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April 21-May 4, 2011 | Issue 415 | Spring Gardening

contents
A Word in Edgewise.......................... 8
Bits and Pieces................................... 9
Letters................................................. 10
Glimpses............................................. 12

Photo Courtesy of Scott Endres


Cover Feature: Spring Gardening.... 14
NEW Gardening................................. 16
Photo by Hubert Bonnet

Passing............................................... 19

News
PFund Promotions............................. 22
Big Gay News..................................... 24 14 16
Arts
Jeffrey................................................. 26
Spotlight............................................. 28
Books.................................................. 32
The Whiz: Moneyapolis..................... 32

Out on the Town


Calendar............................................. 36
Advertiser Guide................................ 38
Photo by Hubert Bonnet

Bar: Bartender.................................... 38

T. Sanson
Bar: Showcase................................... 40
Bar: Lavender Lens............................ 42
Pool League Tournament

Photo by
Food: Restaurant................................ 44
Food: Bites.......................................... 46 44 50
Sugar & Spice.................................... 48 online
NEW Socially Savvy.......................... 49

Leisure
Travel.................................................. 50 WandaWisdom.com
The ORIGINAL Podcasting Drag Queen
Sports................................................. 52 Wanda's Got Big
Bloopers!
Head on over to
Lavender Lens:................................... 54 Wanda's YouTube site
HRC Bowling for Equality (http://youtube.com/
wandawisdom) and
Business Profile................................. 56 check out the brand-new
Check out wacky blooper reel from
Consider the Source.......................... 58 our Lavender Digital Edition at
Wanda's holiday video,
lavendermagazine.com
Dateland............................................. 60 A Christmas Wanda! And while you're there, check out the
other 30 some videos your favorite podcasting drag queen
Cartoon: Trolín................................... 60 has uploaded!
Ms. Behavior...................................... 64
Through These Eyes.......................... 66
BigGayNews.com
Your daily podcast of GLBT world news!
Top Headlines
3 Delaware City Elects State's First Openly Gay Mayor
to Win Prizes every issue! 3 Transgender City Manager Accused of Anti-Gay Bias
Go to www.lavendermagazine.com/ 3 Chris Armstrong Sues Andrew Shirvell for Stalking
category/contests-and-promotions/ 3 Arkansas Court Strikes Down Gay Adoption Ban
On the COver
Neil Imsdahl from Linder's Garden Center.
Photo by Hubert Bonnet
+ Digital Extra: Dining guide

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T. Sanson
Photo by

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Volume 16, Issue 415 • April 21–May 4, 2011

Editorial
Editor Emeritus Ethan Boatner 612-436-4670
Editorial Director George Holdgrafer 612-436-4672
Editorial Associate Sede Vacante 612-436-4671
Copy Editor Bridget Rocheford-Kearney
Volunteer Kaitlyn E. Walsh
Podmaster Bradley Traynor 612-436-4669
Contributors Brian Cheese, Meryl Cohn, Julie Dafydd,
Scott Endres, Heidi Fellner, Terrance Griep, Chris Homan, Ed
Huyck, Justin Jones, Steve Lenius, Jennifer Parello, Edward
Piechowski & Sean Ryan, Abigail Stoddard, John Townsend,
Carla Waldemar

Advertising
Sales & Advertising Director Barry Leavitt 612-436-4690
Senior Account Executive Suzanne Farrell 612-436-4699
Account Executives Scott Belcher 612-436-4675, Adam
Houghtaling 612-436-4697
Advertising Associate George Holdgrafer 612-436-4672
Sales & Advertising Traffic Coordinator
Linda Raines 612-436-4694
Classifieds Suzanne Farrell 612-436-4699
National Sales Representative Rivendell Media
212-242-6863

Creative
Creative Director Hubert Bonnet 612-436-4678
Creative Assistant Mike Hnida 612-436-4679
Photographer Sophia Hantzes
Cartoonist Rodro
Lavender Studios Hubert Bonnet, Mike Hnida

Administration
Publisher Lavender Media, Inc.
President & CEO Stephen Rocheford 612-436-4665
Vice President & CC Pierre Tardif 612-436-4666
Chief Financial Officer Carolyn Lima 612-436-4664
Administrative Assistant Austin Lindstrom 612-436-4661
Founders George Holdgrafer, Stephen Rocheford
Inspiration Steven W. Anderson (1954-1994), Timothy J. Lee
(1968-2002), Russell Berg (1957-2005), Kathryn Rocheford
(1914-2006), Jonathan Halverson (1974-2010)

Send all your calendar events to Linda@lavendermagazine.com

Letters are subject to editing for grammar, punctuation, space, and libel.
They should be no more than 300 words. Letters must include name, ad-
dress, and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be published. Prior-
ity will be given to letters that refer to material previously published in
Lavender Magazine. Submit letters to Lavender Magazine, Letters to the
Editor, 3715 Chicago Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55407; or e-mail
<editor@lavendermagazine.com>.

Lavender Media Inc.


3715 Chicago Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55407
LavenderYellowPages.com
612-436-4660 office
877-515-9969 toll free
612-436-4685 fax
612-436-4664 subscriptions
612-436-4660 distribution
612-436-4698 advertising

LavenderMagazine.com BigGayNews.com WandaWisdom.com

Entire contents copyright 2011. All rights reserved. Publication of the name
or photograph of any person, organization, or business in this magazine does
not reflect upon one’s sexual orientation whatsoever. Lavender® Magazine
reserves the right to refuse any advertising. This issue of Lavender® Magazine
is available free of charge during the time period published on the cover.
Pickup at one of our distribution sites is limited to one copy per person.

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| a word in edgewise | by E.B. Boatner

Plus Ça Change…
To avoid the overwhelming bad news greeting me daily— The interment took place 2,900-2,500 BC, a few thousand—maybe
heartbreaking stories from Japan; horrendous portents in govern- tens of thousands of—years more recent than erroneous “caveman”
ment; Michele Bachmann abroad in the nation—I’ve immersed perceptions. Cuneiform writing and pyramids existed, though not
myself in reading C.J. Sansom’s superb historical crime series set in near present-day Prague, where the “Gay” Caveman was found.
Tudor England. The 16th Century, I reasoned, should be far enough After the initial flap, some pointed out that there was no way to
removed to do the trick. determine the individual’s sexuality. Writer Jenny Wilson via Li-
But no. Sansom’s protagonist, lawyer Matthew Shardlake, is a fine veScience mentioned that early peoples often recognized gender dif-
man in a falling time, but his world is all too familiar: internecine ferences, and treated the individual accordingly.
struggles between the now-forbidden Catholic belief and Protestants, Having viewed a photo of the skeleton in situ, I found it interesting
and among the intransigent Protestant sects themselves; Jews and to note that the bones looked to be adult, intact, and respectfully-
Muslims as personae non grata; dwindling succor for the poor and positioned with the goods he would need for the afterlife.
homeless; widespread political corruption and heavy penalties for My unsupported conclusion is that whoever he was, the man had
almost anything. Here, “torturer” is a job description. some place and functions in his community, lived peacefully with his
Then, I was sent a piece on a “Gay” Caveman. Fascinating, but people, and was laid to rest among them in death.
wrongly and sensationally handled in the popular press reminiscent It seems that our own society has less acceptance and empathy
of the way Sansom depicted superstition, rumor, and ignorance in than this early group for gender/sexual variance, and has traveled
1537, when Londoners first encountered talking parrots. marginally farther from the Tudor Era, mainly in contriving to live
The Caveman must be “Gay,” according to the press, because his longer so as to beleaguer even more people with rumor, factionalism,
skeleton was laid out on his left side, like women in that culture, and and intransigence.
surrounded by pottery, rather than weapons and tools, as were men.

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| bits and Pieces | by Wanda Wisdom

Thanks for Listening to the


Original Podcasting Drag Queen
My name is Wanda Wisdom. I’m a 35-year-old, sober podcasting I’ve met the most amazing and randomly-delightful people, made
drag queen hostess with the most-est. In fact, I’m the original Pod- silly movies, and even waved to adoring fans atop a party bus during
casting Drag Queen. the Pride Parade.
Six years ago in March, I started recording my random audio ram- I’ve seen a lot. I’ve learned a lot. But you know the one thing that
blings in a dank, dark basement with nothing more than a $20 micro- marvels me most about the past six years? My listeners. My lucky
phone from Radio Shack and a very tragic little desktop PC. lady listeners (I call ’em all ladies, even the straight guys) have been
I learned everything I needed to know about the then-pioneering with me through thick and thin. Literally.
medium of podcasting from a bloated lesbian named Madge Wein- They were there when I was fat. They were there when I was in
stein—visit <YeastRadio.com>. the gym six days a week. They listened through my breakups, career
I built up a small but loyal audience of a couple hundred people from changes, and every wacky moment along the way. They continue to
around the world—that is, until the folks at Apple came along, and added listen, no matter my topics, no matter my mood. When I’m down,
podcasts to the Tunes store. Overnight, my audience sextupled. How they send encouragement. When I reach new heights, they’re there
many of you have an audience, much less one that sextuples? to slap me a great big high-five.
A little more than a year later, I was podcasting live from a brand I’m not sure I ever have been able to express adequately the level of
new boudoir at Lavender Media. Sure, I still was podcasting from a gratitude I feel for my listeners. They, more than anyone else, have helped
basement, but this one had carpet and track lighting. me find my voice, and made it possible for me to follow my dreams.
As the years passed, I podcasted all over the place, interviewing As I enter my seventh year of podcasting, let me dedicate my work
celebrities, walking the streets of Minneapolis, and yammering on to them—to you. Now, let’s get back to the boudoir, and record an-
into the Interwebs. other podcast!

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Letters |

Thanks from Winning


Marriage Equality
Just a note to thank Lavender
Magazine, and specifically writer
Kaitlyn E. Walsh, for the great
article on Winning Marriage
Equality in the March 10 issue.
It focused on our mission, and
was not a feature about me. I so
appreciate how well you put our
mission into print. Thanks again
for the great job that you and
your staff do.
Denny Smith
Executive Director
Winning Marriage Equality

Kudos from Las Vegas


Hi! I’m a transplanted Minnesotan,
actually from up on “da Range” (the Iron
Range), now living in Las Vegas. I think
you “guys” do a wonderful job, and I totally
love reading my Lavender! You all keep me
in touch with “home,” and I do appreciate
it greatly. I love your restaurant reviews,
even though I’m down here in the desert.
Keep up the great work.
Ken Swartz

Doesn’t Fit Lavender Demographic


I have noticed over the last several
years that there has been less and less
of interest for me in Lavender. Now, I re-
alize why. I’m a renter. I’m retired (i.e.,
old). And though I don’t consider myself
poor, I live on way less than $89,996. And
let’s not forget, I’m a woman. I guess
there’s no need to keep picking up Lav-
ender religiously. Now that I know I’m
not part of your target demographic, that
whole lack-of-relevance thing makes so
much more sense.
DJ Munro

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glimpses by George Holdgrafer

Slow Mo Benefits Trans Youth Support

1
Network
On February 12, Slow Mo was held as an alternative and safe fundraiser
for the Trans Youth Support Network (TYSN). Thanks to organizer Katie
Delaney, more than 300 participants enjoyed a romantic evening at
The Exchange, 3405 Chicago Avenue South, Minneapolis. TYSN is a
partnership of youth and community members working together to support
trans youth in Minnesota.

Photo by Sophia Hantzes

Txuj Ci Showcases Hmong LGBTQA Arts and

2
Talents
In partnership with the GLBTQ Programs Office at the University of
Minnesota, Shades of Yellow (SOY), along with many other amazing artists,
showcased Hmong LGBTQA arts and talents at Txuj Ci on March 2 at
Coffman Union on the U of M campus. The event featured art and music,
as well as, for the first time, a queer fashion design collection.

Photo by Sophia Hantzes

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Cover Feature | Spring Gardening | by E.B. Boatner

Four Resources
Help Your Green Thumb
It’s that time again—the sun is shining, the breez- What about the more timorous or less-knowledgeable?
es wafting. Your burgeoning yard is calling you. But They see their grounds not as a challenge to be surmount-
to do what? ed, but as a wiley foe, daring them to penetrate its legions
You’ve been at gardening catalogs since you turned of stones, and delve into its too-acid/too-basic earth.
your clocks back last fall. Armed with plans, you know Coming to the rescue, four local resources share
what you want, precisely where you intend to set it in some seasonal comments for every gardener on the
the earth, and what you expect to emerge. circle.

