SPRING 2016
B A Start
LGBT PROFESSIONALS & AUSTIN’S BIGGEST CONFERENCE NEW OFFICES, NEW PRESIDENT & CEO The AGLCC’s Next Chapter
“MARY, MARY, QUITE CONTRARY...” Tips from Austin’s Top LGBT Gardeners
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E
AUSTIN’S FITTEST March Madness, AGLCC Style
AUSTI N G AY & LE SBI AN
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CHAIR’S WELCOME
NEW YEAR, NEW AGLCC, NEW OFFICES, NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO
AGLCC Chair Edgar Gierbolini: “The Struggle is Real.”
14 HEY, AUSTIN! HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW? Green thumb tips from two of Austin’s top LGBT gardeners and landscape designers
The Chamber embarks on an exciting new chapter in the growth of the organization
28 LET’S DO LUNCH!: HUNGRY FOR THE OUTDOORS? “Yes tea, yes shade!” The coolest patios and decks for that Saturday night date and Sunday brunch with your besties
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62 39 AGLCC MARKETPLACE Our directory of members you should support!
54 SNAPS! Parties and fundraisers and Rainbow Ribbon Cuttings, oh my!
GAY GETAWAY: DAY TRIPPIN’
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Taking advantage of spring with day-trip destinations
Meet Tim Krebs of the Austin Gay Basketball League and see The Agenda’s take on March Madness!
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AUSTIN’S FITTEST
On the Cover THE QUEER IMPACT ON SXSW Insights from 4 Austinites who personify SXSW in Interactive, Music, Gaming & Film BY SARAH MARLOFF COVER ILLUSTRATION BY SYDNEY MANTROM
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Claire Hogan; Devaki Knowles; Otis Ike
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EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief Creative Director
John Egan Shannon Mantrom
CONTRIBUTORS John Egan, Sarah Marloff, Shannon Mantrom ART Art Director Major Photography
Rachelle Diaz Devaki Knowles Chloe Mantrom
ADVERTISING President & CEO Accounts & Sales Director AGLCC Board
Ceci Gratias Jeff Arnold Edgar Gierbolini, Chair Amy Cook, Vice-Chair Rich Segal, Secretary Carlie Bittel, Treasurer Jeff Arnold, John Egan, Rick Holmberg, Jan Jackson, Chase Kincannon, Lindsey Leaverton, Shannon Mantrom, Leeann Wick, Aaron Yeats
DISTRIBUTION Cecil Logistics CONTACT US PO Box 49216, Austin, TX 78765 512-761-LGBT (5428) contact@austinagenda.com AustinAgenda
@Austin Agenda
Unsolicited submissions including resumes, articles, artwork, and photographs are not returned. The Agenda is published quarterly by the Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and is financed entirely by support from the membership of the chamber. The views and opinions expressed in The Agenda and austinagenda.com do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (AGLCC), nor its officers or board of directors. Any advice or opinions provided herein are for informational purposes only. Copyright Š 2016 Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.
AUSTI N G AY & LE SBI AN
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Chair's letter
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s a child watching The Wizard of Oz, I thought how great it would be if someone could gain courage just by going off to see the Wizard in Emerald City. The reality is much harsher than that. It takes courage to come out to yourself and then to others, affirming yourself and being undeniably you. It takes courage to move to a new city and make new friends or begin a new job.
It takes courage to start a business and confront the challenges of a constantly changing market. It takes courage to quit everything familiar and comfortable and launch yourself in an entirely new direction. Even with the gains our community has made recently, though, many of us still face hatred and violence — and must summon courage to fight them. According to the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, anti-LGBT violence fell 32 percent in 2014 compared with 2013. However, anti-transgender violence rose 13 percent during the same period. Many of us also still face discrimination. That’s certainly true across Texas, which lacks nondiscrimination laws that explicitly include protections based on sexual orientation or gender identity; thankfully, Austin does have a strong nondiscrimination ordinance that includes those protections. Texas was among 28 states that received the lowest rating on the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and the Equality Federation’s recently released State Equality Index. “Even with marriage equality the law of the land, the battle for LGBT rights at the state level continues to be a story of successes and setbacks,” HRC President Chad Griffin says. “Though a number of states are expanding access to nondiscrimination protections for LGBT people and their families, a majority of states are still struggling to reach even a basic level of equality for LGBT people.”
Edgar Gierbolini, Chair Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Twitter: @edgargierbolini
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Chloe Mantrom
In other words, our community’s work is far from done, especially in states like Texas. It is up to us as a community to stand with each other, fight for our rights and be courageous.
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HEY, AUSTIN!
HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?
“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” –Margaret Atwood
M
argaret Atwood might best be known for her written works, but when it comes to truly embracing spring, she’s right on the mark. Gardening is the perfect respite from winter — even here in Texas, where winters are shorter and milder than most. And Austin is filled with plant-o-philes who work to make our city greener, chemical-free and more (flora) sustainable. Liz Baloutine owns and operates Austin landscaping company Seedlings Gardening.
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She launched Seedlings in 2009 as a side gig, but her reputation for great work with an eye for design and a dedication to organic gardening soon led to a full-time workload. Today, Baloutine and her team continue to beautify Austin businesses and homes with their conservation-driven approach to landscape design. “Austin is a really fun city to design for,” Baloutine says. “There’s water runoff issues, drought, hills — all those aspects drive the design. A flat piece of
George Nicholson, The Illustrated Dictionary of Gardening, London, 1884; Liz Baloutine; Heather Coffey
BY SARAH MARLOFF
Xeriscaped backyard gardens by Seedlings Gardening
property makes it harder to come up with an interesting layout, because it’s such a blank canvas. I do love designing, but the installation is a lot of fun, too. I love coming up with ways to make the plans work.” With conservation in mind, Seedlings begins its plans with a focus on water issues. Also, the plans almost always include plants that are beneficial to wildlife, as well herbs and vegetables to promote sustainability and indigenous plant life. Tom Tinguely, owner and founder of South Congress’ The Great Outdoors, offers a more DIY approach to gardening. His storefront opened in 1994, nine years after he began his lawn maintenance company. Twenty-two years since the grand opening, The Great Outdoors is one of Austin’s most cherished nurseries, or what Tinguely calls “the greenest little spot in Austin.” Tinguely’s nursery features a fabulous collection of colorful plants, creative people, pottery, garden art, tools, books and so much more. Similar to Baloutine’s Seedlings Gardening, The Great Outdoors specializes in plants native to Central Texas, as well as “environmentally sensitive
More beautiful offerings from Seedlings Gardening
products” (aka no chemical pesticides, fungicides or fertilizers). The business also sells houseplants, cacti and succulents, “including a great selection of cold hardy varieties that can take our Central Texas extremes,” Tinguely says. When it comes to springtime gardening, “May flowers” might come to SP R I N G 2 0 1 6 | A G L C C . O R G
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The Hummingbird House – wedding and event venue in South Austin. Owned by Tom Tinguely of The Great Outdoors.
don’t scrimp on the soil. Your garden, whatever it is, will perform so much better with the right soil.
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“Be realistic about the locations you are placing your plants,” Tinguely says. “If it’s mostly a shady spot, don’t try to grow tomatoes or zinnias. If the area gets hot afternoon sun, don’t plant Fatsia Japonica. If you don’t have an irrigation system, then stay with native plants.” This list continues, which is why having such a knowledgeable staff at The Great Outdoors is so useful. Last, but definitely not least, Tinguely reminds homeowners and gardeners alike that you don’t have to have a lawn. “They use so much water,” he says, “and take up so much time, effort and resources. Instead, consider replacing a lawn with beds and hardscape so that you spend less time watering and mowing, and more time enjoying your garden.” Please visit the Marketplace section to contact our wonderful gardeners and contract their services. Tom Tinguely
the mind of the typical would-be gardener, but the process starts a lot further back and a lot deeper down. “The health of your plants is 90 percent about the soil,” Baloutine says. “All their food and nutrients come from [the dirt].” Tinguely agrees: “First and foremost, don’t scrimp on the soil. Your garden, whatever it is, will perform so much better with the right soil. You can amend, you can replace, but don’t expect good results in poor soil.” Once quality soil has been sourced and secured, other steps to perfecting the most perfect spring garden include pruning and cutbacks (which Baloutine recommends — for roses and fruit trees — being done on Valentine’s Day). After pruning, garden plants should be treated with a thin layer of compost and mulch, which, coincidentally, “helps with the health of soil,” Baloutine says. Another important factor in DIY planting is buying the right plant for the right spot.
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LGBT and SXSW 4 Local Players in Gaming, Music, Interactive and Film Sound Off on Their Careers BY SARAH MARLOFF
With South by Southwest creeping up on us once again, it’s hard to not get caught up in all the hubbub that the 10-day music, film, and interactive festival generates. Every March, the city morphs into a different, larger and even more vibrant creature, with the LGBT community playing a visible and vital role. With this in mind, The Agenda wanted to learn more about the many accomplished LGBT and LGBT-allied artists and creators who live here all year. We caught up with four locals who work in gaming, music, interactive and film to pick their brains about the big fest and, of course, the LGBT element of SXSW.
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GAMING
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Emmott was halfway through his doctoral program in physics when he decided to drop everything and pursue a career in video games. “Everyone always says you should do what you love,” Emmott says. “So I decided to make a job out of gaming.” That change brought him to Texas — San Antonio, to be exact — where he crashed on a fellow gamer’s couch for nine months until something took. An Austin-based company hired Emmott as a game tester in 2005, and he’s been climbing that ladder ever since. “There are days when I hate it, but overall I love my job. At the end of the day, I’m making people smile,” he says. In the male-dominated gaming business, Emmott says he’s never been discriminated against for being gay. But he also acknowledges this isn’t always true for some of the trans folks he’s shared offices with. “There’s not a lot of women or queers in leadership,” he says. “At the end of the day, I’m still a white, cisgender dude with privilege, and that allows — and forces — me to speak up a little more. The industry is better as a whole, but better won’t be enough until it’s good.” While Emmott is a fan of SXSW, the festival doesn’t directly affect him or his employer. “It doesn’t do as much for large firms, but smaller, indie firms get such good stuff from it, and that’s exciting for all of us,” he says. “South By is the only real industry event in our backyard. I’m excited to see what this year brings and where it goes.”
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NATHAN EMMOTT VIDEO GAME DESIGNER, BATTLECRY STUDIOS
Smaller, indie firms get good stuff from SXSW.
Nate enjoying a beer at a friend’s wedding. Love the rainbow-colored ‘do!
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MUSIC AARON WALDOCK DJ AND FOUNDER, OFF KEY DJ PRODUCTIONS
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I love seeing people dance and let loose.
An Austin native, Waldock began his music career six years ago after leaving the military. It all started with a karaoke contest hosted by a friend, John Wells of By Request Karaoke. And, like every passion-driven job, finding his footing took some time — and a short hiatus in San Diego. “Starting out was hard, but I have so much fun being the guy who controls the flow and energy, it was worth it.” Today, Waldock cranks up the tunes at weddings and corporate parties, as well as at several regular events that he hosts, including a karaoke get-together every Thursday. Though he was born and raised in Austin, Waldock didn’t participate in SXSW until three years ago. He remembers it fondly. Well, he remembers the interactive portion that way. As for the music portion, he’s less fond of the little-to-no compensation he’s been offered. “I think that South by Southwest is great for Austin’s economy and to give smaller bands a start, but for bigger names and people not new to the industry, it’s less useful,” he says. While Waldock is the only person featured in this article who doesn’t identify with a letter under the big gay umbrella, he does consider himself an LGBT ally. “I love what I do,” he says, “and I love seeing people dance and let loose.”
