2008 Democratic National Convention News

DNC Elects Standing Committee Leadership for 2008 Democratic National Convention

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 17:30:00 -0800

DENVER - The Executive Committee of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) unanimously elected DNC Chairman Howard Dean's nominations for the Chairs of the 2008 Democratic National Convention Standing Committees that are responsible for reviewing Convention business and formulating recommendations for consideration by Convention delegates. The Executive Committee's vote took place during the panel's recent meeting in Denver, site of the four-day Convention in August.

"The record turnout and enthusiasm we've seen for our Democratic candidates is a clear sign that Americans trust Democrats to bring much needed change to our country," said Governor Dean. "These outstanding leaders reflect the great strength, diversity and energy of the Democratic Party, and I'm confident their efforts will ensure our Convention in Denver is reflective of our shared values and our nominee's vision for America."

The elections included the Chairs and 25 Party Leader and Elected Official (PLEO) members of the three Convention Standing Committees: Credentials, Platform and Rules. Each committee has a total of 186 members. An additional 161 members elected by each of the states' and territories' Convention delegations will join Governor Dean's appointments to the committees later this spring.

Credentials Committee
Elected to chair the Credentials Committee are Alexis Herman, James Roosevelt, Jr. and Eliseo Roques-Arroyo. Alexis Herman served as U.S. Secretary of Labor from 1997 to 2001. She served as DNC Chief of Staff for Chairman Ron Brown and later was named CEO of the 1992 Democratic National Convention. Since 2005, she has served as a Co-Chair of the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee and also served as a Co-Chair of the Commission on Presidential Nomination Timing and Scheduling. James Roosevelt, Jr. is President and CEO of Tufts Health Plan, a Massachusetts based Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and was formerly Associate Commissioner for Retirement Policy of the Social Security Administration in the Clinton Administration. He is the chief legal counsel for the Massachusetts Democratic Party and Co-Chair of the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee. Eliseo Roques-Arroyo, a native of Puerto Rico, served as Executive Assistant to Commonwealth of Puerto Rico Senate Minority Leader Miguel Hernandez-Agosto and to Puerto Rico Delegate to Congress Antonio J. Colorado. He is a former Executive Director of the Democratic Party of Puerto Rico and presently a member of the DNC.

The Credentials Committee is charged with coordinating issues around the selection of delegates and alternates to the Convention and will likely meet in the summer. The committee will issue a report that is the first official item of business at the Convention.

Platform Committee
Elected to chair the Platform Committee are Patricia Madrid, Judith McHale and Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. Patricia Madrid served two terms as the Attorney General of New Mexico, the state's first woman Attorney General and the nation's first Latina in that position. She also served as the Chairperson of the Western Conference of Attorneys General, which focuses on energy, environment and Indian gaming issues. Madrid was first elected to public office in 1978 as the state's first female district court judge. Judith McHale is the former President and CEO of Discovery Communications, Inc. At Discovery, she created a work-life initiative, including generous parental leave and flexible work options for employees, and established a fund that delivered free educational programming to thousands of students around the world. She spearheaded acquisitions of TLC and the Travel Channel and also was a prime force behind the partnership in the late nineties that led to the launch of BBC America. Governor Deval Patrick, elected in 2006 as the state's first African American Governor, is the first member of his family to attend college, graduating from Harvard and Harvard Law School. Named as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights by President Bill Clinton, he has also served on numerous charitable and corporate boards, as well as the Federal Election Reform Commission under Presidents Carter and Ford.

The Platform Committee is responsible for drafting and recommending a proposed National Platform for approval at the Convention. After conducting hearings and forums to collect testimony on issues and policies to potentially include in the platform, the committee is likely to meet sometime in July.

Rules Committee
Elected to chair the Rules Committee are Sunita Leeds, Mary Rose Oakar and David Walters. Sunita Leeds, a software developer by training, is deeply involved with progressive non-profit causes focused on education, breaking the cycle of poverty and women's issues. As Chair of the DNC Indo-American Leadership Council Advisory Board, she coordinates a network of Indian-American activists, community leaders, elected officials and VIPs to support the fundraising and outreach work of the Council. Mary Rose Oakar is President of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, the largest Arab-American grassroots civil rights organization in the country. From 1977 to 1993, she represented western Cleveland in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she worked on several pieces of legislation related to peace and justice in the Middle East and for those of Middle East ancestry. Oakar served as secretary of the House Democratic Caucus. David Walters is president of Walters Power International, which specializes in electrical generation equipment. From 1990 to 1994, he served as governor of Oklahoma, where he made education a top priority - increasing education funding by 30 percent and investing heavily in construction and renovation at state colleges.

The Rules Committee is responsible for proposing the Permanent Rules for the Convention, adopting the proposed Convention agenda and making recommendations for permanent Convention officers - all addressed as the second official item of business at the Convention. The committee will meet sometime in August, prior to the Convention.

For a list of and biographical information on the PLEO members from each Standing Committee, click here.

DNCC Contacts:
Jenni Engebretsen
Natalie Wyeth
(720) 362-2006

DNC Contacts:
Karen Finney
Stacie Paxton
(202) 863-8148

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About the DNCC:
The 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee is the official arm of the Democratic National Committee responsible for planning and organizing the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. www.demconvention.com

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DNCC Announces Security Team For 2008 Democratic National Convention

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 12:47:00 -0800

Veteran Members of Denver Police Department to Head Security for Convention Committee, Coordinate Security Planning with Secret Service and Local Law Enforcement

DENVER – The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced that two long-time members of the Denver Police Department (DPD) will lead the DNCC’s security team for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28 in Denver. Frank Conner will serve as Director of Security and Jim Malone will serve as Deputy Director of Security for the DNCC.

“We are extremely fortunate to have Frank and Jim joining our team,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “With long-standing relationships with the Denver Police Department and nearly 70 years of law enforcement service between them, these professionals will be ideal liaisons between the DNCC, the City of Denver and our security partners at the federal level.”

A 35-year veteran of the Denver Police Department, Conner’s new duties will include coordinating the DNCC’s overall security needs with the U.S. Secret Service and the DPD and developing a safety and security plan for DNCC staff and volunteers during Convention week. His duties will also include working with the Convention’s hall management, transportation and media teams to develop a site plan for the Pepsi Center, including a plan for pre- and post-Convention security requirements.

Most recently, Conner served as Lieutenant for the DPD’s METRO/SWAT Bureau. His resume includes extensive work on managing security for large-scale events in Denver, including the 2006 NBA All-Star Game, the 1997 Summit of the Eight and a 1993 papal visit. Conner has a lengthy history of providing protective details for numerous world leaders including presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter as well as Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Pope John Paul II. Conner graduated from Denver’s Metropolitan State College with a degree in law enforcement.

“I look forward to joining the Convention team and to working with the Denver Police Department, among other law enforcement agencies, to make this Convention a safe and enjoyable experience for all of our Convention guests and the citizens of Denver,” said Conner.

Malone brings more than 30 years of service with the DPD to his role as Deputy Director of Security for the DNCC. His responsibilities include planning for the security of the DNCC’s staff, offices and events during the lead-up to the 2008 Convention. Malone will also work with the Convention’s transportation and housing departments, in conjunction with local law enforcement, to develop a security plan for the DNCC’s official hotels and shuttle system.

Also a Denver native, Malone provided protection for Denver mayors John Hickenlooper and Wellington Webb under the Mayor’s Executive Security Unit. In recognition of his outstanding service, Malone was awarded the DPD’s Medal of Honor.

"I have the utmost respect for Frank and Jim and look forward to working with them in this new capacity,” said Denver Chief of Police Gerry Whitman. “Their past experience with the Denver Police Department will be a great asset to the DNCC and City and County of Denver."

Both Conner and Malone will report to Cameron Moody, Deputy CEO for “Outside the Hall” Operations.

The Democratic National Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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DNCC Deposits $2 Million In Denver-Based, Minority-Owned Bank

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 11:05:00 -0700

DENVER – In an effort to support Denver ’s rich diversity of businesses as full partners in the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced the deposit of $2 million in the Native American Bank (NAB) in Denver . The deposit will allow NAB to provide additional loans in minority communities and continue to do business with minority-owned business enterprises.

“When the 2008 Democratic National Convention comes to Denver, we want to ensure that it offers economic benefits to the community as a whole,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “Our goal is to bring groundbreaking opportunities to the broad variety of businesses that make the City of Denver stand tall. Native American Bank is the perfect partner for us in this venture because of its proven commitment to supporting economic growth and development in diverse communities.”

Headquartered in Denver, NAB is owned by 26 federally-recognized Indian tribes, Alaska native corporations and tribal organizations. Established in 2001, it is the only multi-tribal owned bank in the country and focuses on economic development in Indian communities. Its mission is to assist Native American and Alaskan Native individuals, enterprises and governments to reach their goals by providing affordable and flexible banking and financial services. With over 85 percent of the bank’s loans going to Native Americans, NAB concentrates on pooling Indian economic resources to increase Indian economic independence by fostering a climate of self-determination in investment, job creation and sustainable economic growth.

"We at Native American Bank greatly appreciate the DNCC initiating this partnership,” said JD Colbert, NAB President and CEO. “The DNCC's deposit with Native American Bank underscores its commitment to the greater Denver metropolitan area and to the vibrancy of the Denver business community. For Native American Bank, this is a significant deposit that will allow us to continue to expand our lending and economic development activities across Indian Country as well as to native and other businesses here in the Denver metropolitan area."

In recent years, the DNCC has made a practice of depositing a portion of its federal grant funds in minority and woman-owned banks in the city where the Democratic National Convention is being held. The tradition aims to provide local business institutions and their customers with financial and public support in advance of the Convention. The funds will be held in a non-interest bearing account and remain with NAB until being withdrawn in one lump sum several months before the Convention.

NAB was selected by the DNCC in large part because of the bank’s work through its nonprofit arm, the Native American Community Development Corporation (NACDC). The organization focuses on strengthening financial wisdom in Native people and Native communities and works with NAB investors to improve the flow of financial capital to tribal and Native American projects and businesses.

NACDC’s current initiatives include:

- Collaborating with Indian Land Tenure Foundation on community planning efforts at the Rocky Boy, Fort Belknap , and Fort Peck tribal communities in Montana and on a financing initiative targeting the acquisition of alienated lands by tribes

- In partnership with NAB, providing start-up assistance and ongoing guidance to youth-oriented financial education “mini-bank” initiatives on the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana and the Ft. Hall Reservation in Idaho

- Developing a model small business incubator on the Blackfeet Reservation and a possible loan fund to support the model and providing direct assistance on specific business planning and business financing projects within this and other tribal communities

- Providing home mortgage counseling and assistance on the successful completion of home mortgage applications with a focus on the utilization of the HUD 184 loan guarantee program.

Joining Daughtry and Colbert at the event were several business owners and NAB customers from the Denver area.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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DNCC Names United as Official Airline Provider for 2008 Democratic National Convention

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 16:52:00 -0800

DENVER - The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today named United Airlines as the official airline provider for the 35,000 delegates, media and guests flying to Denver, Colo. for the 2008 Democratic National Convention. This marks the fourth consecutive time United has been selected as the official airline provider for a Democratic National Convention.

A longtime partner of the community hosting the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the airline employs more than 5,200 people in the Denver area, including an estimated 4,600 employees at Denver International Airport. The DNCC's selection of United also represents the Party's longstanding commitment to the nation's working men and women.

"As one of our most trusted partners from conventions past, we are pleased to have United back on board for 2008," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "They have assembled a wide array of flight options that should make travel to and from the Mile High City convenient and affordable for our delegates and other honored guests."

"We are proud to be the official carrier of the Democratic National Convention and to have the opportunity to showcase our second home in Denver," said Mark Anderson, Vice President - Government Affairs for United. "On behalf of all of our employees, we look forward to welcoming the thousands of delegates and other attendees to the Mile High City."

Denver International Airport is home to United's second-largest and busiest cross-country hub. In partnership with United Express, the airline offers a total of 420 average daily departures from Denver, including 16 daily international flights. In 2006, United recorded carrying more than 12.7 million passengers from Denver International Airport.

As the official airline provider, United is offering discounted fares to delegates and DNCC officials and staff as they travel to and from Denver. In keeping with the commitment to make this the "greenest" political convention on record, DNCC leadership is encouraging staff members to purchase offsets for all air travel. Convention organizers are also exploring creative ways to encourage delegates to offset their travel to the four-day event by purchasing offsets and making other choices that will help ensure that Convention travel is as environmentally sustainable as possible.

For travel arrangements, United will provide a special toll-free number for reservations. Travelers will also be able to book flights online at www.United.com . The airline has assigned a special number for delegates and DNCC staff to use when booking flights.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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DNCC Hosts Walk-Through for Media Planning Coverage of the 2008 Democratic National Convention

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:48:00 -0800

Governor Dean Addresses More Than 400 Members of the Media, Shares Vision for Next Year's Event in Denver

DNCC Announces Plans for Expanded Blogger Credentialing, Launches DemConvention State Blogger Corps for 2008

DENVER - The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today hosted international, national, local and online media outlets, including bloggers, for its Fall Media Walk-through at the Pepsi Center - home of the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. More than 430 members of the media - representing some 180 news organizations based in locations from Fort Collins, Colo. to France, New York to Los Angeles and Toronto to Tokyo - took advantage of this first official opportunity for media to become acquainted with the Convention site and begin making coverage plans. Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Howard Dean addressed the gathering and spoke to the importance of the upcoming election and the Convention in Denver.

"Just over nine months from now, right here under this roof, we will kick off the fall campaign of the 2008 election," said Governor Dean. "As the first Convention to truly serve this function, Denver is positioned to play a unique role in history. Our selection of Denver was not by chance. When the eyes of the world turn to Denver next August, this city will be poised to make its mark. And as a Party, we Democrats will do the same."

Plans for next year's event have long included a commitment to bring more people into the Convention experience than ever before. In keeping with the goal to engage different types of audiences in new and creative ways, the DNCC announced at today's walk-through the credentialing process for bloggers interested in covering the four-day event. While the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston was the first to credential bloggers, the DNCC put forth plans to expand the size of the credentialed blogger pool and also offer for the first time a state blogger credentialing program in 2008.

Recognizing the growth of more localized blogs and in line with Governor Dean's 50-state strategy, the DNCC will offer the opportunity for one blogger to be credentialed from each of the 56 states and territories as part of the DemConvention State Blogger Corps. The DNCC will also credential national bloggers for the event, including political, niche and video bloggers from across the country.

"From the beginning, Governor Dean has given us a mandate to break the mold with this Convention - to take our thinking outside the box and also to make this the most inclusive Convention in history," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "From taking the Convention home through network broadcasts, the pages of hometown newspapers across the country and a variety of Internet sites to rolling online coverage from grassroots bloggers, who will attend and cover this Convention in groundbreaking ways, the media plays a tremendous role in bringing this Convention to the nation. For our part, we will offer a compelling program from our Convention stage and look to technology and a variety of creative elements to directly engage those beyond the Pepsi Center walls."

During the walk-through, Convention officials provided a general overview for the media of areas including the housing application and hotel room reservation process, the credential application process, the Convention transportation system, site access, media workspace in and outside the Pepsi Center and information regarding DNCC selected vendors.

The DNCC will host a second media walk-through in the Spring, though a date has not yet been scheduled.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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DNCC Takes 'Convention Conversations' Series to Boulder

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 18:08:00 -0800

BOULDER - Widely recognized as a long-time Democratic Party stronghold, Boulder played host today to the Democratic National Convention Committee's (DNCC) third in a series of community forums to be held in the lead-up to the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Colorado House Majority Leader Alice Madden joined DNCC CEO Leah D. Daughtry for the "Convention Conversations" forum to answer questions, offer information and discuss opportunities for economic benefit surrounding the Convention.

"Boulder is uniquely positioned to play an integral role in our Convention experience," said Daughtry. "From its businesses poised to offer goods and services to those planning events around the Convention to an active Democratic community positioned to roll up its sleeves and help our Party bring this Convention to life, we see multiple opportunities to bring Boulder to the Convention. And as we look to showcase not only our host city but our host region in 2008, opportunities to bring Convention attendees to Boulder are very real for this community as well."

Convention organizers said they aim to put forth tools and information to help local business owners help themselves in making the most of this Convention. Daughtry pointed to the Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee's online vendor directory as one such tool to help business owners connect with opportunities associated with the Convention. Numerous entities and organizations visiting Denver for next year's event will be seeking locally-based vendors as they plan receptions, meetings and other work related to the Convention. Just as in previous Conventions, the directory, which includes businesses using union labor and/or owned by minorities, women and persons with disabilities, will be provided to those groups as they plan their activities for Convention week. The resource is available online at www.denverconvention2008.com.

In addition, Daughtry encouraged residents to get involved in the Convention experience on a personal level by running for delegate, volunteering, participating in the DNCC's citizen photo journalism initiative and becoming a regular visitor to DemConvention.com.

"Here in Boulder, we have a longstanding tradition of supporting the Democratic Party," said Rep. Madden. "And now, we are being presented with what is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see history in the making. We should all take advantage of it."

The DNCC's commitment to making this the most sustainably-produced political Convention in history was also highlighted with Daughtry's announcement that Andrea Robinson will join the DNCC as Director or Greening - the first person to hold this position for a Democratic National Convention. Earlier in the day, Robinson met with a group of Boulder governmental and community environmental leaders to introduce herself and solicit feedback from local experts in the field. Robinson and other Convention organizers will continue to apply sustainable planning principles to every decision in the lead-up to the Convention, striving to design waste out at every turn.

With more than 25 years in the environmental field, Robinson has a long history of greening large scale events, developing corporate sustainability practices and creating legacy waste diversion and reduction programs. Most recently, Robinson managed the greening of the New York, Shanghai and Johannesburg venues for Vice President Al Gore's Live Earth Concerts for the Climate Crisis, the largest musical event in world history. She has also worked extensively with a variety of environmental non-profit organizations, including the Sierra Club and Environment Colorado.

"Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC" will include at least 10 community forums and will provide residents in Denver, the state of Colorado and states throughout the Rocky Mountain West with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved. Details on subsequent forums throughout the Rocky Mountain region will be announced in the coming months.

Earlier this fall, the DNCC traveled to Pueblo, Colo. with Governor Bill Ritter, Jr. Denver played host to the inaugural event in September, when Daughtry was joined by Mayor John Hickenlooper. The series will conclude there next Spring.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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DNCC Names Qwest As Official Telecommunications Provider for 2008 Democratic National Convention

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 11:20:00 -0800

Denver-Based Telecommunications Company to Provide High-Speed Internet, Voice and Data Lines at Pepsi Center for DNCC, Delegates and Members of the Media

DENVER- The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) and Denver-based Qwest Communications International Inc. (NYSE: Q) announced today that Qwest has been named as the official telecommunications provider for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held Aug. 25-28 in Denver. In that role, Qwest will provide the network and people to help link the Convention to a nationwide and worldwide audience.

"Qwest has been a longtime partner of the Denver business community - and today we are proud to call them our partner, too," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "Qwest's state-of-the-art network and skilled union labor force will play a significant role in helping us deliver a spectacular event to the American people and media outlets around the world."

As the official telecommunications provider, Qwest will provide wireline voice and data services, including high-speed Internet, for the DNCC, delegates and more than 15,000 members of the media expected to visit Denver for the Convention. Qwest also will supply the cabling for voice and data services for the DNCC and media at the Pepsi Center, site of the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

"Qwest's nationwide advanced data and voice network will transform how Convention organizers, delegates and the media watch, listen to and broadcast information from the 2008 Convention floor," said Qwest Colorado State President Chuck Ward. "And cutting-edge technology is only part of the equation. We have the most extensive and sophisticated network in Denver, supported by the most experienced, knowledgeable and service-oriented employees in the industry."

Working alongside the DNCC's technology staff, Qwest has started developing and defining data and communication requirements for the Convention, which will include a wide range of telecommunications services from basic voice service to various high-performance solutions. Just recently, Qwest assisted the DNCC in building the voice and data infrastructure for the DNCC's new headquarters in Denver.

The 2008 Democratic National Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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 Contacts: 

 DNCC:
 Jenni Engebretsen Natalie Wyeth 720-362-2006 

 Qwest: 
Jon Lentz 303-382-0077
 jon.lentz@qwest.com
Kate Oravez 303-965-0231 kate.oravez@qwest.com  

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 About Qwest: 
Qwest offers a powerful combination of award-winning broadband, video and voice solutions for residential customers, businesses and government agencies. Customers coast to coast turn to Qwest's industry-leading national fiber optic network to meet their evolving communications and entertainment needs. Qwest employees are the driving force behind the company's nationally recognized Spirit of Service. Qwest is a participant in Networx, the largest communications services contract in the world, to provide innovative voice, data and video services. For more information on Qwest please visit www.qwest.com . For information about the products and services Qwest is offering in the Networx contract, visit www.gsanetworx.com  

 Forward-Looking Statement Note 

 This release may contain projections and other forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements may differ materially from actual future events or results. Readers are referred to the documents filed by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission, specifically the most recent reports which identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: access line losses due to increased competition, including from technology substitution of our access lines with wireless and cable alternatives, among others; our substantial indebtedness, and our inability to complete any efforts to further de-lever our balance sheet; adverse results of increased review and scrutiny by media and others (including any internal analyses) of financial reporting issues and practices or otherwise; rapid and significant changes in technology and markets; any adverse developments in commercial disputes or legal proceedings, including any adverse outcome of current or future legal proceedings related to matters that are or were the subject of governmental investigations; potential fluctuations in quarterly results; volatility of our stock price; intense competition in the markets in which we compete including the effects of consolidation in our industry; changes in demand for our products and services; acceleration of the deployment of advanced new services, such as broadband data, wireless and video services, which could require substantial expenditure of financial and other resources in excess of contemplated levels; higher than anticipated employee levels, capital expenditures and operating expenses; adverse changes in the regulatory or legislative environment affecting our business; changes in the outcome of future events from the assumed outcome included in our significant accounting policies; and our ability to utilize net operating losses in projected amounts.

The information contained in this release is a statement of Qwest's present intention, belief or expectation and is based upon, among other things, the existing regulatory environment, industry conditions, market conditions and prices, the economy in general and Qwest's assumptions. Qwest may change its intention, belief or expectation, at any time and without notice, based upon any changes in such factors, in Qwest's assumptions or otherwise. The cautionary statements contained or referred to in this release should be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that Qwest or persons acting on its behalf may issue. This release may include analysts' estimates and other information prepared by third parties for which Qwest assumes no responsibility.

Qwest undertakes no obligation to review or confirm analysts' expectations or estimates or to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements and other statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
By including any information in this release, Qwest does not necessarily acknowledge that disclosure of such information is required by applicable law or that the information is material.

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Denver to Host 2008 Democratic National Convention

Thu, 11 Jan 2007 16:52:00 -0800

WASHINGTON, DC- Citing the Denver host committee's strong bid and growing Democratic gains in the Rocky Mountain West, Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean announced that Denver will host the 2008 Democratic National Convention Monday, August 25 to Thursday, August 28.

Dean issued the following statement:

"I am delighted to announce that the city of Denver will host the 2008 Democratic National Convention. I congratulate Mayor Hickenlooper, Governor Ritter, Senator Salazar and the members of the Denver Host Committee for assembling an outstanding bid that demonstrates the community's commitment to organizing a first-rate national convention that will put our nominee on the path to victory in 2008.

"There is no question that the West is important to the future of the Democratic Party. The recent Democratic gains in the West exemplify the principle that when we show up and ask for people's votes and talk about what we stand for, we can win in any part of the country. Additionally, we have a number of strong Democratic leaders in the West who will be a part of showcasing the vision of Democratic leadership for America as we introduce the next Democratic President in the Rocky Mountains.

"New York is a wonderful city but in the end, it was the strength of Denver's bid that made it the best choice. From the state-of-the-art facilities to the commitment of community leaders to hosting an outstanding event, Mayor Hickenlooper and the host committee made clear that the Denver convention will be a great one. We thank the team for its hard-work during this process and look forward to working with them over the next year and a half to put on the best Democratic convention in history."

"And I would like to thank Mayor Bloomberg, the members of the New York Host Committee, and the rest of the team who organized New York City's bid to host the convention. Together, they made this an enormously difficult decision. I know how hard they worked, and appreciate all of their efforts."

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Democratic National Committee Announces Senior Leadership Team for Denver 2008 Convention

Thu, 12 Apr 2007 14:56:00 -0700

DENVER- Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean today announced the six members of the senior leadership team for the 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC). This talented group of professionals brings extensive experience representative of the commitment to excellence, inclusion and accessibility that will be a hallmark of the 2008 Denver Convention.

“We are excited about being in Denver for the 2008 convention, where in 17 months we will nominate the next President of the United States,” said Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean. “I am very proud to announce the members of our convention leadership team who, as a whole, are representative of the talent, experience and diversity that characterizes the Democratic Party. This team will be on the ground working closely with our partners in Denver to actively engage all communities in new and creative ways to showcase our party’s nominee and the issues that will lead the Democrats to victory in 2008.”

Governor Dean will formally kick-off the 2008 Denver Convention with a community celebration Thursday. He will be joined by Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper, Denver 2008 Host Committee President Elbra Wedgeworth and the DNCC senior leadership team members.

The leadership team is headed by Leah Daughtry who will serve as Chief Executive Officer of the 2008 Convention. Daughtry is currently the Chief of Staff at the DNC, managing day-to-day strategy and operations. Among her many accomplishments, Daughtry served at the U.S. Department of Labor as Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management during the Clinton Administration. In that capacity, she oversaw the development of the Department’s management programs and policies, including responsibility for the Department’s $35 billion budget. Throughout her career, Daughtry has been widely recognized as bringing sound, principled management and leadership practices to organizations with which she has worked.

Daughtry will be joined by the following outstanding members of the DNCC Denver 2008 senior management team:

Leah Daughtry, CEO
Peggy Cusack, Chief of Staff
Susana Carbajal, Chief Counsel
Jenni Engebretsen, Deputy CEO for Public Affairs
Sky Gallegos, Deputy CEO for Intergovernmental Relations
Cameron Moody, Deputy CEO for Operations
Jim McMullen, Deputy CEO for Administration and Finance

Leah Daughtry, Chief Executive Officer
The Reverend Leah D. Daughtry is currently Chief of Staff of the Democratic National Committee and leads the DNC’s outreach to faith communities. Daughtry held various senior posts at the United States Department of Labor during the Clinton Administration, including Senior Advisor to the Secretary, Chief of Staff, and lastly, Acting Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management, with oversight for the development of the Department’s management programs and policies, including responsibility for the Department’s $35 billion budget. Daughtry also served on the Clinton-Gore 1992 Transition Team, as Managing Director of the 1992 Democratic National Convention, and as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Congressman Edolphus “Ed” Towns.

Pastor of The House of the Lord Church in Washington, D.C., Reverend Daughtry is a member of the Boards of Visitors of The Rockefeller Center at Dartmouth College, as well as the Boards of Directors of The House of the Lord Churches, and The Randolph Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund. She has previously served on the Board of Directors of the National AIDS Action Council. Ms. Daughtry has also served as Executive Director of MAN-to-man/Sister-to-Sister, a not-for-profit human service agency dedicated to enriching and enhancing the lives of families in Brooklyn, New York, during which she created a specialized mentoring program for girls with HIV-infected mothers.

Susana Carbajal, General Counsel
Susana Carbajal is currently an attorney with the Bankruptcy and Specialty Litigation Department at the law firm of Brown McCarroll, L.L.P. where she specializes in representing secured and unsecured creditors as well as debtors in commercial bankruptcy and reorganization cases.

Prior to practicing law, Carbajal worked in government and politics at the national level. Her career began on Capitol Hill where she worked for Texas Congressman Ruben Hinojosa. Carbajal also served as associate deputy director of the Office of Presidential Personnel where she recruited, screened, and recommended diverse, qualified candidates to President Clinton for appointments to cabinet departments, agencies, commissions, and boards. Carbajal also worked for the 2000 Gore for President campaign.

Peggy Cusack, Chief of Staff
Peggy Cusack is currently managing director of the Washington office of Rendezvous Consulting Group, a firm that specializes in the production and management of large scale, high profile events. Cusack brings more than 15 years of experience in the special events industry, and her many notable accomplishments include eight years as a White House event planner during the Clinton/Gore Administration – an experience that included senior management roles on three presidential campaigns, two presidential inaugurations, planning committees for the Olympic Games, and two Democratic National Conventions. In 2004, Peggy served as a consultant to the Kerry-Edwards 2004 presidential campaign, orchestrating campaign operations and logistics for the Democratic National Convention and producing the Election Night concert and celebration in Boston. Prior to starting Rendezvous Consulting Group, Cusack practiced for several years as a litigator in the San Francisco office of the law firm Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP.

Jenni Engebretsen, Deputy CEO for Public Affairs
Jenni R. Engebretsen is currently the Director of Communications for the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), the Washington, DC-based trade group that represents the U.S. recording industry. Before joining the RIAA, Engebretsen spent eight years working in Democratic politics, most recently as a Regional Communications Director for the Kerry-Edwards for President campaign, where she was responsible for developing campaign communications strategy for top-targeted states including Florida and New Hampshire. During the 2004 presidential cycle, she also served as Deputy Communications Director for the Democratic National Convention in Boston and as Press Secretary for the Edwards for President campaign during the primaries. Before that, she worked on Capitol Hill in the communications offices of Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and in the White House press office during the Clinton Administration. She is a graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism.

Sky Gallegos, Deputy CEO for Intergovernmental Relations
Sky Gallegos’ work with state and local elected officials spans the last 13 years and includes senior positions in government, corporate, non-profit and campaign arenas.
During the Clinton Administration, Gallegos worked directly with the nation’s state and local elected officials in the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs in the White House, and the Democratic National Committee. An experienced campaign veteran, Gallegos worked in the last three presidential campaign cycles and in off-year and mid-term elections in three targeted states for the Democratic National Committee. In 2003, Gallegos was the National Political Director for the Edwards for President Campaign, during the general election she was the California State Director for Kerry/Edwards 04. Gallegos directed the western regional political effort for Vice President Al Gore in the 2000 election cycle, implementing the political strategy for 12 western states including the successful campaigns in California, Washington, Oregon, New Mexico and Hawaii.

Gallegos also has experience building and managing coalitions between the public and private sectors, helping start and then manage EdVoice, a political advocacy organization for public school reform in California. As Chief Operating Officer and Political Director, she worked with the CEO to build a Board of Directors and Advisory Board which includes business, education, political and community leaders from across the state. In its first two years, EdVoice had a 99% success rate with the legislation it introduced.