Photo Courtesy of Matt's Tree Service Photo Courtesy of Tree Protection Project

Matt’s Tree Service Tree Protection Project


If you’ve got a tree emergency, Matt Dosser, owner of Matt’s Tree Ser- Philip Klocksien, a consulting forester and owner of Tree Protection
vice (MTS), is ready for your call, 24-7. His arboricultural team has served Project, is an International Society of Arboriculture-certified arborist and
the Twin Cities area for more than 14 years, taking pride in a record of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR)-certified tree inspector
safety, efficiency, and environmental preservation. who also works with urban clients.
Dosser, who emphasizes that, like your pets, your trees need ongoing Klocksien states, “As a DNR plan preparer, I contract to assist woodland own-
care, attention, and supervision, points out, “They are the largest piece of ers in tree planting, selective tree harvest, and trail-building. Participants in the
landscape you own.” Forest Stewardship Program receive tax benefits for managing their land.”
The more effort you put into maintenance of your trees, the longer you “I diagnose insect and disease problems, and make recommendations
will be able to enjoy their gifts of shade, beauty, and in some instances fruits. for proper care. I assess for structural and decay issues, and recommend
Fully-bonded, insured, and licensed, MTS provides a full spectrum of prun- proper pruning to improve trees’ health.
ing, trimming, tree and stump removal, and inspection for destructive insects. Klocksien relates, “My biggest challenge is helping clients understand
Dosser notes, “We encourage our customers, whether current or poten- and cope with emerald ash borer, a ‘new’ insect which has found its way here
tial, to come to us with questions or concerns about their trees. Our hotline from Eurasia.”
is always open in case of emergency, and our team is ready at all times to Stressing the importance of accurate information, Klocksien explains,
professionally deal with any situation.” “Often, chemicals only treat the symptom. Unless one truly understands the
For the heretofore-untreed, Dosser cautions, “New homeowners should workings of the forest, it is impossible to understand trees in a yard context.
look for cracks in trees or supporting cables—both signs that a tree has issues.” “Much of the metro and outstate areas are forested, and your quality of
One final, important caveat from Dosser for the eager digger: “Don’t life will really suffer when trees suffer. Tree-hugger or not, we all breathe
plant trees near power lines.” the oxygen trees provide, and you can’t get more dependent than that.”

Matt’s Tree Service
 Tree Protection Project


(612) 706-8210
 (651) 387-4512
http://www.mattstreeservice.us treeguyphilip@msn.com

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Wagner’s Greenhouses Linder’s Greenhouse
and Garden Center

Photos by Hubert Bonnet Photos by Hubert Bonnet

Nola Wagner, landscape ser-


President of Wag- vice that will do
ner’s Greenhous- anything from
es, a family-owned consulting to full-
business now op- blown scale plan-
erating in the fifth generation at ing just suggests different plants In 1910, Albert Linder started ning to full installation.”
the same location, advises, “The for that time of the year. It is al- Linder’s Greenhouse and Garden More specifically, Armstead
beginning gardener should start ways good to draw a plan with Center, providing celery and other suggests, “Buy plants that may
small, and pick a sunny area if pos- dimensions, and bring it to the produce. Times changed, and he have a dual purpose. Maybe they
sible where the soil drains well. garden center for suggestions.” introduced flowers, phasing out attract wildlife—birds or butter-
Pick good-quality plants from a For those who don’t have a vegetables altogether. Today, his flies—that you can watch all sum-
reputable garden center where yard, Wagner’s offers numerous four grandchildren continue to mer. Look for plants that may pro-
the personnel will suggest the indoor ivies, orchids, succulents hew to the family’s high standards vide different textures. Maybe the
correct plants for your garden’s and cacti, begonias, African vio- of quality, proud of the Lindner new foliage comes out a different
area, light requirements, how of- lets, jade plants, and more. name and place in the community. color, and changes as it matures.”
ten to water and fertilize.” Wagner counsels, “Pick what Mark Armstead, Linder’s As- Founder Albert Linder would
During the year, Wagner’s of- you like, and ask questions!” sistant Manager and greenhouse marvel at the present green-
fers seminars on different garden- Best of all, Wagner enthuses, grower, remarks, “Our staff are house’s online capabilities: “Plant
ing subjects: houseplants, terrari- “Gardening is great exercise, while consummate plant geeks, and Search” to stock your dream gar-
ums, pots of Christmas greens, offering a feeling of well-being. It’s will typically tell you what their den; “Lill’s Garden Blog”; and
and herb gardening. wonderful therapy for the soul!” favorite plants are and why. We much more.
Wagner adds, “Besides your are here to pass on our passion
local garden center, there is a Wagner’s Greenhouse for gardening.” Linder’s Greenhouse
world of information online and 6024 Penn Ave. S., Mpls. Armstead urges clients, 270 W. Larpenteur Ave., St. Paul
at the library. Check and see what (612) 922-6901 (651) 730-0515
“Bring in photos, simple dia-
www.wagners.biz www.linders.com
your neighbors are growing, too.” grams, or sketches. We need to
Take heart, for, according to know space requirements, and
Wagner, “It is never too late to where the sun flows through your
start planning a garden. The tim- yard. We also have a complete

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| Gardening | by Scott Endres

A Whole Lot of Plants


Are Out There
It often astonishes me to see the We think so, and attempt to eliminate the
sheer diversity of plants available to us here varieties that don’t make the cut, while always
in the Upper Midwest. One would think that trying new plants. A lot of plant options are
the combination of severe winters, often-hot out there for you to discover. Have fun with
summers, and short growing season would it, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
limit the Minnesota gardener. However, it is In future Lavender garden articles, I
really quite the opposite, and certainly not hope to share firsthand my knowledge of
the case for us at Tangletown Gardens. plants and design, along with the lessons
We get energized by the plethora of op- I have learned along the way, but most
tions the plant kingdom provides us each importantly, to inspire you to pick up the
season—it’s our livelihood, our passion. Tan- trowel, and celebrate the beauty of plants
gletown Gardens co-owner Dean Engleman and gardening. After all, the great diversity
and I like to push the envelope with what we of plants today makes this an exciting time
offer our guests, while helping to achieve to be a gardener.
the garden of their dreams. The pursuit of
Scott Endres is co-owner of Tangletown Gardens in Minneapo-
interesting plants for our gardens is part lis. Visit <www.tangletowngardens.com>. His every-other-is-
of the fun of what we do, and keeps people sue garden article will appear in Lavender throughout the year.

coming back again and again—like kids to


a candy store.
Every year, triggered by demand, a nev-
q

er-ending stream of new introductions and Photos Courtesy of Tangletown Gardens


improved cultivars of old standbys flood the
market. Science and advances in plant genet- q
ics have paved the way for this superhigh-
way of plants never before available.
We offered several thousand annual,
perennial, and woody plant varieties last
season at Tangletown Gardens, plus a thou-
sand or more vegetable and herb varieties,
as starter plants at the garden center, or
planted out in our fields for our CSA mem-
bers. We’ll have even more varieties on the
horizon this spring.
It is easy to get excited about the newest
fabulous cultivar, but is the latest always the
greatest? Not always. After all, the power of
the airbrush and the printed word in a glossy
advertisement can be deceiving at the very
least—and often persuasive enough to make
us race to the garden center to buy what we
expect to bring everything short of nirvana
to our garden.
Do these wonder plants work wonders?
Does it matter? Isn’t the pursuit of perfect plants
for our gardens part of the fun of gardening?

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Passing

Dr. Karol L.
Jensen
[ 1939-2011 ]

Photo by Sophia Hantzes

Dr. Karol L. Jensen, 72, died March


27 in Minneapolis. She was born Febru-
ary 26, 1939, in Minneapolis.
Having earned MPH and PhD de-
grees, Jensen was a well-known therapist
in the GLBT community for many years.
She was one of the first psychologists lo-
cally to work with transgender clients.
Jensen was the author of two books:
Lesbian Epiphanies: Women Coming Out
in Later Life and Seeking Virginia: A
Woman’s Journey to Find Her Sexual Self.
While serving on the Quatrefoil Li-
brary Board of Directors, Jensen edited
the Quatrefolio. She also volunteered as
a supervisor at the Walk In Counseling
Center.
Jensen is survived by her partner,
Karen Anderson; her daughter, Beth
Iverson; her son, Chris Jensen; and her
sister, Mareth Ericson.
Memorials may be directed to Fair-
view Hospice.

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News | by Kaitlyn E. Walsh

PFund Promotes
Kroening and Wenker
Both staff members already have been working beyond the
call of duty for the organization.

On April 4, PFund Foundation an- tionships with donors, as well as strive to


nounced two “well-deserved” promotions, as increase the organization’s visibility in the
the organization has been pursuing its goal Midwest.
to advance GLBT equality through fundrais- Referencing Wenker’s education as a
ing and by providing resources for the GLBT graduate of the University of St. Thomas
community, Executive Director Susan Raffo in public relations, Raffo observed, “This is
said. what [Alfonso’s] training was for. He’s tak-
PFund promoted Ryan Kroening and ing skills he already had to expand fundrais-
Alfonso Wenker to Events and Outreach ing, and expand PFund’s reach across the
Coordinator and Director of Development region.”
and Communications, respectively. They will Wenker served on the development staff
step into their new roles June 1. of OutFront Minnesota, and was Cochair
Raffo, who recently became Executive for the 2011 National Conference on LGBT
Director with Kate Eubank through a job- Equality: Creating Change.
sharing structure, noted that the promotions Since its inception in 1987, PFund has
could be called “catch-up,” because Kroen- worked to advance social justice for GLBT
ing and Wenker have worked beyond expec- communities in the Upper Midwest by di-
tations to achieve PFund’s goal of promoting rectly assisting organizations, providing
GLBT equality. funding, encouraging philanthropy, and us-
In Raffo’s words, “In some ways, it feels ing media to promote GLBT issues.
like a catch-up, because really, this is what Wenker enthused, “The most exciting
[Ryan]’s been doing. He ended up stepping part is that we get to work on a lot of dif-
in, and taking responsibilities outside of his Ryan Kroening (left) and Alfonso Wenker. Photo Courtesy ferent issues with different vantage points,
job. This promotion is bringing his position of PFund Foundation from political advocacy to working to ad-
to what he’s been doing all along.” vance LGBT issues. I’m excited to continue
As Events and Outreach Coordinator, to work for the LGBT community.”
design, and family social science, with a mi-
Kroening will facilitate outreach in the Mid- With a new hire for Program Officer,
nor in GLBT studies.
west, and oversee all foundation events and too, Raffo pointed out that PFund’s staff and
In a news release, Kroening stated, “I’m
day-to-day office activities, according to a leadership represent many generations. The
honored to be increasing my responsibilities
press release. organization’s goal moving forward is to use
with PFund, and look forward to engaging
In 2007, Kroening began as a volunteer that strength to listen to and gain wisdom
with our constituents across the region.”
with PFund, and became part of the staff in from the many voices of the GLBT commu-
Wenker remarked that he has “big shoes
July 2010. He also worked with Project 515 nity, and to continue to provide the resourc-
to fill.”
and the Minnesota GLBTA Campus Alliance. es it needs.
As Director of Development and Commu-
Kroening is a 2009 graduate of the Uni- For more information, visit <www.PFun
nications, Wenker, who has been with PFund
versity of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Indi- dOnline.org>.
for more than four years, will maintain rela-
vidualized Studies in cultural anthropology,

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[ big gay news ] by Bradley Traynor

and lesbians who work for com-


panies contracting with the city.
Religious institutions are exempt.

Student Sues Former


Assistant Attorney General
for Stalking
According to the Associated
Press, openly-gay University
of Michigan student Presi-
dent Chris Armstrong, who is
Student Assembly President, is
suing former Michigan Assis-
tant Attorney General Andrew
Shirvell on charges of stalking
and emotional distress.

