SPRING 2017
SPRING SING
Two local choruses take it from the top SADDLE UP The Hill Country Ride for AIDS pushes on for area charities
LGBT BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIPS The AGLCC Foundation’s upcoming gala
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T HE
AFRICA CALLING South Africa – the adventure of a lifetime
AUST I N GAY & L ES B I A N
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Contents 12 CEO’S WELCOME Making connections with the Multi-Ethnic Chamber Alliance of Austin and Texas LGBT Chambers
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19 SIX TIPS FOR ENSURING A SOLID SMALL BUSINESS IT STRATEGY Budget-friendly solutions to protect your computers and devices
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BUILDING LOCAL BIZ
SNAPS!
The AGLCC Foundation provides scholarships for Austin-area LGBT entrepreneurs
Re-live the pre-January 20th moments of holiday parties and celebrate the swearing in of Austin’s first openly gay City Council member
THE RIDE STUFF Suit up and strap in! The Hill Country Ride for AIDS gets in gear for its 18th anniversary
28 GAY GETAWAY: SOUTH AFRICA
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Traveling halfway across the AUSTIN’S FITTEST globe to this majestic country Wealth advisor by day, singer-songwriter by is easier than you think night and mom 24/7, there’s no holding back CrossFit enthusiast Lindsay Leaverton AGLCC MARKETPLACE
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Our directory of members you should support!
On the Cover NOTEWORTHY A little birdie told us you won’t want to miss the sweet sounds of the Capital City Men’s Chorus and SoCo Women’s Chorus spring concerts COVER ILLUSTRATION BY RACHELLE DIAZ
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T HE AGENDA | SPRI NG 2017
Top right: Jana Birchum; Bottom left: Nicholas Raymond/Public Domain
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EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief John Egan Creative Director Shannon Mantrom
AGLCC Networking Events Networking Luncheons 1st Tuesday of each month
CONTRIBUTORS Krista Betts, Drew Brown, John Egan, Lauren Gribble, Shannon Mantrom ART Art Director Rachelle Diaz Major Photography Jana Birchum ADVERTISING Interim President & CEO Edgar Gierbolini Administrative Assistant Austin Powell Accounts & Sales Director Jeff Arnold AGLCC Board Amy Cook, Interim Chair Rich Segal, Secretary Carlie Bittel, Treasurer Jeff Arnold, Jeff Davis, John Egan, Jonathan Greiner, Chase Kincannon, Shannon Mantrom DISTRIBUTION Cecil Logistics
Networking Happy Hours 3rd Thursdays every other month
Biz Dev 101 Every other month
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 2017 Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.
For more details on AGLCC events, visit our website at
aglcc.org/calendar AUSTI N G AY & LE SBI AN
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CEO's letter
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
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he current political climate is cause for concern. Many progressive rights that we have gained as a community are threatened, while open hostility against minority groups has become commonplace. I want to remind you that you are not alone. The Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, representing 300 LGBT and allied businesses, believes in advocacy though economics — equal opportunity for these businesses’ employees and customers. We don’t stand alone on this. AGLCC is a member of MECA, the Multi-Ethnic Chamber Alliance. Through MECA, AGLCC collaborates every day with the Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce, Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce and Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. We also are part of a new coalition — the Texas LGBT Chambers of Commerce — whose other members are the North Texas LGBT Chamber of Commerce, San Antonio LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce. In total, the chambers represent 800 LGBT and allied businesses. We all believe discrimination is bad for business. According to the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, with which AGLCC is affiliated, an estimated 1.4 million LGBT businesses contribute $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy — not too shabby for us queer folk!
Community isn’t necessarily a building. Community is what we create when we are brought together under a common purpose. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, straight allies — we are all part of a unique, passionate and diverse rainbow-hued family. That should make every single one of you proud. Because when we all work together, as a family, we can do fabulous things! So what can you do to create change? You’ve already taken the first step by picking up this magazine. Keep going! A snowball gets bigger as it rolls downhill. Go through the directory in the back of this magazine and find groups that could use some volunteers or donors. Shop at pro-LGBT businesses. Contact your friends and tell them about AGLCC. Join a committee. Apply for a seat on a commission. Become an LGBTcertified business. Do something today that makes you proud! Let’s not wait for a building to open its doors to create community. Let’s build community now! I come from a large Puerto Rican family. Like any family, we don’t always get along, but when one of us is picked on or in trouble, you better believe the rest of us show up. Now, more than ever, we need to have each other’s back. Edgar Gierbolini, Interim President & CEO Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Twitter: @edgargierbolini
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NOTEWORTHY A Tale of Two Choruses
BY LAUREN GRIBBLE
M
usic has played a role in Austin’s culture for a long time, and while vocal choruses throughout the city aren’t as well known as the rest of the music scene, the Capital City Men’s Chorus and the SoCo Women’s Chorus have become a staple in the LGBT community. Artistic directors Jeffrey Jones-Ragona of the Capital City Men’s Chorus and Janey Hall of the SoCo Women’s Chorus are two passionate musicians who love to talk about their groups.
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Getting its start in 1989 to give gay men a space to sing and feel secure during at the height of the AIDS crisis, the Capital City Men’s Chorus would grow into a rock for the community. Only planning to stay with the chorus to fulfill an academic requirement while working on an advanced degree at the University of Texas in 1995, Jones-Ragona ended up staying for 22 years. Hall, who started the SoCo Women’s Chorus in 2012 to empower women, has opened the ensemble to all women, regardless of sexual orientation, although she herself is a lesbian. Becoming involved in music as a young child, Hall has taught music from kindergarten to high school, and sang in several choruses throughout her career. JEFFREY JONES-RAGONA, CAPITAL CITY MEN’S CHORUS Lauren Gribble, The Agenda (LG): Can you tell us the history of the choir? Jeffrey Jones-Ragona (JJR): Our group was founded in the ’80s due to the AIDS crisis. There were 16 guys and they did their first performance with PFLAG (Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbians and
Gays.) They did their first concert in 1990, though their founding was in 1989. Around the mid-2000s, we had to figure out what our identity was, since Austin is such a progressive town, and our new mission now is that we are going back to 1989. LG: When I was reading about the history of the choir, I had read that you were planning to stay only for one year to fulfill an academic requirement. What made you want to stay? JJR: The choir was under the direction of Malcom Nelson, and once he resigned from the group, they needed a director. A friend of mine thought I would be a good fit, so I decided to throw my hat in. I was hired in June 1995 as their interim director. We had a very successful concert, and they were having trouble finding a director. Around 2001, we all decided to stop kidding ourselves and stopped calling me the interim director and started calling me the director. LG: With that said about finding your identity and figuring out where to go next, what is your vision for the choir? JJR: Well, just ramp up what we’ve been doing. The members always work really hard, and they always put on a good show. It’s a volunteer group, and I am always
Above: Jeffrey Jones-Ragona conducting the Capitol City Men’s Chorus Holiday Concert; (L-R) Mark Flores, Garrett Cordes, Jason Theilengerdes, James Heath, and Glen Langford rehearsing their fabulous dance number for the 2016 Spring Concert, choreographed by James Heath. Facing page: CCMC in concert; SoCo Women’s Chorus Artistic Director, Janey Hall, conducting the chorus during the December 2016 “For the Children” concert. SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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The members always work really hard, and they always put on a good show. amazed at how far they are willing to go to represent the community. LG: Can you tell us about your spring concert? JJR: On June 3rd and 4th, we will have our spring concert at Northwest Hills United Methodist Church, where we will be highlighting certain Broadway pieces and composers. We will be singing with Sarah Jane Dailey, who is a phenomenal soprano, and Brett Barnes as well. JANEY HALL, SOCO WOMEN’S CHORUS LG: What was your inspiration for starting the chorus? Janey Hall (JH): I moved back to Austin in 2007, and there was another chorus that I tried out for as an artistic director, but I didn’t get the position. A couple of years later, I realized I was missing the chorus, and I was talking to some of my friends and I got some people on board, and I started this chorus in 2012. I put up the website in March 2012 and our first rehearsal was in September 2012. LG: What is your vision for the chorus? JH: That’s such a great question. My friend Karen James, who was very instrumental in this, got together with me and asked me what I wanted for this chorus. The
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Sister act: (L-R) chorus members Jaci Caldwell and Bernie Meugel perform alongside Artistic Director Janey Hall; the Chamber Ensemble on their 2015 tour of Ireland at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin; accompanist Casie Luong.
initial thing was to get a good strong board of directors and grow the membership. I was going to be happy if we started with 33 to 35 people, and my template was the Women’s Chorus of Dallas, and we started with 55. Some of my vision was to have a children’s camp for disadvantaged children. It has not happened yet, but it will. We also started a scholarship for a high school senior or college freshman who is majoring in vocal music. We are giving away the first scholarship at our spring concert, and they will be performing there, whomever we choose. LG: Can you tell us about your spring concert? JH: The spring concert on May 6th and 7th at the State Theatre is titled “5,” since we are having our fifth birthday. This concert is unusual since we made up a ballot of all the songs we had sung at our concerts over the last four and a half years and let the audience choose what we would sing.
