Feature

QSaltLake
Utah’s Most Fabulous
for 2005

The votes have been cast, the ballots counted and the people have spoken for the first time. We’re not talking about Iraq—we’re talking about the first
QSaltLake Utah’s Most Fabulous competition.

Hundreds of readers participated in our first annual write-in competition. We’re not sure if Metro readers were enticed by the chance to win a weekend in Vegas, or if they simply have the best taste in Utah and wanted to share that knowledge.

Some of the selections we expected, but others surprised us. One thing can be said, though: the businesses, organizations and individuals nominated and voted in as Utah’s Most Fabulous must be doing something right to have impressed our readers.

You’re invited to join us on Saturday, March 5 in the Black Box Theater at The Center as we present the QSaltLake Most Fabulous certificates and awards to the winners. We’ll also be drawing the name of our lucky Vegas Weekend winner. The awards begin at 7 p.m. and we’re asking for a $5 donation to benefit The Center.

Good Eats!

Best Sunday Brunch

Market Street Grill/Oyster Bar
531-6044 | 54 W Market St, SLC
We’re not sure if it was because it was the first category on the ballot or because brunch is the official meal of the queer community, but this category received more nominations than any other. We certainly do take our hybrid of breakfast and lunch seriously, especially on the one day we’re sure the screaming Mormon families will be at church and safely out of sight. With reasonable prices, a comfortable atmosphere and a great brunch menu from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Market Street Oyster Bar is clearly a hit.
Honorable Mentions
Squatters Pub and Brewery, 363-2739, 147 W Broadway, SLC
Oasis Café, 322-0404, 151 South 500 East, SLC

Best Quick Bite

Wendy’s
Various locations
Dave Thomas would be so proud! Despite so many fast food options to choose from, Wendy’s took a commanding lead in this category. We’re not sure if it’s the variety of options, including salads and baked potatoes, or the 48 convenient locations across the state, but Wendy’s is your choice for best quick bite in Utah.
Honorable Mentions
Crown Burger, 532-1155, five locations in Utah
McDonalds, many locations

Best Formal Dining

The New Yorker
363-0166 | 60 W Market St, SLC
Another feather in the hat of the Gastronomy family! The formal dining room at The New Yorker is the most popular place for those five-star meals our readers enjoy. With artful lunch and dinner entrees of seafood, beef, lamb, chicken, and veal, as well as savory salads, soups, and one-of-a-kind desserts, it’s no wonder this spot works well for romantic, business and social occasions.
Honorable Mentions:
Metropolitan, 364-3472, 173 W Broadway, SLC
Martine, 363-9328, 22 E 100 S, SLC

Best Hole In The Wall

Big Ed’s
582-9045 | 210 University St, SLC
It may look like a dark, windowless tavern, but the place is cozy and usually frequented by University of Utah students who know the secret—that even though the food is not for people with heartburn or cholesterol problems, it’s tasty and satisfying. Big Ed’s is the kind of place no one will question a request for chili as a side to anything.
Honorable Mentions:
Soup Kitchen, five Salt Lake locations
The Other Place, 521-6567, 469 E Broadway, SLC

Best Place to Blow Your Diet

The Bakery
328-3330 | 250 S 300 E, SLC
Admit it—you’re sick of the whole Atkins dieting craze. You want to get your hands on some good, old, tasty, scrumptious carbohydrates, don’t you? Well, for mouth-watering pastries, desserts and the nummy treats you’ve been denying yourself for weeks, head on over to The Bakery. Go ahead, we give you permission. It’s just more of you to love anyway.
Honorable Mentions:
Melting Pot, 521-6358, 340 S Main St, SLC
Bavarian Chalet German Restaurant, 479-7561, 4387 Harrison Blvd Ste 9, Ogden

Best Place for Asian

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro
539-0500 | Three Salt Lake locations
It may be a rapidly expanding chain, but Metro readers insist that P.F. Chang’s is the best place to get a taste of the Orient. All right, we admit it, we’re suckers for the lettuce wraps, too. And with a doggy bag, we’re glad to be hungry again an hour later.
Honorable Mentions:
Café Trang, 539-1638, two Salt Lake locations
Xiao Li, 328-8688, 307 W 200 S. Ste 1000, SLC

Best Greek/Mediterranean Food

Café Med
493-0100 | 420 E 3300 South, SLC
Hummus, falafels and kabobs, oh my! Metro readers know how to enjoy a big, fat, Greek meal, and the chefs at Café Med are experts at making one. We bet they can even tell you how to pronounce gyro, although we doubt they’ll hold it against you if you get it wrong.
Honorable Mentions:
The Other Place, 521-6567, 469 E Broadway, SLC
Mazza, 484-9259, 1515 S 1500 E, SLC
Greek Souvlaki II, 487-3481, 1446 S State St, SLC

Best Mexican

Red Iguana
322-1489 | 736 W North Temple, SLC
An overwhelming favorite in the community, the lively atmosphere and South-of-the-border specialties have made many Metro readers exclaim “¡Ay, papi!” Our favorite thing about Red Iguana is that while the regional dishes are definitely tasty, the food presentation is also a feast for the eyes in reds, green, yellows and blacks. We’re also relieved that our readers clearly have sophisticated tastes, as Taco Bell received very few nominations in this category.
Honorable Mentions:
Beto’s, thirteen Utah locations
Rio Grande, 364-3302, 270 S Rio Grande St, SLC

Best Italian

Michelangelo Ristorante
466-0961 | 2156 S Highland Dr, SLC
We were honestly a little surprised to see Michelangelo’s beat out some of the downtown restaurants that typically garner big accolades, but this quiet Sugarhouse dining spot has a level of charm missing at some of the more pretentious Italian dining choices. It certainly looks, tastes and feels like an authentic family-run business. Next time you’re craving the pasta, be sure to make the trip.
Honorable Mentions:
Cucina Toscana, 328-3463, 307 Pierpont Ave, SLC
Lugano, 412-9994, 3364 S 2300 E, SLC
Panini, 535-4300, 299 S Main St Ste 250, SLC

Best Steak and Seafood

Spencer’s
238-4748 | 255 S West Temple, SLC
When Metro readers are craving a big, juicy piece of meat, the first name on their lips is Spencer’s. Certainly, their veal porterhouse, pork chops or filet mignon is worth raving about. If you need something a little more heart-healthy, Spencer’s also has king crab and grilled salmon to make your doctor happier. And the spacious booths encourage you to gorge yourself, so dig in!
Honorable Mentions:
Market Street Grill, 322-4668, 48 W Market St, SLC

