Update on Bush Protest in Newport

BUSH PROTEST RALLY ON JUNE 28:

Peace activists from around the state are planning to hold an antiwar rally at 11:00 AM near the rotary on Connell Highway in Newport at Admiral Kalfbus Road. The rotary is close to the main entrance to the naval base where President Bush will be speaking that morning. Demonstrators will be gathering near the Newport Towne Center (Walmart/Stop & Shop plaza) at 11:00 AM and proceeding to the rally site.

If access to the shopping plaza/rotary area is blocked by the authorities, we will gather at the Gateway Visitors Center in downtown Newport and select another rally location. However, we view this development as very unlikely, because the rotary is close to a major shopping center, and the President will be speaking a few miles away in the midst of a heavily protected military base.

Depending on where you are travelling from, you might want to consider taking a RIPTA bus rather than driving, as traffic in Newport could be heavy due to the start of the Tall Ships festival in downtown Newport on Thursday. Those taking the RIPTA bus from Providence or the East Bay should get a transfer at the Gateway Center and take the RIPTA # 63 bus to the entrance of the Stop and Shop. Rally participants are encouraged to bring their own signs and banners.

Speakers confirmed for the rally so far include Robert Malin (RI Progressive Democrats of America), Rod Driver (former candidate for US Congress), Steven Kelly (Military Families Speak Out), Chris Young (National Civil Rights Coalition) and Nick Schmader (Green Party of RI).

If you need to reach us on Thursday, you can contact Shaun Joseph (cell phone: 401-952-5852) or Chris Murphy (cell phone: 239-896-0336).

**Eileen's note - wear sunscreen! Air quality is not good here. There is usually plenty of available parking here. Thanks for info rec'd via RIPL's Andrew from Mark Stahl Events Coordinator, RICCP