The Agenda September 2013 by Digital Publisher

VOLUME 02, NO. 01 SEPTEMBER 2013

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Editorial

Editor-in-Chief KATE X MESSER Copy Editor DAVID ESTLUND Assistant Editor SARA REIHANI

Art

Design Director CHASE MARTIN Photography DEVAKI KNOWLES

Distribution Contributors

ANDY CAMPBELL, DAVID ESTLUND, JIMMY FLANNIGAN, DEVAKI KNOWLES, CHASE MARTIN, ERICA NIX

Advertising Accounts & Sales AGLCC Board: JIMMY FLANNIGAN president AMY COOK vice-president LIZ BRENNER secretary RICK HOLMBERG treasurer BART LOESER programs CECI GRATIAS membership

TINA CANNON, BRIAN ERICKSON, EDGAR GIERBOLINI, ANNA POWELL, WESTON SCHMITZ at large

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ROB COHEN, JORDAN GASS-POORE, NINA HERNANDEZ, MICHAEL C. KOSTEK, III

Cover Photography

DEVAKI KNOWLES

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ANNA FUGATE Thanks to the “I AM EQUALITY” CAMPAIGN AND TO THE Q

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If our cover story

interview with Austin would-be aerobics guru, professional photographer, and performance artist Erica Nix proves one thing, it shows how one person’s journey can illustrate the struggles of an entire community. For Nix, working out isn’t just about getting tighter abs or buns of steel - though she admits, as most of us should, that those are damn compelling motivators to endure the grind. To Nix, working out is the way to a build healthy community. Hear her out: While exploring body issues and hearing her dish about meeting her own fitness guru, one Richard Simmons, we learn a lot about how far we’ve all come and how far we’ve yet to go. Not a bit like exercise. Nope. Not at all. This year, Nix was invited by the LGBTQ visibility campaign, “I Am Equality,” to serve as the Austin photographer and to coordinate Central Texas’ contribution to this massive nationwide art project. She partnered with Austin’s The Q and took portraits of dozens of local folks in the community. She’s given us a segment of that collection here to run as this issue’s photo spread. Each issue, we’ve dedicated a feature to photos of regular people in our LGBTQ family. It’s The Agenda is published quarterly by the Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with The Austin Chronicle and is financed entirely by the support from the membership of the chamber. The views and opinions expressed in The Agenda and austinagenda.com do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (AGLCC), nor its officers or board of directors, nor The Austin Chronicle.

my favorite part of The Agenda, and I hope you like this issue’s twist. This quarter we feature the second part of Andy Campbell’s interview with Toby Johnson and Kip Dollar, the gents behind Austin’s legendary Liberty Books, waxing here about Speculative Fiction and LGBT visibility in various sci-fi genres. Check out Andy’s recos for must-read books that fit these bills. There’s also an article by David Estlund about the strides we’ve made in the realm of education and how many grade levels we’ve yet to achieve before we get to the head of the class. This edition begins the second volume, or year, of The Agenda, Austin’s quarterly LGBT magazine focused on the “gay agenda” of economic equality, produced in collaboration between the Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and The Austin Chronicle. Many thanks to our advertisers (all AGLCC members) and staff of writers, editors, graphic, tech, and art folk. Thanks, gang. It’s been one heckuva year and one heckuva ride. Kate X Messer | The Agenda Editor-in-chief

Copyright © 2013 Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Unsolicited submissions (including resumes, articles, artwork, and photographs) are not returned. PO Box 49216, Austin, TX 78765 512/761-LGBT (5428) contact@austinagenda.com

Any advice or opinions provided herein are for informational purposes only.

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Austin’s Entry Into a National Campaign STORIES AND PHOTOS BY ERICA NIX

It seems silly, but this project feels more important to me now than I ever expected. The “I Am Equality” campaign contacted me through my business, Austin Queer Weddings, and asked me to participate in their national event. Each city involved was to photograph members of the LGBTQ community with a white backdrop on the same day, August 17, 1-4pm. After partnering with AIDS Services of Austin’s The Q and reaching out to different groups in the LGBTQ community, I had to extend our hours by two just to fit in all 93 participants who RSVP’d. Each subject’s studio time was less than three minutes, but I think each individual felt like an important part of the community in that time frame. Considering the guidelines of the campaign, I tried to think: How I could make this project different from other LGBTQ photography shoots? I thought of Richard Avedon’s “American West” series. Let me stress, I would NEVER

compare myself to Richard Avedon. But Avedon brought his studio to people that normally went unseen. The studio setting offers the subject a quality of gravitas usually reserved for super models and celebrities. I wanted individuals of our queer community to be seen as and to feel beautiful. We brought in volunteers stylist Ashanti Maxwell and makeup artist Holly Fuller to help with that. I was shocked at how many people got makeup and hair. I think some people even got haircuts! Soon a full edit of all the photos will be available online, but I’m working on a smaller edit to exhibit at the Hope Wall for 2013 Austin PRIDE. It pains me to cut any of the photos from the whole. In my final edit, I hope to accurately represent our Queer community while staying true to my artistic vision - to be artistically engaging and to representive sample of this diverse community. I think all these people are beautiful, and I bet you will too.

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How a Bootlegged 1980s VHS Fitness Tape Taught Erica Nix About Community ... and Spandex Interview By Kate X Messer Photos By Devaki Knowles

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That curly ginger mane is the first thing that jumps out about Austin performance artist/fitness mistress Erica Nix. The next thing is her incredible, museum-worthy collection of original 1980s spandex. When she began releasing a regular series of online exercise videos, Workout! With Erica Nix, a few local nonprofits and fitness venues began to take her seriously. Now she’s everywhere, warming up participants in this year’s AIDS Walk (and the upcoming 5K Rainbow Run at 2013 Austin PRIDE) and hosting a regular schedule of aerobics classes all over town. I caught her in street clothes, and we sat to have a nice chat about body image, queer community, and her lifelong obsession with another curlyhaired fitness guru. Kate X Messer: Were you born in Spandex? It’s kind of hard to imagine you any other way. Erica Nix: I was born in Arlington Texas, and that is where I lived until I moved here, to Austin, for college. I went to St. Edward’s. I studied photography for four years, between 1999 and 2003.

KXM: How was growing up in Arlington? EN: Arlington is very suburban. I would say my favorite thing there now is that they have the best dive bars - some really gross dive bars (laughter). My family was very body-conscious; my mother did a lot of aerobics. My Holy Trinity included Jane Fonda, Richard Simmons, and Jazzercize. Growing up around all that, I fell in love with Jane Fonda. Now I look at those tapes, and I’m kind of amazed, because her moves are definitely very aerobic. There’s a lot of jumping and jump rope. It’s fun, but it’s almost all cardio; it’s not as diverse in the moves as today’s aerobics. Richard Simmons was definitely my favorite. We only had one of his videotapes, Sweating to Oldies, of course, which I wore out. Those times working out with my cousin Kimmy were some of my first memories of being conscious of my body. I remember that being one of the first times I’d thought about not being “skinny enough.” My mom has always had the smallest plate at the

My Holy Trinity included Jane Fonda, Richard Simmons, and Jazzercize. Growing up around all that, I fell in love with Jane Fonda, but Richard Simmons was definitely my favorite. When I was 7 years old, my cousin Kimmy and I would dance to the two fastest songs of Richard Simmons’ Sweating to the Oldies VHS, weigh ourselves, and do it all over again. Kimmy was a scrawny thing and turned out to be the youngest anorexic I have ever known. Each time we ran to the scale and weighed ourselves. Obviously that’s not the way it works, but we didn’t know. I would get so frustrated. I didn’t understand why I wasn’t losing weight (laughter). To make matters worse, Kimmy weighed 20 pounds less than me. I finally forced Kimmy to sit and watch me work out, because I didn’t want her to lose any more weight. I wanted to be as skinny as she was.

dinner table. She would always tell us about how she had food issues and that she definitely struggled with eating disorders at a young age. She was a model when she was young and a bit body and food obsessed. My cousin always ate like a bird, and We found out later she had an eating disorder. KXM: I think every American generation has had their own brand of body issues. But I do remember a really clear shift in the 1980s. It really felt like that body conscious spotlight was back on again, especially on women, after some of the most progressive “Free to Be Me” ideals of the 70s. Suddenly, it was again okay to body-shame.

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EN: Looking back, I was not ever a big kid. But my family thought I was kind of a big kid. If I had a tummy or anything, that was definitely pointed out. It felt awful. But I was a pretty rebellious kid, and having that kind of negative attention towards me and food made me want to just say, “Fuck you!” What I find really difficult about our community, this drinking, party community, is that it’s really difficult to choose to take care of yourself. Because when you already feel so rejected from this physical culture, or are berated into self-hating enough - as we often are - it’s hard to care enough to do something positive that requires motivation and commitment, like, say, quit smoking. I still smoke. I can smoke like, half a pack in a night. But normally I try to keep it down. There will be times when I’m feeling really good and decide that I care enough to take care of myself. But then if something sad happens, or I’m not in a good mood, I forget and slip into that self-defeating “Why? What’s the point?” But my just-now aging body is telling me different. I want to feel good. I want to be healthy. The world is

changing for the better when it comes to LGBTQ rights, but the fight isn’t over, and many of us carry that around with us everyday. The first step is to love yourself. KXM: It’s stunning to think that our guides and our mentors are human. It’s hard to realize that and remember that. It’s good to hear you say that you struggle too, and that you’re aware of what holds you back, but that you’re also aware of what you can change. So, anyone who’s been following your Workout! story knows that you are a big Richard Simmons fan. You were “sweating to the oldies” before working out to an elfen queen was cool. EN: Everyone owned a Richard Simmons video back then. I don’t know how we got ours, but it was definitely not purchased. It was copied from someone else’s VHS, I’m sure (laughter). That was such a thing back then. If you watch some of Richard’s videos, he has these amazing intro skits, where he’s investigating this person who has been copying his tapes. When he busts into

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the perp’s hideout, there’s this huge warehouse full of boxes of his tapes, and it turns out the culprit is his mother. He’s like, “MOTHAAAAAAH!” She’s this hilarious character. It’s funny to think about that. No one thought twice about copying a VHS from someone at that time.

KXM: You went from being a rebellious kid in Arlington, playing Richard Simmons videos with your cousin. Then you moved to Austin to attend college at St. Ed’s. How much of a transition was that, culturally? Was it a culture shock? EN: I came here in 1999. I was on St.

What I find really difficult about our community, this drinking, party community, is that it’s really difficult to choose to take care of yourself. KXM: When did you realize that it was more than a passing fancy? That you were not only developing a real interest in dance and working out, but becoming a true Richard Simmons fan? EN: Richard Simmons was kind of a godsend back then when you think about body image issues. He purposely has real people doing his workouts.

