http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/3577836.stm
Rewards for 'nice' NY protesters
New York city is offering discounts to peaceful protesters at this month's Republican Party national convention.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg - a Republican - says those wearing "peaceful activist" badges will qualify for reductions at hotels and restaurants.
Tens of thousands of demonstrators are expected to descend on Manhattan for the conference, where President George W Bush will take centre stage.
The city is concerned that protests will spill over into violence.
Many 'unimpressed'
Announcing the scheme, Mr Bloomberg said: "There is no reason we shouldn't welcome them in the same way we are welcoming the delegates and the press.
"The right to protest is a basic American right... and New York city is a place where you can come and get your message out."
Participating restaurants, museums and other attractions will provide the rewards for those who obey the law and groups that have permits to demonstrate, according to the scheme.
"It's no fun to protest on an empty stomach," Mr Bloomberg said in a joint press conference with the city tourism board.
Michael O'Neal, restaurant owner, seemed optimistic that even anarchist protesters would be tempted by the treats on offer in the commercial capital of the world.
"Whether you come to protest or just to be seen as a statement, please bring your credit cards as well as your placards," he said.
Mr Bloomberg said: "They would still get the discount, even if they're an anarchist." he said.
The BBC's Jeremy Cooke in New York says many protest groups remain unimpressed by the Republican mayor's gesture.
They have pointed out that the biggest planned demonstration to take place in Central Park has not received permission from the city, and that tens of thousands of protesters attending an illegal gathering will therefore be liable to be arrested.
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