Denver Direct: November 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
Occupy Unity takes over Washington State capitol in Olympia, WA
Live stream here: http://www.livestream.com/occupyunity
Denver time
8:36pm Cops picking off protestors and hauling them off.
8:43pm Softly singing "which side are you on". Good percussion. Cops continue to quietly removed seated occupiers.
8:47pm Cop grabs uplink laptop - livestream stopped.
8:57pm Occupiers being taken away in buses - reportedly not being arrested but "detained".
Occupy Denver Friday, Nov 25, 2011
We went down to the Civic Center Park Friday evening for the Sand Creek Healing Ceremony held at the Wheel sculpture in front of the Art Museum. A group of about 50 Indians gathered to conduct this solemn remembrance of the Chivington Massacre in 1873.
We strolled over to the Occupy Denver site and caught some footage of a GA with a group of about 20 talking about getting a source of power to recharge their batteries, and their dedication to the movement. It was cold, and about 20 other Occupiers had turned in for the night, doing the best that they could under the circumstances dictated by Mayor Hancock and the Denver Police Department (no structures!)
Knowing that these folks are out there every night weighs heavily on me. I've taken coats and tarps and plastic and food donations down there from time to time, but much of it has been swept away by the DPD raids. They are down to a bare minimum, and you'll get a ticket if you stop on Broadway to drop off donations. A minimum of 6 police cars seems to be there all the time. Selective enforcement of the law to the max!
It takes dedication to subject yourself to these conditions if you have a choice. Some of these folks have little choice, and some could go home tonight if they wanted to. But they don't. I've heard that there is an Occupy Denver house where some are staying, but I've had no verification of that.
The biggest crowd was in the park for the Christmas lighting of the City and County building. I've never understood Denver's urge to light this building with the most garish display of all time, and I marvel at those who come out to see it every year. I could hear the crowd oooing and the bells playing, but I really had no desire to participate.
The 3 events added together in an unpleasant way. America - land of contradictions!
PRESS RELEASE
As we are approaching the holiday shopping season. The Denver Police Department would like to wish everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday Season. We would like everyone to take some special precautions to assure their personal safety and have an enjoyable Holiday Season. We have listed some tips to help keep you safe while shopping.
Dress casually and comfortably. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
Shop Together:
Shop with friends and family. Try not to shop alone, especially at night.
Educate Your Kids:
Teach kids what to do if you get separated. Tell them to find a store clerk or security person.
Communicate:
Tell someone where you are going and how long you will be gone. Let them know if you change your schedule.
Park Smart:
Park close to the store. Avoid dark and secluded areas.
Lock the Car:
Keep doors locked and windows closed. Remember your keys.
Stay Alert:
Remember where you park your car. Be aware of suspicious cars and people.
Watch Your Purse:
Hold your purse close to your body or use a front pocket if carrying a wallet. Preferably wear a fanny pack.
Avoid Cash:
Never flash large amounts of money. Try to use checks or credit cards instead of cash.
Use Credit Cards Safely:
Beware of identity theft and keep receipts safe. Record credit card numbers at home and guard PIN numbers.
Shop in Small Doses:
Make regular trips to the car. Avoid carrying too many packages that put you off balance and make you a target.
Returning to the Parking Lot:
Have your car keys out when returning to your car. Check the back seat and under the car before getting in.
Hide Packages:
Store packages in the trunk of the car. Put your packages in the trunk before you drive to your next location not when you arrive. Never leave them visible inside the car.
Act:
Never go home if you think you are being followed or if you feel threatened. Go to a busy well-lit safe place.
Don’t Play Hero:
Comply with a thief’s demands. Record an accurate description for law enforcement
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
HOLIDAY IN THE POINTS LIGHTS UP WELTON STREET
DENVER – The Five Points Business District will host their second annual holiday celebration, “Holiday in the Points,” on Saturday, Nov. 26.
Open to the public, Holiday in the Points will kick off the holiday season with an array of festive, family-friendly activities and a wonderful lighting display.
Key features of this year’s celebration include photos with Santa Claus, holiday-themed arts and crafts stations provided by the Colorado Creative Giving T.A.B.L.E. and a light display called “Art of Light.” Firefighters from Denver Fire Department Station No. 3 will make an appearance with their fire engine. Live music performances and holiday specials will be featured at Coffee at the Point.
Dante James, interim executive director of the business district said, “We are thrilled to host Holiday in the Points for the second year. This event is really an extension of our larger vision to promote a diverse community by making Welton Street and surrounding areas a great place to live, work, shop, learn and play. We encourage any and all to attend to get into the holiday spirit and soak up a little of the history Welton Street has to offer.”
WHO: The Five Points Business District
WHAT: Second Annual Holiday in the Points celebration
WHERE: Arts and crafts and Santa Claus: HALO Center for Youth, 2758 Welton St.
Art of Light: On Welton Street between 25th and 28th Avenues
WHEN: Saturday, November 26, 2011
Arts and crafts and Santa Claus: 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Art of Light will follow
At 6:00 pm.
