O&AN July 2011

JULY 2011

VOLUME 10 I ISSUE 7

Wildly Unpredictable Sizzles With Nashville’s Hottest Men And Women

TRACY MORGAN APOLOGIZES FOR ANTI-GAY COMEDY ROUTINE O&AN ENDORSES MAYOR, VICE MAYOR AND METRO COUNCIL CANDIDATES

Play Dance Bar

Sunday, July 17

Food And Silent Auction - 5:30 pm Show And Surprises - 7:00 pm Tickets on sale at:

unpredictablenashville.com

Nashville GLBT Chamber of Commerce fundraiser features Verandeno Designs and Tye Walker Couture

WILDLY UNPREDICTABLE AUCTION ITEMS + 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 +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. + Couples Estate Planning Package from Papa & Roberts, value of $1000 + Lamps from Lumen Lamps, value of $235

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

On July 17, 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 part of the Unpredictable franchise. It’s raised almost $90,000 for the organization in the past five years.

The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a silent auction including items such as a set of Bridgestone tires, artwork and vacation packages.

“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 Verandeno Designs and Tye Walker Couture.

For Sheika Taylor of Verandeno Designs, a fashion show is the perfect format to draw the different strands of the city’s GLBT community together.

“Fashion inspires a lot in our lives, from self-expression to self-identification,” she says. “It is a great vehicle for unity in our community and has been a wonderful and ongoing method for fundraising for the GLBT Chamber of Commerce.”

Though the models are competing for the top prize, Taylor is simply grateful for an opportunity to demonstrate her talents without worrying about scoring the big win.

“I continue to participate because I feel welcomed, appreciated, accepted and it is just a lot of fun,” she says.

Tye Walker also embraces the feeling of community fostered by the annual event, which serves as the NGLBTCC’s lone fundraiser of the year.

“To me, the Unpredictable Fashion Show has always been very much community oriented,” he says. “It not only raises money for the GLBT Chamber, but it also brings Nashville’s GLBT community together where we can appreciate each other’s talents and spend an entire evening together with fashion and cocktails!”

Walker is excited to play his part in proving the wealth of artistic talent within Nashville’s GLBT community.

“I think all the designers are completely different with completely different styles and completely different points of view,” he says. “I’m looking forward to see the variety on the runway this year.”

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 + Finger sandwiches (on whole grain flatbread) - roast beef, smoked gouda, creole mustard; smoked turkey, guacamole, chipotle mayo, pepper jack; BTL - bacon, tomato, pesto + Mini wraps - lemon-almond chicken salad + Mini cupcakes - vanilla-orange; chocolate-strawberry

+ Apple iPad2, value of $499

JULY 2011

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Dean, Neighbors get ‘O&AN’ nod in Metro elections

‘O&AN’ also announces endorsements for Council, early voting begins July 15

District 6-Peter Westerholm The district boasts many progressive candidates, but Westerholm gets the edge because he has been the public policy chair for the Tennessee Equality Project and continued to support equality initiatives after he left the organization’s board. He is the embodiment of an ally.

District 7-Anthony Davis Current District 7 Councilman Eric Cole will be hard to replace, but Davis’s business endorsed CAN DO and his guest editorial in the Tennessean in support of the ordinance showed equality is one of his core commitments.

District 8-Nancy VanReece VanReece has run an effective campaign emphasizing the neighbors in her district. She has been active in support of our community organizations for years. Her opponent, incumbent Karen Bennett, voted against the CAN DO law on third reading.

by O&AN STAFF REPORTS

After careful consideration of the candidates and their positions, Out & About Newspaper is making the following endorsements for the August 4 election (early voting begins July 15 and ends July 30). We encourage our readers to vote in this important election.

The current Metro Government has set the bar high for cities and counties across Tennessee in terms of advances for equality. Metro adopted an inclusive non-discrimination policy for government employees in 2009 and applied that same policy to employees of government contractors in 2011. With reports of socially conservative groups getting active in the August 4 election, it is important that the GLBT community turn out to vote so that we can continue to make gains.

