Lavender Magazine 755

SCENE

“Unicorns Unite” – Through the Magic of Radio, Twin Cities Pride is Amplified

The Menu: Kim Envisions Korea

Guthrie Theater Presents Three of Shakespeare’s History Plays: For Movie Marathoners, TV Bingers, and People Who Just Love Shakespeare

Hackett. Photo by Mike Hnida

Photo by Brian Shultz for New Spaces, 14: Photo by Mike Hnida,

Photo by Joey Amato, 30: Photo courtesy of Torben Berndt

EDITORIAL

Managing Editor Randy Stern 612-461-8723

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Editor Emeritus Ethan Boatner

Editorial Associate George Holdgrafer

Contributors Lakey Bridge, Buer Carlie, Natasha DeLion, Alyssa Homeier, Terrance Griep, Elise Maren, Jen PeeblesHampton, Linda Raines, Gabrielle Reeder, Alexander Reed, Gabrielle Reeder, Madison Roth, Jamez L. Smith, Susan Swavely, Carla Waldemar, Todd P. Walker, Emma Walytka, Spencer White

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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), Adam Houghtaling (1984-2012), Walker Pearce (1946-2013), Tim Campbell (1939-2015), John Townsend (1959-2019)

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A Summer Home

BY RANDY STERN

Welcome to the Summer Home and Garden Issue!

This is the time when the project that you talked about with your significant other will come to fruition. A new garden? Maybe a new patio area out back? Replacing parts of the front walk? Or, a complete refresh of your home’s interior.

Or, how about a new climate control system for your home?

At my place of residence, one of those projects are underway. The roof is being replaced. Hailstorms over the years challenged its integrity. I’m glad my landlord is doing so. Yet, I always have this bad vision of the roofers peeking into my space while conducting a conference call with a story subject…

I guess that’s what blinds are for.

Summer in the Minnesota is an interesting mix of weather events, and what climate change has thrown at us. By now, we should be used to the unusual. The idea of normal has left the state, leaving us with “anything goes.”

It is also a time for possibilities. For example, re-crafting a kitchen with a concept made

for a chef, especially when it’s a 50-year-old home.

We also talk about making your home a cool one during the summer months. Remember the days when keeping cool was done by throwing the windows open? With our summers, that has been replaced with efficient systems that will keep you cool all year round – including physically and emotionally.

While shopping for a new home continues to be a challenge, the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance could help us with a look at what is going

on with the market and what’s on the horizon.

Speaking of climate change, Minnesota is one of the leading states for bicycle use. We’re one of the few places in the world where you see bicyclists out there in the middle of winter getting through a snowstorm. In this issue, the Our Rides column will talk about bicycle use and what to look for in your next bike.

Have you secured tickets to the Guthrie Theater’s “History Plays.” We’re talking a trilogy of Shakespeare’s English Kings that has been the buzz in the theatre community. We caught that buzz and can tell you all about it –spoilers included. Sorry.

However, in this issue, we also feature a local personality on the rise and a bit of news they are about to drop in these pages. We got them right at home. I’ll keep you in suspense to find out who this person is. You may have guessed it from the cover…

From here, it’s another Home and Garden issue. Right for your summer home. Let the breeze come in – or, just turn on the air conditioning. Better yet, jump on your bicycle and take a ride through the summer! 

Photo courtesy of BigStock/Steven Gaertner

50 Shades of Gray Today

BY E.B. BOATNER

I have friends scattered here and there about the globe from whom I’ve not yet heard, so I can’t vouch for their experiences, but here in Minnesota, in my eyrie just west of Uptown, my Eclipse, like Whistler’s Mother, was a symphony in grays. I had to reach back for a satisfactory lunar transit.

Way back; to July 20,1963. Some of us had been classmates, recently graduated June 13, so I needn’t note I was somewhat younger (sixty-some years) at the time, and had never entertained a thought about eclipse-gazing.

That day, a group of us imbibers that gathered at Cronin’s, our watering hole in Harvard Square where like the poem’s famous stag came at eve to drink our fill, piled in cars (me in my antediluvian VW Bug) and headed north to the beach on Plum Island.

In my memory, it was a sunny day, pleasant, though not yet warm enough to venture in to brave the North Atlantic; the photos snapped on my 8mm Minox show young picknickers in shirts and slacks.

The totality was to happen about threeclose enough, we’d been promised, to experi-

ence shadings of the main event. Much preeclipse eating, drinking cold ones and larking about; I captured Mike E. balanced on one foot, the other kicked back, one hand gripping binoculars, the other shading his eyes as if some new planet swam into his ken. That, and fistfuls of other black-and-white souvenirs, remain stacked in a box on my shelf.

We knew not to gaze directly into the sun without protection, and we’d armed ourselves with whatever had been recommended at the time, but dedicated eclipse glasses weren’t yet on every drugstore counter. We were prepared with–I don’t exactly remember now, but don’t forget; 1963 phones were still tethered to walls, gas for my Beetle was 25 cents a gallon, and photographic film had to be processed before viewing, not dispatched throughout the world with a “Send” from an iPhone.

We had a ways to go until ’24.

The moon was right on time, with a dimming of the celestial rays. More unsettling, was the immediate chill; viscerally different from the cool of the sea breeze. One felt ancestral echoes–panic at the death of light, horror at

entombing winter. The spheres’ passage then were as brief as those bodies this afternoon, neither then nor today would shadow and chill harm physically, but hardwired fears are the Ancestors’ gift. We partied, packed and returned to Boston.

I can’t use claim Then was a more peaceful, more kindly time, any more than I can say that about Now. The Bay of Pigs and the Cuban Missile Crisis were going down in 1961 while we trembled and speculated in our dining halls over dinner, but Jack and Bobby Kennedy and MLK were all alive as we drank beer that 20th of July, 1963, waiting for the moon.

All too soon, they weren’t, and neither now is Mike E….gone like others of our group. Like the movement of the spheres, time flees; new horrors, new miracles come into view and, in their turn, spin on around. I was born as lifesaving penicillin was introduced, and before the destruction at Pearl Harbor and Hiroshima.

We still have a ways to go–and don’t know where we’re going. Maybe Douglas Adams was right: the answer’s “42.” 

Christopher Friend, Property Friends Group, Edina Realty

BY LINDA RAINES

Business: Property Friends Group, Edina Realty

Your Name: Christopher Friend

Job Title: REALTOR®

Give us a brief overview of your business and what services you provide the community:

In 2013, I left the corporate IT world to join Edina Realty as a Realtor. As a full-service broker with over 75 office locations, Edina Realty has provided me with the resources to offer clients a convenient one-stop shop for start-to-finish highly competitive resources for brokerage, mortgage, title, insurance, warranty, relocation, and more. Even though my office is located in the downtown Minneapolis North Loop, my team provides a range of skilled, detail-oriented, and friendly services to sellers, first-time and repeat buyers, and investors in the Twin Cities metro area and occasionally beyond.

How many years have you been in business?

This is my 11th year in business. 2023 marked the completion of my 10th year in real estate with my team completing nearly 450 transactions to date. We are honored that over the past several years our team’s sales volume has placed us in the top 3% – 5% in our brokerage of over 2000 agents.

What’s something unique we should know about your business?

Early in my career, I put additional focus on the condo and townhome marketplace which has the added complexities and nuances of being a part of common interest communities (CICs), managed by homeowner associations (HOAs), and having additional governance and consumer protections provided by specific state statutes. Over the years, I have heard several negative

opinions about HOAs and some of those have been warranted. If having total control over decision-making for the structural components of your unit, any limited common elements (not yours but you have exclusive use, such as a balcony), or that which needs to be addressed at the community level, then perhaps an HOA isn’t for you.

However, if an HOA is done right there can be several advantages provided by this style of living. One example would be that HOAs have governing rules meant to protect a reasonable homeowner from another that may not be a good fit for the community. Another example is that HOAs are required to include “reserves” in their annual budget for future replacements of components which are the responsibility of the HOA. Some examples of these forecasted costs could be a roof, siding, windows, and more. These sometimes-large expenditures are costs shared by the community whereas similar types of costs would likely be fully borne by a single-family homeowner. It’s important to remember that HOAs are usually run by a board of directors fully comprised of just the homeowners from the same community, so their decisions affect them as much as the rest of the homeownership. If I were to give some advice to a new homeowner, it would be to attend the board meetings, stay abreast of communications from the board and property management, and perhaps even volunteer to become a board member! Even that much said, I’m just scratching the surface on the HOA topic and would be happy to field any specific questions from the readership.

