Preparing for the DNCC

Today was the media walkthrough for the Democratic National Convention at Pepsi Center in Denver. The timing is curious, since this is the first Monday in July and the convention is not until late August. Still, it was good to figure out how things were going to go.

Some observations, in case you're interested:

-- Expect chaos. The DNC still doesn't have details on the move for the last night from Pepsi Center to Invesco Field at Mile High. One representative: "We're working to get that information as quickly as possible. I do not have all the answers yet." Wouldn't you want to have logistics in place before announcing that move? There also seems to be no real plan in place for transportation. I asked one representative if the DNC had arranged anything concrete with RTD, and his response was a lukewarm "No."

-- There will be complete coverage in English as well as Spanish.

-- A peculiar message was that this event is for the media and not for the public. One representative to the media: "The convention is all about you guys." I know media types need their egos stroked, but it was an odd message that was repeated during our tour of the arena later. Media will occupy half of the lower bowl of Pepsi Center.

-- The Democratic National Committee is touting this to be "the most environmentally-sustainable Democratic Convention in history" and is relying on volunteers to help the convention with recycling. When I'm at the convention in August, I'll give you an update on what's sure to be a trend in future conventions.

-- The bloggers' lounge and unassigned media workspace will be located at the Denver Nuggets' practice court. I wonder if Kenyon Martin and Carmelo Anthony will challenge media members to a game of pickup.