Mayor-Karl Dean Mayor Dean has supported and signed two nondiscrimination ordinances and directed his administration to lobby actively against HB600, a state law that eventually nullified Metro’s 2011 contractor nondiscrimination ordinance. At this year’s Pride, he told the crowd, “We’re with you,” and he has consistently demonstrated his support.

Above: Mayor Karl Dean On right: Vice Mayor Diane Neighbors

Vice Mayor-Diane Neighbors Vice Mayor Neighbors has not had to cast any controversial tie-breaking votes on equal rights ordinances, but her inclusive outreach to our community is always appreciated. Last year, she was the keynote speaker at the Tennessee Transgender Political Coalition’s dinner.

Council Members At-Large Every voter in Nashville-Davidson County has the opportunity to vote for five candidates in the at-large race. Based on their support of the Contract Accountability Non-Discrimination Ordinance, we recommend the following: Megan Barry, Jerry Maynard, Ronnie Steine, Vivian Wilhoite, Sam Coleman.

Barry, Steine, and Maynard were all sponsors of the 2009 non-discrimination ordinance. In addition, Barry and Steine were cosponsors of the 2011 CAN DO law.

District 1-Lonnell Matthews Councilman Matthews was a sponsor of the 2009 w and voted for CAN DO. District 2-Frank Harrison Councilman Harrison voted for the NDO and CAN DO. District 3-No endorsement Incumbent Councilman Hunt is unopposed and abstained on third reading of CAN DO District 4-Brady Banks Banks, who received our endorsement when he ran at-large in 2007, receives our endorsement for his district race.

District 5-Scott Davis Davis has reached out positively to our community and we believe he would continue to as a councilman.

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District 9-No endorsement Candidate Bill Pridemore is unopposed.

District 10-No endorsement We haven’t seen any positive or negative indication from either candidate.

District 8 candidate Nancy VanReece

District 11-Darren Jernigan Councilman Jernigan voted for the NDO and CAN DO. He is opposed by a socially conservative candidate.

District 12-Steve Glover Said to be conservative, Glover nevertheless voted for inclusive nondiscrimination policies for Metro teachers and students as a school board member.

He is unopposed.

District 13-Marilyn Robinson Robinson has reached out to our community and would welcome the support of her campaign.

District 14-No endorsement, but a recommendation Councilman Bruce Stanley did not vote in favor of the NDO or CAN DO, but his opponent is reported to be more socially conservative. Stanley did support Councilwoman Barry’s resolution opposing HB600, though. For that reason, we recommend a vote for Stanley.

District 15-No endorsement Councilman Phil Claiborne is unfortunately unopposed. He spoke and voted against the NDO and CAN DO. If you live in this district, consider writing in your own name.

District 16-Anna Page Councilwoman Page supported both the NDO and CAN DO. District 17-Sandra Moore Councilwoman Moore supported both the NDO and CAN DO District 18-David Glasgow Glasgow has actively campaigned for the office for months while his opponent got into the race a bit later. Glasgow has been an active supporter of our community for a number of years and has a wealth of neighborhood and government experience. We believe he would be an effective advocate of policy that advances equality.

District 19-Erica Gilmore Councilwoman Gilmore is nothing less than a champion of equality.

She has a perfect voting record on equality ordinances District 18 candidate David Glasgow and was a sponsor of CAN DO. She defended CAN DO against the Legislature’s attacks and is a plaintiff in the suit to overturn HB600. We call on members of our community, regardless of your district, to support and volunteer for her campaign.

Continue reading about O&AN endorsements on page 7

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O U T A N D A B O U T N E W S PA P E R . CO M

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Coming home again

Real estate agent Sheila Barnard discovers her calling

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

The gift of experience can also be a drawback. Adaptability is key in the volatile economic climate, and one of Nashville’s most trusted advisers in the music and real estate industries can vouch for that widespread belief.

Sheila Barnard, a real estate agent serving the entire Metro Nashville area and surrounding counties, first gained attention through her pursuits in the music industry. In the last thirty years, she has sculpted her professional pursuits to meet the demands of the market.

Barnard’s career began in 1980 when she became manager of Pickers Pickup, a company that transported the equipment of studio musicians between sessions. In 1986, she embarked on her tenure as co-owner of Nashville Cartage and Sound (NCS). The NCS building, complete with storage units and rehearsal halls served performing artists during all seasons.