Edward’s campus for a while and realized that the social network there was pretty small. So I moved into a clothing-optional coop, which isn’t a big deal here, but my being from Arlington, it was a pretty big deal to me. Just seeing people of all different sizes be naked was pretty revolutionary. Austin blew my mind. This feels really candid and weird to reveal, but I remember being so

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conscious of my own body weight, yet seeing my friend, who was a much larger woman than I, playing volleyball naked in the pool... Well, she was the sexiest woman I’d had ever seen naked. It really blew my mind that I could feel that, because I’d been struggling so hard, feeling every inch and every pound that I put on would make me unattractive. Yet here she was, superproud, and looking objectively hot. It was water volleyball, so that was helpful (laughter). KXM: Since college, you’ve created for yourself a lot of roles: photographer, media maven, performance artist, exercise guru. How did all this come together? EN: The Workout! class has always been more of an art project - doing it at bars, as more of a performing happy hour at Cheer Up Charlie’s - than an actual exercise class. About a year ago Galaxy

funny, positive environment, and if I could, I would build a Richard Simmons kind of empire, but have it focus on the queer community. And I want it to be inclusive. So that’s my focus right now, because that’s my community. KXM: Well, it’s certainly grown. It’s gone from this funny web video series to -dang, girl, you are everywhere. Legit LGBT groups are asking you to warm up their crowds at events, and you are being taken seriously as a fitness instuctor. EN: We bring more people and create more interest through social media. I love that I get to use my photography knowledge in that way, for selfpromotion. In other areas, I’ve been using photography as a job, to make money. I started second shooting for one of my professors, Bill Kennedy, right out

If I could, I would build a Richard Simmons kind of empire, but have it focus on the queer community. Dance Studio moved us to an actual class where it was taken more seriously as an aerobics work out. But I never want to take the word “art” out of it. It’ll always be art for me. Some people who might feel overweight, or that they dont want to be in a group area, or that they’re older or have different needs, but still want to participate in classes have asked me about modifying the workouts for them. Within the last year, a friend of mine who is transgender asked me to come and privately work her out. I realized that I didn’t really have the tools to work with her one-on-one. She had some special needs. And that’s when I began to really study how to do this so that I don’t put anyone’s health at risk. Workout! With Erica Nix has a mission. It’s making workouts fun again. The idea of Workout with Erica Nix is to produce art out of aerobics. Mostly it’s a really

of college, but second shooters don’t make very much money. From there, I started a business with one of my closest friends, Jessica Addy. She decided to get a more reliable form of income, she works at St. Edward’s now as a photo editor. That’s when I started working under the umbrella of Whitney Lee Photography, and recently decided to branch out and open my own business, Austin Queer Weddings. KXM: It’s been a pretty exciting year for you. And then there was that whole meeting-Richard-Simmons thing... EN: I went out to Los Angeles and saw him this year. I auditioned to be in his video. KXM: What was that like? EN: First I went to his class, so I could prepare for the audition, and he was just like he is when you see him on TV. You

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pay extra to go to his meeting before the class; everyone sits in a circle, and he goes around asking you questions about yourself, like how much weight you’ve lost. People cry. It’s this really intense sort of thing. I don’t know how conscious I was of that. I mean, he was very entertaining, and doing his workouts were more like fun than anything else – minus the scale stuff. KXM: You got to connect with him a bit, though, right?

a really positive person and that they were holding me back. He made lots of people cry. KXM: It sounds like it had quite an impact on you. EN: My favorite Richard Simmons story was that his team gave everyone who was in the video lunch. It was a Chinese buffet loaded with MSG. Richard throws this huge fit. Huge. It makes sense. It’s kind of wild that they would buy an unhealthy lunch for a workout video

There’s a cameraderie in being gay, having painful pasts, having families that might not fully understand or support you. Obviously I’m not going to be best friends with everyone that’s gay, but I do feel there’s this understanding. For me that comes out with my body image, and that works with a lot of people. EN: There wasn’t a lot of time one-onone, but at the end of the video, he was pretty sad. Like I said, it’s pretty intense and emotional. He talked to everyone individually. I guess i’ll just spill what he said to me. It was like talking to a hand reader. He looked me straight in the eye and told me to cut out all the negative people in my life, that I was

crew? So he made them buy all these different wraps and stuff. He passed them out to everyone. At another point, his manager or agent, or whomever, was running the show, asked him to stop talking. Richard flew off the handle, because he was already pissed off about lunch, and said, “THIS

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IS MY LAST VIDEO, I’LL DO WHAT I GODDAMN WANT!” And he ran off to his trailer. I had always heard about how stars would go and pout for days and cost everyone a bunch of money. But I loved how Richard did it just enough to be dramatic. He would count to 10, and then be back onstage with a smile. He was super professional and amazing. And even when he was throwing a hissy fit, it’s really not that bad. The entire time while we’re dancing, he’s talking. He’s like this amazing drag queen. He’ll stop and tell you some story about his life, and it’ll be very theatrical and hilarious and amazing. He’ll stop and talk to an imaginary dog and say very strange things to it. KXM: How has the experience with him altered things for you here? EN: He’s a very free thinker. I loved the powwow beforehand, getting to know people. I loved how in his dances, you don’t have to count in eight counts, like in jazzercise or zumba where everything’s choreographed. He just has these moves in his mind that you do as he calls them out. He really brought more of the queen out in me. He’s like, “Move that mayonnaise off your ass!” He really pushes people to work hard by saying kind of mean and offensive things. I feel like that was a good lesson to learn: Just go for it, don’t worry about insulting someone. Sometimes when I would get new people in class, I would clam up. Now 90% of the time, I just go for it. Also

he does this fun conga line at the end of his class. I’ve stolen a couple of his ingenious dance party ideas for the class. I really like doing things in a fast, nobudget way. It was good to see how, if I were to do it more professionally, how much time and effort, if I were to do a 90-minute video, for example. I learned what that’s like, and I learned how I don’t want it to be like that. I prefer for the whole process to be fun and more like an art project. There’s nothing wrong with things being perfect, but I just like that we don’t have those kinds of constraints. KXM: What if you get signed by some production company and find that you would need to step all of that up? Do you have a game plan? EN: I know everyone that I would hire. Those people can’t work for free. Jessica Gardner, my editor, is an amazing editor. She has done so much great work for me, but she’s had to get a real job. And I don’t want people to work for free. I’m not going to ask someone to be so generous with their talent without having something to give them back. KXM: Let’s go back a little bit and focus on queer community and your work with transfolk. EN: There’s a cameraderie in being gay, having painful pasts, having families that might not fully understand or support you. Obviously I’m not going to be best friends with everyone who’s gay, but I do feel there’s this understanding. For

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me that comes out with my body image, and that works with a lot of people. And you and I have talked before about being womenwho don’t want sexual attention from men. Or when people hassle you, or whistle, or stop their car, for God’s sake. The idea Changing your shape or your body just for safety. I have a friend who’s trying to transition without any testosterone. He has all these exercises, and I thought it was really interesting. I’m not against T. I’m not transgender, so I don’t feel I can judge. But I thought it’d be interesting, especially for transgender women. I could be wrong, but it seems to me, in my experience, that it’s harder to figure out how to look long, and how to be a specific kind of woman. Most of my transgender male friends seem to have an easier time putting on muscle, especially once they start taking T. I’m open to both, but it seems like it’s almost easier to look more feminine as you gain weight, as a transgender woman, you gain breast. The whole topic is confusing, still. The first time I thought about “bodyshaping” was when I was interviewed by the guys at the Feast of Fun podcast. I used to think of it as being this weird, muscle, beef, physical culture that I don’t identify with. But it doesn’t have to be like that. It can also mean, what do you feel comfortable with in how you present yourself, and how can I make that more possible? And as a woman I admit that I feel kind of threatened by that idea: the idea of toning a specific area of the body.

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When you cross different parts of the spectrum, just in the queer community, it’s so different. I feel so much more comfortable talking about bodyshaping in the transgender community than I do in my own cis-gender community. I guess because being hyperfocused about my body feels like a negative thing, whereas it seems very natural if you’re transitioning. It’s a head trip to think about it, altogether. KXM: Where’s the line between concern for and obsession with body image? EN: I was talking to this woman about workouts. She’s a business professional and not in the queer community at all. The minute I said “bodyshaping,” she went on this spiel about “people talk about health but what people really care about, is what they look like!” It was the exact opposite of my mission, and when she spun it like that, I was like, “Oh my god, is that what I’m doing?” I don’t want that to be my driving force, and I’m embarrassed to even admit that it is part of it. Did you know that Jane Fonda, at the height of her aerobics career - she says this in her autobiography – that she was vomiting in the most expensive restaurants in LA while she was the most celebrated fitness instructor? It’s super depressing. KXM: How much can you change about your body? How much is realistic? EN: For the transgender community, I want to be able to tell people that they

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can look however they want. That is exciting to me. But for me to think, “I just want to be a skinny ballerina!” That, to me, sounds super vain.

KXM: Do you envision helping folks who are transitioning as a component in this Richard-Simmons-like empire you want to create?

KXM: How would you talk to a young person who is transitioning, for example, female to male? How would you talk to them if they were deciding about using testosterone?

EN: Richard Simmons brought health to a community that felt really outside where he existed at one point, too. I just find that the transgender community is part of my queer community. I want it to be a safe place for everyone. That’s why i’m interested in learning how to help all parts of my community. I don’t know if it is a perfect fit.

EN: That’s actually why I’m going to school now – I actually don’t have those answers yet. I thought about taking testosterone to experiment those things on my own body, but then I found out that it could be permanent and is dangerous. But I’m very curious. KXM: I’ve come across some folks with misconceptions - that if the goal is to be fitter, trimmer, maybe you could just jump-start it with T for a while, get a hard body, and then back off. EN: Yeah, it does not work like that. I know a lot of people that take super low doses of T. It seems to really benefit them.

KXM: You’re performing at PRIDE, yes? EN: I’m doing a warmup for the 5K run in the morning. That’ll be fun. Then I’m going to be the photographer for the group weddding. Some of my Workout! buddies are going to be in the wedding party, and we’re planning on doig a dance with Transgender Education Network of Texas (TENT). We are going to help them on their float. I want to have a presence there, but I don’t want to use the PRIDE Parade as a promotional vehicle. That’s why I decided it would be more fun to work within a group within the parade. I could make them wear headbands.

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KXM: Your take on not using your community for promotional purposes is really interesting. And really self-aware. It can be very tough in Austin to know the difference. We’ve all got something to pimp. EN: I’m a very social person, so something like the AGLCC luncheons are really fun for me. Networking is my favorite part of any job. I’m a portrait photographer, so all my art is pretty intentional with people. I just want to be in the community. That is the most important thing to me.

Before I started creating the Workout! video series, we did some public aerobic things. I’d do dance jog: we’d go out to Town Lake and do a follow-theleader style dance. Strangers would sometimes jump in and start dancing with us. The videos really helped it become more thriving. Documenting it with photos every day is what keeps the cycle happening. It might take someone two years of seeing our faces out there and our Spandex before they decide to join a class. It’s about making it look fun. We all become workout stars. I love that. AU STIN GAY & L E SB IAN

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How We Became “LGBT” By AGLCC President Jimmy Flannigan It’s become almost a running joke in our community. L-G-B-T-Q-I-A-B-C-D… all these letters in the alphabet soup somehow intended to represent and identify all of us in a single phrase. But while we sometimes laugh and tease each other about this notion, how we choose identify ourselves is at the very core of the movement for our equality. While we know that our sexuality and our gender are not chosen, the words we use to describe ourselves and others are the essence of freedom of choice and expression. Businesses trying to reach our community through marketing and action also struggle with these terms. It is challenging, nay impossible, to pick a single phrase for which we will all respond positivity. On the next page you’ll see a graphic representation of these attempts through a study done by LGBT market research firm Community Marketing, Inc. They found that “LGBT” is the most preferred phrase for gay men and lesbians (bisexual and transgender

input conspicuously absent from the data). In fact, LGBT chambers of commerce, including Austin, attending the very first national conference back in 2004 decided to adopt “LGBT” as the preferred phrasing for our organizations. But that is far from the final word on the subject. There is a growing segment of our community that identifies as “queer”, there is the question of the place of straight allies, and there are plenty of organizations still using less inclusive terms in their names, just as the AGLCC still uses “gay and lesbian” in its name but has adopted LGBT in its mission and advocacy. Ultimately there will be no one answer on how to describe our diverse community because the right to self-identify, however one chooses to do so, is fundamental to the fight for equal rights and acceptance. All we can do as individuals is be proud of our own identity, be respectful of the identity of others, and try our best to be patient and educate when our identities intersect in unexpected ways. AU STIN GAY & L E SB IAN

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Toby Johnson and Kip Dollar

TOBY JOHNSON & KIP DOLLAR MOVE A SPECULATIVE FICTION GAY PUBLISHING HOUSE INTO DIGITAL Part 2 of Our Interview WRITTEN BY ANDY CAMPBELL PHOTOS BY DEVAKI KNOWLES In the last issue of The Agenda, Toby Johnson and Kip Dollar waxed poetic about opening, owning, and operating Liberty Books, a gay bookstore and community hub in Austin in the late 1980s. Continuing their history of being pioneers in gay-targeted publishing business, the pair is now involved with a small independent press owned by Steve Berman, Lethe Press, which publishes a catalogue of speculative fiction titles (Science Fiction, Horror, Fantasy). Lethe also has imprints concerning gay spirituality and bear fiction (yes, the kind of bears who woof rather than growl). In Part 2 of our interview, we discuss what brought Johnson and Dollar back to Austin after closing the bookstore, and what finding a place for gay books in a digital publishing world looks like.

