Activists take liking to Foothill and Day Creek

                             













Thomas Cordova/



Foothill and Day Creek has grown into quite the protest corner.

On tax day, hundreds gathered at the intersection near Victoria Gardens to protest taxes and big government. Last night, gay rights activists gathered there following the state supreme court's decision to uphold Proposition 8.

Thanks to the recent closing of Circuit City, which paved the way for plenty of parking, the intersection is a popular one for protesters. These big crowds have stirred the entrepreneurial spirit in some including Johnny Carino's. Last night, the Italian restaurant printed fliers for a captive audience. "Come to Carinos after your protest ... all appetizers half price," read the flier.

It's another sign that the city's center is on the east side.

This particular intersection also has great medians, little islands for protesters to congregate. Two arrived on a median with anti-gay signs; one reading "Homo sex is a sin."

At any other protests, there would have been boos and sneers. But the gay rights activists put on the charm offensive, blowing kisses and shouting, "We love you, too." The two counter-protesters weren't amused.

"Homo sex is a sin?" said one gay rights activist. "Not if you're doing it right."