Best Vegetarian Fare

Oasis Café
322-0404 | 151 S 500 E, SLC
While a few of our readers were appalled at the idea of dining without animal flesh on the plate (“No No No!” or “What’s that like?” read some ballots), the bulk of readers tipped their hats to the friendly and relaxing restaurant next to Golden Braid Bookstore. With an inviting patio that’s perfect for lounging on a hot summer afternoon, the guilt-free vegetarian and vegan offerings have made many begin to suspect that they’d be happy to adopt a new PETA-approved “meat is murder” philosophy.
Honorable Mentions:
Sage’s Café, 322-3790, 473 E Broadway, SLC
Shanghai Café, 322-1841, 145 E 1300 S, SLC

Best Cheap But Good Food

Beto’s
Thirteen Utah locations
When you’re pinching those pennies to make it to the next payday, readers agree that the best place to fill up on food you won’t regret eating is Beto’s. If the worst thing you can say about this food is that it’s inexpensive, then there’s not much reason to turn up your nose. And it’s more authentic than other chain restaurants, too.
Honorable Mentions:
The Other Place, 521-6567, 469 E Broadway, SLC
Rio Grande, 364-3302, 270 S Rio Grande St, SLC

Best Sushi

Ichiban Sushi
532-7522 | 336 S 400 E, SLC
Once upon a time, this building served a religious purpose, but the murals of dancing sumo wrestlers, fish tanks and other modern décor help to dispel the urge to worship anything other than raw fish. Sushi might not have caught on in Utah as well as it has in places like California, but Chef Peggi Whiting has given us a great place to get familiar with the concept.
Honorable Mentions:
Ginza, 322-2224, 209 W 200 S, SLC
Happy Sumo, 456-7866, 153 S Rio Grande St, SLC

Best After Hours Food (tie)

Dee’s Family Restaurant
359-4414 | 143 W North Temple, SLC
& 2104 S 700 E, SLC | 487-6761
Orbit Café
322-3808 | 540 West 200 South, SLC
In our first tie vote, readers were split between Dee’s tasty breakfast menu (open 24 hours on Friday and Saturday), or Orbit’s late-night vegetarian food that’s as good as anything you’d get during a lunchtime rush. Both spots offer a great place to finish your night of socializing after the Utah state legislature kicks you out of the bars and nightclubs.
Honorable Mentions:
Beto’s, thirteen Utah locations
Village Inn Restaurants, eleven Utah locations

NITELIFE

We love the nitelife, we love to boogie…!

Best Place to Dance

Trapp Door
533-0173 | 615 W 100 S, SLC
The readers of Metro chose the Trapp Door as the best place to get down with their funky selves. With the large accessible dance floor, reliable crowds and quality music, we’re not surprised.
Honorable Mentions
Naked, 521-9292, 326 S West Temple, SLC
Sound, 521-2076, 579 W 200 S, SLC

Best Place to Meet Gay Men

Heads Up
359-2161 | 163 W Pierpont (240 S), SLC
It may be the newest club in town, but it’s already got the reputation of being an easy and laid-back place to meet other gay men. With plenty of space to dance as well as quieter areas to converse, Heads Up is apparently the place to be for socializing with one another.
Honorable Mentions:
Trapp Door, 533-0173, 615 W 100 S, SLC
Club Try-Angles, 364-3203, 251 W 900 S, SLC
Trapp, 531-8727, 102 S 600 W, SLC

Best Place to Meet Lesbians

Paper Moon
713-0678 | 3737 S State St, SLC
With two women’s bars competing for the title, this was a close and heated race. Several readers even made disparaging remarks about the bar they didn’t favor. In the end though, the scales tipped slightly on the side of the inviting and loose atmosphere of Paper Moon.
Honorable Mentions:
MoDiggity’s, 832-9000, 3424 S State St, SLC

Best Place to Meet Transgender Folks

The GLBT Community Center of Utah
539-8800 | 361 N 300 W, SLC
This category had the majority of our readers stumped. While The Center doesn’t exactly fit the “nitelife” heading of these categories, we see the reader’s selection of The Center as a positive. It tells us that the community organization has achieved its goal of representing the broader queer community.
Honorable Mentions:
Trapp Door, 533-0173, 615 W 100 S, SLC
Club Try-Angles, 364-3203, 251 W 900 S, SLC

Friendly Straight Folks

W Lounge
359-0637 | 358 S West Temple, SLC
It does our hearts good to see such a variety of nominations in this category; it means there are friendly straight folks to be met all over the state. But according to Metro readers the hipster-industrial-electronica crowd at W Lounge appears to be the most friendly of all.
Honorable Mentions:
Port O’ Call Social Club, 521-0589, 400 S West Temple, SLC
Todd’s Bar & Grill, 328-8650, 1051 S 300 W, SLC

Best Place to See Live Music

MoDiggity’s
832-9000 | 3424 S State St, SLC
When Metro readers want to rock out to a live band or catch a touring act, it seems the venue of choice is MoDiggity’s. And no wonder! With the gals’ ever-changing and dynamic calendar, MoDiggity’s has hosted some of the finest names in entertainment.
Honorable Mentions
In the Venue, 521-2076, 579 W 200 S, SLC
Liquid Joe’s, 467-5637, 1249 E 3300 S, SLC

Best Place to Watch a Game

MoDiggity’s
832-9000 | 3424 S State St, SLC
Sports fans also picked MoDiggity’s as the best place to watch a game. The women’s sports bar certainly made it an easy choice with their festive atmosphere and the infamous “dugout” and its large-screen projector and comfy chairs.
Honorable Mentions:
Trapp, 531-8727, 102 S 600 W, SLC
Port O’ Call Social Club, 521-0589, 400 S West Temple, SLC
Fiddler’s Elbow, 463-9393, 1063 E 2100 S, SLC

Best Place to Sing Karaoke

Heads Up
359-2161 | 163 W Pierpont (240 S), SLC
While karaoke may mean “empty orchestra,” it certainly doesn’t mean “empty bar” at Heads Up. Every Monday and Thursday night, Kamikaze Karaoke host Jamie attracts a loyal following of people dreaming of their chance to be on American Idol.
Honorable Mentions:
Trapp, 531-8727, 102 S 600 W, SLC
Tavernacle Social Club, 519-8900, 201 E 300 South, SLC

Best Place to Avoid Karaoke

Club Try-Angles
364-3203 | 251 W 900 S, SLC
Try-Angles owner Gene once told us that he’s glad to create a spot where the people who don’t enjoy karaoke can escape from the crooners and belters. It seems Metro readers also appreciate that opportunity. If a night of listening to your tone-deaf ex butchering an N*Sync tune doesn’t appeal to you, you never have to worry about it at Club Try-Angles.
Honorable Mentions:
Paper Moon, 713-0678, 3737 S State St, SLC

Best Gay/Lesbian Bar

Heads Up
359-2161 | 163 W Pierpont (240 S), SLC
We knew this category was going to be like a high school popularity contest, but the degree of ballot-stuffing from the different clubs was impressive even to us. The people have spoken, and the people have said that the newly-opened Heads Up is the community’s bar of choice in 2005. And its official: the recount has already been conducted.
Honorable Mentions:
Club Try-Angles, 364-3203, 251 W 900 S, SLC
MoDiggity’s, 832-9000, 3424 S State St, SLC

Best Straight Bar

Port O’ Call Social Club
521-0589 | 400 S West Temple, SLC
There’s no shortage of entertainment at Port O’ Call. From sports to pool, music to trivia games, it’s difficult to be bored in the Metro reader’s choice for Best Straight Bar. Plus, the restaurant menu ain’t too shabby either.
Honorable Mentions:
Piper Down, 468-1492, 1492 S State St, SLC
W Lounge, 359-0637, 358 S West Temple, SLC

ARTS

Where Should We Van Gogh Tonight?

