DUers converging on Washington, D.C., Oct. 25 — Let's make plans here!

[prolesunited]

United for Peace and Justice (UFPJ) and Act Now to Stop War & End Racism (ANSWER) are joining forces to call on all those who oppose the war, invasion and occupation of Iraq, to unite on Saturday, October 25 in Washington, D.C., for a truly massive outpouring reflecting the growing popular opposition to the Bush Administration’s foreign and domestic program.

It was the peace and antiwar movement in the 1960’s and 70’s that proved to be one of the decisive factors ending the US war in Vietnam. The October 25th demonstration will be a powerful repudiation by the people of the United States of Bush’s criminal war and occupation of Iraq and will be a signal of the new antiwar movement’s potent political force countering the Bush Administration.
http://www.unitedforpeace.org/article.php?id=1957

In Washington DC, gather at the Washington Monument (northwest corner, 17th St. and Constitution Ave. NW) at 11 am. Here we will hold a rally and then march. A march route will be announced soon.
This logistics page has great info on buses, flights, D.C. transportation, etc.
http://www.internationalanswer.org/campaigns/o25/logistics.html


I had previously started a thread on this in GD, and this is the list of people who responded so far:

Arriving by chartered bus
G_j
goddess 40, mom and son
jonnyblitz and sister
jab105
CheshireCat

Arriving Friday
bowens43 and daughter
Oaf of Office
GregW
Plaid Adder and SO
AWD
prolesunited

Arriving Friday or Saturday
Monica_L, husband, sister, son
ima_sinnic

Going, live in area
veganwitch (mentioned she might be willing to host person or couple)
DancingBear and SO
deutsey
youngred
LeahMira, three others from Massachusetts
MountainLaurel

Didn’t state plans
screembloodymurder


My thought was that we could plan a get-together for Friday evening, designate a meeting spot for Saturday, and plan an after-protest party for Saturday. Oaf of Office also has found a nice hotel within walking distance and is quite affordable, especially if people double up in rooms.

With so many of us planning to be there, it seems like a shame to pass up the opportunity to meet one another. For those who haven't met DUers offline yet, it's not as scary as it sounds. All of the ones I have met in person are just as cool offline as they are online, so don't be shy.

I don't really know much about DC, but simply wanted to facilitate the process. That's why I started this thread. We can brainstorm on plans and destinations and coordinate plans. If you're not on the list already, please post on this thread as well so you can be included in any arrangements.

So, let's make this come together and plan a fantastic weekend!

:party: :bounce: :party: :bounce:

[JohnKleeb]

1. add me

I might be there too. I am definely going but I have plans to meet up with another friend if she goes.

[veganwitch]

7. i can house you if you need it.

pm me

[idontwantaname]

30. i need housing!

hi.
im comming from los angeles. anyhting anyone can provide would be great!
give me a call/email and we will talk.

my info...

chris
213-989-6850
[e-mail]

thanks.

[liberalnurse]

2. I took the last week of October off.

I'm hoping some Ohio Dem's get in touch with me. I'll go in a group. I have a Ford Explorer so I can pack in a few.

[prolesunited]

3. That sounds really cool!

What a great road trip. Why don't you put some feelers out in GD or the Lounge? I'm sure you can find someone. I know AWD lives in Ohio and was planning to come. Why don't you check with him?

Do you planning on arriving Friday?

[youngred]

4. You'll probably want to meet somewhere an hour or so before 11

a few blocks away from the washington monument. Say maybe at the Lincoln (and then walk up past the reflecting pool and WWII monument construction).

BTW I wonder if ANSWER realizes how blocked off the Washington Monument is right now. There are long construction barricades blocking off the whole west side of the monument.

Going somewhere saturday depends on the march route, but friday night the whole town is open to you. And it really is open on a friday night

Peace, and can't wait to see you all soon!

And extreme Thanks for getting this organized prolesunited :-) :cheers:

[JohnKleeb]

5. man if I do meet up with you guys

Where do you want to meet and I am gonna take the subway down.

[deutsey]

6. I'm up for this, everyone!

I don't know if I'll be able to attend the pre-protest get-together, but I can definitely meet you all at the protest and maybe stay after for the party (assuming we're all not arrested :evilgrin:).

[CheshireCat]

8. Hope to meet up with you for the march.

A group of us from SC have rented a bus. We are leaving Friday night and will be arriving about dawn. I will try to get the DU meeting place a little before the march. Will have another SC DUer with me.

It will be great to put some faces with the names.

Peace.

Edited to say that this post was in reponse the the entire thread, not just thread #6.

[goddess40]

9. Chartered Bus from WI

There will be three of us. I don't have any of the detail yet but I'm wearing my DU axis of evil sweatshirt for sure.

[MountainLaurel]

10. Possible meeting place

The Corcoran Gallery of Art, fairly close to the march area, and a few blocks from Metro. Or we could meet in Farragut Park, which is between two Metro stations and about 6 blocks from the Mall. (And we'd get to walk past the Old Executive Office, home of whoever leaked the Plame info to the press.)

Some possibilities for meeting up on Friday or Saturday:

Old Town Alexandria: Metro accessible, a gazillion restaurants of varying qualities and price levels and ethnicities.

