Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 26-25

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Wednesday July 30 and Thursday July 31, 2008--No. 26-25

DNC:

•Former Gov. Bill Owens and former Senator Gary Hart believe there will be little DNC disruption--not "that much anger at the Democratic Party from the left" and "much ado about nothing" (Owens), only "glitches" (Hart); full 26 minute webcast from PoliticsWest on a variety of political topics:



•USA Today is "clueless" about city's treatment of DNC protestors

•DNC protestors lawsuit trial concludes, no clear timeline for decision; protestors plan "freedom cage" breakout; Secret Service subpoenas Glenn Spagnuolo of Recreate '68 but fails to get to him on the record as their allotted time ran out

•Good news! Protestors will be able to use bullhorns and city-provided loudspeakers to "address" delegates, will also be allowed to have a table for leaflets and other info for delegates "along the main thoroughfare" for delegates

•Yet another rosy interview of Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper

•Colorado's DNC delegation will be "carbon neutral" thanks to Denver City Auditor, only 26 of Colorado's 79 had paid $7.50 each for the "carbon offsets"

•Evangelicals' DNC plans:

The convention stew of politicians, delegates, protesters and general hoopla that will be served to the city next month just got another ingredient - a group of 60 evangelical churches planning a "quiet demonstration" throughout the four-day event.

One Church Metro Denver will set up operations, including a tent, at Creekfront Park at Larimer Street and Speer Boulevard in the heart of the Democratic National Convention buzz.

From Monday, Aug. 25, through the convention's closing night Thursday, volunteers will distribute water, pray with people and offer live worship music, said spokesman Steve Chavis. Volunteers also will go through downtown to help with trash pickup.

By "quiet demonstration" the churches want to show there's another way to make a point than "vocal public actions," he said.

"If there's no yelling and no protest signs, are we still saying anything? Yes we are, but it's not loud and it's not angry," Chavis said. "That's how One Church Metro Denver wants to interact."

•Westword's finest have posted a video "introduction" to Denver for the DNC that is chock-full of stereotypes, playing up Denver's hick, cowtown image, and is bound to tick off the local AIM/Columbus Day protestors (although the bit about Boulder is priceless):

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

•Jon Caldara talks Tent State and camping in City Park; Mike Rosen discusses the DNC and RNC plans of the anarchist protest group Unconventional Action (15 min to 25 min mark)

•FYI--Secret Service stats and powers

•Yet another DNC blogger puff piece; DNC plans targeted Latino marketing

•The latest Denver DNC community forum; Thousands of DNC volunteers will be from out-of-state; The burning balloon drop question for the DNC; Preliminary DNC schedule taking shape; Hillary Clinton as keynote speaker?; DNCC CEO Leah Daughtry answers convention questions

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Alliance For Real Democracy DNC Schedule Released

Highlights: Cynthia McKinney, CodePink, Resurrection City Free University--focusing on praxis and theory, Flobots, Cornel West.

Lowlights: Cynthia McKinney, CodePink, Resurrection City Free University--focusing on praxis and theory, Flobots, Cornel West.

Via NotMyTribe:

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23

All Day City Park
Set up at City Park

Afternoon (TBD) City Park
Resurrection City Free University
Non-Violence Training

5:00 - 10:00 PM Gates Crescent Park
Welcoming BBQ & Drinks for the Delegates

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 24

All Day Platte River & Cherry Creak Trails
AFSC Banners
AFSC is planning on displaying banners for about 100 yards in each direction from REI.

All Day City Park
Art Installations
A variety of art pieces representing progressive ideals.

(9:00 AM
Begin at the WEST STEPS OF THE CAPITOL.
End on Speer Blvd in front of the Pepsi Center.
End the Occupations March and Rally
March to end all illegal imperialist occupations in Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, Puerto Rico, Haiti, Hawaii, North America, and others.)

1:00 PM Various Denver Locations
Funk the War: Dance for Peace
A creative action with an emphasis on music and visuals. Smaller feeder marches lead to a central location with a concert.

Immediately Following Funk the War/Dance Party for Peace City Park
Concert featuring: Son of Nun, Jello, Brian Harvey, David Rovics

7:00 PM Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theater
Evening of Conscience: No Attack on Iran
Feature performances on opposing any moves towards a U.S. attack on Iran.

(Evening Central Presbyterian Church, 1660 Sherman St.
Progressive Welcome to Denver)

——————————-
MONDAY, AUGUST 25

10:30 AM City Park
Town Hall Meeting
Brief ARD meeting to review the day.

12:00 - 6:00 PM City Park
Resurrection City Free University
A free university focusing on praxis and theory

5:00 PM City Park
Nomination of Partyless Youth Ticket
A chance for the youth to nominate a candidate that speaks to them.

Evening (TBD) TBD
Cynthia McKinney Speech
Speech by presidential candidate Cynthia McKinney.

6:30 PM City Park
CODEPINK Concert
A concert highlighting many powerful and talented women.

——————————–
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26

10:30 AM City Park
Town Hall Meeting
Brief ARD meeting to review the day.

11:00 AM Skyline Park
A Walk in their Shoes
Thousands of shoes will represent the hundreds of thousands of Iraqis who have died.

