Pen-Elayne on the Web

Protesting the Bubble Boy

Via my husband, a nice Forbes sum-up of how Bush's handlers plan to "avoid unflattering images" on his upcoming trip to London. If you're in the neighborhood, here's the Stop the War Coalition information on plans during Bush's visit. Some things that won't be happening are listed here, including the granting of immunity to American snipers who "accidentally" shoot protestors, closure of the Tube network, the use of US Air Force planes and helicopters, and the shipping in of battlefield weaponry (also to be used, they'd hoped, against protestors). This was essentially the quid pro quo that allowed a "sterile zone" (gotta love that euphemism!) around Bush. Still, 250 Secret Service agents to protect a sitting American President visiting a country that's supposed to be his strongest ally? Surreal. Oh, and as Bush will apparently be visiting with the Queen prior to his confabs with Tony Blair, it's probably worth remembering their previous conversation (thanks, Mary Beth!). Update: The "unwelcome" has begun. And via Jenny and Hesiod, apparently the Queen is not amused by Bush's security demands. Oh, there's just so much to review, here's the Google link to it all...