


AN ART-FILLED EVENT BENEFITING STUDENTS IN NEED.

AN ART-FILLED EVENT BENEFITING STUDENTS IN NEED.
FRIDAY, MAY 30, 2025
Volume 30, Issue 781 âą May 1-14, 2025
Managing Editor Noah Mitchell 612-461-8723
Editorial Assistant Linda Raines 612-436-4660
Editor Emeritus Ethan Boatner
Contributors Layla Amar, Lakey Bridge, E.B. Boatner, Buer Carlie, Natasha DeLion, Arthur Diggins, Alyssa Homeier, Terrance Griep, Elise Maren, Jen PeeplesHampton, Linda Raines, Alexander Reed, Aspen Rush, Gregg Shapiro, Randy Stern, Susan Swavely, Carla Waldemar, Todd P. Walker, Emma Walytka, Spencer White
Vice President of Sales & Advertising
Barry Leavitt 612-436-4690
Account Executives
Nathan Johnson 612-436-4695
Richard Kranz 612-436-4675
Sales & Event Administration
Linda Raines 612-436-4660
National Sales Representatives
Rivendell Media 212-242-6863
CREATIVE
Creative/Digital Director Mike Hnida 612-436-4679
Publisher Lavender Media, Inc.
President & CEO Stephen Rocheford 612-436-4665
Chief Financial Officer Doug Starkebaum 612-436-4664
Administrative Assistant Michael Winikoff 612-436-4660
Distribution Metro Periodical Partners 612-281-3249
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), George Holdgrafer (1951-2024)
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MITCHELL
When it comes to the impression your home (and garden) make, all the little details matter: the font of your house numbers, whether the front door matches the front porch, whether youâve had your roof replaced since that hail storm years ago. And thatâs just the outside!
Although it may not be fair, humans are quick to make judgments. Whether just walking through a neighborhood or visiting the home of a friend for the first time, the appearance of the homes youâre walking past or into makes an impression.
One of the strongest, most intentional statements you can make on the outside of your home is flying a flag. They range from silly (the Nicki Minaj saluting American flag comes to mind) to sporty to serious. Your choice of flag might not say much about you, other than that you have a sense of humor or are very proud of Wisconsin sports. It could also say everything about you, or mean everything to someone who sees it.
Flags not only announce who lives inside a home but also signal who is or is not welcome in and around it. The flag of another nation could indicate the presence of an immigrant community, like the white stars on blue backgrounds dotting Cedar-Riverside. Or, in the case of a Ukrainian or Palestinian flag, it could signal solidarity with a nation at war, even if the person flying it doesnât have a personal connection.
A neighborâs POW/MIA flag could lead to a touching conversation about lost relatives. The American flag? Depends on whoâs flying it â it could represent a dedication to the values of inclusion, acceptance and
Photo courtesy of BigStock/Vlatko2002
equal opportunity, often cited as our nationâs defining principles. It could also signal allegiance to other ideas from Americaâs past, possibly including definitions of American identity that leave out diverse communities and lead to discrimination against them.
A Pride flag, however, leaves no ambiguity. It signals that everyone is welcome, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. And for someone struggling to come out, trying to find a safe space to pass the time or searching for a new neighborhood to make their home, that could mean everything. Whether joining a rainbow chorus of flags lining a street or standing alone, your Pride flag could make a difference. ïș
BY E.B. BOATNER
Dwayne A. Ratleffâs âDancing to the Lyrics,â reviewed in Lavender in 2022, was told through the eyes of a 5-year-old self, aka Grant Cole, a small, fierce intelligence navigating 1960âs segregated Baltimore, and a home steeped in its own violence, dominated by a cruel stepfather.
Ratleff later commented, âThe biggest problem was how to categorize the book. It is obviously a memoir, but I had to give the living plausible deniability. I also labeled it as fiction because a few of the characters were amalgams ⊠[that] book is trans-genre. I think I will stick with that.â
Author Ratleff resides in the background, interpreting the boyâs perceptions without obscuring the observant youngsterâs efforts to understand. Ignorance is not stupidity, but as its Latin âignotusâ indicates, means ânot-knowing.â His lack of access to information, adequate vocabulary and historical context blinded others to the childâs keen, nuanced intelligence. Plucked from the Midwest and dropped into chaos, Grantâs naĂŻve, âDo you have a day called Sunday in Baltimore?â could indeed seem imbecilic to some. Grant is black, (obvious to anyone), gay (there are hints), and throughout the book, given the sketchy educational system available, remains unable to read or write. Illiterate even at age 10 when he, his mother and sisters, and the unwanted step-father leave Baltimore for his maternal grandparentsâ home in Connecticut. New England was not particularly welcoming to blacks, but death didnât lurk around every corner as it did, literally, in their patch of Baltimore.
Humiliation did, however, for young Grant as well as for Ratleff himself, as he segues into his newest book, âSee, What Had Happened WasâŠâ In Connecticut, fear and embarrassment clouded every reading assignment.
âI had to repeat 4th grade and was put in Special Education along with my sisters. The class was in the basement/boiler room. Back then (1969) they didnât have a dedicated classroom for Special Ed. As a matter fact, I believe Connecticut was the first state to address that issue ⊠Special Ed. didnât really help me at all. They werenât addressing the main issue, which was why I didnât want to read: I saw no point expending all that energy for something I didnât think was useful.â
How could Ratleff or other children who never had access to books, or were forced to focus on avoiding domestic violence, ever have time
or energy to consider the printed word? âThere were no books in our house until I was eleven. My grandfather worked for a wealthy man in Litchfield who gave us a bookcase full of books. It was put in my room. It was perfect timing.â
Fortunately, a sweltering Spring blanketed the Northeast that particular year. âOur teachers would make us put our heads down on our desks, then would turn off the light and read to us.â His teacher chose âCharlotteâs Webâ; Ratleff was entranced, and couldnât bear interruptions or delays.
