Vigil Attendees CHECK IN HERE!!!!

[meganmonkey]

Let us know where you went, how many people you had, and any other interesting tidbits about people's reactions and stuff.

I went to Chelsea, MI, a little town near Ann Arbor. We had about 55 people, and the organizers made a huge display with the names of all the lost soldiers lining the street. It was beautiful.

We got more positive response than negative from the people driving by, although there was one guy in a black truck that drove by a bunch of times and gave us the finger (oh, real mature dude!).

So tell me about your experience!!!

[NWHarkness]

1. 75 in Belfast Maine

That's more than 1% of the town's population!

All good response, plenty of horns and thumbs up, no trouble at all.

[bpilgrim]

366. Camp Casey Photo Album Created at GlobalFreePress --- --- > LINK

http://media.globalfreepress.com

first register here...
http://news.globalfreepress.com/gallery/register.php
(it's painless and free)

then upload all the pics you want into the Protest/Camp Casey or Vigil album.

once you upload then ping me here at DU so i can approve them (to avoid spam) and we can have a permanent home for them for all to see.

plus we can add comments to them and vote on our favorites.

if you have any problems or questions just ping me here at DU.

we have reached the tipping point folks :bounce: :toast:

psst... pass the word ;->

peace

[seemunkee]

2. Just got back

Had 180 combined on all four corners of the major intersection in town everyone holding candles. Mostly positive reactions, saw one guy shaking his head and muttering as he turned the corner. I was standing next to several vets with my peace flag.

[mdmc]

87. where? where?

:kick:

peace and low stress!

[herbbrown]

3. Just got back from Royal Oak, MI

Had 310, took a silent march around the town. Generally were accepted pretty well, even by the bikers it was Harley night in town.

[meganmonkey]

11. Awesome! Welcome to DU, herb!!

:toast:

[mdmc]

91. I don't usually like brown herb

'cept during dry times...

Welcome to DU!

:kick:

[me b zola]

301. sweet & sticky is my chronic desire

;)

[herbbrown]

461. Right On Dude

"Free Marc Emery"

[SharonRB]

120. Welcome to DU, Herb

I debated about whether to go to Royal Oak or Oak Park, but opted for OP, since I could walk there.

See my other post regarding the Dream Cruise this Saturday. It would be a shame not to take advantage of the crowds in town, all along Woodward Ave.

[NoSheep]

260. Welcome to DU!

:bounce:

[KoKo]

4. 150 or so at one of our two locations in town. I'm waiting for news to

see how many showed up at the other one. It was a nice crowd at a church and people had put candles for every soldier who has died in circles in a garden area. It was a lovely memmorial.

[Melodybe]

307. 80-100 in Oxford, MS YAY!!!

[Suziq]

5. Pics from Westfield, NJ Vigil

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x4383143

[ohio_liberal]

22. Great pics

:thumbsup:

[Mabel Dodge]

6. Cincinnati

Couple of hundred attendees in Cincinnati on Fountain Square. This was my first protest in a long time (since the 70's). It was a great turn out and the buttheads seemed to be few and far between.

[growlypants]

7. 145 in suburban Philadelphia (Malvern)

[FuzzyDicePHL]

427. Pics from the Malvern vigil

are here:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=104&topic_id=4384022&mesg_id=4386343

[MadMichDem]

8. 97 wonderful folks came to Westland, MI

VERY positive response from people driving by. A couple of "manly men" in pick em up trucks gave us the finger but most beeped and flashed a thumbs up. Counter protesters: 3 (if you count the cute puppy they had with them).

Got a list of women (and one man) to start a Code Pink group in our area. Not enough activism in our neck of the woods!

[meganmonkey]

15. Westland! That is wonderful to hear!

I grew up in Plymouth, so Westland was synonymous with 'the mall' to me as a kid - now I know better :) Sounds like you guys have planted a great seed for activism there!

[MadMichDem]

21. Heh, heh "The Mall" has changed a little bit!!

We were at City Hall on Ford between Newburgh and Wayne. New Kroger right across the street. LOTS of traffic!

[DURHAM D]

9. Checking in from Durham, North Carolina. Vigil was held at

a downtown intersection. Estimate somewhere between 250 and 300
people, lots of families and babies and three tv stations present. Lots of horn honking but a very respectuful gathering. No speeches but we did sing (someone brought a loud speaker sys.) "Where Have All The Flower Gone?"

[supernova]

72. I was there too!

:hi: Sorry we didn't meet. I forgot my DU bumpersticker.

It was amazing! I'm thinking there were closer to 400 people there.

[DURHAM D]

161. I asked the people standing around me if they were DU people.

I was looking for my peeps.

Not a soul had heard of DU so I suggested they check it out. I also warned them that it can easily become an addiction but it will be a sweet addiction and they will instantly have 74,000 new friends.

You are probably correct about the number of people present - I tried to count but darn it - people just kept moving around.

[Richard Steele]

218. Thanks for spreading the word about DU!

That's a headslapper! *slaps head*

I never thought to ask folks around me where they heard about the vigil....D'OH!

It would have been a perfect way to strike up a conversation,
and a perfect way to plug DU!

Well, next time I'll do better (I'm kinda new to this 'protesting' thing...)

[dalaigh lllama]

344. Same here. No DUers

I was at Wentzville, MO (about 60 miles from home). The folks I talked to had never heard of DU. I told them IMO it's the best place on the web to be.

We had about 20 people and had a hard time getting together, since whoever organized the vigil never showed up, and the meet-up was "somewhere in the Wal Mart parking lot." We finally started checking out other parking lot cruisers, hooked up with some others, and once we had a group of 2-3 vehicles, the others found us. We ended up standing on the sidewalk by the main intersection going into Wal Mart. Lots of folks honked in support, and one guy honked and flipped us off, but we waved and smiled at him in response -- thought that would make him crazy if he thought WE thought he honked in support. Our group had two moms with kids in Iraq and two war vets. I've never been involved in a protest before -- it was great!

[Richard Steele]

80. Hiya D! Glad you made it down tonight.

Wish I had known you were there, we could have started a DU section.
DUer 'Supernova' showed up, and managed to find me in the crowd...

We were standing diagonally from the guy with the 2 big white signs
("Yeeha is NOT a foreign policy")

I'm guessing we were closer to 400 people altogether.
The crowd seemed to be sharing the 4 corners fairly equally,
and I counted 200 folks on the 2 corners I could see clearly
(not including little kids and reporters)

[DURHAM D]

175. Hi Dick - sorry we did not find each other. Please see my

response to Supernova just above about the number count.

Hurray for the revolution.

[SaveAmerica]

130. Wow! It almost makes me want to move there, if I didn't believe I'm

needed here in my very red county. I'll have to start going to Durham events just to re-charge.

[Richard Steele]

255. Moving might be a bit extreme; but you really should come around!

Durham is an AMAZING place!

It has a bad rep for crime...and that is because
a lot of residents SPREAD that propaganda
to keep real estate CHEAP and scare off those damn YUPPIES!

You should post in the NC forum sometime you need a night out;
I know a few spots in Durham that are well worth seeing.

[NoSheep]

264. Hi Dick! yes, Durham is my favorite home -19 years and the best times

I ever had. Still job hunting. 3 interviews with SunTrust and waiting. Wish me luck!

[Richard Steele]

295. I certainly do "wish you luck", my fellow DUer! nm

[kimpossible]

137. I was there too

Great turnout!

I'm posting some photos in the NC forum.

[Lex]

164. Hi! I was there too.

I talked to the event organizer and she did a headcount--434 or something like that.

Here are my pix:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x4384148

[Triana]

383. I was there...Durham

Hi Durham D! I didn't even think to ask if anyone else there was from DU or how they heard about the vigil. This would be a good use for a DU T-shirt. Guess I'm gonna have to get one to id myself and use for conversation starters at these things!

[LiberalEsto]

10. Olney, Maryland

We counted about 175 people standing with lit candles at the intersection of Route 108 and Georgia Avenue.

There were many, many older folks. I suspect some were from the nearby Society of Friends meeting in Sandy Spring. But there were people of all ages including kids. We got many waves and friendly honks from passing drivers; positive responses outweighed the negative ones by a considerable number.

Once the sun went down and the moon rose, our Candles were a beautiful sight. Many thanks to the organizers!

[seemunkee]

13. Hello

I was the one holding the peace flag. Glad you made it there too.

[LiberalEsto]

16. And hello to you too!

I live in Derwood. Almost went to the vigil in germantown but decided Olney was closer. It was a beautiful sight.

[Chemical Bill]

12. 100 at the State House in Providence, RI

We had competition from a vigil near Brown University. Anybody at that one?

Bill

[Lena inRI]

433. Yes, at Thayer and Fones Alley. . .

I'd guess around 75 with candles. . .lots more going and coming since people were milling around for other reasons.

Before my husband and I left at 8, we sang a round of "We Shall Overcome" and some religious type anti-war song started by an older woman. . .even some people spoke extemporaneously, relating Cindy's loss to theirs and the nation's.

I liked one guy's reminder that thousands of dead Iraqis should also be remembered.

Some good placards and effective announcing of Sept 24-26 protest in DC. . .bus available for Rhode Islanders.

All in all, a positive vibe. . .but my husband and I both agree that the movement is in its infancy. . .wait when the shit hits the fan. . .we remember well from our Vietnam street protesting. . .we hope these same people show up then.

That's when I'll be bringing a helmet.

:grouphug:

[Chemical Bill]

472. Great to hear from you.

Now we need to hear from sombody in Wickford. BTW, there is a weekly vigil on South Main St, across from the courthouse, Saturdays from 12 to 1. I hope we never need the helmets and gas masks.

Bill

[mod mom]

14. 150 in Bexley OH plus one idiot in a Club Gitmo (rush limbaugh tee)

we got a lot of honks and one egg thrown at us (it hit no one-good karma!)

[meganmonkey]

17. Hey mod mom!

:hi:

An egg? How very tacky!

These numbers sound great. This is exciting!

[mod mom]

23. We also had a mother whose son was serving in Iraq and 2 tv stations

covering it.

Hi MM, hopefully will have some good news soon (hint: relates to blackwell!)

[meganmonkey]

31. Oooh la la!

I can't wait! I'm intrigued...

[Tigress DEM]

273. Bigger hint please!!

Tell me what I want to hear that blackhearted Blackwell is getting his comeupance for rigging the election.

[mod mom]

348. Karma is blowing in the wind in Ohio, ask Bob Taft. At this point

can't say more except it appears there is division in the Ohio GOP between Petro camp and blackwell camp.

[castiron]

155. Ah Bexley

all you guys in your in your Kerry shirts got me through the half marathon last year!! Thanks!

[Botany]

222. Just saw the club Gitmo guy on t.v.

he talked about 9/11 and how wanted to remember the 3,000 victims
then ...... clueless

[NewInNewJ.]

18. My husband & I went to Doylestown, Pa

About 200 people were there. It was great.

[Botany]

19. Columbus, OH ......

100 to 150 @ the corner of E.N. Broadway & Indianola.

only a few birds and "Go Bush" calls

Everybody was honking and cheering
plus we had drumming lesbians :bounce: :party:

I wonder how much time the missing Aruba women gets on the
cabal "news" tonight?

[mod mom]

28. Hi Botany, we're practically neighbors! there was another vigil downtown

at third and mound.

[Botany]

34. how was the turn out?

We had a real nice crowd ...... I can see Cindy meet ups happening more &
more. This country is really turning against the war.


(Funny, with all the support I saw tonight tell me again how
Kerry lost.)

[mod mom]

46. Surely you jest, we know bu$h lost Ohio. Great news about Taft!

Haven't heard about the downtown location attendance yet.

[Botany]

57. I wonder if he cries as he is brought up in front of the judge?

"Oh those 63 golf trips?" Our state is a joke.
Noe
Blackwell
Damnshroder
Taft
DeWine
Vonivich
Hackett looses votes because of humidity?
126% voter turn outs

When does it all stop.

[Zodiak]

79. Another Columbus location (9-12 events in all for Columbus)

Columbus, OH. The corner of High Street and Hwy 161. We had an attendance of about 150 people and a LOT of honkers driving by. The Bush supporters that we saw kept to themselves and accelerated through the light with a set jaw and an angry glare. One notable freeper moment was a truckload of 50 year old men who went by my wife's memorial sign yelling "Waaaaah" in an attempt to mock us as whiners. Pathetic how low some will go over the memory of 1858 soldiers.

We had lots of signs, lots of candles, and people from all stripes. We even had a Sikh!!

All in all, a good time and a considerable amount more support from passers-by than the vigil we attended there before the war.

[Lorien]

83. Hey, I grew up on Oakland Park Ave, right around the corner!

Way to go, Clintonville! :hi:

[hippywife]

172. That's my old neighborhood

I used to live on the corner of W. N. Broadway and Milton just before the river. Sadly, I'm in OK now. You're making me home sick for Clintonville.

Good job, you guys!!

[puerco-bellies]

20. Culver City California;

Less then a mile from my house, and with 200+ registered to attend.

[ronnykmarshall]

59. Hey neighbor

heading out in about an hour for the one in WeHo.

[puerco-bellies]

315. 300+ in Culver City

I will post pictures, du is kinda "stoppie" today.

[ronnykmarshall]

380. Around 200 in West Hollywood

Saw that well over 500 showed up in Studio City.

[flyarm]

24. AHHHH SHUCKS..I LIVE IN A VERY REPUBLICAN AREA..

there were none near me ..i live on a barrier island..highly repub..
( and summer resort) so i made a sign..took out a beautiful clear glass candle holder( big) had a big pillar candle in it..i took my hanging candles out by the main road..held a candle in myhand..with my sign that saiD..i support Cindy..and i stood out there by the road for an hour..alone..and got alot of honks!! and thumbs up from the tourists!

but i have had huge signs on my house since Cindy got to Crawford
hanging on my fourth story decks..

and now two newspapers have taken pictures of my signs on the house and done interviews with me about Cindy..

one came out today ..a weekly paper here, and one article will be in the atlantic city press tommorrow..i hope they are good articles and do Cindy proud!

Cindy is in my heart and i wish i could be in Crawford with her..but i am getting her an east coast presence the best i can!!

fly

[annabanana]

39. Three cheers for you and your lonely vigil!

It is VERY hard to be the only one out there. But one person is a thousand times better than none.. and HOORAY for all the press you garnered all by yourself!
O8) :party: :toast: :loveya: :applause: :applause: :applause:
:patriot: :yourock: :patriot:

[GOPFighter]

44. You did GOOD!

Way to go! <high Five!>

[ronnykmarshall]

62. I love you fly!!

Thank you!!

:loveya:

[mdmc]

111. You make me proud!

That is an awesome effort!

[jackster]

133. We're with you fly....

your bravery is inspiring!

[jhain]

140. We Were in Cape May Court House!

Look for our big group in the Press, too!

[sintax]

213. That's the way it happens

Seeing things and remaining quiet about them will change nothing, not even ourselves. But saying things - having the courage to testify to our own forbidden knowledge - could be the way the world changes.

[Gabi Hayes]

280. excellent! awe-ins;piring! got any pix? you should post them

where are you, btw? east coast?

[K8-EEE]

386. Applaud Your Courage!!

It must be hard to be a beacon of light in the darkness. I live in a very liberal area (my nearby Studio City protest had tons of people) so it's easy for us, you guys in the heard of Red Country are heros just like Cindy!

[sarahlee]

446. Alice Paul

would be proud. Thank you for your courage.

[Lorien]

25. 200 in Downtown Orlando

I stood with a former coworker and his S.O., both former republicans. We had many people driving by and honking their horns in support-I didn't see one middle finger for the hour and a half we were there! Only one counter protester showed up, lol!

[libnnc]

26. Lewisville, NC

Just outside of Winston-Salem. In Shallowford Park. Very pretty setting. There were around 26-30 people there with their kids. About 6 or 7 of us stood on the sidewalk by the main street in front of the park entrance. Some thumbs up and honks from passing cars. Met some really nice people. No trouble at all.

[BlackVelvetElvis]

52. Crap! I didn't see Lewisville mentioned as a site.

You would've had one more.

