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DNC Frequently Asked questions
Saturday, August 23, 2008
By superadmin :: 92 Views
Denver 2008
Frequently Asked Questions
When Is The Convention?
The Democratic National Convention if from Monday. August 28, with the proceedings taking place at the Pepsi Center on Monday through Wednesday from 4:00 to 9:00 pm. On Thursday, the Democratic Presidential Nominee, U.S. Senator Barack Obama, will give his acceptance speech in the evening at Invesco Field (details pending).
Public events will take place throughout the city from Friday, August 22, through Friday, August 29. (A full list of events is available at www.denverconvention2008.com.
Fast Fact! The last time Denver or any city in the Rocky Mountain region hosted a national political convention was 1908, when Denver hosted the Democratic National Convention.
Where Is The Convention?
The Convention will be held in the Pepsi Center, Monday through Wednesday. The presidential nominee’s address on Thursday, the fnal night of the Convention, will be held at Invesco Field at Mile High.
In addition, each morning beginning at 10 a.m., delegates will attend morning meetings at the Colorado Convention Center. Those sessions are open to the public, however seating is limited and advanced registration is required.
For a complete update on daily Convention schedule, visit www.denverconvention .com
Fast Fact! The Pepsi center is home to numerous Colorado sports teams, including the Denver Nuggets NBA Basketball Team and the Colorado Avalanche NHL Hockey Team. The Denver Broncos play at INVESCO Field at Mile High.
Who Planned The Convention?
There are two key planning committees. The Denver 2008 Convention Host Committee is the non-profit, non-partisan local planning committee responsible primarily for fundraising, organizing volunteers and hospitality events. Its web site is www.DenverConvention2008.com.
The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) is the planning arm of the Democratic Party and is responsible for organizing events inside the Pepsi Center and at Invesco Field at Mile High.. Its website is www.demconvention.com .
These planning committees have worked together for more than a year to plan all Convention-related events. An easy way to distinguish their respective roles is that the host committee is responsible for activities and operations in the community, and the DNCC is responsible for activities and operations in the community, and the DNCC is responsible for events inside the Pepsi Center and Invesco Field.
Of course, both planning committees have worked closely with Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper and his staff, as well as with Kroenke Sports, the owner of the Pepsi Center, Governor Bill Ritter and the Congressional Delegation have also bee very active in the Convention efforts.
Fast Fact! The Host Committee will probably spend $3 million for its Convention-related activities, administration and staff, or slightly more than 5% of the total amount of money expected to be raised to cover convention costs. The other 95% of expenditures is money raised by the Host Committee but spent by the Democratic National Convention Committee.
Who Will Attend The Convention?
The Democratic National Convention Committee projects that as many as 50,000 visitors will be in Denver for the Convention including delegates, media and assorted guests.
How does this break down? Close to 6,000 people will make up the 56 delegations; about 15,000 members of the media will represent outlets from around the world; thousands of guests will be in the Mile High City to be part of this historic event.
Fast Fact! Beyond the 50 states, delegations to the convention include the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa and Democrats abroad (living outside the U.S.).
What Is The ‘For Public Convention Events?
There are numerous exciting Convention events that are open to the public.
AMERICAN PRESIDENTIAL EXPERIENCE: August 22-29, Invesco Field at Mile High
The public is invited to visit the largest traveling exhibit of presidential memorabilia. This non-partisan collection includes life-size replica of the Oval Office and Air Force One, a collection of first ladies’ gowns and a historical U.S. Flag display. www.presidentialexperience.com.
Colorado Green Frontier Fest: August 24, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Denver Performing Arts Complex Sculpture Park.
This festival showcases sustainable living options, from cutting-edge renewable technologies to everyday solutions that can be implemented in the home.
www.enverconvention2008.com.
After Five Jazz & Blues Festival: August 23 -29th, Historical Five-Points District.
Denver comes alive as top-flight jazz groups and musicians perform at this year’s festival..
www.denverjazzfestival2008.com
Symposia Of The Rockies: August 25-28, Denver Center for the Performing Arts.
A series of 10, two-hour symposia will bring together members of Congress, governors, leaders of industry and others. They dynamic discussions will focus on issues that make a difference to our country, including climate change, technology and retirement security. www.denverconvention2008.com
Dialog:City: August 21-29 Ten Locations Throughout Denver
This interactive art exhibition brings together a mix of internationally renowned artists and designers to create internationally renowned artists and designers to create participatory, site-specific works in neighborhoods across the city. The art deals with issues like the environment and homelessness. The Performing arts Complex and City Park are two of the unique locations presenting displays.
www.dialogcity.org
America: Live And In Person
Through this program, people from al walks of life share their stories about what this country means to them. All stories have been uploaded online soother can read and vote for their favorites.
www.denverconvention2008
Cinemocracy Rocks: August 25, Red Rocks Amphitheater
Citizens of the world were invited to share their ideas about democracy via short films. The collection of films created the Cinemocracy Short Film Festival. The top 25 (as determined by on-line voting) will be screened at this event.
www.cinemocracy.org
Interfaith Gathering: August 24. 2 p.m., Wells Fargo Theatre, Colorado Convention Center
The Democratic National Convention Committee will join the Democratic Party’s Faith in action Initiative to host an interfaith gathering on the day prior to the Convention. The gathering will feature clergy of a variety of faiths, party leaders, elected officials and local community leaders.
