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  • marye
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    Rex is already funding
    quite a few food-related projects, e.g. People's Grocery, Berkeley Food Project, Nextcourse, Bread Project, etc. I can't say what they'd fund in the future, but it's certainly an area of interest. Living as I do in Oakland, I hear quite a bit about this issue. One seriously complicating factor is that merchants don't want to open in neighborhoods where they're putting their employees, their customers and themselves in physical danger. It's not a matter of greed, it's a matter of physical safety. Just about everyone in Oakland, regardless of neighborhood, is at most two degrees of separation from strongarm robbery, home invasion, assault and murder victims. This in turn makes life even more difficult for the residents, who are victimized by the thugs in addition to all their other issues. Unless you can create a situation where the food purveyors and their employees are safe, which is about the most basic aspect of a viable endeavor, things won't change much. On the other hand, Whole Paycheck has been pretty much an unmitigated boon in the area, drawing a very diverse workforce and customer base and actually offering better prices than the mainstream chains on many staple items. And since they're the only grocery chain I'm aware of that has animal welfare as a core value, I am way happy to shop there.
  • Anna rRxia
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    Interesting article, Mike
    The phenomenon of "food desserts" is somewhat well known, but not nearly enough is done about it, despite some creative thought put into solutions in the last five years. It is an excellent point to bring up in the context of a high incidence of diabetes, especially among the African-American population. It seems ridiculous that there should be food desserts in San Francisco. There is enough public transit that you should be able to go 2 stops on the BART (or bus to BART) and find a farmer's market. But I could be wrong. It makes me want to drive a fresh fruit and vegetable truck along with smoothies in San Francisco Bay Area. Maybe take EBT cards for all but prepared. Do you think REX would fund something like that, Marye, if a collective of people was involved?
  • Mike Edwards
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    Boon and Bust
    > One real boon about living in the Bay Area is that it's relatively easy to get good, fresh, healthy food It depends on where you live in the Bay Area. There's many neighborhoods in the Bay Area that are food deserts, or areas where there are no sources of good, fresh, healthy food, and people who live in these areas often rely almost exclusively on fast food restaurants and convenience stores. Here's a link to a KQED piece on the issue: http://blogs.kqed.org/bayareabites/2011/12/03/kqed-forum-eating-healthy-in-a-food-desert/
  • slo lettuce
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    Re: Diabetes...
    Very nice write up, Anna, and good sound advice on a disease that afflicts more Americans than any other nation. Corporate trickery...absolutely right. Refined sugar in all of its various forms is ubiquitous in our food supply and that's no accident. I lived about a 1/2 hr from Archer-Daniels Midland in IL. as a child. They're the worlds largest producer (refiner) of high fructose corn syrup. They have plenty of political friends and that's no accident either. "Everything I need to know I learned in kindergarten"......eat your fruits and vegetables, get lots of fresh air, play, get plenty of rest.....life seems to start out so simple and then....
  • marye
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    and in other news
    I've reported the situation with Tapers Section. I expect it to get resolved pretty quickly.
  • marye
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    excellent advice.
    All too many folks I know are dealing with this issue. One real boon about living in the Bay Area is that it's relatively easy to get good, fresh, healthy food, for which I am duly grateful.
  • Anna rRxia
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    Diabetes? Take heart, Take Action!