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Totally Awesome 80’s New Year’s Eve Bash.
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©2016 Kirk Tuck, Digitas Photos via flickr; Facing page: Turner Photography
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SXSW is part of Austin’s growth.
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Since 2009, Harold’s firm has served the IT needs of nonprofits and small businesses. But this firm isn’t his first tech rodeo. His passion for tech began in high school, “long before PCs had been invented,” he jokes. After earning a master’s degree in computer science, he embarked on a 30-year career with IBM, spending 15 years in New York and 15 in Austin. “It was a business trip with IBM that first brought me [to Austin], and I almost immediately fell in love,” Harold says. “At the time, you could literally set up a ping-pong table on Loop 360 and play a game without being disturbed!” During his time with IBM, Harold remained closeted to protect his career, but that way of life is long gone. “I’ve come to a point where I can no longer be inauthentic to who I am,” he says, “and I haven’t looked back.” As far as SXSW is concerned, Harold sees it as part of Austin’s extraordinary growth: “I’ve watched this city transform from a sleepy two-pony town (IBM and Motorola) to a dynamic, vibrant technology hub rivaling Silicon Valley.”
INTERACTIVE
BRYAN HAROLD OWNER AND FOUNDER, IT CONSULTING FIRM, THE HAROLD ORGANIZATION
Bryan Harold, IT consultant; the scene inside the Austin Convention Center during SXSW Interactive. SP R I N G 2 0 1 6 | A G L C C . O R G
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FILM Some of our best talents and rising stars are queers and women.
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Curran Nault at OUTsider 2015 Closing Night at Cheer Up Charlie’s watching a band with the festival’s closing night crowd.
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CURRAN NAULT ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF QUEER MULTIARTS FESTIVAL OUTSIDER, UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS LECTURER ON GENDER AND SEXUALITY IN MEDIA, ACADEMIC WRITER, FILM PRODUCER A wearer of many hats, Nault is not embellishing when he says he keeps busy. But this self-described “film and art nerd” does not enrich his field via creation. “Festival curation is my contribution, and my love letter to all the outsiders,” says Nault, co-founder and director of Austin’s newest queer arts festival, OUTsider. Before that, Nault spent six years as a film programmer for the Austin Asian American Film Festival and then aGLIFF. Not surprisingly, Nault, a lover of cats and horror films, has been involved in the film industry since college. “Art sustains me, and so does [the queer] community. I think both are vital and undervalued,” he says. “My personal mission is to do what I can to support the arts, the queers, the misfits and the marginalized.” Nault takes great pride in both the local film and LGBT communities, but he’s still working toward the betterment of both. “For Austin to reach its full potential, we need to create queer spaces that are welcoming to all genders, sexualities, races, abilities and generations,” he says. “That can’t just be lip service.” While Nault enjoys SXSW as an attendee, he’s often there as a mentor, moderator and more. “South by Southwest is a phenomenal festival and has been crucial in building Austin’s film community,” he says. “Some of the best, most wildly out-of-thebox films are being made here — with some of our brightest talents and rising stars being queers and women.” Be sure to check out these AGLCC members in the Marketplace section and support their businesses.
T HE AGENDA | SPRI NG 2016
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A BRAND NEW DAY FOR THE AGLCC BY JOHN EGAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHLOE MANTROM
I
n 2001, Austin’s newly elected mayor, Gus Garcia, encouraged all of his staff members to engage in community outreach. Garcia suggested one of his aides, Ceci Gratias, do her outreach through the Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. Gratias already had attended a couple of AGLCC meetings, so AGLCC was a natural choice for her. Just a month after she started carrying out her outreach mission, Gratias was invited to join the AGLCC board as its tourism liaison. That service on the AGLCC board set Gratias on a course of filling various roles, including vice president, treasurer, membership engagement chair and PRIDE chair. Aside from AGLCC, Gratias has been an active volunteer with OutYouth and the Human Rights Campaign.
Top: AGLCC Board Chair, Edgar Gierbolini, and Mayor Pro Tem, Kathie Tovo, cut the Rainbow Ribbon celebrating the grand opening of the new offices for the Chamber. Above: New President and CEO of the AGLCC, Ceci Gratias. SP R I N G 2 0 1 6 | A G L C C . O R G
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Council Member and Mayor Pro Tem, Kathie Tovo, officially christens the new offices of the AGLCC with a proclamation from Mayor Adler.
Board Chair, Edgar Gierbolini, receiving warm applause after his “State of the Chamber” address.
Chamber members viewing the wall of awards the AGLCC has received over the years.
In December 2015, Gratias took on a president and CEO will help ensure that brand-new role with AGLCC — President mission is achieved.” and CEO. The AGLCC board hired Gratias As Gratias settles into the AGLCC job, as its first-ever, full-time employee. As she’s aiming for several achievements, such President and CEO, Gratias manages as diversifying the chamber’s membership AGLCC’s day-to-day operations. Her duties to include more large businesses, include cultivating AGLCC’s membership, expanding economic development building and maintaining relationships opportunities for Austin and recruiting with Austin businesses, and AGLCC members to serve serving as a liaison between on board committees. AGLCC and government “There’s just so much There’s just so much entities such as the City potential for our potential for our chamber,” of Austin. Gratias, who Gratias says, “and so much chamber and so most recently ran her own that we can do.” much we can do. company providing services One of the ways that to small businesses, is Gratias will be working working from AGLCC’s firsttoward reaching that ever office, which is at 3007 N. Lamar Blvd. potential is by networking with chambers Edgar Gierbolini, chair of AGLCC, says: of commerce and other organizations. “AGLCC is a dynamic and growing LGBT “LGBT chambers of commerce like chamber that is dedicated to promoting AGLCC serve an essential role in the its members and strengthening its broader business community and serve community through advocacy, education a critical support role for LGBT business and partnerships. The hiring of Ceci as our members and LGBT consumers,” Gratias
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Former AGLCC Board President, Jimmy Flannigan (left), shares his pride about the offices and new chapter for the Chamber with new President and CEO, Ceci Gratias.
says. “As President and CEO of AGLCC, I want to help move the AGLCC from the volunteer-run organization that it has been for almost 20 years to a fully staffed, wellrun economic engine for success in the LGBT community and all of Austin.” Why is Austin a good place for LGBT businesses? Gratias cites Austin’s strong support system for entrepreneurs, including city-sponsored classes, workshops and mentorship programs for small businesses. Furthermore, the city has a comprehensive nondiscrimination ordinance on the books, she says. On top of that, the LGBT community in Austin “is very supportive of its own,” Gratias says. Austin’s reputation as a welcoming and progressive place “precedes itself in the LGBT community everywhere,” says Gratias, who moved here from Los Angeles. “There’s a feel to Austin, and it’s still there despite the fact that we are growing.”
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let's Do Lunch
HUNGRY FOR THE OUTDOORS? Here Are 3 Local Options for Al Fresco Dining
BY SARAH MARLOFF
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let's do lunch
Central Texas spring is what spring fever is made of (cedar notwithstanding). From the weather to the flower blossoms to the plethora of fresh produce, it’s the perfect time to be outside, sipping cocktails and sampling the seasonal offerings. We know al fresco dining is already high on your to-do list (you’re in Austin, after all), but we also know that choosing a restaurant in this city can feel like a fulltime job. So here are three warm-weather staples, sealed with The Agenda’s stamp of approval.
John Pesina, Lauren Rubenstein; Facing page: Lauren Rubenstein, Kate LeSueur
GUSTO ITALIAN KITCHEN & WINE BAR 4800 Burnet Road If you’re craving a lovely outside patio with a relaxed neighborhood feel, Gusto on Burnet Road is your answer. The patio is filled with spring blooms and vines that manages to buffer the street beyond. “It could be Austin or the bustling streets of Rome just beyond those vines,” says Cameron Lockley, Gusto’s managing partner. Once the nice weather begins, Gusto opens its wall of doors leading outside to bring spring inside as well. Lockley, who plays an active role in Austin’s (and formerly Dallas’) LGBT community, is incredibly proud of the food and atmosphere that Gusto brings to the Rosedale neighborhood. “Our goal is to provide high end, approachable service,” he says. “We’re family-friendly, but sophisticated enough for date night.”
Gusto’s menu, featuring the heaviest and lightest fares from all regions of Italy, is locally sourced. “We get our tomatoes from Martha, all our cheese is local, our pasta is made in-house as is our limoncello. We only use Texas meats,” Cameron says. And while “Wine Bar” has made it into the title, this restaurant has delicious classic cocktails (try the Negroni!) and local beers. Perfect to pair with some spring-timey appetizers, perhaps the Brussels sprouts or the smoked salmon. KNOTTY DECK AND BAR 9721 Arboretum Blvd. When you’re looking for a secluded rendezvous, Knotty Deck and Bar (at The Renaissance Austin Hotel) is a fine option. “We’re an oasis overlooking the Arboretum that takes you out of the big-city feel and offers a comfortable space to unwind,” says Senior Sales Executive, Andrea Barnes. “I love sitting out here with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc and a good spring salad with seasonal ingredients.” The American cuisine, boldly blended with Texas flavor, is locally sourced and handcrafted. “From the proteins to the produce, we’re buying all local products from small ranchers and farmers,” Barnes says. Even the curing and smoking is done in-house: from the bacon to the brisket, and the chicken to the turkey. The on-site pastry shop supplies the desserts and burger buns, and the eatery even maintains a vegetable garden on the property. “I like to take unique, ingredient-driven dishes and give them an approachable twist,” executive chef Chris Degweck says.
Facing page: Dining and lounging on The Knotty Deck; seasonal, locavore dish at Gusto. SP R I N G 2 0 1 6 | A G L C C . O R G
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let's do lunch
But don’t forget the bar. With eight local beers on draft and nearly two dozen wines available by the glass, the Knotty Deck already meets the mark for a well-stocked bar. The bartenders, however, spend their days brainstorming and crafting unique cocktails. “You can get a classic Sazerac, or you can step out of your comfort zone and try something like our barrel-aged tequila Manhattan and be blown away,” Barnes says. Between the oversized couches and grand umbrellas, Knotty Deck’s deck manages to stay both chic and comfortable even under that hot Austin sun. So whether you’re sipping here for happy hour (4-6 p.m. daily) or noshing on the weekend brunch (9 a.m.-3 p.m.), this restaurant promises all the trimmings of spring. Be sure to catch Knotty at the Austin Food and Wine Festival’s grand tasting, April 22-24. TRACE AT THE W AUSTIN 200 Lavaca St. Need a slice of city life? Then Trace, located in downtown Austin, is the place to see and be seen – especially during the weekend brunch hours. A Trace staple, the brunch entrees come with a free Bloody Mary or mimosa and are accompanied by
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the talented DJ I Wanna Be Her. Plus, the food is sourced from sustainable farmers. “This lends itself to a playground for our Chef de Cuisine, James Zoller, who has the talent to create a diverse menu based on what is now and fresh,” says Will Rogers, general manager of Trace. With the patio found below the entrance to ACL Live, it’s also a great place to sip something from the cocktail list, which features local spirits. According to Rogers, the current cocktail craze is the Wheat Whiskey Sour crafted with Banner Distilling’s wheat whiskey. The liquor is made in Manor via wind power, Texas rainwater and Texas-grown wheat. “Of course, you can never go wrong with our Jalapeno Cucumber Lemonade either,” Rogers says. Although politics and food don’t always go together, it never hurts to know you’re in good hands at a local business. Both the W and Trace are “huge supporters of the NOH8 Campaign,” Rogers says. “And we partnered with the HRC leading up to the marriage equality [court decisions].” So the next time you attend an ACL Live event, swing through Trace first for the fab preshow happy hour and get 20 percent off with your ACL ticket.