Best Amateur Theater

Plan B Theatre Company
www.planbtheatrecompany.org
We’re certainly not the first to notice the amazing work of this small but powerful artistic troupe. With over a decade of award-winning performances (including many by local writers), as well as a politically-supportive history, Plan B has endeared itself to the readers of Metro.
Honorable Mentions:
Pygmalian Productions, pygmalionproductions.org

Best Professional Theater

Salt Lake Acting Company
www.saltlakeactingcompany.org
Founded in 1970, The Salt Lake Acting Company has a long commitment to promoting local theatre professionals. The company performs year-round, with a focus on regional and world premiere productions and is the place to be whenever Saturday’s Voyeur is showing.
Honorable Mentions:
Pioneer Theatre Company, www.ptc.utah.edu
Ballet West, www.balletwest.org

Best Local Band

Debi Graham Band
www.sanusine.com
Singer/songwriter Debi Graham has certainly been making a name for herself in her home city. An unsigned indie group, the Debi Graham Band has opened for acts such as Berlin and Linda Perry (of 4 Non Blondes). The group frequently plays all over Utah, so if you haven’t had the distinct pleasure of a Graham Band show, make it a point to check them out.
Honorable Mentions:
Lisa Marie & The Co-Dependents, lmcod.com
Spanky Van Dyke, www.spankyvandyke.com

Best Art Gallery or Museum

Utah Museum of Fine Arts
581-7332 | 410 Campus Center Drive, SLC
Apparently, Metro readers love heading up to the U to take in the artistic greatness. In addition to the galleries, UMFA also offers a variety of programs, educational events and panel discussions. Admission is free on the first Wednesday of each month, but at a max cost of $4 per head, we see no reason to wait.
Honorable Mentions:
Salt Lake Art Center, 328-4201, 20 S. West Temple
E Street Gallery, 359-2979, 82 E Street, SLC

Best Symphony/Orchestra/Choir

Salt Lake Men’s Choir
Mail: 825 N. 300 West #NE111 | saltlakemenschoir.org
Over the past 22 years, SLMC has produced two CDs, performed at many events (including the Gay Games in Sydney, Australia) and will soon travel to Washington D.C. to represent the state of Utah. This year’s exciting concerts include the children’s show Oliver Button is a Sissy! and an all-male version of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. They may not be the best-known choir from Utah, but they’re certainly the best-loved.
Honorable Mentions:
Utah Symphony, 355-ARTS, utahsymphony.org
Mormon Tabernacle Choir, 240-4150, mormontabernaclechoir.org

Best Movie Theater

Broadway Centre Cinema
321-0310 | 111 E Broadway, SLC
Although the art-house draw of the Tower and the beverage advantages of Brewvies (“Duh… Beer!” wrote one voter) gave it some tough competition, Metro readers seem to prefer Broadway for cinematic enjoyment. Maybe it’s because the theater offers both big blockbusters and the more unexpected Oscar-quality flicks. Who are we kidding—it’s the cool building and better-than-average concession stand, isn’t it?
Honorable Mentions:
Tower Theatre and Video, 321-0310, 876 E 900 South, SLC
Brewvies, 355-5500, 677 S. 200 West, SLC

Best Play/Production of 2004

Saturday’s Voyeur
June 18-August 22 2004 | Salt Lake Acting Company
Salt Lake Acting Company’s annual event pokes fun at the personalities, politics and people of the Beehive State—and it’s still a huge hit! But you didn’t need us to tell you that. After 26 years, the annual parody show continues crack up an audience on all sides of the cultural divide. It’s coming again, but get your tickets now because the lines are going to get long.
Honorable Mentions:
The Producers, Nov. 16-21, 2004, Broadway in Utah.
Confessions of a Mormon Boy, Sept. 23, 2004.

EVENTS

THIS IS NOT A DRILL — THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING!

Best Annual Event

Utah Arts Festival
www.uaf.org | Coming June 23-26, 2005
Each year on the third weekend of June, the Utah Arts Festival welcomes all Utahns to Library Square. With something for everyone’s tastes—including film, performing arts, visual arts, culinary arts and more—no wonder you told us it was your favorite annual occasion.
Honorable Mentions
Utah Pride, www.utahpride.org, June 8-12, 2005
Sundance Film Festival, festival.sundance.org, coming January 2006

Best Queer Event

Utah Pride
www.utahpride.org | Coming June 8-12, 2005
Okay, this category was pretty obvious now that we think about it. Over 90% of responses indicated that Pride was their favorite gay event of the year—and no wonder. Between the festival, parade, dance, interfaith service and more, it’s certainly the community’s most ambitious activity all year long.
Honorable Mentions:
Utah AIDS Foundation Oscar Party, utahaids.org, coming February 27, 2005

Best Music Festival

Park City International Jazz Festival
www.parkcityjazz.com | Coming August 26-28, 2005
Taking place at the Deer Valley Resorts, it seems this is one trip up the mountain that our readers certainly don’t mind taking. Attracting strong talent each year, including some Grammy winners, we’re betting that our readers don’t mistake the Park City Jazz Festival for some sort of sporting event.
Honorable Mentions:
Blues & Brews Festival, at the Gallivan Center, coming September 9 & 10, 2005
Red Butte Concert Series, redbuttegarden.org

Best Charity Walk/Run/Bike Ride

Utah AIDS Foundation Walk for Life
www.utahaids.org | Coming September 2005
The “AIDS Walk” is still the most beloved of healthy charity activities among our readers. This year’s Walk will be in September, bringing the event back to its fall roots. Coming up on its 17th year, UAF hopes to see a strong turnout in 2005. You voted for it, now get out and stand behind your vote.
Honorable Mentions:
Salt Lake City Race for the Cure (Susan B Komen Breast Cancer Foundation), www.komenslc.org, Coming May 7, 2005

Best Weekly or Monthly Event

Gallery Stroll
ourcommunityconnection.com | Third Friday of each month from 6-9 p.m.
Want to hobnob with the artistic elite, maybe enjoy some fine food, and take in a lot of art at many of the valley’s top galleries? That’s the idea behind the monthly gallery stroll; participants conduct a self-guided tour through dozens of member galleries, socialize and generally have a fabulous time.
Honorable Mentions:
Farmers Market, every Saturday through summer.
Lavender Tribe, www.lavendertribe.org, every Wednesday night at 7:30 at The Center.