12:00 - 6:00 PM City Park
Resurrection City Free University
A free university focusing on praxis and theory

3:00 PM City Park
Concert featuring Blue Scholars, David Rovics, and others.

Afternoon (TBD) City Park
Partyless Youth Platform
The youth will be given an opportunity to create their platform.

Afternoon/ Evening (TBD) Downtown
Operation First Casualty
Street theater that demonstrates the reality of war.

(6:30 PM City Park
Democratic Party “Watching Party”
Local Democrats will host a big-screen TV for non-seated Democrats to watch the Convention.)

————————————-
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27

10:30 AM City Park
Town Hall Meeting
Brief ARD meeting to review the day.

12:00 - 6:00 PM City Park
Resurrection City Free University
A free university focusing on praxis and theory

12:00 Noon City Park
Concert featuring: Flobots, State Radio, The Coup, Wayne Kramer, Son of Nun, Jello, and others.

Afternoon (TBD) City Park
Partyless Youth Acceptance Speech
The Partyless Youth nominee will give an acceptance speech.

3:30 PM TBD
IVAW March to End the War
Iraq Veterans Against the War will march in opposition to the war in Iraq.

(Evening Buelle Theater
Cultural Events: Cornel West and the Flobots)

———————————–
THURSDAY, AUGUST 28

10:30 AM City Park
Town Hall Meeting
Brief ARD meeting to review the day.

TBD TBD
Immigrant Rights March and Rally
The march, with a national scope, will provide a venue for immigrants and their allies to demonstrate their decree for just and fair reform for our country’s broken immigration system.

12:00 - 6:00 PM City Park
Resurrection City Free University
A free university focusing on praxis and theory

(TBD INVESCO Field
Obama’s Acceptance Speech
Obama will give his acceptance speech to 75,000 people at INVESCO Field. ARD hopes to have a presence outside.)

—————————–
FRIDAY, AUGUST 29

All Day City Park
Tear Down and Clean Up
All of ARD will be needed to help clean and clear City Park

All Day TBD
Buses to St. Paul
ARD would like to help coordinate buses and carpooling to St. Paul for the Republican National Convention.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 29-27

**Tons of links, scroll for updates . . .

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Sunday July 27, Monday July 28 and Tuesday July 29, 2008--No. 29-27

DNC:


No, but Glenn Spagnuolo of Recreate '68 should feel right at home

•DNC protestors, including Recreate '68, pledge in court that they will be non-violent and don't need to be caged--the city argues that a manual of "street tactics" indicates that violence may be a foregone conclusion (witness list); the protestors entering the Public Demonstration Area (the cage) will not be searched, and the new parade route to Invesco Field has been revealed



•Anarchists from Unconventional Action issue "sincere" ultimatum to Denver--use the $50 million for security to "invest" in the community, and they'll avoid shutting down the city (w/video):

"As anarchists, we feel the greatest problem with government is how its primary interest is to protect the profits of those in power, even when it comes at the expense of the general public," Clayton Dewey, an organizer with Unconventional Denver, said in a statement.

"Spending $50 million on weaponry to attack people voicing their opinion and flooding the streets with riot police while schools close down, children go without health care and people lose their homes is exactly the problem with the corrupt two-party system we're opposing this August," he said.

I'm guessing this "offer"--extortion, in my opinion--will be ignored by the rest of the MSM, and UA will get to say "we warned you" should things go bad during the convention; UA/DNC Disruption's latest DNC "plans"

•**Update--threat of sprinklers made "in jest" but curfew still applies, Adam Jung of Tent State says that protestors may camp elsewhere--Rocky says Tent State should have permit yanked if it can't meet conditions; Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper to Tent State--Denver will use sprinklers to enforce the no camping policy after 11pm; a surplus of protestors arrested (not necessarily from Tent State) during the DNC could spend some time in tents if there is no room; more info here, and an update on the Civic Center profile series (today's segment); more observations and analysis from Drunkablog

•Denver still in a mere $10 million DNC fundraising hole--and criticism is pouring in, including Mayor Hickenlooper's love/hate relationship with the convention:

The host committee is as much as $10 million short in fundraising, and financial difficulties have forced it to cancel two dozen parties for delegates. Denver officials are scrambling to deal with the logistical challenges of Barack Obama's acceptance speech being held at an outdoor stadium instead of in the arena where the rest of the convention will take place. Even special daisies that the city bred partly to show off for the convention are failing to sprout.

Criticism has been so harsh that this month the host committee felt compelled to issue a news release defending its much-mocked catering guidelines, which recommend organic produce and color-coordinated meals and discourage fried food.

"It's an embarrassment, particularly for the political class," said Floyd Ciruli, a former chairman of the state Democratic Party who is now an independent pollster unaffiliated with the convention effort. "At this point, everybody's thinking about the burdens rather than the benefits."

Local political leaders and the host committee insist everything is fine, and that any bumps along the way will be overshadowed by the attention showered on the city next month.

"That's a little bit of white noise around the perimeter," said Mayor John Hickenlooper. "Did we ever dream we'd have a candidate of this historic magnitude? Did we ever dream we'd have a candidate who'd make his acceptance speech in front of 80,000 people and have to turn away another 80,000?"

Nonetheless, at a conference on Western issues last week, Hickenlooper referred to the event as the "blasted convention" and compared it to a summer he spent painting a house for which he was never paid. "If we'd known back then what we know now, we'd never have done it," he said, before quickly adding, "and what an incredible shame that would have been."