Claire Hogan
Al fresco dining area at Trace
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gay getaway
BY JOHN EGAN
OK, WE KNOW THAT YOU LOVE AUSTIN AND ALL THAT IT HAS TO OFFER – live music, barbecue, nightlife and so on. But not far from Austin are several day-trip getaways that can satisfy your craving for fun and adventure. Here are three of the day-trip destinations you should place on your travel itinerary.
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gay getaway A Central Texas German “Howdy!”
WIMBERLEY wimberley.org/visit-wimberley
You may have heard about Wimberley as a result of the devastating floods that recently hit this charming Hill Country community. But while locals still are recovering from the disaster, this town is very much open for business. Located about 37 miles southwest of Austin, Wimberley boasts art galleries; places where you can sample craft beer, wine and rum; and movie and live theaters. Also, the town “is full of unique shops that offer traditional and not-so-traditional art and wares,” according to the Wimberley Chamber of Commerce. Travel+Leisure magazine recommends stopping by Wild West Store, River House and Chick-a-dee during your shopping excursion. To be one with nature, wander around Wildseed Farm, a facility brimming with wildflowers. The farm is seven miles east of Fredericksburg. Just seven miles northwest of Wimberley is Rough Creek Lavender Fields, where you can pick your own lavender from 5,000 lavender plants.
Flipping out at Blue Hole.
Lavender’s not your thing? Change into your swimsuit and jump into the water at two Instagram-worthy spots: Blue Hole Regional Park and the Jacob’s Well Natural Area. If you’re inclined to stay overnight, numerous lodging options abound in and around Wimberley. FREDERICKSBURG visitfredericksburgtx.com
Fredericksburg and wine go hand-inhand – or, better yet, mouth-to-glass. Fredericksburg, situated roughly 80 miles west of Austin in the Hill Country, is home to more than 30 wineries and SP R I N G 2 0 1 6 | A G L C C . O R G
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gay getaway
Scenic Salado.
“Poppies!” at Wildseed Farm.
tasting rooms. Wine Spectator magazine hails Fredericksburg as the Hill Country’s “unofficial capital of food and wine” and one of Texas’ “most charming towns.” Aside from wineries and tasting rooms, Fredericksburg and the surrounding area are known for their bountiful peach orchards. The annual peach harvest gets underway in May. Shopping also is a must-do activity in Fredericksburg. The town has more than 150 shops, including Dooley’s, an oldfashioned five-and-dime store; Der Kuchen Laden, a kitchen goods retailer; and Good Art Company Art Gallery. If you’re a history buff, be sure to pay a visit to the National Museum of the Pacific War, the Texas Rangers Heritage Center or the Fort Martin Scott Historic Site. Are outdoor activities more your style? Then head to Enchanted Rock, a pink rock dome that rises 325 feet above a small stream. According to TripAdvisor, a visit to Enchanted Rock ranks among the most popular things to do in Fredericksburg. If a day trip just isn’t enough to soak up Fredericksburg’s quaint German heritage, you can check into one of the more than 350 B&Bs and guesthouses in the area.
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SALADO salado.com
TAbout 50 miles north of Austin, you’ll find the artsy community of Salado. According to the Salado Chamber of Commerce, more than 60 shops and galleries operate there. Among the items you can purchase are fine art, antiques, pottery, Americana, trendy or high-end clothing, and Southwest décor. Wine also is on the menu for visitors to Salado. Some of the wine stops you might want to make are Salado Creek Winery & Vineyard, Salado Wine Seller and Rising Star Winery, all of which are rated highly by TripAdvisor reviewers. Additionally, Salado hosts numerous events, such as the Salado Wildflower Arts & Crafts Festival in April and the Salado Chocolate & Wine Weekend in September. As is the case in Wimberley and Fredericksburg, Salado rolls out the welcome mat for overnight visitors if one day there just isn’t enough. We recommend a stay with AGLCC member, Inn on the Creek. With its rocking chairs and Creekside Adirondack chairs, you won’t find a better place to decompress from bustling city life.
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AUSTI N G AY & LESBI A N
M EM BE RSH IP DIR E C T O RY
MARKETPLACE Let’s Get Business Transacted
The AGLCC Marketplace is your handy guide to supporting LBGT-owned and allied Austin area businesses.
HOW TO JOIN Visit aglcc.org and click the Become A Member button to learn more about membership levels and sign up online. CATEG ORIE S Civic......................33 Design/Media ........34 Entertainment........35 Financial ...............35 Food/Dining...........35 Health/Fitness .......35 Insurance ..............36 K EY = Gold Sponsor = Bronze Sponsor
Legal ....................36 Lodging.................36 Pets ......................37 Real Estate ............38 Retail/Fashion........39 Services ................39 Travel ....................40 = Silver Sponsor
CIVIC A*FAB All-volunteer non-profit on a mission to assist fellow nonprofits. afabaustin.com. ACC GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCE Making the entire
Austin Community College district safe and welcoming for all students regardless of orientation or identity. 254-338-5688, fb.com/accgsa. AIDS SERVICES OF AUSTIN Enhancing the health and well-being of the community and people affected by HIV and AIDS. 7215 Cameron, 512458-2437, asaustin.org. AISD COMMUNICATIONS & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Austin Independent School
District department links employees, parents, families, and the community. 512-414-9832, austinisd.org. ALLGO Statewide resource for LGBTQ people of color and allies, working toward collective liberation. 512-472-2001, allgo.org. AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY Nationwide,
community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer. 512-9191872, cancer.org. AMERICAN MILITARY PARTNER ASSOCIATION
Drop and give us 20 (hugs for partners and spouses of LGBTQ service personnel and vets). Ten hut! 202-695-AMPA, militarypartners.org. AUSTIN ART IN PUBLIC PLACES Local and
national artists imbue Austin into cultural landmarks. austintexas.gov/department/art-inpublic-places.
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MARKETPLACE AUSTIN/CENTRAL TEXAS ANNUAL AIDS CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SERVICE
Oldest & continuous AIDS Candlelight Memorial Service Event in Texas. ozparade@aol.com. AUSTIN CHILDREN’S SERVICES We recruit, develop and support LGBT families for fostering and adoption! Come to an orientation and find out if our agency’s values make it a good match for you if you intend to foster or adopt! 512-9717901, austinchildrensservices.org. AUSTIN GAY & LESBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Austin’s colorful rainbow umbrella
for gay-owned and gay-friendly businesses. 512761-LGBT, info@aglcc.org, aglcc.org. AUSTIN GAY & LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL Founded
in 1987 and still going strong, celebrating the best in LGBTQ cinema. 512-302-9889, polarifest.com. AUSTIN GAY & LESBIAN PRIDE FOUNDATION
Austin + Pride You = The LGBTQ community’s biggest party, fest, and parade of the year. 512468-8113, austinpride.org. AUSTIN GAY & LESBIAN SENIOR SERVICES
Working to ensure everyone’s golden years are rainbow hued. 512-628-1694, aglss.org. AUSTIN INTERNATIONAL DRAG FOUNDATION, INC. A diverse group of artists and advocates
offering exposure and support for the drag artist community. 512-850-6707, fb.com/ austindragfest AUSTIN LGBT BAR ASSOCIATION Working to
promote and unite the LGBT legal community in the often byzantine realm of law. austinlgbtbar.org. AUSTIN POLICE ASSOCIATION Standing in solidarity with the thin LGBT blue line. 512-474-6993, austinpolice.com. AUSTIN ROUNDUP Presents an annual conference
to promote sobriety and fellowship in the LGBTQIATX. austinroundup.com. AUSTIN THEATRE PROJECT Providing Austin area actors and production personnel with a fair and equitable compensation for the work they give to the theatre community. austintheatreproject.org. AUSTIN WEIRD CITY SISTERS In the grand
tradition of SF’s Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and not unlike real nuns, these sisses are all about the service (and the getting down on the knees…). weirdcitysisters.org. BIGAUSTIN Non-profit organization dedicated to
providing comprehensive training services, oneon-one assistance, and loans to individuals who want to achieve self-sufficiency by starting their own small business. 512-928-8010, bigaustin.org.
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BOBCAT PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND Support and community for LGBTQ Texas Staters. Go, Bobcats! bobcatpridescholarship.com. BREAST CANCER RESOURCE CENTERS OF TEXAS
A centralized source of information, education, and support that empowers those affected by breast cancer to navigate through diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and beyond as active, knowledgeable participants in their healthcare. revans@bcrc.org, bcrc.org CAPITAL METRO Get around with Austin’s public
transportation hub. 512-474-1200, capmetro.org. THE CARE COMMUNITIES Caring for those living with HIV/AIDS and cancer. 512-459-5883, thecarecommunities.org. CHURCH OF OPEN DOORS We’re a nondenominational, non-traditional, Christcentered, welcoming, LGBT-friendly, worshiping church! churchofopendoors.org. CLASSIC CHASSIS CAR CLUB AUSTIN Classic car enthusiasts show off their classy chassis. classicchassis.org/austin. EQUALITY TEXAS The front lobbying line looking out for LGBTQ rights at the Texas Lege. 512-4745475, equalitytexas.org. FAITH PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Dedicated to an ever more inclusive and relevant Church via reform and reconciliation. 1314 E. Oltorf, 512444-1314 faithpresaustin.org. FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH AUSTIN
Because we believe that every human being is a beloved child of God, on a journey to God, with God, we welcome ALL persons, WITHOUT EXCEPTION, to attend, join, and participate fully in the life of this church! 1201 Lavaca St., 512478-5684, fumcaustin.org. FREEDHEARTS Support and encouragement for Christian parents, family and friends of LGBTQ, and to Christian LGBTQ. 602-418-9088, freedhearts@gmail.com, freedhearts.com. GATHERING PLACE WORSHIP CENTER Biblebelieving, Christ-centered, spirit-filled church. 7801 N Lamar, 512-323-9501, gpwcaustin.org. GAY STRAIGHT ALLIANCE WARRIORS Texas
A&M University–Central TX GSA warriors fight for education, equality, and acceptance. 1001 Leadership Place, Killeen, 254-501-5874. GLBTQA BUSINESS STUDENT ASSOCIATION – UT AUSTIN – GAY BUSINESS STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION (GBSA) Cesar Villarreal
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY THE HANDSOME FATHER A community for gay dads and gay dads-to-be. 512-565-0506, brian.stephens@thehandsomefather.org, thehandsomefather.org. HILL COUNTRY RIDE FOR AIDS Ride your bike; help fight AIDS. Raise funds in this late-April charity ride for non-profits fighting the good fight. 512-371-7433, hillcountryride.org. HOSTELLING INTERNATIONAL AUSTIN A member
of a non-profit network of hostels around the world promoting cultural exchange and tolerance. 512-444-2294, hiusa.org/austin. HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN – AUSTIN Steering
committee of the nation’s largest LGBTQ civil rights organization. hrc.org/states/texas. JEWISH COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION OF AUSTIN
Enhancing Jewish life in Austin and around the world through community, philanthropy, education, social service, culture, spirituality, and total wellness. 7300 Hart Lane, shalomaustin.org. KEEP AUSTIN BEAUTIFUL Empowers citizens to take personal responsibility for enhancing the community’s environment. 512-391-0617, keepaustinbeautiful.org.
