood and NoDa, but none have left a mark that’s stuck with you. they were ecstatic. It was important for them to keep work you’d like done, pricing, and scheduling. There’s But have you heard the buzz building online for the spot in Uptown that, if you’re interested, will leave the tattoo piece separate from the whole lounge and no guarantee for a same-day service, but the tattoo a mark that lasts a lifetime? parlor does take walk-ins, which Enter Tattooz & Booz, the are offered on a first-come, restaurant, bar, tattoo parlor and first-served basis according to nightlife spot located on East 6th availability.

Street that’s garnered as much attention for its hybrid set-up Bites and booze as it has for menu items like Aside from its unique the Philly cheesesteak egg rolls, concept, Tattooz & Booz is a chicken and waffles or salmon restaurant first, featuring a and grits. delicious Southern-style food Kristen Wallace Williams, menu. They’re known for their co-owner at Tattooz & Booz, brunches on Saturdays and worked in corporate America Sundays from 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. before opening the Uptown There are three food and spot, and continued at her cocktail menus depending on 9-to-5 job whilst taking on the the time of day: Boozy Brunch, responsibilities of a business Main Booz, and Late Night Booz. owner when Tattooz & Booz first Boozy Brunch turns out opened up in 2020 during the a consistent crowd thanks to pandemic. popular menu items like the “It was honestly exhausting. shrimp and grits, salmon and But anything that you want grits, chicken and waffles, and to be successful, you’ve got French toast. to definitely put in the time,” For the day-partiers, the Williams explained. “I feel like PHOTO BY GRANT BALDWIN A TATTOO ARTIST AT WORK INSIDE TATTOOZ & BOOZ. Main Booz menu consists of there were some weeks where traditional lunch items like we were working 100 hours a food menu, Tattooz & Booz built a buzz on social loaded cheese fries, wings, pineapple fried rice, fried week, especially because our concept is pretty much media, allowing Kristen to leave her corporate job party vibe, and the space allowed them to keep a bit lobster & crab cluster, and a philly steak and cheese threefold.” and focus solely on the family business. Despite a of separation while still being open enough that sandwich.

Kristen’s husband, Matthew Williams, first had shaky pandemic start, the spot has become a hub visitors can feel the energy across the space.

The Late Night Booz menu is the perfect mix the idea for Tattooz & Booz more than a decade for countless brunch lovers, party dancers, and ink “We’re a two-level space when you walk in the between greasy bites and comfort foods to get your ago, as the couple has owned a few tattoo shops admirers out there. door. Our front room is essentially our main dining stomach prepared for a night of drinking. The menu in the past, but to put these varying concepts room, where it’s more dining-style tables, and that’s features fried salmon bites, seafood egg rolls, lobster together brought a long list of challenges for the Setting the vibes where a lot of our brunch crowd comes in to dine,” tails, and boozy cupcakes. entrepreneurial couple.

The unique restaurant displays eclectic decor Williams described. “As you walk past the initial All menus include a list of custom cocktails like “It’s long days and long nights, but it’s definitely ranging from cow-printed couches, purple-and- space, you approach our second room, which is what the Yellow Dragon, Geisha Girl and Pour Decisions. rewarding. I think we’re all really proud of what it’s black skulled wallpaper, and a huge mural of a we consider our VIP room. We have more lounge“Honestly, it’s a really quirky concept,” Williams morphed into. We never expected it to be as big as it traditional Chinese woman with a tatoo of a koi fish style sofas with lower tables accompanied by bottle said when describing the multi-layered business. is,” Kristen told Queen City Nerve. on her back. The space is photogenic, with a grass and cocktail services.”

“I think it’s an opportunity to come out Thanks to a unique concept and top-notch

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SETTING THE BAR

FOOD & DRINK FEATURE

Events in the coming month include a ’90s party on Aug. 26 from 11 a.m.-2 a.m. with DJs playing your favorite ’90s R&B and hip-hop all day. The and experience something people have never Williamses throw two to three ’90s parties each experienced before. If I had to define Tattooz & Booz, year, as they always receive a huge response from I would define it as a tourist destination.” the community.

