Unite Nashville Fall 2015

NASHVILLE Fall 2015

LGBT TRAVEL GUIDE

FALL ARTS SEASON PASS

ERIC

CHURCH EXHIBIT

DEBUTS

AT CMHOF

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3 DAYS DISCOVER ONE OF AMERICA’S

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Your Nashville Symphony | Live at the schermerhorn

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BROADWAY with the nashville symphony

M IC H A E L F EI N ST E IN

T h e S i n at r a Project WI TH THE NASH V ILLE SYMPH ONY

OCTOBER 15 TO 17

OCTOBER 30

KRISTIN CHENOWETH WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY

NOVEMBER 12 TO 14

DECEMBER 8 & 9

AEGIS

SCIENCES FOUNDATION EST. 2013

615.687.6400

NashvilleSymphony.org

from the publisher

Welcome to the first issue of UNITE Nashville Quarterly. Not only have we changed the frequency of the publication, but we also decided to revamp our logo. I wanted something a bit more modern than our old logo and Blake Kniffin came to the rescue, as always. I really hope you all enjoy our new look as much as I do.

In this issue, we celebrate LGBT travel. Over two dozen destinations asked to be included in this feature, but unfortunately we couldn’t squeeze them all in.

Some cities are known for being favorites among our community, while others may be lesser known. The one thread that is consistent however is their unwavering support for LGBT travelers. These destinations understand the buying power of our community and are making an extra effort to be supportive and welcoming. When planning your next vacation, please consider one of our spotlight destinations.

Nashville’s art scene will be in full swing this fall.

There are literally dozens of festivals, exhibitions and events that are of interest and noteworthy. In this issue, we wanted to highlight a few of those. From the Schermerhorn to Cheekwood to The Larry Keeton Theatre, our city offers something for everyone.

With the holidays just around the corner, UNITE Nashville’s winter issue will feature fashion, food and fabulous gifts. We have already received over 30 product submissions for our gift guide. If your company would like to participate, please feel free to contact us. We promise you will love our winter issue and treasure it for a long time.

As always, thank you for your continued readership and support!

Sincerely,

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joey Amato CREATIVE DIRECTOR Blake Kniffin ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS Chris Azzopardi, Estella Pan, Jesse Walker BUSINESS EDITOR A.J. Busé BUSINESS CORRESPONDENT Michael Burcham, PhD BUSINESS WRITERS Dan J. Groover, Lisa Howe FOOD & WINE WRITERS Shawn Klumpjan, Erica Rains HEALTH EDITOR Brian Hooper, MDiv, PsyD MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Steven Binko POLITICAL EDITOR Jim Schmidt ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Matthew Jeffers CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jake Divine, Garrett Daniel Lee, Melissa McKinley, Abby Rubenfeld ADVISORY BOARD Mark Farrar, Sam Felker, Scott Glasgow, Joseph McLean Gregory, Lisa Howe, Rana Mukherji, Darrin Otto, Gordon Publow, Chris Robinette, Jeff Rymer, Jim Schmidt, Ro Toyos NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media (908) 232-2021 ADVERTISING Joey Amato & WRITING OPPORTUNITIES joey@unitemag.com (931) 313-9613

LICENSING UNITE is currently available in Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Nashville, and statewide in Virginia. To find out about licensing opportunities for UNITE, contact Joey Amato at joey@unitemag.com or call (931) 313-9613.

Cover photo appears courtesy of Essential Broadcast Media. www.unitemag.com /UNITELGBTMAG @UNITELGBTMAG

Publisher & Editor-In-Chief 4 | UNITE Nashville

TABLE OF CONTENTS FALL 2015 FEATURE PLAYING GAY ON THE WALKING DEAD UNITE SEASON PASS UNITE TRAVEL GUIDE NOW NISSAN MAKES NASHVILLE PROUD DOLLY ROCKS THE RYMAN

“Jazz’n”

Sandy Spain

sspain1@bellsouth.net | sandyspain.com | 615.646.3396

18 21 29 8 9

BUSINESS CHAMBER CHAT HAYDEN’S LIST

10 14

LEGAL ACLU BILL OR RIGHTS CELEBRATION

12

LIFESTYLE THE BIG FAB WEDDING FIRST DATE WITH A DUDE

16 42

POLITICS VICTORY FUND SELECTS NEW LEADER

20

MUSIC ERIC CHURCH OPENS AT “THE HALL”

26

CULTURE STUDIO TENN THEATRE COMPANY DIRTY DANCING AT TPAC NASHVILLE IN HARMONY

28 35 40

SPIRITUALITY MICHELLE WHITEDOVE

36

DINING WINE & FOOD ADVENTURES

38

RELIGION COVENANT OF THE CROSS A CONVO. WITH REV. BREEN

44 46

“Best Revamped Party” in 2014 - Nfocus Magazine

November 8 • 5-8 PM Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum

TASTE food from Nashville’s most talented chefs, hottest restaurants and best-loved caterers.

TASTE beverages from local breweries, wineries and distilleries.

Enjoy a TASTE of live music and its heritage at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum.

Show your TASTE at the fabulous silent auction.

Buy your tickets now at nashvillelgbtchamber.org/taste

N

NOW

MAKES NASHVILLE PROUD Nissan Stadium is just a small portion of the company’s overall commitment to Nashville. The company’s Nissan Proud campaign is an ongoing program of community outreach and partnerships, demonstrating Nissan’s active commitment to Nashville and Middle Tennessee.

Bridgestone Arena, Ryman Auditorium and Tennessee Performing Arts Center have all teamed with Nissan, as have special events including Music City Roots and the Nashville Film Festival.

photo courtesy of Nissan

Nissan’s commitment to Nashville became even stronger with the recent announcement of Nissan Stadium.

The company secured a 20-year deal to name the home of the Tennessee Titans. Since expanding into the region, Nissan has invested over $6 billion and currently employs almost 12,000 workers.

The announcement makes Nissan the latest automobile manufacturer to own naming rights to a major stadium.

Ford, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota all have their signage on stadiums across the country.

8 | UNITE Nashville

Nissan executive vice president José Muñoz said that the naming deal will help celebrate Nissan’s footprint in the area. He added that the sponsorship is part of the company’s strategy to market its “American Titan” trucks.

“For us, this event is extremely important because it not only offers us the opportunity to partner with a great institution, with a great family...but also, as you probably know, we’re about to launch a brand new generation ‘Titan,’ which we call the ‘American Titan,’” Muñoz said.

Within the LGBT community, Nissan is a strong supporter of the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association (NLGJA) and maintains an extremely active gay-straight alliance named GSAN. Travis Parman, Director of Corporate Communications at Nissan mentions there are 150 members of the group and over half of them are allies.

ROCKS THE RYMAN

photo courtesy of Webster Public Relations

Last month, Dolly Parton wowed two sold out crowds during her Ryman weekend residency, which helped raise money for both the Dustin Wells Foundation/W.O. Smith School of Music and the Opry Trust Fund.

The shows, billed as Dolly Parton: Pure and Simple, included stripped down versions of her biggest hits including “Islands in the Stream”, “Here You Come Again”, “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You” and were Parton’s first shows in Nashville in over a decade.

“I just love the Ryman, it’s such a sacred building.

When I decided to do the benefit for Dr. Wells and the Dustin Wells Foundation, I was happy to learn it would be at the Ryman,” says

Dolly Parton. “I was told the show sold out so quickly, that I decided to add a second concert so that I could help raise money for The Opry Trust Fund. The money from this weekend will help get instruments into the hands of children wanting to learn music and will also help all my friends at the Opry, in the event they need a little extra help.”

Parton spent nearly two hours entertaining a star-studded audience which included Reba, Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild and Sam Palladio of the hit series ‘Nashville’. She embraced her bluegrass and gospel roots on lesser-known songs “The Grass Is Blue” and “Apple Jack”. She brought the crowd to their feet with a soaring rendition of “Little Sparrow” and spent the evening playing nearly half-dozen instruments on classics like “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “My Tennessee Mountain Home.”

Parton called the Ryman “sacred ground” at a press conference prior to the concert. “It’s like going home. It feels like your family; it feels like your mama and your daddy and your whole family’s just surrounding you. I just have a feeling in here that I don’t get anywhere else.”

B

business

Chamber Chat

by Lisa Howe

Lisa Howe accepts check from NGLCC.

The Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce had a great week at the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce International Business and Leadership Conference, August 11-14. The conference brings in over 1000 LGBT business owners, corporate partners, and affiliate Chamber staff and board members.

The Nashville LGBT Chamber received the Excellence in Community Impact Award for our work with our corporate members and their LGBT Employee Resource Groups. The Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce provides a safe space and

10 | UNITE Nashville

photo courtesy of Lisa Howe

forum for leaders of LGBT Employee Resource Groups to share best practices, challenges, ideas, obstacles, and network. The collaboration of the leaders of these groups has had a positive impact on their employers, local LGBT non-profit organizations, and the LGBT community as a whole.