ADMISSION: Free
Holiday in the Points is part of a larger, ongoing effort by the Five Points Business District to promote awareness, use and revitalization of the historic Welton Street corridor.
About the Five Points Business District
The Five Points Business District (FPBD) is responsible for the growth and development of Denver, Colorado’s historic Welton Street and the promotion and economic empowerment of the broader Five Points community. Funded in part by Denver’s Office of Economic Development, the office is part of the city’s Neighborhood Marketplace Initiative. The work of the FPBD is a comprehensive effort that incorporates Business Development, the Promotion of Art and Culture, Historic Neighborhood Preservation and the Greater Good of the community. For additional information on FPBD, visit www.fivepointsbiz.org.
Sponsors: Five Points Business District, Councilman Albus Brooks, Civil Technology, Inc., Welton Street Pedestrian Maintenance Mall District, Whittier Neighborhood Association, Coffee at the Point and Halo Foundation.
13th Annual Sand Creek Massacre Spiritual Healing Run
The 13th Annual Sand Creek Massacre Spiritual Healing Run begins Thursday November 24, 2011, at the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site. The run is an annual event coordinated by the Northern Cheyenne Tribe of Montana with support from the Northern Arapaho Tribe of Wyoming, the Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, the National Park Service, Town of Eads, Kiowa County, the Denver organizing committee, and History Colorado to honor those killed at the massacre. This year’s event marks the 147th Anniversary of the Sand Creek Massacre.
Activities associated with the run will commence with a Prayer Ceremony at the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site. The event will conclude in the afternoon of Saturday, November 26, on the steps of the west lawn of the Colorado State Capitol, followed by a reception for participants at the Denver Indian Center.
Schedule of events: (all times are approximate)
Thursday, Nov. 24
9 AM - Pipe Ceremony and prayer at the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site 55411 County Road W - Approximately 8 miles north of the intersection of Kiowa County Road 54 and State Highway 96, near the town of Chivington CO.
Runners will be blessed and the annual Spiritual Healing Run to Denver will commence, followed by a meal in Eads, CO.
Friday, Nov. 25
7 AM - Sunrise Ceremony – To Be Determined, The ‘Healing Run’ will continue on to Denver.
7 PM - Candlelight Vigil at the Denver Art Museum Wheel sculpture,100 West 14th Avenue Parkway, Denver, CO.
Saturday, Nov. 26
8 AM - Honoring Ceremony at Riverside Cemetery, 5201 Brighton Boulevard, Denver, for Captain Silas Soule, and Lt. Joseph A. Cramer, U.S. Army. Both men instructed their troops not to fire at the massacre.
9 AM - Continue ‘Healing Run’ from Riverside Cemetery to 15th and Arapahoe, Denver, CO.
9:50 AM – At 15th and Arapahoe — near the site where Captain Silas Soule was assassinated — the runners will join with walkers and continue on to the Colorado State Capitol Building.
11 AM - Presentation on the steps of the Colorado State Capitol Building (West Lawn side) 4 miles distance – MUST REGISTER TO RUN
Noon reception - Location To Be Determined
For additional information about the Annual Sand Creek Massacre Spiritual Healing Run/Walk, please call run organizer Otto Braided Hair (406) 749 4325.
EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA™
The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.
To learn more contact Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site at 719-438-5916 or www.nps.gov/sand .
The Sand Creek Massacre site is located at 55411 County Road W, 23 miles from Eads, CO. To drive to the site take Colorado Hwy. 287 near Eads, or west off Hwy 385 at Sheridan Lake. Near Chivington, turn north onto Chief White Antelope Way (County Road 54) or at Brandon, turn north onto County Road 59. Follow either road to its entrance with County Road W, one mile east (right) of its intersection with County Road 54, or several miles west (left) of County Rd. 59. Hours of operation at the site are from Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM. The park headquarters is located at 910 Wansted, in Eads, CO. The hours of operation at the park headquarters are Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM except Federal holidays.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Denver Police Urge Reporting Suspicious Actions Downtown
For Immediate Release
Date: November 16, 2011
To: Denver Police Officers, Denver City Council
Media, Denver Community Organizations
Contact: Detective John White #98046
Address: Office of the Chief
1331 Cherokee St., Denver, CO 80204
Email: dpdpio@ci.denver.co.us
Phone: 720-913-6028
Fax: 720-913-7021
(Denver) Denver Police are reminding citizens to be vigilant and report suspicious activity while in downtown area.
Over the past several months, groups of individuals have displayed predatory behavior while in the Denver downtown area. In some instances, victims have been assaulted and/or robbed. These suspects instigate contact with the victims and create confrontational situations. The suspect is then joined by several other individuals and assault and/or rob the victim(s). There have been 15 incidents reported from August 1, 2011 through November 9, 2011 in the downtown area.
Information on several of these assaults has been released previously by the Denver Police Department and do not appear to be racially motivated. While there has not been a recent assault over the past few weeks, the previous attacks were occurring almost weekly and at least one suspect has been involved in multiple incidents.