[libnnc]

69. There's a regular vigil in Winston-Salem

every Friday evening from 5-6 pm at Five Points intersection (the really tricky one where 5 major roads converge at the big ugly BB&T building). It's sponsored by the Community for Peace folks. I'm going this Friday evening.

[kohodog]

27. close to 70, including kids in Guilford CT

And It was just posted today. I hear there were about 500 in New Haven, and there were a number of others around the state.

[fooj]

29. Aptos, California

55 scheduled to attend!

Peace.

[Obamarama]

30. 300+ in Kalamazoo, Michigan!!!

Old, young, veterans, Muslim, Jew, Christian, Black, White, Hispanic, mothers, fathers.....a true cross section of this country.

More than 300 of us stood on one of downtown Kalamazoo's busiest intersections in front of the Federal Court building with our signs, our candles, and our humanity for all to see.

From the start at 7:30 until the end at 9:00 we didn't encounter one car that flipped us off or shouted epitaphs. We got an awful lot of supportive horn honks. people giving thumbs up signs, and shouts of "Whoooooooo" in support.

What a great evening. I'll post pics as soon as my partner gets back with our other car so I can get my flash media reader out of the glove box.

[meganmonkey]

32. Holy sh*t - that's huge!

And the students probably aren't even town yet.

Michigan is representing all over this thread!

:bounce:

[Obamarama]

41. I know...I can't believe we outnumbered Columbus, OH for crying out loud!!

Kalamazoo is a liberal oasis (most of the time) in the middle of Republican West Michigan.

[herbbrown]

36. Over 600 between K'zoo and Royal Oak

Hate to brag, but Michigan is coming up big.

[Obamarama]

45. Hey, Welcome to DU Herb!

How'd ya find us and what brought you here?

[PassingFair]

110. About 70 peeps in Grosse Pointe

We got there VERY late, and there were still about 30 people milling around, some with signs.
I signed up for a peace group.

The media is going to have a VERY hard time trying to paint us all as "wild-eyed" liberals.
I can't WAIT for September 24. It's a middle-aged revolution!

[SharonRB]

128. Hey, Passing Fair

Have you decided to come to DC after all?

I made a pitch about DU to the group in Oak Park. Only one person knew about it. I also told everyone about DC in September. Very few people knew about that.

Michigan is awesome!

[PassingFair]

185. Jury is still out, Sharon...

If we go, it'll be "on the fly".
Time and $$$ constraints. Luke's working on a project, BUT
if I sell a full page between now and then -- we're there!

[SharonRB]

350. I sure hope you get to come

It's going to be a blast and I'd love to have you or you and Luke there with us to join in the fun.

Sharon

[Tigress DEM]

268. Go ahead and brag - Michagan has John Conyers too...

Can't help but be proud of that guy --- and Lila Lipscomb --- another courageous mother of a fallen soldier. She was the one Michael Moore interviewed in Farenheight 911 and she took a lot of flak for her stance. Lila came here recently to MN and lent her support to Cindy and the Gold Star Families group before they went to TX.

So brag away Michigan. You are true blue!!!

[mod mom]

349. No one can top that brag-"MI has John Conyers"! Can we share?

[SharonRB]

353. In more ways than one, Tigress

GO BLUE!

[knitter4democracy]

441. Go Green, Go White!

Argh, couldn't help it. ;)

[SharonRB]

448. No problem.

[knitter4democracy]

440. Add 38 more in Battle Creek, and we've got a party!

There's hope for Dems all over the state if we just keep working!

[Rainscents]

248. My Aunt live there!!!

[katty]

463. Santa Monica,CA, on Ocean Ave-Great Vigil

Lots of car Peace Sign honking...the tourists were supportive
and it just happened to be in front of the old, St. Monica statue(nice touch)

[Richard Steele]

33. 350- 400 people here in Durham NC!

Sadly, my sweetie has the camera, so I don't have any pix.

I'm gonna go look around and see if I can find any.

[ncrainbowgrrl]

63. 150+ here in Chapel Hill, NC!

Even more amazing when you realize that only 9 miles down the road, the Durham folks were also standing outside holding candles in support of the cause.

[Richard Steele]

107. That's good to hear, ncrainbowgrrl! The Triangle loves Cindy!

Of course, now I can't wait to see what the media has to say about it.

I have some hope that the report will be fair; the reporter from the Herald-Sun
seemed decent enough.
He seemed to know some folks standing next to me,
and spent some time just chatting with them.
(Not that I would ever eavesdrop or anything like that...:evilgrin:)

Also, I want to mention that I didn't see ONE
overtly negative response from the passing motorists.
Not even a raised finger!

And a few who honked in support kinda surprised me;
like the middle-aged guy in the big crew-cab truck
who honked and gave everyone a thumbs-up from one end to the other!

[castiron]

162. Excellent chapel hill

where was it? signed, UNC alum in Texas

[grrl62]

331. in front of the post office

on franklin St.

after a rough count, i'd say 300+ in attendance.

it was wonderful.

[Mist]

394. I got there at 7:50--closer to 150, I'd say. (just being accurate!) n/t

[grrl62]

397. someone was doing a head count around 7:30pm

and i overheard him say a little over 300.

i am short so it was difficult to see much from my perspective!

[mnhtnbb]

406. Chapel Hill NC vigil

I'm the organizer of the Chapel Hill event. Did a head count about 7:40pm and estimated 225-50. Since I'm short, it was hard to be sure I counted everyone!

Great turnout. I'm posting this next day and we've had good press coverage, too, in radio and print. Local ABC news at 11 pm led with the Durham coverage, but mentioned us and Cary, too.

There were 17 vigils in NC--over 1550 registered to attend. And that's a red state!

The tide is turning.

[KoKo]

134. Around 150 in one of the two Raleigh locations, I was at. News Channel 14

was there, but not seeing anything about it on news yet.

[G_j]

293. Asheville, NC: 265

at last count

[Dr. Mullion Blasto]

385. And thanks to the lady and gentleman who kept those darn candlearias

around the reflection pool from going out! You guys were really kept busy in the rain!

[G_j]

389. that was beautiful!

I was soaked by the time I got home, but it felt great! :-)

[GOPFighter]

35. 200+ in Silver Spring (MD)

We were standing on all four corners at the intersection of Georgia Ave. and Spring St. downtown.

The support we got from passing motorists was outstanding!

I was impressed by how everyone in attendance knew the issues, obviously a lot of people are following politics closely. Everyone I talked to believes Cindy's vigil, and America's response could very well be the tipping point where we are now a force to be reckoned with.

Cindy, this was for you and Casey!

[Donailin]

105. Dang! I didn't get the email till it was too late!

And I was just there Monday night (dropping son off at house show) AND yesterday (traffic court)

I'm glad it went well, any pics???

[GOPFighter]

200. Yes, here's a picture

NW corner of Spring St. at Georgia Ave.

[Mayberry Machiavelli]

193. Brings a tear to my eye... I used to live near Four Corners. I love my old

blue home state!

[GOPFighter]

341. My kids still live in Four Corners

It's a good place to be a Democrat!

[chopper]

352. ah yes

i drove by, delivering some dressers to a friend in silver spring. made my day.

[mvd]

37. Went to one tonight in Lansdale, PA

There were around 100 attending. We were circled around a memorial with our candles. Spoke to a veteran and his wife, who agreed with me about Chickenhawk right wingers, the RW's treatment of Kerry and Cleland, and the stolen elections. They have even stopped their subscription to the Philly Inquirer. No wonder - Polman was so slanted to the right for a while. Now he's better, but it could be the way the wind is blowing. Anyway, had a fun time, and the local newspaper took pictures. It was too bad that I arrived after the pictures were taken. Together, we will take back our country again!

[meganmonkey]

64. My mom grew up in Lansdale

and my grandparents lived there until the mid-80s. I'll make sure to let my mom know about that! She's at a vigil in Leesberg, FL tonight.

:woohoo:

[friesianrider]

73. Hey Lansdale!

We just moved to Berks County from Harleysville! Good to hear Lansdale's vigil was so great - we went to one in Reading (60+ people) ;) :hi:

[mvd]

81. Hi to both of you!

I live in the western part of Montgomery County, but I'm not far from the spot. We were congregated in Memorial Park. Which is on main street, so there were cars going by - but there wasn't reaction, which surprised me a little. Maybe they didn't know what it was? Nice to talk to you! :hi:

[hallc]

150. Hey...I was there!

Memorial Park?

[mvd]

246. It's a fitting name for the park where it was held

Channel 6 covered the local vigils as the lead story at 11! :bounce:

[marylanddem]

38. Greenbelt Maryland, just outside D.C.

We had I would guess like 60 people gathered to honor those fallen in this wretched misadventure & speak out our feelings. It was great. All thanks to Cindy Sheehan - bless her. Someone said there were 14 vigils within a 10 mile radius.

[DODI]

40. West Hartford, CT about 150 or so. Lots of support from

passing cars. All four corners and the green had people on them. It was great. Also, two TV stations covered it. I will have to watch the news tonight.

[zippy890]

42. 80 in Ipswich MASS

No negative reaction - all positive vibrations for Cindy and peace

[ronnykmarshall]

65. Beautiful!!

Thank you!!

[Rose Siding]

197. You're looking gorgeous, Ipswich

Blessings and peace to you

[democrat in Tallahassee]

43. Tallahassee Rally for Cindy.

I just got back form the Tallahassee Rally for Cindy.

There were about 130 people there all waving signs. Camped out in the growing shadows of the State Capitol Building... I'm sure Jeb could see us from his office.

Every other car was honking in sympathy. It seemed like every African American diver was with us.

Just a note....before the war started I attended a rally and about every 10th car honked... tonight every other car honked.

here are some pitures..

the guy doing the interview is Tom Baxter... local leader of Vets for Peace...

[iconoclastNYC]

47. Rock center. about 300 people i guess

stupid NYPD felt the need to box us in with barricades. So fucking stupid.

[NYC]

216. I was there.

:hi:

[remfan]

48. 150 give or take - Charleston WV

It was held downtown in front of the library. A couple of speakers, one is the mother of Iraq War vet, and the other is the mother of one currently serving. A little music (flute), a little candlelight, and a few moments of silence. The restaurant across the street from us put some candles outside, plus there was a camera crew from one of the local TV stations.

[peacefreak]

49. Freeport, Me.

About 130. Young & old. More positive than negative from the traffic going by.

[tigereye]

61. Pittsburgh

nice park setting, about 2-300 people, by my estimate. I saw a lot of old friends, some with new babies! It was great, the signs, the camaraderie, the kids, the playground, Moms for Peace. :hi:

[canichelouis]

250. I was in Frick Park, Pgh. too.

At least 300, I'd say. Pittsburgh had 2 or 3 others sites around town. Don't know how they went. Didn't see any news camaras. Didn't see the 11 o'clock news to know if anything made it to the media. Hope so.

[tigereye]

262. I was at the Blue slide park

but then I saw folks at the Braddock Ave. park on the way home, as well. :hi:

it was a really nice gathering!

[I Have A Dream]

328. I'd say that there were between 300-350 people there.

It was really great! All ages & ethnicities attended.

[PittLib]

447. Hi canichelouis!

Welcome to DU from a fellow Pittsburgher! :hi:

[OhioChick]

Close to 200

in the Cleveland area. Beautiful!

[johnnie]

95. Were you on Rocky River?

I was at that one and we had about that many.

[OhioChick]

104. Yes..............I was there

Wasn't it nice? So much support from the passers by, to boot!

link: http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x4383805

[johnnie]

112. It was great

There were so many people honking and I didn't see one person do anything non-supportive.
I was by that guy with the blue "world" flag.

[OhioChick]

117. We were by the UN flag.................n/t

[johnnie]

131. That's the one I meant

The blue one...right? I bet I was standing right behind you.

[OhioChick]

141. Yeah............

the light blue one.

[madmax]

50. Highland Park, NJ

About 150 people. Much support from passersby - peace signs, horns blowing, waving, thumbs up, and one asshole who gave us the one finger salute.

We will be meeting every Saturday from 11:30a.m. - 12:30p.m. until bush goes back to DC. Then it's on to DC kids!!!!

[ronnykmarshall]

51. West Hollywood, California

Leaving in 0100 hours.

Will report back, M'am! :patriot:

[meganmonkey]

97. Oh, you damn left coasters!

i didn't even think about time zones! :silly:

[Nay]

53. Richmond, VA -- there were 4 vigils around town. We went to the

one in front of the VA Museum on Grove Ave. There were 80 people there, one of the TV stations was there doing a story, and I got to talk to a wonderful woman whose son just got back from Iraq. He was one of the injured. She was mad as hell before the war, and she's really mad now.

There were no freepers there, and anyone who beeped a car horn was doing it in support.

Were there any other DUers there? One of these days I'm going to meet one of you somehow.

[fedupinBushcountry]

67. My daughter lives on Grove Ave.

right across the street from VCU, I will have to call her to see if she went. Don't know if she had to work. But she usually rides her bike up to Strawberry Cafe.

[NoSheep]

285. I was in Richmond 5 years. There on 9/11-had to come back to NC

the racism got to me but what a glorious city otherwise. I used to go to Legend alot and the Capital Ale House opened a few months before I came back. Wish I'd known you (if I didn't);)

[magnolia]

376. I was there!

So maybe you have met a DUer and don't know it...LOL!

I'm always in awe of how beautiful this city is. What an incredible setting last night...the museum, the trees, the beautiful architecture of the homes across the street, a big bright full moon in the sky...and the candles.

[BlueStateGirl]

54. Doylestown , PA. I'd estimate the crowd at about 300. It was wonderful

to be surrounded by so many like minded people. The crowd was a nice mix, of older, experienced activists, and young families. Although I would say it was mostly female.
We sang a Pete Seeger song that the old timers knew the words to, but most of us young-ins' were lost. :)
You could pick out the experienced ones, they all brought extra candles, and cups to collect the wax!

[stepnw1f]

55. Roslindale Square, MA

Approx. 100 people.

[fedupinBushcountry]

56. Virginia Beach, Virginia

100-150 young and old. Lots of signs,hitting all the administration and to me the most important ones were on the Downing Street Memos.

TV and print news were there, and police. It was very peaceful, sang Give Peace a Chance, We Shall Overcome, God Bless America and This Land Is Your Land.

Lots of talking about everthing Bush and this administration has lied about. Also lots of military families retired and active duty.

Will post links if there are any news stories at 11.

[Catchawave]

351. Here's the Virginian-Pilot article:

http://home.hamptonroads.com/stories/story.cfm?story=90827&ran=112194

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

Several military in attendance too!

[fedupinBushcountry]

364. Very good article

To bad the TV stations were more interested in those who were against it. Channel 10 actually went to a VFW in Norfolk to find dissent. :shrug: Also only one station has a write up on it no video Channel 3 and it is lame.

Local Vigil Evokes Different Definitions Of Troop Support

http://www.wtkr.com/Global/story.asp?S=3735998&nav=0oa7dSrM

[malta blue]

58. Saratoga Springs NY

Distressed American and I took my daughter to the vigil. There were about 400 people. We had the typical "colonel", a freeper who had accosted me with my kid in a grocery parking lot a while back, and then a fundy family with a huge anti-abortion sign. Mr. Pro-Life decided to come and stand in the middle of our crowd, but Distressed American, the tall being that he is, just held his sign up really high and started a movement of people to come and block his very graphic sign. Anyhow, I am sure DA will be checking in, so I am not one to steal his thunder...it was GREAT to see 400 people!!!:bounce:

[DistressedAmerican]

334. The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

The positive news from the event:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x4384416

And some word on counter protesters and how they can best be dealy with:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=104&topic_id=4384828&mesg_id=4384828

Albany had about 500 as well!

[insane_cratic_gal]

60. 64 in Butler PA (N of pittsburgh)

Very quiet and respectful. Very church going folks, a few college kids, so it was tame yet friendly and supportive of Cindy and the troops. To be honest I was shocked that many came! When I signed up late last night it was 28.

We weren't right next to the road, so there was no beeping or anything.

[blue neen]

170. That's a good showing for Butler!

It sounds like it was really nice. :hi:

[jsamuel]

66. 32 in Springdale, AR

WOOT! That is good from here. I heard that there were others around this area as well. Not sure how they did.

