O&AN April 2011

APRIL 2011

VOLUME 10 I ISSUE 4

RIDE OF YOUR LIFE NASHVILLE REPRESENTS IN

AIDS/LIFECYCLE, THE WORLD'S LARGEST AIDS/HIV FUNDRAISER

A BEAUTIFUL ROUTINE:

NASHVILLE BALLET FINISHES 25TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON IN STYLE

ON GLEE AND GAGA:

OUR INTERVIEW WITH HOLLYWOOD DANCER MIKE MUNICH

THE REEL THING:

NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL FEATURES MINI GLBT FESTIVAL

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TPAC’s Jackson Hall tpac.org/youngfrankenstein • 615-782-4040 TPAC Box Office (Downtown or inside The Mall at Green Hills) Groups of 10 or more call 615-782-4060

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RIDE OF YOUR LIFE Largest annual worldwide HIV/AIDS fundraising event features representation from Music City

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

Nick Davis and Ben Stix

Bradley Pinson and Kristin Keiper

This year’s AIDS/LifeCycle, the world’s largest annual HIV/AIDS fundraising event, will have a local connection. Four Nashville residents--Ben Stix, Nick Davis, Bradley Pinson and Kristin Keiper---are devoting the first half of 2011 to preparations for the 7-day bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

The event, co-produced by the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, is designed to advance their shared interest to end the pandemic and human suffering caused by AIDS. Riders travel 545 miles through California’s most beautiful countryside over seven days. The lengthy excursion draws attention to the event’s twin goals: to increase awareness and knowledge about the services and programs offered by the benefiting organizations, and to increase awareness and knowledge about HIV/ AIDS. More than 2,400 participants were involved in last year’s AIDS/LifeCycle: the 1,925 cyclists and 500 volunteer “roadies,” ranging in age form 18 to 82 and hailing from nearly every state and eight countries. Since its inception in 2002, AIDS/LifeCycle has raised $70 million to support HIV/AIDS services.

Gabriel Stix, a physician from Maryland, is a three-year veteran of the event, and sons Ben and Gabe joined him in the journey last year. Wife Helen and daughter Katie acted as roadies, turning LifeCycle into a family affair for the Stix clan. Their fundraising efforts raised over $9,000 for the San

Francisco AIDS foundation last year.

Ben, a server at Wild Cow Restaurant in East Nashville, first became involved as a way to further strengthen his relationship with his father. Heartened by the triumphant spirit of his fellow travelers, his perspective shifted.

“Last year my main motive to ride was to accomplish this feat with my father,” Stix remembers. “We’d spend a week in California on a bike with the beautiful scenery, and then as an added bonus, I get to do something really good for people who need help.

This year, after I realized how much good the ride did, I am doing it for the cause, and to be part of that community again.”

Even the most physically fit participants, slogging through the long and arduous climb, can get worn out by their exertions. To boost their spirits, speakers at each campsite offer encouragement and entertainment. This camaraderie among volunteers can be a vital source of inspiration.

“Everyone there turns into a family, and it actually gives me a little more faith in humanity,” Stix says.

“While on the ride I feel like we were in this bubble of greatness and strength that isn’t part of the rest of the world.”

Stix’s enthusiasm for the event prompted friend and fellow employee, Nick Davis, to sign up for the 2011 edition. Davis, who only began biking last year, has embarked on a regiment training program built to produce maximum results.

He admits that the process, equal parts physical trial and charity appeal, require toughness and resolve.

Out of that commitment springs an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

“This is the perfect way to experience California, by riding along the coast on a bike in great weather,” he says. “I’ve always had an affinity for San Francisco. My aunt lives there and I’ve been out to California a few times.

During last year’s ride, it’s estimated that more than 1,000 people in the United States and 50,000 people around the world were infected with HIV. These numbers demonstrate that, despite education and prevention programs throughout the United States, the disease remains a major issue.

“I think people write off HIV so easily,” Davis explains. “Random people have come up to me and say ‘Oh, there’s a cure for the disease somewhere,’ but there are so many that are suffering and who don’t have the resources to treat their symptoms. We have to continue to fight until we have a cure.”

Both Stix and Davis have a personal blog on the website that contains a status bar and updates on their progress. The minimum donation for each rider is $3,000, and both have begun the fundraising process by visiting businesses around Nashville.

To donate, access their individual pages at www.tofighthiv.org. At press time, they are each about halfway towards reaching their goal and must meet the requirement by June 1.

More on Brad and Kristin on page 6

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APRIL 2011

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee wins two ADDY awards

Organization to be honored by American Advertising Federation Nashville on Feb. 19

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

liaison for the Brooks Fund. “Brooks Fund is there to build bridges between the An important voice for Middle Tennessee’s GLBT population since 1995, The straight community and the GLBT community, and the book represents all of these Brooks Fund of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee is now being woven tapestries. It’s like a scrapbook. It was a fun project, but it gave a meaning to recognized for their consistently excellent contributions to the marketing and what we’re doing in the community.” advertising fields.

The Community Foundation website includes The Brooks Fund won the American Advertising individual stories and photos of those effected by the flood.

Federation Nashville’s ADDY Award for their 2009 Annual To date, the organization has contributed flood relief grants Report. The award was bestowed in the Public Service/ totaling $5.48 million to more than 100 organizations.

Collateral category for Best Non-Profit Annual Report.

McDaniel hopes that the twin honors by the AAF will The Brooks Fund encourages the inclusion, acceptance serve as a springboard for the Brooks Fund in 2011. The and recognition of Middle Tennessee’s lesbian and gay organization continues to clarify its vision to best meet the citizens by supporting a variety of non-profit programs in needs of the community.

