University of Florida Japan Relief

Got an e-mail from a friend down at the University of Florida who wants to help get the word about their efforts to raise money for the victims of the earthquake/tsunami in Japan. They are trying to raise $5000 so help out however you can and help them reach their goal and, more importantly, help out some people in need. More info here. Thanks.

The Asian Response

So I'm starting into this new series examining the trend of people online openly making fun of Asians and in some cases making some pretty hateful statements. To me the whole things stinks of internet bullying on a racial level. The same rules apply as any other bullying situation. Do you ignore them? Do you organize some sort of "official" response? Or do you find where they live and slash their tires? Many would claim that taking the high road is the best thing to do. Let the ignorant drown in their own ignorance. But that doesn't really do anything to stop them, does it? Well, Simon is on a mission to find out exactly what it will take to make them stop once and for all. Stay tuned...

Far away thoughts

This is actually next week's strip but I wanted to post it this week while people were still thinking about it because we all know once a story leaves the 24 hours news cycle it isn't happening anymore.

I have to say that I've been especially touched by how people (neighbors, bank teller, school bus driver...) have been asking if I had family in Japan and if everyone was OK. It's a nice balance to the ridiculous nastiness and public displays of ignorance.

Japan

I have no doubt that the people of Japan will get through this with their signature resolve and humility. But it seems they're not out of the woods yet so keep them in your thoughts and help out if you can.

POP QUIZ

OK, folks lemme have it!