We do believe that there have been instances where the assaults have been captured on camera by bystanders. We are asking those people to come forward and provide us with the footage. This new information could assist investigators and prevent others from possibly being victimized.
No arrests have been made at this time.
Anyone with information regarding these incidents or if you have been a victim of this type of crime, please call Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP (7867). You can text to: CRIMES (274637) then title DMCS and enter your message or send an e-mail to metro-denvercrimestoppers.com. If the information you provide leads to the arrest and charging of a wanted individual, you can receive a cash award up to $2,000.
*Please find the attached map. Video footage is also available upon request at the Denver Police Headquarters information desk.
Below is a list of safety tips while walking:
· Be aware of your surroundings.
· Walk only on busy, well-lighted streets, even if it makes the trip a little longer.
· Avoid shortcuts through parking lots, alleys or parks.
· If you feel you are being followed, cross the street or begin walking in a different direction. Walk toward lighted, more populated areas.
· If a vehicle is following you, turn and run in the opposite direction. The driver will have to turn around before continuing to follow you, buying you time to make it to safety.
Occupy Denver live stream now
Go to Ustream (30 sec ad)
Freezes up, inconsistent, but the best we've got.
1:49pm Offair - but thanks for trying. Upgrade and come back.
2:03pm Back up
Thursday, November 17, 2011
OWS taking over the streets in NYC
http://www.ustream.tv/theother99 (22,000 viewers)
"Whose streets? Our streets!"
Police trying to set up barriers in front of crowd. People knocking down barriers. DAY OF ACTION!
100 cops trying to hold back 3000 marchers. FAIL.
2:29pm Black Block spotted.
2:36pm Marchers back in action with drums at front.
3:26pm Marchers still at it - about to converge with unions at Foley Square.
Helicopter shot at http://www.ustream.tv/cbsnews
Marchers are going to head toward the bridges. Police are said to be waiting for them. This real-time live streaming is exciting.
3:58pm Tim (live-stream operator) is denied access to speaker by OWS security. Group now headed toward Brooklyn Bridge.
4:00pm Air space reportedly being cleared.
4:04pm Union workers with linked arms surround and block police.
4:10pm Police gathered to block bridge. (Your edit in italics - This is what a police state looks like. Can martial law be far behind?)
4:14pm Marching band ahead in march, providing nice sound track.
4:22pm Police blocking bridge. More barricades being delivered. (Are the police going to arrest thousands?)
Nov 17th - A day of live streaming
If you can't come to the Webb building today for the International Day of Action, try the next best thing - live streaming.
Denver - http://www.thescoop303.com/denver-live-stream/
NYC - http://www.livestream.com/owsnyc
NYC helicopter - http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/livenow?id=8435340
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Occupy Denver - Be There
November 17: 60 Days of Action
We have reached a pivotal moment in history, as we find ourselves on the threshold of a great and lasting change. We at Occupy Denver stand in solidarity with Occupy Wall Street and all occupations across the country and around the world. The accelerated and coordinated efforts to destroy the Occupy movement, evidenced by the forceful actions taken against the occupiers in Zucotti Park and other cities, are confirmation that the Occupy movement is working.
These actions will not stop us; they will only make us stronger. This has brought us to the precipice of tremendous change, a change for the better. We believe and know what is right and good and thus we will take that next step.
The Occupy movement stands in sharp contrast to the forces that are being marshaled against us. When they use force, we use nonviolence. When they try to isolate us, we build community. When they move against us, we call for peace and cooperation.
Together, we are standing up and speaking out for the rights guaranteed by our Constitution: the right of free assembly, the right of free speech, the right of free press. We affirm that all people are created equal and have the right to share in the prosperity of our great nation. Without such rights, then what have we? We are committed to ending the corruption of our government and restoring political power to the people. We believe that our country, and our world, can be a better place and that we must work together to make this happen. To those already standing with us: we ask that you continue to stand strong. You are making the difference. To all the rest: we need for you to join us. We need individuals and organizations from every corner of the country to join the Occupy movement now.
We call upon you who have been silent: Speak and be heard.
We call upon you who have not stood up for what you believe in: Stand and be seen.
We call upon you who have yet to put your needs on paper. Write and be counted.
Make the difference and bring about the change you want to see! Join us at noon tomorrow, November 17, at Civic Center Park as we celebrate the two month anniversary of Occupy Wall Street and the nearly 2,000 Occupy movements that have sprung up around the world. There has been a coordinated effort to silence the voices of the 99%, Mayor Hancock and the Denver Police Department are scared of an awakened populace. We will call attention to the Mayor’s decision to violently crackdown on Occupy Denver. We will present alternatives and show the contrast with other communities around the country and how their local governments have supported the 99% rather than attempt to silence the voice of their constituents. There will then be a 6 p.m. rally at Occupy Denver after which we will conduct a General Assembly where we will discuss the Occupy movement as a whole and how we should progress over the coming months. So come out, have your voices heard and once again stand up for freedom, for justice, and for the future of our world. United we stand!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Living (and driving) in a police state
I was down at Occupy Denver (Colfax and Broadway) a few weeks ago and saw a woman making a new sign. The sign read "Are we living in a police state?" I paused, and she looked up, smiling. Conversation ensued. I realized that she had no idea that she was already living in a police state; the here and now of Denver Colorado. See also.