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Toby Johnson

Andy Campbell: When we left off last time you had finished running a string of bed and breakfasts, and you moved back to San Antonio. What brought you back there? Kip Dollar: Well, we were sort of pulled back there. My father, who was a WWII vet, was having to go to the VA hospital a lot because he was very ill. It just made sense for us to move back to San Antonio to be closer to him. We moved to take care of him in 2003, and he passed in 2005. But then I stayed to help my mom with that transition in her life. We ended up in San Antonio for six years. It was at that time we got involved with Lethe Press, and we weren’t actually doing much else. We gardened, painted the house… . AC: Did you feel like you were in a holding pattern there, waiting? Toby Johnson: Yes. We had very seriously thought ‘six months,’ but ended up staying six years. AC: And because you guys are social connectors, how did you extend your social circle back in this new place?

KD: We helped found the Alamo Business Council in the early ’80s. When we came back to San Antonio it had grown to about 120 members. That gave us enough of a social outlet, and so we didn’t end up going to the bars that much. We were living in a suburb of San Antonio. We got used to going to bed early. AC: As suburbanites do! (laughter) Is that a bedtime schedule you’ve kept up? KD: Oh yes, Toby will sleep around 10pm, and I’ll fall asleep around 9. AC: Ahh, so were you the night owl, Toby? TJ: Oh, when I was younger, yeah! It was really in the country in Colorado when we started going to bed early – because it was so cold there, it was worth getting in bed and getting cozy early in the night. KD: We moved back to Austin in 2009, and we formed a corporation with a few friends and bought a piece of property at 13th and Lavaca. We were going to build a small condo building - 10 condos

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hnson

with six for the group and four to sell. It was in 2008, when the economy went bust. We even had an architect do 3-D renderings, and then the bank went under. We sold the land, and it’s still vacant. AC: Was the goal to create your own intentional community? TJ: Well that was sort of the idea. I lived in San Francisco in the 1970s, so I liked the Hippie group living in households. I liked living that way. I had always imagined we’d end up living in a commune in the country. It was a little bit of that, but now folded into the reality of real estate investing. The commune part is very difficult. But with this set of friends we had a plan; now everyone is scattered over Austin. AC: How did you get involved with Lethe Press? TJ: I had been editing White Crane Journal, a magazine about homosexuality and spirituality. Another guy in New York had taken over editorship from me, but I was still involved in creating a White Crane book series to bring back into print title about gay spirituality. AC: Was that to include your book, Gay Spirituality? TJ: Yes. So I was to be editor of White Crane Books, when Steve Berman contacted me about Lethe Press republishing Gay Spirituality. He had the same idea about resurrecting books that were out of print. So it made sense that instead of our trying to create a publishing company, which I knew nothing about, we just aligned with Steve instead. I took that as an indication to bring my two books that had gone out of print with Alyson Books. I had the software to do layout stuff, so I did that for my own books. Steve asked if I would do production for other books, so I just gradually fell into being the production department. And the White Crane imprint of Lethe published books from authors like Mark Thompson, who was a radical faerie, cultural editor of The Advocate, took photos of James Broughton, and wrote one of the first books in the gay spirituality movement.

AC: While Toby found a place bringing books into being via production, is this when you found your place in Lethe as bookkeeper, Kip? KD: Yes, but it wasn’t immediate. Lethe began by publishing public domain titles, and then grew to deal with authors. In 2008, I began producing royalty reports using Microsoft Excel, and it’s just grown to be a massive effort. Unfortunately, every six months when we do a royalty report, we have to rewrite our formulas, because something new comes up – audiobooks being the most recent addition. Now we factor in several hundred authors in seven countries with six different currencies… AC: Yeah, that’s a lot! KD: Yes, a monster. In 2010 Lethe became incorporated, because Steve knew it couldn’t be a one-man operation anymore, so he asked me to set up books for him. TJ: For both of us, our positions at Lethe are volunteer positions, and the amount of work varies. Sometimes Kip’s work is sitting at the computer day after day balancing the books. KD: Two times a year it’s a solid month of work to make the royalty reports. All the different editors at Lethe are in different cities. We’re the only two in the same city. TJ: This has been a very nice thing, because it’s given us an identity by staying in the publishing industry, and it was a natural outgrowth of the bookstore we ran in Austin. Giovanni’s Room, a gay bookstore in Philadelphia, is where Steve Berman had worked, so Lethe is connected to that bookstore. Even though my primary interest is gay spirituality, and bringing gay spirituality into a new age, the company mainly produces speculative fiction: sci-fi, horror, fantasy… AC: Basically genre fiction… Didn’t you write a speculative fiction book? TJ: I wrote four novels which have “a touch of the Twilight Zone” as I called it. Maybe that reference is too old?

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Kip Dollar

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AC: Pssht! That’s not too old. You hear those opening theme song notes, and you’ll know the reference.

AC: What did you find in going back to that literature?

TJ: A combination of fantasy, a little scifi, a ghost story, which all had a kind of message. I think in general that’s true of speculative fiction; there’s usually a message. That is fascinating to see, even in an area that you’d think doesn’t have anything to do with gay spirituality or philosophy, there are all these messages, which are life-affirming and sex-affirming, and liberated spirituality. I like that.

AC: I’ve never read them. Aren’t they pretty Victorian?

AC: Is this literature that you both read as well? I’m thinking Samuel Delany, Octavia Butler… ? KD: Actually, we read less and less as we work more and more with the press. You lose your appetite for reading. TJ: Well that’s an interesting question: What do we read? KD: It’s like working in a candy store. It’s perfectly acceptable to take one bite out of it and throw it in the trash. I read the first couple chapters and then put many things down. AC: How has it affected your reading habits? KD: Oh, it’s made me more finicky. If I don’t like something, I’ll grab something else. TJ: When we got into the bookstore business, I learned how to read a book by reading a cover closely and flipping through it, and was able to recommend it. That’s what a bookseller has to do. It ruins your reading in the sense that you can do it so much faster. Occasionally I love wading through a novel. And I do more book reviews now. AC: That kind of reading is very different from pleasure reading…

KD: I enjoyed reading it, but I thought, “Don’t I have better things to do?!” Actually, after about six of them, I lost my stomach for the series, because it’s the same retelling of the little girl story.

KD: Oh yes! A lot of “Oh dear!”s and “Gosh!” TJ: To get back to Lethe Press: All the books at Lethe end up passing through my machine, because we produce the e-book version of the Lethe books. We recently did a book of short stories queering Edgar Allen Poe, which I think for Poe fans is quite neat. AC: What’s the deal with Icarus, which is published by Lethe and billed as the magazine of gay speculative fiction? TJ: Well, this is the 18th issue of Icarus, which we’ve been doing for four and a half years now – and it never really took off. It was really Steve’s brainchild. It was to be a bit of an advertising gimmick for the anthologies Lethe produced. The inspiration was really Hewlett Packard developing MagCloud, which sells magazines print-on-demand. It’s the technology used for books, applied to magazines. There was a promise that MagCloud would be the new hit, a big production hub. But that hasn’t really panned out, and more trouble than it’s worth. Steve recently decided to end the run of Icarus. It’s too bad. But this has nothing to do with gay speculative fiction, but more with people’s relationships with magazines. Do they really want magazines coming through the mail? I don’t know. I think to some extent the magazine is addressed to a younger audience. I don’t know whether people buy magazines… I don’t.

TJ: Yes, and you sort of have to pay attention!

AC: What is your take on that – how contemporary folks are relating to printed media?

KD: Oh, I recently wasted a lot of time reading the Frank L. Baum Wizard of Oz series – they’re very juvenile. Very few people have read them all.

TJ: I think that more and more magazines are going to an online format. Not good for the post office, because we’re down to basically junk mail and magazines now.

Dollar

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AC: Sure. One of the challenges with online, is whether or not it conforms to the printed media specificity of volume and journal. KD: Yes, and you just don’t stumble across them. TJ: There was a great acceptance and excitement of print on demand model [POD], which turns out to be true, but what we’re seeing is that the other things that went with publishing – especially royalty procedures – don’t make sense anymore. How you pay authors is very confusing. POD assumes that the books are printed and paid for by the person that the book goes to. But of course with book stores, that’s not the case, because bookstore’s order them on spec. There was an old gimmick, where bookstores would over-order and then sell back to the publisher. AC: College bookstores still do that. TJ: Lethe Press accepts returns, but because we work off of a POD model, we have nothing to do.

KD: They’re orphaned books. This is a big problem with the new model. The cost of printing each copy is much higher than printing in gross, but the contracts with authors and sellers haven’t really changed. The publisher’s take has gone down. Lethe can generate capital to keep functioning, but it relies on volunteers like us. AC: What’s your prediction of the contemporary independent publishing market? Doom and gloom or sunny days? KD: I’m not sure I’m terribly optimistic, but I think someone will come up with a better model for independent presses to sell books online. As we grow, the prices should go down, but it’s not that way. If this is to work, big production copies have to lighten up on presses. TJ: Yes. You used to invest capital in inventory and maintaining inventory. Now you don’t have that, but in exchange… the profit has shifted from the publisher to the book manufacturer. One of the plans that I read about through Lightning Source, is that they want bookstores to have machines to produce the book on-site. When we were in Colorado we saw a vending machine …

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KD: Yes, you put your card in, choose your book and it will vend it out to you.

taking the type up in size makes a book 3,000 pages.

AC: Did you try it? Or did you run away? (laughs)

TJ: I’m comfortable with online and digital. I see how there have been holy books and sentimental books – you need something real, like a book of poetry. I can see where it’s nice to have a physical book. But the reality is, we’re moving this direction, but the technology needs to change and shift. Remember in 2001: A Space Odyssey they’re holding a sheet of what looks like pliable paper that functions as a screen? That’s the future.

