Cycled over to Loring Park to join the hundreds of thousands of people celebrating Pride this weekend.
Category: Living
No book bans here
At Franklin Library this morning, I sat with an adult learner near this Pride Month book display. On August 1, a new state law takes effect, prohibiting public, university, and public/charter school libraries from removing materials based on their content or opinions.
Summer school lessons in perseverance
Worked through English Language Learning materials with an adult learner who had missed yesterday’s class. I’m always impressed by the dedication and focus of adult learners, even when they’ve been working overnight and have family responsibilities.
Distant view of a piece of statement art: once seen, it cannot be unseen
With rain set in for the day, today’s walk was two blocks to Open Book. After an Americano and donut at FRGMNT, I explored an exhibition by an artist collective that has a workshop in the building. One piece, “Fermented Femme Underwear,” hanging by a chain from the ceiling, was probably not something you’d want to see while eating. Here’s a general shot with “it” in the distance.
Remembering
Cycled a loop north of downtown Minneapolis with a friend. Here at Victory Memorial Drive, a monument honors the sacrifices of Hennepin County residents during both World Wars. Flags across Minnesota are currently lowered in remembrance of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, who was assassinated ten days ago.
First-world problem: a whining sound
A video showing a whining sound at this bathroom vent can reach 75 decibels helped to get our building’s management company to own the problem. The extraction fan is on the roof and should be silent in our home. The air is controlled by a motorized damper which makes no sound when open. Parts of the roof fan will be replaced. Over the years we’ve found this circa 1995 sound meter to be useful when addressing noise issues.
A utilitarian space gets a makeover
At the end of our steamy walk, two artists were putting the finishing touches on a geometric mural, its design inspired by shapes found in local historic landmarks. This softens a utilitarian side entrance to our building. Our main lobby and common areas regularly feature themed art shows by local artists. The art remains on display until the next show, and we have the option to purchase pieces.
Favorite summer activities
Despite temperatures in the high 80s, we enjoyed a relaxed bike ride down one side of the river to Minnehaha Park, returning on the other. We stopped at Loons Coffee for a cuppa and to pick up freshly roasted beans. Curiously, an out-of-season theme of small Christmas trees and a poinsettia was emerging inside. Still, folks were enthusiastic about sharing their favorite summer activities.
A cup of kindness at Pow Wow Grounds
Popped into Pow Wow Grounds, a Native-owned and operated coffee shop surrounded by one of the largest urban Native American populations in the country. When I ordered my coffee, the young barista ran a card on a string through the payment terminal causing it to display an unexpected “$0.” Noticing my confusion, he pointed to a sign and explained, “No charge for coffee for elders.” I accepted graciously.
Bonhomie at Falling Knife
Cycled over to Falling Knife Brewery with friends who live in our building. Good conversation flowed in the taproom.