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LavenderMagazine.com
 Contents | [ Minnesota's Gay-Lesbian-Bisexual-Transgender Magazine ]

LavenderMagazine.com
32 On the Townsend New Lavender Digital Edition.
Celeste & Starla Save Todd & Win Back the Day
• Cats • Our Country’s Good • South Pacific•
Puppetry of the Penis • Bright Ideas • Queens
of Burlesque
34 On the Record
Jónsi • OK Go • Dosh • She & Him
FLIP
FOR

48 Use Your Black “Bar” Tab To Find

THE NEW
LAVENDER
DIGITAL
BAR SCENE EDITION
36 Bar Advertiser Guide
Find Your Way to Hot Spots
36 Bartender Spotlight
19 Bar: Zachary + DIGITAL EXTRA: DINING GUIDE • CONSIDER
THE SOURCE • DATELAND
38 Bar Showcase
Lush
40 Bar Calendar YOUR CHANCE TO WIN
Plan Your Bar Outings
PRIZES EVERY ISSUE!
42 Lens
Bob Jansen Day
CUISINE
Photo by Mike Hnida 44 Off the Eaten Path
Fashion Kindee Serves Superlative Authentic Thai
Cuisine
SPORTS & LEISURE MOBY TRACEY THORN LOVE
50 Get Outta Town WAIT FOR ME. AND ITS OPPOSITE’
REMIXES! CDS
Horn Please: You Are in India CDS
PREVIEW BACKTALK
LAVENDER’S 54 The Network TICKET PACKAGES
TO THE 35TH
SUMMER Business Services Directory ANNUAL JUDY
GARLAND
OF PRIDE 54 Business Profile FESTIVAL
Latitudes
56 LavenderMagazine.com Calendar
Photo by Hubert Bonnet
Plan Your Fortnight
WandaWisdom.com
COVER FEATURE 58 Lavender Lens America’s ORIGINAL Podcasting
14 Lavender’s Summer of Pride The Bridge for Youth Fundraiser Drag Queen
Returns for Sixth Year 59 Classifieds Proud Wanda Keep on Burnin!
Find Some Classy Stuff Pride is just around the corner
60 Community Connection and your favorite podcasting
COMMUNITY DIALOGUE GLBT-Friendly Nonprofits drag queen has all sorts of
8 A Word in Edgewise fun for you to participate in!
They’re Broadcasting Through My Tinfoil Hat 62 Lavender Lens Stay tuned during the whole
month of May for exciting
10 Queer As Folks Bingo A-Go-Go surprise guests, appearances
Hennepin Theatre Trust Announces 2010-2011 62 Ms. Behavior and maybe even a few
Season Mum’s the Word giveaways! Click on over to
http://wandawisdom.com Photo by Brian Roby

ON THE RUNWAY 66 Yellow Pages Advertiser Index to find out what’s hot, where
What’s Where This Issue she’s going, and how to join in the fun!
16 Fashion
Beach Boy Jockey 66 Cartoon
Trolín
24 Isn’t Fashion Fun
His + Hers = Mine BigGayNews.com
Your daily podcast of GLBT world
news!
NEWS & POLITICS
26 Big Gay News
National and World News Top Headlines
Two Journalists Arrested in Indian
28 FIERCE Activists Gay Professor Suicide Case
Rikke Mananzala and Ash Hammond Advocate Man Arrested for Killing Six Men in
GLBT Youth Issues Gay Sex Games in China
30 Making a Difference Is a Walk in the Man Charged in Transgender
Prostitute Murder
Park
Show Your Support for the Minnesota AIDS UK Tory Candidate Suspended Over Gay
Comments
May 7--20, 2010

Walk
This Issue Next Up Get Your News in 12 Languages!
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ISSUE 390 ISSUE 391 Big Gay News now offers TWELVE foreign language
May 7, 2010 May 21, 2010
31 Art-A-Whirl Summer of Pride Summer Getaways,
newswires! You can get international GLBT news from
Features Remarkable GLBT Artists and Works hundreds of sources in twelve different languages. There
Preview Outdoor Dining is absolutely no other site offering this much relevant
content. Visit http://biggaynews.com today!

4
5
LavenderMagazine.com
 Volume 15, Issue 390 • May 7–20, 2010

Editorial
Editor Emeritus Ethan Boatner 612-436-4670
Editorial Director Russell Remmick 612-436-4671
Editorial Associate George Holdgrafer 612-436-4672
Podmaster Bradley Traynor 612-436-4669
Contributors Kolina Cicero, Meryl Cohn, Carla Continenza,
Julie Dafydd, Heidi Fellner, Terrance Griep, Ed Huyck, Steve
Lenius, Casey Merkwan, Jennifer Parello, Todd Park, Kevin
Quinn, Sara Rogers, Amber Schadewald, Elizabeth Stiras, John
Townsend, Carla Waldemar
Advertising
Sales & Advertising Director Barry Leavitt 612-436-4690
Senior Account Executive Suzanne Farrell 612-436-4699
Account Executives Jonathan Halverson 612-436-4696,
Michael Ladzun 612-436-4697
Sales & Advertising Traffic Coordinator
Linda Raines 612-436-4694
Advertising Associate George Holdgrafer 612-436-4672
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
Creative Intern Andy Scott
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)

Letters are subject to editing for grammar, punctuation, space,

and libel. They should be no more than 300 words. Letters must
include name, address, and phone number. Unsigned letters will
not be published. Priority will be given to letters that refer to
material previously published in Lavender Magazine. Submit let-
ters to Lavender Magazine, Letters to the Editor, 3715 Chicago
Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55407; or e-mail <editor@lav-
endermagazine.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
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612-436-4698 advertising

LavenderMagazine.com BigGayNews.com WandaWisdom.com

May 7--20, 2010

Entire contents copyright 2010. 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.

6
7
LavenderMagazine.com
 Community Dialogue > A Word in Edgewise
They’re Broadcasting
Through My Tinfoil Hat
Are other people’s
computers beaming in the
same news stories that I’m
receiving? Lately, my usu-
ally docile laptop has been
channeling Tim Burton
mingled with the spirits of Federico Fellini
and Ernie Kovacs. I pass this sample along
for a reality check.
Texas Hold ’em—Till Death Do You Part
It seems that the Lone Star State—Grand
Guignol theater with a drawl—not only
won’t let same-sex couples marry within its
borders, but also won’t let same-sex couples
legally married in other states or countries
get divorced within its borders, either.
Does this mean that, like California, with
its 18,000 legally married same-sex couples
forming a peculiar archipelago of legally sanc-
tioned islets in a heterosexual ocean, Texas will
accumulate married gay couples who, when
May 7--20, 2010
8
they reach critical mass of seeking divorce—as
do more than half the legally fettered hetero-
sexuals—cannot claim the same relief?
Are they considered married till that
point? Does Texas figure it can’t dissolve
something that isn’t real in its blinkered
eyes? Or does Texas Attorney General Greg
Abbott simply enjoy punishing queers? He
currently is working to invalidate divorces
already granted by other judges in Austin
and Dallas.
Research seems to bear out Option Two:
The state feels it can’t grant a divorce for an
illegitimate marriage. But the couples didn’t
marry illegitimately in Texas—they legiti-
mately are married elsewhere. To complicate
things, Abbott has decided that these same
gay marriages can be voided legally in Texas.
Perhaps if the Attorney General pushes
the envelope a bit more vigorously, he can
find a way for gay marriages also to be…
um…validated, creating new “V & V” legis-
lation for creation and dissolution of Texas
same-sex nuptials. But hasn’t the “separate
[ by E.B. Boatner ]
but equal” thing been done before?
“This Is Alabama; We Speak English”
No, I’m not going to touch that one with
any length pole.
Has Alabama’s Republican Governor,
Tim James, really adopted that line as a cam-
paign slogan to argue that the state driver’s
license exam be given in English? Only in
English? “This is Alabama; we speak Eng-
lish. If you want to live here, learn it.”
I only can point out that “Alabama” de-
rives from the indigenous population’s Mus-
koegan language, not from English, which
the original natives well might have added to
the 13—Chinese and Farsi among them—
which the Governor wishes to drop.
Australian Restaurant Fined After
Employees Refused To Admit a Blind
Man, Thinking His “Guide” Dog Was a
“Gay” Dog
At this point, I logged off, and opened a
Jules Verne novel.
9
LavenderMagazine.com
 Community Dialogue >
Queer As Folks

HENNEPIN THEATRE
TRUST ANNOUNCES
2010-2011 SEASON

Photo Courtesy of Hennepin Theatre Trust

Hennepin Theatre Trust’s

2010-2011 Broadway musical
season brings both the new
and the old. It gets under
way when Wicked returns by
popular demand for a six-week
run August 11-September 19,
2010—watch for a two-part
cover feature in the July 16
Lavender. Next up is Rock of
Ages, October 19-24, 2010.
Debuting locally is Billy Elliot
The Musical, winner of 10
Tony Awards, December 16,
2010-January 9, 2011—look
for a cover feature in the
December 3 Lavender. Fol-
lowing are Shrek The Musical,
February 1-6, 2011, and Tony
Award-winner HAIR, March 1-6,
2011. Jersey Boys, the winner
of Tony, Grammy, and Olivier
awards, returns April 21-May 8,
2011. Finally, always-popular
West Side Stor y ends the
season July 12-17, 2011.
Tickets go on sale in late May.
Mark your calendars so you
don’t miss out on a great year
of Broadway hits. For more
information, visit <www.hen-
May 7--20, 2010

nepintheatretrust.org>.

10
 LavenderMagazine.com

11
 > Cover Feature
LAVENDER’S
SUMMER OF
PRIDE
RETURNS
FOR
SIXTH
YEAR!
[ by Russell Remmick ]
Photo by Hubert Bonnet
Summer may not start of-
ficially until June 21, but that
doesn’t mean we must wait to
start acting like it’s here. This
is Minnesota, after all. Sum-
mer begins when we say it does.
With a little help from Laven-
der, things get under way June
2009 Summer of Pride Kickoff Party. Photo by Sophia Hantzes 3, when we launch the best sea-
son of the year with the greatest
Pride kickoff.
SUMMER OF PRIDE
KICKOFF PARTY
June 3
5:30-9 PM
Graves 601 Hotel
601 N. 1st Ave., Mpls.
May 7--20, 2010
Ushering in our favorite sea-
son is Lavender’s annual Sum-
mer of Pride Kickoff Party on
June 3 at the Graves 601 Hotel,
14
Bitch Flowers. Photo Courtesy of Faedre Blue
Minneapolis. Find out who wins
the yearly Pride Awards, which
celebrate the past year’s achieve-
ments in the GLBT commu-
nity. Enjoy complimentary hors
d’oeuvres, drink specials, and
swag bags. Be among the first to
behold the incomparable 2010
Lavender Pride Edition. What a
wonderful way to start another
beautiful summer for the Twin
Cities GLBT community!
LAVENDER’S PRIDE
CENTRAL
Featuring Bitch ’N Brunch
June 27
10 AM-2 PM
Rooftop Lounge
Seven Steakhouse
700 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
Boasting one of the best
views in the city for the Pride
Parade, the centrally located
rooftop lounge at Seven Steak-
house is the place to be, with
locally renowned drag person-
ality Bitch Flowers presiding
over the festivities. Anyone with
Bitch for a name is bound to be
a good host. But let’s not forget
why you’re there—celebrating
Pride in the most fabulous way
possible. Everyone who joins
Lavender on the rooftop will
get a first-class brunch, some
complimentary gift bags, and
prize drawings, and of course,
most importantly, the absolute
finest view of the GLBT Pride
Parade.
OUT IN THE STANDS
July 11
7:10 PM
Target Field
Twins vs. White Sox
Lavender’s OUT in the
Stands is your chance to be
part of Minnesota’s great sum-
mer pastime: Twins baseball. In
their new outdoor stadium, this
is baseball as it was meant to be.
With 400 tickets available, not
only are you guaranteed a great
seat at the game, but also you’ll
be in great company with your
fellow GLBT community mem-
bers who love baseball as much
2009 OUT at the Movies. Photo by Sophia Hantzes

as you do. Of course, everyone’s there to

see the Twins beat the Chicago White Sox.
Best of all, one lucky Out in the Stands fan
will win the opportunity to throw out the
first pitch of the game.

OUT AT THE MOVIES

September 16
Preshow Happy Hour
6-7:30 PM
Movie
7:30 PM
Heights Theatre
3951 Central Ave NE,
Columbia Heights

Finishing up what is sure to be another

great GLBT summer in Minnesota is the
annual Fall Edition of OUT at the Mov-
ies. It’s a fun-filled night that has become
a tradition for movie lovers in the GLBT
community. Why wait for the movie itself
to start the night out right? Participate in
preparty activities that include compli-
mentary hors d’oeuvres, prize drawings,
and some of your favorite beverages. Take
your ticket stub with you after the movie,
and cap the night off with specials at area
restaurants and bars.
LavenderMagazine.com

To find out more about these events, as well as

everything else Lavender is planning to make the
summer of 2010 a memorable, visit <www.lav
endermagazine.com/summeropride>.

15
 On the Runway |
May 7--20, 2010

X-treme Stars $30, N2N Bodywear

16
 LavenderMagazine.com

17
 > On the Runway
May 7--20, 2010

Checker Trunk $30, N2N Bodywear

18
 LavenderMagazine.com

19
 > On the Runway Wave Runner $40, N2N Bodywear
May 7-20, 2010

20
21
LavenderMagazine.com

21
 > On the Runway St. Tropez Sport $28, N2N Bodywear
May 7-20, 2010

22
 LavenderMagazine.com

23
 On the Runway > Isn't Fashion Fun ™
[ by Tim Creagan ]

Calhoun, Harriet, Isles…

Find a place to chill with friends. Soak in the rays. Celebrate the season.
This month we mixed the accessories from the men’s area and the women’s area. Why? At the end of the day, let your personal style drive
what you wear and not the location of an item in any store. We call this: His + Hers = Mine!

1
5 6

1 To start your day, cue the music. Ocean Drive is relaxed enough to keep you stretched out by the shore. And the Latin influence
makes this one hot disc. ($19.98)

2 Sunglasses with great style, UV protection, and just enough tint to let you catch a look at a hottie passing by are the way to go. At
STYLEDLIFE, we keep our glasses value-priced allowing you to change them out for your different looks while not kicking yourself
too hard if you lose a pair. ($38.00)

3 This is the season to forget about time. But when you just need to know, a watch from Italian designer ION keeps up with the sum-
mer trend of color. Try out a few at the same time. Set one on your local time and maybe the others to time zones in your favorite
destinations. ($28.00)

4 To pack it all up at the end of the day, a light-weight nylon messenger bag from J. FOLD keeps time with a strong nod to the vibe of
the season. With an adjustable strap, you can keep it close to the body when you hop on your bike. ($148.00)

5 As you head from the lakes to other destinations, your feet will like the freedom of the Y3 slide from Yohji Yamamoto and Adidas.
With a contoured foot-bed, this slide stands apart from the rest in look and comfort. ($125.00)

6 As the cool of the evening sets in, keep a light-weight scarf handy. Simply wrapped around the neck, it will be an easy, stylish way to
stay comfortable. ($58.00)

So there you have it, a fresh new look for spring. All this with you in mind. If you want individual attention on crafting your look for the
season, call the wardrobe experts at styledlook and book your complimentary 30 minute appointment today. Allison, Kevin and Tim can
May 7-20, 2010

be reached at 952.928.888.