She said that people have come to visit from up Staff members dress in dungarees, denim and down the East Coast, as the split-level business on denim, paisley-and-bandana prints, bucket has become a must-try for out-of-towners who have hats, track suits, and bold patterns—a full day of seen talk about Tattooz & Booz on social media. nostalgic vibes.

“It consists of groups of working class women “People love it, and they actually come dressed or people celebrating their bachelorette party. They up too. So we get excited. They get excited, and it’s put us on their map of a place to come and visit always a fun time,” Williams exclaimed. when they come to Charlotte,” Williams said.

Having built Tattooz & Booz into a successful Their VIP experiences tend to cater toward those Charlotte destination, the Williamses have formed a types of celebrations. vision for expansion.

“Whether it be a birthday, bachelorette party, “Our game plan is to expand. I think our ability girls’ day out, bridal showers, or regular club life, to sustain ourselves is really geared around targeting we have a VIP package that can fulfill those needs,” tourist destinations,” Kristen said. “We’ve looked at Williams said. places like Miami, Las Vegas, Houston—places that PHOTO BY GRANT BALDWIN Tattooz & Booz offers a Champagne Showers A LOUNGE AREA DOWNSTAIRS AT TATTOOZ & BOOZ. tourists are destined to go to. We want to become package, a Mimosa Me package, and others that “We make birthdays a big deal with cupcakes for day-partiers and night owls alike on weekends. one of their stops on that trip” she said. accommodate for all kinds of party sizes.

And as we so rarely get to do here in Charlotte, and candles. We try to make it a really fun vibe,” “Most of our DJs are local DJs. We rotate three DJs Of course, as an Instagrammable destination, Williams gleaned. over the course of a day. Essentially, we’ll have one DJ we’ll get to say we had it here first. they’ve got the sparklers and lights and signs you INFO@QCNERVE.COM Tattooz & Booz has a DJ every Saturday and play brunch, we’ll have another for our day party, and can expect from any nightclub VIP selection, all to be Sunday from open to close, making it a vibrant spot then we’ll have another one during nightlife,” she said. marched out for a special guest or guests.

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Pg. 18 AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2023 - QCNERVE.COM

LIFESTYLE PUZZLES SUDOKU

BY LINDA THISTLE

TRIVIA TEST

BY FIFI RODRIGUEZ

1. MOVIES: In which U.S. state does the movie “Field of Dreams” take place?

2. FOOD & DRINK: What is sauerkraut?

3. ACRONYMS: What phrase does the acronym GPS stand for?

4. GEOGRAPHY: The country of Guyana lies on which continent?

5. TELEVISION: What is the pub where characters in “The Office” gather after work?

6. SCIENCE: How many karats are in pure gold?

7. PSYCHOLOGY: What is the fear represented by autophobia?

8. ANIMAL KINGDOM: How big is a newborn kangaroo?

9. AD SLOGANS: What product is advertised as “the snack that smiles back”?

10. LITERATURE: Who wrote “The Canterbury Tales”?

CROSSWORD

PLACE A NUMBER IN THE EMPTY BOXES IN SUCH A WAY THAT EACH ROW ACROSS, EACH COLUMN DOWN AND EACH SMALL 9-BOX SQUARE CONTAINS ALL OF THE NUMBERS ONE TO NINE. ©2023 King Feautres Syndicate, Inc. All rights reserved.

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YOU’RE A BEAST!

©2023 King Feautres Syndicate, Inc. All rights reserved.

LIFESTYLE COLUMN

AERIN IT OUT

THE GARDEN OF GOOD AND EVIL Eden of Plaza shows promise in a cursed location

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BY AERIN SPRUILL

In a dimly lit nook beyond the second-floor bar at curds at Peculiar Rabbit or because any replacement was Eden of Plaza, on an eerily quiet night for Midwood’s going to soothe the loss of other ‘hood staples, but rather the newest addition, the Queen City’s latest visitor looked restlessness has seemed to be more a sinister excitement for oddly at home on a swing that hung in front of a neon an impending collective disappointment. Guilty. sign that read “Guilty pleasures.”