Cameron Moody, Deputy CEO
Cameron Moody has more than 18 years of experience in project management, strategic planning, special event logistics, and transportation systems. Until recently, Moody was the Director of Strategic Planning and Operations for the American Cancer Society's National Government Relations Office. Prior to joining the American Cancer Society, Moody was Deputy CEO for Operations for the 2004 Democratic National Convention Committee where he oversaw the planning and implementation of Security, Transportation and Housing. In this role, he interfaced with the Boston Host Committee, Secret Service, Boston Police, Boston Conventions and Visitors Bureau, Boston Fire Dept., Boston Police, State Dept. of Transportation and a host of other agencies and corporate entities.

Moody also served as Deputy Director of Operations for the 2004 and 2000 Democratic National Conventions and Deputy Director of Transportation for the 1996 Democratic National Convention. Cameron also worked on the 2002, 2000 and 1996 Olympics and the 1997 Denver Summit of the Eight (G-8 Economic Summit). Moody is an engineer by training and has worked in automotive and athletic shoe design and development prior to working in Special Events.

Jim McMullen, Deputy CEO for Administration and Finance
Jim McMullen is currently a Principal with the Council for Excellence in Government. Previously McMullen served as a career civil servant for 26 years at the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Prior to his retirement in 2004, he was Deputy Assistant Secretary for Budget and Strategic Planning where he was responsible for the DOL budget which totaled $60 billion and 17,000 staff. In addition to the budget duties, he directed the strategic and performance planning activities of the Department. He was also Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management where in addition to budget and planning he directed human resources, information technology, space and procurement for the Department. During the tenure of Secretary Alexis M. Herman he served as Associate Deputy Secretary where he was the principal advisor to the Deputy Secretary on the formulation and development of policy positions for the Department. McMullen has twice received the President’s Rank Award for Meritorious Service and the Philip Arnow Award, which is the highest award given to a DOL employee. Subsequent to his retirement he was a Principal with SRA International, Inc., which is a provider of information technology services and solutions

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Democratic National Convention Committee Opens Headquarters In Denver

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 10:18:00 -0700

DENVER- The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) officially opened its offices in Denver today. The office space at Civic Center Plaza will serve as headquarters for DNCC staff during the lead-up to the 2008 Democratic National Convention, which will be held August 25-28, 2008.

"Today marks a new chapter in our Convention planning," said Leah Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "After several months of information gathering, brainstorming and assessment, we're now ready to put our stakes down in Denver and hit the ground running. My team and I look forward to making Denver our home over the coming year and to being good residents while we're here. An open dialogue with the people of Denver and communities throughout the Rocky Mountain region is critical to the overall success of our Convention. This will be a team effort all the way."

To that end, Daughtry announced plans to host a series of community
forums in Denver and throughout the Rocky Mountain West in the months leading up to the 2008 Convention. The series - "Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC" - will provide local residents with an opportunity for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas, learn about the democratic process and find out how they can get involved. The DNCC will open the series of 10 forums in September, when Daughtry will be joined by Mayor John Hickenlooper for a "Convention Conversations" event in Denver. Through the series, the DNCC will encourage communities throughout the region to become engaged in the Convention experience.

In an effort to begin giving back to the community hosting the Convention, Daughtry also announced plans for the DNCC staff to partner with Democrats Work for a service project on Saturday, July 28, 2007. Made possible by Denver Parks + Recreation, the event will be held in conjunction with a national day of service focused on environmentalism organized by the Democratic National Committee (DNC). As part of the 2nd annual "Democratic Reunion," the DNCC staff will help mulch trees in City Park in Denver.

In keeping with the DNCC's commitment to make this the "greenest" political convention on record, Daughtry also highlighted the eco-friendly elements of the DNCC office at Civic Center Plaza - an office building with a strong track record on energy efficiency and close proximity to public transportation. The DNCC is using recycled office furniture and paper. In addition, the DNCC is working with technology vendors to identify green technologies to use in the office and drafting eco-friendly office policies and procedures, including setting two-sided printing and copying as the default on all machines and using power strips that can be shut off at the end of the work day to eliminate idle current draw. DNCC staff is also working to institute a comprehensive recycling program for the office.

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Democratic National Convention Committee Unveils 2008 Democratic Convention Website

Tue, 10 Apr 2007 16:29:00 -0700

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, the Democratic National Convention Committee unveiled its website for the 2008 Democratic Convention in Denver: www.demconvention.com. The website provides up-to-date information on the convention, which will be held from August 25-28, 2008. The 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver will help put the Democratic Party's presidential nominee on the path to victory for the November 2008 election.

In keeping with the values of the 50-state strategy, the Denver Convention will embody our strong belief that if Democrats show up everywhere, stand up for what we believe, work hard and ask for people’s votes, we can win up and down the ballot anywhere in the country as the 2006 election demonstrated. We are committed to showcasing all aspects of the Democratic Party, to be inclusive and accessible and the web site will help us engage all communities in new and creative ways.

The web site features detailed information on delegate selection rules as well as a new interactive delegate map outlining information on the breakdown of each state’s delegates. For those who wish to learn more about the convention, the site includes a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) and has information on how to work or volunteer for the Denver Host Committee during the convention. The web site also includes a history of past Democratic conventions, including the first Democratic Convention in Denver exactly a century earlier, and will soon feature video of past convention speeches. Press releases and other relevant materials for members of the press are also available and as the convention nears, more information and interactive tools will be added, including photos and video of the community celebration in Denver Thursday, April 12.

“The 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver will be a first-rate convention that utilizes cutting-edge technology to engage and involve Democrats across the country who may not be able to attend in person but still want to be part of the convention. The web site will be a place to keep Americans informed of all the latest convention news and will be updated daily as the convention nears,” said Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean. “The convention will showcase the Democratic Party’s vision for America, along with the values the party shares with all Americans, and put our presidential nominee on the path to victory for the 2008 election.”

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DNCC Kicks Off Community Service Campaign Giving Back to Convention Host City

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 13:51:00 -0700

In an effort to give back to the Denver community hosting the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) is launched a year-long service campaign by participating in an after-school soccer skills camp with Colorado Rapids players and urban youth from Colorado UpLift. The kick-off, done in partnership with Democrats Work, officially opens the series of service outings that the DNCC will participate in during the lead-up to the 2008 Democratic National Convention. During the coming year, "DNCC Service Days" will focus on three areas of importance to the Denver-area community: youth, environmental projects and the combined issues of homelessness and hunger.

"From day one, we've talked about our goal of being good citizens of the Denver community while we're here," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "This service campaign is just one way for us to make good on that promise. This is truly a win-win-win. Through these activities, our staff will have the opportunity to engage with the community and learn more about Denver, answer questions and do a little bit of good along the way."

In choosing the issue areas of focus, the DNCC looked to combine areas of need identified by city and community leaders with priorities among
Convention organizers for the coming year. The "greening" of Convention planning and an effort to spotlight leadership - including the leaders of tomorrow represented by youth in Denver and throughout the country - as well as the City's strong commitment to addressing homelessness were all driving factors in developing the DNCC's service platform.

While today's event marks the official launch of the "DNCC Service Days" campaign, Convention staff first partnered with Democrats Work for a service project in July. Made possible by Denver Parks + Recreation, the event was held in conjunction with a national day of service focused on environmentalism organized by the Democratic National Committee (DNC). As part of the 2nd annual "Democratic Reunion," the DNCC staff helped spread mulch around trees in City Park in Denver.

To kick off the year-long service campaign, students from Colorado UpLift, a program designed to empower urban youth, will be paired with DNCC staff and members of Democrats Work for the soccer skills clinic before taking a tour of the Colorado Rapids stadium at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Denver. Following the tour, the DNCC will set aside time for snacks and conversation with the students.

"We are grateful for organizations like the DNCC that are reaching out to the Denver community and helping Colorado UpLift build long-term, life-changing relationships with urban youth," said Christie Ziegler, Communications Director for Colorado UpLift. "The soccer clinic with the Colorado Rapids really enhances Colorado UpLift's After School program, where our teacher/mentors are able to bond with urban students and provide healthy, enriching activities for urban youth."

Colorado UpLift has worked with more than 3,400 youth in areas where the population is primarily comprised of single parent families living in low-income housing. Founded in 1982, the group is committed to helping at-risk students in Denver public and alternative schools lead successful lives emphasizing character, education and attitude. Through the organization's mentoring program, students are empowered to become healthy, productive citizens.

"We are proud to team up with the Democratic National Convention Committee to make community service a top priority for Democrats in the coming year and beyond," said Thomas Bates, Executive Director of Democrats Work. "In the next year, we will partner with the DNCC on community service projects throughout Denver and will continue our efforts to lead projects across Colorado and the country. From Georgia to California, Democrats Work has shown that our party is devoted to helping Americans in their communities, whether it be in the halls of Congress or the streets of Denver."

Democrats Work connects Democratic volunteers with visible, tangible service projects in their communities - cleaning up parks and neighborhoods, painting schools, building houses, planting trees and helping the homeless. The group's mission is to mobilize grassroots Democrats to perform community service projects and foster the civic participation of Democrats in their communities.

For the DNCC, the outdoor event at the Rapids' facility represents not only an opportunity to engage directly with Denver youth, but also a chance to encourage young people to continue to forge connections with
the environment and the outdoors.

Details on subsequent "DNCC Service Days" outings will be announced in the coming months.

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DNCC Takes ‘Convention Conversations’ Series on the Road

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Governor Ritter Joins DNCC CEO Leah Daughtry to Answer Questions,
Offer Information on Convention for Pueblo Residents

PUEBLO – In keeping with the mission of creating a regional Convention for the entire Rocky Mountain West, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) was in Pueblo today hosting the second in a series of community forums to be held in the lead-up to the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Colorado Governor Bill Ritter, Jr. joined DNCC CEO Leah D. Daughtry for the “Convention Conversations” forum to answer questions and offer information about the Convention.

“Our aim is to be inclusive and accessible in all aspects of the 2008 Democratic National Convention,” said Daughtry. “Our goal is to bring down the Pepsi Center walls and use technology and other means to bring more people into the Convention experience than ever before. In our minds, we have more than a host city for this event. We have a host state and a host region here in the Rocky Mountain West. And it is our aim to showcase it all when those 35,000 visitors arrive in Denver next August and the eyes of the world turn to our Convention stage.“

Daughtry also announced plans to enlist citizen photo journalism as a means to bring more people into the Convention experience and help Convention visitors see the West through local eyes. Forum attendees were encouraged to take photos of people and places in their community that represent the spirit of Pueblo – a project that Convention organizers will extend to other cities throughout the region in the coming months. The photos will be posted to the DNCC’s website at www.DemConvention.com as a means to introduce delegates and other visitors to Pueblo and the Rocky Mountain West as they plan their trips to the Convention next August. Convention organizers are also working on plans to showcase the photos in Denver during Convention week.

"It's important for Puebloans, and Coloradans from all across the state, to be part of this event and to make their voices heard,” said Governor Ritter. “This Convention will be good for Denver, good for Colorado, and good for the entire Rocky Mountain West. It will have a significant economic impact on Denver and a ripple effect across the entire state and the region. The 2008 Convention will shine a spotlight not just on the people and places that make the West so important, but also on the pragmatic, problem-solving nature of our Western leaders. "

As a supplement to the “Convention Conversations” series, Convention organizers have launched a Speakers Bureau staffed by representatives of Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper’s Office, the Denver 2008 Host Committee and the DNCC. Organizations interested in scheduling a briefing on the Convention can submit their requests for information to the statewide Convention Speakers Bureau via Natalie Colatosti in the Mayor’s Office at (720) 865-9081.

Similarly, DNCC Deputy CEO for Intergovernmental Affairs Sky Gallegos and Colorado Democratic Party Chair Pat Waak are conducting statewide Convention-related seminars across Colorado explaining how to become a delegate or volunteer and discussing other opportunities for involvement in the Convention experience.

“Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC” will include at least 10 community forums and will provide residents in Denver, the state of Colorado and states throughout the Rocky Mountain West with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved. Details on subsequent forums throughout the Rocky Mountain region will be announced in the coming months. Denver played host to the inaugural event in September. The series will conclude there next Spring.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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DNCC Hosts First Community Forum In 'Convention Conversations' Series

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 16:07:00 -0700

DENVER- Demonstrating its commitment to maintaining an open dialogue with the Denver community and the entire Rocky Mountain region, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today hosted the first in a series of community forums to be held in the lead-up to the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Local residents and representatives of the area’s diverse business community attended the inaugural “Convention Conversations” forum in Denver.

“We hope everyone in this room – and many more throughout the city and the region – takes the opportunity to get involved in this Convention on a personal level,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “A political convention is an amazing event to experience, and there is much to be learned about the democratic process along the way. But our friends in the local business community have the opportunity to get involved in this Convention experience on a professional level as well. We are committed to providing the tools and information that will help business owners help themselves in making the most of this Convention – and we are here today first and foremost to listen.”

Daughtry pointed to the upcoming launch of the Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee’s online vendor directory as one such tool to help business owners connect with opportunities associated with the Convention. Numerous entities and organizations visiting Denver for next year’s event will be seeking locally-based vendors as they plan receptions, meetings and other work related to the Convention. Just as in previous Conventions, the directory, which includes businesses using union labor and/or owned by minorities, women and persons with disabilities, will be provided to those groups as they plan their activities for Convention week. The resource will be available online later this Fall at www.denverconvention2008.com.

“Hosting a national political convention represents a tremendous economic opportunity for our regional business community,” said Denver Mayor John W. Hickenlooper. “The Host Committee’s 45-member business outreach committee – representing local business leaders, chambers of commerce and associations – has been hard at work developing ways for local vendors to participate in this regional event and showcase the New West’s entrepreneurial energy.”

Further aiming to help local businesses market themselves in conjunction with the 2008 Convention, the DNCC arranged for major search engines to provide information to local business owners at the forum about how to increase their online presence in the lead-up to the Convention.

To supplement the “Convention Conversations” series, organizers also announced plans for a Convention Speakers Bureau that will be staffed by representatives of the Mayor’s Office, the Host Committee and the DNCC during the lead-up to the Convention. Organizations interested in a briefing on the Convention can submit their requests for information to the statewide bureau via Natalie Colatosti in the Mayor’s Office at (720) 865-9081. DNCC Deputy CEO for Intergovernmental Affairs, Sky Gallegos, will also join Colorado Democratic Party Chair Pat Waak in conducting regional seminars throughout the state. The pair will explain how to become a delegate or volunteer and discuss other opportunities for involvement in the Convention experience.

Much of the DNCC’s community outreach planned for the coming year will be spearheaded by Julie Rodriguez, who was recently hired as the DNCC’s Director of Public Programs. Originally from Pueblo, Colo., Rodriguez will lead the planning efforts related to regional community forums, community service projects and educational programming. Prior to joining the DNCC staff, Rodriguez served as Program Administrator for the Denver Office of Cultural Affairs, coordinating the City’s architecture and literary initiatives – “Doors Open Denver” and “One Book, One Denver,” respectively.

“Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC” will include at least 10 community forums and will provide residents in Denver, the state of Colorado and states throughout the Rocky Mountain West with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved. Details on subsequent forums throughout the Rocky Mountain region will be announced in the coming months. Denver will play host to the final event in the series next Spring.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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DNCC Names Executive Producers for 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 11:28:00 -0700

Emmy Award Winning Producer Ricky Kirshner, Long-Time Party Strategist Mark Squier to Oversee Production of Convention Program

DENVER – The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced that Emmy Award winning producer Ricky Kirshner and long-time Democratic Party strategist Mark Squier will serve as Executive Producers for the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. Together, Kirshner and Squier will craft and implement a program that supports the DNCC’s commitment to bring down the Pepsi Center walls and make this Convention as inclusive, accessible and engaging as possible using new technology and other creative means. As Executive Producers, the pair will be responsible for the overall look and execution of the Convention program including the design, staging, lighting, audio and entertainment.

“Come August 2008, the world’s spotlight will shine on Denver, the Rocky Mountain West and the Democratic Party,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “No one can make that light shine brighter than Ricky and Mark. Pairing Ricky’s unparalleled production experience with Mark’s strategic political insight will make an unbeatable team. I am confident they will put on the most spectacular show in Convention history as the world watches us nominate the next President of the United States.”

Ricky Kirshner, an Emmy Award winner and one of the industry’s leading production executives, has produced every Democratic National Convention since 1996. During the last 20 years, Kirshner has produced countless television specials, stadium spectaculars, political events and corporate gatherings.

“I am delighted to once again be a part of this historic event,” said Kirshner, who founded and runs RK Productions. “Now, it’s our job to make sure the millions of people watching from home and inside the Pepsi Center are informed, entertained and inspired by this four-day celebration.”

After producing four NFL Opening Kick-Off shows, Kirshner was selected as an Executive Producer of the Emmy-nominated 2007 Super Bowl Half Time Show starring Prince – the most watched television program in the world. This year, he won an Emmy, his third, for the 2006 broadcast of the 60th Annual Tony Awards. His production credits also include the Boston Pops Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular for CBS, the Vibe Awards for UPN, the Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Rose Parade on CBS and the GQ Men of the Year Awards for NBC.

On the corporate side, he has created and produced events for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), LIFE Magazine and many others. He is credited as producer for the North American Treaty Organization’s (NATO) 50th Anniversary Summit and for President Bill Clinton’s 1997 Inaugural Gala on CBS.

Following September 11, 2001, Kirshner produced the “I Love NY” commercial in Times Square, featuring more than 400 Broadway performers honoring New York. The spot aired around the country within a week of its inception and was lauded for helping regenerate business for New York City. The year before, he served as the Senior Producer of “ABC 2000,” ABC News’s Millennium coverage – one of the most watched television events in history at the time.

For more than 25 years, Mark Squier has been a media consultant and strategic adviser to Democratic candidates for federal and statewide office and Democratic Party committees. As Executive Producer for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, he will spearhead the strategic communications behind the program that will put the Party’s nominee on the path to winning the White House.

“I am very much looking forward to creating a Convention program that helps communicate the voice and vision of our Party and our nominee,” said Squier. “Our ultimate goal here is to put on a show that inspires the nation and builds just the right starting block for our nominee to begin the home-stretch sprint to the election.”

Before co-founding McMahon, Squier, Lapp & Associates (MSLA) in Washington, DC, Squier was the lead producer for nearly ten years at the Washington media firm, Squier/Eskew Communications (SEC). While at SEC, Squier produced ads for more than 20 current and former United States Senators, Governors and Members of Congress, including Senators Harkin, Lieberman, Akaka and Graham; former Senators Simon, Bumpers and Pryor; and former Governors Ann Richards and Cecil Andrus.

As a partner at MSLA, Squier consulted on the winning campaigns of Senator Ron Wyden and Governors John Kitzhaber and John Baldacci. Squier and his partners also worked as senior strategists for Governor Howard Dean’s presidential and successful Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman campaigns as well as the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) and the League of Conservation Voters. He also worked on the successful
presidential campaigns of Carlos Andres Peres in Venezuela and Andreas Papandreaou in Greece.

In addition to his skills as a political strategist and creator of some of the industry’s most effective advertisements, Squier is an award-winning filmmaker. He holds a Masters Degree from the prestigious American Film Institute in Los Angeles, where he produced the Emmy and Academy Award-winning (student category) film “The Blue Men.”

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors, including 15,000 members of the media, to the region.

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DNCC Unveils New Logo at Convention Hall in Denver

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 13:59:00 -0700

DENVER – Under a Colorado night sky, Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry and a core group of Convention organizers gathered to unveil the DNCC’s new logo at the Pepsi Center – site of the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. Organizers counted down to the first public display of the logo, which was projected in lights on the exterior of the Pepsi Center facility. Incorporating red, white and various hues of blue, the design reflects the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountain West that is home to the 2008 Convention.

“You saw it here first – and larger than life,” said Daughtry. “That is a theme you will often see during the coming year as we are committed to setting the bar high for this Convention. Tonight takes us one step closer to pulling off what we hope to be the most spectacular Convention in our history.”

With Denver playing host, the Convention is an opportunity to highlight the importance of the West to the future of the Democratic Party and to broaden the conversation about what it truly means to be a "big tent" party – beyond regional and ethnic diversity to include an expanding array of people who share the Party’s values. The majestic mountain skyline and star-filled horizon that are characteristic of Denver and the entire Rocky Mountain region are reflected in the logo to demonstrate that view.

Starting tonight, the logo is available for downloading as a screensaver on the DNCC’s website at www.DemConvention.com. The projected logo will remain lit overnight, visible to traffic passing by the Pepsi Center on Speer Blvd.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region. An engaging celebration of the Democratic Party, the four-day event will showcase the Party's vision for America, along with the values the Party shares with all Americans.

Members of the media can request a high-resolution version of the logo by emailing dnccpress@demconvention.com. Click here to download the logo.

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DNCC Official, Colorado Democratic Party Chair to Conduct Convention Seminars Statewide

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 14:07:00 -0800

Events Across Colorado Will Offer Information on Delegate Process, Volunteer Opportunities

DENVER - In keeping with the mission of creating a regional Convention for the Rocky Mountain West, Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) Deputy CEO for Intergovernmental Affairs, Sky Gallegos, will join Colorado Democratic Party Chair Pat Waak to conduct three Convention seminars throughout the state. The pair will discuss opportunities for involvement in the 2008 Democratic National Convention - including running for delegate and volunteering - at the following sessions:

Saturday, November 17: Steamboat Springs, Colo.
Olympian Hall, 845 Howelson Parkway
11:30 a.m.

Monday, December 3: Fort Collins, Colo.
Location TBD
7 p.m.

Sunday, December 9: Durango, Colo.
Peaks Room, Durango Community Recreation Center, 2700 Main Avenue
1 p.m.

"Our mandate is clear: to make the 2008 Democratic National Convention the most inclusive, accessible and engaging in our Party's history," said Gallegos. "Pat and I aim to make this a reality by traveling the state and hearing what folks have to say. After all, the energy and excitement from next year's four-day celebration will reach far beyond the city of Denver. And we want to make sure everyone has an opportunity to get involved in the Convention experience."

"The 2008 Democratic National Convention coming to Colorado next August will be a unique opportunity to see our Nation's democracy at work," said Waak. "The Colorado Democratic Party wants to share this rare experience with as many Coloradans as possible and these seminars allow us to reach out and invite people to participate in this historical event."

Each seminar will begin with a brief presentation on the 2008 Democratic National Convention followed by a question and answer period. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in caucus and Neighbor-to-Neighbor training workshops. Neighbor-to-Neighbor is part of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) State partnership program to recruit Democratic activists throughout the state.

The seminars will supplement the DNCC's community forum series, "Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC." Launched earlier this year, the series is designed to provide residents in Denver, the state of Colorado and states throughout the Rocky Mountain West with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved. Denver and Pueblo, Colo. played host to the most recent events in the 10-part series. Details on subsequent forums throughout the Rocky Mountain region will be announced in the coming months.

Furthering the open dialogue between Convention organizers and the community, the DNCC is joining Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper's Office and the Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee in staffing a Convention Speakers Bureau. Organizations interested in scheduling a briefing in the lead-up to the Convention can submit their requests to the statewide Convention Speakers Bureau via Natalie Colatosti in Mayor Hickenlooper's office at (720) 865-9081.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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DNC Chairman Governor Dean Joins Convention CEO and Staff for Service Project at Newly Re-Opened Manual High School in Denver

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 09:00:00 -0800

In Project Coordinated by Volunteers of America, Group Plasters, Paints Large Room in School, Partners with Students for Crafts Project in Honor of MLK Day

DENVER - Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Howard Dean, along with members of the DNC's Executive Committee, joined Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry and staff today for a service project at newly re-opened Manual High School - the latest in a series of service outings aimed at giving back to the community hosting the 2008 Democratic National Convention. After a recent closure due to declining enrollment and low student performance, Manual re-opened its doors this past fall with a goal of emerging as one of Denver's premier high schools.

"The kids at Manual exemplify the Democratic Party's values of hope, community and opportunity for all," said Governor Dean. "We're proud to work with the Denver community to support these terrific kids and a school clearly committed to improving the lives of its students."

In an activity organized by the Colorado branch of Volunteers of America, Governor Dean and the DNCC team plastered and painted a room in need of repair at the school and partnered with students for a crafts project in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. In town for their Executive Committee meeting, DNC members also participated in the service project.

"For more than 110 years, Volunteers of America Colorado has had a proud tradition of helping those who are underserved - children, families, seniors and veterans," said Jim White, director of community affairs for Volunteers of America Colorado Branch. "Here at Manual High School, Volunteers of America Colorado has established a successful program to bring community members together in a partnership with the students. Having Governor Dean and the Convention team here today helps us come closer to our mission of helping these students reach their full potential."

As one of Denver's oldest schools, Manual first opened its doors in 1896. After closing for a year in 2006, Manual re-opened with ninth-graders only. Committed to ensuring it challenges and prepares its students for higher education and personal success, Manual plans to add a grade each year until it also serves 10th, 11th and 12th graders.

"We are honored to be part of the activities leading up to the Democratic National Convention in Denver this year," said Manual's principal, Dr. Robert Stein. "Our mission at Manual is to do what it takes to prepare our kids for success; we really appreciate the support and hard work of the volunteers who are helping to ensure that they do succeed. It's exciting for our students to have first-hand exposure to Governor Dean and other people of national influence--it brings the notion of civic engagement to life, especially when everyone rolls up their sleeves and works together."

In choosing the issue areas of focus for the "DNCC Service Day" series - youth, environmental projects and the combined issues of homelessness and hunger - the DNCC looked to combine areas of need identified by city and community leaders with priorities among Convention organizers for the coming year. The "greening" of Convention planning and an effort to spotlight leadership - including the leaders of tomorrow represented by youth in Denver and throughout the country - as well as the City's strong commitment to addressing homelessness were all driving factors in developing the DNCC's service platform.

To date, "DNCC Service Days" projects have included preparing and serving a special holiday breakfast with Colorado's First Lady Jeannie Ritter for homeless and runaway youth at Urban Peak; sorting canned goods with Atlanta Mayor and Convention Co-Chair Shirley Franklin at The Crossing, a Denver Rescue Mission facility; working with a Montessori school in Five Points on an indoor activity with children and a playground area clean-up; facilitating a soccer skills camp with local middle school students and Colorado Rapids players; and spreading mulch around trees in City Park as part of a project focused on environmentalism.

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Senator Reid, Convention CEO Host Community Forum Highlighting Importance of the West in Leap-Up to Nevada Caucus, 2008 Democratic National Convention

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 18:00:00 -0800

At Las Vegas Event, Reid and DNCC CEO Leah Daughtry Answer Questions, Offer Information for Nevadans Interested in Getting Involved in Historic Regional Opportunities in 2008

LAS VEGAS - With excitement mounting among Nevadans for the state's upcoming caucus and then building toward the 2008 Democratic National Convention in neighboring Colorado, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid joined Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry today for the fourth in a series of community forums focused on engaging citizens throughout the Intermountain West in the Convention experience. Reid and Daughtry answered questions and offered information to Las Vegas residents about the historic regional opportunities presented by the early Nevada caucus and the Democratic National Convention in August.

"With the growth in the West, presidential candidates can and must win in the desert and mountain states," Reid said. "The Nevada caucus and Denver national convention will direct the spotlight on the issues important to Westerners. A candidate who can win in the West will win the White House."

Reid also unveiled a television ad to start running Jan. 9th encouraging Nevadans to participate in the Nevada caucus, which is the first step Nevadans will take to becoming a delegate at the Democratic National Convention. The ad can be viewed at www.nvcaucus.com.

Today's event marks the first time the DNCC has traveled outside of Colorado for a Convention forum. The series - "Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC" - launched in Denver in September and traveled to Pueblo, Colo. and Boulder, Colo. in recent months.

The series of at least 10 community forums is designed to provide residents throughout the Intermountain West with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved in the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

"Indeed, the Convention is an opportunity for our Party to shine as we introduce our nominee to the country and the world," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "In 2008, the West will share this moment in the spotlight with us. Because in our minds, we have more than a host city for this event. We have a host state and a host region here in the Intermountain West. And we want you to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Daughtry outlined several ways Nevadans can get involved in the Convention process, including running for delegate, volunteering, becoming a regular visitor to DemConvention.com and participating in the DNCC's citizen photo journalism initiative. The DNCC's photo project invites Nevada residents and others throughout the region to post pictures of people and places in their community representing the spirit of the West at www.DemConvention.com . The photos will be posted to the DNCC's website as a means to introduce delegates and other visitors to the West as they plan their trips to the Convention next August. Convention organizers are also working on plans to showcase the photos in Denver during Convention week.

In keeping with the goal to engage different types of audiences in new and creative ways, DNCC videographers recorded interviews with Nevadans attending the forum asking what having a Convention in the Intermountain West means to them. Organizers will work to incorporate those ideas and vision in their planning during the coming months. Interviews from the event will be posted to www.DemConvention.com under the video section in the coming weeks.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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Seasoned Production and Design Team Joins DNCC

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 12:30:00 -0800

Production Designer to Take Cutting-Edge Approach to Stage and Podium

DENVER - The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced that four seasoned professionals from the entertainment industry will help craft the overall look, sound and execution of the Convention program, including the stage and podium design, for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28 in Denver.

"From Olympic Games to Super Bowls and everything in between, this team has done it all," said Ricky Kirshner, executive producer for the Convention. "They are true veterans of the stage and screen, and we're fortunate to have them on board as we create the most engaging and inspiring Democratic National Convention our country has ever seen. Governor Howard Dean gave us a mandate for our Convention planning early on - to break the mold and take our thinking outside the box. This team is well suited to do just that, and their early work already reflects the cutting-edge approach we're applying to numerous elements throughout the Convention Hall."

The DNCC announced today that Bruce Rodgers will serve as production designer, Lisa Geers as line producer, Bob Dickinson as lighting designer and Pat Baltzell as audio designer. Biographical information for each follows:

Bruce Rodgers, Production Designer
As the creator of Tribe Inc., Rodgers has more than 20 years of experience as an entertainment design professional - serving as production designer, art director, concept designer and creative consultant. The Emmy-nominated designer has myriad credits in music tours, concerts, variety shows, television, advertising, corporate and industrial shows and exhibits. Currently designing the 2008 Super Bowl halftime show, Rodgers' previous credits include the 2007 Super Bowl, the Rascal Flatt's Tour, Madonna's Drowned World Tour and the creation of the Global Olympic Village for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta.

As production designer for the Convention, Rodgers will manage the overall set design for the podium and stage.

