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LavenderMagazine.com
 Contents | [ Minnesota's Gay-Lesbian-Bisexual-Transgender Magazine ] LavenderMagazine.com
Full Screen Lavender Digital Edition.

34 On the Record
The ArchAndroid • Here’s to Taking It Easy • High
Violet • Night Work
Use Your Black “Bar” Tab To Find FLIP
FOR THE
BAR SCENE FULL SCREEN
36 Bar Advertiser Guide LAVENDER
Find Your Way to Hot Spots DIGITAL EDITION
36 Bartender Spotlight + WATCH LYNX
Town House: David IN ACTION
38 Bar Showcase
Gay 90’s
40 Lavender Lens
Pride at the Minneapolis Bars: 19 Bar, Brass Rail, Gay
+ DIGITAL EXTRA: DINING GUIDE

90’s, Gladius, Tickles

41 Lavender Lens
Tickles: Lavender’s Out in the Stands Preparty
YOUR CHANCE TO WIN
42 Lavender Lens
PRIZES EVERY ISSUE!
Town House: Lavender’s ThirstDays
43 Lavender Lens
Tickles: Lavender’s Out in the Stands Postparty
44 Bar Calendar
Plan Your Bar Outings SCHOOL OF SEVEN BELLS
18 CUISINE
46 Off the Eaten Path
DISCONNECT FROM DESIRE
CDS

Photo by Sophia Hantzes The Sample Room: Debuts Awesome New Menu
Pride Festival
SPORTS & LEISURE
52 Lavender Lens
Lavender’s Out in the Stands
53 Lavender Lens
Minnesota Red Ribbon Ride Closing Ceremony

ART FAIR BACKTALK

54 The Network
DATE NIGHT
DVDS

WEEKEND Business Services Directory

54 Imperial Court of Minnesota
Hosts Coronation XIX
56 LavenderMagazine.com Calendar
Photo by Hubert Bonnet
Plan Your Fortnight
59 Classifieds
COVER FEATURE Find Some Classy Stuff WandaWisdom.com
14 3-Art-Fair Weekend 60 Community Connection America’s ORIGINAL Podcasting
Creates Cornucopia GLBT-Friendly Nonprofits Drag Queen
COMMUNITY DIALOGUE 61 Dateland
8 A Word in Edgewise Children: A Cautionary Tale The Drag Days of Summer
You’ve Got To Be Taught Carefully Are Here!
61 Cartoon America’s drag queen is
10 Letters Trolín heating things up this
More About the June 18 Reverend Tom Brock Exposé 63 Consider the Source summer on The Progrum!
12 Queer As Folks Palm Off Tune in daily for new
Fantasy Gifts Celebrates 30th Anniversary • Jaqueline 64 Ms. Behavior podcasts, gossip, music, and
Captures Nuestra Belleza Gay 2010 Title • Phoenix Guilty Ex crazy talk! It’s a one stop
Wins Miss Twin Cities Gay Softball League Contest • crazy shop for all your Wanda
Twin Cities Hosts Queer Southeast Asian Conference 66 Yellow Pages Advertiser Index Wisdom needs! Click on over Photo by Brian Roby
What’s Where This Issue to http://wandawisdom.com
PRIDE IN PICTURES for all the fun you can shake a pair of panty hose at!
18 Pride Festival Correction
In the cover feature “Wicked Cast Includes Two Former
20 Reel Pride Concert • Soul Friday’s Pride Twin Cities Actors” in the July 16 Lavender: page 24,
Thursday left column, fifth line, should read “Massachusetts
22 Pride Women’s Events: Lure, Twilight, and Vermont,” not Schenectady; and page 26, middle BigGayNews.com
Boobytrap column, tenth line, and right column, tenth line, Your daily podcast of GLBT world
should read “Boq,” not “Bock.” news!
NEWS & POLITICS
24 Big Gay News Top Headlines
Local, National, and World News Catholic School President Caught in
26 OutFront Minnesota Executive Director Public Sex Sting
Johnson Steps Down Charges Dropped Against DADT
Meyer Becomes Interim Executive Director Protester
Constance McMillen Wins
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Settlement Over Prom Dispute
July 30-August 12, 2010

28 Fringe Festival Gay Mormons Condemn Church’s Role in Argentina

Offers Queer Treats
Argentina’s Gay Marriage Law Signed by President
30 On the Townsend
The Mystery of Irma Vepp • The Gospel at Colonus •
The Triumph of Love • A Streetcar Named Desire This Issue Next Up Get Your News in 12 Languages!
ISSUE 396 ISSUE 397 Big Gay News now offers TWELVE foreign language
32 Lauding Leather Life newswires! You can get international GLBT news from
Interview with Steve Lenius July 30, 2010 August 13, 2010 hundreds of sources in twelve different languages. There
Pride in Pictures Duluth-Superior Pride is absolutely no other site offering this much relevant
Art Fair Weekend content. Visit http://biggaynews.com today!

4
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LavenderMagazine.com
 Volume 16, Issue 396 • July 30–August 12, 2010

Editorial
Editor Emeritus Ethan Boatner 612-436-4670
Editorial Director Sede Vacante 612-436-4671
Editorial Associate George Holdgrafer 612-436-4672
Editorial Intern Justin Reis 612-436-4670
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,
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 Executive Jeff Newton 612-436-4675
Advertising Associate George Holdgrafer 612-436-4672
Sales & Advertising Traffic Coordinator
Linda Raines 612-436-4694
Classifieds Suzanne Farrell 612-436-4699
National Sales Representative Rivendell Media
212-242-6863
Creative
Creative Director Hubert Bonnet 612-436-4678
Creative Assistant Mike Hnida 612-436-4679
Photographer Sophia Hantzes
Cartoonist Rodro
Lavender Studios Hubert Bonnet, Mike Hnida
Administration
Publisher Lavender Media, Inc.
President & CEO Stephen Rocheford 612-436-4665
Vice President & CC Pierre Tardif 612-436-4666
Chief Financial Officer Carolyn Lima 612-436-4664
Administrative Assistant Austin Lindstrom 612-436-4661
Founders George Holdgrafer, Stephen Rocheford
Inspiration Steven W. Anderson (1954-1994), Timothy J. Lee
(1968-2002), Russell Berg (1957-2005), Kathryn Rocheford
(1914-2006), Jonathan Halverson (1974-2010)

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
612-436-4660 distribution
612-436-4698 advertising
July 30-August 12, 2010

LavenderMagazine.com BigGayNews.com WandaWisdom.com

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
You’ve Got To Be Taught Carefully
“God hates….” Basi-
cally, if you listen to Rev-
erend Fred Phelps, God
hates anyone and everyone
who isn’t a member of the
minister’s extended-family
Westboro Baptist Church
(WBC) congregation.
Hate, not love, is exalted on WBC’s
website at <www.godhatesfags.com>, which
describes its techniques, and proudly pro-
claims, “We display large, colorful signs con-
taining Bible words and sentiments, includ-
ing: GOD HATES FAGS, FAGS HATE
GOD, AIDS CURES FAGS, THANK
GOD FOR AIDS, FAGS BURN IN HELL,
GOD IS NOT MOCKED, FAGS ARE NA-
TURE FREAKS, GOD GAVE FAGS UP,
NO SPECIAL LAWS FOR FAGS, FAGS
DOOM NATIONS, THANK GOD FOR
DEAD SOLDIERS, FAG TROOPS, GOD
BLEW UP THE TROOPS, GOD HATES
July 30-August 12, 2010
8
AMERICA, AMERICA IS DOOMED,
THE WORLD IS DOOMED, etc.”
According to the website, “WBC has
conducted 43,767 such demonstrations
since June 1991.”
One of the latest WBC strikes was aimed
at Lady Gaga and her recent St. Louis con-
cert, billed as Monsterball. Phelps dubbed
her avid followers “little monsters.” Aware
that the WBC hate collective was gather-
ing, the Lady kept her cool.
Hoping to avert any open confronta-
tions or escalation of hate and violence,
Gaga spoke to her fans through her website
beforehand: “At the risk of drawing atten-
tion to a hateful organization, I would like
to make my little monster fans aware of a
protest being held outside the Monsterball
in St. Louis tonight. Although we have had
protesters before, as well as fundamental-
ists at the show, this group of protesters are
hate criminals, and preach using lude [sic]
[ by E.B. Boatner ]
and violent language and imagery that I
wish I protect you all from.”
Calling Phelps’s group “violent and dan-
gerous,” and urging fans not to engage it
in conversation, Gaga stressed, “My request
to all little monsters and public authorities
is to pay these hate criminals no mind. Al-
though I respect and do not judge anyone
for their personal views on any politics or
religion, this group in particular, to me, is
violent and dangerous.”
Monsterball ran in its entirety without in-
terruption, and following the concert, Gaga
remarked, “I wanted to make my fans aware
of my views on how to approach, or rather
not approach, these kinds of hate activists.
Then, Gaga tweeted her little monsters,
“Love and hate met in St. Louis. And love out-
numbered the hate, in poetic thousands. Hate
left. But love stayed. + Together, we sang.”
Hats off to Lady Gaga and a Monster
class act!
9
LavenderMagazine.com
 Community Dialogue > Letters
Boycott Saloon?
I have read both articles in the June
18 Lavender related to the Reverend
Tom Brock. I have also read writer John
Townsend’s response to the Star Tribune ar-
ticle, and all the letters to the editor in the
July 16 Lavender. I am incredulous. Perhaps
that is a feeling that goes along with my
“disorder.”
First, I find it a bit stunning
that the members of clergy
and others who condemn the
Lavender articles actually have
the audacity to accuse Lavender
of hypocrisy. What makes their
reaction so audacious is that
while they demand an apology
from Lavender, they request no
such accountability or apol-
ogy from Brock. For years, he
has used his radio show, his
pulpit, and his public persona
to condemn homosexuality and
vilify gay people. Where is the
demand for accountability for
his unchristian-like and hateful
behavior?
Second, I applaud Laven-
der for printing letters that
represent the wide range of
July 30-August 12, 2010
reaction to Townsend’s articles,
even those that are clearly not
supportive.
Finally, I am very disap-
pointed at the Saloon Bar for
its decision to withhold its sup-
port from the gay community.
10
The Saloon relies on the gay
community for its existence.
They seem perfectly happy to
rake in tens of thousands (prob-
ably a conservative estimate) of
dollars a year from the patron-
age of the gay community. But,
when push comes to shove, the
Saloon abandons us, denies
support of our community,
and chooses to side with Brock
and his denigrating of the gay
community. I guess we are just
an open wallet to them. I will
never patronize the Saloon
again, and I urge other mem-
bers of the gay community to
consider the same boycott. The
Saloon does not support us, so
why should we support them?
DAVID HANCOX
Lavender Did Right Thing
When I first read the
controversial article [Lavender,
June 18], I had mixed feelings: I
was glad Reverend Tom Brock
was exposed, and at the same
time, questioned the moral-
ity of it—sneaking into the
Courage group and all that. But
after reading the letters in the
later Lavender [July 16], I am
convinced that the right thing
was done.
Homosexuality is not a sick-
ness or a disorder, hence there
is no association with a 12-Step
recovery group, and, there-
fore, the decree of anonymity
does not apply. Gays around
the world are struggling for
acceptance and fair treatment.
Anyone gay knows they did
not wake up one morning, and
decide “to be gay”! It just is.
The Christian church has
often been misguided in what
the Bible means in its references
to homosexuality, and is respon-
sible for creating this moral
dilemma the world faces. God
does not make mistakes, but
humans often do. Misinterpre-
tation of an ancient text often
occurs. Ask any nongay person if
they can choose to be gay.
The problem only exists
because Brock is perpetrating
a fraud, and had he not been
responsible for spreading the
message of hate, then none of
this would have happened. Like
another letter said, perhaps he
will now seek the help he needs
to love and accept himself as
he was created. And perhaps he
can turn around his message of
hate to one of love, peace, and
inclusion.
God is the only judge of
right and wrong. He doesn’t
need our help with that. Since
humans are imperfect by na-
ture, they cannot judge without
bias. It’s not possible.
VINCENT LOBASCIO
Slam Dunk!
I thought you [Lavender
President & CEO Stephen
Rocheford] did a very good job
on Almanac July 9. Your oppo-
nent, [University of Minnesota
Professor] Jane Kirtly, admitted
that Lavender’s tactics were
acceptable if this was “a really
important story.” You coun-
tered by pointing out that it is
sometimes a matter of life and
death (e.g., Matthew Shepherd,
teen suicides). It doesn’t get
any more important than that.
Slam dunk!
You summed things up well
at the end: “We are very proud
of the fact that we have forever
destroyed his [Reverend Tom
Brock’s] capability to speak on
the subject of homosexuality
in such negative and demean-
ing terms—forever. This man
has no credibility to speak on
the subject—and that is a good
point.”
AUGUST BERKSHIRE
Spot-on
Thank you for the great
articles on the Reverend Tom
Brock [Lavender, June 18]. I
read Lavender’s articles and the
Strib’s articles. I agree with you
and John Townsend. I also saw
you [Lavender President &
CEO Stephen Rocheford] on
Almanac July 9. Your closing
statement to the interviewer
regarding Brock’s future utility
to the religious community was
spot-on: (to paraphrase) He
won’t be molesting gay people
anymore.
Thanks a huge amount.
LARRY LYKE
Hogwash
I watched the Almanac seg-
ment July 9 featuring—if that is
the right word—you [Lavender
President & CEO Stephen
Rocheford] and [University
of Minnesota Professor] Jane
Kirtley. I think it was set up
as a hanging, and although
you acquitted yourself well,
there were some statements by
Kirtley about the right way to
do journalism that I thought
were hogwash, and never mind
that they didn’t fit the story
very well. On top of the “print
bites” that she gave to the Strib
earlier, well, it was too much.
STEVE TIMMER
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 num-
ber. Unsigned letters will not be
published. Priority will be given to
letters that refer to material previ-
ously published in Lavender Maga-
zine. Submit letters to Lavender
Magazine, Letters to the Editor,
3715 Chicago Avenue South,
Minneapolis, MN 55407; or e-mail
<editor@lavendermagazine.com>.
 LavenderMagazine.com

