Some annoyed as DNC attendees arrive at DIA

Susie Ma, Rocky Mountain News

Published August 23, 2008 at 3:42 p.m.

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Photo by Brian Lehmann © The Rocky

Obama volunteer Barbara Myers holds a sign to wave down incoming Obama campaign workers as they arrive at Denver International Airport Saturday August 23, 2008. Hellen Sims a delegate for district 16 in San Jose, Californian gives her a thumbs up.

DENVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT — There are plenty of volunteers offering a helpful hand to delegates and other convention-goers arriving here. Convention volunteers wave Obama 08 signs and airport volunteers stand out in their cowboy hats and suede vests.

The hum of noise is occasionally punctuated by the recorded voice of Mayor John Hickenlooper welcoming visitors over the loudspeaker.

Even baggage claim is dressed up for the occasion with vases of red, white and blue carnations.

Convention-goers are difficult to pick out from the general crowd. A handful are wearing shirts, some have lapel pins or buttons.

Not everyone here is happy about the DNC. There are grumblings among local residents picking up family or friends at DIA about the "inappropriate" Obama signs and one man repeatedly referred to "those Osama people" while waiting for his wife.

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Comments

August 23, 2008

3:49 p.m.

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mattz writes:

Nothing like taking an extra 30 seconds out of your day to support democracy! Freedom has a price, and its Not In My Back Yard to these cranky ol' critters...
August 23, 2008

5:15 p.m.

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milehighsoapbox writes:

Freedom is great and that includes expression and speech.

We lived here before the convention, we have to endure and suffer through all the inconveniences, and we will live here after. It just becomes a little much after a while.

If the Democrats are not careful, they will offend people who are on the fence and their plan will backfire causing Colorado to vote for McCain. They are not being real careful now.
August 23, 2008

6:32 p.m.

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Uno writes:

I guess some people are still not used to the idea that not everyone supports the left's Living God Obama. There is a good 50% chance, may be more, that these people will be very disappointed in November. And yes, freedom does include voicing opposition to Obama and the DNC, like it or not.
August 23, 2008

7:52 p.m.

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thinkingclearly writes:

It seems incredibly irresponsible on (both) parties sides to be spending, my guess $125,000,000 on conventions for two gentlmen to say yeh I accept the nomination. When so many hard working American families cannot afford to take their children to the doctor, a record # of families are being foreclosed on, and our school systems are failing. It's time for all of us, politicians included to stop the wasteful lifestyle and start putting our resources where they are needed most. Having a huge one week party in Colorado and one in Minnesota is not my idea of asset management.
August 23, 2008

9:32 p.m.

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ClintEastwood writes:

Do you really think most people of Denver are glad the DNC is coming to town? What with the luni leftist protestors, immeasurable traffic, media scum, and just throngs of touristas; The only locals glad about this event are the select few to participate and a few business owners.

We do not want Colorado any more publicized. In my book there are already too many people visiting and moving here. This is a LOSE, LOSE for Coloradoans!
August 23, 2008

9:49 p.m.

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FCZ writes:

90 percent annoyed as DNC attendees arrive
August 23, 2008

10:28 p.m.

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Shadow writes:

What a load of pomp. Nice to see trickenlooper jump for the DNC, but he can barely be bothered for the men and women who return from serving this country.
August 23, 2008

10:33 p.m.

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whynothere writes:

"freedom is not free" bumper sticker people...this is part of our electoral process. Be happy its taking place in CO even if you don't support the candidate. I am sure if it were McCain's convention you wouldn't be complaining about picking up your wife at the airport....geez. There is public transport there, btw.
August 24, 2008

12:54 a.m.

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Hstowell writes:

But all, "the one" is coming! Once he's here the streets will turn to gold and Denver will become a paradise. Not!

Nobama 08 or at any other time!
August 24, 2008

3:04 a.m.

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JohnSmith2 writes:

It's just a bunch of sour-faced Republicans. Democrats and Dem-supporting independents are thrilled to have the convention here, Republicans hate it (but will be quick to defend their own convention in Minneapolis), and the mushy middle might whine but they don't vote anyway because to vote is to accept some measure of responsibility for how government operates, and we can't possibly have that.