I’d forgotten I’d given the @edenofplaza account The glow of the red light bounced playfully off her sun- a follow as rumors of an opening seemed to solidify in kissed Bahamian skin as her long legs swung to and fro, February, but was reminded when a ton of influencers conjuring the most infectious smile. We hadn’t reserved a promoting the new spot flooded my timeline a couple section, and we didn’t know if we were in one, but as she of weeks ago. This was it. Months of anticipation boiled owned the camera — twisting, posing and tossing her down to weeks of guerilla marketing only works for a rare booty-cheek-long tresses — there was no doubt: she was few. But on opening night, Aug. 11, the sinners gathered a VIP, she was the forbidden fruit, and Eve could never. to party like hell. It worked, my interest was piqued, and Let me tell you about my new best friend. we were taking a bite for ladies’ night.

Last year, a girlfriend gave me a spirited update on For a nightlife destination perceivably off to a “rocky her upcoming European travels with a “high school bestie.” start,” Eden of Plaza seems to have the makings of a Lost Without even blinking, I knew I’d again exposed my worst & Found in Plaza Midwood [Editor’s Note: Technically character flaw as an only child: jealousy. How could I possibly Commonwealth, but we go by what the readers know] share in a social corner where she is the Shug to my Celie? with the potential for greater impact and the foundational Caught red-handed, I saw the “Now here you go” look following “to outrun the curse of the corner.” flash across her face in combination with a neck roll. But Think Instagrammable backdrops; an elevated interior instead of giving me the ever-familiar “talking to,” she boasting plush, velvet furniture, floral wallpaper, and lush smacked her lips as her frown slid into a chuckle and she deco; thoughtful and inclusive marketing; hookah options; shook her head, resigned at my singleton shenanigans, craft cocktails; and a chef-driven menu with lofty munchies. and said, “Aerin, y’all are gonna love each other.”

Eden also stays open later on more nights than its One year and one single bathroom-style compliment neighbors, features lots of space (with hide-and-seek via DM, I’m over here earnestly explaining to my boyfriend meets escape room aesthetic) spread out over three levels that said second-hand bestie and I have a highly curated, and a patio. A soon-to-be-complete rooftop will be the jam-packed schedule for her upcoming visit to Charlotte. cherry on top.

The way his eyes rolled back in his head you would’ve As a Black-owned business, Eden also stands to inject thought I was the chick on the plane screaming out, “No, new flavor into the recipe of Plaza Midwood. she is my REAL friend.”

Sure, I sound prematurely optimistic after one drink Cut to our first meet-cute, which rivaled that of a (post-pre-game) on a not-so-crowded night watching a Color Purple reunion featuring unplanned matching curious best friend-to-be explore a new spot surrounded by fits and undeniable chemistry. I knew I’d thwarted my women. Obviously, that’s an introvert’s small slice of Heaven. boyfriend’s insurgence. Defeated, he turned to me and Devil’s advocate says Plaza’s already congested and said, “Y’all are gonna have fun this week.” parking sucks. Pricing is a bit high across the board, but And with that W, my attention turned to our I’m a dive bar baby with sticker shock. Foot traffic and upcoming melandate (yes, I’m trying to make melanin loose restrictions at surrounding hot spots will challenge and date happen) at the city’s newest social lounge. dress code requirements. It’s quite the departure from the Spoiler alert: It’s not in South End. Plaza “brand,” and let’s face it, Midwood is a whole mood It’s safe to say most of Plaza Midwood has been waiting that’s stubborn to change. impatiently to find out what the hell was actually going on But if Eden plays the game right, it could end up with the accursed building at the corner of Gordon Street being the rib that Plaza didn’t know it was missing.

