When life is stressful and complicated, our pets give us unconditional love and companionship. Research shows that pets provide significant physical and mental health benefits, including lower blood pressure, reduced stress, increased physical activity and decreased loneliness. Our beloved pets are not only a comfort to us but also to others, and they are a way to connect with friends, family and complete strangers. A dawdling puppy, a cat riding in a stroller or a bird perched on their human’s shoulder can give us a moment of happiness, awe and connection. The last few months have been heavy and traumatic, and our pets will continue to play an important role in our recovery. To help spread much-needed joy, we will feature pets of all kinds in our next few issues. If you want to submit your pet for consideration, please contact Courtney Cushing Kiernat at courtney@hillandlakepress.org.
Paws & Pecks for Joy
Pets offer comfort, companionship and connection when life feels stressful, heavy or complicated.
(Images: Courtney Cushing Kiernat)
More Stories
Uptown’s Worst Block Gets a Do-Over
The city admits that the 2018 redesign of Hennepin Avenue between Lake Street and 31st Street didn’t work. A quick fix with paint comes this fall, a real rebuild in 2028. I went to the open house to hear about it. So did a few dozen other people.
Renters Organize as Building Violations Pile Up
Tenants in five large apartment buildings describe lost heat, no hot water and mice. The city says enforcement has limits, and building owners did not respond.
Letters to the Editor
Our goal is to offer readers diverse perspectives on newsworthy events or issues of broad public concern to the Hill & Lake community. Our copy limit is 300 words (750 words for a commentary or as space permits), and we reserve the right to edit for clarity and length. We do not publish submissions from anonymous sources; all contributor identities must be verified.
School Board Election Matters
Quick, name a School Board candidate. Chances are you can’t! With a deficit of more than $39 million and school closings on the table, the two at-large seats on your November ballot deserve a closer look.
Dear MPS: “Trust Me, Bro” Is Not Good Governance
The district’s plan closes 14 to 16 schools, only saves about $700,000 and asks parents to take the rest on faith. A parent who has dated this guy before says: Show your work, bro.