Lisa Geers, Line Producer
A veteran of both political and entertainment events, Geers' production credits include the last two Democratic National Conventions and the 2001 and 2006 International Brotherhood of Teamsters Conventions, where she served as Coordinating Producer. In addition to her work on numerous awards shows, music specials, tributes and Super Bowl events, Geers was Associate Producer for the re-opening of the New Orleans Super Dome with Green Day and U2 in 2006. Bi-lingual in English and Spanish, Geers produced special events for the Nature Conservancy of California and UCLA, prior to her work in television. Her projects included the UCLA 75th Anniversary, with a keynote address by former President Clinton, an address by former Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres and a reception honoring former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

As line producer for the Convention, Geers will be responsible for the operations and administrative side of the production.

Bob Dickinson, Lighting Designer
As one of the most celebrated and respected lighting designers in the industry, Dickinson's career has spanned 30 years and earned him numerous awards, including 15 Emmys. With more than 1,000 on-screen credits, highlights include three Olympic Games, dozens of award shows, the Kennedy Center Honors and televised music specials for artists such as the Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Rolling Stones, U2, Cher, Billy Joel and Elton John. Dickinson worked on the last three Democratic National Conventions and the 1997 Presidential Inaugural Gala.

Pat Baltzell, Audio Designer
With nearly 25 years of experience designing and engineering sound systems, the four-time Emmy winner specializes in large-scale live televised specials including two Olympic Games, dozens of award shows and 11 Super Bowl halftime presentations. Baltzell has also designed several major movie premiers including the Pirates of the Caribbean, Cars, Lion King and A Shark's Tale. With a music degree from Northwestern, Baltzell is a member of the Audio Engineering Society, the Cinema Audio Society and the Television Academy.

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Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin Joins Convention Staff for ‘DNCC Service Days’ at Denver Rescue Mission

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 16:49:00 -0800

Convention Co-Chair, DNCC Staff Participate in Service Project Focused on Homelessness and Hunger

DENVER – Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) staffers were joined today by Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, Co-Chair of the 2008 Democratic National Convention, for the latest in a series of service projects aimed at giving back to the community hosting the Convention. With the holiday season around the corner, this month’s “DNCC Service Day” focused on the combined issue of homelessness and hunger, with a canned food sorting project at The Crossing, a Denver Rescue Mission facility.

Joining DNCC staff on the heels of her participation in the “Under One Roof” homeless summit in Denver, Franklin toured The Crossing facility, greeted residents and thanked the Convention team for its commitment to giving back.

“As a participant in today's homeless summit here in Denver, I thought it was also important to demonstrate Atlanta's commitment to the work that is being done around the country to help transition the homeless to self-sufficiency. The Crossing is a perfect example of that work,” said Mayor Franklin. “As Co-Chair of the 2008 Convention, I want to thank the DNCC for the work they are doing to give back to the city. Volunteerism is something our Party has always held in high regard, and I’m proud to see the Convention folks continuing that tradition here today.”

The Crossing provides long-term rehabilitation and transitional housing for up to 150 individuals transitioning from homelessness to self-sufficiency and community contribution. In addition to living space, the facility houses two computer labs, a laundry facility and a playground. After acquiring the property in 2005, the Denver Rescue Mission performed major renovations, turning this once-dilapidated hotel near Stapleton redevelopment district into the home of a thriving community.

Since 1892, the Denver Rescue Mission has been serving the needs of Denver’s poor and homeless through emergency services, rehabilitation, transitional and permanent housing and community outreach. Including The Crossing, the Mission has five facilities that shelter nearly 800 men, women and children every night. Last year, the Denver Rescue Mission served more than 550,000 meals, provided nearly 160,000 nights of shelter, distributed 2,963 food boxes and placed 158 families into permanent housing.

“The Denver Rescue Mission is honored to have a partner in the Democratic National Convention Committee and Mayor Shirley Franklin. We are delighted to host the DNCC staff as they fill a great need, sorting food items to be used in food boxes distributed to low-income families. Together, we can work towards preventing homelessness by serving the working poor and low-income in our community,” said Brad Meuli, President and CEO of the Denver Rescue Mission.

Franklin has served as Mayor of Atlanta since 2001, when she became the first female mayor of Atlanta and the first African American woman to serve as mayor of a major southern city. She is the first woman to chair the National Conference of Democratic Mayors. Along with Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius, Chair of the Democratic Governors Association, and Texas State Senator Leticia Van de Putte, President of the National Conference of State Legislatures, Franklin will be nominated as Permanent Co-Chair of the Convention in August. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi of California will be nominated to serve as Permanent Chair of the Convention.

Selected as a group exemplifying the new kind of leadership the Democratic Party is bringing to our country at all levels, the Permanent Chair and Co-Chairs preside over the Convention proceedings, ensuring order, decorum and efficiency as the Party nominates its presidential and vice presidential candidates, adopts the National Platform and conducts other important business.

In choosing the issue areas of focus for the “DNCC Service Day” series – youth, environmental projects and the combined issues of homelessness and hunger – the DNCC looked to combine areas of need identified by city and community leaders with priorities among Convention organizers for the coming year. The “greening” of Convention planning and an effort to spotlight leadership – including the leaders of tomorrow represented by youth in Denver and throughout the country – as well as the City’s strong commitment to addressing homelessness were all driving factors in developing the DNCC’s service platform.

Last month, Convention staff participated in a classroom activity and outdoor clean-up project at the Edna Oliver Montessori Early Learning Center in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood. In September, the DNCC took part in an after-school soccer activity with Colorado Rapids players and urban youth from Colorado UpLift to officially kick off the year-long service campaign. During the summer, staff spread mulch around trees in City Park in Denver as part of a project focused on environmentalism that was made possible by Denver Parks + Recreation.

Details on subsequent “DNCC Service Days” will be announced in the coming months.

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Democratic National Convention Organizers Take Delegate Housing Green

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 09:42:00 -0700

DENVER- With state delegation representatives in Denver this week for the first in a series of hotel site visits, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced its plan for taking housing “green.” For the first time, the housing selection, assignment and booking process for state delegations attending the Democratic National Convention will be accomplished entirely online - a step that will save more than 50,000 sheets of paper in delegate mailings.

“We are proud to offer for the first time an online experience for our state delegates that will maximize efficiency in the housing process and help to make the Democratic National Convention greener than ever before,” said Leah Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “Looking for opportunities to design waste out of this Convention will be a goal of ours at every turn.”

For prior conventions, the DNCC would typically send large packets of hotel brochures, introductory letters and forms to delegation representatives. Using a website developed by Ambassadors, a Newport Beach, California based event-management company that specializes in housing reservation services, the state delegations will now be able to navigate the housing process online from start to finish. From providing the forms and information needed for delegations to identify and select the hotels best suited to their needs to facilitating the assignment of hotel and function space and ultimately the booking process for the members and guests of the 56 state delegations, the website will accommodate each step in the process.

Jerry McGee, Ambassadors’ President, stated, “Ambassadors is proud to have the opportunity to help streamline the Democratic National Convention’s housing process. While our portfolio of services is designed specifically to support large, complex events, the nature of this convention draws attention to the many benefits of online housing, including its eco-friendly aspect.”

In addition to receiving a user name and password allowing use of the secure site, each delegation is invited to send representatives to Denver to tour the official Democratic National Convention hotels during several scheduled site visits. The DNCC is encouraging delegation representatives to actively participate in the greening effort by, among other things, purchasing renewable energy credits to offset air, rail or car travel associated with their visits.

“I am honored to be hosting my state counterparts in Denver,” said Pat Waak, Chair of the Colorado Democratic Party. “Even more important is the opportunity to promote what we believe will be the ‘greenest’ convention in Democrats' history. The DNCC's new online housing process enables us to utilize a paperless innovation and increases the efficiency of deciding what will best fit the needs of our individual delegations.”

Added Mary Isenhour, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party, "This website meets a gold standard in functionality and ease of use that is unprecedented in my past experiences. More importantly, it meets the green standard that we have set as our party's way of doing business."

In the more immediate lead-up to the Convention, the DNCC will also be working with official hotels and offering suggestions to green their properties and operations during Convention week. Suggestions will include offering onsite comprehensive reuse and recycling programs, implementing linen and towel reuse programs and exploring energy and water conservation options, among other steps.

Delegation representatives in town this week will tour hotel properties in Stapleton and the Denver Tech Center, which will, in conjunction with the DNCC transportation system, offer easy transit for delegates to the Pepsi Center via the Denver Regional Transportation District Light Rail (RTD Light Rail) system. Because of this system and its proximity to the Pepsi Center, a majority of delegates and participants will have the option of walking from hotels downtown or taking public transportation to the Convention. Additional hotel site visits for state delegations are scheduled in July and August.

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Jeannine Ritter Joints DNCC for Holiday Service Project

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 12:35:00 -0800

Jeannie Ritter and Democratic National Convention Staff Prepare and Serve Special Holiday Breakfast for Youth at Urban Peak Shelter in Denver

DENVER – Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry and staff were joined today by Colorado’s First Lady, Jeannie Ritter, for a holiday service project, the latest in a series of service outings aimed at giving back to the community hosting the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Ritter and the DNCC team prepared and served a special holiday breakfast for homeless and runaway youth at Urban Peak, a nonprofit shelter and service provider in Denver.

“What better way to break away from the hustle and bustle of planning for the Convention than to honor the spirit of the holiday season and be here today with this wonderful group of young people,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “The dedicated staff at Urban Peak do this important work year round, and we feel fortunate to join them, if only for a short time, to help in any way we can.”

Founded in 1988, Urban Peak provides shelter and services for homeless and runaway youth ages 14-24 to help them overcome homelessness and other life challenges by empowering them to become self-reliant adults. Services provided include street outreach, shelter, GED and job skills mentoring, healthcare and housing. The nonprofit is committed to helping young people by providing them with safety, respect, essential services and a supportive community as they make a better life for themselves.

An avid supporter of and volunteer for Urban Peak, First Lady Jeannie Ritter said, “Providing services to our children and adolescents is critically important, and we are reaching them at a critically important time. Early intervention is shown to be the best indicator of successful recovery and transition into a stable adult life. Urban Peak is a safety-net that catches children who have already fallen, before they hit the bottom. I am very proud to call the people at Urban Peak my colleagues in the fight to improve the lives of children with mental illness, emotional disturbances, or who have suffered abuse, although in truth, that comparison does the people at Urban Peak a great disservice. I am humbled by the work they do, and hope to achieve the same real difference that they make every day.”
The First Lady spent several years working for Denver Public Schools as an elementary-school substitute teacher specializing in classrooms for emotionally disturbed children.

According to the Urban Peak, young adults make up more than 10 percent of Denver’s homeless population. In 2006, the center recorded providing more than 28,000 meals and 13,000 bed nights for more than 1,000 youths accessing services at the overnight shelter. More than 100 young adults received their GED with 148 obtaining employment after their contact with the center in that year alone.
“All of us at Urban Peak are excited to have Jeanie Ritter and the DNCC CEO and staff take time from their very busy schedules to cook and serve a holiday breakfast for our youth at the Shelter,” said Kay Ramachandran, CEO of Urban Peak. “When community leaders like Jeannie Ritter visit us, it raises the awareness of Urban Peak’s mission of serving runaway and homeless youth. The holidays can be a very emotionally challenging time for the youth at the Shelter. This gesture from Jeannie Ritter and the DNCC staff will certainly raise their holiday spirits.”

Following breakfast, the Convention team presented Urban Peak with a donation of hats, scarves, gloves and coats collected through the DNCC’s winter clothing drive.
In choosing the issue areas of focus for the “DNCC Service Day” series – youth, environmental projects and the combined issues of homelessness and hunger – the DNCC looked to combine areas of need identified by city and community leaders with priorities among Convention organizers for the coming year. The “greening” of Convention planning and an effort to spotlight leadership – including the leaders of tomorrow represented by youth in Denver and throughout the country – as well as the City’s strong commitment to addressing homelessness were all driving factors in developing the DNCC’s service platform.

Just days before Thanksgiving, Convention staff were joined by Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, Co-Chair of the 2008 Democratic National Convention, for a canned food sorting project at The Crossing, a Denver Rescue Mission facility. The group sorted more than two tons of donated goods during the afternoon event.
In October, the DNCC participated in a classroom activity and outdoor clean-up project at the Edna Oliver Montessori Early Learning Center in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood. In September, the DNCC took part in an after-school soccer activity with Colorado Rapids players and urban youth from Colorado UpLift to officially kick off the year-long service campaign. During the summer, staff spread mulch around trees in City Park in Denver as part of a project focused on environmentalism that was made possible by Denver Parks + Recreation.

Details on subsequent “DNCC Service Days” will be announced in the coming months.

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Democrats Announce 2008 Convention Chairs

Mon, 02 Jul 2007 17:03:00 -0700

WASHINGTON, DC- Governor Howard Dean, Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, announced today his intention to nominate Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi of California to serve as Permanent Chair of the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. Dean also announced that three outstanding leaders, Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius, Chair of the Democratic Governors Association; Texas State Senator Leticia Van de Putte, President of the National Conference of State Legislatures; and Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, President of the National Conference of Democratic Mayors, will be nominated as Permanent Convention Co-Chairs.

This distinguished group of strong Democratic leaders from all levels of government and all parts of the country exemplifies the vision, values and commitment to America's future that the Democratic National Convention will showcase in Denver.

“Our Party is bringing a new kind of leadership to our country at all levels,” said Governor Dean. “We are extremely fortunate to have such a distinguished group of strong Democratic leaders chairing our Convention. I want to thank Speaker Pelosi, Governor Sebelius, state Senator Van de Putte and Mayor Franklin for their commitment to putting our presidential nominee on the path to victory for the November 2008 election.”

The recommendations by Governor Dean will be presented to the Convention Rules Committee next summer and then voted on by the delegates to the 2008 Convention at the opening session. The Permanent Chair and Co-Chairs preside over the Convention proceedings, ensuring order, decorum and efficiency as the Party nominates its presidential and vice presidential candidates, adopts the National Platform and conducts other important business.

Biographical information about the Permanent Convention Chair and Co-Chairs (nominees):

Speaker Nancy Pelosi is the first woman to serve as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Before assuming this position in January 2007, Pelosi served for the last four years as House Democratic Leader and was the first woman to lead a major political party in Congress. She has represented California’s Eighth District since 1987. She served as a member of the Democratic National Committee from 1976 to 1996, serving terms as Northern Chair and State Chair of the California Democratic Party. She was a Vice Chair of the 1996 Democratic National Convention, Co Chair of the 1992 Democratic Platform Committee and served as Chair of the 1984 Democratic National Convention Host Committee in San Francisco.

“It is an honor to serve as Chair of the national convention as Democrats from across the country select our candidate who will become the next President of the United States,” Pelosi said. “At the convention, Democrats will share with the American people our priorities and values that will take our nation in a new direction.”

Governor Kathleen Sebelius was first sworn in as governor of Kansas in January 2003 and in 2005 was named one of America’s Five Best Governors by Time Magazine. She was re-elected to a second term in 2006 and currently serves as Chair of the Democratic Governors Association. Sebelius previously served four terms in the Kansas House of Representatives and two terms as the states insurance commissioner.

"The national convention is one of our best opportunities to share our Democratic message of progress with the nation,” Sebelius said. “And, it's fitting the convention is in our neighboring state, Colorado, home to new Democratic Governor Bill Ritter. I look forward to working with my fellow chairs to hold a convention that highlights our shared values and which brings new voters to the Democratic Party."

State Senator Leticia Van de Putte is the first Hispanic to serve as president of the National Conference of State Legislatures – a position she has held since 2006. Representing a large portion of San Antonio, Van de Putte has been elected to four terms in the Texas Senate, following five terms as a state representative. Since 2003 she has also served as Democratic Leader in the Texas Senate.

"I could not be more proud to serve with these distinguished women as a Co-Chair of the National Convention which will nominate the next President of the United States," Van de Putte said. "Texas women, including Barbara Jordan and Ann Richards, have long served our Party at National Conventions, and I'm humbled to be asked to join their ranks."

Mayor Shirley Franklin has served as Mayor of Atlanta since 2001, when she became the first female mayor of Atlanta and the first African American woman to serve as mayor of a major southern city. She is the first woman to chair the National Conference of Democratic Mayors. Franklin has restored financial stability with five balanced budgets and healthy reserves and implemented the strongest ethics reform program in the state.

"It is a great time to be a Democrat!,” Franklin said. “Our diverse leadership for the convention represents the core values of Democrats everywhere. As we prepare for the Democratic National Convention and to send our nominee to the White House, we will also showcase the best in our party and in America."

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‘DNCC Service Day’ Pairs Convention Staff, Montessori Students for Service Project Focused on Youth

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 16:15:00 -0700

DENVER – Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) staffers continued their efforts to give back to the community hosting the Convention today with a service project at Edna Oliver Montessori Early Learning Center in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood. The group joined students for a classroom activity and took part in an outdoor clean-up project on the center’s grounds. The event marks the most recent outing in a series of “DNCC Service Days” focused on three areas of importance to the Denver-area community: youth, environmental projects and the combined issues of homelessness and hunger.

“We made a commitment to the Denver community – not just for Convention week but for the entire year – to be good citizens while we’re here,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “Service projects like these help us make good on that promise, while giving our team another opportunity to get to know Denver. And there is no better way to get a feel for the character of a city than working with its children.”

With nine centers serving Denver’s most distressed neighborhoods, Mile High Montessori (MHM) Early Learning Centers is Denver’s oldest and largest provider of subsidized, quality early childhood care and education. Located in the Five Points neighborhood of Denver, the Edna Oliver Early Learning Center has provided Montessori preschool education to some of Denver’s most vulnerable children since 1970.

“We always welcome community support – always,” said Ethel Marshall, Program Director for Edna Oliver Early Learning Center. “The more arms, hands and eyes we have join us here and see what we’re all about, the better off our children are. When folks like the DNCC come in and volunteer their time, it helps put our children on a path to success when they enter the public school system.”

During the 2006-2007 academic year, MHM provided full-day, year-round early childhood care and education for 835 children, most of whom were living in single parent households making at or below the federal poverty level ($20,000 annual income for a family of four). Families with children enrolled at MHM pay tuition based on a sliding scale and receive additional support from state and federal programs, as well as philanthropic contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations.

Utilizing the Montessori Method of instruction, MHM offers a comprehensive early childhood development program to support the development of young children ages two months to five years. The Montessori Method fosters attributes that lead to an ability to make good decisions, a sense of responsibility to others and the environment and a life-long love of learning that make the method particularly appropriate for the children who attend MHM.

Last month, Convention staff participated in an after-school soccer activity with Colorado Rapids players and urban youth from Colorado UpLift to officially kick off the year-long service campaign. Students from Colorado UpLift, a program designed to empower urban youth, were paired with DNCC staff and members of Democrats Work for a soccer skills clinic before taking a tour of the Colorado Rapids stadium at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Denver.

Before launching the “DNCC Service Days” series, the staff took part in a July service project made possible by Denver Parks + Recreation. The event was held in conjunction with a national day of service focused on environmentalism organized by the Democratic National Committee (DNC). As part of the 2nd annual “Democratic Reunion,” the DNCC staff helped spread mulch around trees in City Park in Denver.
In choosing the issue areas of focus for the series, the DNCC looked to combine areas of need identified by city and community leaders with priorities among Convention organizers for the coming year. The “greening” of Convention planning and an effort to spotlight leadership – including the leaders of tomorrow represented by youth in Denver and throughout the country – as well as the City’s strong commitment to addressing homelessness were all driving factors in developing the DNCC’s service platform.

Details on subsequent “DNCC Service Days” will be announced in the coming months.

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Delegation Hotel Assignments Announced for 2008 Democratic National Convention

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 14:54:00 -0800

27 Local Hotel Properties to Play Host to State and Territorial Delegations in August

Delegations Receive Assignments Online, DNCC Rolls Out News to Hotels One by One

DENVER – The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced the list of area hotels selected to house some 5,000 delegates during Convention week in Denver, August 25 – 28, 2008. Delegations were assigned to 27 hotels in one of three clusters – Downtown, Stapleton and the Denver Tech Center – all within 20 minutes of the Pepsi Center.

“I am confident that our most important guests at the 2008 Democratic National Convention – our delegates – will be pleased with their accommodations and enjoy their stay in the Mile High City,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “Here in Denver, we are fortunate to have an exceptional selection of hotel properties – with hotel management rolling out the red carpet city wide.”

In contrast to previous Conventions, a majority of delegates and participants will have the option of walking from hotels downtown or taking public transportation to the Convention. Every hotel contracted by the DNCC will provide convenient access to the Pepsi Center during Convention hours via the DNCC’s transportation system.

The delegation hotels will serve as the base of operations for state delegations during the Convention. Each delegation will begin its day by hosting a breakfast at their hotel to preview the day’s Convention activities. Delegates will also use their hotels to host receptions and conduct official business including meetings and press conferences.

In a Convention first, the DNCC is running the housing selection, assignment and booking process entirely online. The move, designed to make good on the DNCC’s commitment to make this the “greenest” political convention on record, will save more than 50,000 sheets of paper in delegate mailings. Delegation hotel assignments were made available today on the Convention’s housing website.

After a series of hotel site visits this summer, state delegations submitted their hotel requests in September. Their preferences, in addition to room block requests, function and caucus space needs, the number of suites requested and possible ADA needs, were used to develop the hotel assignments.

Once delegation notifications were posted, the DNCC housing staff set out to deliver news in person to each of the 27 local hotels selected to host state and territorial delegations in August. An envelope with the name or names of the delegations to be housed in each hotel was presented to management at each property.

This is the first in a series of announcements the DNCC will make over the next several months to fill the 17,000 hotel rooms reserved for delegates, alternates, media and members of the Democratic family. Approximately 7,000 rooms will be reserved specifically for delegates, alternates and their guests.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

STATE/TERRITORY HOTEL
Alabama Doubletree Denver Stapleton
Alaska Four Points by Sheraton Denver Southeast
American Samoa Radisson Southeast
Arizona Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center
Arkansas Marriott Denver South at Park Meadows
California Adam's Mark
Colorado Grand Hyatt Downtown
Connecticut Marriott Denver Tech Center
Delaware Marriott South at Park Meadows
Democrats Abroad Red Lion Denver Central
District of Columbia Crowne Plaza, Downtown
Georgia Doubletree Denver Stapleton
Guam Sheraton Denver Tech Center
Hawaii Marriott Denver South at Park Meadows
Idaho Sheraton Denver Tech Center
Illinois Marriott City Center, Downtown
Indiana Sheraton Denver Tech Center
Iowa Courtyard by Marriott, Downtown
Kansas Doubletree Denver Tech Center
Kentucky Hilton Garden Inn, Downtown
Louisiana Radisson Stapleton Plaza
Maine Hilton Garden Inn, Downtown
Maryland Renaissance Denver Hotel
Massachusetts Renaissance Denver Hotel
Michigan Red Lion Denver Central
Minnesota Four Points by Sheraton Denver Southeast
Mississippi Hilton Garden Inn Denver South/Meridian
Missouri Embassy Suites Denver Tech Center
Montana Courtyard Stapleton
Nebraska Embassy Suites Denver Southeast
Nevada Courtyard by Marriott, Downtown
New Hampshire Wyndham Denver Tech Center
New Jersey Inverness Hotel
New Mexico Crowne Plaza, Downtown
New York Adam's Mark
North Carolina Doubletree Denver Tech Center
North Dakota Doubletree Denver Stapleton
Ohio Curtis Hotel, Downtown
Oklahoma Embassy Suites SE
Oregon Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center
Pennsylvania Marriott Denver Tech Center
Puerto Rico Four Points by Sheraton Denver Southeast
Rhode Island Four Points by Sheraton Denver Southeast
South Carolina Radisson Stapleton Plaza
South Dakota Doubletree Denver Stapleton
Tennessee Marriott, Denver Tech Center
Texas Radisson Hotel Denver Southeast
Utah Warwick Hotel
Vermont Magnolia Hotel
Virgin Islands Marriott City Center
Virginia Crowne Plaza, Downtown
Washington Hyatt Regency, Denver Tech Center
West Virginia Magnolia Hotel
Wisconsin Marriott City Center
Wyoming Hyatt Place, Denver Tech Center

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Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. www.demconvention.com

Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

2008 Democratic National Convention Youth Essay Contest Unveilded for Colorado Students

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 17:00:00 -0800

"Write to Lead" To Engage Youth Statewide on Topic of Leadership and Future of Country Presidential Winners to Attend Convention, Finalists to Serve as Ambassadors to State Delegations Across the Country

DENVER - The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC), Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications today unveiled an official youth essay contest for the 2008 Democratic National Convention. "Write to Lead" will provide a unique opportunity for middle and high school students throughout the state of Colorado to voice their thoughts on leadership and the future of the country and to engage in the 2008 Democratic National Convention experience in an extraordinary way. Two students will be named as Presidential Winners and have the opportunity to attend the Convention, while finalists will serve as ambassadors to state delegations across the country.

"Throughout history, political party conventions have played a key role in determining our nation's leaders," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "We know young people in Colorado have big ideas about what makes a good leader and where our country is headed - and with the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver fast approaching, there's no better time to give voice to those big ideas."

The "Write to Lead" contest invites Colorado students in grades 6-11 to submit an original essay answering one of two questions in 300 to 500 words:

•    Grades 6-8: What qualities make a great leader? How could one exhibit those traits in everyday life?
•    Grades 9-11: Looking to the future, what do you see for our country? What qualities does a leader need to take our country forward?

"The role of informed citizens in the presidential election process is critical. Newspapers have historically been the cornerstone of that tenet of democracy," said Tracy Ulmer, Director of Promotions and Community Relations for Post-News Educational Services. "We are very honored to play an active role in securing that legacy in the future by engaging youth through this and other educational outreach programs."

Finalists will be announced in May, with names and hometowns of each student appearing on www.demconvention.com and in a full-page ad to run in either the Denver Post or the Rocky Mountain News. Once selected, each finalist will be assigned to serve as an ambassador to one of the state and territorial delegations to the 2008 Democratic National Convention. In that role, the students will correspond - via a "Postcards from Colorado" campaign - with their assigned delegations prior to the Convention.

From the selected finalists, one middle school student and one high school student will be chosen as Presidential Winners. These two students will be invited to Denver to attend the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28, 2008. Travel and accommodations will be provided for the Presidential Winners and their guardians. In addition, each Presidential Winner will be awarded a laptop computer to aid with future writing projects and have his or her essay published in full in the newspaper ad mentioned above.

"Qwest and the Qwest Foundation are dedicated to education and preparing our children for success," said Teresa Taylor, Qwest Executive Vice President and Chief Administration Officer. "This essay contest is a creative way to involve Colorado's students in this historic Convention, and we are proud to support it."

In the coming months, Colorado Lieutenant Governor Barbara O'Brien will serve as an ambassador for the contest, visiting schools around the state and encouraging students to participate.

Entries will be judged by a committee of local educators and representatives from the DNCC, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications. Winners and finalists will represent geographical diversity from across the state of Colorado.

Students can find additional information on the contest and submit their essays at www.demconvention.com . All entries, parental consent forms and waivers must be submitted and postmarked by Friday, April 18, 2008. Winners will be announced the week of May 19, 2008.

Media Contacts:
Jenni Engebretsen or Natalie Wyeth, DNCC, 720-362-2006
Dana Plewka, Post-News Educational Services, 303-954-3974
Jennifer Barton, Qwest Communications, 303-965-0561

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Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. www.demconvention.com

Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

DNCC Names Level 3 Official Live Video and Content Delivery Services Provider for the 2008 Democratic National Convention

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 07:00:00 -0800

Colorado-Based Communications Company to Provide Live, High-Definition, Gavel-to-Gavel Streaming Coverage

DENVER – The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) and Colorado-based Level 3 Communications (NASDAQ: LVLT) announced today that Level 3 has been named as the Official Live Video and Content Delivery Services Provider for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held Aug. 25-28, in Denver. In that role, Level 3 will provide video broadcast services, as well as online video downloading and live streaming of the four-day event, including speeches and other Convention content, via the Internet at www.DemConvention.com.
“We often talk about our commitment to bringing down the walls of the Pepsi Center by using technology and other tools to bring more people in to our Convention experience than ever before,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “Level 3 moves us one giant step closer to that goal. Their video broadcast and live streaming capabilities will provide millions of people around the world with an all-access pass to this historic event next August.”

As the Official Live Video and Content Delivery Services Provider, Level 3 will deliver live analog and High-Definition (HD) video broadcast services from the Pepsi Center, site of the 2008 Democratic National Convention. In addition, the DNCC will use Level 3’s Content Delivery Network (CDN) to provide online video downloading and live streaming of the Convention. Level 3’s CDN will also cache the Convention’s web site on servers across its network to deliver a high-quality, online viewing experience. Together, these services will enable a global audience to access and view Convention content as best suits their needs, using the Internet-enabled device of their choice.

”The emergence of video and other rich media over the Internet has introduced a new era of communications that moves beyond traditional voice and Internet services,” said Brady Rafuse, president of Level 3’s Content Markets Group. “Today, greater online information access and two-way interactivity are reshaping election politics and providing more people with a voice than ever before. The 2008 Democratic National Convention marks an important milestone in the current presidential election and offers a unique opportunity for Level 3 to support the DNCC, the community and the nation by providing the video and content delivery services to enable a new standard in communications.”
In working with the DNCC, Level 3 brings a proven track record of providing video broadcast services in support of political conventions, elections and other live events, such as the Super Bowl. Over the past decade, Level 3 has also served as the underlying provider of video transmission capabilities for each of the major television networks to broadcast the annual State of the Union address.

The 2008 Democratic National Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

About the DNCC:
The 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee is the official arm of the Democratic National Committee responsible for planning and organizing the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. www.demconvention.com

Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

About Level 3 Communications:
Level 3 Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: LVLT), an international communications company, operates one of the largest Internet backbones in the world, connecting 180 markets in 18 countries. The company serves a broad range of wholesale, enterprise and content customers with a comprehensive suite of services including: Internet Protocol (IP) services, broadband transport and infrastructure services, colocation services, voice and voice over IP services, and content delivery and media distribution services. These services provide the building blocks to enable Level 3’s customers to meet their growing demands for advanced communications solutions. The company’s Web address is www.Level3.com.
Level 3 Communications, Level 3, the red 3D brackets and the Level 3 Communications logo are registered service marks of Level 3 Communications, LLC and/or its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. Level 3 services are provided by wholly owned subsidiaries of Level 3 Communications, Inc. Any other service, product or company names recited herein are trademarks or service marks of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statement
Some of the statements made in this press release are forward looking in nature. These statements are based on management’s current expectations or beliefs. These forward looking statements are not a guarantee of performance and are subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside Level 3’s control, which could cause actual events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the statements. The most important factors that could prevent Level 3 from achieving its stated goals include, but are not limited to the company’s ability to: successfully integrate acquisitions; increase the volume of traffic on the network; defend intellectual property and proprietary rights; develop new products and services that meet customer demands and generate acceptable margins; successfully complete commercial testing of new technology and information systems to support new products and services; attract and retain qualified management and other personnel; and meet all of the terms and conditions of debt obligations. Additional information concerning these and other important factors can be found within Level 3’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements in this press release should be evaluated in light of these important factors. Level 3 is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any such obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

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DNCC Contacts:
Jenni Engebretsen
Natalie Wyeth
720.362.2006

Level 3 Media Contact:
Kimberly Tulp
720-888-3675

Level 3 Investor Contact:
Valerie Finberg
720-888-2501

Democratic National Convention Committee Unveils New Website Including Extensive Spanish Language Content at www.demconvention.com

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:00:00 -0800

Dewey Digital Named Official Website Producer

DENVER – Furthering its commitment to engage a broad spectrum of communities in new and creative ways, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today unveiled its new website at www.DemConvention.com featuring a dynamic new look and including extensive Spanish language content. The website will be the cornerstone of the 2008 Democratic National Convention’s online communications efforts, combining technology from a variety of platforms to engage constituencies in Denver and across the country in meaningful and innovative ways in the lead up to and during Convention week – August 25-28, 2008.