One specific example is at our May meeting, the authors of the amicus brief that was filed with the Supreme Court, in favor of marriage equality, on behalf of businesses spoke with our group by conference call. As a result, 13 LGBT Chamber members signed the amicus brief.

We call this group program Pride in Business. Participants include: Baker Donelson, Cat Financial, Cigna/Healthspring, CMT, Cracker Barrel, Cummins, Dell, Deloitte, Dollar General, Fifth Third Bank, Lend Lease, Nissan, ServiceSource, T-Mobile, and UBS.

You can read more about the award and the Pride in Business group on the LGBT Chamber website at nashvillelgbtchamber.org.

The next big surprise at the Conference was receiving a $2500 grant from Wells Fargo and the NGLCC. The LGBT Chamber has had a long standing goal of increasing the number of certified LGBT businesses, but we have yet to have the resources to dedicate towards that initiative. With the help of Wells Fargo, the Nashville LGBT Chamber will officially begin the Supplier Diversity Summit in the near future.

The Summit will be made up of quarterly programs, partnerships, and a forum to help our LGBT business owners accomplish their goals.

Our members can expect to learn more about supplier diversity from corporate partners like Cracker Barrel and Nationwide. Small business owners will have access to resources from the U.S. Small Business Administration and SCORE. Certified LGBT Business Enterprises will have access to a large network of peers through the NGLCC and their corporate partners.

The grant will allow the LGBT Chamber to provide quality programs and incentives for more of our LGBT business owners to get certified.

As the Executive Director, I am proud of these accomplishments. It shows the work and dedication of our Board of Directors. They have been instrumental in the growth and improvement of the LGBT Chambe. Our members and participants deserve the credit. They are the ones who dedicate their limited time to engage in the LGBT Chamber and our programs.

Some of the results include companies starting new LGBT ERG’s, small businesses employing more people, fundraising for LGBT non-profit organizations, improving workplace policies and culture for LGBT employees, and advocacy for LGBT equality. The community is the winner.

AWE-INSPIRING EVENTS From the Event Hall to the Carlton Terrace, or from the Hall of Fame Rotunda to an entire building buyout, the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum has the capacity to accommodate events for guests numbering from 30 to 3,000. Enjoy intimate dinners, experience live concerts, elegant galas, weddings, and more– all in the heart of downtown Nashville.

BOOK YOUR EVENT TODAY.

STEP INSIDE This House

Downtown Nashville • 615.416.2001 • @CountryMusicHOF Visit CountryMusicHallofFame.org/Unite

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legal

12 | UNITE Nashville

When Valeria Tanco and Sophy Jesty made a lifelong commitment to each other at their wedding in New York, the two professors of veterinary medicine could not possibly have known the implications that their commitment would have on our entire nation. Nor could have Army sergeant Ijpe DeKoe and artist Thom Kostura, or legal conflicts analyst Matthew Mansell and stay-at-home father Johno Espejo, when they married in New York and California respectively.

by Jake Divine

C E L E B R AT I O N

BILL OF RIGHTS

historic opinion striking down laws that ban same-sex marriages nationwide.

But each of these couples eventually moved to Tennessee, where the state refused to recognize their marriages. They didn’t take this sitting down.

Together they filed Tanco v. Haslam, demanding that their marriages be treated with the same dignity and respect under the law as those of other married couples. The case eventually became part of the consolidated U.S. Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, leading to the Court’s

The American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee will honor these three couples, along with their attorneys from Tennessee, at its annual Bill of Rights Celebration on September 30. The attorneys being honored include Abby Rubenfeld of Rubenfeld Law Office, PC; William L. Harbison, Phillip F. Cramer, J. Scott Hickman and John L. Farringer IV of Sherrard & Roe, PLC; Maureen T. Holland of Holland & Associates, PC; and Regina M. Lambert, Esq. In addition to the Tennesseans being honored, the National Center for Lesbian Rights and Douglas H. Hallward-Driemeier of Ropes & Gray LLP played an instrumental role in the Tanco case.

ACLU-TN will also honor Charles K. Grant with its 2015 Bruce Kramer Cooperating Attorney Award, which celebrates attorneys working for the protection and advancement of civil liberties and civil rights. Grant is being honored for his work to create systemic change that ensures access to the ballot box.

Dale Ho, director of the national ACLU Voting Rights Project, will deliver the keynote speech at the event.

The ACLU has been working for the rights of LGBT people since 1936, when it brought its first gay rights case. The organization also filed the first freedom-to-marry lawsuit for same-sex couples in 1970, represented Edie Windsor in her successful challenge to the federal Defense of Marriage Act in June 2013, and filed sixteen federal court marriage lawsuits on behalf of same-sex couples after the Windsor decision. ACLU pursues its mission through advocacy, public education, legislative lobbying and litigation.

The Bill of Rights Celebration will take place at the Noah Liff Opera Center in Nashville on Wednesday, September 30. It will begin with a silent auction at 6:30 p.m., followed by a seated dinner and program. Tickets for the event are $125.00 per person and sponsorship opportunities are available calling the ACLU-TN office at 615-320-7142.

HAYDENʼS LIST

A CHAT WITH FOUNDER & CEO SCOTT TAYLOE

by Joey Amato Why did you find the need to start Hayden’s List?

My husband and I started the adoption process and in doing so we started hitting road blocks on adoption agencies that weren’t open to working with us. Also, we both sadly experienced situations in which we were targeted for being gay and “not welcome.” It was through these experiences we looked to our community to give us advice as to where to go and whom to use for various services.

Unfortunately, we would often find listings where businesses were paying to list themselves as gay-friendly, but for us we wanted to hear directly from our fellow community members on their personal experiences.

In addition, I’ve always wanted to be involved in a movement or organization that inspires change in people. I’ve spent the last 10+ years involved in international education and always enjoy seeing my students return with new profound perspectives on the world and their lives. I feel like I’ve put my stamp on that part of my life and I’m excited to now do the same within my own community – through Hayden’s List.

Where did you get the name from?

The site is named after our adopted son, Hayden. At first I was throwing around the idea of Scott’s List – but my friend and co-founder Veronica threw the idea on the table of Hayden’s List and it immediately stuck.

What is your biggest challenge?

Getting people to review. This is a common challenge with any review website as folks are desperately searching for the information, but often don’t want to provide their own review. Fortunately for the LGBT community we love to raise our voices so I’m inspired by all of the people coming forward to share their experiences with our community. We would still love to see more though!

What has been your greatest accomplishment thus far?

Having someone tell me that our site has made a difference in their life. If you have had the chance to watch my video on the homepage, I describe a scenario in which I was a bit blindsided by those whom were not supportive of the LGBT community. Fortunately, I was at an age in which I was proud of who I was and had a supportive network built around me. Although the experience made a huge impact on me, it didn’t make me question who I was. If that same situation had occurred with our LGBT youth, I fear they wouldn’t know who to turn to and where to get support. Someone recently said they located a place of worship on our site that was welcoming, and that it immediately gave them a sense of comfort. We gave them a place to turn to, that would welcome them in their doors, and for that we are so proud. It’s stories like that, that keep us going.

What are your growth plans?

We plan on being out in all major U.S. cities by 2016, and will then start “coming out” in smaller municipalities shortly thereafter. No matter the size of the city though, if we have enough reviews for a location – that city/town/village will make our list!

14 | UNITE Nashville

What obstacles do you plan on encountering?

At some point I’m sure competitors will enter the market place, we are all in it for the betterment of our community though so we welcome those who wish to help in the fight for full LGBT rights. We are extremely proud though of the brand and story behind Hayden’s List, and we feel people are excited to be by our side for this ride.

L

lifestyle

Bruce Pittman Inc. reception at Union Station Hotel

THE BIG FAB

Wedding

by Erica Rains

A massive amount of concentrated positive energy was on the menu for Toby Sturgill and Al Gregory when they said “I Do” at Nashville Pride this year. It was one for the history books, quite literally.

Friends, strangers, and everyone in between witnessed their nuptials one day after the Supreme Court ruling made same-sex marriage a right across the country. But all they could see was each other.

“It was just he and I in the middle of the street that day,” said Sturgill. Though the masses were in full Pride spirit and the celebration could be heard across the river, the two were lost in the moment together, and able to shout it from the rooftop. Any rooftop, in any state. Finally.

Sturgill laughed, “It’s almost as if we eloped with 3,000 of our closest friends. There was really no planning! We met with the minister over the phone the night before. It was the easiest carefree wedding.”

