Issue 207: Arms Wide Open, Legendary Cream, Detention Camps, and a Scandinavian LEGO monorail.

                        
                            Did you watch the first round of the Democratic debates last night? Boy, Beto whiffed it :( but Liz Warren was awesome and Julio Castro showed up big time. A lot of people are talking about how crowded the Democratic field is, but I think the number of diverse and viable candidates is really inspiring. I'm excited to watch the other half tonight! Anywho... newsletter time!
                        

                        
                            Someone should make a documentary about Arms Wide Open. Arms Wide Open is a non-profit org 'dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with special needs by fostering caring social environments and creating opportunities for recreation and participation in the arts.'

Once a year, AWO produces a full length musical where all the performers are children and adults with special needs. The performers, their parents, and their entire community rally around them, building sets and costumes, rehearsing for months. A few of my friends have performed in AWO productions and seeing them is a life-changing and inspiring experience.

                        
                            A documentary could follow AWO cast through the rehearsal, audition, and performance. It would tug at your heart strings and help bring awareness to an awesome program in specific while reminding us all how important it is for everyone to have access to the arts. Whadya think?
                        

                        
                            Some of the most interesting things I read, watched, or listened to in recent weeks:
                        

                        538: What Republicans and Democrats Are Doing In The States Where They Have Total Power

TL;DR: Red states are outlawing abortion, killing medicaid and unions; Blue states are legalizing pot, making college free, and raising the minimum wage.

                        Elle: Matika Wilbur's 7 Year Journey To Photograph Every Native American Tribe

Ms. Wilbur's story and photographs are beautifully evocative.

                        A Legendary Local Creamery Almost Shuts Down

Broguiere's Farm Fresh Dairy announced they'd be closing their doors after 100 years. Then, after an op-ed and an outpouring of support, they decided to stay open.

                        
                            Lights For Liberty is organizing mass vigils Friday July 12th to bring awareness to the conditions at detention camps along the border. Find your nearest vigil and make a plan to go with friends.

Mine is at the San Bernardino Department of Homeland Security Office. (Thanks to Danny O. for the tip).

National Dry Goods makes all kinds of beautifully designed items; their pins are nature/photography inspired... my sweet spot.

Peak Design made a super small, light weight travel tripod and like everything else they do, it's a beautiful piece of design.

Bricklink's custom LEGO sets are all spectacular and their new Skyline Express has "panoramic windows and sleek Scandinavian design that perfectly balances comfort and style." I WANT THIS.

Munchies was an old Funny or Die series where Toni Charline got high and cooked with guests like Jonathan Van Ness, Rachel Bloom, and Jon Gabrus. I made these fun stop-mo titles for her. They're wobblier than I'd like, but the stills are really cool.

Thanks for reading! I'd love to get your feedback. Favorite segment? What's working? What's not working? What do you want to see more of?