INFO@QCNERVE.COM and Pecan Avenue. Not because we were missing the cheese

LIFESTYLE

HOROSCOPE

PUZZLE ANSWERS

2023 KING FEATURES SYND., INC.

AUG. 23 - 29

AUG. 30 - Sept. 5

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) This is a good time for the usually outspoken Lamb to be a bit more discreet. You can still get your point across, but do it in a way that is less likely to turn off a potential supporter.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A relaxed mood early in the week could give way to high-temperature disputes. The Aries Lamb should resist being pulled into heated quarrels that could really singe your wool.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Good news: All that hard work you TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Satisfy that practical obligation first, put in is beginning to pay off. But you need to watch that tendency then feel free to indulge in your creative endeavors. Also, check for to insist on doing things your way or no way. Be a bit more flexible. hidden or overlooked areas where repairs might be long overdue.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You might want to delay making a decision on the future of a long-standing relationship until you check out some heretofore hidden details that are just now beginning to emerge.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Home is still the Twins’ major focus this week, but outside matters begin to take on added importance, especially those involving possible career moves. Stay alert for signs of change.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Your reluctance to compromise on an important issue could backfire without more facts to support your position. Weigh your options carefully before making your next move.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A travel plan might need to undergo some considerable adjustments because of unexpected changes.

Keep an open mind and let the facts guide you on how you want to handle this.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) This is a good time for ambitious Leos LEO (July 23 to August 22) Playing cat and mouse with a matter or Leonas to shift from planning their next move to actually doing you’ve been avoiding wastes time, energy and, most importantly, it. Your communication skills can help persuade others to join you. an opportunity. Ask someone with experience to help you get started.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Relationships — personal or professional — present new challenges. Be careful not to let VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A shift in policy might not a sudden surge of stubbornness influence how you choose to deal please you, but before you put up a “no go” wall of resistance, examine the circumstances. You might be pleasantly surprised at with them. what you find.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER Get our community reporting delivered straight to your inbox every Mon., Wed. & Fri. BIT.LY/NERVENEWSLETTER

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) You might need more facts before you decide on a possible career change. On the other LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Yesterday’s critiques about hand, you should have no problem making a decision about an your methods might have already evolved into today’s praise for your achievements. Good for you. Now go on and continue to build important personal matter. on your credibility.

nature.

SEPTEMBER 6 | FALL ARTS GUIDE OCTOBER 25 | HALLOWEEN GUIDE NOVEMBER 29 | BEST IN THE NEST DECEMBER 27 | NEW YEAR’S EVE GUIDE 6. 24.

Trivia Answers 7. Fear of being alone.

1. Iowa.

8. About 1 inch or less.

2. Pickled cabbage.

3. Global positioning system. 9. Goldfish.

10. Geoffrey Chaucer.

4. South America.

5. Poor Richard’s.

under it by the weekend.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A temporary setback in your financial situation is eased by changing some of your plans. You’ll PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A friend might need your good be able to ride it out quite well until the tide turns back in your advice regarding a matter. Be supportive, but unless you can be favor. absolutely sure you have all the facts, also be careful about any suggestions you’re asked to offer.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a gift for understanding people’s needs. You have a low tolerance for those who act without concern BORN THIS WEEK: You have a talent for bringing out the best in for others. people, no doubt due to your inspiring work ethic and sensitive

UPCOMING SPECIAL ISSUES Pg. 21 AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2023 - QCNERVE.COM

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) You’re respected by most people for your direct, no-nonsense approach to issues. But be SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) An occasional careful you don’t replace honest skepticism with stinging sarcasm. temperamental flare-up might occur, as you continue to help get things back to normal. Stay with it. You should soon get some idea of where to take things next.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A newly emerging situation could require a good deal of attention and some difficult SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A negative reaction decision-making. However, close friends will help you see it to what you believe was a well-deserved request might mean through. that you need to reconsider your position and make changes accordingly.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Ignoring changes in a relationship could create problems later on. Get involved CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) There’s always room for now while there’s still time to work things out and reach an someone new at the Sea Goat’s table. The someone new for this understanding. week could bring a message you’ve been waiting a long time to hear.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Of course you deserve to indulge yourself in something special. But for now, tuck that bit AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A pile-on of personal of mad money away. You’ll need it to help with a looming cash matters this week might seem too overwhelming to deal with, crunch. but handling them on a one-by-one basis could have you out from

LIFESTYLE COLUMN

SAVAGE LOVE

MILLSTONES There’s just no pleasing some people

for him. I have to remind him of every little thing, fix tons of “problems,” accompany him everywhere (because otherwise he gets lost), etc., etc., etc.

