Groups, city officials aargue over rallies at Dem convention Eds: APNewsNow. Will be led.

DENVER (AP) A spat between groups planning protests during the Democratic National Convention and Denver and federal officials continues to build as one of the biggest political events of the year rapidly approaches.

City officials on Monday released additional details of an area for protesters during the convection, but an attorney for protest groups says they won't be near delegates at the Pepsi Center.

City officials say the viewing area will be encircled by wire mesh and it will not be enclosed at the top. The area will use 50,000-square foot zone within a 350,000-square foot parking lot next to the Pepsi Center, the site of the convention.

American Civil Liberties Union attorney Mark Silverstein says they plan to challenge the city in federal court to ensure protesters are within sight and sound of the delegates.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-23-08 2105CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list