11
 Community Dialogue > Queer As Folks
Colleen Bertino. Photo by Hubert Bonnet
Fantasy Gifts Celebrates 30th
Anniversary
Fantasy Gifts is celebrating its 30th
anniversary. In 1980, Bob and Marlene Bertino
established the business with a now-defunct
store on what is now Block E in Minneapolis.
Under the aegis of their daughter, Colleen
Bertino, Fantasy Gifts now has nine stores in
the Twin Cities metro and one in St. Cloud.
Visit <www.fantasygifts.com>.
Darren Heydanek (left) and Jaysen Saly.
Photo by Larry Barthel
Phoenix Wins Miss Twin Cities
Goodtime Softball League Contest
On July 11, the Miss Twin Cities Goodtime
Softball League (TCGSL) Contest was
held at Solera in Minneapolis. The
Phoenix team, sponsored by Tickles, won.
Phoenix performers included Tyler Hayden,
Darren Heydanek, Peter Nelson, Bradley
July 30-August 12, 2010
Reichenberger, and Jaysen Saly. The TCGSL
Sunshine Fund was the beneficiary.
12
Jaqueline. Photo by George Holdgrafer
Jaqueline Captures Nuestra
Belleza Gay 2010 Title
A drag contest in the suburbs? Of course!
On June 10, Jaqueline won the Nuestra
Belleza Gay 2010 title at the Queen of
the Night Contest from a field of five
contestants. The event took place during
the Rainbow Party at Olmeca, a Latin bar at
1927 West Burnsville Parkway, Burnsville.
Several hundred people attended.
Queer Southeast Asian Conference Participants.
Photo by Sophia Hantzes
Twin Cities Hosts Queer Southeast
Asian Conference
Hosted by local group Shades of Yellow
(SOY), the Queer Southeast Asian Conference
took place July 9-11 at the University of
Minnesota. Its mission was to establish
a national network of GLBT Southeast
Asians united to collect and share data and
information; build community; and identify
national advocacy issues.
 LavenderMagazine.com

13
> Cover Feature
UPTOWN

LORING
PARK

Poster designed by Pat Parnow

POWDERHORN
PARK

3-ART-FAIR WEEKEND
 Creates
UPTOWN ART FAIR
Uptown Art Fair Executive Director
Maude Lovelle describes the event’s 47th
year this way: “This is a great year for the
Uptown Art Fair, because Uptown is in the
middle of a major revitalization. Desirable
new businesses such as Apple are opening
doors, great restaurants abound, Calhoun
Square is getting a makeover, on and on.
The theme of ‘Urban Experiences’ fits right
in, because of all the great energy and people
who are passionate about the urban life, the
Uptown Urban Life in particular.”
Xavier Nuez, the fair’s 2010 Commemo-
rative Print Artist, creates stunning images
that explore the gritty side of the “Urban
Experience.” This year marks his third Up-
town showing.
Nuez says, “I’ve always been fascinated
with alleys and ruins, and generally with
what society shuns. These are places where
aesthetics are not considered, and where few
give a second look, and yet, they are so full of
energy and drama and life. I’ve been work-
ing on the alley series for almost 20 years,
and it’s always fun to go out and explore.
“I love the many contrasts of the Alley
series. First, they are places considered ugly,
and so, I try to make them beautiful. They
are typically drab and colorless, so I bring
Cornucopia
[ by E.B. Boatner ]
Alley no. 100, Ghost Story (2007, Kansas City, MO, 1:30am).
Painting by Xavier Nuez
a rainbow of colors. I bring lights and gels
with me. They are often dangerous places,
so I make them look inviting. They are
largely viewed as depressing, dead places, so
I make them positive, and full of energy and
life. And then, there’s the actual contrast in
lighting, helped largely by shooting at night,
-
and having lots of shadows.”
Lovelle emphasizes that Nuez’s work “re-
ally captures the spirit of ‘Urban Experiences.’
He finds beauty in urban landscapes where
others might see something harsher. His work
is in sync with the widespread passion for vital,
vibrant, urban areas such as Uptown.”
Local urban artist Mike Welton, who will
exhibit for the 12th year, comments, “In my
opinion, the Uptown Art Fair is one of the
best-attended fairs in the country, and has a
real mix of buyers. We get some high-end
to middle-range buyers, but all kinds of art
lovers come, and those who see visual art as
fun and enjoyable, and want to discover what
their personal taste and style in fine art is.”
Other crowd-pleasing events over the
weekend include Barefoot Wine & Bubbly
Garden’s inauguration of its new outdoor
location at the Old Chicago parking lot,
with daily live arts events on the Ultimate
Events Performance Stage. One’s inner ar-
tiste can participate, working in clay at the
Family Imagination Station in the Walker
Library Courtyard. More can be found on
the website.
LavenderMagazine.com
The fair draws on average 375,000 people
annually, second only to the Minnesota State
Fair in statewide event attendance. Feel lost in
such a crowd? The Uptown Information
15
 > Cover Feature
Between Centuries. Painting by Mike Welton
Booth, hosted by the Uptown Association, is at
the corner of Lagoon and Hennepin.
Uptown Art Fair
Fri., Aug. 6, Noon-8 PM
Sat., Aug. 7, 10 AM-8 PM
Sun., Aug. 8, 10 AM-6 PM
Hennepin Ave. & Lake St., Mpls.
<www.uptownminneapolis.com>
LORING PARK ART FAIR
If you’re availing yourself of the Metro
Transit Art Hop buses (see below), your next
stop might be the Loring Park Art Festival,
now in its 11th year.
Local artists include Bob Carls of Rip-
ple River Gallery, whose lathe-turned and
carved-wood vessels evoke, he notes, “his
background in improvisational music, pho-
tography sculpture, and film.”
Colleen Tabeika, who employs innova-
tive techniques in the crafting of her textiles
and rugs, explains, “A trademark of my work
is repeating and manipulating various groups
of analogous colors within a piece.”
WaterfieldYoung is the creative collabo-
ration between Nancy Waterfield and Wen-
dy Young, who color and manipulate papers
made from pure cotton pulp.
The varieties and handling of medias
throughout the festival will entrance the
viewer.
Coordinator Pat Parnow points out that
July 30-August 12, 2010
the Loring Park Art Festival is a partnership
of working artists, coordinated by Artists for
Artists, whose goal is to provide the oppor-
tunity to exhibit and sell artwork in an atmo-
sphere designed with the artist and patron
in mind. The event, which this year has 140
artists participating, promotes involvement
16
with the Loring Park neighborhood. Visi-
tors are both urban and suburban.
Parnow shares, “Someone one described
our festival as ‘an urban, sophisticated oasis
of art and culture.’”
Man does not live by art alone, however.
Like all the weekend art events, the Lor-
ing Park Art Festival offers a wide variety
of taste-tempting foods: wood-fired pizza,
Magic Bus Café, and Chef Shack, among
them.
Loring Park Art Festival
Fri.-Sat. Aug. 6-7, 10 AM-6 PM
Sun., Aug. 8, 10 AM-5 PM
Loring Park, Mpls.
<www.loringparkartfestival.com>
POWDERHORN ART FAIR
The third entrant in the art trifecta is the
Powderhorn Art Fair, whose theme this year
is “Minneapolis Skyline,” also the name of
the poster/painting by 2009 Powderhorn
Art Fair Best of Show Artist Anastasia Ma-
karenko. Born in the Ukraine, she came to
the United States when she was 14.
Makarenko muses, “To me, making art is
both challenging and entertaining. I enjoy
passing the great pleasure I feel from creat-
ing paintings to those who acquire them. My
art exists to fulfill souls, and relieve stress.
While the actual process of painting is driv-
en by my experiences and imagination, I let
the audience find their own life force in my
work—be it happy, nostalgic, mysterious, or
purely decorative.”
Now in its 19th year, the Powderhorn
Art Fair last year bestowed two “Longevity
Invitationals”: one to jeweler Mimi Alexan-
der, who has shown in the festival every year
Minneapolis Skyline. Painting by Anastasia Makarenko
since its beginning; and the other to Char-
lotte Fung Miller, a Wisconsin painter ex-
hibiting this year for the 17th time.
Powderhorn Art Fair Coordinator Di-
xie Treichel remarks, “The real beauty of
the Powderhorn Art Fair is that the event’s
impact is felt throughout the year, and not
just on event days. Proceeds from the art fair
help fund park programs such as theater arts,
computer lab, teen center, music recording
studio, the pottery studio, and team sports—
giving neighborhood residents of all ages a
safe environment in which to play, learn, and
grow. The Powderhorn Art Fair celebrates
art and community. It is a queer-friendly
and multicultural event that welcomes di-
versity.”
Powderhorn Art Fair
Sat., Aug. 7, 10 AM-6 PM
Sun., Aug. 8, 10 AM-5 PM
Powderhorn Park, Mpls.
<www.powderhornartfari.com>
Free Transportation
Metro Transit is offering free rides
through its “Three Fairs, No Fares” Art
Hop. Attendees can ride free on Saturday
and Sunday among the Uptown Art Fair,
Loring Park Art Festival, Powderhorn Art
Fair, and Lake Street/Midtown light rail sta-
tion. Buses leave each stop approximately
every 20 minutes. For more information,
visit <www.metrotransit.org/arthop>.
 MIKE WELTON
EXPERIENCING URBAN
INSIGHTS

Mike Welton, well-known for his

striking images of local architecture,
is both exhibitor and juror this year
at the Uptown Art Fair. He recently
spoke with Lavender about his art
and his relation to the fair’s “Urban
Experiences” theme.
Welton says, “My new work
[Between Centuries, pictured here]
comes directly from my urban expe-
rience. How so? Well, for starters,
it’s the lines, colors, and composi-
tions of large dense urban areas
that I’ve turned into almost abstract
designs, framed into the edges of a
canvas taken directly from the urban
environment. I use actual colors to
heighten them, or create my own
to inspire dynamic areas of line and
edge-work that achieve balance.
People react to the values of archi-
tecture and color surrounding them
in an urban environment, thus cre-
ating energy as well.”
Welton emphasizes the necessity
of the Uptown, Loring, and Pow-
derhorn events: “Art fairs are the
sole way some artists make a living.
An artist doing some 14 to 15 shows
a year can make a living, depending
on expenses and the success of each
show. Personally, I have done fairs
from Seattle, Washington, to Mon-
tauk, New York. Shows are impor-
tant in establishing your work with
collectors, regionally and nationally,
as well as being discovered by galler-
ies. Art fairs also bring visual art to
persons who may never engage in the
visual arts any other time of the year.
Of his second role, Welton re-
marks, “I was personally honored to
be picked as a juror,” because “jurors
are recommended by persons in the
arts community. The jurors spend
two days going through slides of
nearly 2,000 applications, in three
rounds. There are 100 to 200 alter-
nate artists placed on a waiting list,
LavenderMagazine.com

so in case an artist cannot attend,

there are plenty of alternates to take
their place.”

17
 July 30-August 12, 2010

18
Pride in Pictures
2010
PRIDE FESTIVAL, June 26-27, Loring Park, Minneapolis
 [ Photos by Sophia Hantzes ]

LavenderMagazine.com

19
 Pride in Pictures
2010
REEL PRIDE CONCERT
Minnesota Freedom Band &
Calliope Women's Chorus SOUL FRIDAY'S PRIDE THURSDAY
June 21, Lake Harriet Bandshell, Minneapolis June 24, Nomad World Pub, Minneapolis
July 30-August 12, 2010

[ Photos by Sophia Hantzes ]

20
 LavenderMagazine.com

21
 July 30-August 12, 2010

22
Pride Lure Kickoff Party, June 24, Rumours/Innuendo, St. Paul

Pride in Pictures

Pride Twilight, June 25, Karma, Minneapolis

2010

[ Photos by Sophia Hantzes ]

PRIDE WOMEN'S EVENTS

Pride Boobytrap, June 26, Barfly

 LavenderMagazine.com

23
 Big Gay News >
[ Written & Compiled by Bradley Traynor ]

LOCAL
CATHOLIC SCHOOL PRESIDENT
CAUGHT IN PUBLIC SEX STING
Joseph M. Peschges, the 63-year-old
President of St. Hill Murray Catholic
High School in St. Paul, was arrested
recently after allegedly fondling an un-
dercover police officer in the parking lot
of Crosby Farm Regional Park. He was
booked on suspicion of fifth-degree crimi-
nal sexual conduct. St. Paul Police say they
conducted the sting after a “high number
of complaints from citizens of men en-
gaged in lewd sexual acts with other men
in the park.” A spokesman for the school
confirmed that Peschges was relieved of
his duties as President.

NATIONAL
CHARGES DROPPED AGAINST
DADT PROTESTERS
According to the Associated Press,
all charges against Lt. Dan Choi and
James Pietrangelo, who were arrested
after chaining themselves to the White
House to protest Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,
have been dropped. Prosecutor Christine
Chang declined to comment on why the
government did so.

CONSTANCE MCMILLEN WINS

SETTLEMENT OVER PROM
DISPUTE
The Mississippi school district sued
by the American Civil Liberties Union
(ACLU) after its high school refused to
let Constance McMillen attend prom with
her girlfriend has agreed to pay $35,000 in
damages, and adopt a nondiscrimination
policy that includes sexual orientation.
The agreement ends a lawsuit by ACLU
on behalf of McMillen. She said in a state-
ment, “I’m so glad this is all over. I won’t
ever get my prom back, but it’s worth it if
it changes things at my school.”

GAY MORMONS CONDEMN

CHURCH’S ROLE IN ARGENTINA
July 30-August 12, 2010

The Salt Lake Tribune reports that Af-

firmation, a support group for gay and
lesbian Mormons, is criticizing the Mor-
mon Church for its effort to stop the le-
galization of gay marriage in Argentina.
The country recently legalized same-sex

24
unions, becoming the first in South Amer-
ica to do so. The Mormon Church denies
playing an official part in the opposition,
but according to reports in Argentina, a
church representative attended a meeting
with leaders from a number of Christian
denominations opposed to gay marriage.
David Melson of Affirmation said, “This
is another appalling example of the LDS
[Church of Latter Day Saints] trying to
dominate government decisions being
made by democratically elected officials.”

WORLD

ARGENTINA GAY MARRIAGE

LAW SIGNED BY PRESIDENT
Argentina President Cristina Fernan-
dez signed landmark legislation on July
21, making the country the first in South
America to legalize same-sex marriage. She
said at a signing ceremony, “Today, we are a
society that is a little more egalitarian than
last week.” The first same-sex ceremonies
are set to take place August 13.

GAY RIGHTS GROUP GETS UN

ACCREDITATION
According to the Associated Press,
the United Nations Economic and Social
Council voted in July to accredit the Inter-
national Gay and Lesbian Human Rights
Commission (IGLHRC). US President
Barack Obama issued a statement prais-
ing the move, saying, “With the group’s
inclusion, the United Nations is closer to
the ideals on which it was founded, and to
values of inclusion and equality to which
the United States is deeply committed.”
Commission officials said the group now
will be able to attend UN meetings, sub-
mit statements, and collaborate with both
government and UN agencies on human
rights for GLBT people.

