www.youtube.com/channel/UCtDisMjv9_ezqqTav8qUrdg




North County Resistance will be PROTESTING in Nehalem on November 1, at the Public Parking Lot, from noon to 2 PM. Please join us for this Peaceful Protest. We will be focusing on how to make daily life better for each person in our country.
Previous protests have brought out many ideas-to list a few:
We care for each other, not just ourselves.
I want a democracy we can pass on to our kids and grandkids.
I’m concerned about the assault on people of color.
I have courage being with others-we must not give up.
Donald Trump is working to destroy the many exceptional American institutions that
make our country great.
Love and kindness are much bigger than hate and fear.
I am horrified at the blatant disregard for our constitution.
We are losing our democracy, and I need to do what I can to get it back.
Not quite in a nutshell, but there it is. Raingear is probably required, bring a chair, we have extra signs, and don’t forget your positive attitude. We’ve got to continue our quest!
On another note: We continue to collect food for the North County Food Bank in Wheeler. As I am sure you are all aware there are several places in North Tillamook County, the area that covers School District 56, from Garibaldi to the Tillamook County line to the north, who are always there to help people who need a little more security than what they might have. I want to send out some information about these places to you. Some of you have already received it. One correction is the Nehalem Bay Community Services contact information. It should read PO Box 232, Nehalem, Oregon 97131. Apologies for this mistake. A friend of mine commented on the question of separating the PROTEST from Security issues. She said food security, housing security, clothing security, and all the other securities people face is a human-to-human issue-has nothing to do with politics. I hope you agree.
Please pitch in and help our neighbors. Only 4 Saturdays left before Thanksgiving so we really need to dedicate ourselves. Thanks!
Security in Tillamook County means more than just feeling safe—it’s about ensuring everyone has what they need to thrive: healthy food, stable housing, warm clothing, and comfortable bedding. As we look toward 2025, these essentials remain at the heart of our collective well-being. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, you play a vital role in making our community secure for all.
Our Community’s Commitment to Security
Across Tillamook County, neighbors come together to support one another. From volunteers packing meals to organizations gathering donations, the spirit of generosity is alive and well. Let’s walk through some of the dedicated groups making a difference—and how you can join in. This note concentrates on people who reside in the Neah-Kah-Nie School District 56, stretching from Garibaldi to the north Tillamook County Line.
Nehalem Bay Community Services: Nourishing Families, One Meal at a Time
When you enter Nehalem Bay Community Services, you’ll likely meet their great volunteers. Last year, the organization distributed over 5,000 meals to families in need, supported by donations of food, clothing, linens, and more. Their food pantry welcomes everyone Monday, Friday, and Saturday (10 AM–2 PM), and Wednesday (1 PM–5 PM). Senior lunches are served and delivered on Tuesday and Thursday, offering not just nutrition but companionship.
Want to help? Drop off canned meats, peanut butter, bread, or other staples. Every contribution—big or small—makes a direct impact. Nehalem Bay Community Services, PO Box 232, Nehalem, Oregon 97131.
North County Food Bank: Support for All Ages
Transitioning from Nehalem Bay, the North County Food Bank in Wheeler is a lifeline for many. “We had nowhere else to turn, and North County Food Bank made sure my family didn’t go hungry,” shares Tom, a local resident. The food bank opens its doors every Tuesday at the old clinic building located in Wheeler, providing groceries to people of all ages. While their Clothing Bank is temporarily closed, food and financial donations are urgently needed to keep shelves stocked.
To lend a hand, consider donating food or funds. Every dollar and every can counts. North County Food Bank, PO Box 162, Wheeler, Oregon 97147.
Rockaway Beach Lions: Bringing Holiday Cheer
As the holidays approach, the Rockaway Beach Lions step in to deliver food baskets to families and seniors. “Receiving a holiday basket from the Lions made us feel remembered,” says Maria, a grandmother in Rockaway Beach. These gestures bring warmth and joy to many who might otherwise go without during the holidays. Rockaway Beach Lions, PO Box 611, Rockaway Beach, Oregon, 97136.
Meals for Seniors, Inc.: Supporting Independence and Friendship
For over two decades, Meals for Seniors, Inc. has helped older adults stay independent and connected. “It’s not just about the food—the friends I’ve made here mean everything,” says Evelyn, a regular at St. Mary by the Sea Church dining hall. Serving and delivering meals on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, the organization provides over 12,000 meals each year, along with opportunities to socialize and feel cared for.
Volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word to support their mission. Meals for Seniors, PO Box 852, Rockaway Beach, Oregon 97136.
Neah-Kah-Nie School District Family Resource Center: Empowering Students and Families
To bridge the gap for students, the Neah-Kah-Nie School District’s Family Resource Center sends food home with kids on weekends and offers extra support during the holidays. “The backpack program helped us get through tough times,” notes a grateful parent. By assisting students from Nehalem and Garibaldi Grade Schools through to the Middle and Senior High School, the Resource Center ensures no child goes hungry.
Learn more and discover how you can help by visiting their website. Family Resource Center – Neah-Kah-Nie School District
How You Can Make a Difference—Step-by-Step
Donate Essentials: Bring canned food, peanut butter, bread, or other staples to local pantries. Ask your organization or church to host donation drives.
Contribute Financially: Give $5 at your next meeting or consider a one-time gift to any of these nonprofits.
Volunteer Your Time: Help sort donations, serve meals, or deliver food baskets.
Spread the Word: Share this newsletter, encourage others to join, and advocate for community support.
Stay Connected: Look for updates on what local organizations need most and check back often to see how you can help.
Please volunteer and donate what you can. Your compassion and involvement ensure that everyone in Tillamook County can enjoy a safe, secure, and welcoming home. Together, we can make sure no one goes without the essentials. Thank you for listening, giving, and caring—let’s keep the spirit of community alive in 2025 and beyond.
Best,
Patty
Thanks in advance.


Our Community’s Commitment to Security
Across Tillamook County, neighbors come together to support one another. From volunteers packing meals to organizations gathering donations, the spirit of generosity is alive and well. Let’s walk through some of the dedicated groups making a difference—and how you can join in. This note concentrates on people who reside in the Neah-Kah-Nie School District 56, stretching from Garibaldi to the north Tillamook County Line.
Nehalem Bay Community Services: Nourishing Families, One Meal at a Time
When you enter Nehalem Bay Community Services, you’ll likely meet their great volunteers. Last year, the organization distributed over 5,000 meals to families in need, supported by donations of food, clothing, linens, and more. Their food pantry welcomes everyone Monday, Friday, and Saturday (10 AM–2 PM), and Wednesday (1 PM–5 PM). Senior lunches are served and delivered on Tuesday and Thursday, offering not just nutrition but companionship.
Want to help? Drop off canned meats, peanut butter, bread, or other staples. Every contribution—big or small—makes a direct impact. Nehalem Bay Community Services, PO Box 156, Nehalem, Oregon 97131.
North County Food Bank: Support for All Ages
Transitioning from Nehalem Bay, the North County Food Bank in Wheeler is a lifeline for many. “We had nowhere else to turn, and North County Food Bank made sure my family didn’t go hungry,” shares Tom, a local resident. The food bank opens its doors every Tuesday at the old clinic building located in Wheeler, providing groceries to people of all ages. While their Clothing Bank is temporarily closed, food and financial donations are urgently needed to keep shelves stocked.
To lend a hand, consider donating food or funds. Every dollar and every can counts. North County Food Bank, PO Box 162, Wheeler, Oregon 97147.
Rockaway Beach Lions: Bringing Holiday Cheer
As the holidays approach, the Rockaway Beach Lions step in to deliver food baskets to families and seniors. “Receiving a holiday basket from the Lions made us feel remembered,” says Maria, a grandmother in Rockaway Beach. These gestures bring warmth and joy to many who might otherwise go without during the holidays. Rockaway Beach Lions, PO Box 611, Rockaway Beach, Oregon, 97136.
Meals for Seniors, Inc.: Supporting Independence and Friendship
For over two decades, Meals for Seniors, Inc. has helped older adults stay independent and connected. “It’s not just about the food—the friends I’ve made here mean everything,” says Evelyn, a regular at St. Mary by the Sea Church dining hall. Serving and delivering meals on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, the organization provides over 12,000 meals each year, along with opportunities to socialize and feel cared for.
Volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word to support their mission. Meals for Seniors, PO Box 852, Rockaway Beach, Oregon 97136.