Perhaps more valuable to some, we know the ins and outs of many of the prominent condo buildings in the area, so we are a great resource to assist buyers in searching for properties that are a good fit and then being able to efficiently show building grounds and amenities. As you might imagine, this domain expertise is equally as crucial for delivering an effective and smooth sales process for our seller clients. Either way, our business transcends condos & townhomes as the other half of our clientele has focused on single-family homes in the Twin Cities metro area. The good news is we are well-equipped and have been assisting clients interested in purchasing, selling, or both across multiple housing product categories throughout our region.

Continued on page 12

Chris Friend. Photo by Troy Larson

Need financial guidance?

Anyone can give advice. The New Hope Group is a safe place that aligns your values with your goals, because we believe that everyone deserves a personalized financial plan.

Patti Powell, Financial Advisor 763-533-0357 • patti.powell@thrivent.com connect.thrivent.com/new-hope-group

Thrivent provides advice and guidance through its Financial Planning Framework that generally includes a review and analysis of a client’s financial situation. A client may choose to further their planning engagement with Thrivent through its Dedicated Planning Services (an investment advisory service) that results in written recommendations for a fee.6066760.1

Pamela M Petersen

Pamela M Petersen Agency LLC

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I am passionate about assisting people to achieve their goals and dreams. This can look quite different from person to person, especially depending on whether one is a seller, buyer, or perhaps both at the same time. Sellers often value our ability to smoothly manage a complicated process to achieve the best possible net proceeds on their sale with the least amount of stress and market time. As a buyer, and perhaps a first-time buyer, entering the market can be a daunting task especially with multiple offers still being commonplace in certain inventory categories. Buyers are usually about to make the biggest purchase in their life, and they appreciate detailed guidance on the entire process including assistance finding reputable and price-conscious lenders, negotiating pricing and terms, navigating complex inspections, and confidently getting through the closing process. And if one is both a seller and a buyer, there is the added complexity and appreciation for creative solutions to smoothly stitch the selling and buying processes together. What’s the best thing about working with the LGBTQ community?

What a timely question. I reflect on a conversation I just had with a client who is a part of our community. They mentioned how comfortable it is for them to work with someone who

belongs to the same community and feel truly at ease there would be no unconscious prejudice or preconceived notion of how one should live. Just to be clear, I am not saying that an ally to the LGBTQ community wouldn’t be a good fit for many; however, I am grateful that I can help some feel even more comfortable with the buying and selling processes. But there are many other nuances, and I have to say it, potential challenges to being LGBTQ buyers and sellers who comprise about 5+% of those in the market according to a 2023 survey by the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

An example from the nuance angle, for some members of the LGBTQ community the type of home, the function of the spaces, and the importance of convenience to amenities vs. work or other can differ greatly from that of the non-LGBTQ community. When working with fellow members of the LGBTQ community, I place extra attention on understanding what is important to a client’s lifestyle (not to be confused with calling LGBTQ a “lifestyle”). I like to think that I am less pre-disposed than a non-LGBTQ individual to make certain unconscious assumptions of what would be important to a client.

From a potential challenge perspective, we haven’t discussed the D-word yet and I would be remiss to not touch on it at least lightly. We

all know that “discrimination” of anyone in the LGBTQ community is simply wrong, but what you might not know, is that along with sexual orientation, gender identity is also a protected class under Minnesota state law. It’s perhaps comforting to some that we live in a progressive state as this is not a federal protection. But as we know, just because there is a law that prohibits discrimination that doesn’t mean isn’t real and isn’t happening. When I represent clients from our LGBTQ community, I have a natural and trained awareness of navigating the transaction landscape to avoid the effects of potentially discriminatory practices by other parties. We probably all can agree that it’s far easier to avoid an issue than to litigate it in the courts.

Does your business have anything new, fun or unique happening on the horizon?

Spring Market is here! Interest rates have been on the rise for a couple of years, and we have seen some softening in the rates since last-year highs. If things continue to pick up, we may be growing the team in the future. If you weren’t doing your current job, what would you be doing?

That’s a tough question as it’s tough to think of another line of work that would allow me to affect and assist people as much directly, materially, and positively! 

“Unicorns Unite”

Through the Magic of Radio, Twin Cities Pride is Amplified

BY TERRANCE GRIEP

It started, as all amplified things must, small.

It, in this instance, is communication about the behind-the-scenes, before-the-fact activity of Twin Cities Pride, that non-profit organization which, for a half-week every June, produces musical concerts, a 5K run, various block parties on various blocks, various family picnics with various families, and the Loring Park festival, replete with various vendors and various advocates. The cherry on that hot fudge sundae of activities is, of course, the iconic Ashley Rukes Twin Cities LGBTQ+ Pride Parade, an event that by itself draws nearly 400,000 various people.

In years past, after the rainbow-colored glitter was swept off Hennepin Avenue, Twin Cities Pride would all but disappear, its ex post facto machinations building the next Pride annual event in a space as mysterious and as inaccessible as Santa’s workshop. Whatever sound Twin Cities Pride might have been produced during this term would likely stir no one, not even a mouse.

Just recently, all of that has changed.

During the first half of 2023, Twin Cities Pride’s Executive Director Andi Otto, began recording minute-long radio promotional spots, written by his executive assistant, Rina Heisel, outlining the summer’s activities. When the account executive of the station, AM950, noticed Otto’s talent for telecast, a small signal was suddenly strengthened.

The end result is Twin Cities Pride Amplified, a weekly radio presentation that keeps track of the Pride Festival during its 360ish-day gestation. But that isn’t all that it does—according to its website, Twin Cities Pride Amplified is “a program dedicated to all things LGBTQIA+ community, both here in the Twin Cities area, and beyond.”

“This seemed like a great opportunity, especially since Andi just launched a whole, new year-round programming initiative,” supposes Heisel whose duties as Otto’s executive assistant have transmuted into duties as hot media co-host. “We could give listeners updates on what Twin Cities Pride was up to.”

“I wanted to launch a podcast to help access listeners outside the ones who follow us,” Otto, the new show’s new host, adds. “It was also way that we could talk about a lot of things and shed some light on subjects we often don’t get the platform to do.”

That platform at first served as a diving board. “We sort of jumped headfirst into this venture, and the team at AM950 guided us and taught us so much,” Heisel remembers. “So far, I think every show has been a beneficial one, but our topics and conversations aren’t always easy.”

“We have battled some tough topics,” Otto concurs, “but I think in doing that we have educated folks and hopefully made a difference.”

Difference-making is rarely easy, alas. “I think the hardest topic for me has actually been a recurring theme that keeps rising its head: loneliness and isolation in the LGBTQ+ community,” Heisel reflects. “It’s come up in our youth-centered episodes, adult mental health episodes—there are so many wonderful people out there just looking for friendship and a sense of belonging.”

The program itself can, to some extent, step into that breach. “It reinforced how important it is to do this work, to create spaces and foster connections,” Heisel elaborates. “And we need to be creative and make sure we’re creating opportunities for all ages, too.”

Because the Amplified crew discuss issues that affect the community of which they themselves are part, some topics hit close to home. “The hardest [episode] for me was the LGB without the TQ episode,” Otto recalls, referring to Amplified’s recent exploration of the “#LGB without the T and Q” social media movement. “As a member of the T part of that, it just adds a hurdle to what trans folks already have to battle.”

But it’s not himself about whom Otto is most concerned. “I worry about the youth who hear that the community that is supposed to surround them is turning their backs on them,” Otto frets. “We shouldn’t have to explain to our community the want for basic human rights. I know that not all of our community feels this way, but it’s hard to think that even one does.”

The off-season communication of Twin Cities Pride started out small but has, thanks to the efforts of Otto and Heisel, sent echoes throughout the village they serve. “We really want the Amplified hour to be what the LGBTQIA+ community would like it to be; whether that’s events coverage, personality pieces, current events—we can be very flexible with this program,” Heisel declares. “And we want to hear from our listeners and encourage program ideas!”

Listen to Twin Cities Pride Amplified at 3:00 PM every Saturday on AM950. amplified@tcpride.org www.tcpride.org/twin-cities-pride-amplified/ www.am950radio.com/category/podcasts/tcp/

Amplified hosts Andi Otto and Rina Heisel. Photo by Maddy Loch. Rina Heisel, Julie Dafydd and Andi Otto. Photo by Bubba Thurn

Kim Envisions Korea

BY CARLA WALDEMAR

Hmmm, you might ponder, walking into Kim’s—restaurateur Ann Kim’s newest oeuvre: Wasn’t this place called Sooki & Mimi’s before I took a nap? And didn’t Kim specialize in offbeat pizza? (Sure thing, in her Lolo, Hello and Young Joni concepts.)

Correct. The familiar room itself represents, as a wise wordsmith once stated, “deja vu all over again.” And that’s not a bad thing. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it, to quote another poet. But switch out the menu and bring in a new concept if you like, and that’s what Ms. Kim has decided to do with her appealing Uptown space—as white, bright, cosmo and crowded with James Beard groupies as ever before. This round, Kim has chosen to return to the food of her roots, modified by an upbringing in Minnesota.