Best Live Show of the Past Year

Scissor Sisters
At Club Suede
What? Now you’re all in love with the glam rock band whose lead singer has an ass so tight you can bounce a roll of quarters off it (“I can do lots of things with my ass and a roll of quarters,” replied Jake Shears during the show)? We almost disqualified this because we weren’t sure if it met the “of the past year” qualification, but so many of you apparently grooved out to the Sisters that we allowed it. Just remember, we saw ‘em first!
Honorable Mentions:
RuPaul at Vortex
Social Distortion at In The Venue

Best Party of the Past Year

Utah AIDS Foundation Oscar Party
www.utahaids.org | coming February 27, 2005
It’s been said that the Academy Awards are the Superbowl of the queer community. Who are we to argue? Fabulous gowns, famous people crying and ruining their mascara, drama and intrigue ... what’s not to love? Fifteen years ago UAF had a brilliant idea to make the night even better: a fundraiser to mark the occasion. It’s been a box-office smash ever since. This year’s party is at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center.
Honorable Mentions:
Gay Day at Lagoon
Gay Wendover Weekend, coming Sept. 15-18

Best Time of Year to Party

Summer
Hands down, Metro readers prefer to party while the weather’s warm, the pools are cool, and the shirts are off. Well, summer’s right around the corner, kiddies, let’s start getting some of those party invites at the Metro office.
Honorable Mentions:
New Year’s
Halloween

SHOPPING

A CONTACT SPORT

Best Mall or Shopping Plaza

Gateway
456-0000 | 400 W 100 S, SLC
An overwhelming favorite, a few readers even dubbed this popular outdoor mall the “gay-way.” After being built for the Olympics, the Gateway has continued to attract queer shoppers—although we wonder how much of that has to do with the Abercrombie & Fitch store ...
Honorable Mentions:
Fashion Place, 265-0504, 6191 S State St, SLC

Best Place to Browse All Day

Gateway
456-0000 | 400 W 100 S, SLC
While we’re sure that the shops and stores carry many fascinating items at the Gateway, we suspect that it’s the view of hot guys in the fountains during summer, and attractive gals in the latest styles that really won the readers’ votes in this category.
Honorable Mentions:
Dancing Cranes Imports, 486-1129, 673 Simpson Ave, SLC
Sugarhouse, near Highland and 2100 E, SLC

Best Place to Hit on the Employees

Oasis Café
322-0404 | 151 S 500 E, SLC
It seems that the readers of Metro love to flirt at cafés. We guess it’s the relaxed atmosphere that encourages lengthy stays and conversation. At any rate, Oasis Café tipped the scales for the most flirt-worthy employees. On a side note, some of the people voting for Oasis Café also listed the parking lot outside the joint as the best place to make out. Coincidence? We think not.
Honorable Mentions:
Cocoa Caffe, 364-3332, 282 E 900 S, SLC
Café Trio, 533-8746, 680 S 900 E, SLC

Best Place to Be Seen

Coffee Garden
355-3425 | 898 S 900 E, SLC
Is it flattering lighting? Hip clientele? Intelligent conversation? Whatever the reason, when you want to be noticed and remembered, park your butt at Coffee Garden and sip on a large cup of double, skinny, grande mocha (hold the whip).
Honorable Mentions:
Gateway, 456-0000, 400 W 100 S, SLC

Best Place to Buy Clothing

Cockers
359-0406 | 50 S Main St Ste 138, SLC
A tiny oasis of clubwear and underwear in the Crossroads Mall has snagged the spot as the best place to buy clothing. The staff is helpful, friendly and easy on the eyes, plus they can help you with a variety of needs from sexy swimwear to cologne.
Honorable Mentions:
Nordstrom, four Utah locations
Deseret Industries (DI), 13 Utah locations

Best Place to Buy Videos/DVDs

Virgin Megastore
456-6342 | 12 S 400 W (The Gateway), SLC
Metro readers really loved the Virgin Megastore at the Gateway. With a wide selection of new releases along with a healthy dose of independent and cult favorites, this is our winner for best place to buy your movies.
Honorable Mentions:
Best Buy, five Utah locations
Media Play, five Utah locations

Best Place to Buy Books

Barnes & Noble (at Sugarhouse)
463-2610 | 1104 E 2100 S, SLC
Although B&N has locations all over the state, readers were very specific about which bookstore they preferred. Although small independent shops like Sam Weller and King’s English had a loyal following in this vote, the resources, scope and location of the international giant won out. So if you’re looking to meet Mr. Intelligent, you might want to casually hang out at the Gay & Lesbian section of the store.
Honorable Mentions:
Sam Weller, 328-2586, 254 S Main St, SLC
Borders, three Utah locations
King’s English Bookstore, 484-9100, 1511 S 1500 E, SLC

Best Place to Buy Music

Virgin Megastore
456-6342 | 12 S 400 W (The Gateway), SLC
When you want a wide selection, few stores can rival the Virgin Megastore. Whether your tastes run to Broadway, underground electronica, standard pop or indie imports, your best chance of finding it is at Virgin.
Honorable Mentions:
Media Play, five Utah locations
Graywhale CD Exchange, 583-9626, 208 S 1300 E, SLC

Antiques or Furniture

Moxie
359-6699 | 57 E 700 S, SLC
Although it’s only been open a few months, Moxie’s warehouse of goodies has made it the hip place to buy new and used furniture or clothing. It is, after all, the largest consignment store in Utah. From a weathered patio set to an inspirational piece of art by a local artist, Moxie has something for everyone—even if you have to dig a little to unearth your gem.
Honorable Mentions:
DeConde’s,355-1727, 270 E 100 S, SLC
Z Gallerie, 456-0085, 90 S Rio Grande St, SLC

Best Place to Buy Gifts

Cahoots
538-0606 | 878 E 900 S, SLC
The gift and card shop located at 9th and 9th offers a selection of novelty items, a pride shop full of rainbow-colored items, one of the city’s best selections of lube and a mysterious adult room (What’s back there? We’ve never been. No, really ... we’re good little boys and girls).
Honorable Mentions:
Basket Loft, three Utah locations
Tabula Rasa, 575-5043, 50 S Main St Ste 99, SLC

Best Place to Buy Cars

Mini/BMW of Murray
262-2479 | 4735 S State St, Murray
Readers actually voted Mini and BMW separately, ending in a tie where the two sides of the same dealership took the prize in this category. Whether readers were impressed by the selection of expensive, shiny, popular cars, the helpful service department, or the more reasonably priced pre-owned vehicles, Mini/BMW of Murray is our readers’ choice for getting some new wheels.

