"we are still in a reactive mode. The good ole MSM is still the provider of information we chew on. We don't grow our own dog food."
I disagree. It was Free Republic that first spotted the Shuttle breaking up over California and into Texas. Freepers have provided firsthand reporting from Iraq, Japan, Iran, Israel, South Korea, and most American states.
Yes, part of what Free Republic is doing is to react to mainstream news, but there is another part of FR that is providing our own firsthand information, and yet another part that is providing unique analysis based upon all available information.
And then there is activism. It was Free Republic that led the March on Washington in 1998 with Congressman Bob Barr that led to Clinton's impeachment in the House. It's Doctor Raoul and Kristinn and the DC Chapter of FReepers who are protesting congressmen and reporters alike.
Taken in sum, Free Republic is providing a brand new check and balance to the old media world, as well as leading the charge to a more American, more conservative tomorrow.
The AWB Has Expired - Gun Owners Have Won Again For All Americans!
Free Republic is providing a brand new check and balance to the old media world Exactly. That is the main change and a major shock to the MSM and to the J-school students mentioned above. But the providers of the majority of information have not changed and are unlikely to go away. They'll be more careful now, knowing the Pajama People are waiting to kick their ass!
Yes, part of what Free Republic is doing is to react to mainstream news, but there is another part of FR that is providing our own firsthand information, and yet another part that is providing unique analysis based upon all available information. That is what drew me to FR in the first place (that, and MrConfettiMan always e-mailing me links!). It was the posting of editorials from all around the country and world, giving a multi-faceted look at any particular issue. And then the predictable dissection of each news article. Often, someone would holler "Bulls---!" on a piece of information that I had, at first glance, taken to be logical and legitimate. (This happened enough to make me want to just shut up, read, and absorb.)
The Pukin Dog's awesome manifesto dragged me out of semi-permanent lurk.