Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 86

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Saturday May 31, 2008--No. 86

MSM:

Clinton supporters vow to carry nomination battle all the way to the Democratic National Convention after DNC rules committee unveils a compromise Florida/Michigan delegate resolution.

Blogs:

Barack Obama to close the primary season with speech at the site of 2008 Republican National Convention.

Mark your calendar--June 22's protestor "consulta" in Denver.

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Liveblogging The Colorado GOP Convention

Welcome to SP's liveblogging coverage of the 2008 Colorado GOP Convention . . . scroll for updates and live video/liveblogging . . . joined by Ben DeGrow of Mount Virtus and Night Twister

Night Twister is liveblogging the convention, and Ben DeGrow and I have joined his running commentary over there.

Bob Schaffer accepts the nomination for US Senate for Colorado (part 1):


Part 2:


Sen. Wayne Allard addresses the convention attendees (part 1):


Sen. Allard, part 2:


Rep. Tom Tancredo addresses the convention attendees:

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 87

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Friday May 30, 2008--No. 87

Blogs:

Drunkablog--With the DNC coming up short in achieving its fundraising goals, spending cuts are being considered.

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

DNCC Credentials More Blogs For DNC

SquareState.net has the full list of all the blogs, including the original state credentialed blogs, complete with embedded links.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 88

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Thursday May 29, 2008--No. 88

MSM:

Hillary Clinton's supporters plan to march on the DNC convention--no not the one here in Denver in August, but the rules meeting in DC this weekend.

DNC security will include officers from Boulder County.

Top Dems don't want the primary going on much longer, and certainly not all the way up to the DNC, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Blogs:

Drunkablog--Recreate '68 just misunderstood?

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Carbon Belch Day--June 12

We'll see if this carbon belch "holiday" will be better observed than the washout of "Earth Hour" back on March 31:

Conservative grassroots group Grassfire.org wants people to waste as much energy as possible on June 12 by "hosting a barbecue, going for a drive, watching television, leaving a few lights on, or even smoking a few cigars."

The point: the group wants to "help Americans break free from the 'carbon footprint guilt' being imposed by Climate Alarmists."

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 89

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Wednesday May 28, 2008--No. 89

MSM:

Diversity quotas determine DNC delegate selection.

The New York Times notices that the DNCC is a few dollars short as well--about $15 million with a little over two weeks left until the June 16 deadline.

Blogs:

The ACLU has filed yet another lawsuit, this time using Colorado's open records, to gain access to the city of Denver's DNC security and equipment plans and purchases.

The "Afrosphere" levels charges of racism at the DNC's blogger selection.

Drunkablog discusses Glenn Spagnuolo's (Recreate '68) questioning of the new wireless video surveillance plans for the DNC--and the city's further plan to retain that system once the convention has concluded.

The Denver Post will sit down with the Colorado state blog at the DNC--SquareState.net--for a webcast and moderated Q&A.

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

ACLU Files Yet Another Lawsuit Against Denver Over DNC Security Plans, Equipment

Unsatisfied by previous setbacks from the city of Denver that argued security issues overrode disclosure of equipment purchases, the ACLU's new lawsuit once again focuses on “less lethal” weapons, vehicles, personal body armor, restraint devices, and barricades, fencing or netting”--“We believe the public interest is served by disclosing how the government is spending the public’s money,” said John Culver, ACLU Cooperating Attorney, who filed the Colorado open records suit.

**Update: Neal responds to the ACLU's request in comments:

"$XX million will be spent on keeping some dipshit protestors from violating everyone else's rights to free speech and peacable assembly. Without said dipshit protestors, the cost would be much, much less."

Indeed.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 90

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Tuesday May 27, 2008--No. 90

MSM:

Feds agree to pick up police insurance tab for DNC.

Blogs:

DNCC forum to visit Grand Junction.

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, Memorial Day Edition

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Saturday May 24-Monday May 26, 2008--No. 93, 92, 91 Memorial Day Edition

MSM:

The DNCC's failure to raise adequate funding is getting national attention.

Blogs:

NPR's "All Things Considered" takes a look at Recreate '68.

Drunkablog takes a look at the new batch of "Cinemocracy" entries.

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Blogs4Borders Video Blogburst 052608

Freedom Folks has this week's edition.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 94

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Friday May 23, 2008--No. 94

MSM:

Colorado's Democratic National Convention pledged delegates and all superdelegates announced--70 in all.

Celebrities rumored to be in town during the DNC include Christina Aguilera, Oprah, Tom Hanks, Bono, Steven Spielberg, George Clooney, and moonbats Sean Penn and Rage Against the Machine. (h/t Drunkablog)

How nice--DNC credentials for sale for a mere $28,500.

Blogs:

Denver agrees to release DNC protest parade route on June 12.

The DNC plans to rectify some of the state blogging kerfuffle with affirmative action for minority-run blogs.

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Denver To Reveal DNC Protest Parade Route June 12

**Update--Drunkablog notes that the ACLU is already discussing their "demands" in regards to the city's announced parade route plans

Following the ACLU/protest groups' lawsuit filed earlier this month, Denver will disclose the parade route, but will not specify where the route ends (cue whining):

Denver city officials said today they would disclose, by June 12, the route parades would be allowed to follow during the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

Responding to a lawsuit the American Civil Liberties Union filed on behalf of a dozen protest groups earlier this month, city officials also released some details regarding public demonstration areas.

By June 12, officials say they will provide the route street-by-street, but will not indicate exactly where the route ends. They said it would end "within walking distance of a public viewing area."

This is sure to draw the ire of the protestors, who feel that nothing less than unabated access to all areas of Downtown where delegates, the media, and anyone else within shouting distance is satisfactory for their planned rantings and theatrics.

The city will still process parade requests for the next month:

The city agreed in papers filed in federal court late Thursday to complete processing of pending requests for parades during the convention by June 19, and consider new requests thereafter. Competing requests are to be resolved through a public drawing.

The city said it won't charge a fee normally assessed to cover police overtime. The city is getting $50 million in federal dollars to cover police and emergency responders' extra effort convention week, Aug. 25-28.

The ACLU said in a press release that the city had stipulated the public demonstration zone, "is not an isolated zone by which the city will confine demonstrations. This public area is simply a designated location that will provide sight and sound access to the convention delegates, and is open to demonstrators, delegates, curious onlookers and others."

But not all the details on how the zone is to work have been released.

The ACLU and protester groups are trying to make sure Denver doesn't restrict demonstrators to a caged area, such as the one that infuriated First Amendment advocates at the 2004 Democratic convention in Boston.

Taxpayers are comping the police overtime for the parades/protests--how nice.

We're still awaiting the response of the ACLU and the protest groups involved.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 95

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Thursday May 22, 2008--No. 95

MSM:

More on the DNCC credentialing challenge issued by bloggers, and a profile of Colorado's selected state blog--SquareState.

Molson-Coors will provide the ethanol for the fleet of flex-fuel vehicles at the Democratic National Convention using waster beer from the Coors Brewery in Golden, Colorado.

DNCC essay contest winners and winning essays posted online (pdf). Here is a non-pdf version of one of the winning essays, "In Front of the Pack."

Blogs:

Recreate '68--"bunch of babies."

"Top ten ways the Democrat National Convention could be even lamer."

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

McCain, Obama Due In Colorado Next Week

Colorado really is a battleground state, and we will have the campaign visits to prove it--McCain in on Tuesday at DU, Obama on Wednesday (no specifics).

Broomfield Extends Invite To Protestors Ahead Of State GOP Convention

A community meeting is planned next week to address potential concerns and "open a dialogue" of protestors contemplating demonstrations outside the Broomfield Event Center May 31:

Broomfield Police Department will host a community meeting on Wednesday, May 28, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. at the Broomfield Municipal Library auditorium, 3 Community Park Road. The purpose of this meeting is to open a dialogue with individuals and/or organizations that intend to demonstrate at the Republican State Convention, being held on May 31, 2008, at the Broomfield Event Center.

