RNC day one: Marching in the streets

Rob and I sauntered downstairs and out of the elevator this morning and were greeted by two police in light riot gear looking for a bathroom. The street outside was lined with rented SUVs and minivans, and we chatted with the waiting police standing next to the row of vehicles as we sipped our coffee. In a jovial mood, some of the cops showed us their gear while others listened in on our conversation and sipped Monster energy drinks from coolers nestled in between the rows of seats. From as near as Burnsville, Minnesota and from as far away as Arlington, Texas, none seemed to be able to anticipate what the day had in store for us.

We headed a few blocks away for brunch and people watching near the Xcel Center (ground zero for the RNC), observed a few people moving toward the capitol with protest signs, and watched as a small crowd gathered around a small dog spray painted red, white and blue. Walking around the Xcel to meet a friend, we thought we saw a smattering of protesters and a swarm of riot police. We met up with our friend, compared notes, and were just about to write off the protests as not a factor when we turned a corner and saw a steady stream of people protesting the Iraq war.

The "steady stream" as been estimated at 30,000-50,000 protesters, and while some sources are focusing disporportionally on the broken windows and pepper spray, I want you to know that (save for a hundred or so protesters) this march was positive, purposeful, and non-violent. And the media folks are really great at their jobs - thanks for sensationalizing the CRAP out of everything, media folks. Now go have another beer and a burger and go shopping in my downtown so we can reap the economic benefits. Ya hosers.

This is what the protest looked like:

More photos soon.