Crystal City: Metro accessible, not scenic, but we could meet up in the food court and push tables together.

Clarendon or Ballston: Metro accessible, lots of restaurants and bars.

If the weather isn't crappy, we might want to get together a couple hours early to meet in a park in DC and have a breakfast of sorts. I'd be willing to contribute bagels and donuts or muffins. However, traveling via Metro is not conducive to carrying large quantities of coffee. Maybe we could make it BYOC (bring your own caffeine).

:party: :party: :party:

In a related note, I need some tips and slogans for creating a sign. What materials are best to use? What should it say? I need some advice from you veteran agitators!

[veganwitch]

12. "we told you so"

i think thats what mine is going to be.

[youngred]

16. I was actually thinking Corcoran Gallery as a good meeting place

I'm thinking groups of people in the morning (esp a protest morning) aren't going to be good for metro use.

[really-looney]

31. The Irish Times

I love the Irish Times at Union Station. Weekend nights are always fun at the Times.
Washington is a very expensive city to go out in

[Oilwellian]

11. Woo hoo! It's time to rally!

Proles, I'm so impressed with all the work you've done so far to organize this DU gathering. I have a couple of suggestions to add to what you've said. It's imperative for everyone who plans to stay in a hotel, to make their reservations as soon as possible. I'm sure their going quickly as the rally date nears. Prolesunited and I will be sharing a room, so if you're interested in staying in the same hotel, ($50 per night per person, 2 person minimum per room + $15 per day parking) private message your email address to me and I'll send you the name and phone number. For those who will just be coming to the rally and want to meet up with fellow DU'ers, PM me your email address as well and I'll let you know the time and place.

Let's keep this thread kicked as we brainstorm ideas on what to do on Friday & Saturday night.

[veganwitch]

13. there is a great bar...

in dupont called the brickskeller. it has over a hundred beers.
on u street (ugh cant remember name) that hase great german beer.

saturday is ladies night at apex for any queer gals that want to go clubbing.

[CPschem]

25. Brickskeller has closer to ONE THOUSAND different beers...

published in Guinness for the largest selection in the world.. i couldn't let my favorite bar get shortchanged.

[tokenlib]

14. Include me too...sort of..

Although I will shed tears at missing the Friday and post-rally Saturday activities--it would be great to catch up with you for the rally and march.

Once again, I'm doing the economy special bus trip (from mid-Michigan)..so that limits me to the day Saturday-- but if I know where and when you're meeting--perhaps we can meet up.

Jerry

[deutsey]

15. Hey! Remember me?

Glad to hear you're going to be at another march and that I'll probably get to see you again!

:hi:

[tokenlib]

17. Absolutely! It would be great to see old and new DUers!

Did I really see GregW from "the left coast" on the list? This is going to be great. Hope my bus gets in early enough so we can all link up.

I'm thinking of using my sign from last time "Only Traitors Cut Veterans Benefits." It is the best jab at the shameful priorities of this regime I can think of.

Hope to see you Dwayne!


Jerry

[screembloodymurder]

18. I'm driving down Sat. morning from PA

and will take the subway. Hope to meet a friend from N.C. and would love to march with some fellow DUers.

[prolesunited]

19. Since you're driving down

Will you be able to stay for awhile afterward? We'll keep you posted. Only a few weeks away now.

[libertad]

20. I'm not sure if I can make it yet. If you guys settle on a meeting

place for Saturday morning, please send me a message. I was there last October, but I missed LynneSin's party because we drove straight up from Florida and were too exhausted (got a late start). Both of my daughters are begging me to take them this year - one was afraid to go last year and stayed home because of the sniper situation.
Thanks

[LynneSin]

21. Will be there, but just coming in for the day

I hope you all have a great time. I bet Oaf gave you the hotel we all stayed at last year. (Giant Size and Roomy!!).

Some of you have my cell phone, call and give me details. I'll be with my buddies from Delaware but will gladly try to hook up with the DUers in DC!!!

[On the Road]

22. I Will Be There If Possible

This is a good occasion, proles -- I think these are important. I organized last year's DC get-together and have some contacts from then.

I'm a little constrained by having my daughter that weekend, but really want to see some other DUers.

I think a central location in DC, reachable by metro, is best. There are some folks in Maryland (like me, deutsey, unidentifiedbassplayer and arwalden, I believe). Others in northern VA.

[goldilox369]

23. I'll come too

I'd like to come, but i'll only be able to make it on Saturday. I live in the Shenandoah Valley, which is only about 3 hours away. But i am also pretty poor, and the last time i went to DC the car broke down on the way home. haha. So tell me where we're all meeting up, and i'll be able to stay for the march, and afterwards. it'll be cool. I'll bring some friends too. I'm sure they'd like to come.

[goldilox369]

24. I'll come too

I'd like to come, but i'll only be able to make it on Saturday. I live in the Shenandoah Valley, which is only about 3 hours away. But i am also pretty poor, and the last time i went to DC the car broke down on the way home. haha. So tell me where we're all meeting up, and i'll be able to stay for the march, and afterwards. it'll be cool. I'll bring some friends too. I'm sure they'd like to come.

Embarassin'! DU told me that my post didn't post. Sorry about the double post. I'm really not that stupid.

