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  • #591
    Mike Edwards
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    One for the Butterflies
    Just dropping a post in this new thread so that it comes up in my subscriptions.
  • #592
    Anna rRxia
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    Assault weapons ban dead in the Senate
    What we all knew and predicted would happen has happened. No real gun control legislation will pass. Reid told Feinstein, author of the bill with assault weapons ban (and multi-bullet clips) that though she has 22 co-sponsors there are no more than 40 votes in the Senate in favor. They need 60 these days. Lets hope that a bill passes that closes the gun show loophole. It won't matter for those who already have or are willing to sell guns but it does make a difference for those who shouldn't have them and have paper behind their names saying they shouldn't, like people who are spouse batterers. After Newtown, how could we not act? The Democratic Governor of Vermont is against an assault weapons ban because hunters are for it and the fad of deer-shooting is waning badly and the Vt. Chamber of Commerce is trying to get more young people into the woods with guns. Wait a second. Get more young people into the woods with guns?!? (It supposedly turns them into lifetime hunters who will buy guns, bullets, clothes, provisions, motels, alcohol in the state.)
  • #593
    Anna rRxia
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    Syria stretching for pretext to use Chemical weapons
    Assad's back is up against the wall. The 10th anniversary of the Iraq war with all those pictures of Husein's haunted face looking out from the spider hole where he was captured must have spooked him. What kind of a megalomaniac actually looks for an excuse to use chemical stockpiles on his own people? If that happens Obama's word will fill the Syrian sky with flame. Were the chemical stockpiles are, anyway. It's already a promise made.
  • #594
    Anna rRxia
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    Roundup
    Breakfast of champions! Monsanto is not a socially responsible corporation and their Roundup line of products is killing us. I love the emphasis on organic gardening here in Vermont. I go to the farmer's market every Saturday in season. I very rarely buy very much. The price are very high compared to cheap supermarket produce. I asked one of the organic growers "How can you guarantee to me there is no cross-pollination from GMOs?" His reply to me? "Good question. I can't." I don't think produce should be priced as a boutique product because it's supposedly "organic". The growers shouldn't charge as much as they can get. Shouldn't the price be based on the absence of paying for pesticides plus the increased cost of labor for weeding? All other expenses are the same. Well, I can always ride the rural highway and stop at the family farm stands.
  • #595
    slo lettuce
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    monarchy minority...
    At my place of work, we grow around 150 species of north american native perennials annually. 3 of those species are native forms of milkweed which constitute an average of 20,000 potted plants; about 6% of all of our plants grown.. I'm always amazed at how the female monarchs will rule out 147 species in twelve greenhouses and can find the only 3 species which will support the development of their eggs. Every summer, as the caterpillars develop, they also devour and defoliate those species as each grow, so three of us with 5 gallon buckets will spend about an hour removing them and then replace them one-by-one on native milkweed plants in a nearby ditch. The last two years we have grown the same amount of milkweed as usual and have not seen even so much as one monarch caterpillar -- not one. At the same time, GMO cropland of corn, soybeans and cotton in the US has exploded - as of 2011 - to 135 million acres -- 37% of total US cropland. Native milkweed, the essential ingredient in monarch caterpillar development, is considered a weed in US cropland and is intentionally targeted. There is no substitute plant for milkweed -- it is vital to their life cycle. Diminish a species food supply and you diminish that species population. In 2011,the USDA green-lighted Roundup Ready (GMO) versions of alfalfa, sugar beets and Kentucky bluegrass, all of which will add millions more acres to this practice of growing GMO plants -- good for Monsanto stock prices because farmers who are forced to buy Monsanto seed are also legally required to buy Monsanto brand Roundup and not the cheaper generic versions -- and as we all know in this land of plenty -- hordes of easy money is the only thing that really matters. "Enjoy 'em while you can" is not too far off. Or enjoy them when you can. Their sightings will be declining in the US in the coming years and you can count on it. I hope to be able to pick the caterpillars this year, but I'm not holding my breath. PBS's documentary on monarch migration is, as usual, outstanding and completely fascinating and a visit to Pacific Grove, Ca. and/or El Rosario, Mexico for the annual monarch festival is on the bucket list. They truly are amazing creatures that add interest and beauty to our existence.
  • #596
    wilfredtjones
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    re: the monarchs
    Another dispatch from the land of peaches and cream: I heard that due to habitat loss and pesticide use, the acreage the butterflies cover from point A in the Mexican mountaintops is only 2.9 acres, down from 6 acres last year and down from something like 16 acres only 10 years ago. I'm only paraphrasing the numbers, but they can be gleaned via the google...in other words, enjoy 'em while ya can...
  • #597
    marye
    Joined:
    yay Monarchs!
    have to check on the scene in Pacific Grove.
  • #598
    Anna rRxia
    Joined:
    Did it matter, Does it now?
    In the short term it all mattersIn the long term not a whit. Here's to the Monarch butterflies 59% percent still migrating
  • #599
    Anna rRxia
    Joined:
    Interesting observation about Iraq's oil
    Further implications include an expanding Chinese economy that further leads to uncontrolled global warming. Not to mention the interest on the bonds buying even more oil. America is counting a Chinese political/sociological implosion based on it's rising GDP and the corresponding disproportionate distribution of that product. Absent that revolution, the world faces a new superpower that doesn't care about the environment. To think that the Iraq war hastened all of that is depressing.
  • #600
    marye
    Joined:
    Here's to the swallows
    returning to Capistrano on schedule today. You need to be able to count on *something*.
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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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8 years 10 months

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 2 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