Transgender City Manager


Accused of Antigay Bias
The Palm Beach Post reports
First Public Same-Sex Delaware City elected openly-gay California has voted unanimous- that transgender woman Susan
Partnerships Celebrated in restaurant owner John Buchheit ly not to discharge openly-gay Stanton, City Manager of Lake
Ireland as its Mayor in April, making it sailor Derek Morado under the Worth, Florida, is being accused
Agence France-Presse reports that the first city in Delaware to do Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell ban on of antigay bias in connection
the first same-sex civil partner- so. Buchheit, who ran as an inde- openly gay soldiers. with a dispute over a local gay
ships were celebrated in Ireland pendent, defeated sitting mayor bar. The Cottage bar is circulat-
in early April, after a law passed John Martin by just 30 votes. Police Raid Shanghai Gay Bar ing a petition accusing her and
in January took effect. Dublin and Detain More Than 60 other city officials of targeting it
residents Barry Dignam and Hugh Arkansas Court Strikes Down According to The New York for noise complaints.
Walsh were the first couple to Gay Adoption Ban Times, in April, Shanghai police
celebrate their partnership. The Associated Press reports raided a gay bar, and detained Massachusetts Governor
that in April, the Arkansas more than 60 patrons and em- Nominates First Openly Gay
Washington Recognizes Out- Supreme Court upheld a lower- ployees. Police said they were High Court Justice
of-State Same-Sex Unions court ruling striking down a investigating reports that a male According to The Boston Globe,
According to the Associated state law barring same-sex and dancer was performing a “por- Massachusetts Governor Deval
Press, the Washington Legis- unmarried couples from becom- nographic” show at the Q Bar. Patrick has nominated Barbara
lature approved and Governor ing adoptive or foster parents. A. Lenk to be the first openly-
Chris Gregoire signed a bill Nashville Approves Gay gay justice on the state Supreme
recognizing same-sex marriages Navy Panel Votes Protection Proposal Court. She also would be the
performed in other states. Unanimously To Retain The Associated Press reports first justice to be legally-married
Openly Gay Sailor that in April, Nashville, Tennes- as a result of the 2003 high court
Delaware Elects First Openly- A three-member panel at see, passed by a thin margin an decision to legalize same-sex
Gay Mayor Leemore Naval Air Station in ordinance aimed at protecting gays marriage in Massachusetts.

Married Gay Couples “Refuse to Lie” on Tax Forms


According to The New York Times, some legally-married same-sex couples in the
United States are refusing to file federal tax returns separately this year. Federal law does not
recognize same-sex marriages, and couples must file separate federal returns. Nadine Smith,
Executive Director of the GLBT advocacy group Equality Florida, who told the newspaper that
she plans to file a joint return with her wife, said, “More people are refusing to lie on those
forms, even though the government is telling them to.” A spokeswoman from the Internal Rev-
enue Service stated that the agency follows the federal Defense of Marriage Act.

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Arts | by John Townsend

Jeffrey Stars
James Napoleon
Stone
1993 play about HIV issues still resonates
two decades later.
Brazen Theatre has found its niche demic seems to have eradicated any chance
in producing classic gay plays. Its new of- of enduring love. Hence, being HIV-nega-
fering, Jeffrey, first performed in 1993, now tive and wary of contracting the virus, he
shows us how far we’ve come. swears off having sex, which also means de-
Brazen Founding Artistic Director Mark nying his humanity. But as fate would have
Hooker was drawn to the way Paul Rudnick’s it, he falls in love with an HIV-positive man.
comedy, in Hooker’s words, “deals with sex- Stone observes, “Jeffrey has the common
ual identity, HIV, and self-acceptance.” paranoia that surrounds someone in a rela-
Fair or not, handsome actors comfort- tionship with a partner with HIV, because
able with their physical bodies are often they’ve never been a part of that world. In
crucial to gay theater. That’s why you’ll see that sense, Jeffrey is the lens through which
James Napoleon Stone in the title role. we can learn about the truth about being in
Stone, who is hot, and “straight but not a relationship with someone with HIV. And
narrow,” has given terrific performances as through his experience, we can dispel our
the lead role of Max in Martin Sherman’s own fears, and learn the truth.”
gay-holocaust classic Bent in both Minne- Director Mary Cutler notes, “Rudnick
sota and ultraconservative Idaho. deals with fear of intimacy, whether it
What’s striking is that this 25-year-old comes from touch or conversation. Risking
straight actor now has played two landmark in our connections with people is essential
roles of gay men navigating two very dif- to our humanity. ‘Safety’ and control only
ferent crises. Max outsmarts Hitler’s death mean staying within the known or status
camp horrors, while Jeffrey confronts AIDS quo, and out of growth paths. Jeffrey not
mass hysteria in the early 1990s. only fears AIDS, he fears risking intimacy
Fortunately, a straight actor playing gay with a partner for whom he will have to
roles is far-less-stigmatized than it was two show up, and be available for the ups and
decades ago. Stone is grateful to the hit downs of living and living together in inti-
Brokeback Mountain for helping to break mate awareness.”
that glass ceiling. Moreover, any serious
straight actor knows the experience only Jeffrey
can broaden his understanding of humanity Through May 7
Lowry Lab
and the acting craft.
350 St. Peter St., St. Paul
When asked about the divide between (612) 991-8729
straight and gay characters, Stone shares, “I www.brazentheatre.org
don’t really think of it as a divide. I suppose
it’s more about truthfully communicating the
human experience to the best of my abilities.”
Jeffrey’s dilemma is that the AIDS epi-
James Napoleon Stone.
Photo by Mike Hnida

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Theater | spotlight | by John Townsend

Jersey Boys — The high-pitched


sound of The Four Seasons is so unique
that actors playing them in this Tony-win-
ning biomusical must go through a special
vocal training. But the man behind their
signature sound was Bob Crewe. Jonathan
Hadley, who plays Crewe, observes, “He
was their primary lyricist, but also their
manager and producer. I kind of call him
the ‘Fifth’ Season, behind the scenes, that
nobody knew. He was responsible for
their signature sound.” Through May 9 •
Orpheum Theatre • 910 Hennepin Ave.,
Mpls. • (800) 982-2787 • www.Hen
nepinTheatreTrust.org

s
Uncle Vanya. Photo by Tamatha Miller

s
Uncle Vanya — Craig Johnson powerfully adapts playwright Anton
Chekhov’s view of Russia in the socially-ravaged twilight of the
Tsarist Age. Janice Stone soulfully directs. Johnson says, “So many
of its themes resonate in our society today. Environmental degra-
dation; health care for the poorest and most vulnerable; planning
for retirement; the premium placed on personal appearance; the
objectification of women; fear of aging; and selling of the family Jersey Boys. Photo by Joan Marcus
home are all central issues in the play.” Through Apr. 23 • Grem-
lin Theatre • 2400 University Ave. W., St. Paul • (651) 228-7008 •
<www.gremlin-theatre.org> [Title of Show] — This autobiographical
Tony-nominee by Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell
involves two energetic gay men writing a musi-
cal. Adam Qualls and Max Wojtanowicz play
The Small — Playwright Anne Washburn probes or- Bowen and Bell, respectively. Ryan Grimes,
dinary people who come up against problems bigger than director of the regional premiere, explains that
what they seem to be able to handle, and how that changes it’s about obstacles to creativity, “be it a nag-
their sense of reality—not to mention the audience’s. Red
ging acquaintance or a negative inner voice.
Eye actress and core member Miriam Must notes, “The ac-
Create what you want to create. Following
tion shifts seamlessly between mundane everyday interac-
tions and extravagant fantasies, peopled by ample-bosomed your own instincts will prove far more fruitful
elves, Celtic kings, and a hunting soundscape of horses than following the path others have instructed
hooves and warrior cries.” Through May 1 • Red Eye you to take.” Through Apr. 30 • Sabes
Theater • 15 W. 14th St., Mpls. • (612) 870-0309 • Jewish Community Center • 4330 Cedar
www.redeyetheater.org Lake Rd. S., Mpls. • (612) 524-5825 •
www.urbansamurai.org
The Small. Photo by Liz Josheff

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[arts Spotlight] by John Townsend

[ Music ]
[ Theater ]
Call to Action Concert — Folk
music and lesbian icon Janis Ian
wrote and recorded two songs
early in her career that became
touchstones for alienated teens. “So-
ciety’s Child” and “At 17” still blow
us away with their profound simplic-
ity and sensitivity. In our time, when
homophobic bullying finally has be-
come a national concern, these clas-
sics resonate with renewed power.
Many have an outdated image
of Ian from 40 years ago. However, Dennis Spears. Photo by Tom Wallace
her lyrics have continued to be dar-
ing and sharp-witted. In “God and
the FBI,” she sings about the auto- I Wish You Love — Hearing the
cratic former FBI Director: “J. Edgar creamy vocals of the legendary
Hoover in a pink tutu. Investigatin’ Nat King Cole (1919-1965), it
anyone who thinks like you.” Her seems dreadfully incongruous
“Married in London” contains these that this sublime baritone could
lyrics: “We’re married in London, but not be loved by anyone who heard
not in New York. Spain says we’re Ko- him. Yet, NBC TV treated him like
sher. The States say we’re pork.” a second-class citizen. Playwright
This defiant spirit certainly will Dominic Taylor’s biomusical I
accompany Ian to her Call to Ac- Wish You Love takes place in the
tion Concert performance. Folk 1950s at NBC Studios. In describing
legend Tom Paxton, along with Na- Taylor’s approach, lead actor Dennis
talia Zukerman, who brings to mind Spears says, “On the one hand, you
the smooth electric sound of Stevie see Cole in performance with that
Janis Ian. Photo by Peter Cunninghan
Nicks, will join Ian. dazzling smile and persona, and on
Grassroots Community Outreach the other hand, off the air, fighting
and Community Partnership Coordinator Arlana Vaughan shares, “Music is a wonderful cata- for equal footing in the business.”
lyst to bring community together, and such issues as women’s rights, workers’ rights, LGBT Lou Bellamy directs. Sanford Moore
rights, health care for all, and mental health parity are just a few areas that advocates work on directs the music. Through May 22
tirelessly on a daily basis. Music honors, heals, and inspires the soul. These gatherings inspire • Penumbra Theatre • 270 N. Kent
and motivate individuals to continue their work, and feel part of the larger social community.” St., St. Paul • (651) 224-3180 • www.
Apr. 29 • Fitzgerald Theater • 10 E. Exchange St., St. Paul • (651) 290-1200 • www.ticket penumbratheatre.org
master.com

[ Theater ]
Avenue Q — The first local production of this R-rated Sesame Street spoof
is every bit as sweet and scandalous as the recent Broadway tour.
Since Avenue Q last played Minneapolis, Diff’rent Strokes star Gary Cole-
man, who is a character in the musical, died. At Mixed Blood, the role contin-
ues with a woman playing him: a charmingly butch Brittany Bradford.
Seth Tucker is perfect as gay Republican Rod. He yearns for his straight
roommate, Nicky (portrayed by an endearing Brian Skellenger), but throws
him onto the streets in a fit of self-loathing. Through May 1 • Mixed Blood
Theatre • 1501 S. 4th St., Mpls. • (612) 338-6131 • www.mixedbloodtheatre.org
Avenue Q. Photo by Rich Ryan

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arts | Books | by E.B. Boatner

Enter Oblivion • C.M. Harris


C.M. Harris has the savvy to create a rousing tale, as well as the language,
imagery, and wit to deliver it. Taking the reader to 1980s London through
clueless Yank boxer/gangster Vince Saviglio, she plonks Vince and reader
alike into deepest New Wave culture. He becomes entangled with pop star Jik
O’Blivion, along with an entourage held together almost mystically through
the aura of Jezebel, mother superior transvestite and drag queen, “a bloke
who wants to wear a frock.” Violence, love, and the specter of AIDS all seem
far removed from Harris’s The Children of Mother Glory, until the penny drops,
and you realize the search for self, love, and family cohesion knows no bounds
of gender or geography.
Casperian Books • $15