Middle Tennessee that benefit the GLBT community. The “The board just had their first annual meeting and a organization strives to bridge the gap between the GLBT retreat to set goals for this year,” he says. “We’ve been community and the city at large. around for 17 years, and even though people might know The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee also The Sens are one of many Middle Tennessee families whose homes were damaged by last spring's flooding. Their story is featured in a little about what we do, we’ve never really had precise earned an award for the best New Paper Insert Marketing "Trying Times...Trying Harder: Flood Recovery Update and More," branding. That’s what we’re going to be working on. With for the flood piece “Trying Times...Trying Harder: Flood an insert marketing piece by The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee that recently won an ADDY Award. this award for our annual report, it’s helped to step back Recovery Update and More.”

Their entry into the competition features a summary of the community’s response and figure out what Brooks Fund is and what we do.”

To remain relevant in the city’s crowded business culture, the Brooks Fund is to last spring’s flooding in Middle Tennessee. The piece also explored ongoing flood seeking out new channels to spread their message. This effort will ensure that the relief efforts and provided important resources for flood victims.

“The team thought it was so unique that they suggested it be put in front of the Middle Tennessee area is made aware of their philanthrophic focus and the abundant opportunities available to non-profit organizations.

American Advertising Federation,” says Michael McDaniel, non-profit/endowment

WILLIAM EGGLESTON P H O T O G R A P H S

Through May 1, 2011 Downtown Nashville

615-244-3340

fristcenter.org

William Eggleston: Anointing the Overlooked is organized by the Frist Center for the Visual Arts and was made possible by loans from the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, the Eggleston Artistic Trust, Winston Eggleston, and Howard Read, Cheim and Read Gallery, New York, and the David Lusk Gallery, Memphis. Image: William Eggleston. Untitled (Huntsville, Alabama), 1970. Dye-transfer print, 20 x 16 in. Edition of 20. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Memphis, TN; Eugenia Buxton Whitnel Funds 76.6.9. © Eggleston Artistic Trust. Courtesy Cheim & Read, New York

FC257_Mrr_Eggleston_OutAndAbout.indd 1

1/24/11 1:09:36 PM

APRIL 2011

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Fight for your rights

Tennessee Equality Project celebrates seventh annual Advancing Equality Day on the Hill

by O&AN STAFF REPORTS

Encouraged by the turnout from the LGBT community and The Tennessee Equality Project’s seventh annual their allies, longtime activists say the time is now to spread the Advancing Equality Day on the Hill featured appearances word about equality. from two women relatively new to the world of political “We’ve been here from the beginning, and we want to stand activism. Their unlikely turns in the spotlight have now up and make our voices heard,” said Marisa Richmond, president further inspired Tennesseans to take up the organization’s of the Tennessee Transgender Political Coalition. “Of course chief causes. we would like to pass pro-equality legislation, but with the way Carol Ann Stutte was on a visit to Nashville last the government is now, we want to stop anti-equality legislation September with partner Laura Stutte when their home was from moving forward as well.” burned to the ground in an alleged hate crime. They returned For those who might feel intimidated by reaching out to their to find the word “queers” had been spray painted on the side representatives, Richmond encourages them to press forward so of their garage. The couple’s struggle continues six months that progress can be made on both the state and local levels. later: their insurance company has so far failed to reimburse “(My) experiences have been mostly good,” she said. “There them for the damage, and they’ve recently filed a lawsuit are some legislators who don’t want to hear your message, but against the next-door neighbor they believe set the fire. most are polite and are at least willing to listen. If we identify Lisa Howe, former Belmont women’s soccer coach, was someone that is hostile, then we work to get those individuals out fired last December just days after informing her team that her of office.” same-sex partner was expecting their first child. Her abrupt Carol Ann Stutte, whose home was burned down in an alleged Bills of special interest during this session include one dismissal drew national attention and led the university to hate crime last September, speaks at Tennessee Equality Project's amend their non-discrimination policy last month. seventh annual Advancing Equality Day on the Hill. that would impede the progress of Nashville’s Contract Accountability Non-Discrimination Ordinance.Proposed by Both women shared their deeply personal stories at the Rep. Glen Casada of Williamson County, The Equal Access to Local Government event’s morning meeting hosted by Rymer Gallery. Led by TEP Chairman Jonathan Contracts and Services Act offers that employment standards should define the Cole, the meeting served to educate participants about their important role in shaping following as protected classes: race, creed, color, religion, sex, age and national origin. the political landscape. For the rest of the event, participants met with politicians to discuss legislation related to equality issues.

Read more at outandaboutnewspaper.com

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APRIL 2011

Music City Queens of Country Two supporters of Nashville’s GLBT community participate in AIDS Lifecycle

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by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

Two rookie riders will also accept the challenge presented by the 10th annual AIDS/Lifecycle: Kristin Keiper and Bradley Pinson, who will participate under the name Music City Queens of Country.

The pair have allocated their donations to the LA Gay & Lesbian Center, an organization that offers free HIV testing and care for its members. They also provide housing, food, clothing and support for homeless GLBT youth.

This philanthropic effort is just a natural extension of the Nashville duo’s devotion to GLBT causes.

Keiper assists in marketing and promotions for the Human Rights Campaign’s Nashville branch, and Pinson serves as a board member with the Nashville GLBT Chamber of Commerce. Both believe their connections within the community will only aid their pursuit of raising $10,000 as a team.

“We have some amazing and wonderful friends,” says Keiper, the internship coordinator of Belmont University’s College of Business Career Development Center. “At the end of the day they will help and support us however they can.”

Citing Keiper as a premier straight ally for Nashville’s GLBT population, Pinson has nothing but praise for his riding partner.

“She understands there’s some ‘separate but not equal’ that still exists in our country,” says Pinson, a financial center manager at Fifth Third Bank. “People are in shock when I tell them that we’re going to ride, but then I tell them about the cause and they’re incredibly supportive. The website (www. aidslifecycle.org) is the selling point. I’ve read so many amazing stories. I don’t live with HIV, but a lot of people who are riding do, and it’s inspiring to be involved with that.”

The physical benefits---both “Queens” began training in early February---are an added perk of this project. In a 545-mile ride, an intense commitment, both physical and emotional, is required to cross the finish line.

“It’s been such a personal motivation for me to stay in good shape,” Pinson says. “I can’t imagine the sense of accomplishment that I’ll feel when I finish.”