âThatâs when it dawned on me that I couldnât be dependent on others to read for me. There were whole worlds in books and I wanted to explore those worlds. By the end of the 6th grade, Iâd progressed enough to start reading âHamlet,â âTaras Bulba,â âThe Picture of Dorian Grayâ and âThe Odyssey,â that were in that donated book case.â
Books became the portal through which Ratleff stepped into a new life, as narrated in his second, purely autobiographical, âSee, What Had Happened WasâŠâ It opens March 20, 1980, two days before his 21st birthday. âI didnât want to turn twenty-one in Connecticut.â He had graduated with honors but needed a change. It was time to move beyond, and his destination was San Francisco. He writes as one who has indeed passed through earlier stages, but like a caterpillar still in its chrysalis was still liquefying, changing and reshaping ⊠he remained on the verge.
His main goal was to be true to himself as a gay individual. Before leaving the east, when grandfather asked, âBoy, why are you moving out to San Francisco?â Ratleff was caught off guard.
But, Ratleff replied, âGrandpa, I ainât never lied to you, and I ainât going to start now. I am moving there to sleep with men.â
His grandfather astounded him with, âDwayne, whatever you do, donât go home with a man you canât best in a fight, in case he is not gay, because I love you and donât want you to get hurt.â
There is a lot of living and learning packed in this second volume, but the conversation contains the meat of the contents. The whole might be considered a bildungsroman, typical maturing of a young man, but is unique in that the author is presenting himself not precisely as a nov-
ice, unformed, but one finally freed to embrace that life for which he had long yearned, for which he had been preparing and expressed through young Grant in âDancing to the Lyrics.â
Ratleff faced new mountains to climb in this city of nine hills, but he set about it directly, undergoing a lack of funds, employment, enduring trials from leaping out a window in an apartment fire to a White gentlemanâs lecture on green food choices at the grocery. âAll my life White people had told me I couldnât have this or that. Now that those things were within reach, I was being told it was bad for me.â He replied only, âYouâre White, Iâm wrong.â
Ratleffâs tone throughout is engaging. He doesnât lecture but rather uses what he as his child-self Grant observed and integrated within âDancingâto both guide his readers and remind himself. Yes, he came to San Francisco to âsleep with men,â and did, plenty, but he was also searching for the affection Grant so rarely received as well as being honest with one-offs. This lends an unusual immediacy to a text that could have simply been a âlook at me!â kind of exposĂ© but is more of a cerebral Damron Guide to one young manâs exploration and growth. Heâs poor but frugal, saving for things heâs never had; his first travel abroad, where, exiting Amsterdamâs Van Gogh Museum, he learns of the attack on the Twin Towers. He finds partners, some suitable, some not, and admits the loss of a true love was his own fault. His openness is the center of his narrative; Ratleff is working to illuminate his own path, neither blaming others nor wallowing in his own mistakes, but acknowledging, adjusting and carrying on.
Then came the 1980s and the HIV/AIDS plague which swept away so many so cruelly. Itâs best to read in his own words. Ratleff didnât get tested right away but assisted others through to the end, and when he finally did, and he tested positive, there were medicines available to stave off the inevitable.
It was time to move once again, and author Ratleff now lives in Palm Desert, Calif., with husband Michael and pup Lizzy. His 40 years in San Francisco remain in his heart. Both his books (to date) are highly recommended. ïș
Lansing, Mich., the stateâs vibrant capital, is a city brimming with cultural diversity, historical richness and a rapidly evolving urban landscape. From its renowned Lansing Pride festival to unique dining spots like Veg Head and the dynamic Lansing Shuffle, there is something for everyone in this bustling Midwestern city. Add to this a plethora of attractions such as the Broad Museum of Art, Potter Park Zoo, and the historically significant districts of Old Town Lansing and REO Town, and Lansing stands out as a must-visit destination.
One of Lansingâs most cherished events is the annual Lansing Pride festival. This celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and community has grown significantly over the years, drawing thousands of attendees from across the state and beyond. Lansing Pride features live performances, local vendors and family-friendly activities, all set against the backdrop of Lansingâs welcoming atmosphere in Old Town. The festival not only fosters a sense of community but also emphasizes Lansingâs commitment to inclusivity and equality.
While in Old Town, visit one of the areaâs many locally owned boutiques, cafes and art galleries. This walkable neighborhood is full of charm and the perfect way to begin your Lansing adventure. The district also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including festivals, art walks and live performances, which contribute to its lively and welcoming atmosphere.
For those seeking a unique culinary experience, Veg Head in Lansing is a standout choice. This LGBTQ-owned vegetarian and vegan-friendly eatery offers a diverse menu that caters to a variety of dietary preferences without compromising on flavor. Veg Headâs innovative dishes, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, have earned it a loyal following. Whether youâre a committed vegan or simply exploring plant-based options, Veg Head promises a delightful dining experience that showcases the best of Lansingâs culinary creativity. We ordered the Roasted Brussels for the table which came topped with Harissa sauce, crumbled cheese and pepitas. For our entrees, we tried the Signature Sweet Potato Burger as well as
the Cauliflower Street Tacos which were prepared with roasted cauliflower, salsa verde, avocado puree, crumbled cheese, pickled onions, cilantro and corn tortillas. All the items were delicious and made me forget I was at a vegetarian restaurant. For those meat-eaters out there, a trip to Veg Head will make you change your mind about vegetarian cuisine.
Visitors seeking stylish and comfortable accommodation during their stay should check out AC Hotel Lansing. Situated within close proximity to downtown Lansing, this modern hotel combines contemporary design with top-notch amenities. The AC Hotel Lansing is also conveniently located near many of the cityâs major attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring all that Lansing has to offer. Their king suite offers an additional seating area and of course, an extra-large room fit for any king ⊠or queen.
After some rest, check out Lansing Shuffle, another jewel in the cityâs crown, offering a dynamic space for entertainment and community engagement. This multi-purpose venue hosts a variety of events, from live music and drag performances to food festivals and markets. Lansing Shuffle is designed to be a flexible space that adapts to the diverse interests of Lansingâs residents and visitors. With its vibrant atmosphere and everchanging lineup of events, Lansing Shuffle is a testament to the cityâs lively and inclusive spirit.