Helping members of the local LGBT community gain knowledge and skills by distributing education grants to deserving LGBT individuals of any age residing in the Austin metro area. FO R M O R E I N FO R M AT I O N , V I S I T
aglcc.org/foundation SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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6 TIPS FOR ENSURING A SOLID SMALL BUSINESS IT STRATEGY
Photoroyalty/Freepik.com
BY JOHN EGAN
When you’re running a small business, you’ve got lots of responsibilities on your plate — marketing and sales, hiring and firing, paying bills, sending invoices and so much more. In this high-tech era, IT certainly must be in the mix. If you’re not an IT wizard, though, you might find it hard to deal with hardware and you might be soft on your software knowledge. We can’t promise this article will transform you into a Ph.D.level computer scientists. However, the following six tips from Austin IT consultant Claude Baudoin should at least make you a little more tech-savvy.
1. NEVER SHARE PASSWORDS OR PINS WITH ANYONE, EVEN A PROFESSIONAL COLLEAGUE. Sharing a password or PIN leaves you vulnerable to hacking and other dastardly deeds. 2. DON’T DOWNLOAD SOFTWARE UNLESS IT’S FROM A REPUTABLE SOURCE. Far too many software programs contain viruses designed to steal your information. 3. BE CAREFUL WITH YOUR SPAM FOLDER. Yes, you should check your spam folder to make sure a legitimate email wasn’t quarantined by accident. “But do not open SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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Need peace of mind and easy file access on all your devices? Cloud storage may be right for you.
4. SET UP A SECURE NETWORK. Your computer network should be equipped with a firewall and antivirus software to screen out the bad stuff before it can do damage. 5. REACH OUT FOR HELP. “For added security, get someone to test your security once in a while for you. You can rent such a service, or pay a friendly teenage geek to try to get into your
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network, but then stop and tell you what the problem is instead of exploiting the vulnerability,” Baudoin says. 6. LOOK INTO CLOUD COMPUTING. With a cloud setup, you’ll reduce your headaches by eliminating the need for a computer server and network, and allowing you to pay as you go rather than forking over big bucks upfront. “And you will be able to access your files from everywhere,” Baudoin says. Plus, those files can be automatically backed up. “Putting your data in the cloud is similar to putting money in a safe deposit box instead of under your mattress,” he says.
cornecoba/Freepik.com
the messages you were not expecting, even if you think you recognize the sender,” Baudoin says. Spam often comes with viruses meant to infiltrate your computer system.
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Hill Country Ride for AIDS Pedals Toward 18th Anniversary
BY DREW BROWN
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W
hile the number of new AIDS cases in Travis County has more or less been on the decline in recent years, the HIV infection rate is on the rise. In 2015, the rate of new HIV diagnoses reported to state health authorities was 24.5 per 100,000 residents in Travis County. That’s the highest rate for Travis County in the 2006-15 time span, according to a 2016 report from the Texas Department of State Health Services. During that period, the lowest HIV diagnosis rate in Travis County was 19.0 per 100,000 residents; in 2014, it was 20.8. In all, an estimated 6,000 in the Austin are living with HIV and AIDS, according to AIDS Services of Austin, and about onefifth of them are unaware of their status. These statistics underscore the reality that HIV/AIDS remains a serious health concern in the Austin area, even as great strides have been made with treatment and prevention initiatives. The statistics also underscore the continued importance of events like the Hill Country Ride for AIDS — the largest annual fundraiser for HIV/ AIDS services in the Austin area. Over the course of the Hill Country Ride, first held in 2000, more than $8 million has been raised for nonprofits that carry out HIV and AIDS prevention, treatment and care efforts throughout the Austin area. In 2016 alone, the event hauled in $570,000 for these 10 nonprofits: AIDS Services of Austin, allgo, CARE Program, The Care Communities, Community Action Inc., Friends of David Powell Health Center, Out Youth Austin, Project Transitions, Waterloo Counseling Center and The Wright House Wellness Center.
Riders saddle up at the early morning starting line.
“Success for us is seeing how the money goes into the hands in local agencies,” says Prentiss Douthit, director of the Hill Country Ride. “Agencies will say, ‘This check allows us to hire a social worker tomorrow,’ or that the money will mean a new nurse, new medicine or a number of things. Seeing that money distributed to them firsthand and seeing what they do with it is what makes it all worth it.” The success of the Hill Country Ride depends, of course, on the riders. This year’s event, which will be April 29, is expected to draw more than 600 riders, with up to three-fourths of those riders having participated in the past. “It’s amazing what happens,” Douthit says. “It started small but grew because of people wanting to make a difference in the community, they wanted to make a difference for people’s lives.” Although the cause is serious, the mood of the ride itself is festive. Ride organizers encourage participants to don costumes, decorate their bikes or develop themes for their fundraising teams. Organizers say the spirit of the ride “is all about our riders having fun and celebrating the amazing SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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Ride Director Prentiss Douthit (center) with the 2016 HCRA Production Team.
We are the champions: hooray for cheering volunteers in fancy dress! The smiling faces of Charles Sydnor, Prentiss Douthit, William Medrano (below left), Catherine Gonzalez and Stephanie Braun (below right) are sure to make you want to ride your bicycle.
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Riders and supporters listening to a well-deserved concert on the lawn. Laurence and Rosanne Becker (below) share a finish line embrace.
work they’ve done to change the lives of people in need.” The ride also is inclusive. Anyone 8 years old and over can join the ride. It’s suitable for casual as well as hard-core cyclists, with routes of 13, 26, 45, 65 and 90 miles mapped out for participants. And the ride lacks a competitive drive. There is no intensity at the starting line. There is no urge to beat the rider next to you. There is no glory in crossing the finish line first. “What we always say is the ride is not a race,” Douthit says. “The great thing about it is people can be like ‘I just wanna pedal,’ and they can, because there is nothing like this ride. The routes, the fun, the atmosphere — it’s a really special day. People plan their year around it.”
“Success for us is seeing how the money goes into the hands in local agencies.”
Want to make the Hill Country Ride for AIDS part of yyour plans this year, either as a rider, a donor, or one of tthe 200-plus volunteers? Visit hillcountryride. ggreatfeats.com for more information about the April 29 a rride, which starts at Krause Springs in K Spicewood. S SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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S AV E T H E D AT E
PROUD! SATURDAY, JUNE 3, 2017 6:30 PM W AUSTIN AN EVENING OF CELEBRATION BENEFITING
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AGLCC.ORG/PROUD2017 26
T HE AGENDA | SPRI NG 2017
BUILDING LOCAL BIZ AGLCC Foundation seeks to boost knowledge and skills of LGBT residents BY JOHN EGAN PHOTOS BY JANA BIRCHUM The Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (AGLCC) has laid the foundation for LGBT success. In 2016, AGLCC created a separate nonprofit called the AGLCC Foundation to help the local LGBT community gain knowledge and skills. The foundation raises money and then uses that money to award financial grants to LGBT residents of the Austin metro area. The grants enable LGBT people of any age to, for instance, study nursing, learn about auto repair, sharpen business expertise or earn a bachelor’s degree.
Don your gay apparel and celebrate the AGLCC Foundation at the W Austin this June.