“I expect there to be so much energy among all these people that it’s going to be uplifting even in the exhaustion,” Keiper adds.

Both Stix and Davis have a personal blog on the website that contains a status – Fox News bar and updates on their progress.

The minimum donation for each TPAC’s Jackson Hall rider is $3,000, and tpac.org/youngfrankenstein • 615-782-4040 both have begun TPAC Box Office (Downtown or inside The Mall at Green Hills) the fundraising Groups of 10 or more call 615-782-4060 Contains mature subject matter. process by visiting businesses around Nashville. To donate, access their individual pages at www.tofighthiv.org.

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APRIL 2011

HIV/AIDS service organization Sreet Works plans annual benefit gala Nashville non-profit agency works with high-risk groups to educate about HIV/AIDS

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

Nashville non-profit agency Street Works will host its fifth annual fundraising dinner April 21 at the Millennium Maxwell House. The benefit gala is the largest fundraiser of the year for Street Works, a non-profit that works with high-risk groups in inner city Nashville to educate and care for those affected by HIV/AIDS. “The money (from the gala) goes to help support who are living with HIV and their families,” says Ron Crowder, president of Street Works. “These are people who I think most agencies look at as invisible like drug addicts and sex workers. They are on the low end of the socioeconomic scale. We try to reach those people that other people are not trying to reach. We’re out in areas of high crime and drugs that most agencies don’t even go in.”

Outspoken national HIV/AIDS activist Charles King will give the keynote speech at the event. King is president and CEO of the New York City-based nonprofit Housing Works, the largest community-based AIDS service organization in the United States. One of a handful of HIV-positive leaders of a major AIDS service organization, he’s devoted his life to drawing attention to the twin issues of HIV/AIDS and homelessness.

The staff of Street Works, which was founded in 1997 as a mobile outreach agency, has joined King in this challenging pursuit.

It’s the only such agency to operate a 24-hour emergency help line and 24-hour on-call counseling in Davidson County. As Crowder notes, the difficulties faced by their clients don’t stop at the end of the workday.

“These people are already being marginalized and this is just another added thing on top of what they’re going through,” he says. “They’re likely dealing with poverty and unemployment, and they often have a low educational level and so many other issues. HIV is just another added thing.”

The public is encouraged to attend the event to learn more about how Street Works serves Nashville’s most at-risk population. Tax-deductible contributions are also welcomed. Interested parties can also contact the organization directly to find out how to help with this important issue.

“First off, people can help out financially,” Crowder says. “And if they’re interested, they can call the office and we’ll set them up with some volunteer opportunities.”

Street Works 5th Annual Benefit Gala

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Millennium Maxwell House, 2025 Rosa L. Parks Boulevard 37228 Thursday, April 21, 2011 (5 p.m. cocktails 6 p.m. dinner) Cost: Individual tickets: $50 each; Table of 10: $500 Corporate tickets: $150 each; Table of 10: $1500 Contact: For more information or to order tickets, call (615) 259-7676

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APRIL 2011

All the right moves

Nashville Ballet finishes its 25th season in style

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

Located in the historic Sylvan Park neighborhood of In 1989, Vasterling joined the Ballet as a dancer, and West Nashville, the home of the Nashville Ballet could easily has now served as artistic director for thirteen years. The be confused for a Catholic primary school. A yellow brick board of directors elected last summer to tab Vasterling building is surrounded by a fleet of minivans on this mild as the organization’s CEO, a position that requires him to Friday afternoon, and a stream balance both his artistic and his of children exit joyfully out administrative instincts. into the parking lot as their “I took the job (as artistic parents await. director) because of my desire to Despite all appearances, be a choreographer,” Vasterling this modest space is the place says. “There’s a certain risk in where some of the city’s most being a creator, but now I enjoy talented artists tend to their being a mentor to these dancers. craft. These young disciples It’s nice to be able to go back and are here to learn the power forth between each role. It’s really of pirouettes. The Ballet’s made me become a much better curriculum-based program communicator.” brings dance education to According to Stuart, elementary, middle, and high Vasterling has succeeded in both Nashville Ballet completes its 25th anniversary season with Carmina Burana on April 29-May 1 at Tennessee Performing Arts Center. Photo by Heather Thorne. schools as well as community aspects of his dual role. centers, public libraries, and colleges, covering a 15-county “Since I’ve been here, I’ve seen him change so much as region throughout Middle Tennessee. Dance students, ages an artist,” he says. “He’s been such a mentor to me. He’s very three and up, receive ballet instruction from faculty. dedicated to the company, and his vision for us never stops.”

This program is just one of the Ballet’s many Vasterling, well versed in the world of dance, has deftly contributions to the Nashville arts scene. The average person handled his new role by empowering his management team may not know the difference between an adagio and an to make new strides. Staff changes last year have stirred up arabesque, but the compelling performance art presented by positive results. Jan Morrison, a public relations practitioner the Nashville Ballet has inspired awe and admiration from its with experience at Lovell Communications and NewsChannel audiences for a quarter-century.

5 Network, is now the organization’s PR & Promotions The organization completes its 25th anniversary season Manager. And after a stint with Manheim Nashville, Jim this month with the excellent cantata Carmina Burana, and Johnson has stepped into the role as the Ballet’s director of this major milestone has allowed the organization to reflect on sales and marketing. past successes and plan for the future.

To enhance the Ballet’s public image, Johnson seeks “I think the community is starting to see there’s something consistency in marketing strategies as they cement their special in the city,” says Chris Stuart, a seven-year veteran of special place in Middle Tennessee’s arts community. the Ballet’s dance troupe. “It’s been great to see the growth of “My goal is to promote our caliber of talent,” he says the talent. There’s a mix of the classic and contemporary, and about recent publicity efforts. “I want there to be an image of that’s what I love about this company.” prestige. In the past, all of our departments worked differently, Nashville Ballet, which was officially inaugurated in and nothing really worked together. Now we’re making sure 1986, is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. that everything fits together as a whole.”

