🏳️‍🌈 Fighting Lipscomb’s new anti-LGBTQ+ stance

🏳️‍🌈 Fighting Back Against Lipscomb’s New Anti-LGBTQ+ Stance

In August, Lipscomb University quietly posted an anti-LGBTQ+ marriage statement on their website, sparking outrage in the campus community. On the City Cast Nashville podcast, former professor Dr. Dana Chamblee Carpenter — who resigned due to the university’s change in attitude — and Lipscomb grad Rachel Randolph explain why they’re pushing back. [🎧 City Cast Nashville]

🔶 Demolition Begins at Old Tent City

On Tuesday, Metro began demolishing structures at Old Tent City, a long-established encampment located between Hermitage Avenue and the Cumberland River. Residents had asked for more time to find alternative housing solutions, which delayed the clearance by a month. [WKRN]

🏫 Four MNPS Schools To Become Magnets

Four Metro Nashville Public Schools will receive grants from the federal Magnet Schools Assistance Program, designed to “to promote desegregation, increase academic achievement … and foster community collaboration.” Glenview, Paragon Mills, and Stratton Elementaries will become Spanish-immersion magnets, and Brick Church Middle will become an early college magnet. [Nashville Scene]

🎨 A Deep Dive Into the Metro Arts Discrimination Scandal

The Metro Human Relations Commission (disclosure: I’m a commissioner) released a detailed explainer on the Metro Arts funding scandal that’s consumed the department for over a year. Following a Title VI discrimination complaint, the commission negotiated a conciliation agreement to the tune of $2.3 million in additional payments to artists. [Nashville.gov]

Maiz de la Vida

What began as a pandemic tortilla food truck side hustle has blossomed into a thriving restaurant at Paseo South Gulch. Maiz de la Vida’s vibrant, open space exudes a communal atmosphere that invites diners to stay and share a meal. James Beard Award semifinalist Julio Hernandez, originally from Tlaxcala, Mexico, infuses his heritage into a menu that's both familiar and bold, with highlights like enchiladas and duck breast served with rich, flavorful mole negro. Don’t miss the tres leches de cafe for a swoon-worthy dessert finale.

Cafe Babu

Start your day with a frothy Greek cappuccino or house-favorite masala chai — a creamy, sweet blend of Assam tea and aromatic spices — at Cafe Babu. This new cafe nestled in Chestnut Hill blends European charm with rich cultural roots, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. The signature babu latte, made with homemade cardamom syrup, is a spiced dream in a cup. Pair your coffee with fresh pastries from local bakeries, or for something more filling, the prosciutto and fig and Mumbai veggie sandwich are great options. In the evening, Cafe Babu transforms into the perfect hangout where you can sip wine or cocktails. Whether for a quiet retreat or a casual meetup, it’s a must-visit for Nashville’s café lovers.

Lowbar

Get ready, East Nashville: Rock ‘n’ roll masterminds Mike Grimes and Dave Brown have launched Lowbar, your new underground spot for pre-show drinks, post-show karaoke, and good times. Located beneath their venue The Basement East, Lowbar is a nod to their former bar, Slow Bar, in Five Points. Designed by the team behind Rosemary & Beauty Queen, this bar serves elevated cocktails like palomas and old fashioneds, with wings from JaQ Rabbit Slims. The retro vibe, a blend of “Saturday Night Fever” and “Cheers,” sets the stage for dancing, pool, darts, and karaoke. With 4,500 square feet, including a 900-square-foot karaoke room, and a 40-seat patio, it’s the perfect spot to grab a drink before heading upstairs for a show. Ticket holders can even skip the line and enter through a rear entrance for a seamless concert experience.