“The AGLCC Foundation aims to empower members of the local LGBT community and build a stronger community overall,” says Edgar Gierbolini, president and CEO of AGLCC. Leaders of the foundation’s board of directors are Jeff Arnold, chair; Tony Halstead, secretary; and Carlie Bittel, treasurer. AGLCC staffers provide administrative support for the foundation. “The intent of the foundation is not to be a funding source for startups,” Arnold says. “Instead, it’s geared toward building the knowledge base of local LGBT residents, including owners of small businesses. For instance, someone might want to get some training on how to use QuickBooks but doesn’t have the money to pay for that training. That’s where the foundation comes in.” How can you support the AGLCC Foundation? Plan to attend PROUD!, AGLCC’s annual fundraising gala, on June 3 at the W Hotel Austin, or donate today at www.aglcc.org/foundation. SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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gay getaway
SOUTH AFRICA An Alluring Destination BY KRISTA BETTS
A contemporary art scene, myriad entertainment options, phenomenal wines, world-class golf, history, culture, lakes, waterfalls, beaches, shark diving and game drives. You can find all of them in incredible South Africa.
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David Mark/Public Domain
South Africa has a rhythm, a beat, an uplifting energy that calls you back year after year. Before my first trip to Africa I was told, “You can leave Africa but Africa never leaves you.” Every client I have sent to Africa returns saying, “I will be back.” That speaks volumes about a destination. Johannesburg offers unique local shops, jazz clubs, and museums that are not to be missed. I always recommend spending the day with a local private guide; I guarantee it’s one experience you will always treasure.
As a kid who always begged her father to take her to the zoo, Africa has my heart. I never would have imagined that I would be so incredibly close to a lion or a cheetah. On game drives, I can sit for hours watching wildlife in their natural habitat. With the Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean bordering South Africa, you can enjoy a temperate climate year round. This climate makes for exceptional wines, my favorite being Pinotage, South Africa’s signature variety; it’s a blend of Pinot Noir and Cinsaut. SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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gay getaway
Bedneyimages/Freepik.com, Ulrike Mai/Public Domain, Nicholas Raymond/Public Domain
The gastronomy in South Africa is second to none; some restaurants in Cape Town even have six-month waiting lists. A favorite local restaurant of mine with a creative farm-to-table menu is Black Sheep; be sure not to miss this wonderful dining experience. While in Cape Town, consider taking a drive along the stunning coastline to Simons Town, a favorite for locals and travelers alike. While in Simons Town, head to Boulders Beach and watch the African penguins at play. Other pluses: • Daily nonstop flights to Johannesburg from Washington, D.C., and New York • Strong U.S. dollar to the Rand • No visa required for U.S. and Canadian passport holders • No vaccinations required Krista Betts is a luxury travel advisor at Balboa Vacations in Austin.
Boulders Beach near Cape Town; the iconic Table Mountain looms in the background.
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AUSTI N G AY & LESBI AN
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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. CATEGORIE S Civic......................37 Design/Media ........41 Entertainment........41 Financial ...............42 Food/Dining...........43 Health/Fitness .......44 Insurance ..............47 K EY = Titanium Sponsor = Platinum Sponsor
Legal ....................47 Lodging.................48 Pets ......................49 Real Estate ............49 Retail/Fashion........49 Services ................50 Travel ....................50 = Gold Sponsor = Silver Sponsor = Bronze 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. 11000 N. MoPac, 512-919-1872, 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. AMERICAN RED CROSS OF CENTRAL TEXAS
Preventing and alleviating human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. 512929-1240. www.redcross.org/austin.
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MARKETPLACE THE ARC OF TEXAS The Arc of Texas promotes, protects and advocates for the human rights and self-determination of Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 512-454-6694, www.thearcoftexas.org.
BIGAUSTIN Non-profit organization dedicated to
AUSTIN ART IN PUBLIC PLACES Local and
BOBCAT PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND Support and community for LGBTQ Texas Staters. Go, Bobcats! bobcatpridescholarship.com.
national artists imbue Austin into cultural landmarks. austintexas.gov/department/art-inpublic-places. AUSTIN BLACK PRIDE Creating multicultural
opportunities that educate, inspire, improve and celebrate the experiences of LGBTQ people of color through social service programs, advocacy, supportive partnerships and relationship building. www.austinblackpride.com. AUSTIN/CENTRAL TEXAS ANNUAL AIDS CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SERVICE
Oldest & continuous AIDS Candlelight Memorial Service Event in Texas. ozparade@aol.com. 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 POLICE DEPARTMENT To be respected
and trusted by all segments of Austin’s diverse communities. austintexas.gov/department/police. AUSTIN ROUNDUP Presents an annual conference
to promote sobriety and fellowship in the LGBTQIATX. austinroundup.com.
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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.
CAPITAL METRO Get around with Austin’s public
transportation hub. 512-474-1200, capmetro.org. CARE COMMUNITIES Caring for those living
with HIV/AIDS and cancer. 512-459-5883, thecarecommunities.org. CASA OF TRAVIS COUNTY Promotes and protects the best interest of children who have been abused or neglected, by training volunteers to advocate for them in courts, in schools and in our community to help them find safe, permanent and loving homes. 7701 N. Lamar #301, 512-459-4550, casatravis.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 Promoting
education, equality, and acceptance, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity, at Texas A&M University - Central Texas and within the community. gsawtamuct.weebly.com.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UT AUSTIN - GBSA THE GLBTQA BUSINESS STUDENT ASSOCIATION Professional
LIFE IN THE CITY SERVICE AT FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH The lights, the singing, the
organization providing GLBTQA students with networking opportunities through corporate interaction and community-building events. utexas.collegiatelink.net/organization/texasgbsa.
dancing: the music of Broadway fills us up when we didn’t even know we were empty. There is something deeply spiritual about how Broadway makes us feel. 512-478-5684, contact@ fumcaustin.org.
GLSEN AUSTIN We believe that all students deserve a safe and affirming school environment where they can learn and grow. glsen.org. 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. HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN – AUSTIN Steering
committee of the nation’s largest LGBTQ civil rights organization. hrc.org/states/texas.
LOG CABIN REPUBLICANS OF AUSTIN Proud
members of the GOP who believe inclusion wins. 512-428-5475, logcabin.org/chapter/texasaustin. 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
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. 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. KNOW WHERE THE LOVE IS LGBTQ FAMILY PLANNING DIRECTORY List your business or find
LGBT friendly family planning providers in our online directory. KnowWhereTheLoveIs.com. 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.
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. 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.
LESBIAN & GAY PEACE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION
Supporting LGBT sworn, civilian, and retired members of the Austin Police Department by providing a voice for equality and breaking negative stereotypes through education. LGPOAaustin@gmail.com, lgpoa-austin.org. LESBIANS WHO TECH Community of Queer
women in and around tech (and the people who love them). lesbianswhotech.org.
SAN ANTONIO LGBT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Where LGBT and LGBT-friendly biz concerns in SA meet. sagaychamber.com. SAN MARCOS PRIDE FESTIVAL San Marcos gay
pride parade and festival. fb.com/SMTX.PRIDE. SANGHALINK Online connection and support for
LGBTQ high school students. sanghalink.org.
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MARKETPLACE START OUT Dedicated to creating great business leaders through supporting LGBT entrepreneurs. startout.org. STONEWALL DEMOCRATS OF AUSTIN The Austin affiliate of the National Stonewall Democratic Federation. stonewallaustin.org. TEACHER RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF TEXAS
TRS is the largest public retirement system in Texas, serving more than 1.4 million people. 1000 Red River St, ashley.inman@trs.texas.gov. 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.
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T HE AGENDA | SPRI NG 2017
TRANSGENDER EDUCATION NETWORK OF TEXAS
Educating the State of Texas about gender diversity. 877-532-6789, info@transtexas.org, transtexas.org. 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. UNIVERSITY BAPTIST CHURCH Come worship
with “Austin’s progressive voice of faith.” 2130 Guadalupe, 512-478-8559, ubcaustin.org. 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. WEIRD CITY SISTERS OF PERPETUAL INDULGENCE Austin mission of the Sisters
of Perpetual Indulgence, revolutionary nuns dedicated to the promulgation of omniversal joy and expiation of stigmatic guilt. weirdcitysisters.org.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY WOMEN’S ALLIANCE FOR LEADERSHIP Positively
STATESMAN MEDIA With over a century of
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.
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.
