Nelson for Vice President?

Vice President Bill Nelson?
Sen. Nelson says that decision
would have to come this summer.
Watch the interview

Bill Nelson a vice president candidate?
Saturday, February 23, 2008

Vice President Bill Nelson? Sen. Nelson says that decision would have to come this summer.
(AP) -- Florida Senator Bill Nelson says he would consider the Number two job in Washington. The two-term Democratic lawmaker is traveling the state while the Senate is on a short recess. He fielded questions from about 65 people in DeLand Thursday, including one about whether he would consider being a vice presidential candidate. Nelson laughed and noted that decision would have to come after the Democratic National Convention in August.

Nelson also spoke to Bay News 9's Al Ruechel and Howard Troxler from the St. Petersburg Times about the VP possibility. That interview will be broadcast Sunday at 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Political Connections. He noted the importance of winning Florida if a candidate is going to win the presidency. Watch the interview

Counter-Protesters 101

"Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster." ~ Nietzsche

1. BE PEACE KEEPERS
If we want our leaders to be ambassadors of peace then we must take the lead and be role models. Role Model Peaceful behavior prior to, during and after the action! On September 15th 2007 the Iraq Veterans Against the War led a 100,000 strong march of anti-war protesters from the White House to the Capitol building. They were supported by the Veterans for Peace. Along the way the marchers were harassed by a pro-war gathering. "Their own actions speak louder than words", watch this video and see if you don't agree: http://youtube.com/watch?v=YlbU5ubDy30 A classic CODEPINK video showing how we truly model peaceful behavior and encourage all to do the same!

And Words from Medea Benjamin:
Be nice. Take the high road. Give peace signs. Blow kisses. Don’t yell.

2. KNOW THY ENEMY
The Gathering of Eagles [GOE], Rolling Thunder and other groups can and will do many things to try and upset a peaceful action but they look like total fools with their bulging eyeballs and their mouths screaming obscenities at beautiful smiling [pink] women and men who are emitting love, peace and tolerance.

So who are these counter-protester people? Well, I suspect that many of them are white supremacists. In this video the guy actually says "like one guy at OUR Nazi's march" so This video is only 3 minutes and it is very weird listening to a KKK talk about how to handle the hippies at a march. The Nazi comment is at the 1:45 mark. http://youtube.com/watch?v=mUD9RTtmkyM&mode=related&search

3. ORGANIZE TRAININGS
Prior to Oct 27, 2007 in Orlando*, we held three trainings regarding non-violent action and peace-keeping, one conference call, one meeting centrally located and one meeting at the University of Central Florida for the many students who were planning on attending our rally and march. We also sent emails to all 85 groups involved and hardly any one on our side of the barricades acted out or was aggressive. We also had Peace-Keepers walking throughout the march. These trainings proved to be very important and effective.

4. PUBLICIZE AND DISTRIBUTE WIDELY!
Are you expecting counter-protesters at your event? Let the media know that many of these Pro-War folks are very nasty and have specifically targeted CODEPINK and FRIENDS (Quakers) in recent months in many cities around the country. They have screamed and cursed at us, ripped up peace signs and photos of our loved ones who have died in Iraq, even spit on the Veterans for Peace. Let them and everyone know that you intend to show the world a different way to protest! Let the media know that you will not engage these people in argument or word-slinging, that you respect their right to be there and will only act in a peaceful and powerful way to lift up your voices and Stop the War NOW. It's imperative for you to encourage the media to be responsible and get this message out BEFORE your event!

5. BRING IN THE CLOWNS
Invite everyone to join your group including the Clowns (especially the clowns!), artists, anarchist, activists and green groups to creatively and nonviolently confront these Pro-War supporters. Invite Artists to bring chalk and fill the sidewalks with Peace talk and to be part of your banner making, costumes and any other creative visuals you plan on relating to the war.

And don't forget street theater groups! Below is a part of an article about the "Bride Power" clowns that performed at the Nazi rally in Tennessee. Take a look and see if your group has any inspirations for a similar type of public response to the "Gathering of Eagles" or whoever is planning on crashing your party. From http://asheville./indymedia.org/article/107Clowns:

• White Power! the Nazi's shouted, White Flour? the clowns yelled back running in circles throwing flour in the air and raising separate letters which spelt White Flour
  
• White Power! the Nazi's angrily shouted once more, White flowers? the clowns cheers and threw white flowers in the air and danced about merrily.
  
• White Power! the Nazi's tried once again in a doomed and somewhat funny attempt to clarify their message, ohhhhhh! the clowns yelled Tight Shower! and held a solar shower in the air and all tried to crowd under to get clean as per the Klan’s directions.
  
