In the midst of so much inequality: Ode to the Class of 2017

Delivered to graduating seniors and their families at Pomona College’s Class Day

It’s great to be here today
to recognize you all in this way
I want to be here fully in celebration
but I can’t without first naming some realizations
I offer these reflections
with all humility
in the lessons you’ve taught me, class of 2017
Please know, I didn’t set out to rhyme
that’s just how the words flowed this time
The severity of the issues remain
I just speak them with little academic refrain

Mas…In the midst of so much inequality: Ode to the Class of 2017

Goldie Han Solo, 4, eulogized at tearful funeral: ‘She always smiled’


(PNS reporting from PALOS VERDES, CA) Beloved aquatic family member Goldie Han Solo was remembered for her cheerful demeanor and active lifestyle at a tearful funeral ceremony in the Solo family’s back yard here Tuesday.

Goldie, believed to be four years old (photo), apparently died of asphyxiation and/or dehydration after she leaped from her fishbowl Monday night around 11:37 PM. That’s when a small earthquake (3.5 Richter) shook this suburban Los Angeles community, according to the U.S. Geological Service.

Her teeny, shiny body was discovered on the floor of Reyna Solo’s bedroom at 7 AM Tuesday by family member Gilda Solis-Chihuahua Solo, who awakened 8-year-old Reyna with loud whimpering and assertive licking. Reyna and Gilda, a Canine-American, had both slept through the temblor; Goldie, not so much.

Reyna attempted mouth-to-mouth resuscitation but Goldie was already stiff and dry, swimming in that fish pond in the sky.

Mas…Goldie Han Solo, 4, eulogized at tearful funeral: ‘She always smiled’

Little Pedro and the Street Singers explain ‘Spanish America’ (video)


In “Spanish America”, supposed kid singers explain how tortillas are corn bread and frijoles are what’s for lunch:

From the Children’s Record Guild 78, released circa early 1950s. With David Pfeffer as Pedro, also with Sally Sweetland, Earl Rogers, Lee Sweetland, Denise Alexander and David Anderson. Music by Miguel Sandoval. Story by L. Paris.