Broomfield Police Department is aware, that at events such as this, organizations plan demonstrations to convey a message to attendees. Broomfield Police Department is committed to protecting the rights of those demonstrating, as well as the rights of those attending the Convention. This meeting will discuss the types of activities that are protected by law, as well as what is considered unlawful conduct.

It is the desire of the Broomfield Police Department to communicate and collaborate with all interested parties to ensure the safety and protection of all.

If you have any questions about this press release, contact Sergeant Mark Goodell, Public Information Officer, at 303-438-6419.

There hasn't been much stirring from the usual gang of protestors, but Broomfield's proximity to Boulder certainly does not preclude another round of moonbattery outside the GOP state convention.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 96

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Wednesday May 21, 2008--No. 96

MSM:

DNCC essay contest winners announced.

Blogs:

Glenn Spagnuolo of Recreate '68 joined KHOW's Peter Boyles over the course of several shows, to discuss his group, their DNC plans, and the nomination process.

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 97

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Tuesday May 20, 2008--No. 97

MSM:

Recreate '68 gets two permits, asks city to recognize its "right to free expression."

"Legendary" gavel used in 1908 to open and close Denver's previous DNC and supposedly carved from a tree on Dems' 1908 nominee William Jennings Bryan's Nebraska farm was found in a box on the porch of a trailer home in suburban Denver.

Blogs:

Bloggers protest DNC credentials for the state bloggers already approved by the DNCC. More blog reax: DailyKos, Michelle Malkin, Open Left, SquareState (Colorado's credentialed state blog)

Recreate '68 gains a permit for west steps of State Capitol on eve of DNC, right next to Civic Center, where the DNCC will be holding a rally; Recreate '68 claims the city of Denver has cut off communications with them and other protest groups.

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Blogs4Borders Video Blogburst 051908

Freedom Folks has this week's edition, with Chris Simcox speaking at Depaul University in Chicago.

Recreate '68 Secures State Capitol Permit For Eve Of DNC; **Update: Recreate '68 Claims Talks With City Have Ended

Glenn Spagnuolo of Recreate '68 announced that the group had received permission to protest on the State Capitol grounds instead of Civic Center Park on the Sunday preceding the Democratic National Convention, but the real concern is the number of protestors expected:

Denver City Councilmember Doug Linkhart says he has no good idea just how many protesters will descend into Denver during the last full week of August.

"It's the great unknown," he said.

He says whatever happens, the city will do everything it can to keep its residents safe and simultaneously protect everyone's freedom of speech.

"We can't walk away from this convention having Denver put into a negative light because of how we respond (to the protesters)."

"If we have huge protests and people egging on the police, we're going to do our best to keep it peaceful."

Despite the newly secured permit, Spagnuolo attacked the city:

Glenn Spagnuolo, a Recreate 68 organizer, said Monday the state was "easy to work with" in getting the permits for Aug. 24.

However, he didn't have kind words for the city.

"The state of Colorado has stepped in where the city has refused to and acted in a responsible manner," Spagnuolo said. "If you remember at the end of the lottery process, they promised to work closely with anybody who did not obtain a park to assure their voices were heard. That was a complete lie and fabrication by the city."

Spagnuolo's group released this statement:

Representatives of the Recreate 68 Alliance, which is coordinating demonstrations around the Democratic National Convention, announced today that it had to obtain permits from the State of Colorado for the west steps of the State Capitol Building and Lincoln Park for Sunday, August 24, the day before the DNC, as a venue to stage a massive antiwar protest. This action became necessary because the city of Denver allowed a party organizer for the DNC Host Committee—a private, well-funded organization—to apply for and obtain a permit for Civic Center Park for that date, shutting the public out of the largest public park in downtown Denver. In addition, the City had refused to engage in dialogue with R68 to resolve the issue as promised.

As Glenn Spagnuolo of R68 explained, despite reports to the contrary, R68 has never threatened conflict with the Host Committee. “We only pointed out, based on past experience,” Spagnuolo said, “that the city, by denying us a place to put the thousands of people expected for this event, was creating the potential for conflict. The City promised to work with groups who did not obtain permits to assure their voices are heard during the convention, this did not occur.” R68 asked the city to discuss this situation with them, after being rebuffed, R68 worked with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to try to arrange a meeting. The city refused the requests not only of R68 but of the DOJ as well.

“Our goal from the beginning,” said R68 spokesperson Mark Cohen, “has been to create a safe space for people to peacefully exercise their First Amendment rights. Civic Center Park would have been the most appropriate space—public parks are for the public. Since the city has denied its use to the public, R68 has obtained permits from the State of Colorado in order to avoid unnecessary conflict.”

Therefore, to avert conflict and assure that people will be able to safely and peacefully gather to express their concerns about the war, R68 obtained the state permits. R68 members Larry Hales and Carlo Garcia, both of whom have family members serving in Iraq, said that people have not only a right but a responsibility to bring their concerns about the ongoing war to the attention of convention delegates and elected officials. “We have been negotiating with the city in good faith for a year and a half,” Hales said. “We wish we could say the same for them. But we are doing everything in our power to assure people that they can exercise their Constitutional rights.”

There's that "we are peaceful, it's the city's fault if there is any conflict" meme that we have been following.

Meanwhile, Drunkablog carves up a rather long--and by long we mean Biblical--anarchist missive on "mass mobilizations," Recreate '68 (not in a positive way, either), and the relative advantages and disadvantages of protesting the RNC and DNC.

**Update--Denver Daily News says that Recreate '68 claims that communications have been cut off between the group, other affiliated protest organizations, and the ACLU and the city of Denver after the filing of lawsuits asking that the city's police plans for protest parade routes be disclosed--and the new permit for the State Capitol came from the state, not the city, seems to add to that claim. Stay tuned.

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More on the ACLU's latest lawsuit over detention facilities:

. . . the American Civil Liberties Union said Monday that policies at the Denver jail need to be examined to make sure people arrested during the convention will have adequate access to food, toilets, medical care and lawyers.

The ACLU sued the city and safety manager Al LaCabe over the city's refusal to turn over a copy of its policies at the city jail.

ACLU attorney Taylor Pendergrass said he has serious concerns about complaints and problems concerning operation of the jail, including the death of Emily Rice, who bled to death at the jail from internal injuries after she was arrested for DUI following a traffic accident.

LaCabe said the city has turned over as much as it can without compromising security.

"We have given them those things that we believe are in the public interest and withheld things we believe are not in the public interest that have a lot to do with security at the facility," he said.

Denver's new policy requires an arrest if related to protests, not a "cite and release" plan preferred (for obvious reasons) by the protest groups:

Last summer, in view of the many expected arrests of demonstrators at the convention, Pendergrass said the ACLU asked Denver police to handle minor violations with a summons or notice to appear in court.

But he said police refused, saying that current policy requires officers to make full arrests, including detention in the city jail, for even minor violations connected with protests.

"It is difficult to comment on this other than to say that it's important that we fully identify and process all people that we arrest," LaCabe said.

"Many of these people may be from out of town and we don't know about their identify, so all those things pose issues that make it necessary to stay with our normal procedures. There are many other reasons that I cannot comment any further on."

Pendergrass said the ACLU is concerned that jail staff will be overwhelmed by the volume of arrests during the convention.

Mark Cohen, a Recreate 68 organizer, said they would prefer to have a cite and release plan in place for the convention and claimed a long, drawn out process where people sit in jail waiting to be bonded out takes away their right to free speech during the event.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 98

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Monday May 19, 2008--No. 98

MSM:

DNCC CEO Leah Daughtry discusses the "great moment in history" that the DNC represents to Denver (video).