It is not that hard to live in a police state if you know the rules. You must know and live by their rules. This is for your own health and safety, as the authorities have pointed out to you countless times.
1. Spend most of your free time at home. You are probably already doing this.
- do not raise your voice or play your music loud.
- don't get falling down drunk or beat your wife or children.
- be aware that your neighbors already find you suspicious and are poised to dial 911.
- go outside and walk around your house at night. See how much can be seen. Note dark areas of your property. Carry a maglight as needed.
- protect yourself against home-invasion (which is becoming increasingly popular). I'll be expanding on this theme later in a separate post.
2. If you must go out by car, make sure you have every last regulation regarding the use of your vehicle on their streets fulfilled and executed down to the letter. For example,
- did you know it's a $90.00 fine if you have your registration in the car BUT HAVE NOT SIGNED IT. That's right, check yours, turn it over and see if you have signed it properly.
- and, hello, no outstanding tickets, warrants, or other things that can easily be looked up by an officer with a laptop. You must inquire for yourself and pay all of this off before you drive. If you don't, you are asking for it.
- do not slow down or stop to drop off supplies at Occupy Denver on Broadway. They are now ticketing for this infraction.
- At stoplights and signs, stop your vehicle completely and well back of the crosswalk line. This is hard to learn after a lifetime of rolling stops but the photo cameras are already in place and being used to ticket you for this infraction. Denver City Council even discussed whether or not there should be some allowable (1 or 2 inches) infraction. Their answer was NO, and be aware that the camera angle can make a difference, so stay back far enough that you can see the entire line on the street in front of you.
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| Yes, that's me going 40 mph in a 30 mph zone on 17th. And yes, I paid the ticket (aka Dumbo tax) |
- know the speed limit and never exceed it, even when passing. Beware of speed limit change-ups designed to catch you going the wrong speed, and mismatched speed limits much lower than the physical road was designed for.
- make sure your license plate is tightly mounted with slot-less bolts, and that all of your car lights are working.
- if stopped, never consent to a search - actively say that you do not consent.
3. If you must go out on foot, again, you must obey all the rules.
- do not jay-walk. Selective law enforcement makes its use rare but available if they want to "detain" you.
- do not walk on the grass in parks.
- do not wear outlandish or unusual clothes or outfits. Unless of course, you want to be singled-out and beaten.
- do not wear jewelry or expensive shoes, unless you can afford to loose them.
- always carry photo ID.
- never carry more cash than you can afford to lose. You may risk offending the holdup man if you have nothing, so take just enough to satisfy him so he won't kill you for being so cheap. A $20 bill will do.
- never carry any hidden weapons. Carry your gun in a visible holster if it is legal in your state.
- never carry any contraband, which by definition, is stuff you shouldn't carry.
- do not even think about going out if you are intoxicated beyond control in "keep your mouth shut" situations.
- always be aware - look out your window before you go out your door.
- assume there are people out there who mean to do you harm.
- walk with a purpose, your body language is important and can be a deterrent.
- keep your head up and scanning. In Denver (Capitol Hill) thugs hide behind large trees in the street verge with aluminum baseball bats and take you down in one blow from behind. True.
- pay attention to the traffic lights. Do not cross against the light even if there is no traffic.
- remember that you may be on camera. See "halo" cameras on Colfax.
- beware of any curfews that prohibit your presence at certain times of day.
4. General considerations:
- don't fool yourself.
- all phones (landlines) are tapped, i.e., they all go to the Central Office where they can easily be picked out and listened to or recorded. Don't imagine that they need a warrant to do this - those days are gone.
- all emails are examined by computers for key words. Those containing key words are then read by humans.
- all emails are saved, and deleting them on your computer does not remove them from the email servers.
- act as if you are under surveillance. You may be. The good news is that you are probably not important enough to warrant specific surveillance.
- in the city, someone is always watching.
- prepare for the worst. When it doesn't happen, you'll feel good. If it does happen, you'll be prepared.
If you think things might get worse before they get better, you may want to read this book - Surviving in Argentina.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Occupy Wall Street under siege
11:15pm "Zucotti Park, NYC is getting evicted. Spread the news. Tweet, FB. Whole world needs to know it RIGHT NOW. They are attacking heart of our movement."
1)http://www.livestream.com/globalrevolution - mayhem
11:28pm 2)http://www.ustream.tv/cbsnews view from above - looks live - police walking around in park
11:29pm Zuccatti Park surrounded - eviction soon?
11:37pm Cops in small groups arresting individuals and marching them away.
11:43pm site#2 has two camera. One woman screaming "don't touch me".