Isn’t Fashion Fun™ is your monthly go-to resource for fashion expertise on how style-related topics play into your wardrobe and vis-à-vis your busy life. Isn’t
Fashion Fun™ is brought to you by the fashion leader STYLEDLIFE® and the wardrobe experts™ of styledlook®, the premier at-home wardrobe consulting
company with clients nationwide.
Got a big event or hot date coming up and don’t know what to wear? No worries—we’re here for you. What’s the best accessory gift or music CD for a
special someone? Yes, we can dial you in on that, too. Email us your fashion/wardrobe dilemmas to <info@wardrobeexperts.com>. Live your best life…
your STYLEDLIFE!

24
 LavenderMagazine.com

25
 Big Gay News >
[ Written & Compiled by Bradley Traynor ]

NATIONAL

LOUISIANA LEGISLATURE
REJECTS GAY ADOPTION
EXPANSION
The Louisiana State Senate Judiciary
Committee voted 3-1 to reject a pro-
posal that would have allowed unmarried
and same-sex couples the right to adopt
children jointly in the state. Louisiana
currently allows only married couples or
single individuals to adopt. Senate Repub-
licans on the committee opposed the bill,
which also was opposed by Republican
Governor Bobby Jindal.

PUERTO RICO POLICE

SEARCH FOR TRANSGENDER
WOMAN’S KILLER
The Washington Post reports that po-
lice in Puerto Rico are searching for the
person responsible for killing 31-year-old
Ashley Santiago Ocasio, a transgender
woman and beauty-salon owner. She was
found dead in her home in April with a
gunshot to the head. The case has renewed
complaints that Puerto Rico has yet to in-
voke its 2002 hate-crime law, which cov-
ers gender identity. Pedro Julio Serrano,
a spokesman for the National Gay and
Lesbian Task Force, says the statute could
have been used in at least five cases since
the beginning of the year.

BISEXUAL MEN CLAIM GAY

SOFTBALL WORLD SERIES
DISCRIMINATED
According to the Associated Press,
three bisexual men from San Francisco
are suing the organizer of the Gay Soft-
ball World Series, claiming they were
discriminated against. The Seattle Times
reports that the men filed the federal com-
plaint against the softball tournament’s
organizer, the North American Gay Ama-
teur Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA). The
suit alleges that after another team com-
plained, the alliance ruled the three men
were “nongay,” and took away the team’s
second-place finish. An attorney for
May 7-20, 2010

NAGAAA asserts the three plaintiffs were

not discriminated against illegally because
it is a private organization that can deter-
mine its membership.

26
WORLD

UK TEEN GIRL “KICKED AND

STOMPED” GAY MEN IN FATAL
BEATING
The UK Press Association reports
that the trial of 18-year-old Ruby Brown,
accused of taking part in the brutal beat-
ing death of 62-year-old openly gay Ian
Baynham last year, is under way in Lon-
don. Brown and two other teens allegedly
kicked and stomped him to death last Sep-
tember in Trafalgar Square, yelling anti-
gay slurs at him as he lay unconscious on
the ground. Baynham died 18 days later.

BRITAIN APOLOGIZES TO POPE

OVER GAY-MARRIAGE MEMO
According to AOL, the British govern-
ment has apologized to the Vatican over
a leaked internal memo that comically
suggested the Pope bless a gay marriage
or open an abortion ward during an up-
coming visit. Written by a junior official
as part of a brainstorming session about
the Pope’s stay, it was sent to the Prime
Minister’s office and three other depart-
ments, with a warning that the contents
“should not be shared externally.” The
British Foreign Office issued an apology,
saying the ideas and the document were
“ill-judged, naive, and disrespectful.”

BOLIVIAN PRESIDENT LAYS

AN EGG

AFP reports Bolivian President Evo

Morales suggested at a global summit
on climate change that eating hormone-
injected chicken could lead to male “de-
viance.” “When men eat those chickens,
they experience deviances in being men,”
he stated. He also posited that the Euro-
pean diet made men go bald. Right-wing
Bolivian Deputy Andres Ortega criticized
Morales for recounting “urban legends”
at the conference, which sought to draft
new proposals for the next UN climate
talks in Mexico at the end of the year. “I
LavenderMagazine.com

thought it was a place to talk about sci-

ence, and real and positive things about
preserving the environment,” Ortega
said.

27
 > News & Politics
May 7-20, 2010

28
 FIERCE ACTIVISTSRIKKE MANANZALA AND ASH HAMMOND
ADVOCATE GLBT YOUTH ISSUES
[ by Ed Huyck ]
F
or Ash Hammond, coming to the United States
from Zimbabwe was more than a chance to get
an education—it allowed her to be herself at last,
and come out of the closet. For Rikke Mananzala,
coming out meant a complete change in his life.
Mananzala says, “When my parents found
out I was queer, I was asked to leave our house.
From age 16 on, I was figuring out things on
my own—like how to go to high school, and
still have food, a place to stay, and to go to
college. I had to endure a lot of unsafe situ-
ations, and a lot of things I didn’t expect or
think I deserved as a young person.”
Both Hammond and Mananzala found
themselves in New York City, where they end-
ed up at (FIERCE), an organization geared to
GLBT youth of color ages 13 to 24.
The two were in the Twin Cities in April
to speak at a community event at Pillsbury
House, as well as at PFund’s annual Moxie
Awards, where the local group awarded
scholarships to local youth and grants to a
number of organizations.
What activists have found is that while
services exist for GLBT youth, they have
less of an emphasis on creating a political
voice—vital if the victories gained in the
courts or legislatures are to continue be-
yond the initial passage.
Mananzala notes, “There are places for
youth to go to have basic needs met, like
health care and housing, but there wasn’t
any kind of political organization.”
A decade ago, a group of young activists
in New York organized FIERCE to create a
stronger political voice for that part of the
community.
Mananzala recalls of his association
with FIERCE, “I felt isolated. But here, I
met a lot of people, and that is where my
consciousness was opened up. There were
things that we could do, and things we could
change. It’s kind of like a union. We fight for
the rights that we collectively want.”
That commitment and radical spirit
drew Hammond to FIERCE, which she
learned about at a conference, followed by
Photo Courtesy of Blacktie-MN
a pair of development internships.
Hammond states, “There are not
enough services for people like me.”
FIERCE provides outreach at the
street level and with gay-straight alliances
throughout New York City.
Hammond explains, “We’re trying to get
people involved with different issues, from
homelessness to police brutality. We try to get
the young people organized, and make them
aware of systems of oppression, the history of
social-justice movements, and what they went
through, so we can use them now.”
Beyond that is an effort to take FIERCE’s
operations to a nationwide level. In sur-
veys of dozens of communities around the
country, the organization found that the
top three concerns were transphobia and
gender-based violence; homelessness; and
mental-health and wellness programs.
Mananzala remarks, “Across the country,
they are getting services, but not power. It’s
scary if we are becoming depoliticalized.”
The organizational force is there. Youth
organizations have been instrumental in
gaining support for same-sex marriage
across the country. It’s a matter of keeping
the eye on the key issues for GLBT youth.
While FIERCE is organizing chapters
in other communities, it plans to work with
already-existing services in the Twin Cities,
according to Mananzala.
As Mananzala puts it, “If winning was
easy, everyone would do it. We have to get
other people into the fight, and to change
the system. The moments that are most
profound to me are when I see a member
who has come in, and thinks that change
LavenderMagazine.com
is impossible. Then, they see a victory that
they made possible. They know that change
is possible, and then bring other people into
the fight. I’m in this for the long haul.”
29
 News & Politics |
Making a Difference Is a Walk in the Park
Show Your Support for the Minnesota AIDS Walk
For 22 years, the Minnesota AIDS Walk
has brought awareness, provided educa-
tion, and created a sense of community in
the Twin Cities. As well, it has raised im-
portant funds for the HIV/AIDS cause.
What started as a grassroots pledge walk
has evolved into one of Minnesota’s top 25
fundraisers. The Minnesota AIDS Project
(MAP) is mounting its 23rd Walk on May
16 in Minnehaha Park Minneapolis.
One of the goals of the Walk is to reduce
stigma about HIV/AIDS. That was espe-
cially true in early events, when the fear of
literally “catching” the disease was present.
During past Walks, organizers had a very
real fear of violence breaking out because of
people’s fear and ignorance of the disease.
According to MAP Director of Com-
munications Dave Folkens, the Walk has
helped reduce this perception, but more
work remains to be done.
Folkens says, “People living with HIV
May 7-20, 2010
30
may run into cases of friends and cowork-
ers who become distant after revealing their
status. There is also certainly stigma around
HIV in terms of dating and relationships,
which can be extremely difficult for some
living with the disease.”
A lot has changed in the past 22 years.
Today’s generation hasn’t experienced what
those in the 1980s did—uncertainty of the
disease and lack of medicines.
MAP Special Events Manager David Knapp
notes that “online hookups” recently have be-
come popular in today’s generation, which
makes education that much more important.
Knapp points out an increase in cases of
Minnesotans who are HIV-positive—more
than 6,200 known, plus another 2,500 esti-
mated but not yet tested.
In 2009, the Walk raised more than a
half-million dollars, with more than 5,000
attendees. The money goes to support
MAP’s prevention, education, and advo-
[ by Casey Merkwan ]
cacy efforts, as well as critical services for
those living with HIV/AIDS. PrideAlive
and Public Policy programs rely on Walk
donations. A significant portion of Positive
Link, Legal Services, and Education Bureau
budgets are covered by Walk funds.
The opening ceremony for the Walk is
at 10 AM. A little more than six miles long,
it takes roughly two-and-a-half hours to
complete. The four-mile Run for the Rib-
bon starts at 9 AM.
All ages and pets are encouraged to at-
tend this event to celebrate life and give
hope to the community. If you haven’t
signed up yet, or have questions about this
year’s Walk, visit <www.mnaidswalk.org>.
Folkens remarks, “It’s easy to sign up, and
raise funds to support the over 6,600 Minneso-
tans living with HIV, and help the Minnesota
AIDS Project provide important education to
prevent HIV. It really is a great day filled with
education, excitement, [and] hope.”
Arts & Entertainment | [ by John Townsend ]

Art-A-Whirl
Features Remarkable GLBT Artists and Works

T
he 15th annual Art-A-Whirl in Northeast Minneapo- person to be able to afford a piece of my
work if it inspires them.”
lis, presented by the Northeast Minneapolis Arts
Association (NEMAA), features some remarkable GAIL WALLINGA
GLBT artists and queer-oriented work. Over the Casket Arts Building • 681 17th Ave. NE
Another lesbian-identified artist is Gail
weekend of May 14-16, check out various studios and gal- Wallinga of the Rain Collective. As a per-
leries at your own pace for a vast range of new painting, cussionist, she feels connected to rhythm
photography, sculpture, mixed media, mosaics, and more. and beat. That musical concept informs
her painting, and vice versa. Her work is
CODY KISER reminiscent of sand paintings from tribal
Northrup King Bldg. • 1500 Jackson St. NE cultures of eons ago and of geological lay-
Van Gogh meets Picasso in Cody Kiser’s ering—with the look of elements under a
lush brushstrokes and vibrant colors. Even the microscope. It definitely has a sense of na-
mundane—for instance, a rocking chair by a ture’s unity and tranquility.
window—teems with energetic life. He has Wallinga states, “Nature has her own
been with his partner for more than a decade. pulsing intricacies. I spent years taking
Kiser calls his work “a bridge between the close-up photographs, studying the shapes
perceptions of what it means to be gay and in and textures, fascinated by the exquisite de-
a relationship in a home you have created.” has made me more spiritual. Some people signs present in that world. Nature is where
talk or write about their spirituality. I use I feel most whole and at peace. In painting,
JON O. ERIKSON color and symbols to communicate, which I narrate stories of internal and external re-
Svedberg Studio • 3359 Tyler St. NE I consider to be a universal language. And I lationships, and connect them to a sense of
Sculptor Jon O. Erikson draws from his use geometrical forms in my work, because well-being. There is the freedom to depict
experience as a props maker, much of it at those forms speak to me.” the illusive shadow side as a part of light,
the Guthrie Theater. Human and organic the life force in us all.”
forms combine. He makes soft sculpture KARL REICHERT
more rigid in the gay-themed A Nice Young California Building • 2205 California St. NE CAITLIN KAROLCZAK
Man... with drapery fabric, resin, and wood. Diaz’s partner is photographer Karl Re- Rogue Buddha Gallery • 357 13th Ave. NE
According to Erikson, his style is “an- ichert, whose subject is Miss Richfield 1981. Those who want their art to be bold and
thropomorphic realism from a homocentric The artist shares that he has been buds with edgy must catch Caitlin Karolczak, who is
vantage point.” Russ King, Miss R’s alter ego, since college in process of creating a GLBT series. She
days in Bemidji in the mid-1980s. cuts the edge with stark, despairing images
REYNALDO DIAZ that reflect intersex themes, as well as issues
California Building • 2205 California St. NE RACHEL RODENBORG of torture and rendition.
Reynaldo Diaz created the stained-glass Eastside Food Co-op • 2551 Central Ave. NE Karolczak remarks, “My paintings ex-
design Awakening at the Loring Park Com- Ecologically conscious Rachel Roden- plore the fragility of the human mind and
munity Arts Center. He paints primarily borg started collecting mismatched blue and body, often inspired by my collection of
with acrylics. white china when she was in high school, in vintage medical photographs in regard to
Diaz says, “Through my paintings, I hopes of learning to create mosaics. That sexuality and gender. I attempt to confront
strive to create inner harmony. I use col- interest has evolved notably. Whether it’s the viewer with an intersection of beauty
ors, symbols, and indigenous features that a female torso—as in Pastiche—or a simple and distress, hoping that they can get past
come from my heritage growing up in Ni- ball, she casts a magic spell with her mosa- the initial stigma of what I’m portraying to
caragua. I feel a close connection to Mayan, ics. Rainbow families may want to make a find a personal connection with the indi-
Aztec, and Spanish heritage. Throughout point of seeing her work, because she cur- viduals in my paintings.”
my life, being gay has helped me to connect rently is launching an in-school art pro-
gram for K-6 kids. Art-A-Whirl
more easily to my inner feelings, which
LavenderMagazine.com

Various Locations, NE Minneapolis

developed through my life’s experiences. I
knew that as I grew up, fear of being re-
jected from society was one of the factors
that opened up those inner feelings. This
Rodenborg explains, “My creative phi- May 14, 5-10 PM
losophy centers around creating accessible May 15, Noon-8 PM
art out of recycled, repurposed, and vintage May 16, Noon-5 PM
items whenever possible. I want the average <www.nemaa.org>

31
 Arts & Entertainment > On the Townsend [ by John Townsend ]

CELESTE & STARLA SAVE TODD & WIN

BACK THE DAY
Through May 15
Theatre Garage
711 W. Franklin Ave., Mpls.
(612) 227-1188
<www.tctwentypercent.org>

Francesca Sanders says her whimsical

gender-bending detective play “is supposed
to make you think about how we laugh
in society when men dress as women, but
squirm when women dress as men.”
Director Claire Avitable notes Celeste
(Danielle Siver) “woefully learns that her
‘future husband’ is actually in love with a
handyman. While she is sad that she did
not, in fact, find her soul mate, she is sim-
ply jubilant that two other people in her life
have found love.”
Celeste also must reflect on her gender
prejudices.
With this production, 20% Theatre
Twin Cities continues its strong commit-
ment to queer-themed work.