Photo courtesy of Preston Meneses

Cashew Tofu Dip, Pluto is (NOT) a Planet. Photos by Mike Hnida

We began with the Snacks section ($8-17) of the menu, and you should, too. Bypassing the Korean fried chicken wings (big mistake, to be rectified next visit), we spied an order of Shin Ramyun fries at the next table and couldn’t resist (don’t even try). The slim, tender spuds gain heft and flavor from the beefy essence of the popular Shin Ramyun brand, served here with a “fancy sauce,” which is menu-ese for a pleasant jolt of sweet and heat.

Next, we were intrigued by the sound of the Bubbling Egg Souffle ($11), seasoned, so the promise states, with essence of seaweed and salted shrimp. In practice, it posed as a pot of overcooked scrambled eggs with little else going on. Two bites sufficed.

Better: the shrimp and vegetable pancake—a sturdy circlet flecked with tendrils of scallions, carrot, potato, and soypickled jalapenos and onions: a tasty way to start the meal.

Among the list of Plates & Bowls ($15-27), we zeroed in on what I learned to love while traveling in Korea a few years past, the national dish called Bibimbap. It’s a bounteous meal in a dish, based upon a bed of rice. The pearly grains come generously covered with sweet, tender leaves of beef

surrounded by mounds of spinach, cucumber, bean sprouts, zucchini, cabbage, seaweed and such. It’s centered by a shimmering, sunny egg and accompanied by chojang—a sauce fired by chili peppers sweetened with sugar, then sparked with vinegar. The bibimbap list also salutes a cured salmon rice bowl and one starring fire chicken, blazing with red chili sauce, serrano, scallions, mozzarella(?) and rice cakes.

Next, an order of bulgogi (choose the pork version with sweet red peppers or the tasty beef rendition, for which we opted ($25), calling on husky mustard greens, onion and scallion, to contrast with thin, tender leaves of barbecued beef. Next time, the Peterson Farms short ribs version, $34. Kimchee, of course, is on hand to accent whatever you may fancy—choose cabbage, radish or a trio of zucchini, bean sprouts and cukes ($10).

Yes, Virginia, there is a dessert list ($12)—a tiramisu starring the usual suspects, plus a shot of misugaru, made from nutty roasted grains, plus a straightup carrot cake. Or go for Amaro in several sippable versions, or what Kim touts as Not An Espresso Martini, which is calling my name.

Kim’s does not take reservations nor accept names on a callin list, which makes life easier for a restaurant owner but harder for her patrons. Yet on a busy Saturday night, we were ushered ASAP to a pleasant table, then ably aided by our server, on hand to decipher the many terms on the menu you’ll need to have explained.

Take a peek at the glam mural on the alley side of the building as you enter, and consider an after-dinner drink (and/or snacks) in the below-stairs Bronto Bar. Something for everyone! 

Kim’s 1432 W. 31st St., Minneapolis (612) 540-2554 www.kimsmpls.com

Hot Stone Bowl Bibimbap, Carrot Cake.

Family Building

The Tony®-nominated musical based on the beloved Arnold Lobel books! Get tickets

April 23-June 16

SPECIAL EVENT

The Friends of Frog and Toad Artists & Advocates Market! LGBTQ+ crafters, artists, and advocates will be showcasing their work.

Saturday and Sunday, June 1-2 10am-4:30pm at Children’s Theatre Company

Brookhaven, Georgia

BY JOEY AMATO

A short 20-minute MARTA ride from downtown Atlanta, Brookhaven stands as a testament to the perfect blend of history, modernity, and community. As a city that has grown from a small farming community to a thriving urban hub, Brookhaven offers its residents and visitors a unique experience with its tree-lined streets, diverse neighborhoods, and an array of cultural and recreational opportunities.

Founded in 1910, Brookhaven’s origins can be traced back to a dairy farm owned by Samuel Ernest Briarcliff. The city was named after the Brookhaven Country Club, which itself took its name from a town in Mississippi. Initially, Brookhaven served as a summer retreat for Atlanta’s elite, thanks to its lush landscapes and easy access to the city. Historic Brookhaven, the neighborhood, was established in 1910. The City of Brookhaven was then incorporated in 2012.

For my stay, I chose the Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter, which is centrally located to all of Brookhaven’s restaurants and attractions. The beautiful property features a large outdoor swimming pool, walking trail, fitness center, and multiple dining options including their fine dining restaurant Villa Christina as well as The Barrel Room, which serves specialty cocktails. Villa Christina Market is a great choice for a quick breakfast or if you prefer, the hotel also offers a metropolitan breakfast for those looking for a heartier meal.

One of Brookhaven’s standout features is its cultural diversity. The city boasts a rich mix of ethnicities, making it a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and cuisines. The Buford Highway corridor is a testament to this diversity,

hosting a wide array of international restaurants, markets, and shops. From Vietnamese pho to authentic Mexican tacos and everything in between, food enthusiasts are in for a treat in this gastronomic wonderland.

If you are looking for an LGBTQ-focused dining option, head to Lips for their fabulous drag dinner show. Guests enter an ornate room complete with disco balls, glitter, and lots of sparkle. The menu consists of everything from shrimp and grits or seared salmon to mouth-watering hamburgers. To be honest, I was a bit skeptical about the quality of food we would receive as many of these style shows are not known for their cuisine, but everything was absolutely delicious. My salmon was cooked to perfection and accompanied by a sweet mango salsa which complemented the fish perfectly.

The show consisted of about a dozen performances by the Atlanta area’s best-known drag queens including Brigitte Bidet, Taejah Thomas, and Gigi Diamond. The capacity crowd celebrated as the queens werked their magic while serving double duty as hostesses and performers. If you are visiting Brookhaven during the week, swing by Lips on Wednesday evening for Bitchy Bingo.

Brookhaven takes pride in its commitment to green spaces and recreational facilities. The city’s parks offer a variety of amenities for residents to enjoy, from walking trails and playgrounds to sports fields and picnic areas. Murphey Candler Park, a 135-acre oasis surrounding a lake, is a favorite among families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Joey in Brookhaven, Oglethorpe Univesity Museum of Art, Murphey Candler Park, Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter. Photos by Joey Amato

For those seeking cultural experiences, Brookhaven delivers a range of artistic and entertainment options.

The Oglethorpe University Museum of Art, located on the campus of Oglethorpe University, showcases a diverse collection of artworks from around the world. The curator of the museum gave us a wonderful tour of the space, which houses works ranging from contemporary masters to current artists including Yehimi Cambrón, whose exhibition “Documenting the Undocumented in the South” is now on display.

The artist explains the exhibition “expresses the nuances of family togetherness, the sense of home found in the arms of immigrant mothers, the heartbreak of anti-immigrant violence, the transformative fire of resistance against oppression, and the kindled warmth of communities who survive and thrive together — a swarm that knows its collective power.”

Brookhaven is home to a variety of public and private educational institutions, serving students from preschool to higher education. Oglethorpe University, a liberal arts college, has a rich history and plays a significant role in the local educational landscape.

Founded in 1835, the university has continually evolved while maintaining a steadfast commitment to providing students with a transformative education. The picturesque campus, which is reminiscent of an Ivy League university, boasts a harmonious blend of traditional architecture and modern facilities, creating an inspiring environment for learning and growth. Oglethorpe’s faculty, comprised of distinguished scholars and dedicated mentors, fosters a dynamic and engaging learning atmosphere that empowers students to question, innovate, and excel. Beyond academics, the university encourages holistic development, offering a myriad of extracurricular activities, cultural events, and service opportunities that shape well-rounded individuals poised

to make meaningful contributions to society.

After touring the property, head to Haven Restaurant and Bar for a delicious brunch. Try the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake “Benny” which is prepared with baby kale salad, cherry tomatoes, radish, soft poached eggs, and sauce bearnaise or, if you want something on the lighter side, order the Dresden Cobb, a salad made with mixed lettuces, cherry tomatoes, haricots verts, smoked bacon, farm egg, avocado, feta, and served with a red wine vinaigrette. If you are really hungry, I recommend The Big Nasty, a buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, scrambled egg, Tillamook cheddar, and smoked bacon served on a soft bun with a smattering of Haven’s secret sauce.

Perhaps one of Brookhaven’s most cherished attributes is its strong sense of community. The city encourages civic engagement through various programs and initiatives, fostering connections among residents. The Brookhaven Farmers Market, for instance, brings together local producers and consumers, promoting sustainable practices and a stronger bond among neighbors. The city hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions, fostering a sense of community engagement and creativity.

