Forum held to discuss involvement and housing
Democratic National Convention Committee officials and state legislators are preparing for the massive convention being held in Denver next year.
On Wednesday, Boulder played host to the third forum held by the DNCC at the Spice of Life Event Center in Boulder.
The forum drew about 100 people, including Colorado House Majority Leader Alice Madden and DNCC CEO Leah Daughtry.
The same day, the DNCC announced Andrea Robinson as the first ever director of greening. Robinson will be in charge of ensuring the environmental friendliness of the DNC.
“This is the first time in convention history that we’ve ever had a comprehensive green plan,” Robinson said.
During the forum, Daughtry pointed out three ways in which Boulder residents could participate in the convention. The first is to be a delegate to the DNC, which requires attending Democratic precinct caucuses, but not being a professional politician.
“Most delegates are grassroots people who care about their country and care about their community,” Daughtry said.
Another way to participate is to volunteer – the convention will need 12,000 to 15,000 volunteers, she said. Participants can also be a part of what Daughtry calls “our online communities,” such as the DNC Web site.
Daughtry also highlighted the business advantages of the convention. The DNC is expected to bring 35,000 people and $160 million to the area.
“I know in my heart that in August we’re going to be nominating the next president of the United States,” Madden said.
Near the end of the forum, attendees asked Daughtry and Madden questions ranging from business to blogging to security concerns. When asked by an audience member about housing, Daughtry said “we contract with hotels in Denver.”
Daughtry estimated that the DNC has about 17,000 rooms set aside for the convention.
Contact Campus Press Staff Writer Sam Dieter at samuel.dieter@thecampuspress.com
