For decades Bloomington had the reputation of being one of the hippest towns in the Midwest. Over the past few years we have seen the town become more gentrified as locally-owned enterprises and community centered culture are displaced by outside corporate interests.

What could counterculture be in Bloomington today? We believe it is about connection and the voice of the people. If we can find our neighbors and get to know one another, we can envision together a better town and a stronger community. Through our shared vision and connection we can bring free thinking and creativity back to Bloomington. It is this kind of counterculture that can make Bloomington the Athens of the Midwest. It is this kind of counterculture The Bloomington Vibe supports and encourages.

The alternative press in America has been steadily dwindling over the past years, and this is alarming because it is the alternative press that helps free thinkers and social idealists find one another and build solidarity. Isolation takes the power of the people away. Divide and conquer is the modus operandi of the oppressor.

The features and stories in The Bloomington Vibe may not seem radical or extreme on the surface, but think about this: Today, connecting and envisioning are radical actions.

We want to hear your ideas and suggestions. This will help The Vibe become the people's paper. Letters to the editor, suggestions, or feedback are welcomed by mail or through The Vibe web site.