Newspapers / Q-notes (Charlotte, N.C.) / Sept. 6, 2008, edition 1 / Page 16
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M l L E S TO N E S Martin leaves indelible legacy SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — The LGBT com munity lost an iconic leader and a beloved friend when Del Martin, 87, passed away Aug. 27. Martin and her life partner Phyllis Lyon were among the founders of the Daughters of Bilitis, the first lesbian rights organization, in 1955. The following year they launched “The Ladder,” the first lesbian newsletter. Martin was the first openly lesbian woman elected to the board of the National Organization of Women (NOW), and in 1971, she led the board in passing a resolution that lesbian issues are feminist issues. In 1995, Martin and Lyon were delegates to the White House Conference on Aging. After a California Supreme Court ruling granted gay and lesbian couples the right to legally marry, Martin and Lyon became the first same-sex couple in the state to wed, doing so on June 16,2008. “Ever since I met Del 55 years ago, I could never imagine a day would come when she wouldn’t be by my side. 1 am so lucky to have known her, loved her, and been her partner in all things,” Lyon said. “I also never imagined there would be a day that we would actually be able to get married. I am devastated, but I take some solace in knowing we were able to enjoy the ultimate rite of love and commit ment before she passed.” Kate Kendell, executive director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, said, “For all of Del’s life, she was an activist and organ izer even before we knew what those terms meant. Her last act of public activism was her most personal — marrying the love of her life after 55 years. “In the wake of losing her, we recognize with heightened clarity the most poignant and responsible way to honor her legacy is to preserve the right of marriage for same- sex couples, thereby providing the dignity and respect that Del and Phyllis’ love deserved.” Gifts in honor of Del’s life for the purpose of defeating the California marriage ban can be made through NCLR’s No On 8 PAC at www.nclrights.org/NoOn8. > — compiled by David Stout, Q-Notes staff Miss Gay NC America crowned In a packed house at Scorpio nightclub in Charlotte, Victoria Parker took the crown as the next Miss Gay North Carolina America on Aug. 24. ■ Presented by VON Entertainment, contestants competed for tlie tide and the chance to go to the next Miss Gay America pageant in St. Louis, Mo., in October. The contest included Solo Talent, Evening Gown, On-Stage Question and General Talent competitions. The first runner-up in the contest was Shana Nicole, followed by second runner-up Amanda Blake. Angela Lopez placed as third runner-up. The panel of judges included Tjder Kole, Blair Williams, Darlene Duncun, John Noel, Jena Burgin and Mistresses of Ceremonies Lauren Colby and Tiffany Bonet. Miss Gay America 2008 Mikaila Kay and Miss Gay North Carolina America 2007 Coti Collins were present. — cotnpiled by Q-Notes staff The newly crowned Miss Gay North Carolina 2008 Victoria Parlcer (cen ter) with Miss Gay AmeHca 2008 : Mikaila Kay and Miss Gay North Carolina America 2007 Coti Collins. An Ccfecfic Collection of Oooks, OVO’s & Pride ftoolcj for LG8T Families • T-Shirts • Ffa^ • Key Chains • Leather Wallets • Jewelry • and raore.^ We will be at the NC Pride Festival on September 27 in Durham Saturday and Sunday at the Fairgrounds Marketplace NC State Fairgrounds • Outdoor Booth 117 ♦ Raleigh, NC www.'fhe^feenirionfee^onfine.coiri 16 SEPTEMBER 6.2(X)8 • QNotes
Q-notes (Charlotte, N.C.)
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Sept. 6, 2008, edition 1
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