CATS
May 14-16
Orpheum Theatre
910 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
(612) 339-7007
<www.HennepinTheatreTrust.org>

Speculation long has raged about the

suppressed homosexuality or bisexuality
of Nobel Poet Laureate T.S. Eliot (1888-
1965). That may explain the torment found
in even his Old Possum’s Book of Practical
Cats, which Andrew Lloyd Webber adapted
to majestically pagan effect in 1981 for the
West End musical stage. The dark irides-
cence of Cats flickers with tunes like “Old
Deuteronomy” and the immortal “Memo-
ry.” Eliot’s bleak words resurge in another
towering Tony-winning hit, August: Osage
County (2008).
OUR COUNTRY'S GOOD
Through May 16
Mounds Theatre
1029 Hudson Rd., St. Paul
(651) 645-3503
<www.startinggate.org>
Starting Gate Productions mounted
great queer stagings of Jeffrey, Boys in the
Band, and Anton in Show Business. Sadly,
the company is going dark, but is leaving
May 7-20, 2010
Cats. Photo Courtesy of G Creative
patrons and friends. Our Country’s Good ad-
dresses many human issues, but it is, above
all, a play about the redemptive power of
theater. It allows us to reaffirm our strong
belief that this medium has the power to
transform lives.”
Best wishes!
SOUTH PACIFIC
Through May 16
Ordway Center
345 Washington St., St. Paul
(651) 224-4222
<www.ordway.org>
Rodgers and Hammerstein blew the lid
off Broadway in 1949 with this bold jump
into transnational love between whites and
between races. Lincoln Center’s revival, di-
rected by former Guthrie Company Direc-
tor Bartlett Sher, won seven Tonys.
Dance Captain and Associate Choreog-
to make it look like these characters were
moving naturally to music. It flows beau-
tifully from the scene work—an extension,
into the choreography.”
PUPPETRY OF THE PENIS
May 21
Pantages Theatre
710 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
(800) 982-2787
<www.ticketmaster.com>
Simon Morley’s phallic performance
“piece” is a global sensation.
Aussie puppeteer Rich Binning, who
performs with Chris Cannon at the Pan-
tages, muses, “Because we steer clear from
making sexual or lurid remarks, it allows the
audience to relax and feel more comfort-
able. It’s probably the asexuality of the show
that gives it such mass appeal. Laughing at
two naked men onstage contorting their

us with crossgender performances in Tim-
berlake Wertenbaker’s moving play about
Australia’s penal colony past.
Director Richard Jackson felt “our fi-
nal show should make a statement to our
rapher Joe Langworth observes that Chris-
topher Gatelli’s choreography caters to the
different dance backgrounds of the actors
playing the hunky sailors.
As Langworth explains, “Our goal was
penises is a very universal thing, I’m learn-
ing. The show is probably least attended by
straight men, but the same can most likely
be said of all theater. In my experience, the
girls and the gays come expecting to love it,

32
and they do, but the straight man whose
wife dragged him to the theater is usually
the one who will be showing dick tricks to
his buddies at the bar the next weekend.”

BRIGHT IDEAS
Through May 23
Sabes Jewish Community Center
4330 Cedar Lake Rd. S., St. Louis Park
(612) 396-2025
<www.urbansamuraipro.org>

How far would you go for your child?

Rainbow families take note: Direc-
tor Jimmy LeDuc remarks that in Eric
Coble’s satirical comedy, Josh and Ge-
nevra, parents of little Mac, “are certain
that getting Mac into Bright Ideas Early
Childhood Development Academy will
set him on the path to success in life. But
the pressure to get him to the ‘perfect’
school so that he can have the ‘perfect’ life
gets out of hand.”
The assumption is that if Mac is ad-
mitted, he’ll fit in. Hence, his parents will
heighten their social position. What a hell
of a burden to put on a kid!

QUEENS OF BURLESQUE
Through May 23
History Theatre
30 E. 10th St., St. Paul
(651) 292-4323
<www.historytheatre.com>

At the Gay 90’s bar in Minneapolis six

decades ago, pretty women graced the
stage with artfully titillating striptease
for straight men. David Mann’s lovely
new play, Queens of Burlesque, now in a
fabulous production, examines the strug-
gles of four fictional Gay 90’s burlesque
artists and their vaudevillian supporting
men in 1953.
Director John Miller Stephany’s spar-
kling cast captures the grit, anxiety, and
pluck it took to withstand stigmatiza-
tion from a judgmental town packed with
prudish Lutherans. Nonetheless, Mann’s
“broads” survive, maintaining their dig-
nity and wit.
Greta Grosch, splendid as Gladys,
the oldest, waxes movingly on the erotic
spirituality of the female form. Stacia Rice
crackles as Blaze Comet, a tough cookie
whose explicated distinctions between
“nude” and “naked” would have impressed
LavenderMagazine.com

Alfred Kinsey himself.

Gina Louise Woods’s authentic bur-
lesque choreography is innocently cheesy,
yet charmingly seductive.

33
 Arts & Entertainment > On the Record
GO
Jónsi
So, what can be expected
from the first solo album by
the Sigur Ros frontman? The
Icelandic combo has made a
career out of lengthy atmo-
spheric pieces held together
by the sprawling, otherworldly
vocals of Jónsi—often sung in
a language all his own. Instead
of going bigger on Go, he cuts
to the chase. Here, we have a
collection of nine pop songs
that embrace the whimsical
side of his musical nature. It’s
aided by the shorter pieces—a
lot of the best Sigur Ros tunes
clock in around 10 minutes—
which don’t confine Jónsi as
much as compress the ideas.
That makes the music some-
what more accessible (e.g.,
opener “Go Do”), though a
piece like the circular “Tor-
nado” probably isn’t going
to end up on a pop station
anytime soon. No matter the
stylistic changes, the ear keeps
coming back to the singer’s
soaring falsetto vocals, which
cut through the musical back-
May 7-20, 2010
drops like something from a
world far away.
34
OF THE BLUE COLOUR OF THE SKY
OK Go
To open album number three,
OK Go get all sleazy on
“WTF”—well, not quite like
early Prince/Rick James, but
more like Beck circa Midnite
Vultures. You know, guys who
really aren’t all that sleazy, but
kind of like pretending hang-
ing out in tight leather pants
in a city’s red light district is
how they like to spend their
evenings. The band quickly
goes back into poppier terri-
tory, but the spirit of moving
beyond comfort zones remains
throughout the collection.
You’ll find expansive pop
songs—tracks that seemingly
break down long before the
end, prior to regaining their
composure—and others made
up of more mood than melody.
It all probably ties together
somehow (the title alludes to
a 19th-Century book), but
really, when I’m listening to an
act like OK Go, it’s just about
the tunes. While sometimes
getting buried beneath all
the other stuff, they ring out
enough to make the album a
pleasure ride.
TOMMY
Dosh
Dosh’s latest album may have
arrived at the beginning of
spring, but it really is meant
for late nights, gloomy morn-
ings, and stormy days. The
local electronic wizard, whose
collaborators have included
Andrew Bird and Bonnie
“Prince” Billie, gives us a set
of atmospheric, almost entirely
instrumental, music that often
evokes the quietest moments
of life in a busy city. Named
for Tom Cesario, a longtime
friend who died two years ago,
Tommy evokes the melancholy
of loss without wallowing in
it. Pieces like “Country Road
X” and the closer, “Gare de
Lyon,” are dense creations
that still allow the listener in
from the first go-around, but
open up with greater depth
each time through. Bird also
makes a pair of appearances
here. On “Number 41,” a
dense opening eventually gives
way to a short, spare vocal.
“Nevermet” plays as a more
traditional, albeit sad, pop
song. It’s a fine album from
beginning to end.
[ by Ed Huyck ]
VOLUME TWO
She & Him
A collaboration between ac-
tor/singer Zooey Deschanel
and neofolk superstar M.
Ward, She & Him brings
plenty of simple charms.
Volume Two is an unassuming
collection of songs, featuring
plenty of country-tinged folk
for the listener. It’s not an
album that arrests you at every
turn, but—like a lot of good
records—works its charms in
the back of your mind. Taken
individually, the songs make
up a fine collection, from the
Jayhawks-like pop of “In the
Sun” to the swing of “I’m Go-
ing to Make it Better.” Here,
a quieter, more desperate un-
dercurrent comes out in tunes
like “Brand New Shoes.”
Still, it’s not the individual
tracks that make this record
fly, but rather the overall
feel of the 14 in all. This is
music in touch with a quiet,
natural place in the world.
Deschanel’s often breathless
vocals play perfectly into it,
while Ward’s spare instrumen-
tation only makes that mood
all the more clear.
 LavenderMagazine.com

35
 Bar Advertiser Guide | Bartender Spotlight |
[ by George Holdgrafer ]

07
ve.
3rd A
E
N
e.
l Av
W n tra Hennepin Ave. Larpenteur Ave. Larpenteur Ave.
as Ce

Dale St.
hin
gto

Snelling Ave.
05 1s
02 n A t St
Ave
. ve . N
ve. pin . . Univ Minnehaha Ave.
1st A 06 ne ersit
Hen
15 ve. 08 y Av
e.
th tA
01 S t. olle University Ave. t.
Nic 09 hS
7t
.
Ave
in
nep

03 Ro
26th Ave. S.
Selby Ave.
Hen

04 be
Lake St. rt
St.
Grand Ave.

01 19 BAR 07 LUSH
19 W. 15th St., Mpls. 990 Central Ave. NE, Mpls.
(612) 871-5553 <www.lushfoodbar.com>
Shoot pool or play darts at your neighborhood bar------ Great Food. Happy Hour Wed.-Sat. ’Til 8 PM. Wed.

▼
the Twin Cities’s oldest GLBT establishment. $1 Drinks. Thu. Show Tunes. No Cover. Free Parking. ZACHARY
02 BRASS RAIL LOUNGE 08 TICKLES
422 Hennepin. Ave., Mpls.
(612) 332-RAIL (7245) 420 S. 4th St., Minneapolis
<www.thebrassraillounge.com> (612) 354-3846
Completely remodeled elegant lounge featuring variety
<www.ticklesbar.com>
of entertainment: live piano, karaoke, male dancers.
Live Piano Music. Full-Service Menu, Happy Hour,
Sports on 10 Flat-Panel TVs, Pool, Darts.
WHO
Zachary
03 CAMP 09 TOWN HOUSE
490 N. Robert St., St. Paul
(651) 292-1844 PIANO LOUNGE WHAT
<www.camp-bar.net> 1415 University Ave. W., St. Paul Recipe: Push-up
An upscale but casual spot with great video, dancing, (651) 646-7087 1 part Stoli Vanil Vodka
cabaret, and the friendliest staff in town! <www.townshousebar.com>
Town House 1 part Three Olives Rangtang Vodka
04 FUSION Fun neighborhood bar with a great mix of men and Splash of Orange Juice
2919 Hennepin Ave., Mpls women. Karaoke. Drag shows. Splash of 7UP
(612) 824-6300 Piano Lounge Splash of Cream
<www.fusionmpls.com> That’s entertainment! Friday: Karaoke (Twyla). Satur-
Daily Happy Hour 4-6 PM. 1/2 price beer, sushi, day: Lori Dokken & Friends. Sunday:
Serve over ice or shaken
spring rolls. $4 signature martinis. Bottomless glasses Karaoke (John). Monday: Men’s Night.
of wine! WHEN
05 GAY 90’S MEGABAR Wed., Thu., Sat. • 3-8 PM
408 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. Superior •
(612) 333-7755 WHERE
<www.gay90s.com> Wisconsin
Gay 90’s 19 Bar
Upper Midwest’s Largest Gay Entertainment Com- 19 W. 15th St., Mpls.
plex. Serving reasonably priced menu in main bar (612) 871-5553
Wednesday-Sunday.
Dance Annex WI THE FLAME
Awesome DJs deliver latest in dance, techno, and hot 1612 Tower Ave., Superior WHY
gay anthems for your dancing pleasure. (715) 395-0101 “We’re a downtown bar with a
Happy Hour <www.SuperiorFlame.com> neighborhood feel. We’re celebrating
Newly remodeled. Open longest hours of any local
GLBT bar. State-of-the art sound/video. our 58th anniversary as a gay bar.”
La Femme Show Lounge WI THE MAIN CLUB
The Ladies of La Femme present the Twin Cities’s best 1217 Tower Ave., Superior
female impersonator show Thursday-Sunday. (715) 392-1756
Men’s Room <www.mainclubsuperior.com>
It’s a guy thing (ladies beware!). Hot men in a sizzling
scene. Best male dancers.
Retro Bar
Just what its name says. Fabulous DJs reprise the best
of the ’70s through ’90s.
May 7-20, 2010

06 GLADIUS
1111 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
(612) 332-9963
<www.gladiusbar.com>
The New York Chic of Minneapolis. Gladius God-
desses Tuesday. Killer B's Karaoke Wednesday.