Superstar clients---Garth Brooks, Jimmy Buffett and Shania Twain, among them--relied on Barnard and her staff for their touring needs. In another coup for the company, NCS provided sound and lights for both of President Bill Clinton’s inaugural balls.

“It’s like the company became a ‘one telephone call’ type of operation,” Barnard says proudly.

Looking for a change of pace, Barnard chose to leave NCS in 1999. After weighing her options, she followed the advice of friends and forged ahead with her current career: real estate.

“I ended up selling out to my business partner,” she says. “I took a year off and prayed to God that He would give me something to do as much as I love the music business. I had some realtor friends say to me ‘You love houses’ and ‘You love to decorate.’ They said ‘They’re going to love your honesty,’ and they kept coming at me. My dad was a real estate investor before he died. So I took a year off and completed real estate school in 1999.”

Named GLBT Realtor of the Year by Out & About Newspaper in 2005 and 2006, Barnard has made a big impression on the GLBT community. She makes clear that her business assists both straight and gay clientele: the satisfaction of seeing clients discover their dream home is significant regardless of their sexuality.

“The gay community is very important to me and my reputation is very important to me,” Barnard says. “I fell in love working with buyers. “I don’t limit myself to any particular area. I’ve lived here for over 40 years. Currently I live in Mt. Juliet, but a lot of my business is in East Nashville and Inglewood where there’s a big gay community. I’m really blessed, and I’ve met a lot of great people and gone many places.

“It’s such a thrill to see the look on their faces when they open up a door at a house and you see that they love it,” she adds. “And then you can follow through the process and make it happen for them. You want save them as much money as you can out of their pockets, but get them the home they want.”

Barnard and her partner recently celebrated their 20th anniversary, a milestone that has stirred up memories of their humble beginnings. The couple’s own search for a first home has spurred Barnard to make clients feel as comfortable as possible with this life-changing decision.

“When we were buying homes, you kind of had to hide a little,” Barnard admits. “You didn’t want to say ‘Yes, that will be our room’ or ‘Yes, that will be our bank account.’ When I got in the business, I promised myself that no one would ever have to go through that.

All of the home inspectors and title attorneys are gay-friendly or gay themselves, and that makes a comfortable situation. I want (my clients) to enjoy the process and be proud of what they’re doing.”

Acknowledging the difficult economic climate, Barnard still maintains that purchasing can be a beneficial decision for many prospective clients.

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JULY 2011

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COVER

Cover photo by MyL Pack of MPACK Photography on location at the home of Robert Sikorski.

LEGAL

Out & About Newspaper strives to be a credible community news organization by engaging and educating our readers. All content of Out & About Newspaper is copyrighted 2008 by Out & About Nashville, Inc. and is protected by federal copyright law and shall not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. All photography is licensed stock imagery or has been supplied unless otherwise credited to a photographer and may not be reproduced without permission. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or pictorial representations does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of the person or persons.

Out & About Newspaper accepts unsolicited material but cannot take responsibility for its return. The editor reserves the right to accept, reject or edit and submission. All rights revert to authors upon publication. The editorial positions of Out & About Newspaper are expressed in editorials and in the editor’s notes as determined by the editor. Other opinions are those of writers and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Out & About Newspaper or its staff. Letters to the editor are encouraged but may be edited for clarity and length. All letters sent may not be published.

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Continued O&AN endorsements from page 4 District 20-Buddy Baker Councilman Baker was a sponsor of the NDO and voted for CAN DO. He has the distinction of being, as far as we know, the only Council Member who is a parent of a gay child, a son who was tragically lost to HIV/AIDS. As well as his long history with his West Nashville district, he has a perspective that we need on Council.

District 21-Edith Taylor Langster Councilwoman Langster voted for the NDO and CAN DO. She is unopposed.

District 22-Seanna Brandmeier A former executive director of the Davidson Co Democratic Party, Brandmeier has received a warm reception from members of our community who have already volunteered in her campaign. Her openness will be a welcome change from Councilman Eric Crafton who currently holds the seat.

District 23-Emily Evans Councilwoman Evans voted for the NDO and CAN DO despite the fact that socially conservative organizations targeted her vote during the discussion of both ordinances.