Yes, what a shame. It's called denial, Mayor Hickenlooper.

•Just bizarre--a beaver and a cat (hand puppets) explain protest plans for the RNC and DNC in a fake news conference, via the Unconventional Action "audio-visual cell":



•Preliminary plans for Barack Obama's Invesco Field speech outlined--will address the crowd from the 50-yard line

•In a follow up to last week's story about DNC vehicles using city pumps to avoid paying fuel taxes, more investigation reveals that at least 61 vehicles had been involved

•Greenest convention ever? Oh yeah, about that . . . the carbon credit wind turbines don't work, and the delegates don't seem to care about the "green delegate challenge"

•Pro-life groups intend to hold prayer vigil near Pepsi Center during DNC, and threaten a lawsuit if the city balks

•Construction cranes dominating the Denver skyline in recent months and initially considered a security risk will not come down for the DNC

•Union vs. non-union at the Pepsi Center

•DNC community forums continue (click for schedule)--Denver residents questions DNC logistics

•How the DNC affected Colorado's Homeland Security plan, and will put it to the test

•Native Americans bless Pepsi Center for DNC

•DNC volunteers begin convention training

•It's been a tough stretch for the DNC's "Greening Director"

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Fox 31 Debate--Photos

Behind the scenes at the Fox 31 debate--"Colorado 2031 to air next Sunday, 10pm, on Fox 31 after the news.


The set, bare just a few minutes earlier, has been prepared and awaits the candidates Bob Schaffer and Mark Udall, and the host Ron Zappolo.


Zappolo prepares his mic.


Host Zappolo encourages an "anything goes" atmosphere and what would become a "guided conversation" rather than a traditional debate.


Schaffer argues a point during the first segment, which of course focused on energy--what mattered most to Colorado voters.


What we have here is a not only a closeup of the Fox 31 camera, but an example of Udall's most frequently used gesture--the double "click" position.


Schaffer explains his positions on energy as Zappolo looks on.


Udall responds--there's those hands again.


Waiting his turn.


Likewise.


Yep. The hands. Again.


A view from the inside.


The host was able to see what the audience will see with the use of this monitor.


From the other angle.


A wide shot (the hands!)


A friendly exchange.


Udall's closing remarks.


Bob's closing remarks.


Schaffer--gotta bring down the energy prices.


Conclusion.


A spirited and frenzied dialogue, and handshakes all around.


Media swarms Schaffer (foreground), while Udall (background, next to ladders and obscured by the reporter in the white shirt) answers a few questions after abruptly exiting the studio following the debate.


Udall gets his opportunity to chat with the reporters.

Fox 31 Pre-Debate Rally--Photos And Video

Photos/video (loading) of the rally outside--


Yep, it's evil.


Signs of the times--commuters along Speer and Lincoln were treated to a lot of signs, and responded with honking.


Anti-Udall protestors--from his left--brought out the impeachment signs and asked for Udall to bring President Bush and Vice President Cheney on charges.


The battle is joined--Boulder liberals welcome!


These guys have appeared at both of the debates--"Where is Mark Udall on EFCA?"


Showin' liberals a little love.


Like the "Veterans for Udall," it wasn't quite clear if those holding signs were actually veterans or firefighters.


There was a large youth contingent among Schaffer's supporters.


The wall of Udall supporters make their case--"M A R K, vote for Udall all the way!"


But the high cost of energy was on the minds of Schaffer's supporters--"drill here, drill now!"


Big Time Bob Schaffer fans brave the late July heat--with fan-favorite "U-Turn Udall" signs highlighting the Democrat's record.


Bob Schaffer greets supporters outside the Fox 31 Studio as Dick Wadhams looks on.


Schaffer chats with supporters before heading inside.

Preliminary Plans For Barack Obama's Invesco Field Acceptance Speech Released

A clearer view of Barack Obama's acceptance speech at Invesco Field remains elusive, as official plans have not been finalized:

Barack Obama will accept the Democratic Party's nomination from the 50-yard line of Invesco Field at Mile High, according to a draft of the stage and seating arrangements.

The plans reveal that the presumptive presidential nominee will walk from the main stage positioned along the sidelines down a 36-foot carpeted walkway to a circular podium set 6 1/2 feet off the ground.

Almost 6,000 seats for delegates will fill the rest of the field, along with platforms for network television stations and stand-up areas for affiliate broadcasters. Print journalists will have assigned seats beyond the southern end zone.

The plans for the final night of the Democratic National Convention remain under discussion, and no final announcement has been made regarding the event's staging arrangement

Freedom Folks--Blogs4Borders Video Blogburst 072108

This week's video blogburst, and last week's edition as well.

The great team at Freedom Folks is making a trip to the latest pro-amnesty rally in Iowa, and could use a little help.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 32-30

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Thursday July 24, Friday July 25 and Saturday July 26, 2008--No. 32-30

DNC:

•Still want tickets to Invesco Field? Barack Obama needs some campaign volunteers . . .