36
 Bar Scene > Bar Showcase [ Photos by George Holdgrafer ]

LUSH
April 29
May 7-20, 2010

38
 LavenderMagazine.com

39
 Bar Scene > Bar Calendar
For club addresses, phone numbers, and Web FRIDAY, MAY 7 Daina DePerez
sites, see “Bar Advertiser Guide” on page 36. Gary Collins 9 PM. Tickles.
For events not at bars, see <LavenderMagazine. 5 PM. Tickles. Total DiscTracktion
com/calendar>. Mia Dorr 9 PM. Town House.
9 PM. Tickles.
SATURDAY, MAY 15
SATURDAY, MAY 8 Hollyweird
58th GLBT Anniversary Celebration Imperial Court of Minnesota Benefit for
1 PM. 19 Bar. Minneapolis Community and Technical College
Old Timers Party Media Department Textbook Donations &
5 PM. Town House. Project for Pride in Living
Red Hot Drag Contest 5:30 PM. La Femme Show Lounge. Gay 90’s.
8 PM. Lush. Red Hot Drag Contest
TNT Show 8 PM. Lush.
9 PM. Town House. Mia Dorr
9 PM. Tickles.
SUNDAY, MAY 9
Hats Off To Mr. Ronn! SUNDAY, MAY 16
Benefits Dan Updike, Mr. Ronn’s Life Partner Singles Pool Tournament
5-9 PM. La Femme Show Lounge. Gay 90’s. 4 PM. 19 Bar.
9 PM-2 AM. Brass Rail Lounge. Jeff Olson
Mark Bloom 7 PM. Tickles.
7 PM. Tickles.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 19
WEDNESDAY, MAY 12 Mark Bloom
Jason Richards 6 PM. Tickles.
6 PM. Tickles.
THURSDAY, MAY 20
FRIDAY, MAY 14 Women’s Speed Dating
Gary Collins 7:30 PM. Town House.
5 PM. Tickles. RSVP and info at <www.simplyintroduced.com>
May 7-20, 2010

40
 LavenderMagazine.com

41
 [ Photos Courtesy of The Main Club ]

Bar Scene > Lens

BOB JANSEN DAY

April 17
Duluth
May 7-20, 2010

42
 LavenderMagazine.com

43
 May 7-20, 2010

44
Cuisine > Off the Eaten Path

KINDEE
SERVES SUPERLATIVE AUTHENTIC THAI CUISINE
 [ by Heidi Fellner ]

ore than one legend surrounds the Thai
“Son-in-Law Egg,” but I will do my best to
M recount the version I prefer. Long ago, while
a young man’s wife was out, her mother stopped
by for an unexpected visit. Hoping to impress her,
Kindee. Photos by Hubert Bonnet
the anxious but unskilled son-in-law threw together
a random, kitchen-sink type of dish made from very
simple ingredients: hard-boiled eggs, tamarind
sauce, and fried onions. To his surprise, the dish
was a smash hit, and a culinary legend was born.

LavenderMagazine.com

45
 Cuisine > Off the Eaten Path

(Clockwise from upper right) Angry Crystal with red bell peppers and beef; Panacotta with Lychee; Son-in-Law Egg with crispy shallot and tamarind sauce; Fried Banana.

KINDEE’S PHILOSOPHY IS TO STAY VERY CLOSE TO AUTHENTIC THAI

CUISINE. AFTER ALL, WHY TRY TO REINVENT AN ALREADY-PERFECT
CULINARY WHEEL?
Yet, of all the Thai restaurants I have restaurant requisite cream cheese wontons. shrimp cakes with housemade plum sauce—
visited, I had my first taste of the famous Spice levels at Kindee are tailored to the perfect companion appetizer to Son-in-
Son-in-Law Egg ($4) at Kindee. The ingre- Midwestern customers. But even diners Law Egg.
dient list may not sound fancy, but if you with a higher tolerance for spice would Yum Woon Sen ($11), a traditional clear
like the idea of a Scotch egg with more kick, be wise to give their palates a rest, as heat noodle salad, easily can be spiced up with
order it there. tends to build over the course of a meal. In any of the Thai condiments provided at the
Kindee’s philosophy is to stay very close the case of the Son-in-Law Egg, the tradi- table. Our dish included octopus and squid
May 7-20, 2010

to authentic Thai cuisine. After all, why try to
reinvent an already-perfect culinary wheel?
However, Kindee, where the dress code
is come-as-you-are, also respects its Minne-
sotan location. Yes, it does have the Asian-
tional bite from chili peppers is optional—
simply crumble your fried pepper garnish
over the top, and enjoy.
Next, my dining partner and I tried
the very mild Tod Mun Goong ($6)—fried
for an unexpected treat, along with cherry
tomatoes, red onion, ground chicken, pea-
nuts, and fresh herbs. It’s satisfying, yet
light and very refreshing.
Our server explained that Kindee’s

46
 LavenderMagazine.com

47
 Cuisine > Off the Eaten Path
Yellow Curry with potato, cucumber, red onion.
FOR THE TRUE THAI EXPERIENCE, ONE REALLY SHOULD TRY AT
LEAST ONE IMPORTED THAI BEER.
menu changes each season, though it re-
tains a significant portion of diner favorites
in each category. I hope the summer menu,
which is expected to debut in late May, still
offers Yum Woon Sen.
For the true Thai experience, one re-
ally should try at least one imported Thai
beer. Singha ($4.95) once entirely domi-
nated Thailand’s market with its dry fin-
ish and uplifting flavor. However, Chang
($4.95) managed to push its way through as
a worthy competitor, with a zestier inter-
play between sweet and bitter. Both beers
May 7-20, 2010
are fairly light, which suits their climate of
origin. They are perfect to pair with spicier
items on the menu.
Our Angry Crystal ($12) noodle dish
was served at a mild-to-moderate level of
48
Angry Crystal with red bell peppers and beef.
spiciness. I would describe myself as spice-
indulgent, but I enjoyed it tremendously
just as it was prepared. The “crystal” ter-
minology refers to the clear mung bean
noodles in the recipe, which are prepared
to be somewhat chewy. Their calamari-like
texture lends them a bit more substance and
interest. They’re tossed with stir-fried bell
peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms, along
with fresh, invigorating Thai basil—plus
your choice of meat for an additional $1 to
$2. I think it would be fair to say that this
dish has a flair for taste-bud drama.
I shall have to return at some point to
try one of the curry dishes, but both my
dining partner and I barely had room for
the desserts. However, we did sample the
sweet and innocent Lychee Panna Cotta
($5), served with berry coulis.
Come summertime, Kindee would make
the perfect late-night dessert for two on a
muggy evening. I’m sure its location oppo-
site the Guthrie beckons more than a few
for an après-theater refreshment or two.
The heartier Fried Banana ($5), how-
ever, was my favorite. It is tossed deli-
cately with coconut milk, then wrapped in
a spring roll wrapper, and fried. The roll
is presented prettily sliced, drizzled lightly
with honey and chocolate sauce. It’s pure
heaven!
Along with your dessert, or perhaps as
a charming and unique substitution, sip an
imported Thai iced tea ($3). A healthy infu-
sion of half and half helps release the tea’s
luscious vanilla and cinnamon notes.
 LavenderMagazine.com

49
Sports & Leisure > Get Outta Town

Horn Please You Are in India

[ by Carla Waldemar ]

Taj Mahal.
 A

I
t’s 3 AM and 107 degrees, as we arrive in Delhi, yet shuffling camels, the occasional elephant,
and tooting lorries fancier than circus wag-
construction crews are busy, kebab stands are doing ons. We stopped to hail Lord Shiva, with
a brisk business, and pious pilgrims are lining up at his trident, cobra, and white bull, the Mer-
Hindu sites. Smog bites our eyes. Our ears are as- cedes of godly transport, as well as, nearby,
Lord Krishna, with his girlfriend, Radha—
sailed by a cacophony of car horns, as we pass side- immense, gaily decorated statues that make
walk dwellers huddled under cardboard outside our fan- Disneyland look somber.
cy, marble-clad hotel. A doorman in a complicated turban On to Jaipur, the “pink city” of Rajast-
presses palms together, and intones “Namaste.” han—the fabled land of warriors, and home
of Maharaja Jai Singh, a learned ruler of the
Welcome to full-frontal India. It’s per- explosions. Delhi’s Jama Mosque of 1656, early 1700s, whose palaces today contain a
haps the most glorious and unsettling calm in the midst of chaos, is the Muslim museum dedicated to his gorgeous, gem-
country in the world, but one thing is easy, Moghuls’s stamp on this Hindu city—an studded clothing, and another to watch art-
and that’s packing. Simply bring a roomy amazement of pink stone and white marble ists compose exquisite miniature paintings.
suitcase and an open mind—the former to inlaid with words on onyx from the Koran, his open-air astronomical observatory still
hold the treasures you’ll amass in this shop- as majestic as the mighty Red Fort at its tells time to the millisecond, and accurately
per’s paradise, and the latter to relish the side. At the delicately fluted Qutb minaret records the paths of stars. He also built the
bombardment to your senses. of even earlier (1193), crowds of locals who lacy, lattice-windowed House of Winds
You’ll find sights from dump trucks knew no English nonetheless crowded near for the ladies of his harem to see but not
draped in gaudy tinsel to tides of saris in our guide to absorb his comments. be seen, along with the formidable Amber
popsicle hues; smells to take your breath At Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial, it was Fort, rich with graceful Islamic arches link-
away, from cumin-scented curries to streets our turn to stand silently, as devotees paid ing voluptuous round domes.
used as latrines; and sounds segueing from homage. On to the gold-domed Golden Nothing regal in the least about Bapu
serene temple chanting to the constant bleat Temple of the turbaned Sikhs, open 24/7, Market, the town’s sprawling shopping
of horns from cars, motor scooters, tuktuks, aside a soup kitchen for hungry indigents, bazaar. My bags now held bangles ($3 for
rickshaws, buses, and overloaded trucks, all whom we joined, barefoot and covered in a wristful), harem pants ($4), and embroi-
industriously obeying the only rule of the the obligatory blaze-orange bandannas, dered shoes of camel skin ($7)—too small
road that’s enforced—the “Horn Please” to hear a reading of the holy word. I still for my Nordic foot, but this vendor wasn’t
suggestion embossed on every rear bumper. am wearing a silver bracelet given there to going to miss a sale. He slid them on, and
Yet, in a land of 1.25 billion people, serve as a constant checkpoint for honor- stamped about the place until the leather
pockets of peace and quiet emerge. I fled able behavior. yielded. Silk scarves, pashminas, T-shirts,
the army of street vendors—“Hello, Mama, Those are the sites you’ll find in guide- carpets—all are yours for a song and a ru-
cheap price, where you from?”—to stroll books. But snake charmers and wandering pee or two. Wilting in the heat, we steered
amid the locals in green public parks. I monkeys also provided photo ops, as we for the hotel pool and a cold Kingfisher
slid off a camel, following a swaying ride made our way to Chandi Chowk, an an- beer before dinner.
through a village of a hundred mud huts cient maze of sloping shops held together, Dinner deluxe: Channeling my Inner
and a thousand waving children, to drift off seemingly, by an overhead tangle of elec- Maharani, I left the group to their wimped-
to sleep in a tent where only braying jackals trical wires that resembled a bad knitting down-for-American fare, and headed to
broke the midnight silence. project. Gas fumes, saffron, sandalwood, another of the maharaja’s palaces, the Ram-
I unwound with a yogi who instructed and cow dung scented the air, as our rick- bagh Hotel. Because water was scarce in
us in breathing exercises. I floated beneath shaws hurtled among lanes as narrow as our this arid region, regal dishes were cooked
a full moon on a barge in the Holy Ganges, shoulders, assailed by hawkers of every sort instead in cream and butter. So, of course, I
entranced by flames of funeral pyres. Then, of delicacy, from fans of peacock feathers to willingly followed suit with tandoor-grilled
as priests finished the evening’s blessings, it leather bullwhips. lamb scented with cumin, cardamom, and
was a return to pandemonium, as we made Leaving Delhi—past the suburban call bay leaf; corn poached with green chilies;
our way through throngs of worshipers to centers where your computer problems are okra with dried mangoes simmered in rich
our waiting rickshaws. As our guide, Sand- solved—it was back to Horn Please terri- yogurt gravy; and rice biryani flavored with
LavenderMagazine.com

eep, instructed, “You don’t simply visit In- tory, as we encountered six-passenger mo- morels—all abetted by piles of naan, roti,
dia—you experience it.” He got that right tor rickshaws crammed with 11 people (not and kulcha breads.
On every step of our two-week tour, art, counting those on the running boards), Another day, we were off to Rantham-
culture, and history collided with sensory sharing the highway with sacred cows, bore, a maharaja’s hunting preserve-

51
 House of Winds in the "pink" city of Jaipoo. Photos by Carla Waldemar
turned-game park—a two-fer featuring a
crumbling fort of 500 AD soaring above
the jungle, where 50 tigers roam. They
are spotted easiest early in the morning, so
no complaints when the 5:30 wake-up call
rang. Piling in a roofless truck, we patrolled
the park where two had been seen the day
before. But on our visit, nada—well, not ex-
actly: wild boar, crocodiles, peacocks, para-
keets, deer galore, and monkeys lunging at
our backpacks.
CARS, MOTOR SCOOTERS, TUKTUKS, RICKSHAWS, BUSES, AND OVERLOADED TRUCKS ALL
INDUSTRIOUSLY OBEY THE ONLY RULE OF THE ROAD THAT’S ENFORCED—THE “HORN PLEASE”
SUGGESTION EMBOSSED ON EVERY REAR BUMPER.
Never mind: Back to lounge at the pool,
and chat up the Iranian families also on
tour, then regroup for an alfresco dinner
highlighted by butter chicken, curried egg-
plant, and lentil stew, along with rice pud-
ding studded with grapes and almonds. Plus
another Kingfisher, of course. Gotta keep
hydrated in this heat.
The next day treated us to a snapshot of
village life, as we strolled the dusty paths
between thatched-roof mud huts, dodging
cows and hordes of children screaming,
“Hallo, wottis yor nem?” We followed them
to school, eavesdropping as they recited
prayers to the goddess of learning, then set
to work doing sums on their slates. Nearby,
May 7-20, 2010
a women’s collective workshop, enabling its
300 members to learn sewing and design,
while opening microbusinesses and estab-
lishing bank accounts. Gladly, we pulled
out our plastic to purchase their lovely gar-
52
Sunrise on the banks of the holy river Ganges, Varanasi.
ments, tablewear, scarves, and purses.
Back on the bus, our destination was a
tent camp for the coddled—air condition-
ing (yes, it was still 107) and bathrooms
under our individual canvases. We gath-
ered at the fire pit, as village locals danced
and drummed under the stars. But first, a
camel ride through the village, where kids
tumbled out of mud huts to smile and wave.
The group dined on the usual airbrushed
dinner, but I’d made friends with the chef,
who proved delighted to deliver the real
deal on my plate.
Our usual predawn wake-up call was de-
livered by a strolling fellow who sang out,
“Good morning.” It was off to Agra, honk-
ing at the camel train we shared with the—
ahem—highway. We were en route to the
vast red sandstone palace-fort built by Mo-
ghul emperors, including the luckless Shah
Jahan, imprisoned there by his usurping son.
In a love story for the ages, Jahan’s window
looks across the water to the Taj Mahal, the
alabaster temple he’d built to honor his be-
loved wife. Yes, it’s the world’s most beautiful
building—serene, symmetrical, and simply
breathtaking. Yes, it was worth another 5
o’clock wake-up call.
Back at our resort-hotel, set among 25
acres of gardens, I again escaped from the
fries and pasta of the “grand” buffet for din-
ner divine at Paatha, its Indian fine-dining
Lord Kviahna and his girlfriend, Radha, at his roadside temple
outside Delhi.
restaurant—a scene of fountains, marble,
and strumming musicians. First, a patty
of green peas studded with paneer cheese,
dried fruits, and nuts. Then, crispy pap-
padum wafers to dip in a mélange of condi-
ments (mango, mint, yogurt with mustard
oil, candied lemon peel) before a heaping
helping of murg dun biryani (lamb with
seasoned rice) and, compliments of the
chef, a plate of lamb tartare. No dessert, I
demurred, but he had other ideas, and sent
out a dish of mango ice cream atop rice
pudding. Smart man.
Now, we were on our way to Khajuraho,
stopping for lunch in a tiny town’s 300-year-
old hostel that yielded a surprise bonus. It
was a festival day for Jain worshipers, so
what came our way but a spangled pair of
dancing horses, men devoutly shouldering
a holy portrait, and a loudspeaker truck
booming tunes for the ladies in blazing
saris behind them, all followed by an ava-
lanche of kids. We snapped their pictures;
they snapped ours.
Khajuraho is visited for one reason only,
and it’s a great one: its collection of sand-
stone temples of 900 AD, sculpted to within
an inch of their lives with erotic figures—
men screwing bare-breasted ladies; men
screwing men; men screwing horses. Well,
you get the idea. And speaking of homo-
sexuality—widely practiced by the Moghuls
New Delhi, Chowk Market. Photo by Carla Waldemar