Neah-Kah-Nie School District Family Resource Center: Empowering Students and Families
To bridge the gap for students, the Neah-Kah-Nie School District’s Family Resource Center sends food home with kids on weekends and offers extra support during the holidays. “The backpack program helped us get through tough times,” notes a grateful parent. By assisting students from Nehalem and Garibaldi Grade Schools through to the Middle and Senior High School, the Resource Center ensures no child goes hungry.
Learn more and discover how you can help by visiting their website. Family Resource Center – Neah-Kah-Nie School District
How You Can Make a Difference—Step-by-Step
Donate Essentials: Bring canned food, peanut butter, bread, or other staples to local pantries. Ask your organization or church to host donation drives.
Contribute Financially: Give $5 at your next meeting or consider a one-time gift to any of these nonprofits.
Volunteer Your Time: Help sort donations, serve meals, or deliver food baskets.
Spread the Word: Share this newsletter, encourage others to join, and advocate for community support.
Stay Connected: Look for updates on what local organizations need most and check back often to see how you can help.
Your compassion and involvement ensure that everyone in Tillamook County can enjoy a safe, secure, and welcoming home. Together, we can make sure no one goes without the essentials. Thank you for listening, giving, and caring—let’s keep the spirit of community alive in 2025 and beyond.
Best,
Patty


It never really went away — and it’s sticking around for a while longer. So if you’ve been missing that quick dose of warmth and color, now’s your chance to enjoy it while it lasts.
It’s self-serve, $12 per tan, and no appointment needed — just scan the QR code when you drop in.
And if you’re craving a deeper, restorative kind of warmth, the Infrared Sauna with Red Light Therapy at Spa Manzanita is just down the road — perfect for easing tension, boosting circulation, and chasing away the coastal chill.
Infrared Sauna — Spa Manzanita
Tanning — The Studio House & Co., Nehalem
Warmth inside. Glow outside.
www.spamanzanita.com | www.thestudiohouseco.com


Interested in adopting this loving, multi-generational pair? You can view videos of them in action and learn more at unitedpaws.org. You can also schedule a “Meet & Greet” by emailing unitedpawshelp@gmail.com.



Due to the weather report for tomorrow North County Resistance is CANCELLING tomorrow’s PROTEST in Nehalem. A suggestion would be for protesters to take time to write letters to our elected officials. Give them an earful! I’ve been working on something to send out to you today. I got this information from typing “How does government shutdown effect Oregon”. I’m doing the copy and paste method, and it appears some sentences are broken up, but am sure you can figure it out.
The government shutdown is expected to significantly impact Oregon, affecting federal workers, social services, and the economy, with potential long-term consequences if it persists.
Impact on Federal Workers.
Furloughs and Pay: Approximately 30,000 federal workers in Oregon may face furloughs or be required to work without pay during the shutdown. This situation creates uncertainty and financial stress for many families.
Essential Services: While some federal employees, such as air traffic controllers and TSA workers, are deemed essential and will continue to work, they will not receive pay until the shutdown ends.
Effects on Social Services
Healthcare Programs: Social Security and Medicare will continue to operate, but applications and services may experience delays due to reduced staffing. The shutdown could also lead to increased health insurance premiums, with estimates suggesting a 68% increase in Oregon for those on the Affordable Care Act exchanges.
Food Assistance: Programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) are expected to continue, but prolonged shutdowns could lead to delays in benefits.
Economic Implications
State Economy: The shutdown could have broader economic repercussions, particularly if it lasts for an extended period. Experts warn that the costs of uncompensated care in healthcare will ultimately be borne by the public, affecting everyone in the system.
Public Services: National parks, including Crater Lake, will remain open, but services may be limited due to staffing shortages. This could affect tourism and local economies reliant on visitors.
Political Context
Legislative Stalemate: The shutdown stems from a failure to reach an agreement on a spending bill, with both parties blaming each other for the impasse. Oregon’s lawmakers have expressed concerns about the negative impacts on families and essential services.
In summary, the government shutdown poses significant challenges for Oregon, particularly for federal workers and those relying on government services. The longer the shutdown continues, the more pronounced the effects will be on the state’s economy and public welfare.
Hoping to get together with you next Saturday, November 1. Thanks for being a part of this community.
