Queer As Folks

New Ecofriendly Gift Store Opens in Midtown Global Market

Midtown Global Market is welcoming its newest store, EarthVitality. It sells green products and clothing that reflect the establishment’s commitment to social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Everything sold must meet one or more of strict criteria: made from recycled, biodegradable, organic, and sustainable materials such as cotton, bamboo, or hemp; powered by “green” energy such as solar; and fair-trade, locally, or small-scale produced. The store will offer customers the option of custom embroidery and printing on the merchandise. Midtown Global Market, 920 East Lake Street, Minneapolis, is an internationally themed public market with groceries, food, and unique gifts.

Local Restaurants Raise Money for Haitian Orphans

Long known for serving great food and helping raise money for needed community causes, more than 50 restaurants already have joined Dine and Fly for Haiti. Started by Steve Jacobs of Stillwater Balloon Company and Dave Jarvis of Afton House Inn, the program hopes to raise $50,000 to help fund building of an orphanage, as well as provide critical food and medical aid in Boucan, Haiti, about 10 miles from Port-au-Prince. Officially kicked off on February 4, Dine and Fly for Haiti eventually hopes that more than 100 restaurants will participate. All proceeds will go directly to the orphanage, plus supply food and medicine, through Hope in the Light Ministries: www.hopeinthelight.org. To participate, go to www.dineandflyforhaiti.com.

Open Arms of Minnesota Wins Citizen of the Year Award

During the eighth annual Ninth Ward Awards Breakfast on January 29, Open Arms of Minnesota received the Citizen of the Year Award from Ninth Ward Minneapolis City Council Member Gary Schiff. The organization garnered the honor for its timeless work and tireless efforts on behalf of the people, neighborhoods, and communities of the ward. Open Arms Deputy Director Jennifer Van Wyk said, “We are very honored to receive the Ninth Ward’s Citizen of the Year Award recognizing the role our new facility and expanded program will have on our community—particularly the positive role it will play within the Phillips neighborhood. Our new home will not only help feed more in need, but allow for neighborhood revitalization, job-skills training, safer streets, and newfound partnerships. This is an honor for the entire ward to celebrate. Without the support of the city and neighborhood groups, this project would not be possible. Our program isn’t just about feeding the body, but also nourishing the soul.”