Swing by Soup Spoon for breakfast and be sure to order any one of their delicious omelets or scrambles before heading to REO Town, another historic district that has seen significant revitalization. Named after the REO Motor Car Company, which was once headquartered here, REO Town has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Today, it is a thriving neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of businesses, including coffee shops, breweries and vintage stores. The area also features murals and public art installations that reflect its unique character and history. REO Townâs vibrant community spirit and creative energy make it an exciting place to explore and experience.
Art enthusiasts will find much to admire at the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum at Michigan State University. This contemporary art museum is renowned for its striking architecture, designed by the internationally acclaimed architect Zaha Hadid. The Broad Museumâs collection features an impressive array of modern and contemporary art, including works by both established and emerging artists. With its innovative exhibitions and educational programs, the museum is a cornerstone of Lansingâs cultural landscape, offering visitors a chance to engage with thought-provoking art from around the world.
Speaking of art, the Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center held the LGBTQ+ Artist in Michigan exhibition, a group exhibition of artists who identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. This exhibition was in partnership with Suits and the City, whose mission is to promote the interests of LGBTQ+ persons in the Mid-Michigan area through education and advocacy and increase the visibility and integration of LGBTQ+ persons in the broader community through networking events. Artists participating in the exhibition included Erin Brott, Gustavo Ayala and Jesse Amburgey. If you visit in the fall, there is no better way to celebrate the spirit of Lansing than with an MSU football game. Michigan State Universityâs team, known as the Spartans, has a storied tradition dating back to its inception in 1896. Competing in the Big Ten Conference, the team has a rich history of success, including multiple national championships and conference titles. The Spartans play their home games at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing, not too far from the AC Hotel and Broad Museum.
Lansingâs unique combination of cultural richness, historical significance and modern amenities makes it a standout destination in the Midwest. The cityâs commitment to inclusivity all contributes to Lansingâs distinctive and welcoming character. Whether youâre exploring its historic neighborhoods, enjoying its vibrant festivals, or simply taking in the local culture, Lansing offers a truly memorable experience.
Enjoy the Journey! ïș
BY CARLA WALDEMAR
Sometimes you wonder: What took so long? St. Paulâs Highland Village demographic of mid-to-upscale denizens is growing faster than the dandelion population of its boulevards. And yet ... whereâs a person gonna eat?
Thereâs Cecilâs Deli. Thereâs tiny, foodie-centric Myriel. Thereâs the fallback Highland Grill.
And now, thereâs Altera. On the weeknight of our recent visit, its cozy cache of tables was populated by pairs of blue hairs, girlsâ night outers, families settling infants into their seats, and couples who knew a good thing when they saw one. Plus, a reviewer and her companion. And the menuâs just as wide-ranging as that audience. But weâll get to that in a minute.
We settled into a comfy, sand-toned banquette with views of Cleveland Avenueâs passing foot parade, backed by glitzy wallpaper in black and gold favoring palms and jungle cats. Itâs the site of the former Agra Culture, operated and updated by the same company, which now provides a menu one might label Far East Meets Italy, with Le Cheeseburger thrown in for good measure. In other words, itâs what America is eating right now.
The succinct and nicely curated list leads off with Shared Plates ($9-18) such as Hamachi crudo, pok pok chicken wings, a ball of arancini rice, a johnnycake with optional jalapeno maple syrup and our choice, gyoza: a handful of noodle-dough pockets bundling the usual mince of shrimp, pork and mushrooms livened with black vinegar, scallions and (hardly noticeable â this is Highland Park, after all) chili. Soy sauce served as the fallback dipper. Standard and fine.
From the ensuing Salads & Vegetables section, we settled upon the lola rosa salad, sharing a generous and lively toss of greens spangled with maple-saturated pecans, craisins and bits of bulgar wheat for crunch, all spritzed with a modest vinaigrette. Or choose a Caesar with bagna cauda crou-
Photo courtesy of iStock/LauriPatterson
tons; a Cambodian beef number starring pepperand-lime-saturated meat joining the greens; a butternut squash a la plancha that Iâll return to gobble, egged on by its promise of sage-infused brown butter, Parmesan, lemon and chili; or the who-can-resist crispy Brussels sprouts dressed in mojo verde.
But it was time for noodles, and I craved all five that the kitchen favored. We settled on the hearty bucatini carbonara to assess the kitchenâs take on this Roman favorite, classically melding bacon-y sauteed pancetta with Gran Padano cheese, and the usual sunny egg to fork-spike and dress the greens, plus, here, a mini-jolt of serrano. Nice dish in a just-as-expected rendition, no surprises.
Next, our serverâs recommendation of the gemelli verde â those husky green noodles laced with sweet, springy, pink shrimp, cherry tomatoes, a shower of Gran Padano and a spritz of lemon. Again, straight up: What you read is what you get â and thatâs just what one should ask of a dish. Or opt for the pappardelle snuggling with tomato-braised lamb shoulder, paired with cumin and mint (okay, thatâs a different pairing) and toasted hazelnuts. Or the dan dan noodles with Szechuan pork, bok choy, peanuts, sesame and chili, inserting an Asian slant to the otherwise Italian pasta list.
The generous servings proved our downfall, so we failed to make a dent in the choice of mains, ($19 for the cheeseburger to $34 for the grilled pork chop sided with jalapeno sweet potatoes and a ginger-orange sauce).
We were saving ourselves, you see, for a bite of dessert ($12). Two choices: a house-made carrot cake with mango lassi sorbet, pistachio and sumac, or our selection, a chocolate espresso cake. We guessed wrong. It proved dry and solid rather than providing the customary lift of limpid oomph. A tiny spoonful of roasted banana ice cream was nice but insufficient. Câmon, kitchen!