11:46pm site@2 - NYPD white shirts in evidence. Banjo music playing. Site#2 showing picture of US Capitol.
11:53pm New site - http://www.livestream.com/occupywallstnyc. Site #2 reportedly refueling helicopter.
11:56pm - Site#2 has helicopter back in the air - but no picture.
12:03am - Site#1 - Cops destroying camps - arresting individuals without take down.
12:05am - News helicopters reportedly ordered out of airspace.
12:06am - Large dump trucks pulling up.
12:19am - Loud bangs - smoke/teargas?
12:24am - Radio on the ground - trying to get to park but press not allowed. http://www.wbai.org/
12:31am - People massing at Wall Street Bull.
12:34am - Police reportedly denying credentialed press access.
12:51am - 300 people at Broadway and Pine pushing back against police - blocking trash trucks from leaving.
1:20am - If only the people running the live stream knew how to operate a camera. Over and out.
ACTION ALERT: Board of Health Patient Rulemaking Hearing (11/16)
The Colorado Board of Health will hold a rulemaking hearing on Wed., Nov. 16, concerning changes to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment's rules and regulations regarding medical marijuana. One of the main topics is a proposal to lower the patient Registry fee from $90 to $35. The Board will also discuss modifying the patient indigence standard and clarifying the definition of "in good standing" for physicians, in accordance with House Bill 11-1043
FULL DETAILS HERE:
http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/op/bh/
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
1) ATTEND HEARING
Board of Health Public Rulemaking Hearing
Wed., Nov. 16, 2011
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Sabin Conference Room, Building A - 1st Floor
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South Denver, CO
Time: Approx. 10:30am. The agenda says the MMJ rulemaking hearing will commence at 10:30am, but this is only an estimate, so if you want to testify in person, please show up early.
2) EMAIL COMMENTS
1) Cut and paste the CTI's Sample Comments, or write comments of your own.
2) Email it before Nov. 16, 2011 at 9:00am to: cdphe.edobohcomments_IndigenceFeesDoctorLic@state.co.us
SAMPLE COMMENTS
To: cdphe.edobohcomments_IndigenceFeesDoctorLic@state.co.us
Subject: MMJ Rulemaking Hearing (Nov. 16, 2011)
Dear Colorado Board of Health:
I support lowering the fees for medical marijuana patients from $90/year to $35/year. However, I am concerned about the security of the Registry and its confidentiality. I understand CDPHE is currently working to make parts of the Registry accessible online to the DOR Medical Marijuana Criminal Enforcement Division and other law enforcement agencies. Once any portion of the Registry is available online to other agencies, it opens the Registry up to possible compromise. Given that there have been several unexplained breaches of the Registry security in the past, I would like to know how you will prevent hackers from going online and stealing the Registry or parts of it? What portion of the patient's fees currently goes to making sure the Registry remains confidential? Patients will only use the optional state Registry if they are certain their identity will remain private and secure.
Sincerely,
Your Name
3) COPY AND REDISTRIBUTE THIS ANNOUNCEMENT
---
Provided as a Public Service by the:
Cannabis Therapy Institute
P.O. Box 19084, Boulder, CO 80308
Phone: 877-420-4205
Web: http://www.CannabisTherapyInstitute.com
Email: info@cannabistherapyinstitute.com
Paul M. Levitt: Homage to Adrienne Anderson
Posted on November 14, 2011 by Camera staff
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| Anderson teaching at CU. Picture from DenverDirect files. |
In 1952, the university of Colorado fired Morris Judd, an instructor in the Department of Philosophy, for failing to answer President Robert Stearns’s question, “Are you or have you ever been a member of the Communist Party?” On November 7, 2002, in the old Fleming Law building, an SRO crowd heard the university, in the person of Philip DiStefano, honorably apologize for the injustice and establish a scholarship in the name of Morris Judd.
Will it take another fifty years for the university to acknowledge the shame of firing Adrienne Anderson, an instructor in Environmental Studies, for exposing toxic waste dumps and the perpetrators, some of whom were patrons of the university? Adrienne had taught at C.U. for twelve years, had been an instructor in good standing, and had offered classes that were always over-subscribed; but when she and her students went public with their research findings, she was suddenly persona non grata.
The university immediately distanced itself from her research without asking its myriad scientists to check her findings, although repeated requests were made to do so. Her department suddenly decided “to go in a new direction,” cancelled her classes, and discontinued her contract. One can only hope that the newly formed committee to protect the rights of instructors will have the power to prevent further injustices.
To this day in the United States, we do not know where all the bodies are buried. Dumping sites holding toxins turn up periodically. Adrienne, part historian, part archeologist, part geographer, part epidemiologist, part sleuth, unearthed and studied federal and state documents to discover the location of the toxins. She instructed her students in the fine art of detection and imbued them with a sense of civic responsibility.
Adrienne’s students thought that the training they received from her was first-rate, and the New York Times thought enough of her work to run an article on it. Thanks to her research and that of her students, we know, for example, that several Denver locations are cancer hot spots because homes were built in areas where aquifers and water pipelines were contaminated, a fact that the usual suspects have gone to inordinate lengths to hide.