Brookhaven encapsulates the essence of a vibrant and evolving urban community. From its humble beginnings as a farming area to its status as a modern city with a diverse population, Brookhaven’s charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend history, culture, and progress. With its thriving cultural scene, green spaces, educational institutions, and strong community bonds, Brookhaven stands as a testament to the potential for growth while maintaining a unique sense of identity.

Enjoy the Journey! 

Guthrie Theater Presents Three of Shakespeare’s History Plays

For Movie Marathoners, TV Bingers, and People Who Just Love Shakespeare

BY BUER CARLIE

Marathoning content is a staple of the world we live in today. Who among us hasn’t spent a deliciously cozy day revisiting the Lord of the Rings trilogy or the entire Scream franchise? Who among us hasn’t –alone or with friends – committed to an entire weekend of binging a new show? Who among us hasn’t spent an entire day in and around the Guthrie Theater watching a trilogy of Shakespeare’s History plays?

Oh – you haven’t done the last one?

But you’ve always wanted to?

Well, 2024 must be your year because that is an option at the Guthrie through May 25. This season the Guthrie is simultaneously producing three Shakespearean history plays: Richard II, Henry IV, and Henry V

Actors Dustin Bronson and David Whalen were kind enough to give Lavender a peek behind the curtain of this special theatrical event, letting our readership in on what the experience has been like as actors and let us know what audiences can expect from these three plays.

When the Guthrie Theater was first established in 1963, Sir Tyrone Guthrie intended it to be a repertory theater – that is, a theater with a resident acting company that performs plays on a rotating schedule. The three history plays mark a momentary reimagination of that legacy.

There is a unique value in repertory theater for an audience member – whether you attend all the shows in one go or over a series of weeks. “For the audience, it’s an opportunity to watch a group of actors tackle multiple roles in multiple shows,” says Whalen.

Bronson continues, “[The] audience has a chance to feel closer to the plays because you recognize the actors on stage,” continues Bronson, “You just watched them play a different character in the last play; you know them, you care about them.”

And it’s just fun: “What is exciting about the Histories at the Guthrie is that you get to see three different plays that make up a larger story arc,” says Bronson, “It’s like binge watching Game of Thrones.”

Although there is no right or wrong way to enjoy the experience that comes along with repertory theater, our actors did have a couple recommendations.

“Watch how characters change over the course of these plays,” says Whalen, “The amazing work by the creative team who have worked tirelessly to build this theatrical storytelling through the costume, sound, lighting, and set design. The incredible stage management team and crew that keeps the plays moving forward. Joe Haj and the team at the Guthrie are doing remarkable [things], and I am honored to be a part of this journey!”

“Look for recurring themes that come up in the plays,” Bronson adds, “Look for shifts in power and how that power affects those that wield it. Also, these plays contain some of the most beautiful language Shakespeare ever wrote, so relish in listening to that!”

Performing one piece of Shakespeare is quite a feat – so the experience of polishing three consecutively running pieces has been a distinctive experience. “As an actor, it’s exciting to challenge yourself, your versatility, your concentration, and your imagination to bring forth all your characters and these stories to life,” says Whalen.

Bronson agrees. “I have felt my craft deepening, I am forced to call on all my training and experience in order to play 5 different roles across 3 plays. My voice and body have to be fully engaged in the process in order to carry these stories and characters through time.”

Whalen agrees, “The most wonderful thing is the sense of trust we’ve developed. Whether it’s build-

ing up each other’s confidence, reminding/reaffirming where we are in this monumental project, and just giving everyone grace throughout this process.”

Both actors agree that Shakespeare can be overwhelming for audiences, but strongly believe that they remain classics for a reason. “These stories are so relatable today,” says Whalen. “Whether it is a quest for power, the search for love and acceptance, friendship, envy, these feelings are universal and will always be a part of human nature.”

“I think that everyone is a little intimidated by Shakespeare,” says Bronson. “I know I am – but I think it is far more accessible than we are made to think it is. These are human stories, and they relate so deeply to the world that we live in today.”

Because the Guthrie understands that there are varying degrees of tolerance for Shakespeare, they have designed a few different ways to see all three plays.

Early adopters had the opportunity to see the plays in a weekend-long experience called “A Shakespeare Symposium”. This was a fully immersive weekend that included all three plays, trivia, workshops, speakers and more.

There were two opportunities to see all three plays back-to-back on “Marathon Weekend”. The first has passed as of the time of this publication, but you might still be able to snag tickets for the second, which is on May 18. Showtimes are 10 AM, 3 PM, and 8:30 PM. There is an approximately two-and-a-half-hour break between each play so you can stretch your legs and grab a meal.

Three back-to-back history plays might be too much for even the most die-hard Shakespeare fan. If the curated viewing opportunities aren’t for you, consider purchasing a three-play package and watching the plays in your desired order and at your desired pace. Single tickets are also available. More information regarding tickets can be found on the Guthrie website or through the box office, both of which are listed at the end of this article.

I’ll leave you with an invitation to the plays directly from Shakespeare – spoken through the mouthpiece of Whalen.

“All of us working on this project are ready for the audience be the final part of this,” says Whalen. “As the chorus says in Henry V:

‘For tis your thoughts that now must deck our kings’

“And, of course:

‘Gently to hear, kindly to judge our play.’” 

The History Plays: Richard II, Henry IV and Henry V

by

William Shakespeare, directed by Joseph Haj March 23 – May 25

Wurtele Thrust Stage, The Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis www.guthrietheater.org (612) 377-2224

Photo by Dan Norman

Jason Hackett’s “Sunrise” in the Twin Cities

BY RANDY STERN

If you wake up early enough, you may catch one of our own on your television screen. Your eyes could be glued to KARE 11’s “Sunrise” program starting at 4:30 AM. When you do, you will see one of our own giving you the news and other features just when you pour your first cup of coffee.

The Twin Cities NBC affiliate has been a place where you can watch their out and proud LGBTQ+ newscasters. Jana Shortal hosts the 6:30 PM “Breaking The News” program. They now have some company…

Let us introduce you to one of the hosts of “KARE 11 Sunrise” – Jason Hackett.

Hackett, along with his co-hosts Alicia Lewis and meteorologist John Zeigler, are on-air to wake you up every morning up to 7:00 AM from Monday to Friday. They are there not just to set up for the “Today” show, but to give you a local perspective of overnight news and to prepare for the day ahead.

For us, Hackett should be the sole reason to wake up and turn on the television. The Miami Gardens, Florida native is a proud University of Florida graduate. His television career made several stops before arriving in the Twin Cities, including Panama City, Florida, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, West Palm Beach, Florida and Oklahoma City. He arrived at KARE 11 and the Twin Cities in January of 2023. “For people that are in this business, in TV,” Hackett explained, “KARE 11 has a name that stands out above the rest. When I was younger and coming up in this business, I would watch ‘Boyd Stories’ –Boyd Huppert’s stories – to get inspiration as a young journalist because he was the ultimate storyteller, everybody in this business wants to be Boyd. So, I’ve known about KARE 11 ever since I started down this track 12 years ago.”

Hackett further explained that as he was “coming towards the end of my contract in Oklahoma City, I was looking for jobs and I was on a job posting website and all of a sudden, I saw KARE 11 had an opening and I was like, ‘KARE 11 has an opening? That’s interesting. They never have openings.’ And I applied thinking, ‘Okay, well I don’t know if I’ll make it there,

it’s KARE 11, the standards are high.’ I sometimes have imposter syndrome where I don’t believe enough in myself. It’s a big problem that I’m working on. But I applied saying, ‘Let’s just give it a shot.’”

Sure enough, Hackett heard back from KARE 11 and was offered an interview. Then, the job. “It’s a station that has a great pedigree and a great long list of amazing journalists that have come through,” said Hackett, “and to be a part of it is almost a dream come true.”

Getting into the door at KARE 11 is one thing. Being one’s authentic self is another. For Hackett, he called it “a journey.”

Hackett explained, “My parents are Jamaican immigrants, and Jamaica is not known for being a very friendly country when it comes to the LGBTQ community. I mean, you read of the horrible things with people being dragged and beaten in the streets, kids living in sewers and gutters because their parents don’t accept them, just horrible. And so, there are a lot of families that come here to America, my parents came here to America to make a better life, and I will always love them for that. The sacrifices they made, just can’t be thought of enough. I love my parents. They had a bit of a misunderstanding when it comes to being gay, and they had a certain idea for what they wanted for me. And that obviously clashed with who I am and how I was born.”

“[In] sixth grade is when I realized, ‘Wait a minute, I think I’m different.’ There was a kid at a bus stop every day after school when I was waiting and I always used to stare at him and be like, ‘Wow, there’s something about him that I really like. I don’t know what it is, but I really, really like something about him.’ And I started to get that feeling more and more when I started looking at boys. And I think it dawned on me somewhere around fifth or sixth grade that, ‘Wait a minute, I think I’m gay.’”