[sinkingfeeling]

423. Yeah, I was there! Springdale is a very 'red' area and we got good

response from passers-by!

[wovenpaint]

68. Easton, MA

At the intersection of 138 and 123. The official count was 85 people-just standing on the sidewalk at the traffic lights in the suburbs - all ages, with candles,flags and signs. There was a lot of supportive honking and only a few thumbs down/"birds" given. Mostly from young men.....

One man tried to confront the group, "how dare we stand out here", you're all just liberal Democrats, traitors, etc. Luckily, he spoke his piece and left.

I had originally planned to go into Boston but decided that "hometowns" is where people need to be seen. Just as Cindy has put a "face" to our concerns on a national/global! level, so can we alongside our neighbors.
I'd say 97% of the passers by were supportive.
:patriot: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

[friesianrider]

70. Reading, PA...around 60 people.

We had between 40 and 70 people over the Penn Street Bridge in Reading, PA, a small city between Harrisburg and Philadelphia, PA. Many, many positive responses (only one negative from some screaming lunatic - we couldn't even hear what he said) and many "stop the war!" screams from motorists, and we even had about 3 news groups come to interview us and take photos.

The police were there too to make sure everyone was safe (we were on a small sidewalk very close to a busy road), and were VERY sympathetic and supportive of our cause. One police car and one fire vehicle drove by too and BOTH of them gave us a honk and thumbs up!

[Emendator]

288. I wish I was there

I couldn't make it. It's great to hear that it was a success! Congradulations!

[Amaya]

71. We had about 75 people in Barkhamsted, CT

it was very peaceful. We had a lot people drive by and honk in support. I didn't get a good pic of our group, but I did get
a few freepers standing next to us.


kind of a funny pic.

[lindac07]

74. Cindy's Vigil

I was so proud to be a part of a group of people in Daytona Beach, Florida that, with humor and dignity, protested this administration and its war and stood in solidarity with Cindy Sheehan. It was my first time demonstrating since the Vietnam War and I was a little leery about how many people would show up, this being a very Red state, but we had a large turn out, approximately 125 people and the evening news (WESH, Channel 2) and the local newspaper showed up and spoke with those who had loved ones in Iraq. Those interviewed were articulate and forthright, one man a veteran with a son on active duty, just back from Iraq.

The response from passersby in cars, was mostly supportive, with a few who felt the need to yell obscenities. But, those were met with laughter and told to visit a recruiter.

All in all, it was a terrific experience. I will definitely do that again and plan to join a small group that protests each week. Its the least I can do. Linda C

[meganmonkey]

86. Welcome to DU linda!

I found out at my vigil that a group of folks has a weekly protest where I was tonight, too. So I will be trying to attend that sometimes too :)

[wildeyed]

75. maybe 150 people in Charlotte, NC.

I dunno for sure, I didn't count.

We were at a centrally located park, so no passing cars. But there was more than a few media types on hand.

Random people spoke about the war and their feelings. One beautiful young woman spoke about her brother who was serving a third round in Iraq. We sang. Dogs barked. Kids ran around. It was really nice. I am glad I went. This is the least depressed I have been since the election.

[earthmama]

153. Yes it was great.

I was there and there was such a great vibe.

[SaveAmerica]

173. WOW, that 's an excellent article!! Sweet!!

[Chichiri]

76. Checking in from Moorhead, MN

[KarenInMA]

77. Somerville MA about 200-250

[sintax]

78. 480 in Ithaca,NY Pop. 30,000

people just kept coming and the circle widen, candles and signs. Several dogs with their own banners "Dogs in Support of Cindy Sheehan".

More contributions for rides to Crawford. Offer still open anyone who can make it to Ithaca will get free ride to and from Crawford.

A few of us were asked to say a few words about daily vigils and the upcoming protest to DC. we're looking at sending 4 buses with the hopes of filling a fifth part of the way and picking up any from Binghamton that can join.

god damn, we gotta stop these insane bastards from blowing it all up.

This is not play time.

One woman who just returned from Crawford sent a very strong message that Cindy is tired but TOTALLY on message and FOCUSED and will dog George everywhere he goes.

One of the things that Cindy says really keeps her going is all the support from all of us out here.

We cannot let up!!!!!!

[Marine Democrat]

343. Down in Decatur, GA

The turnout was estimated at 800.

[merbex]

82. 75 -100 in Hingham at Hingham Harbor (MA) and if I could figure out

how to post pictures I would

(the pictures came out great)

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

84. Yorktown Heights, NY...15 people. We met by a gazebo in a park

and then walked to the main street. We had several people honk in support of us. It was quietly done, but nice.

[mdmc]

85. 12 in Newburgh, NY

Just got online, from the event... P.E.A.C.E. !!! I'm going to read the thread and post again when done...

[shugah]

88. howell, MI

105 (we counted so we would know, no matter what the paper says ;-) ). i was shocked to see such a healthy turnout - and much gratified. we held candles and were silent (well, sort of) and then a former service member read the names of the 55 michigan lost troops. very sad and moving.

while i'm proud of the 100+ brave souls that came out this evening, it looks like this will be the first post to contain the tale of considerable negative reaction. there were 52 (we counted so we would know, no matter what the paper says ;-) ) very loud and somewhat uncouth folks there to "protest" the vigil (??? protest a vigil? these people are really pitiful). the police were there to make sure that they stayed away from us, so that was good.

mostly, we ignored them, which, of course, is the best thing to do. they seem so desparate for confrontation.

one thing i did see that truly pissed me off - one of them had a sign that said "Casey Sheehan, Patriot" and big W sign beneath it. :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr: :grr:

[meganmonkey]

121. Go Howell!!!!

Wow - the counter-protesters.... :puke:

I am really impressed with the turnout there, that is excellent!

[Scout]

337. way to go Howell!

that is great news from Howell, even with the freepers who showed up.

You're right, ignoring them is the best thing to do.

Great job, thanks!

[jeanarrett]

387. Way to go, Howell. Very heavy Repug territory,

so you did great! Paper says 70 counter protesters and 100 anti-war. Hilarious though that all the comments in the paper from the counter-protesters were Repug talking points, "it will send a terrible message to the terrorists if we pull out now," etc., blah, blah, blah (are these people programmed to say this stuff?).

I could not make it because I had a sick 4-year old, but was going to go to the Howell vigil because I figured Ann Arbor would be heavily represented. So happy so many turned out in Livingston County!!!!

[shugah]

475. 52 counter-vigilists Jeanarrett

we counted! ;-)

105 Cindy supporters.

imagine livingston county representing 2 to 1!

i have not yet composed my LTTE. but i will! ;-)

[knitter4democracy]

442. Seriously? That rocks!!!

I wouldn't have thought it'd be that big in Howell. Awesome!!!

The times, they are a'changin'!

[wellstone dem]

89. In St. Cloud, MN

About 50 people, silence and songs.

[KerryOn]

90. About 115 to 120 in Upper Arlington, Ohio....

After the silence the names of the Ohio killed in action were read allowed.

Hilltop Flowers donated 130! red and yellow roses. Very nice of them.
Thank You Hilltop Flowers!

[NYFlip]

92. About 400-500 in Union Square park in Manhattan

It was hard to really tell how many because the park in pretty big. It was really peaceful and NBC was there (let's see what they say at 11). It was great experience being with people who cared and were knowledgeable. Some even knew DU

[huskerlaw]

93. Lincoln, Nebraska!

We had a LOT of positive response from passers-by. And a pretty good turnout (I'm horrible guesstimating crowd size). Check out my post here: http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x4383760

[A-Schwarzenegger]

94. Just heading out to Clover Park in Santa Monica...

[Tuesday_Morning]

96. I'd say there were about 70 of us...

...standing under the trees in Coconut Grove, FL with candles, signs and a drummer.

[TorchTheWitch]

98. a couple hundred in Bryn Mawr, PA

I'm totally guessing about the number... there were loads of people on all four corners of the intersection. Lots of cars honking, and I met a lot of great people.

I'm stunned at how many were there... this is the heart of the Main Line (WEALTHY as hell Philly suburb... Ardmore is the town next to Bryn Mawr, and Bush has been there probably more than anywhere else schmoozing the fat wallets). Bryn Mawr, Haverford and Villanova colleges (where the wealthy elite go) all converge in this area. There's a Maserati/Ferrari dealership a couple of blocks from where we were (that should tell you something about the wealth of this area), yet there was an unbelievable turnout and show of support. Everyone I talked to said they were amazed at how big the turnout was.

[sakabatou]

99. West Coast starting in 24 minutes

[Sacajawea]

100. 100+ in Port Jefferson, NY...

...in front of the Village Hall, facing the harbor as dusk came on. More honking horns with "thumbs up" than anything negative. At the end, one of the women (who had a gorgeous voice) played her guitar and led us all in a lovely song. Three village "constables" stood nearby, but didn't interfere.

I stood next to a woman whose 23-year-old son is in Iraq now. She was wearing a picture of her son's sergeant/squad leader (?) who was killed on 2/14/05. She was as calm in demeanor as Cindy appears (how, I don't know!). :hug:

[FogerRox]

445. good to hear i'm from Stony Brook

you rock

[KharmaTrain]

101. 300+ In Palatine, Illinois

This used to be red-rock Repugnican...it was heartening to see so many folks of all ages and backgrounds come together.

I saw a few with cameras...hopefully there was someone from DU there who took some shots.

[coffeenap]

209. Hey--we were there--I brought the flag

someone else took it home--hope they use it well! I was there with my two kids and two friends. Almost everyone who came by was thumbs-up!

[WENSTJDON]

227. we were there too!

I brought the whole family. We were so impressed by the amount of people there. I never thought it would be like that here in Palatine, such a republic area. It was a little windy, and had some trouble keeping candles lit, but the whole thing was great. I'm so glad we went.

[MelissaB]

102. Florence, AL

Florence is a small town and I don't have to tell you we how red we are. :) We had 18 people which wasn't bad since it wasn't announced until this afternoon. We are in a very red state, but I just met a lot of very blue friends. They had never heard of Democratic Underground. I was happy to point them here.

:hi:

[lostnfound]

103. Houston, Texas - Mecom Fountain - a few hundred.

The scene of at least 2 injuries!: my 4 year old fell on the sidewalk and got a bad scrape on his knee; and an elderly woman, maybe 80 years old, fell right in front of me hitting the back of her head on a concrete barrier. The poor woman! Had a terrible knot developing and seemed rather worried about it. She was holding a sign for the Women's International League of Freedom and Peace WILPF (Or is it WILFP?) so we spoke for a moment about what a wonderful group that is.

Houston had more than 1 meetup but Mecom is probably the largest. My count might not mean much since I had to take my son home when it was just getting dark.

I found myself near tears, to see all these people out there. If there's a hope for our country to recover its heart and soul..it will be from such humble beginnings.

Were anyone to ask why we were there, I might have shouted at them, 'BECAUSE IF A MOTHER SPENDS 20 YEARS KISSING SKINNED KNEES AND COMBING HAIR AND TEACHING READING AND TEACHING DISCIPLINE AND FEEDING AND WASHING AND RAISING A CHILD, AND THEN LOSES THAT CAREFULLY-RAISED CHILD IN A CARELESS, UNPROVOKED WAR OF AGGRESSION, SHE SHOULD NOT HAVE TO STAND ALONE' WHEN SEEKING THE TRUTH ABOUT IT.' I thought about how Casey Sheehan's mother is trying to find meaning in Casey's death, and that what she wants it to mean is the end of the war, end of the dying..and to find that meaning she needs US. If enough people care, then they can bring about an end to this war.

Not a simple wish, but it is an honor, to honor someone else's search for meaning, by participating tonight.

[Justitia]

181. Thanks for letting a fellow Houstonian know! I bet it was beautiful

around the fountain....

I sure hope the woman who fell is okay!

I'll be watching the local news for coverage....

[lostnfound]

317. You're welcome! Here's two pics:

That's not me in the pics! I am really tempted to post a pic of my adorable little boy (!) holding a candle but I'm a little too chicken for that..

I told him, as I handed the candle to him, "you know, this just might be the most important thing you've done so far in your young life." He said "I want to hold it up really HIGH!"

[Tsiyu]

196. I really agree with what you "might have shouted."

Very well put, and here's hoping everybody's booboos heal.

I was amazed to find a vigil close to me, but was unable to attend as I had to care for my horses due to unforseen circumstances. I wanted to hold a vigil with them, but before I could go inside to find a candle, it started thundering and one of the mares bumped me with her nose ( horse talk for "get moving") and I noticed the skies turning ugly black, so I skeedaddled inside.

The storm passed, but I hope the Cindy Sheehan momentum continues and builds to a storm of peace, if that makes any sense. Kudos to all who were able to attend, and here's hoping many, many more of these events are scheduled.
:patriot:

[Geoff R. Casavant]

244. From another Houston vigil

Ours was smaller -- 10 or 12 people, we were at a Pet Store at Campbell and Blalock.

[TexasLawyer]

428. From YET ANOTHER Houston vigil

We had our vigil on two bridges that span a BIG freeway (Hwy 59) in the center of Houston (10 lanes in each direction).

We had a lot of visibility because of the heavy traffic down below, and there was an unbelievable amount of honking and thumbs up in support. Lots of truck drivers in support too, with those big air horns. Oh yeah!

In all, I would say that there were about 75-100 people on each bridge. I met lots of people with relatives in Iraq and Afghanistan. It was a very clean-cut, middle class crowd, mostly coming to the vigil straight from work, judging by the clothes. I saw some nurses-- maybe they've been seeing first-hand the devastating wounds that soldiers are returning with.

I've been protesting the war since it was first floated as an idea, so I always expect to see the same protesters over and over. But last night it was mostly new faces! And people from all walks of life.

[lostnfound]

430. From the photos on HIMC it looked like that was a great place to be!

Very visible location.

[TexasLawyer]

457. Pix from the bridge

thanks for letting me know those were available. Here's a picture of our bridge vigil-- AKA the "bridgil."

[tk2kewl]

106. ~175 Garden City, L.I., NY @ The Ethical Humanists Society

[ikojo]

108. St Louis MO St Francis Xavier "College" Church

It was organized by the insteadofwar coalition and there were approx. 400 people in attendance.

Across the street was ONE Bush supporter holding a sign that read, "I am proud of our troops AND our President."

I am sure the media will say there was a crowd of pro war people.

There were several vigils in the St Louis area, including one at a pub where the 80 people in attendance were asked by the police to go inside because there were too many of them on the street.

[deadparrot]

147. That's where my parents got married,

and where I would have been, had I not had my wisdom teeth pulled two days ago. :)

Glad to hear the St. Louis vigil was well-represented.

[Mayberry Machiavelli]

109. Plano, TX. Dozens I think, not sure the count.

[Justitia]

186. Amazing! I used to live there - really red area. Great news. -eom

[Mayberry Machiavelli]

191. 'So there are people in Plano who AREN'T mindless automatons! Who knew?'

I said, and had a laugh with some folks there.

It's still really really red though. Possibly more so than whenever you are here.

[jhain]

113. Cape May Court House NJ - 60 of us!

I am thrilled to report a VERY positive response to the HONK FOR PEACE sign!!

*****VERY!!*****

Meme= "Tipping Point" !!

We love you, Cindy!

Go here for more photos:

http://community.webshots.com/album/425887537ubozmm

[SharonRB]

114. I was at one in Oak Park, Michigan

A suburb of Detroit, less than a mile from my house (I walked over there). About 30-35 of us met at someone's house. We talked a bit and then did about 15 minutes of silence. Then we walked up to main thoroughfare (for any Detroiters, we walked up to Coolidge, between 10 Mile and 11 Mile) and held up our signs and candles. Lots of people honked, gave us a thumbs-up or waved. It was great -- we saw lots of support. I didn't see any of the "hostile" fingers go up.

We have a huge event happening here this Saturday. It's a huge car cruise that runs about 17 miles through a number of communities. About 1.5 million people usually show up. It's a huge party. We really should take advantage of the huge crowds. It would be great to see lots of signs of support for Cindy for all those cruisers and spectators to see.

On edit: There was one guy there who said he was a converted Democrat as of January. (He didn't vote for W this time, but did in 2000.) It was nice to hear.