I nursed the Alteraâs Old Fashioned throughout the meal, enjoying Makerâs Mark (well, who wouldnât?) enhanced with pasilla pepper, cacao butter and smoked cardamom bitters, all suavely blended into pure mellowness. My companionâs order of House Red delivered a generous pour of Barbera ($10). The drinks list well suits the menuâs wide range of flavors â until one turns the page over to discover the by-the-bottle rundown with nada below $50. Thatâs not so Highland Park Nice.
Good wishes to a much-needed new gathering spot. ïș
Altera
721 Cleveland Ave. S. St. Paul, MN 55116 (651) 788-7009 www.alterarestaurant.com
The Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association is pulling out all the stops for their world-famous festivalâs 30th year. Here are three LGBTQ+ Art-aWhirl veterans to visit.
From May 16-18, artists across Northeast Minneapolis will open their studios for the 30th year of NEMAAâs Art-a-Whirl.
Since 1995, Art-a-Whirlâs attendance has grown from a few hundred to more than 120,000, making it the largest event of its kind in the nation, according to NEMAA.
This yearâs festival will have a host of special features, from a passport challenge app to a commemorative sculpture at Holland Arts East to a cobranded beer with Pryes Brewing Company.
Pryesâ Art-a-Whirl Gold is a special edition of Pryesâ craft golden ale, a light, refreshing beer that tastes similar to Hammâs. Pryesâ events manager Nick Webley says it will be available at bars and restaurants throughout Northeast during Art-a-Whirl.
NEMAA is also commemorating Art-a-Whirlâs 30th year by featuring 30 NEMAA member artists from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines. Lavender spoke with three of these artists who identify as LGBTQ+ to learn more about their art and how it feels to be a part of this milestone for Northeast Minneapolis.
Alicia De La Cruz (she/her)
Two-spirit artist Alicia De La Cruz, 31, says she spends around 14 hours each day doing beadwork.
De La Cruz, an enrolled member of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, has been doing beadwork since she was seven years old, taught by her grandma and aunts.
Now, her traditional craft is her full-time job. De La Cruz will be participating in her fifth year of Art-a-Whirl with her beadwork business, Waabooz Beading (âwaaboozâ means ârabbitâ in the Ojibwe language.)
âItâll be nice to have a unique type of art people donât get to see very often,â De La Cruz says of her beadwork.
De La Cruz, who will be exhibiting at Quincy Hall this year, grew up going to Art-a-Whirl and says it was an honor to be a featured artist for its 30th year.
âI love being a part of Art-a-Whirl every single year, but this year does feel special,â she says.
When you visit De La Cruz at Quincy, expect to find a variety of colorful, skillfully crafted beadwork accessories, from earrings to keychains to the brims of cowboy hats. You might catch a glimpse of a rainbow motif, a shout-out to her two-spirit identity.
De La Cruzâs skill as a beadworker has led to a collaboration with the Minnesota Vikings and a residency at the Bell Museum, but beadwork is just one of many ways she keeps herself busy. De La Cruz will also have products from her company Waabooz Cosmetics for sale during Art-a-
Whirl, and also uses painting, ink and mixed media in her artwork.
De La Cruz says non-Indigenous people often ask her if they can buy her beadwork, and they absolutely can.
âAll of my designs are meant for everybody, and I wouldnât sell them if they werenât,â she says. âYouâre supporting me. Itâs the best thing you can do. I just want people to see more Indigenous artwork.â
Tim Chapp (he/him)
Despite its plain exterior, Tim Chappâs house, better known as the Northeast Tree House, is a creative nexus of the neighborhood, complete with a green roof and a 16-foot rock climbing wall.
Though the rock wall will be closed for climbers during Art-a-Whirl, Chapp, 43, will be hosting 10 artists at his selfdescribed âWilly Wonka house.â
âWhat Iâm doing with my house here is trying to bring artists together and give them an opportunity not only to showcase their work but also to collaborate,â he says.
Chapp will also be 3D-printing robot parts for kids to play with during Art-a-Whirl.
Surprisingly, the painter/piano player/origami artist did not go to art school, but his engineering expertise aided in building the Tree House in 2016, which he says is the main way art has stayed alive in his life.
âNEMAA is such a great organization and I never wouldâve gotten this far in my artistic self if not for them,â Chapp says.
Chappâs acrylic paintings are psychedelic floods that spill across the canvas. Chapp describes them as âfree-flowing, whimsical and not serious,â though a natural theme is present throughout his work.
Chapp, a gay man, says his sexuality is not a focus in his artwork, but his experiences feeling âotheredâ have helped him build empathy for people who arenât like him.
Most importantly, Chapp says, âEverybodyâs an artist.â
Andy Jacobs, 32, recalls witnessing an older man who was visiting her studio examine one of her weavings, say âHuh, thatâs weird,â and walk away.
The interdisciplinary artist will open her studio at the Casket Building for this yearâs Art-aWhirl and says she enjoys being a fly on the wall to those interactions with her artwork.
âMy practice is just an excuse to learn and connect, and thatâs the M.O. of a Gemini,â she says.
Even though her work is âless commercial,â Jacob says she enjoys bringing an experience to Art-a-Whirl each year.
Though initially a printmaker, Jacobs is a self-taught weaver who found her artistic voice in textile arts and connection in the Twin Citiesâ queer fiber arts community.
âWhen I started weaving and spinning, I just felt this instant ancestral connection, like my body knows how to do this,â Jacobs says.
Recently, Jacobs has been thinking through ecology while creating her organic, highly textural weavings, inspired by fiber arts as a global phenomenon that connects humans with nature. Oh, and sheâs a tattoo artist, too, but thatâs just her day job.
Her most recent artistic endeavor has been jewelry making. Her pieces are dainty yet consist of beads of a variety of colors, sizes and shapes.
Jacobs says itâs an honor to be a featured artist for Art-a-Whirlâs 30th, and that she loves the energy of the festival each year, even though it can be overwhelming.
