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  • #341
    Anna rRxia
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    Would have to say history disagrees
    About the facts of the US economy being dependent on war between 1918 and 1936 but it's a minor point. Certainly the beginning stages are there. I still believe it is in the 30s that the government made permanent policy for benefit and profit from war while controlling the lower class, which kept striking and was reaching a kind of pinnacle of resistance with with the "general" strike". Indeed, one of the years in which we had the most strikes in this country by labor was 1944 and organized labor bosses were not in control of most of them. The article you point to certainly shows what happens to organized labor striking in the armament industry or those who would try to prevent enlistment efforts in the armed forces: Heavy prison terms have been the norm. Of course, with shrinkage in the labor movement and the outsourcing(!) of war materials none of this seems to have any relevance anymore except for the possibility of an anti-war, isolationist candidate for president. Oh my, the very thought conjures us such a plethora of false-flag operations and other actions to keep the Holy Grail military budget profit in the hands of certain corporations. Interesting site Mike, though the writing is somewhat stilted and academic.
  • #342
    Mike Edwards
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    War is the Health of the State
    > since WW II our economy has depended on preparing for or fighting a war. It's a lot longer than that. Here's a great little essay on the subject from 1918: http://www.antiwar.com/bourne.php
  • #343
    Anna rRxia
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    American Isolationism Growing?
    Many people were surprised by the large percentage of people (some estimates say as high as 80%) of people against any military response by the US in Syria. Was it the right attitude? Certainly! There were no good outcomes to be seen after such military strikes.But what reasons were people giving their Congresspersons? America is not the world's police We are tired of war It would be wrong We need to take care of our own country These kinds of responses were widespread across both parties and independents and scare the living crap out of politicians and the MIC. Why? Because it limits drastically what policy options are available in certain situations where the polls may take a hit but the country won't in the case of non-action. We have been in a war economy since 1936 and are addicted to it. It would be a great conundrum if politicians couldn't take money from the Mil.-Ind.-Com. AND get people's votes. Something that would have to be corrected by scaring the crap out of us some more...
  • #344
    Anna rRxia
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    Approval for Keystone XXL Pipeline imminent
    The heavy oil being extracted through tar sands in Alberta and proposed to be shipped through a pipeline 800 miles long that would end in Nebraska is a heavy green-house gas emitter. Obama has said that if it can be proven that this pipeline (joined to an existing pipeline) and the heavy crude it carries to be refined in the South is more environmentally-unfriendly then he will be against it. What is not often mentioned in this debate is that the oil being replaced is heavy crude from Venezuela. Thus it contributes to our country's energy independence, but is as dirty. There will be a cut-in to the new pipeline from Montana, flowing further tar sands oil down the line. Given this reality, Obama has been telling the Energy Minister and PM of Canada that they shouldn't worry, by his test there will be an equal amount of greenhouse gasses emitted. What is left out of this equation is alternative energy sources to heavy crude. American corporate oil dinosaur corporations continue to roam the great plains screeching massive decibels of propaganda. It's coming to a head again next weekend with demonstrations against in 45 US cities and an opening tirade for the pipeline by the Senator from big oil in Alaska. I used to be upbeat that Obama would do the right thing, but by his own logic and test I think he'll end up supporting it and using it as a bargaining chip. Anybody want to bet which side Obama comes down on?
  • #345
    Anna rRxia
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    Thumbs up WTJ!
    Positive news! I like that! 377 megawatts ain't nothing to sneeze at and being engineered by some of the biggest names in the corporate world like Bechtel. It's almost enough to give one hope. Most of world isn't like the Mojave dessert with 330 sunny days a year. Still, you take what progress you can get. The Saudis have the most massive desalination plants in the world. Who is to say we can't get huge returns for mega-plants in the right places? Enough to make a significant reduction if the 400,000 tons of carbon emissions being saved at Ivanpah is any indication. It's good. It' positive. It is hope.
  • #346
    wilfredtjones
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    In other news...
    ...the largest solar panel array in the world went on line last week. It's located in the Mojave Desert and will provide enough energy for 140K homes during peak hours of usage.
  • #347
    Parkas4Kids
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    Gulf Spill Fantasy
    Y'know, I'm so glad that the massive oil spill in the gulf taught everyone a lesson. I mean, it was SSOOOOO LONG ago, right? Like, those oil tycoons MUST've upgraded their hardware, right? Like, totally! Ugh...this country's (and this planet's) dependence on oil is sickening. I realized several years ago that there will be no alternative energy development worth talking about until the oodle and oodles of dollars to be made in the trade of oil dry up. Nothing is holier than the Almighty Dollar! Considering how popular a video game Final Fantasy 7 was (and still is), it's a shame no one else grasped the subtext of the storyline: draining the planet's resources will ultimately kill not only the planet but everyone and everything living on it. And the final boss? An environmental terrorist. Go figure!
  • #348
    TN John
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    War
    I have long said that since WW II our economy has depended on preparing for or fighting a war. There is a big arsenal in a town near here. The economy of that town and other towns in that county would collapse if that arsenal shut down.
  • #349
    Anna rRxia
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    Interesting obeservation, TJ
    You don't know how close you are as to why we have social welfare programs. It was either that or have a bunch of people come for what they need. To be fair, the poor, hungry mobs usually went into the cities and took from the rich to feed their children. They were called reds and commies and socialists for the failures of the rich to share even a penny. The boom and bust cycle of capitalism created crises every few years til in 1934, when we went on a permanent war economy. Social welfare programs like social security and unemployment were put in place in the New Deal of 1934 and we were geared up with armament work to supply the allies. Since then we have been fighting or preparing for this or that war, somewhat stabilizing the boom-or-bust cycle. Even with a social safety net the greed and avarice of the rich knows no bounds as seen by the shameful big-bank mortgage derivative crisis of 2008 in which so many innocent people lost their homes.
  • #350
    TN John
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    I Concur
    Agreed. Same reason you can't dismantle the welfare and food stamp programs in our society. We have a responsibility to take care of a certain amount of our population. If we don't, desperate people will come after everything you have worked for. And to be clear, I don't have a lot of possessions. I drive a 20 year old car. But, I would like to keep what I worked for.
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Submitted by marye on
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News and Talk
What's happening out in the world? Did it matter, does it now?
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Submitted by wilfredtjones on Sun, 02/01/2015 - 15:24