Hackett continued: “The next step is like, ‘Oh my God, how can I tell my parents? What happens from here? Is there anything I can do to change it? Is there anything I can do to fix it?’ I grew up in the church, I was a church boy growing up, a very religious family and being gay was just absolutely a nogo, I can’t be gay, that’s not going to happen. And so, I spent many years trying to deny it or trying to change it or trying to fix it, not accepting it.”

It took until college for Hackett to finally find a way to live as a LGBTQ+ man. He had his first relationship with a man there. Hackett also got involved with student groups that align with his interests, including the University of Florida’s Pride Student Union. Hackett explained: “I think that gave me the confidence to finally go up to my mom and finally tell her, start to have that conversation. But before I could do that, she found out that I was gay through a post on Twitter, I said something on Twitter and it got back to her and she confronted me about it.”

“Over the years, there’s been a lot of back and forth about my sexuality and a lot of distance between me and my family, and between me and my mom, and between me and my parents,” said Hackett. “But at the end of the day, and my mom told me this recently, “I love you and you are my son.” And I don’t think she’s at that place of full acceptance, but at least I’ve laid out, ‘This is where my life is and this is who I am, and that’s not going to change.’ And it’s a process, I know she’s not there yet, but I hope that she will be one day. And I know at the end of the day, she has my best interest in heart, and she loves me.”

Jason Hackett. Photo by Mike Hnida

After graduating from the University of Florida, Hackett was getting into a profession that sometimes might not be welcoming to LGBTQ+ people, in markets where it became tough to be “out.” “When it comes to being in this business,” explained Hackett, “there are a lot of gay people in this business, I’ve come across a lot of gay people in this business. And at my stations, every station I’ve been at, I’ve always been in this glass closet where I’ve told people and people know, and it’s not this huge thing. Initially when I get to these stations, I am hesitant.”

However, as Hackett explained, “once I get to know people better, I eventually let that part of myself out. So, people at the stations I’ve worked at usually know, but never people in the community. Every community I’ve worked and lived in, it’s been a thing I’ve kept to myself. This would be the first time that people in my community are aware that, ‘Okay, he is gay,’ which for me is important.”

Over at KARE 11, Hackett has been welcomed with “the best support” he has received in the broadcasting business. “This has been the most inclusive, accepting station that I’ve worked at,” exclaimed Hackett. “And every station I’ve worked at, I’ve told my bosses and it’s been no issue. But I feel like here at KARE 11, there’s been even more of a level of acceptance. I mean, the fact that we participate, the fact that I marched in a Pride parade last year with people from my station was huge. I could never do that anywhere else. To march in that parade was such a big moment for me. It was such a show of support that my station is here and has my back, and it’s here to support me in any way I can.”

Away from KARE 11, Hackett makes his home in the North Loop neighborhood of Minneapolis. He is happily partnered, living with two dogs. He currently spends his time off the air “exploring the Twin Cities and trying to find new things to do, discovering new restaurants and going to events,” said Hackett. “And we love sports, so we’ve been to Wolves games, we’ve

been to Twins games. It’s really cool living in a city that has so much going on compared to other cities I’ve lived in. And right now we’re learning how to take advantage of it. We’re still trying to find our spots, like our go-to bar and our go-to restaurant, but it’s been a fun journey so far.”

For Hackett, telling his story of his coming out has resonance upon our community. He has picked the right place to land – the Twin Cities and at KARE 11. “There’s so much acceptance and tolerance here in Minneapolis compared to other cities I’ve been in,” explained Hackett, “and that definitely made this decision to tell my story that much easier. And I really do appreciate that.”

What happens next? “In a way, I don’t envision life changing too much,” said Hackett. “I think the biggest thing is that I will be somebody that other people may look to as a role model or an example.”

“When I was young, there wasn’t much representation in terms of media for Black gay men,” explained Hackett. “There were some niche shows here or there, or supporting character that would pop up in a sitcom that would be a stereotype, but there wasn’t many portrayals of just regular everyday gay men. And I kind of wish I had that sometimes as a kid, somebody that I could look up to and say, ‘Man, he’s making it, so can I. He’s living his life so can I.’”

Hackett hopes that “it’d be nice to think that after this story is published and after my story is told that there is another young, gay, black, or anybody of color kid out there that is like, ‘Wow, he is being his authentic self and he’s not getting killed for it, he’s not getting criticized for it. He’s being his authentic self, and maybe I can also be my authentic self, maybe I can also live my truth, just like Jason is.’”

Your truth is being told, Jason. We thank you for letting us tell your truth. 

Lavender 2024 Pride Edition

The Power of Renovation

Inside a Remodel of a 1970s Rambler Ranch-Style Project

BY GABRIELLE REEDER

“When you have a space that you truly feel comfortable in, you [breathe] a sigh of relief. It’s like, okay, now I can start really enjoying my home and feel comfortable inviting people over. Building these memories,” Jamie Tjornehoj, the marketing manager for New Spaces, a Twin Cities design-build remodeling firm, said.

Tjornehoj spoke of the complete revamp of Meredith and David Deeds’ Edina home. The Deeds purchased their abode in 2008, yet Meredith, an accomplished author and food journalist, expressed discontent toward the house’s lack of natural, bright lighting in the kitchen.

About The Deeds Family

Photographing food becomes a main component when immersed in a career focused on food. To combat the light issue, Meredith set up a makeshift display in a separate room of the house to achieve these photos.

“Her life and world revolves around food, revolves around kitchens, revolves around the planning of it, the making of it and the eating of it,” Bjorn Freudenthal, the vice president of business development at New Spaces, noted about Meredith.

Remodeling the kitchen, especially when dealing with this line of work, was a non-negotiable point for the Deeds. However, finding a suitable and fruitful remodeler warranted an almost 15-year process.

New Spaces To The Rescue

Two years ago, the Deeds met with New Spaces at the Remodelers Showcase (the oldest parade of homes in America). For the Deeds, New Spaces was a perfect match.

From the initial meeting to the completion of the renovation, the Deeds and New Spaces succeeded in establishing a trustworthy relationship to create this brand-new kitchen and living space.

Freudenthal mentioned that Meredith “fell in love with our process, which is very unique.” Freudenthal elaborated that New Spaces designs their pricing catalog before a construction contract, as opposed to other firms who sign a contract prior to cementing the fine print, selections, and features. This process leads to extra fees and overcharges later on. With such a heavy rebuilding, seeing all the details laid out proved essential and helpful to the Deeds.

Since clients dwell in the homes during these renovations, finding a suitable firm to work with smooths out any turbulence.

“It’s a big undertaking to undergo a renovation, which is why you must work with the right company. You want to work with a team that you feel comfortable with. That you know is going to be safe and smart within your home,” Jamie commented.

Creating The New Kitchen Space

“Thinking about being a food writer. Where do you want to define your craft? Is it in this dark place that isn’t as inspirational, or is it in this beautiful white, clean open space?” Tjornehoj asked.

Photos by Brian Shultz for New Spaces

According to Tjornehoj, the original layout of the Deeds’ kitchen followed a golden oak layout featuring a centerfold masonry fireplace. The fireplace sat in the exact center of the house, opening up a pathway to the dining room and kitchen. New Spaces brainstormed the most effective renovation options based on the limited layout. The team removed the entire masonry fireplace and rebuilt the home’s structure as a 1970s Rambler Ranch-Style Project.

Freudenthal explained that this renovation redesigned the kitchen, the common areas, the front entry, the dining room, the family room, and the dinette and added a butler’s pantry and a mudroom for Meredith’s cooking supplies and ingredients.

Following the renovation, Meredith’s passion for photographing food refueled. Ample bright light beamed into the renovated kitchen, electrifying her work and revitalizing her photographs.

“I can only imagine how much more inspired she is to experiment to continue to build her expertise and her craft, and I think that’s just the power of remodeling,” Tjornehoj shared.

Why the Kitchen?

Even if someone browsing the remodeling market doesn’t pursue a career as a food writer or photographer, “The kitchen is a pinnacle of the home,” Tjornehoj said.” When we think about families and people of all ages, we see how life evolves through the

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kitchen space. We start out raising our families, we have coloring books, and we have homework out on these kitchen counters. We continue through life, and then we have the space to hold families and loved ones during holidays.”

These communal gathering spaces serve as the backbone for creating cherished memories— memories that follow families throughout their lifetimes.

“That’s why we really try to verbalize the importance of having a space like Meredith, [that] inspires you and makes you want to build these memories. We want you to build these memories. We want you to have all the experiences in a space that you love. That can contribute to those memories and enhance them,” Tjornehoj believes the kitchen is a fabulous location to formulate these memories and embrace comfort.