[prolesunited]

80. I can't PM you because your post count is too low

but are you still planning on coming?

[Sagatious8]

26. Me too!

We will probably include the kids and arrive Sat. morning. We start 'em questioning authority and plotting the overthrow of government young. ;) We would love to hook up with the group, please keep me posted on where and when we will meet. Thanks.

[G_j]

27. now I'm not sure if I can make it

due to financial/car problems..
Still, keeping my fingers crossed.

[THUNDER HANDS]

28. I wanna come too!

Any NY DUers need a ride?

[prolesunited]

29. So, are you coming for the day

or will you be spending Friday or Saturday night. We have a good hotel lined up with with a decent rate if you pair up. Let me know if you need the name.

Surely you can find some NY DUers to go with you. It's gonna be an awesome time.

[FreedomSpirit]

32. Coming from Upstate NY

We're working on getting buses from Central NY through our local Peace council ... we had 5 for the last Washington trip in January (hopefully it will not be as COLD for this trip!).

I looked at the ANSWER website but did not see anything about a march route. It looked like there was just going to be a rally ... is there a plan for a march & does ANSWER or Move On have permits yet?

[youngred]

33. Where in NY

I'm originially from Brockport. I was at the January march, and it was really cold...but nothing on an upstate winter ;-)

[diamond14]

37. link to logistics page...there will be a march through DC....

will be posted as soon as it is finalized....permits are still in progress...volunteer attorneys are working on it with DC and Capital Police....

http://www.internationalanswer.org/campaigns/o25/logistics.html

the logistics are huge....I am working behind the scenes making all the signs for the routes...first aid...disabled vehicles...media...bathrooms...(over 100 signs) there is lots of work involved in the march route....there will be volunteers with cell phones throughout the route...and volunteer medical personnel from our fine doctors/nurses/paramedics here in OUR Nation's Capital...

volunteers are always needed...please contact ANSWER office in DC...
lists of things that volunteers can help with are located at the bottom and right side bar of the logistics page above...thanks for helping...we need all the help we can get....everybody at the ANSWER office in DC are volunteers...and we are working very hard to make this happen in a Patriotic and true American fashion....come join us...meet new friends, help America, see OUR Nation's Capital, be creative, bring music, songs, signs, theatre, costumes, friends.....save your own life (if you are draft-age!)....

[prolesunited]

81. Can't PM you because you have too few posts

Are you still planning on coming? I'm sure you saw more details further down on the list.

[youngred]

84. you can PM

they can't respond though

[kimchi]

34. Count me in for before and/or after.

I would love to meet you guys but I have to work during the day. I live in the area, so just let me know when and where to meet up with you.

[lanlady]

35. my daughter and I will go

We live in the area. Please let us know th details of the DUers meet-up on Friday/Saturday. Thanks for organizing this!

[diamond14]

36. live here...volunteering at ANSWER....looking forward to meeting

everyone...and welcome to OUR Nation's Capital....be careful, be safe...

we are PATRIOTS...we care about America...we can make a difference...WE can change the world....time to take back our country...



it's time to STAND UP and take back America !!!!!

AMEN1234 in front of the White House 03/22/2003

[prolesunited]

38. Thanks for helping

put this all together on your end. Since you're familiar with the routes and restrictions, do you have any suggestions on where we should meet prior to the rally?

What do you think would be the best gathering spot? Lynne said the problem with the Korean Memorial last year was that they couldn't be in that area with their signs.

I'll keep you posted and look forward to meeting you as well! :hi:

[diamond14]

44. my suggestion.....meet at the DC War Memorial....bathrooms, shade trees,

benches, close to the Washington Monument for "before the rally" DU Meeting....The DC War Memorial is a WW1 monument...this area worked well for the "poor People's March" on August 23, 2003....if that's OK, I'll write up explicit directions, and I can make some "DU Underground" signs, if some locals would pick them up at the ANSWER headquarters in DC....keep in touch...your efforts are greatly appreciated...after the march, it will certainly depend on where the March permit goes...once that is determined, my suggestion would be a local place near the end of the March....

(problems always occur with people trying to meet at the Smithsonian Museums, especially for protest marches against shrub...the Corcoran Art Museum is way too close to the White House...during the March 22, 2003 war protest, there were large fences topped with barbed wire blocking off the entire area, during other bush* protests, the Smithsonian personnel, working for the shrub as Federal employees, were ordered to keep protestors off the front steps of the museums and away from the bathrooms and water...).....the weather has been really beautiful here, hope it holds for the March on October 25th....

This video of the "poor People's March" on August 23, 2003 shows everyone stopped at the DC War Memorial near the reflecting pool...we left the Lincoln Memorial at about 11:15 minutes on the video, marched to the DC War Memorial, where everyone sang songs as we used the bathrooms (indoor flushing toilets, water, much better than the usual outhouses on the Mall)...then onward to the Washington Memorial (and you can see in the video how close we were to the rally area at the Washington Memorial, just a short walk away, and we could hear the protests at the WM)....