Colorado's Democrat delegates to the DNC have been elected and there was record turnout at the state convention; party platform includes immediate withdrawal from Iraq and impeachment of President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney (video).

Margaret "Molly" Brown, women's suffrage, and the 1908 Denver Democratic National Convention--a new exhibit at the Molly Brown House ahead of the DNC.

Blogs:

The Drunkablog discusses the "green" catering demands of the DNC that bans fried foods, foods should be local, organic or both, and should be at least three different colors.

The ACLU has now filed another lawsuit, this time to reveal police arrest plans for the DNC, including processing, detention location, and information on release locations.

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Rocky Mountain Alliance 2.0

Ben DeGrow explains the relaunch of the Rocky Mountain Alliance--version 2.0 for 2008:

In 2004, the Rocky Mountain Alliance of Blogs was formed - a loose collection of Colorado conservative bloggers who combined forces to grow new media influence in our state.

Times change. New blogs come. Old ones go. 2008 brings the birth of the Rocky Mountain Alliance, version 2.0. Below you will find not only links to each of our sites but also a feed you can scroll through to see our latest posts.

Some of the original cast remain, strengthened by the fresh blood of some high-quality newcomers. The goal of the Rocky Mountain Alliance 2.0 is to promote our shared conservative vision of limited and accountable government, freedom, and personal responsibility - in Colorado and in our nation, the result of the most brilliant and noble political experiment in human history.

You are invited to visit each of our sites and leave your comments.

Members

* Best Destiny
* Daily Blogster
* The Drunkablog!
* Geezerville USA
* Mount Virtus
* Night Twister
* Rocky Mountain Right
* Slapstick Politics
* Thinking Right
* View from a Height

Projects

* Ritter Watch
* Schaffer v Udall

I have posted the RMA 2.0 blogroll in the sidebar, along with the RMA 2.0 blog feed.

Schaffer V Udall--Monday Morning Edition 051908

From now until the election, in addition to links provided throughout the week, SP is promoting the Schaffer v Udall blog's latest posts:

Inconvenient Facts for Mark Udall and Big Blue Lie Machine's Assault on Bob Schaffer

Why is Mark Udall Hiding from Unscripted Debates?

Making Mountains out of Molehills

Mark Udall Now Running from "Boulder Liberal" Tag and Debates? A Connection?

Stay tuned to SvU for the most up-to-date coverage and analysis of the U.S. Senate matchup between Bob Schaffer and Mark Udall, updates on Colorado's voting population and party affiliation, and the impact of the Democratic National Convention on Colorado's most significant state-wide race.

SP's Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 99

From now until the Democratic National Convention in August, SP will feature a daily digest of convention-related news in addition to the widely read coverage of the moonbat protestors planning to converge in Denver August 25-28th. The numbers will be in reverse order, counting down to the convention.

The posts will appear around noon every day, but will be updated throughout the day as MSM stories, relevant blog posts, and breaking news becomes available (and more numerous). As a digest, each post will feature links and short blurbs--commentary will be left for other posts (and will be linked to, when available, following the story itself). Regular commenters--you know who you are--and all faithful readers are encouraged to leave any additional links in the comments section. These will be promoted to the main entry itself.

Also, as an additional incentive to make these posts more interactive, each daily digest will serve as an open thread for any other DNC-related commentary, assessment, reaction, etc.--so have at it!

MSM:
First up--Rocky Mountain News presents 100 people to ponder, issues to consider, details to resolve, and most importantly, questions remaining to be answered ahead of the DNC.

Former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb (a Hillary Clinton national campaign co-chair) will be throwing a "why can't all Democrats get along" party to hopefully rebuild a potentially fractured and certainly exhausted Dem camp--featuring stars Pam Grier, Boyz II Men, and Chauncey Billups.

There is still a ton of cash to be raised by the host committee--$40.6 million by June 16 (with around $25 million in hand), and plans are being finalized for delegate transportation (250 buses, 400 motor pool vehicles for party big wigs), volunteers, and the Pepsi Center staging.

The state-by-state blogger corps has been selected.

There were a combined 116 pages of delegate candidates up for 12 at-large and two alternate positions for the DNC--70 pages of Obama supporters, the rest for Clinton.

Blogs:
Drunkablog has an examination of anti-war protestors' potential "get-rich-quick" lawsuit scheme no doubt planned for the upcoming DNC, dubbed the "Activists' Retirement Plan"--but don't question their patriotism.

"First Amendment concerns" are behind the lawsuits filed in Minnesota (RNC) and Colorado (DNC) over planned protest parade route disclosure.

Sex Strike Constitutional Amendment Opposing Iraq War Proposed In Colorado

If a proposed ballot initiative passes this November, there will be a no sexual fireworks launched on January 1, 2009 in Colorado.

That's what one man wants--not a referendum, proclamation, or resolution--but an amendment to the Colorado Constitution mandating a one day "sex strike" by women to show opposition to the war in Iraq:

A graduate student at the University of Colorado-Denver is proposing a statewide ballot initiative that would ask voters to include in the state Constitution a one-day sex strike by women to symbolize opposition to the Iraq War.

Yeah, that'll work. (Full disclosure--I attend CU-Denver, and no, it wasn't me)

Facethestate.com caught up with Page Penk, the initiative's author, and asked why there was a need for such a drastic measure:

"The war is underground. It's secret. It's not affecting the middle class. It's not being covered by the media. I feel like the war is taboo to talk about."

As Face the State quips, Penk needs to get out a little more.

Here is the original text, which received approval to begin collecting the signatures necessary to put the initiative on the ballot:

The initiative asks voters: "Be it Enacted by the People of the State of Colorado: Shall there be a sex strike by the women only, January 1st, 2009, for one day in length, in support of the wife's and parents of U.S. combat troops receiving pay for support services rendered to the military, through an amendment to the Colorado Constitution?"

After an hour of arguing, Page got approval from the board to begin collecting signatures for the question to appear on the ballot. He will need to collect more than 76,000 signatures.

Penk said the idea is a creative way to make a statement.

"This is about respect for the families of our military," he told the Web site.

To paraphrase Glenn Reynolds of Instapundit.com, "they said if George W. Bush were reelected, we would have less privacy in our sex lives, and they were right!"

One could question, in a serious manner, the legal ramifications of such an amendment to Colorado's citizens, or the intent of the author's back door approach to inserting such anti-war schlock into the state's constitution, but that might give moonbats like Peng a little too much credit. The intent is to get his 15 seconds of Internet fame.

Pathetic.

But the initiative has cleared the first hurdle of review, and now goes to the people of Colorado for 76,000 signatures and final ballot approval.

Here is the Legislative Staff response to Penk's proposal:

MEMORANDUM
April 11, 2008

TO: Page and Chester Penk
FROM: Legislative Council Staff and Office of Legislative Legal Services
SUBJECT: Proposed initiative measure 2007-2008 #97, concerning a sex strike in support of combat troops.

Section 1-40-105 (1), Colorado Revised Statutes, requires the directors of the Colorado Legislative Council and the Office of Legislative Legal Services to "review and comment" on initiative petitions for proposed laws and amendments to the Colorado constitution. We hereby submit our comments to you regarding the appended proposed initiative.

The purpose of this statutory requirement of the Legislative Council and the Office of Legislative Legal Services is to provide comments intended to aid proponents in determining the language of their proposal and to avail the public of knowledge of the contents of the proposal. Our first objective is to be sure we understand your intent and your objective in proposing the amendment. We hope that the statements and questions contained in this memorandum will provide a basis for discussion and understanding of the proposal.

Purposes
The major purposes of the proposed amendment appear to be:

1. To mandate a sex strike by women in the state of Colorado on January 1, 2009, in support of United States combat troops.