They present a variety of classical ballet and contemporary Johnson credits Vasterling’s inexhaustible spirit for works by acclaimed choreographers, including original keeping him focused and fulfilled during the beginning stages compositions by president and CEO Paul Vasterling. of his tenure.

BALLET continued on page 19

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APRIL 2011

No business like show business

Mike Munich shares his Hollywood experiences with Lady Gaga and GLEE

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

On February 13, Mike Munich took part in an odd pop culture moment, carrying Lady Gaga down the GRAMMY Awards red carpet in her specially-designed egg chamber. As a dancer on her videos for “Alejandro” and “Born This Way,” he’s earned an exclusive peek at the creative process of one of the world’s biggest musical acts.

The 24-year-old native of Minneapolis has also appeared as a member of Vocal Adrenaline on GLEE,

performing hits “Rehab,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Highway to Hell.” In an interview with Out & About Newspaper, he recalls his experiences with Gaga and GLEE, and reveals his future plans in show business.

O&AN: What was it like to walk the red carpet in such a spectacle?

Well, everything she (Lady Gaga) does has a purpose. It’s very thought out and has artistic integrity to it, and there’s a progression with every song she does.

It has an image that she takes to her performances. The GRAMMYs was her birth essentially. She wanted to make the GRAMMYs her vehicle for the new single and this new album.

I didn’t know what was going to happen until I showed up Sunday morning. I got a last minute phone call on Saturday that she was making a special entrance.

I think it was brilliant. It’s amazing that everybody was so curious and there was so much anticipation of what she was going to be wearing. She’s always up to something.

O&AN: “Alejandro” is such an elaborate video that required. how did you become involved in the creation?

“Alejandro” was the first time I worked with Gaga. There was an audition for it, but i skipped the audition because the notes said you had to be willing to shave your head but then it turned out, as you can see in the video, that the dancers wore black wigs. So all day Saturday (the day of the shoot), I was kicking myself saying “What were you thinking?” I was out on the next day and ran into a friend who was working on the Gaga video. He said they didn’t find everyone they were looking for, so he said to go home and make a video and then uplaod it YouTube. I was still a little drunk at the time. (laughs) So I went home and changed, and on Sunday night I was at Gold’s Gym taping myself.

O&AN: In recent years, the video premiere has become such a big event again, hasn’t it?

When I grew up, I loved Britney Spears. I loved the (MTV show) Making the Video. I would say my two favorite things in the world are music videos and fashion editorials. TRL (Total Request Live) doesn’t exist anymore and that was what I watched all the time in middle school and high school. You know, back in 2005, there was a lot of R&B and hip hop and every video was starting to look the same. I’m so glad they are bringing back the music video. It gives your song an image, an artistry and a vision. I just love a good pop video.

O&AN: As a part-time cast member on GLEE, can you describe the experience of being on such a pop culture phenomenon?

I’m a member of Vocal Adrenaline of course.

I’ve been in six episodes, all the episodes that Vocal Adrenaline has been in. I was featured in the episode when we throw eggs at Rachel. (laughs) It’s hard to keep track because we filmed three or four back-to-back last year, so it was a consistent schedule for 4-6 weeks and then I went out on the GLEE tour.

Read more at outandaboutnewspaper.com

APRIL 2011

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outandaboutnewspaper.com

That elusive peace of mind

Exploring the many ways to create your spiritual path

by MICHAEL KIMMEL, CONTRIBUTING WRITER mkimmel@outandaboutnewspaper.com

We’re all clear on what we’re supposed to do in order to be happy. Get the right job. Check. The right partner. Check. The right house. Check. The right life with all the proper accoutrements. Check.

So how come so many of us get all this stuff (or come close enough) and still can’t relax and enjoy our life? What many of us are missing is peace of mind.

Unfortunately (or fortunately) this is not something you can buy in the designer department at Neiman-Marcus or build from carefully chosen lumber from Home Depot. Peace of mind means we like ourselves and we like other people; we feel safe in the world and trust ourselves.

No one I’ve ever met lives in such a place all the time, but we can all live here more-andmore. This column explores some ways to do so.

Religion: There are more GLBT-friendly religions around to choose from than ever-before.

Religion offers you a structure in which to pursue your inner peace. It also offers a community of fellow seekers. This is no small thing: to be part of a community seeking inner peace can be powerful. For some of us, this kind of structure may be a good fit, for others, it’s too constricting. If you’re looking for a community to support you and with whom you can share the highs and lows of a journey towards peace, a church, mosque, temple or religious community may be helpful.

Meditation: Meditation has often been portrayed as some big mysterious thing. The truth is, meditating is about being quiet and listening to yourself. Period. Your thoughts can drive you crazy - have you noticed? Meditation is simple: the hard part is just slowing down enough to do it. There are lots of different ways to meditate and there are several LGBT-friendly meditation groups here in San Diego County you can check out. The real benefit of meditation - whatever type you try - is that it helps you slow down and see what you’re thinking and what’s going on with you internally. This greatly increases your access to feeling peaceful and contented more of the time.

Cognitive therapy and affirmations: In some ways, cognitive therapy and doing affirmations are similar: both help you experience more peace of mind by replacing disturbing thoughts with neutral or positive ones. A simple cognitive technique is “thought replacement”: you notice your thoughts, stop thinking the destructive ones and replace them

with neutral or positive ones. Saying affirmations is similar: you repeat positive thoughts so they gradually replace your old, habitual negative thoughts.

What is a spiritual path and what does it have to offer? Most of us start on a spiritual path because we want a way out of our misery...we’re tired of suffering.

We want happiness and peace of mind. Most of my clients on a spiritual path have some sort of structure that supports their process of questioning and discovery:

they may meditate, pray, go on silent retreats, etc One good place to start on your own path is a book like Jack Kornfield’s “A Path with Heart” or Pema Chodron’s “The Places That Scare You.” Yoga, chi gong, gardening, hiking in nature and even good ole’ psychotherapy can be components of a spiritual path.