THE MANKIND PROJECT Personal growth and
transformation non-profit that helps all men break through barriers that may be preventing them from reaching their goals (whether personal, relationship, or career). 512-374-9688, mankindpride.org. THE OCTOPUS CLUB Raising the big bucks through fab parties for AIDS Services of Austin. octopusclub.org. OUT YOUTH Support, programming, and drop-in
center for LGBTQ (or questioning) kids. 909 E. 49 1/2, 512-419-1233, out@outyouth.org, outyouth.org. OUTSIDER FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL A multi-arts LGBTQIA festival championing provocative, overlooked, and out-of-the-box film, performances, music, writing, and visual art. 831-332-0878, OUTsiderfest.org PFLAG AUSTIN Support, advocacy, acceptance, and
love in the form of Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (in other words: Angels). 512-302-3524, PFLAGAustin.org.
KESHET AUSTIN Keshet Austin is a social group for LGBTQ Jews, their allies and families that organizes programs to integrate Jewish life, learning and spirituality into our unique community. shalomaustin.org/keshet. LEAP TO SUCCESS – SHANNON MANTROM
Provides pro bono project work for Austin area non-profit organizations from the members of Launch Pad Job Club, professionals seeking employment. 512-739-0214, shannon.mantrom@ leaptosuccessatx.org, leaptosuccessatx.org. LEGALIZE HUMAN Envisioning a society where people are equal in all aspects of life. 512-659-6617, legalize.human@gmail.com, fb.com/legalize.human. LESBIAN & GAY PEACE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION
Supporting LGBT sworn, civilian, and retired members of the Austin Police Department. lgpoa-austin.org. LIFE IN THE CITY SERVICE Offering radically
Contact us for upcoming dates
inclusive love for the health and wholeness of mind, body, and spirit. 512-963-1631, val@ lifeinthecityaustin.org, lifeinthecityaustin.org. LOG CABIN REPUBLICANS OF AUSTIN Proud
members of the GOP who believe inclusion wins. 512-428-5475, logcabin.org/chapter/texasaustin.
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MARKETPLACE PRIME TIMERS AUSTIN Social organization
providing mature gay and bisexual men opportunities to enrich their lives and build friendships in a safe and supportive environment. info@austinptww.org, austinptww.org. PROJECT TRANSITIONS Serving Austin’s
HIV/AIDS community through hospice, housing, compassion, and care. 512-454-8646, projecttransitions.org. RECOVERY ALLIANCE OF AUSTIN Unifying the
recovery community by using the spirit of collaboration as a guide. raaustin.org.
TEAM PROHOMO The beasts behind the weekly
Queer Ride and other most excellent Austin adventures. teamprohomo.org. TEXAS ADVOCACY PROJECT Free legal services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. 800-374-4673, texasadvocacyproject.org. TEXAS EXES LGBT ALUMNI NETWORK The Texas Exes LGBT Alumni Network facilitates community between LGBT University of Texas students, alumni, and friends. 512-471-8839, lgbtnetwork@texasexes.org. TRANSGENDER EDUCATION NETWORK OF TEXAS
SAN ANTONIO LGBT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Where LGBT and LGBT-friendly biz concerns in SA meet. sagaychamber.com. SANGHALINK Online connection and support for
LGBTQ high school students. sanghalink.org.
TRAVIS COUNTY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT SURVIVAL CENTER SafePlace
START OUT Dedicated to creating great business
is ending sexual and domestic violence through safety, healing, prevention and social change. 512-267-7233, safeplace.org.
leaders through supporting LGBT entrepreneurs. startout.org. STONEWALL DEMOCRATS OF AUSTIN The Austin
affiliate of the National Stonewall Democratic Federation. stonewallaustin.org.
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Educating the State of Texas about gender diversity. 877-532-6789, info@transtexas.org, transtexas.org.
T HE AGENDA | SPRI NG 2016
THE UNITED COURT OF AUSTIN, INC. Providing
support to LGBTQ, HIV/AIDS, and other service groups. Affiliated with the International Imperial Court System of drag divinity. unitedcourtofaustin.org.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UNIVERSITY BAPTIST CHURCH Come worship
JANA BIRCHUM PHOTO-VIDEO A photographer,
with “Austin’s progressive voice of faith.” 2130 Guadalupe, 512-478-8559, ubcaustin.org.
video producer for the web, and a storyteller looking for a story to tell. Specifically yours. 512297-7821, janabirchum.com.
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN GENDER AND SEXUALITY CENTER Provides opportunities for
all members of the UT Austin community to explore, organize, and promote learning around issues of gender and sexuality. 512-232-1831, gsc@austin.utexas.edu, UTGSC.org. WOMEN’S ALLIANCE FOR LEADERSHIP Positively
influencing and empowering women of the LGBTQ community and their allies through community education, career development, advancing leadership skills, and providing networking opportunities in a professional environment. waltexas.org.
DESIGN/MEDIA ART DIVA CREATIVE Specializing in print and web graphic design for small businesses, non-profits, and special events. 512-934-8088, artdivacreative. com. THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE Central Texas’ wild and
free alt-newsweekly. Home of the “Gay Place” column and blog. 512-454-5766, austinchronicle. com/gay. BARTON WILDER CUSTOM IMAGES We are life AND business partners who will cover all of your media requirements: photography, videography and writing. 512-288-7711, bartonwilder.com. CREATIVE TONIC A brand experience studio which holds the belief that each interaction with a customer is an opportunity for your brand. creativetonicstudio.com. DRAKELIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY Pretty or gritty:
Photos of people, the fire in their lives, and the passions they pursue. 512-850-6326, fb.com/ drakelightphotography.
MERCURY MAMBO Marketing agency focused on experiential marketing, digital, and sales promotion with a Latin flare. 512-447-4440, mercurymambo.com. OUTCAST, KOOP 91.7 FM Tune your FM to 91.7 every Tuesday at 6pm. info@outcast.com, outcastaustin.com. PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMBER LEE Newborn, Maternity and Baby Portraiture. 801-668-3890, photographybyamberlee.com. POSTNET – FAR WEST Accessible and friendly shop for all your printing needs. 3571 Far West, 512-231-1321, postnet.com/austin-tx157. SHWEIKI MEDIA Heavy-duty industry publishers specializing in large projects that can take your concepts to the next level. 512-480-0860, shweiki.com SITE STREET From the ABCs of SEO to crossing the Ts and dotting the Is of your web presence. 3009 N. Lamar Ste. 3, 512-832-8383, sitestreet.com. STATESMAN MEDIA With over a century of
experience, Statesman Media knows local. We’ll take your business to the next level with traditional and digital marketing solutions. 512-445-3507, steven.collins@coxinc.com, statesmanmedia.com.
ENTERTAINMENT AUSTIN CHAMBER MUSIC CENTER Expanding appreciation of chamber music one intimate performance at a time. 3814 Medical Pkwy, 512454-0026, austinchambermusic.org.
FUN LOVING PHOTOS Count on Devaki Knowles
to capture your good side. 512-298-9249, devakiknowles@gmail.com, funlovingphotos.net. GAY PLACE ONLINE Steer here, queers, to the
home of Dandy Unicornn, the Gay Place Krewe, the AggreGAYtor, Where the Girls Go/ATX, and more. 512-454-5766, gayplace@austinchronicle. com, austinchronicle.com/gay. GRAPHISMO Award winning design studio that
specializes in logo design, branding, marketing, and illustration. nick@graphismo.com, graphismo.com.
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MARKETPLACE AUSTIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The high art part of the Live Music Capital of the Planet and its oldest performing group (since 1911). austinsymphony.org. CAPITAL CITY MENS CHORUS Austin Texas’ premier men’s chorus for over a quarter century. 512-477-SING, ccmcaustin.org. CHEER UP CHARLIE’S 2010-2014 Austin
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GROUND FLOOR THEATER
Produces new works by and for underrepresented communities. Theatre available for rental. 2411 Princeton, 512-809-0050, groundfloortheatre.org. HACIENDA DEL LAGO EVENTS CENTER
Wedding, lodging, and event center with Spectacular views of Lake Travis. 10-acre sanctuary surrounded by nature preserves. info@laketravisevents.com, laketravisevents.com.
Chronicle Best LGBTQ Hang Out. LGBTQIA and friends hangout/music/art/dance party space known for fresh juices, kombucha, and great live music. 900 Red River, 512-431-2133, cheerupcharlies@gmail.com, cheerupcharlies.com.
THE IRON BEAR When the teddy bears leave the picnic, they hit up this favorite party spot. 121 W. Eighth, theironbear.com.
CONSPIRARE Inspired by the power of music
KING RIVER RANCH An LGBT-owned and
to change lives, we engage audiences in extraordinary musical experiences through world-class choral recordings and performances. 512-476-5775, conspirare.org.
operated special event and wedding venue on the Pedernales River in the Hill Country of Central Texas. 830-392-6484, dhahn@ thekingriverranch.com.
DEPARTURE LOUNGE Upscale high-tech coffee and wine bar/travel agency. 311 W. Fifth, 512322-9399, departurelounge.com.
LESBUTANTE AND THE BOSS Social events
DJS FINE & DANDY W/ KATE & ANDY 100% local, 100% loungey, 100% vinyl chill. Ask for the AGLCC rate. 512-217-9223, fb.com/ djsfinedandywithkateandy.
THE LONG CENTER The capital city’s performance art hub and home of Austin’s creative community. 512-474-5664, thelongcenter.org.
T HE AGENDA | SPRI NG 2016
for women. lesbutanteandtheboss@gmail.com, lesbutanteandtheboss.blogspot.com.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY MEMPHIS TRAIN REVUE ENTERPRISES LLC Two high energy cover bands playing the biggest classic and current hits for weddings, charitable galas, corporate events, public shows and more. memphistrainrevue.com, caboosetheband.com.
BITTEL BOOKS & TAXES From small business
MURDER FOR HIRE You provide the suspects, we
benefits, individual medical, life insurance, and 401k retirement needs. 512-320-0123, brooks@ bwatsonbenefits.com, bwatsonbenefits.com.
provide a compelling interactive murder mystery and a detective to host your party and keep the clues coming. 512-744-8270, murderforhiretexas.com. OFF KEY DJ PRODUCTIONS An independentlyowned, full-service, mobile music entertainment company based in Austin, TX. 512-705-7315, myokdj.com. OILCAN HARRY’S Made Fourth Street what it is today– the beating heart of Austin’s gay district. 211 W. Fourth, 512-320-8823, oilcanharrys.com. RAIN ON 4TH One of the mighty cornerstones of Austin’s gay warehouse district. 217 W. Fourth, 512-494-1150, rainon4th.com. SINGING TELEGRAMS OF AUSTIN Sending
songs of love, cheer, thanks, and celebration. Serving greater Austin and beyond. 512297-9251, mardiwareham@gmail.com, singingtelegramsofaustin.com SUSAN ARBUCKLE MUSIC A versatile power
vocalist with decades of experience backed by pro musicians. Complete entertainment packages with lighting and sound options. 512626-6710, susanarbuckle.com. UMLAUF SCULPTURE GARDEN & MUSEUM
Located between downtown and Zilker Park, this is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Austin. 605 Robert E. Lee, 512-445-5582, umlaufsculpture.org.
