Shepard to speak
CHARLOTTE — LGBT advocate Judy Shepard will speak at the Campus Pride (CP) and Time Out Youth (TOY) annual awareness event “Believe in Youth” on Feb. 20, 3 p.m., at Myers Park Baptist Church’s Heaton Hall, 1900 Queens Rd.
Shepard, mother of slain hate crime victim Matthew Shepard and author of the new book, “Meaning of Matthew: My Son’s Murder in Laramie, and a World Transformed,” will speak to the audience with a special Q&A following. Special music will be provided by One Voice Chorus. Following the event, there will be a VIP meet and greet with Judy Shepard at The Bar at 316, 316 Rensselaer St.
“Campus Pride and Time Out Youth have partnered to bring Judy Shepard to Charlotte to shed light on the ongoing crisis that faces LGBT youth and community members both locally and across the country,” said Steve Bentley, executive director of TOY. “Judy’s amazing advocacy on behalf of LGBT people provides a unique perspective and a call to action for movement on LGBT equality.”
Partial funding for the program is being provided by The Wesley Mancini Foundation.
The event is free to educators and youth; $15 suggested donation otherwise. The meet and greet is open to the public; $5 suggested donation.
For more information, visit campuspride.org and timeoutyouth.org.
Rack ’em up
CHARLOTTE — The Human Rights Campaign and Just Twirl are joining forces to hold a “Right Up Your Alley!” bowling event on Feb. 20, 2-5 p.m., at AMF Centennial Lanes, 4501 South Blvd.
Enjoy an afternoon of bowling under dance/disco/party lights with musical accompaniment with DJ GlitterGirl.
Afterward, skip over to Sidelines Sports Bar to just chill after exerting energy for HRC. Admission is free.
Tickets, include bowling, shoe rental, prizes and an annual HRC membership, are: $150 Lane Captain (up to five people); $35 singles; $25 student (valid ID age 12-21); $15 youth (under 12); and $100 sponsor (supplying literature approved prior to the event).
Sponsorships are available. Email Jason McCraw at JasonMcCraw@aol.com to learn more.
To purchase tickets, visit hrc.org/charlottebowling.