July | august vol. iii, issue 6
East Nashville Underground | Homeschooling | Anita Hartel | Bill | Hot CHicken | Vintage Vinyl July | Brimm August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
1
Coming Soon
nt! e mom a s s i Don’t m
to War MeMorial auditoriuM
301 6th avenue north, nashville
2013-14 SeaSon
Presents
The Psychedelic Furs August 1 • 8:00 p.m.
JAsON BONhAm’s led ZePPelin exPerience August 3 • 8:00 p.m.
Presented by
october 29 – november 3, 2013
november 12-17, 2013
chris isaaK
Beyond The sun sEptEmBER 8 • 7:00 p.m.
Joe saTriani February 25 – March 2, 2014 ELVIS PRESLEY
March 11-16, 2014
uNstOppABLE mOmENtum tOuR with special guest steve morse Band sEptEmBER 17 • 7:30 p.m.
JOHNNY PERKINS CASH LEWIS CARL JERRY LEE
mAVIs stApLEs & The Blind Boys Of ALABAmA with Jacob Jones sEptEmBER 25 • 7:00 p.m.
THE BROADWAY MUSICAL INSPIRED BY
PresentedTRUE by STORY THE ELECTRIFYING
May 6-11, 2014
June 3-8, 2014
The six-show season starts at only $100!
AtOms fOR pEAcE OctOBER 3 • 8:00 p.m.
PLUS ask about special shows including Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Wicked
TPaC.oRG/ Broadway
615-782-6560
TPAC Box Office Downtown Groups call 615-782-4060
TPAC.org is the official online source for buying tickets to TPAC events. Some shows contain mature content.
a John WaTers chRIstmAs DEcEmBER 11 • 8:00 p.m.
Tickets to these shows and more are on sale now!
WMAROCKS.COM • 615-782-4040
WmARocks.com is the official online source for buying tickets to War memorial Auditorium events.
2
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
COMING SOON TO
East Nashville From your friends at
VILLAGE PUB &
BEER GARDEN
growlers & tap room
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
3
IN
AK A
NASHVILLE SYMPHONY 2013/14 SEASON
E R TA F L A C K | N E I RO B LS S| ED
TICKETS ON SALE JULY 19!
Y GG
ANFORD MARSA | BR LIS G IN |B M E EN L F F ÉE
L
|A
NT & VINCE G ILL |K EN N
LO
O
DS
GRA MY
| CH
RI
MICHAEL MCDO NA TI | OT L D SB |R E
N
DON’T MISS YOUR FIRST CHANCE TO PURCHASE SINGLE TICKETS FOR ALL 2013/14 NASHVILLE SYMPHONY CONCERTS!
615.687.6400 | NashvilleSymphony.org 4
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
5
6
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
7
PUBLISHER
Lisa McCauley EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Chuck Allen MANAGING EDITOR
CALENDAR EDITOR
Jo e y B u tl er
Emma Alfo r d
DESIGN DIRECTOR
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
B en j am i n R umb le
Ru s s el Br o wn O’ Br ian
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
ADVERTISING DESIGN
S taci e H u c k eb a
Ben jamin Ru mb le
SOCIAL MEDIA
INTERN
N i co l e K e ip er
Victo r ia Clo d felter
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS E mm a A l fo rd , M el l i ssa C o rb i n , Ter r i Do r s ey, D. F an n in , J eff F in lin , Ran d y F o x , J ames “ Hags ” H a gg erty, L i z Ju n gers H u g h es, E ri c J an s , Ro b b ie D. J o n es , Heath er L o s e, J en n ifer Lyle, Cath eri n e R a n d al l , Jo E l l en Wer k in g Weed man , Gar y Wo lf, To mmy Wo mack
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Aerial Innovations of Tennessee, Dave Cardaciotto, Tim Duggan, Heather Lose, Gary Wolf
ADVERTISING CONTACT Lisa McCauley lisa@theeastnashvillian.com 615.582.4187
www.theeastnashvillian.com
Kitchen
Table Media Company Est.2010
8
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
9
COMING TO NASHVILLE
FIRST CHURCH OF
THE NAZARENE
THIS FALL
PROGRAMMING FOR ALL AGES AND GENDERS
footballbasketball volleyballsoccer
community events
for more information contact
Matthew Dunlap
Nashville First Church of the Nazarene • Recreation Outreach Director mdunlap@nfcn.org • (615) 250-1140 ext. 190
www.nfcn.org 10
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Cover
46 The Triumphant Tomato
Ten years of uniting the fruits and the vegetables By Jennifer Lyle
Features
39 43
70
Anita Hartel Remembers when ‌ By Mellissa D. Corbin
offshoring 81 Try these skills
Is all about community
By Jo Ellen Werking Weedman
60 67
Some like it hot
Kristyn and Jared Corder may actually own this town before they’re done By Heather Lose
Home Schooling on the East Side Spanish Eclectic
Groovers & Shakers
Lincoln College continues a tradition By Catherine Randall
The continuing adventures of Little Hollywood By Gary Wolf
85
The inside story of a Nashville original
Dusty old piles of records
The vintage vinyl tour of East Nashville By Randy Fox
By Liz Junger Hughes
on the cover
Hipster magritte Design by Benjamin Rumble
continued on page 12
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
11
East Side Buzz
18 18 21 22
23 Fright Night at Family Wash 24 Lending film a hand 25 Nice hair, dude
Matters of Development Eric Jans
Terri Dorsey
Cayce Homes Update Liz Jungers Hughes
Heather Lose
Surprise resistance to AMP
Catherine Randall
D. Fannin
Home Studio bill shelved Chuck Allen
commentary
14 Editor’s Letter 16 Astute Observations
28 Greenways 104 East of Normal
Chuck Allen
Jeff Finlin
James Haggerty
By Tommy Womack
In the kNow
30
Know Your Neighbor: Belinda Leslie Heather Lose
33
Artist in Profile:
89 EN History: Bridges 93 East Side Calendar Robbie D. Jones Emma Alford
Bill Brimm & The Bryant Gallery Heather Lose
partint shot
Jessi Darlin of Those Darlins Photographed by Dave Cardaciotto
12
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
13
Editor’s Letter
I
On Wolf Peaches and the Republic
n Nix v. Hedden (149 U.S. 304, 1893), the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously held that the tomato is a vegetable within the meaning of the Tariff Act of 1883. Writing the court’s opinion, Justice Gray basically boiled it down to how the tomato was commonly used in cooking: “Botanically speaking, tomatoes are the fruit of a vine, just as are cucumbers, squashes, beans, and peas. But in the common language of the people, whether sellers or consumers of provisions, all these are vegetables which are grown in kitchen gardens, and which, whether eaten cooked or raw, are, like potatoes, carrots, parsnips, turnips, beets, cauliflower, cabbage, celery, and lettuce, usually served at dinner in, with, or after the soup, fish, or meats which constitute the principal part of the repast, and not, like fruits generally, as dessert.” Within this opinion is the acknowledgement that botanically tomatoes are a fruit; specifically the fruit of plant Solanum lycopersicum. They originated in Mesoamerica, and were widely and rapidly distributed across the globe following the Spanish conquests in Central America. That’s right — Pomodoro sauces
to them as passing a bill is to congress. A close-knit tribal community can’t afford divisions along party lines or winnertakes-all politics. To them, resolving their differences amicably is a matter of survival. Sure, I’ll stipulate the fact that we are indeed a nation, albeit a schizophrenic one undergoing a paradigm shift. What’s more important to me is that we are a people, and as a people we live and die by the covenants set forth by our enlightened forefathers in the Constitution. It’s essence, it’s very brilliance, lies in the framework it provides for balancing two constant, elemental and powerful forces that are often diametrically opposed to one another: The General Welfare and Individual Liberty. In this respect, we all have both some of the liberal as well as some of the conservative in us. Case in point: The unwelcomed situation in which Family Wash owner Jamie Rubin recently found himself. A die-hard Obama supporter, he was nevertheless a victim of exactly the type of government over-reach that has Libertarians screaming, “police state.” The bottom line is this: Our republic was designed for these opposing forces to forever be in a dance with one another, and for things to work
To sum it up,
the tomato is botanically a fruit, gastronomically a vegetable. weren’t present during Caesar’s time in Rome. To sum it up, the tomato is botanically a fruit, gastronomically a vegetable. So, you see, the tomato has always had something of a split personality; one more along the lines of the yin yang rather than a chemical imbalance. The light and the dark become one, and so on and so forth. Which is why the slogan for East Nashville’s Tomato Art Fest is so … sublime: A Uniter not a Divider — Bringing Together the Fruits and the Vegetables. That’s right. We’re all in this together, like it or not. Recent anthropological studies done among the few remaining primitive tribes that have little or no contact with the outside world uncovered convincing evidence that they are better at resolving disputes than us civilized folk. Of course, it’s all about community to them. Concepts like nation-states are as inconceivable
14
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
— for our tribe’s survival — there must be compromise. It’s easy to stand behind party, or worse — the anonymity of the Internet, and lob spitballs at the other side. It’s a much more difficult proposition when the spitballs one is lobbing are aimed at one’s neighbors. Community is the last bastion of compromise. Working together we can promote the general welfare and at the same time respect one another’s individual liberties, being ever mindful of the fact that perfection doesn’t exist in this world. So it is with the “feeling” Meg MacFayden describes when she talks about the Tomato Art Fest, when the community comes together in unity, led by a fruit and a vegetable. A uniter — not a divider. The tomato.
Free diagnostic! $89 flat rate computer repair, for Mac or PC! 935 WOODLAND STREET 615-835-2985
Accepting New Patients & Most Insurance
Riverside Village Pharmacy
Traditional Health Care with a Holistic Approach
WELLNESS CARE
your friendly neighborhood drugstore
Physical Exams for Men, Women & Pediatrics • Sports Physicals • DOT Physicals Nutrient Testing • Hormone Testing (Men & Women) • Vitamins & Supplements B12 Injections • Weight Loss Program • LipoB Injections • EKG & Stress Test Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy • Natural Hormone Pellets • In-House Labs
WE TREAT THE FOLLOWING
Chronic Illnesses: Diabetes • High Cholesterol Hypertension • Hypothyroid • Asthma & more Skin: Laceration Repair • Acne Care Ingrown Toenail • Mole & Skin Tag Removal
WOMEN’S HEALTH
Paps • Colposcopy for Abnormal Paps Mirena® • Nexplanon® • Birth Control PMS & Menopause Care • STD Testing
AESTHETICS
Botox • Juvederm • Chemical Peels • Latisse Organic Skin Care Line • Spider Vein Treatment
July Is UV Awareness Month - Protect yourself & family! Wear sunscreen, protective clothing, hats, & sunglasses. Do regular skin checks & come in to have any suspicious spots checked.
Amy T. Cole FNP-C, CNM
615.732.1030
1406 B McGavock Pike, Nashville, TN 37216
colefamilypractice.org call today for an appointment
Mindy Weaver FNP-C
Locally owned full-service & compounding pharmacy serving East Nashville since 2011 free
s hi pp
in g &
delive
r y | 20 % of f 650-4444 r st c o m p ou n din g order 1406 McGavock Pike www.RVPdrugs.com www.facebook.com/RVPdrugs July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
15
{ astute observations } for the
E ast Side ... & By
W
The
James
beyond
“ Hags ” Haggerty
Family Wash is a great joint.
orld-class songwriters and musicians can be heard five nights a week, playing for tips and enjoying the Wash’s great vibe. It is our place, our rec. center, our local, an oasis of great music, great food and a place where one can have a drink and engage in long debate over which Blue Oyster Cult record is truly the best with owner, Jamie Rubin. A musician himself, as well as a food service veteran, Jamie opened the Wash in 2002.
gonna have a problem.” Jamie spends Saturday hauling beer, finding cold storage and missing his day off with his family. Guess what? The Wash is fully licensed and permitted to sell all of the beer and wine on the premises. The embarrassed fellow calls to say he made a mistake. Poor guy. Wasting all that good bluster for nothing! What a gyp!
So what the hell happened on June 14th?
J
A typical Friday night at The Wash: Band playing, servers serving, bartender bartending and customers having a good time while digging the funky folk art decor, listening to the band, relaxing and enjoying the start of the weekend.
If you ask me, when you accuse someone of breaking the law, chase away customers, and generally behave like a bully, you should know what the law is, jackass.
10:30ish. Jamie gets a panicked call from an employee. Five minutes later, “Who told you you could sell high gravity beer? Who sold it to you? Achtung!!! Ver are your papers!?! Schnell!” The band quits and leaves, and while the getting is good, the Friday night crowd does the same. The intimidation worked! Good job ETF. High Five. Sieg Heil! At this point Jamie is told he is in violation of the law and can’t sell high gravity beer. He’s been selling it for 11 years. After receiving a score of 93 on his health inspection and getting citations for only minor violations from building codes, he is told to “Get rid of it by tomorrow, or, I’ll tell you right now, we’re
amie does not believe he was targeted. He believes this was random. It was over the line, unprofessional, intimidating and all for naught.
Now the Chief of Police has “apologized.” The task force that no one ever heard of before is now infamous and, largely thanks to Jamie’s unwillingness to allow his civil rights to be trampled upon, they will no longer be acting at random, instead only targeting businesses with several complaints. In my opinion this was a classic blunder. A public relations disaster. Jackassery of the highest order. Maybe some good can come from it … You know those police-camera boxes with the flashing blue light that you see scattered around East Nashville? Jamie and several others from the neighborhood petitioned Metro Police for one after the clerk at the convenience store across the way was murdered in the parking lot, and a guitar player was shot leaving a gig at The Wash. The answer was “no.” Can we please have a police box now, before someone else gets shot? That would be better for the environment at Porter and Greenwood than a random SWAT raid.
— After Hags’ dreams of being a musician were trampled upon by the hard realities of life, he decided to become a bass player. When he’s not in the studio, Hags can be seen eight nights a week playing around town with pretty much everybody. Fortunately, he still finds time to provide The East Nashvillian with his “astute observations” about life here in the promised land.
16
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
17
EAST SIDE B U Z Z
In a short time, East Nashville’s sushi options will be doubling. Midtown favorite Ken’s Sushi is moving to 923 Main St., perhaps by the end of summer. Opening this fall at 1886 Eastland Ave. (next to Ugly Mugs) is Happy Belly, a unique Asian gastro pub inspired by the Japanese izakaya, a local pub where people go for small plates and drinks and to catch up after work. Happy Belly will feature gourmet ramen, yakitori and sushi, craft beers, sake, wine, handcrafted cocktails and shōchū. Another creative new restaurant/bar offering will be The Treehouse on Clearview Avenue at 5 Points, opening in August just behind Margot. Owner Corey Ladd has ties to the house: his grandfather, Hall of Fame musician Buddy Spicher, built the tree house on the property. The food is described as “locally sourced and seasonally changing.” If breakfast is your ticket, check out Glazed, a new doughnut shop, operating from inside the Myridia restaurant at 5th and Main. Owner Joe Clemons brings fresh doughnuts from his family bakery in Lebanon, along with coffee from Drew’s Brews, and is open 7-10 a.m. weekdays. Two more sweet shops, Yeast Nashville and Nashville Sweets, will open in East Side Station, the former Bank of America building at 805 Woodland St. Those pastry calories can be worked off nearby at DanceEast, which has moved to East Side Station from its former space on Gallatin Road. For healthier breakfast types, Haulin’ Oats is the newest tenant at The Idea Hatchery, 1108 Woodland St. They offer individual portions of organic oatmeal made with almond butter and coconut oil. Local favorite Bongo Java has moved its roasting operation to the Gulch, helping to expand the current café space to serve more patrons. The expansion includes a new kitchen that will be serving a three-meal menu, similar to the one at Fido in Hillsboro Village. They also plan to utilize the open lot next door, which will provide outdoor seating and additional parking. Eventually there are plans to build out the front of the building to the sidewalk, perhaps as early as first quarter 2014. The Post, a new coffee/smoothie/juice joint with an in-house bakery near The Pharmacy on McFerrin/West Eastland, is still working through zoning and codes but hopes to have an announcement shortly. Kernels Gourmet Popcorn is now open at 2501B Gallatin Ave. Their website 18
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
shows 12 flavors that you can pick up, order online or have delivered. Hours are Tues-Fri 11-7, Sat 11-5. Porter East, the former convalescent home at the intersection of Eastland and Porter, experienced tremendous growth in the last year. Some recent additions to the growing list of tenants: Nashville Piano Rescue East offers salvaged and restored vintage and antique pianos, along with custom refinished pianos, in addition to unique vintage and antique furniture; Rhed Rholl is an independent record label and record shop with select musical instruments and equipment; Unbound Arts hosts a gallery and gift shop featuring new and vintage collectibles; Prema Collection, coming in September, will have high-end and sustainable world furnishings and home goods. Discover more handmade furniture, as well as custom countertops and signage using reclaimed wood, from quirky woodsmith Greg Spurgeon at East Side Reclaiming, next to Edley’s BBQ on Main Street; open by appointment. Jessica Hodges and Mandy Judge have opened Hummingbird, which features handmade jewelry, found and repurposed objects, art and vintage items. The store is located behind Top O’ Woodland, open Wed-Sun 10-3 and by appointment. Hey Rooster General Store beckons with a funky little storefront now open at 1106 Gallatin Ave., offering fine home goods. Their store hours are Mon, Wed-Sat 11-7, Sun 12-5. The Main Attraction East has opened at 937 Woodland St. It’s the second location of the popular “Fine Goods Emporium” based in Tupelo, Miss. Joshua Stump and Chris Hayzlett are opening a new cigar lounge called Smoker’s Abbey at 604 Gallatin Road, Suite B. Hours are MonThurs 10-10, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight, Sun 1-10. At the corner of Sharpe and Gallatin, the Baker Brothers are expanding their empire with Spot’s Pet Supply going in directly across the street from The Dog Spot. They plan to open in October with food, supplies and a DIY dog wash. Specs Optical recently relocated from the Green Hills Mall to 224 S 11th St. in the 37206 building. Owner Susan Kistler has fallen in love with the neighborhood and wanted to be a part of its business community. Store hours are Tues-Sat 10-6, Sun. 12-5. At Center 615, developer Christian Paro has
July | August 2013
finished and leased at least 20 of the office suites at 615 Main St. This development is a much-needed concept for individual and collaborative office space in the neighborhood. Down by the river at 750 Cowan St., Soundcheck Nashville is building two brandnew, state-of-the-art sound stages, both of which will be 160-feet x 140-feet x 70-feet tall. Designed for feature film, television production and tour rehearsal, they will be the first stages of their kind in Tennessee. Contractors are completing build-out on The Bridge Building next to Cumberland Park, with The Cumberland River Compact occupying the 3rd floor. The large industrial building at 400 Davidson St. is being considered for either an electric go-cart facility or some other type of family-friendly entertainment. Hobson United Methodist Church at 1107 Chapel Ave. has a contract on the property; the buyer has plans for a multi-unit residential redevelopment. —EJ
The New Face of Cayce Place
Since we began the conversation regarding the redevelopment of Cayce Place in our January/February 2013 issue, much has happened to move this aging public-housing complex toward a second life. One of Nashville’s oldest and largest public housing developments, James A. Cayce Place was built between 1941-1954 with approximately 716 housing units on a 63-acre lot located south of Shelby Avenue near the entrance to East Nashville. Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency hopes to update the project with the goals of replacing each existing unit at a 1:1 ratio, maintaining the economic and cultural diversity of the neighborhood, and most crucially, to create mixed-income
photos by chuck allen
Matters of development
C e l e b r a t i n g To m a t o F e s t !
