Crown Hall

I'd seen this mentioned--at Cursor, I think--and now King of Zembla has posted, complete with additional info:

During his trip to Germany on Wednesday, the main highlight of George W. Bush's trip was meant to be a "town hall"-style meeting with average Germans. But with the German government unwilling to permit a scripted event with questions approved in advance, the White House has quietly put the event on ice. Was Bush afraid the event might focus on prickly questions about Iraq and Iran rather than the rosy future he's been touting in Europe this week?

Simbaud goes on to note the now usual steps taken by the various layers of security surrounding the dauphin--sealed manhole covers and recommendations to people along motorcade routes, etc., that they close their windows and avert their gaze to "avoid misunderstandings," which apparently is diplomatese for "one false move and we'll stomp you half to death--if we're in a good mood. Or maybe we'll blow your brains out if we're not."

Gee--why don't they appreciate freedom?