Enjoy it, people. It's a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence. Last time we had a convention from either party was 1908.
August 24, 2008

3:08 a.m.

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gwats writes:

Hstowell, Since you have not provided an alternative to the Obama candidacy or the DNC, I say thank you for exercising your first Amendment rights and will you please SHUT UP now? By the way, how many homes do YOU own? Check with your staff and get back to us.
August 24, 2008

4:30 a.m.

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samsmargolis writes:

gwats - since hypocrisy seems to reign supreme in the messiah's campaign, here's a fun link to the real estate empire of BHO's favorite little cheerleader - Oprah. Clearly, she's connected to the middle class. Not. Here's the difference: McCain doesn't know how many homes he owns because he doesn't use real estate as a yardstick to measure his self-worth. Contrast that with BHO and his scummy friends like Oprah who wear their worth around their necks like those gaudy, thick necklaces hip-hop musicians sport. Sorry, not the values I support.

http://www.bergproperties.com/blog/op...
August 24, 2008

4:51 a.m.

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jh49 writes:

Wow. Imagine coming to the city where the Democratic National Convention is being held and seeing signs for the DNC nominee at the airport where all the DNC people are coming in. Who'd a thunk it?

The headline should be changed to, "Some annoyed about anything."
August 24, 2008

5:28 a.m.

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MikeMF writes:

I see all the money spent of the convention and wonder how many kids who are hungry could get food. The conventions are part of our democratic process and to see that process at work is great. I'm sure if the people of Colorado are unfriendly enough delegaes will make a mental note not to come back.
August 24, 2008

8 a.m.

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LuvAmerica writes:

Why is the right wing obsessed with portraying Obama as a messiah figure? Is this their interpretation of the copious enthusiasm people have for the prospect of an intelligent, talented man with vision and leadership skills possibly headed towards the Oval Office? A seat that has been worse than vacant for the past 8 years, as Bush has reduced the country to rubble.

It's like you are marveling at how a man lost in the desert might get REALLY REALLY excited at the prospect of a glass of water.

Perhaps if McCain inspired a shred of confidence, what with his flip-flopping and lack of a plan, the dispirited folks in the GOP might just have something to get excited about as well.
August 24, 2008

8:06 a.m.

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samsmargolis writes:

McCain flip-flopping? BHO will say / do anything to get elected:

http://massdiscussion.blogspot.com/20...

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/...
August 24, 2008

8:32 a.m.

Suggest removal

Winski writes:

Some folks will never be happy with Denver being more than a few thousand folks..If so, let them move to Hartzel or Fruita and live where they want and how they want.

Fortunately or unfortunately Denver is growing up to be a major city (about time) and the progress can't be stopped. Get over it.
August 24, 2008

8:40 a.m.

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FCZ writes:

why the woman who received 18 million votes for the nomination never even made it to the short list for the VP nomination?

The ego of Barack Obama couldn’t handle it.

http://hotair.com/archives/2008/08/24...
August 24, 2008

8:42 a.m.

Suggest removal

SanctuaryCity writes:

Please, welcome them to sanctuary city. The home to cabbage patch children and street vendors. The city of cover ups and hidings. Also, the city of crimes and uninsured drivers. Have a good time
August 24, 2008

8:45 a.m.

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toocool writes:

It took 100 years to get the DNC back, mucho bucks for one and all, however if history repeats it's self, Denver will nominate another looser, the last one, running 3 times for Pres was William Jennings Bryan, Hmmmmmm.
August 24, 2008

9:09 a.m.

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Keith43 writes:

I find the Obama sign that the individual is holding, to be quite interesting. Many of you may recall that Obama had the sign of the American flag removed from his campaign aircraft, and replaced it with his Obama symbol that you see on the sign the person is holding up at DIA. I've heard that only after getting too much heat on the subject, he started wearing a pin of the American flag on his lapel. Whether he's started placing his hand over his heart during the pledge is another question.

