A couple hundred or so pro-Palestinian supporters came out to protest the recent aggressive actions by Israel against the residents of Gaza Strip. Israel's actions, which reportedly have included violence against civilians as well as holding Hamas politicians hostage, are meant to pressure Palestinian militants who are holding a 19 year old Israeli soldier (Gilad Shalit) to return him unharmed. Still no word on the plight of that soldier, and neither side seems to be backing down. There were a couple dozen or so counter-protesters at Monday's event, who performed such creative and clever tricks as blaring a boombox, playing a trumpet loudly, and tooting a spiral animal horn in an apparent attempt to elevate the discourse (that's sarcasm, in case it didn't transmit properly). Both sides appeared self-righteous and unwilling to negotiate or have any understanding for views other than their own. Admittedly, I tend to think the Palestinians have been more wronged over time (and especially in the current stand-off) but there are wrongs on both sides. Very sad indeed. If we can't come to understand each other (or even try to do so) and have some mutual empathy we might as well give it all up (in my humble opinion). Americans: Write and call your putative representatives and tell them to cut off American aid to Israel if you don't wish to be complicit in the current actions of Israel! (And don't foregt to agitate for impeachment on the 4th and everyday!)