DESIGN/MEDIA 97.5 PRIDE RADIO The pulse of LGBT Austin. 512-684-7300, 975pride.iheart.com. ART DIVA CREATIVE Specializing in print and web
THEREPUBLIQ Your complete resource for
LGBTQ life in Austin, because we are much more than pride parades and rainbow flags. therepubliq.com.
ENTERTAINMENT
graphic design for small businesses, non-profits, and special events. 512-934-8088, artdivacreative. com.
AUSTIN CHAMBER MUSIC CENTER Expanding appreciation of chamber music one intimate performance at a time. 3814 Medical Pkwy, 512454-0026, austinchambermusic.org.
CELEBRATE AUSTIN Produces quality publications that provide useful information to our readers and benefit our advertisers by helping them grow their businesses. judy@ celebrateaustin.com.
AUSTIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The high art part of the Live Music Capital of the Planet and its oldest performing group (since 1911). austinsymphony.org.
COMPLETE WEB RESOURCES Digital
marketing consultancy and web design firm. completewebresources.com. ENVIROMEDIA Headquartered in Austin,
EnviroMedia provides sustainability and health communications. Areas of focus include air, water, energy, waste, health, and alternative transportation. Certifications include: NGLCC Business Enterprise, B Corp, 1% for the Planet, GSA Contract Holder, CDC BPA. 2021 E. Fifth, enviromedia.com. FUN LOVING PHOTOS Count on Devaki Knowles
to capture your good side. 512-298-9249, devakiknowles@gmail.com, funlovingphotos.net. JEVIN STUDIOS LLC has a proven history of
BOUT TIME 2 Gay Bar in Austin, Texas. We are a dance club that happens to have a great happy hour following. Our diverse crowd loves a good party and we give it to them. 6607 N. IH-35, bouttime2.com. CAPITAL CITY MENS CHORUS Austin Texas’ premier men’s chorus for over a quarter century. 512-477-SING, ccmcaustin.org. CHEER UP CHARLIES LGBTQIA & friends
hangout space featuring live music, queer comedy, talent shows, karaoke, drag shows, happy hours and DJ dance parties! Local kombucha, artisan poptails and fresh-pressed juice cocktails. Queer/female-owned. 900 Red River, cheerupcharlies.com.
providing fresh, contemporary graphic design and video production packages for all media. Award-winning design and video production. trey@jevinstudios.com, jevinstudios.com.
CORAZON TANGUERO Tango classes, workshops,
OUTCAST, KOOP 91.7 FM Tune your FM to 91.7 every Tuesday at 6pm. info@outcast.com, outcastaustin.com.
HIGHLAND Austin’s premier gay lounge and nightclub located in the heart of downtown. 404 Colorado, highlandlounge.com.
POSTNET – FAR WEST Accessible and friendly shop for all your printing needs. 3571 Far West, 512-231-1321, postnet.com/austin-tx157.
THE IRON BEAR When the teddy bears leave the picnic, they hit up this favorite party spot. 121 W. Eighth, theironbear.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.
LESBUTANTE AND THE BOSS Social events
events, milonga (social dance parties), and performance. argentinetangoaustin@gmail.com, corazontanguero.com.
for women. lesbutanteandtheboss@gmail.com, lesbutanteandtheboss.blogspot.com. THE LONG CENTER The capital city’s performance art hub and home of Austin’s creative community. 512-474-5664, thelongcenter.org.
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MARKETPLACE 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. SELLERS UNDERGROUND An underground
cocktail lounge in the Warehouse District. 213 W. Fourth, 512-215-9491. SHIT-FACED SHAKESPEARE The deeply
highbrow fusion of an entirely serious Shakespeare play with an entirely shit-faced cast member. 617-315-8942, shit-facedshakespeare. com. SPLASH DAYS Music and dance event benefiting
the LGBT community. splashdays.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.
CRUNCH TAX SERVICES Bookkeeping, consulting, tax preparation and planning for individuals and businesses. 512-937-2776, service@crunchtax. com, crunchtax.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. MASSMUTUAL SOUTHWEST Chase Kincannon is a Chartered Financial Consultant as well as a Certified Life Underwriter offering a wide variety of insurance and financial services. Member and advocate of the GLBT community. 512-527-0671, ckincannon@financialguide.com. NRL MORTGAGE Nations Reliable Lending
is a national residential mortgage company headquartered out of Houston. terri.martin@ nrlmortgage. OVATION FINANCIAL SERVICES OFS manages loan origination, servicing, and default mitigation of tax lien assets owned by affiliated LP investment funds. ovationservicing.com. SECURITYNATIONAL MORTGAGE COMPANY
FINANCIAL ACTION PAWN Cash loans on anything of value! Great values on jewelry, tools, electronics and more! 1005-A S. Mays in Round Rock and 805 E. Rundberg Ln., actionpawnshops.com. 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 WEALTH DIVISION – LINDSEY LEAVERTON Specializing in a holistic, objective
approach to wealth management. 512-676-5564. lleaverton@bbandt.com.
Residential and commercial loans. 512-3290098, shawn.muncy@snmc.com, shawnmuncy. snational.com. ELLEN R. SHAFFER, CPA, LLC Ellen R Shaffer, MBA, CPA, CISA specializes in Internal Auditing for Small and Medium Sized Businesses. 512507-0062, ersiw@earthlink.net. WELLS FARGO ADVISORS, LLC A study in 2013 found that 86% of LGBT consumers feel they need financial education. Help me lower that statistic!! I earned my Accredited Domestic Partner Advisor certification to better serve our unique community with our unique challenges. 9442 N. Capital of Tx Hwy. Plaza One Ste. 700, 512-338-8038. WORTHPOINTE LLC – KERMIT JOHNS RFC
BITTEL BOOKS & TAXES From small business
accounting to individual tax and everything in between. 816-301-4538, hello@bittelbooks.com, bittelbooks.com. CFO SERVICES GROUP We are a boutique
managerial accounting firm, relieving the burdens of small businesses. We provide a onestop full-service accounting department for your small business. cfoservicesgroup.com, mcosme@ cfoservicesgroup.com. COMERICA BANK Personal finance and business banking. 3801 Bee Caves Rd., 512-329-5095 comerica.com.
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Financial planning and wealth management. 512-934-7001, kermit.johns@wpwm.com, worthpointeinvest.com.
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.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN Casual dining
restaurant specializing in California style pizza at Barton Creek Square Mall. 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy, 512-327-6905.
IN GOOD TASTE CATERING & DESIGN Make sure everyone leaves your shindig saying “Om-nomnom.� 512-825-7573, john@ingoodtaste-catering. com, ingoodtaste-catering.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.
MARY’S CAFE ATX Mary’s is a locally and gay
CILANTRO LIME Austin’s best resource for fresh
PATIKA COFFEE Wine and coffee on South
ingredients and curated recipes prepared and delivered directly to you. 2028 E. Ben White, cilantrolime.com.
owned cafe north west of campus on 32nd and Red River across the street from St. David’s Hospital. Open for breakfast and lunch 7 days a week. 512-334-9460, maryscafeatx.com. Lamar. 2159 S. Lamar, patikacoffee.com.
HEALTH/FITNESS
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.
ABSOLUTE DERMATOLOGY & MEDI-SPA
Comprehensive, state-of-the-art medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and dermatologic surgery treatments. 1103 Cypress Creek # 100, Cedar Park, 512-257-7600, absolutedermatology.com.
GUSTO ITALIAN KITCHEN + WINE BAR Delectable flavors of Italian cuisine. 4800 Burnet, 512-4581100, gustoitaliankitchen.com.
2015
AUSTI N G AY & LE S BIAN
EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD
The AGLCC is proud to have received the 2015 Excellence in Community Impact Award at the August 2015 National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Convention The AGLCC is a proud contractor of the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department.