Video of Poor People's entry into OUR Nation's Capital....
http://flow.mediavac.com/ramgen/sinkers/2003/washdcAug2303.rm
(my large-banner sign: "From Sally Barron, Hurley, Wisconsin 'Oh bush, he's such a whistle-ass'")

-------------------------------------------------
The D.C. War Memorial is a columned Doric temple, 40 feet wide, large enough for the entire 80-member Marine Corps band to perform. It was completed in 1931 and was the first memorial on the mall to include the names of women and African-Americans among the list of local heroes who served the country during World War I. It is the only local memorial on the mall.

[diamond14]

45. map to the DC War Memorial bathroom "suggested meeting place"

for DU underground pre-rally on October 25, 2003....close to Washington Monument rally area (within listening distance), bathrooms, shade trees, benches....


look at the West Potomac Park area in the left-bottom of map, the bathrooms near the DC War Memorial....

http://www.nps.gov/wash/ppmaps/namamap1%2Epdf

notice that there are TWO parallel walkways in the south area of the reflecting pool 'West Potomac Park' area...and the rainbow pool area close to the Washington Monument is massively under construction (big cranes and blockades) for the new WWII monument (sad that there is nothing but war monuments on OUR National Mall...it doesn't say much about America's priorities in the arts and sciences, if only we could re-prioritize what is important here and stop glorifying war)....

[MountainLaurel]

47. Hey Amen

Which Metro station do you suggest? It looks about equidistant from both Arlington cemetary and Smithsonian.

Thanks for the suggestion, and for volunteering!

[diamond14]

48. you want the Smithsonian stop (Arlington is NOT close).....

the Smithsonian stop is on the "blue" and "orange" lines....
easy to remember...you'll see the BIG "Washington Monument" from almost everywhere in the metro-DC area (it's that BIG phallic symbol, the tall tower with the aluminum pyramid top)....you'll see the BIG 'Washington Monument' when you come out of the Smithsonian Metro stop (in the opposite direction, you'll see the Capital of the United States)....it will be a wonder view, and a great day !!!
thanks for joining real American Patriots....and STANDING UP for America.....


from ANSWER logistics page.....

The Washington Monument (Constitution Ave. and 17th St. NW) is accessible from a few metro stations. The closest stops are Smithsonian on the blue/orange line and Metro Center on the red and blue/orange lines.

http://www.internationalanswer.org/campaigns/o25/logistics.html#trans3

[KG]

39. looks like i might be out of work and DC is my hometown.

going to give this some serious consideration. :)

[frank frankly]

40. I'm probably heading down Saturday

working on it...

[Ivory_Tower]

41. If I'm in town I'll try to go

There's a chance I'll be travelling that weekend, so I can't commit to going -- sorry. But if I can make it, it would be interesting to meet some other DUers.

Thanks.

[Fatima]

42. I am coming, but not sure yet if by

bus or riding with a friend.

I contacted the person arranging a local bus, but haven't heard back yet.

All else fails I'll drive up there alone.

I'll be there, and I will march with my group, Veterans for Peace.

[JohnKleeb]

43. Still planning to come on

Zack (youngred in case your name be Zack too) give me an IM or PM tonite or somethin, remember I plan to meet up with ya. I am so going.

[prolesunited]

46. I'll keep you posted!

Do you know what your sign is going to say yet?

[JohnKleeb]

54. Will I have one is the question lol

I will pm you Proles me and Red plan to meet at Foggybottom/GWU station.

[lizerdbits]

49. I'm definately going Saturday morning!

I can't do Friday night and I'm not sure about Saturday night yet. I live close to the metro and will be taking that in Saturday morning. I have a couch someone can sleep on if they need to, but no extra comfy bed. :( (I also have a cat in case a space needing person is allergic.)

I thought for a sign I'd have pics of Chimp, Uncle Dick, and Dumsfeld saying 'weapons of mass bullshit.' I just need to find big pictures of their heads. I also plan on wearing my DU 'Axis of evil' shirt. I've never been to a DU gathering before, I'm so excited! :bounce:

[prolesunited]

50. I'm excited, too!

Less than two weeks away!

:bounce:

[Kolesar]

51. Driving to DC with a pal; will meet some local friends and take the Metro

I hope we get to meet up before the march--we could march together.

[prolesunited]

52. That's the whole point!

Won't it be awesome!

Can you hang out for awhile afterward? Still fine tuning details but should have something posted and PMed to people real soon.

[Woodstock]

73. What will the metro be like on a day like that, I wonder?

I was thinking of going/taking metro, too. But last time I took it to go to the Mall (just an ordinary Saturday), there was a big pileup on the platform (forget which one, think it was the Smithsonian one) and I was afraid I'd be pushed onto the path of the trains or be trampled to death - there was just nowhere to go - it was TRULY frightening. I've taken metro lots of times before that, but have stayed away from it since then. It seems like the system just isn't big enough for the demand.

[prolesunited]

74. I'm not familiar with the metro

But a Washington Post article is predicting tens of thousands of people will be there. Perhaps if you left really early, you could beat the crowds.

[MountainLaurel]

76. Definitely go Metro

You will not want to be driving in downtown DC when there's any sort of event going on. Parking is a nightmare and half the streets will be blocked. Not to mention that the traffic enforcement people get ticket happy.