2. To amend the Colorado Constitution.

Technical Comments
The following comments address technical issues raised by the form of the proposed initiative. These comments will be read aloud at the public meeting only if the proponents so request. You will have the opportunity to ask questions about these comments at the review and comment meeting. Please consider revising the proposed initiative as suggested below.

1. It is standard drafting practice to use small capital letters to show the language being added to the Colorado constitution. For example, the first line of your proposal would read "[SHALL THERE BE A SEX STRIKE BY THE WOMEN ONLY, ON JANUARY 1, 2009,...]." Would the proponents consider using this standard drafting practice in their proposal?

2. The proponents use "wife's and parents" in the proposal, which means the possessive form of a single wife and multiple parents. Is it the proponents intent to mean "wives and parents" and, if so, would they consider changing that language?

3. The text of the proposed initiative is in the form of a ballot question, rather than the actual language they wish to see amend a particular place in the constitution. Would the proponents be willing to amend their proposal to include specific placement instructions and language for the constitution?

Substantive Comments and Questions
The substance of the proposed initiative raises the following comments and questions:

1. Article V, section 1 (5.5) of the Colorado constitution requires all proposed initiatives to have a single subject. What is the single subject of the proposed initiative?

2. It would be helpful to further define "sex strike" to clarify who it applies to and who it does not apply to, if anyone.

3. The application of the proposed amendment to women only could raises constitutional questions concerning discrimination and disparate treatment. Have the proponents considered a response to such concerns?

4. If passed, the proposed initiative could not take effect until the vote is proclaimed by the governor. Sometimes, that does not happen until after January 1. Would the proponents consider a later date to be certain the action occurs after the proclamation of the vote?

You know, between this and the "Extraterrestrial Affairs Commission" proposed to Denver's City Council, it appears that the state's moonbats aren't confined to the People's Republic of Boulder or posh ski resorts any longer.

Good grief!

Exit questions: what effect, if any, will this have on current marriages--the ballot singles out wives--and will it apply to same-sex couples as well? Inquiring minds want to know . . . (not really)

DNC Meme In Action--Law Enforcement, Not Protestors, To Blame

Drunkablog and SP have been detailing the extent to which the anti-war, anti-capitalist, anti-American moonbat protestors led by Glenn Spagnuolo, Recreate '68, and others at this summer's Democratic National Convention have denied any violent intent--they claim to be pursuing the First Amendment freedoms they are guaranteed (and rightfully so).

If there is any violence, it will not be the protestors, but law enforcement cited as the instigators of the resultant mayhem, mass arrests, and possibly worse.

So today, at the Colorado Democrat party state convention in Colorado Springs, two such protestors engaged in a "dry run" to test police reactions--claiming that they were completely unaware of any such plan, and were instead the helpless victims of a twitchy law enforcement "dry run" instead:

Reporters kept asking me if the local Colorado Democratic State Convention was going to be a “dry run” for groups planning something big at the national convention in August. Perhaps their curiosity was peaked* by our mention on Michael Moore’s list of DNC dry run opportunities. I told them I was aware of no such plans, but it became clear to me today that my callers had been on to something. There was a dry run in the works, and it was being carried out by law enforcement.

I was arrested today, through no planning of my own. There was confusion over where the First Amendment applied and where it did not. The police seized upon the chance to arrest, process and hold us, until our opportunity to be heard had passed. We were mighty confused at the time, but in retrospect the police maneuver was carried out like clockwork.

Yep, those dastardly law enforcement officers went out of their way to personally target the two moonbats who were merely confused about what was going on, and where they could and could not protest.

It is a certainty that similar arguments will be leveled at the security detail surrounding the various venues of the Democratic National Convention. Claims of ignorance (on the part of protestors), lack of consultation with the protest groups, ill-defined "secure" areas, etc., are sure to be the order of the day. "Provocative" acts will be redefined as tests of freedom, and outright refusal to obey lawful police orders recast as the usual illegal oppression, silencing alternative viewpoints, yada yada yada.

Spagnuolo himself has stated, "if there's going to be violence, it will be instigated by the police." Even the law suit filed by the ACLU on behalf of the protesting groups positions the muddled moonbats as preemptive victims of a conspiracy by law enforcement and the Secret Service to keep them intentionally ignorant of the exact security parameters as a way of justifying the protestors' subsequent arrests.

Riiight.

*By the way, it's "piqued" not "peaked."

Colorado Democrat Party State Convention

“We are going to mop the floor with John McCain”--Rep. Diane DeGette, D-Denver

If you're interested in what our friends across the aisle are doing at the Colorado Democrat Party state convention, the folks at Colorado Confidential are team-blogging the event:

Day 1

Day 2

They also have some photos, a roundup of the invited state party bigwigs (Gov. Ritter, Congresswoman DeGette, Rep. Salazar and Sen. Salazar, Senate candidate Rep. Mark Udall, Rep. Perlmutter, and Clinton groupie and campaign manager Terry McAuliffe-stirs a bit of controversy with Clinton vs. Obama speech), and an update on two anti-war protestors arrested for leaving the "Free Speech Zone".

Not My Tribe, the blogging home of one of the arrested protestors, features a local Colorado Springs news bit on the anti-war protestors' plans on using this weekend's festivities as a "dry run" for Denver's Democratic National Convention in August.

There was also a moment of silence in Sen. Ted Kennedy's (D-MA) honor.

Other highlighted quotes (via The Rocky Mountain News):

Even before the event opened at 10 a.m. today, the crowd was on its feet as various slogans ran across huge TV screens at the World Arena:

“Right now, Marilyn Musgrave is shopping for moving vans.”

“Right now, Bob Schaffer is still trying to figure out what a Colorado mountain looks like.”

But the loudest whoops and hollers were reserved for this one:

“Right now, Tom Tancredo is serving up his last term in Congress.”

In the Denver County area, three Clinton supporters held up signs that read “Yes” “She” “Will.”

The euphoric atmosphere of the state convention no doubt elicited one of the more interesting comments of the day:

“We are going to mop the floor with John McCain,” promised Rep. Diane DeGette, D-Denver.

100 Days To Denver's Democratic National Convention

It's the final countdown!

Drunkablog has the lowdown on final preparations for August's DNC.

Meanwhile, the Denver Post dishes on the Democrats' potential meltdown should the nominee not be in place before the convention--and on the awkward situation facing the rival Clinton/Obama camps, including shared housing quarters:

Soon, so soon, they will be here. Thousands of delegates, hundreds of campaign staffers, bunches of bloggers, and all of them potentially divided.

After more than a year and a half on the campaign trail, fueled by an unprecedented total half-billion dollars, worn by 16-hour- plus days on buses and planes to stadiums and churches and greasy spoons in every corner of the United States, teams Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama finally will come to town.

In but 101 days.

And if Democrats don't use that time to figure out how to heal the wounds and bring the teams together for the teary-eyed, hearts- aflutter historic coronation that is supposed to be the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the audience will notice.

With more than 15,000 members of the media watching, with technology that makes amateur posting of images and videos to a worldwide audience instantaneous, the audience will notice.

"What has to happen is that all of us who are family members remain family members," said Leah Daughtry, the chief executive for the Democratic National Convention Committee.

"That means respecting everyone and making sure everyone's contributions are respected and honored and recognized and acknowledged," Daughtry said. "And those are simple things to do. It doesn't require a lot of the convention. It means you get a room. It means you get a credential. It means you get to participate."

The MSM acknowledges the bloggers, and then dismissed them as "amateurs."

The way things are headed, with shrinking staffs at mainstream media outlets both local and national, there may not be an MSM in 2012.

One can only hope. We'll see just how many "amateurs" cover the DNC, providing alternate content--the stuff they won't show you on TV.

Protest Parade Route In St. Paul To Be Contested, Denver's Route Still Unclear

It appears that even a specified protest parade route isn't enough for the moonbats protesting the Republican National Convention in St. Paul in September:

Denver officials have not yet rolled out the parade route that protesters will be able to take during the Democratic National Convention in August.

