When it Rains, it Pours

Apple fans, please indulge me. This isn't a whine per se, but it's a little different than the typical Scarlet snark. The last few days have been, in a word, SH*TTY. So, my plan is to throw a few things out into the universe and hope that this is a small nudge in a positive direction.

RAINY DAYS: Aside from a few odd pockets of sun, the weekend was nothing but incessant grey and rain. My basement has water (I totally almost wiped out). I ruined a pair of heels by stepping into a deceivingly deep puddle. And - worst of all - the rain has practically drowned my nascent tomato plant. Right now my hope of yummy summer salsa with my own garden grown tomatoes is nothing but a sad sad tomato plant. Any and all tomato growing tips are much appreciated.

MARRIAGE AMENDMENT ON BALLOT: In November 2012, we will be voting on whether to amend the Minnesota constitution to include the following: “Only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in Minnesota.” It will be a long 18 months until the election. I am not looking forward to the hateful propaganda that will flood this state. I am not happy that I must now devote time and money to support a cause that ought not be. And most of all, I’m nervous to find out who in my life stands on the wrong side of this issue. This is a deal breaker for me.

You can expect to hear more from me on this issue. Until then, here are some resources for information, donations, and volunteer efforts (I will add to this list over time):

OutFront Minnesota

Project 515

TORNADOS HIT NOMI: On Sunday, I was supposed to meet a friend at 42nd Ave Station for a late lunch and gabfest, instead I spent the afternoon texting my fingers numb as I tried to figure out what the heck was going on in North Minneapolis. A couple of friends got lucky - one was close to, but not at all in, the tornado's path and another somehow managed to have the one house on the block that didn't get hit. My coffee mate, however, wasn't so lucky. She's got tree in her bedroom, rain in her house, an uprooted sidewalk, and a destroyed car.

Some of the first "news" reports on Sunday night did what they always do in NOMI - highlighted minor instances of misconduct and generalized it to the whole. One newscast practically declared the area a terror zone. The thing is, from what I can tell, it's almost exactly the opposite. Neighbors helping those in need, strangers almost overwhelming local organizations just trying to volunteer, impromptu community barbeques (a way to cook despite the lack of power), and an on-going word of mouth/text/social media effort to keep people informed. I'm going to help my friend as best I can, but others need help too. Want to help? Here’s where you can find some info: North Minneapolis Post Tornado Watch and Relief Efforts Info Sheet. Want to donate money?

1. American Red Cross: Online; text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation; mail to Twin Cities Area Chapter, NW 5597, PO Box 1450, Minneapolis, MN 55485.

2. Salvation Army: Online; call 1-800-SAL-ARMY; mailing a check to The Salvation Army 2445 Prior AVE, Roseville MN 55113; text the word BLESSING to 85944 to give $10.

3. Minneapolis Foundation: The Minneapolis Foundation has established the Minnesota Helps - North Minneapolis Recovery Fund. Online or mail to The Minneapolis Foundation, 80 S. 8th St., Suite 800, Minneapolis, MN, 55402.

4. Urban Homeworks: Online - designate it for “tornado relief.”

There you have it. I hope my tomatoes grow. I hope the anti-gay marriage amendment fails. And I hope that NOMI gets back on its feet in short order.

What are you putting out in the universe today?

SOURCE: Snarky Apple