The key is to avoid the Smithsonian station (or whatever station is closest to the ending point) to whatever extent possible. In addition to the protesters, there's also the hordes of tourists coming in to enjoy the delights of the nation's capital. :eyes: Walk a few blocks in any direction to another station and you'll do much better with the crowds. Suggestions: MacPherson Square, Gallery Place, Metro Center, Farragut, Federal Triangle, L'Enfant Plaza, Navy Memorial, Judicial Square.

[diamond14]

78. MetroTrain will be the party train on Oct. 25....(MetroTrain map)

here's a good MetroTrain system map...sounds like you are not familiar with the MetroTrain passenger customs...never stand near the edge of platform, where the little bumpy flooring is (which is your warning, and also serves to notify visually-impaired people that they are getting too close to the edge)....try to come in on the escalator and MOVE away from the escalator (where it is more crowded)....

the MetroTrains will stop and the platform-people should be standing back toward the pillars to allow those on the train to EXIT FIRST...
only after people have exited the train should you come forward to the train for ENTRANCE.....

there is always plenty of time allowed by the MetroTrain drivers, but don't dally around, pick your car and go there...if you are on the platform, you can look forward to see the driver, who MUST look out the window to be certain everybody is safely on or off the train...only after that will the train leave, and a computer voice and bell ring will let you know that you better hurry on to get on....

also, some novices squash into one platform area, with the feeling that that's where they HAVE to be (the sheep approach - others are standing there, so that's where I must stand)...the platforms are quite long, there will be plenty of cars, and you can stand quite far from the entry escalators and still comfortably get on the train, and hardly any novices do that....

--------------------------------
I've lived here for three years now, and have never heard a case of 'pushing off the platform' or 'trampled to death' (there are regular suicides where people jump and the tracks have HIGH voltage, but usually not on weekends, there are injuries to small children whose parents leave them alone to wander around and they get their fingers caught in the escalators and stuff, but not flying off the platform, because some people WILL show some commmunity effort for the DUMB parents ... always hold your childs hand in Metro...there was only one sad case where a mother on the platform did not get on the train, and her little child did, nobody knows what the mom was thinking, but the child got on the train alone, and opened the emergency exit door and left, falling out onto the track and died, the mom was found with two other small children still standing on the platform, and didn't know that her kid had left...of course, we had another one on the street near the White House where a mother with her baby cart crossed the street right in front of giant street sweeper and was chunked to death...passerby's grabbed the baby cart as is rotated through the big sweeper, risking their lives and saving baby's life who got out OK, no one could figure out why the mom didn't wait ...so you see, you have to pay attention in BIG cities and stuff happens if you are not alert to your surroundings, and some people will help too....)...be alert when crossing streets and riding trains in DC....

....your fears are just in your mind, although I can understand if MetroTrain is not your normal mode of transportation because of all the noise, signs, people, lights....DC is NOT New York...I have ridden the trains in a wheel chair and on crutches and in rush hours and weekends...generally, you'll find people will help you if you ask and generally, people are polite...just look it as an exciting new big city experience...and a chance to overcome your fears and reach out....

There is nothing to fear, except fear itself....

[northzax]

53. I'm in

since I live five blocks away. Definatly interested in friday night, I have to work saturday night, alas...


As for venues, I like the idea of the brickskeller, but it's rather steep for those who are on tight budgets...

[prolesunited]

55. Trying to firm up plans

Please PM me if you want to go out to dinner on Friday night, followed by a sign-making party in our suite.

Saturday we are finalizing our meeting point. We will meet at 10 a.m., wait about 30 minutes and then move on to the rally. PM me and I will provide mine and Oaf of Office's cell phone numbers and that way you'll be sure to hook up with us if you miss us at the designated meeting spot. Judging by the response, I think we will have a really strong DU contingent.

Following the rally, Oaf of Office and I will be hosting a party in our suite (We're very near the rally site), unwinding from the day with pizza and beer, good jams and the company of your fellow DUers. I would like to have some idea how many people we can expect.

These are just the ideas we came up with. We're certainly open to suggestions.

So, please PM me with what would work into your plans so I can give you more specific details (phone numbers, hotel, etc.).

This is really starting to come together! I can't wait to meet all of you. :bounce:

[jonnyblitz]

56. of course I will be there but not until Saturday am.

I hope to be able to run into everybody at the 10am meeting place prior to the rally. Myself and DUer Boilerbabe will be there bright and early via Rhode Island ANSWER bus . I havent had a working computer for almost 2 weeks and have been using one at a public library nearby...

[IkeWarnedUs]

57. I got my bus ticket last night

Taking the ANSWER bus from Chicago. I'm not sure about meeting up with a DU group. I would love to, but don't want to take a chance on missing the bus home (its a LONG walk and walking would be all I could afford).

Anyone else taking the Chicago bus?

[prolesunited]

58. Well, I'll PM you the info

and the cell phone numbers. If you're early enough, you can hook up with us or call us in the crowd to track us down and at least stop by and say hello. You can always cut out early to make sure you don't miss your bus back.

I looked at taking the bus, but it seemed like such a grueling trip. I'm flying out of Midway early Friday and leaving late Sunday so I have some time to do a few other things while in DC.

[shirlden]

59. Ohio people

I can't make it....but if you want to go and have not made arrangements yet, go to http://www.cpanews.org
They are getting a charter and you can sign up there.