    The US has 30,000,000 diabetics with new cases being diagnosed at the rate of 2 million per year. Diabetes is a bummer, no doubt about that. I speak from personal experience. I could dwell on the causes of diabetes and corporate trickery to get us to our current condition and keep us buying supplies but I'll skip that part for today. If you're diabetic and just diagnosed chances are you'll have some time to do something before you go insulin dependent. You are not well educated by the medical profession at this point. They throw a bunch of paper at you or tell you to go to a website but there are no diabetes education computer modules that I am aware of. My point is that you have a chance at this point.... IF you concentrate on exercise and diet. Chances are overwhelming that you are overweight and your diet sucks. Buy the carb. pocket-book. Keep a food log. Take your blood sugars. Learn which foods bring those sugars up. Avoid them. Exercise regularly. Tension exercise from work activity is often not useful. You need to find a routine you can do at least every other day. Set a goal to lose weight. Never give up. Join a gym and do sweats if you have to. Find a way to shed pounds. 80% of diabetics eventually become insulin dependent. Don't despair. Don't give up. The pen injection units are ridiculously easy to use and don't hurt but the tiniest bit with the ultra-fine needles now in use. They don't need refrigeration. My experience is that you have to start out taking the advice of your doctor and then do some experimentation based on blood sugar readings. They'll tell you that you can't combine this or that but you'll find you might be able to. It all depends on your body, which is changing all the time. Now they have general background insulins; meal insulins and a mixture of the two. If you don't want to think for yourself you better do what they say. But if you can think critically, try to find the most effective combination for yourself. Of course, the more varied your diet and mealtimes the harder it will be. Being a creature of habit can only help at this point. There has never been a better time for diabetics to treat themselves. There are now RNA injections (with side effects) and lots of other stuff I don't even know about. All providers tell me the same thing. There is no reason you can't have good control and lead a fairly normal life with good quality almost to the same lifespan. Discipline in blood sugar readings and carb-counting and taking your medicines and exercise is most important, as well as regular care from Dr.s and being aware of infection, especially around the feet. Your health is your own responsibility. If you're a diabetic, I wish you the best of luck.
  • Gr8fulTed
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    Taper's Section on vacation?
    I see weir 2 weeks behind in Dead song selections from the past: what's up?
  • Anna rRxia
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    Ed "The Red Panda" Snowden Turns the Screws
    35-40 World leaders are so pissed at America for spying on their top execs., including German PM Merkel's cell phone, that a delegation of them are coming to America to talk to Obama about it. What is Obama going to say. Well, the response has been: "We are reviewing our policies in this regard." There is no denial that we have been spying on our allies. We've always done it and always will. The allies will now feel insecure and will take defensive measures to protect conversations and important data. But the reality is that the NSA mostly, but with the collective might of the other Anglos (Britain; Canada; Australia & New Zealand), have a worldwide net that can catch anything. No conversation or piece of data is safe. None of it. You should know that the NSA is spying on it's own citizens and if they target you there is no place in your home they cannot pry into, technically, from the outside. Of course, if you're innocent then you have nothing to fear, unless the fascists come to power. But why should you have to prove your innocence? Why shouldn't their be at least a Grand Jury/FISA Court to hand down a legal decision that there is a proven shred of doubt before privacy is grossly violated? The NSA has now been said to have ignored FISA decisions. People who see Ed Snowden as a traitor are not thinking clearly. He put all his information in the hands of reporters, not foreign intelligence agencies. He has done us all a favor by making a siren call -- PAY ATTENTION! LOOK WHATS HAPPENING! He wanted to stay free so he ended up where he ended up. Why should he be railroaded into jail for pointing the criminal activities of an Administration that was using the Patriot Act to run roughshod over every person in the world's rights? In the end it probably won't change anything (more than it already has). The world has become too dangerous of a place. The instructions for making a plastic gun with a 3D copier are going on the internet.
  • Parkas4Kids
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    RE: Antibiotics research
    Anna, I think the answer is in your own post, "War On The Poor." Why save these people when they can just suck up whatever wealth they had and add it to their own growing pile? I mean, if I were a crooked politician, it's what I'd do....
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What's happening out in the world? Did it matter, does it now?
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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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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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9 years 7 months
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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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17 years 4 months
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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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15 years 3 months
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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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I'm still befuddled that the Yankees are in first : Toronto with Price will be a real contender.
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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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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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15 years 3 months
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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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12 years 2 months
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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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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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17 years 5 months
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Can we have a sports section for this paper?
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17 years 5 months
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one moment...
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17 years 5 months
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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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17 years 4 months
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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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9 years 5 months
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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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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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9 years 5 months
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Well alrighty then...for now...Im just gonna say, GO BERNIE!!!
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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
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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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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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9 years 5 months
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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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12 years 9 months
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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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15 years 10 months
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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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Amen brother.... give peace a chance....
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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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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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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