For the past decade I have lived and/or worked in East Nashville, and am proud to call Five Points my home. My goal is to guide my clients through the buying and selling process in a way that makes it as fun, simple and as worryfree as possible, and I continue to be a resource for my clients long after the transaction is closed. If you are thinking of buying or selling, or if you have any home related questions, then I do hope you’ll give me a call and allow me to be your resource too.
shalene france GRAY
REALTOR M) 615.378.7699 | F) 615.369.8629 | O) 615.383.6964 sgray@villagerealestate.com | www.shalenefrancegray.com
615.320.5000 1006 SHELBY AVE WWW.POWELLARCHITECTS.COM
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
19
ES B
photo by Tim Duggan
housing to help integrate Cayce into the surrounding neighborhood. Gaining in popularity since the $5 Billion HOPE VI redevelopment program launched in 1992, mixed-income housing is thought to benefit the poor in several ways, according to the Urban Institute for nonpartisan economic and social development research. By increasing the poor’s proximity to higher-income neighbors, mixed-income projects aim to improve social and job-search networks, increase order and safety, and create new market demand and political pressure that can lead to higher-quality goods and services for all residents. The strategy is not without critics, including many low-income Cayce residents who rely on average rents of $149 per month. A market-rate housing component could raise some rates to $595-$980 per month, threatening to price some Cayce residents out of their homes. While there’s no solution to the problem of displacement yet, MDHA has hired Seattlebased EJP Consulting Group to tackle that and other redevelopment issues. Specializing in the redevelopment of public-housing communities with a focus on increasing the self-sufficiency of residents, EJP has previously worked with MDHA on projects including the Sam Levy 20
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
Homes near McFerrin Park and John Henry Hale Homes on Jo Johnston Avenue. EJP Partner Rhae Parkes has been named project director and sits on the project’s Community Advisory Group (CAG) along with about 20 members. Group members include social-service providers, Cayce residents and resident-association leadership, leaders in the affordable housing community, neighborhood leaders and other representatives from the nonprofit and public sectors who are direct stakeholders in the process. Since the first round of meetings March 16 with the CAG, Cayce residents and community, planners have taken steps to better include Cayce residents in the revitalization process. MDHA has initiated a survey of Cayce residents and welcomed them to a May 6 design charrette, where attendees were asked for input on the design of the new Cayce Place. Residents expressed a desire to improve neighborhood amenities, including access to healthy foods and transportation, recreational areas, better security and lighting. As for their concerns about displacement, MDHA ensured residents that they do intend to replace each unit, and current leaseholders wanting to return after construction will be
July | August 2013
able to. How exactly they will be accommodated — either on site, in the neighborhood, or someplace else — has yet to be determined, but MDHA has promised to maintain support services and minimize disruption to residents during redevelopment. Residents also identified some positives that make Cayce a place to which they’d like to return: social service provider The Martha O’Bryan Center, located on the Cayce Homes property; the adjacent Cayce Clinic; Kirkpatrick Elementary School and the Kirkpatrick Community Center; and Community Care Fellowship. Cayce also benefits from a great location near LP Field, downtown Nashville, the new Cumberland Park, Shelby Avenue and the 5 Points area. Currently, MDHA is in the process of developing three preliminary plans guided by input from previous meetings, findings from the resident survey, and focus group discussions with Cayce residents. At the next public meeting, scheduled for end of summer, MDHA intends to present these three concepts for feedback, with the goal of finalizing a revitalization plan by the end of 2013. While no timeline has been set beyond this year, “the team is preparing both a phasing plan
ES B
and a financing plan in tangent with a design for the neighborhood.” The implementation schedule will largely be driven by the proposed phasing and the availability of funding that will complement the plan,” say MDHA representatives. Completion of the project is expected to take several years. To join in the conversation surrounding the Cayce project, East Nashville residents are encouraged to attend the next public meeting at the end of this summer. The date will be announced at: www.nashville-mdha.org/ cayce.php. —LJH
Surprise opposition to AMP
image courtesy Transit Alliance of Middle Tennessee
East Nashvillians who plan to ride the AMP — the east-west rapid transit line — are accustomed to badmouthing from some residents of the posh Richland-West End neighborhood. So it was no surprise those neighbors were the harshest critics as the AMP proposal routed its way toward a decisive Metro Council vote in June. At the public hearing leading up to the first vote, one West End opponent sniffed, “I don’t ever intend to ride it.” Previously some West Nashville neighbors said the line would bring in the wrong kind of riders. (One used the term “East Nashville riff-raff.”) In the end their opposition was no match for the downtown
business powerhouse that supported the AMP: Mayor Dean, the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and tourism promoters including the hotel, restaurant and convention center supporters. However, it was U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper — the elected official who is Nashville’s voice on Capitol Hill — tossing the political grenade that blindsided the downtown power gang. Just days before the city council’s first crucial vote, he knocked the legs out from under a central piece of the AMP funding plan. He warned Nashville’s chances of winning a federal grant for $175 million are extremely doubtful. “This is the worst time in decades to assume federal funding for new projects is available,” Cooper stated. “So that’s what I tell people, whether they are asking about the AMP or anything else from the federal government.” In spite of the Congressman’s dire prediction, AMP supporters convinced the Metro Council to approve the funds for the first phase of construction — $7.5 million for the initial engineering and design plans, which won’t be spent until the federal money is approved. Here’s why Cooper’s remarks and future support can significantly impact the AMP’s funding outcome: In Washington, D.C, the local representative’s support can be the key
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
21
ES B
to winning a grant award from a federal agency. Some members of Congress use their influence to improve the funding chances for their communities, but not Rep. Cooper, who’s well known for his stance against earmarks and his hands-off approach to grant requests. He didn’t give a direct answer when asked if he supports the AMP, saying, “It is my understanding that Nashville wants to apply for what would be a competitive grant, which means that it would not be an earmark but would have to beat the proposals from other cities in order to win.” As one tourism trade advocate explained, “If other communities are getting transportation money, we want to be on the list. We urge him to support this project so we want him to fight for the money rather than it going to other communities. That’s the role of a Congressman.” Cooper remains less than enthusiastic about the AMP project. “Funding for new projects is not hopeless, but it is very, very hard because we are not paying for existing projects,” he said. Nevertheless, Metro Transit Authority officials and the mayor are extremely optimistic. MTA grant director Jim McAteer
22
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
says they’ve been working closely for the last two years with federal agency officials who oversee the funds the city hopes to receive, so Nashville is “quite a bit ahead of the competition.” In the meantime the opposition from the Richland-West End neighbors seems to have stalled, but they may have the last word. The ultimate future of the AMP rides on the money, and Nashville could be competing against other cities whose Representatives will work harder for the money. —DF
Home Studio Bill Shelved
It seems Substitute Ordinance No. BL2012-292 — a.k.a. the Home Recording Studio bill — has been shelved indefinitely. As explained in the March/April issue, a groundswell of public opposition to the bill had been developing prior to the Council’s May 7 meeting, from both the “not-in-my-neighborhood” types, as well as from those who
July | August 2013
believed home studios were being singled out for special treatment. With these two very vocal, email-campaign-writing groups emerging, the bill’s original sponsor, Councilman-atLarge Megan Berry, had little choice other than to kick the can down the road. Ironically, it was the very people the bill intended to help — the home studio owners — who were ultimately responsible for the bill’s current fate. Many never even knew of the bill’s existence; still others were surprised by the idea that home studios violate Metro codes. Those who knew of the bill, by and large, chose not to participate for fear of exposure. By “going to ground,” their hopes were for a continuation of the don’t-ask-don’t-tell status quo — a tactic with which, at least by that metric, they were successful. During a panel discussion at a recent Audio Engineering Society event (which was, full
ES B
disclosure, moderated by yours truly), Berry had the opportunity to hear directly from both commercial studio owners as well as home studio owners about the complexities involved in making the bill fair and equitable to all of the primary stakeholders. Needless to say, the primary concern for home studios is the cost of legitimacy. Most of the ones generating revenue are aware of the cost of doing business commercial studios face, so it’s no wonder they’re less than enthusiastic about the potential for revenue streams Metro might have in mind. On the other hand, the vast majority of home studios generate modest, if any, revenue at all. As for the commercial facilities, the damage has already been done. Very few mid-level commercial studios survived the onslaught of computer-based recording and the plethora of home studios created therefrom. Those remaining would be happy just to have the playing field leveled, if only a little bit. The landscape for businesses of all stripes is changing so rapidly that anyone who says with confidence they know where things are headed is, at best, a victim of their own imagination and at worst, completely self-deluded. If any one thing is for sure, it’s the growth in
home-based businesses. It’s doubtful the issue will be swept under the rug in perpetuity, and at present Metro doesn’t really have a way to deal with it, except through the codes department. Moving forward, any bill dealing with home businesses must involve the stakeholders, and there will need to be some type of incentive to encourage conformity. If Metro codes decided tomorrow that its mission in life is shuttering home studios, that’s all they would have the time to do, and even then they wouldn’t even scratch the surface. —CA
intimidating experience. The uniformed party-crashers, led by Sgt. Steve Vivrette, were the Environment Task Force. He said the team was conducting a routine inspection, not a raid. Vivrette said the police accompanied inspectors to The Family Wash on a routine visit because a new team agent “thought the area was a problem and she wanted the task force to go in with her.” Family Wash server Jim Davis met the police at the entrance. Davis said he saw “a steady
Fright Night at Family Wash
The night the police stopped the music at a well-known nightspot, it was a classic East Nashville story: outsiders acting on preconceived fears about the Eastside, believing it’s the Wild West (or Wild East, in this case.) The Coal Men band was playing their regular gig at The Family Wash when they were suddenly upstaged by a “storm of officials with badges and guns,” as singer Dave Coleman describes it. “We didn’t stop playing immediately but stopped after a couple of songs because inspectors and police totally changed the vibe of the place.” Coleman says it was an
T H R O U G H S E P TE M B E R 1 5
Lead Sponsors: BARBARA, JACK, SARA, AND RICHARD BOVENDER Platinum Sponsor
Media Sponsor
Hospitality Sponsor
The Frist Center for the Visual Arts is supported in part by:
DO WNTO WN NASHV I L L E | 919 BROADWAY | F RIST C EN T ER.ORG/ART DEC OAU T OS Re c iproc a l disc ou n ts a re offe re d a t N ashvi l l e’s Lane M o to r M useum - w ww.l anemo to rmuseum.co m 1938 Talbot-Lago T-150C-SS Teardrop Coupe. Collection of J. Willard Marriott, Jr. Photograph © 2013 Peter Harholdt
FC3915_M2ab_EastNashvillian_SensuousSteel.indd 1
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
23
6/25/13 10:31 AM
ES B
stream of officials flooding through the door.” They included enforcement agents from the departments of liquor, beer, codes, health and the fire marshal’s office. “They were all in at once — three or four were behind the bar, the fire marshal was in the kitchen and one guy was rifling through the cooler.”
Davis said the smaller-than-usual crowd (40 customers vs. 12 officials) reacted like picnickers over-run by ants. He said they paid their tab and left. Band member Coleman recalls, “The entire focus turned from enjoying a summer night to a group of officials asking questions.”
Family Wash owner Jamie Rubin rushed to the club as soon as staffers told him police and inspectors were swarming the building. Naturally he was outraged. “I’ve survived an armed robbery, muggings and now a police raid. The last organization that should mess with me is the one that licenses me for business.” He told his story to as many supporters and reporters as possible, so the media would turn the spotlight on his “overkill” inspection from the task force, especially since it cost him business during peak hours on a Friday night. He complained the task force harmed business that night, not to mention the reputation of the club in the future. It seems like public embarrassment did not stop with The Family Wash. Within days Metro Police Chief Steve Anderson released a statement announcing the task force team would be “refocused” on their mission and supervised more closely. Anderson said the team would conduct no more routine inspections. He clarified that the Family Wash was an innocent target; no complaints or suspicions had prompted the surprise inspection. Thanks to Rubin, no other Nashville restaurants and nightclubs will go through a routine inspection that resembles a “speak-easy” raid. Dave Coleman thinks the survival of The Family Wash is important because it’s one of the few original clubs focused on live performances. “I moved to East Nash because of Radio Café and it went away. The Wash is a community center, an art center and a music center.” —TD
Lending film a hand
The Nashville Community Darkroom is down, but not out. The non-profit group’s first Kickstarter campaign raised $15,000 out of their initial $20,000 goal. With the Kickstarter platform, projects either get funded for the goal amount or not at all. The NCD was $5,000 short of their goal and will be trying again. The group will be launching their follow-up Kickstarter campaign the first week of July, which lasts 60 days. The new funding goal is $12,500, although there are still hopes of reaching $20,000 with stretch goals. The NCD volunteers, many from East Nashville, will offer new rewards this time, including a silver gelatin print by Ben Folds, as well as other original prints, classes and add-ons. The NCD will serve two main purposes: First, it will be a professionally equipped darkroom, workspace and gallery members can use for personal and professional projects. Monthly rates will be set at prices affordable for students, hobbyists and starving artists, and members will have card-based unrestricted access to the space. 24
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
25
ES B
Second, the NCD will work with local schools and nonprofit organizations to offer arts education, focusing on film photography, portraiture, traditional processes, the business of photography and more. The plan is for the NCD not only to send volunteers into local schools to teach, but also for students to come
work in the darkroom, gaining hands-on experience and the chance to build a portfolio and exhibit. The NCD is incorporated as a Tennessee nonprofit and is currently applying for federal nonprofit status. It will be located in the Main Street area of East Nashville and will
house a darkroom/wet lab with 15-20 enlargers (including several large-format enlargers), film-loading closets, classroom space, lighted workspaces and a small gallery. The Nashville Community Darkroom will be member-supported but will also rely on community support and other fundraising efforts. —HL
Nice coat, dude
The story of the black Chow told in photos on the East C.A.N. (Community Action Network) Facebook page last summer showed a creature with pus oozing out of his eyes, his fur matted where he had any, and absent where the infectious sores made it drop out. Rory, named because his patchwork fur looked like a lion’s, was indeed pathetic. As the story made its way through social media, donations flooded in from across the city and Rory, thanks to a community effort, was given a second chance. When Rory was sighted running around East Nashville before the flood of 2010, East C.A.N., founded by Elizabeth Chauncey, stepped in to help. Rory allowed the group to feed him, but eluded capture until August. Photos were uploaded with the appeals for financial assistance, and Virginia Evans heeded the call. Evans arrived at the emergency vet’s office with the intention of donating money; she ended up volunteering to foster him. “If you saw him, you wanted to take him in,” Evans says. Rory’s medical needs were complex. Due to some unknown injury, his right eye had to be removed. Initial X-rays showed buckshot in his hindquarters. His skin ulcers were deep, weeping sores causing his fur to fall out, Evans explains. For first few weeks, “he was like having a baby in the house. He would scratch and whine all the time,” Evans says. She used her lunch breaks to go home and administer the medical regimen. Rory tolerated it all. “He was just one of these animals who knew you wanted to help him,” she recalls. Along with his medical needs, Rory needed constancy. Evans officially adopted Rory early in the healing process. Now people don’t even recognize him. “His winter coat was fabulous this year,” Evans says like a proud mother. Almost a year later, with a clean bill of health and a GPS collar just in case he takes to the streets again, Rory sleeps in a bed and eats organic food. Rory’s story is almost community folklore. When he was still loose, one lady actually witnessed Rory being hit by a car. He lay there unmoving. Evans says, “After a few minutes he got up and ran off! No matter what life deals him, Rory keeps on going. He is a survivor.” www.eastcan.org. —CR 26
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
9Th AnnUAl Wild impreSSionS
ANDEAN BEAR BASH preSenTed by: The nAShville Smile TeAm
8
dr. KriSTin rUShinG & dr. lee CoUlTer
AUGUST
2013
nAShville zoo 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. TIckET INcLUDES:
music APPETIZERS drinks animal art auction pUrChASe TiCKeTS AT beArbASh.evenTbriTe.Com PRocEEDS BENEfIT: MUSIC PROVIDED BY
ADDITIONAL SPONSORS
LIEUTENANT DAN FROM
seasonal Italian cuisine | wood fired pizza | daily happy hour 701 Porter Road Nashville, TN 37206 phone 615.873.4978 pomodoroeast.com | info@pomodoroeast.com July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
27
From
the
Travel
Desk
Greenways By
A
fter 20 years of fighting the good music biz fight, I left Nashville 10 years ago to live on the edge of nowhere just to see how it felt. It was nice out there against the abyss. One of the things I found there were the Greenways. Our little town in Colorado invested big in the sustainable arts. The city wouldn’t pick up your brush for free on a regular basis. Instead, they built trails: Lots of them. I could put on my nancyboy bike shorts along with my purple yard-sale bike helmet and get on my ‘74 Schwinn Super Sport and ride the greenways along the river for 30 miles. The trails wound out through the trees and waterfowl, sunsets, coyotes and sage-covered hills. It was amazing. But what they connected me to most was a greenway within myself. Those pathways through the vast expanse brought me together with the weather of my soul and an underlying inkling of what kept my body, mind and heart sustainable. They connected me … to me somehow. When we decided to move back home and chose the bowels of East Nasty to hunker down in, I wondered quietly what the hell I was gonna do to access that same experience here in the city. I love the gritty city as much as anyone. There is a lot to look at and soak up for a mind that is terminally and creatively bored. The creative energy here and the people can’t be beat anywhere, but I would have pangs of neurosis sweep my psyche with the thought of being trapped in the neon without
28
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
Jeff Finlin
a convenient escape into nature. Thank God we chose East Nashville as, to my surprise, the Greenway is within our midst. Like a vein of life bubbling through the concrete, I found it flowing out along the river on the Shelby Bottoms. I found it rolling across the river through field and forest out to the Percy Priest Dam. I found 30 miles of it right here in my own backyard! Stepping off the street on to the Greenway I always feel like Lewis Carroll’s Alice stepping through the looking glass into another world. Rolling on the mighty Schwinn I can bound though the flowering wild privot, honeysuckle and blackberry. Eastern Bluebirds and cardinals skirt the trail. The Super Sport glides the Shelby Bottoms with a silly grin. People on the trail smile back and say hello. You can see the nature beaming from the trees and into their faces, from the sun and into their skin. It carries delight and contemplation and intermingling. It carries families and people in shape and people out of shape. It carries connection. Moving along the path of the flood plain you can see Great Blue Heron on the river through the bramble. You traverse bridges and creeks only to find yourself lost under giant canopies of trees that hide deer and raccoon, possum and coyote. Tree frogs hum, pond frogs croak, my wheels spin themselves out until I can somehow breathe again. No matter how strung out or stressed out I get, if I have the fortitude to let myself go completely, to
July | August 2013
quiet myself in the great expanse, something wonderful happens. My experience grows awareness in the heat of that sun and I magically get a glimpse of who I am again. And then there are the walking trails. I can grab the wife, hitch the dog to the leash and walk through the woods; the solitude lets me contemplate which one I actually love more. The sound of our boots sloshes the mud and a hawk can be seen buzzing overhead. We stumble on a pond filled with turtles sunning on logs. Giant carp loom in the shadows. A snapping turtle comes up for air and then, of all things, a kingfisher perches itself on a branch and cackles its distinctive cry of the wild. A kingfisher!! It’s truly amazing!! One thing I’ve come to know is this: The older I get, the less I know. And if I’m gonna know anything at all the only thing that’s really worth knowing is myself. Nature and my exposure to it is one thing that helps me get to know myself a little better. A connection is soldered there between me and the cosmos. So it’s nice to know, right here, close to what we call East Nasty is a gateway, a greenway to connect to a higher plane. So if you have the good fortune to get on that Greenway and see a purple-helmeted warrior in nancyboy bike shorts flying by on a beat-up old Schwinn grinning ear to ear, just know that is me. And know that I’m a little closer to knowing who me is — thanks to the Greenway.
t h a n k yo u f o r s u c h a g r e at y e a r and continuous support.
@lockelandtable
| facebook.com/lockelandtable | 615.228.4864
NO SOUND!? NO PICTURE!?
NO PROBLEM! From Amplifiers to Turntables and much more!
Get it Fixed Right By Nashvilles Oldest and Most Trusted RadioShack. Over 100 years Experience! Anything from 1929 to Present Day.
We stock needles and phono accessories!
Ask us about our layaway plan!