UN SAYS ANTIGAY LAWS

SPREADING HIV IN ASIA-PACIFIC
A new report from the United Nations
Development Program (UNDP) indicates
that laws criminalizing gay sex in the Asia-
Pacific region are partially responsible for
an alarming level of HIV/AIDS infec-
tions. In the region, 19 of 48 countries
criminalize sex between men. The report
concludes, “These laws often taken on the
force of vigilantism, frequently leading to
abuse and human rights violations. Cor-
LavenderMagazine.com

respondingly, HIV prevalence has reached

alarming levels among men who have sex
with men and transgender populations in
many countries of the region.”

25
 > News & Politics
OutFront Minnesota Executive Director Johnson Steps Down
Meyer Becomes Interim Executive Director
At the end of July, OutFront Minne-
sota Executive Director Amy Johnson is
stepping down from the position she took
over in January 2009. She was instrumen-
tal in guiding the organization through a
Amy Johnson. Photo by Sophia Hantzes
July 30-August 12, 2010
26
Monica Meyer. Photo by Sophia Hantzes
challenging economic environment. An
attorney in private practice before assum-
ing leadership of OutFront Minnesota,
she came to it with a long track record of
volunteer service with other Twin Cites
GLBT groups.
OutFront Minnesota Board Chair Ann
Swanson said, “On behalf of the board and
staff, we thank Amy for her leadership at
OutFront and in the GLBT community.”
Longtime OutFront Minnesota Public
Policy Director Monica Meyer becomes its
Interim Executive Director effective July
31. She is a veteran public policy organizer
and community advocate whose expertise
and influence at the State Capitol will be
key to advancing the organization’s agenda
for equality in this year’s elections. In addi-
tion to her role at OutFront Minnesota, she
is also Board Chair of TakeAction Minne-
sota, a progressive advocacy organization.
Johnson remarked, “Monica’s commit-
ment to OutFront Minnesota and to the
community it serves statewide is an invalu-
able asset to the organization.”
 LavenderMagazine.com

27
 > Arts & Entertainment
Batmama.
Photo by Aimee Doyle
▼ ▼
T
he 17th an-
nual Minnesota
Fringe Festival
offers a rich va-
riety of queer
treats, as well
as some others
that will resonate with current
GLBT concerns. It’s packed
with plays, dance performanc-
es, and comic acts that run no
longer than an hour. Perform-
ers from across the nation and
beyond will strut stages in both
Twin Cities at various venues.
Rainbow Family Fare Even
Adult Singles Will Treasure
Children’s theater for non-
traditional families is fun for
youngsters, as well as good for
those of us who grew up with-
out such images to see, and re-
July 30-August 12, 2010
flect on our own conditioning.
Andrew Waldron and Jill
Whitney-Birk’s queer adaptation
Open And Affirming Fairy Tales:
The Fabulous Fables of Rainbeau
Bay subverts binary demands for
28
Thinkingaview.
Photo by V. Paul Virtuccio.
FRINGE FESTIVAL
OFFERS QUEER TREATS
[ by John Townsend ]
“either/or behaviors” and identi-
ty. The Princess and the Frog is rei-
magined with two dads. The Fish
and the Fisherman is revamped
to examine how little boys are
driven toward ultramacho “act-
ing out.” The Golden Goose is re-
invented as a boy getting to date
a handsome prince.
Playwright Kate Elise’s in-
teractive MisMatched involves a
tomboy and a very sensitive boy
whose friendship bond is tested
at the science fair and on the
football field.
Aladdin and the Magic Lamp’s
teen cast from Kansas salutes
the style of playwright Harry
Kondoleon, who died of AIDS
at 39 in 1994. His Obie-win-
ning The Brides uses fairy tale-
like segments.
In light of my recent Cour-
age exposé in Lavender, older
teens and all adults must see
(Disordered) Thy Name is Teen-
ager, a Blank Slate Collabora-
tion that piercingly examines
teens identifying with their
Naked Yoga.
Photo by Sarah Whiting of sarawhitingphotographic.com
▼ ▼
mental illness in a time when
overmedication is the norm
for many. Director Adam Ar-
nold says developing the show
made him more aware of how
queer youth often still are seen
as mentally ill. Ironically, the
American Psychiatric Associa-
tion declassified homosexuality
as a mental illness in 1973.
Julie Mann’s Mixed Reality:
My Multi-Racial World is in-
spired by Mildred and Richard
Loving, whose interracial mar-
riage case compelled the US
Supreme Court to declare all
miscegenation laws unconstitu-
tional in 1967. Present parallels
are striking, given recent Re-
publican platforms in Montana
and Texas that call for making
same-sex marriage illegal.
Adult Fare
Actress Michelle O’Neill,
who was the best local cameo-
role actor last year in the Guth-
rie’s The Intelligent Homosexual’s
Guide, directs Skiing on Broken
Medea Ex Machina.
Photo by Richard Molby
Glass, acted by Max Polski and
Joel Liestman. Playwright Da-
vid Goldstein muses, “Youth
and beauty can be as powerful
as that which comes with age,
wealth, and social position. This
dynamic is reflected between
escorts and the men who hire
them. What happens when what
starts as a business interaction
develops unexpectedly into a
loving relationship? In such a re-
lationship, more than in others,
perhaps, each person has unique
vulnerabilities that are easily ex-
ploited, sometimes devastatingly
so. ‘You’re nothing more than a
cheap hooker’ versus ‘You’re a
sad old man that can only get
sex by paying for it.’ In their
own way, each holds a terrifying
power over the other.”
Twin Citians from No More
Mr. Nice Gay Theatre flesh out
Madison playwright Kent Fors-
berg’s Naked Yoga and Other
Gay Love Stories. Naked Yoga
penetrates inhibitions about
our physical bodies and in-
a. Opera Buffet/Kaleidoscope.
Photo by Matt Knipschield
▼ ▼
ner selves. In Vampires of Min-
neapolis, two gay men want to
connect, but find out negative
info about each other. Killer Mo
crackles with sexual role-play.
Chicago’s Shanna Shrum
salutes Liza Minnelli and gay
friendship in her acclaimed solo
show Skinny Dipping.
Toronto writer/actor Mark
Shyzer brings his Fishbowl, play-
ing characters across gender and
generational divides.
From LA, The Adventures of
Les Kurkendaal addresses alcohol-
ism and drugs in the gay commu-
nity. Dealing with discrimination
can be painful, and intoxicants
help numb that pain.
Meth for Dummies’s Robert
White says, “I produced this play
to let audiences know the human
cost of meth. Even chem dep
professionals have commented
it deepened their understanding
of the disease.” John Pigate stars.
Harry Waters Jr., of Angels in
America fame, directs.
Director Paul Von Stoetzel,
Sincerity Forever.
Photo by Brock Knutson
whose fascination with bisex-
ual filmmaker Rainer Werner
Fassbinder’s power dynamics
influenced his Fringe choice,
says, “Cruelty is often implicit
in a master/slave relationship,
which we see in Marcus Antho-
ny’s Medea Ex Machina.” Dash-
ing Andrew Sass, brilliant in the
pansexual film FAUX, plays a
manipulative director who casts
his wife as Medea. He sleeps
with her female coactress, in
Von Stoetzel’s words, “to attain
more control over her, so she is
more devout and submissive.”
Innovation, Tradition, and
Sexual Politics
Driven by innovative music
performer Carol Elerding, Op-
era Buffet’s Inside the Kaleido-
scope is a female-centered piece
that bucks the male-dominated
opera world. It includes Nicole
Coonradt’s poem “Bertram and
Ferdinando,” which definitely
has queer undercurrents in the
vein of Shakespeare’s sonnets.
Skiing on Broken Glass.
Photo by David Goldstein
▼ ▼
Acclaimed lesbian sound de-
signer Dixie Treichel creates
the house music.
According to Andrew Koz-
icky, his role in Gemma Irish’s
Yvette is part of “an exciting
revolution that’s happening
with gay characters lately. Now
that more and more writers are
involving gay characters, it’s
time they are shown in every-
day situations. It’s not enough
that people realize it’s OK to be
gay. They must also realize it’s
OK to be in love.”
Though it’s hetero, See You
Next Tuesday’s look into a couple
with differing styles of political
expression—and lack there-
of—can benefit GLBT folks.
Playwright Steve Moulds asks,
“What does it say about me
that I don’t feel that intensely
the need to make points, to let
things slide when I disagree. Is
it social cowardice?”
In Mac Wellman’s Sincerity
Forever, a love scene between a
boy and girl is transplanted into
Yvette.
Photo by Morgan Feigal-Stickles
the mouths of two boys later in
the play.
Batmama’s largely GLBT
cast draws from vaudeville, a
tradition that brazenly sported
queer concepts when society
at large was totally resistant.
Curve Magazine named title-
role actress Teresa Mock a top
lesbian theater artist in 2007.
The gifted Janelle Ranek’s
Yard Sale takes a comic look at
a lesbian and her old straight
male fling.
Jeffrey Peterson reprises his
wonderful dance work Thinkin-
gaview. Its intriguing use of part-
nering melts the boundaries.
Choreographer Daniel
Stark’s Politics Religion Sex, part
of the You/Provoke/Me dance
presentation, addresses the hy-
pocrisy of societal pillars.
Minnesota Fringe Festival
Aug. 5-15
LavenderMagazine.com
Various Minneapolis and St. Paul
Locations
(866) 811-4111
<www.fringefestival.org>
29
 Arts & Entertainment > On the Townsend [ by John Townsend ]

THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP

Through Aug. 1
Jungle Theater
2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls.
(612) 822-7063
<www.jungletheater.com>

This gloriously camp sensation, with

Bradley Greenwald and Steven Epp, origi-
nated within a countercultural surge that
expanded theatrical crossgender acceptance.
Writing his 1984 hit gothic horror spoof
for Ridiculous Theatre, Charles Ludlam
(1943-1987) coacted with his life partner,
Everett Quinton. It beckoned an era of the-
atrical genderbending that crystallized in the
1990s, and that now permeates nationwide.
In 1984, crossdressing was seen as a ghet-
toized gay stereotype. Since then, out gays
have stopped cringing, and the smart straight
mainstream gets that crossdressing isn’t nec-
essarily “gay.” To obtain rights to perform
Irma Vep, actors must be of the same gender.
It shows how a tiny off-Off Broadway pro-
duction was a vital player in social change.

THE GOSPEL AT COLONUS

Aug. 5-11
Ordway Center
345 Washington St., St. Paul
(651) 224-4222
<www.ordway.org>

Jevetta Steele was Lavender’s 2002 Best

Musical Actress for Two Queens, One Castle
at Mixed Blood Theatre. She’s now in the
Ordway’s revival of The Gospel at Colonus.
Sprung in the 1980s from New York’s edgy
Mabou Mines troupe, this music drama
still raises eyebrows, because it reinterprets
Sophocles’s Greek tragedy, Oedipus at Colo-
nus, with gospel sounds.
Because I couldn’t consult the Oracle at
Delphi about how one religious view rein-
terprets another cosmic view, I settled for
the next best option: Steele.
As Steele shares, “The Gospel at Colonus is
about redemption, which is what gospel music
is all about. It’s all about forgiveness, reconcil-
ing with God and with family and whomever
you’re at odds with. So, therein lies the con-
nection between Sophocles and The Gospel at
Colonus. It is about how we can move and push
July 30-August 12, 2010
The Mystery of Irma Vep. Photo by Ann Marsden
THE TRIUMPH OF LOVE
Through Aug. 28
Minnesota Centennial Showboat
Harriet Island, St. Paul
(651) 227-1100
<www.riverrides.com>
James Magruder’s translation has light-
ened up Pierre Marivaux’s 1732 classic with
judicious cuts, breezy pacing, and nostalgic
20th-Century tunes that make it palatable
to the Showboat’s mainstream audience.
The result is miraculous, not compro-
mised. Marivaux’s original crossgender
dynamics vibrantly are implemented by
director Peter Rothstein’s University of
Minnesota student ensemble. They spar-
achieved fine vocals, with standouts in
Christian Bardin, Suzy Kohane, and Zach
Soules. C. Lance Brockman’s set and An-
nie Cady’s costumes augment the enchant-
ment.
A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE
Through Aug. 29
Guthrie Theater
818 S. 2nd St., Mpls.
(612) 377-2224
<www.guthrietheater.org>
Blanche DuBois often is called the
“female Hamlet,” and to watch Gretchen
Egolf live the role at the Guthrie is to
understand why. This superlative actress
magically navigates Tennessee Williams’s

past all adversities in our lives. And with the
help of divine energy and divine presence, we
can do all things. Greek tragedies were told
very much like the way a reverend delivered
a sermon in the black Baptist or Pentecostal
movement—very theatrical, high energy, and
lots of call and response.”
kle dangerously throughout. The danger
is the giddiness of watching male and fe-
male characters homoerotically magnetized
by female characters credibly disguised as
men. But it’s so much fun, the laughs un-
dermine any judgments.
Music Director Denis Prosek has
bottomless dimensions of a deeply flawed
yet spiritually noble Southern belle thrust
into destitution, hence becoming de-
pendent “on the kindness of strangers.”
Egolf’s rendering of Blanche’s delicate re-
flections of her dead gay husband will tear
your heart out. She even moves beyond

