ALFA staff members David Zealy, left, and Rodney Tucker have been leading new outreach efforts in a bid to reduce HIV infection rates among Northwest North Carolina’s gay and bisexual men. Photo Credit: Roger Plaster
HICKORY — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that men having sex with men (MSM) account for just four percent of the U.S. male population aged 13 and older, yet the rate of new HIV diagnoses among MSM is more than 44 times that of other men and more than 40 times that of women. In the rural Appalachian Mountains and foothills of Northwestern North Carolina, a few additional statistics caught the attention of local AIDS service organization, the AIDS Leadership Foothills-area Alliance (ALFA). In 2010, a shocking 90 percent of new clients came into medical care with an AIDS diagnosis and almost 70 percent of the clients self-identified their risk factor as men who have sex with men. “We just couldn’t stand around waiting for people to come to us for testing. We had to develop proactive tools and strategies to provide targeted testing, build trust and market our services,” said Rodney Tucker, ALFA’s executive director. “While the rest of the country seemed to be moving past gay white men and targeting African-American women as at-risk populations, we realized that our region was trending 10 years behind the national curve with new infections. I was shocked to see the statistics with 40-year-old men self-identifying as having sex with other men coming into care with an AIDS diagnosis.”
Outreach begins ALFA knew they had to begin better and more strategic outreach to MSM communities. Approaching the situation blindly wasn’t an option. Step one in the group’s outreach plans was to interview MSM and find out where and how they were meeting other men for sex. With a push from Michelle Hudgens, a local disease intervention specialist with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, ALFA hosted their first MSM Taskforce meeting in one of nine rural counties in February 2011. “Oh, if we could only go back in time and try this one again” said David Zealy, ALFA director of education, with a smile. “We did everything wrong. We tried the straight-up honest approach with our community and called it exactly what it was and who we wanted to attend. We used local gay social groups and even the newspaper to advertise the meeting. Five people showed up — five scared people.” All wasn’t lost. ALFA learned a great deal from the encounter. Online hookups were a normal way for men to meet other men for sex and some MSM were engaging in sex in public parks, gyms and rest areas. The men’s choices for sexual encounters were limited by their life experiences; many weren’t “out” to friends or family and a lack of gay nightclubs
see AIDS on 8
Sept. 17-30 . 2011
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Sept. 17-30 . 2011
inside Sept. 17-30, 2011 Vol 26 No 10
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contributors this issue
Robbi Cohn, Matt Comer, Charlene Lichtenstein, Lainey Millen, Leslie Robinson, David Stout, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Trinity, Rodney Tucker
10
news & features 1 6 8 9 12
Reaching ‘The Invisible Population’ News Notes: Regional Briefs Tar Heel leads HRC exec search Preview: NC Pride 2011 Moving fast, building community
opinions & views 4 4 4 5
Editor’s Note General Gayety QPoll T-Notes
12
On the cover: ALFA staff members David Zealy, left, and Rodney Tucker have been leading new outreach efforts in a bid to reduce HIV infection rates among Northwest North Carolina’s gay and bisexual men.
a&e / life&style 10 11 14 15 17 19
Buzzin’ up the stage Out in Print Tell Trinity Out in the Stars Audiophile Q events calendar
Hillsborough’s Joni Madison will co-chair HRC executive search committee with Los Angeles’ Dana Perlman.
front page Graphic Design by Matt Comer & Lainey Millen Photo Credit:s ALFA: Roger Plaster Madison: Tony Pearce
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Can’t stop Pride, Can’t stop Liberty
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You can’t stop Pride. Don’t even try. Human dignity and determination of spirit can’t be overshadowed by hate and prejudice. That’s exactly the message sent by the thousands who attended Pride Charlotte on Aug. 27, the same day hundreds of anti-gay protesters from Charlotte’s radical, religious right made a show of desperate force in an effort to stymie progress and turn back the clock on LGBT equality. As a member this year of Pride Charlotte’s organizing committee, I had the overwhelmingly positive privilege of serving and volunteering with a phenomenal group of people. These folks, from all corners of our community, dedicated their time, talents and energy to a cause so much greater than themselves. It paid off. As the day wound down on S. Tryon St. and as the Duke Energy Center lit up in rainbow glory, it became immediately apparent that something big had just happened — something the likes of which the Queen City has never seen. Pride Charlotte’s festival this year was the largest, in both attendance and physical space, ever produced by The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte or any other group that’s previously hosted Pride events here in years past. The event had some of the most diverse entertainment local Pride festivals have ever seen and a plethora of diverse vendors and participating organizations. To cap it all off, a full slate of Pride Week activities kept the Pride momentum flowing for 10 days. At the festival itself, Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx made history by becoming the first mayor to ever speak at a local Pride event; he was joined by Chairman of the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners Jennifer Roberts and several members of the Charlotte City Council. The success of this year’s Pride Charlotte was overwhelming, but it came at an unfortunate time; LGBT North Carolinians find themselves facing a challenge of unprecedented importance. As I write this column, state lawmakers are ramping up to hear, potentially, a draconian anti-LGBT constitutional amendment that would forever write-off LGBT people as undeserving of the full rights of citizenship naturally afforded them in this great state. And, as you read, news of the
amendment’s potential vote and its outcome will have already unfolded. Whatever the outcome of the amendment vote, there is an absolute constant that can never be changed no matter the amount of hate and bigotry spewed across airwaves and on the streets by radical religious bigots or on the floor of our state’s hallowed legislature from radical anti-gay lawmakers. That absolute, my friends, is as solid as the ground upon which we walk and the ever-abiding truths that have shaped our nation’s continual march toward more and equal justice: All people are created equal and endowed with certain rights which can never really be stripped away. If by the time you’re reading this, the amendment has gained the approval of the legislature and we now face a ballot campaign, take heart in the fact that truth always prevails. There are slips and there are falls, but, ultimately, as MLK reminds us, the arc of the moral universe always bends toward justice. LGBT people will have our day in the sun — anti-LGBT religious and legislative foes know this, and that is why they fight so desperately hard to stop our progress. Pride Charlotte showed the Queen City the size, strength, value, diversity and courage of our local, LGBT community; any impending anti-LGBT ballot campaign will show the Old North State the same statewide. Whatever the outcome, we will be made stronger, knowing that attempts to strip away rights and freedoms never last, always finding their ultimate doom when the light of ever-prevailing liberty is cast upon them. : : “The mind of a bigot is like the pupil of the eye. The more light you shine on it, the more it will contract.” — Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., U.S. Supreme Court Justice (1902-1932) “The great ideals of liberty and equality are preserved against the assaults of opportunism, the expediency of the passing hour, the erosion of small encroachments, the scorn and derision of those who have no patience with general principles.” — Benjamin Cardozo, U.S. Supreme Court Justice (1932-1938)
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Sept. 17-30 . 2011
VIEWS
VIEWS
editor’s note
general gayety by leslie robinson qnotes contributor
A touch of the Divine in Florida
Whether or not you’ve heard of Jerry Buell, in a few minutes you’re going to find it hard to forget him. Buell is a high school teacher in Mount Dora, Fla., who posted on Facebook that he “almost threw up” when he heard about New York’s legalization of gay marriage. He said same-sex unions were part of a “cesspool,” and called them a “sin.” In other words, he holds mild opinions on the subject. A U.S. history instructor, Buell was suspended from the classroom and reassigned, the Orlando Sentinel reported, while the school district investigated whether he violated an ethics policy that calls for educators to value the “worth and dignity of every person.” Even those persons who make you want to toss your cookies. Buell said his gay students “know that I don’t hate them. I love them.” He said his Facebook post didn’t spring from hatred. “It was about the way I interpret things.” Indeed. He interpreted gay marriage rights as cause for Dramamine. The ACLU stated Buell had the right to say what he pleased. The mega-conservative Liberty Counsel also argued for Buell’s right to off-gas on Facebook. After a weeklong investigation, the Lake County Schools superintendent reinstated him. A “written directive” was put in his file, but so far it’s unknown whether the directive is a reprimand, a warning or a recipe for sponge cake. A nanosecond after Buell was reinstated, a new controversy arose. The school district turned its attention to whether he monkeyed around with the constitutional separation of church and state. On his syllabus, Buell included this heads up to students: “I teach God’s truth, I make very few compromises. If you believe you may have a problem with that, get your schedule changed, ‘cause I ain’t changing!’” And, on a different document, Buell labeled the class-