Electronic Adapters DBA
Radio Shack
(615)227-5441 3249 Gallatin Pike Nashville TN, 37216 July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
29
know
your
neigh
bor
Belinda Leslie a Force of Nature
Story by
Heather Lose
Photography
Tim Duggan
30
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
T
op O’ Woodland owner/operator Belinda Leslie is a natural performer. Several times during our interview, she leaps off the couch to dramatically emphasize a point. She swoops, twirls, giggles and gyrates, and would be the first to tell you, “I’m so distractible.” But this Aries entrepreneur/financial advisor/opera singer/triathlete/single mother/ordained minister somehow finds time to do all these interesting things, and have time left over to throw a festive neighborhood potluck dinner several times each season. Belinda Leslie makes living the good life look easy, and she is your neighbor. 2000 was a life-changing year for Leslie, one that any dogged worker stuck in a corporate rut would envy. She left her banking gig at First
ability to see what works and what doesn’t.” Leslie is one of those über-competent people who seemingly hatched that way, but she says that’s not true. “I couldn’t finish things when I was a kid. I was a mess. I came from the basic dysfunctional Southern family. And I didn’t think I was very smart at all — Bs and Cs.” As a single mother, Leslie knew it was her responsibility to provide a comfortable life for her daughter. She was able to identify time management as an area where she needed help, and took a course to get better at it. Leslie laughs her infectious, bubbly laugh. “If you’re lazy, being organized is easier. I can do more if I’m efficient with how I live and how I do things. So that class taught me to do things that worked for me.”
singing — any kind of singing. I love harmony singing. I just love to sing. I’m living my life as if money was no object. I wanna be present in my body and live life now.” Does she have any unfulfilled desires? “I feel fortunate that I don’t have a huge list … I’ve done a lot of it. I’d do more operas, more triathlons, garden more, take dance lessons more.” The question begs to be asked: What’s next? “Well, I got an RV! So, I get to be on the road. This afternoon I’m taking the RV and my two big poodles and I’m doing a triathlon tomorrow, and it’s nice because I have my own little hotel where I can take a shower and have a snack before the awards ceremony.” Turns out, not only did she race to third place in her
“i encourage people to go do the reality, and see if you like it” American, where she’d been a vice president in investments, and started her own investment business devoted to helping others generate personal wealth. She bought the old Victorian, which was in a ramshackle state, and polished it into a neighborhood gem. She also began performing as a Soprano and Mezzo with the Nashville Opera, a passion that has led to roles in over 20 full productions. The house required complicated negotiation, involving over 17 disparate members of the selling family. “The final signatures took almost a day to complete,” she laughs. Leslie did most of the renovation work herself, from revitalizing the koi pond, to laying brick pathways, to arranging the jumbled antiques that bring colorful flavor to every room. Behind Top O’ Woodland is an outbuilding called Mr. Green’s Cottage, a working bed and breakfast … without the breakfast. “I send them to our great neighborhood places like Sweet 16th. It saves them the $20 and it’s easier!” she explains. The grand old home in front has smiled upon over 500 weddings — most of them officiated by Leslie. It’s a full-service operation. At one lucky couple’s wedding, she hosted the ceremony, performed the marriage and even sang. “That was weird,” she says. “When you’re onstage at TPAC, it’s all about volume. So singing while consciously trying not to be loud was a bit unnatural.” Leslie identifies the catalyst for her career overhaul. “There’s a weekend seminar I went to years ago that changed my life called the Institute for Self-Actualization. It changed my
The self-education is paying off. Leslie’s financial advising business is sound, and Top O’ Woodland has turned into a popular wedding chapel. She tells of one bride with a full cast on one leg and a cowboy boot on the other, and a Halloween wedding complete with a cobweb-covered cake from Sweet and Sassy. If she weren’t so downright likable, it would be easy to envy how ably Leslie has prioritized her life to focus on what she enjoys. “I did a great thing a few years ago. I thought, what if … I didn’t have to work? There are clients I would still do financial planning for, because I like them and they’re like my family; and playing with this house is like a big toy; and
age group, she was tapped to sing the “Star Spangled Banner” at the race. “I’ve done a lot of things without talking myself out of it. I heard a great thing once: Try something three times. First, to get over the freak-out of doing it; two, to really learn what you’re supposed to be doing; and three, to go, ‘Do I like it or not?’ It took me 14 times skydiving to go, ‘Ya know, scuba diving’s a lot more fun!’ When you do something, you learn the reality of it. It sounds so romantic, but the reality of skydiving and the dream of skydiving is really different. “I encourage people to go do the reality, and see if you like it!”
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
31
32
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Artist in
Profile:
Bill Brimm By Heather Lose
I
“
t’s not about sales; it’s about sharing.” Bill Brimm, owner of Bryant Gallery and a respected presence within the Nashville arts culture, leans back and collects his thoughts. “I was speaking with a person in the neighborhood. I said, ‘Why haven’t you ever been to the gallery?’ and the response was, ‘I can’t afford anything.’ I was like, ‘I don’t care. Just come by and look at the work.’ Because for me, the biggest joy in having this place is for people to come in and take the time to really look at the artwork, and want to talk about it. Now don’t get me wrong:
I love to sell work! But I’m blessed because I don’t have to.” Brimm began his career as a stained-glass artist. He earned a BFA from MTSU in 1977, and joined Emmanuel Studio in 1979, becoming a co-owner in 1986. Emmanuel specializes in new and restored stained-glass windows for churches. “We restored all the windows in West End United Methodist Church, and we did all the new windows for Covenant Presbyterian up on the hill in Green Hills. We do work all over the Southeast,” he says. Brimm also crafts beautiful furniture
— sturdy, precise pieces based around elements like metal, wood, poured concrete and glass. The pieces are simple and clean, and carry a whiff of whimsy. A bird’s nest is built into the interior of one of the tables; another is bisected by a miniature Japanese Zen garden. One series of side tables and rolling carts is comprised of striking antique suitcases on simple metal and wood bases. “I’ve always had a real passion for interior design, so that’s how I got into the furniture thing.” Like many artists, Brimm felt his way toward mastery of this new medium. “I’d think, ‘I’d love to do a table with
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
33
A inP a stained-glass top.’ So then I thought, ‘Well, I’ll have to build a base,’ and then I thought, ‘what materials am I gonna use? Well, I wanna use metal.’ But I couldn’t weld, so I had to teach myself to weld, and it’s just evolved into incorporating architectural pieces and found objects in the furniture.” Photography rounds out Brimm’s triad of personal artistic endeavors. His images are often printed large, showing a fascination with texture, materials and light in a way that complements his glass and furniture pieces. “I like to zoom in on details of objects and landscapes. I like to pick up texture and color.” Recently, Brimm took a few selected images to 5 Points Digital Imaging and had them printed on oversize, grommeted banners to hang on the fence in Bryant Gallery’s lush courtyard area. Brimm is enthused about this new idea. “Art for privacy fences! They are all weatherproof, and I just thought it was a neat idea for if you have a dead space in your backyard.”
I
t’s rather ironic that he’d say that, because his backyard is a verdant, green living space; when Brimm and partner Andrew Krichels began planning their compound at 1113 Woodland St., the lot was completely barren, thanks to the 1998 tornado. The photography business that had been there for years was shuttered and the building razed. Initially, the whole downstairs area was used for Krichels’ Pilates studio. Living space is upstairs, while the back building holds a guesthouse upstairs and studio space downstairs. A garage was added in the fall of 2012. “We jumped through many hoops to get this place built. Patrick Avice du Buisson was our architect. At first, people weren’t very open to it. We got some flack from neighborhood people about putting up a modern building. Since then, of course, modern’s popping up everywhere.” Brimm reflects on how the neighborhood has changed since the early 2000s. “No Bongo, no Margot, nothing. 3 Crow was still Shirley’s, but shortly thereafter, things started taking off.” From the beginning, Brimm had a gallery in the back of his mind. He began by showing as “Bill Brimm at Home,” opening the space up and exhibiting his own creations. Bryant Gallery is two years old now. Running a business centered on selling art has its predictable ups and downs. Economic conditions, and simple existence in a world loaded with distractions, have both brought challenges. “We’re inundated with Facebook and emails … I mean, how many art events do you get invited to?” Nevertheless, Brimm is committed. “Up to this point, it’s all been local artists. We have some incredibly talented people here.”
34
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Previous page: Chicken Cage Console
Top: A Piece of the Pi
Bottom: The Tipping Point
Courtesy Bill Brimm/Bryant Art Gallery
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
35
A inP
B
he did not commit. “Ndume’s opening will be on Sept. 14. Such a gentle, kind man and his work is very interesting. I like it and I want to help him.” Brimm considers the exhibits he mounts as partnerships between himself and the artist. He’s well versed in artists’ motivations and quirks. “For me, and I think for many, it takes us out of the place we occupy — and I’m in a really good place so it’s not exactly that — but it takes you someplace else. It’s self-satisfying. And when you have that creative urge, it has to come out or you’re going to be really frustrated.” Brimm admits that the one downside to running the gallery is that he makes less art himself, but adds, “I’d just like the neighborhood to know that the art in this building is to share. If people are walking by on Sunday, going by for coffee … stop in! We’re open on Saturday and Sunday and all are welcome.”
clockwise from bottom left: Kieran Kane, Susan Simons, Edume Olatushani, Kieran Kane, Solomon Behnke
ryant Gallery has been working alongside Art & Invention Gallery, the Hatchery, Wonders on Woodland and the Shoppes on Fatherland to get people out of their homes and into the neighborhood on the second Saturday of each month. The idea is to celebrate art, small business and the thriving 5 Points area. “We’re trying to build up Second Saturday. I want people to come in and feel comfortable and not feel pressured that they have to buy something.” Bryant is exhibiting a group show through July 28, featuring the work of Kieran Kane, Solomon Behnke and more. Next will be the landscapes and tablescapes of Susan Simons. There will be an Artist Reception for Simons Aug. 3 during Second Saturday, a practice Bryant Gallery is now employing for every new show. Next up is Ndume Olatushani, a self-taught oil painter who was just released from prison after serving 28 years for a crime
36
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
37
38
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Anita Hartel remembers when...
Before 5 Points and the restaurant explosion, East Nashville had one watering hole and one best-kept secret: Sasso By Melissa D. Corbin
E
ven before the 1998 tornado graced East Nashville with its presence, there were a handful of brave entrepreneurs who had a vision of what our hip, little slice of paradise pie would become. Visionary Anita Hartel saw the potential in a rundown building at the corner of 14th and Woodland — most recently, home to Lipstick Lounge. Before Silly Goose, Lockland Table or Margot, there was Sasso. Hartel was the culinary genius behind this “best-kept secret.” We recently had a chance to catch up over burgers and beers at Pharmacy Burger Parlor and Beer Garden, reminiscing about the days when folks didn’t care much for crossing the river: The days when Shirley’s was our local watering hole; Ron’s Super Saver only allowed two kids in at a time because they stole the candy; and Sasso was East Nashville’s “sacrificial lamb,” as Anita lovingly calls it. She and her husband, Mark Hayden Smith, bought an Inglewood home in 1984. One of her neighbors was Mrs. Miller, who died at the age of 99 and loved her East Nashville community. Mrs. Miller remembered selling eggs as a little girl to the grocery store that would one day become Sasso. With the 1998 tornado came a series of steps that some may call revitalization. Hartel’s little “lamb” was certainly an agent of change during a time when she was asked, “Is it OK to park my car in your lot?” Her canned response was always, “I do!” Others may refer to this as gentrification, which doesn’t always evoke the most positive of feelings. “Any time you move a business into a community you need to respect the people that were here before you,” she explains. After Sasso, Hartel became a Nashville Original favorite with Mambu and was a part of its most recent reincarnation, Rosebud Bistro on Hayes Street in Midtown. On June 1, the many acolytes who have revered her as a culinary mentor and have cherished her friendship raised a glass in her honor as she announced her retirement from the restaurant biz. The following day Hartel found herself crying in her garden over the community she would miss. “It was like I had 50-60 people in my house every night. I knew the Smiths preferred a table by the window and the Joneses always started with my dumplings,” she explains. In a few more days, however, she’d figured out how “normal” folks spent their day. She had more time to be with her two kids, Isabel and Wilder, and plenty of time to dig in her garden. She loved making dinner for her family. After one of these “normal” days she looked up at the clock and realized it wasn’t even 6:30 yet. Hartel proclaims, “It’s a whole other world!” With a garage full of art projects and a yard of raised garden beds, she’s hopeful that the next chapter of her life will be a less stressful one,
Anita Hartel photographed in her garden by Dave Cardaciotto.
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
39
affording the freedom to be her funky, creative self. Hartel says she may even be up for cooking in someone else’s kitchen from time to time. “Who knows, I may just start a worm farm,” she declares. As Nashville’s restaurant community is bursting at the seams, our East Nashville Original offers a few words of advice for the next wave of visionaries: Become a Roundsman. If you can’t multitask, you do not need to run a restaurant. Have enough capital for advertising and other marketing efforts. People are not going to just walk through your door. Don’t become friends with the people who work for you; they don’t understand your name is on the mortgage. Just know that it can be really difficult to maintain that friendly barrier. Hartel is emphatic about sharing her gratitude for her husband: “We moved here because of my dream, and I could not have done it without Mark,” she says with a loving smile. “Behind every successful woman, there is a great partner!” Chefs often are asked what their last meal would be. Anita Hartel may never request okra or eggplant for her last meal, but she does desire the content of her epitaph to read:
TODDCOUNTER
“Anita never ate a McDonald’s hamburger. 615.500.8180 She never drank a cherry coke. Never would shetodd@landscapeTN.com watch a John Wayne movie. She never got a tattoo!” That last part she700 has Church started to Unit 405 by the way. St.reconsider, Melissa D. Corbin is a local food and social media consultant. Nashville, TN 37203 Read her blog at corbininthedell.com
landscapeTN.com
LANDSCAPE
solu+ ons
organic garden maintenance • environmental landscape design & installation • landscape renovation & clean-up • residential master planning • rain gardens • native planting
40
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
MR. GOODROOF DOES WINDOWS TOO!
ws
INTRODUCING THE MR. GOODROOF PERFORMANCE SERIES LINE OF REPLACEMENT WINDOWS An exclusive offering of Mr. GoodRoof 615.824.8100 | WWW.MRGOODROOF.COM July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
41
RESTAURANTS
LOCKELAND TABLE
THE SILLY GOOSE
BONGO JAVA
LUCKY BELLY
THE WILD COW
CAFÉ FUNDAMENTAL
MAD DONNA'S
YEAST NASHVILLE
CALYPSO CAFÉ EAST
MARGO/MARCHE
EASTLAND CAFÉ
NASHVILLE SWEETS
EDLEY'S BBQ
NUVO BURRITO
FAT BOTTOM BREWERY
OLIVE AND SINCLAIR
FIVE POINTS PIZZA
PIED PIPER CREAMERY
HOLLAND HOUSE
PIED PIPER EATERY
THE PHARMACY
POMODORO EAST
AND A SPECIAL THANKS
JENI'S SPLENDID ICE CREAMS
PORTER ROAD
TO ALL OUR VOLUNTEERS
KERNELS GOURMET POPCORN
RUMOURS EAST
42
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
BANDS HICKORY SLIMS HALF BRASS DERIK HULTQUIST VOLUNTEER STRING BAND
Homeschooling on the East Side is all about
community.
S
By Jo
top by Shelby Park mid-day on a Friday and you’ll find dozens of school-age kids hanging from monkey bars and riding scooters. If you’re in 5 Points on a Wednesday at lunch time you might run into nearly 20 middle-school students eating lunch and visiting local businesses. Local artists and musicians are busy giving lessons every day of the week, while the YMCA and local parks are hosting swimming and running clubs and triathlon training. In the past five years the number of families in East Nashville educating their children at home — and in the neighborhood — has grown at a rate that makes it difficult to get any kind of official count. As families weigh the ever-increasing options for educating their children, East Nashville has become a community that supports homeschooling in a variety of creative ways. When Ginny Schutz was deciding to homeschool her three daughters, she started meeting
Ellen Werking Weedman
people in the neighborhood who were doing the same thing. At the YMCA, at preschool and in the coffee shops, she began to find other people in the neighborhood who were teaching their kids at home. So in the summer of 2007 she put a note on the East Nashville listserv and about 20 people showed up at Portland Brew. It was during this informal gathering the East Nashville Homeschool Association was born. Six years later ENHA is nearly 10 times larger, and it is certainly as diverse at East Nashville itself. More than 160 families are part of the group that organizes everything from field trips to book clubs to community service to athletic training. Stay-at-home moms, working moms, single moms and dads can be found serving as their children’s primary teacher, using a wide variety of curriculum and philosophies. “Homeschooling is not just for off-thegrid hippies or religious fanatics. It’s a mainstream choice that is more about educational
preparedness,” says Schutz. “As different as East Nashville is, there are that many different kinds of motivations, practices and styles of homeschooling.” The goal of ENHA is simply to support and serve homeschooling families in East Nashville. There is no litmus test and the group has worked hard to create a culture of non-judgment, members say. There are also several homegrown activities and groups within the group. A running club, a triathlon training club and a swim club all meet weekly in the neighborhood. Fridays alternate open play times at local parks with field trips. There is a monthly story hour at the Inglewood library and a mother-daughter book club for middle-school girls. Each week brings new families — some of them outside of East Nashville. “We get two to three new requests to join a week and we’ve started doing field trips with no limits on how many can attend,” Schutz says.
Reason for Homeschooling Concern about environment of other schools To provide religious or moral instruction Dissatisfaction with academic instruction at other schools Other Reasons Child has a physical or mental health problem Child has other special needs
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
43
S
ome families start homeschooling in kindergarten after weighing the educational benefits. Others pull kids out of middle school and keep them home during the tumultuous years of puberty. Still others opt for homeschooling because they live in a zone with a public school that they don’t think will meet their child’s needs. Some start in what they consider a good public or private school and decide they want more time as a family or more flexibility in their schedule. For Shannon Truss, the choice to homeschool her three daughters was based mostly on creating a more flexible family life. “I wanted to give my daughters a chance to pursue their interests outside of school and still have a childhood,” she says. ENHA welcomes families even as they are trying to decide what education option works best for their kids. The Google group is full of conversations about curricula and tutors and the best places to visit for field trips. “I think a lot of people are wondering if they can actually do it; they are asking ‘How is it possible for me to homeschool?’” says Becky Sekares, who homeschools her four children and will lead a math club for homeschoolers this fall. “We want to support those families as they decide and start.” With the thousands of options on the market for curriculum and classes, it can be overwhelming to figure out what’s best for your family. “I cannot imagine trying to navigate all of that without group support,” Truss says. “I mean you can’t just Google ‘homeschool math curriculum’ without being totally overwhelmed.” Group members want to help each other because they are passionate about what they do. “How many institutions are left in America that are home-grown? In homeschooling you still have a place and the freedom to be revolutionary,” says Schutz. “We want people to know the water is warm. If you want to homeschool in East Nashville, there’s a place for you.”
professor at Vanderbilt, started a Wednesday group for middle-school students. The group read together, debated topics, did community service projects and maybe most importantly, hung out in 5 Points for lunch together. At the same time Truss’s middle-school daughters were in McTamaney’s group, Truss was dreaming of a neighborhood-based tutorial for that age group. She wanted a community where tweens and teens could feel safe to be themselves, but at the same time take some academic courses rigorous enough to prepare them for high school. That dream will become a reality in August when Weekday Eastside Bridge (WEB) opens
children Homeschooled in the U.S. Projected to 2015 A.D.
A
majority of the members of ENHA joined when their kids were in elementary school, but as those kids grow up and other families with older kids join the group, members are creating places and programs for teenagers. Last year, Catherine McTamaney, a community member, homeschooler and education 44
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
at East End United Methodist Church. WEB will serve homeschool students in grades five to eight, offering science and literature classes as well as a Math Counts club. “We’ll be at a church in the heart of East Nashville, in walking distance of local businesses, so kids can be in the neighborhood, connect with each other and interact with local businesses,” says Truss. While building community was important to Truss, so was finding tutors who could offer academic rigor in science and literature. McTamaney will teach the literature and debate courses. Brian Donohue, a retired public school teacher, and Jennifer Gentry, a homeschool mom with a Ph.D. in neuroscience, will teach science courses. Mostly, homeschoolers in East Nashville say they are thankful to live in a community that not only accepts their decision to teach their children at home, but also supports it. Churches, parks, businesses, libraries and individual community members make the neighborhood a dynamic classroom. “That’s East Nashville,” Schutz says. “It’s a community that’s open to choices.”
A CAUSE WORTH RUNNING FOR Tomato 5k Race BENEFITING THE MARGARET MADDOX FAMILY YMCA LOCATION
OUR IMPACT
The East Nashville Tomato 5K will occur Saturday, August 10, 2013, on the corner of South 10th Street and Woodland Street.
