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  

 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 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 

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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.

The Qwest logo is a registered trademark of Qwest Communications International Inc. in the U.S. and certain other countries. 

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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Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.