Best Place to Buy Plants

Cactus & Tropicals
485-2542 | 2735 S 2000 E, SLC
We could spend all day hanging out at Cactus & Tropicals. The large nursery smells so wonderful and is so full of beautiful plants, you almost believe you could get lost in meditation just wandering around. Don’t let that happen though, because the staff (including Metro’s own Brandie Balkan) is very knowledgeable and will help you set up your own garden as a little slice of heaven.
Honorable Mentions:
Millcreek Gardens, 487-4131, 3500 S 900 E, SLC

Best Place to Buy Flowers

Every Blooming Thing
521-4773 | 444 S 700 E, SLC
Need to say “I screwed up, please don’t leave me!” in a really big way? Trying to earn brownie points with an unexpected bouquet? Don’t know what to send to your boss’ cousin’s son’s wife’s father’s funeral? Check in with Every Blooming Thing for arrangements, ideas and inspiration for every flower-appropriate occasion.
Honorable Mentions:
Roots, 363-7668, 324 S 400 W, SLC
Twigs Flower Company, 596-2322, 888 S 900 E

Best Place to Buy Food

Smiths, 9th & 9th and 6th Ave and E St., SLC
The convenience of being close to home was the first factor in this vote. After that, readers seemed to respond to selection and price in their grocery stores. The Smiths Food & Drug Company stores located at 900 S. & 900 E. and in the Avenues were the most popular choices.
Honorable Mentions:
Wild Oats, four Utah locations
Liberty Heights Fresh, 467-2434, 1242 S 1100 E.

Best Place to Buy Adult Toys

Mischievous
530-3100 | 559 S 300 W, SLC
What activity can’t be made more fun by adding rubber, leather, ostrich feathers or batteries? From the most popular of adult toys to those special items that make you raise your eyebrows and ask “What’s that for?” our readers head to Mischievous when they’re ready to get their kink on.
Honorable Mentions:
Cahoots, 538-0606, 878 E 900 S, SLC
Blue Boutique, 485-2072, 1080 E 2100 S, SLC

PLACES

IT’S A GAY WORLD AFTER ALL

Best Place to Take a Date

Em’s Restaurant
596-0566 | 271 North Center St., SLC
Between the tablecloths, votive candles, flowers and scenic locale, it’s no wonder Metro readers associate Em’s with the best spot to impress the future ex-husband. The food is also excellent without being so heavy you’ll only want to nap afterwards.
Honorable Mentions:
Panini, 535-4300, 299 S Main St Ste 250

Best Place to Take a 2nd Date

Home
Yeah, the overwhelming majority of you said that the best place to take a second date is home, or some variation of the same thought. So that old joke about lesbians bringing a U-Haul on the second date ... maybe we should all pack an overnight bag at least.

Best Place to Make Out

Car
While there were a startling number of creative and interesting answers in this category, the most common response was in the car. Your automobile isn’t just for transportation any more. And to the reader who suggested that the best place to make out was the desk of Metro Editor Jere Keys, he says it’s fine as long as he gets to run the video camera (or you’re making out with him).
Honorable Mentions:
His House…
This Is the Place Monument, 2601 Sunnyside Ave

Best Place to Cruise

Fairmont Park
2361 S. 900 East, SLC
What’s there to say? Quaint family location by day, target of police action by night, Fairmont Park is a favorite of gay men out for a moonlight stroll. Some of the responses were really quite suggestive, too.
Honorable Mentions:
Memory Grove, 135 E North Temple
Gateway, 400 W 100 S

Best Place to Violate Public Decency Laws

Temple Square
50 W North Temple, SLC
Well, never let it be said that Metro readers don’t have balls. We suppose if you’re going to engage in a little outdoor recreation that isn’t exactly of the legal variety, you might as well do it in the most sacrilegious, offensive and dangerous way possible.
Honorable Mentions:
Fairmont Park, 2361 S. 900 East, SLC
MoDiggity’s Dugout, 832-9000, 3424 S State, SLC

Best Place to Relax on a Day Off

Red Butte Gardens
581-4747 | 300 Wakara Way, SLC
A picturesque paradise in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, our favorite time of year to visit Red Butte Gardens is early spring, when the flowers and plants are just coming to life.
Honorable Mentions:
Afternoon Tea at Grand America Hotel, 258-6707, 555 South Main Street, SLC
Golden Braid, 322-1162, 151 S 500 E

Best Place to Work Out

24 Hour Fitness (Sugarhouse)
466-2030 | 1121 East Ashton Ave, SLC
To be honest, no one thought the blow-out in this category was all that surprising; the gay community has practically taken over this gym. Not that it isn’t a top quality fitness facility, but remember we’re here to lift and stretch, girls, not grab and poke.
Honorable Mentions:
Gold’s Gym, twelve Utah locations
eNerGY: Nude Yoga, 556-2303, www.mbody.org

Best Place to Get Married

Red Butte Gardens
581-4747 | 300 Wakara Way, SLC
You can rent space in this lovely botanical treasure most times of the year, but you should plan ahead because it’s neither cheap nor unpopular. Whether you’re calling it a wedding, commitment ceremony, binding, or “legal joining by a series of properly notarized documents drafted by our lawyer,” the Red Butte Gardens will set a romantic mood and impress your families.
Honorable Mentions:
Memory Grove, 135 E North Temple
Rose Sachs Garden, 486-6619, Exit 131 traveling westbound I-80 in Parley’s Canyon, SLC

Best Place to Take Parents of Gay Children

The GLBT Community Center of Utah
539-8800 | 361 N 300 W, SLC
Bravo for The Center! We’re so proud that many of you feel The Center to be a safe, informative and educational place to take your parents.
Honorable Mention:
Utah Pride, www.utahpride.org, Coming June 8-12

Best Place to Take Children of Gay Parents

Utah Pride
www.utahpride.org | Coming June 8-12, 2005
Some readers had difficulty with this category (one reader suggested “Oh, just get a dog people!”), but most felt that the annual Gay Pride festival was the best place for Heather’s two mommies to take her. Well, it is a great chance for young people to meet other children of queer people and develop a sense of normality.
Honorable Mentions:
Hogle Zoo, 582-1631, 2600 Sunnyside Ave, SLC
Salt Lake City Public Library, 524-8200, 210 E 400 S, SLC

Best Place to Get Your Hair Done

Salon RZ
486-4700 | 1307 S 900 E, SLC
The first thing you notice about Salon RZ is the unique and totally awesome waiting room. No one will feel like they’re waiting at the DMV in here. These guys will take care of you before, during and after your makeover.
Honorable Mentions:
The Jagged Edge Retreat, 355-4674, 375 S Main, SLC
Bellezza Salon, 532-7583, 50 S Main St, SLC

Best Place to Ski

Alta
359-1078 | Hwy 210, Alta
In one of Utah’s biggest tourist industries, it can be difficult to know which resort really does have the “Best Snow on Earth” amid all the hype and advertising budgets. Well, the local Metro readers, who have had time to explore the different mountains, say that for their money, they’re heading up to Alta.
Honorable Mentions:
Snowbird, 933-2222, Hwy 210, Snowbird
Brighton, 532-4731, Star Rte, Brighton