Landscaping with Native Plants of The Philosophical Breakfast Club: A Saving Remnant: The Radical
Minnesota • Lynn M. Steiner Four Remarkable Friends who Lives of Barbara Deming and David
What would be the horticultural analog of a Transformed Science and Changed McReynolds • Martin Duberman
locavore?—a practitioner of “locatillage” or the World • Laura J. Snyder Martin Duberman applies his considerable
“locaculture”?—in any event, a proponent Mark Zuckerberg launched the Facebook talents as a biographer (see also his power-
of landscaping yard and grounds with behemoth from his Harvard dorm room, ful 2007 The Worlds of Lincoln Kirstein) to
native Minnesota plants. Steiner’s detailed but couldn’t have managed it without the explore the parallel lives of Barbara Dem-
and extensively-illustrated handbook first work laid down by four college chums in ing and David McReynolds. The phrase
defines native plants as those “growing the 1800s—members of the Philosophical “saving remnant,” Duberman informs, his-
here naturally before European settle- Breakfast Club at Cambridge University in torically has encompassed those few who
ment.” She then goes on—methodically yet England. Born between 1790 and 1792, they are “neither indoctrinated nor frightened
readably—to her two-pronged approach: remained in contact over the next half-cen- into accepting oppressive social condi-
identifying Minnesota’s native plants, and tury, though not always in perfect harmony. tions.” Deming and McReynolds, born in
showing how best to use them in one’s Charles Babbage, John Herschel, Richard 1917 and 1929, respectively, had to come to
landscaping plans. To this end are exam- Jones, and William Whewell dedicated terms with their own homosexuality, along
ples of individual homes that utilize prairie, their lives to bringing about a scientific with how they—as radicals, rather than
pond, wildlife, and sustainable aspects of revolution, including the word “scientist,” run-of-the-mill liberals—tackled the 1960s
these plants, together with detailed zone which Whewell coined in 1833. Babbage problems (not sufficiently solved today) of
maps for correct planting, plant profiles, essentially invented the modern computer. nuclear disarmament, war (then Vietnam),
and landscapes to attract butterflies and Astronomer Herschell mapped the southern and black civil rights. Duberman also
hummingbirds. Lively and entertaining, stars, and helped invent photography. Jones reveals their drastic divergence on the top-
it’s a must for ecologically-concerned Min- founded the science of economics. Polymath ics of feminism, antipornography, and the
nesota gardeners. Whewell created the science of tides and direction of the gay movement. A valuable
Voyageur Press • $27.99 more. A remarkable read. read and reference.
Broadway Books • $27 The New Press • $27.95

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arts

Northrop
Dance presents
the Whiz:
Moneyapolis

Photo by Steven Schreiber

In The Whiz: Moneyapolis, Northrop


Dance at the University of Minnesota
presents Nicholas Leichter Dance with
Monstah Black in collaboration with
Bedlam Theatre and Intermedia Arts.
Featuring choreography by New
York City-based Leichter and a commis-
sioned score by infamous club perform-
er Black with added musical selections,
The Whiz: Moneyapolis is a full-spectrum
original theatrical extravaganza of song
and dance inspired by the movie musi-
cal The Wiz.
Leichter is working with several lo-
cal artists who feature several surprises
during the performances: Shannon
Blowtorch, Kenna-Camera Cottman,
Mad King Thomas (with a reimagine of
their infamous polar bear dance), Jef-
fry Lusiak, and The Real Hauswives of
Hennepin County. The legendary Cee
Cee Russell will perform her tribute to
Diana Ross, as will the stunning dancer
and choreographer Leah Nelson.

The Whiz: Moneyapolis


May 4-8
Intermedia Arts
2822 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls.
(612) 625-6600
northrop.umn.edu

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Out
on the town
April-May
Avenue Q. Photo by Rich Ryan

Dining Out for Life:


Jersey Boys. Photo by Joan Marcus Sven Sundgaard. Photo by Hubert Bonnet

Note: This calendar includes events Friday, April 22 Friday, April 29 Walk For Animals. Benefits Animal
formerly in the Bar Calendar. Man of La Mancha. Through Apr. Man of La Mancha. Through May Humane Society. 8:30 AM-2 PM.
24. Ten Thousand Things @ Min- 1. Ten Thousand Things @ Open Begins at Animal Humane Society,
Thursday, April 21 nesota Opera Center, 620 N. 1st Book, 1011 Washington Ave. S., 845 Meadow Ln. N., Golden Valley,
St., Mpls. (800) 838-3006. <www. Mpls. (800) 838-3006. <www. and continues through Theodore
GLBT Host Home Program of Av-
tenthousandthings.org>. tenthousandthings.org>. Wirth Park. (763) 522-4325. <www.
enues for Homeless Youth Infor-
animalhumanesociety.org/walk>.
mational Meeting. 6-8 PM. Mid-
town YWCA, 2121 E. Lake St., Mpls. Saturday, April 23 Call to Action Concert. 8 PM.
(612) 522-1690, ext. 10. <www. Old Timers Party. 4-? PM. Town Fitzgerald Theater, 10 E. Exchange Wednesday, May 4
avenuesforyouth.org> or <www. House, 1415 University Ave. W., St. St., St. Paul. (651) 290-1200. <www. The Whiz: Moneyapolis. Through
ywca-minneapolis.org>. Paul. (651) 646-7087. <www.town ticketmaster.com>. May 8. Northrop Dance & Bedlam
housebar.com>. Theatre @ Intermedia Arts, 2822
Jersey Boys. Through May 8. Or- Saturday, April 30 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. (612) 625-
pheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Thursday, April 28 Dame Elaine’s Show. Benefits 6600. <northrop.umn.edu>.
Ave., Mpls. (800) 982-2787. <www. Art in Bloom. Through May 1. Min- Breast Cancer Research, Education,
hennepintheatretrust.org>. neapolis Institute of Arts, 2400 Screening, and Treatment. 5-9 PM. Mx. Justin Vivian Bond. 8 PM. The
3rd Ave. S., Mpls. (612) 870-3000. Gay 90’s, 408 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. Southern Theater, 1420 Washing-
The Somewhat Sci-Fi Variety <www.artsmia.org>. <www.impcourtmn.com>. ton Ave. S., Mpls. (612) 340-1725.
Show. Through Apr. 23. Patrick’s <www.southerntheater.org>.
Cabaret, 3010 Minnehaha Ave. S., Dining Out for Life. Benefits The Elegance. 9 PM. Town House, 1415
Mpls. (612) 721-3595. <www.pat Aliveness Project. Various food University Ave. W., St. Paul. (651) Man of La Mancha. Through May
rickscabaret.org>. venues. (612) 824-LIFE (5433) 646-7087. <www.townhousebar. 8. Ten Thousand Things @ Min-
<www.aliveness.org>. com>. nesota Opera Center, 620 N. 1st

Calendar

36 Lavender APRIL 21-MAY 4, 2011

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Jeffrey. Photo by Mike Hnida

Uncle Vanya. Photo by Tamatha Miller

nnet Next Fall. Photo by Rich Ryan

St., Mpls. (800) 838-3006. <www. Stevens Ave. S., Mpls. (612) 821- Next Fall. Through May 22. Jungle 5825. <www.urbansamurai.org>.
tenthousandthings.org>. 9045. <www.tmora.org>. Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls.
(612) 822-7063. <www.junglethe Tutankhamun: The Golden King
Lip Service. 9 PM. Town House, It’s Women’s Work. Through Apr. ater.com>. and the Great Pharaohs. Through
1415 University Ave. W., St. Paul. 23. Open Eye Figure Theatre, 506 Sept. 5. Science Museum of Minne-
(651) 646-7087. <www.town E. 24th St., Mpls. (612) 874-6338. Shades of Red: The Evolution of sota, 120 Kellogg Blvd. W., St. Paul.
<www.lavendermagazine.com/category/calendar>

housebar.com>. <www.openeyetheatre.org>. Early Soviet Art. Through Sept 15. (651) 221-9444. <www.smm.org>.
The Museum of Russian Art, 5500
Stevens Ave. S., Mpls. (612) 821-
for more detailed descriptions

Saturday, May 7 I Wish You Love. Through May 22. Uncle Vanya. Through Apr. 23.
Penumbra Theatre. 270 N. Kent St., 9045. <www.tmora.org>. Gremlin Theatre. 2400 University
Cabaret of the Senses. Benefits PFund
Foundation. 7-11 PM. Guthrie Theater, St. Paul. (651) 224-3180. <www. Ave. W., St. Paul. (651) 228-7008.
Level 9, 818 S. 2nd St., Mpls. (612) 870- penumbratheatre.org>. The Small. Through May 1. Red Eye <www.gremlin-theatre.org>.
1806. <www.PFundOnline.org>. Theater, 15 W. 14th St., Mpls. (612) 870-
of each listing.Visit

Jeffrey. Through May 7. Brazen 0309. <www.redeyetheater.org>.


Ongoing Theatre @ Lowry Lab, 350 St. Peter Three Viewings. Through May 14.
St., St. Paul. (612) 991-8729 <www. Illusion Theater, 528 Hennepin
Avenue Q. Through May 1. Mixed Ave., Mpls. (612) 339-4944. <www.
Blood Theatre, 1501 S. 4th St., Mpls. brazentheatre.org>.
illusiontheater.org>.
(612) 338-6131. <www.mixed
blood.com>. The Marvelous Wondrettes.
Through July 24. Plymouth Play- [title of show] Through Apr. 30. Ur-
house, 2705 Annapolis Ln. N., ban Samurai Productions @ Sabes
Dinner with the Tsars: Imperial Jewish Community Center, 4330
Russian Porcelain. Through Aug. 7. Plymouth. (763) 553-1600. <www.
plymouthplayhouse.com>. Cedar Lake Rd. S., Mpls. (612) 524-
The Museum of Russian Art, 5500

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Out on the town Advertiser Guide bar

Minneapolis
Toast Wine Bar & Cafe 35
Tempt. Taste. Toast. Beautiful location
in the Warehouse District. Happy Hour Featured Bartender
5-6 PM, Tuesday-Sunday.
415 N. 1st St., Mpls.
Brass Rail (612) 333-4305 Larpenteur
Completely remodeled elegant www.toastwinebarandcafe.com
lounge featuring male dancers
five nights a week, Wednesday-
Sunday.
422 Hennepin. Ave., Mpls. Honey
(612) 332-RAIL (7245) Small plates, cocktails, and all
www.thebrassraillounge.com that jazz! Live music nightly in a
funky lounge atmosphere.
205 E. Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
Wa (612) 746-0306
sh www.gingerhop.com
e
Av

94 ing
ton
t.
1s

Av
e.

in Gay 90’s
ep
nn Upper Midwest’s Largest Gay
He Entertainment Complex. Serving
394 reasonably priced menu in main
bar Wednesday-Sunday.
408 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
(612) 333-7755
15th St www.gay90s.com

94
Loring Kitchen & Bar Franklin

ø
A neighborhood kitchen with des-
tination appeal featuring contem-
porary cuisine in a comfortable,
19 Bar
Nicollet

inviting atmosphere.
Brad
in

1359 Willow St., Mpls. 35 Shoot pool or play darts at your


nep

(612) 843-0400 neighborhood bar—the oldest GLBT


establishment in the Twin Cities.
Hen

www.loringkitchen.com
19 W. 15th St., Mpls.
Lake Street (612) 871-5553

Who
Brad

What
Recipe: Sweet Tart
St. Paul Coale's 2 parts Absolut Mandarin
Areanna Coale, proprietor.
Minnehaha Ave. An eclectic enigma filled with 35E 1 part Watermelon Pucker
joy and happiness. Everyone Splash of Cranberry Juice
welcome! Splash of Pineapple Juice
719 N. Dale St., St. Paul
(651) 487-5829
University Ave.
When
Sat.-Sun. • 4:30 PM-2 AM

Where
Snelling Ave.

94 Gay 90’s
et 408 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
tre
hS
Dale Street

7t (612) 333-7755
Selby Ave. www.gay90s.com

Why
“We serve great drinks at great
Grand Ave. prices in the recently-remodeled
beautiful Happy Hour bar, featuring
a spectacular video-satellite and
sound system with 10 large HD
Town House display screens, which provides
Fun neighborhood bar with a great endless entertainment.”
mix of men and women. Karaoke. 35E
Drag shows.
1415 University Ave. W., St. Paul
(651) 646-7087
www.townhousebar.com

Photo by George Holdgrafer

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showcase

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Out on the town bar showcase Photos by George Holdgrafer

Brass
Rail
April 10

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Out on the town bar Lavender Lens Photos by George Holdgrafer

1 Craig Schmidt (center) 1 2


of the Twin Cities Gay Pool Twin Cities
League presented a check
for $500 to The Aliveness Gay Pool League
Project, represented by
Johnny Herda-Anzaldo
Year-End
(left); Town House owner Tournament
Holly Monnett (right)
hosted the tournament.
April 9
Town House
2 First Place: Tickles—
(from left) Mike, Troy,
John. Not pictured: Joel,
Brant.

3 Second Place: 19 Bar 3 4 5


Number One—(from left)
Gabriel, Jerry, Mary, Nate.
Not pictured: Naomi.