30
Vivien Leigh’s iconic Oscar-winning
portrait. Simply put, Egolf’s is a perfor-
mance for the ages.
When Streetcar premiered on Broad-
way in 1947, starring Jessica Tandy (who
herself later graced the Guthrie’s first act-
ing company), only 27 years had passed
since women got the vote. In director
John Miller-Stephany’s transcendent stag-
ing, one is struck by the naked bluntness
about women still being regarded as a
rung above chattel.
This grimly radiates in Ricardo Anto-
nio Chavira’s masterful turn as Blanche’s
brutal brother-in-law, Stanley Kowalski.
Chavira balances Stanley’s manic fluctua-
tions between visceral aggression and fe-
ral vulnerablilty like a master pianist. The
role’s trap is overplaying the aggression,
but Chavira never is snared. It also owes
to Miller-Stephany certifying that Blanche
and her sister, Stella (Stacia Rice), are
oblivious to the ethnic and classist slurs
they systematically shoot his way, like
throwing gasoline on a fire.
I question the Marlon Brando cult at-
tached to Stanley, because the actor’s hot,
naked torso made sexism sexy. It’s not that
The Triumph of Love. Photo by Cody Baldwin
Chavira isn’t sexy—he is, and he has a great
torso. Indeed, Williams adored Brando.
But Chavira unearths the grotesquely
hardwired misogyny at Stanley’s core,
revivifying Steetcar’s numinous implicit
commentary on the plight of women.
If Blanche is Hamlet, then Stella
channels the uglier traits of his mother,
Gertrude. Hence, Rice frankly reveals
her as someone driven blindly by libido
that she thinks is love, and compelled by
a survivalist need for hypermacho protec-
tion. Stella’s emotional criminality proves
how necessary the Sexual Revolution was.
Surpassing Kim Hunter’s Oscar-winning
turn in the terrific yet compromised 1951
film, Rice is maddeningly accurate, as
Stella rationalizes her sister’s undoing to
keep her man.
Brian Keane wrenches as Mitch,
Blanche’s suitor, who self-destructively
and stupidly vomits his unexamined Puri-
tanism onto her when confronted by igno-
rant, erotophobic, male-driven gossip.
The stage glistens with sublime small-
role performances—like those by Ann
Michels, Beth Gilleland, and Richard
Reeder.
LavenderMagazine.com
31
 > Arts & Entertainment
Lauding Leather Life
Interview with Steve Lenius
Photo Courtesy of Steve Lenius
E
steemed Lavender “Leather
Life” columnist Steve Lenius’s
recently published Life, Leather
and the Pursuit of Happiness: Life,
History and Culture in the Leath-
er/BDSM/Fetish Community gathers writ-
ings from 15 years of leather lore.
Lavender spoke with Lenius about this
stellar achievement.
How did you come to the Leather
Life?
Having been attracted to and scared of
leather for years, in 1993, I decided to in-
vestigate. By 1994, I was competing in the
July 30-August 12, 2010
International Mr. Drummer Contest in San
Francisco, then began writing “Leather
Life” for Lavender. Your humble columnist,
now your humble author.
Do you have a favorite theme?
32
[ by E.B. Boatner ]
I’ve always tried to write about some-
thing no one else is writing about, or some-
thing everyone else is writing about, but in
a unique way—like former Senator Larry
Craig’s run-in at the Minneapolis Airport’s
men’s room. The spin I put on it was: “Of
course I believe you’re innocent. But now
that you’ve had a taste of society’s ho-
mophobia, why don’t you use your position
in the Senate to do something about it?”
Does “Your Humble Columnist”
come from your “preacher’s kid” back-
ground, or are you naturally modest?
I’m not naturally modest. For years, I
would alternate between feeling I was the
greatest and the worst person who ever
lived—feelings my upbringing as a “preach-
er’s kid” probably intensified. I’ve had to
learn humility, and I’m still learning. Part
of the “your humble columnist” moniker is
a reminder to me of how I want my writ-
ing—and myself—to be perceived. As long
as I keep in mind that the community is the
hero—not me—I can write what needs to be
written without my ego getting in the way.
Bootblacks?
Bootblacks are the leather community’s
unsung heroes. On one level, they’re just
putting polish on boots, but for a bootblack
and his or her customers, it’s anything but
drudgery. Bootblacks care deeply, and take
pride in elevating boot polishing to a sci-
ence, a craft, an art, and a service. And then,
there’s the sensuality of having someone
polish your boots, or polishing someone’s
boots for them. For many, it becomes its
own “scene.”
The dynamic in Master/slave rela-
tionships?
I mention the Master/slave relationship
several times, but I think the best shorthand
for it is in the “What’s your LPT (Leather
Personality Type)?” column. People as-
sume a Master is a confident, competent,
and capable person, and they often assume
slaves are weak and/or ineffectual. In real-
ity, a slave can be as strong and confident
as the Master they serve—they just express
their strength in a different way.
You mentioned having been in an
abusive relationship. What would you
tell others who are in one?
Just to be clear, I was in an abusive re-
lationship before I got into leather. No one
deserves to be abused. There are support
resources available, and I would encourage
an abused person to reach out for help. I’m
grateful for everyone who helped me get out
of my abusive situation. One possible advan-
tage for someone in the leather community is
that other community members tend to have
a pretty good understanding of the differ-
ence between healthy and unhealthy kinds of
power exchange in relationships, and if they
see abusive behavior, they’re more likely to
say something about it.
The new International Mr. Leather
(IML) winner is transgender and wheel-
chair-bound. Comment?
I’d say: “Tyler McCormack is a trans
man who uses a wheelchair.” He is also the
current International Mr. Leather, which is
great. But it’s not great because he’s trans or
because he uses a wheelchair. It’s great be-
cause the judges decided Tyler was the best
man among this year’s contestants to be
the community’s standard-bearer. During
the contest, his speech got by far the big-
gest ovation of the evening, so he didn’t just
win the judges over—he won the crowd,
too. I think he’ll have a great year, and I
think there will be a lot of education and
consciousness-raising.
 Comment on the “community” aspect
of the Leather community. You’ve really
assigned them full tribal status, with cus-
toms, a banner, oral and written histories.
Outsiders may just think, “Gang.”
People who see leather, and think,
“gang,” are still under the influence of
Brando in The Wild One. Sometimes, it’s
fun to be perceived as intimidating when
I’m wearing my leather, but I think it’s
more fun to show people that I’m not
that different from them. As I say in the
book, we all have the same basic needs and
wants. Some of us simply have more col-
orful ways of expressing them. In the case
of the leather/BDSM/fetish community,
we express ourselves, our tribe, and our
culture through our apparel, our leather
pride flag, our history as preserved at the
Leather Archives & Museum in Chicago,
our events and gatherings. It’s a colorful
and fascinating community, which made it
easy to capture in what I hope is a colorful
and fascinating book.

Tell us a bit about how the book

was conceived and designed—it’s re-
ally your baby!
I didn’t want to just take a bunch of
columns, and publish them, so I arranged
these pieces, written over 15 years, to
present a coherent picture of contempo-
rary leather/BDSM/fetish life. I wanted
to paint an enduring portrait for members
and members-to-be—a book to present
the leather community in the best light,
produced to the highest standards. Our
community deserves to have its literature
presented professionally. I’ve spent over
35 years as a typographer and graphic de-
signer, involved in the production of other
authors’ books, and thought it was time I
used those skills on a book of my own.

For more information, visit <www.lifeleather

pursuit.com>.

Life, Leather and the Pursuit of Happiness:

LavenderMagazine.com

Life, History and Culture in the Leather/

BDSM/Fetish Community
Steve Lenius
Nelson Borhek Press
$21.95

33
 Arts & Entertainment > On the Record
The ArchAndroid
JANELLE MONEA
If you are going to start your
album with a faux overture,
you had better bring the
goods. Thankfully, indie-
spirited R&B artist Monea
does just that on this epic-
in-a-good-way release that is
one of the true highlights of
the summer. Slipping with
ease and evident glee among
genres—hip-hop, traditional
soul, modern R&B, rocking
dance music—Monea isn’t
one to be confined by expec-
tations. After all, infectious
opening single “Tightrope”
moves from modern dance
groove complete with a rap
by Outkast’s Big Boi to a
funky soul provided by a real
live horn section. Compare
this to the acid-drenched
heaviness of “Mushroom &
Roses” that brings to mind
P-Funk doing a Led Zeppelin
cover. Speaking of P-Funk, a
distinct Clintonesque tone is
evident, as the album is Parts
2 and 3 of a suite inspired by
Metropolis. Then again, while
July 30-August 12, 2010
science fiction trappings
galore are here, it all comes
down to the brilliant per-
forming, singing, and songs.
Monea will be at First Avenue
on September 23.
34
Here’s to Taking It Easy
PHOSPHORESCENT
After recording a collec-
tion of Willie Nelson covers,
Matthew Houck returns
to his own muse on Phos-
phorescent’s sixth album.
The collection of country/
folk hits the summer sweet
spot—this is music for the
back porch, old dog optional.
Unlike the group’s breakout,
2007’s Pride, Houck is joined
by the full band here. What
may be lost in intimacy is
made up by stellar playing,
and that unique vibe only
a live band can provide. At
times, the album sounds like
a lost relic from the middle
1970s, when rockers like
Neil Young moved freely
from genre to genre, mold-
ing a new sound that was
much more than just “coun-
try rock.” Not to push the
Young thing too far, but “Los
Angeles” is an out-of-control
guitar solo away from being
a Crazy Horse outtake. Then
again, Phosphorescent is
still their own band, using
the musical tools provided
by others to craft something
unique and absolutely engag-
ing. Phosphorescent will be
at the Cedar Cultural Center
on August 3.
High Violet
THE NATIONAL
Albums can make an im-
mediate impact, or some-
times, they creep up on you.
I knew I liked what I heard
from High Violet, but it
wasn’t until I spent a couple
of hours in my garden
listening to the album on
repeat while weeding that I
realized just how great this
collection by the National is.
Loaded with dark imagery
and heavy emotions, High
Violet is the kind of collec-
tion that gives indie rock
a good name. Led by Matt
Berninger’s deep baritone,
and a musical style focused
mainly on songwriting
rather than gimmicks, the
album takes us into a moody
world where the displaced
(the band moved to New
York from Cincinnati) try to
find their grounding amid
layers of confusion. That
comes out on songs like
“Little Faith” and “Blood-
buzz Ohio.” While the latter
has become familiar by con-
stant play, it hasn’t lost any
of its impact—and that goes
for the rest of the album.
The National will be at First
Avenue on August 5-6
[ by Ed Huyck ]
Night Work
SCISSOR SISTERS
The Scissor Sisters push
their inner Pet Shop Boys
much more to the fore on
album number three, pro-
ducing a largely electronic
album packed with danceable
beats and outsized passion. It
probably is experienced best
on a sweaty dance floor than
in the comfort of your living
room, but still has its pop
moments—from the pulsing
opening of the title track to
the Kraftwerk-like elec-
tronics of “Skin this Cat.”
Throughout, frontman Jake
Shears doesn’t just bring sex-
ual heat, but continues with
the band’s sly sense of humor.
What’s missing is the sense of
adventure that powered some
of the band’s earlier tracks—a
cover of Pink Floyd, or the
folk influence on “I Can’t
Decide.” Oh, sure, you
have Ian McKellen giving
an overheated monologue at
the end of “Invisible Light,”
but those moments are too
few and far between. The
band reportedly scrapped the
original recordings for the
album—one wonders what
they may have had. The Scis-
sor Sisters will be at Epic on
September 4.
 LavenderMagazine.com

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

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 Minnehaha Ave.
ve. pin . . Univ
1st A 06 ne ersit
Hen 03
15 ve. 08 y Av
e.
th
S t. ll et A
01 o University Ave. t.
Nic 09 hS
7t
.
Ave
in
nep

07
26th Ave. S.
Selby Ave. Ro
Hen

ber
Lake St. tS
04 Grand Ave. t.

01 19 BAR 08 TICKLES
19 W. 15th St., Mpls. 420 S. 4th St., Mpls.
(612) 871-5553 (612) 354-3846
Shoot pool or play darts at your neighborhood bar------ <www.ticklesbar.com>

▼
the Twin Cities’s oldest GLBT establishment. Live Piano Music. Full-Service Menu, Happy Hour, DAVID
Sports on 10 Flat-Panel TVs, Pool, Darts.
02 BRASS RAIL
422 Hennepin. Ave., Mpls.
(612) 332-RAIL (7245) 09 TOWN HOUSE
<www.thebrassraillounge.com> 1415 University Ave. W., St. Paul
Completely remodeled elegant lounge featuring variety
(651) 646-7087 WHO
<www.townshousebar.com>
of entertainment: live piano, karaoke, male dancers. David
Fun neighborhood bar with a great mix of men and
women. Karaoke. Drag shows.
03 COALE'S WHAT
719 N. Dale St.
St. Paul, MN (651) 487-5829 Recipe: Raspberry Breeze
Areanna Coale, proprietor. Opening soon. 1 part Stoli Razberi
An eclectic enigma filled with joy and happiness. 1 part 7UP
Everyone welcome!

04 FUSION
•
Superior 1 part soda
Top with cream
2919 Hennepin Ave., Mpls Garnish with a mint leaf
(612) 824-6300
<www.fusionmpls.com>
Somerset• Wisconsin
Daily Happy Hour 4-6 PM. 1/2 price beer, sushi,
spring rolls. $4 signature martinis. Bottomless glasses WHEN
of wine! Wed.-Thu. • 2-8 PM
Sat.-Sun. • Noon-8 PM
05 GAY 90’S
408 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
(612) 333-7755
<www.gay90s.com> WI BOOTLEGGERS BAR & GRILL WHERE
Upper Midwest’s Largest Gay Entertainment 235 Main St. Town House
Complex. Serving reasonably priced menu in main Somerset, WI (715) 247-2668 1415 University Ave. W., St. Paul
bar Wednesday-Sunday. <www.bootleggerssomerset.com> (651) 646-7087
<www.townhousebar.com>
06 GLADIUS
1111 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. WI THE FLAME
(612) 332-9963 1612 Tower Ave., Superior
<www.gladiusbar.com>
The New York Chic of Minneapolis. Gladius God-
(715) 395-0101 WHY
<www.SuperiorFlame.com> “Stability—GLBT for 41 years. Fun.
desses Tuesday. Killer B's Karaoke Wednesday.
Good company. Good friends.”
07 RUMOURS/INNUENDO WI THE MAIN CLUB
213 E. 4th St., St. Paul 1217 Tower Ave., Superior
July 30-August 12, 2010

(651) 225-GLBT (4528) (715) 392-1756

<www.rumours-innuendo.com> <www.mainclubsuperior.com>
Rumours: hottest dance club with fabulous DJs.
Innuendo: casual, intimate "Cheers" ambience for
quiet conversation.