âI always need to take a day or two off to just be away from people,â she says. âBut itâs a lot of energy and a lot of fun.â ïș
JUNE 7TH, 2025
In South Minneapolis, a pinstripe awning reads âFlowersâ in bold white letters. The quaint brick-and-mortar shop is home to Floral Art by Tim, owned and operated by Twin Cities native Tim Boken. Boken boasts upwards of 25 years of experience with designs that are distinct from impersonal online retailers. Every arrangement that leaves Floral Art by Tim is from the heart.
The shopâs flower cooler dazzles with bright roses, tulips, hydrangeas, carnations and blossoms of every color. Many of the roses were in full bloom, petals stretching outward in spirals of velvet. Grocery store displays pale in comparison to Bokenâs selection, with colors more vivid and petals so perfect they almost seem artificial.
Bokenâs selection is curated to include only the utmost quality flowers. Multiple times a week, sometimes even daily, Boken makes his way to a temperature-controlled warehouse where pallets upon pallets of fresh flowers are stored. Boken considers the floral wholesaler his happy place, despite the frigid air.
âIâm very hands-on,â Boken explains. âI like to see what Iâm buying.â
In going to the warehouse instead of ordering online, the designer can find the best the wholesaler has to offer, working within a color palette rather than a predetermined arrangement. His method lets him construct his work with the highest quality flowers instead of trying to make do with a flower that is not up to standard.
âWhenever Iâm designing, I let the flowers I pull speak to me,â says Boken, emphasizing that each arrangement is singular and cannot be replicated. âWhen I pull out a dozen roses, sometimes theyâll be stick straight, sometimes there are bends in them. I work with that.â
But Boken didnât start as a designer.
More than two decades ago, Boken was working as a flight attendant when a friend invited him to work as a driver. He delivered flowers, watched the designers work and began shaping a creative voice of his own.
âI started putzing around with them, and it went from there,â Boken says.
Since then, floristry has been Bokenâs means for self-expression and connection. Floral Art by Tim is âcreating floral art from the heart,â as per the businessâs catchy slogan.
Florists play a quiet role in some of the most precious moments of our lives, bookending the beginning of a life or the end of one. Boken infuses the utmost intention into developing his designs.
Celebration-of-life work is fulfilling for Boken; his arrangements take care to honor the family and the deceased.
âI try to search through the obituary, to try to get to know the person who has passed,â Boken says. âItâs a visual for the family, and itâs the fragrance. It gets people to talk. When people call me up afterward, after theyâve been through something horrific, it is one of the greatest compliments.â
The phrase he dreads most? âIn lieu of flowers.â
âPeople say, âI donât want flowers, because theyâre just gonna die,ââ Boken explains. âEverything has a timeline. ⊠You enjoy them while theyâre with you.â
When his parents passed away, Boken channeled his grief into a spray of bright flowers for each of them â a final gesture of love. He honored his motherâs request: carnations. A shared favorite between them, the flower is often overlooked for its plainness, but they knew better. Carnations are known for their longevity and fragrance.
Flowers are woven into the fabric of Bokenâs family, spanning three generations. Sometimes his daughter comes along to the flower warehouse. She heads straight for the stock, plants her face deep in the blooms and inhales deeply.
âSheâs my right hand â and my left,â Boken says, with a soft, sentimental smile.
When his mom was alive, she would help out around the shop.
âIf something broke off, she would start making a little vase,â he remembers affectionately. She would always insist that he might use the discarded flowers later. âI would take all these bits and pieces and make something for her.â
When his daughter got married, Boken didnât have a shop at the time, but after being a part of so many othersâ life events, Boken, of course, had to make his own daughterâs floral arrangement. Boken worked out of his basement.
âThe fact that I made her bouquet was really special to me,â Boken says. âAs a dad, not only being able to see her first look, but being able to pass off her bouquet was really neat.â
Now, Bokenâs daughter has her own children who come into the shop. At just 11 years old, Bokenâs grandson insists upon making his own creations.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, people seek Boken out, knowing his shop is a safe haven. Boken is a seasoned florist with more than two decades of experience, and he was working in the industry long before queer people were accepted in the mainstream. Boken reflected upon the cultural shift in the last five to 10 years. Now, Floral Art by Tim is outfitting young queer couples with boutonnieres and corsages, and theyâre going to mainstream prom.
Boken recalled a particularly special moment when a mom reached out with a last-minute request:
âThereâs somebody going to prom for the first time as a girl, and their parents werenât supportive, so I need to get a corsage. They had prom just like everybody else.â
Bokenâs flowers are fleetingly beautiful, but the heartfelt memories they hold remain steadfast long after their petals wilt and fall away. ïș
Tim 4751 Chicago Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55407 (612) 824-4526
www.floralartbytim.com
Looking for a place to settle down and start oneâs life can be a difficult experience. There are many things to consider when determining the best place to own a home. It can quickly become overwhelming for someone to factor in all their wants and needs on their own. For those who desire an inclusive small town, Northfield, Minn., may just be the perfect place.
Located in southeastern Minnesota, Northfield is a small town that has big opportunities. Not only is there an abundance of natural landscapes to admire and explore, but there are also two colleges and a lively and inclusive community. Realtors Greg Storlie and Chris Hentges of Storlie & Hentges Real Estate Group both live in and love Northfield, Minn. They have found the community and environment to be the perfect place to call home, and they are very excited to dedicate their time, enthusiasm and experience in helping future homeowners find a place that suits them best.
To Storlie and Hentges, Northfield is more than just a city, it is a âlifestyle.â Being a small town, it offers a different lifestyle from that of a bigger city. There is a more connected community, a quieter and slower life, but still, many of the same resources and events.
âI wanted to live in a small town. And so, when we came here and I started looking around and really, you know, eyes wide open, I went, âOh, wow.â It really is an all-inclusive town,â Hentges says.
There is something special about the community that Northfield is home to. It draws people in from all backgrounds and ways of life. No one is turned away from calling Northfield their home. This is one of the primary reasons that Storlie and Hentges enjoy living there so much. Outside of the interesting events that the city hosts, they found the small town to be exceedingly welcoming, diverse and inclusive.