until the prissy Brits made it illegal—to-

day, it’s no longer a crime. Men can share
hotel rooms, but smooching on the street
is bad form, just as it is for heteros. After
all, the day’s newspaper headline pum-
meled a recent film for portraying a “lip-
locking” moment.
The best for the last? I’ll say! Varanasi,
aside the Ganges, is the holiest of all Indi-
an cities, as well as the most awe-inspiring
and flat-out over-the-top. It’s a multime-
dia extravaganza of sights, sounds, smells,
emotions, and extreme devotion like no-
where else on the planet. Yes, it’s worth
the usual predawn wake-up call to arrive
at the holy river at sunup. George Harri-
son, who owned a house on its bank, cap-
tured it in his song. At that hour, 20,000
pilgrims descend daily for joyous morning
prayers, plus a dip in the—well, let’s just
call it murky—water, along with diving
kids, laundrymen at work, and yogis lead-
ing open-air exercises at their ashrams.
Agra boasts no monuments, no museums.
It’s all about the river.
Return again at evening, and board a
boat to drift the waters, reverently watching
the cremation pyres take fire (300 every day)
amid chanting priests and the scent of san-
dalwood. Then, a white-knuckle rickshaw
ride through labyrinthine alleys (more kids,
more cows, more fumes, and mayhem).
Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Jain: Have
we overlooked anything? Oh, right: Bud-
LavenderMagazine.com

dhists! So, a final visit to Sarnath, just out-

side Varanasi, where Lord Buddha gave
his first sermon 2,550 years ago.
That’s India, in all its living color.

53
 The Network
Business Profile |
Accounting & Computer Sales &
Bookkeeping Services Services_____________
___ [ by Heidi Fellner ]

LATITUDES
Addiction Info &
Treatment_____________ ▼

Astrology__________
_____

Financial Services______
Attorneys____________

Steve Branco. Photo by Hubert Bonnet

W
ith several cable television sta-
tions pushing private interven-
tions and addiction treatment
facilities as “reality entertainment,” Steve
Branco, Program Director of Latitudes, is
able to give a much-needed “reality check”
on addiction.
Branco says, “I think for most people
who start out using chemicals, their inten-
Barbers_______________ tion is not to lead to addiction. The inten-
tion is to relieve some pain, or it feels good,
or it’s fun. And then, people end up getting
to this point of no return where it’s no lon-
ger fun. I think one of the hardest steps is re-
alizing it’s gone too far, and they’re at a point
where they can’t do this on their own.”
At that point, it is time to seek treat-
ment, which can be a scary thing to con-
template.
Branco, who fully sympathizes with in-
May 7-20, 2010

dividuals at that threshold, explains, “I think

everybody who’s going into treatment is
scared, and nobody knows what to expect,
unless they’re a veteran, and have done it

54
 The Network

Funeral Services___ ___ Home Services_______

before. But I think they’ll find that the en-
vironment they’re going to is nurturing, and
they’ll find other people in the same situa-
tion with some of the same feelings.”
Latitudes, an offshoot of the Twin
Town program, is set aside specifically to
treat substance abuse within the GLBT
Health/Fitness__ _____
community. But it is housed within the
same facility as Twin Town, which treats
heterosexual men.
Branco notes that contact between
the two groups frequently results in un-
expected friendships: “There’s a shared
courtyard with a volleyball court, and din-
ing facilities are also combined. They end
up eating a meal together, and realize that
they’re in the same situation.”
Latitudes, which has different levels of
care, including both in-patient and outpa-
tient approaches, is able to accommodate
an individual’s needs.
As Branco puts it, “We aren’t a one-
size-fits-all model.”
Insurance companies can play a role
in determining treatment options, but if a
prospective patient does not have cover-
age for chemical dependency, another op-
tion is calling the government.
According to Branco, “Generally,
within human services, there’s a division
that works with people who have chemi-
cal issues. They can work with people who
have certain income levels to get them
into treatment.”
One of the difficulties involved in
treating chemical dependency is that re-
lapses can and do happen, but Branco re-
mains optimistic.
Home Services_______
Branco shares, “We do have a lot of
success stories where we have people who
will call and follow up with us, and tell us
how we’re doing, saying, ‘I’m still sober.
You guys helped put me on the right path,
and thank you.’”
For individuals who believe they might
have a chemical dependency issue, Branco
remarks, “If they take the step, and give it
a shot, they’ll find that there really is hope,
and a chance for a bright future, and they
really can change their lives around.”

NAME OF COMPANY: LATITUDES AT TWIN TOWN

YEAR FOUNDED: 2001
PRESIDENT/CEO: LARRY ATKINS
LavenderMagazine.com

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 39 EMPLOYEES FOR TWIN

TOWN; 3 COUNSELORS SPECIFIC FOR LATITUDES
ADDRESS: 1706 UNIVERSITY AVE. W., ST. PAUL
PHONE: (651) 645-3661
WEBSITE: <WWW.MERIDIANNETWORK.COM/TWIN_
TOWN.ASP>

55
 The Network
Calendar |
Home Services_______ Insurance______ ______ [ LavenderMagazine.com ]

FRIDAY, MAY 7

BENT. Photo Courtesy of Candid Theater Company

BENT. This not-to-be-missed story tells of two gay

men who find themselves in a Nazi prison camp for
the offense of being homosexual. A tale of self-ac-
ceptance, tolerance, and love, it shows a love affair
without the pair ever touching. It’s bound to leave the
audience with a lasting impression. Through May 17.
Lowry Theatre, 16 W. 5th St., St. Paul. (800) 982-2787.
<www.ticketmaster.com>.

SATURDAY, MAY 8
Spring UnderBear Party. Spring is all about bears
coming out from hibernation, so it’s time for a classic
UnderBear Party! Beer, pop, pizza, and snacks will be
provided, but feel free to bring your own beverages.
Doors open 8-10 PM only. RSVP required. 8 PM-Mid-
night. <www.ncbears.com/ncb>.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 12
Wine Tasting. Join The Open Door for its 14th annual
East Side Neighborhood Services (ESNS) Wine Tast-
ing. With a wonderful evening of wine, food, music,
Mediation______ ______ and a silent auction, what more is needed? Everyone’s
participation will benefit ESNS. Tickets can be pur-
chased at River Liquor Store, 2435 Marshall St. NE,
Mpls.; Surdyk’s, 303 E. Hennepin Ave., Mpls.; ESNS,
1700 2nd St. NE, Mpls.; or <www.esns.org>. 5-8 PM.
Nicollet Island Pavilion, 40 Power St., Mpls.

FRIDAY, MAY 14
Cats. The winner of seven Tony Awards, including
May 7-20, 2010

Best Musical, which features 20 of Andrew Lloyd Web-

ber’s timeless melodies, is hitting the stage in the
Twin Cities. One of the best-known musicals in recent
memory, Cats is a must-see for any theater enthusiast.
May 14-16. Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave.,
Mpls. (800) 982-2787. <www.ticketmaster.com>.

56
 The Network

Medical Services_____ Psychotherapy_______

Psychotherapy_______

Cats. Photo by G Creative

2010 Minnesota Trans Health and Wellness Con-

ference. Take part in this two-day transgender con-
ference. The first, Provider Day, has programming
for health professionals and students, with keynote
speaker Lisa O’Conner, MD. The second, Community
Day, is designed for members of the community who
wish to learn more. Included are free health screen-
ings, workshops, and prescription drug consultations,
plus individual minisurgery consultations with keynote
speaker Yosenio Lewis. Everyone is welcome to at-
tend both days. May 14-15. Metropolitan State Uni-
versity, St. Paul Campus, 700 E. 7th St., St. Paul. <www.
mntranshealth.org>.

TUESDAY, MAY 18
GLBT Host Home Program of Avenues for Home-
less Youth. On any given night in Minnesota, approx-
imately 200 GLBT youth are homeless. With the help
of Avenues for Homeless Youth, a program has been
Real Estate__________
created to help get GLBT youth off the streets, if even
for only one night. To learn more about volunteer-
ing for this program, attend one of two informational
meetings. 6-8 PM. Common Roots Café, 2558 Lyndale
Ave. S., Mpls. <www.commonrootscafe.com>.

THURSDAY, MAY 20
GLBT Host Home Program of Avenues for Home-
less Youth. On any given night in Minnesota approxi-
mately 200 GLBT youth are homeless. With the help
of Avenues for Homeless Youth, a program has been
created to help get GLBT youth off the streets, if even
for only one night. To learn more about volunteer-
ing for this program, attend one of two informational
meetings. 6-8 PM. Family & Children’s Service, 4123 E.
Lake St., Mpls. <www.everyfamilymatters.org>

FRIDAY, MAY 21
Toyota! The Runaway Musical Hit! Toyota’s prob-
lems have become the Brave New Workshop (BNW)’s
270th (!) show—and not to be outdone by the movie
theaters, it’s in 3D as well. Who knew the troupe had
LavenderMagazine.com

the technology to do that? Oh, and it’s also a hybrid of

a musical and comedy. BNW just keeps getting better.
Through Aug. 14. Brave New Workshop, 2605 Hen-
nepin Ave. S., Mpls. (612) 332-6620. <www.bravenew
workshop.com>.

57
 The Network
Lavender Lens >
Real Estate__________ [Photos by Sophia Hantzes ]
TICKETS
Tickets ON SALE
On Sale

THE BRIDGE FOR YOUTH

FUNDRAISER
APRIL 22
THE LOUNGE
MINNEAPOLIS

Wicked. Photo by Joan Marcus

Wicked. Something wicked this way comes…again.

The musical sensation known as Wicked is making its
way back to Minneapolis, with more than a monthlong
stay this time. It tells the story of the Wicked Witch of
the West. Find out the truth behind the fable. Tickets
on sale for season ticket holders, donors, and groups
of 20 or more. Aug. 11-Sept. 19. Orpheum Theatre,
910 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. (800) 982-2787. <www.tick
etmaster.com>.

ONGOING
Ongoing

¡Carnaval! Showcasing costumes, masks, musical

instruments, photos, and video from eight interna-
tional cities via the National Endowment for the Hu-
manities on the Road exhibit, ¡Carnaval! is filled with
fun learning activities for the entire family. Through
May 25. Hennepin County Library-Minneapolis Cen-
tral Branch, 300 Nicollet Mall, Mpls. (952) 847-8665.
<www.hclib.org>.
How To Talk Minnesotan: The Musical. Ever wanted
to talk like a true Minnesotan? Now’s your chance. Come
out for a night of education, as you’re treated to the
beloved classics “Hotdish Hallelujah,” “Northwoods
Woman,” and “Brothers in Ice,” along with some easy-
to-follow lessons underscored by advertising spots and
jingles. Wed.-Sun. Through May 30. Plymouth Play-
house, 2705 Annapolis Lane N., Plymouth. (763) 553-
1600. <www.plymouthplayhouse.com>.
Planning a Remodel. Need help with that home proj-
ect you planned? Castle Building & Remodeling holds
bimonthly classes to help you figure out everything
you need to know to get started. Classes are limited
to only 12 people, so RSVP well in advance to the
one you wish to attend. 5:30-7 PM. For complete list
of classes, locations, and topics, visit <www.castlebri.
com/classschedule.html>.
We2. Form+Content Gallery reveals new paintings by
local artist Jim Dryden. Inspired by the words and im-
ages of Walt Whitman and David Hockney, the gallery
will be filled with double portraits in a variety of sizes,
with a seemingly endless array of expressions and
personalities using bright colors in surprising combi-
nations. Through May 15. Form+Content Gallery, 210
N. 2nd St., Ste. 104, Mpls. (612) 436-1151. <www.for
mandcontent.org>.
Working Life Through Untold Stories. Celebrating
12 years with more than a month of programming, this
event tells about food industry workers and our food sys-
tem. It kicks off with “From Field to Table: Workers in the
May 7-20, 2010

Food System Marking Change.” Listen as the University

of Minnesota’s Department of Chicano Studies and Cen-
tro Campesino examine the current agricultural system
from a global, national, and local lens. 7 PM. Riverview
Branch Library, 1 E. George St., St. Paul. Runs through
May 19. Visit <www.thefriends.org> or call (651) 222-
3242 for more on event dates and times.