4 Third Place: 19 Bar


Number Two—(from left)
Greg, Brian, Mark, Roger.

5 Highest Scoring Person:


Troy Meyers from Tickles

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OUT
on the town | Food | restaurant | by Heidi Fellner

Loring This establishment serves reasonably-priced superlative cuisine


paired with excellent libations.

Kitchen
It’s a little too easy to fall for the Loring Kitchen and Bar at first sight. Sun-
light streams into the handsome, sleek interior from Loring Park year-round,
but as the weather continues to improve, al fresco dining is this restaurant’s
forte. The staff is friendly and personable; the drinks are imaginative; and the

and Bar menu focuses on that kind of comfort-food-with-a-twist every vibrant neigh-
borhood desperately needs.

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I was once a dedicated Loring neighbor-
hood resident myself, but began avoiding the
crowded area for years when I lost my resident
parking privileges. That nasty little problem is
solved at the Loring Kitchen and Bar with com-
plimentary valet parking after 5 PM. It’s such a
small perk, but if you’re looking to spend a relax-
ing, enjoyable evening, the last thing you want
to do is start by hunting for parking around Lor-
ing. Plus, I’d rather spend that parking money
on a truly fantastic cocktail—wouldn’t you?
Speaking of, my date for the evening
was spectacularly late—you know, the kind
of late where the servers suspect that he
might, in fact, be imaginary. Therefore, I had
the first drink all to myself: an unnamed and q
off-menu delight of champagne, lemon juice,
and St. Germaine. (Facing page, from left) Artic Char over
Before I got too far into my second liba- Israeli Couscous; dining area. (This
tion—the breathtaking Ginger Sidecar ($10), page, clockwise from upper left) Crab
with E & J Brandy, Stirrings Ginger Liqueur, Croquettes with Sparkling Wine Flight;

q
housemade sweet and sour, fresh lime, and a Beet and Arugula Salad; Triple Layered
Chocolate Cake with Steltzner Claret.
cinnamon-sugar rim—my date materialized at
Photos by Hubert Bonnet
last. I was very glad finally to have some com-
pany, but the Ginger Sidecar is one of those
clever cocktails you don’t necessarily want to
share. Ah well, the company was definitely like to remember. Truffle and Herb Risotto
worth it, and the food had started to arrive. ($18) arrived almost as quickly as its aroma.
Beet and Arugula Salad ($7) is fairly stan- Its grape tomatoes, baby arugula, corn shii-
dard, and a difficult dish to improve upon, but take mushrooms, coriander-infused oil, and
the Loring Kitchen and Bar’s treatment of tart Parmesan all were subdued, but pleasantly
champagne vinaigrette, shaved Parmesan, so, by the sensual scent of truffle. It’s not
and whipped goat cheese was a nice touch entirely rare that a foodie has a special kink
that kept the salad feeling exceptionally light. for truffle oil, but over this one issue I won’t
The large Crab Croquettes ($16) set a mind feeling conventional.
bolder tone with sriracha-spiked aioli, along A glass of Lincourt “Steel” Chardonnay If your trip to the Loring Kitchen and Bar is
with a bed of sliced avocado, mango, and ($48/bottle) and crisp Hugel and Fils Gen- geared more to dessert and drinks, the Triple
cucumber. It’s always a bit of a dilemma to til Alsace ($38/$10) made a very effective Layered Chocolate Cake ($5) is as rich and
enjoy a dish a little too much a little too early transition from the Risotto to the Arctic Char decadent as a Belgian truffle. As the weather
in a food writer’s evening. That was my first ($26). The night we dined there, the bar staff continues to warm, take your slice outside on
thought, but on second thought, these are was very on the mark with pairings. When I the patio, gaze at the stars, and enjoy your
the kinds of problems one wants to have. We go there again, I will make a point of putting cake as the good Lord intended—with a glass
ate all the croquettes. myself entirely in their hands. of fruity Steltzner Claret ($38/$10). Just like
In between courses, we indulged in the Our char, served over Israeli couscous, that, you’re relaxed and sated, feeling far, far
bar’s second-tier champagne flight. At $15, it smoked grapes, cilantro, oven-dried cherry away right in the middle of Loring.
was an excellent value, especially consider- tomatoes, and oyster mushrooms, was fra- Certainly, everyone is entitled to favorite
ing that just one of the three flutes was listed grant with an exotic North African-style special occasion places and guilty pleasure
at $12. Besides appreciating a great deal, I charmoula. If you haven’t yet had the plea- dives. But as far as reliable neighborhood
always relish the opportunity to explore dif- sure of this particular fish, Arctic char, fairly restaurants go, it doesn’t get much better
ferent sparkling wines. Depending on the similar to salmon, often is praised by envi- than this for the price.
bottle, champagne can be quite serviceable ronmentalists for being more sustainable
at points throughout a meal, from aperitif to farm. Additionally, the restaurant’s menu Loring Kitchen and Bar
through dessert. Plus, it’s fun and sexy, and features so many upscale American staples 1359 Willow St., Mpls.
always makes a meal more memorable. that it was very satisfying also to be able to (612) 843-0400
www.loringkitchen.com
And this meal in particular is one I’d enjoy something more unique.

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[ out on the town Food bites ]

[ Wilde Roast Café Will Move to Riverplace ]

[ Wine ]

Mes Trois Amours


by Heidi Fellner

Before taking an explor-


atory drive through So-
noma Valley, I never had
heard of the family-run
Ledson Winery. Its gothic
architecture, however,
was enough to invite
curiosity. As it happens,
my ignorance was excus-
able. The Ledson Winery
doesn’t do distribution.
Apparently, the establish-
ment doesn’t need to. It’s
a destination winery. So, if
you want to experience my
favorite Ledson wine, Mes
Wilde Roast Café owners Tom DeGree and Dean Schlaak. Photo by Barry Leavitt
Trois Amours (My Three
Loves)—$36—you either
have to go to Sonoma, or
After seven years near the cor- • Extended hours to accommodate movie- order it online at <www.
ner of Hennepin and Central Avenues in North- goers and Guthrie Theater patrons. ledsonwinery.com>. A blend
east Minneapolis, in June, Wilde Roast Café will • More catering options to serve local busi- of grenache, mourvèdre,
be moving to a larger space in Riverplace at 65 nesses and organizations. syrah, and merlot, Mes Trois
Main Street South, Minneapolis, with more out- Wilde Roast Café has been a destination for
Amours is delectably smoky,
door dining and facilities for an expanded menu. Northeast Minneapolis neighbors, area workers,
fruity, and dry. In essence,
Co-owner Tom DeGree says, “We’re mov- and the greater Twin Cities since March 2004.
ing to a fantastic larger space by the river, with The establishment has received numerous it’s the perfect wine to pair
more outdoor seating and a beautiful view of the awards and mentions, including Best Café from with barbeque or any pork
river. In addition to many other changes, we are Lavender. However, the most lavish accolade dish.
very excited to be able to expand our kitchen of all may be the September 2006 cover of Bon
and menu, especially by adding homemade ice Appétit, on which the café’s flourless chocolate
cream just in time for summer.” cake, La Bête Noir, was featured.
Many changes are coming to Wilde Roast Wilde Roast Café provides “cultivated leisure”
Café in June: seven days a week. Featuring creative comfort
• Larger space overlooking the Mississippi food with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and
River—6,300 square feet, compared to the cur- from-scratch cooking, it offers breakfast, lunch,
rent location’s 2,300 square feet. and dinner entreés, including sandwiches, piz-
• Greatly increased outdoor seating over- zas, quesadillas, and specialty items. In addition,
looking the Mississippi River—40-plus outdoor it serves desserts made in-house; beer and wine;
seats, compared to the current location’s 10 and a full range of coffee and espresso drinks.
seats. Wilde Roast Café is a welcoming, cozy, and so-
• Expanded menu featuring homemade ice phisticated gathering place.
Photo Courtesy of Ledson Winery
cream, a burger bar, tap beer, and more locally- For more information, visit <www.wilderoast
grown foods. cafe.com>.

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OUT
on the town | Sugar & Spice | by Justin Jones

Honestly, Though
Picture it: I move into a nice new place with one of my BFFs, Ty like Flowers Guy (not untrue, but I don’t know him well enough to
(same building, across the hall). Within six hours of living here, Ty and judge at this point).
I get our first noise complaint. Our next-door neighbor, Tammy, tells us I’m the guy who can’t find anyone, by the way, and I know exactly
our bass woke her up—at 9 PM. Seriously, Tams? 9 PM? why: I’m too picky.
Buckle up, sister. We signed 12-month leases. For real, though: Or is it that I like being single too much?
We’ll be quiet for ya. If it does get loud, bet your bottom dollar that it’s Or maybe it’s the other way around, and no one likes me.
all Ty’s fault—even though he doesn’t know how to use the speakers. Crap. I guess I don’t know why I’m still single.
Anyway, with that out of the way, the same night we moved in, I I invite Flowers Guy to stay the night, and cuddle (I don’t hook
had a lovely man, who sent me flowers just the week before, over to up—I cuddle up). He asks me while we wait to fall asleep if I just want
see the new place, and help set up all the cords behind my television to be friends or what.
(I’m a technophobe). Just cuddle buddies, I say. I like cuddle buddies.
The night goes splendidly. Ty, Flowers Guy, and I go to Lyn- He asks if there are other cuddle buddies. Oh, geez. Yes, there are.
dale Tap House for a late-night dinner (me: turkey club, fries, Diet Flowers Guy: “I can’t do that. I can’t just separate this from my
Coke—delish). We chat about regular stuff, like what we’re going emotions.”
to do over the weekend, and how fat we are for eating fries—as we He jumps out of bed, puts on his clothes, and storms out of my
shovel them into our mouths. I buy Flowers Guy a $3 beer. Ty likes six-hour-old apartment.
Flowers Guy (thinks I should date him), and drops hints that I really Oh. Maybe that’s why I’m single. But you know what? I’m honest.

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OUT
on the town | Socially Savvy | by Edward Piechowski & Sean Ryan

Throw a Spring
Blooms Party
As the world reawakens, so does our entertaining
spirit. Hose down the porch, and throw open the windows—
it’s time for spring-cleaning the house; the garage; and, yes,
even the guest list. Let’s add to and weed out whom we nor-
mally invite to our parties, and make what might otherwise
be a predictable event something fresh.

Invitations should set an established theme and goal. Are we


celebrating, or just getting together? Try enclosing a packet of pansy
seeds in every invitation.

Drinks for our Spring Blooms theme should be brightly-col-


ored with light flavors: a fresh Lemon Drop martini, a sultry Sidecar,
and a sparkling lemonade, all garnished with pansies. A good rule
is two spiked beverages and one nonalcoholic beverage for the bar.
Cocktails that can be made before the party are a must.

The menu is as bright as it is delicious: simple apricots with


chopped walnuts and blue cheese; rye crackers topped with honey
cream cheese and radish microgreens; and a vegetable platter of
vivid sliced peppers and ricotta pesto dip. For a hot appetizer, baked
bacon-wrapped green olives. To finish, bite-size key lime pies, using
the recipe you found last winter in Key West. The menu and cock-
tails can and should be prepped the day before.

Decor comes straight from the garden. Use sod as a table


runner in the kitchen, and on the coffee table, the sideboard, and the
patio. Tape down trimmed lawn bags as an underlayment. Once the
sod is laid out, fluff it, and cut a few holes with a kitchen knife. Pop
pansies into the hole, and you’ve got an instant spring centerpiece.

Party time arrives, and you greet your guests at the door—
preferably with cocktails in hand, on a tray, or on a nearby table. You
made drinks and menu items ahead of time, and everything’s under
control, so you now can be the perfect host.
Spirits from Haskell's • Pansies from Frattallone's Ace Hardware • Glassware from Target

Postparty, put your guest list, recipes, and notes in a folder,


including photographs. This party book will help you organize your We hope to see you this summer at the Eastcliff Garden
q

Party in June and at Evening on the Terrace at the


next great event. Every successful party makes you and your guests
Governor’s Residence in July.
look forward to the next.