District 24-Jason Holleman Councilman Holleman voted for the NDO and CAN DO. In addition, voters should know that he rushed to a Council meeting that he might have otherwise missed due to conflicts so that he could cast a vote for CAN DO. We are grateful for his effort because every single vote mattered that night.

District 25-Sean McGuire Councilman McGuire was a sponsor of the NDO and voted for CAN DO. District 26-Chris Harmon Harmon has reached out to our community and would welcome our support.

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District 27-Davette Blalock Blalock has reached out to our community and would welcome our support.

District 28-Tanaka Vercher A veteran, Vercher has reached out to our community and publicized her endorsement by TEP PAC. District 29-Karen Johnson As a school board member, Johnson voted for inclusive non-discrimination policies for Metro teachers and students.

District 30-No endorsement Incumbent Jim Hodge fiercely opposed the NDO and CAN DO. His opponent Jason Potts is reportedly as socially conservative.

District 31-Fabian Bedne When he was president of the Middle TN Hispanic Democrats, Bedne led the organization to endorse the NDO. District 32-Markeith Braden Both Braden and opponent Jacobia Dowell were praised by TEP PAC. Braden gets the edge for being supportive of CAN DO and reaching out to the community when the bill passed Metro Council.

District 33-Page Turner Turner has the best chance of defeating incumbent Robert Duvall who aggressively opposed the NDO and CAN DO. District 34-No endorsement Councilman Todd voted for the NDO and against CAN DO. He is unopposed.

District 35-Bo Mitchell Councilman Mitchell voted for the NDO and for CAN DO.

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JULY 2011

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The rarest jewel of all

Nashville resident Joseph Gregory pens new book about the Hope Diamond

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of his great-grandmother’s purchase of the Hope Diamond, Nashville resident Joseph Gregory has released a new book to honor its history.

The Hope Diamond: Evalyn Walsh McLean and the Captivating Mystery of the World’s Most Alluring Jewel examines the mysteries of the 45.52 blue diamond. This excellent tome also explores the life of gold mining heiress and Washington socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean, who was the longest and last private owner of the jewel.

The Hope Diamond is now valued at $250 million and currently stands as the most popular exhibit at the Smithsonian.

“The Hope Diamond went into the Smithsonian in 1958, and it’s still the Number One exhibit,” Gregory says proudly.

“Over 9 million people view the diamond each year and stand in line for two hours (to do so).”

Originally from Louisville, Ken., Gregory splits his time between Nashville and New York.

He travels around the

world to speak about the Hope Diamond and its important legacy.

“I feel like the luckiest person in the world to share the history of the Hope Diamond,” says Gregory, who had previously authored the book Queen of Diamonds: The Fabled Legacy of Evalyn Walsh McLean. “It’s my obligation in this generation that we live in. We need to hear these stories of our grandparents and greatgrandparents. They lived harder than we did. But I’m just trying to have fun with it and get people to realize what they have. I love that this legacy is continuing on.”

Evelyn, only 22, purchased the Hope Diamond in 1911 from Cartier for a mere $180,000. This after an illustrious list of former owners had faced turmoil during their ownership. Actress Folies Bergere received it as a gift from an Eastern European prince, who shot her shortly after; Abdul-Hamid II was overthrown in 1909 a few months after he acquired the stone.

Evelyn herself experienced difficulties in the years after she bought the jewel: her first son died while she and her husband Ned were traveling to the Kentucky Derby; Ned was later committed to a mental institution; and the death of her only daughter, Evie McLean, in 1946 was a particularly troubling loss.

Her great-grandson acknowledges the diamond’s legendary curse, but accepts the fact that “She always said that bad luck objects are lucky,” Gregory notes. “She said it made her fingers tingle when she felt it. Many kings and queens have come to tragic ends while they were in possession of it. Marie Antoinette was sent to the guillotine (after wearing it). But my mother (Mamie) used to tease on it (the curse).”

Gregory instead chooses to focus on Evelyn’s philanthropic efforts. In describing Evelyn as a “caretaker, mother and friend,” Gregory takes special note of her warm and welcoming spirit and how she used the jewel to improve the lives of others.