58
Classifieds
Employment Health/Fitness
501 FIT. Strength with Class. Improve your
life. Fun, Effective and Affordable Strength
Training Classes. Try “1” Class for FREE! 501
Washington Ave. S. 3rd Fl., Minneapolis, MN.
(612) 767-4415. www.501fit.com.
Home Furnishings
FLAMINGOS • An Occasional Market •
Next sales: Wednesday - Sunday, May 5-9,
10am - 6pm & June 9-13 • 3404 Cedar Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN (612) 767-4548.
COTTAGE HOUSE • An Occasional Market
• Next sale: OUTDOOR LIVING! • JUNE 9,
10, 11, 12, 13. Wed: 1 - 8pm. Thurs-Fri 10am-
7pm, Sat-Sun: 10am - 6pm • 4304 Chicago
Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN.
Home Services
Handyman Services Available for your Spring
Projects. Professional. Insured. Oriel Flores
(612) 385-2102
House Cleaning
The Maids Home Services gives you the
healthiest, most thorough housecleaning,
guaranteed! Supervised teams, bonded,
insured, environmentally safe cleaning
products are why Nobody Outcleans The
Maids. Free estimates (952) 929-6243. www.
maids.com.
TERRY LIDDELL, Residential cleaning.
Dependable - Honest. Excellent references.
Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, flexible schedules.
tliddellcleaning@yahoo.com. Call Terry: (612)
834-4887.
CLEANING MASTER INC. - Owner operated.
Serving the community since 1997. I'm
responsible, honest & respectful. I have kept
clients 12 years. (612) 521-9658.
GREEN DARLENE - $40 discount for first
time customers. Eco-green residential
cleaning service. Professional staff-bonded
and insured. Budget friendly to bring you
a sparkling clean. Free estimates. (612)232-
6573. www.greendarlene.com.
Photographers
Rogue Photography has a unique vision and is
passionate about her photography. Call Ann
for your family portraits, weddings, senior
pics, pets, and real estate listings. 612-308-
1488 www.roguephotography.com.
Psychotherapy
DENNIS CHRISTIAN, LICSW. (612) 940-
7033. www.dennischristian.com.
IRENE GREENE, MSEd, Psychotherapist:
24 years experience. Individual, Couples
Counseling, Mediation. Life changes,
relationship, gender, sexuality, parenting,
anger, anxiety, depression. Coming Out,
Sexual Abuse, DID Groups. Sliding fee.
Professional, nonjudgmental, confidential.
(612) 874-6442. irenegreene@earthlink.net.
Are you in crisis, feeling depressed or
struggling with life? Do you need to talk to
a mental health professional now? Call Tris
Casciaro, MA LPC, 1-866-864-8924. Accepts
Visa/MC/AmEx/Discover.
Real Estate
LORING HEIGHTS HOME - REHABBED
Two-Story + Finished 3rd Story. 4+ BR, 3 BA.
Original maple woodwork, modern kitchen,
updates throughout; huge deck & porch;
attached two car garage. Walk to uptown,
downtown, lakes. Basilica and skyline views.
$379,000. (612) 872-2963 or email: mryter@
timescapes.com for color brochure.
Rentals-Residential
CHASKA’S LUXURY COMMUNITY - 1 &
2 Bedroom Homes. Cats & Small Dogs
Welcome, Exceptional Value – Heat Included.
Washer/Dryer in your Home, Spacious Floor
Plans, Garage Available. Call about our
Specials. (952) 448-9201. Warm & Inviting – A
Must See! www.firstselectequities.com
LORING PARK - Classic 2 BR & Den. Natural
woodwork, hardwood floors, dishwasher,
balcony, offstreet parking available.
Overlooks lake, blocks to downtown. $1,100/
month includes heat, cooking, water. Rent
specials. (651) 373-0603.
Rentals-Residential
TILSNER ARTIST COOP – 2 BR $995 & 3 BR
$1175. Amazing live/work spaces for artists!
Pinewood floors; ample storage. Tilsner.net
or Call: (651)
Roommates
Classy guy with car to share NewYorky 2
BR, 2 BA apartment in Golden Valley. Huge
heated pool open May 15-Sept. 15th. Under
$500. Underground parking. (763) 544-2783.
Spa Services
The Tranny Factory @ The Spa. Complete
Makeovers for Men becoming Women.
theuptownspa@yahoo.com. (612) 986-4929.
Private-Supportive-Affordable
nails-wardrobe-hair-waxing.
makeup-
Therapeutic Massage
STRONG & RELAXING hands, resulting in
bodywork at its best! Bruck, MT, DC in South
Minneapolis @ (612) 306-6323.
FULL BODY DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE.
Relax & Unwind from Head to Toe. Private
S. Mpls Studio. Music, Candles, Jacuzzi, Full
Bath. In/Out Calls. 7 days. 10am - 10pm.
(612) 388-8993. Keith.
FULL BODY MASSAGE. Warm relaxing
atmosphere, Minneapolis. Hour Massage
$60.00. Shower Available. (612) 219-6743. 7
days a week, 10 am - 10 pm. Therapist: 5'10,
167#, 32 waist.
GAY FUN SPA !!! Sick of mediocre rubdowns
and boring, uninspired sessions? This time...
Get UNBELIEVABLY PAMPERED and HAVE
FUN !!! This is a totally erotic escape for
men looking for something new and unique.
You'll love it! Kevin (612) 229-0001 for a full
description!
LavenderMagazine.com
59
 Community Connection

Community Connection brings visi-

bility to local GLBT-friendly non-prof-
it organizations. To reserve your list-
ing in Community Connection, call
612-436-4698 or email advertising@
lavendermagazine.com.
Addiction & Treatment
Hazelden
Providing comprehensive treatment,
recovery solutions. Helping people reclaim
their lives from the disease of addiction.
P.O. Box 11
15251 Pleasant Valley Rd Center City, MN
(800) 257-7800 www.hazelden.org
AIDS/HIV & Treatment
Aliveness Project, The
Community Center for Individuals Living
with HIV/AIDS -- On-site Meals, Food Shelf
and Supportive Services.
730 East 38th St. Minneapolis, MN
(612) 824-LIFE (5433) www.aliveness.org
HIM Program
One of the Red Door Services of the
Hennepin County Public Health Clinic.
525 Portland Ave. 4th Floor
Minneapolis, MN
(612) 348-9100
www.himprogram.org
www.StopSyphilisNOW.org
www.CrystalClearMN.org
www.inSPOT.org/Minnesota
MAP AIDSline
MAP AIDSLine is the confidential statewide
toll-free HIV information
and referral service.
1400 Park Ave. Minneapolis, MN
(612) 373-AIDS (metro) or
(800) 248-AIDS (statewide)
mapaidsline@mnaidsproject.org
www.mnaidsproject.org
Park House
Day Health / Mental Health Treatment
Program for Adults Living with HIV/AIDS.
710 E. 24th Street, Suite 303
Minneapolis, MN
(612) 871-1264
www.allina.com/ahs/anw.nsf/page/
park_house_home
U of MN Research Studies
Looking for HIV+ and HIV- individuals to
participate in research studies.
420 Delaware Street SE
Minneapolis, MN
(612) 625-7472
Art Galleries
Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Enjoy Masterpieces From All Over The
World And Every Period Of Human
History. Free Admission Daily!
2400 3rd Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN
(612) 870-3000 www.artsmia.org
Zeitgeist Arts Cafe
Duluth’s newest dining experience offering
contemporary American dining and full
bar in an art-filled setting.
222 E. Superior St.
Duluth, MN (218) 722-9100
www.zeitgeistartscafe.com
May 7-20, 2010
Education
Art Institutes International
Minnesota
Helping prepare students for careers in the
visual and practical arts.
15 South 9th Street
Minneapolis, MN (612) 332-3361
www.artinstitutes.edu/minneapolis
Minnesota Online High School
State-approved, public online high school
open to any Minnesota resident in grades
9 through 12.
1313 Fifth St. SE, Ste. 227
Minneapolis, MN (800) 764-8166
www.mnohs.org
Events
Minneapolis Bike Tour
Annual bike ride in September supporting
Minneapolis Parks. Fully supported route,
refreshments and music in finish area.
2117 West River Rd.
Minneapolis, MN
(612) 230-6400
www.minneapolisbiketour.com
mplsbiketour@minneapolisparks.org
Red Ribbon Ride
Four-day Bike Ride in July Benefiting Eight
HIV/AIDS Service Organizations
in Minnesota.
4457 3rd Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN
(612) 822-2110 www.redribbonride.org
Fitness
YWCA of Minneapolis
Healthy Me. Healthy Community.
Co-ed, full-service health clubs.
Locations in Downtown, Midtown
and Uptown
2808 Hennepin Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN
(612) 874-7131
www.ywcampls.org
Health & Wellness
Rainbow Health Initiative
Working to improve the health of LGBTQ
Minnesotans through education, clinical
practice, outreach, and advocacy. RHI is
the lead agency for the MN Tobacco-free
Lavender Communities.
611-A West Lake Street
Minneapolis, MN
877-499-7744
www.rainbowhealth.org
www.mntlc.org
Historical
Minnesota Historical Society
The best of Minnesota comes to life
with fun, hands-on exhibits and
signature programs.
345 Kellogg Blvd
W., St. Paul, MN
(651) 259-3000
www.mnhs.org/historycenter
Library
Quatrefoil Library
Your GLBT Library with stacks of DVDs,
Literacy Illusion Theater
Nationally Renowned For Developing
The Loft Literary Center
Where writers learn from other writers. Artists and New Work While Sparking
Conversation About Challenging
Visit www.loft.org for classes, events,
conferences, and more. Human Issues.
528 Hennepin Ave., #704
1011 Washington Ave S. Suite 200 Minneapolis, MN
Open Book Minneapolis, MN
612-215-2575 (612) 339-4944 www.illusiontheater.org
www.loft.org
loft@loft.org Jungle Theater
Professional theater producing
Media & Communications contemporary and classic works in an
intimate setting in the Lynlake neighborhood.
Minnesota Public Radio
Providing in depth news coverage, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN
classical music and emerging artists on our (612) 822-7063 www.JungleTheater.com
three regional services.
(651) 290-1212 Minneapolis Musical Theatre
“Giving Voice to the Human Experience” -
www.mpr.org
New and Rarely-Seen Musicals.
Radio K 770 8520 W. 29th St.
Minneapolis, MN
Radio K is the award-winning student-run
radio station of the University of Minnesota (612) 605-3298
www.aboutmmt.org
330 21st Ave. S.
610 Rarig Center
Minnesota Orchestra
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN Led by Music Director Osmo Vänskä, the
(612) 625-3500 www.radiok.org Minnesota Orchestra, one of America’s
leading symphony orchestras.
Museum 1111 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN
Judy Garland Museum (612) 371-5656 (800) 292-4141
Tour Judy’s childhood home, lovingly www.minnesotaorchestra.org
restored to it’s 1925 splendor, adjacent
museum houses GARLANDIA. Northrop
2727 US Highway 169 South Presenting world-class entertainment in the
Grand Rapids, MN 55744 heart of the Twin Cities.
Toll Free 1 800 664 5839 84 Church St. SE
www.judygarlandmuseum.com Minneapolis, MN
Business Office: 612-625-6600
Walker Art Center Ticket Office: 612-624-2345
Internationally recognized as a leading northrop.umn.edu
venue for the presentation of the art of
our time. One Voice Mixed Chorus
1750 Hennepin Ave. Passionate about building community and
Minneapolis, MN (612) 375-7600 creating social change by raising our
www.walkerart.org voices in song.
732 Holly Ave. Ste. Q Saint Paul, MN
Performing Arts (651) 298-1954
Ballet of the Dolls www.ovmc.org operations@ovmc.org
Resident Company of Newly Renovated
Ritz Theater. Twin Cities first year-round Ordway Center for the Performing
dance-theater program. Arts
35 13th Ave. NE Hosting, presenting, and creating
Minneapolis, MN (612) 623-7660 performing arts and educational programs
www.ritzdolls.org that enrich diverse audiences.
345 Washington St.
Brazen Theatre St. Paul, MN
Plays, Musicals, Cabaret and Other (651) 224-4222
Entertainment for Adventurous Audiences. www.ordway.org
See Individual Ads for Venue
(414) 248-6481
Park Square Theatre
www.brazentheatre.org Creating entertainment that matters;
transporting you to unique worlds through
Flower Shop Project exceptional talent and masterful stories.
Producing new and local works of theatre 20 West Seventh Pl. Saint Paul, MN
that are smart, ballsy and fundamentally (651) 291-7005
entertaining. www.parksquaretheatre.org
At Bryant-Lake Bowl & Patrick’s Cabaret
Minneapolis, MN
The Minnesota Opera
(612) 388-8628 America’s most exciting opera company
www.theflowershopproject.com
has launched a new GLBTA group
“Out at the Opera!”
Guthrie Theater 620 N. First St.
Come On In! Performances, Classes,
Minneapolis, MN
Dining, Tours. (612) 342-9550
818 South 2nd St. Minneapolis, MN
(612) 377-2224 www.guthrietheater.org
www.mnopera.org
Hennepin Theatre Trust Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus

Orpheum, State and Pantages Theatres An award-winning chorus that builds

Co-Op Living. books, and magazines. Check out our
online catalogue. Twin Cities’ best live entertainment: community through music and offers
Old Town In Town Broadway shows, music concerts, comedy, entertainment worth coming out for!
728 E. 16th St. #4 1619 Dayton Ave., No. 105 528 Hennepin Ave., Suite 307
St. Paul, MN dance and more!
Minneapolis, MN Minneapolis, MN Minneapolis, MN
(612) 341-4394 (651) 641-0969 (612) 673-0404 (612) 339-SONG (7664)
oldtownintown@gmail.com www.qlibrary.org www.HennepinTheatreDistrict.org chorus@tcgmc.org www.tcgmc.org

