Reply #19: We have a real split in Oregon between East and West of the Cascades [View All]

I have friends on both sides and know the dichotomies fairly well. Contrary to popular opinion, farmers are not looking for a handout, what they are looking for is a continuation of their way of life.... their culture if you will. A difficult prospect in the days of big Agro business and the gentrification of their small town life by suburbanite developers.

A believe that a refocusing on organic, sustainable agriculture, a light green industry, a shift away from cattle, and renewable energy policies will highly benefit small communities. But it is going to take a salesman.

Bill Clinton made the mistake in 93 of making promises to timber and fishing interests that were not sustainable. I hope that Obama will listen to more Progressive, scientifically based, Environmentally minded experts this time around.

It will be a hard sell, but if he can sell Progress as well as he sells himself... there is hope.