Halliburton can run, but ...

Energy and contracting giant Halliburton is having its annual shareholders meeting today. It appears that moving the meeting from Texas to the town of Duncan, Oklahoma isn't helping them avoid the protests that engulf their gatherings each year:

DUNCAN, Okla. -- Dozens of police and Oklahoma state troopers are on hand for today's Halliburton Company annual shareholders meeting in Duncan, Oklahoma.

Security is tight for the Houston-based oilfield services and construction company's meeting in the rural southwest Oklahoma town. About three dozen protesters began setting up in a cordoned off area next to the Simmons Center, where the shareholders will meet.

Some put up signs, including one reading "War for Oil is Wrong," and a bus arrived festooned with upside down U-S flags and signs saying "Bring Them Home Now" and "Veterans for Peace."

Protesters say they expect between 200 and 300 demonstrators. They accuse Halliburton of war profiteering, unscrupulous business practices and poor environmental practices. A middle school across the street from the center is closed for safety reasons.

Halliburton officials say they're meeting in Duncan to showcase the company's heritage. Erle Halliburton incorporated the company in Duncan in 1924, and it was headquartered there until 1961.