36
 LavenderMagazine.com

37
 Bar Scene > Bar Showcase [ Photos by George Holdgrafer ]

GAY 90'S
July 21
July 30-August 12, 2010

38
 LavenderMagazine.com

39
 Bar Scene > Lavender Lens [ Photos by George Holdgrafer ]

PRIDE AT THE MINNEAPOLIS BARS

June 27

Tickles

Gay 90's 19 Bar

Brass Rail

Gladius Gay 90's Pride Brunch

July 30-August 12, 2010

40
Bar Scene > Lavender Lens [ Photos by Sophia Hantzes ]

LAVENDER'S OUT IN THE STANDS PREPARTY

Tickles
July 11

LavenderMagazine.com

41
 Bar Scene > Lavender Lens [ Photos by Sophia Hantzes ]

LAVENDER'S THIRSTDAYS
Town House
July 15
July 30-August 12, 2010

42
Bar Scene > Lavender Lens [ Photos by Sophia Hantzes ]

LAVENDER'S OUT IN THE STANDS POSTPARTY

Brass Rail
July 16

LavenderMagazine.com

43
 Bar Scene > Bar Calendar
For club addresses, phone numbers, and Web
sites, see “Bar Advertiser Guide” on page 36. FRIDAY, JULY 30 10 PM. Retro Bar. Gay 90’s.
For events not at bars, see <LavenderMagazine.
com/calendar>. Gary Collins
5 PM. Tickles. FRIDAY, AUGUST 6
Mia Dorr Gary Collins
9 PM. Tickles. 5 PM. Tickles.
Drag Show
SATURDAY, JULY 31 Benefits Imperial Court of
Carlita Santiago Candidate Minnesota
Fundraiser 8 PM. Gladius.
Imperial Court of Minnesota
Benefit for The Aliveness Project SATURDAY, AUGUST 7
8 PM. Gladius. Lip Service
Jeff Olson 9 PM. Town House.
9 PM. Tickles.
Pajama Party
Tickles.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 5
Lure
Benefits One Heartland
July 30-August 12, 2010

44
 LavenderMagazine.com

45
 July 30-August 12, 2010

46
Cuisine > Off the Eaten Path

THE SAMPLE ROOM DEBUTS AWESOME NEW MENU

 [ by Heidi Fellner ]

f you haven’t been to The Sample Room pleased to report the new menu has delivered on
lately, put it back on your list of restaurants its promise. With the kitchen now in the hands
to try. It has been a year since I last was of Executive Chef Matt Paulson and Sous Chef
there, but the promise of an overhauled Adam Beal, what once was a solid neighborhood
menu, along with a renewed dedication restaurant has blossomed into a destination. The
to local and artisanal products, were lure new menu is playful and exuberant, plus it reveals
enough for this ranch-raised foodie. I am a striking attention to detail.
(Above) Wine Flights, sample of three wines. (Below) Seared Halloumi with watermelon, mint, and balsamic reduction. Photos by Hubert Bonnet
I
LavenderMagazine.com

47
 > Off the Eaten Path

Shrimp and Crab Gazpacho—tomatoes, cucumber, cilantro, and Mezcal, served with blue tortilla chips. Dining area.

[ WITH THE KITCHEN NOW IN THE HANDS OF EXECUTIVE CHEF MATT PAULSON AND
SOUS CHEF ADAM BEAL, WHAT ONCE WAS A SOLID NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT HAS
BLOSSOMED INTO A DESTINATION. [
Begin with a cheese plate…or three. server is your best resource for matchmak- ing with richer meats.
We had two Chef’s Select ($5.95) cheeses, ing perfection. With the Spanish sheep’s- Red Curry Pork Shanks ($9) are pure
which at the time included a dreamy Span- milk manchego, dry Spanish Juan Gil heaven—falling off the bone, garlicky, and
ish manchego drizzled with a homemade ($9.50/$38) was a natural. Verdillac White everything a girl could wish for. Between
molasses and sprinkled with micro greens, Bordeaux ($8.50/$29) proved the perfect mouthfuls, and as I was tipping back the apt
and a brilliantly briny halloumi. Warm companion to the Camembert. Fresh, crisp and accommodating Surly Bender ($5.25),
Camembert ($6.50) is a menu staple for a Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay ($16/$62) my dining partner picked that precise mo-
reason—one can’t go wrong with melted did something quite spectacular to the al- ment to out me to the kitchen staff as be-
Camembert atop sweet caramelized onions. ready-impressive halloumi, letting its light ing of Jewish descent. I took a moment
July 30-August 12, 2010

A cheese course is the perfect opportunity
to appreciate this from-scratch kitchen’s
inventiveness. Order the Chef’s Select, and
if it pleases you, then it frees your hand to
order more of Paulson’s innovations.
The Sample Room always has taken its
wine and beer pairings seriously, and your
briny taste and crumbly curd-like texture
shine, but refreshing the palate between
salty bites. If your eye wanders toward
the meat plates, order Don David Malbec
($10.50/$42). Some excellent Argentinian
malbecs are produced these days, and the
newly popular grape has a talent for work-
to swallow before deciding I didn’t really
mind the wide eyes. The truth is, we never
kept that kosher in my family of origin, and
my mother experimented with the cloven-
hoofed meat from time to time. I don’t eat it
often myself, but that’s all part of the taboo
fun when you can get your hands on ex-

48
 LavenderMagazine.com

49
 Braised Red Curry Pork Shanks with cilantro gremolata.
cellent pork. If you never have had what I
refer to as a “pork high,” refrain from eat-
ing it for a couple of months, then come to
The Sample Room, and order this dish.
I also ate shellfish, for the record. Paul-
son whipped up irresistible lobster, shrimp,
and crab cannelloni, drizzling it in a cham-
pagne-based sauce. I hope they make an ap-
pearance on the menu soon. If not, I pray
that Paulson has frequent access to those
ingredients. The same combination of
shrimp, crab, and lobster landed Paulson a
seafood gazpacho with spicy chips. I could
not imagine a more perfect dish for this
July 30-August 12, 2010
time of year.
Follow with the succulent, must-order
Pork Belly Confit with ponzu sauce ($5.25),
which is clearly one of Paulson’s favorites,
in part because it features the handiwork
of Fischer Family Farms. Its products are
50
Wild Mushroom Ragout on Polenta, topped with a touch of pumpkin seed and truffle oils.
a hit with chefs and diners for humane ani-
mal husbandry, quality, and safety. Sadly,
this small, family-run business is worried
about new USDA guidelines that could
threaten smaller enterprises such as its.
Let’s hope the government treads care-
fully. It is quite clear when you taste the
pork belly that these animals have been
treated with love and respect from the mo-
ment they were born until they arrive at
your table. I would like to see the Fischers
rewarded for their efforts.
The savory portion of our meal conclud-
ed with Wild Mushroom Ragout on Polenta
($7.25). I am so glad I put my trust in Paul-
son’s hands, because this truffle oil-infused
dish was on par with the cannelloni, the pork
belly, and the gazpacho. Pair the polenta
with subtle Marc Bredif Vouvray ($12/$48).
Its fresh floral notes help balance the dark-
ness inherent in the wild mushrooms.
The dessert menu also has been re-
vamped. We tried Chocolate Flan Cake
($6.50), and were glad we somehow man-
aged to save room. The flan custard helped
keep this caramel and chocolate confection
light and summery. A tart Pometini—or my
new favorite cocktail, the Ginger Lemon-
head martini ($10)—would be smashing
after dinner.
The Sample Room now boasts separate
lunch, brunch, and dinner menus, which
include entrée-size plates. Bottom line: If
you haven’t been to The Sample Room in
a year, you haven’t been to The Sample
Room.
The Sample Room
2124 Marshall St. NE, Mpls.
(612) 789-0333
<www.the-sample-room.com>
 LavenderMagazine.com

51
 Sports & Leisure > Lavender Lens [ Photos by Sophia Hantzes ]

LAVENDER'S OUT IN THE STANDS

JULY 16
TARGET FIELD
MINNEAPOLIS
July 30-August 12, 2010

52
Sports & Leisure > Lavender Lens [ Photos by Sophia Hantzes ]

MINNESOTA RED RIBBON RIDE CLOSING CEREMONY

JULY 18
STATE CAPITOL
ST. PAUL

LavenderMagazine.com

53
 The Network
Accounting & Computer Sales & Backtalk |
Bookkeeping Services____ Services________
______ [ by George Holdgrafer ]

Attorneys______
______

Driveways_______
______

Imperial
Court of
Barbers__________
______
Minnesota
Hosts
Coronation XIX
Financial Services______ Founded in 1992, the Imperial Court
of Minnesota (ICOM) is a chapter of the
International Court System, established
in 1965 in San Francisco by Empress José
Sarria, the first openly gay person to run
for public office in the United States.
Over the past two decades, ICOM,
primarily a fund-raising organization, has
brought in hundreds of thousands of dol-
lars for myriad local charities such as The
Aliveness Project, as well as national ones
like the Matthew Shepard Foundation.
But ICOM has its fun side, too, with
plenty of crowns and gowns at events that
raise money as well. That will be most evi-
dent at its grandest spectacle of the year,
Coronation XIX, on August 14 at the

Funeral Services___ ___ Radisson Plaza Downtown Minneapolis.

Dignitaries from courts around the coun-
July 30-August 12, 2010

try will be in attendance. Partial proceeds

benefit the Harvey Milk Foundation.
ICOM is a monarchical organization,
meaning that an Emperor and Empress
elected each year preside over activities.
Currently, Steven Yorek and Roxie Hart
are running unopposed for Emperor XIX

54
 The Network

Health & Wellness____ Home Services_______

and Empress XIX, respectively. How-
ever, they each must garner 51 percent
of the vote in an election on August 7 at
the Downtown Minneapolis Davanni’s,
which is open to the general public. If they
achieve the necessary percentage, they will
be crowned at Coronation XIX.
For more information, visit <www.im
pcourtmn.com>.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Health & Fitness_____

Voting
Sat., Aug. 7
Davanni’s
1242 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.

Out-of-Town Show
Fri., Aug. 13
Doors Open 7 PM
Show 8-11 PM
Brass Rail
422 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.

Coronation XIX
Sat., Aug. 14
Doors Open 6 PM
Ceremony 6:59 PM
Fjords Ballroom
Radisson Plaza Downtown Mpls.
35 S. 7th St., Mpls.

Victory Brunch
Sun., Aug. 15
11 AM
Radisson Plaza Downtown Mpls.
Hospitality Atrium
35 S. 7th St., Mpls.

Victory Party/Show
Sun., Aug. 15
Party 3-7 PM
Show Follows
Gladius
1111 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.

Home Services_______
LavenderMagazine.com

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

SATURDAY, JULY 31
The Variety Showcase Show. Enjoy an evening of
some of our country’s best spoken word and special
surprises. Features National Individual Slam Cham-
pion Ed Mabrey, Thadra Sheridan, Spoken Word from
Dessa, and more. 10 PM. For ticket info, check out
<www.bryantlakebowl.com>.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1
Caffetto Arts and Crafts Fair. 40 local artists and ar-
tisans offer jewelry, bike accessories, bags, woodwork,
and more. Enjoy live music performances and food.
Aug. 1. Noon-6 PM. 708 W. 22nd St., Mpls. <www.fa
cebook.com/CaffettoArtCraftFair>.
Paws on Grand. “Paws,” as in your little friends at
home, and “pause” to shop, dine, and conduct ser-
vices on the avenue. Sidewalk sales, dining, and
services for pet parents. Pets will be pampered with
treats galore. Select businesses will allow pets into
their stores. Come celebrate the dog days of summer
on St. Paul’s Grand Avenue. (651) 699-0029 or <www.
grandave.com>.

Courtesy of Grand Avenue Business Association

TUESDAY, AUGUST 3
National Night Out. Celebrate the 27th annual Na-
tional Night Out, a unique crime/drug prevention
event sponsored by the National Association of Town
Watch. Heighten crime and drug-prevention aware-
ness, as well as support local anticrime awareness.
<www.nationalnightout.org>.
Nine Nights of Music. Observe National Night Out
with Vic Volare and the Fabulous Volare Lounge Or-
chestra, with the sounds of Sinatra, Darin, and more.
It’s the perfect ambience for a 1940s-era evening on
the plaza. Minnesota’s multicultural music community
gathers for free outdoor performances. Minnesota
History Center. 345 W. Kellogg Blvd. , St. Paul. (651)
259-3000. <www.minnesotahistorycenter.org>.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 5
Mill City Live: 757’s. This week’s band plays loose,
straight-ahead, two-guitar, roaring rock that lives up
to its airplane namesake. Next up on Aug. 12: Idle
Hands, putting the “it” in Brit Rock. Admission in-
cludes the concert and entrance to the museum from
4-9 PM. Food and drink by D’Amico Catering for
purchase. The event continues every Thursday night
through Aug. 19. 704 S. 2nd St., Mpls. (612) 341-
7555. <www.millcitymuseum.org>.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 6
Glamorama 2010. Explore fashion through the music
of Macy Gray and Eric Hutchinson. This year’s show
unites fashion, fantasy, music, and magic in a runway
style. The annual event benefits Children’s Cancer
Research Fund®. 2010 designers: Jean Paul Gaultier,
Just Cavalli, Marc Jacobs, Versace, and more. 8 PM,
July 30-August 12, 2010

Orpheum Theatre, 805 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. (612)

339-7007. <www.hennepintheatretrust.org>.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 7
Fabulosity. The Midwest Divas partner with The Min-
nesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA MN) for the
first annual Fabulosity: A Shopping, Pampering and
Networking Experience. A percentage of the pro-

56
 The Network

ceeds goes to MOCA MN. The event, with many won-

derful offerings for women, is hosted by the W Hotel
Medical Services_____ Psychotherapy_______
(Foshay Tower), 821 Marquette Ave., Mpls. Noon-7
PM. <www.midwestdivas.com>.

MONDAY, AUGUST 9
Caribbean On the St. Croix. This 14th annual river
cruise party benefits Hope House, which provides as-
sisted care for people living with HIV/AIDS who no
longer are able to live independently. Enjoy the chef’s
choice buffet, raffle, and door prizes, plus dance to
music by Total DiscTracktion. 7-10 PM, boarding be-
gins 6 PM. FFI: Scott at (651) 351-0262.
Where’s My Tony? A new spoof cabaret celebrates
Broadway musicals and the categories you really
want to see performed at the annual awards show. It
showcases medleys from award-winning productions
including The Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, Jersey
Boys, and more. Hennepin Stages Theatre, Lower
Level, 824 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. <www.HennepinThe
atreTrust.org>.

Psychotherapy_______

Courtesy of Hennepin Theatre Trust

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11
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’s the story of the Wicked Witch of the
West. Find out the truth behind the fable. Through
Sept. 19. Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
(800) 982-2787. <www.ticketmaster.com>.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 13
Fargo-Moorhead Pride. Celebrate community, cul-
ture, and, of course, the gift of gay at this year’s Fargo-
Moorhead Pride. The event is seeking out volunteers.
Real Estate_________
If interested, or for more info, check out <www.pride
collective.com/fmpride>.