Live On-Line Streaming Of Convention: August 25-28
The DNCC is offering high-definition coverage of the Convention of its web site. The site will provide live gavel-to-gavel coverage made available worldwide over the Internet. Unlike television broadcasts, viewers will be able to select their preferred camera angle.
www.demConvention.com
Community Open House at the Pepsi Center
Date TBD, 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 the Convention hall. The date of the open house and ticketing information will be released in August.
www.DemConvention.com
Fast Fact! 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 On Demand service.
I AM A LOCAL, WILL IT BE HARD TO GET AROUND TOWN?
Planners are working very hard to ensure that downtown businesses and residents can get around and access their buildings normally. Additionally, because the Pepsi Center sits isolated in the Platte Valley and the Convention will run from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Fast Facts! Denver has the 10th largest downtown in America based on employees and office space. It is the 4th most workable downtown, according the Brookings Institute.
Will Any Roads Be Closed?
After extensive preparation and work, Convention planners were able to keep Downtown Denver open and accessible during Convention Week.
Nearly all roads will be open and transit services will be operational. The majority of Convention-related movement will occur via bus, foot, and pedicab/bicycle and before or after the main hours of activity inside the Pepsi Center (4 p.m. to 9 p.m.), thereby mitigating impacts on commuters.
Two key areas impacted are:
Speer Boulevard from I-25 ramp to southbound Speer Boulevard) will be closed 9 a.m. on Monday, August 25, through midnight on Wednesday, August 27, except during morning rush hour. Two lanes in each direction of Speer Boulevard between I-25 and Lawrence St. (and the ramp from I-25 to southbound Speer Boulevard) will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. Monday through Wednesday. The I-25 ramp to northbound Speer Boulevard will remain open at all times.
Auraria Parkway from I-25 to Speer Boulevard will be closed from 12 a.m. on Saturday, August 23, through midnight on Wednesday, August 27. The I-25 ramps to and from Auraria Parkway will be closed during this time period.
Fast Facts: In 1908 Denver had 59 miles of paved streets. In 2008, Denver has 2,337 miles of paved streets.
Freewheelin’, a Citywide Bike Sharing Program, will be available for locals and Convention visitors. Close to 1,000 bikes are available free of charge for anyone looking for an alternative to automobiles. The bike racks are set up at various points around the city. This program is sponsored by Humana and Bikes Belong.
Additionally, the shuttle along Downtown Denver’s 16th Street Mall is always free of charge.
Fast Fact! Following the Convention, 70 of the Freewheelin’ bikes will remain in the city for use by Denver citizens as part of an ongoing program to reduce carbon emissions and support healthy, active lifestyles.
Should I Be Concerned About Security During The Convention?
The Convention is designated as a Natioal Special security Event, which makes the U.S. Secret Service the lead agency for operational security planning. The City of Denver is working closely with the Secret Service and other local, state and federal agencies on all issues related to security so local citizens and visitors have a very safe and enjoyable experience in Denver during the Convention.
Fast Facts! It is a priority to keep Denver open for business and ensure the convention is a historic, memorable and safe celebration.
How Will Information About Security or Transortation-Related Impacts Be Disseminated?
When necessary, extensive community outreach to downtown residents, the downtown business community and the Denver community at large will be conducted. Information will be available through the media, organizational newsletters and local web sites.
Additionally, the City’s Web Site, www.denvergov.org, will contain up-to-the date information, and Denver’s 3-1-1 customer service center will be available to answer questions.
Fast Facts! The non emergency police services call 720-913-2000. For non-emergency medical questions call 303-777-6877.
Who Are Some Of The Major Sponsors Of The Convention?
Qwest, Forest City, AT&T, Xcel Energy, Vail Resorts and Molson Coors are a few of the major sponsors. Additional sponsors can be found on the Host Committee web site, www.denverconvention2008.com
Fast Facts! Coca-Cola provided the Welcome bags that will be distributed to delegates and media members. The bags are made from recycled Coca-Cola bottles.
How Can I Get 2008 Democratic National Convention Apparel And Merchandise?
Official merchandise is currently available online at www.denverDNCGear.com, and will be sold on the 16th Street Mall and other outlets throughout Denver prior to and during the convention.
I Heard That The Convention Is Behind In Fundraising. Does This Mean That Denver Residents Are Going To Be Taxed To Be Compensate?
