No Shakeups Here

The "Ear to the Ground" item headlined "Legacy" in the Jan. 21-28 issue contains several incorrect statements. While it is true that David McNabb was involved with AIDS Response Knoxville for several years at its inception, he ended his association with the agency approximately six years ago. Mr. McNabb's criticism of ARK's programs and its approach to client services were based on a personal animus which he felt toward the agency and more specifically toward its executive director.

Far from being a "massive shakeup," the changes at ARK consisted of the elimination (at least temporarily) of two positions, one staff and one contractual. These positions were funded exclusively through unrestricted funds and donations. It is true that the staff position was that of the executive director, but its elimination was not in any way a reflection on person holding that position (Dawn Nickoloff). The position was eliminated for fiscal reasons only, so that all of ARK's resources could be directed toward what has always been the most important part of ARK's mission, which is client services. No other agency in the Knoxville area serves the number of clients which ARK does (almost 700) or offers the breadth of services to those clients which ARK offers. ARK also serves a 16 county area—more than any other similar agency in the area. As federal and state funding for AIDS programs stays constant or falls, the number of clients grows, thanks to medical advances which allow those with HIV/AIDS to live longer, fuller lives.

McNabb's only involvement in the changes at ARK is due to his consistent negative attitude toward ARK and its professional staff of licensed social workers and case managers. This negativity has been partially responsible for a decrease in general donations of unrestricted funds to ARK. If Mr. McNabb's friends wish to find humor or joy in the fact that this area's largest AIDS service organization is going through a period of transition, they certainly have that right. For Metro Pulse to print incorrect information is sloppy and irresponsible journalism.

Scott Bishop
Knoxville

Farrah Hair Memories

Enjoyed Fred Sahms's article on Incoming Freshman [Vol. 9, No. 3]. I found it especially interesting for I was there the night of the filming in the "long-defunct establishment on Cumberland Ave."

This establishment was then known as "Casino Royale" and it was the first real "Disco" to invade the strip. (Wendy's now inhabits its locale.) Through the years, it was Shoney's, Irelands, Foxy Lady, Casino Royale and then ultimately Cheeks. It was one of those landmarks that will always remain dear to the hearts of those of us who were fortunate to grow up in the '70s. I'm sure many of your readers will also have fond memories of this place.

As for Incoming Freshmen, I always wondered if the film made it to a screen. At that time we had no idea what its name would be or even what it was about. We were just trying to conduct a normal evening of business while stepping over cords and trying to endure the hot lights. (Who knew?)

As for me, I am in hot pursuit! Off to the nearest video store in search of Incoming Freshmen. (Maybe I'll catch a glimpse of myself in the background sportin' my "Farrah hair" and my six inch platforms!)

Thanks for jarring my memory, Fred Sahms. I look forward to your future articles.

Sarah Bounds
Knoxville