Proceeds from all YMCA Race Series events
RACE ROUTE Race route can be viewed by clicking Tomato 5k on ymcamidtn.org/races.
benefit the YMCA of Middle Tennessee’s Annual Giving Campaign. As a leading nonprofit committed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y uses Annual Giving Campaign contributions to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve community health and well-being and support of people in need right in your own neighborhood. By participating in this race, you’re making an enduring, lasting impact in your community by giving everyone, regardless of
RACE TIME 7:00 a.m. Kids’ Fun Run 7:30 a.m. Tomato 5K
age, income or background, the opportunities they need to learn, grow and thrive.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: PACKET PICKUP Friday, August 9 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. at the Maddox Y Saturday, August 10 6 a.m. – 7 a.m. at race location
RACE COST Early registration: until June 18 - $25. Regular Registration: June 19 – August 8 - $35. Day-Of Registration: August 9 & 10 - $40. Kids’ Fun Run $5.
BRYAN, WARD AND ELMORE INC. JOHN BRACKEEN
RACE REGISTRATION Register online at ymcamidtn.org/races Online registration ends August 8 11:59 p.m. CST
Our Mission: A worldwide charitable fellowship united by a common loyalty to Jesus Christ for the purpose of helping people grow in spirit, mind and body. July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
45
Triumphant the
Ten Years of Uniting the
46
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Tomato
Fruits and the Vegetables
By Jennifer Lyle Photos Courtesy of Aerial Innovations of Tennessee
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
47
I
t’s officially summertime in Nashville, which means we can finally indulge in a slew of our most beloved pastimes. For starters, some of us can scratch off another successful Bonnaroo adventure, and relish the thought of languid pool days ahead. There will be lemonade stands to set up with the kiddos; outdoor concert options galore; and plenty of Sounds games to attend. But perhaps the most anticipated event of the season, at least for everyone dwelling on this side of the river, celebrates one of the South’s favorite warm-weather tokens: the heat-loving tomato plant. That’s right, folks, it’s … Tomato Art Fest time! Each year when August rolls around, the 5 Points area prepares for what has grown into one of the biggest, most adored and well-received festivals in the city. This year has a discernibly different buzz about it, though. Now don’t worry — the event’s founders, Meg and Bret MacFadyen, owners of the Art and Invention Gallery on Woodland Street, aren’t flipping the whole thing on its head. On the contrary: They are upping the ante, all in celebration of the festival’s 10th Anniversary. So let the birthday wishes resound!
“... I thought, what can we do to make people want to come out and be miserable?”
— Meg MacFayden For some, this may seem like no big deal. Yet for the MacFadyens and the many other people who have made the Tomato Art Fest what it is, having almost 10 years under their collective belt and still going strong really is quite the feat — especially for something that began simply as a one-off. “It started out as just an art show,” recalls Meg MacFadyen. It was the summer of 2004, and she and her husband were brainstorming ideas on what to do about holding a show in their sheet-metal gallery in the dead of August, when the building would basically be a sweat-producing hot box. “I don’t care if the A/C runs 24 hours a day, it’s just never cool,” she explains. “I knew it was probably going to be a little uncomfortable, to put it lightly. So I thought, what can we do to make people want to come out and be miserable?” From there, a series of organic incidents and conversations occurred, one in which a close friend who sold heirloom tomatoes playfully suggested she showcase tomato art. “I thought, ‘I should!’ Because who wouldn’t want to come out and see that?” Not to mention it was quite the serendipitous theme given that the dreaded heat was what they were trying to work around in the first place, and for anyone who knows anything about tomatoes, they thrive best when it’s really hot out. “Plus, to me, they’re one of the best parts of summer,” she adds. Given that the festival’s origins are fairly whimsical in nature, MacFadyen insists that first show wasn’t a joke. “It was very tonguein-cheek, yes, but we just kind of did it as a lark. We had no idea what it would become,” she says. “And for some reason unbeknownst to me, about a thousand people showed up to my art opening. That’s when whatever alchemy or magic that is in this festival began.” 48
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
49
50
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
51
That first year, with no more publicity given to the tomato art show than was given their other art openings, the streets around 5 Points filled up with partygoers dressed to the nines in everything from tomato costumes to headto-toe red outfits. “This one guy came dressed as the ‘Tomato Queen’ and had an entire entourage of tomato court,” laughs MacFadyen. “It just somehow inspired people. The whole evening had such an air of revelry, and I don’t even remember who said it — maybe it was my guardian angel — but someone said in my ear, ‘I think I feel a festival coming on.” Some might say, “ … and the rest is history.” MacFadyen, especially, feels that after that first year, which only included the art show and a recipe contest, the festival really took on a life of its own, an accidental inspiration of
52
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
sorts. “You know it was just this crazy phenomenon,” she says. “Even the motto, The Tomato — A Uniter, not a Divider: Bringing Together Fruits and Vegetables, came out of that first year, and when I heard it I thought, ‘Oh my god, that’s hilarious!’ And it just caught on, kind of like the festival did. And now, it’s really my political point of view: I’m with the Tomato Party.”
W
hat was originally an unanticipated second event saw the addition of vendor booths, music and more contests. There were no road closures that early in the game because, “we still didn’t know what we were doing,” says MacFadyen. So people’s yards all along the
July | August 2013
streets of 5 Points became home to these new setups, and MacFadyen estimates something like 3,000 people were in attendance for that second go-round. Each year it continued to grow, doubling in size almost every year until the sixth, seventh and eighth years, during which attendance remained steady with an estimated 25,000 people. “Then last year, we had this miraculous 83-degree day with low humidity and we had somewhere between 35,000 to 40,000 people come out,” says MacFadyen with the kind of awe that intimates even she couldn’t believe it. “The feeling in the streets was remarkable. People were just joyful and genuinely having a great time.”
Even with the indelible success that has turned the Tomato Art Fest into something truly special, MacFadyen insists she can’t take a single bit of credit for any of it. “We did the work, but anyone could have done what we did.” Instead, she always references the magic she believes lies within the festival itself. Magic that, she thinks, comes from the people of East Nashville. “It’s about art, sure. And it’s about tomatoes,” she says. “But really, it’s about the neighborhood. It’s about community. And what started out as about East Nashville originally, has grown to include the larger community of Nashville as a whole. I always feel like the Tomato Art Fest is kind of like a small-town event that just gets plopped down in the middle of a city. It just brings on that small-town sense of community.”
L
ooking back on East Nashville’s history over the past decade makes the triumphant trajectory of the Tomato Art Fest even more of a success story. Residents relatively new to the area don’t remember the not-so-glory days of the once less-than-desirable Nashville ‘hood; for MacFadyen and everyone at the Tomato Art Fest, it’s important to remember the blood, sweat and tears that went into making it the neighborhood it is today. Bill Breyer, owner of the Alegria gift shop on Woodland, has been volunteering his services for the Tomato Art Fest since the first year. He agrees East Nashville really has come a long way. “We’ve always been seen as kind of the red-headed stepchild,” he says. “Now, we’re just
as popular as can be. Everyone wants to be here, and especially for the Tomato Art Fest. It offers something for everyone and it just gives the rest of Nashville, and the world actually, a glimpse of how we do things here.” How we do things includes an innate willingness to experiment and try out new ideas — attitudes that served to propel an art show into becoming a festival in the first place. “The people that live in this neighborhood really care about this neighborhood. And they really care to see it thrive,” says MacFadyen. “There’s this spirit of, ‘Let’s throw down and make this happen!’” It’s that spirit that kept her gallery in business during its first few years back in the early 2000s. With so few retail businesses located in
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
53
East Nashville at the time neighborhood folks really rallied around, shopping locally and keeping her and her fellow small-shop comrades afloat. “I am forever grateful for that,” says MacFadyen. Her gift, in turn, continues to be the neighborhood-uniting Tomato Art Fest. “For us, it’s a lot about reaching out and helping to bring that community of people together. Sometimes just the simple, goofy things are really some of the most wonderful things. It’s the little pleasures that are the most rewarding. I think the
S
ince this year marks the 10-year milestone, MacFadyen and company will have a bevy of festival favorites planned, like the Nashville Farmer’s Market recipe contest, Nuvo Burrito’s wet-burrito competition, the best redhead competition, bobbing for tomatoes, a cornhole tournament, 3 Crow’s best Bloody Mary competition, Bill Breyer’s Most Beautiful Tomato Contest and The Hip Zipper owner Trisha Brantley’s fashion show, just to name a few. The MacFaydens are planning for the fes-
just saying. The 10-year anniversary would be a good time to make that happen. You can get married on the main stage.” Regardless of what celebrity may or may not show up or what couple announces their love to the world, MacFadyen knows the impact of the festival goes much deeper than that. “It has brought people together again,” she says. “You can live right next door to someone and never see them or talk to them, never even really know their name. You have to make an effort. If people aren’t going to go to bars or
“When you’re here, that feeling in the streets … if you could bottle it and feel that way every day it would truly be the way to live.” — Meg MacFayden Tomato Art Fest just serves to remind people of that.” The most rewarding part of the experience for MacFadyen continues to be that moment, each year, when the morning parade circles its way back into 5 Points, with every Tomatoadorned celebrant looking absolutely gleeful as they march along. “The hundreds and hundreds of people that have spent time making a costume, laughing, pulling their kids in wagons,” says MacFadyen, “I just burst into tears every time! I can’t help it. It just fills my heart so much for people to come out and have fun like that. It’s the best feeling.” That feeling is exactly why MacFadyen maintains that each Tomato Art Fest remains a free event. “It’s very geared toward participation. And people playing and having fun with their neighbors,” she says. “I’m always happy to accept donations,” she hints, “but keeping admission free and keeping it about the community is what it’s all about.”
54
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
tival to grow even larger. “We’re adding more booths; we’re bringing back the ‘King and Queen’ event — which hopefully will be a big deal,” says MacFadyen.” It’s Miss America gone East Nashville, but we’re just making it as big and as grand as we can. And of course, we’re going to spring a few surprises on you. Plus, I’m always hoping that Oprah will come, or the CBS Sunday Morning show. I mean, this would be perfect for that. So if anyone has any connections, please make them come!” Maybe this will also be the year that the Tomato Art Fest sees its first wedding. “I’ve had several people tell me they met their significant other at Tomato Art Fest. So I’m just waiting for someone to get married here,” says MacFadyen. “I am an ordained minister …
July | August 2013
to church or to this or that, there are certain things set up, like the Tomato Art Fest, that give you instant community. I think overall, people just want to play and have fun, and they can do that here. When you’re here, that feeling in the streets … if you could bottle it and feel that way every day it would truly be the way to live.” This year’s long-awaited 10-year anniversary celebration is slated for Aug. 10, with the festivities in 5 Points kicking off at 10 a.m. and lasting until 10 p.m. Check www.tomatoartfest. com for daily updates about contests, activities, etc., or for more information on participating in the event as a vendor, volunteer or competitor. Until then, Happy Birthday, Tomato Art Fest!
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
55
Tomato Art 2013 schedule of
Wednesday, Aug. 7
Friday, Aug. 9
The East Nashvillian Summer Concert Series kickoff: Bands to
6:30–9 P.M. — Tomato Art Preview Party:
be determined. East Centric Pavilion (1006 Fatherland St., #105, www.east-centric.com)
Thursday, Aug. 8: Tomato Wine Dinner at Marche: A
four-course meal with accompanying wines. Marche Artisan Foods (1000 Main St., 615262-1111, marcheartisan@ bellsouth.net)
M
D
. C O N S N A
brunch
D
O
M A
Tomato Art Fest Wine Supper at Rumours:
week
end Now open @
See what wines are chosen to pair with a fourcourse patio menu featuring all things tomato. Rumours East (1112 Woodland St., 615-2625346, www. rumourseast.com)
7 – 9 P.M. King & Queen Competition:
East Centric Pavilion (1006 Fatherland St., #105, www.east-centric.com)
AM 9 2-for-1 mimosas & build your own bloody mary bar
1313 Woodland St 615.226.1617 56
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
A wonderful night of sights, sounds and flavors — and lots and lots of tomato art. $25.00 (reservations required). Art & Invention Gallery (1106 Woodland St., 615-226-2070, meg@ artandinvention.com)
5–6:30 P.M. — Kid’s Tomato Art Show Opening Reception: Tomato art
by young tomato artists. YCAP Chapel (1021 Russell St., 615-256-9622 ext. 72555, lgregg@ ymcamidtn.org)
Saturday, Aug. 10, 2013 7 A.M. — Children’s Fun Run:
Registration is $5 per child. Five Points (the corner of Woodland and 10th Street)
7 A.M.–8 P.M. — Tomato Treats:
Tomato-inspired treats for sample and for purchase. Turnip Truck (970 Woodland St., 615-650-3600)
7:30 A.M. — Tomato 5K: Registration is $35 per runner. Five Points (the corner of Woodland and 10th Street)
Fest
Events: 9 A.M. — New Orleans-style Second Line Parade: The parade starts
in front of Bongo Java and follows part of the 5K course before ending at the Main Stage located in the lot next to Bongo. Don your best tomato garb, bring the loudest noise-maker you can find and hit the streets in style. Right in front of Bongo Java Roasting Company (107 South 11th St., 615-915-1960, tammy@fairytalesbookstore.com)
11 A.M. — Tomato Fairy/Elf Costume Contest: Join us for a Tomato
Fairy and Elf contest for children of all ages. The lot behind Fanny’s House of Music (1101 Holly St., 615-915-1960, tammy@fairytalesbookstore.com)
9 A.M.–12 P.M. —Bongo Java Kid’s Event: Sidewalk chalk, balloons and other
crafty stuff for the little ones. Special treats from Grins & Las Paletas. Bongo Java (107 South 11th St., 615-777-3278)
9 A.M.–1 P.M. — KidFest: Fun for children of all ages — inflatables, a water slide, hair painting, popsicles, crafts and good ol’ storytelling. Plus, it’s free! The park at the corner of 12th & Holly
10 a.m.-8 P.M. — Music: Main Stage (lot
next to Bongo Java)
10 A.M.–7 P.M. — Tomato Art Show: One heck of a fine collection, chock full of the best tomato art any tomato-eating fool would love. Art & Invention Gallery (1106 Woodland St., 615-226-2070, meg@ artandinvention.com)
10 A.M.–6 P.M. — Tomato Bazaar:
Over 140 vendors will be on site all day, pretty much from sun up to sun down, peddling their tempting and delightful wares. Five Points (www. tomatoartfest.com for a list of vendors and a vendor map)
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
57
10 A.M. — till a champion is crowned— Second Annual Tomato Art Fest Cornhole Tournament:
Two players toss bags of corn at a 6-inch hole 10 yards away in a quest to become “King of the Cornhole Toss.” Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams, as well as gifts for the best team name. East Centric (1006 Fatherland St., #105, www.east-centric.com)
10 A.M.–1:30 P.M. — 4th Annual Bobbing For Tomatoes / Tomato Toss: Bobbing for (real) tomatoes and toss-
ing (faux) tomatoes at a target; plus prizes, treats for the pooches and wading pools to cool hot paws — fun for pets and those who love them. Wags & Whiskers (between Red Door & 5 Spot, 615-228-9249)
10:30 A.M.–11:30 P.M. — Faux Paw Fashion Show: Costume contest for your
pet. The Clearview Stage (in the parking lot behind Margot Cafe, http://www.lockelandsprings. org/fauxpaw)
Noon — Giant Ice Cream Sundae Extravaganza: Kids ages 2-10 try to build
the largest ice cream sundae in East Nashville. Pied Piper Creamery (114 South 11th St.)
3 P.M. — Bloody Mary Competition: 12:30 P.M. — Biggest/ Littlest/ Ugliest Tomato Contest: Enter your tomato to win coveted prizes for ugliest, biggest and littlest tomato. (info@nashvillefarmersmarket.org)
1-2 P.M. — Beautiful Tomato Contest: Costume contest for your tomatoes. Entries must be submitted by 1 p.m. to be eligible. Alegria (5 Points Collaborative, 1108 Woodland St., 615-227-8566)
2 P.M. — Recipe Contest: The best to-
mato recipes in East Nashville will duke it out in this year’s contest. Drop off entries between 1:15 and 1:45 P.M. Judging starts promptly at 2 p.m. Margot Cafe (122 South 12th St., info@ nashvillefarmersmarket. org)
2-3 P.M. — Best Red-Head Competition: Just show up with your to-
mato red locks. This contest is open to redheads of both the natural and not-so-natural variety. The Clearview Stage (in the parking lot behind Margot Cafe)
Discover the best Bloody Mary in town at the place where everybody knows your name. 3 Crow Bar (1024 Woodland St., 615-262-3345)
4-5 P.M. — All East Nashville Fashion Show: Features East Nashville
merchants and neighbors. Hosted by The Hip Zipper. The Clearview Stage (in the parking lot behind Margot Cafe)
5 P.M. — Wet Burrito Contest:
Hungry contestants race to eat a burrito the fastest, while being hosed down with water. This is going to be a messy one. Hosted by Nuvo Burrito (1000 Main St., 615-866-9713, sean.p@nuvoburrito.com)
5–11 P.M. — Tomatoes and Wine:
Drink specials and a refreshing tomato-inspired menu throughout the day. Rumours East (1112 Woodland Street, 615-262-5346)
Other activities throughout the day: Tomato Haiku Competition: Time to get your rhymes right, folks, because the tomato haiku competition is back. Winners will be announced from the main stage and receive prizes, accolades and the sheer joy that comes with winning. Family Fun Open House: Games and fun activities for families to enjoy in air-conditioned inside the Ann Ragsdale Recreation Center located behind the YCAP Building on Russell Street. YCAP (1021 Russell St.) Kids Tomato Art Exhibit: Children’s
tomato artwork will be on display with contest placement ribbons and awards. YCAP Chapel (1021 Russell St.)
For more information about the Tomato Art Fest, visit www.tomatoartfest.com. Keep checking the website daily for even more updated info on events and activities.
58
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Extang Trifecta - America’s Favorite Tonneau
Nerf Bars - Tall trucks and short ladies
AVS Autoventshade - Fresh Air Anytime
Tinting Pros - The ones you can trust
Huskyliners - Awesomeness
Rough Country - Lift Kits
Custom Grills - Installed
Wheels - Huge Selection
975 MAIN STREET
Rampage Tops - SPF Bigtime
227-6584 hunterscustom.com
Kleinn Horn - Really Loud July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
59
The continuing adventures of
E
Little Hollywood By Gary Wolf
ast Nashville’s quirkiest neighborhood is an eclectic collection of historic infill, old and new, which mirrors and reveals the history that shaped it. Fifteen Spanish-style homes in the several-block area define its curious out-oftime, out-of place look, and no doubt gave the popular walking area nestled into the northwest corner of Shelby Golf Course its name. Its actual origins, however, are a mystery even to the Historical Commission and Metro Archives, where no record exists of the popular but unofficial designation, “Little Hollywood.” As it turns out, the few blocks span two subdivisions. What might be thought of as Little Hollywood’s Main Street, lower Lakehurst Drive, was merely the slim northern edge of C.L. Sexton’s 1925 purchase of “Richardson Place” from William Richardson, the last of the family to own the much larger plantation that was originally a land grant to a Revolutionary War soldier and lent its name – Lockeland – to the surrounding housing boom in the late 1800s. Nora and Church Sexton’s $4,500 purchase – a few hills and ravines of remnant forest
60
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
– was the last difficult-to-develop corner pocket of the Lockeland Springs area and is now part of its conservation overlay zone. The 1925 deed sought to preserve something else, stipulating that no part of Richardson Place would be “sold, alienated, conveyed or devised to any person or persons of African blood or descent.” Sexton and his son Paul would build a number of houses on that 10-acre tract and in the surrounding neighborhood over the next couple of decades, and perhaps throughout larger East Nashville, as the scattering of Spanishstyle homes there might suggest. The Spanish style was in vogue. Nearby Shelby Park, only a decade old, featured a Spanish-style Mission House, and the park’s swimming pool, built while Sexton was at work on his houses, had that California look. The Spanish style of the Woodland Theater is barely visible under the expanded façade of Woodland Studios at 5 Points, but the movies from Hollywood had become a popular draw there just a few years before Sexton bought his land. Ordway Place – Grove Avenue then – already ran to the northwest corner of what had recently become the city’s first municipal golf course. The south side of Ordway was the
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
61
southern end of the McEwen subdivision. It wasn’t part of Sexton’s land but neighbored it, and the three Spanish houses on Ordway include his signature Spanish-style touches, as do others up Bushnell, Lakehurst and Avondale: block walls with rounded tiles on top of the parapets surrounding the flat roofs, and the arches, both round and stepped.