room his “mission field.” Call me crazy, but I think a wee bit of his faith has crept into the fella’s teaching. By way of another tiny hint, Buell wrote on his school webpage that he tries to “teach and lead my students as if Lake Co. Schools had hired Jesus Christ himself.” What does that mean? Does Buell hand out loaves and fishes in the cafeteria? Is he given to healing the sick in the school nurse’s office? Perhaps, he trots down to the biology class to raise dissected frogs from the dead. Or, when the swim team isn’t hogging it, he walks on the pool. I would think God would command a higher salary than the school system could afford. On the other hand, wouldn’t Jesus teach for free? And have no need of a 401(k)? At any rate, I can report that last year Buell was named Mount Dora High School’s Teacher of the Year. He wasn’t named Deity of the Year. A lawyer from the Liberty Counsel is representing Buell and the organization staged a rally at which, fighting tears, Buell said, “I’m a social studies teacher and I knew what the heck I was doing.” I should hope so. If he wants to reek of divinity, being all-knowing is a basic requirement. “There’s a thing in this country called the First Amendment,” he told the crowd. “I firmly believe in the right to express my opinions passionately.” Expressing his religious opinions so passionately in a public school might strike you as a clear violation of the separation of church and state and you might think those opinions are a threat to LGBT students, as well as other types of students. But, the rules are different for God’s stand-in. Buell’s position is stressful — he must teach history, figure out who’s skipping class and model holiness all at the same time. Uneasy lies the head that wears a halo. : : info:
LesRobinson@aol.com . generalgayety.com
qpoll What did you think about this year’s Pride Charlotte Festival and Pride Charlotte Week? Share your thoughts and comments and vote in our poll at goqnotes.com/to/qpoll
VIEWS
Meeting Date: Program:
t-notes by robbi cohn qnotes contributor
Time:
The co-opting of diagnosis
Much has been written about the upcoming revisions to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the volume often called the “psychiatrist’s bible.” This is the main tool wielded by alleged gatekeepers who so often smugly deign to diagnose those of us who have self-defined gender and/or sexuality. Not all clinicians fit into this categorization, but enough do that the situation remains problematic. The newest version, DSM V, contains little change. There has been a consistent emphasis on the pathology of what they believe is non-normative gender identity, along with convenient, but erroneous diagnoses such as “gender identity disorder” and “gender identity dysphoria.” Some “diagnosticians” have even invented pathologies out of thin air, such as “autogynephilia,” or the purported love of oneself as a woman. WPATH, the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, is considered the foremost association of aforementioned clinicians. There are now many professionals, including practicing physicians, psychologists and psychiatrists, who have called for gender issues to be classified as medical rather than psychiatric. This year WPATH holds its annual meeting in Atlanta, Ga., and it’s expected that DSM revisions will be a hot topic. There are many reasons to abandon the paradigm of pathologization for gender identity, not the least of which is the evidence of thousands of successfully-transitioned transsexual individuals whose lives have been restored after coming to an understanding that their medical status may be remedied though a regimen endorsed by the majority of clinicians now assisting them. Among the many reasons to re-evaluate how gender should be treated, and the consequences of not plotting such a path forward sans pathologization, is the case that many in the religious right have used DSM diagnostics as a weapon against those who would affirm their individual diversity. Over the past years and months, I’ve collected a number of citations from such groups. In my opinion, they are representative of how such organizations mobilize people and government entities to legislate unfavorably by citing the DSM, as well as those psychiatrists and diagnosticians who insist upon promulgating the myth of gender pathology. In 2007, Montgomery County, Md., government had embarked on a path toward gender-inclusive anti-discrimination legislation which would include trans protections. In November of that year, the anti-gay “news” website “World Net Daily” (WND) reported on the development and chatted with anti-gay leader Regina Griggs, director of “Parents and Friends of Gays and Ex-Gays.” “Gender identity disorders exist in the diagnostic statistics manual,” Griggs said. “Why would we want to promote cross-dressing, changing your sex. You’re not a man’s brain in a woman’s body and vice versa.” Griggs continued, saying the local government was “trying to normalize mental illness.” In a related WND column, Robert Tyler, general counsel for the Advocates for Faith
Cost: To Reserve:
& Freedom, wrote, “The female residents of Montgomery County clearly have a right of privacy that prohibits all persons of the opposite sex from using a restroom, locker room, or other similar facility designated for females; it is ridiculous to place the desires of persons suffering from gender identity disorder in front of the constitutional rights and safety of 99 percent of the residents in Montgomery County.” Others, including Ruth Jacobs of Citizens for a Responsible Government, have made similar allegations. In 2008 and 2009, Massachusetts was debating two bills which would have added gender identity to the state’s already protected-classes. In a piece from “Queer Today,” Kris Mineau of the Massachusetts Family Institute was quoted: “Transgenderism is classified as a disorder by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Under this bill, if a father and his young daughter went to a public accommodation and the young girl needed to use the ladies room, her own father could not go in with her, but a man claiming a gender identity disorder could.” A year later, Brian Camenker of MassResistance was cited in OneNewsNow. “Well, it’s a huge problem,” Camenker said. “Number one...it legitimizes the concept of transgenderism among middle-school kids, which is completely absurd and offensive and medically dangerous. The medical community recognizes gender-identity disorder as something that needs psychological help, you know — not this politically correct pandering that actually causes more self-destruction.” In New Hampshire, similar legislation dubbed “The Bathroom Bill” attempted trans-inclusion. It was met with just as much hostility. State Rep. Joseph Hagan said gender issues were “one small facet of a much broader psychiatric illness.” Cornerstone Policy Research, a conservative and fundamentally-aligned think tank, also weighed in with ammunition, stretched though it may be, provided by the DSM. Space precludes the elaboration of other instances wherein the DSM has been subverted to further an agenda which specifically disenfranchises trans individuals. Citations abound and I’d be happy to forward them to any and all interested parties. Venues include Maine, Maryland, Oregon, California and Michigan. And if you think being gay exempts you from accusations of mental illness, this should disabuse you of that notion: “Despite all the rhetoric, here are the quick and accurate facts about homosexuals and their behavior. There is no ‘gay gene,’ no innate trait or brain distinction between heterosexuals and homosexuals. Homosexuality is not a ‘civil right’ as identified anywhere in our Constitution or its amendments. Homosexuals experience substantially higher instances of mental illness. Homosexuals are, in fact, implicated far more often, per-capita, than heterosexuals in cases of child sexual abuse. The number of ‘hate crimes’ directed at
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 Wine Tasting/Art Exhibit Gil Gallery 109 West Morehead St. Cash Bar Social/Heavy Hor d’oeuvres @ 5:30 pm Program starts @ 6:45 pm $20 Call 704.565.5075 or email businessguild@yahoo.com for more information or pay online via PayPal at www.charlottebusinessguild.org
www.charlottebusinessguild.org
see T-Notes on 9 Sept. 17-30 . 2011
qnotes
BRIEFS
news notes: from the carolinas, nation and world compiled by Lainey Millen :: lainey@goqnotes.com | David Stout :: david@goqnotes.com | Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com
Charlotte Pride gets an A+
CHARLOTTE — Sporting a brand new venue and a breezy day produced by the feeder bands from Hurricane Irene, Pride Charlotte 2011 became one of the most successful events to date for the LGBT and allied communities of the Queen City. During the week or so leading up to the day-long festival in the trendy, upscale S. Tryon St. area, attendees were able to enjoy a plethora of activities. On Aug. 19, The Human Canvass Art Exhibit was held at the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte. Painted models gave art a new 3-D perspective as well as creations created by the center’s StillOut Photography Club. The following day, the Charlotte Royals RFC (rugby) team took on the Columbus Coyotes. That evening Petra’s hosted a “Got Talent” finale. An interfaith service rounded out the weekend’s fare. Kicking off the next week was a Rainbowlers bowling night with an after party at Sidelines. On Aug. 23, a party was held at the Westin. More fun followed the next day with a GayCharlotte Film series showing of “Make the Yuletide Gay” at the Wells Fargo Auditorum in Uptown Charlotte. A couple of days later there was a Britney Spears pre-concert takeover and a bingo event to support Pride Charlotte, as well as a concert by Charlotte Pride Band, Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte and One Voice Chorus. Another takeover was held at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestant, Jessica Wild, rocked it out at Scorpio. Following the Pride festival, brunches were held at Soul Gastrolounge and Hartigan’s, as well as a fun day at Independence Park. On the day of the festival, a record-setting 27,000 people, according too organizers, assembled to enjoy the camaraderie, entertainment and fun along Uptown Charlotte’s main drag. Police made only one arrest — anti-gay protestor Flip Benham. He refused to comply with their requests to turn down the volume on loudspeakers. His cohorts graced the streets screaming anti-gay rhetoric to passers-by and carried signs that damned “the sinner” and more. Although a nuisance to festival goers, the anti-gay participants were mostly ignored as they tried to share their messages. As the festival came to and end, anyone who was in eyesight of the Duke Energy Building was able to enjoy the tower lit up in rainbow colors as a way to cap off a rousing successful event. — L.M.