Best, Patty
Here is an article taken from the Willamette Week, written by a former Democratic Governor about the state of Oregon! With my comments in CAPS
MY FEELINGS………………..
OREGON NEEDS THIS:……
Proposed by a former Democratic governor Ted Kulongoski! The former governor says he remains a proud Democrat but is DISILLUSIONED with the condition of Oregon.
AND YOU SHOULD BE TOO….you live here – don’t you know what is going on……..
He is behind the “Voters Fairness Act.” Initiative 55 would amend the Oregon Constitution to eliminate partisan primaries, and Initiative 56 would create a new process in which all candidates would be listed on a single ballot, with the top two vote-getters advancing to the general election.
“I don’t think the current process is functioning in the broadest interests of Oregonians,” Kulongoski says. “It’s working for interest groups and people with money.”
INTEREST GROUPS AND PEOPLE WITH MONEY!!! YEP
WATCH FOR THESE INITIATIVES – MAKE OREGON GREAT AGAIN!!!!!!!! Initiatives. 55 and 56!!!
THIS IS NOT RANK CHOICE VOTING
You can read the whole article from the newspaper……….
www.wweek.com/news/state/2025/10/22/kulongoski-lends-his-name-to-new-ballot-initiatives-pushing-for-open-primaries/

I’m sure he blew through a wad of cash buying inflatable frog costumes.
And of course! Those who did show up Saturday, in addition to being Soros-paid agitators, were terrorists, Marxists, pro-Hamas and antifa who hate America. House Speaker Mike Johnson and his Whip, the congressman from Lake Woebegon, Tom Emmert, were stalwart in telling us this in front of every camera they could find.
By modern standards, Soros’ wealth is out of scale compared to the tech bros who now embrace Donald Trump and the fascist right. And yes, Soros does spend his money in support of projects many moderate and left-wing people would consider generally appropriate.
George Soros net worth: 7.5 billion. He and his organization have probably given away 30-ish billion over his lifetime. He controls no global media/information platforms.
Elon Musk net worth: 490 billion. He literally bought the 2024 election for Trump, including just handing out cash to voters. He controls X and Grok AI. You can GoogleAI the worth of Musk’s delusional, far-right, eugenicist tech friends for yourself.
Koch family net worth: 150 billion. They fund Heritage Foundation/Project 2025.
Of course let’s be real, these days Those-Clouds-Are-Chemtrails!! is a far more compelling conspiracy theory than Soros-Funds-Everything-I-Don’t-Like.
Gene Dieken
(Usual note: Dixie Darrow is NOT the proprietor of the lovely Dixie’s Vino on Laneda in Manzanita.)
Do you think it is OK to damage property? What should happen to people who violate the law and damage property and buildings? What should happen to persons who block streets so that people going and coming home from work cannot get through? How about protesting from 10 pm to about 3 am in the morning sleep depriving persons who live in the area and have to go to work everyday? All these things are against the law -public nuisance and noise violations – but should be ignored? Sen Ron Wyden who is an Oregon senator even though he doesn’t live here, which is against law -says nothing is happening here – crickets – over reaction from the feds!
There is plenty to see if you watch the up-to-date videos on the internet. Portland used to be a wonderful city – I have lived in Portland from the time I was 13 and then retired here at the coast. I went to Portland State college and spent a lot of time in the park blocks downtown.
There was hardly any crime and no homeless people.
WHAT HAPPENED TO THIS ONCE BEAUTIFUL CITY,
AND WHY?
Ms. Cheang,
The Manzanita Mayor and City Manager in describing to State officials the City’s need for funding the reconstruction of Classic Street specifically highlighted the failing road base and the need for a retaining wall along the west boundary of Classic Street.
Citizens were given the same story including a design for vehicle travel lane widths that complied with the City’s minimum standards for vehicle safety. We’re now getting none of this.
The City will claim that it doesn’t have enough money to pay for the recommended design. That’s a false explanation.
The City’s General Fund which is substantially funded by visitor Transient Lodging Tax revenue contains approximately $3.7 million dollars in unappropriated revenue in the current Budget. The purpose of these funds is to ensure that the City has adequate operating revenue from the start of the fiscal year on July 1st until property taxes are distributed from the County in November.