• At this point several of the Nazi's and Klan members began clutching their hearts as if they were about to have a heart attack. Their beady eyes bulged, and the veins in their tiny narrow foreheads beat in rage. One last time they screamed White Power!
  
• The clown women thought they finally understood what the Klan was trying to say. Ohhhhh... the women clowns said. Now we understand...
  
• WIFE POWER! they lifted the letters up in the air, grabbed the nearest male clowns and lifted them in their arms and ran about merrily chanting WIFE POWER! WIFE POWER! WIFE POWER!

6. BE PEACE KEEPERS**
On Friday September 14th, the evening before a mass anti-war mobilization in Washington DC, the Rolling Thunder pro-war motorcycle veterans showed up at the CODEPINK house IN DC. What began as threatening posturing, turned into an engaging dialog between the two groups who are political polar opposites. See Video below ~ CODEPINK DC ROCKS!

"Rolling Thunder" Pro-War Vets Group Visits CODEPINK at Home! http://codepinkdc.blogspot.com/2007/09/rolling-thunder-pro-war-vets-group.html



*For the Oct27 rally here in Orlando, the GEO announced that they would be coming out strong. Since we have so many retired and x military here in Florida, we were expecting 1,000 to 2,000 of them. On the day of the event, the 25 to 35 GOEs hung out on their corner but by the time the march reached that location, it was pouring down rain and they all looked like a bunch of drowned rats. We ignored them, literally and smiled at the cops in full riot gear, waiving our peace signs and telling them "thank you" for keeping the peace. It was almost a let down for some but not for me. A beautiful march it was!

**It's doubley important!

For Tampa Pinks--check out the new MySpace page..

...for St. Pete for Peace.
http://www.myspace.com/stpeteforpeace
On it there is a flyer for March 19 PEACE ACTIONS in Tampa and Brooksville!
For more info and/or details, contact me here:
codepinktampabay@yahoo.com
You can find us Tampa Pinks at the following listserv and MySpace profile page:
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/codepinktampabay
or
http://www.myspace.com/codepinktampabay
C U in the streets!

Peace Ribbon Project

If you have never seen the Peace Ribbon Project...


This panel was made for Cindy's son.

No More War for Oil!

No more murder of innocent human beings

Bring the Troops Home Now!

As we near 4,000 troops dead, consider making the trip to

see this beautiful and inspirational installation.

Ann Wright Book Tour in Florida by Lydia

CODEPINK Florida women Monica, Leslie, Deidra, Sheri, Lydia and 6 UCF women joined forces in putting together the most fantastic and fun book signing tour ever for the beloved Col. Ann Wright and her book "DISSENT - Voices of Conscience". Tons of Kudos also to Mike Fox, Jeannie Toth and Samm Simpson in the Tampa/Clearwater/ St. Petersburg area, Faith Fippenger in Sarasota, Michael Heaney for his contacts, Dr. Dennis Jett and Mabel at UF and John Bersia and Stephanie at UCF. Finally, a special thanks to Scott and Sherrie Camil, Veterans For Peace in Gainesville.

Here's what we did: Ann touched down in Sarasota on Thursday, Jan 24th. Ann remarked that it was the "geriatric flight" - cracked her up. Faith Fippenger, Monica Spain and I met her and headed home to meet Marco Bell of Marco and Monica/CODEPINK Sarasota. Monica was the point person for the Sarasota News and Books event later that evening. Ann was introduced by Arnie Schmidz from the Southwest Florida Coalition for Peace and Justice. She gave the most wonderful talk. She autographed books at every event which was really special for all who attended. After a great talk we headed up the street to a wonderful Two Senoritas Restaurant, compliments of the CODEPINK Sarasota women (there were, by the way, a number of them at the event - you know who you are :-D)

We were up early, had a wonderful breakfast and Ann started her radio interviews. There were many, many radio interviews. Some in the car, some at homes, one in a fancy pancy resort parking lot in South Florida area and even in offices outside of speaking engagements. It was amazing to see how she juggled all of those calls. Early Friday, Marco got us packed, ready and off we went to meet Deidra and her daughter in Orlando.

Our housing host was the amazing Leslie Klein, also CODEPINK Orlando. Deidra was the point person for Friday's events in Orlando. We landed at Leslie's awesome place first where we rested and got ready for a wonderful dinner at the Thai House Restaurant and the meal was just delicious. Deidra, her daughter and Sheri Heitker joined us along with retired military men and women from the Unitarian church. The Vietnam veterans shared lots of stories. Joseph R. DuRocher and his wife Rosemary related their experiences and feelings when Joe sent his Naval Aviator Wings and his shoulder boards to President Bush with his letter protesting the war in Iraq. Check Ann's web page at http://www.voicesofconscience/ for his letter. We were all glad to hear that the White House returned his honors intact with a letter of regret.

