PRESS RELEASE from 2008 Republican National Convention

Thursday, August 21, 2008

A First Look at the 2008 Republican National Convention Podium

Stage Design Complements the Direct and Personal Tone of Presumed Nominee John McCain

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Today, the 2008 Republican National Convention released the dimensions and a digital rendering of the podium area from which Senator John McCain will deliver his acceptance speech. The details are the latest developments in the ongoing build-out of the Xcel Energy Center.

 "Our transformation of the Xcel Energy Center continues, and today, Americans got a glimpse of what the arena will look like when the convention is gaveled to order," said Maria Cino, President and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention. "The stage was designed to facilitate the candid and personal tone that Americans have come to expect from Senator McCain. The intimate setting will be a fitting backdrop for Senator McCain’s acceptance speech."

When designing the podium area, every effort was made to ensure it would complement the direct and personal interaction that has characterized John McCain’s candidacy. The podium will be positioned only four feet above the arena’s floor, where the delegates will be seated. The podium’s close proximity to the audience will ensure the speakers’ remarks remain the central feature of the proceedings.

When completed, the black hard laminate stage of the podium area will measure 51 feet, six inches wide by 34 feet deep. It will be bordered by 101 feet, six inches of recessed lighting. Behind it, there will be a video wall, measuring 51 feet, six inches wide by 30 feet tall. The wall will be made up of 561 Hibino four-millimeter Chroma LED panels, giving everyone in the convention hall a perfect view of the speeches and videos that will be part of the program of events.

 

About the Republican National Convention
The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held at Saint Paul's Xcel Energy Center from Sept. 1-4, 2008. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, volunteers, members of the media and other guests are expected to attend the convention. Minneapolis-Saint Paul is expected to receive an estimated $150-$160 million positive economic boost from the four-day event. For more information about the 2008 Republican National Convention, please visit our website at www.GOPConvention2008.com and join our social network sites on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.