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  • Randall Lard
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    bangerz & mashed
    No apology necessary, Anna.We must say what we truly feel.
  • Anna rRxia
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    Orange Diamond
    An exquisite 15 carat orange diamond is expected to fetch upwards of 15 million dollars at auction. Naturally occurring colored diamonds comprise approximately 5% of all diamonds. Those that are of this particular cut, color and clarity are extremely rare. It is worth looking up this specimen if you have an excellent computer monitor and are into geological specimens of rarity and beauty.
  • Anna rRxia
    Joined:
    Now Playing: "The Republican Show!"
    Yes, It has become high comedy-drama, this show featuring the Democrats, moderate and progressive and the Republicans, "Tea Party" and and "Old Guard". This year the table was set for an old-time political show-down between two factions of the Republican Party. They were at each others throats and neither wanted to give in because of well-funded primary challenges sure to come. The stakes were enormously high. As high as we have ever seen in our lifetime. One side of the Republican Party wanted to gamble with the full faith and credit of the the US Government (By shutting down the Federal Government as well as not voting to raise the debt ceiling by fully funding, without discrimination, the budget for 2013-14) as well as gut any trace of the first black president's legacy of universal healthcare through landmark legislation known as the "Affordable Care Act". The other side of the party, the moderates, want to repeal, or at least drastically scale back, Social Security, Medicare, Food Stamps, Unemployment and all programs related to Aid to Families with Dependent Children. This is something that the upper 2% of the wealthy in this country have been screaming for since it's inception in the 1930s. These were seen by the wealthy at that time in history as a way to keep an uprising, increasingly organized, restive population from exploding due to hunger and unemployment during the dark, hard times of the Great Depression. One US Senator, a first-termer named Ted Cruz associated with the Tea Party, went on a hell-bent 21 hour twisted screed on the Senate Floor in a maverick attempt to derail the President's health care act, which was about to go into effect. It was not a filibuster and had nothing to do with any strategy on the part of the Republican minority Senate leadership. It was his personal attempt to defund ObamaCare. What he ended up doing was putting the President's landmark healthcare legislation squarely in the spotlight for the American people to seriously look at, at exactly the time it was coming into effect by law. Senator Cruz effective attained a majority of support for the law where one had been formerly lacking. In the meantime, the "Old Guard" leadership had become so distracted (McConnell; Boehner; Cantor) that they totally missed the fact that the Democrats were willing to begin negotiations with the Republicans budget numbers. In other words, they were already miles down the rail-road track toward a "Grand Bargain" that would have made decisive steps toward making accommodations in the budget for the wave of baby-boomers about to retire, enrolling in the vital social welfare programs that could never be cut before. The result may very well be NO REFORM in those social welfare programs and the GOP permanently split as a party. One side becomes the the fiscally and socially conservative Tea Party "True Believers" and the "Socially Moderate, Polite, Play Fair, Republicans" who are still fiscally conservative, though not so vehemently so. What has been pointed out before is that the Tea Party faction is willing to sew chaos by roiling the US and World Money Markets by playing with the default of the "Full Faith And Credit of the United States Government" by not paying the interest, and eventually the principle on those T-Bill Coupons. This has been an amazing tale that is still unfolding...
  • Anna rRxia
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    Sorry
    About the hyperbole...