Special thanks to our sponsors that continue making 2017 a success! City of Austin Titanium Sponsor: 97.5 PRIDE Radio Platinum Sponsor &YDFM (MPCBM 1BSUOFST t 0VUTNBSU 0GmDF 4PMVUJPOT Gold Sponsors: BB&T Wealth • Fowler Law Firm .BTT.VUVBM 4PVUIXFTU t 0JMDBO )BSSZ T Silver Sponsors $FDJM -PHJTUJDT t "NZ 3 $PPL $1" t ,FFQ "VTUJO 8FJSE )PNFT 0WBUJPO 'JOBODJBM 4FSWJDFT t 5IF 4UBHJOH (VZ Bronze Sponsors: "*4% $PNNVOJDBUJPOT BOE $PNNVOJUZ &OHBHFNFOU Adoption Advocates • Bill Dunham, Realtor @ Presidio Group Realtors • Bout Time 2 'SPU 7PELB t .BOPS 1IBSNBDZ t .VTDMF .BLFS 4NPPUIJF #BS BOE $BG� 3BJO PO UI t 5FYBT 3FUJSFNFOU 4ZTUFN PG 5FYBT t 5ISBTI -BX 'JSN %FOPUFT -(#5#& DFSUJmFE
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MARKETPLACE ACTIVATE AUSTIN The epicenter for holistic
AUSTIN QUEER YOGA COLLECTIVE Non-profit
energy healing and advanced spiritual training in the state of Texas and beyond. Backed by 3000+ years of healing tradition, our lineage yields the finest energy healing and empowerment modalities available in the world today. 5555 N. Lamar, activateaustin.com.
group of LGBTQIA+ yoga teachers, yoga therapists, and wellness practitioners located in the Central Texas area. Committed to providing yoga and wellness services at affordable rates to those in our community who are in need. austinqueeryoga.org.
APRIL O. OWEN, PSY.D., PSYCHOLOGIST Licensed
AUSTIN TENNIS CLUB For LGBT people who “love” to make a “racquet.” austintennisclub.com.
clinical psychologist providing individual, couples, and family therapy to adolescents and adults in South Austin. Specializing in working with the LGBTQ individuals, couples, and families. owenpsychology.com. AUSTIN GAY BASKETBALL LEAGUE Bounce balls.
Shoot hoops. Sign up to play, or come out and support. 512-814-6495, info@atxgbl.com, atxgbl.com. AUSTIN PrEP ACCESS PROJECT Educates the
community on HIV prevention strategies, provides medical care, and conducts public health research and advocacy. austinprepaccessproject.org.
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MARCY BELL, MA, LPC Licensed Professional
Counselor providing guidance and clinical expertise as you begin to understand yourself better in terms of emotional experiences, your thoughts and behaviors. marcybell.lpc@gmail. com, marcybell.net. BLACKBIRD FITNESS & NUTRITION Guides, directs, and mentors clients by providing complete nutrition and fitness assistance. blackbirdfitnessandnutrition.com. 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.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY BREAZEALE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER Bad back?
They can help, and have been for 20 years. 1515 Capital of Texas, S., Ste. 220, 512-328-3881, breazealechiropractic.com.
JOHN COOPER, MA, LPC Providing comprehensive psychotherapy services. 512656-9310, johncooperlpc@gmail.com. KRISTINA L JACKSON, LMT Deep tissue massage
benefits. 512-531-1407.
for pain and stress relief. 4534 Westgate #112, kristinajackson.massagetherapy.com.
CITY OF AUSTIN HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
LONE STAR LAMBDAS SQUARE DANCE CLUB
CIGNA CORPORATION Cigna supplemental
HIV counseling, testing, and outreach. 15 Waller, 512-972-5580, omar.lopez@austintexas.gov, austinhiv.com. COMPLETE FITNESS DESIGN Founded over 21 years ago as an alternative to the stereotypical, impersonal training services we so often see at gyms. andy@completefitnessdesign.com, completefitnessdesign.com. CYNTHIA NETTING COUNSELING Offering
Austin’s LGBT square dance club welcomes new and experienced square dancers to join us. 512418-1629, lonestarlambdas.org. LUMINARY COUNSELING Jennifer Williams, MA, LPC, LMFT. NCC provides qualified and affordable mental health services to Individuals, couples and families. Specializing in supporting LGBTQQIA individuals and relationships. 512677-5366, luminarycounseling.com.
psychotherapy to individuals and couples for depression, anxiety, and relationship issues (including polyamory). 3705 Medical Parkway, Suite 520, 512-658-5452, cynthianettingcounseling.com.
MANOR PHARMACY Specialty compound pharmacy serving Austin Texas, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Manor, Texas, offering delivery and personalized medication management. 512-642-8000, mymanorpharmacy.com.
DAVID BUTLER, MD Dr. Butler practices
MASSAGE THERAPY BY GINA Licensed
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. DEREK LEIGHTON, LMFT, LPC, NCC, CGP
Promotes “healthy sexuality” and a better outlook on life. 3534 Bee Caves #114, 512-6582960, leightontherapy.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
Massage Therapist, Medical Massage Therapist, Bodyworker, Fascial Stretch Therapist and Canine Massage Therapist. Specialized in Medical Massage and Deep Tissue Massage. A graduate of The Lauterstein-Conway Massage School and Clinic in Austin. massagetherapybygina@yahoo.com, 512-6625678. 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. MUSCLE MAKER SMOOTHIE BAR AND CAFÉ
Professional massage, facial and hair removal services 10526 W. Parmer Ln. and 4301 W. Wm. Cannon Bldg E, #230.
Providing guests with information and better lifestyle choices. Hand-crafted foods and drinks are complete products using the most natural and organic ingredients. 2020 W. Anderson Ln., mymusclemaker.com
HAUSMAN CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE
NORTHWEST COUNSELING & WELLNESS CENTER
HAND & STONE MASSAGE & FACIAL SPA
Your body can heal without the use of traditional medication. 8015 Shoal Creek, #110, 512-419-1000, drrobhausman@gmail.com, hausmanchiropractic.com. HISPANIC DENTAL ASSOCIATION Providing
service, education, advocacy, and leadership for elimination of oral health disparities in the Hispanic community. hdassoc.org. JEFF LUTES COUNSELING & CONSULTING, LLC
Psychotherapist in private practice with a specialty in helping LGBT couples. 512-4190600, contemporarycouples.com.
Mental health counseling and programming for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and combinations of these concerns. 512-236-5370, ncwcaustin.com. RUSS BOYD, MA, NCC, LPC Psychotherapist
working with the gay community. 512-632-4731, russboydcounseling.com. ASHLEY SMITHERMAN, DDS Always keeping up
with current trends and innovations in dentistry. Member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and Texas Dental Association. 4631 Airport, 512-337-1962. SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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MARKETPLACE 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.
BROOKS WATSON Benefits advisory firm offering
wait on-deck at their turn to bat more than just eyelids. softballaustin.org.
group health benefits, medical, dental, life, disability, 401k, individual health, individual life. PPACA Certified. P.O. Box 302710, brooks@ bwatsonbenefits.com.
SYNERGY PLASTIC SURGERY Mahlon Kerr,
THE BROWN INSURANCE GROUP Caring
SOFTBALL AUSTIN Players of all expertise levels
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. TEXAS OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE & PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES TOPPS is committed
to meeting the unique needs of our clients seeking to improve athletic, social, academic, and professional performance. 512-910-5363, txopps. com. US HEALTH ADVISORS Customizing health insurance plans that offer three-year premium lock, zero deductible at an affordable rate. 512450-2054, ushadvisors.com. VIOLET CROWN COUNSELING Affordable, expert,
accepting therapy for our community. 907 W. Mary, violetcrowncounsling.com. 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. THE WRIGHT HOUSE WELLNESS CENTER
about you as a person, not a policy number. Home/Renters, Auto, Life & Retirement, and Commercial/Business Insurances. Ask about our special HRC discounts! Are you satisfied enough with your current agent to get a second opinion? 512-523-4002 x101, milnea1@nationwide.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.
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. AMERICAN GATEWAYS Free and low-cost legal
services and education to promote justice for immigrants and refugees in Central Texas . 512478-0546, americangateways.org. LAW OFFICE OF JESSICA BERNSTEIN Full-service
criminal defense law practice serving Austin and surrounding areas. 404 W. 13th, atxcrimdefense. com. 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.
Working to improve the lives of those living with, affected by, or at-risk for HIV and Hep C. 512-467-0088, thewrighthouse.org.
OFFICE OF SUZANNE BRYANT Helping Texas
ZYGMONT CHIROPRACTIC CENTER ...because EVERYONE should feel their best! 4036 S. Lamar, Ste. 600, 512-442-7400.
CAPPS LAW FIRM It’s all about family – and keeping it legal. 7718 Wood Hollow, Ste. 205, 512-338-9800, cappslawfirm.com.