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For the majority of us, the recent let-up in prices at the pump have certainly helped ease the monthly budget. It cost me $20 to fill up yesterday. I remember talking to someone last year, and he told me that he hasn't filled his tank in years. Of course, his workhorse is a diesel and diesel hasn't been impacted as much as gasoline with the recent lowering in oil prices. For those of us that like to delve deeper into the economics, it's interesting to observe the way the Saudis are increasing output, and keeping it high, in order to put the squeeze on newer technologies like shale drilling and the Canadian tar sands which require higher prices per bbl to be cost effective. The economics here are intriguing, and so far the consumer is coming out the winner. How long will this last?
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Submitted by PonchoBill on Sat, 04/11/2015 - 12:21

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What the Ottawa Senators/Andrew Hammond have been able to do in the last two months of the NHL season is nothing short of incredible. Five Canadian teams in this year. Let the real season begin.
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Submitted by C c on Sat, 04/18/2015 - 03:57

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Probably talking out of turn. And not in any loop at all so other than what the website shows not sure where the project is. But, if these really are the last shows. Hope they never stop. Shouldn't something be done for the furtherdowntheroad project to save and preserve the bus. If not only for Neal and Kesey but to preserve our history. A future with no bus to get on would stink. NFA
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Submitted by Gr8fulTed on Sun, 08/02/2015 - 12:40

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Rough day up in Toronto. Blue Jays are being a bit too hot-headed as KC comes back!
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Submitted by PonchoBill on Sun, 08/02/2015 - 14:02

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Sure I guess...but rightly so. Personally i blame the incompetent boob calling the plays at the plate. To give a warning in the first and than NOT back it up throughout the game was disgraceful. Then to throw out Sanchez on a 2/0 pitch for grazing the batters knee? Anyways...the good guys won. Hopefully they meet again in October.
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Submitted by Gr8fulTed on Wed, 08/05/2015 - 12:52