I really...really....

really want to be there, but....duty calls.


:bounce:

[Kolesar]

60. Cleveland Bus leaves Friday night

www.noacinfo.org

[stevedeshazer]

61. *sigh*

I sure wish I could be there with you guys, but I am 3,000 miles away and more than a few dollars short.

Please know you represent a whole lot of people like me... :-)

[diamond14]

62. Hey, Stevie D, go San Francisco...it's a great trip from Oregon

here's the link to the San Francisco March...looks like organizers are bringing buses from Oregon, Seattle, and elsewhere out West...

this is an INTERNATIONAL March to Bring our troops home...you can March all over the country, even 3000 miles from DC...WE NEED YOU...please join us !!!

http://www.internationalanswer.org/SFcampaigns/index.html

[diamond14]

63. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED !!!! please help! we need YOU !!!!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED !!!!

Please help...this effort is ENTIRELY run by volunteers, and YOU can make a difference...the March is growing bigger everyday (this is going to be one of the BIG marches in America !!!)...if everyone helps just a little bit, the burden will be shared and this March will be a HUGE success...

if you are in DC....there is a logistical meeting this Thursday night at 7 PM (October 16th) at the ANSWER DC Headquarters, 1247 E ST SE (Metro Blue Line - Eastern Market Station - call 202-544-3389 for directions)....PLEASE HELP !!! meet great people, make a difference...feel good about DC...

if you are in NY and can help anytime, please call: 212-633-6646
if you are in DC and can help anytime, please call: 202-544-3389

--------------------------
some examples of how you can help, not all inclusive by any means, but WE NEED YOU....

it's not hard to help, there are many easy tasks that need to be done
for example, before Oct 25th, volunteers are needed to answer phones, emails, inquiries, send out letters, pick up materials, run errands around town, deliveries, plaster signs all over town, make signs, copy paper, organize the increasingly hectic office and volunteers, set up computers, stick pins in maps to show where busses are arriving from, mail stuff, stamp stuff, mark routes on DC maps...simple, but we need your help....please join us....if angels were watching us, someone would donate some food over to 1247 E. St. SE any time from now to October 25...there is just lots and lots of hardworking and hungry volunteers there often til late at night with no time to stop...send bagels, pizza, donuts...

on the night before...help set up stages, sound stuff, signs, and guard areas during the night...set up tables for sponsors and Veterans groups,etc....

on October 25th...greet buses (this is a great job, the welcoming committee...give each bus coordinator a map of the March route and and point out the Washington Monument and say HI !!! Welcome to OUR Nation's Capital - people love to see you !!!)...help coordinate media, sound, first aid, disabled vehicles, serve as a march coordiator along the route (armband and cell phone) to monitor progress and watch cops....lots of help needed on Oct 25th....

there is always an unmet need for money....this is a totally volunteer effort with minimal funds available for many expenses, like materials for first aid signs and armbands, permit fees, web page hosting, banners, office supplies, cell phone time, phone lines....we are working out of a very old house, sharing space with an activist group from nicaragua who are very good spirited about this...any donated money will be put to really good use...so you can make a difference even from far away...BRING OUR TROOPS HOME NOW!!!


http://www.internationalanswer.org/

[JamesKPolk]

64. I'm there! FYI for out of towners

I'm there. You should be too. FYI, for those of you coming from out of town, some of the best/cheapest places to stay are motels/hostels/random friends and Democrats living out near College Park and Greenbelt Maryland. Take the metro into the city. Don't try driving there. Trust me.

[prolesunited]

65. Still waiting for some responses from people I PMed

I'm leaving early next Friday morning so that leaves a week to nail down the details.

So far, we have about five people responding for dinner and an addition 12 or 13 for the rally/march.

If you want to be a part of the action and fun, please let me or Oaf of Office know this weekend.

Looking forward to meeting all of you! :hi:

[Blue_Tires]

66. I live in Forstville

I'll be there

[MountainLaurel]

67. Signs, signs, everywhere there's signs

Hi all,

This post is actually a response to my own damn question, looking for ideas about what to put on a sign. Well, happened to receive a couple of my godless commie liberal supply catalogs today, and there were some great slogans in there. Even though it's a moot point for me (I bought a peace flag to take), perhaps someone else is looking for a little inspiration. Not all of these are entirely on point, but it's a start.

Now let's go fight the power!

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

Sign ideas:

Regime change begins at home.
Peace also takes courage.
Fight war, not wars.
These colors don't run. . . the world.