[tomg]

115. Rosendale, New York

We had about 120 or so, it was wonderful. Lots of support from motorists on Rt. 32. Great sense of community. We're a relatively small community and it was friends and neighbors and families. Our organizer, Ken, did a wonderful job.

[callous taoboy]

116. Fredericksburg, Texas had 37 show up.

We stood in a circle and a few people made some comments about
this futile war, about not knowing how bad it would be to lose your child in such a war.

[Justitia]

182. That is a great turnout for the Hill Country! Glad to hear it. -eom

[callous taoboy]

195. It was a real surprise-

The organizer was expecting ten at the most. F'burg is extremely conservo.

[Spiffarino]

118. Asheville, NC - looked like about 100 from where I stood

...but difficult to tell as the whole Vance Memorial was surrounded and people were spilling off the sidewalk.

[derby378]

119. Unfortunately, we couldn't make it

I really wanted to go to the downtown Dallas vigil, partially so I could photograph FBI agents who were trying to snap pictures of the activists. But mainly to raise our candles with everyone else's.

[jilln]

400. I went to that one

About 150 people. Moving, but unfortunately no one brought a bullhorn or anything so I missed some of what was said.

There were several people who had just come from Crawford or were just going so we heard more about Camp Casey.

There were a couple tense moments, notably when one speaker hyped Democratic candidates and he was reminded this is not a partisan issue and there are independents and Republicans attending, and also when "Amazing Grace" was started by the organizer, which prompted several people to remark that this was also not a Christian issue.

Didn't see any FBI (unless they actually managed to blend in for once) but the Dallas special events plainclothes cop was there.

See if you can pick them out from this other event ;-)

http://www.animalconnectiontx.org/about%20ACT/IAMS2004.htm

[derby378]

407. Thanks for the report

Honestly, some folks at these vigils need to develop some hide on them - they're just a bit too sensitive.

As some good Republican friends of mine once said, "If you bend over too far backwards, you'll lose your spine."

Glad you could make it out there!

[nookiemonster]

122. Fenton (St. Louis), Missouri

Approximately 12 of us in attendance at a very gracious host's house.

That's alot of blue in this very red area.

It's a start!

:)

[ChipperbackDemocrat]

123. West Hartford, Connecticut....NICE TURNOUT!

345 attended the vigil at West Hartford Center tonight. I was proud to be one of them.

A perfect twilight night and candles all around.

Cindy, we stand with you!

[breathe peace]

124. 300 + in Westport, CT

People lined both sides of the main bridge over the Saugatuck River. There were flags flying every few feet...it was a beautiful moment in time. Cars honking with support..only a couple of angry manly men screeching by. A family in a boat below with 'Peace Now' (I believe) signs and candles lit. Alot of media...local TV news and TONS of photographers.

[blue neen]

That sounds beautiful.

Welcome to DU! :hi:

[Warren Stupidity]

125. 75 Nashua NH.

Peace is breaking out in very town village and hamlet in this nation.

[terrya]

126. About 70 at St. Gertrude's Chruch, Chicago.

The people there had signs and candles. Some songs were sung and some people got up and spoke. Very positive attitudes. People were there to show support for Cindy Sheehan, of course. But as much love and goodwill there was for Cindy, there was a realization that everyone was there...for a bigger purpose. It's hard to put into words. But it was moving and inspiring.

[LSK]

127. Glen Ellyn, IL - red suburban Chicago (pics)

Just got back. The moveon.org site said over 350 signed up and I couldnt tell how many were there. It was at a intersection in downtown, all 4 corners had people there. There were some police there, but they mostly just stood around. Nobody caused any problems, everyone just talked on the sidewalks and some people would beep their horns when passing cause, causing some cheers. There were a couple of signs there. No freepers as far as I could tell. It lasted about an hour.

Christine Cegelis was making the rounds in the crowd. She was one of the Dean dozen. She narrowly lost her Congressional election. Dupage county is very red. She is running again and getting one hell of a head start this time.

[KAZ]

242. Great pics LSK!

We were thinking about doing Glen Ellyn, but I have more Rupub friends in Naperville, who's nose I will rub in the turnout. Good stuff!

[riderinthestorm]

267. I was in Glen Ellyn

I would estimate that there were at least 200 people. This is Henry Hyde's district so getting that many people on a weeknight is amazing.

[MissMarple]

434. Doppelganger time.

Too weird. The lady in your second pic, with the black v-neck T, looks just like me. Would you happen to know who she is? :)

[DoYouEverWonder]

129. At least 125 people in Gainesville, FL

We had all four corners of University and 13th Street covered. Had a great time and even met a couple of other DUers.

Will post some pictures later.

[DanCa]

132. I went to island lake il

it was an outside event at a veterans military park about forty one people came. No one harrased us. We light candles and said amazing grace and then we said why were here. I said I am here to practice to the highest form of patriotism and disent against this illegal war, . Oh and there were two newspapers there.

[Scout1071]

135. 200-300 in Kansas City!!! And 2 Asshat Freepers.

One of them engaged my mom in a heated discussion that I put the kabosh on right away. He got out a video camera and started filming her as he taunted her. I walked over, put my arm around her and told her (actually physically moved her) to let it be. That's just the type of reaction that he was looking for and she didn't want to end up as some sick joke at freeperville. A priest and several people then shoo'd him away. He was wearing a shirt that he just had made that said on the front, "End the Occupation" and the back said "Israel out of Palestine and Cindy out of Texas." Oh yea, he was wearing a USMC hat, but it was pretty clear that he was never, ever a Marine. What an asshat. I have pics of him that I will gladly post after I get them developed tomorrow. Unfortunately I need a new adapter card for my digital so I had to bring the good old fashioned film camera.

It was a great crowd and the passersby overwhelming supported us by honking, flashing peace signs and thumbs up. I have been on the high profile location on several occassions and I can definitely tell the tide has turned. Much more support for peace. People are finally getting it.

Great night DU! Stay the course Cindy!

[BrewerJohn]

136. Iowa City, IA

I estimated 150-200 here. We lined two blocks downtown in front of the University's historic Pentacrest buildings.

I didn't see any negative reactions; lots of friendly honks and waves from passing cars. A distinct difference from the vigil we held two years ago.

[cbear70]

178. I was there

Did I see you?? I loved it tonight. I had my kids and my dog.. my dog was wearing a tshirt that said ? W ...my daughter had a pink bright sign. My pics did not turn out like I wanted..but I was interviewed by the press citizen, I mentioned Democratic Underground and all the support we show . It was so awesome to be a part of something this huge, to show this support for Cindy and for our troops.

If I knew how to add pics, I would.. but I don't..

[toey]

138. Indianapolis, Indiana - Monument Circle Downtown - Congresswoman attended!

Congresswoman Julia Carson attended our candle light vigil in downtown Indianapolis! All local news stations were covering the event, including the Indianapolis Star newspaper (which photographed me with my sign and candle and interviewed me!!!). It was very impressive. 243 people signed up for the event but I don't know how many were there, possibly 300 or more. People were all around the outer sidewalk of the circle. We had to be across the street from the monument because we did not have a permit. Here is a pic for anyone who is not familiar with Indy.

[Voltaire]

236. Indy Rocks

My wife, sister-in-law and father-in-law were all there with me on the Circle, I could not believe the coverage. I got interviewed by the AP, probably because I had a Navy Veterans hat on.

[Javaman]

139. Packed house in Austin close to 700!!!

[GOPisEvil]

142. 700 RSVPs...I bet there were more!

:bounce:

[Javaman]

148. I bet you are right. I was an amazing sight.

[yellowdogintexas]

143. Fort Worth. Texas/

Went to a nearby neighborhood vigil, and am now on phone with my friend who went to a larger one downtown. There were about 20 people at the one I attended and my friend said there were over 100 at Burnet Park.
Here is pic of the neighborhood group:

[GOPisEvil]

167. That is one fantastic picture!

:thumbsup:

[Lerkfish]

192. that almost made me cry it was such a beautiful picture!

that should be made into a poster!

[BeachBuckeye]

144. 152 in Ft. Myers, Florida

A nice gathering

[Hailtothechimp]

145. About 150 on the North side of Chicago

On a random street corner (Ridge and Pratt). Lots of people honking as they drove by. I think the Evanston vigil was probabably even bigger.

It didn't matter to me if 10 people showed up. Each person honking and flashing a peace sign was with us.

The MSM will go out of their way to lowball the numbers and declare this a failure. And many people will believe it because they are conditioned to believe whatever they see on TV. But I felt very proud tonight. Angry that my country has been hijacked and lots of good people have been maimed or killed, but proud to demonstrate that the people (some of us, anyway) have awoken at last.

[phusion]

146. ~250 in Albuquerque

I estimate that about 250 people showed up and lined the streets. We had many honks of approval and peace signs out car windows.

One guy got out of his car and started arguing with people. He said "You people don't know what it's like to lose someone in the twin towers." Someone holding a candle responded "Yes we do!" followed by a man shouting "Like Iraq had anything to do with 9/11!"

I think the guy had enough (plus he was holding up traffic) and he sped away.

more photos here: http://sagunn.com/gallery/cindy/

[jhain]

163. great photos!

I love the line of candle light as darkness falls.........

[phusion]

168. thanks!

Same to you -- great photos!

[jhain]

177. Our subjects were so uplifting! n/t

[KAZ]

149. 227 in Naperville, IL.

Heart of Republican Dupage county. It was wonderful!

[Tinksrival]

198. Hi Kaz!

I was there with ya!
I wore my "Impeach Bush, It's the American thing to do." shirt! It warmed my heart to see the America I know and love.
Now if I can just figure out how to post pics!

[KAZ]

221. I was standing right next to you!

My sister had the "grandson" sign. I was shooting pics. I think you're in some. I know you're in the videos.

Here they are. Your sign was great BTW!

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/thekazs/album?.dir=/1de6

[Tinksrival]

401. Hope I can figure this out!

file:///Users/wendy/Pictures/IMG_0135.JPG
Naperville
file:///Users/wendy/Pictures/IMG_0144.JPG
Troops support Cindy too!
file:///Users/wendy/Pictures/IMG_0137.JPG
Four Corners
file:///Users/wendy/Pictures/IMG_0140.JPG
Language repubs understand
file:///Users/wendy/Pictures/IMG_0146.JPG
Moms are mad!

[Tinksrival]

402. Oh well, one of these days!

Here's a webshots link:

http://community.webshots.com/album/426206585oFkSdZ

[Tinksrival]

405. Testing 123

http://community.webshots.com/photo/426258940/426258940eLoDiu

[Dastard Stepchild]

279. Woah!

I used to live in the 'ville. That IS an impressive turnout for that city. Great job to all involved! :)

[artype]

438. It was empowering! We counted about 300 attendees!

We were pleasantly surprised at the large turnout in our extraordinarily Republican community. As others have mentioned, we only received positive responses from passersby. It was a peaceful, spiritual event. I can feel the tide turning!

[darkism]

462. My pics from Naperville

http://tim.symsonic.net/photos/8-17-2005-CindyVigil

Thanks to everyone who made this such a success! I can't believe we got the turnout we did in Naperville!

[earthmama]

151. Great Turn out in charlotte ....

and I forgot my camera. You could feel a force of Peace there.

They have vigils every Saturday at 1pm. I am going to do my best to make it to every one!!

[femrap]

207. Around 250 in Cincinnati....on Fountain Sqaure

The Organizer had a difficult time getting the Permit for the Vigil...finally had to call the Mayor. Then we were not allowed to light our candles...so some brought battery-operated candles...Some walked to the edge of the Square and lit their candles. A large group marched to the river....I stayed on the Square singing and chanting....lots of honks for Peace! No freepers! Lots of dogs, kids, young, and old....

We sang 'ALL WE ARE SAYING.....IS GIVE PEACE A CHANCE.' It sounded beautiful.

And we made the 11:00 news on local NBC!!!!!!

[earthmama]

228. That is great !!!

[SmileMaker]

152. 500 in Princeton NJ

we began at the public library where we previewed clips from a film that should be out in the fall called "Before you enlist". about 250 people showed up for that, by the time we got all of the candles lit and made it to palmer square (a few blocks) there were about 500 people. It was awesome. Sue Niederer was there and she was happy to see the outpouring of support for Gold Star Families.

[Corgigal]

154. Charleston SC

I arrived a bit late due to Charleston being flooded and we were backed up on the interstate.

Even after terrible weather I understand they had 75 people there and when I stopped by with the family, 30 mins late, we meet 20 people still hanging around. I was impressed anyone was there at all after the amount of rain dumped on our under sea water level roads.

[Skip Intro]

203. Charleston got doused today.

I didn't go because of it. I'm sure I'm not the only one.

75 tho, in that mess, wow.

I saw a recent poll that had SC evenly split on bush. That was from late June. My impression is the Charelston area has pretty much had about enough of the bush gang.

Damn, I wish I would've been there tonight..

[Corgigal]

204. watch channel 2

They were out there with us, so was the Post and Courier. Yeah it was really bad. I was amazed anyone was there at all.

[electron_blue]

156. I'm glad I went, Lake Wobegon Minnesota

It was good to be reminded of how many others in my town support Cindy. It was a small group (60 or so), but still great.

[Carolab]

312. Watcha talking about? Garrison Keillor made Lake Wobegon up.

It's not a real place.

[wellstone dem]

359. I was there

next to the girl with the wolf looking dog.

[electron_blue]

411. cool. Hi neighbor

And yes, I know Lake Wobegon is made up. I just didn't feel comfortable giving out my location online. Maybe i should have said "central minnesota", but saying "Lake Wobegon" is more fun. :)

[Lex]

157. 400 or so in Durham, NC tonight. Here's my pix.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x4384148

[cmd]

158. 35 New Philadelphia, Ohio

Pretty good for a vigil that was planned in just a few hours.

[BobMorr]

159. Vigil in Palatine, Il.

We had about 175 people there. The Daily Herald and The Post were present taking pictures and writing interviews. We had a number of speakers after the vigil. Many new friends were made. Most of the traffic going by gave their support. This is starting to snowball. Keep it going!




http://us.f2.yahoofs.com/bc/4033f991_15107/bc/vigil/Picture+001.jpg?BCTd_ADBS1rWRqMv




http://us.f2.yahoofs.com/bc/4033f991_15107/bc/vigil/Picture+002.jpg?BCTd_ADBS1BdoPsA



http://us.f2.yahoofs.com/bc/4033f991_15107/bc/vigil/Picture+008.jpg?BCTd_ADBUInwfrY3

[BobMorr]

166. American Flag

This is a message to the woman who brought the American Flag. I have it. Contact me to get it back. She told me she goes on DU each day.

Bob

[coffeenap]

225. Hi bob--just posted in response to the other person from Palatine--

dont worry about the flag--we can meet somewhere sometime. I thought it was a nice turnout--you?

[tommcintyre]

220. "The page cannot be displayed" All three links

I will try again later. I was raised in Mt. Prospect - nice to see my original "homies" are active. :)

[jackster]

160. Andover, MA

checking in - around 60 people or so. We stood in a large circle and talked quietly and sang songs right downtown in front of the town hall. All ages, from all walks of life.

This is a regular vigil for Andover - Merrimack Valley People for Peace maintain vigils every day of the week here.

[bvar22]

165. 500(?) Minneapolis/St Paul

Impossible to count. Crowd was spread out on both sides of a bridge across the Mississippi River. Way more pPictures in about 30 mins!

This was only 1 of about 20 different Cindy support rallys around the Twin Cities.

[katinmn]

254. 737 registered for the one on the bridge, many brought guests!

Wasn't it great?
There were more than a dozen vigils in the Twin Cities alone.
Did you take pics? I borrowed someone's to take a few shots but they have to email them to me.

[bvar22]

259. Pictures from Lake St Bridge in Minneapolis/St Paul!

Lake St Bridge in Minneapolis St Paul, one of more than 20 (that was on the Kare11 report) Cindy Support Rallys in the Twin Cities!

BTW: katinmn, you made the KARE11 News Top of the Hour.
Short but SWEET interview! :toast:







Great Energy on the Bridge!
I LOVE my PEOPLE!

[Carolab]

313. Twin Cities, we ROCK!!!!

Amazing turnout!!!

[Spike from MN]

1000 or so according to an AP article.