CODEPINK Orlando had also made arrangements for Ann to speak at the Universalist Unitarian Church in Orlando. We were met there by a new college CODEPINK group of women from the University of Central Florida. They supported the Friday night event at the church and also the following Tuesday afternoon event at UCF. This totally awesome group of young women will be at the CODEPINK House during the March actions. Ann's talk was great and she signed lots and lots of books there also.

We left Leslie's on Saturday morning to head back down south to meet Mike Fox and his awesome gang in the Tampa/Clearwater/ St. Pete area. We started with a well attended event on the University of South Florida campus. After about an hour of speaking and signing books Mike took us to their weekly protest across the street from the Veterans Hospital in Tampa. Lots of South Florida peacemaker activists were holding IMPEACH and Troops Out Now signs and banners. Mike had also arranged for a television interview with FOX NEWS and Ann was able to put the word out about her book at that action. We stayed for a while at the action, then headed to Jeannie Toth's home for a 2 night stay. Jeannie has completely remodeled this place, practically on her own, Ann and I couldn't believe it. Wonderful. Mike stayed close by and things ran smooth as silk.


We ate some chilli, washed up and headed to the First Unitarian Church to meet the amazing Samm Simpson. Samm introduced Ann but first the most amazing singer (he sang "Abraham, Martin and John") brought the mood of freedom into the room. Ann gave the most amazing talk that night. She talked about herself a little more on this talk - she is a true patriot and a real rabble rouser! Saturday was a really great day.Sunday we were up early for a event at The Beach Theater, an alternative movie theater in a funky part of town.

It was the weekend of the arts fair and the weather was fantastic, even a little cool, always breezy. We watched part of "Why We Fight" and then Ann spoke to a moderate crowd of really interested activists. Mostly older women this day. Ann signed books and met new admirers. We headed right out to a luncheon/fund raising event at Ferg's Restaurant. Again, Mike, Jeannie and Samm got a great group of heros and activists together. We had burgers, chicken, salad and drinks. Ann spoke for a short time and also got to do a newspaper interview with "Military Times" - a magazine that makes it to veterans everywhere.

"DISSENT - Voices of Conscience" will now be on the "reading list" in that paper - a major step toward getting to those folks who aren't "in the choir". Ann wants to get her message to everyone. Our day wasn't over then. Our next stop was a wonderful meal at Leo's Restaurant where Samm was able to join with supporters and once again introduce Ann to those who attended. It was a long day and a very busy weekend but we sold tons of books. Mike Fox and company put together a fantastic weekend and we had a wonderful time. It was a long day - the food was wonderful.

After hot showers and a good night's sleep we had a little time to just hang out with Jeannie on Monday morning. Ann started radio interviews, we had a good breakfast and then headed back up to Orlando to our hotel at the University of Central Florida. Ann did a couple of radio interviews on the way. My brain is so full of the most awesome talks and answers to questions. The University of Central Florida arranged for a beautiful room at the Raddison Hotel. We checked in, got organized and took off to meet the UCF CODEPINK women for dinner at Miss Saigon. Ann had wanted Vietnamese food and it was really good. It was great fun to get to know the UCF women better and talk more about their March `08 trip to the CODEPINK house in DC. We would see them again the next day on campus and cannot say enough good stuff about these awesome young women.

Ann had one more radio interview that evening and then we watch the final, last, end of it, finis, over, been there/done that, hasta la vista, don't let the door hit you in the ass State of the Union address by George W. Bush. Early Tuesday, the next morning, Ann met Dr. David Houghton downstairs in the Raddison restaurant for an extensive interview. Dr. Houghton also introduced Ann to the group at the UCF event later that afternoon. After the interview we went over to UCF to meet John Bersia and his office. Ann was introduced to Harriet L. Elam-Thomas who was Diplomat/Ambassador -in-Residence at UCF (2003-2005). Harriet was truly looking forward to meeting Ann and they had much to share with one another. It was really an honor to see these fantastic women who've paved the way years ahead of my time.

Soon after arriving John and his staff took us into downtown Orlando for a luncheon/forum with the Global Connections Foundation. They had their meeting, we had a nice lunch and Ann spoke briefly. After chatting and signing some books we were off once more for a talk at the University of Central Florida. We had a large student crowd and one very concerned war supporter. Ann spoke truth to power to his questions (we did have to finally say "Sir, do you have a question?" -he was going on and on and on.....) Ann mentioned she loves the conversations with those debaters and wished she had more time to talk with him. CODEPINK UCF was on the scene and Ann's talk was perfect for the student crowd.