Whether you decide to local-elope like Toby and Al, or spend a year planning and prepping, you can save yourself some stress by focusing on some key elements to make your wedding and the celebration after BIG and FAB. The main element to remember, of course, is the love that created this union. You are getting mar16 | UNITE Nashville

photo courtesy of Bruce Pittman Inc.

ried to each other for a lifetime of happiness and companionship. Don’t let the big day overshadow you with undue stress over details. In many cases, that may mean enlisting the help of a knowledgeable planner.

“Start out with determining what planners have been proactive in welcoming same sex marriages,” said Bruce Pittman, local planner and designer for weddings and events. He suggests checking out the LGBT Chamber of Commerce for vendors that are members.

Their local presence and involvement in the LGBT community has been active and positive as well.

“I’ve noticed that so far, a lot of same sex couples have done quite a bit of planning on their own,” said Pittman. “My experience has been that couples have been very interactive with their planning. It is very personal and everything really has meaning.”

Pittman suggests to start off with finding your venue. Often you can find out more from other vendors about venues. Research them online, and ask about other vendors’ experiences in working with them.

This is true for my catering company, as we often are helpful in providing information about venues that we work with to clients. Ask your vendors to recommend each other, as Pittman mentions above. Not only will you know which vendors are truly involved in the LGBT community, but you will have honest and varying reviews of them from other event industry professionals as well.

Once you have decided on whether or not to have a planner, and your venue is chosen, your next step should be the catering and the cake. Remember that this day is a reflection of you two, and don’t try to

please everyone. Let the food tell your story. Meet with caterers and attend tastings. Try to make notes of food quality, creativity and presentation, atmosphere during your tasting, and as Pittman mentioned in his top ten, how your personalities click. You will want to work with vendors who are excited and comfortable working with you! It’s much more enjoyable for all involved, and ensures that communication will be easy throughout the process.

When thinking about your cake or dessert options, be sure to start contacting professionals as early as possible. You don’t need to go in to meetings with your cake designer knowing exactly what your end result will be, because as Jay Qualls mentions, a good consultation should help you determine many elements you may not have previously thought of on your own.

“This is an artful, creative process. Couples need to be prepared to share,” said Qualls. As a celebrity chef and cake designer, he has perfected the art of determining the essence of the couple for the purposes of designing their perfect custom cake. Create a Pinterest board, bring photos, magazine clippings or even fabric swatches with you to relay the feel of your style as a couple.

“There’s a series of questions I ask them in a tasting.

Usually I can pull out a silhouette,” said Qualls. Taste flavors, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to think outside of the box when meeting with your cake designer prospects. “In that hour you should have a hard estimate and a design aesthetic,” he adds.

Shakespeare Broadsheet, 31” x 19 ”

Hatch Show Print

Be sure you cover all points so you can fairly compare those that you meet with to make an informed decision. The cake is often a focal point, Qualls points out, so you want to give it the attention it warrants for your fab wedding!

Whether you take a leap and have an adventure like Toby and Al did, or you take a year and plan your dream wedding down to every detail, remember to do it together, and enjoy it. Enjoy each other. Pay the professionals to help.

H A L E Y G A L L E RY

Don’t lose sight of the ‘why’ and get frustrated. Try something different. Incorporate history from your families, heirlooms, traditions. Or, get crazy and have an awesome Alice in Wonderland reception and throw a mad tea party. The point is, do whatever you want. Your guests will love it because it makes you happy, and as always, all you need is love.

@HatchShowPrint • #HSPHaleyGallery

For Bruce Pittman’s Top Ten list and some must ask questions from Jay Qualls, please visit our website to view an extended version of this article: www.unitemag.com

Downtown Nashville • 615.577.7711

Visit HatchShowPrint.com/Unite for more information.

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feature

PLAYING GAY

WALKING DEAD ON THE

by Steven Binko

There comes a time in every journalist’s career where you’re plagued with that wonderful condition known as “writers block”. The words are right in front of you, but you just cannot seem to grasp a hold of them.

Learning that I would be interviewing a cast member of A&E’s hit show The Walking Dead, you can imagine my sense of panic on the one day I failed to manage a coherent thought. They say that an interview is only as good as its subject, and Jordan Woods-Robinson not only delivered on this claim, but saved the day.

Raised in Bybee, Tennessee, Jordan was just a small town boy with big city dreams. Years later, he is part of two highly successful shows; he has been with the Blue Man Group for eight years, and plays Eric on The Walking Dead. “It’s really

18 | UNITE Nashville

amazing” he says, “I have been really fortunate to do what I love”.

Somehow between all of this, he also manages time to play his real life role as husband and a father of two.

Asking how success has changed his life, Jordan first jokes and tells me he bought a yacht, but then gets serious and explains that “it’s changed everything”. Reflecting just a few years back he recalls struggling with his aspirations. “I was a kid. I was playing music, but I had convinced myself that maybe music wasn’t what I wanted to do with my life, so I went to school for theatre”. In what he calls an “organic” evolution, his passion was soon rediscovered, landing him a spot with Blue Man. “It was the perfect marriage between acting and music. It’s these characters that communicate through music which is a universal language.”

Since landing the role as zombie survivalist Eric, it hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows however. After exchanging a kiss with on-camera boyfriend Aaron, many fans voiced objection to the show. Still, Jordan maintains his enthusiasm and reminds me that he also received a lot of support. It is this positive attitude that makes him such a likable interview subject. “This isn’t about us [the actors]” he says. “It’s about telling a story, and it’s about love. I’m honored to play this role.”

Playing a gay character isn’t the only adaptation Jordan faces when filming. Telling me about one of his first days eating lunch on set, “A zombie walked in and sat down at the table across from me. I was

so perplexed. There’s this thing with its jaw hanging down just looking at me eating a salad”. This, in addition to the post-apocalyptic scenery he is completely engrossed in.

There were many interesting stories that Jordan shared over the course of our interview, but my favorite segment was when he set aside some time to take fan questions from our readers via social media; something he is passionate about! @WtfEricuhh (Twitter): Did you read the comics to gain insight on your character?

Jordan: I read just enough to learn about Eric and Aaron’s relationship. I haven’t dived into it on a massive scale, but even though we follow a script and the comic books, the producers are also really supportive of what the actors can bring to the roles individually. As a fan, I didn’t want to read too far ahead, because I also like not knowing what’s coming next! @RenSmiley (Twitter): Is there any way to work your musical background into your character?

Jordan: I would love to do that! I know that Emily Kinney got to play and sing on the show.

I loved the intimate moments and vulnerability that brought to her character. I’d love to see Eric play guitar or violin on the show.

Dominick Hamilton (FB): Will there be a back story on Eric & Aaron?

Jordan: I can’t give away any spoilers, but I think that the storyline that they have is a necessary and beautiful one. The world we’re in right now has lost some of the humanity, love trust, and respect that maybe we take advantage of in modern times. This is one couple that maintains that, but can throw down and protect their family.

Kayla Crews (FB): Is there anything on set that grosses you out?

Jordan: A general gross out observation on set? I’m a vegetarian (vegan), but lots of people while on set actually don’t eat meat because they’re constantly surrounded by blood and guts. The last thing most people want to do when they sit down for lunch is grab a sloppy joe!

photo courtesy of Jordan Woods-Robinson

Tyler Steffen (FB): Are they any crazy antics backstage?

Jordan: The show in nature talks about some really powerful stuff, so between takes people are usually telling jokes, wrestling, and goofing off. Norman Reedus will just grab Andy and throw him to the ground and hold him there for a long time. They’re like brothers playing all the time. It breaks up the heavy scene. @RayeDopson (Twitter): If the zombie apocalypse really did happen, what would be your weapon of choice?

Jordan: I’ve never fired a gun, so it probably wouldn’t be that!

It would probably have to be something like a bow or sword!

And lastly, I had to make room to ask a question of my own! @binko101 (Twitter): If you could plan your own epic death on the show, what would it be?

Jordan: I’d go up in a hot air balloon, have a big zombie fight on top of it, and then fall off shouting someone’s name!

Follow @UNITELGBTMAG and @jwoodsrobinson on Twitter!

You can also add us on Facebook to see exclusive online multimedia content!

UNITE Nashville | 19

politics

Earlier this year, the Victory Fund and Institute made a little history on its own aside from its usual groundbreaking work to train and elect LGBT officials at all levels of government. With the selection of Aisha C. Moodie-Mills as its new President and CEO, she becomes the first African-American lesbian to lead a major LGBT organization in the country. What led Victory to pick Moodie-Mills as its new leader was her experience and vision as a political strategist, fundraiser and communications expert. Prior to joining Victory Fund in April, she was a Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress and was also a key spokesperson and strategist for the successful campaign for marriage equality in Washington, D.C. Looking to the future of the organization, Aisha sees the Fund focusing more on finding current LGBT elected officials who can take the next step in their career to increase the impact to their local political scene.