“To truly make DemConvention.com a go-to resource and an all-access pass to our event, we needed maximum flexibility and a platform on which to build the cutting-edge functionality that will help our Convention leave its mark,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “Offering extensive Spanish language content is just one of the many ways by which this site will bring more people into the Convention experience than ever before. From video, audio and photos to contact tools and our blog, DemConvention.com will use a variety of methods to engage new communities, generate interest and fuel enthusiasm around this Convention – for those in Denver and beyond.”

In the coming months, the DNCC will work continuously to expand the site by innovating in creative, meaningful ways. During Convention week, the DNCC will position DemConvention.com as a resource for delegates, media and other Convention attendees as well as a means for Democrats and netroots activists all across the country to participate in the Denver experience. Starting today, visitors to the site can sign up to receive regular updates on Convention news, events and other developments. Press releases and other relevant materials for members of the media are also available.

Dewey Digital, named today as the DNCC’s Official Website Producer, designed the site to provide increased flexibility and functionality for new features to be introduced in the months ahead. The company specializes in new media technology, public policy, issue outreach and political action and uses cutting-edge media tools to speak to 21st century Americans.

"The Internet and emerging media cross all language and cultural lines in the U.S. today,” said Tim Chambers, Principal for Dewey Digital. “We are excited to build out an online presence for the Democratic National Convention that will allow the entire nation to engage and connect up with this key event -- in ways that reach people in the media they use, in the language they speak and on the issues they care about most."

To promote connectivity between users, the site also provides delegates and advocates with an “online home” to meet and organize before, during and after the Convention through various social networking applications like Facebook, MySpace, Flickr and others.

DemConvention.com will continue to provide up-to-the-minute news and features on the blog and information on volunteer opportunities, delegate selection, the nomination process and past Democratic Conventions, including the first Democratic National Convention in Denver 100 years ago.

The site was first launched in April 2007.

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Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. www.demconvention.com

Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

DNCC Ramps Up Transportation Planning for 2008 Democratic National Convention

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:30:00 -0800

Long-time Event Logistics Professional to Design, Manage Transportation System for Fourth Consecutive Democratic National Convention

Denver-based Company Selected to Coordinate, Implement DNCC’s Transportation Program During Convention Week in August

DENVER – The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced two moves to ramp up transportation planning in the lead up to the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. Andrew Ballard, a transportation professional with nearly 20 years of experience managing large-scale events, has been named Director of Transportation for the organization while Denver-based Event Transportation Associates, Inc. (ETA) has been selected as the transportation management consultant for the Convention’s bus shuttle system.

“From presidential inaugurations to Super Bowls and Olympic Games, Andrew has managed complex logistics and transportation systems for events across the globe,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “We’re pleased to welcome both Andrew and Denver’s own ETA back to the Democratic National Convention. I have the utmost confidence that they will design and implement a first-rate transportation system making travel around Denver easy and convenient for all of our guests.”

As the DNCC’s Director of Transportation, Ballard will manage the motorpool, airport operation, bus shuttle system and special services transport, which includes coordination for people with disabilities and VIPs for events outside of the Pepsi Center. His duties will also include building a manifest for arrivals and departures at Denver International Airport and designing a “meet and greet” operation guiding Convention attendees to their transportation source from airport to hotel. Ballard worked in similar capacities at the last three Democratic National Conventions.

“Our mission is two-fold,” said Ballard. “We’re focused on getting everyone to and from the Pepsi Center in a safe, convenient way while also taking care to minimize the effect on Denver residents during Convention week. This should be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved, regardless of whether you’re inside the Convention hall.”

This marks a return to Denver for Ballard, who directed transportation efforts during the 1997 Summit of the Eight. His resume also includes managing transportation logistics at the 2007 NCAA Men’s Final Four in Atlanta, the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake, Super Bowl XXXV in Tampa and the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. Ballard also managed transportation logistics for high-profile events including the 1997 and 1993 presidential inaugurations in Washington, D.C. and a 1995 papal visit to Baltimore.

In 2005, he spent five months in Louisiana coordinating transportation in support of the U.S. Department of Transportation and FEMA’s operations following hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Ballard and his team were later recognized with the U.S. Secretary of Transportation’s “Team Award” for managing the evacuation of more than 12,000 people in Louisiana and Texas before Hurricane Rita made landfall.

Ballard will report to Cameron Moody, Deputy CEO for “Outside the Hall” Operations.

ETA will coordinate and implement the bus shuttle system designed by Ballard to accommodate delegates, dignitaries, elected officials, members of the media and any other credentialed Convention participants requiring transportation to and from the Pepsi Center and their designated Convention hotels. In total, the DNCC’s shuttle system will serve more than 35,000 people at some 100 hotels throughout the Denver area.

"It is an honor to be selected for the third time to provide transportation management for the Democratic National Convention's shuttle system," said Brian Clark, ETA's chief operating officer. "We look forward to showing off our hometown of Denver while providing an environmentally-sustainable and seamless transportation operation for all of the delegates and special guests attending the Convention."

In addition to working on the 1992 and 2000 Democratic National Conventions, ETA coordinated transportation for the last two Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) shows, the largest trade show in Denver’s history, and the 2007 World Series, also hosted by the Mile High City. The company has also worked on 17 National Hockey League All-Star games, three Olympics and two Daytona 500 races.

In light of the DNCC’s efforts to make this the most sustainably-produced political Convention in history, ETA has committed to offsetting its carbon footprint by supporting renewable energy, energy efficiency and reforestation projects around the world through its partnership with Carbonfund.org, one of the world’s leading carbon offset providers. They will also assist the DNCC in calculating the entire carbon footprint for the bus shuttle system.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. www.demconvention.com

Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

Denver-based Partnership to Serve as Construction Manager

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 17:00:00 -0800

Minority and Woman-Owned Team of Alvarado-Turner-HOK to Manage Pepsi Center Build-out

DENVER – The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC), in partnership with the Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee and the Kroenke Arena Company, today announced that the Denver-based partnership of Alvarado-Turner-HOK has been awarded the contract to serve as the construction management team for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held at the Pepsi Center in Denver from August 25-28, 2008.

“The Alvarado-Turner-HOK team has an extensive and proven track record of handling large-scale construction projects with a commitment to diversity and inclusion,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “I am confident this partnership of true professionals will meet our every construction need for the 2008 Democratic National Convention. This is a team that knows this city and will surely make Denver proud come August 2008.”

Alvarado-Turner-HOK, comprised of three local design and construction firms, specializes in the development, design, construction and restoration of public assembly events and facilities and has worked together on several large-scale projects. The team will be responsible for the construction and restoration of the Pepsi Center to accommodate the 2008 Democratic National Convention. They will also provide the overall coordination, design, management supervision and scheduling of subcontractors to complete the project.

Linda Alvarado, President of Alvarado Construction, will act as the DNCC’s primary point of contact for the project. With more than 30 years experience as a general contractor and construction manager of large commercial, industrial, government and private sector projects, Alvarado will ensure the pre-construction, construction and restoration phases occur on schedule and budget.

“This is so much more than a construction project for us,” said Alvarado. “This is an opportunity for our partnership of companies to engage in an event that’s of incredible significance to the Denver community. I’m honored that we were selected for this important work and look forward to engaging other local firms in what will truly be a historic event for our country and the Democratic Party.”

Alvarado Construction has significant experience in the construction and renovation of large commercial and public projects in downtown Denver including INVESCO Field at Mile High, the Colorado Convention Center, the Denver Aquarium and the new 37-story Convention Center Hyatt Hotel. As a co-owner of the Colorado Rockies, Alvarado made history as the first Hispanic American owner of a major league baseball franchise. Alvarado was one of the founders of the Denver Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and served as Commissioner of the White House Initiative for Hispanic Excellence in Education.

Turner Construction Company, an industry leader in convention venues and public assembly construction, will provide an enormous breadth of specialized resources to the construction and restoration project. As a signatory to both the Colorado Laborers and Carpenters District Councils, the firm will ensure proper representation of union subcontracted work on all phases of the project. The company’s Colorado office employs some 50 professionals and serves clients in Colorado, Utah and Wyoming. Turner’s recent work in the Rocky Mountain region includes INVESCO Field at Mile High, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, Real Salt Lake Soccer Stadium, and Infinity Park at the Village of Glendale.

Already assisting the DNCC with planning for the four-day event, HOK Sport+Venue+Event is the world’s largest sports and convention center design and event planning firm. Recognized as one of the nation’s leading architectural firms in planning, design and renovation of public assembly facilities, the company worked on the 1996 Democratic National Convention in Chicago alongside Turner, and has planned significant mega-events such as the Super Bowl, Pro Bowl, Olympics, and World Cup. HOK was also the original architect for the Pepsi Center before its 1999 grand opening in Denver.

To make good on the DNCC’s commitment to create the most sustainably-produced political convention in history, the team will utilize significant green building practices for the project. Alvarado-Turner-HOK has an impressive history of sustainable construction projects and LEED certified buildings. Together, the team will use that knowledge to review every aspect of the design, construction, and selection of materials and incorporation of on-site recycling during all phases. In addition, the team will donate and reuse post-Convention materials to various community organizations and work with the DNCC’s greening staff to ensure the most sustainable practices are incorporated. They will also make use of the 2008 Host Committee’s online vendor directory that lists sustainable businesses in the region.

The DNCC, in conjunction with Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee and Kroenke Arena Company, issued an RFP for the project in December for Denver-based construction companies. The RFP stressed that bidders, if not minority and/or woman-owned firms themselves, partner with minority and/or woman-owned firms. It also strongly encouraged responses from companies who contract with and have a proven history of working with organized labor unions. After reviewing each bid, the DNCC and its partners concluded Alvarado-Turner-HOK offered the most comprehensive package based on experience, cost and commitment to diverse participation and organized labor.

The contract is one of the largest the DNCC will award for the four-day event.

The Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. www.demconvention.com

Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

Convention Co-Chair Joins DNCC CEO and Staff for Service Project at Community Clinic in Denver

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 15:30:00 -0800

Texas State Senator Leticia Van de Putte, DNCC Team Visit Clínica Tepeyac,

Meet with Volunteer Medical Staff and Assist with Administrative Work

DENVER – Texas State Senator Leticia Van de Putte, Co-Chair of the 2008 Democratic National Convention, today joined Convention CEO Leah D. Daughtry and the staff of the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) for a service project at Clínica Tepeyac, a community health center serving uninsured working families in Denver. In addition to touring the clinic and meeting with its staff, Senator Van de Putte and the DNCC team, along with 9th district City Councilwoman Judy H. Montero, helped with various administrative tasks as the clinic prepared an application for financial assistance from the state of Colorado.

"I am delighted to join the DNCC team and Councilwoman Judy Montero at Clinic Tepeyac,” said Senator Van de Putte. “Now, more than ever, healthcare issues are so important to our families. All communities deserve access to quality healthcare services."

Relying on a nearly all-volunteer medical staff, Clínica Tepeyac provides uninsured working families, mostly Latino, with basic medical services and preventative health education including wellness exams, immunizations, acute care, diabetes management, prenatal care and cancer screenings. Since opening its doors in 1995, the clinic has served thousands of men, women and children. More than one third of the clinic’s patients are children and young adults.

To accommodate working families, Clínica Tepeyac offers more than 30 evening and weekend hours for patient visits each week. Services are provided by a small full-time staff and some 200 volunteer medical professionals, nursing students and clerical assistants. Along with providing high quality health services, Clínica Tepeyac's primary objective is to empower families to be proactive with regard to their own health.

“We value the opportunity to work alongside Senator Van de Putte, Leah Daughtry, Councilmember Montero and others from the DNCC as they help us secure funding essential to the delivery of our important health services and preventive education,” said David Lack, Clínica Tepeyac’s executive director. “Their efforts will help the growing number of uninsured in the Rocky Mountain region obtain the culturally sensitive care that they and their families so desperately need.”

The DNCC team helped prepare paperwork for the clinic’s application for State Primary Care Funds, which could provide upwards of $400,000 in financial assistance to Clínica Tepeyac. The Primary Care Fund, established by the state of Colorado in 2005, provides financial grants to health care providers who make basic health care services available in an outpatient setting to residents of Colorado who are considered medically indigent.

Senator Van de Putte, a pharmacist for more than 28 years, is the first Hispanic to serve as president of the National Conference of State Legislatures – a position she has held since 2006. Representing a large portion of San Antonio, Van de Putte has been elected to four terms in the Texas Senate, following five terms as a state representative. Since 2003 she has also served as Democratic Leader in the Texas Senate.

As a strong advocate for children, veterans, improved access to health care, quality education and economic development issue, she has been honored with numerous awards including the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill "Texas Legislative Champion Award", the United Way of San Antonio "Children's Championship Award" and the Texas Classroom Teachers Association "Legislative Star" Award.

Along with Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius, past Chair of the Democratic Governors Association, and Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, Chair of the National Conference of Democratic Mayors, Van de Putte will be nominated as Permanent Co-Chair of the Convention in August. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi of California will be nominated to serve as Permanent Chair of the Convention.

Selected as a group exemplifying the new kind of leadership the Democratic Party is bringing to the country at all levels, the Permanent Chair and Co-Chairs preside over the Convention proceedings, ensuring order, decorum and efficiency as the Party nominates its presidential and vice presidential candidates, adopts the National Platform and conducts other important business.

To date, “DNCC Service Days” projects have included a painting and crafts project with Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Howard Dean for students at Manual High School; preparing and serving a special holiday breakfast with Colorado’s First Lady Jeannie Ritter for homeless and runaway youth at Urban Peak; sorting canned goods with Atlanta Mayor and Convention Co-Chair Shirley Franklin at The Crossing, a Denver Rescue Mission facility; working with a Montessori school in Five Points on an indoor activity with children and a playground area clean-up; facilitating a soccer skills camp with local middle school students and Colorado Rapids players; and spreading mulch around trees in City Park as part of a project focused on environmentalism.

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About the DNCC:
The 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee is the official arm of the Democratic National Committee responsible for planning and organizing the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. www.demconvention.com

Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. www.demconvention.com
Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

DNCC Takes ‘Convention Conversations’ to Lakewood as Excitement, Interest in 2008 Convention Continue to Grow

Mon, 03 Mar 2008 13:00:00 -0800

Rep. Perlmutter Joins DNCC CEO Leah Daughtry as Community Forum Series Returns to Denver Metro Area

LAKEWOOD – As excitement and interest in the 2008 Democratic National Convention continue to grow, U.S. Representative Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) joined Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry today for the fifth in a series of community forums focused on engaging citizens throughout Denver and the Rocky Mountain West in the Convention experience. Rep. Perlmutter and Daughtry, along with Lakewood Mayor Bob Murphy, answered questions, offered information and discussed opportunities for economic benefits for Lakewood area residents and business owners in advance of the four-day event in August.

Rep. Perlmutter stated, “This forum is a unique opportunity for people to find out how they can be involved in the Presidential nominating process. Many of the Convention events will take place not just in Denver, but in the surrounding communities like Lakewood. Regardless of political party, this is a chance to participate in the democratic process and be a part of history.”

The series – “Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC” – launched in Denver in September and has traveled to Pueblo, Boulder and Las Vegas in recent months. The community forums are designed to provide residents throughout the Denver area and the Rocky Mountain West with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved in the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

“We have been thrilled with the early enthusiasm here in the Denver area and throughout Colorado,” said Daughtry. “And we want to do everything we can to not just sustain that level of excitement but to continue to grow the community’s engagement in the coming months. Take advantage of this opportunity to witness history, but also be a part of it, right in your backyard.”

While several Lakewood area hotels are among the DNCC’s official hotel properties, Convention organizers said they aim to put forth tools and information to help even more local business owners help themselves in making the most of this Convention. Daughtry pointed to the Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee’s online vendor directory – available at www.denverconvention2008.com – as one such tool to help business owners connect with opportunities associated with the Convention. Daughtry also encouraged businesses to engage in direct marketing to organizations that traditionally attend conventions, to include Convention specific information on their websites, to pool with neighboring businesses to provide transportation for Convention visitors to their locations and to share information with the Host Committee about any special Convention deals they will offer.

Area students were also invited to participate in “Write to Lead,” the official youth essay contest for the 2008 Democratic National Convention. In partnership with Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications, the DNCC is offering the contest as a unique opportunity for middle and high school students throughout the state of Colorado to voice their thoughts on leadership and the future of the country and to engage in the 2008 Democratic National Convention experience in an extraordinary way. Two students will be named as Presidential Winners and have the opportunity to attend the Convention, while finalists will serve as ambassadors to state delegations across the country. Students can submit their essays and get more information at DemConvention.com.

In addition, Daughtry encouraged residents to get involved in the Convention experience by participating in the DNCC’s citizen photo journalism initiative and becoming a regular visitor to DemConvention.com. This site now provides visitors with the ability to sign up for regular updates on Convention news, events and other developments.

In keeping with the goal to engage different types of audiences in new and creative ways, DNCC videographers recorded interviews with Lakewood area residents attending the forum asking what having a Convention in the Rocky Mountain West means to them. Organizers will work to incorporate those ideas and vision in their planning during the coming months. Interviews from the event will be posted to www.DemConvention.com under the video section in the coming weeks.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw approximately 35,000 visitors to the region.

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Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. www.demconvention.com

Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

Lt. Governor Barbara O’Brien Encourages Summit County Students to 'Write to Lead'

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 13:00:00 -0800

Contest Ambassador Kicks Off Statewide Announcement Tour for 2008 Democratic National Convention Essay Contest with Student Roundtable at Summit High School

FRISCO – Colorado Lieutenant Governor Barbara O’Brien kicked off a statewide swing today to promote student participation in “Write to Lead” – a unique opportunity for Colorado youth to voice their thoughts on leadership and the future of our country and to engage in the 2008 Democratic National Convention experience – with a student roundtable at Summit High School in Frisco, Colorado.

The “Write to Lead” youth essay contest, organized by the Democratic National Convention Committee, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications, invites Colorado middle and high school students to submit an essay answering questions about leadership and the future of our country. Two students will be named as Presidential Winners and have the opportunity to attend the Democratic National Convention in Denver, while finalists will serve as ambassadors to state delegations across the country.

“What happens at nominating conventions has a profound impact on the future – your future,” said Lieutenant Governor O’Brien. “That’s why we’re holding this essay contest and inviting students across Colorado to participate. We want young people to take advantage of this extraordinary opportunity to be a part of this Convention right in their own backyard – and, above all, have a voice in shaping our country’s future.”

O’Brien met with Summit High School students, sharing her thoughts on the historic opportunity presented by the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, discussing her role as a leader for Colorado and answering questions from the group.

The "Write to Lead" contest invites Colorado students in grades 6-11 to submit an original essay answering one of two questions in 300 to 500 words:

• Grades 6-8: What qualities make a great leader? How could one exhibit those traits in everyday life?

• Grades 9-11: Looking to the future, what do you see for our country? What qualities does a leader need to take our country forward?

Finalists will be announced in May, with names and hometowns of each student appearing on www.demconvention.com and in a full-page ad to run in either the Denver Post or the Rocky Mountain News. Once selected, each finalist will be assigned to serve as an ambassador to one of the state and territorial delegations to the 2008 Democratic National Convention. In that role, the students will correspond - via a "Postcards from Colorado" campaign - with their assigned delegations prior to the Convention.

From the selected finalists, one middle school student and one high school student will be chosen as Presidential Winners. These two students will be invited to Denver to attend the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28, 2008. Travel and accommodations will be provided for the Presidential Winners and their guardians. In addition, each Presidential Winner will be awarded a laptop computer to aid with future writing projects and have his or her essay published in full in the newspaper ad mentioned above.

Entries will be judged by a committee of local educators and representatives from the DNCC, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications. Winners and finalists will represent geographical diversity from across the state of Colorado.

Students can find additional information on the contest and submit their essays at www.demconvention.com. All entries, parental consent forms and waivers must be submitted and postmarked by Friday, April 18, 2008. Winners will be announced the week of May 19, 2008.

Media Contacts:

Jenni Engebretsen or Natalie Wyeth, DNCC, 720-362-2006

Ellen Dumm, Lt. Governor’s Office, 303-866-6361

Dana Plewka, Post-News Educational Services, 303-954-3974

Jennifer Barton, Qwest Communications, 303-965-0561

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About the DNCC:

Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. www.demconvention.com

Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

Camco International Group, Inc. Named First-Ever Carbon Advisor For Democratic National Convention

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:00:00 -0800

Pioneering Firm based in Denver to Track and Help Minimize Event’s Carbon Footprint as DNCC Plans Most Sustainably-Produced Democratic Convention in American History

DENVER – In a Convention first, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today selected Camco International Group, Inc. (Camco) as the Official Carbon Advisor for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28 in Denver. The move further bolstered Convention organizers’ efforts to design waste out by applying sustainable planning principles to every decision in the lead-up to the Convention.

To help minimize the four-day event’s overall impact on the environment, Camco will be working with the DNCC during the coming months to measure the Convention’s carbon footprint, strengthen existing programs and make recommendations about how to minimize and/or offset the Convention’s carbon output.

“This 2008 Democratic National Convention will make history in so many ways – and our commitment to making this the ‘greenest’ Convention ever is no exception,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “Camco, a world-renowned pioneer in the sustainability field, will help us make good on that goal by turning climate change liabilities into environmental assets.”

As the Official Carbon Advisor, Camco will work with the DNCC to estimate the Convention's carbon footprint; quantify the greenhouse gas benefits of various environmental initiatives including waste reduction, energy efficiency and the use of alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles; and advise on opportunities to offset the remaining emissions produced from hosting the Convention.

“I am delighted that Camco will be working with the Democratic National Convention Committee to quantify and reduce the Convention’s impact on the climate and help to raise awareness of this urgent global issue,” said Sam Houston, Chief Executive Officer of Camco in North America. “This project is a prime example of how Camco is leading the way in helping North America’s emissions intensive industry and public sector develop and implement practical strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

To measure the event’s carbon footprint during Convention week, Camco will assess emissions associated with travel to and from the event, the provision of food at the Pepsi Center and the Colorado Convention Center and energy use and waste by delegates, members of the media, program participants and Convention staff.

“We are so pleased to add Camco to our list of official providers for the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Camco is a formidable force in the carbon market and will be a tremendous asset to us in reaching our sustainability goals,” said Andrea Robinson, Director of Greening for the DNCC.

Camco has a 20-year history of working in sustainable energy and low carbon markets, with senior professionals operating across six locations in North America, including two offices in Colorado. Holding one of the world’s largest carbon portfolios, the company partners with organizations to identify, develop and manage projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as well as to assist with the procurement of carbon credits.

The selection of an Official Carbon Advisor marks the latest in a series of steps the DNCC has taken to ensure the 2008 Democratic National Convention is the most sustainably-produced Democratic Convention in American history. Since arriving in Denver, the DNCC chose an Energy Star office building for its headquarters; put its entire housing selection process online, saving an estimated 50,000 to 100,000 sheets of paper; hired the first ever Director of Greening for a Democratic Convention; required its Official Vehicle Provider to provide an entire fleet of fuel-efficient and alternative fuel vehicles; selected a transportation consultant who committed to offsetting its carbon footprint; and hired a construction manager that will use green building practices to prepare the Pepsi Center in Denver for the event.

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Contacts: DNCC
Jenni Engebretsen
Natalie Wyeth
720-362-2006

Contacts: Camco
Sam Houston, CEO North America, 970-925-7310
Jim Wiest, CFO North America, 720-279-2345

About the DNCC:

The 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee is the official arm of the Democratic National Committee responsible for planning and organizing the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver.
Paid for by 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. www.demconvention.com
Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

About Camco:

Camco International Group, Inc. is a wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary of Camco International Limited.

Camco is a leading climate change business in the growing carbon and sustainable development markets. Camco offers a full range of carbon-related services to public and private organisations worldwide. The Group has a 20-year track record and manages one of the world’s largest carbon credit portfolios, currently 150m tonnes.

Camco’s international network of more than 200 experts across 17 offices establishes long-term partnerships that create real value for our clients. Our presence on the ground in our local markets means that we understand the challenges our clients face every day, and can provide local solutions to a global challenge.

Commitment to 'Greening' 2008 Democratic National Convention Goes Online at DemConvention.com

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 11:00:00 -0700

DNCC ‘Green Team’ to Help Create Sustainable Event, Leave Denver and Democratic Party with Lasting Legacy

DENVER – In another move toward solidifying the 2008 Democratic National Convention’s place in history as the most environmentally-sustainable event of its kind to date, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today launched a series of “green” pages on its website at www.DemConvention.com. The new content highlights the DNCC’s efforts to design waste out of the Convention by applying sustainable planning principles to every decision in the lead-up to the four-day event. Through these pages and other means, the DNCC also aims to harness national and international attention around the Convention to educate the public on responsible individual life choices to reduce human impact on the environment.

“The Democratic Party has been a leader in addressing climate change, environmental preservation and the promotion of renewable energy use, and the ways we build and execute our Convention in Denver will mirror those same commitments, “ said Andrea Robinson, Director of Sustainability and Greening for the DNCC. “We aim to lead by example and identify opportunities, such as these web pages, to help educate the public as well as Convention attendees about making more sustainable choices in their own day-to-day activities.”

DemConvention.com now features a carbon calculator to help Convention guests measure the carbon footprint generated by their individual trips to Denver. Additional components of the new green pages include an overview of the DNCC’s sustainable goals and objectives, a weekly innovative and easy “greening” tip, behind-the-scenes “Green Screen” video of the DNCC’s efforts to create a sustainable event and the latest news and information on the organization’s commitment to leave Denver and the Democratic Party with a lasting environmental legacy. The site also provides further detail about how the DNCC is incorporating sustainable principles into planning related to Convention events scheduled for the Pepsi Center and the Colorado Convention Center.

In addition to providing an online resource and educational tool focused on sustainability, the DNCC is assembling a “Green Team” to help meet the organization’s goal of a minimum 85 percent waste diversion rate at the Pepsi Center and the Colorado Convention Center. Robinson estimates needing the help of some 800 volunteers in various shifts to assist with greening assignments during Convention week. Some of the DNCC “Green Team” members are already working within the DNCC offices. The DNCC will continue to expand the team in the coming months by recruiting from local colleges, universities and the pool of volunteers who have already signed up with the Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee.

Launching the site’s new content marks the latest in the series of steps the DNCC has taken to ensure the 2008 Democratic National Convention is the most sustainably-produced Democratic Convention in American history. Since arriving in Denver, the DNCC chose an Energy Star office building for its headquarters; put its entire housing selection process online, saving an estimated 50,000 to 100,000 sheets of paper; hired the first ever Director of Greening for a Democratic Convention; required its Official Vehicle Provider to provide an entire fleet of fuel-efficient and alternative fuel vehicles; selected a transportation consultant who committed to offsetting its carbon footprint; and hired a construction manager that will use green building practices to prepare the Pepsi Center in Denver for the event. Just last week, the DNCC announced it had selected an Official Carbon Advisor to help measure the event’s carbon footprint – the first organization to ever hold that position.

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About the DNCC:

The 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee is the official arm of the Democratic National Committee responsible for planning and organizing the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver.
To unsubscribe from our mailing list or to refer additional e-mail addresses, please direct all inquiries to DNCCPress@demconvention.com

Democratic National Convention Committee Displays Works From Colorado Artists Throughout Convention Headquarters

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 19:00:00 -0700

Fine Art from Nine Local Artists Fills Walls at Convention Offices in Denver's Civic Center Plaza

DENVER - Looking to showcase Colorado's rich culture, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) has selected works from nine local artists for display at the Convention headquarters in Denver. Colorado artists with works on display include John Fielder, Andy Baird, Jean Brodie, Mark Brodie, Greg Evans, Stacy Lewis, Dave Ryan, Jared Steinberg and Amy Thornton.

"We're so blessed to be surrounded by these beautiful paintings and photographs," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "Our staff is working long hours in preparation for the Convention, and I can't think of a better backdrop for that hard work than inspiration from artists right here in Colorado. And now the steady stream of visitors through our offices, from local allies to national Party officials, will have the same opportunity to see some of Colorado's finest talent."

Tags including information about each piece and its creator hang alongside the works. The artwork will be on display at the DNCC's offices through the Convention, to be held August 25-28 in Denver.

"My work is dedicated to showcasing Colorado's sublime scenery," said renowned photographer John Fielder. "The natural beauty of this state has been an inspiration to me, and I hope my photos can do the same for others."

Some artists approached the DNCC with offers to help brighten up the bare office walls, while Convention staff simultaneously spread word through the local art community about the opportunity. Colorado artists interested in displaying their work should contact Angie Williams at the DNCC at 720-362-2008 or williamsa@demconvention.com.

Colorado artists with works on display include:
(Information culled from biographies provided by the artists)

Andrew Baird, who lives and works in Evergreen, is a fifth generation Colorado native with 30 years experience as an artist and instructor. Baird's paintings appear to resemble a Jackson Pollock style, but when the linear portrait begins to appear, it becomes clear that the content is quite different. After first creating a rough sketch of the features, he walks on the canvas and drips paint from the center out, never touching the canvas with a brush.

Jean Brodie has a Masters degree in Art Education and has been an art educator in the Colorado Public School system for 26 years. She is an active member of the Art Students League of Denver (ASLD) and a signature member of the Colorado Watercolor Society. In 2004, Brodie was presented the Triangle Award by the ASLD.

Mark Brodie has lived in Denver since 1980 and began sculpting in 1992. His works, primarily done from Colorado marble, are simple, yet dramatic. Brodie is also an accomplished photographer and recently won a competition sponsored by Black and White Magazine, where his works were selected from more than 80,000 entrants and prominently featured in the December 2006 publication. Jean and Mark Brodie reside in Golden.

