Today is the culmination of the Iraq summer campaign Americans Against Escalation in Iraq. Today is Take a Stand Day day. Think Progress reports:

From coast to coast, thousands of concerned citizens will turn out to attend "Take a Stand" events and vigils organized by MoveOn.org, including one in Connecticut that will send a message to Sen. Joe Lieberman and Rep. Chris Shays. Iraq war vet John Bruhns writes, "Since the kick-off, ‘Iraq Summer’ organizers have held 362 press events, planted 30,452 lawn signs (often in the member’s immediate neighborhood), created 265 YouTube videos, and directly confronted members of Congress on their war votes 125 times."

Reports are coming in as the events unfold, including a confrontation with GOP Rep. Jean Schmidt in Cincinnati where Mean Jean showed up in person to joing the counter protesters. Via e-mail:

Field Director Matt Hurm reports: " AAEI had 20 people at their stakeout in front of Congresswoman Jean Schmidt's office. A dozen counter-protesters arrived and Jean Schmidt, herself, joined the counter protesters. We took the opportunity to invite her once again to tonight's town hall."

From Erie, PA town hall targeting Rep. English:

"The park is filled with over 200 hundred people and the crowd continues to grow. The city of Erie's Special Events Coordinator is allowing us to stay here as long as we want.

Sister Mary Clarie Kennedy began the program reminding us of the toll of this endless reckless war on American and Iraqi children. An Erie, Pa fire truck drove by in the middle of her speech, she paused the stated "They hear that everyday in Iraq. Do your part, call Representative English and tell him to end this war."

Reverend and Vietnam Veteran Steve Aschmann spoke next. He lead the every growing crowd in the chant "Speak truth to power" and "Power to the Peaceful"" -- Jeannie, PA organizer

From Philadelphia, PA town hall targeting Sen. Specter

"It's Standing Room only at least 30 people are standing up!!! There is over 100 people here and they are still coming in !!!! We keep asking for more chairs but the Library can't get them in here fast enough. I am looking around at young people, seniors, men, women, and children are all here demanding that Senator Specter Takes a Stand against the War. John Grant is up now speaking.. He is a Vietnam war veteran who has traveled to Iraq several times. "The Petraues Report is only a Distraction--- to keep our sons and daughters in Iraq"

From Orono, ME town hall targeting Sen. Collins

"Craig Cote, father of an Iraq War Sergeant, speaks from the heart--he warns us beforehand that he is apt to get emotional both about his son and the role the Bush administration has had in putting him there. "It is unfair for these politicians to play Russian Roulette with our sons' lives."

Talking to a few attendees outside, there is general amazement (yet lack of surprise) that the Maine Iraq Summer project has received a submission from EVERY member of the Maine contingent in congress--a 4 page letter from Senator Snowe, a videotaped statement from Congressman Michaud, and an appearance from Congressman Allen himself--EXCEPT Senator Collins. Their disgust is palpable." -- Lilia, ME organizer.