“Whether that is a city council person who moves up to a mayor’s race or a current State Representative to run for State Senate, those are some of the races that can make the most difference to our community,” says Moodie-Mills.

20 | UNITE Nashville

A NEW LEADER TAKES HELM

by Jim Schmidt She also notes that given the huge success in electing LGBT people across the country (over 450 now), the Fund will streamline their focus to those parts of the country where there are still no LGBT elected representatives in the legislature such as in Tennessee. Finding more diverse candidates who reflect their local communities in those places and building alliances to win those races will be a priority for the future.

Aisha C. Moodie-Mills

She believes that one of the keys to growth for Victory is to develop stronger partnerships with both LGBT and nonLGBT organizations who are of a similar mindset to increase our community’s influence on policy and electoral work. “We can work to make Victory a real thought leader in the movement and make sure that if an organization wants to know how to outreach to LGBT voters or how to elect someone who is LGBT, then we are the ones to come to,” says Moodie-Mills.

With the growth of the Victory Institute, the 501(c)3 side of Victory, she believes they can accomplish much of the necessary research and educational work to be successful in that effort.

The highly successful and incredibly fun Victory Fund Champagne Brunches will be getting a little facelift around the country this year as well. Brunches, such as Nashville’s, will transform into more of a reception-style event, though still with plenty of politics and success stories from races around the country (and plentiful champagne!). The revamp is being done to keep costs down and invest more into the Fund to support its work electing LGBT candidates around the country.

Aisha Moodie-Mills is excited to visit Nashville at the “Bubbles and Biscuits” Reception on September 20 and to help celebrate our successful LGBT Metro Council candidates this year.

photo courtesy of the Victory Fund

P

SEASON

PASS

auditorium

photo courtesy of TPAC

UNITE SEASON PASS

War Memorial

A John Waters Christmas December 12 John Waters performs an unforgettable night of holiday mischief with his critically acclaimed one man show.

Waters pokes fun at the holiday season with adult-appropriate humor, effectively “putting the X in Xmas,” developing a show for the open-minded and slightly left-of-center audience.

LK LIVE Y2 Blues & BBQ with Tim Gonzalez and Soul Stir September 25th and Jeff Allen, September 26th, and the inimitable American classic, The Music Man by Meredith Willson, October 8th - 24th.

Nashville’s Nutcracker December 5-23 Nashville’s holiday tradition returns for the eighth consecutive year, with more than 200 dancers per performance taking audiences on a fantastic journey through a dreamland filled with beloved characters. Visit magical lands with the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Mouse King, the Nutcracker, the Dancing Bear and many historic characters from Nashville’s past.

country music

hall of fame

Roseanne Cash

the larry keeton

theatre

Nashville

photo courtesy of LKT

Ballet The Music Man

Dracula October 24-25 Just in time for Halloween, this classic tale of love, lust and blood returns to Nashville Ballet for the first time since 2007.

Nashville Ballet Artistic Director & CEO Paul Vasterling’s choreography resurrects Bram Stoker’s characters to explore

22 | UNITE Nashville

photo by David Bailey

Dracula 2015

Celebrating its 13th season, the theatre will joyfully present six full theatrical productions in their dinner theatre, featuring scrumptious food and BYOB patron option, performing arts classes for ages 3-93 in our “Studio-In-The-Back”; and year two of The LK LIVE Concert Series, spotlighting established and emerging music artists from the local and regional scene. Fall Arts Lineup 2015 includes “The Studio in the Back” classes Sept-Nov;

Artist-in-Residence: Rosanne Cash September 24 Rosanne Cash will be the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum’s 2015 artist-in-residence. A Grammy-winning singer and songwriter, Cash has recorded 15 albums and is the recipient of numerous awards, including three Grammys for her latest album The River and the Thread.

As artist-in-residence, she will present an intimate performance on September 24, at 7:00 p.m. and promises an incredible lineup of guest artists.

York & Friends

Holiday Open House & Benefit for Belmont Mansion November 8, 12-4 York & Friends Fine Art Gallery’s annual open house for the holidays offers new

photo courtesy of CMHOF

A John Waters Christmas

the conflict between carnal desire and rational thought.

Afternoon of a Faun and Satto complement Dracula with their sensual stories of a Faun coming of age and the dance between a falling leaf and the God of Wind.

Jaume Plensa: Human Landscape Now until November 1 Cheekwood is exhibiting a

Ty Herndon, Co

untry Artist

UNITE SEASON PASS

cheekwood

Scarritt Bennett

Center photo courtesy of Cheekwood

artworks from their stable of nearly 50 local and regional artists. Paintings in various mediums, along with handcrafted pottery and glass in every price range make excellent gifts. Gallery owner/ artist/musician, Ron York, will be featured for the month of November with his colorful and whimsical artwork. Also, this will double as the CD Release Party for his third CD of original instrumental piano & strings music titled, Wildflowers. A portion of all sales will benefit the restoration of the Belmont Mansion.

Silent Music II

collection of large-scale sculptures by internationally acclaimed Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, the latest grand-scale show to be featured at the estate’s historic grounds and museum of art. Jaume Plensa: Human Landscape will feature outdoor and indoor installations including sculptures imagined specifically for Cheekwood’s grounds.

Ash-Lee Woodard Henderson Lecture September 10 Scarritt Bennett Center will host the first Ina Corrine Brown Lecture featuring Ash-Lee Woodard Henderson on September 10 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Ash-Lee Woodard Henderson is an Affrilachian (Black Appalachian), working class woman, born and raised in Southeast Tennessee. She has extensive knowledge of the use of community organizing and is a former staff member of the Chicago SNCC (Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee) History Project.

WALKING TO MAKE A THE DIFFERENCE IS YOU NASHVILLE AIDS WALK AND 5K RUN

Dolewite, 101.1 The Beat el 4 Anchor

On-Air Personality

Jennifer Johnson, Chann

2015 Honorary Chairs

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 | PUBLIC SQUARE PARK Register Now: NashvilleAIDSWalk.com dly!

Pet Frien

Don’t Miss the Early Bird Special! Register for the timed 5K before Saturday, September 12 for only $25!

Presented By

A Benefit For

Additional Partners

UNITE SEASON PASS

tpac Cinderella October 20-25 With its fresh new take on the beloved tale of a young woman who is transformed from a chambermaid into a princess, the hilarious and romantic Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella combines the story’s classic elements – glass slipper, pumpkin, and a beautiful ball along with some surprising twists. More than just a pretty face with the right shoe size, this Cinderella is a contemporary figure living in a fairytale setting.

Bullets Over Broadway November 10-15 Written by Woody Allen, with direction and choreography

by Susan Stroman and based upon the screenplay of the acclaimed film by Woody Allen and Douglas McGrath, Bullets Over Broadway is the story of a playwright who, in desperate need of financial backing for his next show, accepts an offer he can’t refuse from a mobster looking to please his showgirl girlfriend.

Schermerhorn

Debbie Gravitte, Susan Egan and Christopher Sieber to Music City for three nights of Broadway’s biggest smash hits alongside the Nashville Symphony. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy an evening of rousing show tunes as you’ve never heard them before.

photo courtesy of Schermerhorn

The Music of U2 with the Nashville Symphony & Rock Band November 10 Your Nashville Symphony and a full rock band take a musical journey spanning four decades of monster hits including “With or Without You,” “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” “Pride (In the Name of Love),” “Sunday Bloody Sunday,” “Desire,” “One” and many more.

U2 emerged from modest beginnings in Dublin in 1976 to become one of the biggest bands of all time, selling more than 150 million records worldwide.

roles in Hamlet, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are at the center of this story, finding themselves continually befuddled by their circumstances and worried they may be interfering with fate. This play adds new meaning to Hamlet for Shakespeare lovers, but also creates genuinely comical moments that will entertain any audience member.

A Christmas Story November 27 - December 20 Nashville Rep’s heartwarming production of this all-American holiday classic is the perfect addition to your family’s holiday traditions. Because nothing says Christmas like a leg lamp, pink bunny pajamas and sticking your tongue to the frozen flag pole!

tennessee

state museum

symphony center

nashville

repertory theatre

The Best of Broadway with the Nashville Symphony & Broadway’s Incredible Music Director Todd Ellison October 15 - 17 Virtuoso Todd Ellison brings Broadway star vocalists

24 | UNITE Nashville

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead October 8-31 Known for their minor

photo courtesy of the TN State Museum

Servants of Safety: 85 Years of the Tennessee Highway Patrol Now - October 4 A new exhibition detailing the extensive history of the Tennessee Highway

theatre

Einstein is A Dummy September 17 – October 4 A mind-blowing, hilarious musical comedy tour de force for the whole family! Einstein Is a Dummy is not biographical, and is neither history lesson nor physics class. Rooted in Einstein’s own musings about the application of creative thought to scientific method, it is a joyous celebration of the courage to think differently.