L
ike Little Hollywood, the Spanish houses weren’t all on Sexton’s land, and not all of his homes were Spanish-style. The one house on that last stretch of Ordway’s south side that isn’t Spanish was certainly built by Sexton. A little girl who grew up there remembers him 80 years later as the kindly neighbor who fixed her bike and her sled as well as the man who sold his own house to her parents, the house his family lived in and he’d no doubt built. “A good memory of Mr. Sexton,” Anne Doyle reminisced for Larry Brown, current owner of her childhood home and curator of the lovely garden that is Little Hollywood’s “town center” at Ordway and Lakehurst, where a creek once ran and her mother had gardens. “He was so friendly! Didn’t realize it then, but he was the father figure to me. I was about 9 or 10. We all loved him.” Doyle’s family had moved there after the Crash of 1929 forced them from their Belle Meade home (in the “poor folks section” of Belle Meade, she notes). It’s possible that the Spanish-style houses were themselves a reaction to the difficult economic times. A 19th-century invention, concrete blocks became a popular and economical building material in the early 1900s. Spanish-style houses became popular in the 1920s as Hollywood became a focal point for American culture, with architectural plans and kits available in magazines at the time. Putting the two together meant an affordable house with a creative flair, reminiscent of movie star homes but much less pricey, a bit of fun during hard times. Doyle believes the “Little Hollywood moniker” was a post-war invention, but she recalls the houses there having been built mostly in the 1930s and early ’40s. She remembers first hearing the name in 1948. Lillian Hawkins, who has lived next door to Doyle’s childhood home since 1960, remembers Doyle’s mother as “Granny Gardener.” It was her name, but her gardens were a local landmark recalled by the current garden. Hawkins doesn’t remember the Sextons, who had moved on by then. Son Paul Sexton lived in the family house at 1810 Lakehurst after the war, according to the 1946 city directory, and has visited the neighborhood since, but the family’s contribution to Nashville’s architectural diversity has largely gone unrecorded over time.
62
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
“The neighborhood had really gone down” in the post-war years, Doyle recalls. The Little Hollywood homes, too, but especially “those crackerboxes” that had filled in the smaller lots up to McEwen, which “had lost all their good tenants … the area had really deteriorated.” A trend from ownership to rental properties at least coincided with that deterioration. East Nashville beyond Little Hollywood developed a grittier reputation with Nashville’s suburbanization and the decline of downtown. That lasted until the destructive tornado of 1998 ironically revitalized East Nashville and its real-estate values.
D
esirable from the beginning, early East Nashville featured summer mansions for the wealthy. With the construction of bridges across the Cumberland to downtown, the large tracts were subdivided into worker homes. The narrower lots of the McEwen Subdivision emphasized that trend; many of the houses were so small they were built on several adjoining lots. But Little Hollywood, especially lower Lakehurst, was different. Unlike the Spanish-style houses a block away, these were on wide lots, accommodating a new development in housing: The attached garage. Automobiles had become more commonplace by the 1930s and architecture integrated them with the living unit. With wide lots and local-only traffic, the woodsy remnant was an early suburb in the inner city before it became Little Hollywood. Called variously Spanish Colonial, Spanish Revival or Mission Style, the architectural label that fits Little Hollywood best is “Spanish Eclectic.” With window and interior trim styles right out of the Craftsman-style building trades, the houses are Tennessee Spanish as much as Californian. Unusually colored concrete tiles, probably from Mexico, are among the many original details that marked the Sexton homes, Spanish-style or not, though they are mostly gone or covered up by remodeling now. Arches are another trademark. The home Sexton built for his daughter, Virginia, at 1809 Lakehurst features two-dozen arches inside and out. Even the fireplaces in these houses are matching sunburst patterns of arched brick. Sexton himself didn’t live in a Spanish-style home. Rather, he built his Craftsman house – his second – facing the golf course. Master carpenter Chris Keenan lives there now and has added his own touches to the interior, keeping with the spirit of the original, though the Spanish tiles in the bathroom are gone.
T
he stylistically novel neighborhood has also attracted residents with a creative flair, most notably Nashville’s musicians. Urban legend puts Marty Robbins at 1807 Lakehurst, a house that might have inspired a song about old El Paso – and where
Lillian Hawkins remembers a producer living back in the ‘60s, and hearing the blended harmonies of that outlaw country group, the Glaser Brothers, singing on the landmark wide veranda over the double garage. That would have been Hillous Butrum’s house. The former bass player for Hank Williams and later Marty Robbins had become a record producer by the time the Hawkinses moved to the neighborhood. Butrum’s grandson visited from Chicago a half-century later looking for his Nashville roots in Little
Hollywood, where his grandmother, Butrum’s girlfriend, had once lived and for a time raised their daughter, the young Chicagoan’s mother. One or both of the Everly Brothers reportedly lived in the Spanish house across the street. Legendary sessions guitarist Grady Martin supposedly was in the house on the corner. Though not quite in Little Hollywood, Johnny Paycheck’s drummer lived at the house by the bus stop on Ordway, and Jimmy Buffett lived a couple blocks down the street early in his career. Danny Ramsey had his
We’re committed to making our customers’ banking easier. And their lives better.
At Regions, our goal is to be the best bank we can be. And we have a responsibility to be the best people we can be, too. After all, our mission statement is to “Make Life Better.” So it’s not uncommon to see our associates volunteering at shelters, giving people hope when they need it most. Or stocking thrift store shelves to help families keep clothes on their backs. Or teaching financial education classes so people can stay on the road to financial independence. That’s just who we are. And it’s who we’re proud to be.
Put People First | Do What Is Right | Reach Higher | Enjoy Life | Focus On Your Customer
Visit regions.com/socialresponsibility
© 2013 Regions Bank.
TN SW130566 East Nashvillian Jul-Aug.indd 1
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
6/12/13 3:33 PM
63
Little Hollywood recording studio where the Glaser Brothers sang for “Bew” Butrum. Larry Hanson, longtime Alabama guitarist who’s now back to his original gig touring with Bill Medley of Righteous Brothers fame, lived next door until a few years ago and still has a studio and several rental houses in the ’hood.
T
he creative community still calls Little Hollywood home, including touring guitarist Brian Langlinais; singer-songwriter Josie Kuhn; former Gerst House hostess/house singer Jan, aka “Rose;” songwriters like Craig Lackey and Elizabeth Wright; and Ketch Secor of Old Crow Medicine Show. Even carpenter Keenan in the Sexton family
Not even the plunking-down of a faux-Spanish moderno right outside his studio window could detract from his love of the bucolic neighborhood five minutes from downtown. His banjo playing on the back porch blends with the full-throated songbirds that populate the neighborhood full of mature trees. Barred owls still fly through the treetops with one nest in Little Hollywood proper and another in the old Sexton woods below it. Herons often visit the golf course pond bordering Little Hollywood at the green of the 11th hole. Pileated woodpeckers haven’t been seen since the 1998 tornado, though, and raccoons and possums haven’t been seen since new houses started being built in the neigh-
“Donut Pond,” an unnatural watering hole not on the Department of Public Health’s maps and probably created by the concrete storm sewer. Its construction turned the creek between the Hawkins’ home and the street into a wide, flat neighborhood playground a half-century ago but is attracting developers’ attention now. The famed Lockeland Spring itself is but a short walk up the hill, the Richardson family mausoleum site even closer below Ordway, and somewhere nearby is the first home site in the area – a 1786 cabin built by that Revolutionary War soldier. The tangled woods behind Lockeland Elementary are now an undeveloped natural area managed by Metro Parks.
Johnny Paycheck’s drummer lived at the house by the bus stop on Ordway, and
Jimmy Buffett lived a couple blocks down the street
house is a former musician and roadie audio man. Miss Margaret, as current neighbors knew the elderly woman in the imposing brick house at the end of Ordway before she died a few years ago, ran one of the more popular downtown hotel honky-tonks. Her husband, Jimmy Hyde, ran a club in Printer’s Alley back before liquor-by-the-drink was legal. Todd Snider may be the most (in)famous among the neighborhood’s current musical residents. His own quirkiness fits the neighborhood so well that one of his more popular albums is “East Nashville Skyline.” Americana artist and painter Kieran Kane lives in one of the original Spanish houses.
64
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
borhood a few years ago for the first time since World War II. Eight have been built within two blocks. One modern Spanish house was built a couple of years ago at Lakehurst and Ordway, where a pond existed a half century ago next to what was probably the original Spanish house. This new home was given a Preservation Award by the Historical Commission this year in the “infill” category. Three of the new houses echo the Spanish style and the others emphasize the neighborhood’s eclectic side. Several more are reportedly planned for the wooded area on the southern half of Sexton’s 10 acres, populated now only by critters frequenting
July | August 2013
Public discussion when that park was being created offered hope the rest of what used to be Church Sexton’s woods between the park and the golf course would also be protected, but rising property values may make development hard to resist. Ironically, the infill precedent now claiming Little Hollywood’s open spaces may actually have been set by Church Sexton himself, and the eclectic style of the infill may be true to his blending of Spanish-eclectic homes and more conventional architecture. The variety is pleasant, and the neighborhood’s development may defy rules – a recipe for creativity in most any business.
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
65
66
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Hot Some like it
The inside story on a tasty, taste bud-melting Nashville creation. Endorphin rush? Aphrodisiac? Medieval torture device? Sure!
N
ow in its seventh year celebrating Nashville’s most incendiary culinary tradition, the Hot Chicken Festival returns to East Park every Fourth of July with more than a dozen vendors, an amateur cooking competition, beer garden, fire truck parade and live music. Oh, and endless lines of people willing to eat painfully hot food on a July day in Tennessee. Hot chicken enthusiast and former mayor Bill Purcell originally conceived the festival as one of a series of “Celebrate Nashville” events honoring the city’s 200th anniversary in 2006. “As a part of that, it occurred to me that we should make our special indigenous food a more celebrated part of our life as a city,” Purcell says. As an East Nashville resident since 1983, he viewed East Park as the ideal location. This free event has grown over the years, and so has local and national recognition of hot chicken as Nashville’s signature dish. Traditionally served on the bone, hot chicken is brined or marinated, breaded, sauced with a spicy paste, and fried. Often compared to regional staples like Memphis BBQ or the Philly Cheese Steak, the popularity of Nashville hot chicken has been on the rise in recent years, appearing on the Travel Channel’s
By Liz Jungers Hughes Man v. Food Nation with Adam Richman, in the travel section of USA Today and as part of the Southern Foodways Alliance’s documentary project. This year, hot chicken awareness seems to have reached a tipping point, as the James Beard Foundation bestowed its America’s Classics award upon André Prince Jeffries of Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack. Honoring “restaurants with timeless appeal, each beloved in its region for quality food that reflects the character of its community,” the award speaks to Prince’s nearly 80 years of influence on the Nashville culinary landscape. “The one who started it all was Thornton James Prince III, my great-uncle Thornton,” said Jeffries in an interview with the James Beard Foundation. “He was very good-looking. He had been out late Saturday night foolin’ around, and his lady friend, she was so furious — as the rumor goes — that she put something on his chicken to get back at him. But he liked it! So the rest is history.” By the mid-1930s, Prince and his brothers had perfected the hot chicken recipe and opened a restaurant, which they originally called the BBQ Chicken Shack. Known for the hottest flavor in town, all the way to the bone, Prince’s brines their chicken, flours it, fries it to order, and slathers it with
a secret layer of hot spices and, quite possibly, napalm. When Jeffries took over the business, she introduced gradient levels of heat (mild, medium, hot and extra hot), while otherwise sticking steadfastly to the basics. The barebones menu offers chicken quarters, halves or whole birds served over white bread with pickles. Side items include fries, potato salad, coleslaw and baked beans. What started as a Prince family tradition has become Nashville’s culinary calling card. There are at least 14 places selling hot chicken these days, with several of the best and most popular joints concentrated in East Nashville. From Prince’s on Ewing Drive just off Dickerson Pike, to Bolton’s Spicy Chicken and Fish on Main Street, and Pepperfire on Gallatin Pike, East Nashville is a hot chicken hotbed. Bolton’s traces its lineage to Prince’s, where Bolton Polk originally started cooking hot chicken before leaving to open his own place, Columbo’s. Before Polk’s death, he passed his own version of the recipe to his nephew Bolton Matthews, who teamed with Dolly Ingram to open Bolton’s around the year 2000 in a can’tmiss cinderblock shack on Main Street. It was Dolly who created Bolton’s signature fish sandwich: boneless grouper, tilapia, whiting or catfish seasoned with hot sauce and
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
67
68
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
photo s by Dave Cardaciotto
topped with mustard, onion and pickle. Bolton’s also ventures into wings, chicken on a stick, burgers, pork chops, shoulder and ribs. As for Bolton’s hot chicken, it’s done with a dry rub only and fried in a skillet. Dolly says it’s not quite as hot as at Prince’s: “You can get the hotness and still get the taste of the chicken. You don’t have to lose your composure.” A relative newcomer to the hot chicken game is Pepperfire, opened in 2010 by Isaac Beard. While Pepperfire lacks the bloodlines of Prince’s or Bolton’s, Beard certainly has a taste for hot chicken. He claims to have eaten at Prince’s or Bolton’s five days a week for 12 years — because he clearly hates his body — before opening his restaurant, and arrived at his own
recipe after a great deal of nocturnal experimentation. “I’m not sure what my insides look like, but that’s OK,” he says. What Pepperfire lacks in tradition, they make up for in innovation. In addition to standard hot chicken, they offer tenders and signature items including the Tender Royale, a deep-fried “grilled” pepper-jack cheese sandwich topped with chicken tenders. Another standout is their take on chicken and waffles, the Applefire — an order of Belgian waffles topped with tenders and sweet apples. So what makes hot chicken so popular? For newbies, of course, there’s a dare factor in play as one endures the inevitable sweats and incredible burning sensation. (Dolly Ingram’s advice: “Keep your hands away from your face, and wash them before you go to the bathroom!”) What starts out as a challenge, however, soon becomes an addiction for many hot chicken devotees. The capsaicin in extremely hot food provides quite the endorphin rush. Some even consider it an aphrodisiac, according to André Prince Jeffries.
It’ll do more than just clear your sinuses. Jeffries also hypothesizes about the cleansing benefits of hot chicken, and is fond of calling it a “24-hour chicken.” In a Southern Foodways Alliance interview, Dolly Bolton theorizes that hot chicken gained its popularity from those with hypertension, who came to rely on heavy doses of spice to fill the flavor gap left in their low-sodium diets. Whatever the reason, hot chicken is only becoming hotter with tourists and young people. “Well, the old heads still come. But of course, they’re dying out,” Jeffries told Garden & Gun in a recent interview. “And there are so many more young people eating it now. Lots of college students; school-age children; elementary-school children. A 2-year-old, that’s the youngest I’ve seen, eating mild chicken. I couldn’t believe it.” “I think Mayor Purcell is part of that, taking that under his wing and identifying hot chicken as Nashville’s signature dish,” says Beard. “He has definitely been instrumental in taking hot chicken to the next level.” “I think what makes it especially appealing to people is that it’s ours,” explains Purcell. “It was invented here, the best examples of it continue to be here, and while there are efforts to bring it periodically to other parts of America, this is the only place in the world where you can be sure on any day you can have one of the most unique, interesting and, I think, delightful foods in the world.”
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
69
70
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Photos Heather Lose
Groovers Shakers
&
Kristyn and Jared Corder may actually own this town before they’re done.
By Heather Lose July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
71
K
ristyn and Jared Corder are busy people. Best known within certain circles as the brainchildren behind the successful East Nashville Underground music festivals, they also have a surf-rock power trio of their own called *repeat repeat. If that wasn’t enough, the pair also individually mines other musical seams within our multilayered city. They have a knack for getting things done, and it all comes from the heart. “Everything we do is really kind of shaped from love,” Kristyn says. “As crazy as that sounds, it’s a love for the bands, whether they are friends, neighbors, peers, or clients. There’s a love there and providing a platform for those bands to have a really feel-good audience and a
great weekend experience is a big thing for us.” It’s clearly working. Jared started East Nashville Underground, now looking at its 10th season, in 2010. He had moved to town from Arizona and his band at the time, Oh No No, needed money to make a record. So he did what any recent college graduate would do: He threw a house party. “It started in my basement, in my old house on 12th Street,” Jared says. He got a couple of kegs, asked his friends in other bands to play, tended bar when he wasn’t emceeing or playing himself, and there you have it — East Nashville Underground was born. “We had 90 people in my basement; we charged five bucks and gave everybody free beer and after that we did it a couple more times and it just got bigger and bigger. And then we decided to make it a festival.” At times, the Corders seem wistful when they describe how the festival has outgrown two homes now — the basement where it began and, more recently, The East Room on Gallatin. “It was perfect in the beginning. Minimal work, just a couple weeks every season and it was easy to get the bands ’cause we were all friends, and you didn’t have to think about politics. The last season in the basement, we had 250 people down there, and it was just insane.” I moved here to be a musician. Kristyn moved here to do publicity and branding for companies and for bands. So … we never thought of moving out of the basement. We never set out to be a huge thing.” Nevertheless, the Corders were onto something, and one learns quickly they don’t quit on an idea or a passion unless they stop enjoying it. So now East Nashville Underground has a beer sponsor, Lightning 100 has come on board and you see people around 5 Points sporting Underground T-shirts. They have to hire security, get liability insurance and tend to all the exhaustive details involved in throwing a party for a couple thousand of their closest friends. Plus, it’s not just six bands any more — it’s well over 20.
“For us to try and become this big sparkly thing would just feel weird — not only to us, but to everyone.”
— Kristyn
The next Underground is set for August 16 and 17; the new location, which has, as Jared puts it, a much more “underground vibe,” will be revealed on July 12 during ENU’s line-up announcement party at The Stone Fox. The goal is not to pack it out and make a fortune, though. They’ve found a place with breathing room, which will allow attendees to enjoy the music without standing shoulder to shoulder. “It’s a fulltime job to keep it organic and keep 72
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Kristyn and Jared photographed at their East Nashville home, June 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
73
it true to what it was — a basement festival,” Kristyn says. “For us to try and become this big sparkly thing would just feel weird — not only to us, but to everyone. And I think that because we’ve been so committed to keeping it neighborly, and keeping it gritty and as a true alternative to a venue, that’s been a really integral part of what’s created and maintained the core people that come.” So who are the core people? Jared says, “It used to be just our friends, and they still come. It used to be a little bit cheaper when we had less to offer, but it was just our friends. Now it’s changed so much.” Genres have broadened to include hip-hop, country, singer-songwriters
74
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
and more. “The day show has changed a lot. It’s become more eclectic. We have people that come every season that are my parents’ age. So it’s really dynamic now.” “And now,” says Jared, “I get emails from booking agents, and Sonicbids, and (electronic press kits), and things like that. And bands wanna pay me to play the festival, so the vibe has shifted ’cause it’s just grown into something much bigger.” 20 or 30 bands contact Jared every week trying to get onto the bill. “He listens to every one of them, too, because that’s just Jared,” Kristyn laughs. “That’s how he is. But also when you take into consideration that people know who we are because we’ve always
July | August 2013
tried to maintain that humanistic quality — we’re your neighbors, this is your festival — we have to listen to every one because we could run into them at the grocery store, ya know?”