TICKETS
Tickets ON SALE
On Sale

Queen of Mean. Lisa Lampanelli returns to Minneap-

olis for a special one-night appearance, celebrating
the September 14 paperback release of her autobiog-
raphy, Chocolate, Please: My Adventures of Food, Fat
& Freaks. Prepare, as she takes insults to a whole new
level. Sept. 25, 8 PM. State Theatre, 805 Hennepin
Ave., Mpls. <www.hennepintheatretrust.org>.
Rock of Ages. This five-time Tony-nominated musi-
cal stars Tony Award-nominee and American Idol
LavenderMagazine.com

finalist Constantine Maroulis. In 1987, on the Sunset

Strip, a small-town girl met a big-city dreamer, and in
LA’s most legendary rock club, they fell in love to the
greatest songs of the ’80s. Runs Oct. 19-24 at the Or-
pheum Theatre. 910 Hennepin Avenue, Mpls. Tickets
now on sale. <HennepinTheatreTrust.org>.

57
 The Network
> Calendar
Real Estate_________ Say Thanks Day. Minnesotans celebrate at Harriet
Island in St. Paul, as we say “thanks” to Minnesota’s
service members, while enjoying a scenic Walk/5K
Run along the Mississippi River. Live music and great
food. Tickets $25 per person. Free for all military ser-
vice members and their immediate families, and chil-
dren under 12. What a great way to enjoy the day, and
support a great cause! Sign up now. <www.thankmn-
troops.org>.

ONGOING

The Fantasticks. It’s no surprise that this whimsi-

cal, poignant, and universal musical ran 42 years
Off-Broadway because of songs such as “Try to Re-
member” and “Soon It’s Going to Rain.” Audiences
have cared for the two young lovers and their warring
families for decades. You’ll enjoy it all even more in
the intimacy of Theater in the Round’s arena. Through
July 31. Theater in the Round Players, 245 Cedar Ave.,
Mpls. (612) 333-3010. <www.theatreintheround.org>.
The Music Man. Professor Harold Hill arrives in River
City, Iowa, with the intent of swindling the community.
He poses as a bandleader, and attempts to con the
locals before he skips town with cash. Watch the 70
Fridley Community Theatre actors, as they find good,
bad, and deceit in Mr. Hill. Through Aug. 1. <www.
fridleycommunitytheatre.org>.
The Mystery of Irma Vep. Help Jungle Theater
celebrate its 20th season with this outrageous, side-
splitting comedy by Charles Ludlam. This hilarious
send-up of Victorian melodrama and gothic romance
is the tale of a sympathetic werewolf, a vampire, and
an Egyptian princess. Laugh as murder and mayhem
break out. Through Aug. 1. Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyn-
dale Ave. S., Mpls. (612) 822-7063. <www.junglethe
ater.com>.
Sawdust. Fame. Fortune. Glitz. Grit. Circus Juventas
presents a tale of two young men chasing a dream
during the golden era of traveling circuses. Features
performances by advanced youth joined by legendary
circus stars. Highlights traditional circus acts, including:
teeterboard, acrobatics, swinging trapeze, and more.
Through Aug. 15. Circus Juventas Big Top, 1270 Mon-
treal Ave., St. Paul, (612) 699-8229. Tickets for all re-
served seating on sale now. <www.ticketworks.com>.

Courtesy of Circus Juventas

A Streetcar Named Desire. This play delivers an

unforgettable dramatic ride, filled with love, loss,
and the dream of what’s to come. In the heart of New
Orleans, Blanche DuBois arrives on the doorstep of
July 30-August 12, 2010

her younger sister, Stella, and her sister’s sexy, brut-

ish husband, Stanley. Watch as Stanley’s skepticism
boils about their new visitor, driving a deep wedge
between them. Through Aug. 2. Guthrie Theater, 818
S. 2nd St., Mpls. (612) 377-2224. <www.guthriethe
ater.org>.

For more events, visit <www.lavendermagazine.com/sum-

merofpride>.

58
Classifieds
Accommodations
Whistle Stop Bed & Breakfast. Whether
you’re planning a business trip, honeymoon,
observing an anniversary, or just an “escape”
from the ordinary, the Whistle Stop is at your
service. New York Mills, MN (800) 328-6315,
www.whistlestopbedandbreakfast.com.
Employment
Employment
DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL SERVICES -
Tubman is seeking a Director of Clinical
Services. Lic. MA level in social work, psy.,
marriage and family therapy, nursing, or
related field. Experience in MH and CH,
Co-occurring evidence-based prac. & sys.
of care. Min. 5 yrs exp sup clinical leadership
staff. FT, DOQs, full benefits. Go to www.
tubman.org for full announcement. Cover
Letter & resume by 8/19/10 to HR, Tubman,
4432 Chicago Ave. So., Mpls, MN 55407 or to
gburke@tubman.org.
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.
Help Wanted
Free Arts Minnesota: looking for volunteers
to work with abused, neglected, at-risk
children using art and mentorship. Time
commitment of 1.5 hours weekly. More
information, Hannah, (612) 824-2787. www.
freeartsminnesota.org.
Home Furnishing
Political
A GLBT URGENT CALL TO ACTION:
AUG.10-VOTE TO eliminate aggressively
Anti-GLBT & Anti-Same-Sex Marriage GOP
Congressional Candidate Teresa Collett
from winning her GOP Primary Election for
4th Congressional District by voting for Jack
Shepard. It’s the best way to respond to Teresa
Collett’s National Campaign of Speeches
against the GLBT Community & Same-sex
Marriage is by voting for Jack Shepard only to
removing Teresa Collett ASAP. To guarantee
that Teresa Collett’s name is not on the Nov.
2-Ballot! www.jackshepardforcongress.com.
Psychotherapy
DENNIS CHRISTIAN, LICSW. (612) 940-
7033. www.dennischristian.com.
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.
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.
Therapeutic Massage
R & R STUDIO. A rub above the rest. Offering
Therapeutic Massage. SPECIAL: $60/hour or
$75/1.5 hour. In/Out by appointment only.
Convenient downtown location. Free parking.
Ryan, (952) 261-4944. athleticbulldog2004@
yahoo.com.
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.
ZENTRAL MASSAGE welcomes the GLBT
community to a customized therapeutic
massage, facial or body polish with a trained
therapist. Music, hot towels and comfortable
tables enhance your relaxation journey. (612)
369-8641.
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.
BORING...BORING...BORING !!! Sick of
boring, mediocre sessions? This time...get
unbelievably pampered and have lots of fun
with a hot, talented masseur! These sessions
are very unique, extremely erotic, totally
uninhibited, and smokin’ hot!!! Call for
details (no pressure to hire) - you’re gonna
love this! Kevin, (612) 229-0001.

COTTAGE HOUSE • An Occasional Market Rentals-Residential

• Next sale: ANTIQUE FAIR! • AUGUST
11, 12, 13, 14, 15. Wed: 1 - 8pm. Thurs-Fri
10am-7pm, Sat-Sun: 10am - 6pm • 4304
Chicago Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN. www.
thecottagehousempls.com.
FLAMINGOS • An Occasional Sale • Next
sale: Wednesday - Sunday, August 11-15,
10am - 6pm, 3404 Cedar Ave. Minneapolis,
MN (612) 767-4548.

Home Services
Handyman Services Available for your
Summer Projects. Professional. Insured.
Oriel Flores, (612) 385-2102.

House Cleaning
TERRY LIDDELL, Residential cleaning.
Dependable - Honest. Excellent references.
Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, flexible
schedules. tliddellcleaning@yahoo.com. Call
Terry: (612) 834-4887.
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.
ECO-GREEN RESIDENTIAL CLEANING
Spacious, newly-remodeled turn-of-century
SERVICE. $40 discount for first time
lower-level duplex / two bedroom / 1605
customers. GREEN DARLENE. Professional
Dupont Avenue North / classic-revitalized
staff-bonded and insured. Budget friendly to
neighborhood one mile to new stadium:
bring you a sparkling clean. Free estimates.
hardwood floors, laundry, parking, $895/heat.
(612) 232-6573. www.greendarlene.com.
(952) 996-9479.

Photographers Spa Services

LavenderMagazine.com

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.
The Tranny Factory @ The Spa. Complete
Makeovers for Men becoming Women.
theuptownspa@yahoo.com. (612) 986-4929.
Private-Supportive-Affordable makeup-nails-
wardrobe-hair-waxing.

59
 Community Connection

Community Connection brings visi-

bility to local GLBT-friendly non-prof-
Co-op Living. Library History Theatre
Plays and musicals that illuminate the
Old Town in Town Co-op. Quatrefoil Library
it organizations. To reserve your list- Your GLBT Library with stacks of DVDs, broad American experience,
1 to 3 bdrms from $650-$1,225. www.
ing in Community Connection, call books, and magazines. celebrating local legends, rock
612-436-4698 or email advertising@ oldtownintown.org (612) 209-2045 Ask
Check out our online catalogue. icons, and everyday people.
lavendermagazine.com. about Move In Specials!
1619 Dayton Ave., No. 105 30 East 10th Street
St. Paul, MN St. Paul, MN
Education (651) 641-0969 (651) 292-4323
Art Institutes International www.qlibrary.org www.HistoryTheatre.com
Addiction & Treatment Minnesota
Hazelden Helping prepare students for careers in the Literacy Jungle Theater
Providing comprehensive treatment, visual and practical arts. The Loft Literary Center
Where writers learn from other writers. Professional theater producing
recovery solutions. Helping people reclaim 15 South 9th Street
their lives from the disease of addiction. Visit www.loft.org for classes, events, contemporary and classic works in an
Minneapolis, MN intimate setting in the Lynlake neighborhood.
P.O. Box 11 conferences, and more.
(612) 332-3361 1011 Washington Ave S. Suite 200 2951 Lyndale Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN
15251 Pleasant Valley Rd Center City, MN www.artinstitutes.edu/minneapolis
(800) 257-7800 www.hazelden.org Open Book Minneapolis, MN (612) 822-7063
(612) 215-2575 www.JungleTheater.com
AIDS/HIV & Treatment Events www.loft.org
Aliveness Project, The Minneapolis Bike Tour loft@loft.org Minneapolis Musical Theatre
Community Center for Individuals Living Annual bike ride in September supporting “Giving Voice to the Human Experience” -
with HIV/AIDS -- On-site Meals, Food Minneapolis Parks. Fully supported route, Media & Communications New and Rarely-Seen Musicals.
Shelf and Supportive Services. refreshments and music in finish area. Minnesota Public Radio
Providing in depth news coverage, 8520 W. 29th St.
730 East 38th St. Minneapolis, MN 2117 West River Rd. Minneapolis, MN
(612) 824-LIFE (5433) www.aliveness.org classical music and emerging artists
Minneapolis, MN on our three regional services. (612) 605-3298
(612) 230-6400 (651) 290-1212 www.aboutmmt.org
HIM Program www.minneapolisbiketour.com www.mpr.org
One of the Red Door Services of the
mplsbiketour@minneapolisparks.org Minnesota Orchestra
Hennepin County Public Health Clinic. Radio K 770
525 Portland Ave. 4th Floor Led by Music Director Osmo Vänskä, the
Red Ribbon Ride Radio K is the award-winning student-run Minnesota Orchestra, one of America’s
Minneapolis, MN radio station of the University of Minnesota
(612) 348-9100 Four-day Bike Ride in July Benefiting leading symphony orchestras.
330 21st Ave. S.
www.himprogram.org Eight HIV/AIDS Service Organizations 610 Rarig Center 1111 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN
www.StopSyphilisNOW.org in Minnesota. University of Minnesota (612) 371-5656 (800) 292-4141
www.CrystalClearMN.org 4457 3rd Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN Minneapolis, MN www.minnesotaorchestra.org
www.inSPOT.org/Minnesota (612) 822-2110 (612) 625-3500
www.redribbonride.org www.radiok.org Northrop
MAP AIDSline Presenting world-class entertainment
MAP AIDSLine is the confidential Fitness Museum in the heart of the Twin Cities.
statewide toll-free HIV information Walker Art Center 84 Church St. SE
and referral service. YWCA of Minneapolis
Internationally recognized as a leading Minneapolis, MN
1400 Park Ave. Minneapolis, MN Healthy Me. Healthy Community. venue for the presentation of the art of
(612) 373-AIDS (metro) or Co-ed, full-service health clubs. Business Office: (612) 625-6600
our time.
(800) 248-AIDS (statewide) Locations in Downtown, Midtown 1750 Hennepin Ave. Ticket Office: (612) 624-2345
mapaidsline@mnaidsproject.org and Uptown Minneapolis, MN northrop.umn.edu
www.mnaidsproject.org 2808 Hennepin Avenue South (612) 375-7600
Minneapolis, MN www.walkerart.org One Voice Mixed Chorus
Park House (612) 874-7131 Passionate about building community
Day Health / Mental Health Treatment www.ywcampls.org Performing Arts and creating social change by raising our
Program for Adults Living with HIV/AIDS. Ballet of the Dolls voices in song.
710 E. 24th Street, Suite 303 Resident Company of Newly Renovated
Minneapolis, MN Health & Wellness Ritz Theater. Twin Cities first year-round
732 Holly Ave. Ste. Q Saint Paul, MN
(651) 298-1954
(612) 871-1264 GLBTCALLITQUITS.COM dance-theater program.
If you’re ready to quit smoking, www.ovmc.org operations@ovmc.org
www.allina.com/ahs/anw.nsf/page/ 35 13th Ave. NE
park_house_home we’re here to support you. Minneapolis, MN
(612) 623-7660 Ordway Center for the Performing
(866) 434-9736
www.ritzdolls.org Arts
U of MN Research Studies
Looking for HIV+ and HIV- individuals Hosting, presenting, and creating
Rainbow Health Initiative
to participate in research studies. Flower Shop Project performing arts and educational
Working to improve the health of LGBTQ Producing new and local works of theatre
420 Delaware Street SE programs that enrich diverse audiences.
Minnesotans through education, clinical that are smart, ballsy and fundamentally
Minneapolis, MN 345 Washington St.
practice, outreach, and advocacy. RHI is entertaining. St. Paul, MN
(612) 625-7472
the lead agency for the MN Tobacco-free At Bryant-Lake Bowl & Patrick’s Cabaret (651) 224-4222
Art Galleries Lavender Communities. Minneapolis, MN www.ordway.org
611-A West Lake Street (612) 388-8628
Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Minneapolis, MN www.theflowershopproject.com
Enjoy Masterpieces From All Over The Park Square Theatre
World And Every Period Of Human (877) 499-7744 Creating entertainment that matters;
Guthrie Theater
History. Free Admission Daily! www.rainbowhealth.org Come On In! Performances, Classes, transporting you to unique worlds through
2400 3rd Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN www.mntlc.org Dining, Tours. exceptional talent and masterful stories.
(612) 870-3000 818 South 2nd St. Minneapolis, MN 20 West Seventh Pl. Saint Paul, MN
July 30-August 12, 2010

www.artsmia.org Sexual Health Empowerment (612) 377-2224 www.guthrietheater.org (651) 291-7005