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leisure | travel | by Carla Waldemar

Bordeaux, France
This city has much to offer at
rock-bottom prices, plus, of
course, its famous wine.
A Francophile’s dilemma: Where
to find the ideal trifecta of food, wine, and cul-
ture? (Oh, and shopping.) Easy. Bordeaux.
You know the wine (worship it, in fact).
So, come to the source, and get to know the
city, too. It’s as easy on the eyes as it is on the
palate, and only two hours and change south
of Paris on the speedy TGV train.
The Romans got here first—and planted
vines, in fact. They sailed here up the Ga-
ronne River, and Bordeaux has served as
an important port city ever since. On the re-
mains of a Roman temple stands a temple of
another sort today: the Opera House of 1780,
its centuries of grime newly-scrubbed, as
are all the city’s buildings. Across the plaza,
where trams silently slither, is the grand Re-
gent Hotel, composed of five town houses of
the same era, whose restaurant glimmers
with a new Michelin star.
Ut anchors Ste. Catherine Street, an av- q
enue of shopping frenzy—a solid wall of
people the day the twice-annual sales be-
gan, when boutiques cut prices by 50 to 70
(Clockwise from
percent, meaning, yes, you can snatch that
above) Center
snazzy manbag and those designer boots at square. • Entrance
prices rivaling Walmart’s. to the city. • Small
q

Christine, our guide on a walking tour of street in the old part


the historic district, declares. “Bon! Alors!” of the city. Photos
by T. Sanson
It’s a city, she says, proud of homeboys she
calls the Three Ms: Montaigne, Montes-
quieu, and Mauriac. (The fourth, Moliere,
merely stopped by in 1554.) Above cobbled q
lanes, dainty wrought-iron balconies cling to
the fancy facades of Bordeaux’s heyday—the
1700s—leading to the UNESCO-preserved
Cathedral Square.
Bon! Alors! The dominating church itself,
and its stand-alone bell tower, begun in 1034,
boasts the formidable flying buttresses of
its 13th-to-15th-Century rehabs. Here, in its

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q

(Above) Place de La Bourse. (Right)


q
Cours du Chapeau Rouge. Photos
by T. Sanson

chapel, Eleanor of Aquitaine married Louis


VII of France (before her later hubby, Henry
II of England).
At the neighboring Hotel de Ville (still
Town Hall today), Napoleon held office.
During the French Revolution that dashed
the nobles, it served as a lowly warehouse.
Down the street, the Museum of Decorative
Arts occupies a sumptuous 18th-Century Next, we sniff vials to try our skill at iden- winery tour, free museum entrances—and
mansion showcasing the pretty furnishings tifying aromas often found in wine: licorice, more, more, more.
of those doomed aristocrats The far-less-ele- smoky oak, violets, cherries, what have you. Visit <www.bordeauxtourisme.com> and
gant Museum of the Resistance bristles with Then, time to taste: a left-bank red to com- <www.franceguide.com/us>.
spirit, if not English captions, as it traces the pare with a right-bank red; a white; and a
exodus to concentration camps. sweet wine, perfect for foie gras. And, what a
On the grand waterfront promenade, coincidence: foie gras, truffles, and walnuts Web
where concerts and light shows draw crowds, are the regional specialties, for which we gayguideBordeaux.com
follow those incessant joggers to the Mer- thank our lucky stars at dinner.
Best Gay Bars
chant District, where a warehouse, this time, Dinner divine, right in our home, the Bateau Ivre
has been restored as the mind-blowing Mu- Regent: Save your pennies for a live-only- (newest, hottest hangout)
seum of Contemporary Art. Bonus: a buzz- once splurge in its Michelin-blessed restau- Go West
(“all pleasures are permitted”
ing restaurant serving local specialties like rant. Here, a memorable five-course dinner
in this cool, trendy club)
foie gras, oysters, mussels with frites, and a costs the best 120 euros you probably ever Le Babylone
hearty Croque Monsieur sandwich. Plus, the will spend: prawns with caviar atop Belgian (karaoke rules)
you-know-what wine of the region, of course. waffle; scallops with asparagus and smoked Le Codebar
(cruising with a slice of drag)
Speaking of wine: Sign on for a two-hour quail egg on greens; king crab in a coconut L’Azuli
course (25 euros) at l’Ecole du Vin (which I emulsion with those famous truffles; a fro- (bring your disco shoes)
dubbed Wine School for Dummies) to gain magerie’s worth of local cheeses; and, final-
insight into why Bordeaux tastes so lovely ly, a dream dessert fashioned of raspberries, Accommodations
Acanthe Hotel
(and which Bordeaux crus taste the loveli- olives, cookies, a Szechuan salty mousse, (homey digs in historic center)
est of all). To nix marketing shenanigans, and balsamic ice cream (proving you don’t
its production is regulated strictly by law: gain that star for nothing). Or, simply go for Sauna
six allowable white grapes and six allowable its famed lobster, with a tableside show in a Le Saint Jacque
red grapes, of which the glorious Cabernet silver press (25 euros). Massage
Sauvignon is undisputed king. Across the plaza, under the twinkling Terre d’Eveil
The region boasts 8,000 wineries—most, chandeliers of the Opera Café, lunch on
miniscule—which have nature to thank for cheesy cream puffs, braised duck on mashed Shop
Boutiqiue Ekivoq
producing the world’s most esteemed bottles: potatoes, or veal blanquette, then profiter- (“boutique erotique”)
cool ocean air, ideal terroir (soil), and the abil- oles or tarte tatin (19 euros total). Quel deal! Touristique
ity (again, by law) to blend the six varietals. Which proves that you can’t afford to stay (hot swimwear)
We learned that those on the river’s left bank home. The Tourist Office offers three-day,
Gay Pride
produce stronger, smokier, “broodier” wines, two-night packages beginning at 105 euros, June 2011
rich with the perfume of black fruit. which includes hotel, wine class, city tour,

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Leisure | Sports | by Brian Cheese

[ Xelias Aerial Arts Studio ]


If you were like me as a kid, be-
sides the day when teacher pulled the
rainbow-colored parachute out of the
closet (no pun intended), gymnastics
was your favorite gym-class theme.
Remember climbing the ropes, doing
flips on the rings, and tumbling around
on those all-too-thin wrestling mats?
Then, of course, think of the Olympic
games on television and every Cirque du
Soleil event, with all the far-too-athletic-
and-muscular-to-be-real men and women
who have balance, strength, and coordi-
nation most of us only can dream of.
Well, it was with these thoughts in
mind that I sought to find out: Do every-
day people really engage in this stuff?
My curiosity led me to Xelias Aerial
Arts Studio in Northeast Minneapolis. I
discovered that, yes, lots of people are
doing gymnastics every day, and it is ev-
ery bit as thrilling—and challenging—as
it looks when the pros do it.
Meg Elias, founder, artistic director, Photo Courtesy of Xelias Aerial Arts Studio
and coach at Xelias, told me all about her
growing studio.
You might think that gymnastics as
we know it is just for kids. However, tainly is. Sessions focus on strengthening and ner aerobics, tumbling, and body positioning first.
I was surprised to learn that more and conditioning, as well as, of course, learning As Elias explains, “Everyone learns at
more, adults are finding Xelias. The new circus tricks. their own pace. Dancers and athletes tend to
coaches and trainers there have profes- As Elias assures, “It’s a very supportive en- be easier to coach, because they already have
sional performance experience, and re- vironment.” more ‘body awareness.’ But we push everyone
ally drive the experience for students. Elias notes, “We have students of all ages, at their own ability level.”
Elias says, “Kids have so many choices all shapes, all sizes, all genders. And, we have The highlight of every class season: show-
for athletics and sports. But for adults and a strict ‘no watching’ policy. We want all the stu- case events. Experienced students get the
other young people who are not into ball dents to be involved, committed to learning the chance to design their own routines, while
sports or team sports, gymnastics, core workout, and participating. And the students coaches and trainers guide the rest. Every
strength, stretching is totally their thing.” really do want to ‘get it right.’” student from every class, regardless of age or
Xelias classes allow more artsy folks When students learn a new trick, class- experience, is given the opportunity to be part
out there to express their athleticism in mates live that excitement with them, often of the showcase.
a thrilling, artistic way. When you walk breaking into applause and cheers. Elias remarks, “This is really how the stu-
into the studio, you are surrounded by Students get to try out “verticals,” which dents express themselves. It is really fun to see
a beautiful landscape of clouds, plus are tricks on the ropes, or the tissu, the fabric them choosing their costumes and the right
subdued lighting. The space is welcom- stuff that experienced aerial artists basically music for their performance.”
ing, with fun music playing in the back- “dance” in the air with. Xelias has summer sessions starting May 24,
ground. It’s definitely not a gym feel. Elias warns, “The tissu is very humbling. Ev- plus an intense four-day Circus Boot Camp in June.
The atmosphere may not be a typical eryone wants to try it, but it takes a ton of practice.” Find out more about Xelias at <www.watch
gym experience, but the workout cer- To gear up for the tissu, everyone learns part- humansfly.com>.

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Lavender Lens |
Photos by Sophia Hantzes

Human Rights
Campaign Spring
Bowling for
Equality
March 27
Park Tavern

Photo by Richard Yates Photography

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the network

Accounting & BookKeeping Barbers Health & Fitness


Services

Home Services

Beauty & Relaxation

automotive

business opportunity

Attorneys

Financial services

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Business Profile | by Heidi Fellner

Photo by Hubert Bonnet


First Equity Mortgage
It’s safe to say mortgage companies have accounting and a degree in business, but
a bit of a PR problem right now, but for those my love is socializing and talking to people.
that managed to stay in business, the repu- You can have the smartest doctor in the
tation is usually undeserved. Here’s why: In world, but the best doctor has a good bed-
the wake of the scandals emerging from Fan- side manner.”
nie Mae and Freddie Mac, surviving mort- Lozinski, who doesn’t view himself as a
gage companies were ultimately the ones salesperson, as so many loan officers tended
that maintained ethical business practices all to do in the past, declares, “If you talked to
along. The industry went through a pretty any of my clients, they’ll tell you I become
serious house-cleaning. friends with them. And if you’re a friend of
First Equity Mortgage owner David Loz- someone, you treat them right.”
inski says, “In 2005, there were 3,500 mort- As well, Lozinski is known for helping the
gage companies. In 2011, there are only 224. self-employed buy a house in today’s market,
The 224 that have survived did the right and for serving the GLBT community, in-
thing for their customers.” cluding those who are in the process of tran-
First Equity Mortgage never has lost sitioning, which can complicate mortgage
a lawsuit, and never has had so much as a documents if handled improperly.
complaint submitted to the Attorney Gen- First Equity Mortgage may be the only
eral’s office. gay-owned mortgage business in the five-
Mpls.St.Paul Magazine listed Lozinski state area—at least, that Lozinski knows of—
among the Super Mortgage Professionals in but for him, it’s still about the bottom line
2010. Lori and Julia of 107.1 FM personally when it comes to customers.
have endorsed his company, which is quite Lozinski remarks, “Don’t come to me be-
an honor, as it’s the only mortgage company cause we’re gay-owned. Come to me because
to get such a nod. Lozinski also is known as I’m going to treat you with the respect that
“The Gay Gourmet” on 107.1 FM’s The Cath- every individual needs. I’ll give you the best
ie and Colleen Show. customer service, and the best interest rates
Shopping for a mortgage probably isn’t I can find. We give you the best of every-
on any home buyer’s list of fun ways to spend thing, and that’s what you deserve.”
an afternoon, but one of the reasons Lozinski
receives so many accolades is his willingness First Equity Mortgage
to sit down with a client, and explain mort- Office: (952) 697-3525
Cell: (612) 868-6968
gages in everyday language.
www.femort.com
As Lozinski notes, “I have a degree in

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the network

Home Services Home Services Home Services

House cleaning

insurance

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| consider the source | by Julie Dafydd

Tampons and Feet


When I was a kid, my mother was so uptight about anything Frankly, I was quite disappointed. “The Film” was a Walt Disney
having to do with sex that once, when scrounging through her purse Production, and all I remember is a series of colorful, animated but-
looking for gum, I came across a wrapped tampon in her purse. When terflies flitting around from flower to flower. I learned nothing about
I asked her what it was, she said, “Leave that alone—it’s for my feet.” female sexuality. At the time, though, I was very confused. Just what
About a year later, when my cousin, Alice, confided in me that she did Walt Disney have to do with “becoming a woman?”
thought she was having her first period, I hesitantly approached my In case you were wondering, this sudden flood of adolescent memo-
mother, and said, “I know you’re not comfortable with the subject, ries occurred to me just this morning at Target. I witnessed a young
but I think Alice needs to see a podiatrist.” girl pulling a tampon from a box in her mother’s shopping cart.
Later that afternoon, I found myself in the Dr. Scholl’s section of “What’s this?” the girl queried.
the supermarket, helping Alice look for anything that would absorb. Her obviously flustered grandmother took the tampon, turned it,
Or at least make her taller. examined it at various angles, and even held it up to the light.
That same year, being the audiovisual geek of the seventh grade, I “I don’t know, honey”, she said, “but it looks like something you
managed to smuggle out of school a copy of “The Film.” might use on your feet.”
You remember “The Film.” It’s the one that only the girls were Well, why should this generation be raised any differently than
allowed to see, and was apparently a darn good excuse for missing we were?
math class. Tacky column. Period. But consider the source.
That Saturday afternoon, with my parents safely away shopping, Bye for now.
there was a private screening of “The Film” for my brothers and our Kiss, kiss.
friends in our basement.