FINANCIAL AMY COOK, CPA CPA practice providing accounting, tax, and bookkeeping services for individuals and small businesses. 7908 Cameron, 512-222-1267, amy@acookcpa.com, acookcpa.com. BB&T, BRANCH, BANKING AND TRUST Banking
services to help define and reach financial goals. bbt.com. BB&T WEALTH DIVISION – LINDSEY LEAVERTON Specializing in a holistic, objective
approach to wealth management. 512-676-5564. lleaverton@bbandt.com.
accounting to individual tax and everything in between. 816-301-4538, hello@bittelbooks.com, bittelbooks.com. BROOKS WATSON BENEFITS Filling group
COMERICA BANK Personal finance and business banking. 3801 Bee Caves Rd., 512-329-5095 comerica.com. CORNERSTONE HOME LENDING Superior service
to all clients looking to buy or refinance in the Austin metro area. 512-314-7324, fawncrosby.com. CRUNCH TAX SERVICES Bookkeeping, consulting, tax preparation and planning for individuals and businesses. 512-937-2776, service@crunchtax. com, Crunchtax.com. DIVERSITY FUND Online business finance platform and accelerator that unites rewards, lending, and equity finance altogether and focuses on LGBT, women and minority-led businesses. 512-736-8385, texasdiversityfund.com. EDWARD JONES – MICHELLE REYNOLDS Strategic, one-on-one planning to meet your individual financial goals. 1211 W. Sixth, Ste. 200, 512-4808003, michelle.reynolds@edwardjones.com. EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS – STEPHANIE EMORY A personal approach to investing and
financial planning to help you reach your longterm financial goals. 512-442-5321, stephanie. emory@edwardjones.com. IBC MORTGAGE Steven Parrish is a mortgage banker. needamortgage.com. LEGACY MUTUAL MORTGAGE Experienced mortgage loan officer. 512-577-0735, jessica. taylor@legacymutual.com. MASSMUTUAL SOUTHWEST Help with decisions for long-term financial success. 512-527-0671, southwest.massmutual.com. NEW YORK LIFE Life and longterm care insurance, annuities, and mutual funds. aeford@ ft.newyorklife.com. NEW YORK LIFE – ANDRE SCHJAERVE Financial
advisor. andreschjaerve@yahoo.com. PERRY EGLI GROUP AT MERRILL LYNCH
Providing financial and investment advice to individuals, families and business owners. Kathleen Perry. 512-397-1838.
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MARKETPLACE SECURITYNATIONAL MORTGAGE COMPANY
Residential and commercial loans. 512-3290098, shawn.muncy@snmc.com, shawnmuncy. snational.com. STRATEGIC PAYMENT SYSTEMS Full-service and cost effective solutions for credit card processing needs. 2013 Wells Branch, 512-807-7015, spsinfo.com. VISA INC. Global payments technology company that enables consumers, businesses, financial institutions and governments to use digital currency instead of cash and checks. visa.com. WORTHPOINTE LLC – KERMIT JOHNS RFC
Financial planning and wealth management. 512-934-7001, kermit.johns@wpwm.com, worthpointeinvest.com.
IN GOOD TASTE CATERING & DESIGN Make sure everyone leaves your shindig saying “Om-nomnom.” 512-825-7573, john@ingoodtaste-catering. com, ingoodtaste-catering.com. MAX’S WINE DIVE “Fried Chicken and
Champagne?…Why the Hell Not?!” Steps from the convention center. Offers cavernous yet tasteful downstairs event rooms perfect for group gatherings and large meetings. 207 San Jacinto, 512-904-0111, maxswinedive.com. PATIKA COFFEE Wine and coffee on South
Lamar. 2159 S. Lamar, patikacoffee.com. PIE PLANTE Food truck serving fruit and custard pie by the slice for catering, and wholesale. 504 W. Oltorf, pieplante@gmail.com. SOUTH AUSTIN BREWERY A uniquely South
FOOD/DINING ALFRED’S CATERING A team of seasoned professionals start by asking the right questions and listening carefully to your responses to anticipate your unique needs and desires for your occasion so YOU can be a guest. alfredscatering.com. CELESTE’S NATURAL KITCHEN Boutique catering and in-home meal preparation with a focus on fresh, natural and organic foods, and special diets. 512-686-8442, celeste@celestesnaturalkitchen.com, celestesnaturalkitchen.com CLAY PIT Contemporary Indian cuisine served
with a warm and inviting ambience. 1601 Guadalupe, 512-322-5131, claypit.com. CRAVE CATERING Satisfying Austin’s cravings since 1999. 512-838-5797, aimee@crave-catering. com, crave-catering.com. EAT OUT IN Austin’s first and largest restaurant
delivery service. Easy online ordering, track-able delivery and personalized service. eatoutin.com. FRED GUERRA PHOTOGRAPHY & CATERING
Wedding and event photography and catering. fredguerra.com. FROT VODKA Fraught about where your money goes at a local watering hole? Fret not. LGBT owned and operated. 512-966-4174, frotvodka.com. GUSTO ITALIAN KITCHEN + WINE BAR Delectable flavors of Italian cuisine. 4800 Burnet, 512-4581100, gustoitaliankitchen.com.
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Austin microbrewery transforming barley, hops and yeast into Liquid Austin Soul. 415 St. Elmo, southaustinbrewery.com. TEXAS CHILI QUEENS Food truck based in Austin that brings the original Texas street food back with a new, 21st century twist! Come see what everyone is talking about and see what we’re serving! 512-715-4046, txchiliqueens.com. TOTAL WINE & MORE Huge selection of wine, beer, spirits, and more! 512-892-8763, totalwine.com. WATER 2 WINE SOUTH AUSTIN Custom winery
that provides a fantastic wine experience. All wines are produced in small batches and are low in preservatives. 512-428-9463, water2wine.us/ southaustin/home.
HEALTH/FITNESS 2016 GAY SOFTBALL WORLD SERIES Takes
place August 15-20 and will mark the event’s 40th anniversary. We expect over 5k athletes, coaches and fans from 44 member cities across the US and Canada to flock to our beloved city. austingsws2016.org. ALICE HOFFMAN, SEVENPOINT2 INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR SevenPoint2® is leading the
Alkaline Movement with a commitment to superior products and helping people around the world experience optimal health and financial freedom. 512-568-5630, loveyourhealthcoach.com. ALPHA MEDICAL MASSAGE & REHABILITATION
Massage the pain away. 595 Round Rock West Dr, Ste 601, Round Rock, 512-366-5483, alphamedicalmassage.com.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY APRIL O. OWEN, PSY.D., PSYCHOLOGIST Teens,
LGBTQ issues, love lives, you name it, Dr. O can help. 4425 Mopac S., Bldg.3, Ste.505, 832-4214968, dr_o@live.com, owenpsychology.com. AUSTIN GAMBLERS BOWLING LEAGUE We
THE BODY BALANCER Utilizing gentle integrated therapeutic techniques such as cranial-sacral, myofascial release, and energy therapies. 3000 Joe DiMaggio #3A, 602-505-0039, lindabecker. abmp.com.
promised ourselves that we would not make cheap jokes about balls. But come on, you know they’ve got big ones. 512-7864013, austingamblers@gmail.com, fb.com/ austin.g.league.
BREAZEALE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER Bad back?
AUSTIN GAY BASKETBALL LEAGUE Bounce balls.
benefits. 512-531-1407.
Shoot hoops. Sign up to play, or come out and support. 512-814-6495, info@atxgbl.com, atxgbl.com.
CITY OF AUSTIN HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
They can help, and have been for 20 years. 1515 Capital of Texas, S., Ste. 220, 512-328-3881, breazealechiropractic.com. CIGNA CORPORATION Cigna supplemental
HIV counseling, testing, and outreach. 15 Waller, 512-972-5580, omar.lopez@austintexas.gov, austinhiv.com.
AUSTIN PrEP ACCESS PROJECT Educates the
community on HIV prevention strategies, provides medical care, and conducts public health research and advocacy. austinprepaccessproject.org.
CYNTHIA NETTING COUNSELING Offering
AUSTIN TENNIS CLUB For LGBT people who “love” to make a “racquet.” austintennisclub.com.
psychotherapy to individuals and couples for depression, anxiety, and relationship issues (including polyamory). 3705 Medical Parkway, Suite 520, 512-658-5452, cynthianettingcounseling.com.
BLACKBIRD FITNESS & NUTRITION Guides, directs, and mentors clients by providing complete nutrition and fitness assistance. blackbirdfitnessandnutrition.com.
The AGLCC is a proud contractor of the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department.
Special thanks to our sponsor that continue making 2015 a success! City of Austin Gold Sponsors: BB&T Wealth, Mass Mutual, Southerland & Associates*, The Fowler Law Firm Silver Sponsors: Amy R Cook*, CPA, Cecil Logistics, The SMB Help Desk, The Staging Guy*, Visa Inc. Bronze Sponsors: AISD Communications & Community Engagement, Adoption Advocates, Bill Dunham (Presidio Group Realtors), Cook-Walden, Frot Vodka, Inn on the Creek, Patriot Pool and Spa, Rain on 4th, Total Wine and More 'HQRWHV /*%7%( FHUWLÀHG
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MARKETPLACE DARREN MCCALL, LPC Focused on LGBT
HISPANIC DENTAL ASSOCIATION Providing
clients, Darren McCall provides psychotherapy services for adults. Options include individual, relationship, group, and workshop formats to help clients live in an empowered, vital way. www.eightfoldcounseling.com.
service, education, advocacy, and leadership for elimination of oral health disparities in the Hispanic community. hdassoc.org.
DAVID BUTLER, MD Dr. Butler practices
Psychotherapist in private practice with a specialty in helping LGBT couples. 512-4190600, contemporarycouples.com.
medicine with time-honored methods of family doctors by carefully listening to patient history and performing thorough examination. 11940 Jollyville, Ste. 115 South, 512-258-5800, drdavidbutlermd.com.
JENNIFER WAGNER, LCSW Individual and group counseling. 512-551-1794, youraustintherapist. com.
DEREK LEIGHTON, LMFT, LPC, NCC, CGP
KRISTINA L JACKSON, LMT Deep tissue massage
Promotes “healthy sexuality” and a better outlook on life. 3534 Bee Caves #114, 512-6582960, leightontherapy.com. DR PEA’S ACTIVE HEALTH CENTER
Acupuncture, Asian bodywork, and other nonneedle therapies, Chinese herbs, whole food nutrition and chi gong classes are highly effective for many conditions. 512-289-3225, drpea.com. ELEMENTS THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE-LAKELINE
The Elements Way® is all about you. Created with one goal in mind: to give you the best and most personalized massage you’ve ever had. 512250-8800, elementsmassage.com/austin-lakeline. FAMILY TREE DENTAL GROUP From pediatric
dentistry to orthodontics and family dentistry to cosmetic dentistry, families can take care of all their dental needs. familytreedentalgroup.com. FLOURISH COUNSELING & MENTAL WELLNESS CENTER Helping those struggling with
symptoms of mental illness and those who want to continue personal growth. 1017 RR 620 S. #222, 512-237-7326, flourishcounselingcenter.com GEORGETOWN PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES, PLLC
Psychologists, counselors, and social workers dedicated to helping people live healthy and full lives. 4749 Williams, Ste 301, Georgetown, 512809-3141, txpsych.com. GREAUX FIT Nikki Boudreaux is online coach who customizes your diet and exercise program while working with you virtually to achieve your fitness goals. 347-224-1803, greauxfit.com. HAND & STONE MASSAGE & FACIAL SPA
Professional massage, facial and hair removal services 10526 W. Parmer Ln. and 4301 W. Wm. Cannon Bldg E, #230. HAUSMAN CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE
Your body can heal without the use of traditional medication. 8015 Shoal Creek, #110, 512-419-1000, drrobhausman@gmail.com, hausmanchiropractic.com.