Charlotte’s Web October 29 – December 6 Nashville Children’s Theatre’s acclaimed stage ver-

Charlotte’s Web

sion of this timeless story has won the hearts of children and their families like no other play in our repertoire. We welcome Fern, Charlotte, Wilbur, and Templeton back to our stage every few years, inviting new generations of children and their families to share this remarkable story together, told as only Nashville Children’s Theatre can tell it.

UNITE SEASON PASS

Ancestors: Ancient Native American Sculpture of TN October 30 – May 15 An exhibition of two dozen statutes, examples of Native American fine art discovered along the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers, will be on view this fall.

Visitors will learn that one of the two grand Pre-Columbian stone statuary traditions north of Mexico is found here in the Nashville area — the Tennessee-Cumberland Style.

nashville children’s

photo courtesy of NCT

Patrol. The exhibit, Servants of Safety: 85 Years of the Tennessee Highway Patrol, is free to the public and will be on view in the museum’s Changing Gallery. The exhibition explores the history and the expansion of the organization throughout the past eight decades.

M MUSIC

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photo courtesy of Essential Broadcast Media

ALL HAIL THE CHIEF!

by Joey Amato

Eric Church, last year’s top selling country music artist, will be honored by the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum when he becomes the subject of their next cameo exhibition opening Sept. 18. “Eric Church: Inside the Outsider” runs through February 2016 and will spotlight the North Carolina native’s hard-hitting path from a kid with a dream to becoming a multi-Platinum-selling country rocker filling arenas, amphitheaters and stadiums. The display will include guitars, song manuscripts, stage wear, photos and more personally chosen from Church’s collection.

platinum albums Chief and The Outsiders, and CMA and ACM awards, while maintaining an authenticity that resonates deeply with his audience. His country-rock hybrid incorporates influences ranging from Merle Haggard to Metallica, and reflects the determination of many of today’s top country artists to break down genre barriers. Behind his trademark aviator shades, Church believes that, “music is universal; it speaks to people’s souls on the deepest level. It’s all just music.”

“Eric Church is an independent-minded artist with an uncompromising attitude that is rare in contemporary country music,” said museum CEO Kyle Young. “His insistence on doing things his way recalls Waylon Jennings and Hank Williams Jr. We are thrilled to share his story in our latest cameo exhibition.”

He recently played two sold-out shows at the new Ascend Amphitheater and set a venue record in January when 18,411 fans crammed into Bridgestone Arena to catch The Outsiders World Tour, which is nearing one million tickets sold, has set five venue attendance records, and was ranked #1 on Billboard’s Hot Tours recap in April.

Church has reaped the rewards of chart success with hits such as “Springsteen” and “Talladega,”

Visit www.countrymusichalloffame.org for more information.

Tennessee State Museum

A Free Attraction

Downtown Nashville

www.tnmuseum.org

615.741.2692

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culture

From its 2009 debut with the minimalist Our Town in the Loveless Cafe Barn to its grand-scale Les Miserables at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Studio Tenn Theatre Company has garnered a reputation as Nashville’s Broadway-caliber design and production house, one scratch-built show at a time. Now entering its 6th season, the company is casting itself not just as an entertainment authority, but as a trusted curator of theatrical experiences for its growing regional audience, reaching beyond blockbusters to include titles that may not be household names.

Their 15/16 “Season of Mid-century Masters” honors cultural giants of 1940s-’60s, from Broadway’s Leonard Bernstein, Jule Styne, Stephen Sondheim, Arthur Laurents and Tennessee Williams to filmmaker Frank Capra and soul icon Ray Charles. It opens September 17 with Gypsy in The Factory’s Jamison Hall, followed by It’s a Wonderful Life, The Glass Menagerie, and an original theatrical concert, The Ray Legacy, celebrating the music of Ray Charles. West Side Story—admittedly a big title—will close the season at the Schermerhorn.

Artistic Director Matt Logan said the company still champions “classics,” but that’s a valuation of merit, not just familiarity.

Case in point, Gypsy is not as ubiquitous as The Sound of Music or My Fair Lady—both already under Studio Tenn’s belt, both to much acclaim—but it’s a mainstay of American theatre, widely regarded in the industry as “The Perfect Musical.”

Legacy performance

photo by Anthony Matula

STUDIO TENN THEATRE COMPANY NASHVILLE’S NEW YORK CONNECTION

by Blake Kniffin

“Gypsy has one of the best scripts of all time, with compelling characters and incredible music,” Logan said.

“Our hope is that people will trust Studio Tenn to deliver a worthwhile experience, even if they don’t already know and love this show.”

Logan has long had Gypsy on his short-list. During his time in New York, he worked in wardrobe for the 2003 Broadway revival starring Bernadette Peters. The experience continues to inspire his work, and Studio Tenn makes a point to keep abreast of the Broadway scene.

Integrating Broadway and local talent pools not only adds industry cred and cachet to Studio Tenn productions, but it serves another aspect of the company’s mission: “[to] educate and inspire the rising artists of our unique community.”

After all, Studio Tenn was born of a dual love for Broadway and Music City, and a dream to cultivate a dialogue and mutual relevance between the two.

“We believe Nashville has potential to be a launch pad for Broadway-worthy productions,” Speck said. “There’s a concentration of talent and artistic sensibilities here that gives even the Big Apple a run for its money.”

For more information, visit StudioTenn.com.

28 | UNITE Nashville

UNITE TRAVEL GUIDE 2015

UNITE Nashville | 29

TRAVEL GUIDE

columbus

Called “the most underrated gay city in America,” Columbus is a young, dynamic and diverse city with one of the country’s most open, progressive and widely embraced gay communities. That makes

ATLANTA Rooted in diversity and hospitality, Atlanta garners recognition each year for being a top gay travel destination, including landing a coveted spot on The Advocate’s 2015 list of “Queerest Cities in America.” Atlanta’s diverse population of five million residents is decidedly youthful and creative. Its vibrant neighborhoods offer endless opportunities for award-winning dining, boutique shopping and exciting nightlife for LGBT visitors each year. However, the best part of Atlanta lies not in its concrete and steel, but in its people. Visitors should come prepared to be welcomed with a healthy dose of “How y’all doing?” hospitality.

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for an ideal getaway filled with discovery.

Ohio’s capital -- and its largest city -- is known for its wildly creative local food scene and richly diverse arts and cultural scene, which are made approachable by incredibly friendly and welcoming locals, both gay and straight alike. Pulsating nightlife features everything from worldclass drag shows to world beat dance clubs, kick-back sports bars and neighborhood haunts and vintage-inspired brew pubs and speakeasys. The stunning new Le Méridien Hotel, The Joseph, receives rave reviews for its exquisite art collection, elegant service and first-rate amenities.

The city’s visitors bureau, Experience Columbus, makes it easy to plan a visit with one of the nation’s first and most comprehensive websites designed to welcome LGBT visitors.

TRAVEL GUIDE

indianapolis Home to one of the largest PRIDE festivals in the Midwest, bringing in over 100,000 people this past June, and honing the motto “Indy Welcomes All,” Indianapolis is a destination with a thriving LGBT scene. Watch a drag show or take to the dance floor at the upscale and lively Talbot Street cocktail lounge, explore the art galleries, shops and eateries of Mass Ave – a happening cultural and Indy LGBT district – or stop in for a drink at one of the many popular gay-friendly bars, including Tini, 501 Eagle and Metro. The LGBT community is an integral and central part of Indy’s community, contributing much to the cultural and economic success of the city. View the Visit Indy events calendar for upcoming shows and performances, and connect with a Visit Indy partner, the Indy Rainbow Chamber, which serves as the voice of the LGBT community in the city.

jacksonville

Jacksonville, perfectly located in Northeast Florida next to the sparkling Atlantic Ocean is home to Florida’s largest LGBT population, and the perfect mix of Florida Flair and Southern Hospitality to make any getaway and unforgettable one!

Whether you are looking to discover the undiscovered, ignite romance, reconnect with family or be inspired by the city’s cultural offerings, unique cuisine or vivid sunrises, anything is possible in Jacksonville. The “River City by the Sea”, boasts 22 miles of wide and relaxing beaches, close to 40 miles of the tranquil Intracoastal Waterway canal and the longest stretch of the beautiful St. Johns River making Jacksonville a boater’s dream come true. Back on land, Jacksonville is a city of parks with the largest urban-park system in the nation including 400 city parks, seven state parks and two national parks. And that’s not all! Jacksonville has a thriving cuisine and craftbeer scene and a vibrant, major cultural centers and a cosmopolitan nightlife that stretches from the beautiful Beaches all the way to our historic neighborhoods. photos appear courtesy of city tourism bureaus

UNITE Nashville | 31

TRAVEL GUIDE

minneapolis

knoxville Honored to have been chosen “Top Ten Greatest Gay Cities in America in 2012”, Knoxville continues to produce a robust gay scene filled with arts, culture, history, musical events, outdoor adventure, shopping and culinary experiences that will impress you.