Center expands hours
CHARLOTTE — The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, 820 Hamilton St., has expanded its hours to include longer hours on Saturday and being open on Monday. New hours are Monday-Thursday, 5-8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.; and Saturday: 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. The center is closed on Sundays. Center Board Chair John Stotler said, “Our current board of directors has worked very hard to improve every facet of our Community
qnotes
Sept. 17-30 . 2011
Center’s operation, and we are on track to expand programs, improve fund-raising and employ a full-time executive director in the near future. We are also poised to launch a new website.” — L.M.
Triad Mad Hatter to visit ball
WINSTON-SALEM — The Adam Foundation (AF) will host its Adam in Wonderland: A Mad Hatters Ball 2011 on Oct. 8, 7 p.m.-1 p.m. at Gateway Gallery at The Enrichment Center, 1006 S. Marshall St. This gala event will recognize Foundation grant recipients. Enjoy great food, cash bar and dance the night away with a guest DJ. Don’t stop there, bid on items at the silent and live auctions in support of the work that AF does to champion the community. AF needs to raise monies to provide for $35,000 in grants to eight local projects. Cost is $30 if purchased through board members at AF monthly events or online through Oct. 7 or $35 at the door. Student tickets are $15 either in advance or at the door with ID. All advance tickets can be mailed out or available at the door for pickup. Want to be a sponsor or partner? Then for a contribution of $250, recipient will receive guest privileges at the Queen of Hearts/S&P Pre-Party on Oct. 7 at a greenhouse venue. Volunteers are being sought to assist with the auctions and to distribute posters, prepare Adam Festival invitation mailing project and set up for the event. To learn more, email Michelle Hannah at westend235@aol.com. She will also be taking names for those businesses who wish to donate items for the auctions. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit adamfoundation.org. — L.M.
Discussions continue
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The fourth in a series of community conversations on issues impacting the LGBT community will be held at Wait Chapel at Wake Forest University on Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. under sponsorship of Interfaith Voice and PFLAG Winston-Salem. Featured for the evening’s discussion will be a focus on the language of bullying. For more information, call Janet Owen at 336-406-9771 or email interweaveuufws@ gmail.com or Tim Sturgis at 336-978-3408 or email timboilf@msn.com. — L.M.
Triangle Bearin’ it at the ball
RALEIGH — The Carolina Bear Lodge will hold its Coming Out! Cotillion Ball on Oct. 1, 7:30-11 p.m, at the Holiday Inn Raleigh North, 2805 Highwoods Blvd. Enjoy dancing, refreshments and cash bar along with placing bids on silent auction items to benefit the LGBT Center of Raleigh. Prizes will be awarded during the evening. Tickets are $25 single/$45 couples and are
Mitzel has made a wonderous life CHARLOTTE — Jordan Mitzel, born in the spring of 1998 to an alcoholic, HIV-infected and crack-addicted prostitute, has survived much in his short life. He battled the affects of fetal alcohol syndrome and drug addiction from the moment he arrived. Seems like a real horror tale, but he was lucky because his mother left him at the hospital and he was placed with Beverly Mitzel and Sonja Austin at just five days old. Eventually, they would become his new moms. (For the full story, visit goqnotes.com/top2007/top01_042107.html.) Since 2007, participants at the annual Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN) AIDS Walk have seen him in full force, taking to the streets to help raise monies for HIV/ AIDS causes. In fact, he has been a top fundraiser and has received awards for doing so. He’s got his own website and Facebook page that shares his story and his initiatives, in addition to postings on YouTube. He has a recycling project which helps to collect contribution dollars for the Walk. He’ll even secretly land a flock of flamingos on the lawn of unknowing people whose friends have made contributions to the Walk’s cause. His work recently caught the eye of POZ Magazine which showcased him in a feature interview. He said that his greatest achievement was “helping change people’s ideas about HIV.” He goes on to say that Ryan White is his hero and was able to meet White’s mother who shared that she was proud of him for raising so much money. For more information, visit jordanmitzel.me or poz.com. — L.M. available online at carolinabears.com, at the center at 411 Hillsborough St. from 12-6 p.m. or at the door. A pre-cotillion party kicks off the evening’s festivities at the center at 6 p.m. To make contributions or for more information, visit lgbtcenterofraleigh.com. — L.M.
Awards dinner slated
RALEIGH — The 2011 LGBT Center of Raleigh’s Coming Out Awards Dinner will be held on Oct. 7 from 7-10 p.m. at The Stockroom at 230, Carolina Trust Building, 230 Fayetteville St. Outstanding individuals be recognized for their contributions to the community. A silent auction will help benefit the center. Co-chairs are Paul Coggins and Alan Scott. Space is limited, so make reservations now. Tickets are $100. Want to sit with a group of your friends? Then let the center handle filling your table which seats 10 with people on a list you provide. To make reservations, sponsor a special guest or more for more information, visit lgbtcenterofraleigh.com. — L.M.
Board member sought
RALEIGH — The Raleigh Business & Professional Network is seeking names of individuals who would be able to fill a board of director’s position which was recently vacated by Keith Worley. His departure resulted from a relocation outside the Raleigh area. Applicants should be willing to serve until and including elections in July 2012. A commitment to attend monthly meetings, as well as active participation in the planning and execution of Network events would be required.
For more information, email info@ raleighnetwork.org.
— L.M.
Western New bar owners announced
ASHEVILLE — O’Henry’s, 237 Haywood St., is now under new ownership. Pete Moyle and Steve McCain sold it to Kevin Austin and Jim Haggerty, after having been its proprietors for 20 years. They took over on Aug. 17. Mountain Xpress reported that the new owners have been in Asheville for four years since their retirement. They plan on doing some cosmetic changes to the place. New hours are 4 p.m. to closing. “We are proud to be the torch bearers of this vital part of our Asheville Community,” Austin shared. — L.M.
South Carolina Palmetto State holds Pride
COLUMBIA — South Carolina Pride held a week-long slate of events leading up to their Sept. 3 march and festival in the state’s capital. An opening ceremony was held at the Harriet Hancock Community Center on Aug. 28. The next day bowlers took to the lanes at AMF at Parkland Plaza. On Aug. 30, a lecture and screening of the Santiago Echeverry film “The Legend of Leigh Bowery” was held at the Columbia Museum of Art. Hot, Spicy & Full of Pride! event sponsored by South Carolina Black Pride got folks past Hump Day. A prePride party was held at PTs 1109 on Sept. 2 with “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season three winner Alexis Mateo entertaining on stage. At the
same time a ladies pre-party was held at The L Word with Kristy Lee, a singer-songwriter, belting out tunes. The main festivities began at noon with the Pride Parade on Sept. 3 which ended at the festival site at Finlay Park. Mateo, Lee, along with Martha Wash and Amber, kept attendees entertained. Wiping brows and getting a second wind, festival goers attended a block party featuring Amber at PTs 1109. Highlight for the festival was Richland County Councilman Seth Rose being awarded the SC Pride Courage and Leadership Award. “Rose was recognized for his work in proposing and helping to pass ordinances that include a person’s sexual orientation in the county’s anti-discrimination policies,” The State reported. — L.M.
Care group highlights success
ROCK HILL — Catawba Care, an HIV/AIDS service provider which handles casework in York, Chester and Lancaster Counties, has a lot to be proud of these days. First off, they have settled into their new home at 500 Lakeshore Pkwy., having paid off the mortgage, as well as celebrated their successful annual fundraiser, Dazzle and Denim. Back on March 29, they were recognized with the 2011 Erin Hardwick Excellence in Non-Profit Management Award at the South Carolina Association of Non-Profit Organizations. They received this for the category of non-profits with budgets over $500,000. The organization offers free and confidential HIV testing Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at their offices. Peer training is also available, The next date is Oct. 7. Email lbrafford@ catawbacare.org for more details. For more information, call 803-909-6363 or visit catawbacare.org. — L.M.
show that a person has a special familiarity with the patient and the patient’s wishes. Importantly, the guidance does not require that the marriage, domestic partnership or civil union be legally recognized by the state in which the patient is being treated. — D.S.
Mistrial in case of 15 y.o. killer
OXNARD, Calif. — On Sept. 1, Ventura County Superior Court Judge Charles Campbell declared a mistrial in the Brandon McInerney murder case because the jury could not reach an agreement on whether to find McInerney guilty of first-degree murder, second-degree murder or manslaughter. McInerney was 14 when he murdered 15year-old Lawrence “Larry” King in class at E.O. Green Junior High School in Oxnard, Calif. Reportedly, McInerney was embarrassed by King’s public declaration of love a few days earlier, which prompted him to shoot King in the head on Feb. 12, 2008. After the proceeding ended in deadlock, the prosecution vowed to immediately retry McInerney. However, they indicated the decision to try him as an adult as in the first trial might be reversed to better ensure a guilty verdict. GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard stated, “The mistrial declared today is hardly a surprise. This was always destined to be a case with little resolution and no winners, whatever the verdict. The central facts remain the same: homophobia killed Larry King and destroyed Brandon McInerney’s life, and adults failed both young men because of their own inability to deal forthrightly and compassionately with the multiple challenges they each faced. The jury’s indecision is a sad
reflection of our collective inability to find common ground and invest in a better future for all youth and a culture of respect for all.” — D.S.