But they might find a harbinger of how contentious that bit of geography will be based on the experience of their counterparts in St. Paul, Minn.

St. Paul police have mapped out the long-awaited route that war protesters will be expected to use to march on the Republican National Convention on Sept. 1 - a 2-mile trek the city contends strikes the "difficult balance" between security and free speech rights.

While the route would enable marchers to pass within 300 feet of the convention site at the Xcel Energy Center, a dispute over it appears to be headed to court.

Attorneys and others representing a coalition of protesters argued that the route poses logistical challenges, and that the time frame set by police for the march ensures that the Republican Party has the entire evening's spotlight to itself.

U.S. District Judge Joan Ericksen in Minnesota has scheduled a hearing today on a lawsuit filed by attorneys for the American Civil Liberties Union and National Lawyers Guild on behalf of protesters.

The protest groups in Denver have already filed their lawsuit with the help of the ACLU, and are still awaiting the sure-to-displease plans for a protest parade route in the Mile High City:

A similar court battle already is under way in Denver. The ACLU of Colorado sued Denver and the U.S. Secret Service two weeks ago to ensure that protesters will come within view and earshot of the Pepsi Center, site of the Democratic National Convention.

City officials have said they are waiting on the Secret Service to disclose security boundaries around the Pepsi Center before they can map the route.

"We're working hard on finalizing our parade route, but are not yet ready to release any details," said Denver spokeswoman Sue Cobb. "It's a complicated process."

The complications no doubt exacerbated not only by the protestors' many implicit threats to disrupt the convention, but also the Pepsi Center and Civic Center's proximity to main thoroughfares (Speer Boulevard, Colfax Avenue), not to mention the multiple Secret Service stipulations, as well as any other threats, specific or otherwise that will play a role not only in the eventual route's selection but in the timeline for that plan's release to the public, including Denver's many Downtown residents and businesses.

Regardless of the eventual arrangement, the inevitable clown assemblage of Recreate '68 and their allies (on speaking terms or not) will create quite a spectacle.

And we'll bring it to you, in all of its radical, moonbat, unhygienic, colorful glory.

Vegas Stakes In Colorado?

I'm willing to take that gamble.

Many states have struggled with the conundrum of desiring more tax revenue from gaming while simultaneously erecting seemingly ridiculous rules meant to make the whole affair appear somewhat unwholesome.

If Colorado can eliminate a decades-old blue law outlawing the sale of liquor on Sundays, then a modest expansion of the current gaming allowances are certainly not out of the question.

In any case, allowing the citizens of Colorado to determine (as they have in the past) the exact parameters of gaming in the state is the most responsible method for dealing with any limits, or their elimination.

Opposition, however, should be limited to considerations of the impact of the changes on roads or the mountain communities themselves, and not a devolution into demagoguing those who wish to participate in a form of entertainment as sordid or irresponsible.

Colorado Student Stands Up For Old Glory--"Duty, Honor, God And Country"

**Welcome Michelle Malkin readers . . . scroll to find a way to help out

"I stand for duty, honor, God and country"--Jeffrey Sahli


Jeffrey Sahli, 14, has been raising and lowering the American flag each school day for the past two years at Evergreen Middle School. (Photo by Brian Lehmann/Special to the Rocky)

Every now and then, the daily political grind and the latest news from around the world can turn even the most optimistic of bloggers just that much more cynical.

But then, this is America, and there are still patriots, like Jeffrey Sahli of Evergreen, Colorado:

Jeffrey Sahli noticed the faded, fraying U.S. flag outside Evergreen Middle School soon after he started eighth grade last year.

"I thought the flag wasn't being treated with flag etiquette. I thought I needed to do that," the 14-year-old said. "I wanted to serve my country and I thought, heck, I'll start right here."

With the principal's permission, he began taking care of Old Glory. Every school day he carefully hoists the U.S. and Colorado flags before classes and takes them down before heading home. He folds the Colorado flag into a neat square, the U.S. flag into a triangle, and places them in a cabinet in the office. He keeps them inside on stormy days.

That isn't the whole story, however:

Susan Roy didn't know Jeffrey but saw him every time she dropped off her son at Evergreen Middle and picked him up.

"Jeff would be out there - rain or shine - it didn't matter," she said. "He just wasn't taking it down, throwing it over his shoulders and taking it inside. He was very purposeful about it."

"As simple as it is to some people, it really is a big deal. He doesn't do it for an attaboy. He just does it because it's right."

Roy was so impressed that she told a family friend stationed in Iraq about Jeffrey. First Sgt. Timothy Horan serves with the Kentucky National Guard's 138th Fires Brigade.

"You don't hear of kids taking that kind of responsibility especially with something like that," he said. "A lot of younger kids think it's corny."

Or even unpatriotic. Just ask the "patriots" at Recreate '68.

Horan was moved by Jeffrey's patriotism:

Horan bought a flag at the military store and hung it above Camp Liberty near the Baghdad airport on Jan. 30 in Jeffrey's honor.

The next day, he was flown out of the country for emergency heart surgery. Friends sent the flag to Horan this spring. He got it to Roy who gave it to Evergreen Middle School Principal Jane Sutera.

Sutera arranged a surprise ceremony Thursday at the school where a shocked and grateful Jeffrey received the flag and a certificate from the Army recognizing his patriotism.

"I've never been recognized for doing something as simple as that," he said. "It was one of the best feelings I've had in my life."

He said he wasn't embarrassed by the attention because he wants people to see what he stands for.

"I stand for duty, honor, God and country."

Something "as simple as that"--uncommon valor in an era without virtue.

And yes, Jeffrey plans to serve:

Jeffrey doesn't come from a military background, though he hopes to attend West Point.

He wears a cross and a dog tag on a chain under his shirt. The bands on his braces are red, white and blue.

Outside Evergreen Middle School, the flag is clean and bright.

Jeffrey said the flag reminds him of the soldiers serving in Iraq.

"When they're coming home, I wanted them to see the flag flying high."

My father, a Marine, and my brother-in-law--due to ship to basic for the U.S. Coast Guard in two weeks--send their thanks and salute you Jeffrey.

**Update: Feeling inspired? Here's a way to help out--a fellow Colorado blogger is once again conducting a Project Letters from Home campaign (see contact info below):

This post will stay on top for awhile, so please check below for newer posts. I’ve got the email address for Project Letters from Home up and running, and have already recieved several letters. Thank you to those of you who have already emailed and/or posted about this on your blogs.

Once again, I’m collecting letters of support for the men and women aboard the USS Russell - DDG-59. I’m aiming for about 250 letters, so it will be a smaller project than last time. I’ve received word back from the Marines who we sent the letters to late last year, and I can’t emphasize enough how important these letters are to them. It’s really not all that much to ask to sit down and write a short note of support to those putting it all on the line for us.

Please send the emails to letters@thinking-right.com

Game Over Man! Game Over!

When technology dies (like my PS3):



As for the GOP, here are the top 3 (of six) ways to begin rebuilding the brand:

1. Get a clue

2. Cut the crap

3. Beg for help

Liveblogging Sen. McCain's Conference Call-Envisioning A First Term

McCain 2013 ad:


Scroll for updates . . .

I joined with several other bloggers in a conference call with Sen. John McCain, and today's topic was the GOP presumptive nominee's vision of how his first term would elapse, something he described in a speech today in Ohio:

John McCain, looking through a crystal ball to 2013 and the end of a prospective first term, sees "spasmodic" but reduced violence in Iraq and Afghanistan, Osama bin Laden dead or captured and government spending curbed by his ready veto pen.

The Republican presidential contender also envisions April's annual angst replaced by a simpler flat tax, illegal immigrants living humanely under a temporary worker program, and political partisanship stemmed by weekly news conferences and British-style question periods with joint meetings of Congress.