It was great to be a part of that huge crowd. I think that attendance figure is the largest I have seen for the vigils so far.

[bear425]

169. Downtown Fort Lauderdale! More than 200 people

and lots of honking cars and peace signs. A few middle finger salutes, but mostly good responses. Photographers from the Sentinel and Herald. It was awesome!

[RSchewe]

171. John Jay Park (East 77th and Cherokee Pl) Manhattan ~50 people

All was calm, no counter protests.

[earthmama]

174. Any one take pics in Charlotte?

[movie_girl99]

176. went to one in Carrollton Tx

I heard one guy say that there were 225 people. It was great people had candles and signs. One guy had a "honk 4 peace" sign. To my surprise we got a lot of honks. A few talked about doing it every Wednesday.

[Justitia]

184. Wow! That is fantastic for that area of the metroplex! -eom

[movie_girl99]

188. yeah i thought so too

it was really great to see that many folks come out.

[Mayberry Machiavelli]

202. Aww I KNEW I should've gone to Carrollton! So much less Repub than

Plano.

[movie_girl99]

354. i was pleasantly surprised n/t

[no_to_war_economy]

358. hi neighbor!

great to see you there, just posted the pics

http://www.chinamarines.com/vigil/

[movie_girl99]

372. thanks....it was cool to see a fellow DUer last night

I'm going back to Crawford on Sunday. You going back?

[Kire]

179. 75 in Hackettstown, NJ

a red county in a blue state, mostly parks up here, not far from the Delaware Water Gap

more thumbs up than middle fingers

[sabra]

180. 700+ Evanston, IL

Will post pics soon!

[bluestoftheblue]

187. Evanston turnout

Evanston showed that it is the bluest of the blue--and there
was a sense that the tide is truly turning. Lots of support
from passersby.....and people of all ages.

[sabra]

215. Indeed! Welcome to DU! It's nice to see you here :-)

[mopinko]

369. including me

i couldn't stop, but i circled the large crowd a couple of times in my new art car. my old suburban is being covered in stickers, including several large 'impeach now'.
i wanted to blast the horn, and circle for a while. but the group seemed so solemn. so i just raised the peace sign.

[Baltimore]

414. Vigil in Urbana, Illinois

There were 90 of us gathered in the big back yard of a house in downtown Urbana; everybody seemed to be from MoveOn.org. We lit our candles and held pictures of Iraqi civilians and American soldiers who had been killed. We then marched to the War Memorial by the courthouse, sang "We Shall Overcome" and "Down by the Riverside" and put the pictures and candles at the base of the monument. Nobody harassed us--this is a Democratic town.

[MadJohnShaft]

460. I'm in Evanston, IL too

couldn't go cause travel for work but I heard it was big. I'll go to the next one when I can wear my nifty new democraticunderground.com t-shirt.

[kainah]

183. 26 in Laramie, Wyoming

It was fantastic! We've been standing on the corner every Friday night for almost 3 years with HONK FOR PEACE signs and so we simply added another "Stand Up" tonight. I was stunned when I looked at the MoveOn site late this afternoon and saw that 17 people had committed to attend. (I figured it would probably be the same 5-10 that we usually get.) Most of our regulars didn't bother to sign up through MoveOn so it was a great crowd, on two corners downtown. The best part was that we had at least 15 people there we've not seen before and there were at least 7 children, too! We got lots of honks and shows of support from passing motorists and we have a ton of great photos that I will be posting to our website and sending to MoveOn in the next day or so.

We stood for about 45 minutes then gathered and introduced ourselves and hopefully we will be seeing some of these new people at our regular stand up this Friday or at our potluck next week. In any case, I'm feeling GREAT tonight.

Thank you, Cindy Sheehan!!!!!

[frazzledmom]

189. About 100 in

Arvada Colorado

[Turn CO Blue]

190. 40 in Westminster, Colorado.

We were overlooking the lake and sang some peace songs. Then we gathered in a circle to offer up positive voicings/prayers in support of Cindy and to get the troops out of Iraq.

The only negative was early on when a few people got off message for about five minutes (media blackout, election fraud, spineless Dems)-- which are certainly important issues, but not the reason for our vigil.

The organizer did step in to get everyone back on message, and I was encouraged to be standing in a group of earnest liberals in the middle of a RED state.


Thanks

I STAND WITH CINDY!

[AmBlue]

194. 150-175 in St. Petersburg, FL

We had a really nice gathering of people from a variety of groups: MoveOn, Vets for Peace, St. Pete for Peace, and I'm sure a few others. I got some really nice pics but no website to host them. Any offers?

[TheCentepedeShoes]

241. We used to live in Tampa

Any report from there?

[ihaveaquestion]

335. Tampa had about 75 - 100

at the corner of Bayshore and Bay to Bay. We had candles and dogs and signs. At around 8:30, we sang Amazing Grace. Most people left around 9.

Folks passing by were polite and respectful. I only heard one quiet "Support President Bush" comment from a walker passing by. Most cars who honked seemed to be honking in support.

Interesting sidenote: I had a long debate with a professed libertarian that made me realize again why I dislike libertarians. There was no recognition by him of the possibility of varied experiences or needs of others. Everything was "personal responsibility" this and "natural consequenses" that - including letting poor folks starve or die if they can't afford food or health care. Sickening!! The guy was protesting with us against Bu$h, so that's something I guess.

[recoveringrepublican]

338. Contact St. Pete for Peace

I'm sure they would love to have some of the pics. I'm glad you had a nice time, we are out at Baywalk every Saturday and they have also have Wednesday vigils (unfortunatly I work Wed nights).

[e-mail]

http://www.stpeteforpeace.org/

[liberalnurse]

199. Dayton, Ohio.....

We had 186 people downtown. Lots of passer-by's who would honk. Even the city RTA buses would honk! We signed a book for Cindy. Steve Fryburg is leaving with three other Military Families to Crawford this weekend. Media was there. I'm waiting for the news to show our segment.

[toey]

201. 2 full minutes of coverage on local fox channel here in indy

Impressive! The last 10 seconds were about those who oppose us. Ha!

[SaveAmerica]

205. You should start that as another thread, 'did your vigil make it on

the news' sign in here.

[toey]

219. good idea! thanks n/t

[buddysmellgood]

206. Madison, Wisconsin. There were four vigils held. We went to the one

at the Capitol. It looked like several hundred people. About 380 registered for the capitol vigil, about 500 registered at Olin Park. We took the kids and met some friends, sang some songs. It was a nice vigil.
There were a couple of TV cameras.

[MadisonProgressive]

332. I went to the one at Olin Park - about 250-300 people

in my estimation. It was real nice.

[nofurylike]

208. 14 at our vigil in west springfield massachusetts. all positive from

the townsfolk. a huge change from 6 months ago, when people yelled at us. this time ALL positive and honking support!

AND two young womyn, one a wife, one a fiance of servicemen in Iraq, stopped their car in mid-traffic to ask what we were doing, then drove off, showing back up a half hour later, to join us!
we said that it's time to get those people home NOW.
they were so thankful to us!


it was amazing.


Peace!

[bluedonkey]

210. Baton Rouge,Louisiana checking in

About 60+ people showed up,including some Vietnam Vets,a couple of highschool kids.We sang some songs and a few people shared their thoughts.No counter protests!
I made some new contacts I will follow up on.
Now I don't feel so alone anymore.Weeeeeeeehaaaaaa!

[Lars39]

211. About 300 or more in the RAIN in Nashville.

:)

[Fly by night]

234. More on Nashville and middle Tennessee (Summertown and Ft. Campbell)

The Nashville event was very well attended and involved folks standing in a large circle in the rain (which we really needed) in front of the Parthenon in Centenniel Park. All four TV stations covered the vigil and all but Fox (what a surprise) gave the Nashville vigil good coverage on the 10:00 pm news. I saw a Vietnam vet interviewed who said we needed to get the troops out of this "immoral war" NOW. They also introduced the vigil story with news from Iraq and from Camp Casey. (The Fox affiliate did a story on Camp Casey but nothing about the local vigil.)

Vigils in middle Tennessee also occurred on the main highway in Summertown, outside the Farm (a large, three decade old commune there) and in Clarksville, the home of Ft. Campbell. I look forward to hearing from both of those vigils and will post when I do. Ft. Campbell is shipping out 18,000 soldiers to Iraq, some for the third time now. I know the Clarksville Free-thinkers made that vigil a meaningful event -- they always do. They have been holding candlelight vigils at least monthly for the troops for more than a year now.

[KarenS]

212. Longmont CO ~ 130 @ 6th & Main ~ 50 @ 9th & Main

It was awesome !!

Mostly positive feedback from passing motorists.

[dddem]

214. I was in Lowell MA

with SPERK and our kids plus my husband. There were about 50 people there is my guess. We had to keep walking around the common because we had no permit, and would have been considered loiterers if we stood still. It was hard for people to keep their candles lit, but we did get noticed. We met some very nice people. I wonder if Mrs. Sheehan knows how much she has done to help people feel connected, and hopeful. God bless her.

[rox63]

418. Yep, I was there too

It was great to be with the rest of the Lowell peaceniks. :D

[meganmonkey]

217. Wow everybody

this is so good to read.

Thank you all for posting your stories! I have to go to bed now, but I can't wait to read about the west coast stuff in the morning!

:woohoo:

The revolution has begun!!!!

[BlueCollar]

223. Fort Worth Texas

Summerfields/Park Glen - 76 showed up in all, some left after the vigil, CBS Channel 11 interviewed the organizer.

Expect a few more to sign up on the DU..:-)

[HereSince1628]

224. Organizer estimated 1000 at Milwaukee vigil

The passing traffic was overwhelmingly supportive.

[jasmeel]

229. Any pics from Milwaukee?

[HereSince1628]

232. Unfortunately not from me. But there were cameras galore

and all the major networks were present. We had at least mention on local CBS, NBC and ABC stations...I don't know about our fox station, I didn't watch it.

[LeftHander]

399. Pic Form Milwaukee appx. 7:45 p.m.

Here is a pic. By 8:15 both sides of Lincoln Memorial drive were lined with people....it was close to a thousand. I would estimate more around 900...

[central scrutinizer]

226. probably 300+ in Eugene, Oregon

at the focal center of every protest here - the Federal courthouse which is on a major intersection. It was hard to get a vantage point where I could get a more accurate estimate. People were streaming in from all sides. The students aren't in town either. The mayor was there. Several camera crews.

[anitar1]

283. I just came home from the Federal building vigil in Eugene,

And I would guess closer to 600, maybe a few more. No word yet on the other vigil here in town. I heard there were 12 vigils in Portland. The crowd was great, lots of Vietnam vets there. People of all ages , but more older folks than I expected. It sure reminded me of the Vietnam days. So glad I went. There was also a vigil in nearby Cottage Grove.

[in_cog_ni_to]

230. Just back from Kankakee, Illinois vigil.

We had 30 people. One was a father of a young Marine who is going to Iraq next month. :( Another was a young lady, maybe 23-24 years old with a baby and her husband is in Iraq and won't be home until January. She was there with her husband's best friend who spoke for her because she was so emotional. :hug: She started crying when he started talking about her husband being in Iraq...it was so damn sad! :cry:

We met some WONDERFUL Democrats/Progressives that I didn't know even existed in this county. It was a great vigil. Small, but powerful. The local newspaper was there and they were taking pictures of my signs that I made using gatorboy's cartoons! The reporter was VERY, VERY impressed, gatorboy! Your cartoons may make our paper! If they do, I'll see if they post the story online and post it here. The cartoons made GREAT posters! I made sure the reporter knew YOU, a member of DU, had drawn them.

I made a t-shirt that says, "ONE MOTHER ONE VOICE (THANKS DA!) MEET WITH CINDY!" and the reporter really liked it. He asked me where I got the shirt and I told him I made it and he took my name and address, so the t-shirt slogan may make the paper too. :) He also interviewed my husband and son.

It was a GREAT, GREAT night! GO, CINDY!

I have pics that I will try to get uploaded tomottow sometime. :hi:

[HeeBGBz]

231. Diamondhead, Mississippi 15-20

Small group but we were the lead story on the local news on WLOX.

[Fly by night]

238. Where is Diamondhead? I'm from Possum Town (Columbus).

[HeeBGBz]

247. Just north of I-10, Hancock County, near the coast

Between Pass Christian and Waveland. It's a small community. I don't even know if it's officially a town or not. About 40 miles east of New Orleans.

[ClayZ]

233. 100+ in Everett, WA

We made a huge circle around a sign saying "America Stands with Cindy".
Lots of folks showed up with Signs and Peace Flags. Beautiful People gathered in Harbourview Park overlooking the Port where USS Lincoln is stationed.

We all had candles and a very moving 10 minutes of Silence for Cindy, Casey, and all war casualties both American and Iraqi.

We made plans to meet back there soon for the IMPEACHMENT PARTY!

WE FORGOT OUR CAMERA, but the press was there. If I find a pic, I will post it.

Yay AMERICA!

I understand there was another vigil here on the "other side of town."



Had a few honkers!

[Dyedinthewoolliberal]

452. Everett here too!

About 85/90 it was hard to tell. We were at the corner of a fairly busy street. Got mostly positive responses.
:)

[ClayZ]

467. Whoo Hoo! That is three in Everett I have heard about!

Howdee Neighbor!:hi:

Some of us meet at the corner of Colby and Hewitt every Friday from noon to one!

I will be the one with the big Peace flag! (like this)

[Norwood]

235. Pueblo Colorado

Checking in!

About 30 or so people attended and there was no problems for the most part. A couple people honked and I saw some jackass drive by with his middle finger hanging out the window, other than that it went off without a hitch.

One thing I gotta say about the gathering though:
I was one of maybe 5 or 6 people in their twenties or younger there. We(myself included)need to really make an effort to get people our age more involved.

[niallmac]

237. Boise, Awsome vigil

We just got back from a beautiful vigil. Everyone one the Capital bldg steps, I'm guessing 150
people of all ages. All speakers were powerful because they were real and from the heart. Veterans For Peace speaker who heard Cindy speak just before the trip to Bush's ranch. Then a vet who just returned spoke of the importance of movements like this to those in Iraq who just want to come home. Father of daughter who is Chaplain near Baghdad spoke..daughter coming home soon. He and we are very happy about that. Friend of someone serving on a navy ship off coast of Iraq spoke of how in need of service the ship is being extended far beyond it's intended tour and of the ships crew who are terribly fatigued.
Spontaneous singing of America The Beautiful. TV crew was there. All in all a real spontaneous expression of anger and sadness about the war and super charged support for Cindy. The power of ONE!

[nuxvomica]

239. About 25 or so on a residential porch in Glens Falls, NY

We were going to attend the Saratoga gathering but this local one appeared on the Moveon site just this afternoon. We were mostly all strangers to each other but we stood there holding candles for 2 hours and talking politics and ate cookies and zuchinni bread. Folks said they came because they wanted to see who else was like-minded in this conservative town and because they wanted to show support for Cindy. Everybody was angry with the way the RW was smearing her and I think that made them want to come out more.
From chatting with them, I learned they weren't liberal activists or even necessarily Democrats. They were just ordinary citizens who are fed-up with their leadership and have found in that brave, grieving mom camped out in Texas a pure cause to rally around. I don't often think something big is coming but this time I do.

[Rainscents]

240. Everett, Washington...

We had 115 people!!!

[AuntPatsy]

243. Thank you all for sharing, I had two near me, but I had to babysit

and the babies have colds or I would have taken them. When and if they hold another, I definately plan to attend. I didn't see it on the news tonight but hopefully they had a good showing..

[Cookie wookie]

245. Witnessed a phenomenon in Atlanta, Georgia

Tonight was incredible. Posted some pictures here:

http://www.gaforverifiedvoting.org/images/sheehan_vigil/sheehan_vigil.htm

The crowd was estimated as somewhere between 500 and 700 people!! We filled all corners of a big intersection, cars honking, just amazing. When I first saw the crowd I almost broke down and sobbed. Have been doing this since before the war and we never had more than 100 people at the most. But this crowd. Got some media but didn't watch the coverage. TV was supposed to be covering it live for the 10 p.m. news.