TJ: No, it was much more primitive, producing a little black and white paperback, but the implications are clear. That’s were it all should be moving, or away from print books entirely. KD: Reproducing a PDF doesn’t cost anything. We do have that in our favor, and we were early to get on the e-book market as the Kindle was coming out. Perhaps Lethe will drop the printed book altogether. AC: Do you feel any connection to the materiality of a book? KD: No, I’m sold on a device like a Kindle. They can stop producing books altogether, I don’t want to dust ‘em! I actually prefer holding the Kindle. But I do miss being able to stick my boarding pass in a book to keep the page… and

Part 1 of The Agenda’s interviews with Kip and Toby appeared in our June, 2013 issue. In Part 1 of this interview, we misspelled the name of original Liberty Books owner Tom Doyal. The Agenda regrets the error and any misunderstandings it may have caused.

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Books in My Pocket

10 Must-Read LGBTQ Speculative Fiction Works By Andy Campbell Whether you’re into ambi-sexual intergalactic space travel or a juicy lezzie werewolf tale, The Agenda wants to extend your Summer reading list:

Carmilla

Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu (1872, Wildside Press) This 1872 serial Gothic novel is often cited as an important influence on Bram Stoker’s more famous vampire tale, Dracula. The novel’s narrator, Laura, forms a close friendship with mercurial Carmilla – whose untoward romantic advances on Laura are only part and parcel of her supernatural aberration. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the homoerotic content is bound up in a broader array of social deviance – not really a GLAADfriendly message. But then again, there’s a lot to be reclaimed here, even if (spoiler alert!) Carmilla gets it in the end (and not in the fun way).

Left Hand of Darkness

Ursula K. Le Guin (1969, Ace Trade) Like Stars in My Pocket… Ursula LeGuin’s Hugo and Nebula award winning Left Hand of Darkness is set in a multi-world universe, shaped by the political fallout of intergaliactic colonialism. The central character Genly Ai, a galactic envoy to a planet called Winter which is populated by the ambi-gendered Gethenians, attempts to navigate the tricky political systems of his new environment. Ai’s relationship with the Gethenian Estraven is an ever-changing negotiation between Ai’s stalwart gendered expectations and Estravan’s fluid sexuality. Whoa.

334

Thomas Disch (1972, Vintage) Sometimes speculative fiction is able to discuss the fears and anxieties of the real world more accurately than an academic think-piece normally would. Such is the case with Nebula-nominated 334, which is set in New York City in 2025. The book is a series of stories (really shorter novellas) concerning

the residents living in an oppressive housing project – think Tales of the City, except the city is the poor detritus of an amalgamation/ magnification of the worst 1970s American economic policies. In Disch’s (semi)imagined world gay people are called “republicans” while straight people are called “democrats” -- ever the iconoclast! Later, Samuel Delany wrote a book-length work of literary criticism on one of the sections of 334 arguing for it’s inclusion in the genre of science-fiction.

Patternmaster

Octavia Butler (1976, Aspect) The first in the five-book Patternist series, Patternmaster is exemplary of Butler’s contributions to science/ speculative fiction: exploring the tensions of the master/ slave dynamic, critiquing the racialized implications of eugenics programs, and the marked incorporation of African cosmologies. Butler’s characters have rich, fully developed emotional lives. In Patternmaster, Butler gives voice to a character named Amber, a bisexual healer. Amber is the romantic interest of one of the brother protagonists, Teray, yet never denies or erases her bisexuality as her own lived experience. Often appreciated as a foremother of Afrofuturism, Butler is rarely acknowledged as a lesbian writer.

Stars in My Pocket Like Grains of Sand

Samuel Delany (1984, Wesleyan) Openly gay author Samuel Delany’s works can be circular and labyrinthine, presenting challenges to a casual reader. This is often said of Dhalgren, undoubtedly the crown jewel of Delany’s body of work. But for future Delany converts (that’s what we’d call first-time Delany readers), Stars in My Pocket… provides a good introduction to the author. Delany’s worlds are so thoroughly complete and foreign that getting one’s bearings in a story is akin to the confusion and exhilaration of landing in a new country. In Delany’s multi-world mapping, two powerful philosophies hold sway, the Family, a group which holds the heteronormative nuclear family as all-important, and the

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Sygn, who believe that family is contextual and ever-shifting. Delany, like many of the writers offered here, presents characters and societies who offer active alternatives to the restrictive realities of the here and now. For an especially mind-blowing treat, read Delany’s autobiography The Motion of Light in Water.

The Woman Who Loved the Moon

Elizabeth Lynn (1981, Berkley) This collection of short stories by Elizabeth Lynn gathers examples of many of the staples of speculative fiction: fantasy, sci-fi, ghost/ supernatural happenings, and often incorporates feminist outlooks on gender and queer relationships as unremarkable aspects of the worlds she writes. The eponymous story traffics in the usual business of fantasy, magic mirrors, and kingdoms, but the pitch of the story –achingly sad – hits an affective note rarely struck in fantasy. It’s no wonder that this particular story won a World Fantasy Award when it was published more than 30 years ago. Lynn’s story as an author, is traced in the remarks that open each chapter.

Lunatic Fringe

Allison Moon (2011, Lunatic Ink) Author and sex educator Allison Moon spins a were-yarn that campily coincides with radical lesbian politics and cultures. Lunatic Fringe is the first in a series (thusfar there are only two) entitled Tales of the Pack. This beastly bildungsroman, follows Lexie Clarion as she juggles being pursued by a group of radical lesbians (the Pack) and a handsome ladystranger, Archer. Moon is on the forefront of the self-publishing boom, and following her website and blog is a truly fascinating insight into the pleasures and perils of self-publishing (mostly pleasures).

Minions of the Moon

Richard Bowes (1988, Lethe Press) With it’s moorings in the daily trappings of our own reality, Bowes’ Minions of the Moon follows the misanthropic adventures of its central character Kevin Grierson and his dark doppleganger shadow, Fred. Collaborating in misbehavior, Kevin and his shadow’s relationship is traced retrospectively in a series of episodes.

Fatal Women

Tanith Lee (2010, Lethe Press) J.K. Rowling isn’t the only author who can have a pseudonym, Tanith Lee’s alter-author personae Esther Garber publishes lesbian speculative fiction. Fatal Women gathers some of Lee’s forays as Garber. Skipping from Egypt to Paris to England, the nine collected stories here play with identity, authorship, and erotic love in woman-centric society. No wonder it was a Finalist for a Lambda Literary Award.

Lauriat: A Filipino-Chinese Anthology

Charles Tan (2012, Lethe Press) If short stories are your thing, crack open this anthology which draws upon the paranormal traditions of both China and the Philippines, melding them in a kind of speculative fiction gumbo. For example, in Paolo Chikiamco’s “The General’s Nephew,” the services of a Tikbalang (a part-horse monster) are called upon to aid in the Philippine revolution. Cultural call-outs like the Tikbalang, introduce folkloric devices hardly seen in science fiction, and thus Lauriat is a game-changer in showcasing a crop of writers exploring the Chinese-Filipino nexus. AU STIN GAY & L E SB IAN

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Toby Johnson and Kip Dollar

The Out Youth House, Home of the Texas GSA

WRITTEN BY DAVID ESTLUND PHOTOS BY DEVAKI KNOWLES Thanks to decades of work in the LGBTQ civil rights movement, people of nonconforming sexual orientation and gender identity are able to understand their differences at a younger age, and in the right situations, can even come out and live authentically earlier than we old fogies could have dreamt. Although public schools in Central Texas have no common fixed standards to provide a safe space for LGBTQ kids, we know these kids exist in these area systemsand the systems are required to accommodate the needs of all students â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no matter how piecemeal the solutions.

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BULLYING 101 The later K-12 years are a tough time for all kids, but for queer tweens and teens, it can be downright brutal. Texas passed new anti-bullying legislation in 2011, but unfortunately, the parts of the law that would allow data to be gathered on anti-LGBTQ bullying were withdrawn. Discriminatory laws and policies dramatically increase the already disproportionately high rates of depression, suicide, and substance abuse among queer youth, so in the absence of special protections, according to the American Journal of Public Health. LGBTQ students are three times as likely as their straight peers to report that they do not feel safe at school, and four times as likely to attempt suicide. This is data that must be part of any educator’s training. As dramatic as it sounds, having a community of peers and allies can mean the difference between life and death. LGBTQ peers are essential, but when those kids find allies in the cis/hetero student population, the consequences can be powerful and positive for everyone involved.

The Texas Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Network exists to help forge alliances between LGBTQ students and allies. “Some middle schools, such as Deer Park Middle School in Austin, have active GSAs. They tend to be centered more on support, on the day-to-day lives of their members,” says Texas GSA’s A.J. Guerrero. “While high school GSAs move into a three-pronged approach, functioning as a social club, support group, and activist organization. They help students organize national actions, such as the National Day of Silence, National Coming Out Day, or Ally Week.” Further, the GSA Network provides inschool training for students and staff to encourage active and sustainable alliances. Here in Austin, less than half of our high schools even have active GSAs, and outside of Austin, surrounding Central Texas school communities average one per district. Fortunately, other organizations are also making inroads on the bridge between queer kids and their cis/ hetero peers. The Safe Schools Texas initiative from the Texas Civil Rights

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Project provides curriculum-based seminars to teach students their rights and what constitutes harassment, while Communities in Schools, an organization pledged to increase student retention, can be a platform for families and concerned citizens seeking to provide a safe space for some of our most at-risk youth.

what’s supposed to be a safe space. Societal “bathroom panic” is triggered by the implied threat of rape: i.e. ogling straight men sneaking into ladies’ bathrooms (and with the assumption that the overabundance of sexual drive means that all men would be rapists if given half a chance).

Unlike sexual orientation, which can remain hidden well into adulthood, gender identity has been shown to manifest in children who have barely started walking and talking. PANIC IN THE PISSOIR That said, it’s not all unicorns and rainbows for the kids these days. California just became the first state to offer full legal protection for transgender students who want to play team sports and use the restroom. And as a result, reactionary factions are manufacturing a full-scale “bathroom panic.” Transgender folks of all ages are routinely harassed and humiliated for trying to tinkle in

Unlike sexual orientation, which can remain hidden well into adulthood, gender identity has been shown to manifest in children who have barely started walking and talking. TransKids Purple Rainbow Foundation diffuses the simple question: “Isn’t it easier to teach your child how to be a boy (or a girl)? With the direct answer: “Not for the child.” It’s unfair to ask people to hide their orientation at any age, but to require someone to perform to the opposite set of gendered expectations from their identity is just unfair.

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FIGHT OR FLIGHT It’s hard to sustain any sort of campus action when the teachers and administration are afraid to speak up for their students. One vocal homophobic parent can silence an entire community. The hegemony of misinformation - for example, that the knowledge of the existence of different sexual orientations and gender identities will “convert” the children to the “gay lifestyle.” - can shut down entire programs. The use of doublethink and doublespeak to promote bigotry is not a new game. A little bit of ignorance can shout down a whole lot of good work and bonhomie. That ignorance can make it hard to get the conversation started in the first place, or kill the buzz made by LGBTQ student advocacy groups that are struggling to find their voice and gather their tribes. The few firebrands who find the mettle to stand up for their values face a twofold challenge in their schools: first, the complacency, the feeling that the conversation’s already

ONE WADDLE FORWARD, TWO WADDLES BACK

A good example of a well-intentioned action backfiring in the worst way happened recently in Austin. A planned production of And Then Came Tango, a play about a penguin chick being raised by two fathers, was abruptly cancelled by the district because the content was not considered “age appropriate.” Austin ISD has one of the highest

A planned production of And Then Came Tango, a play about a penguin chick being raised by two fathers, was abruptly cancelled by the district because the content was not considered ‘age appropriate.’ been had, and second, graduation. Once the students who worked to make their club a reality are gone, the teachers and administration simply cannot keep the effort going, no matter how noble their intentions. Unlike, say, the chess club or French club, the mere mention of the word “gay” sets some parents on edge, which can kill programs or put a teacher’s career in jeopardy, so most school employees silently, powerlessly watch the organization fade away. This is why it’s important that the students who are able to do this work understand the impact it can have, and how valuable it is to find future leaders to carry the torch.

concentrations of same-sex parents in the state, with around 12% of same-sex families raising children, so unfortunately the message sent by cancelling the play speaks as loudly as its would-be effort to allow children to learn about different family arrangements.