For Manzanita, the General Fund is not as dependent on property taxes as most other cities. A generous unappropriated ending fund balance to meet this contingency would be $500,000 thus leaving $3.2 million that City officials would be hard pressed to explain why these funds are not being used for City infrastructure improvements like Classic Street. There is nothing to prevent the City from spending these funds after completing a supplemental Budget process
City officials tell us that visitors pay for most of the City’s infrastructure and then refuse to allocate a single dollar of the available TLT revenue from the General Fund for this project. The hypocrisy of City officials is on full display.
20 years ago City officials were responsible for the initial poor design and construction of Classic Street that has given rise to the present unsafe conditions. Given a second opportunity, will they repeat their blunder based on false claims of an inability to find funding?
Ms. Chaeng, as I see it, Businesses Oregon has two options. Require the City to comply with the construction of the retaining wall and street design that was a part of the City grant funding request from your department. Businesses Oregon then becomes a partner in resolving a public safety issue and providing a long term stable Classic Street that provides safe transportation to both residents and the thousands of visitors who are coming to Manzanita and traveling on City streets.
Or, Businesses Oregon ignores the City’s stated objectives that were the basis of its funding request, fails to question the City’s false claim that it lacks funding to construct the project as recommended by its consultants, shrugs at the construction of a major street project that fails to meet minimum standards for public safety and is content to be a partner in a project that does nothing but put another band aid on Classic Street.
Ms. Cheang, Manzanita citizens are entitled to an explanation as to how your agency plans to address the status of this project going forward given the above facts.
Respectfully, Randy Kugler

I have been seriously thinking about the local “NO KINGS” marchers. The people who turn out every Saturday for the “NO KINGS” march, care very much about our country. It takes a lot of dedication to turn out every Saturday. There is no question about their patriotism. These are dedicated people who love and want to protect their country.
I am guessing that they think that something is wrong somewhere with our country and they want to stop it! They are right in thinking something is wrong!! There is something very wrong! Most of us who try to keep up with what is happening feel the same way. So they do the “NO KINGS” protest, and the rest of us try keep up with the latest best info – (Not to be found in main street media) What we have found so far:
The following in no way demeans the patriotism
of the local NO KINGS protesters.
“THE NO KINGS” rallies are funded! These protests are funded!! The signs, the messaging, the TV promotions in the news, etc. about these rallies are funded by the George Soros’s “Open Society Foundation”!! ( I do not think the local protests here is funded in any way) The Open Society Foundation, founded by George Soros is the world’s largest private funder of independent groups, SECRETLY working towards a “One World Government.” George Soros funded with millions of dollars, district attorneys running for that office, who vowed not to prosecute criminals!
KEY FINDINGS – the following information is from the FGA – the Foundation for Government Accountability:
George Soros has spent $40 million to elect district attorneys in states across the country. Soros backed district attorneys have a track record of failing to prosecute criminals, leading to rising crime rates across the country.
These Soros-backed district attorneys now represent more than 70 million Americans— They are now poised to treat ELECTION SECURITY the same way they have treated public safety!!
ELECTION SECURITY AND PUBLIC SAFETY backed by George Soros dollars? BYE BYE AMERICA!
Right now Oregon has the worst voter rolls in the nation – proved by a lawsuit brought about by Judicial Watch. ( legal document to be found on the internet)
The One World government is to be achieved by many different ‘quiet weapons’ such as laws sneaking past unknowing voters, TV news that distorts reality, funding Antifa and opposition groups etc. This ‘one world government’ will not be a democracy – It will be more like, but worse than, Chinese Communism!
We should all be worried! President Donald Trump is very small potatoes compared to the power of these groups that want to have a One World Order! POWER and MONEY? They have most of it, but they don’t have the power of the people. That is why they are dividing us and pitting us against each other. A COUNTRY DIVIDED AGAINST ITSELF CANNOT STAND. Do you get it now!!
Best,
Patty
Saying Goodbye
To What Is So
Things became clear at his memorial.
Life-giving questions returned and we
were all blessed by this gift.