In a speech being delivered Thursday, McCain concedes he cannot make the changes alone, but he wants to outline a specific governing style to show the accomplishments it can achieve.

"I'm not interested in partisanship that serves no other purpose than to gain a temporary advantage over our opponents. This mindless, paralyzing rancor must come to an end. We belong to different parties, not different countries," McCain says in remarks prepared for delivery in the capital city of Ohio, a general election battleground. "There is a time to campaign, and a time to govern. If I'm elected president, the era of the permanent campaign will end; the era of problem solving will begin."

---

Sen. McCain gave a brief restatement of his Ohio speech--by 2013, we will have won in Iraq.

Jennifer Rubin asked about "appeasement" in the Middle East--McCain: naivete to want to sit down in face-to-face talks with Iran, a terrorist nation

Michael Goldfarb follows up on potential negotiations with Iran--McCain: renounce threats on Israel, nuclear ambitions, weapons shipments to Iraq

Jim Geraghty has another followup--McCain: holding Obama accountable for his misleading, flip-flopping statements on the campaign trail; weekly blogger conference calls even after election (as much as possible)

My question went unasked (lots of people on the conference call, McCain didn't get to it this time around)--what does McCain envision for the "temporary guest worker" program, and how does that help solve the overall illegal immigration problem?

I'm sending a follow-up email, and will post the response.

On Iraq:

"By January 2013, America has welcomed home most of the servicemen and women who have sacrificed terribly so that America might be secure in her freedom. The Iraq War has been won. Iraq is a functioning democracy, although still suffering from the lingering effects of decades of tyranny and centuries of sectarian tension. Violence still occurs, but it is spasmodic and much reduced.

"Civil war has been prevented; militias disbanded; the Iraqi Security Force is professional and competent; Al Qaeda in Iraq has been defeated; and the government of Iraq is capable of imposing its authority in every province of Iraq and defending the integrity of its borders.

"The United States maintains a military presence there, but a much smaller one, and it does not play a direct combat role."

On weekly news conferences and Q&A with Congress:

"I will ask Congress to grant me the privilege of coming before both houses to take questions, and address criticism, much the same as the prime minister of Great Britain appears regularly before the House of Commons," McCain said in excerpts of a speech he is to deliver later in Columbus, Ohio.

And some Republicans are flocking to McCain's brand ahead of the next election:

Soul searching Republicans are turning to an unlikely savior, one-time party heretic and now presumptive White House nominee John McCain, as they try to stave off an electoral disaster.

Stung by the Democratic seizure of three staunch conservative seats in Congress, Republican lawmakers fear a shellacking in November's general election, after losing control of both chambers of Congress in 2006.

The rise of McCain as their champion is not without irony, since the 71-year-old Arizona senator has quarreled with his own party for years on issues as diverse as immigration, campaign finance reform and global warming.

But it is precisely that independent streak that is drawing Republicans to his coattails, hoping he can cleanse them of the stain of gridlocked Washington.

Eric Cantor, Republican chief deputy whip in the House of Representatives, told reporters that the McCain brand was healthier than that of his party.

"John McCain is a demonstrated vote getter among independents, and his message and what he will be able to do in this election is extremely important."

House Republican minority leader John Boehner told Fox News that with McCain at the top of the ticket, his demoralized party might spring a surprise in November.

"I think that we're going to do a lot better than people think," Boehner said.

"John McCain appeals to almost all Republicans. He also appeals to a wide array of independents and conservative Democrats."

---

Michelle Malkin remains unconvinced.

I'll post other reactions as they come in this afternoon.

Amanda Carpenter has more--Sen. McCain dubs Sen. Obama's foreign policy "unacceptable".

Denver's $9000/Week DNC Emergency Planner

The cost of the Democratic National Convention is steep, and acquiring a top-level emergency planner commands quite a premium--$9000 a week:

Planning for the worst during the Democratic National Convention requires one of the best, and that expertise doesn't come cheap.

Denver is paying $225 an hour - or $9,000 a week - to Ellis M. Stanley Sr., an emergency management veteran who has been tapped to serve as director of DNC planning for the city's Office of Emergency Management.

Stanley, who has overseen planning for major events including the 1988 Democratic convention and the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, stands to make up to $280,000 while under contract with the city through August.
. . .
There are very few people who have the "experience in local government with events of this magnitude," said Kelly Brough, Hickenlooper's chief of staff.

"We take very seriously the expenditures we make for anything, and so I do understand that for all of us this is a lot of money. But it's also a very, very important job," Brough said.

Like the police equipment purchased in case of riots or terrorism, we hope that Stanley's expertise will largely go unneeded during the convention.

And no, Recreate '68, he won't let you see his plans.

As Michelle Malkin asks and answers--who is paying for it? You are!

Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper Worries DNC Funding Will Come Up Short

Hosting a convention is expensive, and in spite of promises to Coloradans that the DNC would be fully funded, "Teflon" John Hickenlooper, Denver's Democrat Mayor, is having a hard time scrounging up the necessary convention cash:

Mayor John Hickenlooper revealed today that Denver and the host committee are struggling to raise the money they need by June 16 for the DNC.

The contract with the DNC Committee calls for them to have $40.6 million in the bank by next month.

Hickenlooper has been going around the country raising money for the DNC for the last year and a half - in fact, last week he was fund-raising in Minneapolis, the site of the Republican National Convention.

He said Denver has about $25 million in the bank. However, he added that the city has about $5.5 million in firm commitments.

"My greatest fear is if we aren't able to raise the money," he said this morning during the weekly mayor and City Council meeting.

He'll need $50 million for the convention, and another $50 million for cleanup, should the Recreate '68 moonbats end up trashing the city.

Not to mention the mess inside the Pepsi Center should Hillary Clinton hold out to the convention.

Bike Sharing At The DNC

Don't look for a free ride, however--credit cards and fines will be required to ensure that the bicycles stick around Downtown Denver:

The 1968 Democratic National Convention may have had petal power, but the 2008 version in Denver promises to have pedal power.

Healthcare giant Humana is sponsoring a program that will see 1,000 bikes in Denver that can be checked out and used during the convention, scheduled Aug. 25-28. After the convention, some of the bikes will be left behind to kick-start a permanent sharing project.

The idea is simple: Provide an environmentally friendly way for delegates, staff members and even members of the news media to navigate the crush of people expected for the convention. But it's about more than getting people out of their cars.

"That's part of it, but it's more to help with healthy lifestyle and environment," said Humana spokeswoman Anna Hobbs-Little.

The exact details of the program are scheduled to be announced Wednesday afternoon at a press conference featuring Gov. Bill Ritter and Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper.

Dubbed "Freewheelin," the program is being sponsored by Humana in concert with the Boulder-based group Bikes Belong. The bicycles will come from every major manufacturer in the U.S., including Trek, Specialized, Giant, Cannondale, Fuji, and Raleigh. And they'll come in a variety of colors.

Even 1000 bikes seems woefully inadequate in the face of the 50000+ delegates, media, and Democratic party groupies--not to mention the protestors.

And speaking of protestors, perhaps they can have a "bicycle built for two" for the rival R-68/everyone else moonbat factions. That would be a sight to see.

CU Boulder's "Professor of Conservative Thought and Policy"

It'll never happen.

Drunkablog has more.

If it does, it will most likely be a milquetoast "conservative" or not even a conservative at all.

One endowed chair for conservative thought does not intellectual diversity make.

Michelle Malkin is similarly not impressed.

Massive Earthquake Strikes Southwest China

**Update--China quakeblogging roundup


Colin Jones photographed students sleeping outside due to fears of further quakes in Chongqing--CNN

Centered in Northwest Sichuan Province, and affecting Chengdu and Chongqing, China and surrounding regions.

Gateway Pundit has an early roundup.