Michael Kimmel is a psychotherapist in San Diego, Calif. His website Life Beyond Therapy assists individuals and couples in their growth and development.

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APRIL 2011

Metro non-discrimination ordinance deferred lE A s n o noW!

Thursday,

July 21

8:00 p.m. in tpAC’s JACkson HAll

tpac.org/kathy • 615-782-4040 TPAC Box Office

(Downtown or inside The Mall at Green Hills) KaThyGrIFFIN.COM

Third and final reading set for April 5 meeting

by O&AN STAFF REPORTS

The Contract Accountability Non-Discrimination Ordinance cleared a minor hurdle at March 15’s Metro Council meeting, and now appears set for approval when the bill is introduced again on April 5.

The bill would require any company doing business with Metro to abide by the county’s non-discrimination policy. On January 18, the ordinance was forwarded by a 22 to 13 vote on its first reading. The second reading, held February 15, resulted in a 21 to 16 vote.

Councilman Jamie Hollin made a motion to defer the third and final reading because several supporting Council members were absent due to spring break.

Councilman Rip Ryman moved to table the deferral motion, an action the council defeated 20-13.

Councilmen Jamie Hollin and Mike Jameson introduced the bill last December following the controversial departure of Belmont soccer coach Lisa Howe. Howe left Belmont after revealing that her same-sex partner was pregnant. Since then, the university has added to their non-discrimination policy to include sexual orientation.

Support for their cause has reached the national level with Nike recently endorsing the ordinance. Discrimination Ordinance. Orson C. Porter, Nike Inc.’s U.S. director of governance and public affairs, sent a letter to bill sponsor Councilman Mike Jameson on March 14, expressing the company’s support of the ordinance. “By supporting this measure, you support the guiding principle that every American deserves a chance to compete and prosper on a level playing field,” the Nike letter reads.

APRIL 2011

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outandaboutnewspaper.com

Letting love speak for itself

Zach Wahls goes from college student to internet sensation with his stirring speech in the Iowa House of Representatives

by ALLEN MCALISTER, SPIRITUAL WRITER amcalister@outandaboutnewspaper.com

Zach Wahls, 19-year-old University of Iowa student, is one of the latest internet sensations. In early February, he spoke to the Iowa House of Representatives in favor of gay marriage. The video of his speech quickly went viral on YouTube with over 1.5 million views within a matter of days.

With the eloquence of someone twice his age, Wahls addressed the crowd by describing his own experience as the son of two lesbian partners. “Our family really isn’t so different from any other Iowa family,” he said. “When I am home, we go to church together, we eat dinner, we go on vacations.”

During his speech, Wahls emphasized the normalcy of his upbringing, as well as his own success. In his nineteen years he has earned an Eagle Scout and is a small business owner. He also scored in the 99th percentile on the ACT. “If I was your son, Mr. Chairman, I believe I would make you very proud,” he continued. “In my 19 years not once have I ever been confronted by an individual who realized independently that I was raised by a gay couple. And you know why? Because the sexual orientation of my parents

has had zero effect on the content of my character.”

In this interview with Out & About Newspaper, we take a look at the life of this well-spoken, spiritually-grounded college student.

O&A: Tell us about your family.

Well, I’m the older of two kids. My sister, Zebby, is 16 years old and a junior in high school. I’m 19, and a second-year student at the University of Iowa studying environmental engineering. My biological mom, Terry, is an internal medicine physician who works at the local Veteran’s Affairs Hospital and Clinic. My other mom, Jackie, is a nurse practitioner at the VA outpatient clinic.

O&A: When and where did you start going to church?

Zach Wahls, 19, spoke in favor of gay marriage at a Iowa House of Representatives meeting in February. A YouTube clip of the speech has received over 1.5 million views.

We’re Unitarian Universalists and have been going to church since Zebby and I were little kids growing up in Wisconsin. When we moved back to Iowa, there was a much larger congregation in Iowa City, which was really awesome for us.

WAHLS continued on page 25

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APRIL 2011

Food for thought

Dining Out for Life benefits HIV/AIDS support services, prevention education

by BRENT COLLINS, CONTRIBUTING WRITER bcollins@outandaboutnewspaper.com

“Dining Out For Life,” voted “Best Night to Dine Out” in last fall’s Nashville Scene Readers Poll, will be held on Tuesday, Apr. 26 to support Nashville CARES. It serves as one of the major fundraisers for the local organization that is “instrumental in promoting and participating in comprehensive and compassionate responses to HIV/AIDS in Middle Tennessee.”

Dining Out For Life,” an annual fundraising event created in 1991, is now produced in over 55 cities throughout the United States and Canada. More than 3,500 restaurants donate a portion of their proceeds from this night of dining to the licensed agency in their city. Nearly $4 million dollars a year is raised to support the missions of agencies throughout North America.

Nashville CARES is in its ninth year of holding “Dining Out For Life”: the organization raised $90,000 in 2010, with 64 area restaurants donating a portion of their profits for local HIV/AIDS support services and prevention education.

Kay West and Bob Deal, co-chairs for “Dining Out for Life,” are both very aware of how important Nashville CARES and DOFL are for Middle Tennessee.

West tells the story about living in New York City in 1981 where she had many gay friends. On her trip

home from a weekend visit with some of these friends, West read a newspaper article about this unknown disease that seemed to be concentrated among gay men.

During the first years of the disease, before research and information became available, she lost many friends to HIV and AIDS. Deal has also seen a number of friends affected by the disease, and that drives his work for this important

Dining Out for Life, an annual fundraiser for Nashville CARES, earned $90,000 for the organization last spring. This year's edition will be held on Tuesday, Apr. 26.

created by

John Foley Mark Hardwick Debra Monk Cass Morgan John Schimmel and Jim Wann

April 23–May 14 Johnson Theater, TPAC

TICKETS H tennesseerep.org H TPAC Box Offices (Downtown and in the Mall at Green Hills)

H (615) 782-4040 The HCA Foundation on behalf of

Season Sponsors

Ingram Charitable Fund

cause. He praises Nashville CARES for their outreach efforts in the community.