She acted as one of the founding members of the Red Cross and assisted veterans in World Wars I and II. Her extravagant life---”She threw such lavish parties and you’d never know who you’d see there,” Gregory says---left her and the family under financial strain upon her death.

“Their big curse was money and that’s what I’ve been taught,” Gregory says.

“It ruined the family. Evelyn died cash-poor and asset rich. When she died, the diamond went into probate and was going to be cut up into sections for the three other grandchildren. No one wanted to touch the diamond because of the curse.”

Read more at outandaboutnewspaper.com

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O U T A N D A B O U T N E W S PA P E R . CO M

11

PLAY Dance Bar completes major remodeling process New features include expanded seating, improved lighting

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

PLAY Dance Bar, a staple of Nashville’s GLBT community since opening in 2005, has recently put the finishing touches on a major remodeling process that will improve the experience of long-time customers and impress newcomers at the Church Street landmark.

These cosmetic changes were introduced on Wednesday, three days before the owners’ internal deadline: June 18, the day of Nashville Pride Festival.

Co-owner Joey Brown anticipates a few surprised but satisfied reactions when the venue hosts its annual Pride Festival after party.

“When we opened up on Wednesday night, I think people were completely shocked,” he says. “I felt like we were opening up for the first time. I think people are already proud of PLAY and Tribe, but this is going to make them even more proud.”

Brown expects a seamless transition with the new setup, but completing the remodel which began last

January was no simple feat.

“For the past several weeks, we were working from six in the morning to nine at night and working weekends,” he says. “We’ve been keeping it covered up, and we had to do this remodel on our off days because we didn’t want to be closed.”

PLAY has earned numerous accolades in its six-year history: the bar has been named “Nashville’s Best Place to Dance” by the Nashville Scene, NashvilleCitySearch.com, and Out & About Newspaper. With such lofty praise, it would seem easy for the owners to rest on their laurels. Instead they’ve used their social and financial capital to enhance the experience for its clientele.

“We just wanted to freshen things up,” Brown says. “On the dance floor, we re-did some of the lighting and added a DJ booth. We’ve got a new video screen, too. There are some cool features on the wall.

It’s a big overhaul.”

A custom booth designer has created special seating for those who need a rest from the dance floor. The owners have also made multiple enhancements to the showroom: the area has been widened with raised seating on each side of the room offering a better view of the entertainment.

Michael Ward of Allard Ward Architects is responsible for much of this makeover, giving PLAY a visuallyappealing, modern feel.

“He was amazing with his design help,” Brown says. “With four owners, we all have our own ideas and have to work together to make decisions. I felt like he came up with something great.”

Svedka Vodka and Red Bull present the Nashville Pride Festival afterparty at PLAY Dance Bar. PLAY will have extended hours on Saturday, June 18 (8 p.m. - 3 a.m.).Showtimes are 9 p.m., 11 p.m., and 1 a.m. Featured guests include DJ Stretch and DJ Ron. Wednesday: College Night - Free admission with College ID until 11. Play mates perform at 11 and 1. Dance floor starts at 11.

Thursday: Ladies Night - Free admission for ladies until 11. Check out the drag kings performances at 10:30. Dance floor starts at 11.

Friday: Play mates perform at 10:30 and 1.

Dance floor starts at 10.

Saturday: Play mates perform at 10:30 and 1.

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Sunday: SIN Night - Free admission for service industry employees with current pay stub.

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JULY 2011

Drag performer Mister Charlie Brown to visit Memphis

‘Rupaul’s Drag Race’ veteran to headline show at Club Spectrum

by ANITA MOYT, CONTRIBUTING WRITER amoyt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

several months work entertaining at casinos.

“I was the host and emcee at Horizon Casino Resort in Lake Tahoe, Nev., and at the Rio in Las Vegas,” Brown said.

To those who are or would like to take to the stage of female impersonation, Brown made it clear you need to keep your day job.

“Have a good job,” he said. “It takes years to get your name out there ... it can be very expensive.”

Tickets are available for $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Advance tickets are offered through the mail by emailing charliebrownmemphis@yahoo.com for details or online through concert sponsor myblingdiva. com.

Myblingdiva.com also is donating a necklace and earring set for bid during the performance.