After just over an hour we were out the door headed to the University of Florida in Gainesville. Thanks to Michael Heaney from UF who is currently working in DC, we were able to get Ann into The University of Florida. The event was sponsored by Dr. Dennis Jett and his staff at the School of International Studies . The event was well attended, mostly older activists and lots of Veterans For Peace/Gainesville. It was a wonderful talk followed by snacks and drinks. A great crowd gathered for the book signing. We took some great pictures and I will post a small slide show of the entire trip asap. We have some really fantastic pictures to share.

Next we began what was for me the most amazing and truly life affirming time of this trip. Scott and Sherrie Camil met us just outside of the University of Florida event and guided us onto the campus for Ann's talk. Scott Camil has written books, done numerous interviews and shares his story about being a Marine in Vietnam in "Winter Soldier". After the event at UF we followed Scott (at break speed by the way :-D) out to Scott and Sherrie's place. Our final night in Florida was truly activist affirming. We were welcomed with open arms by local VFP and IVAW members and their spouses. The house rambles on and on and each room is a testament to the history of the anti-war movement beginning back in the 1970's. From that time to this day they are an organized "family" of people who, combined, are doing it all. Scott and Ann spent a lot of very personal time together. Scott loaded her up with books he'd written, gave us both copies of "Winter Soldier" and VFP t-shirts and he shared a new video in progress that really shows what was happening during the Vietnam war.

I believe this effort/movie will travel our country to open the eyes of many who have no idea about what happened THEN and don't really have a clue of what is happening (to our military and to civilians in Iraq) NOW either. Ann also signed tons of books. One woman we met is an attorney who is supporting soldiers whose PTSD claims have been denied as "pre-existing conditions", PRO BONO. She bought a copy of the book for all of her employees (and she has a lot of employees) and VFP Gainesville bought a stack for their area. It was not only a great way to end the tour financially, it was probably one of the most amazing nights of my entire activist life. It was the anti-war movement past, present and future. But, for me, most importantly it was the focus of "love" and the importance of that energy in Scott and Sherrie Camil's house..

Love and communication are the fabric of the work they are doing in Gainesville, Florida. Scott told me they have been playing volley ball every single Sunday afternoon since 1979, rain, lightening, freezing cold....they play. Then they all shower up, eat a big meal and sit down to decide what they will do next week for peace. They share ideas, hammer out plans and do it as a family...... ......... .sound like any place you know :-D?

Our last night in Florida was authentic and energizing. We should all have a house like this in our own cities and towns. It was such an honor to represent CODEPINK Women For Peace all over Florida. The CODEPINK Florida women helped in a huge way with rooms, food, event locations and preparations, press, setting up tables and awesome food (CODEPINK Orlando had this fantastic sheet cake with the front of Ann's book on it- and it was edible). This trip could not have happened without them. Thanks again to Mike Fox and his unwavering dedication to peace and justice here in Florida. I hope I haven't forgotten anyone who helped, lots of people helped. Anyone who gets a chance to see Ann and get her book shouldn't hesitate one second. A night you will remember and a book you can't forget.

Peace,

Lydia

Col Ann Wright Book Readings in Florida

Retired Colonel Ann Wright
DISSENT: Voices of Conscience, Government Insiders Speal Out Against the War in Iraq.

During the run-up to war in Iraq, Ann Wright resigned her State Department post in protest. She had served in the U.S. military and diplomatic corps for 29 and 16 years respectfully, and she was among dozens of government insiders and active-duty military who spoke out, resigned, leaked documents, or refused to deploy. In Dissent: Voices of Conscience, she and coauthor Susan Dixon tell the stories of these men and women, who risked careers, reputations, and even freedom out of loyalty to the Constitution and the rule of law. Join us to celebrate the publication of Ann's new book.