College sued for hiring bias
FORT WORTH, Texas — Lambda Legal has filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas claiming Tarrant County College officials violated the U.S. Constitution by preventing qualified candidate Jacqueline Gill from interviewing for full-time teaching positions because of their belief that she is a lesbian. “Jacqueline Gill’s qualifications match or exceed those of the other temporary instructors hired by Tarrant County College that summer. They were permitted to interview for those positions when they were made permanent, but Gill was not,” said Kenneth Upton, Jr., Supervising Senior Staff Attorney in Lambda Legal’s South Central Regional Office based in Dallas. Gill received high praise from colleagues, superiors, parents and teachers while at TCC. However, she was also subjected to a lengthy diatribe about “homosexuals” and about how “Texas and Tarrant County College do not like homosexuals” by English Department Chair Eric Devlin after a former student who had been disciplined for academic dishonesty by Gill retaliated by falsely claiming that Gill flirted with girls during class, a claim Gill denied. Then, in June 2010, Gill alone of the contract teachers who entered with her in the summer of 2009 was not permitted even to interview for the teaching positions when they were made permanent. — D.S.
see News Notes on 16
National Hospital visitation rules updated
WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Sept. 7, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released new guidelines that strengthen the Nov. 2010 hospital visitation rules that protect patients’ rights to be visited in the hospital by their families and loved ones. The guidance, which took effect immediately, makes several important changes to current policy and provides significant protections for LGBT patients and their families. The new guidance requires that when a patient is competent to choose a representative and surrogate decision-maker, hospitals must honor that request, even if the person had previously designated someone else. In addition, when a patient is incapacitated, hospitals must recognize a patient’s selfidentified family members, regardless of whether they are related by blood or legally recognized. This rule specifically includes same-sex partners and de facto parent-child relationships, and even prohibits a hospital from requiring proof of a relationship in order to respect that relationship. Where a patient is incapacitated and more than one person claims to be the patient’s representative, hospitals must resolve the dispute by considering who the patient would be most likely to choose. The hospital must consider factors including the existence of a legally recognized marriage, domestic partnership or civil union, a shared household or any special factors that
Sept. 17-30 . 2011
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NEWS
Tar Heel to lead search for new HRC exec Hillsborough’s Joni Madison tapped to find replacement for outgoing Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com
On Aug. 27, the Human Rights Campaign announced the departure of its current executive director, Joe Solmonese, whose contract will run out on March 31, 2012; he has chosen not to renew. The same day, HRC announced the formation of a search committee tasked to find a replacement for Solmonese. North Carolinian Joni Madison, of Hillsborough, and Los Angeles’ Dana Perlman, will co-chair the committee. Madison, a six-year member of the HRC Board of Governors, has long been involved with HRC and in both local and state LGBT affairs. She has twice served as cochair of the HRC Carolinas Dinner. She also
served four years on the HRC National Board of Directors. In March, Madison was awarded the HRC Legacy Award at the group’s dinner in Raleigh. Madison and Perlman will work with the co-chairs of HRC and HRC Foundation boards in selecting members for the full search committee. They’ll also work to secure an executive search firm to assist the organization in its efforts. Solmonese’s departure marks a milestone for the national organization, the largest LGBT civil rights group in the country. The group’s leaders say Solmonese has been a key figure in the success of the organiza-
tion and its mission. “From the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’, to the recent passage of marriage equality in New York, Joe has made sure that HRC is an effective and strategic force for positive change,” Tim Downing, who co-chairs the HRC Board of Directors with Rebecca Tillet, said in a release. “Over the course of his tenure, he’s set the tone for delivering real reform that matters in peoples’ everyday lives.” Solmonese was first hired by HRC in 2005. Since then, the organization says its membership has climbed from 750,000 to more than a million. During Solmonese’s tenure, HRC launched its Healthcare Equality Index,
strengthened its religion and faith program and broadened its Corporate Equality Index. The HRC Foundation also launched its “Welcoming Schools” program. “HRC has never been stronger and after nearly seven years, this is the right moment for me to move on,” Solmonese said in a release. “As I explore new professional possibilities, I plan on continuing to pour my heart and soul into improving the lives of members of our community – from battling proposed marriage amendments to creating more equitable workplaces to ensuring the President Obama is reelected for a second term.” : : — Compiled from release
AIDS group reaches out to at-risk men continued from page 1
and other outlets were forcing men to drive long distances — as far away as Asheville, Charlotte or Winston-Salem — for social and sexual outlets. “One client always comes to mind for me,” stated Zealy. “He had been married to a woman for 25 years and had been hooking up with guys for most of the marriage behind her back, he cried in my office saying if it had not been for homophobia and societal pressure to be straight, he might have turned out very different. He might not have been turning to strangers in an adult book store for the intimacy and touch he needed and he could have dated and married the person who he was really attracted too.” Online outreach offers a rural strategy With newfound knowledge and information at hand, ALFA’s staff set out to ramp up new outreach efforts. This time, staff took a different tact. “Well it simply came down to putting your face and name out there where people were looking for sex,” stated Zealy. “From our focus group we targeted Craig’s List as the top pick for anonymous MSM to find partners. Through a fun afternoon of brainstorming, we developed a list of ‘eye catching’ messages to post in the MSM boards and added the ALFA logo as a picture and sent them out.”
Shortly after posting several outreach messages online, ALFA started getting emails with questions and men coming in for tests. One of the first men to take advantage of ALFA’s services tested positive. He identified as MSM, white, was in his 40s, unemployed and symptomatic. ALFA staff members provided bridge counseling and were able to help this client go from a preliminary positive to his first medical appointment in just 10 days. “It was great to see the process work and help someone access medical care that desperately needed it,” Tucker said. Getting smart with technology Concerned about the young MSM population in the region, phase two of ALFA’s outreach project continued with their online strategy, but also integrated use of iPhones as a means to speak to MSM youth. “We knew we had a growing number of young MSM, but we really didn’t know where to find them. Then one day playing around with our phone we loaded Grindr. This opened us to a new world of MSM in our region,” stated Tucker. Grindr is a mobile, location-based dating app for men, distributed for use on iPhones and other smartphones. “On our phones, we could see the next
generation of MSM — high school students, college students and young African-American men — who we were previously unable to find,” Tucker explained. “So, David [Zealy] and I decided just to put our faces out there and built profiles that said who we were and invited men to ask questions about HIV, men’s health and volunteering.” The results were instant. ALFA was able to reach a broader group of men, above and beyond their MSM youth target. “Our first day on Grindr, we met a married man who was extremely concerned and wanted information and testing,” said Rodney. “He made an appointment and came in that day. We found men that would ask real questions, wanting information about risk behaviors, where to find condoms and how testing worked. One of my favorite clients reported he was in a new relationship, had a sexual desire to perform oral sex to completion and really needed to know what type of risk, if any, he had. After a long chat, he followed up with me several days later to say thank you and that he felt he could come back to me for more advice and testing.” ALFA staff continues to use Grindr as a key component in its outreach efforts. Each day, staff login to the service, answer questions, make referrals and provide opportunities for testing. “For a small, rural AIDS service organization, we were excited to find such affordable and effective means to reach what many had already written off as the ‘invisible’ — though still at-risk — population,” said Tucker. Looking to the future Homophobia and lower infection rates per capita can be barriers to funding in the South. Financial constraints put a strain on staffers with groups like ALFA, who often find themselves looking for better and more strategic outreach programs that place little burden to the group’s bottom line. ALFA’s prevention department, with only two, full-time staffers dedicated to education and testing, felt many of those pressures. Volunteer engagement has been necessary in order to fill the gaps. “Our next step is to recruit, train and supervise a crew of MSM who will work the gay chat rooms on gay.com and other websites to answer questions about HIV/STD and refer
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Sept. 17-30 . 2011
people for testing,” stated Zealy. “It’s a hard sales job in our region where there is so much stigma about HIV and many MSM live quiet, closeted lives, making it difficult to find those who will put their face out there for our agency and the community; but we are hopeful!” ALFA’s ultimate goals are simple: Increase testing and decrease stigma. In order to accomplish both, the group is determined to initiate new testing locations where closeted MSM feel comfortable and safe. In doing so, ALFA hopes they can also empower these men to make change in their personal lives and among their friends and peers. Tucker asserts, “Even though ALFA is not an LGBT organization, we feel a responsibility to help bring MSM together in social settings to decrease the stigma about being gay or positive.” For more information about ALFA, visit alfainfo.org. : : — Compiled and written as a community contribution by Rodney Tucker, ALFA executive director. Matt Comer contributed.