“It’s the only facility of its kind to not only promote AIDS awareness and education, but to provide food and services for HIV positive patients as well,” Deal says. (We) do not provide medical care; however, we do provide counseling, rehab programs transportation, and nutritional support. DOFL is a show of public support for members of our community who are HIV-positive.

This event helps to fund the Food Bank and box lunches that provide nutritious food for our clients.”

Approximately sixty restaurants are participating in the event this year. West points out that, with one or two exceptions, all participants are locally owned, independent restaurants and agree to donate anywhere from 30-100% of their sales. The top three restaurants that gave the most in donations last year were Suzy Wong’s House of Yum ($7,000), Kalamata’s ($4,265) and Germantown Cafe ($3,063).

Out & About Newspaper will be a Dining Out for Life sponsor at Nuvo Burrito during the restaurant’s lunch hour. To find out the specific restaurants participating in DOFL, please visit the Nashville CARES website at www.nashvillecares.org.

APRIL 2011

outandaboutnewspaper.com

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APRIL 2011

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19

BALLET continued from page 10 “I’m stressed sometimes, but he doesn’t let up,” Johnson says. “He pushes me to be better than I ever had been. I’m excited to be a part of a company that will help me grow, and I’m ready to start building the next generation.”

Although the Ballet offers a series of polished presentations, they do so without the financial windfall of comparable companies. The challenge is to create an attractive showcase with limited resources.

“The company is really intimate and the administrative staff is small,” Johnson says. “People think that because we’re a professional company, there’s a lot of money, but we rely a lot on volunteer help which we’re grateful for.”

Their efforts support the artistic endeavors of 22 dancers who work fulltime Monday through Friday to perfect their routines. In this intricate genre, dancers have the slimmest margin of error. Many Ballet attendees can appreciate their exquisite physical form, but few understand the intense commitment required to perform at such a high level.

“In the performance it’s great to have the audience’s energy,” Stuart says.

“It’s all about the vibe from the audience and showing my passion while I’m on the stage. It’s very demanding and you have to be in great shape, but it’s worth it to have that feeling.”

It’s this connection to the community that makes the Ballet’s prospects bright. With his gaze fixed on the future, Vasterling aspires to build a program that rivals the biggest regional ballets in the nation, with the goal of gaining national exposure for his roster.

“My hope always is to add more programming,” he says. “I want to do things that are fresh and creative, and find a way to expand our offerings. In the end, my focus is always to tell the story well.”

Nashville Ballet is planning its second annual “Night Out at the Ballet” for Saturday, Apr. 30. Rymer Gallery will host a pre-show party at 5:30 p.m.

Following the performance of Carmina Burana at Tennessee Performing Arts Center, patrons are encouraged to attend a post-show reception held at the venue.

STAND UP FOR LOVE VOLUNTEER FOR AN HIV VACCINE STUDY We’re looking for HIV-negative men, 18-50 years old.

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APRIL 2011

Take me out to the ball game

Metro Nashville Softball Association to begin sixth season with opening ceremonies

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

It’s time to buy some peanuts and cracker jacks and head out to the old ball game. The Metro Nashville Softball Association (MNSA) begins their new season in April, and the burgeoning league continues to gain supporters as it moves into its sixth season.

The MNSA plays every Sunday (except holidays) from April to August, and their new campaign begins on Sunday, Apr. 3 with opening ceremonies at West Park (6105 Morrow Road).

League coordinator Kerry Pogue says the event is a fitting way to bring the GLBT and gay-friendly communities together.

“The opening ceremonies will be bigger and better than ever this year,” he promises about this year’s activities. “We are having a car show this year and there will be the parade of players again.

At the end, all the teams go out onto the field. It’s great to see.”

While MNSA is a GLBT-oriented league, it is open to all players regardless of age, race, creed, national origin, religion, sex or sexual orientation. According to their website, the league’s

mission is “to unite the entire Nashville community by reaching out to GLBT and gay-friendly businesses and organizations... and to work together to achieve the

goals of tolerance and acceptance for all members of the community.”

As a way to say thanks for the community’s support, MNSA is offering free vendor booths for any company at the opening ceremonies. Those who www.metronashvillesoftball.org occupy a booth can use the space to promote their businesses.

“Everything has come together because people in Nashville are so into it,” Pogue says. “This is a new league that started five years ago with 22 people, and now we have nearly 300 people participating. We have a lot to be thankful for.”

To further develop relationships in the Nashville area, team members perform volunteer and charity work for organizations including OutCentral and Nashville PRIDE. League outreach efforts have even extended to Knoxville, Clarksville and various other Tennessee cities.

This commitment to community service also plays an important role in acquiring new fans and players. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the The Nashville Sting are one of the teams in the Metro Nashville Softball Association.

League plays begins in mid-April. Photo provided. website for more information on how to get involved.

APRIL 2011

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outandaboutnewspaper.com

Nashville Film Festival to feature ‘Pride on Film’ Nashville Pride sponsors event that includes GLBT-focused films

by O&AN STAFF REPORTS

Nashville Film Festival (NaFF) and Nashville Pride have formed a partnership to produce “Pride on Film,” a mini GLBT film festival during the 2011 Nashville Film Festival. Regal Green Hills Cinemas will host “Pride on Film” from April 14-16.

The festival will feature six to eight GLBTfocused films, and an opening and closing reception. Details on price and times will be released at a later date at NashvilleFilmFestival. org.

“The Nashville Film Festival has featured GLBT films as a part of the annual film festival for a number of years,” said Sallie Mayne, executive director of NaFF. “The partnership with Nashville Pride, whose mission is to maintain a sense of community and awareness of, about, and for gay, lesbian, transgender, and culture throughout middle Tennessee was a natural connection.”

“Nashville Pride has been looking for opportunities throughout middle Tennessee to celebrate GLBT culture,” said Jack Davis, President of Nashville Pride. “Nashville Film Festival’s commitment to programming films by and about members of the GLBT community has always set a positive example and high bar in the community.”