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the network

Pet Products & Services Psychotherapy

Real Estate

Psychotherapy

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| Dateland | by Jennifer Parello

Someday My Prince Will Come


I am writing this column in my head Rumor has it that Mulan only appears on grows up. She said a nurse. I said a doctor.
while standing in a two-hour line at Disney- “special days” at Disneyland. When I was “Nurses take care of people,” Danielle
land to meet some $%#$^#*! Disney prin- Danielle’s age, my mother used to refer to argued.
cesses with my 4-year-old niece, Danielle. her menstrual cycle as her “special days.” “So do doctors. And they make a lot more
Before we entered the line, Danielle re- I hope this doesn’t mean that we’ll be sub- money,” I said.
quired a costume change. Now, like the 5,000 jected to the cranky, bloated, teary Mulan. “Nurses get to wear white dresses,” Dani-
other cranky children standing in the relent- “Listen, Danielle,” I said, after I finally elle countered.
less sun, she is dressed in an elaborate prin- gave in, and escorted her to the Princess “What the hell is wrong with you?” I yelled,
cess costume, and carrying a magic wand. Gulag—a festering pink holding cell for all which is how most of our arguments end.
I want to use the wand to smack the hell the troubled children who want their picture About an hour into our wait to meet the
out of all the screaming, crabby, badly-behaved taken with a member of Disney royalty. “I princesses, Danielle turned to me, and said,
children in this line. But, apparently, you are don’t support this interest of yours in prin- “Aunt Jen, this is boring. Can we cheat?”
not allowed to smack children at Disneyland— cesses at all. My eyes lit up. Maybe there’s hope for
just another reason to hate this place. “They’re terrible role models. All they this kid after all.
The cost of admission for the two of us want to do is get married, and sing to ani- I broke out of the princess queue. I put
was about $200, and the kid isn’t interested mals. This has never resulted in a fulfilling Danielle on my shoulders. I scaled the wall
in anything but the damned princesses. life. I’ve made you watch Mad Men. Look at that was surrounding the princesses, so that
I forced Danielle to go on It’s a Small that poor Betty Draper. She’s a mess, and to- she could peek over. There, on the other
World After All, but she refused to sing along. tally reliant on a man, because she doesn’t side of the wall, was Mulan...who ordered a
As we sat on the ride, Danielle crossed know how to take care of herself.” guard to shoo us away.
her arms firmly across her chest, and made “She’s pretty, and she lives in a big Danielle and I ran away giggling.
a pout reminiscent of the time I made her try house,” Danielle said, swinging her wand “Mulan is a jerk,” Danielle concluded.
Brussels sprouts. at me, hoping to transform me into a help- “Let’s meet Minnie Mouse instead.”
“Come on, Danielle,” I pleaded, as I des- ful, singing/dancing Disney rodent. “Plus, “Now you’re talking,” I said. “She’s an in-
perately tried to get her interested in the Mommy says you shouldn’t let me watch dependent gal who never allowed a man to
Dumbo ride. “Have some fun.” Mad Men. Or sip your beer. Or sit on your come between her dreams or ambitions. And
“I’m not having any fun until I meet Mu- lap and steer when you’re driving.” Mickey respects her all the more for it.”
lan,” Danielle said. “Your mother is insane. I’m trying to pre-
Mulan! Of course, of all the princesses pare you for life,” I explained. Hey! I wrote a book. You can buy Dateland
in the Disney kingdom, Danielle had to pick The night before, Danielle and I had an on Amazon.
the most elusive one. argument over what she should be when she

Trolin, un Diablito Rosa por Rodro

I donate my butt to science I donate my butt to a museum I keep mine. It’s in use.
-Jose -Miguel -Trolín

60 Lavender APRIL 21-MAY 4, 2011

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Community Connection

Community Connection brings vis- Health & Wellness Museum Minnesota Philharmonic Orchestra
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(612) 824-LIFE (5433) www.aliveness.org (877) 499-7744 Northrop - University of Minnesota
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Looking for HIV+ and HIV- individuals 200 Tower Ave.
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Enjoy Masterpieces From All Over The mansion. (651) 292-4323 Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus
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and new work while sparking conversation
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Arts Organizations Minnesota State Capitol about challenging human issues.
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(218) 336-1414 Theater Library Lynlake neighborhood. 330 21st Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
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Small statewide, public online high school Check out our online catalogue.
open to any Minnesota resident in grades 1619 Dayton Ave., No. 105 Minneapolis Musical Theatre Pets/Pet Services
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Radio K 770 www.aboutmmt.org www.animalhumanesociety.org
Fitness Radio K is the award-winning student-run
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Healthy Me. Healthy Community. Serving Minnesota Orchestra
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62 Lavender APRIL 21-MAY 4, 2011

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Community Connection

Politics & Rights The House of Hope Presbyterian Sports & Recreation Travel
Church,
Human Rights Campaign A covenant network congregation Twin Cities Goodtime Softball League Door County Visitor Bureau
Advocates for all GLBT Americans, mobilizes welcoming all people. (TCGSL) www.doorcounty.com
grassroots action, invests strategically to elect 797 Summit Ave. Join 500 GLBT softball players as we Winneshiek County Convention &
fair-minded individuals.  St. Paul, MN celebrate 32 years of gay softball in Visitors Bureau / Discover Decorah
P.O. Box 50608 Minneapolis, MN             (651) 227-6311 Minnesota. Refresh, rejuvenate, rekindle....whatever
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PO Box 580264
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University of Minnesota GLBTA
Robbinsdale, MN (I-35 & Diamond Lake Rd.) Programs Office
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Zoos
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Pride (612) 870-7800
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www.agcmcc.org www.mnrcumc.org

Wesley Church
Central Lutheran Church Offering hope and encouragement to all
We welcome all people to discover, people. An embracing congregation. Greg
celebrate and share the love of Christ. Renstrom, Minister.
333 Twelfth St. S. 101 E. Grant St.
Minneapolis, MN Minneapolis, MN
(612) 870-4416 Office: (612) 871-3585
www.centralmpls.org Pastor: (612) 886-2863
Central Presbyterian Church Westminster Presbyterian Church
Size isn't everything. Connections and A Covenant Network Congregation,
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space. and Just as God’s Grace.
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Retirement
Edina Community Lutheran Church The Kenwood Retirement Community
Upbeat, growing congregation committed Our full service retirement community
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www.thekenwood.net
(952) 926-3808
www.eclc.org Social Justice
Hennepin Avenue United Community Shares of Minnesota
Community Shares of Minnesota
Methodist Church raises funds and awareness for
Take a Spiritual Journey With Hennepin’s local organizations fighting for justice
Faith Community Through Worship, and equality.
Education, Fellowship, Service, and More. 1619 Dayton Avenue, Suite 323
511 Groveland Ave. Minneapolis, MN St.Paul, MN
(612) 871-5303 (651) 647-0440
www.haumc.org changeisbetter.org

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| Ms. Behavior | by Meryl Cohn

Dear Ms. Behavior: He now expects me to be happy for this Dear Mr. Reality Check:
My problem may seem not to be one at new person in his life, but I can’t bring my- Your surprise seems to indicate that your
all to most people, but it is eating away at me self to do so. To me, the whole relationship “flamboyant” friend’s sexual orientation nev-
slowly. One of my best friends, an openly-gay appears to be two desperate individuals get- er before seemed fluid, or at least not to you.
and rather-flamboyant man, recently has de- ting together as a last resort. So, if he’s a close friend who suddenly is
cided to “turn straight.” He has been dating I see my once-independent and confident trying to be straight now, aren’t you curious
and sleeping with a woman. He often feels friend as a person who has chosen to take about why?
the need to tell me how great the sex is. the easy way out, “settling” for a relationship Because you value your friendship with
My first reaction was to joke with him, in that requires minimal effort. him, a curious attitude would be the best you
disbelief. But over the past several months, Am I wrong to feel this way? Should I just can take, as opposed to a judgmental one—
he has dropped out of the gay scene in favor “snap out of it,” and be happy for my friend? “Look at that queen trying to pass himself off
of staying in with his new woman, or going Or, do I have the right to want true happi- as straight!”—or a frightened one—“What if
away for romantic weekends with her. ness for him? I never get my friend back?” or “OMG, what
More recently, he has taken offense at I don’t want our friendship to end, but I if I myself wake up someday with a strange
my jokes about his “becoming a breeder.” don’t see much hope if he continues living in and nagging desire to touch female breasts?”
He defends the relationship by saying, “She a fantasy world where his sexual preference The bottom line is that it is best to ask
knows what I’ve done and what I like,” add- can be switched on and off like a light switch. questions, and try to understand your friend,
ing, “She likes women also. She’s very open- Please help! while saving your judgment for later.
minded.” —Mr. Reality Check Why do people who have worn tiaras and

64 Lavender APRIL 21-MAY 4, 2011

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marched in gay parades suddenly jump the lies or have sexual relationships with them. must mean a security breach.
fence? This is their definition of queer, and it seems Perhaps we should invest in a moat with
It happens for a variety of reasons: to work for them. alligators to keep the gays in, and to keep out
(1) Self-loathing. (8) Confusion. those wandering straight people who define
(2) Money motivation—e.g., a large ho- (9) Kinkiness. Yes, straight is the new themselves as “curious.”
mophobic bequest being left only to straight kinky.
© 2011 Meryl Cohn. Address questions and correspondence to
offspring. (10) Unexpectedly falling in love with an <msbehavior@aol.com>. She is the author of Do What I Say: Ms.
(3) Religious beliefs or brainwashing. unlikely person—e.g., of the “wrong” gender. Behavior’s Guide to Gay and Lesbian Etiquette (Houghton Mif-
flin). Signed copies are available directly from the author.
(4) A deluded desire to become someone Yes, it does happen, though it’s rare.
else in time for a significant life milestone or You’re going through a sense of loss, be-
event—e.g., the need to gain approval in time cause your friend, as you once knew him, is
for a reunion or a 40th birthday. gone—at least for now. You can’t just “snap
(5) A phase. Or a need to get rid of hetero- out of it,” or change the way you feel.
sexual “virginity.” But this gives you an opportunity to learn
(6) Youth and fluidity. Younger people to be a more-supportive friend. Keep in mind
don’t pay attention to labels the way that that the fat lady hasn’t sung yet.
older people do. Meanwhile, we obviously are going to
(7) Sometimes, gay people find other have to tighten the homo borders. Too many
gays of the opposite gender, and form fami- people have jumped the fence lately, which

LavenderMagazine.com 65

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| Through these eyes | by Justin Jones

Hold onTight
With Mother’s Day approaching on May 8, a son
reminisces about his late mother.