Greg Evans is an internationally-collected artist whose work has appeared on magazine covers and television. His work is an explosion of color and movement. The Centennial, Colorado resident begins with an abstract background of large sweeping splashes of color to create a feeling of movement and then lets the colors blend and create themselves. Evans' dynamic, impressionist style captures "art in motion" along with the passion of people depicted in his sports and fine arts themes.

John Fielder is a nationally renowned nature photographer, publisher, teacher and preservationist. A former department store executive who turned an avocation into a career, he is the photographer of 38 exhibit format and guide books, most about his home state of Colorado. Fielder has worked tirelessly to promote the protection of Colorado's open space and wildlands. His photography has influenced people and legislation earning him recognition including the Sierra Club's Ansel Adams Award.

Stacy Lewis grew up in a family of artists and used art as a form of personal expression as she grew older. The Denver resident's paintings are heavily influenced by her Hawaiian heritage, her love of nature and her travels in the U.S. and abroad. Stacy's work is a blend of abstract impressionism and realism - using the power and vibrancy of color to transform her subjects into deeper, almost surreal expressions.

Dave Ryan uses expressionistic abstractions of landscapes, figures, botanicals, rock, sand and water in his natural paintings. No brushes are used with his technique, and the canvas is never stagnant; it is hand held or mounted in both vertical and horizontal positions during pours of paint. The Castle Rock resident's unique artistic creations have sold worldwide.

Jared Steinberg, a Denver native who lives in the River North art district (RiNo), describes his art as a study of relationships; his collection of images features water, earth, buildings, people and music. In March of 2007, his show, Slices of Denver, was featured as one of 5280 Magazine's Best Bets. One of Steinberg's pieces on display at the DNCC offices, a cityscape called "The DAM View" (Denver Art Museum), includes a depiction of the building that houses the Convention headquarters amid the Denver skyline.

Amy Thornton, a Denver resident inspired by modern dance studies, has carved out a unique calligraphic and expressionistic style. Thornton is known for her unique, energetic, "dancing" paintings that shift the energy and spirit of their environment. She specializes in creating custom residential and corporate commissions and has been collected nationally.

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About the DNCC:
The 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee is the official arm of the Democratic National Committee responsible for planning and organizing the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver.

Must Read: DNCC Poised to Pull Off a Flawless Democratic National Convention, Planning on Pace or Ahead of Schedule on All Fronts

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:30:00 -0700

DENVER - Five months before the 2008 Democratic National Convention, Roll Call this morning shows planning for the event continues to be, "on pace or ahead of pace" on all fronts with Convention organizers confident they will, "walk into Denver unified and knowing who our nominee is."

Sans Nominee, DNC Unfazed; Denver Plans Press Ahead
Roll Call
By Erin P. Billings and Jennifer Yachnin
March 17, 2008

"'The nuts and bolts, the logistics of the convention are the logistics, regardless of the nominee,' said Leah Daughtry, chief executive officer for the Democratic National Convention. 'On Aug. 25, we have to be ready. We don't get another day. We're planning to be ready in that hall when that gavel drops.'

"Daughtry said organizers got off to 'an early start' with the selection of the convention dates and location. Also, she said party officials continue to be 'on pace or ahead of pace in terms of planning and logistics.'

"Much of the preparation has been under way for months, with national Democrats working to make available lodging, transportation and convention space for the thousands of visitors to Denver. Most of that work can be done without the presidential nominee in place, but the candidate typically teams with national party players well in advance to put his or her stamp on the overall message, framework and program for the four-day event…

"'There's still plenty of time,' insisted Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.). 'The convention planning is moving with full force; we are way ahead of Boston and L.A. The logistics -- all that is happening.'…

"Daughtry said convention organizers 'think we'll be walking into Denver unified and knowing who our nominee is. We aren't at all worried about that.'…

"Ken Salazar was quick to point out that Denver is no rookie to event planning, arguing it has handled, among other things, an international G-8 summit and a papal visit."

For the full article, click here.

Hyatt Regency Denver Named Official Headquarters Hotel for 2008 Democratic National Convention

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 10:30:00 -0700

DENVER - The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced its selection of the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center as the official headquarters hotel for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28, 2008. In that capacity, the Hyatt Regency Denver will serve as the base of operations for the DNCC, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and the presidential campaign.

"Outside the Pepsi Center, the Hyatt Regency Denver will serve as the primary nerve center for our Convention operations - our home away from home during an incredibly important week," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "Since our team's arrival in Denver, the Hyatt Regency team has been nothing but warm and welcoming, and I know they'll offer this same level of service, professionalism and hospitality to our Convention team in August. This hotel is well-known for forging strong relationships with the Denver community, and we're proud to now call them our partner too."

Built in 2005, the state-of-the-art facility is compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, ensuring a high level of accessibility, and employs numerous "green" practices, including an extensive sustainability program, energy efficient lighting in guest rooms and common areas and low-flow water devices in guest rooms and kitchens. The Hyatt Regency Denver is also recognized for its strong commitment to organized labor.

The hotel will be used to conduct official business and as a meeting place for Convention organizers. Its central location makes it an ideal home base, given its proximity to the Colorado Convention Center and the Pepsi Center.

"Hyatt is honored to be chosen as the headquarters hotel for the Democratic National Convention. We are excited to have the Democrats back in Denver, Colorado for the first time since 1908 and will make sure all of our guests experience the warm Rocky Mountain hospitality that our city is known for," said John Schafer, General Manager of the Hyatt Regency Denver.

Today's announcement marks the latest in a series of DNCC housing assignments allocating the 17,000 rooms in some 100 hotels reserved for delegates, alternates, media and members of the Democratic family. In November, the DNCC announced the list of area hotels selected to house some 5,000 delegates during Convention week. State delegations were assigned to 27 hotels in one of three clusters - Downtown, Stapleton and the Denver Tech Center - all within 20 minutes of the Pepsi Center.

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About the DNCC:
The 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee is the official arm of the Democratic National Committee responsible for planning and organizing the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver.

Lt. Governor Barbara O'Brien Encourages Colorado Springs Students To 'Write To Lead'

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 11:30:00 -0700

Contest Ambassador Continues Statewide Announcement Tour for 2008 Democratic National Convention Essay Contest, Meets with Young Women in Leadership Program at Carmel Middle School

COLORADO SPRINGS - At a forum with young women leaders from Colorado Springs, Colorado Lieutenant Governor Barbara O'Brien continued her statewide swing today to promote student participation in "Write to Lead" - a unique opportunity for Colorado youth to voice their thoughts on leadership and the future of our country and to engage in the 2008 Democratic National Convention experience.

The "Write to Lead" youth essay contest, organized by the Democratic National Convention Committee, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications, invites Colorado middle and high school students to submit an essay answering questions about leadership and the future of our country. Two students will be named as Presidential Winners and have the opportunity to attend the Democratic National Convention in Denver, while finalists will serve as ambassadors to state delegations across the country.

"These exceptional young women represent the kind of leadership our country needs and deserves," said Lieutenant Governor O'Brien. "But their ability to shape our country's future depends on whether their voices, ideas and dreams are heard. This essay contest provides them and student leaders throughout Colorado with the forum to do just that."

O'Brien met with young women enrolled in the InterCept program at Carmel Middle School, sharing her thoughts on the historic opportunity presented by the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, discussing her role as a leader for Colorado and answering questions from the group.

The InterCept program, an initiative of the Women's Resource Agency, exists to empower young women to develop leadership and mentoring skills, work toward a positive future and make healthy life choices. The program uses a curriculum developed to harness the energy of the young women into learning skills that lead to improved educational outcomes, increased self-esteem and leadership among their peers and in their community.

The "Write to Lead" contest invites Colorado students in grades 6-11 to submit an original essay answering one of two questions in 300 to 500 words:

Grades 6-8: What qualities make a great leader? How could one exhibit those traits in everyday life?

Grades 9-11: Looking to the future, what do you see for our country? What qualities does a leader need to take our country forward?

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Media Contacts:
Jenni Engebretsen or Natalie Wyeth, DNCC, 720-362-2006
Ellen Dumm, Lt. Governor's Office, 303-866-6361
Dana Plewka, Post-News Educational Services, 303-954-3974
Jennifer Barton, Qwest Communications, 303-965-0561

DNCC Announces Unprecedented Access For Bloggers During 2008 Democratic National Convention

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 11:30:00 -0700

Members of DemConvention State Blogger Corps to Have Assigned Seats with Respective Delegations on Floor of Convention Hall in Denver

DENVER - Demonstrating a commitment to unprecedented access for bloggers at the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced that bloggers credentialed as part of the DemConvention State Blogger Corps will be seated with their respective delegations in the Pepsi Center during the historic four-day event. The move guarantees bloggers with a focus on state politics a unique vantage point to provide localized coverage of the Convention, to be held from August 25-28 in Denver.

"The Internet is the most significant tool for building democracy since the invention of the printing press," said Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Howard Dean. "New local, national and global communities are being formed which demand two-way communication between people and their leaders and the DemConvention State Blogger Corps will be on the frontlines at the 2008 convention to help facilitate this critical dialogue."

In November, the DNCC announced its blogger credentialing process for 2008, including an expansion of the credentialed blogger pool from prior cycles and the addition of a state blogger credentialing program. Under the DemConvention State Blogger Corps, which is designed for those covering state and local politics, the DNCC is offering the opportunity for one blogger to be credentialed from each of the states and territories. The program, recognizing the growth of more localized blogs and in line with Governor Dean's 50-state strategy, has been open for applications since December.

"Time and again, we talk about our commitment to bring down the walls of the Pepsi Center and engage more people in the Convention experience using new technology and other creative means," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "Granting unprecedented access to our state bloggers shows we are serious about making this an inclusive, accessible event. When our nominee for President of the United States takes the stage, members of the DemConvention State Blogger Corps will witness this historic moment from the best seats in the house - and in turn, be able to offer their dedicated readers back home a first-hand account from the center of that state's action."

To qualify as a state blogger, the applicant's blog must have been in existence six months prior to requesting credentials and have at least 120 politically related blog posts. Bloggers must submit their daily audience and list their authority based on Technorati statistics. Bloggers may also provide examples of posts that make their blog stand out as an effective online organizing tool and/or agent of change.

In addition to the DemConvention State Blogger Corps, the DNCC will also credential a general blogger pool, to include local, state and national political bloggers, as well as niche and video bloggers from across the country.

Applications for blogger credentials will be accepted until April 15, 2008. Individuals selected for either the DemConvention State Blogger Corps or the general blogger pool will be notified in May.

Bloggers interested in applying can find additional information at http://www.demconvention.com/blogger-credentialing-process/ .

Salt Lake City Mayor, DNCC CEO Host Community Forum Highlighting Importance Of The West In Lead-Up to 2008 Democratic National Convention

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:30:00 -0700

At Salt Lake Event, Mayor Becker, Convention CEO Leah Daughtry Answer Questions, Offer Information for Utahns Interested in Getting Involved in Historic Regional Opportunities in 2008

SALT LAKE CITY - Just five months before the 2008 Democratic National Convention in neighboring Colorado, Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker joined Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry today for the sixth in a series of DNCC community forums focused on engaging citizens throughout the Rocky Mountain West in the Convention experience. Mayor Becker and Daughtry, along with Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon, answered questions and offered information to Utahns about the historic regional opportunities presented by hosting a Convention in the Rocky Mountain West.

"Our Party is poised to make history in Denver come August, and we're here today to ensure that the people of Utah have a voice in shaping the story we tell from our Convention stage," said Daughtry. "I am so pleased Mayors Becker and Corroon could join us, as they are emblematic of the new kind of leadership our Party is putting forward here in the West. The Convention presents a tremendous opportunity to showcase our Party's leaders and the importance of the West and Western issues - all on an international stage. Forums like this help us with our homework in putting that program together."

In his remarks, Mayor Becker extolled the virtues of the west. "I believe the west represents a land of stewardship, leadership and opportunity," he declared. "The more the people of Salt Lake engage in this Convention, the more those virtues will shine in August when the country and many others around the world tune in for this historic event." Becker explained how western cities such as Salt Lake City and Denver are leading the way by modeling sustainability practices for the rest of the country.

Today's event marks the second time the DNCC has traveled outside of Colorado for a Convention forum. The series - "Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC" - launched in Denver in September and traveled to Pueblo, Boulder, and Lakewood, Colo. and Las Vegas, Nevada in recent months. The community forums are designed to provide residents in the region with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved in the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

Daughtry outlined several ways Utahns can get involved in the Convention process, including running for delegate and becoming a regular visitor to www.DemConvention.com. The site now provides visitors with the ability to sign up for regular updates on Convention news, events and other developments.

Attendees were also invited to participate in the DNCC's citizen photo journalism initiative. The photo project invites Utah residents and others throughout the region to post pictures of people and places in their community representing the spirit of the West at www.DemConvention.com. The photos will be posted to the DNCC's website as a means to introduce delegates and other visitors to the West as they plan their trips to the Convention in August. Convention organizers are also working on plans to showcase the photos in Denver during Convention week.

In keeping with the goal to engage different types of audiences in new and creative ways, DNCC videographers recorded interviews with Utahns attending the forum asking what having a Convention in the Rocky Mountain West means to them. Organizers will work to incorporate those ideas and vision in their planning during the coming months. Interviews from the event will be posted to www.DemConvention.com under the video section in the coming weeks.

As Essay Contest Deadline Nears, Lt. Governor Barbara O'Brien Encourages Greeley Students to "Write To Lead"

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:30:00 -0700

Contest Ambassador Continues Statewide Announcement Tour for 2008 Democratic National Convention Essay Contest in Lead-up to April 18th Deadline, Meets with Government Class, Student Leaders

GREELEY, Colo. - At a forum with student council members and government students in Greeley, Colorado Lieutenant Governor Barbara O'Brien continued her statewide swing today to promote student participation in "Write to Lead" - a unique opportunity for Colorado youth to voice their thoughts on leadership and the future of our country and to engage in the 2008 Democratic National Convention experience. As the contest's April 18th deadline nears, O'Brien urged students at Northridge High School to submit entries and compete for the opportunity to attend the historic four-day event in August.

The "Write to Lead" youth essay contest, organized by the Democratic National Convention Committee, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications, invites Colorado middle and high school students to submit an essay answering questions about leadership and the future of our country. Two students will be named as Presidential Winners and receive credentials to attend the Democratic National Convention in Denver, while finalists will serve as ambassadors to state delegations across the country.

"Collectively, the ideas and actions of this generation will determine our nation's future," said Lieutenant Governor O'Brien. "These students already understand the importance of leadership. The 'Write to Lead' essay contest provides them an opportunity to go a step further - to have their voices heard and engage in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity happening right here in their home state."

O'Brien met with government students and student council members at Northridge High School, sharing her thoughts on the historic opportunity presented by the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, discussing her role as a leader for Colorado and answering questions from the group.

The "Write to Lead" contest invites Colorado students in grades 6-11 to submit an original essay answering one of two questions in 300 to 500 words:

• Grades 6-8: What qualities make a great leader? How could one exhibit those traits in everyday life?
• Grades 9-11: Looking to the future, what do you see for our country? What qualities does a leader need to take our country forward?

Finalists will be announced in May, with names and hometowns of each student appearing on www.demconvention.com and in a full-page ad to run in either the Denver Post or the Rocky Mountain News. Once selected, each finalist will be assigned to serve as an ambassador to one of the state and territorial delegations to the 2008 Democratic National Convention. In that role, the students will correspond - via a "Postcards from Colorado" campaign - with their assigned delegations prior to the Convention.

Must Read: West 'Making Its Mark' In The Democratic Party, Shaping Story Told From 2008 Convention Stage

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 14:00:00 -0700

DENVER - Following the Democratic National Convention Committee's (DNCC) visit to Salt Lake City, Utah, for the sixth in a series of community forums highlighting the importance of the West in the lead-up to the 2008 Democratic National Convention, The Salt Lake Tribune today reports Convention organizers are, "focused on engaging Western Democrats including Utahns in 'shaping the story we tell from our convention stage.'"

The West is making its mark in the Democratic Party; Convention will showcase Salt Lake City, County mayors The Salt Lake Tribune By Derek P. Jensen April 5, 2008

"Salt Lake City is very much a part of the new relevance of the West, [DNCC CEO Leah] Daughtry said - a concept Democratic party organizers hope to drive home by holding the convention in Denver…

"Daughtry said [Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph] Becker and [Salt Lake County Mayor Peter] Corroon are 'emblematic' of a Democratic platform that has invigorated the primary electorate. Pointing to the party's 50-state strategy, she insisted all states should have the same voice as the 'edicts from on high in Washington. It's been a long time since Montana and South Dakota have had their say,' she said.

"Becker agreed, adding that Western cities such as Salt Lake City and Denver are leading the way by modeling sustainability practices for the rest of the country. 'We are going back to that notion of sustainability with new vigor,' he said, pillorying the GOP for 'exploiting' minerals and natural resources across the West. 'Republicans have built their dogma around a fight for development rather than environmental protection.'

"The capital mayor called it fitting for Democrats across the country to come to the region to share 'our agenda for the future.' He said convention-goers will feel the same Western hospitality in Denver that they did during the 2002 Winter Olympics in neighboring Salt Lake City."

For the full article, click here

Speaker Pelosi, DNCC Announce Green Delegate Challenge For 2008 Democratic National Convention

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:20:00 -0700

Incentives Offered to Encourage Reduction of Delegate Carbon Footprints, Foster Friendly Competition Among State Delegations

DENVER - As part of an ongoing effort to make the 2008 Democratic National Convention the most environmentally-sustainable Democratic Convention in history, House Speaker and Permanent Convention Chair Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Convention organizers today announced the "Green Delegate Challenge," offering special rewards for the delegation or delegations that demonstrate the highest level of commitment to offsetting their carbon footprint from attending the Convention, to be held August 25-28, 2008. Colorado Governor Bill Ritter, Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper, Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry joined Pelosi at the Pepsi Center in Denver to unveil the challenge and mark the first in a series of greening announcements the DNCC will make throughout April in recognition of Earth Day.

"The 2008 Democratic National Convention, like our great party, is about the future--the future of our country and the future of our planet," said Speaker Pelosi. "That is why we are ensuring that this Convention will be the greenest, most sustainable, most successful political Convention in history - and the Green Delegate Challenge is a critical part of that effort."

As part of the challenge, delegations with the highest percentage of members offsetting their carbon will be recognized in their seating section on the floor of the Pepsi Center during the Convention. Each delegate, alternate and super delegate from that state will also receive a limited edition "green" prize to be announced at a later date. Progress will be tracked on DemConvention.com, with the winning state or states recognized on the website in August. Any delegate who offsets their travel will receive a unique wearable "green item" for Convention week, available only to these delegates, and be recognized individually on DemConvention.com.

"Colorado is going green in ways both large and small, and I'm proud to be a part of the effort to provide Colorado citizens and Convention delegates alike the opportunity to offset our carbon footprint," said Governor Ritter. "Between the delegate challenge and its comprehensive greening initiatives, the Democratic National Convention can make an important contribution to our New Energy Economy."

"All of us involved in organizing the Convention have pledged to make it the greenest in history, and we are well on our way," said Mayor Hickenlooper. "The Green Delegate Challenge is a perfect tool to increase awareness of how carbon offsets can help us reduce our impact on the environment. In addition, this competition gives Convention delegates a fun way to lead by example."

"The 2008 Democratic Convention in Denver will be historic and will reflect the spirit of the Rocky Mountain West," said Rep. DeGette. "The 'greening' initiatives of the Convention are a trademark of the innovation and prosperity Democrats will offer America. While we will leave our mark on Denver in nominating the next President of the United States, we will do so by reducing our carbon footprint."

Added DNCC CEO Daughtry, "We are honored to have Speaker Pelosi here today identifying this Green Delegate Challenge as a priority for our delegations. I certainly hope her encouragement and endorsement will kick off a healthy competition among the states. The collective efforts of Convention organizers and delegates can demonstrate to the country how the choices we make can have a positive impact, both for large-scale events and in the everyday lives of individuals."

Through the DNCC's partnership with Native Energy, delegates may obtain their carbon offsets from a number of domestic community-based clean energy projects including the community-owned, utility-scale Wray School District Wind Turbine in Wray, Colo.; a Focus the Nation Wind Turbine on a family farm in Rosedell Township, Minn.; a fourth generation family dairy farm methane project in Rockwood, Pa.; and the Des Plaines, Ill., Landfill Gas-to-Energy Project. During the coming months, the DNCC will add more carbon offset projects to include additional providers supporting domestic offset projects.

To participate in the challenge and be identified as a "Green Delegate," delegates must obtain and present their offsets prior to August 1, 2008.

The Green Delegate Challenge is the latest in the series of steps the DNCC has taken to ensure the 2008 Democratic National Convention is the most environmentally-sustainable Democratic Convention in history. Since arriving in Denver, the DNCC chose an Energy Star office building for its headquarters located downtown at public transit hubs; put its entire housing selection process online, saving an estimated 50,000 to 100,000 sheets of paper; hired the first ever Director of Greening for a Democratic National Convention; required its Official Vehicle Provider to supply an entire fleet of fuel-efficient and alternative fuel vehicles; selected a transportation consultant who committed to offsetting its carbon footprint; and hired a construction management firm that will use green building practices to prepare the Pepsi Center in Denver for the event.

Just last month, the DNCC announced it had selected an Official Carbon Advisor to help measure the Convention's carbon footprint and launched its "Green Pages" -- new website content that highlights the Convention's greening efforts and aims to educate the public on responsible individual life choices that can minimize human impact on the environment.

Click here to learn more about Carbon Offsets.

Click here to purchase Carbon Offsets through Native Energy.

Democratic, GOP Conventions Face Off As National Hockey League's Stanely Cup Playoffs Begin

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 10:30:00 -0700

Convention Leaders Make Friendly Wager on Minnesota Wild vs. Colorado Avalanche Series

DENVER - The National Hockey League's Stanley Cup Playoffs commence this week, and the cities hosting the 2008 Democratic and Republican National Conventions will be at the center of the action when the Colorado Avalanche and Minnesota Wild face off. Today, the two leaders planning the political conventions agreed to a friendly wager on the series.

Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry and Republican National Convention President and CEO Maria Cino agreed to the stakes in a phone call earlier today. The losing city's Convention team will send a "taste" of that city's local delicacy for the winning city's Convention staff to enjoy. If the Avalanche win, the Republican team will send the DNCC staff an assortment of walleye fish from the lakes of Minnesota. If the Wild win, the DNCC will send the Republican Convention staff a selection of delectable Colorado-raised beef steaks.

"To my friend Maria and her fine team in Minnesota: get ready to be buried by our Avalanche," said Daughtry. "Denver has welcomed us with open arms, and I'm now proud to ante up on behalf of the hometown team. Fortunately for me, the Avs know what it takes to win a championship. Soon enough, the Pepsi Center will be home to the Stanley Cup once again. And just five months from now, it'll play host to another winner - our nominee for President of the United States."

"Minnesota is the 'State of Hockey,' and I am proud that we have become part of the 'Team of 18,000," Cino said, using the term the Wild coined to describe its consistent sellout crowds. "It is only fitting that we stand with our new community in Minneapolis-Saint Paul and enter into this friendly wager with my friend in Denver, where she and her staff are working equally as hard.

"As I kidded with Leah earlier, our staff in Minneapolis-Saint Paul is pretty excited that the roads to the White House and the Stanley Cup Championship will both lead through the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul," Cino added.

The Avalanche makes its home at the Pepsi Center in Denver - site of the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28. The Northwest Division Champion Wild play at the Xcel Energy Center, which is also home of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

Democratic National Convention Committee, Supporting Groups Break Ground For Wounded Iraq Vet's Home

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:00:00 -0700

Credit Unions, National Journal, Convention officials & Homes for Our Troops hold ceremony launching project supporting wounded veterans

Denver, CO - Homes for Our Troops, a non-profit organization committed to building specially adapted homes across the United States for severely wounded American troops, today broke ground on a Denver-area home for wounded Iraq-war veteran Staff Sergeant Travis Strong and his family. The home in Golden, a joint project of the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC), the credit union movement, and National Journal Group, will be presented to SSG Strong and his family around this summer's Democratic National Convention.

"We are honored to be joined by the DNCC, its staff and volunteers, the people of the credit union movement and National Journal to build this home for a true American hero," said John Gonsalves, President and Founder of Homes for Our Troops.

The groundbreaking on the home site in Golden starts a construction process that will culminate with the presentation of the home to SSG Strong at an event around the Democratic National Convention in August. SSG Strong, 30, is a double amputee, the result of injuries sustained during a rocket-propelled grenade attack on his Stryker vehicle in November 2006. He was on his second tour of duty in Iraq for the U.S. Army. The home will be specially adapted for SSG Strong, his wife Misty, and their two children. The house is being built at no cost to the Strong family.

Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC, said: "Now, the real work begins. My staff and I are looking forward to hammering some nails, hanging some dry wall and laying some sod, as this will be a labor of love for a true American hero. It's a tremendous honor to be here alongside Staff Sergeant Strong and his family as we break ground and see this project really begin to move forward."

"This is an incredible gesture of generosity on the part of many organizations and many individuals to assist this brave soldier," added Colorado Governor Bill Ritter, Jr. "Thousands of men and women like Staff Sgt. Travis Strong have sacrificed so much to serve their country. It's vital that we act as a national community and take steps to repay a debt that can never fully be repaid to Sgt. Strong, his wife and their two children."

Tom Dorety, CEO of Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union of Tampa, Florida and Chairman of the Credit Union National Association (CUNA), the nation's largest advocacy group for the not-for-profit, cooperatively owned financial institutions, said: "Credit unions operate under a 'People Helping People' philosophy, and this project is one way we can live out that philosophy. We are honored to participate in this special effort on behalf of a very deserving soldier and his family."

John Dill, President and CEO of the Credit Union Associations of Colorado and Wyoming, added, "Credit unions here in Colorado are excited to take part in this project. We look forward to working closely with Homes for Our Troops and the Convention staff to make this dream a reality for SSG Strong and his family."

"We too appreciate the opportunity to be part of these efforts," said Suzanne Clark, President of the National Journal Group. "We can never make-up for the sacrifice of these deserving men and women, but we hope to make a difference for one family that has given so much."

The undertaking marks the latest effort in a year-long series of service projects the DNCC has organized to give back to the community hosting the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Since July, the DNCC has centered its monthly "Service Days" outings around three areas of importance to the Denver-area community: youth, environmental projects and the combined issues of homelessness and hunger. Given its strong commitment to organized labor, the DNCC is proud to work closely in this latest service effort with the Colorado Building and Construction Trades Council, AFL-CIO, which will provide skilled labor for the project in Denver.

The Credit Union National Association (CUNA) and its affiliated Credit Union Associations of Colorado and Wyoming will work to raise funds, provide donated materials and volunteer labor, and coordinate activities closely with Homes for Our Troops. CUNA, the Minnesota Credit Union Network, and National Journal are also working with Homes for Our Troops and the Republican National Committee on a companion project for a veteran's home in conjunction with the Republican National Convention. Groundbreaking for that project is planned for April 28th in St. Paul, Minn.

2008 Democratic National Convention Committee Names PR Newswire Official Newswire Services Provider

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 10:00:00 -0700

Electronic Distribution of Speeches Furthers DNCC's Efforts to Make 2008 the Most Sustainably-Produced Political Convention in American History

DENVER - The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today named PR Newswire its Official Newswire Services Provider, offering the DNCC a key resource to communicate breaking news releases, speeches and advisory information for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held at the Pepsi Center in Denver from August 25-28, 2008.

PR Newswire's long record of providing reliable newswire service and extensive experience with national political events make them an ideal partner," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "Their expertise will play a critical role in communicating our nominee's vision for the country to our worldwide audience and some 15,000 members of the media right here in Denver."

Under the terms of the agreement, PR Newswire will disseminate news releases, media advisories, and speech texts from the Convention to thousands of reporters, bloggers and other members of the media covering the four-day event. Releases and announcements will also be available on PR Newswire for Journalists, a media-only website at www.prnewswire.com/media.

"We are very excited to be working with the 2008 Democratic National Convention, which promises to be one of the most exciting and riveting news events in recent history," said Brian Taylor, vice president, PR Newswire Public Interest Services. "We look forward to working closely with Convention organizers and journalists to ensure the media and the public are continuously updated with the latest developments from the event."

PR Newswire's electronic distribution of materials directly to reporters' computers and hand-held devices will help the DNCC further its goal of making the event the most sustainably-produced political Convention in history by contributing to overall efforts to reduce the amount of paper generated by the Convention.

In addition, PR Newswire will provide Convention staff with media research services and Spanish translation of press releases and speech texts. Extensive Spanish language content, including press releases, background information and other resources, is already available on the Spanish version of the DNCC's website at www.demconvention.com.

Reporters, editors and producers covering the Democratic National Convention can register at http://response.prnewswire.com/demconvention to receive breaking news releases.

'Convention 101' Goes Online at DemConvention.com

Wed, 07 May 2008 13:30:00 -0700

New Online Content Detailing Rules and Mechanics of the Nomination Process to Serve as Go-To Resource for Information on Party Business at Core of Convention

DENVER - The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today launched "Convention 101," a series of new web pages at DemConvention.com detailing the rules and mechanics governing the Democratic Party's nomination process. The extensive online content also includes an inside look at much of the Party business conducted at each and every Democratic National Convention. The 2008 Democratic National Convention will be held August 25-28, 2008 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colo.

"Not only will our Convention be technically flawless, but the rules and Party business conducted in the lead-up to and during Convention week will be open, orderly and credible," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "DemConvention.com will be a tremendous resource for those interested in the significant amount of Party business that sits at the core of every Convention. I think this new content makes clear our goal is to run this Convention as a well-oiled machine, while producing an engaging celebration of the strength of the Democratic Party, the diversity we embrace, the values we share and the change we will accomplish on behalf of the American people."

Laid out as a series of educational lessons, "Convention 101" includes information on the extensive planning process that takes place in advance of the Convention and what happens and when during the four-day event.

The 2008 Democratic National Convention will be the culmination of more than two years of formal planning by the Democratic Party to structure a nominating cycle and nominating Convention representing the Party's principles, values and diversity. The planning process, including the role of the prestigious Standing Committees, is now outlined in detail under "Lesson 1: Convention Lead-Up" on the site. As Convention participants are certified by Alice Germond, Secretary of the Democratic National Committee, the names of each participant to the 2008 Convention will be posted to this section of the site. This section will also indicate the presidential candidate to whom pledged delegates are pledged.

Convention week itself is explained under "Lesson 2: At the Convention" and includes a typical day in the life of a delegate, how and when pledged and unpledged delegates cast their votes and the role alternate delegates play in the event. The section also outlines the requirements necessary to secure the Democratic nomination for President of the United States.