T
he Corders, married in October 2012, still have that newlywed glow about them, and they finish each other’s sentences. They also have a band together called *repeat repeat. It’s a power trio with Jared on guitar, Andy Herrin on drums and Kristyn singing backup. Their first Nashville show was at the Mercy Lounge in April, opening for the surf music legend Dick Dale. Jared explains, “We didn’t get Dick Dale because of Underground. We got it because we released a single, something we worked really hard on with our producer, Gregory Lattimer.” The single, “12345678,” is available for free on the band’s Facebook page. The band’s drummer sent a copy of the single to Dick Dale’s booking people — “which turned out to be Dick Dale’s wife,” Jared says, laughing. Even so, she loved the song and sent back a long email full of praise and encouragement. The band forwarded that to the Mercy Lounge and ta-da — they were added to the bill. *repeat repeat is finding a warm reception. A review on the music blog Lockeland Springsteen states, “The confidence with which the band takes stage is well-founded; they succeed in demonstrating the inordinate amount of talent and potential necessary to pull this kind of gig off.” Jared describes the band’s sound as “surf rock, kind of a throwback to the Kinks, Mamas and the Papas and the B-52s, but definitely more rock and roll. It’s really poppy, really fun, all songs about love and sort of ‘60s sounding. The Scene called us ‘Dick Dale’s snot-nosed grandkids.’” Kristyn was never supposed to be in the band at all — or in music, for that matter. Her degree is in performing arts and she wanted to be a sitcom actress. But she started working for a PR firm and dropped acting entirely. She came to Nashville and worked for a while in medical PR and doing consulting, which leads us back to *repeat repeat, and that basement. Jared and Andy started working on songs at the 12th Avenue house, “so I was on the couch in the basement for every practice, just working away,” Kristyn says. The band always knew they wanted a female backup singer, and auditioned three. Two of them would have worked out, but couldn’t do it for various reasons. Meanwhile, a longstanding appointment with Producer Lattimer loomed. “I went with Jared,” Kristyn continues, “just from a business perspective. Next thing I know, I’m sitting in the office with them, and Jared goes, ‘Well, Kristyn knows all the parts, so she’ll just sing the girl parts.’ And I was like, ‘OOOO-kay.’ And so I did. And at the end of these three or four songs, Gregory says, ‘Well, you have your girl singer.’ And we were like, ‘Whaaaaat?’ It took me a while
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
75
to come around to the idea.” But she did, and by the time this article hits the stands, *repeat repeat will have recorded their first full album.
O
riginally from Texas, Kristyn was the lead vocalist at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles. “I never set out to be a musician or singer,” she says. “I just got recruited and didn’t fight it. But it’s been great! At the end of the day, you just do what’s right for your family, and see what works. And we pulled it off.” That’s not all she’s pulled off lately. Three
years ago, Kristyn had an idea for a resource for fans of live music. GiG Nashville, launching in August at Underground, will give all the details someone might want while trying to make plans on a given night. “I wanted to know when I first moved here, without going to pick up a copy of the Scene, what’s going on, what am I leaving the house for? Is there parking? Is there food? What does the band sound like? What’s the venue like? What’s the vibe? For me, it’s like, is this worth leaving? And I’m usually in five-inch heels and all dolled up—it’s the Texas girl in me. So I really want to know, do I have to walk five blocks in these crazy Guess stiletto
heels to see a band that I have no idea what they’re gonna sound like?” Thus, GiG was born. Since that time, even while juggling her other pursuits, Kristyn has been pursuing her vision and building her team, including business development from Lightning 100. The concept, under the umbrella moniker Gig Your City, is well poised to expand outward to other cities as well. Kristyn’s other business, Apple Road, will be instrumental in getting the word out about GiG, just as it has done for *repeat repeat and Underground. Apple Road is a partnership between Kristyn and Haley Young. The publicity and creative media company now has two other employees. “It’s the love child of Abbey Road and Apple Records. What I do for Underground, I do for others. We basically help people increase their visibility.”
“My god we played some shitty gigs. We got to know a lot of the other bands and all the venues, because we’d say yes to everything. We’d play at the drop of a hat, open for some horrible metal band, go first or last, whatever.”
— Jared
Kristyn’s excited to report that Apple Road will be working with the Tomato Art Fest this year, doing publicity and the green room for the artists. “Tomato Fest is an institution in this neighborhood!”
T
he Corders are all about helping people, because Jared knows firsthand about getting help from the wrong person. “I knew a guy that gave me all this advice about moving to Nashville that were all horrible ideas for me. ‘Go down to Broadway and try it out! Go to the Bluebird!’ Stuff like that. Not my field of music, and he knew that, but it’s what he had to give.” Taking his friend’s advice, Jared moved to Goodlettsville. “I didn’t know it was so far away!” He lasted a month and then moved again, to Nashville this time. He drove around looking for work, using a list from his increasingly unreliable pal. “Half the places he told me to go were closed by the time I moved here.” He stuck it out, got some session work, went out on the road with J.D. Shelburne on weekends and learned the ropes. Jared is philosophical about the journey. “There are obstacles and road bumps and 76
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
77
things that really suck, and things get hard, and you get so frustrated, and it’s so much work and stress. But even at the hardest times, even with politics and logistics and legalities, we’ve always felt like our hearts are still into all of this. “When you work a corporate job, you know when it’s time to be done because you get laid off, or you get fired, or you quit because you got a better job. When you work for yourself … you have to know when it’s time to make a change or do something new. Jared says when he started Oh No No, he didn’t know a single person in the indie rock world here, so he decided to take any gig that was offered. The band would break out the Wizard of Oz costumes, hire a hair and makeup artist sometimes, and play their hearts out. “My god we played some shitty gigs. We got to know a lot of the other bands and all the venues, because we’d say yes to everything. We’d play at the drop of a hat, open for some horrible metal band, go first or last, whatever. So we started getting more and more gigs.” It’s not the best advice. Once you get somewhat established, it’s good to be more selective. But if you’ve just moved here and you don’t know anybody, go do it. That’s how I made a lot of my friends.” The Underground Facebook page has more good advice for getting into that particular lineup: Be part of the scene, show up, be interested. Part of the page reads, “If you spend
78
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
some time checking out these best local bands and do some friendly socializing with fellow members of our music community, there’s a good chance you’ll be up on the stage in no time.” It’s a lot of labor to keep all these projects going, but as Kristyn said before, it’s definitely
July | August 2013
a labor of love. “Yeah, everything we do is stuff that we love. We are sooooo fortunate. I’m not going to say lucky because it’s not luck,” she says. It may not be luck on their end, but East Nashville is fortunate to have the Corders. “It’s been good and our hearts are still really into it,” Jared says. Yep, lucky us.
I got it at Goodwill Gap shorts Wasabi & Ginger shirt Dickies shirt Gymboree Shorts Total cost: $13.96
Find your store at giveit2goodwill.org
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
79
80
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Try
offshoring
these skills Lincoln College continues a tradition By
M
any East Nashville residents may only know Lincoln College of Technology students as moving targets crossing Gallatin Road to get to the convenience store across the street from the school. However, grads from this nationally known institution are being prepared to operate in an ever-changing automotive industry. The school currently has students ranging from 18-year-old high school graduates to 55-year-old retired veterans retraining for a second career. Enrollment is ongoing,
Catherine Randall
staff. The college has not only changed its name, it has also steadily updated the curriculum to keep graduates up-to-date on technological advances. Director of admissions Tanya Legg Smith wants to build community awareness for her program. “We a have a strong footprint here, with 1,500 students contributing to the success of East Nashville,” she says. Legg Smith is not the stereotypical automotive specialist. Although she may be in a male-dominated industry — only 3 percent of the student body is female — the gender gap doesn’t impede her
L
incoln’s curriculum offers a variety of program areas including Auto Technology, Collision Repair, Diesel Technology and Heavy Equipment Maintenance in conjunction with specialties in Automatic Transmission and Transaxle; Brakes; Electrical/Electronic Systems; Engine Performance and Engine Repair; Heating and Air Conditioning; Manual Drive Trains and Axles; and Suspension and Steering. All course work is split between hands-on shop time and in-depth classroom lecture. “We teach them how to use a wrench and
“We teach them how to use a wrench and how to think critically”
with classes starting every month. Diplomas for most programs are awarded in 13 to 16 months, with the option to earn associate degrees as well. Established in 1919, Lincoln College of Technology, formerly known as Nashville Auto-Diesel College, is one of a handful of technology programs in the United States which offers this comprehensive training and education. The school was family owned until February 2003, when it was purchased by Lincoln Education services, joining 42 other campuses nationwide. Lincoln continues to operate with the same faculty and
qualifications. She “grew up in a shop” and has been drag racing since her teens. “Curriculum development is influenced by an academic advisory committee made up of 50 industry representatives. They review our program curriculum and make recommendations for changes,” Legg Smith says. “Five years ago the Mercedes-Benz people were here and they had a laptop scanner. One student asked how many computers were on the car.” The answer, by the way, is 70. This led them to include workshops on automotive computer technology, adding a new skill set to the curriculum.
how to think critically,” says vice president of schools Doug Fox. Training in fuel economy systems like hybrid cars and instruction in advanced electrical systems was also added. In an effort to adapt to market demands, Lincoln began rebranding itself last fall. Through Internet marketing, the school now reaches a broad spectrum of students across the United States. The recession has been a boost for business as well, with more people retraining for a second career. “The economy needs these middle-skilled jobs,” Legg Smith says. “There is an overall critical view of education in America right now,” Fox says. “There is
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
81
a place for college graduates, but that does not underestimate the need for the middle-skills trade workers that keep America running.” Retired First Sergeant Timothy Ford is an example of the new nontraditional student. After serving in the Army almost 24 years, Ford sought a second career. He expects to graduate in August as an undercar specialist in suspension and steering. “As a first sergeant I was a manager. I started as a mechanic and advanced in the military to be a ‘troop pusher,’” Ford says. Auto mechanics, however, was his first passion. Ford and his family relocated from Clarksville just to attend Lincoln. Ford says he wanted to become more familiar with carbonated and fuel injection engines.
82
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
In addition to being a student, Ford is the father of a teenager, “I feel like I’m setting the example for my son. I’m on the honor roll,” he laughs. “He needs to buckle down and study like I do!” He adds that his experience shows “it’s never too late to learn.” Twice a year, Lincoln holds job fairs. Ford attended the Spring Career Day, a three-day event where 71 companies with 250 participates meet and shop for prospective employees. Companies like Caterpillar, John Deere and Travel Centers of America regularly participate. “It’s amazing to see the companies that are coming in and the breadth and depth of interest in our graduates,” Fox says. Ford agrees; he talked to several and made plans to reconnect once he has his diploma.
July | August 2013
photo by Dave Cardaciotto
D
ylan Roach came into the program one month after graduating high school in 2012, and he is already due to graduate in July with a diploma in heavy equipment. He is sure he will find work quickly. Roach is from Johnston City, Ill. Like so many Lincoln students, he was willing to relocate for the program. Currently, students hail from 29 states. “A college rep came my sophomore year and I started thinking about it then, and when he came back my senior year, I knew what I was going to do,” Roach explains. He has some scholarship assistance to offsets tuition costs, which range from $25,700 to $33,800, plus the cost of tools, depending on which diploma or degree is sought. Because Lincoln is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, federal aid like Pell grants and Stafford loans are available. A number of generous scholarship opportunities exist for high school graduates, ranging from small stipends to full rides. Roach is debating whether or not he will return to Illinois. “Tennessee is pretty awesome. I’m thinking about applying to Travel Services of America or Forklift Systems. Maybe I’ll operate and repair these big machines.” In the administrative office located in the mansion building, a plaque recognizing Eddie Lanier, class of 1962, hangs among the other Hall of Famers. Lanier built the race engines for Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s car. Fox said Earnhardt stopped by campus a couple of weeks ago just to visit. Dozens of alumni are recognized for their success in the field. “The message is clear,” Fox says. “We have been putting people out into the industry that we are very proud of.” More information is available at: www.lincolnedu.com
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
83
Extra special thanks to: Chris Thompson, Ali Vandiver, Jamie Swanger, Rick Burleson, Kevin Caddigan, and Derrell Clem
•
84
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
•
CFT
inc.
Dusty old piles of records The Vintage Vinyl Tour of East Nashville
F
or many years, the only option available to diehard Eastside music junkies jonesing for a day of music shopping was a trip across the river. East Nashville was intermittently home to a few tiny, genre-specific shops and small chain stores that mainly carried the hits, but that hardly provided kicks for the serious groove freak. Heading north to Madison, The Great Escape was also an option, but for hardcore, multistore LP or CD flip-throughs, a trip to Broadway/West End was required. As wise men and ex-Beatles have been known to say, all things must pass. So it was with the west side music-shopping scene as chain store implosions and urban redevelopment brought an end to the glory days of the Broadway/Elliston/West End triangle. Even with those deaths, and despite the many forecasts of doom for record retailers, Nashville still had an advantage over many other cities regarding music shopping. A number of great used and new record stores stayed in the fight, but the survivors (The Great Escape, Phonoluxe, Grimey’s and East Nashville’s The Groove) were scattered across the city, and a day spent record shopping meant clocking up the miles. But like the sunset, what dies on the west side rises in the east. Within the last year, new stores opening on Gallatin Pike and in Riverside Village have brought a variety of music shopping options, with an emphasis on vintage vinyl — something any dedicated record hound can appreciate. One of the main appeals of vinyl is the experiential nature. Holding the vinyl in your
By
Randy Fox
hands, removing it from its sleeve and dropping the needle are all part of the process that make enjoying records an experience that goes far beyond listening to music on earbuds. It’s this “experience” that has also been a savior to many record stores. Tuning into the total vinyl experience means enjoying the search. Rummaging through stacks of wax and finding that one record always trumps clicking a button and having it arrive at your door days later. That’s especially true when it comes to shopping for vintage. No two stores will ever have the exact same stock and no matter how extensive your want list, there’s always that odd and previously unknown LP cover that calls to the soul of the true music nerd with a siren’s spell. First stop on the vintage vinyl tour of East Nashville is perennial platter purveyor The Groove. Opening in 5 Points during the big-box mass extinction event of 2007, Louis Charette’s little shop looked like a man bailing water from a leaky washtub floating 50 miles from shore. But Charette was following his passion, one that he couldn’t shake hold of, even after the rising tide of hipsterism led to rent increases, causing the shop to close in June 2010. The Groove’s B-side began five months later when John Moore signed on as a business partner. Re-opening in a new location, a cozy clapboard bungalow at 1103 Calvin St., just off Gallatin, the pair quickly established a quirky, laid-back personality for the store — invoking those classic post-hippie record store hangouts, minus the head-shop paraphernalia and the stench of patchouli.
The Groove has a wide selection of new and used vinyl with an emphasis on punk, metal, electronica, hip-hop, and non-indie rock. In addition to carrying CDs, 45s, books and whatever other music-related stuff will fit on the shelves, they carry a full selection of new releases and reissues and are happy to place special orders. Rare or collectable vinyl is priced fairly and run-of-the mill used vinyl runs in the $5 to $8 range with bargains to be found in the cheap bins, if you’re willing to dig. The Groove also sponsors a smattering of special events throughout the year, including their annual Record Store Day backyard blow-out with live bands, free beer and a whompin’ big $1 record sale, known to deliver a cornucopia of take-home scratchy classics. Heading north, the next stop is Logue’s Black Raven Emporium at the corner of Gallatin and Trinity Lane (2915 Gallatin Pike). Open for slightly more than a year, Black Raven sells new and vintage clothing, odd books, original art and prints, cult movie DVDs and anything else that fits co-owner Robert Logue’s criteria: “A – anything weird or cool that I like, and B – anything that I think will sell.” Those same guidelines apply to the store’s small but select stock of vintage LPs. If you’re looking for the offbeat, whether it’s a copy of Colonel Sanders’ Tijuana Picnic, The Jolly Slovenians’ Favorite Songs, Minnie Pearl’s Lookin’ Fer a Feller or even a solid second-hand copy of Led Zeppelin IV, Black Raven is a good place to look. Their mulligan-stew system of filing also makes for some odd pairings, like a recently observed copy of ‘70s heartthrob Leif Garrett’s debut album, snuggling up next to a classic Carter Family LP.
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
85
Most LPs are priced around $5 or less. Certain exceptions run higher like an utterly fabulous Liberace LP box set that just arrived in the store. If you drop by near closing time on Friday or Saturday nights, make the trip downstairs to the Cult Fiction Underground Lounge and Theatre for a beer and a classic exploitation movie. Back on Gallatin, it’s a hop, skip and jump to the newest addition to the tour, Live True Vintage and Vinyl at 3123 Gallatin Pike (for the record, that’s pronounced “lĭv” as in Faron Young’s “Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young”). Owned by Tammy Pope and Trev Wooten, Live True sports rooms packed with vintage clothing and assorted nifty geegaws. A swank “record road” of dozens of LPs and 45s epoxied to the floor leads to the vinyl room. A veteran of many record stores and a mu-
Heading over to Riverside Village, one arrives at another newcomer to the Eastside vinyl scene, Fond Object Records at the corner of McGavock and Riverside (1313 McGavock Pike). Described as a “record store and art collective,” Fond Object is owned by vinyl guru Jeff Pettit, artist Rachel Briggs and the members of the rock band, The Ettes – Jem Cohen, Coco Hames and Poni Silver. The space houses a record store, a co-op studio, a clothing design boutique and the headquarters of The Ette’s Fond Object record label. The group discussed the idea of a combined business for several years when they spotted the available space in a former dog daycare. The record store’s initial stock came from Pettit’s 20,000-plus collection, acquired while working in record stores in various cities. The members of The Ettes and Pettit became friends after he
Pettit says. Since opening the store in April, he’s seen several patrons find their holy grails, “I’ve seen a lot of people jumping up and down going, ‘whoa!’” In addition to the vintage vinyl stock, Fond Object also carries new vinyl and a small selection of hard-to-find CDs. In-store performances and special concerts are planned for the fenced-in space behind the store, also the home to the shop’s official mascot, Dotty the pot-bellied pig. As for the record label, plans are afoot to release special LPs of some of the live, backyard performances. Although the main tour ends here, there’s plenty more vinyl to be found east of the river at thrift stores, antique stores, flea markets and yard sales. While not a physical store, Doug Sherrard’s Morally Good Vinyl has been dealing in vintage platters for many years at flea markets, and Sherrard organizes the periodic
“I’ve seen a lot of people jumping up and down going, ‘whoa!’” sician himself, Wooten has acquired a diverse stock of classic rock, R&B, country and jazz LPs, along with a nice selection of 45s and 78s – many at bargain prices. The present stock is only a portion of the records he expects to rotate through the store in the coming months. Before leaving Gallatin Pike, head next door to Eastside Gospel Music Store (3121 Gallatin Pike). Owned and managed by Jeffrey Wilford, Eastside has been in operation since 2000, providing the best in urban contemporary gospel. Although CDs are the primary stock, a small collection of gospel vinyl is on hand. A portion of the store was recently remodeled into a coffee house with baked goods and free Wi-Fi. It’s a great place to take a break before continuing your vinyl rummaging.
86
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
was one of only three people attending their first gig in Austin. Once the group decided to move forward with the store, they called Pettit in Austin. “It was like, Jeff, get your records, get here, and do this with us, please,” Cohen says. One extra-large U-Haul and 850 miles later, Pettit was setting up shop in Riverside Village. Flipping through the extensive stock of rock, country, jazz and R&B records brings a constant parade of “wow” moments as one after another primo and hard-to-find LPs and 45s pass through your fingers. There are many good bargain stores already in operation, so Pettit’s focus is on quality, not quantity. “I think most of the people that come in here are happy with what they find and are happy to pay the prices,”
July | August 2013
Big Vinyl Record Sale in East Nashville with the next scheduled for Saturday, July 13 at Myridia Restaurant and Lounge (507 Main St.) starting at 10 a.m. Morally Good also sponsors the weekly Vinyl Gumbo DJ Nights every Tuesday at Myridia starting at 8:30 p.m., where vinyl junkies can sign up for 15-minute DJ slots and spin their favorite platters. A typical evening can run from hillbilly to techno, and punk to jazz fusion. And at least one local vinyl seller sets up their wares for the evening. So grab some cash and take a spin on your own Eastside vinyl tour. The dusty grooves, worn LP covers and multiple copies of Herb Alpert’s Whipped Cream & Other Delights await you!
“Word is that you are looking for a Realtor. I just closed on a house in East Nashville.
I worked with Jeremy Hundley. It was a great experience.
extremely familiar with the East Nashville market and trends and he is a joy to Jeremy is knowledgeable,
work with—unless you are looking for a pushy, obnoxious
guy who thinks he knows what you want more than you do, dresses like it’s 1980 and wears way too much Polo cologne. Then he is definitely NOT your Realtor.