For you Obama supporters, you might not think this a big deal. But, with this issue alone his true colors (no pun intended) are beeing kept from you. He couldn't care less about America or you and me. All he seeks is power and unrighteous dominion!
August 24, 2008

9:46 a.m.

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Sharpaxe writes:

DEN is crowded on the best of days, so who notices a few acolytes wandering the place. Anyway, you won't catch me in Denver until this madness passes.
August 24, 2008

9:49 a.m.

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portal_pyramids writes:

Question to all the Obama haters and fear tacticians. Is it not crystal clear what damage has taken place to this country in the last eight years and who is primarily responsible for it happening? Second question: Is it not clear that McCain is promising more of the same?
I find it laughable that the republicans really don't have anything positive to say about McCain but come up with some really out there criticism of Obama. Jet logos, flag pins...i just hope that people are not stupid enough to buy into these sleezy and ancient political tricks. Obama may be the new comer but I will vote for him simply for the fact that he is promising change and has not made his platform about how bad the other guy is. Keith 43, you sound like an a racist with your thinly veiled comments about color.
I wish republicans would come out and say exactly how they feel because their lies are transparent. On a side note i found it hilarious that Bush was blaming the Dems for gas prices and that drilling is the answer. It is clear who and what motivates the current administration and it is a shame anyone from either party supports this corruption.
Vote obama 08, he can't be any worse than what is happening now and I actually think the man might do a lot of good. For the Republicans out there talking trash, take the time to think for the yourself and not along party lines. There is a lot at stake here and now.
August 24, 2008

10:01 a.m.

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RockyWilly writes:

Wow, this article really brought out the cranky old farts. "I hate govt! I hate Obama! Too many people having fun! Arrgh!" Yes, we like Obama. We think he's a great candidate...because he is. We don't think he's the Messiah, as much as you rightists love to think we do. I like McCain too, but I don't like his ideas. I guess the right feels its only option is to demonize Obama given the failed policies of the last eight years, policies that are not conservative, just irresponsible. McCain wouldn't be as bad as Bush (he couldn't possibly be) but he seems to want to continue many of Bush's policies. He even caved on the torture issue. As for the DNC, sit back and enjoy the show whether you like Obama-Biden or not. We have a front row seat to history.
August 24, 2008

10:23 a.m.

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joe writes:

Obama killed the Wicked Witch Of the West, now let's clear her out and forget we ever knew her. (and her goofy husband) I used to like Denver, with an airport close in and -- at the time -- pretty decent highways, excepting I-25 of course. But that was back in the early seventies, now the place is just one more big traffic gridlock and not a fit place for man nor beast. Tis true that both parties are spending way too much money on these events, and they ought to be held in smaller out of the way towns that could use the money more than Denver. But that's the way it is these days, after all, someone donated all those bucks to be thrown away, maybe it was you..........
August 24, 2008

10:38 a.m.

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mytwosense writes:

Keith: "Whether he's started placing his hand over his heart during the pledge is another question."

My understanding is that he didn't always hold his hand over his heart during the singing of the *national anthem*, which many folks don't do. Now, if he refused to sing the anthem, that would be a different matter. But that wasn't the case, either.

Lots of misinformation out there.
August 24, 2008

11:12 a.m.

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Jo writes:

Portal- apparently you do not remember the Carter years. It can get worse--much much worse. Obama will be a train wreck for America.
August 24, 2008

11:16 a.m.

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lubeoil writes:

Obama won't even take care of his half brother . He's living in a shantytown in Africa. Meanwhile Obama chills on the beach in Hawaii. Won't you help support a African? For just a dollar a month, you too can support the half brother of a US Senator.
August 24, 2008

11:45 a.m.

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sylas writes:

"Is it not crystal clear what damage has taken place to this country in the last eight years and who is primarily responsible for it happening?"

Only Congress has the power to legislate per Article One of the Constitution:
"All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives."