More details are emerging as the death toll mounts--now believed to be above 9000.

I'll be keeping an eye out for further development. I have several friends and former students who live in the region, and am hoping to hear from them as soon as possible.

DNC Protestors Facing A Crackup As Recreate '68 Struggles To Retain Power; DNC Sponsors Bring Money To Politics

"The conflict was over R-68’s unfortunate name – a reference to the bloody 1968 Democratic convention in Chicago – and the rhetoric of the group’s leadership, interpreted by many as needlessly aggressive and reckless. Despite this blatant rift, Spagnuolo and the Cohens stuck with their assertion that their group would be playing host to “tens of thousands of protesters” this August"--Westword

Things aren't going well for Glenn Spagnuolo and his allies at Recreate '68--seems a rift in the movement has developed as power struggles plague the groups preparing for the Democratic National Convention:

So Tent State University is on the outs with their protest brethren at Re-create '68. What gives? Last Friday, when the ACLU held a press conference to declare it had filed a civil rights lawsuit against the City of Denver and the Secret Service, it seemed that all was well in the land of DNC protest. On hand at the confab were representatives of Re-create '68 – Glenn Spagnuolo and Mark and Barbara Cohen – as well as those of Tent State University, Code Pink and Escuela Tlatelolco and the American Indian Movement of Colorado. But more significant were the additional groups listed as plaintiffs in the lawsuit: United for Peace and Justice, the Rocky Mountain Peace and Justice Center, and the American Friends Service Committee.

This list was important because all three of the pacifist outfits had told Westword last October that they were NOT interested in working with R-68, which had pronounced itself the umbrella organizer for DNC protests as early as January 2007. Leaders of the Colorado Progressive Coalition, the Colorado Green Party and the national ANSWER Coalition expressed similar sentiments about R-68. The conflict was over R-68’s unfortunate name – a reference to the bloody 1968 Democratic convention in Chicago – and the rhetoric of the group’s leadership, interpreted by many as needlessly aggressive and reckless. Despite this blatant rift, Spagnuolo and the Cohens stuck with their assertion that their group would be playing host to “tens of thousands of protesters” this August.

So the fact that orgs like United for Peace and Justice – a national network of 1,400 groups – had signed on to the ACLU lawsuit suggested that R-68 and the peaceniks had resolved their differences. But appearances can be deceiving. In advance of the lawsuit filing, apparently critics of R-68, as well as some of their former supporters,had been quietly lobbying Spagnuolo and the Cohens for weeks to back off their leadership roles -- but the trio declined to transfer organizing authority.

Now it seems that the shit has hit the fan for R-68. Sources within the DNC protest movement say that assorted organizers are meeting today at an undisclosed location to discuss building a network outside of R-68. But things could get tricky when it comes time to divvy up the park event permits that Spagnuolo and company hold after winning them in a city-sponsored lottery. Will R-68 go quietly into the good night? Stay tuned.

So despite all the protestations of non-violence and the assertion of working together to achieve their radical left goals, they continue to face inequalities of power within their own movement.

Apparently the moonbats have their eyes on the prize--and it isn't fighting against imperialism, capitalism, or any other -ism. The prize is the coveted media spotlight, and the preeminence available to the group who asserts authority first. Spagnuolo and company have attempted to seize control for themselves, and it now appears that that tactic is beginning to backfire.

How exquisitely ironic. Radical socialists and anarchists facing internal turmoil because of power struggles.

Meanwhile, Drunkablog takes a look at modern convention financing and corporate sponsorships for the DNC:

Everything is for sale, and this summer's Democratic National Convention in Denver is no exception.

More than four dozen national corporations have signed up as sponsors of the convention - everyone from Allstate to Xerox. And almost all of them have the same thing in common: They either have business with the federal government or they lobby on pending issues.

And that prompts a myriad of questions.

Are the big companies simply being good corporate citizens? Or are they looking for access - maybe not to the presidential nominee, but to members of Congress and party officials who can help make sure their issues get heard?

The answer is simple, said former Denver City Councilwoman Susan Barnes-Gelt: "It's always about access."

"Here's the reality," Barnes- Gelt said, "and this comes from the experience of an old fundraiser: The first people you go to for money are people who have an interest in making sure you're in a decision-making position. And that's true whether you're the DNC, the president of the United States or the local city council person."

Seems that even Democrats aren't immune to having money in politics.

Shocker.

And conflict is arising between the city and the DNCC, over fundraising priorities:

The committee staging the Democratic National Convention is concerned that Denver's fundraising efforts have been hampered because local officials also are raising money for several cultural events that are expected to be part of the week-long event.

The host committee was about $5 million short of its March fundraising goal of $28 million, and is supposed to have about $40 million raised by June. Meanwhile, the city is planning and trying to raise additional money for several cultural events.

"Every host city can and should develop a plan to showcase its culture, diversity and attributes on the international stage that a political convention offers," the DNC Committee said in a prepared statement Friday. "Numerous host cities from conventions past have had tremendous success in this regard, and we think that's a good thing.

"But to ensure a successful convention for all parties, fulfilling the contractual obligations that brought this convention to Denver in the first place must remain the top priority.

"Given all the host committee and the city have to support during convention week, we would hope they would be very selective in limiting both the number and costs of any auxiliary events requiring their support."

The DNCC's concerns have raised some internal conflict.

"They should call me and talk to me about it," Mayor John Hickenlooper said. "I'm happy to sit down and explain to them that obviously we understand the importance of putting on a good convention.

Obviously! Can't have those Democratic delegates and the media thinking this is some sort of cow town . . .

Schaffer V Udall--Monday Morning Edition 051208

From now until the election, in addition to links provided throughout the week, SP is promoting the Schaffer v Udall blog's latest posts:

Udall: We're Starting To See A Pattern of "Courage" Emerging

Debate Format "Unacceptable" But Udall Indicates Further Discussion Warranted

What Political Favor is Mark Udall Holding Out for from Hillary Clinton?

Stay tuned to SvU for the most up-to-date coverage and analysis of the U.S. Senate matchup between Bob Schaffer and Mark Udall, updates on Colorado's voting population and party affiliation, and the impact of the Democratic National Convention on Colorado's most significant state-wide race.

Blogs 4 Borders Video Blogburst 051208

Freedom Folks has this week's edition of the Blogs 4 Borders Video Blogburst.

Happy Mother's Day; **Update--Code Pink And Mother's Acting Up Invade Boulder On . . . Stilts, Moonbat "Slam Poetry"

'Nuff said.  Thanks for everything, love you Mom!

---

**Update--But if that statement isn't radical enough for you, or your Mom is a moonbat, you can spend Mother's Day with the nasty witches radical crones of CodePink and Mothers Acting Up in Boulder, Colorado (via Drunkablog):

The environment is ailing, there's a war raging in Iraq, and there are children living in poverty around the globe. What's a concerned mother to do? Why, strap on a pair of stilts, of course.

At least that's the thinking for Mothers Acting Up (MAU), a Boulder-based global network of "mothers and others, on stilts or off, who exercise protective care over someone smaller." The group, which lists "Be Exuberant" as one of its guiding principles, seeks to mobilize that most primal of instincts--a mother's love--and turn it into a political force to be reckoned with. The stilts are just a unique way to bring attention to MAU's message of positive activism.

Stilts are "really the perfect metaphor for what we do," says Joellen Raderstorf, executive director and one of MAU's four founders. "Because getting up on stilts you're very visible, and this is what this is about, getting comfortable with being visible in our communities and speaking up on behalf of the world's children."

She adds, "Also, when you're on stilts, you need to keep moving forward, you really can't stop. And you have far-reaching vision, which I think is something that we really need in our leadership in the world these days, to have that far-reaching vision to see how our actions today impact our children, their children, and future generations.". . .