[faithnotgreed]

fantastic cw - love and hope always bring those tears

dont they

hope you get lots of positive media coverage

[Im with Rosey]

249. I just got back from vigil in Lake Forest, Ca.

Uusually very conservative Orange County. There were about 75 people all holding candles. We got several drive by honks and lots of encourgement. It was great to be part of the solution! Local reporters were there from O.C. Register(ultra conservative) it will be interesting to see what makes the paper! The great part was that the crowd was extremely varied.

[tavalon]

251. Went to the one at Gasworks Park

In Seattle, WA. There were about 200 folks there, which considering there were about 15 different vigils in Seattle, that ain't bad. Two different people came up to me to ask what the vigil was for so I told them. They were both appreciative and said they hadn't heard of it before.

[NoSheep]

252. Really nice scene on Boylan Ave Bridge-Raleigh NC-check it out:

The setting: Boylan Heights is a fabulous city neighborhood with tons of good people moving in and fixing up old houses over the past 15 years or so. Revitalizing I think it is called. A walking neighborhood. Very progressive and inclusive. Just a small hike from the Central Prison in Raleigh where death row vigils are held. Just a hike from Dorthea Dix hospital-formerly a "mental institution"-now, the state is looking for a new purpose for the campus
The bridge goes over the railroad and the view on one side in the late afternoon is sunset and kudzu. The other side-Raleigh skyline and kudzu!
We had 105 at last count. Max suggested by MoveOn.org was 200. There were many other vigils better attended in our area at more central locations. But folks did come from smaller towns to be there. People who used to live in the neighborhood who wanted to come and see old neighbors and support Cindy and the peace movement. People stayed quite a long time because it was so much fun and felt soooo good! Dogs, children, and venerable older women and men.
Working people, driving home in trucks and vans passed by us and almost everyone looked. I hope I can make this understood properly: I was humbled when I saw the faces of some African Americans from their cars. They seemed inspired and very moved! Perhaps seeing that the movement is getting started again. A mix of people in public...all together..for peace and reason. Smiling and waving - in a state that has seen much racism and division over the years. Here was a place and a reason that we are all one. I saw that same spirit in Fayetteville at a rally earlier this year held by military families against the war.
One thing I noted was how important it was to each of us to keep our candles lit. Some brought candles for others who could not be there.
I made many new friends. A chorus and drama teacher who had moved from the neighborhood 13 years ago with her 3 daughters because they couldn't maintain their aging home. Could she sing! And she did!
Many folks walked up to each other. "Don't I know you from somewhere?" I heard that all evening. It was a very healing experience. We all want to go to DC on September 24th for the demonstration. If Cindy is still in Crawford next Wednesday, several of us plan to go back and sit with our candles. I'll take a sign next time. :grouphug:

[ultraist]

300. Boylan Ave bridge?

I used to live in Boylan Heights. BH is heavily Dem and of course, home to the mayor.

[More Than A Feeling]

253. Naperville, IL here!

We had over 200 people divided among four corners of an intersection in the middle of downtown Naperville. We received only positive reactions. It was so good to get the progressive community of Naperville out where people could see us and realize that we do exist.

[Dakini23]

272. Las Vegas, Nevada Candle Light Vigil

Just got back from a vigil at Sunset Park-Las Vegas, NV.
There were about 100+ people of all ages represented. It was a beautiful and moving experience. There was a small circle of candles and a few people went into the circle to speak or to read poems or prayers for peace. It was so nice to see people come out under an almost full moon, under a desert sky, not unlike the desert skies in Iraq and give a thought to peace.

We need to bring our troops back home...the real war is here in America. We need to unite and take back our country from the scum in the White House.

"Talking 'bout a revolution sounds like a whisper,
finally the tables are starting to turn." -Tracey Chapman-

[MsLeopard]

256. Carlsbad, CA

We had over 200 people at a North County Coalition of Peace and Justice vigil in Carlsbad. Three members of the media showed up -- a local Fox channel, North County Times newspaper, and Univision TV. Lots of horns honking, drivers waving, kids craning to see what was going on. Very encouraging!

[shance]

257. 250-300 in Studio City, CA, maybe more

The entire intersection of Laurel Canyon and Ventura was wall to wall people and candles.

And honking like you wouldn't believe!!

Beautiful :)

[Beaverhausen]

419. I bet there were more like 500 there- it was great!!!

very inspiring. Several "stars" were there including Richard Dreyfuss and Josh Lucas.

So many wonderful people.

[demzilla]

258. 60 people in Sedona, Arizona and LOTS of honking

We attended the vigils at the start of the war and while the reaction was generally supportive, it was somewhat restrained. Tonight it seemed like every other car was honking in support. (We only had two that made any sign of disapproval.) The local paper even sent a reporter, which they didn't do back when we protested the lead-up to war.

The highlight of the night was when a cop drove by and momentarily flipped his siren and lights on to show support.

We're planning to do this again next Wednesday and every Wednesday so long as Cindy stays at the ranch.

Arizona: Bush at 45% approval, disapproval at 52%, including 30% of self-described conservatives. The worm is turning, folks!

[Desertrose]

305. demzilla...I was there too! Much more honking that 2 years ago!!

Sorry I didn't know who you are!!!

Yeah...it sure was a great turn out for a last minute thing. Were you there when the cops showed up because someone complained about the noise????

Great turnout. We should connect before next week :hi:

Can't wait to see if we make the Fri edition of the RR News!!

Peace
DR

[GregD]

261. 15-20 folks in beautiful Mount Shasta, CA

A lovely gathering of libs in this red Northern CA county

Folks from other areas, like a couple traveling from Mendocino to Oregon, and another group visiting from Maine, joined us since they could not be at their hometown vigil.

[Mrs. Overall]

302. Hi Mount Shasta!

I have family in Redding, Anderson, and Burney (and yes, they are all republicans), so I'm glad to hear that Northern California had a lovely gathering!!

[A-Schwarzenegger]

263. 250 in Santa Monica at Clover Park.

LOTS of honking horns.
Children, dogs, healthy happy families, candles, good cheer--
easy to forget what it was all about. As somebody said though,
in this case there is little joy in being right.

[nashuaadvocate]

265. 85 in Nashua, NH.

Very peaceful, very positive.

I'm told that if it'd been better advertised--no insult to anyone, it was just a short-notice kind of thing--the number would have been much, much higher.

S.

(Number was edited after initial post: Just found out from someone who was there that they counted, and it was approximately 85).

[brettdale]

266. Is anyone adding up the numbers

Is anyone adding up the numbers from each little town, so we can get a grand total of how many people turned up?

[sakabatou]

269. 45 at my spot in Palo Alto, CA

[City Lights]

270. 3 people in my yard.

Does that count?

We had a prior commitment and couldn't get to an organized vigil in time so we went into the yard and lit candles by ourselves.

Sorry, no pics. ;-)

[NoSheep]

287. You bet that counts!

:bounce:

[sarahlee]

451. You bet it counts!

:yourock:

[ultraist]

271. Over 350 people in Durham, NC. My daugter was interviewed by the local abc

I have some photos I'll post later.

[NoSheep]

292. Yes. It is soooo easy. if you can't do it for any reason-PM me and I'll

give you my email. mail em to me and I'll put them up for you. I was in Durham 19 yrs. In Raleigh now-moving back to Durham ASAP. My post from the vigil in Raleigh tonight is #252. What a great night to be alive. :hi: :kick:

[ultraist]

299. Thanks so much!

I think I will can figure out, but may take you up on your offer.

It was a great night! Perhaps we will meet at a Triangle DU meetup sometime.

[NoSheep]

306. I keep missing them! Doh!

:+

[Ladyhawk]

274. 100+ in Sonora, California

I couldn't make it due to pain, but I contacted the group to get the information. Two are making the trip to Texas to represent Sonora, California. :)

You must realize what a huge achievement this is for a mostly redneck, very small town!!!

[staticstopper]

275. Ann Arbor, MI

..there were two, the first one was more of a meeting/protest sort of thing...I did not make it for the candle light one that was following. It was held on the other side of downtown and my partner had to get home. I took 5 or 6 pictures as everyone started to gather.

The meeting was very moving. The first speaker was a mom also, she read Casey's sisters poem about what it was like to hear her mother's cries and screams after the dress uniform soldiers came to the door...I got very choked-up, as did many others.

There were around 120 people (or maybe more), media and reporters. They had paper for everyone to sign and write notes to Cindy and/or the pResident.

Everyone seemed very inspired, energized and committed to change things.

[meganmonkey]

360. yay! I almost went to Ann Arbor

but I figured Chelsea probably needed more help. Sounds like you were at the one near campus? Or near Kerrytown/Co-op? Ann Arbor has a lot of committed activists.

:bounce:

[brettdale]

276. keep well and truly kicked

kick

[Gabi Hayes]

277. over 200 in Palatine, IL

lots of enthusiasm...I stated til 10:30

lots and lots of slow driving, honks of approval

I cop was there

two photographer/reporters from local suburban rags

no TV...too far from Chicago

one Ahole drove back and forth with a "Durbin, Durbin, how many kids did you kill today?" sign !!!!

I took a roll of film on APS, and will link good pix when I get the disk developed

[Beam Me Up]

278. Rockridge BART station, Oakalnd CA: 200 to 300 (guessing).

There are several vigils happening in the Elcereto, Berkeley, Oakland area. I'm sure this wasn't the largest but it was well attended and got a lot of support from drive-bys. Had to leave early.

[schrodingers_cat]

291. Grand Lake Theater and Lakeshore Ave: around 300 total

I have a GREAT pic!!!! How do I upload it? Please help?!?

[lonestarnot]

281. 500 Plus Phoenix AZ! Hot and beautiful!

[Miss Chybil]

303. Just got home in Phoenix, also. 24th St. and Camelback - The Biltmore

So many people! Cars honking ALL night long - in "red" Arizona, in a "red" part of town. The worm has turned. Not with the media, however. They were all out in force, however, when I got home (local) Fox News and ABC News both gave a couple seconds to a vigil attendee and an equal amount of time to a person who disagreed with the prostest. This sounds fair on the surface, but from being there, I can tell you, they had to LOOK for a counter-opinion and then gave that person equal time - and the last word. Fox put on a local mother who had lost her son to say Cindy was "doing it wrong," she should be "supporting the president." (I guess they think the battle of the grieving mothers is the "right" thing to do. Whores. Some media outlets are as low as cock-fight organizers.)

NBC (local) just did a real nice piece on the protest. It was later in the broadcast than the other channels, but they gave the story more time and didn't hunt down dissenters to say how "disgusted" they were with us and that we should "Support the Troops." I guess Bushbots can't read, or decipher an issue on their own. We ARE supporting the troops with much more than magnets. Their version of support is to say, "Oh well, they volunteered!)

Anyway, it was a very exhilerating night. The public sentiment has definitely shifted around here. I'm very excited! Thank you, Cindy Sheehan!

[jillan]

316. About 90 on the outskirts of Phoenix, on Hunt highway

Was breezy, and the candles kept blowing out.
And got to meet a DU'er, and her husband.:toast:

[smartvoter]

321. I was at that one as well. nt

[jillan]

417. Ohhhhh - I was there with Lady Lib and her hubby.

Darn - I wish we would have met you!!!!

Please check out the AZ state forum. We are working on a DU meetup in October. It's time for all of us to meet. If you see any other Az people on DU, please tell them about this too.

[proud patriot]

282. About 150-200 in Pleasant Hill , California

We had a lot of support from passing cars Honking
flasing peace signs and one young lady yelled out
"CINDY ROCKS"

2 people yelled "you suck" but other than that all
positive .

[Tigress DEM]

284. MN - About 43 at Powderhorn Lake Park, Minneapolis - other ####

These are just registered participants.... actual numbers may vary

17 Aug
07:30 Powderhorn Park Vigil - At the dock 27 "registered" participants - (approx) 43 Actual.

07:30 Lake st/Lagoon/east calhoun - 212 registered participants

07:30 Judson Memorial Church Vigil - 19 registered participant

07:30 Vigil - Bridge over Hennepin Avenue between Walker Art Museum Sculpture Garden and Loring Park - 257 registered participants

07:30 Candlelight for Cindy - NE corner of Sixth Avenue and Fourth Street SE - 27 registered participant

07:30 Vigil to Honor Casey Sheehan and Support His Mother - 17 registered participants

07:30 Cindy Sheehan Solidarity Vigil - Lake Street /Marshall Avenue Bridge - 735 registered participants

City Hall in Alexandria - 1 registered participant

07:30 Golden Valley vigil - (near Glenwood/Lawn Terrace)
50 registered participants

07:30 Nordeast Sheehan Vigil - NE Mpls Library
30 registered participant

07:30 Support for Cindy Sheehan - Larpenter & Gortner at the U of M Ag Fields 100 registered participants

07:30 Larpenter and Gortner II - U of M Ag Field
59 registered participants

07:30 Edina Peace Vigil for Cindy Sheehan - 50th and France
255 registered participants

07:30 Vigil for Cindy - Ross and Flandrau / St Paul
4 registered participants

[NoSheep]

289. Go Minneapolis! I'm sure some of our friends were there. We're in NC.

:hi: :grouphug:

[Tigress DEM]

294. I got family in NC

my husband's side.


:bounce: :loveya:

[Tigress DEM]

290. 1,793 registered participants in various MN protests - see above post

At Powderhorn we were about 1/3rd more than the registered number.

[Celeborn Skywalker]

286. 60 in Silver City, New Mexico

Many honks of approval, a few obnoxious assholes yelled insults at us, though.

[brook]

296. Morro Bay, Ca.

Around 100 people. Young, old and in-between gathered in a small park on the main boulevard. One woman talked about her friend, Bill Mitchell - who is from a nearby town of Atascadero. His son died the same day as Casey - Bill's down there in Crawford with Cindy. She reminded us of the day during the buildup to the war when Bill carried a sign that said "Bring My Son Home". I was at that march, too.

We sang "Where Have All The Children Gone" and "We Shall Overcome". Several people spoke their thoughts. At the end, we stood silently and sent our 'energy' to Cindy.

I'll try to post a couple of pictures tomorrow. Sleep well, DUers. I'm so proud of all of you.

[Cleita]

297. We had about 30 people here in agri-land.

We met at the edge of town really, facing a field that has recently been cleared for replanting. Since we were standing on the side of Hwy 1 here in Central California, we had the truck drivers honking at us and giving us the peace sign. It was great really. There wasn't one obnoxious freeper that drove by.

I only got four pictures just before the rally started and my camera boinked on me, so I didn't get actual pictures of the rally. But this is what I got.



Nice code pink lady, named Patsy, who set this upl






So it was a nice, positive experience. I saw some people I knew, but also met some new people. Those truckers must be hurting with the gas prices.

[Aristus]

298. 100+ in Puyallup, Washington.

It was really inspiring. We lit our candles and sang old sixties protest songs like "For What It's Worth" and "Blowin' In The Wind". It was uplifting. I'm so glad I went.



God Bless you, Cindy! :-)

[knowbody0]

304. skagit county, washington state

about 75 people. lots of support from cars passing. good group, many heading for DC on the 24th of sept
peace out

[Stand and Fight]

308. Oklahoma City, State Capital Building, 220+ in attendance.

We had roughly 220 people in attendance, and local news media covered the event. We've yet to find out if they will actually report the news or put a spin on it. It was a wonderful experience and there was a strong sense of connection and understanding that permeated the event. The people who attended were an even cross-section of society -- the very young, adults, elders, men and women, black, white, and brown. I felt the event was highly successful.

[feistydem]

309. Boulder, Colorado +/- 300 attendees

The crowd grew over the hour so it became more difficult to estimate. Sorry, no pics. Maybe someone else has some to post?

Very solemn...lots of MoveOn signs around too.

[feistydem]

437. Daily Camera reports over 800 attendees (plus photo)

It was a much larger crowd than I thought!



Iraq War Candlelight vigil on the Pearl Street Mall at the Veterans' Memorial in Boulder.

Link to news story: http://www.dailycamera.com/bdc/county_news/article/0,1713,BDC_2423_4011230,00.html

[LiveWire]

310. Thousand Oaks, CA

About 50 people or so I saw afer work...

[brettdale]

311. kick

kick

[brettdale]

314. The over numbers must be massive

Any estimates yet?