Best Place to Enjoy the View

Above the Capitol Building
Near Girard Ave. and Main Street, SLC
Because of its valley setting, the Salt Lake area offers many dazzling vantage points of the city. However, for ease and aesthetics, Metro readers prefer to park above the Capitol Building. We have to love the irony of a bunch of gay folk looking down on the center of Utah politics while doing the things one often does while “parking” at night.
Honorable Mentions:
Wells Fargo Building, 299 S Main St, SLC

Best Place to Enjoy the View of Guys/Girls

University of Utah
Frat boys, theater majors and returned missionaries, oh my! The Utes may have gained national attention for having an undefeated football season, but the readers of Metro are paying attention for a whole lot of other reasons.
Honorable Mentions:
Home Depot, Various Locations
24 Hour Fitness, 466-2030, 1121 E. Ashton Ave, SLC

Best Place to Escape Utah for the Weekend

Las Vegas
Perhaps the vote was influenced by the fact that we were giving away a Vegas vacation as the drawing prize, but it seems that when we get our fill of the Saints, a few days in Sin City is just the thing we need. And we’re sending some lucky soul as part of this contest!
Honorable Mentions:
Wendover
San Francisco

Put the Mother-In-Law While She’s in Town

Hotel Monaco
595-0000 | 15 W 200 S, SLC
Awww ... your sweetie’s mom must love you! Monaco is comfortable, convenient, and classy without being pretentious. Of course, if you really cared, you’d give up your bed and sleep on the couches (in separate rooms, of course).
Honorable Mentions:
Grand America, 258-6000, 555 South Main Street
Motel 6, six Utah locations

Best Place to Get Counseling

Pride Counseling
595-0666 | 352 Denver St Ste 240, SLC
Several readers didn’t want to fess up about where they get their heads shrunk. Apparently clients of Pride Counseling don’t feel the same degree of shame about naming the therapists who help them get in touch with their inner children. As the name implies, these guys aren’t afraid to be out in their desire to help the community.
Honorable Mentions:
Don Austin, 485-9225, 1390 S 1100 E Ste 101, SLC

Get a Tattoo or Piercing

Koi
463-7070 | 1301 S 900 E Ste 7, SLC
Well, you won’t be getting a tattoo at Koi, but they’ll pierce anything you like. With a funky selection of jewelry, sterile procedures and great African-themed art, be careful or you might just start coming back until your face looks like Pinhead in Hellraiser.
Honorable Mentions:
Big Deluxe, 355-1696, 730 S State St, SLC
Two Kats Tatsii, 466-8002, 1576 S State St, SLC

Best Place to Get a Massage (tie)

The Kura Door
364-2400 | 1136 E. Third Ave, SLC
Pride Massage
486-5500 | 1800 S West Temple Ste A224, SLC
While both locations provide excellent massage services, the two winners in this category are very distinctive. The Kura Door is a full service spa based on Japanese treatments where you will be treated like royalty. Pride Massage gives equally excellent customer service without the intimidating or seemingly pretensious spa stuff—in fact, they go out of their way to make sure you’re comfortable with the experience, including coming to you if necessary.
Honorable Mentions:
UCMT, 521-3330, 25 S 300 E, SLC

Take Fido and Phydeux for Their ‘Do’

Dog Show
466-6100 | 1508 S. 1500 East, SLC
Although many people suggested great places to do it yourself, most of our readers agreed to leave the pet grooming to the experts. Trust us, taking the “kids” to Dog Show is probably a much better idea than shaving your poodle on your crazy neighbor’s lawn.
Honorable Mentions:
PetSmart, seven Utah locations.
Lucky’s Dogs Resort, 746-2865, 255 N 400 W

Best Place to Get Drilled

Sugarhouse Dental Spa
466-6645 | 2036 S. 1300 East, Ste D, SLC
Dr. Kirkland Graham has a great sense of humor and makes his patients feel perfectly at ease. Whether you’re in need of routine maintenance, just a cleaning, or cosmetic dentistry like you’d see on Extreme Makeover, Metro readers suggest you visit the Sugarhouse Dental Spa first.
Honorable Mentions:
Greg Perkins, 255-4870, 1275 Fort Union Blvd #215
Michael Williamson, 966-4481, 4735 S 2700 W

ORGANIZATIONS

ALL FOR ONE AND ONE FOR ALL

Best Social Organization

Swerve
www.swerveutah.com | Monthly meetings on the third Sunday of each month at The Center, 7 p.m.
The lesbian-focused social and civic organization garnered the most votes in this category. The group is known for keeping an open mind about a great many types of activities and projects.
Honorable Mentions:
GLYA (Gay LDS Young Adults), www.glya.com, check online calendar for upcoming events.
Royal Court of the Golden Spike Empire, www.rcgse.org, check online calendar for events.

Best Political or Service Org.

Utah AIDS Foundation
www.utahaids.org | 487-2323 | 1408 S 1100 E, SLC
Although we could tell it was a difficult choice since many people responded with comments like “they’re all great,” kudos to the Utah AIDS Foundation for inspiring confidence in the community and for doing such important work to deal with the great plague. Commemorating 20 years in 2005, UAF is the oldest and certainly most visible HIV/AIDS service organization in the state, and it’s the favorite charity among QSaltLake’s readers. At a time when other state’s AIDS organizations are faltering, UAF continues to lead the region in education, support, and services.
Honorable Mentions:
Equality Utah, www.equalityutah.org, 355-3479, 175 W. 200 South, Ste. 2010, SLC
Human Rights Campaign, contact Mariott at 486-7373 or marriottms@comcast.net.

Best Religious Organization

Unitarian Universalism
First Unitarian Church, 582-8687, 569 S 1300 E, SLC
South Valley Unitarian Universalist Society, 944-9723, 6876 Highland Dr, SLC
Ogden Unitarian Universalist Church, 394-3338, 2261 Adams Ave, Ogden
Unitarian Universalism is a difficult religion to define. The UU welcomes people of many diverse faiths as well as atheist, humanists and agnostics. It comes as no big surprise, then, that a religious body so open-minded would also be the place where the most Metro readers also feel at home.
Honorable Mentions:
Episcopal Church, twelve Utah congregations
Sacred Light of Christ Metropolitan Community Church, 595-0052, 823 S 600 E, SLC

Best Gay Sports Organization

Queer Utah Aquatic Club (QUAC)
232-7961 | www.quacquac.org
Oh sure, this vote had nothing to do with guys in Speedos and gals in two-pieces, now did it? All joking aside, QUAC is a great organization welcoming swimmers at all levels of skill and experience. While the focus is on improving individual swim times, the group competes at international competitions and also has great fun as a social group.
Honorable Mentions:
Gay & Lesbian Soccer, 339-6128
Pride Softball League, 541-6000