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I'm still befuddled that the Yankees are in first : Toronto with Price will be a real contender.
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Submitted by Gr8fulTed on Fri, 08/14/2015 - 07:17

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How was the event at the Giants game last night? I saw a video clip of Annabelle throwing a pitch and also singing with Bill Walton. Was the 8/13/75 40th celebration after the game at GAMH? List of musicians sure looked impressive. Sounds like a busy and hectic evening!
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Submitted by PonchoBill on Sat, 09/05/2015 - 08:26

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Gonna be a fun race to the finish between the Yanks and Jays. Both teams seem to be firing on all cylinders. Lets go Jays!!
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Submitted by PonchoBill on Fri, 09/18/2015 - 05:17

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Going to my first CRB show tonight in Buffalo. Its been a very long time since I've travelled a long distance to hear great music. Can't wait for this.
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Submitted by hockey_john on Sat, 09/19/2015 - 06:04

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I am a born and raised New England guy love my teams Red Sox don't do it for me this year though nor last for that matter. I am routing for the Mets which is rather unusual for me seeing as we are almost against teams from New York. There is something about the Mets magic this year though. Just my 2 cents worth
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Submitted by PonchoBill on Sun, 09/20/2015 - 10:00

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What a chill night that was. Great band, great crowd, great venue and no hassles at the border. Neal Casal took a photo of the crowd after the encore and posted it on their facebook page. Im the bald dude in front. I'll never forget it.
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Submitted by wilfredtjones on Fri, 10/02/2015 - 17:05

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Can we have a sports section for this paper?
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Submitted by marye on Sat, 10/03/2015 - 08:39

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one moment...
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Submitted by wilfredtjones on Sun, 02/14/2016 - 04:34

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Justice Scalia (RIP) anyone? It's a great time to be a political junkie. There is plenty of intrigue and subterfuge on the horizon to be sure...
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Submitted by mkav on Tue, 02/16/2016 - 16:33

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I can't imagine what Jason Callahan's family have been through in the last 20 years. I'm sure they "knew" but now they know precisely. That has to be a smidgen of comfort.
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Submitted by liketohike on Thu, 02/18/2016 - 09:14

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I'll bite... you wanna discuss politics let me know. The Universe said times up for Antonin...karma is comin' round for those in the political sphere...and the rest of us for sure. Sure to be a fight to the end on both sides... But please, for the love of all that's holy...NO President Trump!
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Submitted by wilfredtjones on Thu, 02/18/2016 - 09:43

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I don't see why we cannot discuss, it's free to live. Please, discuss away...I'll be happy to chime in! :-)
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Submitted by liketohike on Thu, 02/18/2016 - 10:00

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Well alrighty then...for now...Im just gonna say, GO BERNIE!!!
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Submitted by marye on Fri, 02/19/2016 - 08:27

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respect, civility, and recognition that a person of good will and intellect can look at the same thing you're looking at and come to a different conclusion--essential. Discuss on!
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8 years 9 months

Submitted by Stickers on Tue, 02/23/2016 - 11:42

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Attention all Dead Heads! We’re working on Vol 2 of an art history book focusing on the culture & history of STICKERS. Please let us know if you have, or know of any fan created Dead stickers! We would like to feature them alongside official stickers from the band throughout the years. If have anything at all, please contact us at whoMadeThatSticker@gmail.com Thank you!  Lauren 
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Submitted by wilfredtjones on Fri, 07/22/2016 - 03:59

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Or, is that an effin' toy truck in your hand!?! Quick, on your belly and do a crab walk! I said last week! wtf?
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Submitted by liketohike on Fri, 07/22/2016 - 07:10

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the best/worst part of the story is that when the victim asked the officer why he shot him, the officer replied "I dont know"...Houston we have a problem.
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Submitted by Parkas4Kids on Thu, 09/08/2016 - 09:45

