Cedar Rapids community rallies at ICE check-in to support immigrant neighbors.  By Paul King The scene outside Cedar Rapids ICE field office on February 2, 2026. Photo by Paul King The recent actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement have drawn a spotlight on my area of the country. Iowa and Minnesota share a border, and while Iowa does not have the same problems with ICE and secret policing that Minnesota does, they are still here and Mon

Free speech in the UK remains firmly protected in law, but as communication increasingly takes place online, enforcement has expanded, and public scrutiny has grown.  By Jamie O’Meara-Nash In the UK, freedom of expression occupies a complicated place in public life.  In 2023 alone, police forces across England and Wales recorded 12,183 arrests under specific communication offences (roughly 33 arrests a day). This figure represents an increase of nearly 58% since 2019. Of thos

A new neighbor has moved into our quiet corner of Van Nuys Boulevard.  Welcome HAZHEART, the drunk and noisy roommate you never wanted. Nestled between the local post office and a travel agency is our newest friend. Fueled by Four Loko and drunken emo sweat is the hottest little half-clothing store half-venue the boulevard has ever graced its eyes upon. Their ever-welcoming sign outfront reads Come The Fuck In. Welcoming indeed.  Did the podunk town ask for this? Probably not