Why Renovate?

“It can be really refreshing for your soul and in your lifestyle in general. When you renovate a space that is exactly how you envisioned it, exactly how you want it, that has functionality mixed with storage, mixed with whatever you and your family need,” Tjornehoj remarked.

According to Tjornehoj, home renovations, regardless of the space, refresh perspective and add

new energy difficult to describe and incomparable to any other feeling. Remodeling allows homeowners to find their belongings and understand what home means to them.

“I think we think of it in kind of a secular way like it’s a space being transformed into maybe a more efficient or easier lifestyle, but we don’t always think about how it dramatically changes the lives of those who live there.”

Though the process takes copious amounts of time and research, the payoff triumphs the planning and long days preceding the work. New Spaces encourages those looking into renovations to watch videos, read testimonials, establish relationships with firms, meet each team member, and ask questions.

“Don’t be afraid to get creative during this time,” Tjornehoj commented, urging interested individuals to dive into HGTV programs, Pinterest boards, any platform with renovation inspiration before committing to a full-fledged reconstruction.

“This process should be fun. I really encourage anybody looking to do a renovation to have fun with it. Obviously, it’s going to be a stressful time, but also don’t forget that you are undergoing this transformation. Not only your home but this space where all these memories are going to be created in the future,” she said. 

New Spaces

Burnsville Design Showroom: 2105 143rd St. W., Burnsville

Edina Design Office at Lifetime Work: 200 Southdale Center, Edina www.newspaces.com

What’s Going On With The Minnesota Housing Market This Summer?

BY SUSAN SWAVELY

Buying a home, especially if it’s your first time, can seem like an incredibly daunting task. Hundreds of important questions rattle around your head, and you don’t know exactly where to find the answers. You might be wondering where to even start with your home-buying journey. The good thing is, buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be a terrible undertaking if you’ve got the right help and resources! Thankfully, there are lots of wonderful people in our community whose job it is to help you on your way to homeownership!

A brilliant example of someone who can help you on your path is Torben Berndt, a licensed Mortgage Loan Originator, or loan officer, in the State of Minnesota. Berndt says, “I help individuals, families, and friends secure the financing necessary for home purchases.” It’s always great to know that you’re not alone when it comes to something as big of a deal as buying a home. And you can find comfort in the simple fact that you aren’t expected to already know everything. Someone

like Berndt, an expert in the financing field, can explain your options to you, and walk you through the process so you feel confident in your choices and home-buying ability. Berndt says, “Especially for those prospective firsttime buyers out there, I highly recommend having a conversation with a licensed loan professional like myself rather than exclusively relying on resources like the internet to know whether or not you qualify for a home loan.” Having a conversation with a real person can be so much more straightforward and accessible than sifting through thousands of questions and answers on the internet, especially if you don’t know which sources you can trust… and which you can’t.

One thing that potential homebuyers tend to have questions about are lending rates. Berndt broke down some of the current market trends and explained the financial basics of the housing market. He says, “Mortgage interest rates are not directly tied to the decisions of the Federal Reserve, but they are heavily impacted. The Fed’s goal is reduced inflation, and the expectation is that as inflation continues to ease, the Fed will lower the prime rate, in turn lowering mortgage interest rates.” So now, of course, you’re thinking when will this happen? Will it be by much? The truth is… it’s hard to know. Berndt says, “I believe that we will see a slight drop sometime in the second half of the year, but it is hard to say when.”

When it comes down to it, the only person who can truly tell you when it’s the right time to buy a house for you… is you. Berndt says, when asked the question on everyone’s mind: ‘is it a good time to buy a house?’, he always says. “Do not wait for a specific market condition to buy or sell. Buy or sell when YOU are ready.” He elaborates, “Even if and when rates do come down this year, there is a good chance that it will not be by more than .75 or 1%.” Because of this small decrease at best, playing the waiting game when you’re ready to buy or sell might just contribute to feeling frustrated, without a lot of payoff for your waiting. By talking to a licensed professional when you’re ready to buy or sell, you can feel a lot more secure and confident in your decisions. Berndt adds, “For first time homebuyers, it is always a good time to get your foot in the door of homeownership. Start planning early and get your loan officer and realtor team together to support you and educate you—this is what we do!”

Berndt also talked about several things that could affect the housing market, specifically for this summer. He says there are multiple possibilities: “When and if interest rates come down, I believe that more people will be ready to sell, which will increase inventory.” On the flip side of that, he adds, “If rates remain steady, eventually people’s housing needs will

Torben Berndt. Photos courtesy of Torben Berndt

change enough that they will need to sell anyway. As we know, the current interest rates are really not that astronomically high compared with historical rates, so it’s possible that ‘higher’ rates will just become the new normal.” Basically, no one can be 100% certain what is going to happen, so buyers can only make the best decisions for themselves individually. Berndt sums it up perfectly; he says about the possibility of lower interest rates: “We shall see!”

Berndt understands, of course, that buying a home is not an easy undertaking, and the task itself, along with all the excitement that comes with it, can be extremely anxiety-inducing. That’s why he wants to make sure he’s providing homebuyers with all the information they need, so they can make the best decision for themselves! He says, “Let’s be honest, with trillions [of dollars] having been redistributed to the wealthiest 1% since the beginning of the pandemic and inflation having driven prices for our everyday items higher, it has not gotten any easier to buy a home. With that said, there are constantly new down payment assistance programs coming out that can help ease the financial burden.” No matter what stage in your home-buying or selling journey you’re at, you can rest assured that there’s someone like Berndt who can help you along on your way.

If this is the summer you decide to buy or sell your home, just know that there are plenty of options out there to help you make the best choices for you and your loved ones. After all, being part of such a great community is what makes a house a home anyway. 

Bringing Home The Goods in a Tiguan

BY RANDY STERN

You are working on your new home or garden. You don’t need to haul a lot – a few bags of soil or mulch, flat-packed furniture to put together, knick-knacks… just the small stuff for your home.

A lot of small stuff!

If you live in a place where parking is a premium – just enough for a compact or mid-sized vehicle – have you ever considered a Volkswagen Tiguan?

Competing in one of the hotly contested vehicle segments, the Tiguan punches above its weight. The 109.8-inch wheelbase is longer than a lot of its competitors. It accommodates a lot – up to 73.5 cubic feet of space with the rear seats down.

These are great points when considering a vehicle that is right-sized and practical. However, is it a solid vehicle to live with?

To find out, just open up the hood. Every 2024 Tiguan is motivated by a 184-horsepower EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 221 pound-feet of torque. This is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission sending power to either the front wheels or the 4Motion all-wheel drive system. Of course, you have to choose the latter since we’re living in Minnesota.

Photos by Randy Stern

The EA888 is one of the common engines found in many Volkswagen models. Years of production has given this venerable engine a solid reputation. Ask any Golf GTI owner.

It has also proven its worth in terms of efficiency. Our SE R-Line Black tester returned a fuel economy average of 26.3 MPG. You could see better numbers in models with small wheels or with frontdrive. This tester came with 19-inch alloy wheels and lower profile all-season tires.

When you drive a Volkswagen, there is an expectation that it should drive like one. A driving signature, if you will. While the Tiguan is built on the same architecture as the Golf and Jetta – the MQB architecture –that assumption actually exists.

Do not expect the Tiguan to drive like a Golf GTI. The long wheelbase yielded a smoother ride overall. On rougher surfaces, it does its best to absorb imperfections

– cracks, shallow potholes, even gravel. Where the driving signature comes into play was in its chassis stability and handling. Simply put, it does the job.

Another point for the Volkswagen driving signature was in its steering system. There was plenty of feedback coming from the road for solid turns. A good example is how well then turning radius was for tight situations. Braking is sharp in stops with superb pedal response and feedback. It also offered great stops in normal and panic situations.

We talk about the driving experience first because there were some concerns about how Volkswagen can produce an SUV that is exactly like most of its competitors. Shoppers should ask themselves: “Do I just want an SUV or a Volkswagen – or both?”

To get part of that answer, step inside a Tiguan. It is laid out like any other Volk-

swagen with familiar switchgear, controls, and readouts. Even with the tester’s Digital Cockpit, the font and dials should be familiar. Even the infotainment system is truly a Volkswagen, including connectivity options for smartphone mirroring.

The upholstery for the SE trim will always be in a leatherette. The R-Line offers a bit more sporting look and feel overall. The result are the front seats offering a mix of support and comfort. Our review took us on a road trip deep into Wisconsin. We felt no fatigue over the 650-mile round trip.