[TOUR Schedule below] More about Ann: http://www.globalexchange.org/getInvolved/speakers/206.html


VIDEO LINKS

Shut Down Guantanamo!
Colonel (Ret.) Ann Wright speaking at the meeting the night before the demonstration at the US Southern Command in Miami, Florida.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=pV4go_QU3n8

International Human Rights Day
At a White House rally, on Dec. 10, 2007, Col. (Ret) Ann Wright sharply criticized the Bush-Cheney Gang for condoning torture around the world; and for its use of rendition (kidnapping) to send detainees to other countries that torture.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXqDdg02S14

BOOK SIGNING TOUR SCHEDULE ~ In Florida Jan 24 - 29, 2008
Thursday, Jan 24, 2008
6:00 PM ~ Sarasota News and Books 1341 Main Street Sarasota, Florida 34236
http://www.sarasotanewsandbooks.com/ Andrew Foley 941-323-2310

Friday, Jan 25, 2008
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm ~ The First Unitarian Church of Orlando
1901 East Robinson Street Orlando, Florida 32803 codepinkorlando@gmail.com

Saturday, Jan 26, 2008
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm ~ Peace Forum: Ann Keynote
USF Campus (Specific Rm TBA. Call Mike)
4202 E. Fowler Ave., ADM241 Tampa, Fl 33620 Contact Mike Fox, 727-320-4502

7:30 pm-9:00 pm ~ Unitarian Universalist Church
2470 Nursery Rd Clearwater, FL 33764 Contact Mike Fox, 727-320-4502

Sunday, Jan 27, 2008
10:00 am - 12:00 pm ~ Free Peace Film/Ann Speaks/
Mingler Beach Theater, 315 Corey Ave. St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
Contact: Mike Fox, 727-320-4502

12:30 pm - 2:00 pm ~ Ann Speaks At Samm Simpson Fundraising Lunch
Ferg's 1320 Central Ave. St. Petersburg, FL 33705 Contact Mike Fox, 727-320-4502

4:00 pm - 6:00 pm ~ Ann Speaks At Samm Simpson Fundraising Dinner
Leo's Italian Restaurant, 2900 Alt 19 Palm Harbor Contact Mike Fox, 727-320-4502

Tuesday, Jan 29, 2008
11:45 am - 1:30 pm (Ann will speak for 10-15 minutes)
Regional Round Table Luncheon Orlando, Florida

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM ~ University of Central Florida Student Union Bldg.
4000 Central Florida Blvd. Orlando, FL 32816-0003 E-mail contact: global@mail.ucf.edu

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM ~ University of Florida
Arredondo Room (Reitz Union) Gainesville, FL E-mail MCardec@ufic.ufl.edu

"When the actions of government become dangerous to the security of the nation, it takes a special courage for men and women inside the government to speak out. If we care about keeping democracy alive, we must welcome this book." —Howard Zinn"

Ann Wright is not one to be silenced." —Ms. Magazine

For more information, contact 850-241-3191, or visit http://www.voicesofconscience.com/

Dissent: Voices of Conscience, by Colonel (Ret.) Ann Wright and Susan Dixon • Foreword by Daniel EllsbergTrade Paperback Original • 296 pages • $17.95 • ISBN 9780977333844Published by Koa Books • www.koabooks.comDistributed to the trade by SCB Distributors, www.scbdistributors.com

Miami January 2008 Press Links

PRESS

"A political protest in the streets of Miami boiled over on Saturday, when several hundred people from the Cuban community clashed with a group of activists. "

Here's the link that takes you to the clip directly. http://cbs4.com/video/?id=46104@wfor.dayport.com
Some GREAT quotes from the day!

• "The US Government is harboring a terrorist. And George Bush has said that any country that harbors terrorists is guilty of terrorism." Medea Benjamin
  
• Tighe Barry speaking to a police officer:
  " They do not have permits to carry ten foot polls and with points on the end. That I know is a fact. Now why you don't, you do not follow the rule of law. When the rule of law breaks down, Democracy breaks down. When Democracy breaks down, Anarchy takes place. And what we saw in the streets of Miami was Anarchy! "

Another article from the MIAMI HERALD: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking_dade/story/376973.html
Cuban exile militant stirs up foes, fans By David Quinones dquinones@MiamiHerald.com

Photos by Ricardo Lopez/ Miami Herald Staff

Awesome Slide Show of the Shut Down Guantanamo Rally:
http://www.miamiherald.com/multimedia/miami/shutgitmo/

Guantanamo Prison Protests at SouthCom in Doral
http://cbs4.com/local/Guantanamo.prison.camps.2.627676.html

DORAL (CBS4) ―
Demonstrators, joined by the national anti-war Code Pink movement, were protesting near the Pentagon's Southern Command headquarters in Doral Friday morning calling for the closure of Guantanamo Bay prison camps in Cuba.
It was coordinated worldwide by Amnesty International, marking the sixth anniversary of the opening of the camps.
Six years ago, the first 20 detainees arrived at the remote U.S. Navy base to open the offshore detention and interrogation center.
The Defense Department, which had no official comment on the anniversary, calls the prison camps a war-on-terror necessity and says captives are treated humanely.
The Southern Command overseas the Pentagon's operations in Latin America and the Caribbean and supervises the prison camps, where the United States currently holds 275 men as ``enemy combatants.''
Some of the Doral demonstrators wore orange jumpsuits synonymous with what the prisoners are clothed in.