GENDERONI In a move criticized by the Texas ACLU as “based on pseudoscience,” Austin ISD has decided that Pearce and Garcia Middle Schools will become singlegender schools in 2014. AISD defends the move as way to improve rigor and student performance. Is AISD implying

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that students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds can’t be trusted around the opposite sex, unlike their more privileged cohorts? The effect this move will have on gay, lesbian, and particularly transgender middle schoolers remains to be seen, but AISD is creating a scenario where gender-based behavioral norms may be more likely reinforced, if not institutionally enforced (dress code, for example), and those who can’t or won’t follow will be further penalized for their noncomformity. Austin ISD already has one singlegender school, the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders, and plans to open an all-boys school, but unlike Pearce and Garcia, these are voluntary enrollment schools, and are therefore much less likely to force additional stigma on already marginalized groups.

COLLEGE: IT GETS BETTER College can be the great escape for many students the first time in their lives when they are exposed to life beyond their immediate upbringing. Most campuses in Central Texas, even at predominately conservative schools, have student organizations for queer students and allies to meet, mingle, and organize, and few, if any, allow for explicit discrimination against students. Even Baptist-run Baylor University recently

produced Brittney Griner, the first openly gay athlete to sign with Nike. The University of Texas and Texas A&M have staffed gender and sexuality centers which provide resources for campus groups, activities for students, and a safe space to learn, connect, and explore LGBTQIA and feminist theory. Although members of the Texas Legislature have repeatedly tried to defund these programs, these attempts have failed, in part because they are funded entirely by student fees, so no tax dollars are involved. Ixchel Rosal with the UT GSC is confident that students are well protected from on-campus discrimination “We have a Campus Climate Response Team that regularly reviews campus policy and responds to reports of bias regarding sexual orientation and gender identity, and our administration takes those reports very seriously. Most recently the registrar’s office established a system by which a student can register a preferred name, which allows them to establish identity before a full legal name change.”

TEACHERS AND PROFESSORS Pflugerville ISD recently made waves by adopting domestic partner benefits, becoming the first district in Texas and one of only a handful nationwide to do

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so. Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has issued an opinion stating that the arrangement violates the Texas Marriage Amendment, but although his opinion carries the weight of law, it appears to have been worded in such a way as to allow their continuance. Further action on his part could potentially nullify the policies of the Cities of Austin, Fort Worth, San Antonio, and El Paso, as well as Dallas, El Paso, Travis Counties, which also currently offer domestic partner or “plus one” benefits. Despite the controversy, and after a few flip-flops on the issue, Austin ISD has just announced that it will also provide domestic partner benefits starting with the 2013-2014 school year. At the college level, the University of Texas System does not offer domestic partner benefits to its faculty and staff, despite a state mandate to offer a benefits package that is competitive with comparable state and private university systems. The UT Board of Regents has repeatedly declined moves to adopt these benefits, despite efforts from activist and faculty organizations. The Texas Insurance Code appears to have been very deliberately written to exclude LGBTQ families, which also

blocks extended coverage for every non-traditional family unit. Many state university systems in states with similar bans have found ways to offer competitive benefits, but Texas remains an outlier, and it may take an act of the Legislature to fix this.

IN CONCLUSION, A BALL OF CONFUSION Suffice it to say that we’ve come a long way since the early 1970s when Anita Bryant campaigned to fire any teacher who so much as mentioned homosexuality. The American Civil Rights Movement is a valid parallel, as despite years of work and progress, racism is still rampant in our society, even though openly racist public comments, let alone state-sanctioned apartheid and terrorist campaigns are no longer tolerated. Our progress thus far is necessary, but definitely not sufficient to achieve true equality of opportunity in education, which is the key to a prosperous and just society. We’re getting closer, step by step, and it’s a tough slog through some rough muck, but it’s worth it. Education, after all, is a field that requires a certain calling, and any teacher or counselor with a shortage of empathy has clearly made the wrong career choice. AU STIN GAY & L E SB IAN

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AU ST IN G AY & LE S BIA N

A directory of current AGLCC members

ENTERTAINMENT A*FAB This fab group of LGBT event makers gives a hand up to fellow nonprofits. afabaustin.com AUSTIN CHAMBER MUSIC CENTER Expanding appreciation of chamber music through instruction and performance. 3814 Medical Pkwy, 512/454-0026, austinchambermusic.org AUSTIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The high art part of the Live Music Capital of the Planet. austinsymphony.org AUSTIN THEATRE PROJECT For the love of theatre – local, live, community theatre. Get involved. austintheatreproject.org BRASS HOUSE AUSTIN Jazz and blues lounge near the Convention Center. 115 San Jacinto, 512/6491253, brasshouseaustin.com CAPITAL CITY MENS CHORUS. 477-SING, info@ccmcaustin.org, ccmcaustin.org CELEBRATIONS EVENT PLANNING Complete event planning for all of life’s celebrations.. 512/567-7875, planningcelebrations.com CONNECTATX Creative agency that specializes in video production and brand development. connectatx.com DJS FINE & DANDY W/ KATE & ANDY 100% local, 100% loungey, 100% vinyl chill. 512/217-9223, facebook.com/ djsfinedandywithkateandy HUMMINGBIRD HOUSE Not your garden variety event venue. 512/614-1953, hhouseaustin.com THE IRON BEAR When the teddy bears leave the picnic, they hit up their favorite party spot, The Iron Bear. 121 W. Eighth, roger@ theironbear.com, theironbear.com

KAREN BARTENDERS EXTRAORDINAIRE Let these mobile bartenders take care of your next party. 512/5371789, bartenders-extraordinaire.com

AIDS SERVICES OF AUSTIN The grandpappy of HIV/AIDS care in Austin. 7215 Cameron, 512/458-2437, www.asaustin.org

LONE STAR LAMBDAS Squeeze into ALLGO Our prime statewide your Wranglers and boot scoot on resource for LGBTQ people of color. over for a good time. 512/418-1629, 512/472-2001, allgo.org lonestarlambdas.org AUSTIN GAY & LESBIAN CHAMBER THE LONG CENTER Home of OF COMMERCE Austin’s colorful Austin’s creative community. rainbow umbrella for gay-owned and 512/474-5664, thelongcenter.org gay-friendly businesses. 512/ 761LGBT, info@aglcc.org, aglcc.org THE MARCHESA HALL & THEATRE An ample and convenient venue AMERICAN FAMILY PARTNER to host your next party, film ASSOCIATION Drop and give us 20 screening, or big gay fundraiser. (hugs for partners and spouses 6406 N. I-35 #3100, 512/454-2000, of LGBTQ service personnel and themarchesa.com vets). Ten hut! 202/695-AMPA (2672), militarypartners.org MOUTHFEEL DJing, promotion, and event production that goes down AUSTIN GAY & LESBIAN PRIDE good. 512/627-1514, facebook.com/ FOUNDATION Austin + Pride You = mouthfeelatx The LGBTQ community’s biggest party, fest, and parade of the year. OILCAN HARRY’S OCH made Fourth 512/468-8113, austinpride.org Street what it is today. Fag/faghag HQ. 211 W. Fourth, 512/320AUSTIN GAY & LESBIAN SENIOR 8823, oilcanharrys.com SERVICES To ensure everyone’s golden years are rainbow hued.. PREMIERE PARTY CENTRAL Rentals for 512/628-1694, aglss.org tenting, specialty linens, glassware, flatware, decor. 512/292-3900 or AUSTIN LGBT BAR ASSOCIATION 512/870-8552, 11810 Manchaca Working to promote and unite the Rd and 8868 Research, Ste 304, LGBT legal community in the often austinpartycentral.com byzantine realm of law. austinlgbtbar. org SHOWLISTAUSTIN.COM A list of can’t-miss shows in Central Texas. AUSTIN POLICE ASSOCIATION 512/484-4708, showlistaustin.com Advocating for the brave men and women of APD, and standing in STEVEN TOMLINSON Primary solidarity with their LGBTers in blue. underwriter for FuseBox Festival. 512/474-6993, austinpolice.com 512/576-2760, steven@abporter.org, abporter.org AUSTIN ROUNDUP Sobriety in the LGBTQIATX. austinroundup.com URBAN BARTENDERS, LLC Hire them for your next affair. AUSTIN WEIRD CITY SISTERS Like real 512/206-4450, UrbanBartenders.com nuns, these nuns are all about the service (and the getting down on the knees….). weirdcitysisters.wordpress.com

CIVIC

ACC GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCE 254/338-5688, facebook.com/accgsa

BOBCAT PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND Support for our LGBTQ Texas Staters. Go, Bobcats! bobcatpridescholarship.com

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THE CARE COMMUNITIES Caring for those living with HIV/AIDS and cancer. 314 E. Highland Mall Blvd. Ste 495, 512/459-5883, thecarecommunities.org

THE OCTOPUS CLUB Raising the big bucks through fabulous parties for AIDS Services of Austin. www. octopusclub.org

OUT YOUTH Support for our LGBTQ EQUALITY TEXAS Our front line at the (or questioning) kids. 909 E. 49 1/2, Texas Lege. 512/474-5475, allison@ 512/419-1233, out@outyouth.org, equalitytexas.org, equalitytexas.org outyouth.org FAITH PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1314 East Oltorf St, 512/444-1314 faithpresaustin.org

UNIVERSITY BAPTIST CHURCH Come worship with “Austin’s progressive voice of faith.” 2130 Guadalupe, 512/478-8559, ubcaustin.org WATERLOO COUNSELING CENTER Austin’s nonprofit hub for LGBTQ support and support groups. 314 E. Highland Mall Blvd., #301, 512/444-9922, waterloocounseling.org

