How to Become an American
Excerpted from How to Become an American: A History of Immigration, Assimilation, and Loneliness, by Daniel Wolff, published December 2022 by University of South Carolina Press.
Organization and Immunity
Hundreds of angry miners crowded around the machine, several attacking it with hammers and axes. Finally, fifteen sticks of dynamite were placed under the motor, and a firing wire and exploders attached. A few minutes later there was a terrific blast and the shovel was reduced to a tangled mass of wreckage.
Belt’s 2023 Summer Fund Drive!
We've got more planned in the future, including a print anthology of Rust Belt poetry and the production of an original podcast about environmental calamities in our region, but none of this will be possible without your generous support.
The Phosphorus Paradox
Harmful algal blooms are a growing concern in the Great Lakes. The toxins they produce can close beaches, and even poison drinking water. What’s fueling these blooms? Phosphorus, a key ingredient in agricultural fertilizers. But the way it’s being used comes at a cost.
Two Poems by Frank Rosen
"All in the Water" and "Cuyahoga Thanatos" by Frank Rosen
Learning Democracy with Cincinnati’s LGBTQ Community
The turnaround in Cincinnati can serve as an inspiration.
Great Circle Earthworks (Newark, Oh.)
A poem by Daniel Wolff.
Voter Registration and Turnout Efforts Ramp Up in Ohio
After the registration deadline, advocates will try to boost turnout. They’re urging people already to make plans for voting and check out how.
‘Honor Her Memory… by Fighting Like Hell’: Barbara Ehrenreich Dies at 81
"I have never seen a conflict between journalism and activism," wrote Barbara Ehrenreich.
A Midwest Story: ‘The weekend promised winter hikes and cabin sex. But I was excited for Wisconsin’s primary export: DAIRY.’
By Melanie LaForce “Can I turn the heat down?” Dave asked. I looked at him. There was an irritating innocence [...]
It’s the Creativity, Stupid: How underdog Rust Belt candidates are connecting with voters through highly creative, and occasionally funny campaign ads
By Adam K. Raymond Two days ahead of last month’s primary elections in Illinois, Democratic State Senator Daniel Biss, a [...]
In Southwest Ohio, the opioid crisis has driven a record number of children into state custody
By Rose Broderick Data visualizations by Kevin Huber “March 22, 2017. Right then, everything changed.” Shelley’s raspy voice falters, her [...]