Posted on 03/22/2003 10:36:51 PM PST by BossLady
We purposely held the rally at the plaza to keep a positive voice and forum for all involved. A few US supporters decided to march over to the Federal Building, then about 100 people followed them. I let leaders of the defectors know we are not permitted to rally there. That did not bother them!
Several minutes later, I went over to the Federal Building to check up on what was going on as I had gotten word that it was turning into a serious confrontation. When I got there, it was a couple guys yelling at each other. Most of our rally supporters just ignored the peaceniks and just started shouting U.S.A. and waving signs and flags.
There was several new outlets at the rally inlcuding KOH with talk show host Monica, Associated Press reporter Scott Sommer (remember that name), Reno Gazette-Journal Reporter and Channel 2 newsbabe. I was interviewed as was Kelli by all news outlets. We promoted FreeRepublic.com and kept things positive as we were there supporting our troops, America and our president, not there to bash others.
I met so many wonderful people at the rally. A gentleman who has had 3 generations of family in every war since WWII. Eight of his brothers fought in 3 wars and now his grandsons are in Middle East. We had several WWII vets wearing their jackets and hats waving flags. I was so proud to have them there.
A local Veteran Biker Club showed up to show their support, a couple of them were interviewed on site by Monica from KOH.
We had women with children in strollers; their toddlers holding signs saying, 'My Daddy is a Proud Marine'. There were African Americans, Latinos, Phillipinos all standing with us chanting and urging cars passing by to 'honk' for our troops.
A lovely woman named Tara Lee Bertucci came down to thank us and participate in the rally. She started a letter writing campaign for our troops several months ago. Tara said anyone could email her to find out more: tara@usadvantage.com.
I met the peace protest organizer, Dan. I walked up to him and made sure he knew I did not plan on coming over to the Federal Building. I told him that things seemed to be under control so far and that part of living in America is tolerance and all of us living together under the banner of freedom. He was not a part of the commie organization ANSWER but a local anti-war group. He started preaching at me about getting educated (my boyfriend was standing nearby ready for me to jump on the guy at that point, but I kept my cool). I told Dan I was educated enough to know that freedom is what makes it all happen. Without that, none of us would be here.
Late in the rally, peaceniks started to show themselves. Several women were crying, a young priest was praying with others while facing some of the Pro-US supporters. Unwashed girls in their 20s carrying flowers and 'War is Murder' posters stood huddled together as if we were going to 'break their line' of 4 people. Some of the under 21, unkempt black leather studded 'anarchy' crowd did get harsh words from some vets. One vet asked a kid if he even knew where Iraq was. Another vet wanted to know where he was during the Gulf War and Bosnia. Shouts came out 'he wasn't born yet'!
I felt the Rally for America was a great success and a positive thing for the Reno community. Many were frustrated and annoyed by the peaceniks getting all the press while the 'silent majority' go to work, do everyday things and serve our country.
Once again, news reporters and tv press have painted us as war-mongers, baby-killers and confrontationalists. Articles coming out from the Rally have been negative for us. I am as frustrated as everyone else about this and am forming letters to several news outlets.
The good news is.....the police department let us rally alongside the peaceniks. They stood across the street watching us....some I could see were laughing at the whole scene, some talking on their cell phones, some shaking their heads smiling. But, none of them said a word to us about coming over from the other site without a permit. Maybe that is what it's all about....the Silent Majority speaking without saying a word............
Organizer and buddies Kelli and Adrian Baines!!!! Aren't they cute???
US Supporters decide to march to Federal Building.
About 100 Pro-Troops Supporters march to the Federal Building.....
Pro-US ralliers arrive at Federal Building. We're Here!!!!!!!!! We're There!!!!!!! We're Everywhere!!!
US Flag Jeep Cherokee!!!!
This man brought his family from Sparks early to help us put up yellow ribbons on the trees. He and his wife and daughter were wonderful!
In the middle of the crowd....
Peace Protesters and Pro-USA supporters co-mingling. Notice the WWII vet in the red jacket, yelling and ignoring peaceniks. He was a joy to talk to!!!!
Peaceniks facing Pro-USA supporters singing and praying. Notice the 'Dead Kennedys'sticker on the one guys backpack.
Awesome signage!!!! Guess which was is in law enforcement???
Former US Marine; Gulf War Vet gives Peacenik the 'What For'!
Notice police across street hanging out....:)
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