[TarpleyG]

Link to Story (http://www.nbc6.net/ftaa/)

I profess my ignorance to the FTAA. How will this affect us? Do these protestors have a real gripe? Don't get me wrong, I am all for them protesting as long as it is peaceful. I fear it will not be. The cops have the whole city of Miami shut down for this meeting. There must be a reason why they are so fearful of these protestors. Some news snippets have shown how violent they have been and are prepared to be.

Anyone have any insight?

GT

[Ron_Miami]

Today, the biggest demonstration was about 30 protesters, covered by about 50 reporters, watched by about 250 police.

Only a very small area of downtown has traffic diverted, but its rough on the business owners there.

Most of the protesters have no idea of what FTAA is. They are just protesting anything that sounds cool; animal rights, low wages, big business, SUVs, haircuts, baths, etc.

Most protesters seem to be losers looking for some excitement in otherwise dull and stupid lives.

Protests are expected to get larger later in the week. Police are happy, they are making lots of overtime.

Regards,
Ron, in Miami