All ticket sales and auction items will directly benefit Memphis’ MidSouth Spay and Neuter Services, dedicated to providing affordably priced services to

the public to help encourage dog and cat population control.

“I hope everyone enjoys me as much as I enjoy entertaining,” Brown said, inviting Out & About readers to come see her, and for many, again.

MEMPHIS - The legendary Mr. Charlie Brown will entertain as only he can on Saturday, Aug. 6, beginning at 9:30 p.m. (doors open at 8 p.m.). The event will be hosted by Club Spectrum (616 Marshall). In addition, Alexis Mateo, from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 3, will headline the show along with Brown.

For years, gay and straight alike gathered in the upstairs of Charlie Brown’s Cabaret at Backstreet Atlanta to party with the quickwitted queen. Brown’s emceeing style and cabarets caught the nation’s eye through several films, including those produced by HBO, VH1, The Travel Channel and TBS. After more than a decade at Backstreet Atlanta, Brown took it in stride when the ATL gay club was shuttered in 2004, and took the cabaret and cast to Underground Atlanta and then to Hoedown.

Although it’s been a few years since he was in Memphis, Brown is looking forward to returning.

“It was about five years ago for a big benefit,” she said. “I think it is wonderful; I am looking forward to it. Memphis has a warm spot in my heart. I use to work at George’s Truck Stop and Drag Bar.” Brown first performed on the stage as a female impersonator at the age of 19.

“It was 41 years ago in Nashville at the Watch Your Hat and Coat Saloon,” he said. “Of course, I was nervous. It was just the challenge that attracted me to performing.”

By the way, that is ‘Mister Charlie Brown.’

“Drag performers had to have ‘MR’ in front of their name,” Brown said of those years when he got started on the stage. “I just kept mine.”

After Atlanta, Brown has taken to the road and is touring across the U.S. He just completed JULY 2011

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Sweet dreams and melodies

Mandy Barnett reprises her role in ‘Always...Patsy Cline’

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

More than 450 people auditioned for the lead role in “Always...Patsy Cline,” but Mandy Barnett, with a rich, elegant voice, proved to be leagues ahead of her peers.

For the past 15 years, the Nashville-based singer has portrayed the country music legend in the hit musical at the Ryman Auditorium. The show returns to the legendary stage on Fridays-Sundays until July 24.

The script features Cline’s most famous songs including “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces” and “She’s Got You.” Louise Seeger, the character who also narrates the play, is portrayed by Tere Myers.

Barnett has performed on a variety of soundtracks, including Space Cowboys, Election and Drop Dead Gorgeous. In the late Nineties, she issued two excellent solo albums, Mandy Barnett and I’ve Got a Right to Cry. Her latest release, Sweet Dreams, includes a number of Cline’s classic hits and a few American standards as well.

In her conversation with Out & About Newspaper, Barnett expresses gratitude for the role that made her famous.

What’s it like to go into the recording studio with these songs with which you’re so familiar, and then to give them a new spin?

A lot of Patsy’s songs we do ‘em the same way that Patsy did them. They’re reproductions of the original, and we really pay homage to Patsy. With some of the ballads we stretched out stylistically and gave them a more jazzy sound.

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What could a newcomer to this musical expect or be surprised by during the performance?

Well, very little about the show is about Patsy’s life---her personal life, the marriages, the relationships. It’s about her relationship with a fan she meets, and they end up staying up all night and drinking, eating and talking. You don’t see that anymore, where these two are so open with each other. Artists were a lot more accessible back then. But it gets to the essence of what a good gal she was.

After years of performing in this role, what keeps it fresh for you?

I think one thing that has helped is that we’ve gone long stretches without doing the show. We were going to do it last year, but when the flood came and we couldn’t.

But I’m looking forward to performing here in the Ryman, and my co-star (Tere Myers) is incredible. We’ve gone through a lot of changes since we started the show, and from the first time I met her, we just clicked.

I’ve had family and friends come see the show, whether it be opening night or whatever, and they keep coming back because there really is something different each time.

As time goes by, what does Patsy Cline mean to you and to American culture?

