“Many creative writers keep journals; the sociologist’s need for systematic reflection demands it.” -C. Wright Mills

Lots of loose ends to briefly tie up and disordered messes to mop up.

First, I came across this website via metafilter, a centennial tribute to the cottages built after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. It particularly struck me because the most beautiful place I’ve ever lived was one such conversion at 23rd and Eureka. And then I get a phone call from Mr. Farrell. Long live the House of Love.

The second item is that the Searching for the Just City conference was a smashing success. Despite an absolutely gorgeous spring day, the auditorium was comfortably full, the crowd was engaged, and the debate was some of the best I’ve ever heard at a conference. Bob Beauregard suggested that it was because so many of the speakers know Susan and consequently took her and the conference more seriously. Despite John Logan and John Mollenkopf’s attempts to separate planning and politics (something Susan has demonstrated is impossible), the clarion call that seemed to blare out from the discussion is one for a return to advocacy planning. No one was specific about it, but the basic message was that the current ‘deciders‘ are not interested in a Just City and that a more activist position is required. Stay tuned for info on a publication and video.

The other loose ends on the program I will add to a separate post.