•Don't "piss" them off says Drunkablog (with a roundup)--house used to store "urine" prepared for DNC confrontation (some NSFW language) ("Urine-nation"? "Urinetown"? "Urine" good hands with Recreate '68?) and Denver law enforcement deny "goo" gun or "crap" cannon purchases and have just managed to discover the protestors' websites; More unproductive "dialogue" between Denver law enforcement and protestors; Pro-Troops group Gathering of Eagles will be demonstrating right across from the Recreate '68 crowd on August 24 during the big anti-war parade

•Protestors and the city of Denver and Secret Service are sparring over language and protesting arrangements during DNC on eve of next week's trial

•20K-50K protestors expected at DNC (the DailyKostards think Recreate '68 is a Republican/Limbaugh plot):

With just one month to go until the Democratic National Convention in Denver, the city and the Secret Service are preparing for activist crowds estimated to be between 20,000 and 50,000.
. . .
“I think we have to give the police the ability to act in certain circumstances where the intent … is clear. That is to act before something actually happens,” said Al Lacabe, safety manager in Denver.

Police will not comment on whether they will use stun prods and shields, or guns that fire pepper balls.

But at a recent City Council meeting, Denver police revealed some of the equipment they are acquiring to meet potential threats. On the list is something called “the bearcat,” a tactical vehicle used by SWAT teams.

They’ll also use mountain bikes to get around the convention scene more easily.

Police deny rumors they will be using any high-tech sonic wave weapons that cause people to lose control of their bowels, or that use “slime” or “goo” to immobilize protesters.

Even the local lefties are skeptical of Recreate '68 and the intent of the protestors.

•Unconventional Action's latest updates

•DNC still placing hope on their carbon offset scheme for "Green Delegate Challenge"

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Schaffer, Udall In "Dead Heat", Tied 44-44

For all the latest in the Schaffer-Udall race, check out SvU for in-depth coverage and analysis.

Looks like Mark Udall is taking a u-turn in terms of support from Colorado voters.

One poll? An outlier.

Two polls in a row? A trend--possibly.

Things aren't looking to good for our favorite Boulder liberal, Mark Udall:

In the U.S. Senate race, U.S. Rep. Mark Udall, the Democrat, and Republican Robert Schaffer are tied 44 - 44 percent, compared to a 48 - 38 percent Udall lead June 26.

Schaffer managed to erase (and Udall managed to lose) a ten-point deficit in under a month.

Some of the spinmeisters at ColoradoPols have been working themselves up into a lather making excuses about poll reliability, the fact its only July, etc., when only a week ago they were trumpeting the CQ politics "leans Dem" prognostication and the double-digit polls as unassailable proof of Udall's electability and Schaffer's weaknesses as a candidate.

Then we had the first debate . . .

The two newest polls showing that Schaffer has closed the gap in overall poll numbers, independents (Udall's lead shrank from 21% to just 4%), and favorability (tied at 54%).

Of course this is still July, but rumors of Schaffer's early demise appear to have been greatly exaggerated. If these two new polls represent a trend, then we can expect the race to continue to be neck-and-neck going into November, a true toss up, and one of the most watched races in the country.

And we still have more debates and the DNC to come.

BNN Colorado Tag Cloud

Want to know what's "hot" in the Colorado blogosphere--left, right, and everywhere in between?

Try the new BNN Colorado tag cloud.

Biggest item right now--shocker--Democratic National Convention.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 33

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Wednesday July 23, 2008--No. 33

DNC:

•DNC gas tax break rescinded, host committee will pay taxes and "market rate" for fuel only after program was exposed, causing public outrage and national attention, of course

•Moonbat summit between Recreate '68 and rival splinter Alliance for Real Democracy fails to heal schism and differences over "non-violence," more dialogue needed (just kidding--well no, not really)

•DNC Chair Howard "Yaaaargh" Dean will be in Denver to inspect the Pepsi Center, Invesco Field, where preparations have been underway for two weeks

•DNC's "green queen" Director of Greening was once an actress, has junior high activities listed on resume as credentials for current job, leading to questions about experience

•Centennial (not Denver) City Council member thinks that anti-weapons ordinance targeting DNC protestors is unnecessary for Centennial

•Major RTD detours will take place due to DNC

•The latest in the rather dark Civic Center Park series, a feature the profiles the main site for protests at the DNC in less than 5 weeks

RNC:

•Federal mediators seeking to reduce conflict between law enforcement and anti-RNC protestors offers counseling--the police accept, the protestors decline (but isn't the left all about "dialogue" instead of confrontation?)

•RNC ready for the "sleeping dragon" that is the protestors?

•RNC facing a security shortage?

•Ronald Reagan's legacy might haunt the RNC

•Getting the Xcel Center ready for the RNC

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

DNC Gas Tax Break?--Update: DNC To Reimburse City

**Update--DNC host committee to reimburse city for tax-free gas at a "market rate" and pay the federal and state taxes--only after the program was revealed to the City Council and the public:

The committee hosting the Democratic National Convention has used the city's gas pumps to fill up and apparently avoided paying state and federal fuel taxes.

The practice, which began four months ago, may have ended hours after its disclosure. An aide to Mayor John Hickenlooper released a statement Tuesday evening saying that Denver 2008 Host Committee members would pay market prices for fuel and would also be liable for all applicable taxes.

However, Public Works spokeswoman Christine Downs told City Council members just hours before that host committee members were fueling up at the city pumps. The city does not pay taxes on the fuel for its fleet, and Downs said the host committee would not either.