Knoxville is a city that embraces diversity and respects the values of all of its citizens.

Visitors can experience a diverse nightlife or a daytime filled with adventure. The LGBT community invites you to visit our ever expanding downtown, including Gay Street (listed as one of the most desirable streets by the American Planning Association in 2012), Market Square (the central hub of downtown life and several LGBT friendly restaurants), the Old City (pub, clubs and eateries), Happy Holler (a newly gentrified area and home to gay bar XYZ ), Bearden (home of Kristopher’s, many local restaurants and shopping) and West Knoxville

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Minneapolis is a great LGBT destination because it’s been a welcoming, open environment for the LGBT community for many years, being recognized many times in the past for being a top city for LGBT by publications and groups. Our Twin Cities Pride festival is one of the largest in the country and is highly attended by LGBT and non-LGBT community members. Minnesota legalized same-sex marriage in 2013 and that fall, Meet Minneapolis, welcomed LGBT couples from the market surrounding the city to marry in the “I want to marry you in Minneapolis” campaign where the city gained media coverage nationally for the effort, and subsequently won a PR News Award. The city has numerous amenities that are sought after including LGBT bars, publications and organizations, but is also a destination for arts and culture, nature, sports, shopping, and dining.

(home of The Edge and great shopping).

Knoxville continues to be a trendsetter in LGBT functions with a PRIDE event that hosts over 20,000 people and proudly supports the Gay Men’s Chorus.

TRAVEL GUIDE

los angeles L.A.’s trademark creative industries have been magnets for gay and lesbian trendsetters for more than a century. Their sheer numbers and substantial influence have left a permanent, positive and gay-friendly legacy on L.A.’s culture, political climate and sense of community. LGBT life in this city of more than 15 million people continues to be as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. There is not just one gay neighborhood in this glittering metropolis: They dot the region.

You could spend an entire week just exploring gay and lesbian enclaves throughout the city—from Silver Lake to West Hollywood, from Downtown to Studio City, to name just a few. To learn more about one of the world’s most enticing LGBT destinations.

las vegas

As a world-renowned travel destination, Las Vegas prides itself on having some of the best offerings in nightlife, culinary, entertainment, luxury accommodations and more. The destination openly embraces adult freedom, transformation, and the option to be whoever, whenever, which truly creates the ultimate vacation for LGBT travelers. Soak up the sun with LGBT pool parties by day and wander the Strip with the glow of neon lights at night. Go to bed as the sun rises after an evening spent at one of the many LGBT nightclubs. Embrace the glitz and glam with a show by Britney Spears, Mariah Carey or any number of spectacular performers. Let shows like Cirque du Soleil and Steve Wynn’s ShowStoppers dazzle and wow audiences.

Indulge in some of the finest dishes and experience decadent cuisine from around the world. Celebrate with special events such as PRIDE in September, featuring the annual Gay Days Las Vegas, PRIDE Night Parade, Pride Festival in addition to Shedonism in October. From the world-class culinary outposts, to the showgirls, to the pools and wedding chapels, Las Vegas welcomes the LGBT community with arms open wide. photos appear courtesy of city tourism bureaus

UNITE Nashville | 33

TRAVEL GUIDE

richmond In 2014, Richmond came out of the closet with OutRVA, a campaign designed to show people Richmond’s strong LGBT community and highlight the area as a travel destination for LGBT travelers. Through coming out letters to destinations and celebrities, Richmond shared its true colors, the full rainbow. At RichmondisOut.com, travelers can learn more about the area from “Richmond Insiders,” LGBT Richmonders who have shared what they love about the area. Richmond Insiders are available to contact through the website so visitors can connect directly with a local and ask for recommendations when planning a trip. RichmondisOut.com also serves an outlet to celebrate Richmond’s LGBT community. Visitors are encouraged to share their own coming out stories on the site. To boost awareness for visitors, “Out” stickers can be seen throughout Richmond on storefronts, cars, food trucks and more.

sacramento Sacramento’s gay and lesbian community has grown to make the city, and in particular, Midtown, a popular destination for visitors of all interests. Midtown is home to Lavender Heights where various gayowned restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs, retail and other service-oriented businesses cater not just to the LGBT community, but to the community at large. Many are involved in the city’s gay and lesbian community events. Most importantly, Sacramento welcomes all families to come and enjoy our world-class museums, attractions, events and hotels. LGBT families and our residents are making Sacramento a destination to be enjoyed by all. The vibrant city welcomes everyone to visit, eat and smile.

photos appear courtesy of city tourism bureaus

34 | UNITE Nashville

DIRTY DANCING'S JOSHUA KEITH HAS THE TIME OF HIS LIFE

by Joey Amato

photo courtesy of TPAC

The stage version of the worldwide smash-hit film Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story On Stage will play the Tennessee Performing Arts Center for a limited, one-week engagement September 22-27.

We had the opportunity to chat with Joshua Keith, a featured ensemble member in the show.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you got into dancing.

I grew up in Winston Salem, NC. When I was very young, my mom took me to the Alvin Ailey School.

From that point forward, I knew I wanted to be in theatre and more specifically, a dancer. I starting dancing really young and began singing in my church choir. I received by BSA in musical theatre with a concentration in dance from Howard University.

What was your first major role?

I played the role of Richie in A Chorus Line. It is one of my favorite musicals of all time. I was the only African American in cast. I love that show. Being in musical theatre, there aren’t a lot of African American roles, so I tried to tell that story as well as possible.

How did you land the role in Dirty Dancing?

I was in Hawaii visiting my partner and saw an ad online that they were looking to cast for Dirty Dancing, so I went back to New York and began the audition process. It was almost of month of singing and dancing. This is my first tour. It’s a pretty great experience so far touring with a show that’s a movie. We sell out everywhere you go.

Does being part of a touring show have any challenges that you weren’t expecting?

It takes a while to adjust to life on the road, but I love it. I miss a few things like making my own coffee. I love Airbnb instead of staying at a hotel. It’s a wonderful thing. You get to help other people pay their mortgage and meet wonderful people along the way.

Then when I go back to that city on the next tour, I have a place to stay.

Everything That Is Good Begins With A Smile

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spirituality Every so often a prodigy is born that breaks the mold.

This generation, the world was introduced to celebrity psychic Michelle Whitedove. Michelle is internationally recognized for her supernatural abilities. Challenged on dozens of TV and radio shows, Whitedove has publicly proven her talents; her level of accuracy comes in historic proportions. Working hard to fight the Hollywood stereotype of the “crystal ball psychic”, she brings credibility to a field frequently associated with scam-artists.

Her insight on the LGBT community has also made her one of the most controversial psychics of our time.

I had the privilege to experience some quality conversation with this wonder woman. Celebrity predictions aside, Whitedove attacked some heavy issues.

Why did you want to do an interview with UNITE? LGBT prejudice needs to end. So many people don’t have courage to come out because they fear being disowned, judged and condemned. People need to be their authentic self. I’m very selective with the media that I’ve done and I use it to raise awareness. My life goal is to educate people and wake them up.

When did you realize the gifts you had?

It’s something I’ve had since birth, but it wasn’t until I was eight years old that I realized not everybody’s doing this; nor is it fully accepted by any measure.

How did you decide what to do with your abilities?

At the age of 18 I had a near death experience where I crossed over and came back. I didn’t return with more gifts, but instead I had a profound clarity and body of wisdom of precisely what my mission statement really is.

photo courtesy of Michelle Whitedove

INTERVIEW

WITH AN ANGEL

by Steven Binko

What’s your defining moment or something you’re proud of?

My biggest passion is working with (and helping) children. As a health intuitive I’ve been able to save lives.

I also help to solve cold cases which brings a lot of closure to families.

Are you religious?

I’m not in any religion; that’s why I always say I’m a spiritual medium. I find religion to be dogmatic and it comes with segregation. If God doesn’t judge, what gives you the right to judge?

When you say “God”, what do you mean?

God’s not a bearded man sitting on a cloud playing a harp (laughs). It’s a collective consciousness and energy that we’re all part of; our creator - what I call “spirit”.

What does spirit say about being gay?

Before you come to this world, we are given previews

36 | UNITE Nashville

of different lives where we choose what purpose to fulfill. When we select a contract, some have predetermined sexualities. For most of us, we are born bi-sexual and the “choice” is determined by what you connect with; it goes beyond anatomical connection. But really, why do people have to be categorized? We need to get out of that box.

Is being gay a sin that sends you to hell?