“I promise, Pooh Bear. I promise.” as she struggles for her last breaths. I’m
These are the six last, exasperated words begging her to promise me that she won’t
my mother ever spoke. She died on our liv- die, that everything will be OK.
ing room sofa in 1998. I was at her side, beg- “I promise, Pooh Bear….I promise.”
ging her to promise me that everything was She turns blue, and her arms around me
going to be OK. I was 11. go limp.
I still see my mother at her vanity, pow- She’s buried in the pink gown she wore
dering her face, and putting on that signa- to my brother’s wedding.
ture cherry-red lipstick. She has rollers in After her funeral, I go home one more
her hair, and she’s already wearing high time. I head straight to her bedroom. It still
heels, though she isn’t leaving the house for smells like her.
a while. She always wears her heels, even I sit at her vanity. I run my fingers through
when she’s cooking. I like the sound of them She looks around to make sure no one’s her necklaces, caress her powder box, and
clicking on the kitchen floor. watching, and launches a handful of popcorn feel her hair rollers. I brush my hair with the
She’s the Southern vixen, the magnolia at the back of the man’s head. brush we use as a microphone. I spray her
firecracker: a woman of astonishing beauty, The man in front of us turns around, and perfume, and watch White Diamonds float
knife-like wit, and diabolical sense of humor. stares at me. I stare back, wide-eyed and to the floor.
As I watch my Mom get ready, I realize speechless. I want to remember everything about
that I want to be like her. I want to be funny My Mom takes on the tone of a no-non- this place, where we laugh about dumb
like her and sexy like her. I want to spend as sense Southern mother: “Justin Jones! I things, lip-synch to cassette tapes, and do
much time with her as possible, so that I can can’t believe you threw popcorn at this gen- the bonding that makes us mother and son.
absorb every aspect of who she is—includ- tleman! Now, what do you say?” I want to memorize every scarf, every shoe,
ing her power over men. Blush. “Uh….Sorry?” I respond. every earring. If I preserve every piece of
Tonight, she isn’t on a date with her boy- The man grunts, and turns around. He who she was, maybe I can keep her forever.
friend, though. Tonight, she has a movie moves to the back of the auditorium. My When it’s time to go, I walk as slowly as I
date with the man she loves most: her Pooh mother tickles me when he’s gone, and we can—in reverse—to the entrance of her bed-
Bear. Me. laugh about the incident all the way home. room. I picture me on her bed, watching her
We take our seats at the movie theater in She was something, all right—and to me, with rollers in her hair as she puts on her lip-
the middle of the auditorium, a giant tub of she was everything. stick, and I squeeze my eyes shut to lock it in….
popcorn and a bucket-size cup of soda in tow. But things change. My mother and I wit- If you are fortunate enough still to have
Just before the movie begins, an enormous nessed her boyfriend’s suicide when I was 6 Mom around, don’t forget her. When you
man plops down in front of me, blocking my years old. Guilt over the incident consumed see her next, give her a great big hug to
view of the screen. Most mothers politely her. She eventually turned to prescription show her how much she means. When it’s
would ask the gentleman to move. Not mine. medication to help cope with it, which she time to pull away, hold her just a second lon-
“Watch this,” she whispers, and reaches took too much of. ger for those who aren’t as lucky.
into the tub of popcorn, which is in my lap. I find myself at her side on May 20, 1998, Pull her close, and hold on tight.

66 Lavender APRIL 21-MAY 4, 2011

LAV415_p51_66.indd 66 4/15/11 3:01 PM


Advertiser Index

Adult Events Home Services Pet Products &


Hardline Gay Chat...... 65 2011 Summer of Pride. 23 A-Z Electric ................... 57 Services
Megaphone.................. 64, 65 Lavender First Castle Building Animal Humane Society 6
Thursdays....................... 25 & Remodeling................ 57 Bubbly Paws
Arts & Entertainment Lavender’s Bar Salute.. 43 Garlock-French Dog Wash..................... 59
Art Institutes International Park Tavern Roofing.......................... 18 Greyhound Pets
Minnesota..................... 34 Bowling & Good Stuff Moving...... 57 of America..................... 19
Jungle Theater............... 31 Entertainment Center.... 43 Granite Nokomis Pet Clinic....... 59
Kerasotes ShowPlace Transformations............. 55
ICON Theater 14......... 12 Financial Green as a Whistle Real Estate & Rentals
Lavender Night Foster, Greg.................. 35 Cleaning Service.......... 57 Downtown Resource
at the Theater................ 33 Clark, Kelly H................ 57 Lorenz Concrete........... 55 Group............................ 5
Brazen Theatre............. 25 Harbor Group............... 8, 55 Matt’s Tree Service....... 57 Farinella, Marilyn......... 59
Minneapolis Institute Moltaji, Roya................. 19 Mr. Handyman............. 55 Haubrich, Scott............. 59
of Arts............................ 29 Palm, Karen................... 7 Personal Pride
Minnesota Orchestra... 35 ROR Tax Professionals. 55 Leviton, Ann................... 59
Construction.................. 57 Ruzick, Amy &
Minnesota Philharmonic Silvernale Accounting Pro Home Renovating.. 57
Orchestra....................... 29 Services......................... 55 Johnson, Kay................. 6
Sedgwick Heating
Northrop Auditorium.... 27 US Bank......................... 18 and Air........................... 18
Ordway Center Religious
Soderlin Plumbing, Central Presbyterian
for the Performing Arts.35 Floral & Garden Heating & Air
Southern Theater.......... 33 Artistic Landscapes Church........................... 7
Conditioning.................. 57 Edina Community
Design............................ 13 SOS Homecare............ 57
Automotive Linder’s Garden Lutheran Church............ 9
Stafford Home Service.55
Hagen’s Auto Body...... 55 Center............................ 13 Hennepin Avenue
The Tile Shop................. 17
LaMettry’s Collision...... 6 Tangletown Gardens.... 17 United Methodist
Tree Protection Project.. 57
Wagners Greenhouse.. 18 Church........................... 10
Twin City Heating
Bars & Nightlife
and Air........................... 57
19 Bar............................ 41 Food Restaurants
Brass Rail....................... 42 Vinaigrette..................... 47 Vujovich Design Build... 13
Burger Moe’s................ 43
Coale’s.......................... 42 Cantina #1 at MOA.... 41
Gay 90’s . .................... 39 Gifts Insurance
Baldwin, Davina........... 57 Christos.......................... 47
Town House ................. 40 Neverstraight.com........ 48 Jakeeno’s Pizza
Bartell, Dawn ............... 6
Wolfson, Steve.............. 57 & Pasta........................... 47
Beauty & Relaxation Grocery Stores KinDee Thai
Anew Aesthetic Wedge Co-op............... 47 Restaurant...................... 41
Medical Center............. 7 Jewelry
Max’s............................. 10 Loring Kitchen & Bar.... 43
Barbers On Bryant....... 55 Health, Wellness &
Toast Wine Bar
East 42nd Street Salon.7 Recovery
Eclectic Spalon............. 55 Burns, Steve................... 59 Legal & Café........................... 47
Carrillo, Dr. Thomas P... 59 Buchholz & Burke......... 33 Tum Rup Thai................. 47
Beverages ClearWay Minnesota.. 54 Burg, Jerry..................... 19 Uptown Diner,
Miller Lite....................... 67 Get Real Fitness............ 55 Cloutier & Brandl.......... 9 Woodbury Café,
Glaser, Tom................... 59 Dean, Jeff...................... 5 Louisiana Café,
Beverages Heffelfinger, Kate.......... 59 Family Solutions Law Grandview Grill............ 47
Shaklee.......................... 55 Medica.......................... 25 Group............................ 17
MN AIDS Project- Heltzer & Houghtaling.31 Tobacco Products
Communications AIDS Line....................... 2 Hoffner Law Firm.......... 55 Camel SNUS................ 3
AM950, The Rainbow Health Moshier, Becky............. 7
Voice of Minnesota...... 31 Initiative......................... 53 Travel &
Radio K 770 ................ 33 Shaklee.......................... 55 Malls & Shopping Accommodations
University of Centers Marriott City Center..... 25
Education Minnesota, Infectious Mall of America............ 68
Mounds Park Diseases........................ 11
Academy....................... 29 Vader, Kathy.................. 59 Mortgage
Lozinski, David.............. 6
Employment Home Furnishings &
Pride Talent Accessories Organizations
Acquisition..................... 8 Little Blind Spot............. 13 The Aliveness Project.... 20, 21

415 Index.indd 1 4/15/11 3:29 PM


Dining Guide Listing |
Average price of a typical entree
$ Less than $15, $$ $15-$25, $$$ more than $25

Our Guide to the Metro Eateries Featured in This Issue Lav-


ender Magazine’s Dining Guide is your resource to GLBT-
friendly restaurants. We recommend calling restaurants be-
fore visiting to confirm information.
Lavender’s cuisine section and updated dining guide appears
each issue. Please direct questions about the directory and
cuisine advertising to dining@lavendermagazine.com.
Kindee Thai

Burger Moe’s $ Jakeeno’s Pizza & Pasta $


American fare Italian
Relaxed atmosphere, gorgeous outdoor patio, fabu- Traditional red sauce pastas, thin crust pizza & home-
made sauces.
lous food, sixty beers.
Lunch, Dinner
Lunch, Dinner 3555 Chicago Ave. S. Minneapolis (612) 825-6827
242 W. 7th St., St. Paul, MN (651) 222-3100 Mon – Fri: 11 AM – 11 PM • Sat – Sun: 4 PM – 11 PM
www.burgermoes.com Midtown Global Market, 920 E. Lake St., Minneapolis
(612) 767-1102
Cantina #1 at Mall of America $$ Mon – Sat: 10 AM – 8 PM • Sun: 10 AM – 6 PM
Mexican www.jakeenos.com
Eat, relax and have fun!
Kindee Thai $
Lunch, Dinner Thai
Mall of America, 4th Floor East, 406 E. Broadway, This isn’t your traditional everyday Thai restaurant.
Bloomington (952) 854-6500 Lunch, Dinner
www.cantina1.com 719 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis (612) 465-8303
Mon: Closed • Tues – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 9 PM • Fri:
11:30 AM – 10:30 PM • Sat: 11 AM – 10:30 PM • Sun:
Christo’s $
11 AM – 9 PM
Greek www.kindeethairestaurant.com
Serving classic Greek fare for over 13 years, we spe-
cialize in dishes from the island of Cyprus, offering Loring Kitchen & Bar $
food from the traditional to the contemporary. Contemporary American, Comfort Food
Lunch, Dinner A neighborhood kitchen with destination appeal, we
feature contemporary cuisine in a comfortable and
2632 Nicollet Ave., Mpls (612) 871-2111 • 15600 Hwy
inviting atmosphere.
7, Minnetonka, (952) 912-1000 • 214 4th St. E., St. Paul Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Union Depot, (651) 224-6000 1359 Willow St., Minneapolis (612) 843-0400
www.christos.com Mon – Thurs: 11 AM – 11 PM •  Fri: 11 AM – 1 AM
• Sat: 9 AM – 1 AM • Sun: 9 AM – 11 PM
The Grandview Grill $ www.loringkitchen.com
American
The Louisiana Café $
Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, om- American
elets, pancakes, coffee, juices, soups, salads & sand- Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, om-
wiches. elets, pancakes, coffee, juices, soups, salads & sand-
Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch wiches.
1818 Grand Ave., St. Paul (651) 698-2346 Breakfast, Brunch,
Mon – Fri: 6:15 AM – 2:30 PM • Sat: 6:15 AM – 3 PM 613 Selby Ave., St. Paul (651) 221-9140
Mon – Fri: 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM • Sat: 6:30 AM – 3 PM
• Sun: 8 AM – 3 PM
• Sun: 8 AM – 3 PM

DiningGuide_Andy.indd 23 4/15/11 3:12 PM


New Uptown Diner

New Uptown Diner $


American
Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, om-
elets, pancakes, coffee, juices, soups, salads & sand-
wiches.
Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
2548 Hennepin Ave. S. Minneapolis (612) 874-0481
Mon – Wed: 6 AM – 3 PM • Thurs – Sat: 24 Hours
• Sun: Close at 6 PM

Toast Wine Bar and Café $


Wine bar with Italian influence
Neighborhood wine bar serving pizzas, cured meats
and small plates.
Dinner
415 N. 1st St., Minneapolis, MN (612) 333-4305
Tues – Thurs: 5 PM – 11 PM • Fri – Sat: 5 PM – 12 AM
• Sun: 5 PM – 11 PM
www.toastwinebarandcafe.com

Tum Rup Thai $


Thai
Uptown’s best Thai experience.
1221 W. Lake St., Minneapolis (612) 824-1378
Mon – Sat: 11 AM – 11 PM • Sun: 11 AM – 10 PM

The Woodbury Café $


American
Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, om-
elets, pancakes, coffee, juices, soups, salads & sand-
wiches.
Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
Bielenberg & Tamarack, Woodbury, MN (651) 209-
8182
Mon – Fri: 7 AM – 2:30 PM • Sat: 7 AM – 3 PM • Sun:
8 AM – 3 PM

Toast

DiningGuide_Andy.indd 24 4/15/11 3:13 PM

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