apple juice

i think minnesotans love being on lists because we feel both proud of our city and generally inadequate next to our big city brothers and sisters like chicago, new york, san francisco, etc.

well, the American Planning Association named the Minneapolis Grand Rounds as one of the Top 10 public spaces in the country.

The Grand Rounds is the nation’s only urban-based National Scenic Byway. It is part of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s 6,400 acres of trails, lakes, parks, and recreation facilities. The parkways and paths are divided into seven segments and together form a nearly complete loop through Minneapolis as they connect 14 natural lakes, three creeks, two waterfalls, and the Mississippi River. Because of careful planning and strategic land acquisitions, all waterfront and rights-of-way around the lakes, creeks and river segments are in public ownership.

Take that Lincoln Park!

the sea of heads quickly turns and bends towards the foul ball. the wave retreats towards the pitcher’s mound with a sound of water rushing over rocks. for a moment, i am dizzy with the feeling of floating in the ocean as the heads bob in unison.

later, the first notes of “Don’t Stop Believing” sound over the pa. the vocal chords of 54,000 are exercised, at uncomfortable decibels, while we hope to inspire the home team to a win.

later still, after a stunning win, the masses spill onto the still-wet streets of minneapolis, whooping and hollering, honking car horns and slapping street signs as they walk off into the night, into their cars.

that night, it’s hard to unwind from the feeling that was shared with so many of your fellow citizens.

all because of a silly game.