[brettdale]

318. kick

kick

[tinrobot]

319. 100-200 in Silverlake, CA

There were two vigils in our fairly small neighborhood, well over 100 at the big one and at least 50-100 at the second. Very positive response, tons of cars honking and flashing peace signs.

The tide IS turning...

[maveric]

320. Ocean Beach, San Diego.

Looked like about 500 of us. Very peaceful.

[The_Casual_Observer]

322. Orange California

A report from a friend:

Tonight I attended the candlelight vigil at the Old Town Orange circle. It was absolutely beautiful!! When I signed up last night there were 50 people on the list. By the time 8:00 pm rolled around, there were at least (last count) 260, standing side by side and surrounding the entire park area at the center of the circle. We all either brought or were given candles and the effect was wondrous. There were signs saying, "Honk for Peace", and the result was a cacophony of horn blowing all evening! Only two or three passing drivers gave us the one digit salute, and a man next to me said, "Well... they're half way there!!" One rumpled little man rode around the circle on his bike crying, "Remember 911?" Unfortunately, he apparently didn't remember exactly who was involved with the 911 attack. As another attendee said, he must have "drunk the Kool-Aid". All in all it was peaceful, effective and inspiring. It was a sign of growing dissatisfaction to the point that people are now willing to get off their Barcaloungers to stand in a public place holding signs and candles! It's beginning. The pendulum, thank God, swings again.

[Carla in Ca]

324. My husband and I were there. Fabulous is all I can say!

Here are a few pics



<http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x4385697>

[Chango]

323. Camp Casey - Huntington Beach, CA

About 250. Lots of horn-honking along Pacific Coast Highway! Good coverage on the local ABC affiliate.

[brettdale]

325. I wonder what the grand total nation wide was

Any Ideas, heck if you add up the towns mentioned in this thread alone its in the thousands, could there had been a million people all up, all over the country.

[donheld]

326. Denver Colorado

300 in Cheeseman Park and 1500 in Civic Center Park.
:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[lulu]

362. Denver Civic Center Park - 1500

Beautiful, clear evening©

[brettdale]

327. Hopefully the media

Will have this all on thier news shows today.

[shanine]

329. 100 + Gloucester, MA

Very moving experience held on the boulevard, all ages in attendance, veterans for peace, lots of grandparents . . . a singer, guitar player from moveon, I believe . .

[Tesla]

330. Bellbrook ,Ohio

We had nearly 100 there. One of the ladies and her friends had children in the Military, and they are leaving for Texas this weekend.

We had one guy pull over and ask "What are you protesting"? and we answered,"The war". He said, "You ought to be protesting the gas prices". We said "We are that too,Come on"!!

We all signed a letter to Cindy, that they are giving her when they go.

We had 1 cop drive by.

Mostly it was very Peaceful.

I took a sign my daughter made, had a DU bumper sticker taped on it. Met 1 DUer and told alot of folks to check us out.

I gave the bumper sticker to the ladies going to TX.

[sasquatch]

473. Hi there remeber me

:hi:

[Scout]

333. I was gone on vacation and didn't know about vigils until late

last night, when we got home!

I'd have come to the one in Chelsea, I live very close!
I think they have a group that protests every Sunday afternoon in Chelsea ... at least they did last summer.

thanks megan!

[meganmonkey]

361. Yeah, they have one every Sunday from 12-1

which I just learned about last night. So I will probably attend sometimes - maybe I'll see you there!

:bounce:

[morffin]

336. Lake Worth, Florida

We had about 50 people show up in our little beach town. Amazing turnout when you consider that there were 5 other vigils being held within 15 minutes driving time.

Great night. One idiot in an SUV drove by and shouted " Support the war " He was prob. on his way to run over some crosses......I know for sure he wasnt headed to the nearest recruiting office.

[MoJoWorkin]

339. Between 200 and 300 hundred in Springfield MO

Home of John Asskkkroft and VERY Repug. I don't know official count, but media said around 200, so I know it was much more.
I used to gather with about 15 to 20 people every Sunday afternoon with our "No War On Iraq" signs at one of Springfield's busiest intersections(BEFORE THE WAR BEGAN). OH, if we had had that many show up then....
But it was still heartwarming to see so many. News coverage was not so good, tho, especially on NBC affiliate--they had a soldier returning home here for a brief stay--his third tour--- who was spouting nervously that things were going really well over there, and he believed in what he was doing, and his wife was saying they had the "lord" with them. THEN, the channel went to the crap coverage of us.
HOW CAN WE GET ANYWHERE WITH THE MEDIA LIKE THIS?

[gademocrat7]

340. Decatur Georgia had a huge group

Beautiful site!!!

[Marine Democrat]

345. Decatur, GA had @ 800

Lots of candles. Saw 3 remote vans from local TV stations.

Walt

[The Witch]

342. 200-250 in Arlington, VA

near Clarendon metro station. There's a park just behind the station with a fountain. Candles placed all around the fountain, folks with signs, the traffic going by slowly & reading the signs, lots of thumbs-up and peace signs waved at us from the cars. I couldn't stick around for the speaker, who had been to Crawford... but it was a beautiful, beautiful experience to see all those lights around the fountain, children and adults holding candles silently... a great sense of community.

[GoSolar]

378. 3 of us were there

It was beautiful!
:hi:

[cal04]

346. Garden City Long Island had about 150 people

We got a lot of people driving by approving of what we were doing by their horns. The Ethical Humanist Society did a great job. They had a book to sign so that people who were there could write Cindy.
People from Great Neck came down after their Vigil and told us they had a lot of people too and are planning to do this every Wednesday night. The local media was there. The people were absolutely incredible.

[morffin]

347. This is amazing!

these numbers..these pictures. We did this w/o ANY help from the mainstream media and on very short notice.

Inspiring.

[ElsewheresDaughter]

355. Woodstock, NY...we had 200 /250 everyone else honk in support of Cindy

it was a beautiful vigil lots of singing.

[welshTerrier2]

356. Framingham Mass: we had about 250 people ...

i was truly amazed at the turnout ... when i got there, there were only about 75 people but it just kept growing and growing and growing ... Framingham is a suburb about 25 miles west of Boston ...

the organizers, mostly from MoveOn made signs and candles available to everyone who wanted them ...

at 7:30, they had us form a huge circle and we lit our candles ... we were asked to stand silently (is that really possible?) for 45 minutes ... all sorts of cars drove by during the vigil ... a few honked their horns (we couldn't tell if they were friendly honks or hostile honks) ...

as we stood, we had to keep moving back to enlarge the circle as more and more people kept arriving ... as it grew dark, the silence became kind of eerie ... it became almost reverent ...

i felt a strong urge to speak with people there ... i suppose there's something to be said for reflection but i guess i'm more into speechifying ... bonding with others with similar political views and sharing information about our activities always seems more productive ... still, it was a great turnout ... it was nice to see people there who represented all generations ...

on my way back to my car, i chatted with the woman who had been standing next to me ... she was 85 ... the woman on the other side of me had two young kids with her ... i left with a sense that WE ARE NOW THE MAJORITY ...

now, we need to convert our numbers to success in ending the war ...

[no_to_war_economy]

357. carrollton TX - pictures

this is a suburb of Dallas, the belly of the beast, for this many people to show is fucking great

pictures for cindy

[JugDack]

363. Delaware, OH - anybody hear the band?

Last night my band (Rusty Strings) played in Delaware, Ohio at a bar called The Brown Jug. Unbeknownst to me, there was a vigil right across the street! So, we announced "Democracy in action, folks - right behind you" and the crowd for our show turned around to look. Then, my bandmates suggested we play "Find The Cost of Freedom" and dedicate it to the vigil-ites (made this old lib darn proud - I didn't even have to ask 'em!), which we did. Followed with "Teach Your Children" for good measure. Hope some of the folks standing out there heard us and got some pleasure from it! There should be a picture or two on our website (www.rustystrings.net) in the next day or two.

Jack

[Crux of the Biscuit]

371. I was there Brother!

You guys sounded great! I especially liked the Neil Young tune you were layin down!

[meganmonkey]

374. That's f*cking awesome - I am an OWU grad

class of '96 :)

Great to hear about democracy in action in that town. It has changed a lot since I was there, I drove through on my way to Columbus a few months ago and was shocked at the development all around it.

Were you received well at the Brown Jug?

(I'm LOL at a memory - there was a street sign there that said "HOME OF THE LITTLE BROWN UG" - because the 'J' had worn off and I was hysterical every time I saw it)

[JugDack]

379. Yes!

They still have the sign - I'll have to see if they got a new 'J' yet!

We've been playing there all summer, and last night's crowd was one of the best! And everybody seemed to be at least supportive of the vigil folks - we got no negative comments at all on our playing those CSNY tunes for them. I'm so happy to think they might have heard us - wow! Things are really turning our direction, aren't they?

[WilliamPitt]

365. Boston, maybe 200 people

[Liberal Isti]

367. Somerville, MA

I went to Davis Square in Somerville, MA (About three miles north of Boston). There were close to 200 people there I'd say. And, THERE WAS BOSTON PRESS THERE!!!!!! I have pics to prove it, though I won't be able to post them until late tonight.

Anyway, it was such a moving experience for me. We had no speakers or songs, just a huge group of people with candles and signs. We all stood in silence morning the dead and supporting Cindy Sheehan and everyone around the country that stood with her last night. I never felt so conflicted between grinning from ear to ear and weeping at the same time. Thank you all who attended all over the country. :patriot: :hippie:

[Proud_Lefty]

368. 60 in Temecula, Calif

What a night. It turned out to be a very last minute deal. A friend of mine and I collaborated our efforts to setting it up just yesterday afternoon.

We have approximately 60 people come at a public pond at a memorial site. As we first starting setting up, a couple came by and stared at us in shock. I asked them if they would be joining us. The man started spewing off all the right wing talking points, telling us how unpatriotic we were and how we were hardly supporting the troops and as he started shaking, he said he had to leave before he couldn't control himself any longer. As he walked away, he turned back and shot looks to kill. I don't know why, but I was shocked, looking at him. It made me think of the driver of the pick-up in Crawford.

One lady showed up with her guitar and played and sang beautiful songs about bringing her boys home from war. It was amazing and had everyone in tears. We went around and encouraged people to speak. One gal said she was heading to Crawford in a few weeks and wanted to send messages from us to Cindy & Co. to let them know in even the most red area of California, she is still supported.

One lone protester stood over us with his signs "Cindy is being used" and something about supporting our president AND the troops. He stood with a stern expression, like ice cold, as we all talked. The media spoke with my partner and myself, mostly trying to focus on the fact that we set our party up through MoveOn.org, but then spent twice as much time interviewing this "angry loner" during this moving and wonderful exchange of peace and concern for our troops. At one point, another friend of mine who served in Korea addressed the protester's signs and pointed out why they didn't hold any water. I got a little nervous about a confrontation, but this man said nothing and remained expressionless (really not even sure if he was actually human).

At the end of our speeches, a Lutheran pastor stood up and said he believes in peace on earth and in the foundation of our constitution - the right to say what we believe. He spoke of the support for the troops in his church and the difference between supporting the troops and not supporting how we got into this war. He was defintely heaven sent. I thanked him several times for continuing the real Christian message.

We all took our candles and walked around the duck pond. I walked with several different women I never met before. Each one of them said they were angry, upset and isolated, feeling they were so alone. One even mentioned that she was ready to move to friendlier territory. They were amazed that in the reddest of the reddest, there were so many people who actually do see the truth. It was like we were meant to find each other and together, look out.

The gal heading to Crawford took one of the signs I made that said "Support the Troops - Demand the Truth" and asked us to sign it for Cindy. I was so excited, I wrote "Love ya Cindy" and forgot to write my name.

The tide has definitely turned. I can't tell you how many people mentioned that our group tonight was the most inspiring they had been around for quite a while. What an exciting night to bring us all together. Thank you, Cindy Sheehan!

[Crux of the Biscuit]

370. Nice Vigil in Delaware

I attended a very peaceful vigil in Delaware Ohio last night. There were about 30 of us, and a couple ex-Marine rednecks. One of these dip-shits had the nerve to hold up a sign reading, "Violence is the only thing psychopaths understand"! Being the instigator that I am, I questioned this hill-billy as to who he thought the "psychopaths" were. He didn't like it too much when I suggested that the Bush administration were probably the "psychopaths" he was referring to, and that he'd probably solicited the help of some third graders to "Draw them fancy letters", as the task was a strech for someone of his intellect. Some of the more tolerant amongst the crowd got between us before things got "ugly". They asked me to just ignore him, but that's the problem. We've ignored things for too long, it's time to get fired up, and get in the faces of these morons. There was a complete tool driving by in a pick-up truck shouting that he'd voted for Bush, to which we collectively replied, "Good, go fight his war then..." Otherwise, most of the people were very supportive, and things were nice. I met some really great people, and I hope this momentum continues to grow.

God bless Cindy Sheehan

[deutsey]

373. Chestertown, MD: about 50 people

[yasmina27]

375. 3 in N. Huntingdon PA

We couldn't make it to an organized vigil, so my husband set up our tent in our front yard. I made 2 signs - #1: WE SUPPORT CINDY,
#2: HEY SHRUB TALK TO CINDY. I taped them to the sides of the tent (gotta love that duct tape!) so that one was visible from traffic in each direction. We live on a very busy road in a VERY republican *supporting area in the burbs of Pittsburgh.

My daughters (7&9 y.o.) and I sat at the side of the road for 1/2 hour with candles and watched the cars go by.

We only got one honk of support, but NO yelling or cursing, so I look at that as progress!

[I Have A Dream]

422. Hi, yasmina27. I also live in a suburb of Pittsburgh.

It's really amazing how red most of Pittsburgh's suburbs are given how blue Pittsburgh is. I really enjoyed going into the city before the election just so that I could feel as though I was amongst kindred spirits.

This is great what you and your children did!

[paineinthearse]

377. Waltham, Massachusetts - 100+

Met some great people, but in a racially diverse city, it was 100% white.

Moveon and we need to get the word out to minorities, using means other than the internet.

[Liberal Isti]

384. That's a good point....

The vigil in Somerville was mostly white too. Now, granted the college age kids were more ethnically diverse that were there. But, if they're in college they have access to the internet. duh. :eyes:

We really should take it upon ourselves to advertise locally about these things to reach the non-internet crowd. It can only make us stronger.

[paineinthearse]

388. Liberal Isti

welcome to DU

:hi:

I'd like to PM you but new members can't.

Please respond to my similar post in the Massachusetts forum, we'll figure something out.

[ray of light]

381. We had one in Manchester

Small and more simple but by the busy Dairy Queen on mainstreet. Response seemed more apathetic--nobody gave us the finger and a few seemed to make caustic comments, but we had some people who honked and gave us the thumbs up. We had about 10 attendees and a few who sent candles because they couldn't come. It was organized at the last minute because we felt even a small gathering in such a small town held some significance.

The signs were left up after the service was down. Nobody could stay and time how long they remained until they were pulled down.


(I'm tempted to go back and put the posters back up there.)

[JuniperLea]

382. 200+ at Carson & Bellflower, Long Beach CA

Great crowd.

[electropop]

390. Reston VA: 100% positive response from drivers.

It looked like about 300 demonstrators (incl. me and my wife). We were along a busy road, and generated lots of honking horns, peace signs, and anti-bush shouts from drivers. :-)

[Nordmadr]

391. 100 + in Syracuse, New York

We were set up just a few blocks away from the University at the local plaza (Marshall Square). This was my first ever protest/vigil and it was quite the experience and I am very happy that I decided to attend.

There was a good mix of people, including children and one industrious 14 year old that was passing around a petition to our local representatives. The response from onlookers was positive with the exception of one individual that went driving by honking his horn and yelling out angrily. One of the businesses at the plaza provided slushy cup lids to act as wax screens for peoples hands.

There were a number of good signs, and I wish I had been able to find my camera before I went. I wore my service ribbons on my t-shirt, directly over the text:

Suspect #50996039
Under Surveillance by the
Office of Homeland Security


(cafepress)

I also had a copy of my DD214 tucked in my back pocket, in case there were any self-righteous counter protestors, fortunately, and almost surprisingly, there were none.