The end result is, I feel more like his parent or his nurse or live-in tech support than his spouse. We love each other, but it’s not the same as it was and never can be again. This is very frustrating for him to go through, but it’s also very frustrating for me.

He’s the one with a memory problem, but I can’t even remember the last time we did anything more than hug or share a goodbye kiss. Probably not in at least 10 years or more. I’ve basically had to give up a huge part of myself, and I don’t know how to get that back. I feel starved. I feel dead inside. How can I bring myself back to life?

FRUSTRATED AND RESENTFUL

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BY DAN SAVAGE

I’m a man in his forties and my partner is in moved in together … there’s definitely a pattern here, their 30s and nonbinary. We’ve been together MILES, and it’s a worrying one. I have a hunch that your for three years and officially living together marriage proposal, if and when you decide to propose, for about a year. Things have been a little will be another disappointment. The setting won’t be tumultuous during that time, due to issues with romantic enough, the diamond won’t be big enough, the my kids, my kids’ mom, and my own fears about choreography for the flash mob won’t be flashy enough. compatibility and commitment. She (my partner) Then something will go wrong at the wedding, forever is demanding “relationship milestones” that sullying her memories of it; she’ll find a reason to be signify my commitment to her. Previous significant disappointed by the honeymoon; the cat won’t be the milestones, like becoming official, moving in right color; and on and on and on. together, her meeting my kids, etc., were “sullied” Actual life experiences rarely live up to our idealized (and are therefore invalidated somehow) because fantasies and someone who can’t focus on the good — they weren’t executed with enough “enthusiasm” someone who can’t take almost or close enough for an or “careful planning.” I would very much like to answer — will never be satisfied. And there are some give her the milestones she craves, but aside people out there who don’t wanna be satisfied, MILES, from popping the question (and I’m definitely and I suspect your partner is one of those people. If not ready for that!) I’m struggling to come up constantly finding fault and expressing disappointment with “milestones” that would be of sufficient means you’re always having to make things up to her, significance. And when I ask for examples, all I get MILES, she’s never going to be satisfied with anything are ideas I’m not ready for, like getting married or because her ability to point out the sullying detail gives getting a cat. her power over you.

MOVING IN LACKED EMOTIONAL SIGNIFICANCE In fairness to your partner, MILES, there’s nothing unreasonable about wanting to be married after three First and most importantly: the pronoun situation. years together. But life is messy and chaotic, and life You open by identifying your partner as nonbinary but with a divorced man with children from a previous then go on to use she/her pronouns in reference to your relationship comes with more mess and more chaos, and partner throughout the rest of your letter. Since you’ve an understandable reluctance to remarry. Consequently, a been seeing this person for three years — and since divorced man with kids isn’t an ideal partner for someone this nonbinary person doesn’t strike me as the kind of who requires perfectly executed grand romantic gestures nonbinary person who would let misgendering slide — to be made happy — assuming they can be made happy I’m gonna assume your partner is one of those nonbinary — and someone who requires perfectly executed grand AFAB persons who uses she/her pronouns. They’re out romantic gestures isn’t an ideal partner for a divorced there, they’re totally valid, they like to keep us binaries man with kids. on our toes.

P.S. Another hunch: If she’s the kind of person who With that out of the way… talks about her “birthday week” or, God forbid, her The person you’re dating — the person you’re “birthday month,” run. There’s no pleasing those people. living with — doesn’t sound like someone who is easily satisfied. Becoming official fell short of her expectations, My husband has neurological memory meeting your kids wasn’t magical enough, there wasn’t problems. Not Alzheimer’s, but similar in some a 21-gun salute or whatever she expected when you ways, and it does require me to do a fair amount

You’re his caretaker now, not his romantic partner, FAR, and you demonstrate your loyalty to your husband by staying, by being at his side whenever he leaves the house, by reminding him to take his meds, etc., etc., etc.