Additional features, listed under "Extra Credit," include a glossary, a "Convention by the Numbers" fact sheet and an interactive feature, "Ask Phil." There, users can submit inquiries on the mechanics, rules and processes governing the Convention. Each week, Phil McNamara, Director of Party Affairs and Delegate Selection, will select one question to answer and post on the site.

The Democratic National Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw as many as of 50,000 visitors to the region.

Earth Day Must Read: DNCC Commitment to Greening Democratic Convention is 'About Stewardship'

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 09:30:00 -0700

DENVER - In a special Earth Day edition op-ed for The Hill newspaper today, Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry outlined the steps Convention organizers are taking to make the 2008 Democratic National Convention the most environmentally-sustainable event of its kind.

Op-Ed: Earth's Stewards
The Hill
By Leah D. Daughtry, DNCC CEO
April 22, 2008

"Going green is not a political issue; it's a moral issue. The environmental challenges we face - and how we choose to address them - is arguably one of the greatest moral tests of our time. Whether we pass or fail will impact the lives and quality of life for generations to come…

"For me, greening is about stewardship. Regardless of whether you believe in climate change, don't believe or aren't sure, we all must recognize the beauty and sanctity of the world God created for us.

"Such a precious gift is reason enough to make every effort to preserve it.

"As CEO of the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC), my goal is to make sure we practice what we preach. This year's Convention will be the most environmentally-sustainable Democratic Convention in history. We're not just focused on the four-day event, as we've done in the past. We've raised the bar and are taking steps to design waste out of the Convention by applying sustainable planning principles to every decision we make - before, during and after the Convention.

"The process of greening the Convention has been a learning experience for us, and we want others to benefit. With all the attention the Democratic primary race and our Convention are receiving, we're making the most of this time in the spotlight to lead by example and to educate folks on simple ways to reduce their impact on the environment...

"The legacy of environmental sustainability of the 2008 Democratic National Convention - at future events in Denver, at subsequent Democratic Conventions, and for large-scale events everywhere, political or otherwise - will pay dividends for years and generations to come. We think the end result is well worth the extra effort."

For the full article, click here.

Democratic National Convention Committee Rolls Out Technology Strategies Behind The Most Environmentally Sustainable Democratic Convention To Date

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 13:00:00 -0700

Earth Day Conference Call Highlights DNCC Efforts to Create an Energy-Efficient Infrastructure, Streamline Operations and Extend the Use of Equipment and Materials

DENVER - In recognition of Earth Day, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today outlined the green technology strategies being used to make the 2008 Democratic National Convention the most environmentally sustainable and technologically advanced political convention in history. By creating an efficient and advanced infrastructure, streamlining our operations, reducing the use of paper and extending the use of equipment and materials after the Convention has concluded, the DNCC plans to significantly reduce its carbon footprint, setting an example for similar events in the future.

"Ultimately, the nomination of a Presidential candidate and flawless logistics for delegates are at the heart of a great Convention. But environmental sustainability is also a critical success factor and one that we are committed to attaining," said Andrea Robinson, DNCC Director of Sustainability and Greening. "One of the most dramatic ways to reduce our carbon footprint is through cutting-edge technology - and we're making the most of that opportunity."

"Using technology to drive our sustainability goals is a forethought, not an afterthought," added Brook Colangelo, DNCC Director of Technology. "We're combining the best approaches from the public sector with the latest technology from the private sector to ensure that scalability, flexibility and sustainability are at the heart of our technology platform."

In a conference call today for reporters, the DNCC outlined the strategies being used to make the Convention more sustainable through the smart use of innovative technology.

Strategy one: Create the most energy efficient infrastructure

The DNCC took steps early on to create an efficient infrastructure for the 2008 Convention and minimize energy consumption while conserving resources in the DNCC headquarters. The first step was to install specially designed pumps to cool the computer data center. The DNCC invested in a special system that uses existing chilled water systems already in the building - a system that not only uses less energy but drastically reduces the need for air conditioning and virtually eliminates the need for Freon, a contributor to greenhouse gases.

Computer servers configured to use the most energy efficient voltage (220 volts vs. 110 volts) were also installed, ensuring energy efficiency improvements over traditional configurations. The DNCC has also selected energy efficient operating and software systems for employees and is standardizing power management settings on equipment throughout the organization, which can save up to 80% of the energy used on a PC. The DNCC has also deployed laptops to all staff, a step that can save up to 50 percent energy consumption compared to desktops. All servers, personal computers, printers and copiers used within the DNCC office are Energy-Star rated.

Additionally, the DNCC is virtualizing all Convention servers to maximize the energy efficiency of the hardware and enable the servers to support multiple programs rather than using one server for one service or application. Using this advanced technology, the DNCC reduced its initial need for servers by two-thirds. This approach results in fewer servers using less energy and is widely accepted in the technology industry as a significant energy-savings measure.

Strategy two: Streamline operations and reduce paper

Streamlining Convention operations and reducing the amount of paper is another top priority of the DNCC. All staff members are provided with wireless-handheld devices, which incorporate all scheduling, data, voice and instant messaging communications. By defaulting to electronic working systems and using traditional methods only when needed, the amount of paper used by DNCC staff is significantly reduced. DNCC staff members are also encouraged to bring laptops to meetings, therefore reducing the need for multiple paper copies.

To reduce the amount of paper generated by and for Convention delegates, the credentials and housing processes are completely online for the first time. It is estimated that as many as 100,000 sheets of paper will be saved through the reduction of delegate mailings.

During the Convention, electronic news and information transmission will also be used to substantially reduce many traditional "high volume" sources of paper. These include electronic distribution of information for delegates, guests and members of the media.

Strategy three: Extending the use of equipment and materials

Following the close of the Convention, nearly all of the DNCC's electronic equipment including phones, copiers, and computers will be reused, donated or recycled, and the majority deployed within communities throughout Colorado. Additionally, more than 43 miles of cable have been run at the DNCC Energy Star headquarters office, with an estimated additional 160 miles needed for the Pepsi Center. After the Convention, all of this cabling will be reused or recycled.

Other steps the DNCC has taken to reduce its carbon footprint include locating its headquarters downtown at public transit hubs; hiring the first ever Director of Greening for a Democratic National Convention; requiring its Official Vehicle Provider to supply an entire fleet of fuel-efficient and alternative fuel vehicles; selecting a transportation consultant who committed to offsetting its carbon footprint; hiring a construction management firm that will use green building practices to prepare the Pepsi Center in Denver for the event; selecting an Official Carbon Advisor to help measure the Convention's carbon footprint; and offering a "Green Delegate Challenge" to encourage delegations to offset their carbon footprint from attending the Convention.

DNCC Staff, Volunteers Visit Denver Neighborhood To Plant Trees In Recognition Of Earth Day

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 12:00:00 -0700

Convention Staff and Green Team Join Non-Profits, Businesses and Community Residents for Tree Planting in Sunnyside Neighborhood

DENVER - In recognition of Earth Day, Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) staff and Convention volunteers joined Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) and Xcel Energy today for a tree planting service project in the Sunnyside neighborhood in Northwest Denver. The service project marked the latest in a series of activities and announcements the DNCC is making throughout April in recognition of Earth Day and the organization's commitment to producing the most environmentally sustainable Democratic Convention in history.

"We are thrilled to recognize Earth Day by helping to plant so many varieties of trees in such a deserving neighborhood," said Andrea Robinson, Director of Sustainability and Greening for the DNCC. "These trees will keep our air clean, create more shade for area homes, reduce energy costs for residents and create an urban tapestry that will live on as a legacy to this city long after the Convention."

The DNCC team spent the morning helping to plant more than 400 trees in 30 varieties and cleaning up green spaces in one of the Denver Housing Authority's largest affordable housing communities, the Quigg Newton Homes. The project is part of the "Mile High Million," Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper's effort to plant more than one million trees in the Denver metropolitan area by the year 2025, and serves as the latest in a year-long series of "DNCC Service Days" designed to give back to the city hosting the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

"Sunnyside is one of Denver's classic neighborhoods," says Matt Martinez, VOC Project Manager. "Events like this, with residents working shoulder to shoulder with businesses and government groups help keep it vibrant and healthy. The trees planted today, and the community effort to plant them, will provide benefits well into the future."

"We're pleased to sponsor this tree planting event through our Foundation," said Tim Taylor, president and CEO of Public Service Co. of Colorado, an Xcel Energy company. "Events like this are just one way that we give back to the communities we serve. Our employees are excited to participate, planting trees that will not only make the Sunnyside neighborhood greener, but also provide shade to help lower residents' energy bills."

Earlier this month, House Speaker and Permanent Convention Chair Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) kicked off the DNCC's Earth Day announcements by launching the "Green Delegate Challenge," offering rewards for the delegation(s) demonstrating the highest level of commitment to offsetting their carbon footprint from attending the Convention. More detail can be found at www.DemConvention.com.

In March, the DNCC announced it had selected an Official Carbon Advisor to help measure the Convention's carbon footprint and launched its "Green Pages" -- new website content that highlights the Convention's greening efforts and aims to educate the public on responsible individual life choices that can minimize human impact on the environment.

Since arriving in Denver, the DNCC chose an Energy Star office building for its headquarters located downtown at public transit hubs; put its entire housing selection process online, saving an estimated 100,000 sheets of paper; hired the first ever Director of Greening for a Democratic National Convention; required its Official Vehicle Provider to supply an entire fleet of fuel-efficient and alternative fuel vehicles; selected a transportation consultant who committed to offsetting its carbon footprint; and hired a construction management firm that will use green building practices to prepare the Pepsi Center in Denver for the event.

In choosing the issue areas of focus for the "DNCC Service Day" series -environmental projects, youth and the combined issues of homelessness and hunger - the DNCC looked to combine areas of need identified by city and community leaders with priorities among Convention organizers for the coming year. The "greening" of Convention planning and an effort to spotlight leadership - including the leaders of tomorrow represented by youth in Denver and throughout the country - as well as the City's strong commitment to addressing homelessness were all driving factors in developing the DNCC's service platform.

To date, "DNCC Service Days" projects have included a clean-up project and goods sorting at the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Denver; helping Denver's Clinica Tepeyac prepare an application for financial assistance with Convention Co-Chair Leticia Van de Putte; a painting and crafts project with Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Howard Dean for students at Manual High School; preparing and serving a special holiday breakfast with Colorado's First Lady Jeannie Ritter for homeless and runaway youth at Urban Peak; sorting canned goods with Atlanta Mayor and Convention Co-Chair Shirley Franklin at The Crossing, a Denver Rescue Mission facility; working with a Montessori school in Five Points on an indoor activity with children and a playground area clean-up; facilitating a soccer skills camp with local middle school students and Colorado Rapids players; and spreading mulch around trees in City Park as part of a project focused on environmentalism.

DNCC Names Microsoft Official Software and HD Web Content Provider for 2008 Democratic National Convention

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 12:30:00 -0700

Software Technology to Support Core Party Business in Denver, Offer Dynamic Experience and All-Access Pass for Online Users

DENVER - In a move to create a technically flawless event and engage more people in the Convention experience using cutting-edge technology, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced that Microsoft Corporation has been named as the Official Software and HD Web Content Provider for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28 in Denver.

"Microsoft's standing as an industry leader in software development makes them an ideal partner for the DNCC," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "From voting to nominate the next President of the United States to adopting a national platform, there is a significant amount of important Party business that goes on at each and every Convention. Microsoft's pioneering technology will play an integral role in powering the business of the Party in Denver."

As the Official Software and HD Web Content Provider, Microsoft will provide the DNCC with technologies and applications to enhance engagement with Web viewers, delegates, members of the media and other Convention guests and to support delegate tracking, voting and the management of credentials.

A cornerstone of the DNCC's technologically-savvy event will be the delegate voting system. During the nomination process, Microsoft technology will support a voting system that will provide up-to-the-minute delegate vote totals electronically to the Office of the Secretary of the Democratic National Committee, allowing timely reporting of vote tallies as compiled by each delegation's Chair.

The DNCC will utilize Microsoft software to support the delegate tracking system to gather and manage a multitude of information about Convention participants. In addition, Microsoft technology will support the creation of a software platform to support the DNCC's credentialing operation, facilitating the management and distribution of credentials for the event.

And in a first for a political Convention, Silverlight, Microsoft's platform for interactive Web applications and HD video, in conjunction with the Level 3 Communications network, will bring live, gavel-to-gavel Convention video coverage of the highest quality to a worldwide audience via the DNCC's Web site at DemConvention.com. Silverlight multimedia applications will provide an all-access pass for the Convention's online audience, offering an unprecedented opportunity for viewers to individually tailor their Convention experiences.

"Microsoft is proud to be a technology partner for the Democratic National Convention through our donation of software, technology services and content," said Brad Smith, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Microsoft. "Technology is playing an increasingly critical role in the electoral process, and contributing to the Convention allows Microsoft to help ensure that the Democratic Party, its delegates as well as voters watching in their homes and on the Internet are able to take full advantage of the benefits."

In addition to custom development, Microsoft is providing the DNCC with the latest in industry-leading software including business productivity, email, content services and real-time collaboration applications.

While providing valuable technological tools in the lead up to and during the Convention, Microsoft will also contribute to the DNCC's "greening" efforts by tracking the company's carbon footprint for Convention-related energy consumption, including all trips, deliveries, shipping transport of goods and staff air and ground travel. The DNCC aims to make this year's Convention the most environmentally-sustainable event of its kind by applying sustainable planning principles to every decision in the lead-up to the four-day event.

DNCC Takes 'Convention Conversations' Series to Colorado Springs

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:00:00 -0700

Lt. Governor O'Brien, State Senator Morse and Convention CEO Leah Daughtry Answer Questions, Offer Information on Convention for Colorado Springs Residents, Business Community

COLORADO SPRINGS - Just four months before the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today held its seventh in a series of community forums focused on engaging citizens throughout the Rocky Mountain West in the Convention experience. Colorado Lieutenant Governor Barbara O'Brien and State Senator John Morse joined DNCC CEO Leah D. Daughtry to answer questions, offer information and discuss opportunities for Colorado Springs residents to get involved and for business owners to see economic benefits around the four-day event in August.

"The Democratic National Convention wants to focus the world's attention on the New West. This is a wonderful opportunity for the Pikes Peak region to share the spotlight in an historic moment and highlight how important the New West is to our global economy," said Lt. Gov. Barbara O'Brien.

"The Democratic National Convention promises to be a huge boon to Colorado's economy and I'm excited about potentially bringing some of that business to Colorado Springs," said State Sen. John Morse.

The series - "Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC" - launched in Denver in September and has traveled to Pueblo, Boulder and Lakewood, Colo. in recent months. In addition to forums in Colorado, the series has also traveled to Las Vegas, Nev. and Salt Lake City, Utah. The community forums are designed to provide residents throughout the Denver area and the Rocky Mountain West with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved in the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

"If you've seen the news reports, you know we're expecting as many as 50,000 people to be in Denver for this historic event," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "After four exciting days at the Convention, many of these attendees will be actively seeking things to do and places to visit beyond Denver over Labor Day weekend. With the Air Force Academy, Garden of the Gods and the Broadmoor all in the area, Colorado Springs will undoubtedly be a top attraction for the days after our business in Denver is done. I'd encourage all area business owners to keep the three-day weekend in mind while planning outreach to the thousands of guests we'll be hosting for Convention week."

While several Colorado Springs area businesses and attractions have already started to market themselves, Convention organizers said they aim to put forth tools and information to help even more local business owners help themselves in making the most of this Convention. Daughtry pointed to the Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee's online vendor directory - available at www.denverconvention2008.com - as one such tool to help business owners connect with opportunities associated with the Convention. More than 50 Colorado Springs area businesses, including printing shops, transportation services and local hotels, have already registered on the site.

Daughtry also encouraged businesses to engage in direct marketing to organizations that traditionally attend conventions, to include Convention specific information on their websites, to pool with neighboring businesses to provide transportation for Convention visitors to their locations and to share information with the Host Committee about any special Convention deals they will offer.

In addition, Daughtry encouraged residents to get involved in the Convention experience by participating in the DNCC's citizen photo journalism initiative and becoming a regular visitor to DemConvention.com. This site now provides visitors with the ability to sign up for regular updates on Convention news, events and other developments.

In keeping with the goal to engage different types of audiences in new and creative ways, DNCC videographers recorded interviews with Colorado Springs area residents attending the forum asking what having a Convention in the Rocky Mountain West means to them. Organizers will work to incorporate those ideas and vision in their planning during the coming months. Interviews from the event will be posted to www.DemConvention.com under the video section in the coming weeks.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw as many as 50,000 visitors to the region.

DNCC Names VerticalResponse Official Subscription E-Mail Provider For 2008 Democratic National Convention

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:00:00 -0700

E-mail Technology to Advance DNCC's Efforts to Engage More People in Convention Experience than Ever Before

DENVER - The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today named VerticalResponse as the Official Subscription E-mail Provider of the 2008 Democratic National Convention, providing an efficient and user-friendly system to deliver the DNCC's monthly e-mail newsletter, the "Mile High Monthly," and other e-mail updates to people interested in the lead-up to the four-day event as well as the activities and latest news as it happens Convention week. The announcement marks the latest partnership the DNCC has forged in an effort to bring the Convention experience into the homes, computer screens and inboxes of more people than ever before.

"We are so glad VerticalResponse has joined us in our drive to make this the most technologically savvy and inclusive Democratic National Convention of all time," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "Their e-mail platform has a proven track record of delivering fast and accurate electronic correspondence to millions of Americans on a daily basis, so we're fortunate to have them on our team."

As the Official Subscription E-mail Provider, VerticalResponse will supply the infrastructure and technological support to send DNCC emails to a growing list of interested volunteers, members of the media and Convention-watchers worldwide. In addition to sending "Mile High Monthly," VerticalResponse will also provide database and list management tools to help target correspondence to specific communities and audiences around Colorado and the United States.

"A successful Convention, like many large scale events, requires precise and consistent communication that is respectful of the time, preferences and privacy of various constituencies," said Janine Popick, CEO and Founder of VerticalResponse. "With tools that allow the DNCC to ensure its message is effectively targeted, delivered and measured, we're happy to support an effective communications campaign that will help the DNCC take its message to thousands of people across the country."

By sending all newsletters and other announcements electronically, VerticalResponse will also help the DNCC advance its goal of making the Convention the most environmentally sustainable Democratic Convention in history by reducing the overall amount of paper generated during the lead-up to the event.

People interested in receiving "Mile High Monthly" as well as other updates from the DNCC can sign up at www.DemConvention.com.

MUST READ: John McCain Can Visit, But the Next President Will Be Nominated In Denver

Fri, 02 May 2008 09:30:00 -0700

DENVER - On the occasion of John McCain's visit to Denver today, Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry stated in a Denver Post op-ed that unprecedented levels of turnout, excitement and enthusiasm for the Democratic Party's candidates - both across the county and in our Convention host city and state - will ensure Denver is where the next President of the United States will be nominated.

Op-Ed: Looking Good for the DNC
The Denver Post
By Leah D. Daughtry, DNCC CEO
May 2, 2008

"While Republican presidential candidate John McCain visits Denver for the day today, we've been hard at work for nearly a year, working alongside elected officials and community leaders to lay the groundwork for the event that will put our nominee on the path to victory in November. And to us, Denver sure feels like home turf…

"More than 21,000 people have already signed up to volunteer, most of them Colorado residents. And we still have four months to go. This is a true testament to this community's investment and commitment to making this the most spectacular nominating convention in our country's history…

"When Governor Howard Dean became Chair of our Party, he outlined a 50-state strategy, based on the strong belief that if Democrats show up, stand up for what we believe, work hard and ask for votes, we can win anywhere - and we've seen that strategy work with strong Democratic gains in Western states.

"Governor Bill Ritter is a prime example of that ethic. And across the region, Democrats have gone from not a single governor in 2000 to five today.

"We've made those gains because the values that define Colorado - innovation, common sense solutions, inclusiveness and respect for the environment - mirror the values of the Democratic Party. Instead of focusing on wedge issues, Democrats in the West are bringing people together to meet the great challenges we face.

"In many ways, the Democratic National Convention didn't choose Denver. Denver - and Colorado for that matter - chose us. The new Democratic leadership in this state is emblematic of the new leadership we're offering all across the country, at all levels of government. "

For the full article, click here:
http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_9124777

DNCC Selects Denver Woman To Design Credentials For 2008 Democratic National Convention

Thu, 08 May 2008 11:00:00 -0700

Convention Credentials to Feature Images Reflecting Denver's History and Diversity

DENVER - A local woman has been selected to design the credentials for the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) announced today. Kristi King, an Arvada-based graphic designer, will incorporate images and landmarks reflecting Denver's rich history and diversity into the look of the credentials provided to delegates, members of the media and other guests during Convention week.

"As our many guests begin to arrive in Denver, our credentials will play an essential role in managing the flow of traffic both inside and outside of the Pepsi Center," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "But credentials are also an important keepsake - something to save for years to come and remind us of the host city where our Party made history. I have no doubt Kristi, a lifelong Coloradoan, will ensure this year's credentials are a unique memento showcasing Denver's own historic moments and most significant landmarks."

In keeping with the DNCC's commitment to making the event the most environmentally-sustainable Democratic Convention in history, the credentials will be printed on 100 percent post-consumer recycled chlorine-free paper. A select set of credentials will highlight Denver's emergence as a city dedicated to sustainable development of eco-friendly practices.

"This is an exciting time for our city, and I'm pleased I could be part of a project that highlights Denver's history and embraces the green movement, which looks to the future," said King. "The credential designs will most certainly celebrate the past but do so using a modern look. Add to that the use of environmentally-sustainable materials, and I think we'll have a design that's both energizing and responsible."

During King's more than 20 years as a graphic designer, her clients have included the Denver Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau and The Museo de las Américas. The contract with King marks the first time since 1972 that the DNCC has selected a local designer to work on the credentials.

Examples of previous Convention credentials can be viewed here.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw as many as 50,000 visitors to the region.

DNCC Names Official Video Monitoring Service Provider For 2008 Democratic National Convention

Fri, 09 May 2008 10:00:00 -0700

DENVER - The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced ShadowTV, Inc. has been named the Official Video Monitoring Service Provider for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28, in Denver, Colo.

"With an estimated 15,000 members of the media attending the 2008 Democratic National Convention, it is incredibly important that we have the ability to track the enormous amount of broadcast coverage resulting from the event," said Jenni Engebretsen, Deputy CEO for Public Affairs of the DNCC. "Shadow TV's video monitoring technology will play an integral role in allowing us to know what the media are saying and when they say it, both in the lead-up to and during Convention week."

As Official Video Monitoring Service Provider, ShadowTV will provide the DNCC with all-digital, continuous access to live and archived television content via their patent-pending, web-based service. ShadowTV's system allows users to search the closed captioning text in news clips and receive real-time alerts when keywords are mentioned in television programming. Using this technology, the DNCC will be able to instantly retrieve footage from more than 250 television stations across the country.

ShadowTV is pleased to provide our internet-based broadcast monitoring services to the DNCC. With the ability to search live broadcasts and years of archives from around the country, ShadowTV will give the DNCC instant access to the research and information they need to help tell the story of this historic Convention to people around the world," said ShadowTV President Joachim Kim. "We are proud the DNCC selected us as the official video monitoring service for this high profile event, a recognition of our leadership and long history of providing high quality, high value services to both business leaders and government agencies."

The company's online process for monitoring and archiving clips will also contribute to making the 2008 Democratic National Convention the most sustainably-produced Democratic Convention in history by substantially reducing the need to record broadcasts on non-recyclable videotapes.

The 2008 Democratic National Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw up to 50,000 visitors to the region.

DNC Chairman Governor Dean Announces Blogs Selected For 2008 Democratic National Convention 'State Blogger Corps'

Wed, 14 May 2008 10:00:00 -0700

Party Chairman Notifies Selected Blogs Via Online Video Message

DENVER - As part of the Democratic National Convention Committee's (DNCC) commitment to engaging a broad spectrum of audiences in the 2008 Democratic National Convention experience using new technology and other creative means, Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Howard Dean today announced the blogs selected to participate in the DemConvention State Blogger Corps during the four-day event in August. Governor Dean notified the blogs selected via an online video message available at www.DemConvention.com.

"Similar to the record-breaking voter turnout our Party has seen during the primary season, the demand for these coveted blogger positions is yet another indicator of the tremendous interest in this historic Convention," said Governor Dean. "The Internet has played a critical role in connecting Americans to elected officials and candidates seeking office. The DemConvention State Blogger Corps will continue to foster this dialogue - in all 50 of our states and our territories too - as we head towards this year's historic election and elect a Democrat to the White House."

The DNCC previously announced an expansion of the credentialed blogger pool from past Conventions and the addition of a state blogger credentialing program. As part of the new DemConvention State Blogger Corps, designed for bloggers covering state and local politics, bloggers will receive unparalleled access to state delegations and the floor of the Convention hall. In a truly unprecedented move, the DNCC will seat these bloggers with their respective delegations during the historic four-day event, providing even greater access for local coverage and perspective. Highlights from these blogs will also be featured on www.DemConvention.com in the lead up to and during the Convention.

"The members of the DemConvention State Blogger Corps represent a broad spectrum of voices that illustrate the 'big tent' nature of our Party," said DNCC CEO Leah D. Daughtry. "Many of these blogs are vibrant communities, well respected in their home states and committed to ensuring that all voices can be heard in the political process. I'm excited about the roles these bloggers will have in engaging an even broader, more diverse base of people from around the country in conversations not only about the Convention, but about the future of our nation."

More than 400 applications were received from bloggers across the United States and multiple territories. Some of the blogs selected for the State Corps are full-time, professional endeavors while others are the work of individuals, who through their own efforts have become recognized authorities on state and local politics. Bloggers had to submit daily audience information and provide examples of posts that made their blogs stand out as an effective online organizing tool or agent of change, a demonstration of both the reach and impact blogs have had and will continue to have on the 2008 election. The program recognizes the growth of more localized blogs and is in line with Governor Dean's 50-state strategy.

In addition to the State Blogger Corps, the DNCC will soon credential a General Blogger Pool, to include local, state and national political bloggers, as well as niche and video bloggers from across the country. All applicants not selected for the State Blogger Corps are now eligible for selection as part of the General Blogger Pool.

The DemConvention State Blogger Corps is listed below.

STATE - BLOG NAME - BLOG URL

ALASKA - Celtic Diva's Blue Oasis - http://divasblueoasis.blogspot.com

ALABAMA- Doc's Political Parlor - http://www.politicalparlor.net

ARKANSAS- Under The Dome.com - http://www.underthedome.com

ARIZONA - Ted Prezelski - Rum, Romanism and Rebellion - http://www.rumromanismrebellion.net

CALIFORNIA - Calitics- http://Calitics.com

COLORADO -SquareState.net - http://squarestate.net

CONNECTICUT -My Left Nutmeg - http://myleftnutmeg.com

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA- DCist.com - http://dcist.com

DELAWARE – TommyWonk - http://tommywonk.blogspot.com/

DEMOCRATS Abroad - Democrats Abroad Argentina - http://www.yanquimike.com.ar

FLORIDA - Florida Progressive Coalition - http://flaprogressives.org

GEORGIA- Tondee's Tavern - http://www.tondeestavern.com

GUAM - No Rest for the Awake - Minagahet Chamorro - http://minagahet.blogspot.com

HAWAII - iLind.net: Ian Lind Online - http://www.ilind.net

IOWA - The Iowa Independent - http://iowaindependent.com

IDAHO - 43rdStateBlues.com - http://www.43rdstateblues.com

ILLINOIS- Prairie State Blue - http://www.PrairieStateBlue.com

INDIANA- Blue Indiana - http://www.blueindiana.net

KANSAS - EverydayCitizen.com - http://everydaycitizen.com

KENTUCKY – BlueGrassRoots - http://www.bluegrassroots.org

LOUISIANA - Daily Kingfish - http://www.dailykingfish.com

MASSACHUSETTS - Blue Mass. Group - http://www.bluemassgroup.com

MARYLAND - The Center for Emerging Media - http://www.centerforemergingmedia.com

MAINE - Turn Maine Blue - http://www.turnmaineblue.com

MICHIGAN - Blogging For Michigan - http://bloggingformichigan.com

MINNESOTA - Minnesota Monitor - http://minnesotamonitor.com

MISSISSIPPI - The Natchez Blog - http://natchezms.blogspot.com

MISSOURI - Fired Up! LLC - http://www.firedupmissouri.com

MONTANA - Left in the West - http://www.leftinthewest.com

NORTH CAROLINA - BlueNC.com - http://bluenc.com

NORTH DAKOTA - NorthDecoder.com - http://www.northdecoder.com

NEBRASKA - New Nebraska Network - http://www.NewNebraska.net

NEW HAMPSHIRE - Blue Hampshire - http://www.bluehampshire.com

NEW JERSEY - PolitickerNJ.com - http://www.politickernj.com

NEW MEXICO - Democracy for New Mexico - http://www.DemocracyForNewMexico.com

NEVADA - Las Vegas Gleaner - http://www.lasvegasgleaner.com

NEW YORK - Room 8 - http://www.r8ny.com

OHIO - Ohio Daily Blog - http://www.ohiodailyblog.com

OKLAHOMA - DemoOkie - http://www.DemoOkie.com

OREGON - BlueOregon (blog) - http://www.blueoregon.com

PENNSYLVANIA - Keystone Politics - http://www.keystonepolitics.com

PUERTO RICO - Jusiper - http://jusiper.blogspot.com

RHODE ISLAND - Rhode Island's Future - http://www.rifuture.org

SOUTH CAROLINA - CracktheBell.com - http://www.crackthebell.com

SOUTH DAKOTA - Badlands Blue - http://www.badlandsblue.com

TENNESSEE - KnoxViews/TennViews - http://www.knoxviews.com

TEXAS - Burnt Orange Report - http://www.BurntOrangeReport.com

UTAH - The Utah Amicus - http://utahamicus.com

VIRGINIA - Raising Kaine - http://www.raisingkaine.com

VIRGIN ISLANDS - Democratic Party of the US Virgin Islands - http://groups.yahoo.com/group/democratvi

VERMONT - Green Mountain Daily - http://greenmountaindaily.com

WASHINGTON - HorsesAss.org - http://www.horsesass.org

WISCONSIN - Uppity Wisconsin - http://www.uppitywis.org

WEST VIRGINIA - West Virginia Blue - http://www.wvablue.com

WYOMING - Hummingbirdminds blog - http://hummingbirdminds.blogspot.com

100 Days Out: DNCC Enters Home Stretch In Preparation For 2008 Democratic National Convention

Fri, 16 May 2008 10:30:00 -0700

Convention Organizers Declare Readiness to Turn Focus from Planning to Execution in Lead-Up to Historic Four-Day Event, Capturing the Global Spotlight

DENVER – With just one hundred days to go until the eyes of the world turn toward Denver and the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) announced today that its plans remain on track or ahead of schedule for a truly historic event that promises to be an engaging celebration of the strength of the Democratic party, the diversity we embrace, the values we share and our vision for America. The Committee is entering the final preparatory stages and is now increasing focus on the executional and programmatic elements of the Convention.