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Any Deadheads in either North or South Dakota have any news about what's going on with the oil pipeline constructions going on in your neck of the woods? The only "news" coverage I've seen has been spread via Social Media, and it's being done by no one I know of that lives out that way. I live in Maryland and haven't heard a thing about it.
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Submitted by DeadAnt on Fri, 11/11/2016 - 07:34

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A contemplative Veterans day message: Speak with those who have survived to take down walls. Remember those who were lost during WW1, or in any battle, with admiration and thanks. Respect the freedoms that sacrifice brought us. And now some opinions about the election. I know I know, this is very touchy shit, but I feel the message is important. So, why not, on a website so deadicated to the crimson-white-indigo, express my opinions. I dont go many other places on the internet is my other excuse. Maybe ill post something similar on NPR... The media seem to be trolling for hate, like the fact Trump wins means we go back to a segregated America, back to hate. That we forget about science, and environmental facts. All of my neighbors feel the opposite of this perceived hate. The eldest, most conservative of them, notice the change in the environment. In-fact, no matter who voted for who, we mostly see eye-to-eye. And some neighbors I have not talked with in so long, which is the point, communication, which is why we are where we are, or where we could be going. Maybe this hate is mostly media influence? I can not say, but just in-case: I am a patriotic person, and I believe this incoming government change needs a chance to prove themselves, but hardly any plans they say they want to do are on my lists, except of course supporting our troops, especially if that means bringing them home, and making a strong economy. Although nothing we really need, including money, is shipped here from mars, food grows on trees, love grows in the heart. I do like the idea of infrastructure fixes, who does not like nice roads for trips, but not at the expense of quality of life for all, not at the expense of the Earth herself. Im pro-life, but even i cant find a fair way to force people...ok, ok, going to far, sorry. Very polarizing world. Debates everyone should have a voice in, people way smarter than myself. But then the weight falls on us all to seek the best path. I believe we cannot sit by and complain about what Trump does in office AFTER he does it. We have to be ready to stop actions we all know will not benefit a future and freedom. We cant live in a world that reacts more like a tv show, like we are in a zombie apocalypse, more then a world that reacts of kindness and logic. Even the idea of race-color-creed, is just fabricated to keep us distracted. There is only one race, the human race. Social-cultural-religious differences are a challenge to break through and communicate or commune with, no doubt, but not an excuse to look the other way or grow hate. Until you drag yourself out from the depths of oppression, and poverty, you never know how hard that is. Compassion. Empathy. We can never afford to be naive, but we can always start with the good. We can start with trust. I find it easy to define hate acts of any kind, neo-nazi=isis, and beyond extremes of that ilk, i think we should be able to find a way to coexist, and write those ways down for all to attempt. "Fighting for peace is like fucking for virginity."- Some Hippie “All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent.” – Thomas Jefferson Remember who the government work for, the people, and a million more of us voted against new walls. This is a minority-minded government with what seems like all the power. An unfortunate reminder that we cannot sit by and watch choices be made for us. We must be ready to peacefully enforce our true ideals as a country. True equality. To protect each and everyone of us who believes in peaceful existence. I believe we needed the election to go this way to shake us out of our comfort zone, from behind screens, from behind doors. Im not truly freaking out, I dont put all my hopes-wishes-fears on the shoulders of one person/president. My neighbors, my local government, thats where to really start. But the grand stage will need many players to pull off this show, to make sure the ending is good enough for us and our children's children. That means putting all of our best-feet forward and being proactive. Petitions, peaceful protests, fighting internal and external fear. We have enough to worry about with corporations, oligarchies around the world, Monsanto, natural resources. Now the things we have all been opposed to have all the friends, in all the highest positions? If ever we needed the spirit of the 60s, we need that spirit now. Get out and show your face somewhere, maybe somewhere that takes you out of your own comfort zone, but shows you are with peace. This new "Not My President," movement isnt exactly my cup-of-tea. I support whoever is our president, hard as it is, even Trump-the-pizza-commercial-reality tv star, but with watchful eyes, my voice at the ready, my boots tied tight. I am going to a gathering to show my face. I may have to watch someone burn a flag, not a fan, but i can express my distaste for the act and still be there in support of freedom, be there to show my face, to say, hey, we are all in this together. I can be there for Black Lives Matter, because if those lives matter all lives do. I can be there for the LGBT, even if i can not completely understand those lives. I can stand for women's rights. I can stand with any group who demand equal rights if their views include themselves and all others. I can walk to say no to pipelines for oil when we have the brains to invent new, better, ways. Walk against money ruling all. Walk for universal healthcare. And many many other reasons that promote individuality without destroying any one unique group. I dont have many answers, just know how I feel inside, I know how wonderful life can be, I am privileged to be an American, and don't see why everyone who wants too, cant have that feeling. I now, gladly, hop down from the soap-box. Cheers, heres to love winning. "If a reckoning comes maybe we'll know what to do then." -Words by John Barlow, sung by Brent Mydland
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Submitted by _ on Fri, 11/11/2016 - 08:22