POLARI - THE AUSTIN GAY & LESBIAN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL THE WRIGHT HOUSE WELLNESS Founded in 1987. 1634 E. Cesar CENTER Offering care and Chavez, 512/302-9889, polarifest.com compassion to Central Texans living GAY STRAIGHT ALLIANCE WARRIORS with or at risk of HIV and other Texas A&M’s GSA 1001 Leadership PROJECT TRANSITIONS Devoted chronic illnesses. 4301-B North IH-35, PL, Killeen, 254/501-5874 to serving Austin’s HIV/AIDS 512-467-0088, thewrighthouse.org community through hospice, GLBTQA BUSINESS STUDENT housing, and loving support. YOUTH & FAMILY ALLIANCE ASSOCIATION What do you have in 512/454-8646, projecttransitions.org Lifeworks’ program focuses on your wallet? A stash of $3 bills, we youth and family. 3700 S. First, bet. 1 University Station A6220, SOC # SAN ANTONIO LGBT CHAMBER 512/735-2400, lifeworksaustin.org 452. texasgbsa.com OF COMMERCE Where LGBT and LGBT-friendly business owners, HILL COUNTRY RIDE FOR AIDS professionals, and consumers in SA Late-April charity bike ride. meet. sagaychamber.com 512/371-7433, hillcountryride.org TEXAS ADVOCACY PROJECT APROPOS PROMO Swaggy HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN Free legal services to victims promotions from Austin’s own – AUSTIN The Austin steering of domestic violence, sexual committee of the national assault, and stalking. 800/374-4673, BrandStylists™, suited to your specific needs. 10601 FM 2222 Ste organization. hrc.org/states/texas texasadvocacyproject.org R-163, 512/241-1479, 888/705-2522, apropospromo.com LESBIAN & GAY PEACE OFFICERS TEXAS GAY RODEO ASSOCIATON ASSOCIATION Supporting LGBT Austin chapter of the Texas Gay THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE Free sworn, civilian, and retired members Rodeo Association. tgra.org alt-newsweekly. Home of the “Gay of the Austin Police Department. column and blog. 512/454lgpoa-austin.org TEAM PROHOMO The beasts behind Place” 5766, austinchronicle.com the weekly Queer Ride and other LIFE IN THE CITY SERVICE most excellent Austin adventures. MELISSA CHA MEDIA Video, Broadway fills us up when we didn’t www.teamprohomo.org photography, and editing services even know we were empty. 1201 from an SF-raised, RISD-bred talent. Lavaca, 512/478-5684, fumcaustin.org TRANSGENDER EDUCATION 650/504-6431, melissacha.com NETWORK OF TEXAS Educating LIFEWORKS Helping youth and the State of Texas about gender CHERICO CREATIVE families sidestep crisis and achieve diversity. 877/532-6789, info@ jonn@chericocreative.com, self-sufficiency. 3700 S. First, transtexas.org, transtexas.org chericocreative.com 512/735-2400, lifeworksaustin.org THE UNITED COURT OF AUSTIN, INC. CONCEPTS OF DESIGN Interior flair LOG CABIN REPUBLICANS OF Committed to providing financial and to spare, from window treatments, AUSTIN Welcome Austin’s new physical support to other charitable to feng shui. 512/785-5510, chapter. 512/428-5475 organizations. unitedcourtofaustin.org conceptsofdesignaustin.com

DESIGN & MEDIA

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PROSOCIAL MEDIA COACHING & MARKETING Social media and marketing strategies. 979/229-3157, brad@prosocialmediacoach.com

FLYINGDOGDESIGN Top dog David Carroll boasts 140 dog years of experience. 512/914-1270, david@ flyingdogdesign.com, flyingdogdesign.com

RECSPEC Respect for great design is apparent in all of Laurel Barickman’s work. Album covers, websites, clothing, posters, ID/branding, and more. www.recspec.org

GAYBORHOODAPP.COM You’ve gotta find the rainbow before you can discover what’s at the end of it. Well, now there’s an app for that. 404/377-4297, gayborhoodapp.com

THEREPUBLIQ Chase Martin is the man about A-town’s gay-town and the fella behind this all-gay news source. 512/200-3040, info@ therepubliq.com, therepubliq.com

GAY PLACE ONLINE Steer here, queers, for all things gay in the gAyTX. 512/454-5766, gayplace@ austinchronicle.com, austinchronicle. com/gay

SHWEIKI MEDIA Heavy-duty industry publishers for all your gloss and matte needs: postcards, magazines, newsletters, and anything else you can fold. 512/4800860, shweiki.com

GINNY’S PRINTING Offset, digital, letterpress.. 8410-B Tuscany Way, 512/454-6874, sales@ginnysprinting. com, ginnysprinting.com

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING BY ANGIE Proud to be the bookkeeper for the AGLCC. 512/765-6655, acctbyangie@gmai. com, accountingbyangie.com AUSTIN WEALTH SPECIALISTS Manage your risks and plan your finances with these local wealth whizes. 1106 Clayton, Ste 103-E , 512/4610246, austinwealthspecialists.com BB&T, BRANCH, BANKING AND TRUST Banking services to help you reach your financial goals and plan for a sound financial future. bbt.com AMY COOK, CPA This CPA takes Pride in providing the highest quality service for managing your financial needs. 1514 Corona Dr., 512/419-9696, amy@acookcpa.com, acookcpa.com

SITE STREET From the ABCs of SEO to crossing the Ts and dotting the Is of your web presence, this full-service web/marketing service JARRED GAMMON, NORTH STAR boasts a staff dedicated to LGBT KEEPHOSTINGWEIRD.COM While you are Keeping Austin Weird, Austin. 3009 N. Lamar Ste 3, 832-8383, CONSULTANTS Same-sex couple financial planning and more. these folks will be happy to host you. sitestreet.com 2801 Via Fortuna, Ste.450, 512/610512/348-6352, keephostingweird.com 1803, northstarfinancial.com SOCIAL EDGE SOLUTION, LLC Mediate your biz with these EO pros. KILLER DESIGN TX Professional 512/417-2036, socialedgesolution.com GENWORTH FINANCIAL Protect interior design consultant for a your fam with long-term care complete graphic image makeover. rick@killerdesigntx.com, killerdesigntx.com STARRT MARKETING Start up your insurance. 401 Congress, 512/7917973, belliott@genworthltc.com, new image. 832/545-4672, jenn@ L STYLE G STYLE 512/443-3663, alisa@ starrtmarketing.com, starrtmarketing. genworth.com com lstylegstyle.com, lstylegstyle.com JOHNS & WILKINSON LLC Have you filed your 2012 income tax yet? BRENDA THOMPSON OUTCAST, KOOP 91.7FM Tune your This crew can sort your business FM to 91.7 every Tuesday at 6pm for COMMUNICATIONS Providing and personal stress. 512/445-2800 ATX’s premiere radio program for, by, strategic public relations counsel services 512/461-5644, and about the LGBTQ community. MASSMUTUAL SOUTHWEST At info@outcast.com, outcastaustin.com brendathompson.com MassMutual Southwest, we will help you make decisions that POSTNET - FAR WEST If it’s on paper, TRESAL PHOTOGRAPHY Look you want it on paper, and you need yourverybest. 512/739-8718, carlos@ best position you for long-term for it to get somewhere, call Postnet. tresalphotography.com, facebook.com/ financial success. 7600 North Capital of Texas Hwy, 512/527-0671, 3571 Far West, 512/231-1321, postnet. tresalphotography www.southwest.massmutual.com com/austin-tx157

Helping people of all ages live happy, healthy lives without pain or illness. 15004 Avery Ranch Blvd. A|200 ~ Austin, 78717 saluschiropractic.com ~ 512.255.5252

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MERRILL LYNCH This local arm of the worldwide financial group is investing in our rainbow community. 9595 Six Pines Drive, Ste 8380, The Woodlands, 281/364-2195, amy.rowe@ ml.com, fa.ml.com/fafgroup

VISA INC. Global payments tech company. www.visa.com

IN GOOD TASTE CATERING & DESIGN Make sure everyone leaves your shindig saying “Om-nom-nom.” WADDELL & REED Reach your goal$ 800 Watson Way, Pflugerville, 512/825with comprehensive, personal 7573, john@ingoodtaste-catering.com, financial plans tailored specifically ingoodtaste-catering.com to your needs. 9500 Arboretum NAPKIN VENTURE Have you ever Blvd., Ste 225, 512/453-1555 x124, JOHNNYE’S EAST TEXAS SOUL Home of the Gay-fil-A and some scribbled your brilliant business plan rpellati@wradvisors.com seriously righteous greens and down on a napkin? Well, it’s time to waffle fries, all in one teeny trailer show it to more than your barista. XPRESSCPA PLLC Fast. affordable. behind Holy Mountain. 627E. This venture group can assist. 611 sustainable. consulting and tax Seventh, johnnyes.com S Congress Ste 340 , 512/922-2511, services 512/696-1457, Joseph@ www.napkinventure.com XpressCPA.com, XpressCPA.com KREMER CREATIONS German cuisine from Kremer’s kitchen to your table. NEXT PAGE FINANCIAL Your next 512/589-1064 chapter in financial success. 8836 Tiombe Bend, 512/924-9004, PINK AVOCADO CATERING Chef dhhertel@nextpagefinancial.com, Brent Schumacher has been nextpagefinancial.com teasing and pleasing Austin palettes ALFRED’S CATERING These NP FINANCIAL Individual and small seasoned seasoning professionals for ages. Just ask the Austin Film businesses insurance, including are so thorough, “you’ll be a guest at Society. 401 Sabine, 512/656-4348, life, health, disability income, and your own party!” 5706 Manor, Ste. F, pinkavacadocatering.com specialty plans (cancer, heart, and 512/785-8416, alfred@alfredcatering. THIRD BASE SPORTS BAR dental). 512/567-0681, com, BeAGuest.net Locally-owned sports bar and n.pastuhov1@gmail.com, restaurant with multiple locations BAR MIRABEAU & RESTAURANT bestinsurancecheap.com JEZEBEL Genteel atmosphere and around town. 9600 S IH 35 ; PHILIP OLSON, FINANCIAL ADVISOR, delicious menu. 800 W Sixth St, Ste 13301 Hwy 183,B ldg E; 1717 W Sixth St; 3107 S IH 35, Round Rock, NEW ENGLAND FINANCIAL 100, barmirabeau.com thirdbaseaustin.com Investment advisor and registered CAPITAL CITY BAKERY Austin’s insurance agent, specializing in all-vegan bakery since 2011.We planning for artists, creatives, and specialize in cupcakes and other LGBT couples and families. 6300 Bee Cave Rd., Bldg 2, Ste.400, small pastries that everyone can enjoy. No eggs? No milk? It’s 512/637-6255, philipolson.net magic! 1110 E 12th St, 512/666ALPHA MEDICAL MASSAGE & PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL Be prudent 7437, capitalcitybakery.com REHABILITATION Massage the with your finances, but proactive pain away through advanced with your planning. 8911 Capital of CHEZ ZEE AMERICAN BISTRO treatments in partnership with Texas Hwy, Ste 4140, 512/786-5698. Romancing Austin since 1988 your medical professionals. 595 5406 Balcones Dr, 512/454-2666, Round Rock West Dr, Ste 601, Round MICHELLE REYNOLDS, FINANCIAL chez-zee.com Rock, 512/366-5483, ADVISOR, EDWARD JONES We meet EL SOL Y LA LUNA A great place to alphamedicalmassage.com with you to learn your individual bring your amigas y amigos for needs so we can develop a ARBONNE INTERNATIONAL Swiss strategy to help you achieve your some of the best Migas on the planet. 600 E. Sixth, 512/444-7770, skincare at its most natural, long-term financial goals. botanically based and inspired by elsolylalunaaustin.com 1211 W Sixth St., Ste #200, nature. 512/659-9683, afranklin20@ 512/480-8003, edwardjones.com FLIPNOTICS COFFEESPACE Live music yahoo.com, TeamWOW.myarbonne.com on lazy decks, lovingly poured coffee SOUTHERLAND & ASSOCIATES An AUSTIN GAMBLERS BOWLING LEAGUE drinks and a hot ginger behind the independent insurance and We promised ourselves that we financial services firm with a very counter. That’s livin’. 1601 Barton Springs Rd., 512/480-8646, flipnotics.com would not make cheap jokes about unique approach. 1715 Capital of balls in this publication. But come Texas Hwy. Ste 201, 512/329-0108, FROT VODKA Fraught about where on, you know they’ve got big ones. saprotects.com your money goes when you’re 512/786-4013, austingamblers@ having a refreshment at a local gmail.com, facebook.com/ STRATEGIC PAYMENT SYSTEMS watering hole? Fret not. Here’s austin.g.league Full-service and cost effective Frot, an LGBT owned and operated solutions for payment needs. Austin brand with proceeds to AUSTIN GAY BASKETBALL LEAGUE 2013 Wells Branch, 512/807-7015, make a difference. 512/966-4174, Bounce balls. Shoot hoops. Sign up spsinfo.com frotvodka.com to play or come out and support TROVENA INVESTMENT ADVISORS Austin’s LGBT bball league. 512/814Retirement planning, tax planning, GENUINE JOE COFFEEHOUSE An 6495, info@atxgbl.com, atxgbl.com LGBT and nerd haven up in and investment services are the northern suburbs. 2001 W. AUSTIN TENNIS CLUB For LGBT a piece of cake for this awardpeople who love’ to make racquet winning firm. 512/445-2800, kermit. Anderson, 512/220-1576, genuinejoecoffee.com about tennis. austintennisclub.com johns@trovena.com, trovena.com