Smart ads for HIV prevention
One of the many ways ALFA began their online outreach was through Craig’s List, the group’s staffers say. They tried several techniques and several different ads placed on the site’s “m4m” personals section. Some examples: Ad one Headline: Come to my office; Text: Worried about your HIV status? Email for a free confidential test with results in 10 minutes. Free condoms and lube with every test. Call for an appointment Three3 Two2 Three3 One1 Four4 Four4 Seven7 Ext.233 Ad two Headline: Curious? Text: Curious about your HIV status or other sexually transmitted disease? I have answers for your questions and can test you for HIV with results in 10 minutes. Get rid of your worries today call or email for an appointment. Three3 Two2 Three3 One1 Four4 Four4 Seven7 Ext.233
NEWS
Preview: NC Pride 2011 Parade and festival hits Durham, Sept. 24
The 27th annual NC Pride Parade and Festival will be held at Duke University’s East Campus in Durham on Aug. 24, including hundreds of business and non-profit vendors, a celebratory parade and thousands of on-lookers. The Festival NC Pride’s festival grounds open at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24, located at Duke University’s East Campus (Campus Dr. and Main St., Durham, N.C.). The festival features hundreds of business and retail vendors along with non-profit LGBT organizations from across the Triangle area and state. An ecumenical church service will be held at the East Campus’ gazebo at 11 a.m. A Pride Rally follows at 11:55 a.m. with the singing of the national anthem kicking off events. At press time, speakers for the rally had yet to be announced. After the parade and rom 2:30-5 p.m., the rally continues, featuring keynote speaker Randy Jones of the Village People and others. The festival grounds will close at 5 p.m. The Parade Thousands of onlookers will gather along the NC Pride Parade route to watch student groups, churches, nightclubs, elected officials and others
march in this historic parade. The parade begins at 1 p.m. snaking its way from Campus Dr. down Main St. toward Broad. Turning right, it will make its way to 9th St. and back up Main St. toward Duke’s East Campus. A viewing party will be held on 9th St.; at press time, its location had yet to be announced. Weekend events A diverse slate of events are planned across the Triangle area. Nightclubs, bars and restaurants are holding their own special and unique events. For a full list of associated NC Pride events, visit ncpride.org. : :
T-Notes continued from page 5
individuals because of homosexual proclivity is minuscule, totaling 267 among 860,853 aggravated assaults in the FBI’s most recent year of record. Homosexual orientation can change, and efforts to correct homosexual pathology are not ‘harmful’ to the individual.” (via Mark Alexander in the “Patriot Post,” June 2011.) : :
— View more information about the stories and publications cited in this column and get links to more resources at the online version of this column at goqnotes.com/to/ opinion/t-notes/. Comments and corrections can be sent to editor@goqnotes.com. To contact Robbi Cohn, email robbi_cohn108@yahoo.com.
Sept. 17-30 . 2011
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A&E
Buzzin’ up the stage
A 2010 Tony Award nominee for Best Play and Pulitzer Prize finalist, “In the Next Room,” tells the story of the invention of our most cherished bedroom toy. In the late 1800s doctors invented a new medical device to treat patients afflicted with “female hysteria.” A charming and insightful story of desire, frustration, and sympathy and understanding between the sexes. With the sensibility of a play by George Bernard Shaw or Oscar Wilde as seen through the lyrical lens of one of our finest modern playwrights. It’s not too late to catch “The Vibrator Play” at Charlotte’s Actor’s Theatre. And, great news: It’s coming to Chapel Hill as well.
Photo Credit: Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte
Charlotte :: Playing through Oct. 1 at Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte. Get more details and tickets at actorstheatrecharlotte.org. Chapel Hill :: Presented by the PlayMakers Repertory Company, Sept. 21-Oct. 9. More information and tickets available at playmakersrep.org. : :
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out in print by terri schlichenmeyer :: qnotes contributor
The Last Deployment
They’ve become as familiar to you as your own living room: auditoriums filled with uniformed, spine-straight soldiers on their way to deployment or smiling men and women, arms full of family, on their way home. And, no matter what auditorium they’re in, no matter which small town or big city, you can bet that the first group is wondering what the second group has seen. They may never know, though, because much is buried and more is classified. But, military secrets aren’t the only ones kept in times of war. In the new book “The Last Deployment” by Bronson Lemer, you’ll learn one of them. Bronson Lemer was “probably the last person anyone expected to join the military.” But, as the oldest of six children, he wanted to get away from North Dakota and “the army… happened to be at the right place at the right time.” Lemer was still in high school when he
joined the National Guard. Five years later, on Jan. 20, 2003, his cell phone rang. Though he was months away from getting out of his Guard obligation and was “tired of it,” Lemer learned that he was being deployed. His “horrible decision” to join the National Guard was turning into something he never thought he’d have to worry about: Lemer was a gay soldier under a “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. But, in going to Iraq, he knew he had to learn to rely on his fellow soldiers and vice versa. So, he tried to relax as he traveled with them to Colorado and, later that spring, to Kosovo, then to Iraq. Lemer went along with the jokes, the girlfriend talk and the “adolescent” behavior. He participated in anything that banished the boredom of guard duty, building, cleaning duty and outhouse duty. He emailed a former love and longed for home. As a few months’ tour of duty stretched into a year, Lemer began to notice some-
thing: deployment was taking its toll on everybody. The men and women who left the States were not the same people who came home from Iraq. And, neither was Lemer. Over the past decade, you’ve undoubtedly seen lots of TV and read many words about the War in Iraq. But just wait until you get your hands on “The Last Deployment”… Author Lemer’s memoir of being a gay man in the military is half sass and half sad with a few heart-pounding moments, but no blood-and-guts. His story moves between idyllic memories of his growing-up and warm feelings for his bunkmates and co-soldiers, while readers are also placed in the center of the boredom of waiting, the frustration of not knowing and the dismay of hiding in order to be accepted. Lemer’s is a wonderfully
descriptive, wryly humorous, heart-crushing story, and I couldn’t put it down. With the repeal this month of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell,” this is timely and definitely worth a read. If you love a soldier, your country or both, “The Last Deployment” is a book you’ll want to tell everybody about. : : info: “The Last Deployment: How a Gay, HammerSwinging Twentysomething Survived a Year in Iraq” by Bronson Lemer c. 2011, University of Wisconsin Press $24.95 U.S. & Canada, 223 pages
Sept. 17-30 . 2011
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NEWS
Moving fast, building community Raleigh’s LGBT Center continues growth, community unity by Matt Comer matt@goqnotes.com
RALEIGH — Not even five years old, the LGBT Center of Raleigh has nonetheless experienced its fair share of milestones. Those involved credit the group’s leaders’ and volunteers’ commitment for its accomplishments. “One of the great things I’ve noticed about the Center is that everyone involved is no nonsense and have a ‘get things done’ attitude,” says Alex Wall, the volunteer coordinator of the Center’s M Club program. “Things move at a fast pace here.” Wall couldn’t have said it more aptly. The LGBT Center of Raleigh started with its initial planning and fundraising in 2008. By 2009, it made its official debut to the community. In February 2010, the Center found its first home, joining with Triangle Community Works to share office and programming space. Soon thereafter, the group hired its first executive director, Bobby Hilburn, and later announced a merger between it and Triangle Community Works. Since then, the Center has found a new home on Hillsborough St. and has rolled out a series of successful programs, including its popular Gay and Gray initiative and its first-ever OutRaleigh Festival. The Pride-like event was a first for the state capital, attracting thousands. This year, the Center faces new milestones as Hilburn prepares to depart for new professional opportunities in October. That’s the same month the group will host its first