She, at the time, was one of the first artists who came out and could really cross over. She could sing anything from country to pop to American standards. When someone who’s so extraordinarily gifted dies so young, it leaves you wanting more, and that’s what’s happened with Patsy. I think that’s why this play is so successful, and now I hope that new generations will hear her and love her. There’s something that sounds timeless about her. It’s not like some music from the Eighties that now sounds dated. So I think for years people will continue to discover her.

What music of the present day inspires you?

To be honest, I don’t listen to a whole lot of music out now. I kind of live in a my own world. I’m not big on the latest trends. I don’t pay a whole lot of attention and I don’t want to be influenced. I want to follow my heart.

I don’t think it’s any secret that I love traditional country music. I just love great songs and great melodies; I love artists who are not afraid to show their vulnerability.

Singers like Tammy Wynette, Patsy and George Jones, they sang about things they actually lived. You knew that Tammy had problems with men. What it comes down to is raw emotion.

Has it become easier to separate yourself from this role?

After years of being around and doing a lot of different things, it’s helped me to separate things. Most people would aspire to do that. It’s an honor and privilege to play her, and I’ve had the support of people who knew her. I’ve been here (Nashville) since I was 17, and it’s hard to stick around. So longevity has helped me as well.

Talking can help.

What kind of legacy do you want to leave in your career?

I want to follow my heart and follow my path, and record great songs. I’ve developed a niche following and I want to keep making great music. I want to sing about the triangles, the cheating, the drinking. People were a lot more willing to sing about those types of things. Now everybody just goes to therapy and that’s it. (laughs) Performances of Always...Patsy Cline are offered each Friday, Saturday and Sunday through July 24 at Ryman Auditorium. Tickets are $29.50-$36.50, and available through www.ryman.com or by calling the Ryman at 889-3060.

Belcourt Theatre continues Elizabeth Taylor series

Saturday - Sunday, July 9-10 WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? Dir. Mike Nichols, USA, 1966, 131min, 35mm Liz won the Oscar, the BAFTA, and several others for this fearless take on Edward Albee’s Tony Award-winning play. Blowsy, broad, and brilliant, this is one of her most enduring roles, a powerhouse center for an exceptional cast, including Richard Burton. “Liz & Losey” Double Feature Saturday-Sunday, July 16-17 BOOM! Dir. Joseph Losey, UK, 1968, 113min, 35mm Taylor is the richest woman in the world, assembling her scandalous memories into a memoir amidst pain medication binges and drunken luncheons. Also starring Richard Burton as the Angel of Death.

July features include ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?’

by BLAKE BOLDT, MANAGING EDITOR bboldt@outandaboutnewspaper.com

The Belcourt Theatre continues its summer Weekend Classics series, “Reflections In a Violet Eye: The Films of Elizabeth Taylor,” which began Saturday, June 4 with the film National Velvet.

The series will be featured each weekend through July 16, and presents a wellbalanced selection of the legendary diva’s film catalog, including Oscar-winning performances, delirious campfests, three Tennessee Williams adaptations, and two vehicles for her and Richard Burton-the original Hollywood “power couple.” This series provides audiences with a unique opportunity to view these classic films on a large theater screen.

“Since her recent death, there’s been a resurgence of interest in Taylor’s personal life as well as her prolific career,” says Stephanie Silverman, managing director of Belcourt Theatre. “This series captures a well-rounded look at her work on film, with award-winners, Burt/Liz ventures and campy films, too.”

Saturday - Sunday, July 2-3 SUDDENLY, LAST SUMMER Dir. Joseph L. Mankiewicz, USA, 1959, 114min, 35mm This Tennessee Williams adaptation is tale of sexual repression set in 1937 New Orleans starring Elizabeth Taylor as a rich widow grieving the death of her son and featuring Paul Newman as her doctor.

"No matter who you are, or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here."

JOIN US: JULY WORKSHOPS

Couponing Boot Camp SATURDAYS • July 9, 23, 30, 6-8PM

Sunday Services: 8:55, 10:15 & 11:35

Homosexuality & Scripture (not what your grand-pappy preached) SUNDAY • July 10, 1-4PM Building Foundations for Marriage/Unions SUNDAY • July 17, 1-3PM JULY 2011

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GEMINI Hometown

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Photo by: Ethan James

An interview with JARED One item (other than your cell phone) that you're never without:

My smile

What is your favorite food?