âWe like to promote the fact that you can move to Northfield and be yourself and not have to be ashamed of who you are, or where you live. Because there are people, and weâve had clients that weâve moved to this town, that have left other states to come to Northfield for that specific reason,â Storlie says.
Being a part of the LGBTQ+ community, Storlie and Hentges understand the importance of finding non-discriminatory places and practices. They found comfort in knowing that Northfield offered a safe community to anybody and everybody. They translate their inclusivity to their work, helping people of any background find or sell their homes.
âWeâve had clients all across the, what would you call it? The spectrum, social spectrum. Whether it be, you know, single dude, single woman, married, couple, queer couple, straight couple, you name it. Weâve worked with all of them. And with Chris and I, you know, itâs always gonna be equal representation of everyone. ⊠We are an ally to a community, but weâre also an ally to everyone,â Storlie says.
Those who work with Storlie and Hengtes become more than just clients, they become family. Both Storlie and Hentges work with people before, during, and after the process of buying or selling a home. They take the time and effort to thoroughly explain all aspects of the process, and they make sure to let their clients know that they can reach out at any time for guidance and support. Nobody is left behind or forgotten by Storlie and Hentges Real Estate Group. Even after time passes, they make sure to keep in touch.
âFor Greg and I, we just want to make sure that anybody that works with us knows that they can just be their authentic selves. Because weâre gonna be our authentic selves. ⊠You know, when we first meet people, Iâm very intuitive, you know, of their likes and their dislikes. I mean, every way from how a person presents themselves, I try to catch little words, and things that they may say that would like ⊠have an idea of what theyâre looking for or what they like and what they donât like,â Hentges says.
While looking for a new home or trying to sell your home can be a difficult process, Storlie and Hentges Realtor Group is there to help make the process smooth and efficient. If Northfield, Minn., sounds like it would be the perfect place, consider reaching out to gain more insight about the community and all the amazing amenities the city has to offer at www.edinarealty.com/greg-storlie-realtor. ïș
Get a fresh look for your home this Summer with PolywoodÂź Shutters! Save 25% on all shutters for a limited time* and transform your outdated window coverings into a stylish focal point for any room. * OïŹer is only good until June 30, 2024, and cannot be applied to previously quoted items or combined with any other oïŹer.
Itâs often a place of contrasts: half of the time, itâs a place of exhausted relief, of turned keys and exhaust fumes swirling into nothing at the end of a journey thatâs long or just long-seeming. Half of the time, itâs a place of beginnings, tense or exciting or dread-filling. Itâs the last thing a homeowner sees when leaving a home, and itâs the first thing a homeowner sees when returning home.
Itâs the interior of the car park, the car hole, the auto stable, the spencer, the parkade, the Chevy levy, the Ford fjord, the Batcave, the place where dad sleeps when mom has had enough of his shenanigans â in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, itâs usually called âthe garage,â and itâs most often treated like an afterthought by its owner ⊠but more and more, Minnesotans are moving their garages to their forebrains, upgrading from the bottom up.
Savage, Minn.-based, Twin Cities-serving Garage Floor Outfitters, as their name suggests, might serve as a dependable partner in such endeavors.
âWe install custom, high-quality solutions for garage floors,â declares Bob Davis, the companyâs owner. âPeople want to re-do their garage floors and get organized.â
The most basic, most obvious, most elemental of such solutions is a coating of the spaceâs lowest horizons. In years past, epoxy and polyaspartic resin have been, despite their giant-movie-monster-sounding names, the most popular options for such treatments. In recent times, however, a new colossus has established its dominance.
âPolyaspartic is a UV-stable resin that looks like epoxy but has a chemical makeup that allows it to set much more quickly,â elucidates a website dedicated to the topic. âWhen it contains 100% aliphatic material, a polyaspartic garage coating prevents the fading or yellowing that occurs over time with epoxy coatings.â
Translated from Madscientistese, this new product forms pleasing chemical compounds whose invisible chains solidify faster and last longer than its predecessors. Garage Floor Outfittersâ own website elaborates: âOur polyaspartic garage floor coatings can be installed and fully dried in as little as one day. With quick installation and drying times, your floors will look exceptional while standing up to heavy use.â
The floors having achieved such a dark and pristine condition, keeping non-cars off of them might be advisable. Happily, Garage Floor Outfitters outfits more than just garage floors. As their website promises, âWe offer tailored solutions for residential or commercial use to meet your unique needs.â
Those unique needs might be addressed, at least in part, with the installation of cabinets.
âWe carry both the plywood Classic series and the metal Tech series by [top brand] Slide-Lok Garage Interiors & Closet System,â the companyâs website explains. âOther cabinets made of particle board donât last in garage environments where moisture can lead to their early demise.â
The purpose of the treatment is the opposite of an early demise. As the website further assures, âUsing floor coating products such as Slide-Lokâs polyaspartic, patch repair, moisture barrier, and joint filler solutions, we can improve and preserve your floor for a lifetime of demanding use.â
The vertical surfaces themselves might lend to the storage efforts of the thoroughly Bob Vila-esque in the form of slat walls. Say Garage Floor Outfitters, â[Slat walls] are built only from strong and durable material, feature hooks that can up to one hundred pounds, and are available in custom sizes and configurations.â
And, of course, the floorâs distant parallel neednât be left out of the act â ceiling racks are also an option.
âStrong Racks is the manufacturer of the worldâs strongest and safest ceiling storage racks for your garage,â the company website boasts. âThese garage overhead storage racks are capable of holding the highest weight capacities in the entire industry of overhead storage systems.â
Although owner Bob Davis has noticed that the general public has, in recent years, gained an appreciation of the houseâs carpark, one improbable demographic has loomed over all the rest.