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Raleigh is Coming Out awards dinner. For the past three years, the Center has hosted some sort of event in October in recognition of National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11. Last year, the group presented its first awards. “We decided to really make our event this year about the award winners,” Hilburn says. The event will be hosted on Oct. 7 (see our Q Events Calendar on page 19 or local and regional news notes on page 6 for more details). Programs provide support Among the Center’s more popular programs is its M Club. Wall started the initiative as an independent project in 2008. It eventually became a project of Triangle Community Works. When that group merged with the Center, M Club came under its auspices. Wall says he started off with a simple Myspace page. “I invited people to become friends on that,” he says. “Then we started an email listserv and it grew through word of mouth and friends becoming interested through the internet.” At the core of the program’s mission is its focus on providing healthy, community-building social opportunities for young gay and bi men ages 18-30. As an affiliate of the national Mpowerment Project, the local program also functions as an HIV awareness, prevention and education group. “We provide different social, educational and community service events to provide people opportunities for making friends, meeting other guys and having an alternative the bar scene,” Wall, 28, explains. “M Club events are also drug, alcohol and hookup free. That’s an important thing if you don’t want to be around that thing or have to be in a meat-market atmosphere that happens in the bars and also in some other gay organizations or groups.” He adds, “Some people just want to be themselves and have an environment were they are accepted for who they are not on how good they look or who you like or dislike.” M Club hosts several events each month. Those have included movie nights, discussion groups, bowling and dinner parties. They’ve also worked together in community service and fundraising projects. “We do just about anything a normal group of friends would go out and do,” he says. “We just do it as a bigger group.” Wall stresses that positive social environments and interactions can provide opportunities to empower young men. “It’s really important to have people supporting you and building you up, instead of tearing you down or getting you involved in dangerous activities,” he says. The M Club helps fulfill its HIV awareness and prevention promise, Wall explains, by
helping young men not engage in self-destructive behaviors. Hilburn thinks the M Club is important for both the Center and the greater Raleigh community. “It’s got a big focus on safe sex and healthy lifestyles,” he says, crediting Wall for the group’s continued growth. “Alex is doing a phenomenal job at growing it and advertising it to its target audience and making it into a diverse group.” Hilburn says the Center is thinking about mirroring the concept in a group targeted toward women. Community participation on rise Hilburn says groups like M Club and the Center’s other programs are constantly bringing new people and new voices into the life of the organization. “Over the last year, the Center has grown phenomenally not only through our programs but through community participation,” he says. “We’ve seen an increase in the numbers and the diversity of people who attend our events.” Among the group’s other new projects and programs is a nascent transgender task force. Hilburn says the group will provide a space for discussion and organization for members of Raleigh’s and the Triangle’s trans community. “It’s an opportunity for individuals to get together and figure out what their needs are, whether its support or social or a place where they can feel safe to come out,” he says. “We’re excited about reaching out and being inclusive of the trans community.” Several Center volunteers and board members are already involved in trans community outreach, Hilburn adds. The Center will also soon open its new library. They’ve collected over 1,000 books — all donated — and developed a true library check-out system. “A real library,” Hilburn says. “You even get a library card.” At their awards dinner this year, Hilburn will help honor two worthy recipients: Former pastor Jimmy Creech and Triangle Black Pride’s Akil Campbell. Then, sadly, he’ll say goodbye and step down from his executive director’s role. He’s determined to make it a positive departure; in fact, he’s looking forward to seeing even more growth and success in the Center’s future. “I can only see us continuing to grow in the future as we keep developing our programs more and more so that we are reaching individuals and providing programs that are both social and support,” he says. : : more: Get more details on the LGBT Center of Raleigh’s upcoming events, its awards dinner and its programs at lgbtcenterofraleigh. com. For more on M Club, visit mclubnc.com.
Positive Postings
Promoting hope and inspiration
by Dale Pierce ~ Practice Manager/Ryan White Program Director
In a world where HIV and AIDS is still on the rise, couldn’t all of us with an ounce of compassion offer a little hope and inspiration to others? A client told me the other day, “After my diagnosis, I felt at the lowest point in my life. I couldn’t believe that even my church family turned their back on me.” As someone who has worked in the field and battled this disease for over 15 years, it still breaks my heart to hear these stories of isolation and stigma. Have we not been able in the past 30 years to dispel most of the myths? In case you are wondering, HIV can not be contracted by casual contact. HIV (in my humble opinion and most reasonable people) is not a punishment from God for sinning. Like Dixie Carter said in an episode of “Designing Women,” “If God were handing out sexually transmitted diseases as a punishment for sinning, then you would be at the free clinic all of the time, and so would the rest of us.” I find in talking to clients that we still battle a
higher rate of stigma in the South than other parts of the country and especially among minorities. It makes no sense to me how we can address and fix a problem if people are afraid to address it. That is why I applaud the work of organizations like RAIN (Regional AIDS Interfaith Network). Going out to try to educate, inform and share understanding about HIV to our church communities is a great place to start. I was dear friends with Tammy Faye Messner and she always told me that it was her fervent belief that when Jesus returns, this is exactly where He would be; in the HIV clinics and cancer centers, holding hands and offering healing and support. So, why is it so hard for us to follow those lessons? This year marks Rosedale Infectious Disease’s second annual Evening of Hope and Inspiration. Last year, we created this idea, simply because it was the right thing to do. We enlisted the help of Gospel music greats, The Hoppers, to entertain our crowd at the McGlohon Theatre in Charlotte and Jeanne White, Ryan White’s mother shared her and Ryan’s story of struggle and heartache. The money we raised from sponsor and ticket sales went to the Jeanne White Ginder Food Pantry at Rosedale ID. We use this “pantry” as an emergency service to offer local grocery gift cards to HIV infected clients until they get on their feet and/or get to a more stable support service like Loaves and Fishes or Second Harvest. It is wonderful that through the success of our event over 100 families have been assisted this year through the
generosity of others. On Nov.13, 2011, at 7:30 p.m., Rosedale ID has again rented the McGlohon Theatre for this amazing event. Last year, to be quite honest, all parties involved were a little nervous about the “missing” of dynamics of the participants. By the time we all left the theater that evening, we realized that something magical and spiritual had happened. It no longer became about what church you attend, what you believe in, but there was a greater good at work in that room that put a spirit of understanding and compassion on every heart in the room. This year’s event will feature a headlining concert by one of Country Gospels’ favorite family acts, The Martins. Their last homerun took place amidst years of winning seasons which took them from the regional church platforms of Arkansas to the major leagues of the Gaither Homecoming stages, Carnegie Hall, The Grand Ole Opry and the White House. We last heard from the multiple Dove decorated/Grammy-nominated trio of siblings on their career retrospective “Decade,” a homage to the trio’s unmistakable harmonies and vast annals that have tastefully blurred the lines between Southern Gospel, Inspirational and Contemporary Christian music. And even though it’s been several years since the group released an all-new studio CD, this June’s brand new album finds Arkansas natives and siblings Joyce, Jonathan and Judy picking up right where they left off, complete with some surprise plays.