Jeremy is resourceful,
well-connected AND listened
well to our needs.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions.” —John, Golden Spiral Creative JEREMY HUNDLEY, REALTOR Hodges & Fooshee Realty Inc. Zillow Premier Agent call or text 615-481-7321 HundleyHouse@gmail.com
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
87
88
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
Bridging the
en History
River Divide
N
by
Robbie Jones
ashville is a river town. During its first century, the Cumberland River fueled the city’s growth, connecting its residents and merchants to Southern markets and the international port city of New Orleans. The same lumbering waterway also wrought a physical and cultural barrier between the city’s east and west sides — a divide that continues to this day. For the past 190 years, a variety of bridges spanning the river have linked East Nashville with the rest of the city. In 1750, Dr. Thomas Walker mapped the river and surrounding lands and named them Cumberland in honor of Prince William Augustus, the Duke of Cumberland and a younger son of King George II of Great Britain. Before Walker’s arrival the Shawnee had known the river Warioto, while 18th-century French traders knew it as Rivere des Chaouanons, or “river of the Shawnee”. Not far from the spot Walker stood when he named the Cumberland, settlers found the ideal location for what would eventually become Nashville. The steep bluff on the river’s west bank provided settlers with better protection from American Indian attacks and ready access to wild game that gathered at a nearby sulphur spring and secluded bottomland. Here, on Christmas Day 1779, settlers decided upon the site for a fortified station called Fort Nashborough, named after Revolutionary War hero General Francis Nash of North Carolina. Soon, the fort grew into a frontier village called “Nashville,” which became a busy inland river port and transportation hub. Between 1823 and 2004, a total of 13 bridges serving local traffic were constructed in downtown Nashville, not including the interstate bridges serving I-24 and I-65. Today, there are five bridges that span the Cumberland, which has evolved into a vibrant, urban waterfront lined with city parks, greenways, boat docks, a historic museum, outdoor music venue, sculptures, public art and a coliseum. The seemingly innocuous river, however, can be unpredictable and dangerous, which we experienced during the Great Flood of 2010. C OV E R E D TO LL BRI D GE The first bridge constructed across the river was a covered suspension bridge built from 1822-1823 at the northeast corner of the Public Square. Before then, the only way to cross the river was by boat or ferry — no easy task due to the steep bluffs, sandy banks and flooding during the rainy seasons. Because the city could not afford to build the bridge, it was constructed by a private stock-holding corporation. Tolls were collected in order to cover the construction cost, maintenance and tollgate keeper salary. It was illegal for slaves to cross the bridge between 9 p.m. and daylight without a “written pass from his or her master or mistress expressing such permission.” Costing $110,000, the bridge was 560 feet long and 20-30 feet wide. It was designed by Philadelphia architect-engineer Joseph Johnson and constructed by Philadelphia contractor and ironmaster Samuel Stacker
and his brother John. During construction, one worker was killed and several others seriously injured when scaffolding gave way, spilling workers 60-70 feet into the water. President Andrew Jackson and notable visitors such as Marquis Lafayette used the toll bridge during visits to Nashville. In 1838, the federal government transported American Indians across the bridge during the Cherokee Removal from the Southeast to Oklahoma. Known as the Trail of Tears, the removal route followed Murfreesboro Pike into downtown Nashville, across the covered bridge, and then into Kentucky along Dickerson Pike. The bridge rose about 72 feet above the river during low water, but only 32 feet during high water. During high water, steamboats could not pass beneath the bridge, so in 1851 the covered bridge was demolished and replaced with the Woodland Street Bridge, which was located slightly upstream and rose much higher. W O O D L AN D S TRE E T BRI D G E The current Woodland Street Bridge is the fourth bridge constructed at this location. Originally called the “Nashville and Edgefield Bridge,” this structure was a suspension bridge that opened in 1850. Designed by Nashville architect Adolphus Heiman, the 700-foot bridge rose about 110 feet above the river’s low-water mark, providing ample room for steamboats. The cable wirework was contracted to J.D. Field, brother of Cyrus Field, who had laid the first Atlantic cable. Field made changes to Heiman’s design, leading to Heiman’s vigorous protests and ultimate resignation. Heiman denied any responsibility for the safety of the bridge; unfortunately, his protests proved valid. In 1855, the bridge’s floor collapsed, resulting in the death of a young boy and several horses and cattle that fell into the river and drowned. When the Union Army captured Nashville in the spring of 1862, evacuating Confederate soldiers cut the suspension cables, causing the bridge to fall into the river. After the war, a new suspension bridge was reconstructed at the same site, reusing the original limestone piers and abutments. Designed by local engineer Wilbur F. Foster, the bridge reopened in June 1866 as a toll bridge. The bridge’s entrance on the west bank featured an elaborate arched tollgate with decorative scrollwork and signs advertising the toll rates as follows: $0.15 for a four-horse carriage, $0.05 for a man on horseback, $0.10 per 100 chickens, and $0.01 per hog. There was no toll for pedestrians. Driving across the bridge faster than a walk resulted in a $5 fine. The iconic Nashville & Edgefield Bridge was demolished in 1884 and replaced with a two-lane steel-truss bridge, renamed Woodland Street Bridge, which opened in 1886. In 1879, the City of Nashville made a deal with citizens of Edgefield to build a new toll-free bridge if they agreed to be annexed. Designed by city engineer Wilbur Foster, this 639-foot bridge carried electric streetcars over the river from 1888-1940. The Woodland Street Bridge stood until 1966, when it was replaced July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
89
C S X R A I L R O A D B R I D GE There have been at least three railroad bridges at this location. The Louisville & Nashville Railroad constructed the first railroad bridge here in 1859. Designed by L&N Railroad engineers George McLeod and Albert Fink, this wooden truss bridge was fortified during the Civil War with turrets for Union soldiers. The Confederate Army attempted to burn it, but caused only minor damage. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers repaired the bridge and installed planks over the tracks so it could be used as a temporary bridge while the Woodland Street Bridge was repaired. By 1877, it had been replaced with a swinging truss bridge on the original limestone piers. The center trusses pivoted 90 degrees at the center in order to allow steamboats to pass. In 1906, an L&N passenger train nearly plowed into the river when it attempted to cross the bridge while it was open and impassable. The train stopped before reaching the bridge, but not before a locomotive, a mail car and a baggage car plunged into the river, killing two crewmen. Fort Pitt Bridgeworks of Pittsburgh constructed the current steel-truss swinging bridge in 1916. S H EL BY S TR E E T BRI D GE From 1907-1909, the City of Nashville constructed this four-lane steel truss bridge, which connected Sparkman Street on the west bank with Shelby Avenue in East Nashville. In 1904, residents of East Nashville began advocating for a second bridge across the Cumberland River since the Woodland Street Bridge was becoming overburdened with automobiles, streetcars and pedestrians. Controversy erupted on whether to build a bridge north of Woodland Street or south. Therefore, the committee ultimately recommended that the city construct two bridges. In November 1906, voters approved an $800,000 bond referendum for building the bridges, which carried by a four-to-one margin. The bridges would ultimately cost around $1 million due to higher-than-anticipated construction costs and damages to existing businesses on the riverbanks. The 3,150-foot Shelby Street Bridge cost $570,000 and featured unique concrete arched deck trusses along the approaches. The bridge was also called the Sparkman Street Bridge and the Broadway Bridge. Four workers died during construction. The bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986 and documented in 1998 for the Historic American Engineering Record at the Library of Congress. It was closed to vehicular traffic in 1998 and was threatened with demolition. After public outcry for its preservation, the City of Nashville undertook a $6 million award-winning renovation in 2003 that converted the structure into one
90
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. A dramatic nighttime lighting system, pedestrian overlooks and its connection with the city’s greenway system have resulted in the bridge becoming a Nashville icon. J E F F E RS O N S TRE E T BRI D G E There have been two bridges at this location. From 1907-1910, the City of Nashville constructed a four-lane steel truss bridge connecting Jefferson Street on the west bank with Spring Street in East Nashville. Like the Shelby Street Bridge, the $478,000 structure was 60 feet wide and carried automobiles, electric streetcars and pedestrians. It was demolished in 1992 and replaced with the current six-lane, steel girder bridge, which opened in 1994. V I CTO RY M E M O RI AL BRI D G E The state constructed a four-lane, steel girder bridge at the site of the original covered toll bridge, which had been demolished in 1851. In 1949, Gov. Gordon Browning signed legislation authorizing the bridge, which was named in honor of soldiers killed during World War II. It was opened in May 1956 with plaques listing the names of all war dead at the west end of the Public Square, and rededicated in May 1964 by Mayor Beverly Briley to honor local soldiers killed in all wars. K O RE AN V E TE RAN S BO U L E VARD BRI DGE Originally called the Gateway Bridge, the City of Nashville constructed this six-lane, steel arch bridge, connecting the new Gateway Boulevard on the west bank with Shelby Avenue in East Nashville. In 2006, Metro Council renamed both the boulevard and bridge Korean Veterans Boulevard. The 1,660-foot bridge won a 2005 award from the National Steel Bridge Alliance. The author would like to gratefully acknowledge research used in this article completed by local historians Debie Cox, Martha Carpenter, Margaret Slater and Nancy Skinner as well as the Nashville Civic Design Center.
clockwise from top left: Map, 1877, showing the L&N Railroad Bridge and Woodland Street Bridge. Metro Archives. Woodland Street Bridge, c.1870. Jefferson Street Bridge, c.1910. Courtesy: Martha Carver. Woodland Street Bridge, c.1850. L&N Railroad Bridge, c.1865.
with the current four-lane steel girder bridge. Stones from the original abutments were reused in the new bridge.
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
91
WELCOME TO EAST NASHVILLE! East End United Methodist Church presents:
O
9:00am-2:00pm AUGUST 10TH
free bounce house & water slide fun free popsicles & tomato head hair painting free tomato themed craft activity concessions by local boy scout troop 3
TOMATO tales told by Explorastory
Serving East Nashville With Open Hearts, Open Minds & Open Doors For More Than 100 Years 1212 Holly Street, Nashville, TN (615) 227-3272 Visit us online at www.eastendumc.org or on Facebook at on.fb.me/EEUMC
92
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
EAST SIDE C A L E N D A R
Emma Alford Calendar Editor
UPCOMING HOODOO VOODOO
Voodoo Swing Circus Variety Show
8 p.m. Friday, July 12, and Aug. 9, East-Centric Pavilion
If you’ve got a taste for all things strange and bizarre, head over to the Voodoo Swing Circus Variety Show at the Pavilion. There will be singers, dancers and all sorts of entertainment off the beaten path from the Bombshell Revue. They’ve got a little bit of everything — fire, magic, sideshow stunts and circus arts. We can guarantee this is one of the most interesting and eclectic shows you’ll see on the Eastside. It’s 21-and-up only and there will be a $10 cover charge, because they ain’t puttin’ on this kinda show for free. 1006 Fatherland St., www.east-centric.com
UP NEXT ON THE UNDERGROUND
East Nashville Underground lineup and new location announcement party
9 p.m. Friday, July 12, The Stone Fox
The East Nashville Underground has quickly outgrown all of the venues it’s graced — the basement filled too fast and now the East Room can’t even contain the mob that turns out. The fest is throwing a party to announce the next Underground’s eagerly anticipated lineup and they will also unveil the new location. Sure you can just read about it online, but the Underground is always looking for another excuse to throw a party, so why not? www.facebook. com/EastNashvilleUnderground, www.eastnashvilleunderground.com
POETS IN THE PARK
Nature poetry discussion
1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 13, Shelby Bottoms Nature Center
Sometimes words escape us when it comes to describing this world we live in. Shelby Bottoms is looking to the forefathers of environmental poetry for guidance. They’ll host a discussion in the park about the words of Henry David Thoreau, John Muir and Aldo Leopold. Bring your own favorite nature verses and poems to join in on the conversation. Ages 13 and up. To register, call 615-862-8539 or email shelbybottomsnature@nashville.gov.
BRING IT ON HOME
Southern Drawl Bluegrass and Americana Festival
1 to 7 p.m. Saturday, July 13, East-Centric Pavilion
Embrace your roots. East-Centric is hosting its own fest for all the Eastside’s pickers and grinners. Southern Drawl is a free event that will feature a range of traditional and contemporary bluegrass and Americana music. Get rid of those summer blues with
sounds straight from the heart of our country. Top it off with some soul food; southern-style cuisine will be available on deck. You can wash it down with a cold one from the taps at the Pavilion. 1006 Fatherland St., www.east-centric.com
Look for such esteemed artists as Justin Townes Earle, Kenny Vaughn and Webb Wilder. 1 Cannery Row, 615-251-3020, mercylounge.com
SAVED BY THE BELL
“People I know in Nashville When I’m Drunk” Eric Powell art opening
INEBRIATED ON ART
Back to School Expo
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 27, Glenn Elementary Enhanced Option School
As much as we hate to say it, school is only out for summer. It’s time for kids to strap on the backpacks and hit the books. Families can brace themselves for the upcoming school year with the help of Ray of Hope Community Church. The expo will provide parents with educational, health and community resources for all things academia. There will be music and food trucks for everyone, plus some fun activities for the kiddies like face painting and inflatables — not to mention various giveaways and free haircuts. Prep yourself before school is in full swing. School supplies will be donated to children in need who live in School District 5. 322 Cleveland Street, 615-227-4110 ext. 30, www.rayofhopenashville.org.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HARRY POTTER
Trick or Treat Tattoo’s Harry Potter Birthday Special
Wednesday, July 31, Trick or Treat Tattoo
He solemnly swears he is up to no good. Captain Morgan (yep, that’s the name, don’t wear it out) will be inking the Eastside with discounted tattoos in honor of the Boy Who Lived’s birthday this July. Let the Captain perform his magic. There will be a flash sheet full of unique tat designs to choose from, sure to please any true Potterhead. Mischief managed, y’all. 2100 Greenwood Ave., 615-881-5889
LIVE ON THE FRINGE
8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 4, Kustom Thrills Tattoo
You’re pretty when I’m drunk. Eisner award-winning comic artist Eric Powell is breaking out of the pages for his first non-comic-related gallery show. “The Goon” creator has painted portraits of his Nashville acquaintances through a pair of self-induced beer goggles. Things are always better with a brew in hand, right? Come check out this acclaimed artist’s work. 1000 Main St #107, www.thegoon.com.
PARTY LIKE AN ANIMAL
Wild Impressions: Bear Bash
Thursday, Aug. 8, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Nashville Zoo at Grassmere The animals at the Nashville Zoo have been getting in touch with their artistic side. This August, the Nashville Chapter of the American Association of Zookeepers will host an animal art auction. There will be an open wine and beer bar, free food and tunes. The profits from the silent auction will benefit the Andean Bear Foundation, an Ecuadorian organization that promotes research and conservation efforts for the species. If you give a hoot, howl, roar or oink about our planet’s wildlife, stop by to support a good cause. Who knows, a platypus might be our next Picasso. 3777 Nolensville Pike, bearbash-eac2.eventbrite.com
ATTACK OF THE KILLER TOMATO FEST
Tomato Art Fest
10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 10, 5 Points
Sideshow Fringe Festival
Aug. 1-2, East Room
It is not often you have the chance to see puppetry, poetry, and fire poi all in one fell swoop, but now you can. The Sideshow Fringe Festival takes place over four days and multiple venues, showcasing new-fangled, prolific forms of theater and live performances. The first two nights you can catch some of the Sideshow on the Eastside, at the East Room, appropriately. Check the fest’s website as the date nears to learn about other venues and showcases. 2412 Gallatin Ave., www.sideshowfringe.com
SOME HELP FROM MY FRIENDS
After The Fire - A Benefit Concert for Luella and the Sun
Aug. 2, Mercy Lounge
East Nashville is awesome about circling the wagons. Eastside band Luella and the Sun recently lost all their gear in a house fire. As a way of putting our arms around them, fellow artists are hosting a benefit show to help raise funds for struggling comrades.
Who cares if it’s a fruit or vegetable? It’s time again for East Nashville’s annual Tomato Arts Fest. This year the fest is celebrating The Big 1-0, so you can expect it to be bigger, better and redder than ever. Nestled into 5 Points you’ll be able to find a menagerie of live entertainment, choice local tomato art, food vendors, contests and games. It’s probably the only time of the year it pays to be a ginger — the brightest of the bunch can enter the fest’s annual Red Head competition, just don’t forget your sunscreen. Get there in time to catch the ‘mater parade. And if you’ve been eating your vegetables — or fruits — join in on the 5K to kick off the festivities. You can bank on having the tastiest Bloody Mary of the year. Check the fest’s website for details about pre-fest events like the crowning of the Tomato King and Queen and the Tomato Art Preview Party. You’ll be seeing red. www. tomatoartfest.com
LAUGHS WITH THE LOCALS
Fatherland Funnies
6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, East-Centric Pavilion
The Pavilion will be hosting some local humor this August. Save the drive to Zanies, there will be a full
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
93
ES C evening of funny guys right here in your own backyard. Brian Kiley will be there with his own gaggle of jokes alongside a handful of other comics. Kiley has been doing comedy for over 10 years, performing at joints like The Laugh Factory and The Comedy Store. He’s also appeared in The Green Mile, Drumline and Country Strong. Come on Eastsiders, get up for some standup. 1006 Fatherland St., www.east-centric.com
PUT YOUR EAR TO THE UNDERGROUND
East Nashville Underground Festival
Friday and Saturday, Aug. 16-17, location TBA
The best place to hear local, off-the-cuff and engaging music has got to be the East Nashville Underground. What started in the sweaty basement of Kristyn and Jared Corder two years ago evolved into a full-fledged, packed-house festival at The East Room; that location has also been outgrown, and ENU’s new digs will be announced at The Stone Fox on July 12. The fest takes place over two days, with a show on Friday and two sets of shows (day and night) on Saturday. They’ve got a boatload of acts to check out. Look up the full lineup on their Facebook page and find a link there to pre-order passes. Beer is free and liquor will be dirt cheap, so you shouldn’t mind paying for a ticket: $15 for Friday night, $10 for Saturday, or just shuck out $25 for the whole weekend so you won’t miss a beat. www.facebook.com/EastNashvilleUnderground www.eastnashvilleunderground. com
SOUNDS OF SUMMER
The East Nashvillian Summer Concert Series
7 p.m., Wednesdays throughout August, East-Centric Pavilion
You read right: We’ve partnered with the East-Centric pavilion to host a concert series this summer. Every Wednesday there will be different performers. There is craft beer and food-truck fare on site to help you get through each hump day. Bring a lawn chair or stretch out on a blanket. Visit the Pavilion’s website to see who is playing. It’s the best way to break up that workweek drag. 1006 Fatherland St., www. east-centric.com
TAKE ME TO THE PICTURE SHOW
Grassy Knoll Movie Nights
7 p.m. Sundays, July 8 and 22, Aug. 5 and 19, side lawn @ Bongo Java East Bring your own blanket, relax and enjoy the show. Grassy Knoll movie nights are back! They’ll be playing our favorite cult classics all summer. Get out and enjoy the summer breeze. You know you’re tired of paying $11 to sit in a stuffy movie theater. It’ll only cost you $5 to watch, or $4 with a canned food donation to Second Harvest. Only $1 for the kiddies. Food trucks and local brews will be on standby, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty. Check Grassy Knoll Movie Nights’ Facebook page for what they’re showing each month. 109 South 11th St., www.facebook. com/grassyknollmovies
94
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
RECURRING RAGTIME AND REFRESHMENTS
Live Jazz Brunch Market
11 to 2 p.m. Sundays, East-Centric Pavilion
Come kick it on East Nashville’s very own patio for a snazzy Sunday brunch with a weekly performance from Jazz songstress Colleen Orender. Every Sunday the East-Centric Pavilion will host a brunch market with freshly juiced mimosas and delectable selections from Wolfe Gourmet Cakes — a few choice items on the menu include sausage strudel, quiche (there is a vegetarian option, too) specialty scones and strawberry lemon mimosas. Tables will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Go boogie a little for brunch. 1006 Fatherland St., www.east-centric.com
STOP, SHOP AND SWAP FOR THE SONGSTERS
Nashville’s Musician’s Swap Meet
11 a.m. to 6 p.m. the first Sunday of each month, The Building
If you’re among the sea of musicians and songwriters in Nashville, you might want to drop in on the monthly Musician’s Swap Meet at The Building in 5 Points. The musically inclined gather to buy, sell and trade their gear. There’s always a smattering of various musical odds and ends — guitars, drums, amps, fiddles, horns, you name it. You’ll also find vinyl, artwork, clothing and other music-related memorabilia. This folky flea market of sorts is free and open to the public. Stop by, grab a coffee at Bongo Java, grub down at Drifters and check out the musical arsenal. If you’re interested in renting a booth for the swap, contact Dino Bradley at 615-593-7497. 1008-C Woodland St.