Adrienne died a few weeks ago from a brain tumor, whether caused by the nature of her work or for some other reason we will never know. But let us not wait fifty years to remember the debt that we owe her and to make amends. A scholarship in her name is the least we can do.
Paul M. Levitt
Boulder
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Occupy Denver reponds to ongoing police brutality and state oppression against all occupies
It is clear that the occupation movement has the government terrified of the emerging "people power" in America and is willing to suppress this movement by any means. In the past 24 hours, major Occupies across America were attacked and forcibly evicted. Word is that the newly emerging class consciousness in America is bad for business and must be stopped. Last night, once again, public safety and health was evoked by legal officials as a mob of Riot Police marched into Civic Center Park. In the past weeks Occupy Denver members were legally sleeping on the sidewalk without tents. A warning notice was given to the protesters late Friday night by police officials stating that "encumbrances" must be removed from public sidewalks, though no official notice of enforcement, or a time, was given. Again the government decided to change the rules and enforce its most belligerent action to date, to remove everyone from the sidewalk that in prior notices from the state were approved. When asked if ample time would be given to remove personal property, the officers responded in the affirmative. Moments later, the police moved in.
Once again, the DPD reaffirms its position as the most violent police force in the United States. Officers assaulted demonstrators who were just standing on the sidelines. An officer waited until a protester turned around and hit him in the back three times. They assaulted people verbally, including threats to "break the teeth" of protesters. One officer told another officer to "SHOOT EM!! SHOOT EM NOW!" One protester was struck by an officer on a motorcycle and was hospitalized. Protesters were kettled and shot with pepper-balls, according to Colorado Street Medics, who found pepper-ball shells at the scene of last night's incident. The shooting took place at 14th and Speer, eventually forcing the group to move to 16th St. Mall, where diners and theater-goers were present. The police action resulted in the closing of the 16th St. Mall bus system for civilian safety. Police actions put the general public in harms way, for no reason. All of this dangerous mayhem, completely instigated by police under the orders of our Mayor, was directed at peaceful protesters. Protestors were followed, intimidated and hunted by the police for hours after the eviction, proving that this was not about Civic Center park, but an attempt to aggressively confront the Occupy movement. These are certainly the kind of actions one might expect from the Egyptian Police in the last days of the Arab Spring, but not in Denver....
Our calls for the state to respect our first amendment rights have apparently fallen on deaf ears. Our attempts to negotiate through the city council, the mayor, and the governor have turned up nothing concrete. The first amendment states that it is illegal for the state to make any laws "abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." For the Occupy Movement, the ability to assemble in tents is a form of free speech, and our constitutional rights have clearly been violated. The state and local governments are both in violation of the U.S. Constitution, as they are also in violation of the UN's Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We call on the Department of Justice and the UN Human Rights Commission to look into these allegations as we assert our right to freely assemble peacefully.
So far almost 4,000 folks have been arrested at Occupy demonstrations around the country, yet not a single one of the Wall Street criminals responsible for the financial ruin we find ourselves in has. We have mobilized against the greatest concentration of power known to man, and like all empires of the past, we know this one will not go down without a fight. It's been little over a month, and we can already see the tremendous positive impact the Occupy movement has had. For the fourth time in a month, they may have blocked off our park from us, but we are not going anywhere.
-Occupy Denver General Assembly
11/13/2011
Occupy Portland - Live streaming
2:18pm - Go here http://www.kgw.com/live-stream and here http://www.livestream.com/occupyptown.
3:14pm - Park cleared - street to be cleared next. Police announcement "...you may be subject to the use of force, including chemical weapons and blunt-force weapons." Crowd chanting "we are peaceful people".
3:21pm - People locking arms in the street. KGW has the best stream.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Occupy Denver Live Stream
Go here for live streaming from State Capitol now
Update: 3:35pm - Police said to be gathering for their weekly "war on tents" at Civic Center Park with a 5:00pm launch time. Streaming is somewhat spotty, but hey, it's the best we've got, and thanks to those responsible.
Update 4:27pm - 14th and Broadway is an armed camp of Denver Police preparing for ....?
Update 4:43pm - Bobby of Scoop303 needs a charged laptop. Police are said to be ready to "permanently evict" Occupy Denver. Every time Bobby goes off the air, another ad is shown to the viewers. That's because they are using the free version of Ustream. Time to upgrade.
Update 5:21pm - Bobby operating from his car with a camera that is not low-light.
Update 5:24pm - Chanting in background. Police moving in right now.
Update 5:31pm - Bobby gives up - try this http://www.ustream.tv/channel/occupy-denver1
Update 5:40pm - Sound only.
Update 5:55pm - Cops surround park. People headed towards mall.