Rear seat room is very good for two adults. Perhaps three children. Plan on seating two back there.

brand, the Tiguan will never be offensive to anyone.

handsome than the next. It depends on your personality and style. In the case of our tester, black finishes against the Kings Red primary color are the order of the day. It’s handsome, alright.

or 4Motion all-wheel drive to choose from, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan starts from $28,880. This SE R-Line Black tester with 4Motion came with a sticker price of $37,450.

self is whether the Volkswagen Tiguan is right for you. Start with measuring it up for your life. Can you envision bringing home new plants for home in one? Perhaps bring home those missing paving bricks that made your backyard patio an eyesore for your partner’s family?

guan, know this: It does a lot more than you expect in a Volkswagen.

EXPRESS YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF

Accessible and Accepting Healthcare

BY ELISE MAREN

Ask Elise is an advice column meant for suggestions regarding LGBTQ+ community member dilemmas of any kind. If I am not qualified to answer your question (regarding issues for transgender individuals, people of color, etcetera), I will ask someone who is qualified and cite them. Your question is equally important and may help another community member. If you have a question, please submit it to elise.m.maren@ gmail.com listing your pronouns and pseudonym if desired. If you need someone to talk to for more urgent or serious matters, please consider using the following hotlines:

The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564

Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860: Trans Lifeline is a trans-led organization that connects trans people to the community, support, and resources they need to survive and thrive.

Dear Elise,

I am a LGBTQ+ nurse who is aware of different challenges within the community regarding healthcare accessibility and fear of discrimination. Could you provide information for both healthcare providers and patients about how we can pursue optimal care for our community?

Sincerely,

Fabulous Nurse

Dear Fabulous Nurse,

As a medical student, I am so glad you asked this question. Since most of our readers are likely patients, I will start by discussing resources for patients seeking accessible and accepting healthcare and finish with information for providers.

Each year, the Human Rights Campaign publishes the Healthcare Equality Index, a national benchmarking tool that evaluates healthcare facilities’ policies and practices related to the equity and inclusion of LGBTQ+ patients, visitors, and employees. On their website, which I will provide the link for below, there are a variety of patient resources including education on healthcare rights, what to do if facing discrimination, insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act, finding healthcare providers, resources for autistic transgender patients, and more.

Regarding senior care, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) published the first validated survey on LGBTQ+ inclusion in long-term care and senior housing communities called the Long-Term Care Equality Index 2023.

Many people are unaware that Planned Parenthood provides annual wellbeing exams as well as gender affirming care. I recently took a course called Transgender Medicine for General Medical Providers via Coursera. I highly recommend it for healthcare professionals looking to learn more about the standard of quality care for transgender patients.

Upon completion, one can add a certificate to their LinkedIn profile. The Human Rights Campaign Foundation has a website on transgender patient services and support with resources for providers and hospital administrators that I will include below. The National LGBT Health Education Center and Fenway Institute offer a free training manual on best practices for healthcare workers and allied staff in the care of transgender and gender diverse individuals.

The National Center for Transgender Equality publishes a report called the National Transgender Discrimination Survey that provides information on the injustices transgender and gender non-conforming people face not only in healthcare, but in employment, schools, workplaces, and other contexts.

If you or a loved one are affected by HIV, there are exceptional and free prevention, STI testing, and other healthcare resources provided by the Aliveness Project in Minneapolis. They even have volunteer opportunities and engaging community events. The Aliveness Project has a food shelf and kitchen to support community members. Volunteers help members shop the food shelf and prepare meals from scratch. There are volunteer opportunities for packing harm reduction kits as well as office or administrative support. The Aliveness Project has recently advertised their monkeypox vaccines as that has not yet been completely eradicated as a public health concern.

The Family Tree Clinic in Minneapolis provides sliding scale services such as telehealth, reproductive care, transgender medicine, HIV prevention, and community education. They provide information on legal help for queer and transgender individuals. In their community engagement, they host sessions called It’s That Easy to equip parents with practical tools to foster healthy conversations with children about sexuality and gender at appropriate developmental stages. They offer free books for children. The Family Tree Clinic also accepts volunteers.

Yours,

Elise

HRC patient resources: https://www.hrc.org/resources/patientresources

HRC healthcare provider general 2SLGBTQ+ resources: https://www.hrc.org/resources/long-termcare-equality-index

Information on provision of exceptional transgender patient care for providers and administrators: https://www. thehrcfoundation.org/professional-resources/transgender-patientservices-support-resources-for-providers-and-hospital-administrators?_ ga=2.207550995.1056130912.1712772181-1146766357.1712772181 

Photo courtesy of BigStock/Kasia Bialasiewicz

Lavender Media is seeking to add a Twin Cities based full time Account Executive to our sales team. We are looking for an outgoing,organized, self-driven & motivated professional with excellent phone, writing and presentation skills. Candidates should enjoy working directly with clients who are interested in growing their business through Lavender advertising and event sponsorships. Candidates must be local. Includes base pay + commission and an employee benefits package that includes group health, dental, life insurance and LTD.

Applicants should have experience with Mac software environment, Excel, Word, social media platforms & database software such as Filemaker Pro. They should exhibit an elevated level of organization, attention to detail, the ability to work as part of a team, effective communication,self direction, enjoys working with new people and has a natural drive to grow.

Please send your cover letter and resume to Stephen Rocheford, President & CEO.

Community Connection brings visibility to local LGBTQ-friendly non-profit organizations. To reserve your listing in Community Connection, email advertising@lavendermagazine. com.

ANIMAL RESCUE

Second Chance Animal Rescue

Dedicated to rescuing, fostering, caring for, and adopting out dogs and cats into forever homes.

P.O. Box 10533

White Bear Lake, MN 55110 (651) 771-5662 www.secondchancerescue.org

BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS

Quorum

Minnesota's LGBTQ+ and Allied Chamber of Commerce working to build, connect, and strengthen for a diverse business community.

2446 University Ave. W., Ste 112 St. Paul, MN 55114 (612) 460-8153 www.twincitiesquorum.com

CASINOS

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

Nonstop gaming excitement with slots, blackjack, bingo and more plus distinctive bars and restaurants. 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd. Prior Lake, MN 55372 (800) 262-7799 www.mysticlake.com

ENVIRONMENT

The Nature Conservancy

TNC is an environmental nonprofit working to create a world where people and nature thrive.

1101 W. River Pkwy., Ste. 200 Minneapolis, MN 55415-1291 (612) 331-0700 minnesota@tnc.org www.nature.org/minnesota

EVENT VENUES

Landmark Center

A classic venue, with a grand cortile and beautiful courtrooms, accommodates celebrations of all sizes. 75 W. 5th St. St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 292-3228 www.landmarkcenter.org

GRANTMAKERS/FUNDERS

PFund Foundation

PFund is the LGBTQ+ community foundation that provides grants to students and grants to non-profits.

PO Box 3640 Minneapolis, MN 55403 612-870-1806 www.pfundfoundation.org

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Aliveness Project

Community Center for individuals living with HIV/AIDS – on-site meals, food shelf, and supportive service.

3808 Nicollet Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55102 (612) 824-LIFE (5433) www.aliveness.org

Family Tree Clinic

We're a sliding fee sexual health clinic and education center, now in Minneapolis. 1919 Nicollet Ave. Minneapolis MN 55403 (612) 473-0800 www.familytreeclinic.org

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Keane Sense of Rhythm

Celebrate your true self with Tap dance! 1st week free, Join us now!

2161 University Avenue W., Ste. 117 St. Paul, MN. 55114 (612) 251-4744 info@tapcompany.org www.tapcompany.org

NAMI Minnesota

(National Alliance on Mental Illness) Providing free classes and peer support groups for people affected by mental illnesses.

1919 University Ave. W., Ste. 400 St. Paul, MN 55104 (651) 645-2948 www.namimn.org

Rainbow Health Minnesota

Providing comprehensive health services for LGBTIA+ people, those living with HIV & folks from underserved communities facing healthcare barriers.

701 S. 4th Ave. #1500 Minneapolis, MN 55415

General: (612) 341-2060, MN AIDSLine: (612) 373-2437 info@rainbowhealth.org www.rainbowhealth.org

Red Door Clinic

HIV and STI screening, treatment, education, and referrals. Doxy PEP, nPEP, PrEP, and Reproductive Health. 525 Portland Ave., 4th Fl. Minneapolis, MN 55415 (612) 543-5555 reddoor@hennepin.us www.reddoorclinic.org

LIBRARIES

Quatrefoil Library

Your LGBTQ+ library and community center. Free membership, events, and e-books/audiobooks. Check us out!

1220 E. Lake St. Minneapolis, MN 55407 (612) 729-2543 www.qlibrary.org

MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS

Radio K

Radio K is the award-winning studentrun radio station of the University of Minnesota.