URGENT ALERT & CALL OUT FROM MIAMI!!!
Dear Friends,
As you probably know from previous emails, our guests from CodePINK have planned to launch their Terrorist Watch Campaign focusing on Luis Posada Carriles , today, Saturday, by meeting in front of the Versailles Restaurant (3555 SW 8th St) at 11am to begin to pass out flyers calling for the arrest of this known terrorist.

The CodePINK activists have come to Miami to lead the successful protest that occurred on Friday in front of the Southern Command in Doral to demand the closing of the Guantanamo Detention Center.

After the protest on Friday members of CodePINK went to a Miami Cuban Radio station to participate in a talk show on Posada Carriles case. When they arrived they encountered a very hostile agitated audience and they debated some equally hostile radio commentators. During the show they were told that if they showed up at the Versailles they would receive a hostile response which would lead to one of them having their " head split open" by a "Castro agent posing as a Cuban right winger". Tonight Medea Benjamin, a national leader of CodePINK, received of phone call from a report from El Nuevo Herald, informing her that the Vigilancia Mambisa, Alpha 66 and other right wing Cuban groups would be holding a counter protest beginning at 10AM at the same location as the Code Pink action.

Over the past year these organizations have physically attacked 3 peaceful protests against the Bush administrations policies regarding Cuba and Venezuela. In all 3 cases First Amendment Rights were trampled upon as the protests were violently broken up with none of the violent attackers being arrested.

Today this must not be allowed to happen again. This morning we will be meeting with the City of Miami Police to facilitate their ability to enforce the law and protect our First Amendment Rights. We cannot allow a small group of right wingers to turn back the clock to a time when people in Miami lived in fear if they expressed opposition to the US policies on Cuba and Latin America. Please join us in supporting CodePINK'S right to free speech by joining them across the street from the Versailles Restaurant at 11 AM this morning. For more information please call me at 305-582-4846 or Media Benjamin at 415-235-6517
Best Regards,
Jack Lieberman
South Florida Peace & Justice Network

Doral protesters target Guantánamo
BY CAROL ROSENBERG Miami Herald Posted on Fri, Jan. 11, 2008
crosenberg@MiamiHerald.com
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking_news/story/375414.html

About 60 protesters -- many wearing trademark orange jumpsuits -- staged a street demonstration near the Pentagon's outpost in Doral Friday -- protesting the sixth anniversary of the opening of the prison camps at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba.
Morning rush-hour motorists mostly whizzed by the demonstrators, who were chanting, ''Hey-hey, ho-ho, U.S. out of Guantánamo'' and ''Stop torture now,'' at a busy intersection at Northwest 87th Avenue and Doral Boulevard.
A few drivers honked their car and truck horns as protester Rae Newman of Miami waved a sign declaring, ``Honk 4 Peace.''
''People are somewhat complacent,'' she said, adding that the horn-honking ``goes in waves, actually. When one person honks, it gives others the courage to honk.''
The local demonstrators, joined by the national anti-war movement called Code Pink, were protesting near the U.S. Southern Command as part of a coordinated series of demonstrations called by Amnesty International.
Six years ago Friday, the first 20 detainees arrived at the remote U.S. Navy base in southeast Cuba to open the offshore detention and interrogation center. Since then, nearly 800 detainees have been held there -- 275 of whom remain behind barbed wire enclosures as ``enemy combatants.''
Only two are now formally charged with crimes; two more await charges and a Pentagon official has said, in the end, the Bush administration expects to put 90 of the 275 on trial.
The Defense Department, which had no official comment on the anniversary, calls the prison camps a war-on-terror necessity and says captives are treated humanely.
Medea Benjamin, Code Pink founder, said the coordinated demonstrations across the globe were designed to send a message. ``We want the world to see another face of the American people -- one that believes in human rights and justice for all.''
Last year, for the fifth anniversary, she led a dozen people to the Cuban side of the minefield separating the isolated U.S. Navy base from Cuba proper -- and staged a vigil there. Among them were the mother and brother of Guantánamo detainee Omar Deghayes, who was released to the British government last month and is in London awaiting a court decision on whether he will be extradited to Spain.
The Doral demonstrators fanned out on a sidewalk with banners that also declared, ''Torture is terror'' and ''Close Guantánamo.'' About a third wore the jumpsuits and held photos of war-on-terror detainees, both men since freed and some still in the prison camps.
The protesters marched up a sidewalk toward Southcom, the jumpsuits and banners serving as quirky street theater in generally businesslike Doral.
One protester brought a pet rooster, saying it symbolized ``a wake-up call for America.''
Most of the demonstrators were locals, among them Florida National Guard soldier Camilo Mejia, 32, a former staff sergeant who was busted down to private after he was convicted of desertion for refusing to serve a second tour in Iraq in 2004.
Mejia, now of Sunny Isles, served nine months in an Army prison and is now appealing his conviction.
Meantime, he said he came to protest for a ''due process'' at Guantánamo but not in support of the detainees.
``It's not about the people who are there. It's about us. Everybody's entitled to their day in court. Give them an attorney and charge them with something.''
Southcom is the Pentagon's outpost for operations in Latin America and the Caribbean and has supervised the prison camps since before they opened on Jan. 11, 2002.

