Just before the holidays, I had an assignment with the New York Times in North Minneapolis, for this story by John Eligon. Aside from a few visits when friends of mine lived there years ago, I had never really explored the neighborhoods of North, or gotten to know the people there, which is why this assignment was so enjoyable. I love Minneapolis (ok, ok, you too St. Paul), and getting to know people who make this community truly strong was heartening.