No local or state tax dollars are being contributed to the Host Committee to pay for the Convention. The necessary funds are coming from private fundraising efforts of the Host Committee. In addition, the federal government appropriated $50 million to pay for all security costs.
Fast Facts! The average cost of a hotel room in Denver in 1908 was $1. During the Convention, hotel rooms skyrocketed to anywhere from $20 to a couple hundred for a luxury suite.
Can I Volunteer?
Volunteer registrations are being taken at the Host Committee Web site, www.denverconvention2008.com.
Fast Facts! An estimated 10,000 to 12,000 volunteers will be put to work during the month prior to the Convention.
How Can My Business Capitalize On The Influx Of People In Town For The Convention?
Local businesses are encouraged to sign up in the official Vendor Directory which will be available to delegates, journalists, party members and supporters elected officials and other visitors. Sign up at www.denverconvention2008.com
Fast Facts! The City and County of Denver is planning to maintain the online Vendor Directory to support future Conventions and other events.
How Can I Obtain Press Credentials?
The deadline for applying for press credentials has passed. However, if you have any questions or concerns about credentials, contact the DNCC press line at 720-362-2006.
Fast Facts! More than 15,000 media representatives from around the world will be in Denver during the Convention making this the single largest media event in the history of the Rocky Mountain Region. By comparison, 10,000 media representatives descended on Salt Lake City for the 2002 Olympic Winter Games.
How Can I Make A Donation To The Convention?
Donations can be made online at www.denverconvention2008.com.
Fast Facts! Approximately 70 percent of all the private dollars raised to support Convention activities have come from companies and individuals outside of Colorado.
What Efforts Are In Place To Make This Convention ‘Green”?
The Denver 2008 Host Committee is committed to making this the greenest convention possible. The planners are dedicated to:
Using renewable energy
Reducing waste while maximizing energy
Providing green transportation options such as free bicycle rentals donated by Humana and Bikes Belong, and using flex-fuel vehicles that run on E85 ethanol. The ethanol fuel will be donated by Molson Coors
Using green building designs and practices
Increasing the practice of green industry standards in the hospitality industry. For example, caterers and restaurants are encouraged to consider the Lean N’Green guidelines, which request that they make an effort to include lean, organic and environmentally friendly food options at Convention events.
Conserving water
Measuring, managing and mitigating carbon emissions
Highlighting local environment business leaders and greening the supply chain.
Maximizing outreach, education and behavioral change in regards to sustainable practices.
Additionally, the Downtown Denver Partnership has installed single-stream recyclable bins throughout the 16th Street Mall for the first time. During the months leading up the convention, various greening workshops were held to help local businesses develop sustainable practices, including one in April to promote green publishing and printing techniques for Convention-related materials. Finally, the Convention’s official Vendor Directory has a Green Business Designation highlighting companies that meet specific guidelines set by the Host Committee and the Alliance for a Sustainable Colorado.
Fast Facts! The Colorado Green Frontier Fest include interactive and educational exhibits, a farmers market of local and organic produce, a children’s area, eco-carnival games and entertainment.
Visiting Denver Fast Facts
Denver is known as the Mile High City because our elevation is 5280 feet above sea level A Mile High.
Denver’s population is just under 600,000. The entire metro area population is close to 2.8 million.
Greater Denver is the 21st largest city in the U.S., and Colorado ranks 22nd in population at 4.8 million.
55,000 people ride the free 16th Street Mall shuttle every day, and 15 million riders use the shuttle every year.
In downtown Denver, there are 39 street cart vendors, 28 sidewalk cafes, and 28 horse-drawn carriage companies.
The 13th step on the West side of Denver’s Capital building is at 5280 feet – A Mile High – and the marble used in the building came from the same quarry that supplied the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier an the Lincoln Memorial.
120 miles of mountain peaks can be seen from Denver.
Some beautiful mountain views can be seen from the outdoor deck at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the rotunda at the Colorado State Capital, and Cranmer Park at Cherry and East 2nd Ave.
Denver gets 300 days of sunshine annually. The average August temperature is 85.9 F.
Denver in 1908 vs. Denver in 2008
1908: Denver celebrated its 50th birthday
2008: Denver will celebrate its 150th birthday. (sesquicentennial)
1908: Denver had 213,000 residents.
2008: If Denver’s 2007 population growth repeats itself Denver could exceed 600,000 in 2008
1908: The tallest building was the 9-story Equitable Building.
2008: The tallest building is the 56-story Republic Plaza.
1908: Cost of a soda was 5 cents.
2008: Cost of a bottle of soda in the Pepsi Center is $3.25.
1908: The Democratic National Convention was held in the Auditorium at 14th and Curtis, which cost $700,000 to build.
2008: The Democratic National Convention will be held less than a mile away in the Pepsi Center, which cost $160 million to build in 1999. The 1908 venue is now home to the world renowned Ellie Caulkins Opera House, part of the Denver Performing Arts Complex.
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