Our closest river crossing, Bridge Number 9, reopened today, so we went for a walk. It gives us a straight (well, curved) shot to the University’s East Bank and medical campus. The new railings are now well above a cyclist’s center of gravity and serve as a suicide deterrent.
Category: In This Together
This is not normal
We heard stun grenades in the distance as we lay in bed last night: ICE was showing their displeasure with citizens exercising their constitutional rights. At school this morning, a guard station had been set up to prevent goons from entering the building. We kept the classroom door locked. Some learners opted to join the classes remotely. As I left the building, a helicopter was circling just a few blocks away.
Voices against occupation
On my walk, I decided to pay my respects to the Father of Waters (statue) at City Hall. To my surprise, a press briefing was just starting, so I stuck around. I listened as local and state leaders bore witness to the violent ICE occupation of our city; instead of dividing us, their presence has only brought the community together.
Americano, no ICE
The barista at Open Book’s coffee shop gave me a friendly wave as I walked in for my usual six-ounce Americano. I’d been examining the sign telling ICE goons to stay away. Some are billeted in hotels in our neighborhood, and judging by their low literacy levels, I’d be surprised if any wanted to walk into this temple of books for a cuppa. Similar signs are popping up on businesses all over the city.
Playground wars and real terrors
My shadow, with a hiking pole to brace against icy sidewalks, reminded me of a Dalek, the violent, merciless, and extremely xenophobic alien from the long-running British sci-fi show, Doctor Who (not to be confused with the ICE goons currently terrorizing Minneapolis). I remember wandering the playground as a kid, arm extended, mimicking a Dalek, chanting their catchphrase: “Exterminate! Exterminate!”
An empty classroom
Went for a quiet walk to process my thoughts. I should have been in the classroom working with recent immigrants. Instead, school is canceled for the rest of the week. This follows yesterday’s ICE actions in Minneapolis, which included the murder of Renee Good and the tear-gassing and shoving of staff and students at their school.
A tool for protected speech
A shiny whistle arrived today for my daypack. Three short blasts: ICE nearby. One long blast: ICE is detaining someone.
Next stop: the world
Family get-together at Misono. This was one plate among many. It’s definitely American sushi, but I’d like to think even Japanese people would enjoy it. Enjoyed the company, including my nephews, now 17 and 18. I encouraged them to travel to Sweden, Hokkaido, or beyond… I’d gladly pay for their tickets.
Christmas 2025
LEGO houses by Dwight. 4-seasons handmade lamp (including stained glass) by a colleague of Dwight’s as a retirement gift. Tree (Minnesota deadfall cherrywood) assembled by Tom. Christmas meal: a joint effort.
Offering solutions, not complaints
I thought this was inspired, though I hope no company policies were violated! Today I found a stash of free Delta earbuds in our building’s workout room, likely left by a neighbor who works for the airline. Instead of complaining about people playing music out loud, you can simply hand them a pair. Even if their phone doesn’t have a jack, it’s a positive way to address the behavior.