Absent our assumed distractions
and generations of repeated lines,
we can begin to feel, feel what
we are feeling, open a source
of blessing and grace. Coming down
to what is so, down with the power
of what is given, we can take
the uncommon step, seeing things
just as they are, allow the heart
to break, learn how to weep
in the remaining light. Witness
to the pain and cries of this world,
how can we live in communion
with what nourishes and honors life
and how are we to sustain this awake
relation to what is always arriving
in awareness? As we apprehend
how everything passes into silence,
how it is never clear when and if
we will ever meet again, life-giving
questions can return: How much love
do we wish to offer; How much love
are we able to receive? Together,
let us lay our burdens down.
We also extend our gratitude to everyone who helped the day run smoothly: those who kept a watchful eye on the crowd, assisted people in staying behind the barriers, Mr. Eagle Eye, volunteers helping with safe highway and street crossings, musicians and drummers, providers of muffins and fudge, and all who joined the downtown march. It truly felt like a festival of wonderful people.
To provide some context for recent protest participation numbers: according to the Invisible Team, April’s Hands Off Day saw an estimated 3 million participants nationwide, June’s No Kings Day had about 5 million participants across the country, and October’s No Kings Day reached approximately 7 million participants nationally. All these events, including ours, were committed to non-violence and remained peaceful demonstrations.
As we celebrate our community’s engagement, we remain focused on key priorities: protecting health care, ending the shutdown, and ensuring families have enough to eat.
In addition to organizing peaceful demonstrations, North County Resistance is committed to supporting local organizations that strengthen our community. We aim to partner with established groups, including the North County Food Bank in Wheeler, Nehalem Bay Community Services in Nehalem, the Rockaway Beach Lions Club, and Meals for Seniors in Rockaway Beach. Here’s how these organizations make a difference—and how you can help:
Meals for Seniors, Inc. — Rockaway Beach: For over 20 years, their mission has been to help senior citizens of North Tillamook County remain independent by providing nutritious meals and social opportunities. Meals are served and delivered from the dining hall at St. Mary’s by the Sea Church on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Meals for Seniors is a federally designated 501(c)(3) nonprofit (Tax ID#90-0097197), serving over 12,000 meals per year. To support Meals for Seniors, please consider donating or volunteering—contact them at 503-317-8967 or send donations to PO Box 852, Rockaway Beach, Oregon 97136.
Rockaway Beach Lions Club: This group provides food baskets for families and seniors at Thanksgiving and Christmas. To contribute or get involved, reach out to Rockaway Beach Lions, PO Box 611, Rockaway Beach, Oregon 97136.
North County Food Bank — Wheeler: Currently operating at the former Rinehart Clinic site on the hill, the Food Bank is moving to a new location and recently closed its clothing bank. They especially need food donations for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Please call 503-368-7724 to learn about current needs or mail donations to NCFB, PO Box 162, Wheeler, Oregon 97141. Food and cash/check donations are gratefully accepted.
Nehalem Bay Community Services (NBCS): Formerly under the Nehalem Bay United Methodist Church, NBCS now operates independently as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (Tax ID#93-4296849). They run the CHILD Program (providing clothing at the start of the school year and gifts at Christmas), Senior Lunches (served or delivered on Tuesday and Thursday), a food pantry, and a clothing bank. NBCS is open Monday, Friday, and Saturday. To support NBCS, send donations to NC, PO Box 232, Nehalem, Oregon 97131, and please note which project you wish to support.
Additionally, it is expected that Nehalem Grade School will collect food donations for children during school breaks at Thanksgiving and Christmas. I will investigate this further and provide updates as available.
Thank you for helping to care for our community. Your support makes a real difference.
Best,
Patty

www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/oct/20/no-kings-protests-democrats-trump-politics
Brooks says politicians use dark passions to motivate voters. He delves into dark passions and how they take hold. He laments the loss of morality and sees an era of mass ignorance as we are fed an endless stream of entertainment he calls spiritual nutrients. I would call it something else. Most people I encounter don’t seem to have a lack of morality or intelligence. The flood of entertainment vying for our attention on the other hand… but then it’s just entertainment, we can choose to turn it off. Spirituality and intelligence come from somewhere else.
In the conclusion of David Brooks’ column there are 3 paragraphs that, for me, summed it all up:
“So to return to my original question: Why does politics feel so different now than in times past? My short answer is that over these years, demagogues in politics, in the media and online have exploited common feelings of humiliation to arouse dark passions, and those dark passions are dehumanizing our culture and undermining liberal democracy.”