One of those surprises includes their working with producer and multi-platinum selling Rascal Flatts member Jay DeMarcus (whose studio credits also include Rock luminaries Chicago, Country favorite Jo Dee Messina and vocal powerhouse/frequent Martins collaborator Michael English). Another exciting addition to this years’ event is the fact that Rosedale ID is recognizing community leaders with the Hope and Inspiration awards. These two very special awards will be given to individuals who inspire hope and demonstrate through their lives and careers a willingness to give back to others. Through their works they also inspire others to make a difference in our community. This years recipients are Reverend Debbie Warren of RAIN and former WBTV anchor and Elevation Church Community Relations Director Tonia Bendickson. This magical evening will hopefully inspire you to a platform of service this holiday season, while it also warms your hart, entertains and maybe even surprises you. Tickets for the event go on sale Sept. 1, 2011, and can be purchased for $15$20 for reserved seating and all proceeds will benefit the Jeanne White Ginder Food Pantry. You can call 704-372-1000 to get your tickets or visit carolinatix.org in order to get the best seats available. Don’t forget to visit our website at rosedaleid.com and friend us on Facebook for community and clinical updates. — Sponsored Content —
Sept. 17-30 . 2011
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tell trinity by trinity qnotes contributor
When someone is screwing someone behind someone’s back
To Trinity, My boyfriend moved into a house with four other gay men. Now, he hardly wants to be with me anymore. He also won’t talk about it. Help! Disappearing Boyfriend, Coral Springs, FL To Disappeared, You got a big problem, yet an easy solution. Think gay algebra! When one man loves one man that equals one relationship, but when one man moves in with four other men and wants to stop seeing you that equals someone-screwingsomeone-behind-someone-else’s-back, whether it’s in that house or not. The possible solutions are a) let him know he can be an animal and still be your boyfriend; b) let him know he cannot be your boyfriend if he doesn’t show more interest; or c) accept that he’s found a new boy toy and move on! But, sweetie, the equation is unsolvable unless you stay busy, go out with friends, start dating if it’s over and accept the challenges of life! This too shall pass. Dear Trinity, Men are dogs! They only want to eat and hump! They can’t keep a steady relationship, nor do they want to. Is there some training course to take? Dog Tired, Kansas City, MO
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Dear Tired, Men, now that’s an animal in need of training, even more so than a dog. Remember, practice makes perfect. So, honey, keep training, keep trying and keep doggy treats in your pockets. (Check my cartoon out to see how I’d train ‘em!) Hey Trinity, When is it the right time to give flowers on a date? Wondering, Seattle, WA
Hey Wondering, A European lover once said, “It’s always the right time to give flowers!” And, if anyone knows, it’s those damn Europeans. However, I think receiving flowers on the first date is too much too soon or too serious too fast and appears like a “red flag” towards obsessive-compulsive, codependent or stalker behavior! That’s why, darling, I personally feel that everyone would be more comfortable receiving or giving flowers on the third or forth date or anytime after that. The exceptions to this rule include prom dates, prearranged dates or funerals. Dearest Trinity, When my last lover broke up with me I was devastated. Now, I have to do the same to someone I am dating. I really want to break the news at the right moment. But, when is the right moment or better yet, when is it the wrong moment? Stuck In A Hole, Santa Monica, CA
Dearest Stuck, Similarly, the first big question Moses asked God was, “How do I get rid of this Pharaoh guy?” And, after hearing God’s answer, Moses escaped, but with a lot of trouble. But, pumpkin, it would’ve been much easier if he read: Trinity’s Trusty Tales For (TWM) “The Wrong Moment” To Breakup 1. You both just started your Middle East vacation. All hotel bookings, travelers’ checks and train reservations are in her name. She speaks eight languages and you none. 2. You’re talking to him via cell phone, just after his car crashes and he’s surrounded by paramedics. 3. You just finished signing the papers for your new house, your new life insurance policy and your new adopted baby. 4. Just after the doctor tells him, “I’m sorry, but you have an incurable disease!” 5. You’re in a plane, the flight attendant announces, “Both captains are dead!” And, your partner is the only pilot on board. 6. While you’re both at, The Pistol & Rifle Shop, he’s testing the new “Quick Kill Undetectable Handgun” and there is a power outage. 7. While opening her acceptance letter she says, “It’s the happiest day of my life!” 8. You’re in the middle, literally, of the most incredible sexual experience of his and your relationship! 9. While you’re on a month-long business trip, she is watching over your very sick mother, financial assets and your three cats and she calls you to say “Hi!” 10. When she hands you the winning, eighty-million-dollar lottery ticket and says, “Honey, look what we’ve won! : : — With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity was host of “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama, and now performs globally. info: www.telltrinity.com . Trinity@telltrinity.com Sponsored by: Provincetown Business Guild 800-637-8696 . www.ptown.org
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out in the stars by charlene lichtenstein qnotes contributor
September 17 - 30
Start your engines, compadres. Mars enters glorious Leo and life rockets upward. We succeed at anything and everything…at least we believe that we can. Repeat the mantra and light the fuse. Do I hear a sizzle and a pop? VIRGO (08.24-09.23) There is a great deal of secretive activity going on behind the scenes. Much of it has to do with unresolved issues that you preferred to push under the rug. Keep an ear to the ground, queer Virgo. One of two scenarios appears to be in the cards. Either your hidden enemies are finally vanquished or they rise up for one last attempted coup. Prepare the guillotine and start the revolution. LIBRA (09.24-10.23) What is it about the events that accelerates all gay Libras into overdrive? Your social swirl whips up into a lather and your dance card fills to overflowing. Friends come to you from all corners, from every nook and cranny, from under every rock — or so it seems. Can you dance at two parties with only one tush? Well, you will certainly try. SCORPIO (10.24-11.22) Queer Scorps find themselves imbued with ambition and zest. This is the time to put your best professional foot forward and see how well you can impress those in charge. Confidence and calculated risks make the difference between sitting among the upper class and sulking in steerage. Have a great idea? Float it and see who gets carried away. SAGITTARIUS (11.23-12.22) Itchy feet must be scratched. Gay Archers feel confined by the usual and staid. They must break out and escape, damn the cost. Choose some unusual destinations now and see if there are some interesting distractions afoot. If money is tight, expand your international reach with a combination of food, wine and exotic company — virtual or otherwise. CAPRICORN (12.23-01.20) Your sexual appetite is piqued. The most uninspired pink Capricorn gets an urge to merge. You have great stamina and are primed for a marathon rather than a short sprint. But, try to be a bit discriminating. There is the off chance that the short-term jolly can evolve into something much more serious. Or, are you just into getting your jollies? Ho ho ho. AQUARIUS (01.21-02.19) There is something going on in your relationships now. Do you feel more of an emotional connection or are you finding that the ties now bind? Aqueerians wander into a crossroad of their own making and feel that changes need to be made immediately. There may be something that you say that brings understanding to a new level. Uh, will that be higher or lower? PISCES (02.20-03.20) Are you taking vitamins? Are you exercising? It may seem that way even to lazy bones. Slothful Guppies feel robust and primed for action. Use this burst of energy to get a number of long-standing tasks out of the way and prepare for new ones. At least, if you are going to be a rat on a treadmill, you might as well use it as aerobic fitness. ARIES (03.21-04.20) Proud Rams swell with pride and good thing too. Find numerous ways to have fun and let your emotions run wild. Open yourself up to being giddy and fun-seeking. Your giddiness and sense of fun knows no bounds (unless, of course, you are into it). There is the chance that you will overdo, but do you really care? Recuperate in the autumn. TAURUS (04.21-05.21) Apparently, there are a few things that you would like to get off your chest. And, you cannot contain yourself any longer. Queer Bulls can make any excuse to get the family together and can mend or bend a few fences in the process. You have your say, no matter what you think the outcome will be. Spruce up your
surroundings to get ready for the hordes. GEMINI (05.22-06.21) Pink Twins are a bit full of themselves — and why not? You are quite the intellectual and are ready to share your insightful opinions at every opportunity. A mighty wind blows, a dust storm ensues. What you may find once the air has cleared is that it didn’t matter whether you were right or wrong. What really matters is that you said it loud, proud and queer. Ahem. CANCER (06.22-07.23) Keep a watchful eye on your bottom line, gay Crab. Your need for glam exceeds your capacity to pay. There are so many alluring goodies that catch your eye that you are tempted to spend fast, feckless and furiously. But, before you whip out the wallet, be sure that the object of your desire can deliver on its purported promise. Will you wind up with trash? Will you care? LEO (07.24-08.23) Proud Lions are prodded into taking a more active role in implementing any long-dormant plans. There are no more “what ifs” and “oh wells.” Those stale excuses will no longer do. There is a short window of opportunity, so get going. You sparkle and shine around others and can start a few social fires. Is it hot in here or is it you? Nice ash. : : © 2011 Madam Lichtenstein, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Entertainment. info: Visit www.TheStarryEye.com for e-greetings, horoscopes and Pride jewelry. My book “HerScopes: A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians” from Simon & Schuster is available at bookstores and major booksites.
Sept. 17-30 . 2011
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News Briefs continued from page 7
Global Ghana churches sever U.S. ties
ACCRA, Ghana — The Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) has voted to sever ties with the Presbyterian Church (USA) because the latter now ordains open lesbians and gays. The PCG’s Facebook page details the decisions from its 11th General Assembly. Item 9 states, “The Assembly decided to sever relationship with any partner church that ordained homosexuals as ministers and allowed for same-sex marriages.” The move is a response to the July 10 decision of the PCUSA to allow gay and lesbian ministers. In addition, the PCG is establishing centers throughout Ghana to provide exgay therapy. Right Rev. Emmanuel Martey, moderator of the PCG, told Joy News the plan
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to offer counseling services to homosexuals does not mean the church is softening its position on homosexuality. Martey is staunchly anti-gay. He has described homosexuality as filthy, unbiblical and un-African. — D.S.
U.K. to allow gay blood donors
LONDON, England — Gay men will soon be able to donate blood after the government moved to lift donor restrictions across the U.K. A lifetime ban was put in place in Britain in the 1980s as a response to the AIDS epidemic. But the Department of Health has said men who have not had homosexual sex within a year will now be able to donate as of Nov. 7. The move comes after recommendations were made to change the restrictions following a review by the Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, Tissues and Organs earlier this year. The committee had considered the risk of infection being transmitted in blood, attitudes of potential
donors in complying with selection criteria and scientific improvements in the testing of donated blood. NHS Blood and Transplant medical and research director Dr Lorna Williamson told Sky News the advice was accepted by the health ministers in England, Scotland and Wales. She reassured the public that there were limited risks under the new policy, likening it to the “same sort of risks as being struck by lightning.” — D.S.
Campus Scene Housing changes proposed
CHAPEL HILL — The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill may change its housing policies. On the table is a proposal to give men and women the chance to share rooms and apartments at the schools residence halls. The Daily Tar Heel reported that Kevin Claybren, a sophomore, “began researching this housing option for a class project
last spring — said the option would create a more inclusive and compatible environment on campus, especially for gay students.” It would discourage harassment between opposite sex roommates. He thinks that genderneutral housing would be more comfortable as an option. Claybren has sought the counsel of Terri Phoenix, who serves as director of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Center, on how best to devise the option. Duke University already has one of these programs in place, with the pilot program beginning this fall. It was passed in October 2010. — L.M. info: Have news or other information? Send your press releases and updates for inclusion in our News Notes: editor@goqnotes.com.
