"Protesters planning rallies and marches in Charlotte say their actions during the Democratic National Convention will likely dwarf those in Tampa, where thousands of demonstrators were expected but only hundreds showed up to the rain-drenched Republican National Convention.◼ 'Occupy' encampment re-opens near Dem convention... - Cleve R. Wootson Jr. / Charlotte Observer
"A cross-section of people representing 90 groups planning to demonstrate during the DNC said they plan to bring their 'Enough is Enough' messages to Charlotte starting Saturday. Friday’s press conference took place at the NoDa office that has become the headquarters for many protesters in Charlotte.
◼ DNC security rules trigger free speech worries...
Starting Saturday, someone walking through Charlotte's central business district could run afoul of the law by carrying water bottles, hair spray, socks or magic markers under sweeping security rules enacted ahead of the Democratic National Convention.
It would take a particularly strict reading of the rules for someone to be arrested simply for possessing one of those items, but the possibility exists — which worries protesters and free speech advocates. They fear authorities could trample on people's constitutional rights in the name of protecting public safety....
The special rules that went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Saturday could also bar anyone other than government employees from carrying handbags and backpacks or possessing soda cans, drink coolers, scarves, bike helmets, baby strollers or pets not specifically permitted as service animals.
A section banning "a container or object of sufficient weight to be used as a projectile" could be interpreted to include almost anything, from an apple to an iPhone.
Those caught violating any of these prohibitions could be subject to arrest and jail.