âYouâd be surprised â single women in their 40s most often want their garages decked out,â owner Davis observes thoughtfully. Then he adds with a wry laugh, âTheyâre the ones with the money â women in their forties rule the world!â
Once the work is done, the cupboard-covered walls might resemble a metal or wooden chessboard intended for giant monsters with unpronounceable names and long attention spans. However itâs processed, the end result can be a unified concept that changes a houseâs garage into more than just the end of a journey or the beginning of a journey â the end result can tell the ultimate story of the ultimate destination ⊠it can tell the story of home. ïș
Genesis continues to rise as a luxury brand worth watching.
Look at the Korean luxury car brandâs current product portfolio. Their battery-electric vehicle lineup now numbers three â the GV60, Electrified GV70 and Electrified G80. The G90 has matured into a flagship sedan worth owning. The G70 is a true competitor to the likes of the BMW 3-Series.
That leaves us with the GV80 â the brandâs mid-sized SUV.
The 2025 edition of the GV80 received plenty of revisions inside and out, mostly to add design features to make it stand out further along with new technology. How did Genesis do with this revised GV80?
The 2025 revisions took this SUV to another level. The grille not only gets a double bar mesh design, but it also received a mild reshaping for better visualization of its identity. The entire front clip received some nips and tucks while retaining the signature double horizontal headlamp units.
Aside from new wheel designs, the GV80 SUV retains a lot of design. It is upright and has a nicely angled roofline. This 3.5T Prestige tester gets 22-inch alloy wheels with five sporty spokes.
The biggest change to the 2025 GV80 is the new instrument panel. A thin 27-inch OLED screen integrates both the instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen in a seamless fashion. Once you add smartphone integration, the screen splits up and the mirrored screen takes up almost half of the panel.
Also new to the GV80 is a new three-spoke steering wheel that is being integrated into the latest Genesis models. They also updated a few controls â the knob-type transmission shifter, for one. Our Vanilla Beige/Smoky interior color scheme also includes a nicely texture woodgrain trim to create a lovely atmosphere inside the GV80.
That includes the Vanilla Beige perforated Nappa leather upholstery adorning two rows of seating on this Prestige tester. All outboard seats get electric adjustments, but it is the driverâs seat that gets the full treatment. That includes adjust-
ments to the seatback bolsters, lumbar support, and a cushion extender. If the driver is fatigued, the Ergo Motion system kicks in to help recalibrate their position. Not to mention, the Driver Attention Warning system will also remind the driver to keep their eyes on the road.
Second-row passengers have ample space for up to three people. It is worth noting that a third row of seating is available only on the 3.5T Advanced model. Cargo space for our Prestige tester measures 36.5 cubic feet with the second row up. Fold down the second row of seats, and you get up to 71.7 cubic feet â just right to load up on some shopping for your garden or small projects at home.
Powering our tester is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine. It is good for 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. While premium gasoline is recommended, these power figures reflect the use of the higher-octane fuel. Power is transferred through an eight-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels.
This driveline does very well in every situation we put it through. It shines extremely well on the highway with smooth power delivery and superb passing ability. We observed an average of 23.1 MPG for fuel consumption.
Along with its smooth power delivery is a luxurious driving experience. Ride quality is exactly what you expect from an SUV of its size class â
simply smooth and quiet. Handling tended to be softer when maneuvering around hazards and getting around curves.
The brake pedal feel is on the soft side. However, the system delivered solid stops in normal, panic, and wet situations. The steering system offered tight turns and is quite responsive. On-center feel was fine, with help from the Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist enabled.
In the 2025 Genesis GV80, you have a choice of two drivelines and three packages for each engine option. Pricing starts from $58,700. Our 3.5T Prestige tester came with a sticker price of $81,300.
As a cool addition to the GV80 lineup, the Coupe SUV version is now available. With a fastback roofline, it adds more to the flair this model already exudes.
If youâre just looking for a luxury SUV with ample space for passengers and luggage, this might be the right choice for you. It is uniquely styled and definitely stands out in a crowd. It offers a heightened level of elegance and technology inside the cabin. Plus, it competes well in a segment that offers its own interpretation of what a luxury mid-size SUV should be in the eyes of its customers.
When it comes to your eyes â and your want of an elegant SUV â the 2025 Genesis GV80 should be the right choice for you. Be prepared to be pampered in this unique offering in its size class. ïș
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
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
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 â 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
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
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
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
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
Minnesota Historical Society
Create your own adventure at MNHS historic sites and museums around Minnesota. www.mnhs.org
Minneapolis Institute of Art Enjoy masterpieces from all over the world & every period of human history.
Free admission daily!
2400 3rd Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55404 (612) 870-3000 www.artsmia.org
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
The nation's largest professional dinner theater and Minnesota's own entertainment destination.
501 W. 78th St. Chanhassen, MN 55317 (952) 934-1525 www.ChanhassenDT.com
Childrenâs Theatre Company
Childrenâs Theatre Company excites the imagination with world-class family-friendly 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
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 SĂžndergĂ„rd, the Minnesota Orchestra, one of Americaâs 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 Menâs 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
All Godâs Children Metropolitan Community Church
A welcoming, inclusive, safe place to explore and discover Godâs love for ALL Godâs 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. Philip's Lutheran Church
We invite and welcome those of every spiritual background, ethnicity, gender orientation, or economic situation. 6180 Hwy 65 Fridley, MN 55432 (763) 571-1500 www.splcmn.org
University Baptist Church
Creating safe and inclusive spaces for 175 years, UBC stands proudly with our LGBTQ+ family. 1219 University Ave. SE Minneapolis, MN 55414 (612) 331-1768 www.ubcmn.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
Lyngblomsten Community Services
Empowering older adults to live well at home through caregiver support, memory-loss enrichment, & wellness education. 1415 Almond Ave. St. Paul, MN 55108 (651) 632-5330 www.Lyngblomsten.org/CServices
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
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
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota Serving all Minnesotans with personcentered services that promote full and abundant lives.
lssmn.org | (651) 642-5990 | (800) 582-5260 Employment Opportunities | lssmn.org/careers PICS (Partners in Community Supports) | picsmn.org
Pooled Trust | (888) 806-6844
Supported Decision-Making | (888) 806-6844
Westopolis Minnesotaâs Sweet Spot! St. Louis Park & Golden Valley offer exceptional dining, attractions, shopping, hotels and event space.