Update 6:00pm - Better stream here http://www.livestream.com/globalrevolution
Update 6:29pm - Over and out.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Adrienne Anderson's Memorial - Nov. 6, 2011
A memorial was held to commemorate the life of environmental activist Adrienne Anderson. Over 100 friends gathered at the Altona Grange Hall in Boulder County. A last-minute failure of our camera was rescued in part by Juliette Mondot who recorded what she could with her flip camera. Apologies to those we were not able to record. If you want to review clips of Adrienne in action, type her name in the search box on this blog.
Godspeed to Adrienne. May she rest in peace.
Developers are targeting open land on the north end of Golden
Developers are targeting open land on the north end of Golden that will bring more traffic on SH93. If you care about Golden and Jefferson County, please come to this important community meeting tonight!
Tonight (Wed, Nov. 9 at 6:15 pm) is a Jeffco planning commission meeting at the Taj where the planning commission will make a decision on the Draft North Plains Area Plan. This plan affects open space lands from Golden north to the county boundary and especially those critical open space lands on the west side of Highway 93. It is very important that a lot of people show up in person to communicate the importance of leaving our last open space lands undeveloped and to not commit the Hwy 93 corridor to an urban sprawl future. If you cannot make it, please send an email today to rclark@co.jefferson.co.us. He is the Jeffco planner and will forward your email to the planning commission. Some points for your consideration are below. If you attend, the hope is there would be a lot of people testifying so all you would have to do is say you agree with the other guy. When big crowds show up, it really makes an impact on the planning commission members, five of whom I am told are new and are in that learning phase. - Vera Smith
Please pass this on to your friends and neighbors who might be interested. Thanks!
Nov. 9, 2011, 6:15 p.m.
Jefferson County Courts and Administration Bldg. (the Taj)
100 Jefferson County Parkway
Golden, CO
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
OCCUPY DENVER ELECTS LEADER
In response to Denver Mayor Michael Hancock's insistence that Occupy Denver choose leadership to deal with City and State officials, and drawing inspiration from the notion that corporations are people, Occupy Denver's General Assembly has elected a leader: Shelby, a three year old Border Collie. "Shelby is closer to a person than any corporation: She can bleed, she can breed, and she can show emotion. Either Shelby is a person, or corporations aren't people," said a Shelby supporter at the time of her election.
Occupy Denver reserves the right to alter leadership status, but for now, Shelby exhibits heart, warmth, and an appreciation for the group over personal ambition that Occupy Denver members feel are sorely lacking in the leaders some of them have voted for on national, state, and local levels. Accordingly, Occupy Denver looks forward to communication with Mayor Hancock and Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper sometime this week to introduce their leadership.
Newly-elected leader Shelby will be leading this Saturday's Occupy Denver march against Corporate Personhood, and invites all other civic minded dogs (and their leash-holders) to join.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Occupy Denver 11-3-11:"Livin' in the Land Where the Whip Still Cracks"
I went to Occupy Denver yesterday because Michael Moore was going to make an appearance, and I did get some footage of the statement he made. But before he arrived, this gentleman appeared, and made one of the most moving statements I have heard from the Occupy movement to date.
(Tech note: I'm having some difficulty with the auto-focus on my new camera, but I would encourage you to stick with it to the end. It's well worth it.)
If anyone knows the poet's name, please leave a comment.
Update: His name is Noah Gauthier. Thank you Noah Gauthier, you are a splendid and powerful poet.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Boulder, Colorado Occupies the Ballot Box and Calls for End to “Corporate Personhood”
Ground Breaking Ballot Measure Calls for Constitutional Amendment
OCCUPY DENVER HONORS VETERANS & TAKES ACTION AGAINST BIG BANKS
Denver, Colorado, November 2nd, 2011 - This Saturday, November 5th, Denver is hosting its 2011 Veterans Day Parade in Civic Center Park, where Occupy Denver has established its Occupation. Last night, Occupy Denver came to a unanimous consensus to vacate Civic Center Park following the 7 PM General Assembly meeting on Friday, November 4th, in a show of solidarity with our veterans, our service men and women, and our fallen heroes. Occupy Denver supports the valor and sacrifice of the men and women of our armed forces, and unilaterally wishes to show unwavering support and respect for the Veterans Day Parade.
Occupy Denver will reestablish its Occupation at Skyline Park on 16th Street Mall, directly across from the Denver Federal Reserve building, and has planned a series of actions for Saturday to coincide with the bank boycott known as Bank Transfer Day, in which customers are urged to close their accounts with predatory financial institutions like Wells Fargo, Citibank, and Chase, and redeposit their funds into their local credit unions. Occupy Denver member Mitch Shenassa explains, “The Occupation has deliberately chosen the space across from the Federal Reserve as its temporary site to bring attention to the economic dangers posed by this independent central bank and its short-sighted fractional reserve banking system that cause the devaluation of our currency and the ballooning of our national debt.”
