Initial observations from the DNCC

The Democratic National Convention does not really begin until Monday, but I’m in Denver covering the preamble to the quadrennial event. The first ever interfaith gathering for the DNC was held today at the Colorado Convention Center as a kickoff event. Some observations:

-- Avoid Denver at all costs this week. If you work in Denver, take the week off or work from home. It’s an absolute madhouse from a traffic and parking perspective.

-- At the interfaith gathering today, three activists from Operation Rescue interrupted the proceedings before they began with some thoughts on abortion: “Obama is a baby killer!” “Abortion is murder!” and the like. They were escorted out of the building with little incident, but I already notice a distinct uncomfortable tinge regarding the abortion issue.

-- Besides that, it’s pretty calm, though there is a definite buzz in the air. People are hawking Barack Obama gear on every street corner – from buttons to T-shirts to posters. You almost get the feeling that people are anticipating a rock concert more than a major political event. Of course, it could be argued that Obama is more celebrity than political figure.

Some photo observations (click for larger view):


There is a significant police presence in Denver

A young communist/anarchist/Insane Clown Posse fan takes a break from fomenting revolution

Merchandising Obama:

The official DNC 08 store is at the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver
Whatever state you're from, chances are there's an Obama pin for you
A volunteer sells a T-shirt to a convention attendee

All photos by Jim Myers/The Colorado Catholic Herald

The Official CCHerald Ultimate Frisbee

They said it would never happen, but it did. They said no diocesan newspaper could be this cool, but here it is... Beginning Monday, we will be selling The Colorado Catholic Herald Ultimate Frisbee. Rest assured, it's the real deal... a Discraft 175-gram, tournament-official Ultimate Frisbee!

They're starting out at $10 and we only have about 90 of them, so get yours now. One note on the design. The above image is the one sent to the disc manufacturer. The diocesan crest did not translate as clearly as above since we were allowed straight black and couldn't do shades. So it is more of a black shield. They're perfect for throwing around and a great way to get the word out about the Herald and its Web site on college campuses and Ultimate tournaments. Just make sure that when you kickoff after a score, you flash the logo.

If you want one (or more), send $10 for each one plus $2 for shipping for the whole order to:

The Colorado Catholic Herald

Attn: Ultimate Disc

228 N. Cascade Ave.

Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Also coming soon... very limited-edition cool green CCH baseball hats. Stay tuned...