Last night (Thursday, 17 March 2005) began with optimism but ended in a sense of helplessness, again our government has lied to the public. Mr. Cheney was scheduled to arrive in Charleston, SC for a fundraiser at around 7 pm. He, however, canceled sometime during the day.

However, dedicated members of Wake Up & Act had spent Wednesday night and the entire day on Thursday planning a spontaneous and surprise protest to welcome Mr. Cheney with the grimmest of receptions. Had the man viewed by few as the vice president of the United States made an appearance Thursday, the reception; however extravagant your tax dollars made it, would have been marred with a significant protest on behalf of members of Wake Up & Act, as well as other action groups in the immediate Charleston area. Our actions were coordinated with utmost care and professionalism as to avoid any ‘counter-spin’ so common from the Republican Party and their acolytes in the press. The absence of Mr. Cheney Thursday will be viewed as a success of our message and any energy placed in yesterday’s event will be transferred to the rallies in Marion Square on Saturday and Sunday. No longer will the city of Charleston be considered a ‘safe-zone’ for any member of the conservative right that chooses to ignore the blood which drips from the hands of what some would call 'leaders'.

Anyone in the Charleston area, please join us (Wake Up & Act), the SC Progressive Network, Thinking People, and Charleston Peace for our rallies on Saturday and Sunday. You may visit Wake Up & Act for more information...