As a caretaker, you’re under a tremendous amount of pressure and, if you’re an American, you live in a country that provides zero support for people taking care of chronically ill or disabled loved ones. So, you need to take care of yourself, FAR, and if discreetly meeting up with a lover or hiring a sex worker makes it possible for you to stay married and stay sane — if it makes it possible for you to be the partner your husband needs now — do what you need to do.

I have a sexting partner and we’re about to go from just texts to actually meeting up in real life.

But in our text exchanges, we don’t discuss things like condoms, protection, personal hygiene, etc., as everything is strictly fantasy. How do I start incorporating real-life concerns and questions into these fantasies?

FANTASIES EROTIC AND REALITIES SERIOUS

Instead of attempting to do the impossible — and incorporating condoms, protection, personal hygiene, etc., into a fantasy text exchange is impossible — you should send your sexting partner a stand-alone, nottrying-to-be-sexy “concerns and logistics” message after your next sexting session. Let them know there are some practical matters you would like to discuss in advance of your first face-to-face meeting. Then you can bring up condoms, other protections, your expectations around personal hygiene, and anything else you want to discuss before that first meeting.

Additionally, FEARS, if you’ve expressed interest in something during your sext exchanges that you don’t want to experience in real life — not now, not ever — or if you’ve played along with something your sexting partner was fantasizing about that you’re not interested in doing with or for them, now’s the time to walk that shit back.

I know you usually get questions about sex, but I’ve got one about dating. I’m a 41-year-old cis gay man who lives in a large metropolitan area, but for some reason, I cannot establish a dating life. I have tried the dating apps and sites, but the only men who seem to want to talk to me are the BBC chasers (I’m a tall Black man) or guys just looking to hook up. I’m not interested in hooking up, as I’m demisexual and I’m not really interested in someone who’s just after sex. What I want is to find a guy to get to know. I’ve been putting a lot of work into myself over the last few years. I’ve got a life coach and I’ve been seeing a therapist several times a month to help me work through some things from my past. But I can’t help but feel like there’s something I’m either missing or not doing right. I know a lot of guys are just looking for fun, but I don’t want to have to give up the dick just to get to know someone. What advice can you give me regarding finding guys who would be interested in getting to know me?

DATELESS IN DETROIT

There are definitely gay men on hookup apps who wanna take it slow and get to know someone first — I mean, you’re one of those men, right?

That said, every gay couple I know — to say nothing of all the gay Burner polycules I know — are one-night stands that stuck. You obviously shouldn’t waste time on BBC chasers if being objectified like that turns you off. But closing yourself off to guys who are looking for a hookup might be interfering with your search for a date, to say nothing of a partner. Now, you say you identify as demisexual, and I want to respect that, DID, but some people use “demi” to mean, “I experience no feelings of sexual attraction in the absence of an emotional connection,” while others use “demi” to mean, “I wanna take things slow.” If you fall into the former camp, you should take the advice Ann Landers was giving her single readers in the 1960s: volunteer on political campaigns, join clubs, sign up for kickball leagues. Organized group activities — the fully-clothed kind — will give you a chance to get to know people you might wanna date.

But if you fall into the latter camp, DID, you take things slow and have the kind of one-night stands that get gay relationships off the ground. Tell the men you meet online that you wanna hookup, sure, but that you’re only interested in some light messing around, e.g., some mutual masturbation, maybe some oral, but not anything serious/ penetrative will have to wait until you’ve gotten to know them a little better. Guys who don’t like the sound of that will pass, but guys who are open to getting to know you — guys who are willing to work for that dick — will show up.

P.S. You can meet guys on apps and volunteer, join, kick balls, etc., at the same time. You don’t have to pick one. And if you spot a guy from your kickball league on Grindr one night, DID, there’s your opening.

Send your question to mailbox@savage.love; podcasts, columns and more at Savage.Love.

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