MAU's biggest event is the annual Mother's Day Parade, which takes place this Sunday, May 11. The festivities kick off with stroller and wagon decorating at 11:30 a.m. at the Boulder Public Library. The parade begins at 1 p.m. and winds its way from the library to the Pearl Street Mall, where there will be cake and activities for the children. The Raging Grannies and Ancestral Voices will provide music, all in keeping with the celebratory nature of the event.

Nothing like a little Maoist MAUist activism on an otherwise enjoyable day.

And if that is still too "positive" for you, how about some "slam poetry" courtesy of another Boulder moonbat:

Jeff Lucey came back from Iraq

and hung himself in his parents' basement with a garden hose.

The night before he died he spent 45 minutes on his father's lap

rocking like a baby,

rocking like "daddy, save me,"

and don't think for a minute he too isn't collateral damage

in the mansions of Washington.

. . .

They are watching them burn and hoarding the water.

No senators' sons are being sent out to slaughter.

No president's daughters are licking ashes from their lips

or dreaming up ropes to wrap around their necks

in case they ever make it home alive.

Denver's Democratic National Convention Security Shopping List Tops $10 Million

To keep the peace and prevent the Recreate '68 moonbats from taking over the city, here are a few of the listed items already approved:

Heavy rescue vehicle

Hazardous materials response vehicle

Urban search and rescue unit

Unified incident command post

Worker's compensation and insurance for law enforcement -- $1.9 Million

1 SWAT vehicle -- $200,000

Communication equipment -- estimated $300,000

Interagency communication system -- $650,000

Amplification system -- estimated $385,000

Freedom of speech--and buffoonery--is quite expensive.

Let's hope none of this is needed.

John McCain On "The Daily Show"

Still working on the business plan--so here is some Saturday afternoon entertainment, courtesy of "The Daily Show":

Slapstick Politics--A "Tech Fast"

SP will be dark this week. Well, probably most of it, anyway.

My friend suggested calling this break "tech fasting"--disconnecting one's self from the Internet and all technology designed to distract you. In this case, school projects and an unexpected change in plans have brought on this impromptu hiatus.

Be back in a jiffy . . . consider this an open thread.

**Update--so much for fasting! Posting will certainly be more infrequent as I wrap up a business plan, and a marketing strategy project. Regular blogging duties should resume next week.

Open thread still applies.

"Safety Through Peace" Moonbat Returns: Denver Needs "Extraterrestrial Affairs Commission"

E.T. phone home--beginning with area code (303) . . .

Not only will moonbats be descending upon Denver for this August's Democratic National Convention, but sci-fi fan and all-around nutcase Jeff Peckman wants Denver to establish an "Extraterrestrial Affairs Commission" to deal with visitors from outer space:

Jeff Peckman says that as long as Mayor John Hickenlooper is touting ways to make Denver a world-class city, someone ought to shoot even higher.

"Why not make it a model for the galaxy or even the universe?" Peckman asked Thursday.

Peckman, who in 2003 bedeviled city officials with his offbeat "Safety Through Peace" ballot initiative — which would have required the city to implement stress-reduction techniques — now wants to ask voters to create the world's first Extraterrestrial Affairs Commission for dealing with visitors from outer space.

Peckman met with city officials Thursday for a required "review and comment" session on his proposed ballot initiative. If he succeeds in gathering nearly 4,000 signatures, the matter would go before voters.

Assistant City Attorney David Broadwell and Lauri Dannemiller, executive staff director for the City Council, sat down to go over Peckman's proposed language in a public meeting.

They remained straight-faced throughout.

Apparently Recreate '68 has no monopoly on nuttiness, though the shared tinfoil-wearing aspect surely means a great deal of moonbat crossover appeal.

Exit question--won't this commission just exacerbate the illegal alien problem? (sorry, couldn't help that one)

Recreate 68! "Back To The Future": What Does Recreate 68 Mean?

"That spirit of participatory democracy culminated in 1968. Since then, a right-wing backlash has attempted to roll back the gains of those years, to “recreate” an America in which a ruling elite of wealthy, privileged white males and large corporations made a mockery of the promise of democracy"--Recreate 68 Alliance

From their allies at DNCdisruption08.org, an "explanation":

In response to misunderstandings, inaccuracies and deliberate distortions in the media about the meaning of the group’s name, the members of the organizing committee of Recreate 68, an umbrella organization planning and providing support for demonstrations around the Democratic National Convention, have decided to present the truth about the organization and its obviously controversial name, once and for all.

Let us be clear: the name is not “Recreate Chicago 68” or “Recreate the DNC 68.” The idea that “Recreate 68” refers specifically to the events of late August 1968 in Chicago has been put out by those who wish to discredit an organization planning peaceful, nonviolent protests by associating it with what they would have us believe was a violent protest 40 years ago. Let us also be clear that those conducting this smear campaign are distorting history: what happened in Chicago in 1968 was not a violent protest, but rather a “police riot,” the term used by the Walker Commission, a body appointed by the Nixon administration to investigate the events surrounding the Chicago convention.

So, now we "know" what Recreate 68 is not--glad to see the riot question cleared up.

They continue:

Obviously, neither Recreate 68 nor anyone else wants to see that kind of police violence repeated in Denver this August. That is why members of R68 began meeting with representatives of the mayor’s office and the Denver Police Department over a year ago to try to ensure that the rights of demonstrators to engage in peaceful, nonviolent free speech activities, marches and demonstrations, would be respected; and why R68 has applied for permits to use city parks, and to engage in marches, and has worked with the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Lawyers Guild to assert our First Amendment Rights.

What then does the name Recreate 68 mean? The 1960s were a time of profound, positives social and political change in this country. The civil rights movement ended legal segregation and broke down barriers to the full participation of African Americans in American life (still yet to be fully achieved). Other movements followed that achieved the same for women and for other oppressed communities of color. That in 2008 the two leading candidates for the Democratic nomination for President are an African American man and a woman something unimaginable at the start of the 60s is a direct result of the changes brought about in that decade.

Finally some substance. "Social and political change"--I can dig it. But they don't like either establishment candidate, though Barack Obama comes closer to their moonbat style and rhetoric.

Here come the "right-wingers":

That spirit of participatory democracy culminated in 1968. Since then, a right-wing backlash has attempted to roll back the gains of those years, to “recreate” an America in which a ruling elite of wealthy, privileged white males and large corporations made a mockery of the promise of democracy. For the past 40 years, we have seen increasing economic inequality, a fierce attack on affirmative action and other programs aimed at aiding oppressed communities, an assault on civil liberties and, most recently, an attempt to equate political dissent with criminality or “terrorism.” Under the Bush administration, the right has come dangerously close to achieving their goal.
. . .
The organizers of Recreate 68 say, “The time is now.” It is time to recreate the spirit of mass political participation of the 60s. To recreate the spirit that will once again force this country to live up to its own professed principles of democracy, equality and human rights. To recreate the idealism that brought millions of people into the streets to challenge authority, to question assumptions, and to succeed.

The time is now to end the illegal occupation of Iraq and Afghanistan; to use the money being wasted there to meet the needs of the American people; to provide health care for everyone; to restore civil liberties; to create a humane immigration policy; to replace the tragedy of “free trade” with fair trade; to combat global warming; and to transform a corrupt, corporate-dominated political system into real democracy.

Recreate 68! Back to the Future!

In Solidarity,

Members of Recreate 68 Alliance (an alliance of over 40 national and local progressive groups)

So there you have it.

Takeaways--somewhat short and actually well-written as far as manifestos go. Less moonbat academic -ism vocabulary, but no shortage of victimology and blame-America-first, anti-capitalist boilerplate.

Real audience? Their erstwhile and skittish allies. There is still concern over the possibility of violence at the DNC, and Recreate 68 (sans Tent State) is still looking to divert attention from the group's intentions and the name itself.

Not sure they succeed.