“The organizational foundation has been laid, the operational framework has been built and it’s now time to turn great plans into an even greater reality,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “It’s evident that our early start is now paying dividends as we enter this final stage of preparation. While there remains a significant amount of work to do in the next 100 days, I’m more confident than ever that when the gavel drops on August 25, we’ll be ready to make history.”

Consistent with planning cycles for previous Conventions, the final 100 days brings an increased focus on the official Convention schedule and program, ranging from delegate events and caucus meetings that take place each day to the themes, speakers and entertainment for each session at the Pepsi Center. Work on these elements continues to move forward.

“When our nominee takes the stage in August, it will be the culmination of a process that has engaged and inspired more than 35 million Americans and captured the attention of the world,” Daughtry added. “Political conventions have determined the course of our nation’s history. And in a few months, Denver will become part of this rich tradition.”

Across all major operational areas, from logistics and transportation to construction and preparation for the media, the DNCC today provided an update on its key accomplishments and its overall readiness for the four-day event in August.

The DNCC is ready to kick off construction activities on July 7, when it has full access to the Pepsi Center. However, renovation plans to convert the Pepsi Center from sports arena to Convention hall are already underway.

Design plans for the Convention hall are underway. Alvarado-Turner-HOK, an association of three local companies with experience in large-scale projects and events, including the 1996 Democratic National Convention, was awarded the construction management contract and is making preparations to begin renovations once access is granted.
Audio, lighting and scenic designs are complete and initial designs for the podium and stage have been drawn up. Once we have a nominee, our production team is ready to put the nominee’s stamp on the look and feel of the Convention hall.
More than 675,000 square feet of space has been allocated. Inside the Pepsi Center facility – from backstage to suites to team locker rooms – space has been allocated for a specific purpose to support Convention operations.
Nearly 200,000 square feet of media space has been allocated. Initial plans are complete for the media pavilions located outside the Pepsi Center that will provide workspace for many of the nearly 15,000 members of the media expected to attend the Convention.
Space has been allocated for more than 100 production trucks, media workspace trailers and broadcast transmission vehicles.

The DNCC has secured hotel rooms and meeting space for Convention guests – delegates, Democratic National Committee (DNC) and campaign staff, elected officials, allied groups and members of the media.

17,000 hotel rooms in the Denver metro area are reserved: More than 90% of the hotel rooms have been assigned for Convention guests, and the Hyatt Regency Denver, a union hotel, was selected as the DNCC’s official headquarters hotel.
Meeting space reserved at 100+ hotels and the Colorado Convention Center: All available meeting space at each official Convention hotel and the Colorado Convention Center, which will serve as an extension of the DNCC’s Convention headquarters, is reserved for Convention-related use (delegation breakfasts, caucus meetings and training sessions).
80% of all delegation hotels are within walking distance of the Convention hall or accessible by public transportation, and bus transportation will be provided for the remaining hotels.

The DNCC has developed an ADA-accessible, safe, secure and efficient transportation system for delegates, media, dignitaries and other Convention guests in partnership with the City of Denver, the Denver Regional Transportation District (RTD) and the Denver Police Department:

250 buses planned for daily transport between official Convention hotels and the Pepsi Center: Denver-based Event Transportation Associates, Inc. (ETA) will plan and manage a bus shuttle system to operate continuously between all official Convention hotels and the Pepsi Center.
400 motorpool vehicles provided by General Motors: As Official Vehicle Provider, General Motors will provide up to 400 vehicles for a motorpool to transport U.S. House and Senate Leadership, DNC and DNCC officials, and state party chairs.
100% of buses and motorpool vehicles are flex fuel, hybrids or run on biofuel.

The DNCC has engaged a broad spectrum of federal, state and local elected officials; national and local party leaders and allied organizations on their participation in the Democratic National Convention.

Briefed and secured input from many national, regional and local elected officials on Convention planning – including Governors, Mayors, U.S. Senators and Representatives, the Denver City Council, and constituency organizations in Colorado.
Met with more than 80 national allied organizations regarding participation at the Convention. These groups include unions, community organizations, non-profit and voter education organizations, and advocacy and constituent groups.
More than 300 foreign dignitaries have been invited to attend the Convention by the National Democratic Institute (NDI).

Building on the unprecedented interest in the 2008 Democratic primary, the DNCC has continued to reach out and engage residents in Denver and the entire Rocky Mountain West in the Convention experience.

21,000 volunteers have stepped forward to help ensure a successful Convention, a testament to the energy and enthusiasm both locally and throughout Colorado communities.
More than 750 people have attended “Convention Conversations” community forums in Denver, Pueblo, Boulder and Lakewood, Colorado; as well as Las Vegas and Salt Lake City. The forums are designed to provide opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers.
Nearly 1,200 Colorado middle and high school students submitted entries for the Convention “Write to Lead” youth essay contest. Two Presidential Winners will be invited to attend the event while fifty-four finalists will serve as ambassadors to state and territorial delegations.
Readership on DemCovention.com is up 40% since January, another signal of the building interest in the Convention.

The DNCC has set out to “bring down the walls” of the Pepsi Center and make the 2008 Democratic National Convention as inclusive and interactive as possible.

A DemConvention State Blogger Corps has been selected and will be credentialed in August to sit on the Convention floor with their state or territorial delegations. This ‘front row’ access will allow bloggers to provide even more localized coverage to their readers back home.
Live, gavel-to-gavel coverage of the Convention will be provided in HD at DemConvention.com. Through Official Provider Microsoft’s Silverlight platform for interactive Web applications and HD video, and the Level 3 Communications network, the DNCC will bring live video coverage of the highest quality to a worldwide audience on DemConvention.com.
Convention 101, a series of web pages at DemConvention.com, was launched as the definitive source on all things Convention, detailing the rules and mechanics governing the Democratic Party’s nomination process.

The DNCC is bringing to life its commitment to making this year’s Convention the most environmentally-sustainable event of its kind:

Plans are in place for a resource recovery system that will divert a minimum of 85% of waste at Convention facilities from the landfill to a single-stream recycling center and composting facility.
900 “Green Team” volunteers from the Host Committee volunteer pool will be on hand during Convention week to assist with our comprehensive recycling, composting and waste minimization program.

The DNCC has worked with more than 50 Colorado-based businesses and entrepreneurs who are providing a variety of services to ensure a successful, world-class Convention:

Key contracts have been awarded to local companies, including construction, transportation, printing, catering and event services, along with more than 100 Denver metro area hotels.
Credentials design theme selected. A Denver-based graphic designer was chosen to design the 2008 credentials for Convention attendees, including delegates, media and other guests. The credentials will include images that reflects Denver’s history and diversity.
Local businesses are connecting to Convention business opportunities via an online database established through the Denver Host Committee – nearly 2100 vendors have signed up.

The Democratic National Convention, held from August 25-28, 2008, is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw up to 50,000 visitors to the region.

Denver's Jared Jolton And Manitou Springs' Mari Tanabe To Attend 2008 Democratic National Convention As Top 'Write To Lead' Youth Essay Contest Winners

Wed, 21 May 2008 14:00:00 -0700

Fifty-four Finalists will Serve as Ambassadors to State and Territorial Delegations in Contest
Organized by the DNCC, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications

Jared Jolton

DENVER – Out of a sizeable pool of nearly 1,200 applicants, fifty-four middle and high school students from across Colorado were announced today as finalists in the “Write to Lead” youth essay contest. Finalists will serve as ambassadors to state and territorial delegations, while two Presidential Winners – one middle and one high school student – will attend the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver.

Jared Jolton, an eighth-grade student at Colorado Academy in Denver, and Mari Tanabe, an eleventh-grade student at Manitou Springs High School, in Manitou Springs, Colo. were chosen as the Presidential Winners. Judges concluded that the themes in their essays, titled “In Front of the Pack” and “Restless for Change” respectively, best captured the spirit of this year’s historic election.

The names, hometowns and schools of all 54 student winners are listed below and online at www.DemConvention.com and will run in a full-page ad in the either the Denver Post or the Rocky Mountain News along with full text of the Presidential Winners’ essays. Each finalist will serve as an ambassador to one of the delegations to the 2008 Democratic National Convention. In that role, the students will correspond with their assigned delegations prior to the Convention via a “Postcards from Colorado” campaign, sharing key facts, favorite destinations and other tips in advance of delegates’ arrival in Denver.

The finalists were paired with a state or territorial delegation through a random lottery process and announced today at press conferences in Denver and Manitou Springs, Colo.

Mari Tanabe

“These two extraordinary young people represent hundreds of their peers – Colorado students who answered the call and made their voices heard on leadership and our nation’s future,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC). “We were impressed and truly overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness these essays demonstrated. Our winners showed a real depth of understanding of the qualities that make a good leader – courage, compassion, vision, humility, inspiration. These writings should inspire confidence in all of us that the leaders of tomorrow are well suited for the job.”

“Post-News Educational Services was proud to have been a part of this important project and congratulates the two outstanding Presidential Winners and the 54 finalists chosen to represent Colorado,” said Tracy Ulmer, Director of Community Relations for the Denver Newspaper Agency. As a result of this essay contest, thousands of Colorado students were encouraged and inspired to think about their vision of the future. Our thanks go out to all the many students and teachers who participated, along with everyone at the DNCC, Qwest and the judging committee for their support on this project.”

“I applaud the efforts of all of the finalists’ creative essays, and am reminded that today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders,” said Teresa Taylor, Qwest Executive Vice President and Chief Administration Officer. “Qwest is proud to support such a valuable program; and as a leading business in Colorado, we look forward to watching these future leaders thrive.”

Organized by the DNCC, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications, the contest provided a unique opportunity for Colorado youth to voice their thoughts on leadership and the future of our country and to engage in the 2008 Democratic National Convention experience.

The two Presidential Winners will attend opening night of this year’s historic Convention, receive a special tour of the Pepsi Center, and have an opportunity to attend the delegation breakfasts of the states to which they served as ambassadors in addition to other Convention activities. Each Presidential Winner will also receive a laptop computer to aid with future writing projects.

Essays were judged by a committee of local educators and representatives from the DNCC, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications. From the pool of nearly 1,200 applicants, and the 250 essays reviewed in the second round of judging, the fifty-four finalists represent both public (78%) and private schools (22%). They also represent broad geographical diversity from across the state of Colorado:

63% from the Metro Denver Area
17% from Northwest Colorado
9% from South Central Colorado
7% from Eastern Colorado
4% from Southwest Colorado

The "Write to Lead" contest invited Colorado students in grades 6-11 to submit an original essay answering one of two questions in 300 to 500 words:

Grades 6-8: What qualities make a great leader? How could one exhibit those traits in everyday life?
Grades 9-11: Looking to the future, what do you see for our country? What qualities does a leader need to take our country forward?

In the last few months, Colorado Lieutenant Governor Barbara O’Brien served as an ambassador for the contest, visiting schools around the state and encouraging students to participate.

Winning Essays

Click the links below to read essays by the Presidential Winners.

Write to Lead Finalists

Student Name	Grade	City	School	Delegation
Maggie Abrams	9	Highlands Ranch	Highlands Ranch High School	Indiana
Stephanie Ahlgrain	11	Westminster	Northglenn High School	West Virginia
Cedric Alston	11	Golden	Lookout Mountain Academy	North Dakota
Katie Armstrong	8	Greenwood Village	Cherry Creek West Middle School	Ohio
Summer Baker	7	Divide	Woodland Park Middle School	Wyoming
Alexander Bashan	9	Steamboat Springs	Steamboat Springs High School	South Dakota
Uyanga Battulga	6	Denver	Denver School of Arts	Idaho
Clara Benioff	6	Golden	Red Rocks Elementary School	Iowa
Ari Bloom	11	Englewood	Cherry Creek High School	Nebraska
Taylor Brough	8	Denver	Denver School of Arts	Delaware
Sara Campbell	8	Northglenn	Hulstrom Options School	Oregon
Tyler Casteel	11	Littleton	JK Mullen High School	Massachusetts
Samuel Clark	9	Denver	George Washington High School	US Virgin Islands
Zachary Copeland	6	Fleming	Fleming School	Virginia
Cole Davis	8	Centennial	Cherry Creek West Middle School	Tennessee
Kayleigh Esswein	9	Steamboat Springs	Steamboat Springs High School	Rhode Island
Grace Fowler	7	Niwot	Boulder Country Day School	Kansas
Carly Fox	9	Steamboat Springs	Steamboat Springs High School	American Samoa
Kevin Gower	9	Steamboat Springs	Steamboat Springs High School	Vermont
Kyle Hanson	10	Littleton	Heritage High School	Colorado
Ari Helland	9	Thornton	York International	California
Zuri House	11	Denver	East High School	Maryland
Jared Jolton	8	Lakewood	Colorado Academy	Oklahoma
Louisa Kennedy	7	Golden	The Manning School	Kentucky
Jacqueline Kimmell	7	Denver	The Logan School for Creative Learning	Democrats Abroad
Conner Lambden	6	Morrison	Red Rocks Elementary School	Maine
Eleanor Lindberg	6	Denver	Slavens School	Missouri
Shay Longtain	11	Louisville	Peak to Peak Charter School	Illinois
Alyssa Miller	8	Englewood	Colorado Academy	Arkansas
Blake Miller	8	Centennial	Horizon Community Middle School	Puerto Rico
Hannah Milner	7	Arvada	Shaw Heights Middle School	Utah
Jack Moore	8	Greenwood Village	Cherry Creek West Middle School	Louisiana
Erin Mross	10	Fort Collins	Poudre High School	Washington
Emma Mulligan	6	Boulder	Manhattan Middle School of Arts & Academics	New Mexico
Julia Nass	9	Durango	Durango High School	New Jersey
Jordyn Osenbaugh	8	Thornton	Stargate Charter School	North Carolina
Philip Pang	7	Thornton	Stargate Charter School	Guam
Matthew Peterson	9	Littleton	Lakewood High School	South Carolina
Benjamin Raderstorf	10	Boulder	Boulder High School	Nevada
Michael Robinson	6	Highlands Ranch	Cougar Run Elementary School	Minnesota
Erin Ryan	10	Littleton	Heritage High School	Mississippi
Marc Sallinger	7	Denver	The Manning School	New York
Melanie Schumacher	8	Thornton	Stargate Charter School	Alabama
Spencer Semien	10	Aurora	Regis Jesuit High School	Georgia
Caroline Smith	6	Highlands Ranch	Cougar Run Elementary School	Texas
Ashlyn Stewart	7	Salida	Salida Middle School	Connecticut
Annie Szczurek-Davis	6	Boulder	Centennial Middle School	Wisconsin
Mari Tanabe	11	Manitou Springs	Manitou Springs High School	Arizona
Shreya Tekumalla	8	Thornton	Stargate Charter School	District of Columbia
BreOnna Tindall	11	Aurora	Overland High School	Montana
Meredith Wheeler	11	Fort Collins	Poudre High School	Hawaii
Kayla White	7	Salida	Salida Middle School	Alaska
Lauren Wood	6	Morrison	Red Rocks Elementary School	New Hampshire
Jack Workman	7	Fort Collins	T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge	Pennsylvania

The 2008 Democratic National Convention will be held August 25-28, 2008 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colo.

DNCC's 'Convention Conversations' Travels To Colorado's Western Slope

Wed, 28 May 2008 12:00:00 -0700

With Under 100 Days to Go Until the 2008 Democratic National Convention, Convention CEO Leah Daughtry and Representative Bernie Buescher Answer Questions, Offer Information for Grand Junction Residents About Historic Regional Opportunity

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. - In keeping with the Democratic National Convention Committee's (DNCC) efforts to put forward a regional Convention for the entire Rocky Mountain West, the DNCC today held its eighth in a series of community forums designed to engage local residents in the 2008 Democratic National Convention experience. In the first forum on the Western Slope, DNCC CEO Leah D. Daughtry joined Colorado State Representative Bernie Buescher at Mesa State College to answer questions and offer information to Grand Junction residents looking to get involved in Colorado's first Democratic National Convention in 100 years.

Exactly three months from today, our nominee will take the stage, accept our Party's nomination and truly make history," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "The eyes of the world will be upon us, and I'm confident the people of Colorado will make us proud. The enthusiasm and energy we've experienced from Denver to Pueblo to the Western Slope and across the region over this last year has been extraordinary, and I have no doubt this will continue to grow as we close in on Convention week."

The series - "Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC" - launched in Denver in September and has traveled to Boulder, Colorado Springs, Lakewood and Pueblo Colo. in recent months. In addition to forums in Colorado, the series has also traveled to Las Vegas and Salt Lake City. The community forums are designed to provide residents throughout the region with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved in the 2008 Democratic National Convention. The series is scheduled to conclude in June with a final forum in Denver.

"It is estimated that up to 50,000 guests and visitors will pour into Denver for the Convention just ahead of Labor Day weekend," said Colorado State Representative Bernie Buescher. "Many of these visitors will want stay in Colorado over the long weekend, presenting a great opportunity for Grand Junction to showcase its many tourist attractions, ranging from art galleries and vineyards to the 'Trail Through Time' dinosaur interpretive trail and other outdoor activities that we have in our backyard. Grand Junction is an easy weekend trip for any family or individual who wants to see some of Colorado's beauty."

In addition, Daughtry encouraged residents to get involved in the Convention experience by participating in the DNCC's citizen photo journalism initiative and becoming a regular visitor to DemConvention.com. This site now provides visitors with the ability to sign up for regular updates on Convention news, events and other developments. During Convention week, Daughtry also encouraged citizens to visit DemConvention.com for live gavel-to-gavel streaming of the Convention.

In keeping with the goal to engage different types of audiences in new and creative ways, DNCC videographers recorded interviews with Grand Junction area residents attending the forum asking what having a Convention in the Rocky Mountain West means to them. Organizers will work to incorporate those ideas and vision in their planning during the coming months. Interviews from the event will be posted to www.DemConvention.com under the video section in the coming weeks.

Held from August 25-28, 2008, the Convention is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw as many as 50,000 visitors to the region.

DNCC Credentials Record Number Of Blogs To Cover 2008 Democratic National Convention In Denver

Thu, 29 May 2008 18:30:00 -0700

Bloggers to Receive Unprecedented Access, Connect Diverse Communities to Historic Event

Progressive Community to Provide Additional Workspace, Resources for Bloggers During Convention Week

DENVER – As part of its continuing commitment to engage a broad spectrum of audiences in new and creative ways, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced that a record number of blogs have been credentialed as members of the media for the 2008 Democratic National Convention at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colo. These blogs will help ensure that communities across the country are connected to the Convention through the eyes and ears of a growing, diverse group of online voices.

Organizers also announced that blogs credentialed by the DNCC will have access to a dedicated "Blogger Lounge" inside the Pepsi Center, equipped with televisions, technology resources and workspace to facilitate their reporting. All bloggers will have access to the Convention floor, press briefing areas, caucus meetings, filing centers and other auxiliary events open to members of the media.

"Since we began planning, one goal has been at the core of all our efforts: to engage as many communities as possible in the Convention experience. We're excited to provide bloggers with the opportunity to be the eyes and ears of so many at this Convention," said Aaron Myers, Director of Online Communications for the DNCC. "Today, we are shattering the standard we set just four years ago, when the 2004 Democratic Convention was the first to credential blogs. This year, we will more than triple the number of blogs credentialed to witness history in the making."

The credentialed blogs represent a large and diverse collection of voices and perspectives. The pool includes blogs covering national, state and local politics and those representing a variety of groups including the African American, Latino, Asian American, Native American and LGBT communities. Blogs focusing on youth issues, women's issues, labor issues, disability issues as well as those focusing on the environment and communities of faith will also be credentialed among many others.

In addition to resources provided to credentialed bloggers, the DNCC is working with ProgressNow, The Alliance for a Sustainable Colorado, DailyKos and The Wright Group to finalize plans for the "Big Tent" - a headquarters away from home for hundreds of progressive bloggers, netroots organizers and non-profit representatives from across the country. The facility, just a few blocks from the Pepsi Center, will provide additional workspace for journalists and bloggers as well as a main stage with events and entertainment that will be open to the public during Convention week.

"We are proud to cooperate with the DNCC to ensure that for the first time, so many citizen journalists will have the tools and access they need to cover a national Convention," said Bobby Clark, Deputy Director of ProgressNow. "The progressive movement really is a 'Big Tent', and we think this unique event will be a huge hit with bloggers, non-profit leaders, and even some members of the professional media."

In 2004, the DNCC credentialed about 30 blogs to cover the Convention in Boston - the first Convention to credential bloggers. Recently, the DNCC announced that 55 blogs focused on state and local politics were selected to be members of the DemConvention State Blogger Corps. Altogether, the DNCC will credential more than 120 blogs for the Convention and many more individuals will blog the Convention via credentials issued through the U.S. Congressional Press Galleries.

The complete list of blogs credentialed to date can be found at DemConvention.com/credentialed-blogs.

2008 Democratic National Convention Delegate Event To Recognize The Spirit Of New Orleans

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:00:00 -0700

Event to Commemorate Heroes of Gulf Region Recovery, Rebuilding As Convention Marks Three Year Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina

DENVER - In an effort to drive national recognition of the ongoing, important work to rebuild the Gulf Coast region in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) announced today a special event for delegates to the 2008 Democratic National Convention in recognition of the Friends of New Orleans (FONO), Oxfam America and other organizations affiliated with the Gulf Coast recovery and rebuilding effort.

The event will take place on Sunday, August 24, 2008 and will include delegates from all 56 state and territorial delegations attending the Convention. The event will bring international media attention to the important work still taking place in the Gulf Coast region while marking the three year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the most destructive natural disaster in U.S. history.

"This anniversary is too important to pass by unnoticed. We are one country, and we stand together in good times and bad," said Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Governor Howard Dean. "Nearly three years after Katrina, we want the nation to know that rebuilding New Orleans and the Gulf Region is not just a local issue but a national one. The voices of those who were affected by Hurricane Katrina have not gone silent, and it is critical to make sure those who live there and those who were displaced are not forgotten."

Convention organizers have been in discussions for several months on ways to bring attention to this important anniversary and raise the profile of organizations committed to this effort. FONO and Oxfam America, since the first days after Katrina, have supported the efforts of local groups to promote the recovery and rebuilding in the region while raising the voice of those most affected by the storm. As part of the event, delegates and other Convention guests will be encouraged to make donations to FONO and their affiliates.

"I couldn't imagine a more meaningful way to kick off this historic week," said Mark Brewer, President of the Association of State Democratic Chairs. "By bringing all of the state, district and territorial delegations together for one event, we are demonstrating the solidarity that is needed in our country. All of our state parties are excited to participate - because it's a good cause and because it will be a fabulous, fun event - in the grand New Orleans tradition."

The delegate event, financially supported by the Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee, will be a preview of the 'New Orleans All-Star Jam-Balaya,' a musical and culinary benefit to be held later that evening generating further support for Gulf Coast region recovery and rebuilding efforts. Both events will pair well known jazz musicians and world famous Louisiana cuisine with the festive ambiance of the Rocky Mountain West and will generate financial support for charities and organizations that have been working to rebuild communities in the Gulf Coast region.

"The spirit of the many unsung 'Heroes of the Storm,' people who have unselfishly given of themselves to help others, is something for our entire nation to recognize and celebrate," said Donna Brazile, Board Member of FONO. "There could not be a better time than the Democratic National Convention to showcase the unity of our country and power of our collective efforts for such a great cause."

FONO is a private, non-profit, non-partisan, membership organization for people in the U.S. and abroad who care about the region.

Oxfam America is a non-profit, non-partisan international relief and development organization that creates lasting solutions to poverty, hunger and injustice. Together with individuals and local groups in more than 120 countries, Oxfam saves lives, helps people overcome poverty and fights for social justice.

The Democratic National Convention, held from August 25-28, 2008, is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw up to 50,000 visitors to the region.

DNCC Previews Official Convention Week Activities, Public Events At Back-To-Back Denver Community Forums

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 13:00:00 -0700

Lunchtime and Evening ‘Convention Conversations’ Provide Detail on Convention Week Schedule, Opportunities to Engage in Historic Event

DENVER – After travelling more than 3,500 miles and visiting eight different cities throughout the Rocky Mountain West, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) completed its series of “Convention Conversations” community forums with back-to-back events this week in downtown Denver. In a continued effort to make the 2008 Democratic National Convention the most inclusive and engaging in history, DNCC CEO Leah D. Daughtry and members of the DNCC’s senior management team rolled out a series of official events open to Denver area residents and the general public around Convention week.

“Since we arrived in Denver more than a year ago, the community has welcomed us with open arms and been an incredibly generous host as our work got underway,” said DNCC CEO Leah D. Daughtry. “Today, we want to say thank you and make Denver residents the first to learn about the many official events available to the community around the Convention. From a sneak peek of the Convention hall to an opportunity to observe Party strategy in the making – there is something for everyone as part of this historic experience.”

The series - "Convention Conversations: A Traveling Forum Sponsored by the DNCC" - launched in Denver in September and traveled to Boulder, Colorado Springs, Grand Junction, Lakewood and Pueblo, Colo. in recent months. In addition to forums in Colorado, the series has also traveled to Las Vegas and Salt Lake City. The community forums were designed to provide residents throughout the region with opportunities for direct communication with top Convention organizers and a venue to ask questions, share ideas and find out how they can get involved in the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

The official Convention events available to the public announced today include an open house at the Pepsi Center, daily Democratic caucus and council meetings and an interfaith gathering to kick off the week. The Convention will also be streamed live in HD on www.DemConvention.com.

Details on each activity and event, together with an overview of the Convention schedule are provided below. While these events are open to the public, registration or advanced ticketing is required. This information will be released in August and posted on www.DemConvention.com.

Daily Convention Schedule and Transportation

Official Convention events will begin in the early morning for delegates, usually with a private meeting of their state or territorial delegation at their hotel. Many delegates will then travel downtown for meetings of one of the Democratic caucuses or councils beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Colorado Convention Center. The Convention program will gavel open each day at the Pepsi Center beginning at 4:00 p.m. and conclude by 9:00 p.m.

To help minimize the number of vehicles on the road, the DNCC has established an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible transportation system, 250 buses strong, for delegates and other Convention guests who will be staying in more than 100 Denver area hotels. These shuttles will operate between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. and again in the late evening, minimizing any impact on rush hour traffic.   Delegates will also be provided with passes for the RTD light rail and encouraged to use this efficient and environmentally sustainable transportation option.

Daily Caucus and Council Meetings

The Colorado Convention Center will be the center of daytime activities for delegates attending the Democratic caucuses and councils.   These planning and business meetings of many of the different constituent groups within the Party will be open for the public to observe, however seating is limited and advanced registration will be required.

The African American, Asian Pacific Islander American (APIA), Hispanic, LGBT, and Women’s caucuses along with the Disability and Rural councils will each host two meetings during Convention week. For the first time ever, a People of Faith Council will also meet regularly throughout the week. The caucus and council meetings serve as an opportunity for delegates and Party leaders to meet, share information on important issues and discuss voter outreach and future organizing strategy for the Party. These events often feature national Party leaders and other high-profile guests.

Community Open House at the Pepsi Center

For one day during the week prior to the start of the Convention, local residents will be invited to tour the Pepsi Center and see first-hand where history will be made within the Convention hall. Beginning in July, the Pepsi Center will undergo a significant transformation from sports arena to Convention hall and will be equipped with the latest technology, seating for delegates from around the country and infrastructure for media from around the world.

The focal point of the Convention hall is the podium, which will serve as the platform from which the presumptive nominee will accept the nomination and will play host to an impressive list of Party leaders throughout the Convention. Given direction to “break the mold” this cycle, the DNCC production team designed the podium to anchor this technically savvy Convention and reflect throughout the week the energy, historic significance and enthusiasm of the Party and its nominee.

During the open house, local residents will be the first to get a glimpse of the innovative podium design before thousands of delegates and other special guests arrive in Denver. The date of the open house and ticketing information will be released in August.

Interfaith Gathering

To kick-off Convention week in a spirit of unity, the DNCC, in conjunction with the Democratic Party’s Faith in Action (FIA) Initiative, will host an interfaith gathering on Sunday, August 24th, beginning at 2:00 PM at the Wells Fargo Theater located in the Colorado Convention Center. This is the first time a celebration of this nature has been part of a Democratic National Convention and is symbolic of the Party’s desire to bring multiple communities together under its “big tent.” The gathering will include clergy of different faiths, Party leaders, elected officials and local community leaders. Speakers and musical guests will be announced later this summer. The event will be open to the public.

The FIA initiative, founded in 2005 by Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Governor Howard Dean and Convention CEO Daughtry, focuses on ways for the Democratic Party to work with communities of faith to work together to promote the common good.

The DNCC also announced plans today for the following offerings:

Delegate Service Day

In conjunction with Democrats Work, Metro Volunteers and Volunteers of America, the DNCC is coordinating a Delegate Service Day at sites throughout the Denver metro area on Wednesday, August 27th. Projects will range from canned food sorting to neighborhood and park cleanup and tree care. These events will allow delegates to both contribute to and celebrate the people and organizations making positive change and strengthening communities in the city hosting this historic Convention.

This event will serve as the capstone to a much broader service effort for the DNCC. In an effort to give back to the local community, Convention leaders and staff have participated in nine “DNCC Service Days,” contributing more than 560 hours to a variety of local efforts centered on youth, the environment and combined issues of hunger and homelessness.

Online Streaming of Convention

In an effort to engage as many people as possible in the Convention experience, the DNCC is using cutting-edge technology to “bring down the walls” of the Pepsi Center and make this year’s Convention the most accessible and tech-savvy event of its kind. The DNCC’s website, DemConvention.com, will stream live, gavel-to-gavel, HD coverage of the highest quality to a worldwide audience. Among the many features of this feed will be the ability for viewers to select their preferred camera angle, essentially allowing them to direct their own Convention coverage.

Continue to visit the DNCC’s website, www.DemConvention.com throughout the summer for more information on ticketing for the events mentioned above, schedules of events, speaker information and other details on any of the official public events.

The Democratic National Convention, held from August 25-28, 2008, is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw as many as 50,000 visitors to the region.