Why is there always money for war and not for education?
Youth for peace and justice.
What is OUR oil doing under THEIR soil?
War is not the answer.
War is terrorism.
THINK. . . it's patriotic.
Terrorism is a symptom, not the disease.
"There is no flag large enough to cover the shame of killing innocent people." Howard Zinn
Peace is patriotic.
Honor veterans . . . wage peace.
God bless the whole world. No exceptions.
War is not healthy for children and other living things.
Blessed are the peacemakers.
Strike a blow for victory. . . kick the oil habit.
War, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing.
Military solutions are problems.
We are creating enemies faster than we can kill them.
If we kill the innocent . . . we become the enemy.
You can no more win a war than you can win an earthquake.
Civil liberties: Don't leave home without them.
Liberate OUR troops.
Practice compassionate impeachment.
We're in big trouble when our bombs are smarter than our president.
Peace begins when the hungry are fed.
IRAQ DISTRACTS: From fighting terrorism, from balancing the budget, from creating real jobs, from supporting healthcare.
In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act.
BUll SHit.
Bush-Cheney. 1984. War is peace.
"There never was a good war or a bad peace." Ben Franklin.
"We are here to awaken from the illusion of our separateness." Thich Nhat Hanh
What weapons? Bush lied, people died.
One nation, under surveillance.
Proud to be American, ashamed of my government.
Anyone that claims God is on their side is dangerous as hell.
Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent.
"If this were a dictatorship, it would be a heck of a lot easier . . . just as long as I'm the dictator." G.W. Bush
Political prisoner in training.
God FORGIVE America.
Justice, not war.

Finally, a personal favorite:

Have another pretzel, motherfucker.

[robodog]

75. Idea for a sign? try these

http://www.geocities.com/draloowekim/AmericanJihad.html


http://hometown.aol.com/robodog/PalmBeachBlues.html

I think my paintings convey the proper dread in these dark days of despotism'

[goddess40]

77. I love your favorite

I have a peace flag also but I'm making signs to take along. I was told that last time not enough people had signs.
If we don't use them there I will use them for our weekly protest here.
Thanks for all the ideas

[jonnyblitz]

68. Guess who else is having a rally in DC on the 25th

featuring Bob Dornan. (((((((SHUDDER)))))))

http://freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/997137/posts

[prolesunited]

69. !!!! FINAL DETAILS HERE !!!!

Here's the plan:

Saturday, Oct. 25
• 10 to 10:30 a.m. — Meet at Constitution and 17th.
This will put us about 400 yards from the rally site and the buses usually drop people off on Constitution, although this hasn't been finalized.

Thanks to amen1234, we'll have several signs announcing Democratic Underground so you won't be able to miss us.

• 10:30 a.m. — Move to front of stage area
The initial group will move to rally site and secure a good spot. Someone will stay behind to meet up with anyone running late and we'll hook up with the others.

• 11 a.m. — Rally/march
Here's the march route:


• Late afternoon to ?
Party in our hotel suite
Oaf of Office and I have a room fairly close to the rally site and we'll have music, pizza and liquid refreshments. There's a liquor store conveniently located next door to the hotel to stock up, but don't feel like you have to drink to enjoy this event. People can pitch in what they can and we'll do a pizza run. Youngred has provided some good recommendations on the pizza options. Even if you can't stay long, I'm hoping everyone will stop by.

For those on the buses, please at least come by our location and say hello. I know some will be with other groups, but try to stop by and introduce yourselves. And if you do decide to stay with us, you can always break off a little early to make sure you get back to your bus on time.

A number of people already have confirmed so we're going to have quite a showing! The more the merrier though!

Friday, Oct. 24
• 6:30 p.m. DU dinner
For anyone coming into town early or living in the area, you're invited to join us for dinner. We'll meet in the lobby or our hotel and then go to a restaurant in the area, nothing too fancy or too expensive.

I've had about seven people confirm for dinner, but we always can add more to the list!

I will be providing cell phone numbers and our hotel location privately. The cell phone numbers will ensure that if you get lost or delayed that you will still be able to find us. If you haven't PMed me already, please do so I can get you the information. I'll be sending everyone the information this weekend.

So, what have I missed? What can we add to make this even better?

Just think! This time next week, we'll be in D.C. making our voices heard. I am so psyched. I can't wait to meet all of you!

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

Here's the initial thread in activism:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=106&topic_id=2946&mesg_id=2946

[deutsey]

72. I'm hoping I can at least hang out a little while after the march

but I'll definitely be there at 10 on Saturday!

[demdogg]

70. I NEED YOUR HELP

I AM TRYING TO GET THE WORD OUT TO EVERY DEMOCRAT AND BUSHH OPPOSITION VOTER TO VOTE BY ABSENTEE BALLOT. WE CAN'T TRUST THE COMPUTERS AND THIS IS THE ONLY WAY TO MAKE SURE OUR VOTES ARE COUNTED. IMPORTANT WE SEND THEM BACK REGISTERED RETURN RECIEPT SO WE HAVE A PAPER TRAIL..WILL Y'ALL HELP ME SPREAD THE IDEA??? PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE,HELP ME SAVE AMERICA FROM THESE FASCISTS....EMAIL [e-mail]

[electricmonk]

71. I hope to be there

Not sure yet. I'm supposed to go to Richmond Saturday evening. Might go to DC for the rally and skip the march depending on how long the speakers go for. That will make for a long day though leave home about 7am arrive DC about 10:45 hang out for a few hours drive down to Richmond, hang out with my brother for awhile go see bands play from 9pm-2am sleep for a few hours come home. Sometimes I wish I was still 21.

[prolesunited]

79. PM me and let me know

so I can add you to the list. I'll give you the cell phone numbers as well. I have 34 people on my list so far and some of them will be bringing people as well. We're going to have quite a contingent!

[prolesunited]

82. We now have about 40 DUers on the list!

It's going to be an awesome turnout. PM me if you already haven't so I can send you the cell phone numbers.

