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rollercloaster
7-7-11, 2:50pm
Hi! I'm working on an upcoming documentary called the American Dream, that addresses issues around trying to reform the American Dream into something that is relevant today. The film is from the creators of Sicko, Bowling for Columbine, and Farenheit 9/11.

There's more info on the film here: http://wordpress.americandreamthemovie.com/

I found some articles from various papers around the web telling individual's stories about how simplifying life has lead to greater happiness. I was hoping to find potential interviewees, within close distance to the bay area in CA, to share their experiences.

Here's one couple's story I found recently:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/08/business/08consume.html?pagewanted=all

Thank you for your time,

Chloe Lee

Gardenarian
7-7-11, 5:29pm
Hi there - I live in the SF Bay Area and would be willing to be interviewed. Send me a PM and I'll get back to you.
Sounds like a cool project!

rollercloaster
7-7-11, 6:30pm
That's great! I listed that NY Times link to find some stories similar to that couple's. Can you tell me a little about your story? Thanks!

Weston
7-12-11, 4:35am
Sounds like a great project and one that is long overdue. I don't have anyone in the Bay area that I can refer you to but if you haven't done so already you might want to check with the New Road Map Foundation.

http://financialintegrity.org/index.php?title=About_the_New_Road_Map_Foundation

They should have plenty of leads for you.

Looking forward to seeing the movie.

rollercloaster
7-13-11, 3:29pm
Thanks for the response, Weston. I think somewhere in Northern CA would also work, maybe even anywhere in CA, if the story is good. Let me know if anyone comes to mind!

Weston
7-13-11, 4:05pm
Thanks for the response, Weston. I think somewhere in Northern CA would also work, maybe even anywhere in CA, if the story is good. Let me know if anyone comes to mind!

Maybe try reaching Carol Holst. I believe she lives in Southern Cal.

Probably the easiest method of contact is through the website

http://www.postconsumers.com/education/

Weston
7-14-11, 9:18am
Another possibility might be Linda Breen Pierce. I believe she lives in California. I know her and Ms. Holst only through their writings but they would probably both be excellent resources.

rollercloaster
7-18-11, 6:54pm
Thanks for that link. I went ahead and just sent an email to Carol Holst. Is Linda also on the site somewhere? I see most of the articles are written by a Kari O'Connor.

Weston
7-19-11, 5:29am
You can probably reach her through her publishers http://www.gallagherpress.com/lbp.htm but looking at her bio on that page she apparently has moved to Mexico. Still may be worth getting in touch with since I believe she lived in California for many years and would probably be able to give you some leads.

flowerseverywhere
7-20-11, 11:06am
it's sounds interesting. Too bad you aren't asking for people outside of the bay area, I know that when we lived there we specifically moved to an area of the country where housing was affordable and we could have a big garden. By moving we were able to retire early to pursue our hobbies and make significant contributions to society without the millstone of jobs to pay a big mortgage around our necks.

also, there are many people around the country who have shunned the "you gotta consume more" message and have found their own american dream based on family, friends and community as opposed to filling houses with worthless junk. I wish you luck.

Spartana
7-20-11, 1:04pm
When you do your show, don't forget to include simple livers who choose a life of minimalism that may include living in a small studio apt in the heart of a city, living aboard a sailboat or full time RVing, or a communial kind of thing or living as an ex-pat in a foriegn (and less expensive) country. Living without a car (biking, walking, using public transit or car sharing). Relying on local farmers markets for their food rather than caring for a large garden. Using libraries and other free places to meet their need for books, magazines, DVD's, CDs and internet access. People who live a spartan life and don't consume much in the way of utilities, water, or own much "stuff". People who have a very low environmental impact on the planet. These people are often overlooked when it comes to books and shows about simple living - which often depict a more "back to the land" or "living off the grid" kind of life. A lifestyle that requires not only alot of resources (money, water, land, etc...) and "stuff" (equiptment, vehicles, animals, etc..) to start up and to continue operations over the years, but also requires a heck of alot of work.

CathyA
7-20-11, 3:14pm
Also....there are so many little things that can be done to reduce consumption. Simple things like using cloth bags for groceries, not using cosmetics, fancy shampoos, soaps; too many clothes, eating out too much, etc., etc. These things add up quickly and put a strain on the earth.
Also......people in towns can do small things with their yards........not mowing a portion of it to allow habitat for other organisms, keeping their grass clippings and leaves for the compost pile, Hanging clothes to dry, etc.
Good luck with your project!

flowerseverywhere
7-20-11, 8:14pm
Yes, but for many people the American dream still consists of having the biggest house, newest cars, finest clothes and eating at the finest restaurant without regard for others or the environment. some people feel the need to be sending kids to expensive schools, exotic travel, giant boats, etc. Just because it isn't my dream doesn't mean it doesn't exist for some.

I for one have fulfilled my personal American Dream, but some of my neighbors and family thinks I'm nuts or an aging hippie.