Schedule: Night Film 4 - 14 Opening (TBA, 7:45 p.m.)

Friday

570 readers participated in the annual LGBT survey

by Community Marketing, Inc.

This year’s survey is only a month away.

Out & About Newspaper wants to invite you to participate again this year.

Participating in this study helps open minds and doors around the world, and influences positive changes for our community.

Last year’s survey yielded 45,000 respondents from 100+ countries!

You may have seen CMI research quoted in the New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, etc.

Thursday

4 - 15

last year

Weekend (5:30 p.m.)

Survey begins May 1st.

Codependent Lesbian Space Alien Seeks Same (10:00 p.m.)

4 - 16

Days of Harvest Saturday (10:15 a.m.)

Sons of Tennessee Williams (12 p.m.)

Domaine (3 p.m.)

Closing night reception (6 p.m.)

Bloomington (8 p.m.)

Look for information on how to participate in next month’s Out & About Newspaper and online at outandaboutnewspaper.com.

Talking can help.

22

APRIL 2011

outandaboutnewspaper.com

Picture perfect model

Nashville GLBT Chamber of Commerce gears up for Wildly Unpredictable

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

On May 1, scads of scantily-clad young gentlemen will prance across the stage of Play Dance Bar in support of Unpredictable, an annual fundraiser for the Nashville GLBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLBTCC).

This year’s edition, titled “Wildly Unpredictable,” is expected to be the most exciting one yet. Event co-chairs Michael Fluck (President, NGLBTCC) and Jerry Jones (Vice President, NGLBTCC) are anticipating a sellout crowd again this year.

Fluck has co-chaired the event since it started.

The Unpredictable franchise, which serves as the NGLBTCC’s lone fundraiser of the year, has raised almost $90,000 for the organization in the past five years.

The event will begin 5:30 p.m. with a silent auction including items such as a set of Bridgestone tires, artwork and vacation packages. Thanks to their strong relationships within the community, NGLBTCC and its volunteers have given the audience ample reason to begin the bidding.

“We’ve already raised silent auction items in excess of $10,000,” Fluck says.

“We hope to raise a net for the total event of $25,000 and have already exceeded previous sponsorship fundraising. We have an exciting show planned and expect a sellout crowd.”

Models will strut the runway for nearly two hours of fashion from local designers and boutiques. Three rounds of underwear will be modeled before the winner is announced. Designers for the annual fashion show will include Nashville Clothing Company, Verandeno Designs and Tye Walker Couture. As if that’s not enough convincing evidence, hors d’oeuvres and desserts will be provided by Bacon & Caviar. General admission tickets are available beginning April 1 for $25/ advance, $30/door. Additionally, VIP Runway Seating tickets can be purchased for $60. All ticketing information is available at the Unpredictable website

(www.unpredictablenashville.com). Presenting co-sponsor GS & F will be matching ticket sales up to $2,000.

PRESENTING SPONSORS: Bridgestone, GS & F, Level Wing, The Richards Group WILDLY UNPREDICTABLE AUCTION ITEMS include:

F. Scott’s Wine Tasting for 10, value of $1000

Full Size NFL Authentic Game Ball autographed by 4 members of Black Eyed Peas, value estimated at $300+

Mini St. Louis Rams helmet autographed by Jack Youngblood, value estimated at $70

Devin Hester authentic autographed Chicago Bears jersey, value estimated at $300

Set of 4 Bridgestone or Firestone passenger/light truck/SUV tires, value estimated at $1400+ depending on tires selected based on vehicle fitment

Sonome Poss: Gourmet Thai Catering, private dinner of 6

Margaret Ellis cufflinks

Levy’s Personal shopping experience for 10. Includes wine/cheese/$100 gift certificate and 20% off of all purchases and a gift bag.

7-day stay in Provincetown, value of up to $2000

Couples Estate Planning Package from Papa & Roberts, value of $1000

Lamps from Lumen Lamps, value of $235

WILDLY UNPREDICTABLE MENU (Catering provided by Bacon & Caviar)

Mini skewers - fruit w/ vanilla-lime yogurt; assorted cheeses; marinated tortellini

Butterbean hummus - served warm w/ homemade tortilla chips

SATURDAY, APRIL 23

Finger sandwiches (on whole grain flatbread) - roast beef, smoked gouda, creole mustard; smoked turkey, guacamole, chipotle mayo, pepper jack; BTL - bacon, tomato, pesto

Pride on Film Reception

Martinis & Jazz

Mini wraps - lemon-almond chicken salad

Nadeau Furniture

The home of Jim Schmidt & Joe Woolley

Mini cupcakes - vanilla-orange; chocolate-strawberry

NaFF Pride on Film

Easter MASScara

Regal Green Hills Cinemas

Vibe Night Club

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outandaboutnewspaper.com Birthday One item (other than your cell phone) that

OCTOBER 30, 1988

you're never without: A photo of my English Springer spaniel Cooper.

Current Town I feel most confident when:

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

I’m on stage under bright lights in front of a packed house.

Your pick for celebrity best friend:

NASHVILLE

Profession Marilyn Monroe

BALLET DANCER NASHVILLE BALLET

Favorite way to burn calories: Insanity with Sean T. and a good old fashioned ballet class.

Boxers or briefs:

Zodiac ID Briefs.

SCORPIO Hometown

MARK ALLYN NIMMO

VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA

If you won $1 million (tax free) and had to give half of it away, who'd get it: The National Endowment for the Arts to “support artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation for the benefit of individuals and communities.”

More from MARK I’m a beach kid that left the ocean with hopes of touching someone through my art.

Passion and commitment are not attributes that I bring only to my career but also to my life. Why do anything at all if you’re not passionate or committed to it? I love going out and meeting new people almost as much as I love sitting at home with my dog and a glass of wine. I’m an extremely positive person and always try to look on the bright side, because what good comes from looking at the negative? At the end of the day I would rather regret the things I have done than the things I haven’t.

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WAHLS continued from page 15 O&A: How did you feel about going to church as a kid? Did you like going?