It's convenient to ignore basic facts like this when the victim mentality is at the fore. The executive branch is not an absolute power in government. However, a president of the same party as the congressional majority tends to blur the separation of power. If things are "bad" four years from now who will you blame? Yeah, probably the former administration, right?

The scapegoaters, on either side of the aisle, need to look at their hand when pointing the finger. There's one pointing at the other guy and three pointing back at them.
August 24, 2008

12:39 p.m.

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Keith43 writes:

portal_pyramids,

You're pretty much right in your first paragraph. However, I switched from the Republican party during Bush's first term. My comments about Obama are simply based upon the facts of the man. Also, I think you'd have to agree that the democratically controlled congress was complicit in the direction Bush has taken us. They had numerous opportunities along the way, to clip his wings, impeach him, or whatever. Both parties are losers!
August 24, 2008

1:44 p.m.

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smartness32 writes:

I am one Denver resident that is not annoyed. On the contrary, I welcome the DNC and the national spotlight this week. It's an honor to host and it's totally exciting to be part of the action. It's disheartening to hear petty complaints when such a historic event is taking place in our city. I hope that we residents will be nothing but hospitable and welcoming to our guests this week, regardless of our political beliefs.
August 24, 2008

3:44 p.m.

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GeeTee writes:

Holding your hand over your heart during the national anthem makes one about as much of a patriot as wearing a flag pin. As a veteran, I stand at attention during the anthem, as we were required to do while in the service.

True patriots don't need to prove anything to anyone -- certainly not the post-9/11 nationalists that came out of the mud after that disaster.
August 24, 2008

4:14 p.m.

Suggest removal

woodwose writes:

LuvAmerica writes:

"Why is the right wing obsessed with portraying Obama as a messiah figure? Is this their interpretation of the copious enthusiasm people have for the prospect of an intelligent, talented man with vision and leadership skills possibly headed towards the Oval Office?"

I'll answer your question. The reason that a lot of people sarcastically portray Obama as a messiah figure is that some of his supporter's adulation of him borders on the psychotic.

Obama went to Harvard Law School, big whoop, so have a lot of people. His resume starts with being a "community organizer." Wow. He's served a total of 140 days in the US Senate. Incerdible. Less than 4 years ago, he was an Illinois State Senator. Gosh.

Obama is without a shadow of a doubt the least experienced, least qualified, most naive, major party presidential candidate in the history of this country.

Non-democrats look at the Democratic Party's nomination of Obama with the same uncomfortable feelings they looked at the rise of Jonestown and the Waco Branch Davidians. Conservatives and Independents don't always agree with Democrats, but still we've never seen them completely lose touch with reality in their adulation of a completely UNPROVEN man as their Presidential candidate like they have with Obama.

So that's why they sarcastically refer to Obama as a "messiah."

Sorry to have to spell it out for you, but you have obviously been drinking the Koolaid.
August 24, 2008

4:51 p.m.

Suggest removal

Barron writes:

To those who are annoyed: Tough. Get over it. To the delegates I offer a big, hearty Welcome!
August 24, 2008

4:56 p.m.

Suggest removal

Barron writes:

woodrose wrote: "Non-democrats look at the Democratic Party's nomination of Obama with the same uncomfortable feelings they looked at the rise of Jonestown and the Waco Branch Davidians. Conservatives and Independents don't always agree with Democrats, but still we've never seen them completely lose touch with reality in their adulation of a completely UNPROVEN man as their Presidential candidate like they have with Obama."

oh, please. This from a bunch of knuckle-draggers who elected not once, but twice, the class dunce, a former drunk and cocaine addict who told bald-face lies (that anyone who was paying attention knew were lies) to get us into an illegal, unjust war, costing the lives of thousands and RAPING the American treasury, so his crony friends could be war profiteers. Want to talk about blind loyalty? Don't even go there.
August 24, 2008

4:59 p.m.

Suggest removal

Barron writes:

lubeoil writes:

Obama won't even take care of his half brother . He's living in a shantytown in Africa. Meanwhile Obama chills on the beach in Hawaii. Won't you help support a African? For just a dollar a month, you too can support the half brother of a US Senator.

