Bush protesters stake out location

By NATALIE HOFFMAN
Register Staff Writer

President George W. Bush’s expected arrival in the Napa Valley late tomorrow is sending local anti-war activists into high gear.

Joanne Gifford, chairwoman of United Napans Concerned Over the Iraq Lunacy, said the group is organizing an open protest slate tomorrow afternoon to raise awareness about the war in the Middle East.

Beginning at 5 p.m. Thursday, UNCOIL members will wield signs at the intersections of highways 29 and 121, she said.  

“There will be a display of crosses ... to stand as a reminder that the war continues and people continue to die as a result of it,” Gifford said, adding that an UNCOIL representative will contact the California Highway Patrol to notify them of the protest plans.  

After the initial gathering, the group plans to caravan to Larkmead Lane, where some believe the president plans to attend a fundraising event at Frank Family Vineyards.

“We’re doing this not only to remind the president that we think (the Iraq War) is wrong, but to put it in the public eye,” she said. “I think people forget that we are at war.”

White House staff has not confirmed what location President Bush will be at in Napa when he comes for a Republican National Committee fundraiser.

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