...the kitty-corner protests were pretty well-mannered.  'Course, I didn't see the guys (civilians, anyway) who were packing the heat.

I arrived a bit late to the convention center area (kids, work), and arrived at the designated protest interstection at the right-wing side.  Wandered around for a short while, quietly reading signs and questioning a few folks that seemed like they might be able to express their own opinions and engage in a discussion.  No success, and gathered a few growls 'n scowls.  Even in my shirt and tie, I stood out.

Crossed the street and enjoyed seeing a few long-time friends.  Participated in the chants (and interjected some of my own thoughts), helped drown out some of the cases with bullhorns and cameras who thought we needed preaching to (religious and political), and discussed the latest developments with similarly-minded partisans. 

Bottom line - most (on the pro-health-ins-reform side of the gathering) are unhappy that Obama may be ready to substitute "coops" for "public option" , but a good chunk realize that this may be necessary in order to get a decent bill thru Congress and into law, and that it may be a pretty large step in a very long hike.

Flame away, but remember, it is about 105 degrees here, and I just stood out in the sun for a good long time (have finished two water bottles and a 64oz thirstbuster) - I can take the heat!  (Even tho I'm not packing any.)