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T HE AGENDA | SPRI NG 2016
for pain and stress relief. 4534 Westgate #112, kristinajackson.massagetherapy.com. LIZ COHEN CONSULTING Therapy is collaborative. As a therapist, Liz Cohen is your partner in self-exploration and witness to your accomplishments. 512-217-2873, lizcohencounseling.com. LONE STAR LAMBDAS All-ages LGBTQ square dancing provides social enjoyment, as well as active physical and mental exercise. Experienced and beginners welcome anytime. Next set of classes start in September. 512-497-6059, lonestarlambdas.org. MEDIFAST WEIGHT CONTROL CENTERS
Customized weight loss programs and counseling services for individuals who want to lose weight quickly and learn to keep it off. 512358-7800, sunsetvalleycenter@medifastwcc.com, medifastcenters.com. MOONTOWER COUNSELING Offering services to
couples, individuals, and families in relationship conflict, coming out, HIV and stigma, bisexuality and belonging, depression, anger, and shame. 512565-6974, moontowercounseling.com. NORTHWEST COUNSELING & WELLNESS CENTER
Mental health counseling and programming for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and combinations of these concerns. 512-236-5370, ncwcaustin.com. PAM GREENSTONE, M.A., L.P.C. Counselor specializing in depression, anxiety, selfcompassion, disordered eating and couples counseling. 512-689-7279, pamgreenstone.com. PIAZZA CENTER FOR PLASTIC SURGERY AND ADVANCED SKIN CARE Cosmetic and
reconstructive plastic surgery. 512-2888200, practiceadmin@thepiazzacenter.com, thepiazzacenter.com/blog. REPATTERN IT Mary Schneider.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY RUSS BOYD, MA, NCC, LPC Psychotherapist
working with the gay community. 512-632-4731, russboydcounseling.com. SARO HELPINSTILL, LPC, LMFT-ASSOCIATE
Helping people who want to recover from various types of trauma and to cope with anxiety. Working with a range of issues with folks in the LGBTQAI community. Individual, relationship, and group therapy are available. sarohelpinstill.com. SARTORY FUNCTIONAL WELLNESS SNEEZE ALLERGY, COUGH & SINUS CENTERS
David Queen. SOCO WELLNESS CENTER, PLLC Offers affordable, high quality, GLBTQAI counseling services for young adult and adult individuals, couples, and families. 512-621-5337, sococounseling.com. SOFTBALL AUSTIN Players of all expertise levels wait on-deck at their turn to bat more than just eyelids. softballaustin.org.
SOUTH AUSTIN MEDICAL CLINIC Group of physicians trained and Board Certified in Family Medicine, who take their time to listen, explain concerns and treatment options. 2555 Western Trails, Ste. 101, 512-892-6600, southaustinmed.com. SYNERGY PLASTIC SURGERY Mahlon Kerr,
MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Austin and Round Rock specializing in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. 512-244-1439, synergyplasticsurgery.com. TEXAS GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION This is Texas,
darlin’. Of course there is a gay rodeo association. 214-346-2107, tgra.org. TEXAS MAMMA JAMMA RIDE Awareness and
much needed funds for folks coping with breast cancer. mammajammaride.org. US HEALTH ADVISORS Customizing health insurance plans that offer three-year premium lock, zero deductible at an affordable rate. 512-450-2054, tyka.booker@ushadvisors.com, ushadvisors.com. VIOLET CROWN COUNSELING Affordable, expert,
accepting therapy for our community. 907 W. Mary, violetcrowncounsling.com.
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MARKETPLACE VOLLEYBALL AUSTIN Come out to set and spike the night away with these volley-lovin’ Q-ballers. volleyballaustin.com. WATERLOO COUNSELING CENTER Austin’s
nonprofit hub for LGBTQ support and support groups. 314 E. Highland Mall Blvd., #301, 512444-9922, waterloocounseling.org. WORK IT PERSONAL TRAINING Get off your butt,
and get fit. 512-426-2336, info@workittraining. com, workittraining.com. THE WRIGHT HOUSE WELLNESS CENTER
Working to improve the lives of those living with, affected by, or at-risk for HIV and Hep C. 512-467-0088, thewrighthouse.org.
INSURANCE BRITTON & BRITTON Local allies service all your
insurance needs at the best possible rate. 512334-6330, 512insurance.com. FUNK FAMILY AGENCY Full-service Allstate agency with four Austin area locations. Recognizes partners as spouses to provide all the discounts a married couple deserves. funkfamilyagency.com. LIBERTY NATIONAL Life insurance with a flare!
Our core keys to success are building legacies in our leaders, families and community. From providing benefits at no cost to employers with 3-3000 employees to giving a family protection that they need. libertynational.com. LIBERTY MUTUAL – ANDREW CHAVEZ AGLCC
ambassador and insurance professional focusing on auto, home, long-term rentals, renters, and extended liability policies. Don’t forget to ask about your AGLCC savings! 512-591-1147, andrew.chavez@libertymutual.com. LIBERTY MUTUAL – LINDSAY STIFFLEMIRE
Home and auto insurance provider. 512-2554146, Lindsay.stifflemire@libertymutual.com. SOUTHERLAND & ASSOCIATES Independent insurance and financial services firm with a unique approach. Helping people find money they are currently transferring away unknowingly and unnecessarily. 512-329-0108, saprotects.com.
LEGAL ADAMS, LONDON & WEISS LLC Helping you collect what’s yours… from bad checks to merchandise recovery. 6250 Westpark, Ste.319, Houston, 713-266-7500, jdanek@alwllc.com, alwllc.com.
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CHA LAW GROUP, PC Helping people make babies! Family lawyers experienced in LGBT legal issues, reproductive law, adoption, divorce and “gay divorce,” wills and estate planning. 2003 S. Lamar, 512-394-4230. BRENNER ATTORNEY AT LAW, PLLC Law practice providing services to Austin’s LGBT community. Practice areas include adoption, estate planning, wills, powers of attorney, trusts, guardianship, probate, and appeals. brennerattorney.com. OFFICE OF SUZANNE BRYANT Helping Texas
LGBT families’ secure legal protection since 1995. 512-476-4760, suzannebryantlaw.com. CAPPS LAW FIRM It’s all about family – and keeping it legal. 7718 Wood Hollow, Ste. 205, 512-338-9800, cappslawfirm.com. CARROLL LAW GROUP Estate and elder law planning law firm whose mission is to provide families with quality estate and Medicaid planning resources. 512-347-7526, carrollestateplanning.com. CAVANAUGH QUINTANILLA, PLLC Forwardthinking law firm with a human touch. Focuses include property law, business law, wills and estate planning, and probate. 512-888-9495, info@cqaustin.com, cqaustin.com LAW OFFICE OF JENNIFER R. COCHRAN P.C.
Adoption, estate planning, and family law specialist. 3355 Bee Cave, Ste. 103, 512-870-8187 jencochranlaw@gmail.com, cochran-law.com. LAW OFFICE OF KELLEY J. DWYER It’s your
estate. It’s your business. Make sure they are protected, legally. 9442 Capital of Texas, Ste 500159, 512-343-3630, dwyerlawaustin.com. THE FOWLER LAW FIRM PC “Law is a ministry if you come in with a pure heart and a good attitude,” according to founder, owner, ex-Navy JAG, and law firm matriarch Laura Fowler. 919 Congress, Ste. 900, 512-441-1411, thefowlerlawfirm.com. LAW OFFICE OF FRANCÉS JONES From
Wall Street to Hollywood to Texas, practice areas include Business Law, Trademarks, Entertainment & Arts, Advertising, Media, Marketing, Digital Media, and more. 512-4768999, linkedin.com/in/francesjoneslaw. LEE, GOBER & REYNA - LAW FIRM “Family”
lawyers who handle family, personal injury, and criminal matters. 11940 Jollyville, Ste 220, 512-478-8080, rwleelaw.com. LYNCH LAW FIRM Working with small
companies to take care of business while minimizing expense. 4408 Spicewood Springs Rd., 512-298-2346, nlynch@lynchlf.com, lynchlf.com.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY JORGESON PITTMAN, LLP PRO-LIT Texas-based business providing quality professional litigation support, from record retrieval, to process service, to court reporting. 512-960-4522, pro-lit.com. THRASH LAW FIRM Dedicated to protecting
you and your family. From asset protection to planning for children with special needs, the Thrash Law Firm team will make sure you are secure. thrashlawfirm.com. VALENTI CORPORATE GC, PC Startup, emerging
and medium-sized companies should have the same access to quality legal services as large companies. 512-636-4068, corporate-lawyer-us.com.
LODGING DOUBLETREE BY HILTON AUSTIN The hotel
of choice for visitors wanting a hotel near the University of Texas, the Capitol and downtown. 512-479-4000. FURNISHED HOUSING IN AUSTIN Fully furnished lodging near downtown (Clarksville). furnishedhousinginaustin.com/cottage.html.
INN ON THE CREEK PROPERTIES Boutique resort with fine dining, casual dining, and event space just 45 miles north of downtown. Pet friendly. 254-947-5554, inncreek.com. LAKEWAY RESORT & SPA AAA Four Diamond
award-winning resort nestled on the shores of Lake Travis. 101 Lakeway, 512-261-7396, gschneider@lakewayresortandspa.com, lakewayresortandspa.com. OMNI AUSTIN HOTEL AT SOUTHPARK Four
Diamond luxury hotel at the center of it all. 4140 Governors Row, 512-448-2222, omnihotels.com/ hotels/austin-southpark. RENAISSANCE AUSTIN HOTEL Nestled in the picturesque hills of Texas Hill Country, this luxury hotel provides tranquil environment surrounded by nature trails and 95 breathtaking acres. Convenient proximity to downtown Austin and the metro area. 9721 Arboretum Blvd., 512-343-2626, marriott.com/aussh. SHERATON AUSTIN HOTEL Modern architecture,
majestic downtown views, and friendly service with a prime location: next door to the famed Capitol and steps from the University of Texas, Sixth Street/Warehouse District, and more. 701 E.11th, 512-404-6942, sheratonaustin.com.
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MARKETPLACE W AUSTIN HOTEL Luxury located close to the
action, in the sweet spot between ACL Live/ Moody Theatre and Austin City Hall. 200 Lavaca, 512-542-3600, whotelaustin.com.
PETS DOGTELLIGENT
Our vision is simple: we reimagine everyday household dog products; making them beautiful, smart and connected. 619-630-0383, dogtelligent.com. PAWS & MORE Sit! Humans sit with your pups
and kits and more. While you’re away, your mice and gerbils and sugargliders will play. 512-6953131, pawsandmore.com.
REAL ESTATE
JOHN DOUCETTE, REALTOR, DOUCETTE PROPERTIES From downtown to Westlake and
beyond. 512-828-2604, doucetteproperties@ gmail.com, doucetteproperties.com. KATE WARD – KELLER WILLIAMS Your
smart, helpful partner for buying or selling a home. 512-771-4931, kateward@kw.com, katewardrealty.com. KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD HOMES Offering unique solutions for unique situations deep in the weird li’l heart of Texas. 512-2973442, theresa@keepaustinweirdhomes.com, keepaustinweirdhomes.com. MIDTOWN INDEPENDENCE TITLE When you cross the threshold into home owning this LGBT-owned company has got you covered. 3009 N. Lamar, 512-459-1110, midtowntitle.com. PATTERSON-RAUSCH TEAM – KELLER WILLIAMS
making finding realty in Austin a reality. 512-507-8252, austinhomesrealty.com.
From “urban to suburban,” Darian Rausch and Rich Patterson of Keller Williams Realty have Austin covered. 1335 E. Whitestone, Ste.200, 512-663-5826, urbantosuburban.com.
BILL DUNHAM, BILL DUNHAM, REALTOR AT PRESIDIO GROUP REALTORS Diligence and
PAULY PRESLEY REALTY Austin real estate company
AUSTIN HOMES REALTY Real estate brokerage
intuition in finding the perfect home to fit clients needs and desires. 512-940-1886, bdunham.com.
offering homes, condos, and apartment leasing. 512-482-9602, paulypresleyrealty.com.