INSURANCE ALLSTATE INSURANCE Home, Auto, Commercial,
Investments and Life Insurance. 9415 Burnet #102, ipunjwani@allstate.com.
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BRITTON & BRITTON Local allies service all your insurance needs at the best possible rate. 512334-6330, 512insurance.com.
T HE AGENDA | SPRI NG 2017
LGBT families’ secure legal protection since 1995. 512-476-4760, suzannebryantlaw.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.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY 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. CHA LAW GROUP, PC Helping people make babies! Family lawyers experienced in LGBT legal issues including reproductive law, adoption, divorce, wills and estate planning. 2003 S. Lamar, 512-394-4230. STEFANIE COLLINS, ATTORNEY AT LAW Full
service criminal defense practitioner providing exceptional, experienced service to the LGBT community. 512-784-8550, stfcollins@gmail.com.
JORGESON PITTMAN, LLP A law firm that understands the unique challenges that members of the LGBT community face on a daily basis. 512-320-0999, jptexaslaw.com. 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. TEXAS LEGAL SERVICES CENTER Offering a variety of free legal services and hotlines throughout the state of Texas including Legal Aid for Survivors of Sexual Assault, and a hotline answered directly by trained attorneys. 512-4776000, TLSC.org.
DE LEON & WASHBURN, PC Austin law firm providing an array of legal services including commercial litigation, insurance law, administrative law, business transaction law, and more. 512-478-5308, dwlawtx.com.
ERIC M. WILLIE, P.C. Providing comprehensive services when you need a family law attorney, child custody lawyer, divorce attorney and more. ewillie@williedasherlaw.com.
LAW OFFICE OF KELLEY J. DWYER It’s your
JAMES WOOD, ATTORNEY AT LAW Car wreck and serious injury attorney. 512-692-9266.
estate. It’s your business. Make sure they are protected, legally. 9442 Capital of Texas, Ste 500159, 512-343-3630, dwyerlawaustin.com. EVANS LAW GROUP Family law practice
providing thorough and comprehensive family law services in the most simple to the most complex family law matters. 512-736-8308, jimmy@evansflg.com, evansfamilylawgroup.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. THRASH LAW FIRM Probate and estate planning with an emphasis on trusts. 512-2635400, jan@thrashlawfirm.com. 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.
LODGING HILTON AUSTIN Dedicated to delivering signature service along with high tech conveniences and local charm. With 800 guest rooms, 25 suites, 80,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, two on-site restaurants, coffee shop featuring grab-and-go snacks and pastries, and full service health club and spa, this is the ideal place for business and leisure travelers alike. 500 E. Fourth, 512-6822826. HOTEL ELLA Stylish boutique hotel with 47 guest
rooms and 3,000 sq ft of event space. 1900 Rio Grande. 512-495-1800, hotelella.com. HYATT PLACE AUSTIN NORTH CENTRAL
Contemporary hotel located just 4.7 miles from the University of Texas at Austin and 5.6 miles from the Texas State Capitol. 7522 N. IH-35, 512-323-2121. 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.
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MARKETPLACE PETS
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.
PAWS AND MORE Bonded and insured professional dog walking, pet, and house sitting service. Providing peace of mind when you are on vacation or working late, our services are designed to make your time away from home as easy on your pet as possible, staying in their own environment while you are away! PO Box 92082, info@pawsandmoresitters.com.
perfect home to fit clients needs and desires. 512-940-1886, bdunham.com.
WONDERCIDE Pesticide with a safe-for-pets
CENTURY 21 RANDALL MORRIS & ASSOCIATES
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.
REAL ESTATE JEFF ARNOLD – PRIVATE LABEL REALTY 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.realtor@gmail.com.
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BLAIRFIELD REALTY Locally-owned boutique
T HE AGENDA | SPRI NG 2017
BILL DUNHAM, REALTOR AT PRESIDIO GROUP REALTORS Diligence and intuition in finding the
Residential and commercial land and multifamily real estate. Offices located in San Marcos, Buda, New Braunfels, and Wimberley. randallmorris.com. THE GILL AGENCY Residential realtor for buyers,
sellers, leasers and investors. 512-413-0239, mia@thegillagency.com, thegillagency.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.
AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY GOODLIFE LUXURY REAL ESTATE With his innate ability to understand his clients needs, extensive knowledge of real estate, market knowledge, and his network of contacts come together to help Rick add value to each transaction with a full range of services. 512-902-0883, rick@goodlife. luxury.
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.
TROY HANNA – PRESIDIO Representing the realty interests of Austin’s LGBT community for over a decade. 1701 W. Koenig, 512-659-7093.
KATE WARD – TEAM PRICE REAL ESTATE Your
JACOBS & MIKESKA REALTORS We pledge to be
in constant communication with our clients, keeping them fully informed throughout the entire buying or selling process. 512-462-1866, jacobsandmikeska.com. KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD HOMES Offering unique
solutions for unique situations deep in the weird li’l heart of Texas. 512-297-3442, theresa@ keepaustinweirdhomes.com, keepaustinweirdhomes.com. JAK KESTERSON Residential Interior Design Jak Kesterson is an interior designer serving Austin, Houston and the Washington DC metro areas. 703-655-5044, jak1948@msn.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. ROBERT M. PROSSER – MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams is a
full service home design company offering complimentary design service to its purchasing clients. Sound design assistance including space planning, fabric and finish selection, window treatments, area rug/wall-to-wall flooring solutions. 310-902-0836, robert.prosser@ mgbwhome.com. DARIAN RAUSCH, REALTOR From “Urban
to Suburban,” Darian Rausch of Keller Williams Realty is your Williamson County residential specialist. 512-6630-5826, darian@ urbantosuburban.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. SKY REALTY Full-time Austin Realtor assisting
buyers, sellers, and renters. 724-321-0741, skyrealty.com.
smart, helpful partner for buying or selling a home. 512-771-4931, kateward@kw.com, katewardrealty.com.
RETAIL/FASHION CAPRA & CAVELLI Premier Austin clothing
for men and women, helping customers look fantastic since 1995. capracavelli.com. COSTCO WHOLESALE Since day one we have
had an unwavering commitment to doing the right thing for our members, our employees, our suppliers and our communities. 4301 W. Wm. Cannon, w641mk06@costco.com, 512-382-3178. END OF AN EAR RECORDS Independent record
store established in 2005 carrying a large selection of vinyl, CDs, DVDs, VHS, and audio equipment. 4304 Clawson Rd., 512-462-6008, endofear.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. LUXURY AUTO WORKS Experienced shop
designed to help fulfill all of your luxury car repair and service needs in the Austin area. luxuryautoworks.com, info@luxuryautoworks.com. PRIDE SOCKS Rainbow striped tube, athletic, casual/business socks, shirts and hats. 832-4289860, pridesocks.com. SHORTCUTS WIG BOUTIQUE Wig store proudly
serving Georgetown, Austin, and surrounding areas. 512-819-6857, shortcutswigboutique.com. SOUTH CONGRESS BOOKS Used, collectible, vintage, and unique books and paper. 1608 S. Congress, 512-916-8882, southcongressbooks.com.
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MARKETPLACE SERVICES
CITY OF AUSTIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT Cultural arts, music, international
A-ONE ELECTRIC Full “circuit” of residential and commercial electrical services. 512-497-1513, aoneelectric@hotmail.com, aoneelectricaustin.com.
and emerging technology programs. 512-9747819, austintexas.gov/department/economicgrowth.
ADOPTION ADVOCATES, INC. 5511 Parkcrest, Ste. 210, 512-477-1122, rory@adoptionadvocates. net, adoptionadvocates.net.
CLEARENT INTELLIGENT PROCESSING Credit Card
AGLCC TOASTMASTERS Build confidence and improve your public speaking/communication skills. aglcc.org/toastmasters.
CLEMENT’S PAINT & DECORATING INC. Locally owned and operated paint store serving the Austin community since 1986. 1211 W. 6th #900, clementspaint.com.
ASAKURA ROBINSON COMPANY Enhances
Processing. Merchant Services. 512-825-3575. psharp@clearent.com.
environments and positively impacts communities through innovation, engagement, stewardship, and an integrated planning and design process. 512-351-9601, asakurarobinson.net.