The disclosure brought immediate scrutiny. Colorado Attorney General John Suthers said the practice "would seem" to be illegal and referred the matter to the state Department of Revenue.

Nonprofits, such as the host committee, are subject to state and federal gasoline taxes, according to the Department of Revenue.

The issue arose during the regular weekly meeting of Hickenlooper and City Council members. Downs requested authorization for a contract so the Public Works Department could be reimbursed by the host committee for use of "fueling facilities, fuel and car washes."

Your Democrats in action. If the program had not been revealed, the DNC's free pass on gas taxes would likely not have ended. It was probably clear to all involved that the arrangement was not only bad form, resulting in poor publicity at a time of record gas prices, but also quite illegal.

Just another example of what passes for judgment from Democrats in office.

---

DNC gets gas tax reprieve from Denver:

The committee hosting the Democratic National Convention is using the city's gas pumps to fill up on fuel, avoiding state and federal highway taxes, officials said today.

"There's something there that just doesn't seem right to me because, in a sense, you're saying then that the officials who pass the laws are not willing to live by them, and that concerns me," Councilwoman Jeanne Faatz said.

Hypocrisy? Perish the thought . . .

Faatz asked if it was customary to have "fleets for dignitaries" not pay for highway taxes if they're using government fuel facilities.

Hickenlooper said it was.

"I believe this is only for elected officials, government dignitaries," Hickenlooper told Faatz.

"My understanding is in Washington or wherever where this happens on a regular basis, that it's standard operating procedure. I do know for a fact that they're doing the same exact thing in Minneapolis," which is hosting the Republican National Convention, the mayor said.

"Hummmmm," Faatz said.

Hummmmm is right.

Teresa McFarland, a spokeswoman for the Minneapolis-St. Paul host committee, said they're getting their gas at the pump.

"We're not getting a tax break on fuel," she said. "That's not the set-up at this end."

Teflon John trots out the "everyone is doing it" argument, which is par for the course for politicians--and gets smacked down pronto.  That's leadership for you, folks.

Tax free for the DNC, but not for thee:

After the meeting, Faatz said it was wrong for the DNC host committee to get a tax break.

"I am just troubled by not having the payment of taxes for what I consider to be a privately funded party, and that's what the host committee is: it's a private organization," she said.

"The DNC is not government. The RNC is not government," said Faatz, who, at the time, had been told that the "same exact thing" was happening in Minneapolis-St. Paul. "They are political parties and they are putting on a huge party, and that is not providing services to each and every citizen each day."

In Colorado, consumers pay 40.4 cents in taxes on every gallon of gasoline. That includes the federal gasoline tax of 18.4 cents per gallon and the Colorado gasoline tax of 22 cents per gallon.

"If you've got a 14-gallon tank, on the average, that's about $5.66 that they don't have to pay for fill up," Councilman Charlie Brown said.

Democrats said it was all about "change," and with higher gas prices, the DNC's tax break amounts to a whole lot of change indeed.

It's not just City Council members who are "troubled" by the behavior of politicians in Denver, and the actions surrounding the Democratic National Convention in general. But it's the Dems giving other Dems a break, so it's ok, right?

Democrats are seeking to solidify and even expand their representation in 2008, hoping the DNC will bolster their electoral chances.  Gas tax breaks for the DNC--the new "ethics" brought to you by the Democrats.

Ed at Hot Air has more.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 34

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Tuesday July 22, 2008--No. 34

DNC:

•Change indeed--DNC gets state and federal gasoline tax breaks from Denver, by using the city's gas pumps to fill up

•Squirt guns filled with urine? It's a possibility, and local jurisdictions are being urged to pass ordinances that "bar protestors from carrying items such as metal wiring, wooden clubs, slingshots, gas masks, and squirt guns within demonstration areas"--including Denver and Arapahoe County

•Think the DNC wasn't attracting a fun-loving crowd of moonbats? The "clowns" are coming--the Clandestine Insurgent Rebel Clown Army to be exact:

When King George was looking down the jester stole his thorny crown with PR magic it soon will pass a crown now sits upon an ass. Now is the time to laugh and poke at all of those bewitched by “hope”. Come one come all with juggling balls and stilts to rise above their walls. Their crooked joke will not besiege for the lords will soon be on their knees…laughing

Send in the Clowns! CIRCA, the clandestine insurgent rebel clown army is gathering for the largest comedy act of the year– the DNC in Denver, Colorado, USA. Our first meet and greet will be held on August 19th, 5:30pm at the Mercury Cafe(2199 California, 22nd & California). For more information, questions, and or comments please type to: circadnc08@gmail.com.