FOOD

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BODY BRITE One price perzone; a variety of treatments to ake your skin shimmer. 3701 Guadalupe, Ste.105, 512/454-2639, bodybriteusa.com RUSS BOYD, MA, NCC, LPC INTERN Psychotherapist working with the Gay Community. 2004 Williams Dr, Ste 101, 512/632-4731, russboydcounseling.com CAPITOL DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES Provides comprehensive dermatologic care for patients of all ages. 11410 Jollyville Rd #2101, 512/345-8688, capderm.com CHIROPRACTIC LIFESTYLES CENTRE Let Dr. Kenneth White and staff align you right. 3410 Far West, Ste.100, 512/346-5735, chirolifestyles.com COMMUNITY CARE Healthcare nonprofit that has your neck, your back, and anything out of wack in an array of convenient locations. 15 Waller, 512/978-8800, communitycaretx.org HAWTHORNE CHIROPRACTIC Amelioration, mollification, and consolation from subluxation. 3300 Bee Caves Rd, #390, 512/4482225, drglenndc.com

FAMILY TREE DENTAL GROUP Keep your choppers in tip-top ship-shape. Pediatric, family, and cosmetic dentistry as well as orthodontics. 5310 Burnet, Ste. 108, Austin, 200 N. Red Bud, Round Rock, 512/458-5999, familytreedentalgroup.com

SOFTBALL AUSTIN Nothing soft about these balls. At Softball Austin, players of all expertise levels wait on-deck at their turn to bat more than just eyelids. softballaustin.org

RODAN+FIELDS DERMATOLOGISTS The creators of Proactiv. 512/8446514, suzyjuncker.myrandf.biz

TEXAS MAMMA JAMMA RIDE A non-profit organization which began in 2009 to raise awareness and much needed funds for our central Texas neighbors coping with breast cancer. mammajammaride.org

THE SPRING This Center for Natural Medicine guides patients toward LIFE-TREK, LLC Chocolatey delights healthful living, naturally. that may just help you live longer. 512/445-7373, thespringatx.com 800/844-2685, LifeTrekLLC@gmail. com, johndabbs.youthfulchocolate.com TEAM PROHOMO The hunks behind the weekly Queer Ride bike ride and other excellent Austin DEREK LEIGHTON, LMFT, LPC, NCC, adventures. teamprohomo.org CGP Counseling services and psychotherapy that promotes “healthy sexuality” and a better TEXAS GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION This outlook on life. 3534 Bee Caves Rd #114, is Texas, darlin’. Of course there is 512/658-2960, leightontherapy.com a gay rodeo. 214/346-2107, tgra.org

SALUS CHIROPRACTIC Helping people of all ages live healthy lives, free from pain and illness. 512/255-5252 drditto@saluschiropractic.com SOUTH AUSTIN MEDICAL CLINIC Family medicine clinic, we see all ages 2555 Western Trails Blvd, 512/892-6600, southaustinmed.com

VOLLEYBALL AUSTIN Inspired by the recent Summer Olympics? Come out to set and spike the night away with these volley-lovin’ Q-ballers. volleyballaustin.com

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WHITEHEAD CHIROPRACTIC Providing fast, gentle and effective relief. 5775 Airport Blvd. #300, 512/451-0115, whiteheadchiro.com WORK IT PERSONAL TRAINING Get off your butt, and get fit with Work It! One-on-one and group sessions available. 7817 Rockwood Ste 102, 512/426-2336, info@workittraining. com, workittraining.com

INSURANCE ALLSTATE INSURANCE Home, Auto, Commercial, and Life Insurance 512/345-0005 CLAIR BOOTH, CLCT INSURANCE AGENT Put your cares in the hands of this long-term care and insurance consultant. 830/257-5344, info@glbtltc-ins.com, glbt-ltc-ins.com BRITTON & BRITTON These local allies can service all your insurance needs at the best possible rate. 700 Lavaca #1400, 512/334-6330, 512insurance.com NATIONWIDE INSURANCE - SAM LAMELLE Sam Lamelle is on your side. It has a ring to it... nationwide.com NATIONWIDE INSURANCE Full range of personalized insurance and financial services. 10900 Lakeline Mall Dr, Ste 600B, 512/360-8497, www.nationwide.com

ELIZABETH BRENNER, ATTORNEY AT LAW Estate and family legal services for the Austin LGBT community. You want Brenner on your side. 512/217-8289, ebrenner@ HOLIDAY INN AUSTIN MIDTOWN bajb.com, brennerattorney.com Convenient, comfortable, and affordable gateway to North BUTCHER & CALLAGHAN, P.C. Austin. 6000 Middle Fiskville, Business law, family law, and 512/451-5757, ichotelsgroup.com estate planning. 1504 West Av, 512/861-2294, HOWARD JOHNSON INN Hey, Austin! www.butchercallaghan.com We’ve got our HoJo working’ at this newly renovated conference hotel CAPPS LAW FIRM It’s all about in convenient North Austin. 7800 family. And keeping it legal. N. I-35, 512/837-5800, drichman@ Collaborative family law peakhotels.com, hojo.com and thensome. 7718 Wood Hollow, Ste. 205, 512/338-9800, RADISSON HOTEL AND SUITES cappslawfirm.com AUSTIN DOWNTOWN Ideally JENNIFER R. COCHRAN Family law situated in downtown Austin. 111 E. Cesar Chavez, 512/473-1529 for all kinds of families. 3355 Bee www.radisson.com/austin-hotelCaves Rd Ste 103, 512/537-4326, tx-78701/txaustdt 870-8187, jencochranlaw@gmail. com, cochran-law.com RENAISSANCE HOTEL Conveniently located at the Arboretum, where CYPERT LAW FIRM Cypert Law you can shop ‘til you drop, wine Firm is dedicated to assisting the Texas LGBT community with and dine, and live in the lap of luxury. 9721 Arboretum Blvd, their estate planning, probate, 512/343-2626 guardianship, and business law needs. 1016 MoPac, 512/535-5008, ROCKPORT FISHCAMP LLC Get out of texasdomesticpartnership.com town and into the cozy comfort LAW OFFICE OF KELLEY J. DWYER It’s of this adorable guest cottage situated on a Certified Wildlife your estate. It’s your business. Habitat. Rustic. Not “rough it.” Make sure they are protected, 361/230-2078, fishcamp.rockport@ legally. 9442 Capital of Texas, gmail.com, fishcamprockport.com Ste 500-159, 512/343-3630, dwyerlawaustin.com WESTIN AUSTIN AT THE DOMAIN Hip and just a hop through the elegant LAW OFFICE OF DAX GARVIN, P.C. Specialists in criminal defense and Domain shopping haven, The Westin family law. 401 Congress, Ste 1540, brings chill Austin luxury to another 512/482-0900, dax@daxlegal.com, level. 11301 Domain Dr , 512/8324197, www.starwoodhotels.com daxlegal.com

LYNN OSLER, STATE FARM AGENT Like a good GAY-bor, Lynn O. is there. 1114 Lost Creek Ste G-30, 512/3274298, lynn@mlynnosler.com, mlynnosler.com THE LAW OFFICE OF VIRGINIA W. GREENWAY I defend people accused STATE FARM Member and advocate of crimes – from simple traffic up to of the LGBT community. 127 E first degree felonies – in Travis and Riverside, Ste 109, 512/441-1082, surrounding counties. 811 Nueces, saxtoninsurance.com 512/573-3221, vwglaw@austin. rr.com, virginiagreenway.com

LEGAL

LAW FIRM OF FRANCÉS J. JONES A select company where soul matters. Specializing in entertainment and arts. JULIE ALEXANDER LAW, P.C. Legal solutions for your business and real 1108 Lavaca, Ste 110-405, estate operations. 1700 E. Second, 512/476-8999 512/478-9770, aalawaustin.com LEE, GOBER & REYNA - LAW FIRM “Family” lawyers who handle CHRISTINE HENRY ANDRESEN, ATTORNEY-AT-LAW Any family lawyer family, personal injury, and criminal matters. 11940 Jollyville Rd, Ste 220, who puts a portrait of the Addams 512/478-8080, rwleelaw.com Family on her website is A-OK with us. 905 W. Oltorf, Ste. C, 512/394-4230, cha@chalaw.com, chalaw.com

LODGING

WILDFLOWERS BED & BREAKFAST Elegant scenic country getaway located 80 miles southeast of Austin. 8482 Bermuda, Industry, TX, 979/992-3993, mpowell@industryinet.com, wildflowersbedandbreakfast.com

PETS CHILL CANINE MASSAGE THERAPY Give your buddy a “paws” that refreshes. 512/914-1270, david@ chillcanine.com, chillcanine.com DOGBOY’S DOG RANCH Has your pup had it ruff? Spa day! Good dog! 2615 Crystal Bend, Pflugerville, 512/251-7600, dogboys.com

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PAWS & MORE Sit! Humans sit with your pups and kits and more. While you’re away, your mice and gerbils and sugargliders will play. 512/6953131, pawsandmore.com

AUSTIN HOMES REALTY A “full service real estate brokerage” making finding realty in Austin a reality. 512/507-8252, austinhomesrealty.com

COLDWELL BANKER UNITED REALTORS Their mottos is “We never stop moving!” But they’ll hold still long enough to find you the palace of your dreams. 512/750-3713, bdodd@cbunited.com, cbunited.com

AARON W BEEMAN - CENURY21 TRAINING BY TARA LLC Specializes in SUNSET REALTORS Hill Country Proud, “misunderstood” dogs. Fredericksburg Friendly. 408 W Main ESG REALTY ADVISORS, LLC Free your 512/402-4229, trainingbytara.com St., Fredericksburg, 210/884-7654, business from the hostage crisis aaronbeeman@me.com of lease renewal. 512/705-2119, eric@esgrealty.com CASTLE & COOKE MORTGAGE, LLC Using the latest technology, we’ve THE GAFFORD GROUP AT KELLER taken the mortgage process WILLIAMS Specializing in Round Rock, paperless and cut weeks off the wait Cedar Park and surrounding areas. ARNOLD, JEFF - TEXAS LAND & time - application to funding takes 512/439-3768, TheGaffordGroup.com LIFESTYLE LLC Full-time realtor only 8 days castlecookemortgage.com working in the Austin metro area TROY HANNA, PRESIDIO Representing working with everyone from 1st CHICAGO TITLE OF TEXAS For over the realty interests of Austin’s LGBT time home buyers/sellers to seniors 160 years, their expertise in Title community for over a decade. 1701 W. looking to rightsize their homes/ Insurance has run deep in the Koenig, 512/659-7093, Austin78723.com lifestyles. 3571 Far West Blvd #226, heart of Texas. 4310 Spicewood 512/639-8838, jeffarnold.realtor@gmail. Springs Rd, Ste 100, 512/345-6525, com, www.TexasLandAndLifestyle.com chicagotitleaustin.com