COLLIER STREET CREATIVE Freelance writer
ATRIA AT THE ARBORETUM An active lifestyle
boutique consulting firm that helps public and private organizations build accessible and inclusive environments where all people feel valued, respected and inspired. 512-289-3636, DLB@darrenbatesllc.com, darrenbatesllc.com.
senior living center with spectacular views and upscale amenities. 512-346-4900, atriaseniorliving.com/atria-at-the-arboretumaustin-tx/. 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. CARMEN BUCK PHOTOGRAPHY Every story
matters. Save this precious time of your life. 512920-2825, carmenbuckphotography.com. CÉBÉ IT & KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT LLC
Information and knowledge management. 7118 Las Ventanas, 281/460-3595, cebe-itkm.com. 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. CITY OF AUSTIN SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Assistance and
business solutions to emerging small businesses. 512-974-7800, austintexas.gov/department/ small-business-development-program.
and editor Paige Schilt thrives on helping people and organizations tell their stories. collierstreetcreative.com. DARREN BATES, LLC Darren Bates, LLC is a
DRINK SLINGERS TABC certified event bartenders for hire in Austin, Texas. drinkslingersatx.com. EMERGENT GROUP Offering solutions to companies dealing with recycling electronic assets. 512-832-6959, emergentdeals.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. GARBO A SALON AND SPA Eclectic, colorful,
urban salon ready to serve you with professional, cutting edge art-work that expresses you, not a clone. Garbo is an eco-friendly, Austin Green Salon open seven days a week. 7739 Northcross Suite K-L, 512-458-4162. GAYBORHOOD App to find gay friendly
businesses nationwide. gayborhood.com. GIRLS ROCK AUSTIN Nonprofit dedicated to empowering girls and women of all backgrounds and abilities through musical education and performance. girlsrock@girlsrockaustin.org, girlsrockaustin.org. GOOGLE FIBER fiber.google.com.
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AGLCC MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY 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.
THE REUSE PEOPLE Saving the planet one building at a time. Through deconstruction and salvage, TRP channels building materials back into the marketplace at its network of retail outlets. 512-378-0100, kathyrobinson@ thereusepeople.org.
HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE We help customers use technology to slash the time it takes to turn ideas into value. In turn, they transform industries, markets and lives. hpe.com.
SEEDLINGS GARDENING Full service landscaping
JAMES MATTHEW DESIGN Residential and commercial interior design services in the Austin area. 512-900-5507, jamesmatthewdesign.com.
SEND OUT CARDS Custom greeting cards to
JANA BIRCHUM PHOTO & VIDEO Professional photographer and video producer specializing in visual storytelling for the web. 512-297-7821, janab@janabirchum.com.
THE SMB HELP DESK We are an organization that knows business and technology. thesmbhelpdesk.com.
LOVE WINS TEXAS WEDDINGS Comprehensive
and commercial property staging service. Also provides residential staging decor/artwork items for rent to local stagers and interior designers.
and beautiful as the finest bridal/wedding titles, yet focused exclusively on the 500,000-plus LGBT residents who call the Lone Star State home. info@lovewinstexas.com, lovewinstexas.com. MAMMOTH RECRUITING Focusing on finding candidates for full-time, direct-hire positions in administrative, human resources, marketing, sales, accounting, and financial roles. mammothrecruiting.com. NANCY AMOS, VOICE ACTOR Voice over actor. 512-626-4878, nancy_amos.icanvoice.com. OUTSMART OFFICE SOLUTIONS, INC. Over 15 years of experience helping companies find smart solutions to start, move and grow! 888-688-8154, outsmartofficesolutions.com PARAGON SCIENCE, INC. Offering a broad range
and gardening company born and raised in Austin. 512-294-0064, seedlingsgardining@gmail. com, seedlingsgardening.com. get your business noticed. 512-789-0267, getcardedonline.com.
SOUGHT + FOUND MERCANTILE Residential
SPEEDPRO IMAGING NORTH AUSTIN Your partner for quality and extreme-resolution printed media. 512-990-1400, speedproaustin. com. SPIRIT TRUCKING LLC B2B freight & courier
deliveries, residential deliveries. 512-410-5326, darci@spirittruckingllc.com. SOLARCITY America’s #1 full-service solar provider. We make clean energy available to homeowners, businesses, schools, non-profits and government organizations at a lower cost than they pay for energy generated by burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural gas. gkrizin@ solarcity.com, solarcity.com.
software, research, and data mining services for both government and commercial applications. 512-569-9760, paragonscience.com.
STEVEN TOMLINSON Strategic communications consultant for Fortune 500 companies. st@ steventomlinson.com, steventomlinson.com.
POWER OF TWO PROMOTIONS Your promotional
TEXAS BEST FOOD SERVICES TRAINING Texas
product concierge, putting YOUR logo on stuff: business gifts, printing, screen printing, embroidered apparel, and promotional products (swag). 512-872-5000, Buy.PTwoPromo.com.
Food Handler Cards. $7.95 TABC Certifications. Texas Food Manager Training and Exams. Totally LGBT owned and operated. 469-3530696, texas-food-handler.com.
RAINBOW SPECTRUM MEDIA Screen printing
TKO HEATING & AIR Sales, service, repair, installation, and maintainenance all major brands of residential and light commercial heating and air conditioning equipment. 512-219-0289, tkoheatingandairaustin.com.
and embroidery of t-shirts, polo shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, bags, and accessories. 512-762-3794, rsm-apparel.com. RANCH AUSTIN WEDDING VENUE Premier wedding and events venue located in southwest Austin. 10313 Circle Dr., info@ranchaustin.com, ranchaustin.com.
U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Range
of services to small businesses including training, certification and funding. sba.gov.
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THE ZENITH BUSINESS Business coaching to
entrepreneurs and executives who want to increase their power, productivity and profit. 512-553-2927, janet@thezenithbusiness.com.
TRAVEL
STARWOOD CUSTOMER CONTACT CENTER
Starwood’s Austin Customer Contact Center offers exciting culture, both in the many diverse associates who work there and in its variety of career opportunities. starwoodhotelsccc.com/ austin/.
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
center for the Palm Beaches. 201 N. Dixie, Lake Worth, Florida, 561-533-9699, compassglcc.com. KEY WEST BUSINESS GUILD & THE GAY KEY WEST VISITOR CENTER Promoting Gay Key West
to LGBTQA travelers. 305-294-4603, 800-5357797, events@gaykeywestfl.com, gaykeywestfl. com, kwbgonline.org.
Advertising in is easy and affordable! Contact 512-761-LBGT (5428) or advertising@austinagenda.com to learn more.
SPECIALIZING IN SERVING THE UNIQUE NEEDS OF SMALL BUSINESSES, NON-PROFITS AND SPECIAL EVENTS.
512.93 4.80 88 | A R T D I VAC R E AT I V E . CO M | AU S T I N , T E X A S
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SNAPS!
BY SHANNON MANTROM
Capital City Men’s Chorus Holiday Memories Concert
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You know from the first notes of any CCMC concert you’re in for a treat, but this season’s Holiday Memories concert brought with it an exceptional whirlwind of sound and color. From the opener, “Santa, Won’t You Please Come Back?” with Mrs. Claus (Mark Flores) teasing Santa’s elves, to the closer, “The Aluminum Xmas Tree” as personified by Austin Powell, the entire concert was a festive celebration of the holiday season. The only somber moments came when chorus president, David Nielsen, addressed the audience in the sanctuary of University Baptist Church saying, “When I am here I am aware I am a gay man singing in a Baptist church.” Grateful the church opened its doors to the chorus, he finished with, “Together, we can change the world.” The other moment? Artistic Director Jeffrey JonesRagona stated, “We will continue to sing and be a voice for the gay community in Austin and beyond,” an inference to the presidential election just three weeks prior.
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1. (L-R) Austin Powell (AGLCC), Jeffrey Jones-Ragona, Adam Milne. 2. CCMC President David Nielsen. 3. Austin Powell in his tour de force role as “The Aluminum Xmas Tree.”4. (L-R) Liz Baloutine (Seedlings Gardening), Zach Rodriguez, Saundra Ragona (chorus Volunteer Coordinator and mother of Artistic Director), and Jane Denson. 5. Mrs. Claus, played by Mark Flores, flirting with Santa’s elves. 6. “Christmas Can-can” performed by The 7-Ups. 6
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SNAPS!