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Amen brother.... give peace a chance....
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Submitted by DeadAnt on Fri, 11/18/2016 - 05:07

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So, my wife, a friend, and I, took to the streets in Philadelphia. Third night of protests. Some of the chants we skipped. Some we joined in on. The youth running things were fairly competent. They did a good job of getting rid of trouble makers. A lot of people spoke, some of them harder to listen to then others, but some really excellent young speakers mixed in. Completely peaceful interaction between the many many police officers and the crowd of about 300-400 people. A few police officers dressed all in black with red-arm bands did there best to intimidate, they didnt. Bicycles are a much better choice to follow the march then horses and hoses. Bicycles say, hey, we are here for the protestors and non-protestors. Traffic was briefly stopped, news crews blinded us with camera lights. People looked from the sidewalks, people stared motionless from windows. All in all this was a positive experience. I felt better just getting out there, showing the masses that we are watching, that we expect the best from the incoming administration, that we will be back if need be to petition those expectations. My protest offended a few friends and family members, I dont see it that way, but i try to be understanding. History tells me that we have to be ready, and getting out there is indeed the very thing democracy demands. America has been different for me after 9/11. People seem quieter, reserved. At shows, out on the streets. I think finding our voice is a good thing. That voice is almost a caricature of the sixties at-this-point. The shy sibling of the sixties trying to grow-up, and we will. We will get our protest-legs under us, peacefully, eventually, defiantly. Removing the media influence, being with a true mix of people on the train, through the protests, and back is a much better litmus for how America really is, who America really is, and that alone was helpful. We will get by, we will survive. Chin-up America.
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Submitted by dwlemen on Fri, 11/18/2016 - 08:03

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Hey, I am glad to hear that you are out there, and joined by at least a few hundred supporters. Numbers in Indiana were rather low, but that's not unexpected. You mentioned not having the voice of the 60's. I have been giving the 60's a lot of thought since this. Maybe I am being overly dramatic, but to me, this feels like the establishment's final push to undo the progresses that the 60's brought us. If I was to categorize the things the 60's brought forth, I would say: civil rights, women's rights, anti-war, and environmentalism. Since the 60's movement faded out, the right has been pushing towards reversing all of those things. With the new administration, further armed with congress and the Supreme Court, I fear a 4 years assault on all of that. I feel let down by the Democratic Party who chose to not listen to so many (on both sides) crying for a change in the normal political structure. I think HRC would have done a good job as President, but this was not the election for career politicians. We (progressives, lefties, hippies) need to rebuild the movement. Things are very much stacked against us. As much now as back in the day. We should have the numbers, but we need to organize, fight them as best we can these 2-4 years, and be prepared to do true political battle. Well, OK, I was going to just write a "good for you!" message but apparently I had more to get off my chest. Sorry for the soap box. Peace, -Dave
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Submitted by dwlemen on Sat, 11/26/2016 - 15:00

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Hello fellow hippies! I have a question... Where online are the best sites/blogs/reddits/etc. to read or subscribe to? I obviously am on here each day, but where else? I am looking for communities of like minded folks to hopefully join in with. Peace, -Dave