A&E
audiophile by david stout david@goqnotes.com
The creation of a pop artist
What makes a “real� singer long to be a pop diva – the next Britney, Katy or Rihanna? If you asked vocalist Liz Primo that question she would probably give you one simple, straightforward answer: An irresistable love for the music. Primo grew up in an Austin, Texas home where rock ‘n roll was prohibited. She learned about and absorbed the influences of her generation when visiting the homes of her friends. On those occasions she listened and danced to the likes of Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson and MTV. Her journey to becoming a pop/dance singer was underway. After graduating from high school at 17,
Primo left home for Nashville. She met a network of creative people, including her vocal coach, and numerous industry “experts� who offered to help her develop her sound. Although excited to have professional guidance she felt the continued attempts to push her toward Americana singer-songwriter territory was an ill fit. On paper, everything was perfect, but the music simply didn’t resonate with her soul. While trying to sort things out, Primo befriended a local rapper who encouraged her to add hooks and vocals to some of his hip hop tracks. At the same time, she was turned on to electronica and house music. Suddenly
her path seemed clear: Primo moved to L.A. to write and record dance music. She supported herself by working as an extra on film and television sets and promotional modeling. Unfortunately, she didn’t make any headway musically and money was becoming harder and harder to come by. At a point there was no choice but to move home to Austin. Not long after her return Primo was asked to join a local band as lead vocalist. They played every kind of local gig imaginable and eventually landed a spot at the influential SXSW music conference. Primo enjoyed performing and the band was on the way up – but the desire to become a dance-pop artist wouldn’t go away and she left for L.A. to give it another try. Once there, she took a leap of faith and connected, via the internet, with songwriter/ producer Rob Fusari (Lady Gaga, Jessica Simpson) and producer Justin Trugman (Pussy Cat Dolls, Eminem, “Step Up� soundtrack). From that collaboration, Primo’s first single “State Of Amazing� as well as a dozen other
tracks flowed out of her like they had been walled in and were simply awaiting release. “When talent, raw creative energy and drive come together in one package you know that you have the recipe for a star to happen,� Fusari observes. “Liz is on that road to greatness.� We shall see: “State Of Amazing� is the first song taken from Prima’s new seven-track EP, “Exposed� (out now on 444 Records). I’m not gonna make the same mistake I made with Lady Gaga’s “The Fame� and underestimate its potential for success. Given the current pop scene anything is possible – especially for someone with the drive of a Gaga or, obviously, Primo. Best of luck, diva. : : info: audiophile@goqnotes.com
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Sept. 17-30 . 2011
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Honoring those who serve
Oct. 7 • Raleigh LGBT Center Awards Dinner The LGBT Center of Raleigh presents their annual awards dinner, Raleigh is Coming Out 2011. Space is limited. The Stockroom at 230, Carolina Trust Building, 230 Fayetteville St. 7-10 p.m. lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.
Sept. 17 • Charlotte Off White Party Sponsored by Charlotte Pocket Rocket and presented by Just Twirl, this White Party after party features DJ Seth Cooper. Celebrate with this year’s theme, “Fire & Ice.” Visulite Theatre, 1615 Elizabeth Ave. 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m. $20. justtwirl.com. Sept. 17 • Hickory ALFA Dining for Friends Finale Dining for Friends (DFF), traditionally held in June, is now planned for the month of September. DFF is a combination of highenergy individual parties and a community celebration benefiting ALFA. All of the proceeds from Dining for Friends support ALFA’s mission to improve the lives and health of those affected by HIV/AIDS while preventing transmission through education and testing. Dining for Friends has two major fun factors: Individual parties and a community celebration, the Dining for Friends Finale. Market on Main, 335 Main Ave. SW. 8 p.m.-midnight. alfadiningforfriends.org. Sept. 20 • Charlotte Center: Mara Keisling Mara Keisling, executive director of the National Center for Transgender Equality, hosts a reception and community forum at The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte, 820 Hamilton St. Suite B11. 6:30 p.m. gaycharlotte. com. Sponsored by The Center, Campus Pride, Carolina Transgender Society and the Human Rights Campaign. Sept. 20 • Charlotte CBG Wine Tasting The Charlotte Business Guild hosts a special wine tasting and art exhibit at the Gil Gallery,
109 W. Morehead St. 5:30-8 p.m. $20. charlottebusinessguild.org.
Biggerstaff/Dallas Park, 144 Leisure Ln. 10 a.m.7 p.m. churchofwicca.org/ppd/index.htm.
Sept. 20 • Charlotte Goodbye to ‘Don’t Ask’ Join Charlotte’s LGBT community for a special celebration of the final and full implementation of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal. The Bar at 316, 316 Rensselaer Ave. 7-10 p.m. thebarat316.com.
Sept. 24 • Durham NC Pride The annual NC Pride Fest and Parade takes over Duke University’s East Campus. Join thousands of LGBT North Carolinians for the parade and hang out throughout the day with vendors from across the state. ncpride.org.
Sept. 21 • Charlotte Wednesday Night Out Wednesday Night Out is a happy hour type gathering for GLBT community members and supporters in the Rock Hill/Fort Mill area. Come mix and mingle, meet new friends, and network within our community. Sponsored by Bud Light. Fatz of Rock Hill, 478 Herlong Rd. 5:30-7:30 p.m. wednesdaynightout@gmail.com.
Sept. 30 • Raleigh Concert kick-off The LGBT Center of Raleigh hosts a meet and greet and kick-off social for Serenity’s Oct. 2 Fall Foliage Bonanza Concert. LGBT Center of Raleigh, 411 Hillsborough St. 6-9 p.m. lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.
Sept. 24 • Charlotte Meet and Mingle” Bebe Zahara Benet Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Charlotte-based, national non-profit Campus Pride with BeBe Zahara Benet, winner in season one of Logo’s “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” $50 minimum donation included a meet and greet, hors d’oeuveres and drink specials. Blue Restaurant and Bar, Hearst Tower, 206 N. College St. campuspride.org. Sept. 24 • Dallas Piedmont Pagan Pride Day Come out and enjoy foot races, children’s activities, music, workshops, rituals, divinations, demonstration altars and shrines, martial arts demos, a roundtable discussion with leaders in the Piedmont area Pagan community, and tons of fun. The Piedmont Pagan Pride Day strives to foster pride in Pagan identity through education, activism, charity and community.
we want your who/what/where
Oct. 1 • Asheville Blue Ridge Pride Take a day trip or spend the weekend in beautiful Asheville for this year’s Blue Ridge Pride. A day festival is planned for downtown’s Pack Square from noon-6 p.m. Nightlife and other events are also slated. blueridgepride.org. Oct. 2 • Cary Fall Foliage Benefit Concert Serenity hosts a concert benefitting the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence, SWOOP, the LGBT Center of Raleigh and the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Featuring Jennifer Corday, Monika James and Vickie Shaw. Koka Booth Amphiptheatre at Regency Park, 8002 Regency Pkwy. Noon. $45-$75. For more information, visit serenitygirlz.blogspot. com. Tickets available online at ticketmaster.com. Oct. 4 • Charlotte Suzanne Westenhoefer
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events qnotes goqnotes.com/qguide/events
arts. entertainment. news. views. The Comedy Zone, LGBT Community Center of Charlotte and NC Music Factory present comedian Suzanne Westenhoefer for a special, one-night-only show. The Comedy Zone, 900 Seaboard St., Suite B3. 8 p.m. $20-$25. cltcomedyzone.com. Oct. 8 • Winston-Salem ‘Circumstance’ Screening OUT at the Movies, Winston-Salem and North Carolina’s GLBT film series will screen the 2011 drama, “Circumstance.” UNCSA School of Filmmaking, 1533 S. Main St. 7-8:30 p.m. For more info, visit OUTattheMoviesWinston.org. Oct. 12 • Raleigh ‘Being Earnest’ Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest,” the “Trivial Comedy for Serious People,” is crammed full of memorable satirical humor and larger than life characters (in fact, in all of theatre, is there one more delectable than Lady Augusta Bracknell?). Aquila Theatre’s staging of Wilde’s masterpiece promises to overflow with wit, elegance, and romantic comedy. Presented by N.C. State University Center Stage. Stewart Theatre, 2610 Cates Ave. 8 p.m. ncsu.edu/centerstage/ Oct. 15 • Winston-Salem Winston-Salem PRIDE 2011 Equality Winston-Salem presents its first-ever Winston-Salem PRIDE 2011, complete with a festival at Winston Square Park and a parade through downtown. Entertainment headliner is lesbian Gospel singer-songwriter Jennifer Knapp. equalitywinstonsalem.org.
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