No. We’re all connected by something bigger than this world. As far as sexuality goes, it’s nothing more than a preference. Hell is here on earth and is something man created to scare the hell out of you!

You seem pretty gay friendly…

I have a rather large gay following! I don’t know if they like my shoes or something (laughs) but I take it as one hell of a complement. Gay people don’t do things based on what society, government or religion thinks. They have so much love to give and I admire their strength.

How can I tell real and fake psychics apart?

A real psychic won’t ask questions like a fishing expedition and shouldn’t give generalities. Unfortunately in my field there are more fakes than there are psychics that are legit.

What’s it like to hear, see and feel things all the time?

It never shuts up. There’s no on/off switch. If there was an off button, I would have already pushed it!

PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY

What do you say to skeptics?

Everyone is intuitive; some more than others. You see things now; I can just see further down the road.

Do you ever filter information when you give readings?

Never. That’s my rule. I’m known for telling it like it is. On the other hand, I’m not going to make anything up either. Sometimes I don’t get a message and I let people know that. People think that means I’m not legit, but if I put fake information out there, it would damage my credibility.

If you had one thing to say to the gay community, what would it be?

I love you unconditionally. Be your authentic self.

Walk proudly with your chin up and never let anyone limit you or categorize yourself (including yourself).

For more information, visit Michelle’s website www.michellewhitedove.com.

lhurst@villagerealestate.com LON HURST (615) 946-3177 mobile REALTOR ®, ePro, ABR (615) 383-6964 office

www.villagerealestate.com

(615) 383-6966 fax

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dining

SPECTACULAR WINE & FOOD ADVENTURES

by Shawn W. Klumpjan

Food and wine pairing can be a tricky task no matter what the circumstance.

Outdoors activities this time of year almost demand a refreshing beverage, a challenge when considering a good wine. DeVineGuy is here to help you find that perfect wine for your outdoor soirée.

I have always been a champion for the unconventional, quirky and sometimes radical approaches to pairing food and wine.

When creating an ideal culinary experience it all starts with adventure. “Keep your personal preferences and taste requirements in consideration”. I always have alternate wine onhand just in case a guest with a demanding palate or special need attends.

Surprising your guests and 38 | UNITE Nashville

being prepared will always leave someone with “DeVine” impressions and memories.

ZD Reserve Chardonnay is an amazing wine sourced from Carneros and one of the most intriguing Chardonnay’s I have ever tasted. By adhering to “Old World” Vinification techniques they enhance the characteristics and flavors of Chardonnay and the Carneros terroir. This gem of a wine brings a bright and zesty balance of fruit and natural acidity, showcasing bright pear and stone fruit beautifully laced with wild citrus flavors and orange blossom. Subtle hints of clove, lime and vanilla and a fine layer of toasted caramel undertones rounds out the palate for an exceptionally long finish. In the past I have paired this wine with an outstanding Coconut Cream Scallop Ceviche recipe from Food & Wine Magazine. The reduced coconut cream with ginger, pineapple and spices compliment each other, supporting the massive flavor of this wine in a way that no other pairing I have attempted seemed to accomplish. This is a perfect symbiotic union of body, flavor, texture and sensation. A “DeVine-PSA”: you just might get lost for a while in this experience and you will surely be waiting impatiently for your next round with these two “DeVine-Creations”.

Red wine has its own set of challenges, however not impossible. I love Pinot Noir, as it really is the most versatile red to pair with food. Pinot Noir is the “Chameleon” of red wine as it can pair effortlessly with dishes that one would typically pair with a white wine like chicken, pork and turkey. However, somewhat heavier dishes such as lean, smoked, wood-roasted and braised meats and sausages, vegetables of all categories and cooking methods, slow cooked meats & vegetables, and

cheeses of all styles are a perfect match for Pinot Noir’s earthy demeanor and fruity playfulness. No matter what style of Pinot Noir, whether it be old world or new world, you will find this wine is a great companion to some great summer culinary delights.

I was first introduced way back in 2000 to the Willamette Valley Vineyards, Whole-Cluster Pinot Noir. The intense layers of flavor on the nose and the luscious explosion on the palate, showcase a “Powerhouse Pinot” and deserves serious consideration and respect. The 2014 Willamette Valley Vineyards, Whole-Cluster Pinot Noir is no let down; if anything it is a great sequel. Deep ruby-red in color, the legs display a lite to medium-bodied red with bountiful aromas of blackberry, cherry, strawberry and hints of vanilla all enveloped in the characteristic earthiness of a quality Pinot Noir. On the palate, there is explosion of flavor as the wine enters the palate with luscious sweet and earthy sensations accented by a long well rounded finish.

The “Pinot Noir Connoisseur “ is sure to appreciate all the techniques and processes as well as Mother Nature’s role in creating this wine and be pleasantly surprised vintage over vintage at all of its wonders.

Food pairing with Pinot Noir is so relaxed. A great recipe match, however, is a gourmet burger. Recommended to me by my sister, this recipe takes the burger to a whole new level. A perfect fall pairing, the Dominican style “Chimi Burger” creates a brilliant relationship between food and wine. Saveur Magazine featured this recipe in Jan/ Feb 2014 issue and I can tell you that this burger and wine is a true culinary match made in heaven.

The key to this relationship is in the “Salsa Golf”, a simple sauce comprised of the natural juices from onions, tomatoes and cabbage lightly sautéed and combined with ketchup, mayonnaise and Worcestershire sauce. Finish off the plate with some Sweet Potato Fries and a Cilantro Lime dipping sauce and you will have your guests raving about you until it comes to the task of following it up.

So there you have it ladies and gentlemen, my two favorite pairings and I am not ashamed to tell you that I repeat them regularly. You will totally understand when you execute them yourself, just be cautious, as you will have requests time and time again to repeat them. I promise you will never get sick of them but only grow more and more adventurous like me. See how I draw people into my “DeVine-Web”? Be sure to check out all the additional possibilities and options that can work with any budget at www.DeVineGuy.Blogspot.com.

ANNOUNCES NEW SEASON

by Jesse Walker Nashville in Harmony (NiH), the first LGBT and friends community chorus in Music City, has announced its 2015-2016 season, Love That Rhythm. Continuing its tradition of providing an outstanding musical experience for the holidays and for Gay Pride month, there will be two main stage concerts: Glitter and Bling!

Jazzy Holiday Fun on December 12, and ¡Fiesta!

Spicy Latin Flavors on June 26, 2016. photo courtesy of Nashville In Harmony

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The holiday concert, Glitter and Bling!, will be held in the Polk Theater at TPAC and will feature some of your favorite holiday tunes, and perhaps a few you have never heard. Along with the music, there will be some special features that will delight and surprise the audience members. Many say that the NiH holiday concert really gets them into the holiday spirit.

The Pride concert, ¡Fiesta!, will feature songs with a distinctly Latin flavor. The chorus will celebrate the major advances made towards a world that is accepting of everyone – no matter what our differences.

It’s going to be a banquet of fiery rhythms, so get ready to party at ¡Fiesta!.

Of course, NiH does not stop with only two concerts per year. The chorus has joined forces with superstar songwriter Desmond Child for a fundraising concert on March 12, 2016. Livin’ On a Prayer: The Music of Desmond Child, will be sure to be a hit with everyone who attends.

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And, in keeping with its tradition, there will be a number of free concerts around town, including a celebration on World AIDS Day, and appearances at various community functions. Come and join with Nashville in Harmony as it seeks to live out its mission statement: Using Music to Build Community and Create Social Change.

For more info, visit www.nashvilleinharmony.org.

Ty Herndon knows with ALT Travel the road never runs out.

There is always a special destination to run to.

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lifestyle

FIRST DATE WITH A DUDE:

THE MEMOIRS OF GARRETT DANIEL LEE photo courtesy of Garrett Daniel Lee

I was sweating through every nice item of clothing I owned.

The more and more I tried on a new shirt, the more and more I hated life. If you’ve ever been on a date, you know how difficult it is to pick out an outfit.

Though I had been on dates before, this one was special.

Who’s the lucky person, you ask? It was someone who turned out to be a real douchebag–and that’s okay because this person gave me a really fun story to write.

our wedding colors and searching for furniture on Craigslist.

Looks can be deceiving.

We talked a little bit here and there while our waitress smiled at us, probably deciding if we were on a date or whether we were just friends getting dinner. And then something happened.

As much as I’m sure you’re anticipating him getting up and throwing his drink in my face and busting his shirt open like the Hulk, he quietly grabbed his phone from his pocket and laid it next to his plate.

His name was Mark (not really but go with it). Mark asked me out on a date, and it was going to be the first time I’d be publicly seen with another guy on a date, so I already had the nervous sweats.