The clowns were unavailable for comment (actually, they ate the journalist)

•“Your right to free speech goes as far as a cop’s billy-club will allow it go”--Denver's self-appointed First Amendment guru and celebrity lawyer David Lane, on defense attorneys' preparations for the DNC

•"Street Puppet Coordinator"--an official Recreate '68 position, Barack Obama's DNC pad, and more celebrities headed for Denver

•The Civic Center--the preferred choice for political rallies in Denver, including the DNC--isn't so spectacular at night, and the writing is on the wall

•PSA--DNC community forums begin this weekend for Denver residents with questions about the impact of the convention (actual answers not guaranteed)

•Hillary-supporting "PUMAs" plan bus convoy to Denver for DNC

•Denver moonbats, coordinating with others across the country, will hold an anti-Iran war protest August 2--and Gathering of Eagles will be there to "welcome" them

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 38-35

**Tons of links from a weekend playing catch-up--scroll for RNC related links

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Friday July 18, Saturday July 19, Sunday July 20 and Monday July 21 2008--No. 38-35

DNC:

•With 5 weeks left until the convention, serious questions remain about the DNC, despite Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper's persistent optimism

•Whew--FBI declares "no credible threat" of terrorism for DNC, isn't sure about hygiene, whining . . . (cool side note--Denver's FBI special agent in charge helped process Saddam Hussein after his capture in Iraq); Denver spending $25 million on law enforcement to ensure that the FBI is right; 500+ rooms to be rented for the Colorado National Guard during the DNC

•Recreate '68 "revamps" site to appear less hypocritical about professed "non-violence"--more "hippie," less "militant"--same BS, different style

•Shocker--Mayor Hickenlooper's senior advisor for the DNC ridicules protestors at community impact meeting by questioning their ability to draw they numbers they claim, protestors reliably outraged

•What is most worrisome to Mayor Hickenlooper--riots? Protests? Economic impact? Nope. Just the locals abandoning Denver and turning the city into a "ghost town"; Hickenlooper hopes to avoid a confrontation over overnight camping in Denver's parks by asserting that no one camped out during those protests in the 1960s

•Denver's homeless plan--giving them a little "culture" with free tickets to the Zoo--hasn't been very well-received by national media; Denver denies attempt to "hide" the homeless, hopes to "engage them" in DNC activities and help them "escape from the heat"

•Barack Obama's campaign convention planner declares importance of delivering a "convention speech well," Obama speech a "hotter ticket than Springsteen"

•DNC CEO Leah Daughtry--bringing black liberation theology and religion to the Democrats?

•Democrats seek input on their party platform for the DNC--what would you recommend?

•Unconventional Action has released its most updated plans for the DNC and RNC, with maps produced by a "professional radical cartographer" (I missed that one on career day!)

•Why are the protestors protesting exactly? One moonbat offers an explanation

•Hand-wringing alert--The Denver Post is beginning to feel sorry for the protestors, expressing "concern"

•Not to worry though, legal assistance and training for protestors has already commenced, with classes also scheduled the day before the DNC for the procrastinating anarchists; Denver power attorney David Lane (Columbus Day protestors, Ward Churchill, etc.) says that "ill-trained" law enforcement just might lead to recreating '68

•Will there be a Clintonista revival at the DNC? The "Denver Group" hopes there will be

•The shirt off her back--Rep. Diana DeGette will provide 300 matching shirts for the DNC to her House colleagues

•Wanna be a trendy DNC "fashionista"? Try these shirts on for size

•Delegate/media "swag" bags revealed--with "Coke" logo (in the Pepsi Center)

•Denver churches claim they have been largely ignored in DNC planning

•More info on CNN's planned DNC coverage; the Pepsi Center gets "wired" for the convention

•Denver Open Media hopes to be the indie alternative source to the MSM for TV and radio for independent journalists and bloggers, liberal and conservative

•Flower power or Daisy dud for DNC?

•The latest update on Hollywood's "brain trust" that will attend the DNC

RNC:

•:RNC hopes 3000 law enforcement officers will be enough for event

•RNC still behind in volunteers for convention, timing (Labor Day weekend) and politics (less enthusiasm for Sen. John McCain)

•Protestors' manifesto on shutting down the RNC

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Jon Caldara Interviews Fred Barnes--The Colorado Model

Independence Institute's Jon Caldara interviewed Fred Barnes of the Weekly Standard about the recent cover story--the creation and exportation of the"Colorado Model":

There's something unique going on in Colorado that, if copied in other states, has the potential to produce sweeping Democratic gains nationwide. That something is the "Colorado Model," and it's certain to be a major topic of discussion when Democrats convene in Denver in the last week of August for their national convention.

While the Colorado Model isn't a secret, it hasn't drawn much national attention either. Democrats, for now anyway, seem wary of touting it. One reason for their reticence is that it depends partly on wealthy liberals' spending tons of money not only on "independent expenditures" to attack Republican office-seekers but also to create a vast infrastructure of liberal organizations that produces an anti-Republican, anti-conservative echo chamber in politics and the media.

Colorado is where this model is being tested and refined. And Republicans, even more than Democrats, say that it's working impressively.

John Fund of the Wall Street Journal points out that this "infrastructure," pioneered in Colorado, will provide the basis for Barack Obama's "liberal shock troops," mobilizing the Left across the country:

But liberals aren't just on the march on the presidential level. This year, liberal activists are spending parts of the fortunes of their wealthy donors to transform politics at the state and local level.

In 2005, billionaire investor George Soros convened a group of 70 super-rich liberal donors in Phoenix to evaluate why their efforts to defeat President Bush had failed. One conclusion was that they needed to step up their long-term efforts to dominate key battleground states. The donors formed a group called Democracy Alliance to make grants in four areas: media, ideas, leadership and civic engagement. Since then, Democracy Alliance partners have donated over $100 million to key progressive organizations.