330 21st. Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612) 625-3500 www.radiok.org

MUSEUM

Minnesota Historical Society

Create your own adventure at MNHS historic sites and museums around Minnesota. mnhs.org

Walker Art Center

Showcasing the fresh, innovative art of today and tomorrow through exhibitions, performances, and film screenings.

725 Vineland Pl. Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 375-7600 www.walkerart.org

PERFORMING ARTS

Children’s Theatre Company

Children’s Theatre Company excites the imagination with world-class familyfriendly theatre for kids, teens, and adults.

2400 3rd Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55404 (612) 874-0400 www.childrenstheatre.org

Guthrie Theater

Open to the public year-round, the Guthrie produces classic and contemporary plays on three stages.

818 S. 2nd St. Minneapolis, MN 55415 (612) 377-2224 www.guthrietheater.org

Lyric Arts Main Street Stage

Theater with character. Comedies, musicals, & dramas in a professional, intimate setting where all are welcomed.

420 E. Main St. Anoka, MN 55303 (763) 422-1838 info@lyricarts.org www.lyricarts.org

Minnesota Opera

World-class opera draws you into a synthesis of beauty; breathtaking music, stunning costumes & extraordinary sets. Performances at the Ordway Music Theater - 345 Washington St., St. Paul, MN 55102 (612) 333-6669 www.mnopera.org

Minnesota Orchestra

Led by Music Director Designate Thomas Søndergård, the Minnesota Orchestra, one of America’s leading symphony orchestras.

1111 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 371-5656, (800) 292-4141 www.minnesotaorchestra.org

Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

Leading performing arts center with two stages presenting Broadway musicals, concerts & educational programs that enrich diverse audiences. 345 Washington St. St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 224-4222 info@ordway.org www.ordway.org

Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus

An award-winning chorus building community through music and offers entertainment worth coming out for! 1430 W. 28th St., Ste. B Minneapolis, MN 55408 (612) 339-SONG (7664) chorus@tcgmc.org www.tcgmc.org

RELIGIOUS & SPIRITUAL

All God’s Children Metropolitan Community Church

A welcoming, inclusive, safe place to explore and discover God’s love for ALL God’s children. 3100 Park Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55407 (612) 824-2673 www.agcmcc.org

Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church

Everyone is welcome at Hennepin Church! Vibrant Worship. Authentic Community. Bold Outreach. 511 Groveland Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 871-5303 www.hennepinchurch.org

Plymouth Congregational Church

Many Hearts, One Song; Many Hands, One Church. Find us on Facebook and Twitter. 1900 Nicollet Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 871-7400 www.plymouth.org

St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral

An inclusive and affirming community transforming lives through God’s love. 519 Oak Grove St. Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 870-7800 www.ourcathedral.org

Westminster Presbyterian Church

An open and affirming congregation, welcoming persons of all sexual orientations, gender expressions and identities.

1200 Marquette Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 332-3421

www.westminstermpls.org

SENIOR LIVING

Friends & Co

Fostering meaningful connections for older adults for 50+ years. Offering quick drop-in chat line, phone & visiting companionship services.

2550 University Ave. W., Ste. 260-S St. Paul, MN 55114 (612) 721-1400 www.friendsco.org

Senior Community Services

Providing non-medical services that meet the changing needs of older adults & support their caregivers.

10201 Wayzata Blvd., Ste. 335 Minnetonka, MN 55305 (952) 541-1019

www.seniorcommunity.org/lav

SOCIAL SERVICES

Lutheran Social Service of MN

Serving all Minnesotans with personcentered services that promote full and abundant lives.

lssmn.org | 612-642-5990 | 800-582-5260

Adoption & Foster Care | welcome@chlss.org

Behavioral Health | 612-879-5320

Host Homes | hosthomes@lssmn.org

Supported Decision-Making | 888-806-6844

Therapeutic Foster Care | 612-751-9395

TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Discover St. Louis Park

Minnesota’s Sweet Spot! Visit us for exceptional dining, attractions, shopping, hotels and event space.

1660 Hwy 100 S., Ste. 501

St. Louis Park, MN 55416

(952) 426-4047

www.DiscoverStLouisPark.com

Discover Stillwater

Get away to Stillwater for delicious dining, fun shops, and unique nightlife in this charming rivertown!

info@DiscoverStillwater.com

www.DiscoverStillwater.com

YOUTH

The Bridge for Youth

Emergency shelter, crisis intervention, and resources for youth currently or at risk of experiencing homelessness. 1111 W. 22nd St.

Minneapolis, MN 55405

(612) 377-8800 or text (612) 400-7233 www.bridgeforyouth.org

Estimates 7am-4:30pm

Account Executive. Lavender Media is seeking to add a Twin Cities based full time Account Executive to our sales team. We are looking for an outgoing, organized, self-driven & motivated professional with excellent phone, writing and presentation skills. Candidates should enjoy working directly with clients who are interested in growing their business through Lavender advertising and event sponsorships. Candidates must be local. Includes base pay + commission and an employee benefits package that includes group health, dental, life insurance and LTD. Applicants should have experience with Mac software environment, Excel, Word, social media platforms & database software such as Filemaker Pro. They should exhibit an elevated level of organization, attention to detail, the ability to work as part of a team, effective communication, self direction, enjoys working with new people and has a natural drive to grow. Please send your cover letter and resume to stephen.rocheford@lavendermagazine.com

Books

BY E.B BOATNER

Going Zero

Anthony McCarten

Harper Collins

$30

A terrific summer read–but save for the beach; once in hand, you’ll read straight through. A billion-billionaire wants to protect the people by knowing everything about them. Everything. So, the “Going Zero” Beta test is touted with a billion-billionaire’s fanaticism. Ten “randomly” selected individuals, at the stoke of a mega-clock, have two hours to disappear from the grid, then are tracked. Whoever lasts a month gets $3 million. From the get-go, a dowdy librarian stays ahead of pursuers. She, of course, has an agenda and will move heaven and earth to rescue her husband, held captive in Iran–or, perhaps not. An ingenious tangle that has subplots to challenge Ptolemy’s epicycles. We can quibble about the end, but it probably indicates a sequel.

Missing Clarissa

Ripley Jones

Wednesday

Books

$16

Cheerleader Clarissa Campbell, partying in the woods with Oreville High classmates one night, celebrating the end of classes and beginning of summer, disappears and is never seen again. No trace; no clues; nada. That was 1999, and now, current Oreville juniors and pals are looking for a journalism project class. Let’s solve the Clarissa mystery, “Everybody loves a dead girl,” says Cam. “Not everybody”, replies Blair, knowing once Cameron is enthused, she’ll be sucked into the vortex. A true-crime podcast is created, Blair, the “pretty one” will be on camera, and off they go. Into more trouble than they ever dreamed. Well crafted, with enough leaps and potential precipices to satisfy a mountain goat, they settle on a likely suspect–whose life they’ll ruin if wrong.

James Percival Everett

Doubleday

$28

Retellings classics frequently loses much in the rendering; pale shadows, overwrought fan-fic. Everett’s James breathes life into Mark Twain’s Jim–not superior but fully three-dimensional, narrated in first-person and enlarging upon the runaway’s “secret power” – his mastery of White English that must be concealed. Enslaved, Jim has nonetheless learned to read and write. Skills forbidden to a Black man in 1865 Hannibal, Missouri, where stealing a pencil becomes a hanging offense. Huck takes their flight for an adventure not his companion’s life-or-death flight, but begins to have questions and glimmerings of the existence of the vast chasm between his rights as a white boy, rights Jim will never possess, beginning to wrap his mind around “injustice.” The path from Jim to James is fraught; enthralling.

Rough Trade

Katarina Carrasco

Farrar, Straus and Giroux

$28

Washington Territory, 1888. Ex-Pinkerton Alma Rosales, who debuted in The Best Bad Things, now, known only as “Camp,” runs a complicated network of railroads and docks connected via telegraph to smuggle in loads of contraband opium. She, and crew, are getting rich. At end of day, they crowd the Monte Carlo, where liquor flows freely and clothing isn’t always a gender reveal. Then, two unexplained deaths point to opium; Bess, Alma’s first love, also ex-Pinkerton appears, and a newspaperman in disguise infiltrates seeking an opium scoop. Alma, donned always in male attire, pulls out all the stops to protect her boys, their trade, and her identity. Not pretty but brutally effective. Carrasco’s characters are not always likeable, or law-abiding, but they’re understandable. Watch this space. 

life. at your summit.

At the core of our care lies the profound understanding that you are on a journey to reach your full potential, to realize your goals and dreams, to reach your summit——no matter what that summit may be. It is this understanding that drives us to provide the highest standard of excellence through every injury or aching joint and muscle that may stand in your way.

IMMEDIATE CARE AT OUR ORTHOPEDIC URGENT CARE LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE METRO