60
University of Minnesota Theatre Mount Olive Lutheran Church Family Tree Clinic the perfect escape.
Arts and Dance Ours is a welcoming parish, rich in music, LGBTQ Health Matters at Family Tree ! P.O Box 1048
Educating artists and audiences through a diverse liturgy and opportunities to serve Offering respectful, affordable sexual 13 North Broadway Ave
mix of performances on both land and water. the community. health service to meet your needs. Grand Marais, MN
U of M Theatre 3045 Chicago Ave. Minneapolis, MN 1619 Dayton Avenue (888) 922-5000
330 21st Ave S, Minneapolis, MN (612) 827-5919 St. Paul, MN (218) 387-2524
(612) 624-2345 www.mountolivechurch.org (651) 645-0478 www.grandmarais.com
www.theatre.umn.edu www.familytreeclinic.org
Plymouth Congregational Church, Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism
Pets/Pet Services Minneapolis Social Organizations America's Gay Oasis is Beautiful
A Beacon of Liberal Theology. Progressive Imperial Court of Minnesota Palm Springs.
Animal Humane Society Christianity, Traditional Setting & Service, P.O. Box 582417 www.palm-springs.org
Buffalo: (763) 390-3647 Social Action, The Arts & Music. Minneapolis, MN
Coon Rapids: (763) 862-4030 1900 Nicollet Ave. at Franklin www.impcourtmn.com Visit Minneapolis North Convention
Golden Valley: (763) 522-4325 Minneapolis, MN & Visitors Bureau
St. Paul: (651) 645-7387 (612) 871-7400 Sports & Recreation We take pride in helping individuals find
Woodbury: (651) 730-6008 www.plymouth.org Twin Cities Goodtime Softball the ideal location for events & celebrations.
www.animalhumanesociety.org League (TCGSL) 6200 Shingle Creek Parkway, Suite 248,
Spirit of Hope Join 500 GLBT softball players as we Minneapolis, MN
Wildcat Sanctuary An Independent Catholic community. celebrate 32 years of gay softball in 763.566.7722 / 800.541.4364
A non-profit accredited sanctuary for over At our table, all are welcome. Mass at Minnesota. www.visitminneapolisnorth.com
100 abandoned and abused bobcats, 5 PM Saturday evening. Fr. Marty PO Box 580264
tigers, leopards and more. Shanahan. Worship at: Minneapolis, MN Door County Visitor Bureau
Sandstone, MN St. Anne’s Episcopal Church www.tcgsl.org Your Stories. Our Setting. Like Nowhere
(320) 245-6871 2035 Charlton Rd Else. Door County, Wisconsin.
www.wildcatsanctuary.org Sunfish Lake, MN Student/Campus/Alumni PO Box 406
www.spiritofhopecatholiccommunity.org Minnesota GLBTA Campus Alliance Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
A statewide alliance of students, staff, faculty, 1-800-52-RELAX (73529)
Politics & Rights St. Luke Presbyterian Church alumni, and community members uniting for www.doorcounty.com/info@doorcounty.com
Human Rights Campaign We’re a joyful, compassionate community campus change.
Advocates for all GLBT Americans, on a spiritual journey, seeking justice and 2136 Ford Parkway #131 St. Paul, MN Winneshiek County Convention &
mobilizes grassroots action, invests peace. Join us. (612) 730-8541 Visitors Bureau / Discover Decorah
strategically to elect fair-minded individuals. 3121 Groveland School Rd. www.mncampusalliance.org Refresh, rejuvenate, rekindle....whatever
P.O. Box 50608 Minneapolis, MN Wayzata, MN (952) 473-7378 R&R you’re up for, the Decorah area is the
www.twincities.hrc.org www.hrc.org www.stlukeweb.org Travel ultimate heaven
Grand Marais Area Tourism 507 West Water Street
OutFront Minnesota St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral Association Decorah, IA 52101
Delivering programs / services in the area Wherever you are on your faith journey... Visit the North Shore's only harbor village 1-800-463-4692
of public policy, anti-violence, education St. Mark’s Welcomes You. - art, dining, shopping, outdoor activities, www.visitdecorah.com
and training, and law. 519 Oak Grove St. Minneapolis, MN
310 E. 38th St., Ste. 204 (612) 870-7800
Minneapolis, MN (612) 822-0127 www.ourcathedral.org
www.outfront.org
St. Paul-Reformation Lutheran
Pride Church with Wingspan Ministry
+ PASTORAL CARE + EDUCATION +
Twin Cities Pride WITNESS + ADVOCACY + Outreach
The third-largest national Pride celebration of St. Paul-Reformation Church to the
seeks sponsors, volunteers, and board GLBTQA Community.
members. Contact us today. 100 N. Oxford St.
2021 East Hennepin Ave, Ste. 460 St. Paul, MN
Minneapolis, MN (612) 305-6900 (651) 224-3371
www.tcpride.org www.stpaulref.org
Religious & Spiritual University Lutheran Church of Hope
Central Lutheran Church Reconciling Congregation - All Are
We welcome all people to celebrate, Welcome. Social Justice Opportunities.
discover and share the love of Christ. Strong University Links - Questioning
333 Twelfth St. S. Encouraged. Great Music.
Minneapolis, MN 601 13th Ave. SE Minneapolis, MN
(612) 870-4416 (612) 331-5988 www.ulch.org
www.centralmpls.org
Westminster Presbyterian Church
A Covenant Network Congregation,
Edina Community Lutheran Church Working Toward a Church as Generous
Upbeat, growing congregation committed and Just as God’s Grace.
to inclusion, justice, peace, community and Nicollet Mall at 12th St. Minneapolis, MN
proclaiming God’s YES to all. (612) 332-3421
4113 W. 54th St. www.ewestminster.org
Edina, MN (952) 926-3808
www.eclc.org Retirement
The Kenwood Retirement
Hennepin Avenue United Community
Methodist Church Our full service retirement community
Take a Spiritual Journey With Hennepin’s provides Independent, Assisted Living and
Faith Community Through Worship, Short Term apartment rentals.
Education, Fellowship, Service, and More. 825 Summit Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
511 Groveland Ave. Minneapolis, MN 612-374-8100
(612) 871-5303 www.haumc.org www.thekenwood.net

Mayflower Community Congre-

gational United Church of Christ
Sexual Health
Man2Man
LavenderMagazine.com

An open and affirming, peace with justice Interactive events where guys talk to one
church welcomes you. another about being gay/bi, dating,
106 E. Diamond Lake Rd. (I-35 & Diamond sex, life!
Lake Rd.) Metro (612) 626-7937
Minneapolis, MN (612) 824-0761 1-800-552-8636
www.mayflowermpls.org www.M2M.mn

61
 Backtalk > Lavender Lens [ Photos by Sophia Hantzes ] Ms. Behavior© |
[ by Meryl Cohn ]

SCI FI BINGO
APRIL 17
HYATT
MINNEAPOLIS
Mum’s the Word
Dear Ms. Behavior:
My boyfriend and I own a modest
little guesthouse that people often use for
spiritual retreats. We are thinking of buy-
ing another small inn from acquaintances
of ours.
Currently, the inn, which attracts a lot
of gay travelers, is reputed to have a sau-
na that’s used for sex. We plan to change
the name of the establishment, and to
convert the sex sauna into a meditation
room. We don’t want the purchase of a
place that’s known to be raunchy to taint
our current business.
How can we ask the owners of the inn
to be discreet without insulting them?
I want to ask for a binding confiden-
tiality clause in the contract, but my boy-
friend doesn’t want to risk insulting them
and/or giving them a reason to back out
of the sale.
How should we handle it?
—Mum’s the Word

Dear Mum’s the Word:

Tell the owners that you need the de-
tails of the purchase to be private. Once
they’ve agreed to honor your request, you
can include it in the written contract.
They don’t need to know that you’re
homophobic or frightened of semen, or
that the thought of frottage makes your
hair stand on end.
That can be your dirty little secret, as
long as you don’t say anything judgmental
like: “I don’t want to be associated with
your filthy butt-flavored sauna.”
Just state the terms you need—i.e.,
confidentiality—as you would in any busi-
ness transaction. Then, as soon as you take
ownership, you’re free to change the name
of the inn, and scrub the tainted “medita-
tion room” to your heart’s delight.

Dear Ms. Behavior:

I’ve been getting Thai massages for
years. It’s always at home, in my bedroom,
on mats, wearing loose clothing, with the
same massage professional named Iris
(made-up name). Nothing ever has hap-
pened other than a very good stretch of
May 7-20, 2010

my body.
I realize that it can look a little sugges-
tive when someone lies on top of you, lifts
your legs over your head, and presses

62
 LavenderMagazine.com

63
 > Ms. Behavior©
on every part of your body, but it is an an-
cient Eastern art form.
I wouldn’t give it up for anyone or any-
thing. It would be like asking a depressive
to go off her antidepressants. I’m sure you
can tell where this is going.
Recently, I got in a serious relationship
with another woman, Gina (also a made-
up name). She’s fantastic, and she practi-
cally has moved in to my home. We are
very happy, save for one item: Gina wants
me to give up Iris.
I have explained and explained and ex-
plained how good Thai massage is for my
mind, body, and soul, but Gina won’t hear
of it. I’m thinking of telling her I’ve quit,
but meeting Iris at her place instead.
Honestly, nothing illicit is going on, so
why do I feel so bad?
—Stretch

Dear Stretch:
You feel bad because you want to de-
ceive your girlfriend, rather than give up
your massage, and you’re not quite sure
that that’s a fair decision.
If you feel so committed to your Thai
Massage, you need to stand up to Gina.
Do so rather than lying to her about it,
and then sneaking off to do it in secret.
You’re at an important point in your
relationship with Gina, who apparently
practically lives with you. You have the
opportunity to face this conflict head-on,
rather than skirt around it, only to have
it come up in another way, like a pop-up
weasel in a carnival.
If Gina is jealous over your Thai mas-
sage, she also may be jealous over your
friendships with coworkers, or your
Wednesday night belly-dancing lessons.
Your ability to be truthful, even in the
face of Gina’s negative feelings, will be a
model for how you handle other situa-
tions that come up. If you think that lying
is a worthwhile shortcut to avoid conflict,
you’ll be shortchanging yourself, your re-
lationship, and Gina.
So, how can you convince Gina that
the Thai massage is OK?
Start by buying her one as a gift. Per-
haps trying it herself will persuade her
that nothing funny is going on. Or, invite
her to hang out and watch when you get
your next massage.
Please remember not to moan in a
way that sounds sexy, even if it feels really
May 7-20, 2010

good.
© 2010 Meryl Cohn. Address questions and correspondence
to <msbehavior@aol.com>. She is the author of Do What I Say:
Ms. Behavior’s Guide to Gay and Lesbian Etiquette (Houghton
Mifflin). Signed copies are available directly from the author.

64
 LavenderMagazine.com

65
 Yellow Pages > Advertiser Index
Adult
Deja Vu.......................................... 65
Dream Girls................................... 63
Hardline Gay Chat ...................... 64
Hennepin Avenue Boutique......... 63
Megaphone .................................. 65
Apparel & Accessories
STYLEDLIFE-styledlook ................. 23
Arts & Entertainment
Lavender’s OUT at the Movies ... 25
Brazen Theatre ............................. 35
Walker Art Center ........................ 33
Automotive
Anderson, Chad ........................... 10
LaMettry’s Collision ..................... 28
Morrie’s Mazda ........................... 35
Morrie’s Subaru ........................... 9
Bars & Nightlife
Bar Advertiser Guide ................... 36
19 Bar ............................................ 42
Brass Rail ....................................... 38
Camp ............................................. 42
The Flame ...................................... 42
Fusion ............................................ 43
Gay 90’s ..............................................37, 39, 67
Gladius .......................................... 41
Lush ................................................ 41
The Main Club .............................. 42
Tickles ............................................ 41
Town House ................................. 40
Beauty & Relaxation
Anew Aesthetic Medical Center . 26
Barbers on Bryant ........................ 54
Garden of Eden ............................ 19
Homme by Maric Group ............. 23
Beverages
Budweiser...................................... 68
Sorella Wine & Spirits.................. 25
Communications
AM950, The Voice of
Minnesota ..................................... 7
Radio K 770 ................................ 9
May 7-20, 2010
66
Computer & Internet
Big Dog Solutions ......................... 54
DeskTech ....................................... 54
Events
Lavender’s ThirstDays .................. 53
MN AIDS Project-AIDS Walk ..... 2
Lavender's Summer of Pride ........ 12, 13
Financial
Bender, Joy ................................... 53
Boyer, Daniel ................................ 54
Moltaji, Roya ................................ 11
Palm, Karen ................................... 7
ROR Tax Professionals ................. 54
US Bank ........................................ 10
Wells Fargo Bank ......................... 5
Floral & Garden
Chenoweth Floral &
Greenhouses ................................. 26
Landscape Junction ...................... 55
Tangletown Gardens.................... 8
Funeral Services
Johnson Hannah, Barbara ......... 55
Gifts
Eyes of Horus ................................ 54
Fantasy Gifts ................................. 35
Grocery Stores
Wedge Co-op ............................... 49
Health, Wellness & Recovery
Advanced Foot and Ankle Care . 21
Amble, Paul DDS .......................... 19
BioScrip Pharmacy ....................... 19
Burns, Steve................................... 57
Carrillo, Dr. Thomas P. ................. 57
Center for Psychological and
Spiritual Wellness ......................... 57
Chase, Lisa .................................... 57
Get Real Fitness ............................ 55
Hazelden ...................................... 3
Heffelfinger, Kate ......................... 57
Heteroflexible Therapy ................ 57
HIM Program ................................ 6, 15, 26
Homecare Assist ........................... 11
Man2Man .................................... 61
Napoleon The Great suffered from
hemorrhoids, and had a very little prick.
Napoléon Le Grand avait des hémorroïdes
et une toute petite queue.
O’Hara, Paul................................. 57
Pride Institute ................................. 54
Running Tiger Shaolin Kenpo...... 55
Stolz, James .................................. 57
Uptown Dermatology & Skin
Spa ................................................ 57
Vader, Kathy ................................. 57
Home Services
A-Z Electric ................................... 55
Bauer Floor Covering................... 56
Good Stuff Moving ...................... 56
Greenway Pavers ......................... 55
Halet Remodeling & Renovations 55
Matt’s Tree Service ...................... 56
Personal Pride Construction......... 56
R. Davis Construction ................... 56
Ryan’s Tree Care .......................... 56
Soderlin Plumbing, Heating
& Air Conditioning........................ 55
SOS Homecare ............................ 55
The Tile Shop ................................ 7
Todd the Plumber .......................... 55
Twin City Heating and Air ........... 27
Universal Windows Direct ........... 33
Insurance
American Family Insurance ......... 27
Baldwin, Davina ........................... 56
Wagner Insurance-Financial
Services ......................................... 56
Wolfson, Steve .............................. 56
Jewelry
Tesa Jewelry .................................. 25
Max’s ............................................ 21
T Lee Fine Designer Jewelry ........ 19
Legal
Bohn & Associates ...................... 54
Cloutier & Brandl .......................... 30
Dean, Jeff ...................................... 11
Heltzer & Burg .............................. 3
Mediation One ............................. 56
Moshier, Becky ............................. 7
Terry & Slane ................................ 9
Mortgage
Lozinski, David .............................. 27
Gleason, Pat ................................. 30
Hmmm…
Euh…
Optical
Specs Appeal ............................... 19
Organizations
Grand Old Day ............................ 28
Pet Products & Services
Animal Humane Society ............. 11
Larpenteur Animal Hospital ......... 5
Real Estate & Rentals
Bowker, Kent ................................. 57
Calfee, David................................ 58
Farinella, Marilyn ......................... 58
Groff, Wayne................................ 58
The Kenwood Retirement
Community .................................... 35
Leviton, Ann................................... 57
McGee, Michael .......................... 6
Miller, Valencia............................. 15
Richardson, Beth........................... 3
Restaurants
Cecil’s Deli .................................... 47
Dancing Ganesha ........................ 49
The Favor Cafe ............................. 49
French Meadow Bakery & Café 49
Fuji-Ya ............................................ 47
It’s Greek To Me........................... 47
Jakeeno’s Pizza & Pasta .............. 49
KinDee Thai Restaurant................ 47
Midori’s Floating World Cafe ..... 49
OM ................................................ 43
Park Tavern Bowling &
Entertainment ................................ 43
Roat Osha ..................................... 42
Subo .............................................. 49
Sushi Tango................................... 49
Toast Wine Bar & Café ................ 47
Uptown Diner/Calhoun
Grill/Louisiana Café/Grandview
Grill ................................................ 43
W.A. Frost ..................................... 47
Wilde Roast Café ......................... 47
Travel & Accommodations
Mystic Lake Casino & Hotel ........ 9
I’m better off shooting an ice cube up my
butt, and get a penis enlargement. I’m not
planning on invading Europe!
Je ferais mieux de m’insérer un glaçon dans
le derrière et de me faire allonger le pénis.
Je n’ai pas à sortir pour envahir l’Europe!
Backtalk > Consider the Source [ by Julie Dafydd ]