Take Colorado, which has voted Republican for president in nine of the last 10 presidential elections. But in 2006, Colorado elected a Democratic governor and legislature for the first time in over 30 years. Denver will be the site for the party's 2008 presidential convention. Polls show Barack Obama would carry the state today. This hasn't happened by chance. The Democracy Alliance poured money into Colorado to make it a proving ground for how progressives can take over a state.

Unless conservatives, libertarians, and Republicans on the center-right choose to do something about it--organize, raise funds, and take the battle to the Left, instead of always playing catch-up and whining, they will continue to be outspent and outwitted--and left unelected.

To the video:

DNC Emergency Alert Texting Debuts

Taking it to the text level (sorry, got nothing on this one--hope it's not needed):

Anyone who is in Denver during the Democratic National Convention next month can sign up for the city's new emergency alert system.

The alert system will send out messages via text or e-mail about possible dangers and threats. City leaders also may broadcast alerts about unexpected road closures during the event.

The system is active now and already has more than 1,000 subscribers. It's being managed by a group called the Colorado Emergency Preparedness Partnership, whose goal is to "enhance disaster preparedness and response in the Denver Metro area."

Ellis Stanley, Director of DNC planning for Denver's Office of Emergency Management, said CEPP's program fills a gap. "At the end of the day we are all in this together whenever we are faced with disasters."

The messaging system is supported by MissionMode, a leading provider of emergency notifications and crisis management software.

All messages are provided and approved by public safety officials.

There is no mention of cost, but only 1K subscribers seems unlikely to be cost-effective.

**Update--Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper discusses DNC security, road closures, encouraging people to stay in Denver.

MSM Rediscovers DNC Protestors For The 1000th Time; Obama At Invesco Ticket Plans Produce More Questions Than Answers

Not much new here--a repetition of plans for "non-violence" and preemptive blame on police, with neither police nor protestors discussing plans in any great detail--except that they will be watching the watchers watch them (or something like that):

Dozens of protest groups are planning a full schedule of classes, concerts, marches and other actions during the Democratic National Convention, hoping to capture the world's attention and recruit a new crop of activists.

They are both energized and organized, and most insist they are not looking for trouble.

"We are completely peaceful," said Rob Weiland, a 37-year-old courier from Denver and member of the group We Are Change Colorado. "We follow the ideals of Ghandi."

The organization will be videotaping other groups and police during the DNC, scheduled for Aug. 25 to 28.

They'll post the videos on YouTube or the group's Web site, so the public may see what's happening without the filter of mainstream media, Weiland said.

If any protest groups are provoking police, he added, "our cameras will be on them."

So will ours.

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Barack Obama's speech at Invesco Field has many unanswered questions, with just a little over a month to go--the who, what, and how many are still unclear:

How many people will get in? How will tickets be distributed? Where will the stage be set up? What time will Obama, the Democratic Party's presumed presidential nominee, give his historic speech?

All of it is still on the drawing board.

"When we roll it out, we want to roll it out right," said Jenny Backus, a senior adviser to the Obama campaign.

Then there's security, those pesky protestors, any potential Clinton infiltrators, road blockages to resolve, where everyone will park, etc.

We'll keep you updated.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 39

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Thursday July 17, 2008--No. 39

DNC:

**Update--questions persist over whether or not I-25 will actually be closed

•Recreate '68 lawyer David Lane predicts clashes at the DNC (preemptively, of course) and Glenn Spagnuolo discusses a protestor march on Invesco Field for Barack Obama's speech on the DNC's final night

•I-25 will be closed for Barack Obama's Invesco Field speech:

I-25 carries its heaviest traffic in the stretch past Invesco Field. The 3.4 miles between the Interstate 70 interchange to the north and Colfax Avenue to the south saw average daily traffic in 2007 of more than a quarter million vehicles at the Park Avenue overpass.

That's the highest traffic count in Colorado.

Discarded suggestions for securing I-25 included banning all truck traffic but allowing cars, or posting police along the shoulders near the stadium to prevent any vehicles from stopping.

No word on plans for Federal Bouldevard, a possible alternate route for displaced interstate traffic, given its proximity to Invesco Field as well.

•LoDo residents seek answers to DNC questions about parking credentials, road closures, and access--some plans not finalized yet

•Tent State's City Park plans not overwhelmingly popular, as logistics concerns and the impact to neighborhood residents have yet to be addressed

•Community service for DNC delegates?

RNC:

•Judge rules anti-RNC protestors won't be able to encircle and march on the Xcel Energy Center due to safety and security concerns

•RNC meets fundraising deadline, $39 million raised

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 40

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Wednesday July 16--No. 40

DNC:

•Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper and representatives from Tent State met in private to discuss the possibility of thousands of protestors in town for the DNC camping in City Park (nope, illegal), or being bused in daily from campsites elsewhere in the city; Proposed alternative from Hickenlooper? The Denver Stock Show yard--ha ha ha; Tent State's Adam Jung rejects Stock Yard arrangement and, shocker, was unable to convince City Park neighbors to allow overnight camping, with 90% opposed


(click to enlarge)
•Road closures in Denver threaten to snarl traffic from Denver's western suburbs; more details released for residents of Downtown Denver and local businesses--full pdf here; no word yet on traffic plans around Invesco Field, but parking in surrounding lots will be banned--no tailgating, and no idea where 75000 people will park


