Nashville Metro Council passes domestic partnership benefits

Last night, Nashville’s Metro Council approved domestic partner benefits for all city employees by a vote of 27-7.

The result was expected, but some council members spoke out strongly against the policy before the vote.

Councilman Bill Pridemore said his and his constituents’ values would be “compromised” by the idea, and Councilman Phil Claiborne moved to defer the final vote indefinitely, citing budgetary concerns. But Councilman Lonnell Matthews moved to table Claiborne’s motion, and the council agreed.

Metro Finance Director Rich Riebeling said the financial impact of the policy would be small — $450,000 or so — within the $1.89 billion operating budget the council had passed moments earlier.

After the vote, Nashville Mayor Karl Dean called it a “big day” for the city: “If we believe that each person has value and we treat each other with respect, then I think this city will be in fine shape. I’m proud of the effort, I’m proud of our city and I’m proud of you all.”

Nashville: Morton’s Steakhouse in social media firestorm over alledged treatment of cancer victim

Morton’s Steakhouse in Nashville has a big problem on their hands over asking a cancer victim with cold sensitivity due to undergoing chemotherapy to remove his wool beanie. From FOX 17:

The diners say their friend was asked to remove his hat, and explained the situation to the manager, who allegedly said that the gentleman should bring a doctor’s note or call ahead so that he could be seated in a private dining area.

Witnesses say the cancer patient along with his wife and kids became very upset over how the situation was handled and they stormed out to leave. The police even arrived. The incident has created a firestorm on social media.

One witnesses account posted on Facebook has been shared nearly 6,000 times already. Dozens of people have commented on sites like Facebook and Yelp. One witness named Ashly posted this on Yelp. I will never step foot in this establishment along with everyone else who was a part of our party. And we will spread the word of this terrible treatment until an apology is received. Unacceptable to say the least.

Morton’s responded on their Facebook page say, “Morton’s fans: We are aware of the situation that happened at our Nashville location over the weekend. We appreciate you all bringing it to our attention, and we have reached out to the parties involved and can assure you that all facts will be uncovered.”

FOX 17 News has talked with the victim who says that the restaurant has not contacted him.

As a cancer survivor myself I can attest to how chemo can make you very sensitive to cold temperatures. I could barely walk down a frozen food aisle at the grocery store during my treatment.

Sad that an assistant manager couldn’t use common sense and compassion in a delicate moment.

Here’s just one of several comments on Yelp about the incident.

(source)

NASHVILLE: Great music! Leslie Ellis and more!

This is a Benefit for Todd Cerney who is battling Melanoma. In addition to the amazing Leslie Ellis, the show features Thom Shepherd, “Restless Heart”, Steve Holy and Ty Herndon as well as a huge cast of writers and performers…including Todd himself!

Here’s the link to the jamboree! Go! Enjoy!

Red Rooster Bar and Music Hall – Feb 28 – Door open at 6pm.

Red Rooster Bar and Music Hall
Address: 1530 Demonbreun St Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: 615-457-2781
Directions: Exit 40W onto Demonbreun St. and turn left.
About a block down on the right.
Look for the big Red Rooster!