(S.H.E.) Clinic www.parksquaretheatre.org
Zeitgeist Arts Cafe Uninsured? Underinsured? Sexual Hennepin Theatre Trust
Duluth’s newest dining experience Orpheum, State and Pantages Theatres
offering contemporary American dining health services for female-bodied, queer- The Minnesota Opera
identified individuals provided on a sliding Twin Cities’ best live entertainment:
and full bar in an art-filled setting. Broadway shows, music concerts, America’s most exciting opera company -
222 E. Superior St. fee scale. comedy, dance and more! tickets start at just $20.
Duluth, MN 33 South 5th St. Minneapolis, MN 620 N. 1st St.
(218) 722-9100 Minneapolis, MN (612) 332-2311 (612) 673-0404 Minneapolis, MN (612) 342-9550
www.zeitgeistartscafe.com www.midwesthealthcenter.org www.HennepinTheatreDistrict.org www.mnopera.org

60
Backtalk > Dateland [ by Jennifer Parello ]

Children: A Cautionary Tale

Although I have no desire to have children myself, I of- me around,” he demanded. I did so, and he
endured the session joylessly.
ten have fantasized about getting involved with a single I don’t know if it was the weird kid or
mother. Being a stepmother seemed to have all the benefits the homicidal ex-girlfriend, but my infatu-
of motherhood without the hassles. You’d be the kid’s fun, ation with Leigh waned the moment I first
cool friend; the person they’d turn to when they needed stepped into her house. Still, I felt com-
pelled to sleep with her. So, one evening,
someone to talk some sense into their mother; and the adult when Billy was spending the night upstairs
who let them sneak sips of beer, and winked in commisera- at Carol’s apartment, I slept over.
tion when they needed money to buy condoms. I woke the next morning early, deter-
mined to get out of the house before Billy
returned home. While I was in the bath-
So, a couple of years ago, I was delighted I had come to the first date fully prepared room washing my face, I heard a door slam,
to develop a crush on a single mom. to buy his affection. But I didn’t remove the and tiny feet pounding down the hallway.
When I met Leigh, she told me she re- toy from my bag on that occasion, because The feet ran past the bathroom, but then
cently had resurfaced in the dating world I was fairly certain Carol would kill me if I
skidded to a stop. A small voice called into
after ending a long-term relationship. The made a move on her son.
the bathroom.
breakup was amicable. She and her former Billy accepted the gift without a thank-you.
“Mommy?”
lover shared custody of Billy, their son. He sat on the floor playing with it, ignoring
I froze.
Carol, her ex-girlfriend, lived upstairs, so my attempts to make conversation with him.
they both could see Billy every day. “Mommy? Mommy?”
Over the next few weeks, I left other
I met Carol on my first date with Leigh. presents with his mother to give to him. He I had no idea what to do. I prayed that
Carol greeted me at the door with a cold, must have viewed me as his own personal the kid would give up, and walk away.
deadly stare. She turned her back on me, Boo Radley, someone who was kept chained “Mommy?”
and walked inside without a word. Ob- to a drainpipe, and only emerged to leave “Yes,” I said finally.
viously, she had not been told that their small presents at his doorstep. “I love you,” he said in a singsong.
breakup was amicable. After a few weeks, Billy began to warm I stared at myself in the mirror, my eyes
I didn’t meet Billy until our third date. He up to me in that way a wild animal will if wide with panic.
possessed an unsettling stillness that made he thinks you are going to give him food. “Mommy? I love you,” he repeated.
him seem like a desperately unhappy middle- One day, he asked me to hold him upside He wasn’t going to leave without a re-
aged man squeezed into a little-boy body. down by the feet. Nothing playful about sponse.
I handed Billy the toy I had been carry- the request. Billy was all business. I dutiful- “I love you, too,” I said finally—not
ing with me since my first date with Leigh. ly picked him up by the feet. “Now, swing meaning a word of it.

LavenderMagazine.com

Finally I’m going to meet Big Jack, the most Hi, Big Jack! I’m Jack. He’s Big Jack. Like the ventriloquist and his dummy!
famous porno actor. Hi. Je suis Jack. Lui, c’est Big Jack. Tel un ventriloque et sa marionnette!
Enfin, je vais faire la connaissance de Big Salut Big Jack!
Jack, l’acteur prono le plus célèbre. Salut.

61
 Community Connection

Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus Edina Community Lutheran Church University Lutheran Church of Hope Grand Marais Area Tourism
An award-winning chorus that builds Upbeat, growing congregation committed Reconciling Congregation - All Are Association
community through music and offers to inclusion, justice, peace, community and Welcome. Social Justice Opportunities. Visit the North Shore's only harbor
entertainment worth coming out for! proclaiming God’s YES to all. Strong University Links - Questioning village - art, dining, shopping, outdoor
528 Hennepin Ave., Suite 307 4113 W. 54th St. Encouraged. Great Music. activities, the perfect escape.
Minneapolis, MN Edina, MN 601 13th Ave. SE Minneapolis, MN P.O Box 1048
(612) 339-SONG (7664) (952) 926-3808 (612) 331-5988 13 North Broadway Ave
www.eclc.org www.ulch.org Grand Marais, MN
chorus@tcgmc.org
www.tcgmc.org (888) 922-5000
Hennepin Avenue United Westminster Presbyterian Church (218) 387-2524
Methodist Church A Covenant Network Congregation, www.grandmarais.com
University of Minnesota Theatre Take a Spiritual Journey With Hennepin’s Working Toward a Church as Generous
Arts and Dance Faith Community Through Worship, and Just as God’s Grace. Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism
Educating artists and audiences through a diverse Education, Fellowship, Service, and More. Nicollet Mall at 12th St. Minneapolis, MN America's Gay Oasis is Beautiful
mix of performances on both land and water. 511 Groveland Ave. Minneapolis, MN (612) 332-3421
(612) 871-5303 Palm Springs.
U of M Theatre www.ewestminster.org www.palm-springs.org
330 21st Ave S, Minneapolis, MN www.haumc.org
(612) 624-2345
Mayflower Community Congre-
Retirement Visit Minneapolis North Convention
www.theatre.umn.edu The Kenwood Retirement & Visitors Bureau
gational United Church of Christ Community
An open and affirming, peace with We take pride in helping individuals find
Pets/Pet Services justice church welcomes you.
Our full service retirement community the ideal location for events & celebrations.
Animal Humane Society 106 E. Diamond Lake Rd. provides Independent, Assisted Living and 6200 Shingle Creek Parkway, Suite 248,
Adoption, rescue, outreach, training, (I-35 & Diamond Lake Rd.) Short Term apartment rentals. Minneapolis, MN
boarding. Buffalo, Coon Rapids, Golden Minneapolis, MN 825 Summit Avenue, Minneapolis, MN (763) 566-7722 / (800) 541-4364
Valley, St. Paul and Woodbury. (612) 824-0761 (612) 374-8100 www.visitminneapolisnorth.com
(763) 432-4527 www.mayflowermpls.org www.thekenwood.net
www.animalhumanesociety.org Winneshiek County Convention &
Mount Olive Lutheran Church Sexual Health Visitors Bureau / Discover Decorah
Wildcat Sanctuary Ours is a welcoming parish, rich in music, Family Tree Clinic Refresh, rejuvenate, rekindle....whatever
A non-profit accredited sanctuary for over liturgy and opportunities to serve LGBTQ Health Matters at Family Tree! R&R you’re up for, the Decorah area is the
the community. Offering respectful, affordable sexual ultimate heaven
100 abandoned and abused bobcats,
3045 Chicago Ave. Minneapolis, MN health service to meet your needs. 507 West Water Street
tigers, leopards and more. 1619 Dayton Avenue
Sandstone, MN (612) 827-5919 Decorah, IA 52101
www.mountolivechurch.org St. Paul, MN (800) 463-4692
(320) 245-6871 (651) 645-0478
www.wildcatsanctuary.org www.visitdecorah.com
Plymouth Congregational Church, www.familytreeclinic.org
Politics & Rights Minneapolis
A Beacon of Liberal Theology. Progressive Man2Man
Zoos
Human Rights Campaign Minnesota Zoo
Christianity, Traditional Setting & Service, Interactive events where guys talk to one Open year-round. More than 2,400
Advocates for all GLBT Americans, Social Action, The Arts & Music. another about being gay/bi, dating, animals to explore.
mobilizes grassroots action, invests 1900 Nicollet Ave. at Franklin sex, life!
Numerous special events.
strategically to elect fair-minded individuals. Minneapolis, MN Metro (612) 626-7937
(612) 871-7400 13000 Zoo Blvd.
P.O. Box 50608 Minneapolis, MN 1-800-552-8636
www.plymouth.org Apple Valley MN
www.twincities.hrc.org www.hrc.org www.M2M.mn
(952) 431-9200
Spirit of Hope Social Organizations www.mnzoo.org
Minnesota Log Cabin Republicans
Inclusion Wins. An Independent Catholic community. Imperial Court of Minnesota
At our table, all are welcome. Mass at P.O. Box 582417
115 Hennepin Ave. 5 PM Saturday evening. Fr. Marty
Minneapolis, MN Minneapolis, MN
Shanahan. Worship at: www.impcourtmn.com
www.mnlogcabin.org St. Anne’s Episcopal Church
OutFront Minnesota
2035 Charlton Rd
Sunfish Lake, MN
Social Justice
Community Shares of Minnesota
Delivering programs / services in the area www.spiritofhopecatholiccommunity.org Community Shares of Minnesota
of public policy, anti-violence, education raises funds and awareness for
and training, and law. St. Luke Presbyterian Church local organizations fighting for justice
310 E. 38th St., Ste. 204 We’re a joyful, compassionate community and equality.
Minneapolis, MN on a spiritual journey, seeking justice and 1619 Dayton Avenue, Suite 323
(612) 822-0127 peace. Join us. St.Paul, MN
www.outfront.org 3121 Groveland School Rd. (651) 647-0440
Wayzata, MN
changeisbetter.org
(952) 473-7378
Pride www.stlukeweb.org
Twin Cities Pride Sports & Recreation
The third-largest national Pride celebration St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral Twin Cities Goodtime Softball
seeks sponsors, volunteers, and board Wherever you are on your faith journey... League (TCGSL)
members. Contact us today. St. Mark’s Welcomes You. Join 500 GLBT softball players as we
2021 East Hennepin Ave, Ste. 460 519 Oak Grove St. Minneapolis, MN celebrate 32 years of gay softball in
Minneapolis, MN (612) 870-7800 Minnesota.
(612) 305-6900 www.ourcathedral.org PO Box 580264
www.tcpride.org Minneapolis, MN
www.tcgsl.org
July 30-August 12, 2010

St. Paul-Reformation Lutheran

Religious & Spiritual Church with Wingspan Ministry
+ PASTORAL CARE + EDUCATION + Travel
Central Lutheran Church Door County Visitor Bureau
WITNESS + ADVOCACY + Outreach
We welcome all people to discover, Your Stories. Our Setting. Like Nowhere
of St. Paul-Reformation Church to the
celebrate and share the love of Christ. GLBTQA Community. Else. Door County, Wisconsin.
333 Twelfth St. S. 100 N. Oxford St. PO Box 406
Minneapolis, MN St. Paul, MN Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
(612) 870-4416 (651) 224-3371 (800) 52-RELAX (73529)
www.centralmpls.org www.stpaulref.org www.doorcounty.com/info@doorcounty.com

62
Backtalk > Consider the Source
Palm Off
Famous “butt-inski” Dear Abby devoted an entire column
recently to palm reading, which she belittled as a cheap par-
lor game with no basis in science.
That, of course, makes it totally unlike
offering a two-sentence solution to a com-
plete stranger who has a pen, a stamp, and
some frightening problems.
Nevertheless, they wrote to her com-
plaining of being fleeced by palm readers.
The letters were so unbelievable that read-
ing the column left me shaking my head
from side to side. That isn’t usually a big
deal, but I was being fitted for a partial den-
ture at the time.
Anyway, Abby dumped on palm readers.
And it was about time. Now, I’m not saying
all palm readers are crooks. Just some. A
few. Three or four, tops. The rest are OK.
(There, that ought to ward off any pesky
round of lawsuits.)
But those three or four give all palm
readers a bad name. Well, two bad names.
So, if you want to let a woman with a cigar
dangling from her mouth tell you what life
has in store for you, have at it. But first, you
should understand it.
The science of palm reading is based
on interpreting lines and wrinkles and food
stains on your hand.
For example, a long line from the center
of your wrist to the index finger signifies
that the palm reader’s assistant is probably
breaking into the trunk of your car.
Two lateral lines almost always mean
the assistant is yanking your new navigation
system from your dashboard.
And seven lines forming a full circle on
your palm mean your parents were very
likely related.
One of the oldest palm reading tricks
is for the “reader” to squeeze your hand as
she “gazes at your life.” At that moment,
she begins removing any valuable rings
from your hand. Occasionally, she removes
a finger as well. This is known in the palm
reading business as “oops!”
You seldom get the ring back, and the
finger back only about half the time. And
losing a finger is a serious problem for most
people, with the notable exception of the fa-
mous “woman-scorned” victim, John Wayne
Bobbit, who shrugs off a thing like that.
But let me tell you why I personally dis-
like palm readers.
About 20 years ago, I visited a friend in
New York—Brooklyn, to be precise—which
is something I used to do whenever feeling
[ by Julie Dafydd ]
the need to be beaten and robbed by four
hookers who smelled like a landfill.
On this trip, I made a 2 AM decision (I’ve
always found that to be the ideal time to make
the really big ones) to have my palm read for
$20. Hey, I was going to lose it one way or the
other: the palm reader or the four hookers in
their body-fluid-encrusted fishnets.
The woman sat me down, grabbed my
hand, and started babbling: “You will soon
suffer a serious loss.”
As she said it, I noticed one of her as-
sistants rifling through my tote bag draped
over the chair beside me. I quickly got up;
slammed the assistant’s sweaty head in a
desk drawer five or six times—hey, she was
big for an 8-year-old!—took back my wal-
let; slipped it into my jeans back pocket;
and sat down again.
“OK”, the palm reader said in an eerie,
almost mystical voice. “Maybe you won’t.”
Realizing now that she didn’t have the
typical Bimbo Tourist seated in front of her,
she began rattling off more routine, mun-
dane stuff.
“You will move up in the world.”
She was technically correct on this one.
A month later, I was moved from the third
floor to the fifth floor of my apartment
building, so they could fumigate the third
floor for bedbugs.
“A tall, dark, and handsome man will
briefly enter your life.”
Right again. Six weeks after she said
that, a Chippendale dancer bitch-slapped
me after my pinky ring got caught in his
man-thong.
“A great feeling of freedom and open-
ness will follow you wherever you go.”
I was all the way to Kennedy Airport be-
fore I realized that her damn assistant had
cut the entire seat clear out of my jeans.
LavenderMagazine.com
Well, hey, consider the source. You just
can’t trust those 8-year-olds.
Bye for now.
Kiss, kiss.
63
 Ms. Behavior© |
[ by Meryl Cohn ]