Here’s the thing: I don’t mind if you check your phone 2-3 times during a meal if it’s buzzing constantly, but when you are on a date, you are present, which this guy was everything but. I could tell ten minutes in that it was going to be a hot mess, so I decided to have some fun with the situation anyway. Instead of pardoning myself from dinner due to a deathly illness or a family member in an, I simply looked for the most expensive item on the menu. So yes, you bet your sweet ass I ordered that rib eye steak and a loaded baked potato with a side salad, as he continued to look at his phone every 3 seconds.

Mark and I met up at a pretty fancy restaurant that had words like “steak” and “salmon” which was a definite one-up from my usual menu reading from inside my car at Taco Bell. He was tall, handsome, smiled a ton, and I liked his style. I was already picking out

The conversation was pretty bland, presumably because Dick, excuse me, Mark, was constantly on his phone. I decided to kick it up a notch and make the conversation real interesting, at least for me. We were nearing the end of our meal when he asked something about California beaches. I took this and ran— no—sprinted, because I saw him about to pick up his phone for 666th time (Yes, I’m making a subtle hint that Mark is the Devil).

After all, it was perfect timing. I made it through dinner with this dude, so I deserved to have some fun.

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And it basically went like this: “So, Garrett, did you go to the beach a lot in California?”

“Well, Mark, thanks for asking that amazing question that had nothing to do with our existing conversation about music.”

I didn’t really say that, but my tone was revealing of my attitude towards him.

“Yeah, I went to the beach a good bit. (MARK PICKS UP PHONE) I actually had some crazy experiences there. One time, I think I was 11 or 12, I went surfing and I was actually attacked by a shark.

I was in the hospital for a few months, but I left with just some scars and bruises on my abdomen.”

Mark was glaring at his phone, forgetting all manners of eye contact. He did the occasional “Mhm” and “Wow” as my story came to an end. I might’ve said I lost a limb from the shark attack, but that’s beside the fact.

I looked up at him. “Mark?”

He set his phone down gently and responded, “Yes?” “What did I just say?”

Mark was caught off guard.

“Um…you said something about surfing at the beach when you were younger!” he spoke innocently. All I remember at this point is leaning in towards him and saying, “I told you I was attacked by a shark.

Did you not hear my story?”

“Oh my God, Garrett! You were attacked by a shark?”

“No you idiot. You have been on your phone this whole date and you know I was nervous about meeting you.”

I got up and left.

Chivalry has surely depleted but I will never settle for lack of respect.

Moral of the Story: If I can survive a shark attack, I can survive horrible dates, too.

Other Moral of the Story: If I can survive a shark attack, then I deserve a fancy steak here and there.

NASHVILLE’S COMMUNITY TREASURE

by Mellissa McKinley Covenant of the Cross is led by senior pastor Greg Bullard and a dedicated ministry team. Under their guidance, Covenant developed an outreach program that rivals any of the larger churches in Nashville. Recognizing that the heart of the church is not limited to one building on Sunday mornings, Covenant has partnered with numerous non-profit groups in order to meet the needs of the community, regardless of gender, orientation, or religion.

They acknowledge that the treasure of Christ is in community, and it is by serving others unconditionally that we can build an authentic relationship with God. The Oasis Center provides at-risk youth a connection to a caring adult, a safe & secure environment, and empowerment to make better choices. Through partnership with Covenant of the Cross, 300 protein snack bags have been provided monthly throughout 2015 for over 500 homeless youth in Nashville. According to national statistics, about 40% of these kids identify as LGBTQ. Many of them have aged out of the foster care system and cannot readily be served by existing adult shelters.

Sackrifice: Hearts4Hunger strives to create a legacy of compassion, and inspire others to do the same. Their mission is to end hunger, one person – one heart – at a time. Their monthly outreach blesses over 300 homeless people with a sack lunch, prepared and delivered out of love and kindness. Over the last eight months, Covenant of the Cross has assisted in preparing over 2,400 sack lunches for this amazing program.

In June of 2014, Covenant achieved something truly extraordinary. The congregation of 200 raised enough money to pay off the mortgage on a church-owned property. The rental income can now be used to address the outreach that Pastor Greg refers to as the 3 H’s: Hunger, Health, and Homelessness. Through a local clinic, the church helps provide free co-pays for initial visits. The Food Pantry and Covenant Cupboard has given out 600 food boxes in 2015, with each box averaging 40 meals. More than 966 adults and children have benefited from these food boxes, plus area programs like Meals on Wheels. All contributions are provided by church members, community donations, and our local Farmer’s Market. No one in need has been turned away due to gender, orientation or lack of church attendance. Everyone is welcome!

Visit www.covenantofthecross.com for more information.

LOVE OUT LOUD at the Hutton Hotel The Hutton Hotel | 1808 West End Ave. | Nashville, TN 37203 | 615.340.9333 | www.thehuttonhotel.com

religion

A CONVERSATION

WITH REVEREND JOSEPH PATRICK BREEN

by Joey Amato the way of young gay people who took their lives as a result of the struggles they were facing.”

Breen has heard dozens of stories from LGBT individuals about the pain of being gay and the how they suffered. “It shouldn’t be that way. We are all God’s children.”

photo courtesy of Joey Amato

Breen tells us that over 30 million people have left the Catholic Church in recent decades due to a multitude of reasons. “The Church condemns same-sex marriage and homosexuality,” he states. “Leadership was way behind and not willing to change, but in the past 3-4 years, people are starting to come around a bit.

We need to do a study on why those individuals left. If we understand the reasons, we may be able to bring them back.”

Rev. Joseph Patrick Breen has made a lot of heads turn in recent weeks. In untraditional fashion, Breen recorded a video speaking out in support of same-sex marriage, a vast contradiction to the views of the Catholic Church of which he is a part.

He became an ordained diocesan priest in Rome in 1961 before returning to Tennessee to serve at parishes in Cleveland and Murfreesboro. He was later assigned to St. Edward Roman Catholic Church and has since then become a strong ally of LGBT and minority groups in Greater Nashville.

“Before I moved to Nashville, I was a pastor at MTSU and I was privileged to meet a lot of young college kids who identified as LGBT. They shared a lot with me and I grew to love them,” he mentioned. “When I relocated to Nashville, I came to know more and more gay people. I’m sad to say that I also attended a few funerals along

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Breen has seen families of LGBT individuals struggle with their affiliation with the Church because the Church is not willing to accept their children. “They made it really hard for gay people and their relatives. People are getting discouraged the church isn’t as welcoming. Parents who are supportive get upset that the church still calls it sinful. Pope Francis said the Church has been hung up too much on sexuality. We need to reach out to those who feel alienated and bring them back.” Breen is confident that through the leadership of Pope Francis, the Church will begin to turn around.

Recently, Breen received a phone call from a 79-year-old woman who said she was thinking about leaving the church. She enjoyed the celebration of the Eucharist but she went on to say that she has two gay sons and her church condemned the Supreme Court’s decision on same-sex marriage. “She told me she couldn’t go back to that Church and the Christian church is running her away. I shared her story with other Bishops and even sent a letter to Pope Francis. I was so impressed with her story.”

According to Breen, studies in recent years have shown a complete reversal in same-sex marriage approval among Catholics. In just 2 years, it went from 30% in support to 70% in support. “That change it very unusual. More and more parents are becoming involved in their gay child’s lives, which is helping to turn things around. Parents who are Catholic are questioning the church but Pope Francis is giving people like me hope and making us feel good again.”

His recent video has seen by a few thousand people, but Breen hopes his message can be spread worldwide. “I haven’t heard a word from the church in regards to the video, but I am hopeful some LGBT people will see the video and bring them back to the church. Please pray for me.”

GET TICKETS AT AEGLIVE.COM

AMERICANAFEST

with Loretta Lynn, Steve Earle, Gillian Welch & many more Saturday, September 19

DISCLOSURE

Sunday, October 4

KID ROCK

Kid Rock’s 1st Annual Fish Fry @ Fontanel Friday, October 9 & Saturday, October 10

INDIGO GIRLS

with Kristy Lee Tuesday, September 22

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD with Bad Suns and Hunny Friday, September 25

BEN RECTOR

with Judah & the Lion Friday, October 9 & Saturday, October 10

WARREN HAYNES

with Gill Landry Tuesday, October 13

VINTAGE TROUBLE with Greg Holden Friday, October 16

ANDREW MCMAHON IN THE WILDERNESS AND NEW POLITICS with The Griswolds and LOLO Thursday, November 12

LIGHTS & THE MOWGLI’S with Phases Friday, November 13

PATTY GRIFFIN

with Darlingside Wednesday, October 14

WALK THE MOON

with HOLYSIDE Friday, October 16 & Saturday, October 17

STEVE MILLER BAND Wednesday, October 28

CITY & COLOUR

with Bahamas Sunday, December 13