Democratic National Convention Committee, Supporting Groups Host "Build Brigade" To Construct Home For Wounded Iraq Vet

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:00:00 -0700

Credit Unions, National Journal, Convention staff, Homes for Our Troops and volunteers build home from foundation to weather-tight in three days

Golden, CO - Hundreds of volunteers from the staff of the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC), local credit unions, the Colorado Building Trades Council and the National Journal Group gathered today for the start of a three-day "Build Brigade" to construct a new home for severely injured Iraq war veteran Staff Sergeant Travis Strong and his family. Volunteers will spend the weekend building the home from the foundation to "weather tight" by Sunday.

The home in Golden, Colo., a joint project of Homes for Our Troops, the DNCC, America's Credit Unions, and National Journal Group, will be presented to SSG Strong and his family around this summer's Democratic National Convention in August.

"We are excited to have the DNCC and its staff, the credit union movement, National Journal, and local labor unions volunteer their time and skills to build this home for a true American hero," said John Gonsalves, President and Founder of Homes for Our Troops. "Over these three days, you'll really see the magic that can happen when hundreds of volunteers come together for a worthy cause."

Ground was broken on the home site in Golden in April. Working from dawn to dusk, more than 150 volunteers and skilled laborers will complete much of the home's exterior construction during the three-day Build Brigade.

The home's eventual recipient, SSG Travis Strong, 30, lost both legs above the knee as a result of injuries sustained during a rocket-propelled grenade attack on his Stryker vehicle in November 2006. He was on his second tour of duty in Iraq for the U.S. Army. The home will be specially adapted for SSG Strong, his wife Misty, and their two children, and is being built at no cost to the Strong family.

"On behalf of Governor Ritter and myself, we are pleased to welcome Sergeant Strong and his family to Colorado and look forward to helping this American hero make a new home," said Colorado Lieutenant Governor Barbara O'Brien. "This project is just one way we can say thanks to Sergeant Strong and the thousands of veterans like him who have given so much on our behalf."

Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC, said: "My staff and I are honored and thrilled to be a part of this labor of love for someone who has given so much to his country. We're excited to join together with our partners in rolling up our sleeves and getting to work on this terrific project for Sergeant Strong and his family."

Daniel A. Mica, President and CEO of the Credit Union National Association (CUNA), the nation's largest advocacy group for the not-for-profit, cooperatively owned credit unions, added "This project is just one example of how credit unions live out their 'People Helping People' philosophy. Whether they are here in person volunteering their time or helping with fundraising efforts nationwide, our credit unions and their members are honored to participate in this project for a very deserving soldier and his family."

John Dill, President and CEO of the Credit Union Associations of Colorado and Wyoming, said: "Credit unions here in Colorado are excited to participate in this effort, as evidenced by the great number of volunteers who have shown up today. This is truly a worthwhile project and one that is very easy to get behind."

"In April we chose a spot, broke ground, and set the Homes For Our Troops plan in motion. Now we have the privilege of installing the doors, assembling the windows and building the roof with the generous help of the Strongs' new neighbors and friends" said Suzanne Clark, President of National Journal Group. "We're so proud to stand with the Denver community to start making this site a home."

The undertaking marks the latest effort in a year-long series of service projects the DNCC has organized to give back to the community hosting the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Since last July, the organization has centered its monthly "DNCC Service Days" outings around three areas of importance to the Denver-area community: youth, environmental projects and the combined issues of homelessness and hunger. Given its strong commitment to organized labor, the DNCC is proud to work closely in this latest service effort with the Colorado Building and Construction Trades Council, AFL-CIO, which is providing the skilled labor for the project in Denver.

In addition to the non-professional volunteer labor provided today, the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) and its affiliated Credit Union Associations of Colorado and Wyoming are helping Homes for Our Troops coordinate the project and working to raise funds for the effort. CUNA, the Minnesota Credit Union Network, and National Journal Group are also working with Homes for Our Troops and the Republican National Committee on a companion project for a veteran's home in conjunction with the Republican National Convention. A similar Build Brigade for that project is planned for June 26 - 28th in Woodbury, Minn.

In Convention First, 2008 Democratic National Convention To Be Simulcast In Spanish

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 07:00:00 -0700

Comcast Named Official Cable Television and Video On Demand Provider, Will Produce and Distribute Bi-Lingual Convention Coverage to Millions Worldwide

DENVER – In keeping with its commitment to make the 2008 Democratic National Convention the most accessible and technologically-savvy event of its kind, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) announced today that Comcast Corporation will produce simultaneous, online streaming coverage of the Convention in Spanish at DemConvention.com and make available a broad range of Convention content through its signature On Demand service. The DNCC also announced that Comcast has been named the Convention’s Official Cable Television and Video-On-Demand (VOD) provider.

“We set out to ‘bring down the walls’ of the Pepsi Center and make this year’s historic Convention as inclusive and accessible to as many people as possible,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “Comcast is helping us bring the Convention to a growing number of computer screens and televisions throughout the country and around the world.”

From the Comcast Media Center, based in the Denver metro area, Comcast will provide live, gavel-to-gavel Spanish-language interpretation of all Convention activities from the Pepsi Center to be streamed online at DemConvention.com from August 25-28. This marks the first time a national political Convention has been completely simulcast in Spanish and made available to a worldwide audience. In addition, Comcast will place highlights, including key speeches and Spanish-language content from each night of the Convention, on its national VOD platform, available to over 16 million Comcast Digital Cable subscribers in 39 states and the District of Columbia. Comcast will also make this VOD Convention content available for distribution on other cable systems throughout the nation.

Comcast will also edit, manage and archive Convention coverage for distribution online, on cable television and via global satellite uplink.

“With Spanish as the primary language of approximately 35 million Americans – not to mention the more than 300 million Spanish-speakers outside the United States – offering bilingual coverage of the Convention makes more people feel welcome under the Democratic Party’s ‘big tent’,” said Texas State Senator and Convention Co-Chair Leticia Van de Putte. “As a Texan and a Latina, I’m proud to belong to a party that embraces the Hispanic community.”

Comcast’s On Demand service offers more than 10,000 selections each month with more than 500 high-definition choices, and Comcast customers have viewed On Demand selections more than eight billion times. Barack Obama’s keynote speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention was the most widely viewed On Demand video from Comcast’s 2004 Convention coverage.

“Comcast’s advanced communications network will allow the nation to experience the Convention in new and innovative ways,” said David L. Cohen, Executive Vice President of Comcast. “We have no doubt that this year’s history-making Convention will be of great interest to our customers. Comcast is proud to be a part of it.”

Comcast Corporation is the nation's leading provider of cable, entertainment and communications products and services. In 2006, Comcast partnered with nearly 200 different community organizations and provided more than $9 million in cash and in-kind contributions in Colorado.

The Democratic National Convention, held from August 25-28, 2008, is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area’s economy and draw up to 50,000 visitors to the region.

DNCC And Rep. DeGette Partner To Unveil "Denver's Finest" At Demconvention.Com

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 12:00:00 -0700

Innovative Web Video Series Introduces Denver Favorites to Convention Visitors Planning Their August Trips

DENVER - With just two months until the gavel opens the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) partnered with U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) today to unveil a series of web videos at DemConvention.com featuring the "Denver's Finest."

Targeted to the thousands of people who will be coming to Denver for the Convention in August, the series of videos includes an introductory piece and eleven additional vignettes highlighting popular places and recommended activities in and around the city. A Denver native and one of the Convention's Congressional hosts, U.S. Rep. DeGette is also a member of the executive Host Committee for the Convention.

"The 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver promises to give participants and visitors a taste of the Old West and the New West," said DeGette. "With so much attention on the West this election cycle, I hope these videos help people get a feel for Western values and our way of life. This series is intended to provide snapshots of what the Denver area has to offer - and as the capital of the Rocky Mountain West, Denver is just the place to do just that."

Appearing on DemConvention.com, the official website for the Democratic National Convention, the introduction video announces the release of a new video each week until the Convention. Narrated by the congresswoman whose district includes the Pepsi Center, site of the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the videos feature interviews with the men and women Conventioneers might meet while touring Denver.

"Bring your cowboy boots, and we'll see you at the Convention in August," DeGette concludes in the introduction video.

The Democratic National Convention, held from August 25-28, 2008, is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw as many as 50,000 visitors to the region.

Governor Ritter, Convention Co-Chair Governor Sebelius And DNCC CEO Announce "Convention Captains" Program

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 11:00:00 -0700

Statewide Initiative to Involve Colorado Residents, Bring Convention Experience to Local Communities

DENVER – With the 2008 Democratic National Convention just 60 days away and excitement continuing to build throughout the state and region, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC), in partnership with Colorado Governor Bill Ritter, Jr. and Kansas Governor and Convention Co-Chair Kathleen Sebelius, today announced a “Convention Captains” program inviting community leaders statewide to engage residents throughout Colorado in this historic regional opportunity. Local activists selected as Convention Captains will encourage residents to participate in the Convention by coordinating watch parties, service projects and other community events.

“Colorado is proud to host to the Convention, which will shine a spotlight on all the things that make our state so great. I am pleased that the DNCC has made a long-term, sustained effort to involve the entire Rocky Mountain region in this historic event,” Gov. Ritter said. “The Convention Captains program will provide an opportunity for every county in the state to be a part of this historic event.”

Convention Captains will organize and host watch parties where families, friends and neighbors can come together in counties throughout Colorado as Barack Obama accepts the Democratic nomination for President of the United States on Thursday, August 28. Each Convention Captain will be issued a “playbook” arming them to serve as a local ambassador for the four-day event and providing them with helpful tips for planning and hosting a successful watch party and other events to engage their community in the Convention.

“There is no question that the great state of Colorado will play a crucial role in the general election come November,” said Convention Co-Chair Governor Sebelius. “The ‘Convention Captains’ program will highlight our efforts to engage new communities in this region and really provide a platform to showcase what our Party has to offer. After all, the goal of this program is to reach beyond the Convention hall, just as Barack Obama has done throughout the primary season by bringing new people in to the political process.”

Sebelius has served as the Governor of Kansas since 2003 and is former Chair of the Democratic Governors Association. Along with Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin and Texas State Senator Leticia Van de Putte, Sebelius will be nominated as Permanent Co-Chair of the Convention in August. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi of California will be nominated to serve as Permanent Chair of the Convention. Selected as a group exemplifying the new kind of leadership the Democratic Party is bringing to our country at all levels, the Permanent Chair and Co-Chairs preside over the Convention proceedings, ensuring order, decorum and efficiency as the Party nominates its presidential and vice presidential candidates, adopts the National Platform and conducts other important business.

In line with the Democratic Party’s commitment to giving back and the Convention’s Delegate Service Day taking place at dozens of sites in the Denver metro area on Wednesday, August 27, Convention Captains will organize service projects in their respective communities. Collectively, the Denver event and the statewide projects will serve as the capstone to a broader DNCC service effort. In an effort to give back to the host city, Convention leaders and staff have participated in ten “DNCC Service Days,” contributing more than 650 hours to a variety of local efforts centered on youth, the environment and the combined issues of hunger and homelessness.

“From the beginning, we made a commitment to making this the most inclusive Convention in history and a moment that the entire Rocky Mountain West can celebrate together,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “By creating opportunities for people to come together for this momentous occasion, our Convention Captains will be at the forefront of our efforts to bring more people into this experience than ever before.”

Local elected officials and Democratic Party County Chairs assisted the DNCC in selecting the Convention Captains. To date, 15 leaders have been selected for the program. During the coming weeks, Captains will continue to be identified to represent each of the 64 counties in Colorado. To allow local residents to learn more about activities planned in their communities, the names and contact information for each captain will be posted at DemConvention.com.

The “Convention Captains” program is one of many DNCC initiatives designed to engage the greater Colorado community in the lead-up to and during the Convention. Other programs include “Convention Conversations,” where the DNCC traveled throughout the region to answer questions and offer information to local residents and businesses; the “Write to Lead” essay contest for Colorado middle and high school students; the Citizen Photo Journalism Initiative, where local residents submitted photos of people and places that represent the spirit of the Rocky Mountain West; and high-definition gavel- to- gavel live streaming video of the Convention program.

2008 Convention Captains*

Adams County	Nicole Hanlen Jim Joy
Arapahoe County	Patrick Anderson Jennifer Herrera
Boulder County	Deb Gardner
Clear Creek County	Sandy Russalesi
Denver County	Jennifer Jacobson
Eagle County	Fred Schmidt Nancy Schmidt
Elbert County	Teri Baird
Jefferson County	Tom Satriano
Larimer County	Charlotte Miller Erma Muehlbach
Mesa County	Audrey Berry
Weld County	Joe Perez

*Additional Captains will be appointed in the coming weeks representing all 64 counties in Colorado.

MUST READ: Months Of Careful Convention Planning Now Ready For Execution

Sun, 06 Jul 2008 12:00:00 -0700

DENVER - After months of diligent planning, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) is poised to begin execution tomorrow on carefully orchestrated efforts to bolster telecommunications equipment; add transformers, lighting and speakers; remodel suites and more, as it moves in to the Pepsi Center in Denver. As the Denver Post reports this morning, "The Pepsi Center hands over the keys to construction teams for the Democratic National Convention Committee at 8 a.m. Monday, and the on-the-ground, multimillion-dollar race to transform the arena into a convention hall by Aug. 25 begins."

Pepsi Center finally getting its political makeover
Down come the hoops and out go the seats as the Denver sports complex becomes DNC Central

The Denver Post
By Chuck Plunkett and Elizabeth Aguilera
July 6, 2008

"For months, planners have been at work getting ready for Monday. The Alvarado-led team has been drawing up plans and talking to media companies about their power, lighting and broadcasting needs, said Linda Alvarado, the company's president.

"Every morning, Alvarado, Travis Dredd, the DNCC's deputy chief executive for inside-the-hall operations, and other managers on the site will have a 'daily game plan' meeting where they will review what was done, what needs to be done and the progress of the construction.

"They plan to be on site 24/7 in the weeks until the convention and will run two shifts from Day One to make sure all the work is complete in time."

For the full article, click here: http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_9790974

Democrats Throw Open Doors Of Convention, Obama To Accept Presidential Nomination On Closing Night Of 2008 Democratic National Convention In Front Of A Crowd Of More Than 75,000

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 07:00:00 -0700

Final Day of Convention Program to Move to Denver’s INVESCO Field at Mile High

DENVER – Breaking the mold of traditional political Conventions, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced that Senator Barack Obama will accept the Democratic nomination for President of the United States at Denver’s INVESCO Field at Mile High. INVESCO Field can accommodate more than 75,000 people and will be the site of the 2008 Democratic Convention’s final day of programming on Thursday, August 28, 2008.

“The Democratic Party is nominating a true change candidate this August, and it is only fitting that we make some big changes in how we put on the Convention,” said Governor Howard Dean, Chairman of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). “Senator Obama’s candidacy has generated an enormous amount of excitement and interest, not only in the Democratic Party but also in the 2008 Convention. By bringing the last night of the Convention out to the people, we will be able to showcase Barack Obama’s positive, people-centered vision for our country in a big way. ”

“Barack Obama’s campaign for change has inspired millions of Americans and brought people into the political process who might never have been involved,” said Convention Co-Chair Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius. “This change in the Convention program will allow thousands of first-time participants a chance to take part. I can’t think of a better Convention finale for our nominee who has made reaching out to voters a hallmark of his campaign.”

“When we said we wanted to ‘bring down the walls,’ open up this Convention like never before and truly speak to the American people, we meant it,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “On August 28, we will offer grassroots Democrats, who have turned out in record numbers this year, the opportunity to witness history shoulder to shoulder with thousands of Americans standing up for the change our country desperately needs.”
“Senator Obama and the DNCC have truly brought the community into the Convention,” said Colorado Governor Bill Ritter, Jr. “This decision will enable thousands of residents from Colorado, the Rocky Mountain West and across the nation to witness history first hand. What a way to fire up our grassroots activists as we head into the fall campaign.”

Primetime Convention activities Monday, August 25 through Wednesday, August 27 will continue to be held at the Pepsi Center. The final day of the Convention on Thursday, August 28, including the nomination acceptance speech of Senator Barack Obama, will be held at INVESCO Field at Mile High, also located in downtown Denver. Daytime Convention events, including meetings of the Democratic caucuses and councils will continue to be held at the Colorado Convention Center.

The DNCC announced today that a special block of “Community” credentials will be reserved for Colorado residents for Thursday night’s program at INVESCO Field. Details about how to sign up and receive a “Community Credential” for the last night of the Convention will be released in the coming weeks.

“This is the type of Convention people will want to experience together with family, friends and neighbors, and we hope this move enables thousands of Americans to come together, experience history and put Senator Obama on the path to victory in November,” Daughtry added.

Voters Answer: 'Why Are You A Democrat In 2008?' On YouTube For A Chance To Attend And Premiere Video At The Democratic National Convention

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 06:00:00 -0700

Online Video Program Offers Opportunity to Attend Denver Convention, Join Barack Obama on Campaign Trail as Member of Press Pool

DENVER – In keeping with its commitment to bring more people into the democratic process than ever before, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced the launch of a national online video contest with YouTube – inviting Americans to respond to the question: "Why are you a Democrat in 2008?"

The winner of the 2008 Convention Video Program with YouTube, the leading online video community that allows people to discover, watch and share originally created videos, will attend the Democratic National Convention in Denver in August and see his or her winning video played before thousands of delegates, elected officials and other Convention guests. YouTube will also send the winner on the campaign trail for a day, where as a member of the traveling press pool, the winner will record a video documenting the daily activities of the Democratic nominee.

Governor Howard Dean, Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, announced the program today in a video posted to the Convention's YouTube channel: youtube.com/demconvention.

"Encouraging people to share the views and beliefs they hold dear is a fundamental value of the Democratic Party and bedrock of our democracy," said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. "Much like our nominee, Senator Barack Obama, YouTube has a track record of engaging new voters – especially young voters – and giving them a platform to express themselves. We are delighted to join with YouTube to encourage even greater participation in this critical election year."

Individuals can submit video responses at youtube.com/demconvention, the Democratic National Convention's YouTube channel, until August 1. Based on the most creative and compelling submissions, the DNCC will narrow the field of entries to five and, starting August 7, the YouTube community will have the chance to vote for their favorites. The video receiving the highest number of votes will win the contest and be announced on August 14.

The winner will receive paid travel and hotel accommodations to attend the Democratic National Convention, to be held August 25-28 in Denver. The winning video will be shown in the Convention hall in front of thousands of delegates and guests and an international media audience.

"Working with the Democratic National Convention Committee underscores the extent to which American political parties have embraced the power of online video by vesting thought, action and ideas in the people," said Steve Grove, Head of News and Politics for YouTube. "This promises to empower more and more citizens to have a voice in our national political dialogue."

As the Official Search and Online Video Community Provider, Google is contributing a broad range of technology and services to help delegates, members of the media and interested citizens around the country to access Convention events and information.

YouTube has played an integral role in connecting voters with the contenders for the nation's highest political office. In an era when Democrats and Republicans alike depend on online video to connect elected officials with voters, the 2008 Convention Video Program stands as a symbol of our time.

YouTube also announced a parallel program with the Republican National Convention today, which can be found at www.youtube.com/gopconvention2008.

Michelle Obama And Colorado First Lady Jeannie Ritter To Co-Chair Delegate Service Day During 2008 Democratic National Convention

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 13:00:00 -0700

DNCC, Local Volunteer Organizations Team Up to Promote National Commitment to Service

DENVER – Building on its commitment to make service and active participation in the community a hallmark of the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) announced today that Michelle Obama and Colorado First Lady Jeannie Ritter will co-chair the Democratic National Convention’s Delegate Service Day, Wednesday, August 27. Through this effort, the DNCC will aim to inspire hundreds of thousands of Americans in a renewed commitment to service.

On August 27, the third day of Convention week, delegates from across the country will volunteer at dozens of community service projects in and around Denver, ranging from reading to children to park cleanup and tree care, to supporting projects that aid military families, an area of special focus for Michelle Obama. Delegate Service Day is the capstone to a year-long DNCC community service program, in which leadership and staff have contributed more than 650 hours to a variety of local projects.

“Barack and I have committed much of our lives to serving our communities, and throughout this campaign we’ve witnessed first hand the incredible change the American people can bring to the country when we work together for the common good. It’s only fitting that we continue our focus on service at our Party’s Convention in Denver,” said Michelle Obama. “Not only will Delegate Service Day help give back to the city and the state hosting tens of thousands of Democrats, but it will send our delegates home with a renewed commitment to serving their communities and coming together as a nation to solve our great challenges. As Barack has often said, when ordinary people get together, we can do extraordinary things, and that’s what will happen in Denver.”

“It’s an honor to join Michelle Obama, the DNCC and strong volunteer organizations from Colroado in this effort, which will make such a positive impact on our state,” said Colorado First Lady Jeannie Ritter. “In my own experience, whether in Colorado or in Africa, I’ve learned that involvement in service strengthens communities by breaking down barriers. It’s that spirit that Delegate Service Day will foster around this Convention – and one we hope delegates will carry home with them to their communities all across the country. Delegates are strong leaders within our Party, and we hope their work here in Colorado and beyond will help to inspire millions of Americans to lives of service so together we can find solutions to enduring problems.”

Convention leaders said that Michelle Obama and Jeannie Ritter were natural choices to serve as the DNCC’s Delegate Service Day co-chairs. In her early career, Michelle Obama worked as Assistant to the Mayor of Chicago. She later became the founding Executive Director of Public Allies – Chicago, a leadership development program that identifies and prepares talented young adults for careers serving the public good. In 1996, as Associate Dean of Student Services at the University of Chicago, she developed the University's first community service program. Prior to her husband’s presidential campaign, she was Vice President of Community and External Affairs at the University of Chicago Medical Center.

Jeannie Ritter served a year in the Peace Corps, stationed in the North African country of Tunisia, where she helped build and open educational and vocational centers for people with disabilities. She returned to Africa with Gov. Ritter and their then-toddler son August in 1987 and spent the next three years running a food distribution and nutrition center as lay missionaries for the Catholic Church in Zambia. In addition to the food programs, Jeannie taught health education to the women in the community.

The DNCC is coordinating Denver-area service projects for Delegate Service Day in conjunction with Democrats Work, Metro Volunteers and Volunteers of America. Delegates who wish to learn more about the program and register for Delegate Service Day can visit www.demconvention.com/delegates2008/.

Looking to extend the initiative statewide, the DNCC is also asking each of its “Convention Captains” to organize service projects on August 27 in counties across Colorado.

Since arriving in Denver, DNCC leadership and staff have participated in monthly service projects, called “DNCC Service Days,” focused on three areas of importance to the Denver community: youth, environmental projects and the combined issues of homelessness and hunger. To date, projects have included facilitating a soccer camp for local middle school students, constructing a home for a wounded Iraq war veteran and planting more than 400 trees in a Northwest Denver neighborhood in recognition of Earth Day. In December, the DNCC joined Jeannie Ritter in preparing a special holiday breakfast for homeless and runaway youth.

2008 Democratic National Convention Enlists Senior Advisor To Ensure Convention Is Accessible For All Guests

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:00:00 -0700

Accessibility Advisor will be a Resource for Delegates and Guests with Disabilities

DENVER — As part of its continued commitment to put forward the most inclusive and accessible Convention possible, the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) today announced Becky Ogle, a recognized leader in the disability rights community, has joined the organization in Denver as Senior Advisor on Disability. Ogle will serve as a liaison between delegates with disabilities and the DNCC in the lead up to and during Convention week.

“Since the beginning, our goal has been to ensure that more people participate in this Convention than ever before – and making sure delegates with disabilities have an outstanding Convention experience is part of that effort,” said Leah D. Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “Becky brings with her a long and proven track record of strong advocacy on behalf of the disability community and the Democratic Party, and we’re proud to have her on our team.”

While Ogle has advised the Convention remotely over the last few months, she now works full-time alongside other Convention organizers in Denver. Now that delegates have been selected in all 56 states and territories, Ogle will be responsible for outreach to and resources for delegates with disabilities as they finalize their plans and travel to Denver in August.

Since arriving in Denver more than a year ago, the DNCC has made accessibility an integral part of all aspects of Convention planning, from transportation and housing to designing the traffic flow at Convention events. In selecting official Convention venues, organizers chose sites that were ADA compliant and designed a transportation system that will accommodate all individuals including delegates and guests with disabilities. Additionally, a closed captioning system will be available on the Convention floor for delegates who are deaf or hard of hearing.

At the DNCC, Ogle will work closely to ensure that accommodations are made for all people with disabilities so they can fully participate in all official Convention activities. Ogle will also conduct site visits at Convention venues and hotels around Denver.

“This Convention will be historic, not just because of our nominee, but also because it will be more accessible for more delegates than ever before,” said Ogle. “Convention leadership and staff at all levels have worked tirelessly to ensure that all delegates will be seamlessly integrated into Convention activities.”

Ogle, a native of Tennessee who has worked on three prior Democratic National Conventions, has an extensive background in advocating for people with disabilities. Prior to her work at the Convention, she served as Senior Advisor on Disability Issues for the Democratic National Committee (DNC). During the 2004 election cycle, she served in the same capacity for the Kerry-Edwards campaign. She also served as Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on the Employment of Adults with Disabilities during the Clinton administration.

DNC Chairman Governor Dean, Obama Campaign Co-Chair Peña, Convention CEO Join First-Time Convention Delegates For Tour Of INVESCO Field At Mile High

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 10:30:00 -0700

In First Visit Since INVESCO Field at Mile High Announcement, Dean and Peña Highlight Party's Commitment to Bringing New People to Convention

DENVER - Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Governor Howard Dean and Obama Campaign Co-Chair Federico Peña toured INVESCO Field at Mile High today for the first time since the site was announced as the venue for the fourth night of the 2008 Democratic National Convention. They were joined by Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) CEO Leah D. Daughtry and four first-time Convention delegates from the Colorado delegation.

"Senator Obama has made a commitment to bringing new people into the Party and into the political process - people who may never have voted in an election before or taken part in a Convention," said Governor Dean. "On August 28, we will apply that model to our Convention and change the playing field - literally. The move to INVESCO Field at Mile High affords us the opportunity to bring tens of thousands more people into this process, inviting them to make history with us. That stands as a powerful example of the inclusiveness that is so core to our Party's values. So too is the delegation that will be here in Denver to nominate our next President of the United States - including so many first-time delegates just like the folks standing here with us today."

"The 2008 Convention in Denver will be a different kind of Convention - one that will put people never before involved in the political process front and center," said Peña. "Not only is this a great opportunity to engage the people that already voted for Barack Obama, it's also an opportunity to involve new people going forward. In addition to the first-time delegates you see here with us today, we are opening up the doors to the community, to Colorado and the critically important Western region."

"With just 31 days to go, these are no longer just floor plans on a wall," said Daughtry. "This is real and we'll be ready - ready to deliver the spectacular event our Party and the country awaits."

Joining Governor Dean, Co-Chair Peña and Daughtry today at INVESCO Field at Mile High were four first-time delegates to the Convention from the Colorado delegation:

Susan McMahon
Susan McMahon of Parker, Colo. has worked with Colorado for Obama and helped to organize Douglas County Delegates and Alternates. In this position, McMahon saw incredible turnout for Senator Obama in a traditionally conservative town. In addition to her political involvement, McMahon is a small business owner and operates a health and fitness business.

Saoirse Charis-Graves
Saoirse Charis-Graves of Golden, Colo. spent 27 years working as a school psychologist and is now retired. For half of those years, Charis-Graves taught in pre-schools and knows firsthand the effectiveness of early childhood programs. Charis-Graves started volunteering for the campaign the moment Senator Obama announced his candidacy. She was, "completely disaffected by the old Washington politics," and now wants to make changes.

Marzette Bedford-Billinghurst
Marzette Bedford-Billinghurst of Greenwood Village, Colo. is the proud mother of two biracial children and is passionate about her support for Senator Obama. She won her delegate seat over hundreds of people due to her strong desire to be at the Convention. Bedford-Billinghurst personally called every registered Democrat in her precinct to get them to caucus, work at a phone bank or canvass the neighborhood.

Paul Lopez
Paul Lopez of Denver, Colo. is a member of the Denver City Council and has actively supported Senator Obama for almost a year. Lopez's first political experience was at age 13, when he campaigned to rename Westwood Elementary School as Richard T. Castro Elementary School. Lopez recalls canvassing for his cause and the thrill of victory he felt when the initiative passed.

Primetime Convention activities Monday, August 25 through Wednesday, August 27 will continue to be held at the Pepsi Center. The final day of the Convention on Thursday, August 28, including the nomination acceptance speech of Senator Barack Obama, will be held at INVESCO Field at Mile High.

The DNCC recently announced that a special block of "Community" credentials will be reserved for Colorado residents for Thursday night's program at INVESCO Field at Mile High. Details about how "Community Credentials" will be distributed will be released next week, though interested parties can sign up now to receive more information at http://www.demconvention.com/invesco/.

The Democratic National Convention, held from August 25-28, 2008, is expected to pump an estimated $160 million into the Denver area's economy and draw as many as 50,000 visitors to the region.

Colorado Tribes Perform Native American Blessing To Mark One Month Until The 2008 Democratic National Convention

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 14:00:00 -0700

Lt. Governor Barbara O'Brien, DNCC CEO Leah Daughtry and DNC Native American Caucus Chair Frank LaMere Participate in Celebration of Colorado's Native American Heritage

DENVER - Marking one month until the start of the 2008 Democratic National Convention, members of the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Indian tribes of Colorado performed a Native American blessing today outside the Pepsi Center, where Democrats will gavel open the Party's Convention on August 25th in Denver.

"Colorado has a rich Native American heritage, and the Democratic National Convention is an opportunity to showcase that heritage for all the world to see," said Colorado Lieutenant Governor Barbara O'Brien. "Both the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Indian tribes can trace ancestral roots in this region that long pre-date Colorado's statehood. Native Americans have deep roots in the culture of this state - in its past, present and future."

Today's blessing ceremony included the burning of sage, chants, songs and prayers. A feather was used to "smudge" the smoke around the place of blessing. Native American leaders prayed both for delegates and for citizens across the country whose lives will be impacted by work accomplished during the Convention.

"With all that goes into planning a Convention, there is tremendous value in spiritual grounding in the home stretch. Our Native American brothers and sisters have a deep understanding of spirituality and its place in our lives," said DNCC CEO Leah Daughtry. "The rich Native American traditions of the West are an important part of our country's history and will be an important part of this historic Convention - set to open right here in just one month's time."

"As a Native American and an active Democrat, I see two important facets of my life coming together," said Frank LaMere, Chair of the Democratic National Committee's (DNC) Native American Caucus. "In one month, there will be talk of Democrats, Republicans, politics and polls. However, I offer that the Creator cares most about heart, commitment, and those who will give voice and care for the people, and who will change things in our country."

During the upcoming Convention, the Democratic Party's Native American caucus will meet on Monday, August 25 and Wednesday, August 27 at the Colorado Convention Center.