We lit candles, talked with local media and each other. I spoke with one of the local news people off camera. He is a Marine Reservist. He seemed somewhat apprehensive about taking a side on the issue, but agreed with a number of the things I had to say.

I added a couple of bumper stickers to my collection. My car now also has a VERY large "Bush Lied, Thousands Died" sticker as well as a new "Veterans for Peace" sticker.

Olaf


On edit: Local news story: http://www.syracuse.com/news/poststandard/index.ssf?/base/news-0/1124354393297680.xml&coll=1

[growlypants]

392. 150 people in Malvern, Pennsylvania (outside Philly).

Also, 3 dogs. Only 2 assholes. We ignored them. They made absolute fools of themselves.

[Mika]

393. 80-100 Coconut Grove (Miami) Fla

At Peacock Park.

Nice group. Very reverential. Wide age range.

One freeptard paced the sidewalk with a Bush/Cheney sign.

I met some nice people, and we talked and talked about Bush policy, oil, PNAC, etc. Asked them to check out DU.

[REACTIVATED IN CT]

395. Guilford CT

We had about 50 people and 5 dogs. Humans ranged from children to senior citizens - it was a pretty even spread throughout the adult ages groups. There was no adverse reaction at all from passersby. We stood in a circle, most people holding lit candles and signs, introduced ourselves and spoke about why we were there. We sang a couple of songs and then stood in silent vigil in solidarity with Cindy

The morning news show covered the New Haven gathering. They said that there were 200 there.

(edited to add New Haven info)

[MissMillie]

396. Worcester, MA - 150 people

I'm told this was not the only vigil in Worcester.

Lots of support from people driving by.

[FightingIrish]

398. Medford, Oregon

At least 100 strong. A lot of familiar faces and some new ones. Three teens walked by, asked "Who is Cindy?", found out and joined the crowd.

http://www.mailtribune.com/archive/2005/0818/local/stories/01local.htm

[janetle]

403. Everett, WA--Navy town

When I checked yesterday, it said event full--100 MAX. My husband, son, and I went anyway and got there late while the candles were still lit. Still I was surprised at the turn out.

[wryter2000]

404. San Leandro, CA

About 120 people at the four corners of Dutton and Bancroft. There were lots of vigils within a radius of 10 miles, so there were lots more people in the SF east bay out there.

Lovely, pretty much, with lots of horns honking in support. Believe it or not, we had some violence. Some idiot who'd been drinking got into it with a man wearing a Veterans for Peace t-shirt. Even threw a punch and cut him on the chin.

I didn't think the guy was particularly political because he didn't say the usual crap about hating America or undermining the troops. I think he was just an asshole drunk who hated "fucking hippies."

[jenn1977]

408. Ventura, CA 215+

As of 8 pm we counted 214. Lots of supporters honking, flashing the peace sign, cheering. A handful of negative responses, but nothing compared to the amount of support.

When I first got there at 7:30 there was a guy in his 20's or 30's that was looking for someone to argue with, and unfortunately he found someone - so that wasn't too pretty. Later there was a guy that said he's a soldier that was in Iraq. He was really, really upset - crying. It made me feel sad. I just wanted to give him the chance to speak his mind. He didn't understand how we can support the troops and speak out against the war at the same time. An older guy that was very understanding and patient with him showed him the biggest sign at the protest. It said "Support our troops. Bring them home." He told the soldier, "We support you guys 100%. That is the reason WHY we want to bring you all home. The fault is in Washington. The fault is in Washington...." It seemed like the soldier was beginning to calm down and beginning to understand our message. But, I think a few other people jumped in and some woman would not let this guy express his opinions and ideas.

One of the soldier's other points was, how is Cindy Sheehan getting all this media attention, but the other thousands of mother's who "are proud of their sons" don't? He was having a hard time understanding that too. How one can be proud of their loved one's sacrifice, and yet disagree with the president/policy.

One last thing, he said that he was in Falluja and that there is so much good happening and so much rebuilding going on - and none of that get's the media's attention.

[marlakay]

409. Around 400 people Pleasant Hill CA

It was beautiful, peaceful, sad, happy. We sang, read poems, were quiet. A mother talked about her daughter in Iraq. A father talked about his son. A grandmother talked. It was a wonderful experience with all the candles and passing cars honking.

[TriMetFan]

410. Here in Portland OR.

I went to the one that Code Pink did at Eastport Plaza. I say over 200 people showed up for this one and on the other side of town on NW 23rd. over 600 people showed up . There were over 15 vigil's here in Portland and I would say that over 1,200 people showed up for them. I took some pictures but I had to use my cell phone. So sorry for the quality of the pic's.

http://homepage.mac.com/lilialopez/PhotoAlbum15.html

[debbierlus]

412. 120 + in Williamstown, Massachusetts

North Western Massachusetts in Berkshire County.

There were three other vigils in this county according to Moveon.

Lot of folks over the age of 60 & about 20% young moms with kids.

Peaceful protest. Lasted about an hour. Lit candles, held signs. Beautiful night. Great support, all positive. This is heart of blue country.

Anyway, a lovely vigil!

[DinahMoeHum]

413. Around 100 in White Plains, NY (Westchester County)

around 200 in Mount Kisco (Westchester) and dozens in Nanuet (Rockland)

http://www.thejournalnews.com/dailygallery/index.htm

[Bumblebee]

415. University Village site in Seattle

100-120 people positioned on five corners of a busy intersection. Lots of honks and fists of approval. People screaming their disgust with B and the war from their cars. 2-3 fingers and one rude expletive -- so the ratio was hundreds to 5. It went on for almost two hours.

[Bumblebee]

416. Seattle: local media's estimate is about 5K in the city plus East Side

in 20-25 different sites. Their estimates, needless to say, tend to undercount so there were probably more.

[jaysunb]

420. Pasadena, California

About 150 beautiful people got together for 3 hours. Lots of support given by passersby.

We're on to something big !

[EC]

421. Kenosha, WI

had about a hundred, many honked in support, maybe 2 gave us the finger. One interesting bit of news, one family here in town drove out to see Cindy. They lost their son to Hodkin's Disease after he could not resume a treatment series in Texas, when then Governor Bush would not intercede and ask the hospital to continue with the program that was working for many...the reason the program was discontinued was no profit in it....(they attended a vigil in Milw.)

[FizzFuzz]

424. Honeoye Falls, NY

Mr Fuzz and I went. There were about 30 people--not bad for a teeny little town. There was a professor I know there, and I met someone I had spoken to on the phone--it had been a call to a local company to pay for something; I got yakking with the guy and we started talking politics. It was great until my phone battery died! Soooo cool to realize it was him, when we all got introduced. A few of us traded emails, so we can get in touch; we want to get involved in Biodiesel.

[loveandlight]

425. Asbury Park, NJ

Maybe 20 people were there, we sang songs and lit our candles. It was a first for Asbury, most peace demos have been in Red Bank or other nearby areas. So it was a good get-to-know you evening. I spoke with a reporter for the Asbury Park Press, hope to see that in the paper today. And found out that lots of other folks, including various city officials, are against this horrendous war as well. It was an uplifting evening.

[Imagevision]

426. FT. Myers.Fla. - 115+

[windbreeze]

429. 30 in Shelton, Wash.

The hostess took pictures, but I don't know if she belongs to DU...
Small town, Peaceful, and for my first peace vigil/war protest, I felt as though I belonged there...that I was doing something right..quiet and respectful..thumbs ups and a horn or two, as people passed...
windbreeze

[Mabus]

431. Lawrence, Kansas 100++

A friend of mine took some pictures, I'll see if I can get copies of them to post.

We got a lot of people honking as they drove by. Several raised their fists and shouted "we're with Cindy" as they drove by.

Vigils are usually held at the Douglas County Courthouse and I've attended many of them. Everytime there is someone who either sets up a counter event across the street or someone drives by and flips us off/yells that we're un-American/Patriotic. IT DID NOT HAPPEN LAST NIGHT. EVERYONE was supportive or they kept their tongues.

It was wonderful. I saw people that I didn't expect to see. I ran into one older lady who was very proud that it was her first "protest against Bush" and she had made her own sign. She's new to computers. She just got one earlier this year. Up until the the time she saw Cindy on TV she didn't really use her computer. Over the past week she has learned to surf the web. She heard about that "leftist" MoveOn group supporting Cindy. She was very proud that she found them on her own on the web and signed herself up. It brought tears to my eyes. I invited her to both "Drinking Liberally", DU and the weekly anti-war vigil on Saturday. She said she'd try to come.

I wish I had gotten her name. A friend I hadn't seen in years came up and grabbed me from behind. We started chatting and the woman wandered off. It was near the end of the event and when I realized she was gone I couldn't find her. I hope she shows up again.

[Metta]

432. A big boost to 350-500 in Pittsburgh.

We had about 300-350 at our site in Pittsburgh. All told, I expect that, citywide, we added another scant couple of hundred. What a lift. Most of us lined up with our candles along a park border on a main neighborhood thoroughfare. Quite a boost. Semper fi, meganmonkey.

[tommcintyre]

435. Honolulu, Hawaii here:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x4388420

[tmooses]

436. Corvallis, OR had 200+ for a vigil in front of our courthouse. Here is

the front page story for the Gazette-Times. http://www.gazettetimes.com/

[knitter4democracy]

439. We got a thumbs-up from the firemen and lots of honks!

We had about 38 people show up in downtown Battle Creek, and it was really nice. We only had the one sign, but people seemed to know what we were doing. It was nice to get the positive reactions and to get to know some people in the local peace movement. Now I know when and where the meetings are!!

[esvhicl]

443. Heart of Los Angeles 100+

We were at the corner of 3rd and Wilton Pl.

Great responses from the cars driving by---lots of honking--not one negative that I heard of.

[ailsagirl]

444. My report from the Marin Group (100 +)

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=141&topic_id=13724&mesg_id=13724

http://www.marinij.com/marin/ci_2952271



:patriot:

[CAcyclist]

449. San Mateo, CA

200-300. Lots and lots of positive responses.

[orleans]

450. Naperville IL

lots of honks & waves and flashing peace signs.

naperville ranked 45 on america's most conservative cities list and the public/traffic response seemed very positive. a couple people who didn't know what was going on stopped and asked--one woman said to me: "amen! get those troops home!"

it was good. let's do it again!

[Name removed]

453. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[geckosfeet]

454. Sherborn MA. at the Peace Abbey. About 50 people, Beautiful. nt

[Blue_In_AK]

455. Anchorage, 120...

I posted pictures elsewhere.

[Patchuli]

456. Approximate 100-150 in Davis, CA

Many motorists beeping, holding up Support Cindy signs and flashing us the peace sign as they went by. We sang Peter, Paul and Mary and John Lennon songs. It was a lovely experience. One mother had a picture of her son who just deployed to Iraq on Tuesday. She couldn't understand why he enlisted. She said he was actually born under a tree at a peace rally and had attended these kinds of things all his life. She was wondering where she went wrong! My husband's son showed up and took over sign holding for his dad. That was the sweetest thing; to have our children standing by our sides!

[ailsagirl]

468. Davis-- a great University town. Thanks for the report!!!

:hi:

[Ediacara]

458. Bozeman, MT 100-120

We were in front of the court house downtown, and most responses were positive from people driving by. Actually only about 4 or 5 negative responses in total in 45 minutes on a very busy street.

[JEDinBKLYN]

459. Brooklyn Represents

I attended a 500+ strong vigil in Brooklyn last night, my thoughts:

As I stood on the Brooklyn Promenade last night, candle in hand, properly attired in my http://daysbreak.blogspot.com/2005/08/while-you-were-still-out-i-know-i-know.html">'We Hate Your War' t-shirt, I stared across the harbor at that empty spot in the lower Manhattan skyline and thought (yet again) about how callously Bush & Co. used the deaths of my friends and fellow New Yorkers to pursue their false and unjust war. I thought about the spirit that existed that day in the wake of such a horrible tragedy, the good will which emanated from even the most unlikely corners of the world. And then I thought about how Bush and his band of criminals have so quickly squandered all that good will. As the tears begin to well up in my eyes, I shifted my gaze to the left, out into the harbor and saw the gleaming torch of Ms. Liberty held high and proud against the setting sun and I thought, "We will prevail because we have true liberty, and that magnificent lady, on our side."

Keep Speaking Out everyone.
We ARE at a turning point.
And we will prevail.

http://daysbreak.blogspot.com/2005/08/tonight-we-vigil-i-will-be-attending.html">LAST NIGHT, WE VIGILED

[pdefalla]

464. 500+ in Santa Barbara

Our Mayor spoke at the gathering, and we lined both sides of the street in front of the courthouse. Just after sunset, the candles made a beautiful corridor that folks drove down, craning their necks to read the signs. A few honks of approval, some positive comments shouted out. I did not see any "counter" demonstration or opposition. The gathering was very calm, almost zen-like. A little singing towards the end, but mainly just a very large group of peaceful people asking for an end to war.

[Kerrytravelers]

465. Sierra Madre, California (Los Angeles area)

I do not have pics.

Sierra Madre is a very small town that, for the first time in quite a few years, went blue last November. There were roughly 150-175 people on this small patch of grass in the very center of town. We sat in silence, holding our candles. It was very peaceful and beautiful. I met another DUer there and many other very wonderful liberals.

We received many honks of support, many peace signs and only two middle fingers. What kind of a person flips off a peace vigil? Typical rethug...

I hope there are more in the future. This was a wonderful experience.

kt

[forintegrity]

466. I was in Chelsea, too!

It was great! Yes, I thought the guy in the black truck was VERY mature! It was interesting watching the reactions of people as they drove by.

Before I left I picked-up a handout titled "Our Troops are dying for your support." Meganmonkey, did you get that? It's a great handout and I would like to get more but now I've lost the email/website info about the Chelsea group. Do you have it?

Thanks.

(I plan on getting more and leaving them every where I go! Am willing to pay for them out of my own pocket. It's all about the Downing Street Memos! Very well done!)

[ailsagirl]

469. Holy cow!! This needs to be made into several threads!!

Wonderful stories and photos!!!

:yourock: :grouphug: :kick: :bounce: :loveya:

I love you all!! :)

[jurassicpork]

470. Marlboro, Massachusetts checking in (by way of Hudson, MA)

I already posted the results on my blog last night. Perhaps I should've waited and solidified my thoughts but I knew that other DU'ers would be rushing home to log on and eagerly compare notes.

The sense of community in Marlborough was heartening, to be mixing with like-minded people, without having to worry about qualifying and defending my statements. It was simply beautiful and wonderful to be able to touch peoples' lives about such an important issue.

But at least equally heartening was the even greater sense of national community (moreso than usual) on logging on and reading accounts of other vigils, first from the east coast, then the midwest and finally the west coast. Other than the usual relatively abstract notions of progressive thinking that loosely unite us, occasionally someone like Paul Hackett or Cindy Sheehan comes along (and we were very fortunate to have both come right after the other) and strengthens the ties that bind our growing online community and it makes me even happier to be an American, a liberal and alive.

God, I love you all.

JP
http://jurassicpork.blogspot.com

[sasquatch]

471. I was at the vigil in Bellbrook, Ohio

:hi:

[No Blood for Hubris]

474. 181 in Orleans, Cape Cod, MA,

(reported as "over a hundred" rather than "nearly two hundred") with smaller vigils, 50-70 in Provincetown, Wellfleet, Yarmouth, Chatham, Falmouth, and other Cape towns.

Not much coverage in local (Republican) paper--short story, page 3. Front page coverage of local Boston vigils in Boston Globe.

MoveOn saying there were a hundred thousand people across the country--haven't seen those numbers in the MSM.

[dobegrrrl]

476. 200 in VA Beach (military town in red state)

There were several military people who joined us.
My thoughts to Cindy and her mom :grouphug:

[tarpley]

477. Germantown, Maryland Vigil

More than 150 people attended a candlelight vigil to support Cindy Sheehan and bring the US troops home from Iraq which was held on the front lawn of the Black Rock Center for the Arts in the new Germantown, Maryland Town Center from 7:45 to 8:30 PM. All ages were represented, and all kinds of people were there, including the local Moslem community. Many of those present were planning to attend a rally to support Cindy if she brings her campaign to the White House, about 25 miles away. Many will also attened the September 24 march to stop the war.

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