New York fans heckle Peace Protester, Vice-President
an article by Charlie McNally

Although the baseball season is more than half over, many fans are just learning of one player's principled stand against the war in Iraq. Carlos Delgado of the Toronto Blue Jays, while having a mediocre season at the plate, is having a stand out year for his courage and conviction. Delgado refuses to remain on the field during the signing of God Bless America, due to the fact the United States is now involved what he terms "the stupidest war ever." Delgado was booed and heckled by New York fans during a recent game at Yankee stadium, which is the only ballpark in the majors that has played the song during every game since 9/11.

Despite the abuse, the Puerto Rican Delgado continues to stand by his position. "It's a terrible thing that happened on Sept. 11. It's also a terrible thing that happened in Afghanistan and Iraq. I just feel so sad for the families that lost relatives and loved ones in the war." There is cause for optimism in addition to the individual courage of a player.

Although there was scattered booing when Delgado stepped to the plate at Yankee stadium, it was nothing in comparison with the reaction of fans when Dick Cheney attended a recent game. When Cheney was pictured on the stadium jumbotron during none other than God Bless America, the fans booed so loudly that his picture was quickly removed. It's good that most New Yorkers know what the real problems are even if a few are offended by a principled stand for peace.

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