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July 2011 Staff Picks

by Brittany Bauer, Jordan Sandvig

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Each month, our writers pick stuff they like.

Brittany’s Pick

A few years ago, Spin magazine featured a story on Jeff Tweedy, lead singer of the band Wilco (if you don't know them, check them out). Jeff’s 14-year-old son, Spencer Tweedy, was a part of the article as well, since it followed Jeff’s home life as well as his work with the band. At the end of the article, a sidebar included a photo of Spencer, a link to his blog, and some quotes from posts. From what I saw in the magazine, I couldn't help but think, "Wow, this guy's really quite insightful." Once I checked out the rest of his blog, I wasn't disappointed. Maybe it's because he has a musician for a father, but Spencer gives off an old soul vibe and is a very cerebral person. Though now he seems to be a bit more into photography, he still writes longer blog posts from time to time. He also features music on the site from his band, The Blisters, and has a link to where you can buy a book of photographs. I am so amazed, impressed, and inspired by what this guy is doing.

Jordan’s Pick

Here’s an inspiring political pick for you: On May 31, 2011, the President of the United States made this proclamation:

The story of America's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community is the story of our fathers and sons, our mothers and daughters, and our friends and neighbors who continue the task of making our country a more perfect Union. It is a story about the struggle to realize the great American promise that all people can live with dignity and fairness under the law. Each June, we commemorate the courageous individuals who have fought to achieve this promise for LGBT Americans, and we rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of equal rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

You can read the whole proclamation online: Presidential Proclamation—Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month. It’s good to know the pres has his priorities straight.

Author

Editorial assistant Brittany Bauer graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in June 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in English. Writing and reading are her two greatest passions, so you can usually find her with a pen in her hand or her nose in a book. She enjoys almost all fiction, memoirs, and anything about the Tudor dynasty or Renaissance art.

Jordan Sandvig is a musician, poet, and freelance writer living in Minneapolis. A Milwaukee native, Jordan obtained a degree in American Studies from the University of Minnesota and has been braving the winters here ever since. He devotes his free time to writing new songs, updating his blog, and the consumption and production of journalism, both of which he is addicted to.