Say NO to Guantanamo & Terrorists in Miami!

SCHEDULE ~ 5 Days of Actions!

MEDIA COVERAGE: http://codepinkflorida.blogspot.com/2008/01/miami-january-11-2008-press-links.html

Thursday, Jan 10, 2008

11:00 am PRESS Conference ~ Close Guantanamo, Uphold the Constitution!

Quinta Inn & Suites (Miami Airport West, 8730 NW 27th St, Doral

Ret. Colonel Ann Wright, Medea Benjamin, Camilo Mejia (Iraq Veteran), Santiago Leon from Miami for Peace, National Lawyers Guild representing Guantanamo detainees.

12:00 noon Lunch with Senator Nelson

Here's your opportunity to sit down and listen to Bill or stand outside with your banners and signs about torture and terrorists. Democratic Professionals Council luncheon. Cost is $35 per person in advance/$40 at the door. Guests welcome. They expect to sell out so make your reservations early! http://www.democraticprofessionalscouncil.org/home.php?chapter=Palm%20Beach#76

7:00 pm Forum for International Day to Close Guantanamo
Speakers: CODEPINK cofounder Medea Benjamin, Colonel Ann Wright, Iraq Vet Camilo Mejia, and legal experts. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Miami, 7701 S.W. 76th Ave.
Sponsored by Miami for Peace, CODEPINK, and the Social Justice Committee of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Miami.

Photos by Ricardo Lopez/ Miami Herald Staff

Friday, January 11, 2008

7:00 a.m.-9:00 am Rally* & Picket for International Day to Close Guantanamo
Vicinity of the U.S. Southern Command NW 87th Ave & NW 36th St.Doral, FL

9:00 am March to the U.S. Southern Command

Saturday, January 12, 2008
11am-6pm Terrorist Watch Campaign focusing on Luis Posada Carriles
Call for the targeting and arrest of this known terrorist
Meet at Versailles Restaurant (3555 SW 8th St) 11am to begin outreach
For details on Terrorist Watch call 415-235-6517

Sunday, January 13, 2008

All day and overnight vigil
Contact Medea Benjamin or call 415 235-6517

6:00 pm Coral Gables Book Signing ~ Books & Books, 265 Aragon, Avenue, Coral Gables, FL Guest Speaker, Col. Ann Wright , coauthor with Susan Dixon of Dissent; Voices of Conscience with forward by Daniel Ellsberg. The public is Welcome. No Admission Fee, No Reservations. Contact Books & Books, 305-442-4408

Monday, January 14, 2008
9am Press Conference at Miami FBI office
16320 Northwest 2nd Avenue, North Miami Beach

12 noon Office of Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen
8660 West Flagler Street, Suite 131 (tel 305-220-3281)

5:00pm Delray Peace Corner Corner of Swinton and Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach. Please join us in our weekly vigil/protest on this great visibility corner! Contact Hillary spiderhill@usa.net or Vicki vickiryder@juno.com

7:30 pm WPB Book Signing ~ WPB Marriott Hotel,
1001 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401 Guest Speaker, Col. Ann Wright , coauthor with Susan Dixon of Dissent; Voices of Conscience with forward by Daniel Ellsberg. The public is Welcome. No Admission Fee, No Reservations. Contacts: Elna Laun 686-2060 or David Prensky 832-8511

Chapter Meetings Across Florida

CODEPINK Florida's Local Chapter Meetings*

GAINESVILLE ~ jacque@codepinkalert.org

• Feb 14, 4-6 pm ~ Valentine's Day counter-recruitment action at the National Guard recruiting office on NW 13th St. at NW 4th Av.

Inspired by the recent Berkley counter-recruitment actions there will be a Kissathon -- Bring your own partner and start kissing from 4-6 pm! We will have chalk to Make Art Not Soldiers. Don't Enlist...Stay And Kiss...That Way Everybody Makes Out! Make Love Not War!