Guilty Ex
Dear Ms. Behavior:
An ex of mine rolled back into town re-
cently. Terri always has been a handful in the
past, but this time, she turned up looking
good and clear-eyed. She told me that she
needed a job, and asked me to help her.
I always get sucked into helping, which
is why she asks me for assistance (instead
of any one of her dozen other exes). Any-
way, I manage a retail shop (souvenirs),
so I recommended Terri to my boss. We
needed someone to fill in a few nights a
week, so it seemed like a perfect fit.
The problem is that right after Terri start-
ed working in the store, I found out (from
the newspaper) she recently was arrested and
convicted for shoplifting. It had no details
about what she stole, or from whom.
I am baffled about what to do with the
information. I never have known her to be
a shoplifter, but I can’t say I’m totally sur-
prised, either.
Anyway, should I confront Terri, and
insist that she tell me what happened, or
is it none of my business? If she promises
that she never will shoplift again, should
I believe her? Am I obligated to warn my
boss or is that unfair? Am I supposed to
be extra-loyal, just because we were once
girlfriends (seven years ago)?
—Guilty Ex

Dear Guilty Ex:

That Terri is your ex complicates
things emotionally, but is otherwise irrel-
evant. Your direct action (hiring Terri) has
put someone else (your boss) in jeopardy,
so you need to mitigate the risk.
Most of the time, activities that happen
outside of work are nobody’s business, as
long as they are legal, and don’t harm the
company’s reputation.
Teachers, politicians, and certain civic
employees may not get away with posting
photos of their bare butts on Facebook, but
retail employees generally are up against
fewer rules. They can blog with impunity
about drunken dancing with strippers and
July 30-August 12, 2010

thugs, and describe spitting nickels from

various orifices every Friday night.
Shoplifting, however, does not fall into
this category, because it means the em-
ployee is a thief, as opposed to just a psycho
partier who is letting off a little steam. So,
if you’re the one who brings a convicted

64
thief to your boss’s store, you can’t claim
it’s none of your business.
Because you don’t know exactly why
Terri was arrested, it’s best to talk with her
about it.
Did she steal things like pencils, mon-
ey, or her coworkers’ bagged lunches from
her previous job? Or, did she hang around
the Prada outlet, shoving sunglasses and
wallets into her underwear? Was this her
first time or is she a chronic shoplifter?
Even if Terri swears she never will steal
again, how could you trust her? If your
souvenir store sells things like jewelry and
cameras, or other small and easily con-
cealed items, guarding these things would
prove challenging.
How could you possibly detect all
losses in a foolproof manner, without con-
ducting a cavity search? Performing such a
search on an ex could be awkward.
In any case, let Terri know that you
can’t keep secrets about her shoplifting.
Ultimately, you’ll need to talk to your
boss. She’s the one who will need to decide
whether to let the little magpie stay on.

Dear Ms. Behavior:

I read your column, and I wanted to
respond to the recent letter from “Pained
Mom.”
I as a gay man have been in that situ-
ation. Your remarks were right on the
mark. I was engaged to a woman, broke
it off, and finally decided to come out of
the closet.
My mother thought it right still to
have a relationship with the woman I was
engaged to. How could I say no to that?
My mother told me that she had a right,
as their relationship was a “one-on-one,”
and did not include me. I accepted that
explanation.
So, I hope that “Pained Mom” still has
that relationship with the “other half.”
She has every right to have that. I hope
her daughter realizes that. It is not easy
for our parents to continue those relation-
ships once ours is done, but they may, and
they can! We as the “hurt” or “hurting”
half need to realize that.
Sincerely,
LavenderMagazine.com

David S. Wicklander
© 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.

65
 Yellow Pages > Advertiser Index
Adult
Hardline Gay Chat........ 65
Megaphone ................... 64
Arts & Entertainment
Art Institutes International
Minnesota ...................... 27
Ordway Center for
the Performing Arts ........ 31
The Kids Are All Right .... 33
Uptown Art Fair ............. 11
Automotive
LaMettry’s Collision ....... 21
Morrie’s Mazda ............ 7
Bars & Nightlife
Bar Advertiser Guide .... 36
19 Bar ............................. 41
Brass Rail ........................ 38
Coale’s ........................... 43
Fusion: Restaurant
Bar Lounge ..................... 41
Gay 90’s ....................... 39
Gladius ........................... 42
Innuendo ........................ 42
Tickles ............................. 38
Town House .................. 40
Beauty & Relaxation
Anew Aesthetic
Medical Center .............. 6
Barbers on Bryant.......... 54
Brian Graham Salon ..... 9
Garden of Eden ............. 24
Beverages
Budweiser ....................... 37
Miller Lite ........................ 67
Communications
AM950, The Voice
of Minnesota .................. 27
Radio K 770 ................. 24
Computer & Internet
Big Dog Solutions .......... 54
Employment
July 30-August 12, 2010
Pride Talent Acquisition . 23
Events
Lavender First
Thursdays........................ 23
Lavender’s THIRST days 43
66
Minneapolis Bike Tour... 35
Minnesota Zoo .............. 45
Park Tavern Bowling
& Entertainment Center . 9
Out at the Movies .......... 3
Summer of Pride ............ 21
Financial
Harbor Group Inc. ........ 5, 54
Moltaji, Roya .................. 11
Palm, Karen .................... 7
ROR Tax Professionals .. 54
Wells Fargo Bank .......... 11
Floral & Garden
Landscape Junction ....... 55
Tangletown Gardens ..... 25
Funeral Services
Johnson Hannah,
Barbara ......................... 54
Gifts
Fantasy Gifts .................. 13
Grocery Stores........
Wedge Co-op ................ 49
Health, Wellness &
Recovery
Advanced Foot and
Ankle Care ..................... 8
Amble, Paul DDS ........... 27
Burns, Steve .................... 57
Carrillo, Dr. Thomas P.... 57
Chase, Lisa ..................... 57
Childs, Julie Childs ......... 57
Fitness Together ............. 23
Get Real Fitness ............. 55
Heffelfinger, Kate........... 57
Heteroflexible Therapy . 57
HIM Program ................. 6
Homecare Assist ............ 7
Lyn-Lake Chiro ................ 35
Minnesota Department
of Health......................... 51
O’Hara, Paul .................. 57
Pride Institute .................. 23
Running Tiger Shaolin
Kenpo ............................. 55
Shaklee ........................... 55
Stolz, James.................... 57
University of Minnesota,
Infectious Diseases ........ 2
Uptown Dermatology
& SkinSpa ....................... 57
Vader, Kathy................... 57
Home Services
4 Quarters Design &
Build ................................ 24
A -Z Electric ................... 56
Berglin Flores Fine
Art & Design ................... 33
Good Stuff Moving ....... 56
Granite Transformations 55
Hi-Tech Installations ....... 56
Matt’s Tree Service ........ 56
Personal Pride
Construction ................... 55
R. Davis Construction,
Inc. .................................. 55
Ryan’s Tree Care ........... 56
Seal King ........................ 54
Soderlin Plumbing, Heating
& Air Conditioning ......... 55
SOS Homecare ............. 55
The Tile Shop ................. 26
Twin City Heating
and Air............................ 24
Insurance
American Family
Insurance ........................ 7
Baldwin, Davina ............ 56
Wagner Insurance-Financial
Services .......................... 56
Wolfson, Steve ............... 56
Jewelry
Max’s .............................. 6
T Lee Fine Designer
Jewelry............................ 35
Legal
Bohn & Associates ........ 54
Cloutier & Brandl ........... 51
Davis Law Office ........... 17
Dean, Jeff ....................... 5
Hoffner, Fabian .............. 13
Family Solutions Law
Group ............................. 27
Heltzer & Burg ............... 25
Moshier, Becky .............. 7
Terry & Slane ................. 8
Media & Communications
Lavender Yellow
Pages .............................. 45
Mortgage
Gleason, Pat ................... 9
Grunewald, Mark .......... 27
Lozinski, David ............... 21
Optical
Specs Appeal................. 17
Organizations
The Aliveness Project ..... 21
Ameriprise Financial ...... 68
Pet Products & Services
Animal Humane
Society ........................... 17
Larpenteur Animal
Hospital .......................... 17
Pharmacies
BioScrip Pharmacy ........ 5
Real Estate & Rentals
Bowker, Kent .................. 58
Calfee, David ................. 58
Farinella, Marilyn .......... 58
Haubrich Homes............ 58
gayrealestate.com ......... 58
Groff, Wayne ................. 58
Leviton, Ann .................... 57
McGee, Michael ........... 27
Ruzick, Amy & Johnson,
Kay.................................. 21
Restaurants
French Meadow Bakery
& Café ............................ 45
Jakeeno’s Pizza & Pasta 49
KinDee Thai Restaurant . 49
Midori’s Floating
World Café .................... 44
OM ................................. 51
Sushi Tango .................... 44
Toast Wine Bar & Café . 49
Uptown Diner/Calhoun
Grill/LouisianaCafé/
Grandview Grill ............. 49
W.A. Frost....................... 45
Sports & Recreation
Minnesota Lynx .............. 21, 44
Dining Guide Listing |

AVERAGE PRICE OF A TYPICAL ENTREE

$ LESS THAN $15, $$ $15-$25, $$$ MORE THAN $25

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

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

FRENCH MEADOW BAKERY $ JAKEENO’S PIZZA & PASTA $

Certified Organic Bakery Italian
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Traditional red sauce pastas, thin crust pizza & homemade sauces.
Lunch, Dinner
2610 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis (612) 870-4740
3555 Chicago Ave. S. Minneapolis (612) 825-6827
Sun – Thurs: 6:30 AM – 9 PM • Fri – Sat: 6:30 AM – 11 PM Mon – Fri: 11 AM – 11 PM • Sat – Sun: 4 PM – 11 PM
www.frenchmeadow.com Midtown Global Market, 920 E. Lake St., Minneapolis (612) 767-1102
Mon – Sat: 10 AM – 8 PM • Sun: 10 AM – 6 PM
FUJI YA JAPANESE RESTAURANT $$ www.jakeenos.com
Japanese & Sushi
KINDEE THAI $
Authentic Japanese food, finest sushi available, Uptown Minneapolis,
Thai
downtown St. Paul.
This isn’t your traditional everyday Thai restaurant.
600 W. Lake St., Minneapolis (612) 871-4055 Lunch, Dinner
Mon: Closed • Tues – Thurs: 5 PM – 10 PM • Fri – Sat: 5 PM – 10:30 PM 719 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis (612) 465-8303
• Sun: 5 PM – 9 PM Mon: Closed • Tues – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 9 PM • Fri: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM
465 N. Wabasha, St. Paul (651) 310-0111 • Mon – Fri: Lunch 11:30 AM – 2 • Sat: 11 AM – 10:30 PM • Sun: 11 AM – 9 PM
PM. Dinner 5 PM—10 PM • Sat: Dinner 5 PM – 10 PM • Sun: Closed www.kindeethairestaurant.com
www.fujiyasushi.com
THE LOUISIANA CAFÉ $
American
GINGER HOP $$ Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, omelets, pancakes, coffee,
Asian Fusion juices, soups, salads & sandwiches.
Specializing in pan-Asian classic dishes. As we like to say, “East meets Breakfast, Brunch,
Northeast”. 613 Selby Ave., St. Paul (651) 221-9140
Mon – Fri: 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM • Sat: 6:30 AM – 3 PM • Sun: 8 AM – 3 PM
Lunch, Dinner
201 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis (612) 746-0304 MIDORI’S FLOATING WORLD CAFÉ $
www.gingerhop.com Sushi, Tempuru
Sushi, tempura, noodles, traditional, contemporary, home-styled specials,
THE GRANDVIEW GRILL $ beer, wine, sake.
American Lunch, Dinner
3011 27th Ave. S., Minneapolis (612) 721-3011
Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, omelets, pancakes, coffee,
Mon: Closed • Tues – Wed: 11:30 AM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 9 PM • Thurs – Fri:
juices, soups, salads & sandwiches. 11:30 AM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM • Sat: 12 noon – 2 PM, 5 – 10 PM • Sun:
Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch 4 PM – 8 PM
1818 Grand Ave., St. Paul (651) 698-2346 www.floatingworldcafe.com
Mon – Fri: 6:15 AM – 2:30 PM • Sat: 6:15 AM – 3 PM • Sun: 8 AM – 3 PM
NEW UPTOWN DINER $
American
HONEY $$
Fresh hand ground hash browns, French toast, omelets, pancakes, coffee,
lavendermagazine.com

Small Plates
juices, soups, salads & sandwiches.
Fine cocktails, wine, small plates and artisan chocolates in an intimate setting. Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
205 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis (612) 746-0306 2548 Hennepin Ave. S. Minneapolis (612) 874-0481
www.honeympls.com Mon – Wed: 6 AM – 3 PM • Thurs – Sat: 24 Hours • Sun: Close at 6 PM

69
 Kindee Thai.

The Grandview Grill. New Uptown Diner.

OM $$
Indian
Modern approach to Indian cuisine featuring bold and distinctive flavors.
Dinner
401 First Ave. N., Minneapolis (612) 338-1510
www.omminneapolis.com

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
www.sushitango.com

TOAST WINE BAR AND CAFÉ $

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

W.A. FROST & CO. $$

Since 1975. Enjoy the open air setting in the summer & the spectacular
historic architecture year round. Sensation wine selection, cuisine & ambi-
ance 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
www.wafrost.com

THE WOODBURY CAFÉ $

July 30–August 12, 2010

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

70