Denver’s citizens will gather at the Federal Reserve building and march en masse to their respective banks to withdraw their financial support from the corporate entities responsible for the gradual erosion of the middle class through sub-prime mortages, usurious fees and interest rates, and a loyalty to corporate profits over the financial interests of their hard-working customers. Occupy Denver will coordinate and rally customers to an undisclosed number of Downtown Denver’s corporate bank branches in a randomized sequence throughout the morning and afternoon. Following the Bank Transfer Day effort, Occupy Denver will lead a peaceful march down 16th Street Mall in protest of predatory lending practices, unlawful foreclosures on the homes of American families, and unchecked criminality in our nation’s banking and financial systems. All who wish to join the march against the greed and injustice of private and public financial institutions are invited to rally at Noon on Saturday, November 5th, at the Denver Federal Reserve. Join your fellow Coloradoans in voicing your frustrations with the banks that have preyed on us over the past decade—together we will create a voice they cannot ignore.
At the conclusion of the Veterans Day Parade, Occupy Denver will lead a silent Solidarity Vigil returning to the space at Civic Center Park as a show of our gratitude and honor for our brothers’ and sisters’ service to our nation. We encourage all citizens to join us as we peacefully pay somber homage to these heroes, and their selfless sacrifices made for us all. The organizers of the Veterans Day Parade have requested that our vigil display no political slogans on signs or clothing, and focus all messages on support for our vets. Occupy Denver urges and requests that all attending respect these wishes, and conduct themselves with respectful decorum.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Michael Moore to visit Occupy Denver
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| Occupy Denver 11/2/11 - photo by Rob Witte via twitter |
"Michael Moore will be on the Auraria Campus on November 3rd to discuss his new book, Here Comes Trouble: Stories From My Life."
DABC update from 3 weeks of social war in Denver, Colorado
From DenverABC on Oct 30. DenverABC provides the legal support for OccupyDenver. Time for you to donate to support their efforts.
It’s 10:36pm, and things at the 27 Social Centre are busy and anxious.
We’ve been solidly working since DABC members on the ground reported at around 2:45pm that Denver Police had started to attack the crowd at Civic Center Park who assembled to re-take the park for Occupy Denver.
The legal line has rang pretty steadily for the last several hours, as we’ve been working intake for 18 arrestees. A 19th person is hospitalized, though charges are expected to be filed once he is released from the hospital. There may be more arrestees from earlier tonight, though we think that if there are more, that number probably won’t exceed 20.
That said, in 20 minutes, Civic Center Park will officially “close” and it is unclear if DPD or other law enforcement will attempt to enforce the park curfew and further endanger and arrest those occupying the park.
Street medics affiliated with DABC reported dozens of injuries, mostly from pepper spray, pepper balls (paintballs filled with OC powder), and blunt force trauma from police batons. Several people were taken away by ambulance, and many others were treated on site in a makeshift field clinic set up by seasoned street medics.
Today’s actions, hot on the heels of the intense police repression at Occupy Oakland earlier this week, shows clearly that the ruling class isn’t taking this new movement lightly. They will order their footsoldiers from local law enforcement agencies to do what it takes to break the back of this young, yet growing and vibrant movement.
As we move forward, DABC will do everything it can to ensure that the proper support is given to Occupy Denver and the multitude of other local movements, projects, and initiatives struggling to destroy predatory social, political, and economic systems.
The only way we can do this is with your support. We’ve been able to raise over $5000 to cover bond and bail expenses for arrestees. We’ve been able to work with the National Lawyers Guild to ensure that (as of now) 73 defendants have free legal representation. We’ve been able to work with the Colorado Street Medics to help provide on the ground medical care for injured and wounded demonstrators. We’ve been able to provide meals, housing, and other needed support for our arrested and injured comrades. And we’ve only been able to do this with your amazing support.
We probably don’t need to remind people that support for Occupy Denver is not the only work that our dozen member collective is involved in. We also support many long term political prisoners held captive by the U.S. We provide self defense trainings to social movements and projects in the Denver area. We help with courtwatch and visitation for those facing deportation through the horrendous ICE system in the U.S. We help provide childcare and children’s activities to various social movement programs in the Denver metro. We work to support the struggles of prisoners organizing within state facilities in the Colorado area.
All of this work hinges on your support. And there are many needs that we have, and many ways that you can support us.
1) Donate to DABC: We are taking funds for bond support, as well as support of all of our other projects. Contact us at denverabc@rocketmail.com to throw some donations our way.
2) Volunteer for DABC: We need help staffing our legal line, observing court proceedings, picking people up from jail, and a multitude of other roles. Again, contact us to help out.
3) Attend a DABC meeting: ABC meetings are open meetings that happen every Sunday at 3:30pm at the 27 Social Centre (2727 W. 27th Ave Unit D, Denver)
4) Attend our annual fundraiser, Martyr’s Ball: On Friday November, 11, DABC is hosting on of our largest annual fundraisers, Martyr’s Ball. A costume ball where participants dress up as a political martyr, will feature food, beverages, games, music, and dancing. The event will be held at the 27 Social Centre. Bring your friends and support DABC.
4) Spread the word: Pass this on to friends, family, comrades, and others!
In solidarity and struggle,
DABC CREW
Editor's note.
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