ORLANDO ~ RSVP: codepinkorlando@gmail.com Usually 1st or 2nd WED at 6:30pm

• WED Feb 13, 6:30pm Dandelion Communitea, Near Mills & Colonial
  
• WED March 5, 6:30pm Probably Dandelion Communitea

SARASOTA ~ bellaespana@verizon.net and/or lcmitch78@yahoo.com

• Every Friday: Join us for vigil/sign holding from 4-5 pm @ Sarasota Bayfront/ US 41 (near Marina Jacks).

SOUTH FL WPB ~ RSVP: spiderhill@usa.net

• Sun Feb 10, 2:30pm ~ Soma Center and Cafe 609 Lake Ave., Lake Worth. Bring Valentines to send messages to members of Congress: Make Love not War! This is a new date for the February monthly meeting

SW FL Ft MYERS ~ RSVP: hrauen@comcast.net

• Tues Feb 5, 6;30pm ~ Holley Rauen's house in Ft Myers. PleaseRSVP and I will send directions. hrauen@mac.com

TALLAHASSEE codepinktally@yahoo.com

TAMPA BAY

• Wed Feb 6, 7:00 - 9:00 pm ~ Meeting at Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse, 4819 E Busch Blvd, Tampa, Florida 33617 Phone: (813) 715-1696 coffeeunchained@yahoo.com OR anitamariestewart@verizon.net
  
• Wed March 5, 7:00 - 9:00 pm ~ Meeting at Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse.
  [Repeats Every FIRST WEDNESDAY NIGHT]

UCF University of Central Florida ~ xofashionkillaxo@aol.com

• Thursdays 6:00pm ~ Weekly meetings.

VOLUSIA/FLAGLER ~ RSVP: cassydoan@aol.com

• Thu Feb 21st 6pm to 6:45pm ~ Weekly Demonstration, corner of International Speedway Blvd. and Nova Road


• Thu Feb 21st 7:00pm to 8pm ~ Meeting location picked after rally

* It's always a good idea to confirm with a local coordinator to make sure the location, time and date are still correct!

ATM ~ A thoughtful moment

Here are some spiritual and hopeful moments to fill up our souls this holiday season!

When I was teaching communications at University of Georgia, I had an alert for "teachable moments". Students got extra participation points if they spotted one, pointed it out and summarized what was learned. We called them ATMs. In today's society, we all go to the ATM to fill up our pocket books with cash. I think we could use some spiritual and intellectual ATMs for our souls after such an amazing but grueling year of activism.

So, I will start this out. Hillary (Not Clinton) sent a beautiful little blog about her caroling last night that I know will touch everyone's heart. I give it back to you again in peace and ask only that you share with us any teachable or soul filling moments you have had this holiday season. In turn, I will post them on the CodePINK Florida blog as a holiday resting place. You can reply here or send to codepinkorlando@ gmail.com I've also included Lydia's wonderful news!

Peace on Earth @ Lake Worth
Tonight a handful of us gathered in our full pink and went caroling along Lake Avenue in Lake Worth, FL singing the peace carols and passing out what flyers I had and as we were wishing there were more people out, a woman came up to us and thanked us. She had lost her son in Iraq earlier this year. We gathered her in our pink boa-ed arms and shared a moment. We asked her son's name-- Alex Fuller. So we told her we would dedicate our next song to him, and we sang "Let there be Peace on Earth and let it begin with me..."

Our voices were cracking and tears were streaming down our faces and we remembered why we are doing what we are doing. The rest of the caroling was very wonderful response and we connected with several wonderful people.

Then on the way home I stopped at Cracker Barrel for some take out and picked up some blocs that spelled Peace on Earth--which led to an amazing conversation with the woman at the cash register whose son just came home from his second tour--she said all she wants for Christmas is Peace.

~~~ Hillary [Not Clinton] Keyes <spiderhill@usa. net> WP FL CodePINK

Adel Hamad is free from Guantanamo
Dear all,Sometimes we wonder if what we do is helping. Is dressing up and street theater going to make a difference? Are we wasting our time in thinking we can change things?I'm here to say that EVERYTHING we do is helping. I've been standing in orange jumpsuit and hood/chains for a Guantanamo detainee named Adel Hamad, #940, for some time now. After 5 years in GITMO he still had never been charged, never been tried and was going blind from looking thru chain link fence for so long.He was released from GITMO last Thursday. He is home with his family.Keep the faith and never stop. The joy Dave and I feel tonight is almost impossible to express.We will all feel this joy when our troops start coming home to stay. Peace, Lydia
~~~ From: Lydia Vickers