BLAIRFIELD REALTY Locally-owned boutique
PLATINUM REALTY Redefining what it means to go “above and beyond”. Everyone needs a friend in the real estate business who has the knowledge, dedication and integrity you can count on. 512-477-0360, platinumrealtyaustin.com.
agency located in the heart of South Austin, offering services for residential sales, home staging, leasing, investment properties and property management. 512-912-1910, blairfieldrealty.com. DEBBIE BARRERA, REALTY AUSTIN Experience
to benefit you when buying or selling a home. Leasing by referral only — whether it be a house, duplex, condo, or an apartment. debbieknowsaustin.com. DENNY HOLT REALTORS Working with buyers and sellers in all price ranges. 8708 Primrose, 512-6941103, denny@dennyholt.com, dennyholt.com. FIRMUS MANAGEMENT Managing multi-family
housing properties in Mueller, Travis Heights, and North Shoal Creek. muellerflats.com. GIVE REALTY Real real estate services with
real heart. The “give” in their name highlights their goal to enable clients to give back to the community. 512-299-6916, giverealty.com. JEFF ARNOLD, REALTY AUSTIN Full-time realtor working in the Austin metro area, happy to help with your real estate needs – first time home buyers/sellers all the way up to helping seniors right-size their lifestyle. 512-639-8838, jeffarnold@realtyaustin.com, realtyaustin.com/t/ Jeff-Arnold/home.
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REAL LIVING LIFE STYLES REALTY Real estate agent
throughout the entire Austin area working in both residential and commercial real estate. austinhomescentral.com. RIVER & OAKS REALTY LLC Stacy Bass specializes in outlying areas, like Driftwood, Lakeway, Wimberley, Dripping Springs, and more. 512413-7893, stacybassrealtor.com. RON REDDER, PRESIDIO With over 18 years
experience, he might just be on to something. 1701 W. Koenig, 512-657-8674, ron@ presidiogroup.com, presidiogroup.com. THE STAGING GUY Consultations include detailed, written assessments, interior and exterior, room by room. Services for occupied and vacant home staging, design for living, and organization. Special affinity for working with the senior market. 7310 Manchaca Rd. #152936, 512-537-4489, thestagingguy.com. TAMARACK REAL ESTATE Loree Misch. TROY HANNA – PRESIDIO Representing the realty interests of Austin’s LGBT community for over a decade. 1701 W. Koenig, 512-659-7093.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY RETAIL/FASHION AFFINITY FOR ALL PEOPLE Equality for everyone is one of our core principles and all of our shirt designs share a message of love. affinityforallpeople.com. AUSTIN PRINT INITIATIVE Local screen printing
company with a focus towards eco-friendly methods and full service merchandising options. atxprintmedia@gmail.com, atxprintmedia.com. BOOKWOMAN Know your herstory and get to
know us, one of the country’s few remaining feminist bookstores. Check their calendar online for community-building events. 5501 N Lamar, 512-472-2785, ebookwoman.com. CAT’S CUSTOMS Contemporary tie dye: psychedelic, hand-dyed clothing and accessories for the whole fam. 512-296-5697,fb.com/ catscustomsofaustin. ELLENKAY DESIGN Online shop dedicated to
SERVICES A-ONE ELECTRIC Full “circuit” of residential and commercial electrical services. 512-497-1513, aoneelectric@hotmail.com, aoneelectricaustin.com. ACCELEROS Austin-based company providing IT support in the form of product and application development, process re-engineering, and project management. 512-736-8385, info@ acceleros.com, acceleros.com. ADOPTION ADVOCATES, INC. 5511 Parkcrest, Ste. 210, 512-477-1122, rory@adoptionadvocates. net, adoptionadvocates.net. AGLCC TOASTMASTERS Build confidence and improve your public speaking/communication skills. aglcc.org/toastmasters. ANN’S APPLIANCE REPAIR For all your in-home major brand appliance repair needs, “Ann’s the Man.” 512-571-9823, annstheman@gmail.com, annstheman.com.
LGBT gear emphasizing tolerance, equality and acceptance. ellenkaydesign@gmail.com, ellenkaydesign.com.
APEX BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS We provide
END OF AN EAR RECORDS Independent record
ASAKURA ROBINSON COMPANY Enhances
store established in 2005 carrying a large selection of vinyl, CDs, DVDs, VHS, and audio equipment. End Of An Ear strives to be the record store you always dreamed about. 2209 S. 1st St., 512-462-6008, endofear.com. ROBERT M. PROSSER, ETHAN ALLEN One-stop
shopping for your home, with décor consulting. 2817 W. Anderson, 512-615-9990, rprosser@ austin.ethanallen.com, ethanalllen.com. GAGE FURNITURE Family owned and operated by the Gage family since 1941. Offering a large selection of quality living room designs and fabric selections as well as dining, bedroom, home office, accessories, lamps, and recliners. 512-454-3613, furnish123austin.com. GREAT OUTDOORS All things outdoors. 2730 S.
Congress, 512-448-2992, greatoutdoorsnursery.com. RUELL’S High-quality handcrafted bow ties, neck
ties, pocket squares, and more for the whole family. Locally sourced materials, new and re-purposed fabrics, unique custom patterns. aconn@ruells.com, ruells.com. SOUTH CONGRESS BOOKS Used, collectible, vintage, and unique books and paper. 1608 S. Congress, 512-916-8882, southcongressbooks.com. VALET MOTORCARS High quality, low mileage
pre-owned used car sales. 512-778-6592, valetmotorcars.com.
business operations support to small business owners. 512-650-8534. environments and positively impacts communities through innovation, engagement, stewardship, and an integrated planning and design process. 512-351-9601, asakurarobinson.net. ATRIA AT THE ARBORETUM An active lifestyle
senior living center with spectacular views and upscale amenities. 512-346-4900, atriaseniorliving.com/atria-at-the-arboretumaustin-tx/. AUSTIN CONSTRUCTION PROS Specializing
in reducing the stress and increasing the joy of home ownership. 512-413-2129, austinconstructionpros.com. AUSTIN ROOFING AND CONSTRUCTION Local, family owned, community-minded roofing company. 1% of total job cost is donated to the local charity of client’s choice. 512-629-4949, austinroofingandconstruction.com. BROOKDALE WESTLAKE HILLS Brookdale
Westlake Hills is a Continuum of Care Retirement Community offering independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing. 512328-3775, mnix@brookdale.com, brookdale.com. CÉBÉ IT & KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT LLC
Information and knowledge management. 7118 Las Ventanas, 281/460-3595, cebe-itkm.com.
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MARKETPLACE CECIL LOGISTICS Operation consultancy and delivery management firm specializing in creating or enhancing distribution networks throughout Texas. Whether you need to expand your service offerings or improve your distribution, Cecil Logistics will save you time, money, and hassle. wc.couriers@yahoo.com.
GARBO SALON AND SPA Eclectic, colorful,
CITY OF AUSTIN SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Assistance and
businesses nationwide. gayborhood.com.
business solutions to emerging small businesses. 512-974-7800, austintexas.gov/department/ small-business-development-program. CITY OF AUSTIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT Cultural arts, music, international
urban eco-friendly salon ready to serve you with professional, cutting edge art-work that expresses you, not a clone, seven days a week. 7739 Northcross, Ste K-L, 512-458-4162, garboasalon.com. GAYBORHOOD App to find gay friendly GEEK POWERED STUDIOS Handles your entire
web presence. No a la carte menu here: every tool possible utilized to help clients grow. 512369-3882, geekpoweredstudios.com. GIANT PRINTING Printed fabric trade show
and emerging technology programs. 512-9747819, austintexas.gov/department/economicgrowth.
products manufactured in Austin: backdrops, banners, table covers and displays. 512-8212022, giantprinting.com.
CLEMENT’S PAINT & DECORATING INC. Locally owned and operated paint store serving the Austin community since 1986. 1211 W. 6th #900, clementspaint.com.
GOOGLE google.com.
COLLIER STREET CREATIVE Freelance writer
and editor, Paige Schilt thrives on helping people and organizations tell their stories. collierstreetcreative.com. COOK-WALDEN Celebrate your loved one with
a funeral and memorial service befitting of the life lived. 512-971-2449, cook-walden.com. DATASMITH SOLUTIONS DataSmith Solutions
provides strategic consulting services to organizations in public education focusing on data systems, data governance, and the effective and valid use of data for policymaking and practice. 512-636-6373, nancy@ datasmithsolutions.com, datasmithsolutions.com. EMERGENT GROUP Offering solutions to companies dealing with recycling electronic assets. 512-832-6959, emergentdeals.com. ENFOCUS STRATEGIES Supports for-profit and non-profit organizations with high-quality strategy and management consulting services focuses on capacity building, strategic planning and implementation. enfocusstrategies.com. EXCEL GLOBAL PARTNERS Solutions to accelerate your business, help it grow, and navigate through change. 512-501-1155, excelglobalpartners.com. FORWORD CONNECTIONS Your outsourced
Human Resources expert. Reduce risk and streamline processes to poise your company for smart growth. 512-923-2962, forwordconnections.com
GREEN ISLAND CAR WASH AND DETAIL Full service car wash and detail shop. 12600 Research, 512-257-1799, greenislandcarwash.com. THE HAROLD ORGANIZATION, LLC Information technology consultants. 512-345-9605, harold.org. HE’S FOR ME Find me a match, catch me a catch!
Make a match, you busy gay professional. 300 Guadalupe Ste. 200, 855-443-7463, h4maustin.com. INFOVINE INC. Providing a full range of innovative communication solutions for businesses and organizations. 713-223-9994, infovine.com. KISS MY GRASS Landscaping services for South Austin, Kyle, and Buda areas. 512-576-5202, michael@kissmygrassatx.com, kissmygrassatx.com. LONE STAR SOCIAL Lone Star Social is a locally owned social media and online presence management company with an emphasis on small to medium sized businesses. 512-633-9723, barrett@lonestarsocial.net, lonestarsocial.net. MAMMOTH RECRUITING Focusing on finding candidates for full-time, direct-hire positions in administrative, human resources, marketing, sales, accounting, and financial roles. mammothrecruiting.com. MILLERSTEPHENS AND ASSOCIATES Focused
on non-profit, healthcare, and social-change initiatives. 512-422-6030, millerstephens.com. NANCY AMOS, VOICE ACTOR Voice over actor.
512-626-4878, nancy_amos.icanvoice.com. PATRIOT POOL AND SPA Pool service with pride. 512-636-8122, hall@patriotpoolandspa. com, patriotpoolandspa.com.
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AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY POWER OF TWO PROMOTIONS Your promotional product concierge, putting your logo on almost anything. ptwopromo.com. RAINBOW SPECTRUM MEDIA Screen printing
and embroidery all across the rainbow spectrum. terry@rainbowspectrummedia.com. ROADRUNNER FULLFILMENT Offers order fulfill-
TRAVEL BALBOA TRAVEL, INC Ranked among the nation’s
top 1% of travel companies and are IATA, CLIA, Virtuoso, and a founding ASTA member. 512732-9400, balboavacations.com. COMPASS GAY & LESBIAN COMMUNITY CENTER OF PALM BEACH COUNTY LGBTQ community
ment services to small businesses, online retailers, non-profits, and crowd funding campaigns. 512-924-1434, roadrunnerfulfillment.com.
center for the Palm Beaches. 201 N. Dixie, Lake Worth, Florida, 561-533-9699, compassglcc.com.
