Checking In

Hey everyone, thanks so much for hanging in there while I take what is in all likelihood several weeks off.

I wanted to chime in on a few things, just in passing, to be sure they're on your radar.

First, let's talk about about the fact that police and executives are being attacked across the country. You probably know how I feel about these things, but the reality of this is more nuanced than just *Luigi intensifies.* It's likely that we're entering a period of turmoil that the United States hasn't seen for a long time. While we're used to seeing reprisal from the government, at this point, I think we need to be wary of reprisal from the civilian far right, as well. Heads on a swivel, folks, particularly on the streets or at even vaguely leftist events.

The weather has been terrifying the last month or so–floods everywhere, and not just "damp basement" floods, but the kind that sweep people, cars, and bridges away. You might remember that this is basic math: hot air holds more water, so as the planet heats up, we are more susceptible to flooding. Don't underestimate the threat of flooding–or of a late-season heat dome sweeping back in and roasting the country.

For good news, we're still in a neutral phase of the ENSO (El Niño) cycle, and that's likely to continue at least through the remainder of the summer. After that, we may be due to switch back to La Niña, which is a bullet mostly dodged for the Atlantic hurricane season. While we've had a couple heat domes here in the States, I think that they weren't absolutely brutal because we weren't under the influence of El Niño.

The Trump administration is of course tightening its noose on us all. A recent executive order puts houseless folks, and those with mental illnesses or addiction issues in the crosshairs. It cuts what little funding decent programs had and shifts federal efforts toward hospitalization and institutionalization. In a country where it is harder and harder for people to own homes or even rent, this is a means for the government to put virtually anyone they want away.

Lastly, while the world is beginning to come around on Israel's genocide of Gazans, it is too little, too late. We have to demand a complete halt to weapons shipments, a full release of waiting aid, and the entry of trained medical professionals to treat those who are at the critical fifth stage of starvation. Donate, if you are able.

We'll be back, y'all. Thanks for your patience.