I always liked it. I really liked reading the stories and learning about the Bible, but other religions too. Church, for me, was always a really comfortable and safe place. There weren’t very many other places that felt like that.

O&A: Do you feel you have missed out on anything by having two moms as opposed to a mom and a dad?

I really don’t. I’ve got plenty of friends who were raised by single parents, or have parents who have gone through a divorce and have two moms or two dads in that sense. I’ve also got friends who have a mom and a dad who were never there for their kids or just couldn’t really be active in their kids’ lives. I’ve been incredibly blessed with extraordinarily loving parents, and I’m so, so grateful for that.

O&A: Do you feel you gained anything by having two moms?

Again, not really. In some sense, you know, I certainly know what it’s like to be told that your family is worth less than another or that your family---and therefore you---don’t deserve something that somebody else has. So when I see that happening to other people, I can empathize. But it’s not like having two moms, specifically, affected me in some way that having two loving parents, specifically, did not.

O&A: Do you feel your involvement with church as a youth has had any effect on you as an adult?

Oh, definitely. Church, for me, laid a foundation of solid, traditional values of love, loyalty and reverence. I’ve actually thought about attending divinity school and pursuing the ministry, but, as of today, I’m not planning on doing so.

O&A: What opportunities have you had since you spoke to the Iowa House of Representatives?

The opportunities have been incredible. Back in March, I went to Washington, D.C. to speak at a Human Rights Campaign. I am doing a lot of advocacy work and will continue to do so in the future.

SocialClubforMatureGayMen www.tnprimetimers.org

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The sensation intensifies as you drive past a meadow dotted with tents and RVs. Men are everywhere, enjoying the pool complex, with hot tub and sauna. The road continues into the hollow, passing a willow-draped

Saturday, April 30 Be a part of the colorful crowd Get your tickets today!

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Pre-show party at Rymer Gallery 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

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pond, and then opens at the lodge itself. It is a three-story stone and log house, with a colorful mixture of eclectic and antique furnishings. Steep ridges rise on three sides, so close you can almost touch them. You feel safe in this gay world apart, and the mood is both reflected and reinforced by the attentive staff. You will be greeted by owners/innkeepers Bill and Steve. Hospitality is home here.

UPCOMING EVENTS April 8 – 10 3rd Annual Spring Clean Up Residents of the RV Parks get your sites ready for a busy and festive season!

Saturday Spaghetti Supper featuring Steve’s Sangria at the Lodge (our treat) and Saturday evening mixer at The Tavern.

Our friends from TRI-AM RV SALES will be on hand with some model units for you to tour! Day passers and weekend guests are always welcome!

April 22 – 24 Tiki Tiki Pool Opening/ Sarong or So Right Weekend You had such a good time with this last year we decided to bring it back for you!

Tiki Tiki Tea Dance Party Saturday afternoon POOLSIDE. Tie on your sarongs boys and party! Saturday Night Sacrifice a Virgin Party at The Tavern and After Hours Volcano Eruption and Black-Out Party.

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JIM BOLEN BROKER, GRI

615/376-8195

Bradley Bullock, MD Cool Springs Internal Medicine & Pediatrics

direct 615.352.7046 office 615.373.3513 jimbolen@comcast.net www.jimbolen.com http://jimbolen.crye-leike.com

1607 Westgate Circle Suite 200 Brentwood

Billy

LMT

7 days a week 11am - 7 pm 60 minutes – $70

deep tissue, sports & more

615 / 604-9207

new clients 10% off

Proudly Serving Davidson and Surrounding Counties

THAT AHHHHHHHH EFFECT! • over 13 years massage therapy experience • full body deep tissue, swedish, sports & energy healing all in one session • athletes to eldery welcomed

MON – FRI 9:00am – 11:30pm / SUN 3:00pm – 11:30pm $75 for 60 mins. / $125 for 90 mins.

Private Office at 725 Cool Springs Blvd in Franklin JAMES K. DERUSHA LMT #7466

Place your ad here on the new Diverse City Page as low as $150 for a business card ad.

summer

Shipping only $2 to the United States.

Movers & Shakers at our Fourth-Friday Mixers.

thehigherlife4me.com | 615/403-0537

dreaming of...

Wide range of very diverse styles, cut & colors.

Network with Nashville's GLBT

FOR MORE INFORMATION NashvilleGLBTChamber.org

Call for more details today!

615-596-6210

MAX EXPOSURE AT AN AFFORDABLE RATE.

Online Appointment Scheduling 24 / 7

Christopher May DC 2933 Berry Hill Dr Nashville, TN 37204 (615) 220-0777

DoctorMay.net

Sheila D. Barnard REALTOR®

‘I know Sheila cares...’

Sheila was voted 2005 & 2006 GLBT Realtor® of the Year

1305 Murfreesboro Pike Nashville, TN 37217 m (615) 424-6924 o (615) 385-9010 barnard@realtracs.com SheilaBarnard.RealtyAssociation.com

Photo by Marianne Leach

producing sponsor

213 voices 65 musicians 30 dancers 1 thrilling collaboration

carmina burana April 29—May 1 • TpAc’s Jackson Hall with The nashville symphony orchestra and chorus, the nashville children’s choir and guest Vocalists for Tickets Visit nashvilleBallet.com or call 782-4040. use proMo code nBnigHTouT for A 20% discounT Metropolitan Nashville Arts Commission

sATurdAy April 30TH—Be A pArT of THe colorful crowd use promo code nBnigHTouT when purchasing carmina Burana tickets and attend the 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. pre-show party at rymer gallery for free. Then after the show, meet the dancers at an exclusive Vip reception for night out participants only! wine by: woodland wine Merchant www.woodlandwinemerchant.com

client: nashville Ballet Art: James duncan creative, (615) 244.0349 Job number: nB018 Job name: carmina Burana date: 3/17/11 publication: out and About Magazine pub. date: April 2011 size: 9.75” x 10.375” (no bleed) color: 4c note: please don’t place any type of border or color around ad, ad should float in a white background only.