:bounce:

[RainDog]

83. I'm gonna be there

And I really want to meet up with DU-ers.

I'm riding with some other people and we are staying with someone outside of the city.

We're leaving on Friday, but I have no idea what time we'll arrive or where we'll be before the march.

however, I will tell the others and we can make plans to meet up and march together.

I'll have my regular sign, probably (which you have on photo, right, proles?), and I've got a DU bumper sticker to put on it, plus I'll probably add a "No W" symbol to the top just because.

Anyway, I would love to meet up with other DUers. This is the first march I've attended in DC, though I've been to ones locally every time.

Any one have a suggestions for things you really need in a backpack? bottled water, of course. a sweater.

btw, what's the weather forecast for DC for the weekend?

[MountainLaurel]

85. Highs in the mid 60s

And partly cloudy, but looking nicer in the afternoon.

As for the backpack, I'm the anal sort, so I'd also bring your favorite pain reliever in case of headache or sinus attack and some quick snackage: Odwalla bars, fruit that doesn't bruise easily, etc. Now that the U.S. is limiting who can park their hot dog mobiles where, it's sometimes more difficult to find cheap food near the Mall. Oh, and a personal fave: hand sanitizer and/or tissues, for the Porta-Johns.

[prolesunited]

86. Check out who's coming!

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=104&topic_id=570772

[jsmacdonald]

87. If you want to get together, we already have a party set up

PARTY FRIDAY NIGHT. Need something to do on Friday night? Want to make your signs with other activists? Come to our pre-protest party.

WHO: The DC Anti-War Network in collaboration with the Warehouse Theater

WHAT: A reception and informal planning and orientation session for the October 25 UFPJ/ANSWER Demonstration against the US occupation of Iraq as well as a welcoming reception for demonstration participants arriving from out of town.

WHEN: Friday evening October 24th 6-11 pm

WHERE: The Warehouse 1021 7th St. NW just south of the Mount Vernon Metro stop on the Green/Yellow line.

WHY: As a lead-up to the October 25 demonstration against the US occupation of Iraq, the DC Anti-War Network is hosting a welcoming event and reception for demonstrators arriving from out of town. This is an opportunity for both local and out of town demonstration participants to get together, share ideas about Iraq, US Mid-East Policy, the Bush Administration, and other topics, in addition to being able to plan and strategize for the Saturday demonstration and beyond. Free admission, cash bar, with a short series of speakers tba.

The Warehouse's current exhibition is "The Propaganda of War", a show of over a dozen regional artists whose liner notes state-

"In the buildup to the war against Iraq, America was confronted with a barrage of information designed to build, sway, or shore up our support or opposition. Striking in its absence from the public arena was actual debate about the proposed war. In its place, we had propaganda: declarations, snippets, and sound bites lobbed at the public with greater frequency than the promised rain of bombs on Iraq. Instead of mounting a simple, pro or anti-war show, the curators examine the nature of the debate itself and explore the role of art in coercion and conflict."

http://www.dawndc.net

[jsmacdonald]

88. Just to follow up on this

We are a local peace organization. I think it would just make things a lot easier for us and you and everyone else if we all networked with local groups. This is how we will build this movement. We have a party pre-arranged, and you all should go meet up here and save yourselves a lot of trouble.

Although I doubt he'll come, we are trying to get Dennis Kucinich to show up. I'll have more on that as it's available. Also, some local press are likely to come.

Jim

[prolesunited]

89. Thanks for the offer!

There isn't too many people coming in Friday and we already have dinner plans. We'll definitely keep this in mind, though, for afterward. Thanks again! :hi:

[SoCalDem]

90. The perfect "hand-out" for freepers who show up to heckle

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=104&topic_id=577250

[bspence]

91. I'm going

I'll be there. I live in the area.

[DebJ]

92. Three coming from York Pa

Someone in DU suggested wearing bandanas and sunglasses and the like, that's kinda funny for us. My son is almost 7' tall, over 400 lbs, and my boyfriend is 6'8". We can always see well above the crowds, ha!
I was born in Washington DC almost 48 yrs ago, grew up in Maryland right over the DC line, watched everything throughout the 60's - watched DC burning during the riots from my friend's backyard porch - my heart was always in the protests, but I never got the chance to be there. I had to move 2 hours away before it became possible!

[Hell Hath No Fury]

93. SF protestor here...

be sure to take a DUers group photo for the gallery!

Happy marching!

:toast: :party:

Hell

[kwolf68]

94. I live in NOVA

And still don't know if I'm going...I have some major studying to do, but something is certainly pulling me in that direction. Maybe I could take some note cards and study Molecular Genetics while I protested. LOL

[bspence]

95. LIZ OR LIZ'S MOM FROM THE MARCH TODAY!! PLEASE READ!!

Ok, this is weird, and quite a long shot that you would read this post.

This is Brian, the guy in the brown jacket and jeans that met up with you this afternoon. I enjoyed hanging out with you guys, and wanted to meet up again sometime in the future. I've been kicking myself for not getting your phone number or e-mail address. Just reply to this message, and I'll give you my e-mail address so you can drop me a line. Thanks!

[SpecPros]

96. Right on!

We need more strong-spined individuals. Keep up the rabble-rousing! :-)