MECA Annual Holiday Party It’s always a festive evening when the MECA (Multi-Ethnic Chamber Alliance) gets together to celebrate the holidays. On a rather cold Thursday, December 8th, members of the Hispanic, Asian, Black, and gay chambers partied on the recently-expanded, enclosed patio of Casa Chapala enjoying a buffet of nachos and tacos while sipping on Prickly Pear margaritas. The highlight of the night? The group hug of the leaders of all four minority chambers.
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1. United we stand: MECA Presidents and CEOs (L-R) Edgar Gierbolini (AGLCC), Marina Ong Bhargava (Asian Chamber), Tam Hawkins (Black Chamber), Mark Madrid (Hispanic Chamber). 2. (L-R) Marco Mancillas, Excelina, Cid Galindo. 3. We’ve got each other’s backs – literally! Chamber leaders feelin’ the love. 4. Stacie Holt (Green Eye Studio) and Austin Powell (AGLCC). 5. Stephen Shortnancy and Paola Aguillon-Brasher of Corazon Tanguero show off their best moves. SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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SNAPS!
Grand Opening Garbo Salon and Spa East Thursday, December 8th saw the grand opening of the Shore District location of Garbo Salon and Spa, an Aveda salon. Guests were greeted with custom cocktails and delectable apps from Mour CafÊ & Pantry. The event was also a fundraiser for Con Mi Madre, an organization promoting secondary education for young Latinas. $100-plus baskets of Aveda products were raffled off each hour. Full disclosure: your Snaps diva here won the first basket! It’s all in my secret ticket-folding technique.
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1-2. Ready to cut the ribbon! (L-R) Sonya Gonzalez, Stephanie Worrell, Dusty McCormick (COA Business Development), Jonathan Jones, Marsha Power, Xavier Zarate, Shasi Wilson, Sylnovia HoltRabb (COA Business Development). 3. Stephanie Worrell, Director of Salon Development. 4. G3 Artists (L-R) Brianna James, Adria Cogar, Jenna Chisholm. 5. Todd Hogan (PR for Con Mi Madre) and Marsha Power (Owner, Garbo Salon). 6. Kevin Lipscomb and Tess Cain, Salon Coordinator, holding one of the four raffle baskets.
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SNAPS! Closing out the year in style, SoCo Women’s Chorus graced Ballet Austin’s Venture Studio Theatre with an elegant concert that featured a performance-within-aperformance by Austin Children’s Choir. Per tradition, Artistic Director Janey Hall invited chorus alums to join in the encore singing of “An Irish Blessing” inviting Irish Consul General and good friend to the chorus, Adrian Farell, to the stage.
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1. Artistic Director Janey Hall beaming over her choristers. 2. Austin Children’s Choir singing “Winter Fantasy.” 3. (L-R) Janey Hall, Janet McCullar (Board Chair), Skippy Tull (Co-President). 4. The mutual admiration is obvious between these two! Adrian Farell and Janey Hall.
Women’s Alliance for Leadership Annual Banquet PHOTOS COURTESY OF RACHELLE DIAZ
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The Women’s Alliance for Leadership (WAL) came together to honor Texas LGBTQ women luminaries on December 10th at the University area Doubletree Hotel. Empowering speakers, presentations, and awardees made for a truly inspiring evening. 2
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1. Event emcee Carlos Platero. 2. “Most Inspiring” award recipients Nicole Dimetman and Cleopatra De Leon. 3. Remembering the Pulse Nightclub victims. 4. Ayesha Newell, Rev. Carmarion Anderson, and Mia Parton (WAL Founder) flank “Community Advocacy” awardees Sarah Goodfriend and Suzanne Bryant. SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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SNAPS!
“Bye, Felicia” NYE at Casa Loco Let’s face it: overall 2016 sucked big-time with the loss of major voices like David Bowie, Prince, and George Michael and culminating in the election of a president and vice president with an agenda to roll back the great progress made by the LGBT community over the last 8 years. With these losses and tragedies in mind, alongside a few personal ones, Keith Waldon (Owner, Departure Lounge) invited friends to his home Casa Loco in Driftwood to, quite literally, throw 2016 in the fire and say “Bye, Felicia” to our collective annus horibilis.
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1. Cookies to eat the blues away. 2. Smell ya later, 2016! Midnight toast. 3. Party hosts (L-R) Darla Stewart, Keith Waldon, Alonna Sonnier, and Stephanie Edmondson. 4. Patrick Hernandez and Casey Jordan. 5. AGLCC President and CEO Edgar Gierbolini strikes a commanding pose behind the sumptuous mahogany desk in the home office.
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SNAPS!
Jimmy Flannigan’s Inauguration Not all election news was gloomy last November. Both Austin and the AGLCC had great cause to celebrate with the victory of Jimmy Flannigan, former president of the chamber, as the new District 6 council member. On a bitterly cold Friday, January 6th, supporters of the new city council gathered at City Hall to witness the inauguration of the newly-elected city council members. After being inducted, the mayor called the council to its first meeting of the year – more a fun gesture of welcome than a standard council meeting. The greatest laugh of the evening came when Jimmy interrupted Mayor Adler (during the voting process to retain Council Member Kathie Tovo as Mayor Pro-Tem) saying, “Since I understand it’s customary for the D6 council member to interrupt, I offer my full-throated endorsement for Council Member Tovo,” (a reference to former District 6 council member, Don Zimmerman, noted for his vocal opposition to most council proposals).
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After the inauguration, it was a bitingly brisk walk two blocks north to an after-party called “The Ball” at Den Property Group. The cocktails flowed and the apps by Alfred’s Catering simply heightened the joy of all gathered celebrating Austin’s first openly gay city council member. Continue to make us proud, Jimmy!
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1. Great pomp with the playing of The Star Spangled Banner kicking off the inauguration of the newest city council members. 2. Mayor Steve Adler congratulates District 6 City Council member Jimmy Flannigan as he steps up to take the oath of office. 3. First council meeting of the year with Jimmy assuming his seat on the dais. 4. Celebrating Jimmy in the City Hall atrium (L-R): Sweet Gwendolyn, Marissa Grace Johnson, and Hunter Bodin. 6. Jimmy and his campaign manager, Alison Heinrich. SP R I N G 2 0 1 7 | A G L C C . O R G
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New in 2017! A little training with your social...
Feb. 16 Apr. 20 Jun. 15 Aug. 17 Oct. 19 Go to aglcc.org/events for more info! 56
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Austin's fittest
BY SHANNON MANTROM PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANA BIRCHUM
Lindsay Leaverton, Wealth Advisor and Singer-songwriter bbandt.com | See listing on p. 42
BB&T vice president and private wealth advisor by day, singer-songwriter by night. Mother to twin toddlers. Proud lesbian. A darling of the LGBT community for her positivity, stage presence, talent and incredible sense of humor, Lindsey Leaverton is a force of nature — someone who leaves you feeling better about yourself after just a few minutes in her presence. To be this talented and unstoppable, she needs to be in great shape. You’re pursuing CrossFit training. What is it you’ve learned about your physical and mental strengths and limitations with this program? There was always an inner badass living inside me somewhere who was resilient, strong and brave. I found her. And it’s high time she was let out. For me, I’ve found that it’s mostly a mind game — which thought will I choose in this moment? That choice determines how my life is going to play out.
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As a mom of two very active toddlers, what advice would you give to another working mom who’s looking at taking her workout up a notch through CrossFit? My advice would be to keep it simple. Find something that works for you. Work smarter, not harder. That may involve CrossFit, kickboxing or underwater basket weaving for all I care. Just do something. You are not a machine. You are a human be-ing, not a human do-ing. Be healthy. Be happy. Be a positive role model for your kids because they are watching your every move. The more time we make for self-care, the more our children will see the value of taking care of themselves, too. Thank you, Lindsey, for being an inspiration to other moms out there who feel like they must be all things to all people. We appreciate you keeping it all in perspective, and keeping your family at the center of why you do all you do without losing you in the process. To reach the BB&T Lindsey, see page 41 in the Marketplace section. To hear singer-songwriter Lindsey, search “Elle G” on soundcloud.com or follow her on Facebook at Elle G Productions.