*******************************************************************

High gas prices and increasing travel costs have combined with other issues to limit the number of protesters.  While expecting thousands of protesters, the Denver Police Department has numbered the protesters to around 1000.

The loud minority spoke on many issues including the war in Iraq, the crumbling economy, and human rights issues.  They are comprised of college students, high school activists, and veterans among others.  Perhaps the tremendous police presence has discouraged protesters from getting rowdy. 

According to the Mayor of Denver, John Hickenlooper, the city spent roughly $50,000,000 in logistical and security measures to prepare for its first political convention in 100 years. At the time of this report only 4 protesters have been arrested for minor disturbing the peace transgressions.

The theme of the protestors in general has been "Recreate '68" a reference to the Democratic Convention of 40 years ago.  The police would like to prevent incidents such as the political upheavel, riots, and assassination or anything even close to that which occured that same year.  They have adopted a zero tolerance policy and the Secret Service, as well as many intelligence entities such as NORAD, will be monitoring live video feeds.

As of yet there hasn't been any violence from either side.               MrsBee