SHAKE A LEG
Keep On Movin’
10 p.m. until close Mondays, The 5 Spot
For those looking to hit the dance floor on Monday nights, The 5 Spot’s “Keep on Movin’” dance party is the place to be. This shindig keeps it real with oldschool soul, funk and R&B. Don’t worry, you won’t hear Ke$ha — although you might see her — and you can leave your Apple Bottom jeans at home. If you have two left feet, then snag a seat at the bar. They have two-for-one drink specials, so you can use the money you save on a cover to fill your cup. 1006 Forrest Ave., 615-650-9333, www.the5spotlive.com
rinc, y’all
Scott-Ellis School of Irish Dance
4:30 to 5 p.m. ages 3-6, and 5 to 5:45 p.m. ages 7 & up, Mondays, Eastwood Christian Church Fellowship Hall You’re never too young — or too old — to kick out the Gaelic jams with some Irish Step dancing. No
ES C experience, or partner, required. Just you, some enthusiasm and a heart of gold will have you dancing in the clover before you can say “leprechaun.” 1601 Eastland Ave., 615-300-4388, www.scott-ellis.com
month. Check the website to see who the guests of honor will be for each performance. The event is free, but you’ll have to reserve a spot by calling ahead. 900 Main St., 615-262-5346, www.eastsidestorytn.com
BLUEGRASS, BEER, BURGERS
Ultimate Comedy Show by Corporate Juggernaut
Bluegrass Mondays with Johnny Campbell & the Bluegrass Drifters
NO LAUGH TRACK NEEDED
8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, East Room
It seems you can find some bluegrass on most any night in Music City these days. To cure your endof-the-weekend/beginning-of-the-week drag, head to Charlie Bob’s and bring your axe along. Watch the Bluegrass Drifters kick things off, then join in on the pickin’ party afterward. Have a burger, buy a few beers and add a little ‘grass to your Monday blues. Oh yeah — it’s also 50-cent wing night. 1330 Dickerson Pike, 615-262-2244, www.charliebobs.com
You know what they say: Laughter is the best medicine, so self-medicate. Nashville’s own jokesters have taken up residency in the East Room. Corporate Juggernaut, which is a series of comedy shows put on by Gary Fletcher, Jane Borden and Brandon Jazz, will be coming to the Eastside every week to host an openmic comedy night. You can always expect to see fresh material and new talent. Doors and sign-up are at 8 p.m. Get out and help support Nashville’s burgeoning comedy scene. 2412 Gallatin Ave., 615-335-3137, www.facebook.com/TheEastRoom
HAVE YOUR PIE AND DRINK A PINT, TOO
A FIDDLE OF THIS AND A FIDDLE OF THAT
8 p.m. until close on Mondays, Charlie Bob’s
$10 Pint & Pie Night
Old Time Jam
Every Tuesday night at The Family Wash, you can score a pint of beer and a shepherd’s pie for just $10. The reigning music venue on the Eastside, The Wash is home to an abundance of good music, and on Tuesdays, the club plays host to the long-running songwriter series, Shortsets, hosted by Cole and Paul Slivka. They offer a wide selection of craft beer, and they even have a vegetarian shepherd’s pie for herbivores. So sit back and enjoy the show, along with your pint and pie. 2038 Greenwood Ave., 615-2266070, www.familywash.com
The 5 Spot’s weekly “Old Time Jam” is a musical call to arms for all of East Nashville’s pickers and grinners. Bring your acoustic weapon of choice to play with the menagerie of musicians who turn up each Wednesday night. Share tunes and swap stories with the regulars. This bluegrass ball isn’t just for musicians though. Even if you can’t strum a chord, you can sit back and enjoy the rootsy jams. Three is no cover and beers are discounted a buck. 1006 Forrest Ave., 615-650-9333, www.the5spotlive.com
6 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays, The Family Wash
FAT BOTTOM FOR YOUR BUCK
$10 Pint and Entrée Special
4 p.m. until close Tuesdays, Fat Bottom Brewery
Q: What’s better than a craft beer and a tasty meal? A: Cheap craft beer and a tasty meal. At Fat Bottom Brewery you can grab a pint of their liquid courage and an entrée for just $10 on Tuesdays. Peruse their beer garden and pick your poison; they’ve got plenty of options for the seasoned beer drinker. They’re always kegging fresh batches and pouring cold ones, so stop by to get your fix. 900 Main St., www.fatbottombrewing.com
TELL ME A STORY
East Side Storytellin’
7 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of each month, Fat Bottom Brewery
Looking for something to get your creative juices flowing? East Side Story has got you covered. They’ve partnered with WAMB radio and Fat Bottom to present an all-out affair with book readings, musical performances and author/musician interviews all in one evening. They host this lovely event twice each
7 p.m. until close Wednesdays, The 5 Spot
LEND ME YOUR EAR
Supper and Song
7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, Sky Blue Café
The neighborhood restaurant Sky Blue Café has begun opening its doors in the evening for the dinner crowd. Audrey Auld, an Australian singer-songwriter, saw this as an opportunity to liven up the café with some tunes. Auld is a country/Americana performer and each week she plays and invites other musicians to join in on the fun. Stop in, savor a good meal with some beer, wine or coffee and enjoy the music. There is no cover and dinner is served till 11 p.m. 700 Fatherland St., 615-770-7097, www.skybluecoffee.com
ART IS FOR EVERYONE
John Cannon Fine Art classes
6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. Saturdays, The Idea Hatchery If you’ve been filling in coloring-book pages for years but you’re too intimidated to put actual paint to canvas, it might be time you give it a try. Local artist John Cannon has been teaching art classes at The Idea Hatchery since September. These are small, intimate classes; this keeps the sessions low pressure and allows for some one-on-one instruction. If you’re feeling like you could be the next Matisse with
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
95
ES C a little guidance, sign yourself up for some of Cannon’s classes. 1108-C Woodland St., 615-496-1259, www.johncannonart.com
KICKS FOR THE KIDS
Professor Smartypants
6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, The Family Wash
It’s only appropriate that a venue named The Family Wash hosts a family night once a week. Every Wednesday, kids eat free at The Wash and Professor Smartypants hosts. They call him the “master of disguise and intrigue.” He tells jokes and sings songs, but his comedy isn’t just for the kiddies; parents will enjoy his humor, too. Professor Smartypants goes on at 6:30 p.m. sharp, so don’t be late. 2038 Greenwood Ave., 615226-6070, www.familywash.com
FARM FRESH
East Nashville Farmers Market,
3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Free Will Baptist Church
Take a detour from your usual trek to Kroger and stop by. They offer the “cream of the crop” in locally grown organic and fresh foods. Peruse local cheeses, milk, breads, herbs, fruits, vegetables, jams and jellies. A few merchants even sell handmade goods, such as soaps, candles, pottery and jewelry. More than 30 vendors haul out to the lot beside Free Will Baptist Church to
96
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
provide the Eastside with their fresh goods. Go out and meet the farmers who grow your food. They also accept SNAP (food stamp) benefits. Grocery shopping has never been this fun — or this homegrown. The Farmer’s Market will run through the end of October. 210 S. 10th St., www.eastnashvillemarket.com
HONESTLY, OFFICER ...
East Nashville Crime Prevention meeting
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursdays, Beyond the Edge
Join your neighbors to talk about crime stats, trends and various other issues with East Precinct commander David Imhof and head of investigation Lt. Greg Blair. If you are new to the Eastside, get up to speed on criminal activity in the area. If you are a recent victim of crime, they want to hear your story. 112 S. 11th St., 615-226-3343
BRINGIN’ DOWN THE HOUSE
After-Hours Jams
7 p.m. Thursdays, The Fiddle House
Every Thursday, The Fiddle House, a full-service acoustic string shop, keeps its doors open for an after-hours jam. Each week, they alternate between “old-time” and “bluegrass” sessions. Sometimes only a few fiddlers show up for the soirees, but other nights the House is packed out. If you like to pick or if you
July | August 2013
just want to hear a good jam, check this place out next time you’re free on Thursday night. All skill levels are welcome and this pickin’ parlor is free. The music kicks off at 7 p.m. and ends whenever they feel like calling it a night. 1009 Clearview Ave., 615-730-8402, www.thefiddlehouse.com
PALAVER RECORDS POWOW
Palaver Thursday Showcase
9 p.m. Thursdays, FooBar Too
Looking to hear some fresh new tunes without paying a pretty penny to do it? Head over to FooBar on Thursday nights — East Nasty-based record label Palaver Records hosts a weekly showcase to promote both local and traveling acts. It gives them a chance to scout performers, bands an opportunity to promote themselves, and gives music lovers a cheap show to catch during the week (only $3 at the door—you can’t beat that in Music City). You can see an array of different genres from week to week, and the beer always flows easy at Foo with $3 drafts. 2511 Gallatin Road, www.palaverrecords.com
PARTY AT THE PAVILION
Pavilion, Brews and Jams
5 p.m. the first Friday of each month, East-Centric Pavilion
East-Centric is hosting its own signature party, Pavilion, Brews and Jams (PB&J). The first Friday of each
ES C month they’ll invite everyone out to enjoy some good tunes, good ale and good vibes. There will be a music jam session with a mixture of local artists each month and plenty of cold brewskies to go around. Tune in to their website and Facebook page to see which artists will be playing the bill and what the cover will run you. 1006 Fatherland St., www.east-centric.com ---waiting for confirmation if this will still continue in August…..
CHICKS AND GIGGLES
Girl on Girl Comedy
8 p.m. the last Friday of each month, Mad Donna’s
Once a month, Mad Donna’s hosts a standup comedy series, Girl on Girl Comedy. Nearly all the performers are women, although sometimes a guy is brave enough to take the stage. Girl on Girl is the brainchild of Christy Eidson, who hosts the show. Eidson has been doing comedy for more than 10 years. Once in awhile, they mix things up a bit with music, burlesque and the occasional male pole dancer. They even hand out prizes. Be forewarned: This is an R-rated event, so if you can’t handle anything raunchy or risqué, Girl on Girl is not for you. The show is 18 and up. Admission is $10 a head or $15 for couples. Show up early, snag a good seat and have a nice dinner before the debauchery begins. 1313 Woodland St., 615-226-1617, www. maddonnas.com
GET YOUR CREEP ON
The Cult Fiction Underground
8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Logue’s Black Raven Emporium
The Cult Fiction Underground is housed beneath Robert Logue’s Black Raven Emporium off Gallatin Road. Every weekend they host screenings of rare and classic horror and cult films under the shop for $5. There is a gothic-style bar and lounge area downstairs also, so you can socialize and have a drink before (or after) the film. The dim basement creates an intimate gathering space for cult and horror fans. It looks like the kind of place Edgar Allen Poe might’ve stumbled out of over 150 years ago. The entrance is behind the building and parking is free. Check out Black Raven’s Facebook page to see what films they’re screening each week. 2915 Gallatin Road, 615-562-4710
STRAIGHT FROM THE GARDEN
East Nashville Christian Ministry Garden Market
products form local artisans and produce from Six Boots Collective. Get fresh. Get local. 807 Main St., www.growingourfuture.blogspot.com.
POTLUCKIN’ FOR GREEN THUMBS
City Gardeners’ Gathering
4 to 7 p.m. the last Saturday of each month, Main Street Cooperative Garden
Gardeners and growers around the area unite! East Nashville Christian Ministry City Gardeners have been meeting up to learn the basics of organic city gardening and homesteading. For the 2013 growing season they will host monthly potlucks to continue to learn more about the ins and outs of gardening. Bring your own dish to share with the crowd; fresh, organically grown vegetarian dishes are preferred but not required. All city gardeners welcome! Bring your favorite gardening books, best ideas and photos of your work to share. 807 Main St., www.growingourfuture. blogspot.com
9 a.m to 12 p.m. Saturdays, Main Street Cooperative Garden
This summer, East Nashville Christian Ministry will be opening the gates to its garden for a fresh market each weekend. They will sell ENCM-grown organic biodynamic produce, herbs and flowers, along with
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
97
ES C
NEIGHBORHOOD
MEETINGS & EVENTS
Inglewood Neighborhood Association
7 p.m. first Thursday of every month, Isaac Litton Alumni Center
Shelby Hills Neighborhood Association
4500 Gallatin Road, www.inglewoodrna.org
401 S. 20th St., www.shelbyhills.org
6:30 p.m. first Thursday of every month, McFerrin Park Community Center
6:30 p.m. third Monday of every month, Shelby Community Center
McFerrin Neighborhood Association
Eastwood Neighbors
301 Berry St.
1601 Eastland Ave., www.eastwoodneighbors.org
6:30 p.m. third Thursday of every month, Memorial Lutheran Church
6:30 p.m. second Tuesday of every other month, Eastwood Christian Church
Rosebank Neighbors
Greenwood Neighborhood Association
1211 Riverside Drive
909 Manila St., www.greenwoodneighbors.org
4 p.m. last Thursday of every month, Metro Police East Precinct
6 p.m. second Tuesday of every month, House on the Hill
Dickerson Road Merchants Association
936 E. Trinity Lane, www.dickersonroadmerchants. com
East Nashville Caucus
5 p.m. first Wednesday of every month, Metro Police East Precinct
The East Nashville Caucus provides a public forum for East Nashville community leaders, representatives, council members and neighbors. 936 E. Trinity Lane
Chamber East
7:15 to 9 a.m. first Wednesday of every month, Location: TBD
The Chamber East meets every month for a networking coffee to discuss community updates and how to grow and improve the East Nashville area. Fpr the location of upcoming meetings, please visit www. nashvillechamber.com 711 S. 11th St.
Cleveland Park Neighborhood Association
6:30 p.m. second Thursday of every month, Cleveland Park Community Center 610 N. Sixth St., www.facebook.com/groups/ClevelandPark
98
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
MOMS Club of East Nashville
10 a.m. first Friday of every month, location varies by group
MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club is an international organization of mothers with three branches in the East Nashville area. It provides a support network for mothers to connect with other EN mothers. The meetings are open to all mothers in the designated area. Meetings host speakers, cover regular business items of the organization including upcoming service initiatives and activities, and also allow women to discuss the ins and outs, ups and downs of being a mother with other women. Visit www.momsclubeast.blogspot.com to determine which MOMS group your residence falls under. Inglewood: 10 a.m. (email inglewoodmoms@ gmail.com for location) Lockeland: 10 a.m. East Park Community Center, 600 Woodland St. Eastwood: contact chapter for time and location
If you have an event you would like to have listed, please send information about the event to calendar@theeastnashvillian.com.
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
99
marketplace
a hip, eclectic mix of new & vintage clothing, hats, jewelry & home accessories
937 Woodland East Nashville 615.226.2288
100
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
marketplace
We’ve moved on up. To the East Side.
now in East Nashville 224 S. 11th Street (at Fatherland) near Five Points formerly in The Mall at Green Hills 615-329-3959 • www.specsnashville.com • info@specsnashville.com
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
101
marketplace
102
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
marketplace
3 Independent Law Practices 1 Neighborhood Location
Look for the Blue Door The Law Offices of Andrew Caple-Shaw The Law Offices of Robbie H. Bell The Law Offices of Clayton Thomas Wraith
(615) 800-2348 307 N. 16th Street 37206 Walk-Ins Welcome
East side fish???
Parris
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
103
East of normal By
To m m y Wo m a c k
W hat’s in a name?
I
t is with great joy that I have just googled the Schermerhorn Symphony Center and seen that the grand edifice and its financiers have reached an agreement to keep the building open. Foreclosure is now off the table, and this assures us that the Nashville Symphony will continue to have a home. I was afraid the whole grand endeavor would be consigned to an aesthetic grave before anyone in Nashville had learned how to even spell it. That was just one of the problems the Schermerhorn faced from the outset: They picked a name nobody — and I means nobody — could wrap their semi-literate noggins around. Hey, I just copy-pasted it from the web right now myself and merely changed the font to Arial Standard 12-point* so it would look like I’m all smart and stuff; otherwise I would have spelled it Skermerhorn, or Skirmisher or Ski Resort myself. If they’d called it the Nashville Symphony Center in the first place, then people would have at least registered what it was. As it is, most peoples’ brains don’t even make it to the second word because they see “Schermerhorn” and their synapses jam up like an engine with no oil, so that all they know is that somewhere downtown there’s something called the Powder Horn or some shit, and they have art there or something highfalutin’ anyway. The solution is as plain as the nose on Geddy Lee’s face. Follow the national trend and call it the Best Buy Symphony Center, or the Costco Symphony Center or the Sam’s Club Center For The Arts And Shit. THAT would get the point across. And then maybe the proletariat would flock and be suitably ennobled. Then of course, the name would have to change every two years, like the Gaylord Entertainment Center (known in lame local parlance as “The Geck”) became the Bridgestone Arena, and how the much-missed Starwood Amphitheater became the Amsouth Amphitheater, which in that case nobody paid any attention and
went on calling it “Starwood” as if it was its own town (which on a good night it was!). Speaking of all this, there are some venues around this great city that need to get with the program. Like, say, the Ryman Auditorium. How long has Capt. Ryman been dead anyway? Who even knows anything about him to make him so all-fired great as a namesake? Now if it was the Publix Auditorium, you could buy tickets through Ticketmaster and get 50 cents off your next purchase of Pillsbury crescent rolls. And who doesn’t love crescent rolls?
A
nother problem with the Schermerhorn is they didn’t just erect a building; they built frickin’ Versailles! Talk about grand! There are oil barons’ homes in Qatar that aren’t as swanky as that place. I’ve been there and believe me, it’s not a venue where you can take a seat with a jumbo Diet Coke and some popcorn. They don’t even HAVE drink holders. The place holds what, a few hundred people? Not one waste can. It’s pretty much assumed you’re not going to bring in the Milk Duds you just bought at Mapco. And you can have my Milk Duds when you pry my cold dead fingers off of them. And another thing: No PA system, no subwoofers. You’re expected to just hear the orchestra au natural, without any electronic prettification. That’s a noble pursuit, I will concede, but still … yawn. With the proper gear, they could rent the place out to raves on the off-nights. Then watch the cash roll in! Somebody down there is just not thinking. One last issue: The music itself. As John Lennon put it, “The trouble with classical music is that by the time a song is over, I’ve forgotten how it started.” C’mon Schermerhorn. Don’t bore us. Get to the chorus.
— Tommy Womack is a singer-songwriter and author, and a former member of Government Cheese and the bis-quits. His memoir “Cheese Chronicles” has just been released as an e-book by Amber House Books. Visit his website at tommywomack.com and keep up via his popular “Monday Morning Cup of Coffee” series. His column “East of Normal” appears in every issue of The East Nashvillian. He is currently working on both a new memoir and his seventh solo record.
* Alas, we aren’t smart enough for Arial, except for this note, which is 6pt. — The Editor 104
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
105
PARTING SHO T
Jessi Darlin of Those Darlins East Side Hootenanny June 25, 2013 Photographed by Dave Cardaciotto
106
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013
The hippest house in the coolest neighborhood in the hottest part of town! Maybe you know it — the house you have to look at as you jog, walk the dog or stroll the baby through Little Hollywood, East Nashville’s coolest neighborhood. It’s the house Church Sexton, Little Hollywood’s homebuilder, built for his daughter, Virginia. So he made it extra special — more arches, extra rooms, heaps of charm. The wild style provided that extra bit of fun, and it’s available now for the first time in 30 years. Drive by, take a look. Look for the fun mailbox, the four outdoor sitting areas dying to host your next party. Who knows, maybe you’ll see yourself in this fun, historic home.
Little Hollywood gem now available! www.LittleHollywoodNashville.com — (615) 226-8229 (serious inquiries only) July | August 2013 THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
107
108
THEEASTNASHVILLIAN.COM
July | August 2013