PEOPLE

OUR HEROES

Best Leader of a Queer Organization

Scott McCoy
Don’t Amend Alliance Campaign Director
Voting for the Utah’s Most Fabulous competition was already over when news broke that McCoy was selected as a new State Senator and Utah’s second openly gay political office holder. While he’s moving on to bigger and better things, it’s his work on the Don’t Amend Campaign that has endeared him to hundreds of Metro readers.
Honorable Mentions:
Michael Mitchell, Equality Utah Executive Director
Micah Jensen, Salt Lake Men’s Choir President

Best Volunteer for a Queer Organization

Gary & Millie Watts
Family Fellowship
Lifetime members of the LDS church, Gary and Millie responded to the news that they had gay children by devoting much of their time to causes like PFLAG and the Family Fellowship, groups that help other parents cope with learning their children are gay. The Watts also appeared in television commercials for the Don’t Amend Alliance.
Honorable Mentions:
Teinamarie Nelson, Don’t Amend Alliance
Missy Larsen, The GLBT Community Center of Utah

Best Local or State Politician

Rep. Jackie Biskupski (D-Salt Lake City)
Most Metro readers consider Utah’s first openly lesbian elected official our best politician, with Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson coming in a close second. Rep. Biskupski has been a lone voice for the community on Capitol Hill until very recently; she’s now joined by Sen. Scott McCoy.
Honorable Mentions:
Mayor Rocky Anderson (D-Salt Lake City)

Best Bartender/Barback/Server

Brett Hudson @ Heads Up
Hey, did you know that if you get beyond Brett’s boy-next-door appeal, his charming smile and gregarious manner, he can actually mix up some pretty good drinks, too? Of course you did. That’s why you’ve selected him as the best bartender in the state of Utah. And he’s single, boys!
Honorable Mentions:
Stan @ Try-Angles
Amanda Madsen @ Oasis Cafe

Best Local Actor or Actress

Aaron Swenson (Hedwig & The Angry Inch)
Technically, Hedwig and the Angry Inch occurred all the way back in 2003. That didn’t seem to bother Metro readers though, as Swenson (who played the title role) received the most votes for best actor based on his turn as the rock star with the botched sex change operation.
Honorable Mentions:
Alexis Baigue (Saturday’s Voyeur, Beyond Therapy)
Annette Wright (Saturday’s Voyeur, Utah Jazz commercials)

Straight Advocate for Gay Rights

Rocky Anderson
Mayor of Salt Lake City
Since taking office, the mayor of Salt Lake City has made no secret of his support for gay rights. Through appearances at gay events, discussion forums on gay topics and more, Rocky’s been uncompromising in his battles with a mostly conservative political machine. He’s been attacked and criticized for his gung-ho political style, but Metro readers don’t care—they love him just the same.
Honorable Mentions:
Rep. David Litvack, Hate Crime bill sponsor
Gary & Millie Watts, PFLAG Parents extraordinaire

THE WORST

WE DON’T WANT YOUR KIND AROUND HERE

Most Anti-Gay Politician

Sen. Chris Buttars
(R-West Jordan)
Recently, the Tribune reported that when Buttars learned his new colleague at the State Senate would be Scott McCoy, his only response was “The gay?” followed by no comment. Several months ago, when challenged by a political flyer, he opined to the media that the gays were “out to get” him. Well, since he sponsored Amendment 3 and has remained one of the most vocal opponents of hate crime legislation and any other bill he thinks might advance queer causes—maybe some readers of the Metro do want to “get him.” Certainly, none of us will be shedding tears if he retired from politics.
Dishonorable Mentions:
Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah)
Rep. LaVar Christensen (R-Draper)

Most Anti-Gay Activist

Gayle Ruzicka
In the biggest blow-out of the entire ballot, Gayle Ruzicka is the undisputed champion of anti-gay causes. This Eagle Forum spokeswoman has been called many names, from the grande dame of conservative politics to much worse. Now we’re pleased to officially dub her “the most anti-gay activist” in the state of Utah. We wonder if she feels even the slightest twinge of remorse over the fact that an entire community dislikes her.

Worst Place to be Queer

Utah County
While many readers voted for Utah in the general sense, out of civic pride we discounted those votes (hey, there are worse places that Utah, trust us!). So, by including Provo, BYU and other areas in Utah County, Metro readers agree that the ultra-red county to the south is neither a great place to visit nor a great place to live. To our brothers and sisters south of the cultural divide, you have our sympathy.
Dishonorable Mentions:
Main Street Plaza

Worst Night of the Week to Go Out

Monday
Note to club owners: Make Mondays more interesting. It should be a great night to party—while all the Mormons are having “family home evening” we could own this state. Yet Metro readers say that it’s the night they’re least likely to head out.
Dishonorable Mentions:
Tuesdays

Person Who Most Needs to Get Out of Utah

Gayle Ruzicka
She won’t listen to us, but the majority of Metro readers would like Ruzicka to retire her anti-gay rhetoric to anywhere else—preferably a blue state where she’ll get a taste of what being a minority voice is like. Anyone want to start raising funds to buy her a condo in south-central L.A.?
Dishonorable Mentions:
“Me”
Olene Walker

Biggest Scandal of the Year

Nancy Workman
The antics and shenanigans of the former Salt Lake County Mayor have made the name “Workman” synonymous with “scandal” in the state of Utah. Whether funneling money into the Boys and Girls Club to benefit her daughter, providing luxury vehicles and gas to double-compensated employees, or favorable treatment for political supporters, the readers of Metro think that Workman’s actions have provided the biggest and most ongoing stories of the year. Her acquital just before press time is unlikely to change our readers’ minds.
Dishonorable Mentions:
Amendment 3

ABOUT US

We’d Like To Thank the Little People

Best Metro News Writer

Nicholas Rupp
“Never have I seen such shameless ballot stuffing!” pronounced Editor Jere when word came that feature writer and proofreader Nick Rupp had overtaken him in this category. He was just kidding, of course, and admits that all Salt Lake Metro writers deserve awards. Nick stands out from the crowd, though, for his thorough, investigative style in articles like “PnP: Crystal Meth” and “Who Bankrolled ‘Yes on 3?’”
Honorable Mentions:
Jere Keys
Darren Tucker

Best Metro Columnist

Laurie Mecham “AberRant”
A few weeks ago, a friend of Laurie’s introduced the world to the hilarious and intelligent “AberRant” via a popular blog site. Not only did Metro online readership rise dramatically, but Laurie started getting fan mail from straight women all over the country. Well, they can’t have her; she’s ours and we’re not letting her go!
Honorable Mentions:
Ruby Ridge
“You All Deserve a Hug!”