  • Randall Lard
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    everything you need from the ships and the ice cream
    Mary, Sinéad's long, drawn out letters may have been heartfelt, but are entirely ineffective and the method chosen to convey her feelings spectacularly poorly judged.Why not contact her directly and express concern, if she so desperately feels the need, instead of an 'open letter'? Her rambling was met with a rather delightfully witty response; some cute little put-downs which she immediately took exception to. If you don't like being called crazy, please refrain from acting in such a fashion. As for Mrs. Lennox, her tiring call for a rating system for pop videos was rightfully shown the exit back in the eighties, along with the equally delusional rantings of Tipper Bore et al. May i humbly suggest a ratings system for banal, mediocre and instantly forgettable piano ballads, usually delivered with a teary eye at a Comic Relief event, accompanied by video screens projecting images of suffering African children. Their views once again perpetuate the incoherent and illogical belief/myth that any woman working in pornography, nude modeling or the sex industry, is being manipulated, coerced, prostituted or pimped by men. For some lamentable reason, it would seem that certain women, sometimes men (usually when trying to impress in the company of women, truth be told), are deeply unhappy with their fellow gender openly celebrating their sexuality. The notion that women can enjoy and promote sex of their own accord appears unfathomable and sadly adds to the general condescension that females have to endure on a regular basis. Are we to attribute empowerment and strength only to the male of the species? Miss Cyrus' parents have nothing to be ashamed of. She is a beautiful young girl enjoying herself and exploring her sexuality. And although Billy Ray has a hell of a lot to answer for; inflicting 'Achy Breaky Heart' on the world's population to name but one, that is a whole other kettle of slimy, white fish (mullet fish?) - his daughter's behaviour is not one of them. Is 'Wrecking Ball' a great pop song? Not especially. Is the video an immense artistic achievement? Not really, although it's splendidly fun and everything a good pop video should be; certainly has a lot of people frothing (at both ends). Intention aside, (and be damned even, it's the results that are interesting), is it more/less entertaining than a bunch of guys (it usually is, isn't it?) essentially repeating the same songs, with minor adjustments and fluctuations in key for a living? (A question quite reasonably aimed at a large section of artists deified on this site). The answer? Hugely debatable. Pornography, nudity and sex is not intrinsically a danger to women. To be more pertinent - in·trin·sic ( n-tr n z k, -s k). adj. 1. Of or relating to the essential nature of a thing; inherent. Sex and the body in it's purest form is beautiful and to be encouraged. I read the other day that there was an offer to Miley for $1 million to direct a porn movie. I hope she has the courage to accept this offer. And Anna - i'm afraid i've no idea what you meant by your 'don't give in to denial - the news is what it is' comment. I can only assume that Slo Lettuce was correct in his guess and that you took my 'Shut up..' posts as personally directed at your good self. Although why you would think i would ever speak to you in such a fashion is beyond me and makes for rather a depressing thought. It never is, never was and never will be my intention to tell anyone what they can or cannot express in this Forum. This should be a place for everyone. Your views on this subject are hugely encouraged.
  • Anna rRxia
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    No offense, Lard-o
    My buttons get pushed easily. Your rant (twisted screed, whatever) was quite good but I'm sure you don't expect everybody to agree with you. There are a number of ways to look at this. Miley had the wholesome girl kid hero image to pull away from and she milked it for all it was worth in a sweet PR campaign. Really, It's her PR people who should take a bow, not Miley. She was just choreographed. Sinead and Annie? Irrelevant! Sour grapes mixed with their own private versions of psychotherapy hell sessions. I hate to sound banal but what was the line from Seinfeld about the traditional route of being spit out the bottom of the porn industry? Anyway, sounded like you had something to say and you said it in your own inimitable way.
  • Anna rRxia
    Joined:
    Well Ted, The Way You get around
    I doubt you're living paycheck-to-paycheck. Still, I wish to express my deepest sympathy for the family crosses we all bear. Well, the unluckiest of us, or the luckiest ones in the lessons we learn. Well, you know what I mean... Need I say it? The Tea Party has torn asunder the two-party system that sustains the Right's hegemony over us all. Whooda thunk it!
  • Anna rRxia
    Joined:
    Don't worry, Slo
    I acknowledge Randy is light-years ahead of me. Good detective work on your part!
  • slo lettuce
    Joined:
    lesson learned...
    my apologies to anyone I made feel uncomfortable or disrespected. The only pot I ever care to stir is usually sitting next to me. I will now write, "I will attempt to keep my big keyboard shut" 100 times on the etherboard. Knowing myself though, this will be met with limited success.... :)
  • marye
    Joined:
    I think the Sinead letter
    sort of goes into the anthology that also contains Courtney Love's screed on the music industry. Out there maybe, but classic.
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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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15 years 3 months
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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 6 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 3 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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17 years 4 months
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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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17 years 3 months
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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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15 years 3 months
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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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17 years 5 months
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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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17 years 5 months
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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 8 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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17 years 5 months
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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