Bacon cheeseburgers

I feel most confident when:

I am home writing, or with my family My greatest achievement has been:

Dreaming big everyday. Staying focused and not letting obstacles stand in the way.

What do you hope your next greatest achievement will be?

To rediscover myself.

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Boxers or briefs:

Briefs all day long.

If you won $1 million (tax free) and had to give half of it away, who'd get it:

I would donate it all to the Vietnam Children’s Fund. The purpose of the Vietnam Children’s Fund (VCF) is to remember the families and children lost in Vietnam’s many long wars. The goal of the fund is to close the past and look to the future by building schools and investing in the future of children.

Last year she turned 40, had a baby, and discovered cancer

by JOLENE MCKENZIE, CONTRIBUTING WRITER jmckenzie@outandaboutnewspaper.com

My partner and I have a dear friend who lives in Georgia who had a very lifechanging year in 2010 when her world was turned upside down within a few short months. Her experience has left us feeling reflective and very aware that “life” is that thing that happens when we had something different planned.

“Mindy” and her partner of 14 years tried for years to have a baby. They are both successful, professional people who have more than enough love for a houseful of kids. After several attempts, “Baby Wyatt” arrived, bringing new joy into their lives. In fact, Mindy barely noticed her 40th birthday a few weeks later, completely absorbed in her new role of mother.

Not even six months after Wyatt was born, she discovered a lump in her breast.

Her doctor thought it might be a swollen milk duct but encouraged her to come in for a check-up. Sadly, it was determined to be an aggressively growing cancer that needed immediate attention.

Mindy is a fighter and continues to battle her cancer with courage and grace. She is not out of the woods yet, but remains positive and full of love for life.

Cancer is one of those things we think will happen to someone else. The truth is that according to the American Cancer Society, cancer is the second most common cause of death in the US, exceeded only by heart disease. In the US, cancer accounts for nearly 1 of every 4 deaths.* Other facts include: The estimated number of new cases of cancer diagnoses in 2010 was 1.5 million.* Cancers of the prostate and breast are the most frequently diagnosed in men and women, respectively, followed by lung and colorectal cancers in both sexes.*I was recently attending the Nashville GLBT Chamber mixer and was talking

to a guy who shared with me that both his parents had been diagnosed with cancer.

He voiced his concern about the probability that he would face cancer in his own life given his genetics. He went on to say he wished he could get a cancer policy but was certain he would not qualify for one given his family history.

I was able to show him a supplemental policy that will provide coverage cancer benefits. Any claims will be paid directly to the policy holder, providing flexibility in covering medical expenses or daily living expenses as needed.

People are surviving cancer at a much higher rate than in any other generation.

But for those who face it, the cost for treatment can be devastating with long-term implications. You can protect yourself with regular check-ups and smart coverage choices.

For more information, contact Licensed Agent Jolene McKenzie at 615-594-1564. *Source: American Cancer Society. Cancer facts & figures 2010. Atlanta: American Cancer Society, 2010

Timberfell odge L

Entering the gates of Timberfell, you feel its spells immediately.

The sensation intensi es 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 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 re ected and reinforced by the

UPCOMING EVENTS July 1 – 4 BANG ~ The Fabulous Fourth Extended Holiday Weekend A summer classic! Special cookouts, poolside dance party, tavern bash, after hour parties, and hot men by the pool.

July 15 – 17 Uniform-Fetish Weekend/ Gryphons Deliverance 2011 Run

attentive staff. You will be greeted by owners/innkeepers Bill and

Military, cop, fireman, biker, latex or rubber …we want you here! On Saturday night, the Tavern is the place to be to show off your duds! After-hours Black-Out Party in the Backroom.

Steve. Hospitality is home here.

July 29 – 31 Domination 2011: The Leather Experience Special Guest Hosts: Western North Carolina-Asheville Leathermen Cocktail/social mixers. Friday night Straps ‘n Chaps Party and Saturday Black-Out Party.

2240 Van Hill Road Greeneville, TN 37745 Lodge: (423) 234-0833 Toll-Free: (800) 437-0118 www.timberfell.com

JULY 2011

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