At least he claims him!!
August 24, 2008

5:07 p.m.

Suggest removal

freemarketworks writes:

We should embrace this abomination, I mean the "Obama Nation."
August 24, 2008

5:39 p.m.

Suggest removal

freemarketworks writes:

Geetee writes:

"Holding your hand over your heart during the national anthem makes one about as much of a patriot as wearing a flag pin. As a veteran, I stand at attention during the anthem, as we were required to do while in the service."

Here's the official U.S. Protocol: "Protocol: The Complete Handbook of Diplomatic, Official and Social Usage"

Title 36 of the U.S. Code, Subtitle, 1, Paragraph A, Chapter 3, Section 301

(a) Designation.–The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem.
(b) Conduct During Playing.–During a rendition of the national
anthem–
(1) when the flag is displayed–
(A) all present except those in uniform should stand at
attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart;
(B) men not in uniform should remove their headdress with
their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder,
the hand being over the heart; and
(C) individuals in uniform should give the military salute
at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until
the last note; and

(2) when the flag is not displayed, all present should face
toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.
August 24, 2008

6:07 p.m.

Suggest removal

fencergal writes:

GET THE DUMMYCRATS OUT OF MY STATE!!!!!!
August 24, 2008

6:54 p.m.

Suggest removal

I_am_smarter_than_you writes:

It's not your state, moron!
August 24, 2008

9:11 p.m.

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rab4us writes:

Being a politically incorrect knuckle dragger, I am excited to have Mr. Obama and the rest of the democrats come to our state to enlighten us on the change and prosperity that they will bring to our country. I always enjoy seeing our public servants "roll up their sleeves" and act like they give a crap. Funny how things never change regardless of the political flavor. Oh, and if you believe Mr. Obama is any different, have I got some nice land for sale by the decommissioned Rocky Flats nuclear facility. It's time for a change indeed!!
August 24, 2008

10:21 p.m.

Suggest removal

fatheromalley writes:

I_AM_SMARTER_THAN_YOU writes "It's not your state moron"..

Wow... I guess that says it all about I_AM-SMARTER_THAN_YOU

I agree with lubeoil, Baron, a question. Who is claiming who?..George claiming Barrack or Barrack "claiming George?". If Barrack is claiming him, how come George is living on 1 dollar a month? If you mean George is claiming Barrack, wouldn't you if your half brother was worth well over 4 million with a wife earning $450,000? Hell, I'd claim Barrack too! Yeah boy, he's my brother.. yes suh!

www.fatheromalley.com

Love to all,
Father O'Malley
August 24, 2008

10:23 p.m.

Suggest removal

bluecollarbytes writes:

So much for the separation of Church & State. Denver is a typical Democrat city writ small. It's only natural it would greet its fellow worshipers much as Deacons might prior to morning services. Obama's busy playing around with tidal patterns or he might have parted the terminal lines.

Is there such a thing as a Fairness Doctrine for public gathering places?
August 25, 2008

1:22 a.m.

Suggest removal

STR writes:

I wonder how all these hypocrites (read republicans) will react if this is an RNC .... they are so hurt, disturbed & confused because of huge crowds... let's see how St.Paul residents feel about RNC next month ...

BHO/JRB beats JSM/(WMR) '08
August 25, 2008

12:09 p.m.

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no_whiners writes:

It is interesting to see how an event like this brings out two prevalent personalities of Colorado residents - the proud and welcoming cowboy hat / suede vest types, and the ignorant / narrow minded egocentrics. I suppose this could happen in any state, but the contrast in this article is rather striking.
August 25, 2008

12:16 p.m.

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no_whiners writes:

It's also interesting how a short news blurb like this can bring out both the analytical and childish name callers alike.

How nice that people around the world can now theoretically hear what you think about liberals,republicans, etc. instead of just your dog/spouse/guy sitting next to you at the cafe.

Home › News › Politics

Some annoyed as DNC attendees arrive at DIA

Susie Ma, Rocky Mountain News

Published August 23, 2008 at 3:42 p.m.

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