SEEDLINGS GARDENING Full-service landscaping
KEY WEST BUSINESS GUILD & THE GAY KEY WEST VISITOR CENTER Promoting Gay Key West
and gardening born and raised in Austin, striving to bring the natural beauty of Central Texas’ landscape to clients’ properties. 512-294-0064, seedlingsgardening.com. SEND OUT CARDS Custom greeting cards to get
your business noticed. Because at a certain age, everyone likes being carded. 512-789-0267, getcardedonline.com.
to LGBTQA travelers. 305-294-4603, 800-5357797, events@gaykeywestfl.com, gaykeywestfl. com, kwbgonline.org. VISIT FLORIDA The Sunshine State’s best ambassadors have LGBT outreach. visitflorida. com/lgbt.
THE SMB HELP DESK We are an organization that
knows business and technology. thesmbhelpdesk.com. SPLASH Swimming pool maintenance, cleaning, and repair services. 512-212-0440, splashpoolstx.com. STEVEN TOMLINSON Strategic communications consultant for Fortune 500 companies. st@ steventomlinson.com, steventomlinson.com. TAILORED TEAM Training seminars and
professional coaching in business skill sets: Communication, Team-Building, Leadership, Motivation, Conflict Resolution, and Decision Making. 512-563-3845, jblmicrotraining.com. TEXAS COMPETES Partnership of business
leaders committed to a Texas that is economically vibrant and welcoming of all people, including LGBT people. 512-297-8115, texascompetes.org. TREEHOUSE PAINTING Looking to update your home? Let us help you with an affordable “house lift” or business update. It’s always a good time to freshen up your home or business with fresh paint. 831-465-4816. U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Range
of services to small businesses including training, certification and funding. sba.gov. WONDERCIDE Pesticide with a safe-for-pets
twist. Treat your pets to some holistic loving, or rid yourself of unwanted house guests the natural way. 9415 Neils Thompson, stephanie@ wondercide.com, wondercide.com.
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SNAPS! The end of 2015 and the beginning of 2016 saw an explosion of parties and charitable events. Lucky for us, The Agenda was there to take in all the action!
Equality Texas’ Family Feast 1
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Bringing back a Thanksgiving tradition, Equality Texas hosted the re-booted “Family Feast” potluck event at Ironwood Hall the Sunday before Thanksgiving. The event was a platform for LGBT families to unite and dine together as well as raise funds and awareness for LGBT youth affected by homelessness. The food was great, the Belvedere Vodka drinks flowed, and a wonderful time was had by all. 1. Sam Hildebrand (EQTX Foundation Member) and Vicky Snyder volunteering at the food donations check-in table. 2. Lisa Hildebrand and son, Reed, volunteering at the main donations check-in table. 3. L-R: Melanie Cervantes, Monica Burcham (Development Manager) and Jennifer Painter enjoying the spirit(s) of the event. 4. Deanne Cuellar (Communications Coordinator, San Antonio chapter) and Chuck Smith (Executive Director) celebrate the successful event. 5. Brett Labrosse gives his silent auction win, his Pop Icon candle of Britney, a kiss worthy of a diva. Mwah! 6. Diners enjoying the camaraderie and home cooking. Yum! SP R I N G 2 0 1 6 | A G L C C . O R G
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SNAPS!
Rainbow Ribbon Cutting: Asakura/Robinson Our wonderful Ambassadors showed up in force to welcome new member, Asakura/Robinson, to the AGLCC – a very cool planning, urban design, and landscape architecture firm with a focus on social and environmental design.
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1. Pretty impressive view from their Congress Avenue office rooftop! Front row L-R: Katie Coyne (Planner), Isabelle Asakura (Marketing Associate), Tio Bustillo; back row L-R: Tara Mather (Associate Planner), Richard Kline & Shannon Mantrom (AGLCC Ambassadors), Zakcq Lockrem (Principal/Director of Planning), Margaret Robinson (Principal), Stephanie Emory, Andrew Rangel, and Andrew Chavez (AGLCC Ambassadors). 2-3. Margaret Robinson, Principal, cuts the Rainbow Ribbon: “1, 2, 3, hooray! Welcome to the Chamber!”
AGLCC Holiday Social The beautiful 1 people – some in ugly Christmas sweaters (you know who you are) – ate, drank, and made merry at South Austin Brewery for the AGLCC’s annual Holiday Social. (Richard 3 Kline totally won the ugly/ scary Christmas sweater. Look closely and you’ll understand why.)
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4 1. Nikki Boudreaux (Greaux Fit) and wife, Jessica Groff, holding up Nikki’s “Austin’s Fittest” page in the holiday issue 2. Jonathan Greiner (Umlauf Sculpture Garden), Richard Kline (The Staging Guy), and Shannon Mantrom (Leap to Success). 3. Lindsey Leaverton (BB&T), Ed Hambleton (Texas Chili Queens), Carlie Bittel (Bittel Books & Taxes), Aaron Yeats (Google Fiber), and Steve Collins (American Statesman). 4. Lindsey Leaverton and Julia Lorenz-Olson singing about it being cold outside. (That’s like 60 degrees here in Central Texas, right? Brr!).
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Boxing Day Brunch at Home of James Nowlin and John Sheldon of Excel Global Partners Bringing their annual event from Dallas to Austin, James Nowlin and John Sheldon welcomed a festive array of Austinites to their Architectural Digest-worthy home off City Park Road for a dayafter Christmas brunch that made everyone very merry indeed! 1
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1.James Nowlin, Hazel Nowlin (Mom), and John Sheldon posing in front of the Nowlin-Sheldon Christmas tree in their main entrance foyer. 2. Patrick Donahue sweetly serenades brunch guests. 3. The scrumptious (and oh-so-decadent!) brunch spread. 4. Enjoying the warmth of the kitchen hearth are L-R: Becky Austen, Lisa Filemyr, Rudy, Letish, and Brooklyn Metayer, Michelle Polgar, and Kirk Johnson (son of Congresswoman, Eddie Bernice Johnson). 5. Soaking up the rays and taking in the expansive view on the back porch are L-R: Paul McGill, Kristin Alvarez, Tom Kirk, Corinne Smith, and Christopher Shaw. SP R I N G 2 0 1 6 | A G L C C . O R G
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All Things Positive New Year’s Eve: A Party :LWK %HQH¿WV The brainchild of Carlos Platero (aka Chico512) the only bilingual personality on the air in Austin, host of All Things Positive on Radio Mujer – this NYE event at The W focused on ringing in 2016 on a positive note. The “benefits” focus was the three organizations benefiting from the night’s proceeds: Women’s Alliance for Leadership (WAL), the Survive 2 Thrive F, and Lifeworks.
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1. Host Carlos Platero (Chico512) and Denise Antoon. 2. The WAL Team 3. Lighting up The W with the event’s marquee. 5. L-R: Alison Jacobs, Carlos Platero, and Michael Bryant.
Rainbow Ribbon Cutting: Texas Chili Queens 1
When you come across the diva-red trailer that has “Texas Chili Queens” proudly emblazoned on its side, you know you’re in for some downhome goodness in a bowl. The AGLCC Ambassadors posed with “Miss Edie,” (aka Ed Hambleton) when the trailer pulled up in front of the new AGLCC offices on N. Lamar. That must have stopped traffic!
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1. Can’t miss this trailer! 2. Miss Edie and AGLCC Ambassador Jeff Davis (Mammoth Recruiting). 3. The AGLCC Ambassadors are all smiles as “Miss Edie” cuts the rainbow ribbon! L-R: Stephanie Emory, Beth Creasey, Andrew Chavez, Jeff Arnold, Doyla Burrell, Jessica Taylor, Terri Saraceno, Ed “Edie” Hambleton, Doug Plummer (Midtown Independence Title), Becky McClain, Mariana FloresGarza, Michael Charles, Mandy Spinks, Ceci Gratias (President/CEO of AGLCC), Blake Jackson. 4. “What can I get you, sugah?” Miss Edie at your service!
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January Luncheon Featuring Mayor Steve Adler as Guest Speaker Great start to 2016! Mayor Adler spoke to a capacity crowd at Gusto restaurant for the January luncheon overseen by the AGLCC’s new President & CEO, Ceci Gratias. 1
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4 5 1. L-R: AGLCC President & CEO Ceci Gratias, AGLCC Board Chair Edgar Gierbolini, Mayor Steve Adler. 2. L-R: Kelly West, Melissa Langley (Lez Backpack, travel blogger), Katie Coyne and Zakcq Lockrem (Asakura/Robinson), Michelle Daly. 3. Ceci shares important information about upcoming AGLCC programs and events. 4. Mayor Adler enjoying Ceci’s introduction of him. 5. L-R: John Doucette, Brian Erickson, Todd Hogan, Ian Punjwani. SP R I N G 2 0 1 6 | A G L C C . O R G
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Bad Taste Drag Fundraiser at Empire Control Room for Austin PrEP Access Project Sometimes ya just gotta be bad to be good. Thanks go out to some of Austin’s most generous “Ladies of the Evening” (read: drag queens) who shined a spotlight on the need for staying safe through prevention when playing out there. All proceeds from the evening benefited Austin PrEP Access Project.
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1. Honey St Claire and Drew Hart fresh off their hilarious Scary Movie send-up. 2. The “bad taste” poster. 3. Ben Walker (Executive Director of the Austin PrEP Access Project) and Louisiana Purchase. Bad draggin’ it for a good cause! 4. L-R: Ben Walker, Marcus Sanchez (Marketing, Austin PrEP Access Project), and Andy Doan (Volunteer). 5. Volunteer, Marcus Ollington (sporting his homage to David Bowie) manning the raffle tickets table.
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Austin's fittest
BY SHANNON MANTROM PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEVAKI KNOWLES
Tim Krebs, Austin Gay Basketball League agbl.org | See listing on p. 45
Tell us about the AGBL (Austin Gay Basketball League). Are the teams mixed genders or same-sex teams? Teams are mixed gender and vary in experience from amateur enthusiasts to lifelong players, ex-collegiate athletes and even international pros. The league is split into three divisions based on skill and intensity of play. There’s something for everyone! Where do you practice and play? AGBL players tip-off at the South Austin Sports Center across the street from St. Edward’s University. The league also hosts pick-up games at First United Methodist Church downtown. How many teams are in the league? There are 13 teams this season and over 100 players! How many games are in a season? Every team can expect to play between six to eight games, depending on whether they win or lose in the playoffs. Do you hold a local tournament? The AGBL has hosted a national gay basketball tournament in Austin (working with the National Gay Basketball Association) attracting teams from all over the country to compete and enjoy our famous nightlife. There was also a Texas State LGBT Championship tournament in Cedar Park, during which the AGBL’s elite traveling team, the Austin Flames, placed first in the highest division. While there are no current solid plans to host a local tournament, I’m sure there will be another one sooner than later. Is there an opportunity for the winning team to go on to a national tournament? For years, the AGBL has selected players to represent Austin in National Gay Basketball Association tournaments. We’ve played in Las Vegas, Boston, Chicago, Dallas and all over the country. The level of competition at these tournaments is incredible, and I’m proud to say my team – the Austin Flames – won our division championship in a clean sweep at the 2014 Boston Tea Party Classic. How does playing on a team impact you in business? Success in basketball relies so heavily on belief in oneself and belief in others. Our team has faced opponents much bigger and sometimes more skilled, but that belief and bond pushes you to achieve what is seemingly impossible. I do think being pushed to the limit and experiencing fire-forged success has translated to my career as well. It’s harder to take “no” for an answer because I have seen that anything is possible. I owe a lot of that to the AGBL and the Austin Flames.
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