The Big Stew

Y
ou think cooking from a recipe is tough? Just imagine Chuck Roast comes in and says, “I just don’t
think this part is capturing my true flavor.”
yourself filming a recipe. That’s what I do. When I cook “Chuckie, baby,” I say, “You’re still the
I am the director of my own menus. And Sweetie-Baby, Big Beef in my Wellington, but a stew is
I’ve made everything from appetizers such as Four Wed- ensemble acting. Ya gotta blend.”
Well, lemme tell ya, I’m practically
dings and a Fondue to big-budget entrees such as 007 in Golden on my knees begging that miserable cow-
Giblet. I even made the classic Star Wok: the Mu Shu Strike Back. burger to finish the picture. It’s demeaning.
So when I signed on to do a stew flick for a potluck with MGM You don’t think so? Try pleading with your
(Mouth-wateringly Good Meals), I thought “piece of cake.” Af- meatloaf sometime to be a little juicier.
Well, finally, Chuck says, “OK, I’ll finish
ter all, I’m the menu director who gave the world Ace Burgoo, your crummy picture, but they don’t make
Meat Detective. a stew big enough for Chuck Roast to pour
out the gravy.”
What a disaster this project has been. OK, I’ve got revolting vegetables, sulky sea-
And going in I thought we had the mak- soning and a slab of beef who thinks he’s Filet of
ings of a classic stew. I mean, we had all the Hanks. Now I gotta actually make the stew.
ingredients. What a nightmare. Believe me, if you
Great character actors such as Mr. Pota- think working with actors is difficult, try
to Head, “Cry Baby” Onion, and the com- cooking them.
edy team of Peas and Carrots. There were days when the only one
And in a starring role, one of the great- coming to a slow boil was me. If it wasn’t
est actors to ever hit the skillet: Mr. Chuck Peas and Carrots deliberately sticking to
Roast himself. the bottom of the pan, it was “Cry Baby”
So what happened? Onion whining that his contract calls for
I’ll tell you what happened—ego. preheating. I settle them down and Mr. Po-
First off, Mr. Potato Head starts com- tato Head shows up in his skuzzy eye-filled
plaining: “I just don’t feel this part in meaty jacket saying he won’t do nudity.
enough for me.” Then Chuck Roast comes up and says,
I give him a look: “Whatcha mean it’s “I just can’t work with vegetables.”
not meaty enough for you, you ungrateful “Chuckie, sweetie,” I say, “even
tuber. You’re a potato. Now start acting like Jim Carrey works with vegetables.”
the lousy starch you are.” So you think I care that the potluck critics
But no sooner have I finished with Mr. Let me tell you something, it’s not pret- will name The Big Stew the “Picture most
Potato than “Cry Baby” Onion comes in to ty watching your vegetables go bad on you. likely to give you botulism.” You want my
really cry me a river: “I’m just not feeling Just as I’m thinking I got it under con- opinion—I’ll be lucky to get the damn
tangy enough for this stew project.” trol, things really go crazy. The entire Ex- thing in the can.
“Oh yeah,” I say. “Well, try peeling citing Blend of Herbs and Spices comes in That’s why for my next picture, I’m go-
yourself down to where you do feel tangy to say their billing ain’t big enough. ing to do a nice restful omelet. A little Civil
or your next role will be dip.” “Guys,” I say, “you’re seasoning. Watcha War item called Gone with the Egg Whites.
And if that’s not enough, Peas and Car- think, a waiter is gonna come in and say, ‘Folks, With Scalett O’Regano and Rhett Butter—
rots are up next. Saying they want bigger the fleshly ground pepper is looking mighty consider the source here—but I think were
parts. tasty today!’ Or how about, ‘Would Madame really gonna cook.
lavendermagazine.com

“Bigger parts,” I scream. “You’re filler! like to try the specialty of the house—a zesty
You’d have to be a rabbit to want more Peas mound of raw chili powder?’” Bye for now
and Carrots! And the only rabbits around my Then, I get that settled and catastro- Kiss kiss
stew are in the stew—now, get outta here!” phe strikes.

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 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.
Roat Osha. Photos by Hubert Bonnet

CECIL’S DELI $ IT’S GREEK TO ME $

Deli/Bakery Greek
We specialize in box lunches & deli trays! Anything on our menu can be made Family-owned & run for over 25 years, we’ve treated generations of diners to
to go, just ask. our authentic menu & warm Greek hospitality.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Dinner only weekdays, Lunch & Dinner on weekends
651 S. Cleveland, St. Paul (651) 698-6276 626 W. Lake St., Minneapolis (612) 825-9922
Deli: Mon – Sun 9 AM – 9 PM Restaurant: Mon – Sun 9 AM – 8 PM Tues – Fri: 4:30 PM – 11 PM • Sat: 11 AM – 11 PM • Sun: 11 AM – 10 PM

DANCING GANESHA $$ JAKEENO’S PIZZA & PASTA $

Contemporary Indian Italian
We would like you to come & enjoy our novel Indian cuisines in an extraordi- Traditional red sauce pastas, thin crust pizza & homemade sauces.
nary ambiance. Lunch, Dinner
Lunch, Dinner 3555 Chicago Ave. S. Minneapolis (612) 825-6827
1100 Harmon Pl., Minneapolis (612) 388-1877 Mon – Fri: 11 AM – 11 PM • Sat – Sun: 4 PM – 11 PM
Mon – Sat: 11 AM – 2 PM, 4 PM – 10:30 PM • Sun: 11 AM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 9 PM Midtown Global Market, 920 E. Lake St., Minneapolis (612) 767-1102
Mon – Sat: 10 AM – 8 PM • Sun: 10 AM – 6 PM
THE FAVOR CAFÉ $ www.jakeenos.com
Soul Food
Offers the best in authentic Jamaican-Creole-soul food in the Twin Cities. KINDEE THAI $
Brunch, Dinner Thai
913 W. Lake St., Minneapolis (612) 821-0553 • www.1favorcafe.com This isn’t your traditional everyday Thai restaurant.
Lunch, Dinner
FRENCH MEADOW BAKERY $ 719 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis (612) 465-8303
Certified Organic Bakery Mon: Closed • Tues – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 9 PM • Fri: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM • Sat:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 11 AM – 10:30 PM • Sun: 11 AM – 9 PM
2610 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis (612) 870-4740
Sun – Thurs: 6:30 AM – 9 PM • Fri – Sat: 6:30 AM – 11 PM THE LOUISIANA CAFÉ $
American
FUJI YA JAPANESE RESTAURANT $$ Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, omelets, pancakes, coffee,
Japanese & Sushi juices, soups, salads & sandwiches.
Authentic Japanese food, finest sushi available, Uptown Minneapolis, down- Breakfast, Brunch,
town St. Paul. 613 Selby Ave., St. Paul (651) 221-9140
600 W. Lake St., Minneapolis (612) 871-4055 Mon – Fri: 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM • Sat: 6:30 AM – 3 PM • Sun: 8 AM – 3 PM
Mon: Closed • Tues – Thurs: 5 PM – 10 PM • Fri – Sat: 5 PM – 10:30 PM • Sun:
5 PM – 9 PM MIDORI’S FLOATING WORLD CAFÉ $
465 N. Wabasha, St. Paul (651) 310-0111 • Mon – Fri: Lunch 11:30 AM – 2 PM. Sushi, Tempuru
Dinner 5 PM—10 PM • Sat: Dinner 5 PM – 10 PM • Sun: Closed Sushi, tempura, noodles, traditional, contemporary, home-styled specials,
beer, wine, sake.
GINGER HOP $$ Lunch, Dinner
Asian Fusion 3011 27th Ave. S., Minneapolis (612) 721-3011
Specializing in pan-Asian classic dishes. As we like to say, “East meets North- Mon: Closed • Tues – Wed: 11:30 AM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 9 PM • Thurs – Fri:
east”. 11:30 AM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM • Sat: 12 noon – 2 PM, 5 – 10 PM • Sun: 4
Lunch, Dinner PM – 8 PM
201 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis (612) 746-0304 • www.gingerhop.com
NEW UPTOWN DINER $
THE GRANDVIEW GRILL $ American
American Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, omelets, pancakes, coffee,
Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, omelets, pancakes, coffee, juices, soups, salads & sandwiches.
juices, soups, salads & sandwiches. Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch 2548 Hennepin Ave. S. Minneapolis (612) 874-0481
1818 Grand Ave., St. Paul (651) 698-2346 Mon – Wed: 6 AM – 3 PM • Thurs – Sat: 24 Hours • Sun: Close at 6 PM
Mon – Fri: 6:15 AM – 2:30 PM • Sat: 6:15 AM – 3 PM • Sun: 8 AM – 3 PM
May 7–20, 2010

OM $$
HONEY $$ Indian
Small Plates Modern approach to Indian cuisine featuring bold and distinctive flavors.
Fine cocktails, wine, small plates and artisan chocolates in an intimate setting. Dinner
205 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis (612) 746-0306 401 First Ave. N., Minneapolis (612) 338-1510
www.honeympls.com www.omminneapolis.com

70
 Fusion.

The Grandview Grill. New Uptown Diner.

ROAT OSHA $$
Thai
Uniquely crafted authentic and American influences. Decor that invites con-
versation
Lunch, Dinner
2650 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis
Sat: 11 AM – 11 PM • Sun: 11 AM – 10:30 PM

SUBO $$
Filipino fusion
Eclectic Southeast Asian dishes with bold, exotic flavors served on small
plates.
89 S. 10th St., Minneapolis (612) 886-2377
Tues – Thurs: 4 PM – Midnight • Fri – Sat: 4 PM – 2 AM • Closed Monday

SUSHI TANGO $$
Japanese
Exciting and eccentric mix of Japanese cuisine and Uptown attitude.
Lunch, Dinner
Calhoun Square, (612) 822-7787
Mon – Wed: 5 PM – 1 AM • Thurs – Sun: Noon – 1 AM

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

W.A. FROST & CO. $$

Since 1975. Enjoy the open air setting in the summer & the spectacular his-
toric architecture year round. Sensation wine selection, cuisine & ambiance
provide the perfect dining experience.
Lunch, Dinner, Sunday Brunch
374 Selby Ave., St. Paul 651-224-5715
Sun – Thurs: 5 PM – 10:30 PM. Bar open until Midnight • Fri – Sat: 5 PM – 11
PM, Bar open until 1 AM

WILDE ROAST CAFÉ $

American
Homemade, comfort food, outstanding desserts, beer, wine, espresso drinks.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
518 E. Hennepin Ave. Minneapolis (612) 331-4544
Mon – Sat: 7 AM – 11 PM • Sun: 7 AM – 9 PM

THE WOODBURY CAFÉ $

American
Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, omelets, pancakes, coffee,
juices, soups, salads & sandwiches.
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
lavendermagazine.com

71
 Backtalk > Dateland [ by Jennifer Parello ]

P.S. I Love You

part 2
(In our last episode, I was trapped in the home of an ancient stranger me. “That’s MY woman!”
“Do you mean that she’s your grand-
who had just announced she would soon be dead of brain cancer. My mother?” I asked in confusion, certain that
mother had dragged me to the dying lady’s home during my vacation to the desert sun had boiled her brain.
Palm Springs in order to charm the woman out of an antique Danish “Listen, nitwit,” another blonde said,
pulling me away from the grasping clutches
plate. As I sat on the slip-covered settee, imagining my own long, pain- of the older ladies. “You ever hear of cou-
ful death, I spotted what I assumed was a mirage: a group of bikini- gars? Older women who like younger men?
clad lesbians gathering at the retirement home’s swimming pool.) Well, we’re called Joeys—like kangeroo
babies? We’re attracted to older women.
Mother figures.”
As my mother inched ever closer to her stealing a glance at the blondes to see if any I glanced around the pool and quickly
prize, the Danish plate with the image of of them were nodding in hardy agreement. noticed that every older gal was being
the Little Mermaid etched on it, I rose
from the sofa and walked to the patio door
in wonder. Considering the fetid air in the
condo, I suspected that neither the win-
dows nor the patio door had been open in
decades. I used all my might to force open
the door, which had been sealed by a thick
band of rust and cobwebs, straightened my
skort and marched toward the mirage.
As I got closer to the retirement home
pool, I realized to my delight that it wasn’t
a mirage. There, amidst the seniors doing
water aerobics and riding their “noodles”
(if you don’t know what these are, you’ve
never been to Palm Springs) were a bevy of
younger lesbians scurrying about in reveal-
ing swimsuits.
Once again, I tugged at my skort and
fluffed my hair. Then I approached the
pool. I immediately zeroed in on a group of
lovely blondes who were watching a gang of
tough-looking senior ladies play pinochle.
“Ladies,” I said with a slight bow in the
direction of the older women. I’ve always I was stunned to see that instead of appre- waited on and drooled over by a solicitous
found that the most direct route to attrac- ciative leers, I was greeted with looks of younger woman.
tive women is the most indirect route. So, hostility. The blondes were squinting hard “You know, I happen to be much old-
my plan was to flatter the older gals and ig- at me and one of them mouthed a silent er than I look,” I said, hopefully, eyeing a
nore the ones I wanted to sleep with. threat in my direction. Grace Kelly look alike who was stroking
“Hey, doll,” said an old broad from the Confused, I turned my attention back to the blue-gray hair of a woman whose den-
side of her mouth. The other side of her the seniors. They were eyeing me with the tures kept slipping out of her mouth.
May 7–20, 2010

mouth was occupied chewing a Tiparillo.
“Aren’t you a sexy thing?” said another card
player whose voice sounded like it had been
marinating in whiskey for the past 80 years.
“Aren’t I, though,” I responded huskily,
type of greedy hunger usually seen at early-
bird specials. One of the women patted her
lap and motioned for me to sit on it.
“Sit in her lap and it will be the last lap
you ever sit in,” a comely blonde hissed at
“Beat it,” Grace Kelly said. And so I
made a reluctant return to my own mother
figure who was still in the condo, trying
to pry a plate out of the hands of a dying
woman.

72