1660 Hwy 100 S., Ste. 501 St. Louis Park, MN 55416 (952) 426-4047
www.westopolis.org
âRabbis of the Garden Stateâ
If you grew up on âCatcher in the Rye,â but were Jewish, donât miss this yeshiva twist on the age-old problems facing a young male growing up too smart, too clueless, too attracted to a handsome rabbi â and burdened with a mom suffering similar attractions â and acting out on them. Lest you suspect antiSemitism, author Meltz knows whereof he speaks, having been raised in âthe low-rent reaches of Jersey,â and has lived in NYC for 50 years now with longtime partner, playwright Mike Rendino. We first meet Andy Baer as an 11-year-old along with his angry older sister and silent younger, each suffering their flamboyant single mom in their own fashion, all backgrounded in a seedy 1960s New Jersey ambience. Is there a way out?
These twenty tales, reaching around the globe and through the ages, colorfully illustrate how differently people have presented and behaved from earliest times. People have always responded to stories and storytellers. From tribes gathered around fires to the beginnings of civilizations to our own profusion of electronic devices, alone or projected to multitudes, humans crave a good tale. The best relate not only the simple ABCs of talking animals living by a riverside or a quest undertaken by small beings bearing a ring but also reveal emotions relevant to listeners, differences and sameness, and teach more than their narrative surface admits. Queerness is at the heart of many tales, from the Iliadâs Achilles and Patroclus to the Bibleâs David and Jonathan to Hawaiiâs Hiâiaka and Wahine-Omao.
âThe Rarest Fruitâ
A novelized biography of Creole slave Edmond, orphaned in 1829 on the island of La RĂ©union. Desolate after his wifeâs death, owner/botanist FerrĂ©rol Bellier-Beaumont took the child daily through his gardens while the boy memorized the plantsâ Latin nomenclature, but never became literate. Edmond would have remained unknown had not the boy at 12 discovered the secret of hand-pollinating the orchids that produce the bean that makes vanilla. âVanillaâ today means âordinaryâ but was once a rarity, the flower requiring pollination by a vanished Mexican bee â or Edmond. The book is a narrative of exploitation and chance. Edmond, finally freed, chooses the surname Albius (more white). His story, name and his method of pollination finally reached a vanilla-mad world. He died alone in 1880.
âThe
Second in the Queer History Project follows Windâs âNo Way, They Were Gay? Hidden Lives and Secret Lovesâ (2021) also suited for YA readers grades
6-12. Wind scours a wide range of humanity to show that while many people identify as men or women, there are far broader spectra of gender along which individuals over centuries have lived that are far more nuanced than are often acknowledged, and this wide range represents a natural human diversity. Wind circles the globe; for example, the Hijras, in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal. This third gender was highly respected and acknowledged before British rule, and endures today. Mahu in Hawaii and Tahiti are a recognized third gender there. Consider Ru Paulâs âYouâre born naked, the rest is drag.â
âSee, What Had Happened WasâŠâ
Ratleff follows âDancing to the Lyricsâ (2022), growing up a gay boy in violent 1960s Baltimore, with life following his 21st birthday, just arrived in the Shangri-La that was the then-affordable city of San Francisco, his home for the following four decades. While the pseudonymous Grant Cole told the story in the first book, Ratleff himself narrates here through adult eyes. New to the fabulous city but learning quickly, he strives as best he can to live true to himself; not easy when poor, black and gay. Through love and lust, the horror of the AIDS years and the death of friends, Ratleffâs inner voice assesses his own triumphs and failures, never blaming others or taking on unearned guilt, revealing the successful making of the man.
âLast
With sadness, I report âLast Danceâ is the fourth and final installment of Schellmanâs Nightingale Mysteries. Vivian Kelly has found a comfortable nest in New York Cityâs glamorous 1920s speakeasy with its teeming dance floor and close-held secrets. Into this idyll now comes a stranger from Chicago, seeking vengeance for a missing girl â a cold case reheated that will doom some. Thereâs also a missing truckload of cash. For readers invested in Schellmanâs characters, I can report some will rise, others fall, while protagonist Vivian has some words to say to
Nightingaleâs owner, Honor Huxley; believe me, youâll want to hear them. Iâd like to announce what upcoming thrills author Schellman has in store for eager readers; sorry, thatâs a mystery to me as well.
Bidulkaâs final novel in his Merry Bell trilogy has arrived. An unlikely demise, a prominent philanthropist on an isolated road, slumped outside his locked car, frozen to death. His son, country music star Evan Whately, hires PI Merry Bell to investigate. As often happens, answers can be found in the past, and often the answers open wounds in those examining. Not always Merry, she is forced to examine her own pre-transition past and confront her own familyâs history while examining a death that reaches out beyond the grave. As Bidulka himself explains, in addition to presenting mystery, the trilogy (as is much of his writing) is infused with celebration: of things Saskatchewan, Indigenous, Transgender, Ukrainian, Gay, Elder, Crossdresser. And maybe, even for Merry Bell, romance? MaybeâŠ
Folklore provides a rich field for stories and myths championing âothersâ and âoutsidersâ; from the Little Mermaid to more modern superheroes, humans since the first gatherings have spun tales that provide solace for those who tread more liminal paths, speaking of unicorns and fairies, superhumans that can fly or flame. Otherness, transformation, Cowardâs studies reveal that queerness, however it may be termed in a given age, has been an explanation for some, an affirmation and a solace for others for whom queerness is their lifeâs path. Humans are drawn to symbolism; even modern popular entertainment highlights singularity in ways that define âotherness.â He points out, for one, the traditional portrayal of Peter Pan by a male impersonator â Mary Martinâs live TV performance in 1956. ïș