Best Metro Article/Feature/Story

PNP: Crystal Meth (Nicholas Rupp)
Published in August, the Metro cover story about the connection between crystal methamphetamine, the queer community, and HIV has left the most lasting impression on Metro readers. Well, of course! It had sex, drugs and ... okay, there was no rock n’ roll to speak of. But did we mention it had sex and drugs?
Honorable Mentions:
Invisible Youth (Alexandra Woodruff)
2004 Year in Review (Various)

OTHER

Best Radio Station

KCPW
1010 AM, 88.3 FM and 105.3 FM.
Broadcasting out of Library Square, the National Public Radio affiliate that offers local, national and world news 24 hours a day is the favorite among Metro readers, beating out music-format stations and other talk radio offerings.
Honorable Mentions:
KRCL 90.9 FM
KXRX 96.3 FM “X96”

Best Television News Program

Fox 13 / KSTU
While the Fox networks are known for their decidedly conservative bias, Metro readers don’t seem to have much objection to the way local Fox 13 newscasters handle the news. Several readers specifically called out the Good Day Utah morning news. The chiseled good looks of anchor Dan Evans and weatherman Damon Yauney definitely aren’t hurting things either.
Honorable Mentions:
BBC America, KBYU 10:00 p.m. weeknights
ABC 4, KTVX

Best Lube

Eros
Since 1992, Pjur and its affiliates have sold millions of bottles of personal lubricant around the world. Leading the pack is its brand name Eros. With a variety of options (from aqua to bodyglide) it should be a snap finding the safest, smoothest product for your individual pleasure.
Honorable Mentions:
ID
Spit

Best Pick-up Line

“Wanna Fuck?”
Honorable Mentions:
Fuck me if I’m wrong, but have we met before?
Nice shoes…wanna fuck?

Best Way to Come Out to Mom and Dad

Fast & Testimony Meeting
Honorable Mentions:
Bumper Sticker: I kiss girls/boys
Get a byline in the QSaltLake
Get caught going at it
Hi, Mom. Hi, Dad. I’m gay.

OUR PICKS

Okay, so after we printed up the ballots, we realized that there were other deserving categories to be considered. A few readers wrote in their nomination in non-existing categories and we came up with some ourselves.

Best German Restaurant

Bavarian Chalet German Restaurant
479-7561 | 4387 Harrison Blvd Ste 9, Ogden
Achtung! There are more fine German exports than cars and Oktoberfest. Wienerschnitzel, Rahmschnitzel, Sauerbraten and many robust beers make a delightful dining experience. This Bavarian-themed restaurant is a truly Continental experience.

Best Place to Buy Comic Books

Night Flight Comics
Cottonwood Mall: 272-8343, 4835 So. Highland Dr., SLC
At Library Square: 532-1188, 210 East 400 South, SLC
Queer as Folk and The Simpsons images of comic book sellers aside, there’s one golden rule if you hope to make a living selling these undervalued and often maligned forms of entertainment—know your shit! In our experience, you can’t walk into a Night Flights store without getting into a conversation with the staff about the latest trends, employee recommendations (if you like that, have you checked out…) and even politics. A wide selection of titles can be found anywhere, a staff this gregarious and helpful is rare.

Best Theater Space

Rose Wagner Center for the Performing Arts
355-2787 | 138 W Broadway, SLC
Actually, many readers misunderstood our category asking for the names of theatrical troupes and listed buildings where they enjoyed seeing live theater. Taking those votes into account, the readers seem to enjoy performances at Rose Wagner best. We guess that’s a sign of $7.3 million well spent on constructing one of the best performing arts spaces in the west.

Best Place to Fake n’ Bake

Electric Rayzz Tanning Salon
583-8815 | 231 S 1300 E, SLC
Oh admit it, you hate the pasty whiteness of your skin by the time January rolls around and you’re desperate to get back to that tall, dark and handsome state. Either that or you’re eager to get rid of those unsightly temple garment tan lines. Stop by Electric Rayzz for a bit of UltraViolet cooking to hold you over to the warmer weather.

Best Coffee Shop

Coffee Garden
355-3425 | 898 S 900 E, SLC
How could we miss such an important category as best coffee shop? Well, our readers snuck the Coffee Garden in as Best Place to Be Seen, but we thought it important to recognize them as best in the doling of java. How many locally-owned coffee shops can boast out-grossing a Starbucks that opens right across the street?

Utahn Who Needs His Own Reality Show

Ken Jennings
Okay, so all we really want to see is the Jeopardy champion covered in ants or forced to eat elephant testicles or something. Mr. Smarty Pants has reached the point of media overkill in Utah previously occupied by Ed Smart, father of Elizabeth.

Best Website to Visit with Tissues

www.SeanCody.com
It’s the story of a good-old-fashioned Mormon boy growing up to make lots and lots of online porn. SeanCody.com is one of the most talked about sites on the internet getting “straight” boys to drop trou and explore their boundaries for a little cash. We don’t know how Sean finds so many gorgeous hunks willing to show off—but we’re not one to look a gift horse in the mouth.

Best Website to Visit and Leave the Door Unlocked

Gay.com
Still the foremost method of online cruising, if you can show us a gay Utah man without a gay.com profile, we’ll show you real live unicorn! Just remember, boys, that objects on gay.com may be smaller than they appear.

Best Reason to Have Internet Access Besides Porn

Yahoo! Groups (groups.yahoo.com)
With a plethora of Yahoo! Groups—email lists people can voluntarily subscribe to—focused on the local community (i.e. Utah_Stonewall_History, UtahQueerEvents, SLMetro, etc.) you can get announcements on anything from politics to parties, debate topical issues and spread the news through this popular forum.

Best Local Blog We’ve Seen

http://www.eyelectricity.com/mt/db/
Titled “Latter Gay Saint Blog: A compendium of thoughts, experiences & observations from a gay, ex-Mormon,” this blog is funny and informative. We admit that there are possibly hundreds of blogs out there, so if you know of any you’d like to recommend, send us an email.

Best Excuse to be a Log Cabin Republican

Sen. Greg Bell (R-Fruit Heights)
You thought we were going to say Attorney General Mark Shurtleff, didn’t you? Well, while we admire the A.G.’s opposition to Amendment 3 and support of Hate Crime legislation, Sen. Bell has taken a real leadership role in sponsoring and advocating laws which (gasp) treat gay people fairly under Utah law. If the Log Cabin Republicans can support and find more moderate voices like Bell’s, there’s still hope for the Grand Old Party.

Best Example of Utah Screwing Over Gay Youth

Queer Kick Ash Program
First the schools prevented gay youth from expressing a socially responsible anti-smoking message on t-shirts, then the state cancelled funding for the Queers Kick Ash program at The Center leaving a major funding hole in the non-profit’s work with gay youth—the only anti-smoking program to lose funding this year. Combined with the constant anti-gay rhetoric coming from state lawmakers, singling kids out who are making a healthy and smart choice to avoid tobacco is nothing short of shameful.

QSaltLake Utah’s Most Fabulous of 2005
was compiled and written by Jere Keys
who holds no grudges for not winning the
coveted Best Metro News Writer award.