•Massive anti-illegal immigration counter-rally scheduled for DNC

•Details of regional law enforcement assisting with security for the DNC, threaten to "overmilitarize" the community; Weapons purchased by police for DNC security could stay secret

•Denver courts expect long hours, extensive backlogs if mass arrests occur during DNC

•More celebrities slated for DNC concerts, fundraisers

•Dems' convention catering suggestions/requirements/guidelines "elitist and out of touch"

•Activists/protestors plan their own misinformation media campaign during DNC

•Michelle Obama in town for $1000-a-plate fundraiser

•Plans to limit homeless meals creates backlash, some charities refuse; city denies attempt to "hide" homeless

•DemConWatch has a daily roundup of other DNC news; Crosby, Stills and Nash sing "Denver," an update to their song "Chicago"

•Obama's fundraising raffle, with backstage passes to Invesco Field, is back on--legally

•Auraria's 3 schools, wireless system, will shut down during convention

RNC:

•Anarchist "Olympics" planned in Chicago to prepare for anti-RNC protests--"Workshops/Sessions include How to Form An Affinity Group, Armor DIY/Safety and Defense, Street Medic/Guerrilla First Aid, Blockading Tactics/Conditioning, Strategizing Sessions, Presentations from Bash Back!, UA, Anarchist Black Cross, and many more!"

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.

Hickenlooper, Tent State Meet To Discuss Protestors Camping In City Park

Closed-door discussions to resolve the issue of thousands of protestors congregating in City Park with nowhere to camp, since city law prohibits overnight camping in Denver's parks:

Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper suggested alternative campsites and buses Tuesday to resolve a controversy over allowing thousands of protesters to camp in City Park during the Democratic National Convention, according to those involved in the closed-door discussions.

"We're open to any resolution," said Tent State University organizer Adam Jung, who is urging the city to allow anti-war demonstrators to pitch tents in City Park. He detailed conversations he had Tuesday with the mayor and other city officials.

The city issued an assembly permit for Tent State University in the southwest corner of the park as long as the group met certain conditions, such as appeasing the concerns of neighbors and the nearby Denver Zoo and Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

As many as 20,000 protesters are expected daily at Tent State University, Jung said. And he expects about 5,000 would like to camp overnight.

There's one hitch. City laws prohibit camping in the park.

The issue has roiled city officials, with some City Council members in favor of relaxing the camping ban and others saying doing so could create a dangerous mess for the park as well as set an unwise precedent.

Thousands of campers and hundreds of tents would be quite an unwelcome, and very likely unsanitary situation. Inclement weather would turn the park into a pit, and the availability of adequate security and facilities doesn't seem likely given Tent State's shaky reputation.

The precedent, however, would be enormous, but the city has itself to blame for granting the provisional park permit in the first place. Now Hickenlooper is forced to meet in private with protestors in order to figure out a way to accommodate the crowd expected in City Park. Suggesting buses and an alternative camp site raises questions about the city's commitment to being green--one that Jung points out--and where, exactly, the protestors would be bused from. It isn't likely that many suburbs would welcome thousands of protestors into their neighborhoods for the duration of the DNC.

And why is the Mayor meeting Tent State in private? It is not clear if a public hearing or some other procedure will be forthcoming in the next few weeks.

Democratic National Convention Countdown, No. 43-41

Democratic National Convention Daily Digest and Open Thread
Sunday July 13, Monday July 14 and Tuesday July 15, 2008--No. 43-41

•Protest "tool" ban in Denver contemplated ahead of DNC would prohibit the use of PVC pipe, cement, and other devices for chaining protestors together, as well as the use of urine, feces, blood or any other "noxious substances" that might be poured on law enforcement or even by the protestors on themselves to prevent arrest; Gas masks and bulletproof vests okayed

•Dem leaders not notified about switch from Pepsi Center to Invesco Field until Barack Obama's campaign announced decision--Obama's campaign described as "insular, uncooperative, and inattentive"--ahh, hope and change redefined!

•ACLU lawsuit on behalf of protestors against Pepsi Center security restrictions now applies to Invesco Field, trial set for July 29

•Public Demonstration Zone protestors will see a double fence, creating an 8 foot buffer zone between protestors and delegates

•DNC bonanza isn't benefitting all Colorado businesses--many more details on the failure of local businesses to find DNC work; the Pepsi Center continues to make progress in its transformation, including the critical technology upgrades

•The switch from the Pepsi Center to Invesco Field has Denver law enforcement and the Secret Service pressed for time in developing new security measures

•Hillary Clinton supporters may have other plans for the DNC next month

•Denver homeless see park meals reduced, charities charge DNC with responsibility

•Colorado's mountain towns hope that places other than Denver will receive a benefit from the DNC, and are banking on fleeing Denver residents

•Host committee donors revealed--a who's who of corporations and organizations who can donate unlimited amounts to the party conventions

•Obama supporter and singer Usher to perform at DNC

•"Green Frontier Fest" in Denver on eve of DNC

•Metro State has begun a history reenactment and exploration series that features highlights from the 1908 DNC and other themed events

•DemConWatch also has a roundup of DNC news

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All previous Daily Digests can be found here.