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JAN HILL MORTGAGE This founder of the benefit Mamma Jamma Ride can help you with your financial homeownership needs. 512/431-5223, jhill@janhillmortgage. com, janhillmortgage.com

HOMES BY MATTHEW MORGAN Keller Williams-affiliated and LGBTfriendly. 2300 Greenhill, Round Rock, 512/522-8196, morganmatthewe@ gmail.com, homesbymatthewmorgan. kwrealty.com

DENNY HOLT REALTORS From “this old house” to our “home on the range,” Holt can help. 512/6941103, denny@dennyholt.com, dennyholt.com

BRADLEY POUNDS, WATTERS INTERNATIONAL REALTY Ask about our Guaranteed Sale Program for sellers and our Buyer Advantage Program for those in the market to purchase. 7801 N. Capital of TX Hwy, Suite 220, 512/736-3353, BradleyPounds. AustinTexasResidence.com

THE HUDDLESTON TEAM AT REALTY AUSTIN Gay-owned and -operated and ready to help navigate buying, selling, and leasing in Austin. 512/468-8113, thehuddlestonteam.com

RIVER & OAKS REALTY LLC Realtor Stacy Bass specializes in Austin’s desirable outlying areas, like HULSE PROPERTY GROUP AT KELLER Driftwood, Lakeway, Wimberley, WILLIAMS REALTY Dripping Springs, and more. Michael Hulse - Realtor, Hulse 512/413-7893, www. Property Group at Keller Williams, stacybassrealtor.com Licensed to do Business in Texas. 1801 S. Mopac Expwy, Suite 100, RON REDDER, PRESIDIO His motto 512/689-0867, michael@ is “Reward Yourself with Results.” michaelhulse.net, With over 18 years experience, he searchaustintxhomes.net might just be on to something. 1701 W. Koenig, 512/657-8674, ron@ KRIEGEL & ASSOCIATES REALTOR presidiogroup.com, presidiogroup.com Make your buying or selling experience special. 512/547-9525 SKY REALTY AUSTIN Offering professional services for MAGNUM PROPERTY INSPECTIONS buyers, sellers, and leases in Pre-transaction inspections for both residential and commercial business and home. 512/560-5967, real estate transactions. 4501 magnumpropertyinspections.com Spicewood Springs Rd., Ste 1029, 512/522-8196, SkyRealtyAustin.com MIDTOWN INDEPENDENCE TITLE This gay-owned and -operated THE STAGING GUY A make-ready company has got you covered on steroids, this guy gussies up – gay, straight, married or not – your home to make it irresistable when you cross the threshold into to prospective buyers. home owning. 3009 N. Lamar Blvd, 7310 Manchaca Rd #152936 , 512/459-1110, midtowntitle.com 512/537-4489, thestagingguy.com MISSION RESOURCES Real Estate. Investments. Community. 512/541-5826, missionresourcestexas.com

TEXAS LAND & LIFESTYLE LLC First time home buyers/sellers all the way up to seniors looking to rightsize their homes/lifestyles. 512/639-8838

TITLEMAX Getting you the most dolla bill$ for your car title since 1998. 8505 Springdale, 512/6056037, ricky.guerrero@titlemax.biz, titlemax.biz

MAISON Austin Charm d’Etoile E. Cesa

WESTSTAR PACIFIC MORTGAGE GROUP Office of commercial financial real estate consultant, Dick Dunbar. 512/323-2644, dick@dickdunbar.com

PRIDE S one’s in yours h stretch prideso com

RETAIL & FASHION ANNA LANI MAKEUP UT Technical Theatre grad Anna lives for collaboration to see creative theatre, film, and print projects manifest. Also available for private tutorials. 361/442-3206, facebook.com/ AnnaLaniMakeup BUMPERACTIVE Custom stickers and decals of all kinds . 8711 Burnet, Ste A-4, 512/465-9306, bumperactive.com COCO COQUETTE Allyson Garro can curate the top of your head to look as divine as Divine. The higher the hair, the closer to Gawd! 2109 E. Cesar Chavez, cococoquette.com THE FLOWER STUDIO Stay out of the doghouse with a lovely arrangement. 1406 W Sixth St, 512/236-0916, cobyneal.com GREAT OUTDOORS All things outdoors. 2730 S Congress Ave, 512/448-2992, GreatOutdoorsNursery.com JOLLY PENNY Everyone’s jolly at the dollar store. Curios and necessities, $1 and up. 9505 Burnet Rd Ste C, 512/9003883, facebook.com/JollyPenny

Insurance Agency home | auto | commercial | life

Ian Punjwani Licensed Sales Agent 3435 Greystone Dr Ste 107 Austin, TX 78731 Office (512) 345-0005 ianpunjwani@allstate.com

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MAISON D’ETOILE Triple threat of Austin style, all under one roof: Charm School Vintage, Salon d’Etoile, and Coco Coquette. 2109 E. Cesar Chavez, 512/344-9173

ARRANGING IT ALL Professional organizer services. info@ arrangingitall.com

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PRIDE SOCKS How better to rock one’s inner unicorn than to don yours hooves in rainbow tubes of stretchy, nostalgic comfort? pridesocks@gmail.com, pridesocks. com

CITY OF AUSTIN SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Provide assistance and business solutions AUSTIN AREA LANDSCAPING to emerging small businesses. Provides residential and commercial 505 Barton Springs Rd, 512/974-7800, lawn and landscaping services. austintexas.gov/department/small512/487-8820 business-development-program

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SERVICES

ATX NOTARY SERVICES Wherever and whenever you need that seal of approval. 512/650-8534, austinnotaryservices.com

AUSTIN QUEER WEDDINGS Erica Nix wedding photography. Over a decade experience working with “family.” austinqueerweddings.com AVIS BUDGET CAR RENTAL ON 35TH Vvvrrrrrrrroooooom! Affordably! 1610 W. 35th, 512/371-1082, avisbudgetgroup.com BLUE DRAGON PLUMBING Available for all your plumbing needs and emergencies. No extra charge for 24/7 service. No word on fire-breathing. 512/947-2491, gilbert@bluedragonplumbing.com, bluedragonplumbing.com

CÉBÉ IT & KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT LLC Information and knowledge management. The secret of life. 7118 Las Ventanas, 281/4603595, cebe-itkm.com

CITY OF AUSTIN ECONOMIC GROWTH & REDEVELOPMENT OFFICE Cultural arts, music, international and emerging technology programs for the City of Austin. 301 W Second St, Ste 2030, 512/974-7819, austintexas.gov/ department/economic-growth COOK-WALDEN Dedicated to helping you celebrate your life or that of a loved one with a funeral and memorial service befitting of the life lived. 512/971-2449, cook-walden.com CROWN TROPHY – NORTH AUSTIN If you can imagine the trophy, they can create it – except the living kind. You’re on your own for that. 12233 RR 620 N. Ste.112, 512/506-9790, crowntrophy.com

BOB SALON Upon entering the salon, our clients are sure to feel the welcoming, positive A-ONE ELECTRIC One-stop electrical energy and approachable luxury shop offers the full “circuit” that BOB Salon exudes. 3703-A of residential and commercial Jefferson St, 512/914-7078 electrical services. 8406 Horton C. BARTON INVESTIGATIONS, LCC Trail, 512/497-1513, aoneelectric@ hotmail.com, aoneelectricaustin.com Specializing in ethically and confidentially tracking down and uncovering the information you ACE AUCTION COMPANY Going require. 5401 S FM 1626 Ste 170once, going twice, sold! by this 114, Kyle, 512/271-1630, facebook. awesome auctioneer firm. 512/ 219-0209, aceauctioncompany.com com/CBartonInvestigations

ETCH OF CLASS Awards in most media: glass, metal, wood, acrylic, stone. 512/785-4435, etchofclass.com

CENTRAL TEXAS IMPORT CAR REPAIR 512/560-5967

GREEN ISLAND CAR WASH & DETAIL Full service wash and detail shop. 512/257-1799, greenislandcarwash.com

ALL BRITE POOL SERVICE All Brite :Pool Service has been proudly serving Central Texas for over 20 years. 512/567-1596, allbritepoolservice.com

FRIENDLY CAR CARE Earth-friendly, community-friendly, and people (LGBT)-friendly. 9110 Burnet Rd, 512/821-3300, friendlycarcare.com

CENTURY TRAVEL Trusted luxury providers worldwide, first class. 2714 Bee Cave Rd #101, 512/327-8760, centurytravelaustin. com

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DINAH HANEY MEDIATION AND PARENTING COORDINATION Mom & Dad, Dad & Dad, Mom & Mom not getting along? Let Dinah Haney sort it out. 512/799-4319, dinahtexas@ gmail.com, dinahhaney.com

KINGDOM CHAUFFEURED LIMOUSINE SERVICE Luxurious fleet of late-model Sedans, SUVs, and 9 passenger Lincoln Town Car Limousines. 512/416-5466, kingdomcls.com

LJB SERVICES Specialize in personal HE’S FOR ME Find me a find a match, assistance office management, catch me a catch! Make a match, landscaping, house and pet sitting, you busy gay professional, you. 300 general property maintenance and Guadalupe Ste. 200, 855/443-7463, cleaning ljbaus@yahoo.com www.H4M-Austin.com MILLER-STEPHENS AND ASSOCIATES A JACKIE HUBA Author, Keynote strategic consulting practice focused Speaker, Business Consultant on non-profit, healthcare and social 512/394-8832, jackiehuba.com change initiatives. 512/422-6030, millerstephens.com INTELLIGENT LIGHTING DESIGN Critically acclaimed event lighting NEW QUEST STAFFING SOLUTIONS design firm in Texas. We design Staffing resource and office solutions and manufacture the cutting edge at your service. 210/884-3321 iDesign LED lighting series for g.drake@newquestss.com special events and weddings. 5002 Burelson Rd, 512/553-4226, NOETIC OUTCOMES CONSULTING events@ildlighting.com, ildlighting.com Think of Bill Gardner and crew as your business management doctor as JBL MICRO TRAINING Communication they diagnose and prescribe ways is key. Let JBL unlock your company’s to assist. 5501-A Balcones #136, full potential through their informative 512/386-1402, noeticoutcomes.com and fun training courses. 1103 Ridgecrest, 512/563-3845, bartnaustin@ aol.com, jblmicrotraining.com

THE OUTSOURCE RESOURCE Out and proud to help your company’s HR needs in any way they can. 512/539-0264, outres.net RAINBOW SPECTRUM MEDIA Screen printing and embroidery. terry@rainbowspectrummedia.com REGISTERED AGENT SOLUTIONS, INC. They’ll serve your process and your business and help keep everything on the up and up. 515 Congress Ste 2300, 888/7057274, rasi.com SAVING AMERICA ENERGY, LLC Go green on your next home remodel. 512/949-3625, savingamericaenergy.com SEND OUT CARDS You’ve got mail! Custom greeting cards to get your business noticed. 1908 Justin #200, 512/789-0267 www.socphotostore.com BUD TWILLEY LANDSCAPES Landscape Design and Installation 512/708-1640,

AUSTIN GAY & L E

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Available at over 1,800 locations every Thursday.

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