Brooks defines humiliation as a result of being denied expected rights. He goes on to say people humiliated can lash out. Trump certainly exploited that at his rallies. Bernie Sanders too, but doesn’t get as much traction with his promotion of free everything. As an aside, Brooks wonders if history would have been different had Obama not humiliated Trump at the correspondent’s dinner on 30 Apr, 2011. Brooks conveniently omits Trump’s frequent attacks on Obama’s birth, religion, and election legitimacy prior to that dinner.
Brooks continues, “I often hear Democrats say their party needs to fight harder. These are people who don’t really believe in democracy. Fighting is for fascists. Democracy is about persuasion. Democrats would do well to get out of their urban and academic bubbles and understand the people they need to persuade and then persuade harder.”
At his many rallies, Trump (seeking adoration) refined his messaging for the base, building on what he previously learned from right wing media. The people think he really cares about them. It translated to tremendous voter support. Many only vote when Trump is on the ballot. Liberals feel ignored, as Brooks implies. Voters are quietly changing affiliation to Independent, while Bernie Sanders is the one connecting with the electorate. So the Democratic Party needs to figure it out, not just find a charismatic leader – I think we need more politicians who speak clearly and can explain complex matters. Their electorate must begin to feel like the party is really paying attention to average folks who are not the proverbial squeaky wheels or special interests.
I think the real nugget in Brooks’ column is this: “I’d add only that in order to repress dark passions and arouse the good ones, leaders need to create conditions in which people can experience social mobility. As philosophers have long understood, the antidote to fear is not courage; it’s hope. If people feel their lives and their society are stagnant, they will fight like scorpions in a jar. But if they feel that they personally are progressing toward something better, that their society is progressing toward something better, they will have an expanded sense of agency, their motivations will be oriented toward seizing some wonderful opportunity, and those are nice motivations to have.”
Persistent wealth disparity, and now unregulated big tech, have for too long trampled rights while duping us with counterfeit hope. Yet, adding to our frustration, nobody seems to know what to do about it. Those with money and power think they can soon get by without us by automating everything. What are they smoking?
Just the other day I found an idea in another article. Maybe it’s simplistic but in my experience uplifting and powerful. With some exceptions of course, those controlling our country and society are acting in bad faith and exhibiting very poor character. Rather than responding in kind or taking the bait, we can change what we consume, and modify how we behave to act with good character. By noticing and commending better character in others the movement can spread.
ICE protests in Portland are a good example. It’s brilliant to wear non-threatening costumes and deny the administration any sort of war zone appearance, which they so desperately need to support their bad faith narrative. Opportunities to apply this kind of strategy are in everything we do. We just need to be kind and considerate. We don’t have to participate in or contribute to whatever is harmful. From the bottom up, we can model a better way. Many do already, and those who’ve been angered by dark passions and dreadful news can try exercising their good character. Benefits will begin immediately.
This is not any revelation. It’s something we’ve been taught all along in many different ways. “Helping others is what makes us happy” (from the movie Last Christmas).
– Dave

As many of you already know we use these Protests to collect food for our North County Food Bank located in Wheeler. If you can please bring canned or non-perishable food to this event. We will deliver food, cash, or checks to the Food Bank when they are open on Tuesday. Please put your food in your car right now so you don’t forget it.
Our Protest is peaceful, and we want to keep it that way. If you have someone harassing you or bothering you in any way, take your friends and slowly move away from them. Find someone with a bright yellow vest on and explain what is happening. Do not respond to negative remarks or threats. Put some space between you and the problem. Do not try to touch angry people. Please follow the directions of the organizers-people in the yellow vests.
Because we are along Highway 101 we ask you to stay behind the barriers with caution tape on them. We ask you to not park in any of the business parking lots. You can park in the parking lot of the Manzanita City Hall. You can park along Manzanita and Laneda Avenues. Again, not in the business parking lots. If you need a ride from the Manzanita City Hall parking lot, call 503-801-3534 when you arrive and someone will pick you up shortly. We need to keep the corner of where Manzanita Avenue and Hwy. 101 empty so that people driving cars can see around the corners. If you park in this area, you will be asked to move for safety reasons.
Have good spirits and a positive attitude at this rally. We look forward to seeing you between noon and 2 PM.
Thanks, Patty