Republican National Convention 2008 - September 1-4, 2008

The Transformation Begins

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:10:01 GMT

Today is the third day of the Xcel Energy Center transformation. Only 40 days left before the start of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

Below is a quick video from Monday's move-in. Check the Grand Ol' Blog on Monday for a time lapse video of the transformation process.

Neil Diamond and Free Falling

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 13:52:06 GMT

If you follow our Twitter updates you know that Sunday night several members from the 2008 Republican National Convention staff went to see Neil Diamond in concert.

After skating on the ice one last time, Sunday’s Neil Diamond performance was the final event in the Xcel Energy Center before the convention transformation began on Monday.

On Saturday, 30 miles east of Saint Paul in Baldwin, WI, ten other staffers saw the area from an unusual perspective - the sky - as they jumped out of a perfectly good airplane and free fell to the ground.

This daring group of staffers decided to get away from the office and skydive- almost all of them for the first time- and, thankfully, they all had parachutes and made it back to Saint Paul in one piece.

After a very eventful weekend, everyone is back in the office diligently working with just 41 days until the start of the 2008 Republican National Convention, and 44 days until Senator McCain officially accepts our party’s nomination.

Convention Staff Write Home

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 21:51:09 GMT

Over the past few days a couple convention staffers made headlines in their local news outlets.

On Friday, Betsy Ankney of Ottawa Hill, OH was profiled in the Toledo Free Press for her work as Staff Assistant to the President & CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention, Maria Cino. Betsy has lived in Saint Paul, MN since January working side-by-side with Cino to ensure a smooth operation at the convention headquarters.

Today in Rochester, MN on the cover of the Post-Bulletin paper, Robert Todd was highlighted for his work as one of three Media Operations Coordinators. Robert will help manage the more than 15,000 members of the media during the four-day-long convention and ensure that "the likely Republican nominee, Sen. John McCain, [is] in the best possible light."

Coverage of the Xcel Transformation

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 13:06:05 GMT

Click on the clip to the right to check out this great report from KSTP on the start of the transformation.

The Transformation Begins

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:29:53 GMT

The quiet, vacated Xcel Energy Center was filled this morning with the sounds of beeping forklifts, loud trucks, and snapping camera shutters as the 2008 Republican Nation Convention officially took shape.

After a quick safety talk to the workers, a large ceremonial key was presented to MSP 2008 Host Committee CEO Jeff Larson and Committee on Arrangements Deputy Director of Operations Gordon Pennoyer and the work began.

Over the next six weeks crews will labor tirelessly to transform the Xcel Energy Center from ice arena to state-of-the-art convention hall in preparation for Senator John McCain’s acceptance speech.

Every Monday be sure to visit www.GOPConvention2008.com for a time lapse video of the build-out from the week before.

Check out the slideshow from today’s building handover. Video coming soon. As always keep a close eye on the Grand Ol’ Blog for the latest GOP Convention information.

Some news highlights from this morning’s events:

RNC gets the keys; time for an X-treme makeover: Star Tribune
'X' about to begin its political makeover: Pioneer Press
RNC planners take over Xcel: KSTP (ABC) (Video)

Traveling to Minnesota

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 18:57:40 GMT

An article in the July-August edition of AAA Magazine highlights the 2008 Republican National Convention and the many people who will travel to Minneapolis-Saint Paul this September. "Some 45,000 delegates, family members, and gadflies - and 15,000 journalists and bloggers" will converge on the Xcel Energy Center and the surrounding area.

During their time in Minnesota, convention visitors will not only witness Sen. John McCain accepting the Republican Party nomination for president, but they will also take in the sights, sounds, tastes and attractions of these two magnificent cities.

Check out the videos below for a quick tour around Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

Minneapolis

Saint Paul

Remembering Reagan in 1980

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:05:01 GMT

In 1980 many things were different - including the timing of political conventions.

Today marks 28 years since Ronald Reagan stepped to the podium at the Republican National Convention in Detroit, Michigan to accept the Republican Party nomination for president. On July 17, 1980, Reagan delivered a speech that officially launched his general election campaign and landed him in the White House.

In 50 days, Senator John McCain will step to the podium at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN and accept the Republican Party nomination. Stay tuned to the Grand Ol' Blog to follow the action.

Meanwhile, in honor of Ronald Reagan, take a look at his 1980 acceptance speech below.

Meeting Governor Pawlenty

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:06:34 GMT

Today the interns of the 2008 GOP Convention started their morning with a trip to the Minnesota State Capitol complex in Saint Paul (a stone’s throw from convention headquarters) to meet with Governor Pawlenty and tour the capitol building.

Governor Tim Pawlenty welcomed the interns to the "best state in the country." After answering several questions from the interns the governor took a moment to pose for individual pictures.

Following their time with Governor Pawlenty, the interns toured the Minnesota State Capitol building designed by Cass Gilbert who, incidentally, was the original architect of the United States Supreme Court building.

Click here for more pictures of their trip.

Convention Staff on Ice

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 19:31:59 GMT

Supporters of the Minnesota Wild are called the "Team of 18,000," and readers of the Grand Ol’ Blog know that we count ourselves among them.

So on Sunday, we received a treat as convention staff got the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to skate on the hallowed ice of the Xcel Energy Center.

Just 50 days before the start of the 2008 Republican National Convention, the Xcel Energy Center staff gave us two hours to skate and play hockey on the Wild’s home ice.

For some of us, our time on the ice produced some scrapes, bruises and many sore bodies, but it was an experience we’ll never forget.

Pictures of the action on the ice can be seen here.

Today, the ice is being removed from the arena as part of preparations for convention construction of the site beginning in seven days on July 21st. Keep an eye on the Grand Ol’ Blog for pictures and video of the Xcel Energy Center takeover and convention hall build out.

American Neighbor YouTube Contest Winner!

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:39:04 GMT

Last Friday voting concluded on the five finalists of the American Neighbor YouTube Contest. Many across the nation took to heart the call of Sen. John McCain to "serve a cause greater than one's own self-interest," and shared with us their video stories of American Neighbors making a difference in their communities for the chance to attend the 2008 Republican National Convention.

Today, we are announcing the winner right here on the Grand Ol’ Blog...(drum roll please)...

Congratulations to John Merguerian from Van Nuys, CA whose video of Jason Gilde was chosen the best example of being a good American Neighbor. Both John and Jason will be invited to attend the 2008 Republican National Convention, and John's video will be shown during the convention's official proceedings.

Click here to watch the winning video!

Last Friday we also announced another chance to not only win a free trip to the 2008 Republican National Convention, but also the chance to spend a day in the campaign press corps of Sen. John McCain.

Simply create a video that answers the question: "Why are you a Republican in 2008?" Upload your video to our YouTube channel and you could win a chance to witness life on the campaign trail first-hand and join John and Jason at the 2008 convention.

50 Days and Counting…

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 12:21:16 GMT

With just 50 days remaining until Senator John McCain accepts the Republican Party nomination at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN, here is a video preview of Senator McCain in action from his recent town hall meeting in Saint Paul.

Planning a convention and giving back

Sat, 12 Jul 2008 16:04:55 GMT

An article published yesterday on News Blaze highlights the 2008 Republican National Convention’s American Neighbor Volunteer Program and how convention staff are participating in community service projects in the Minneapolis - St. Paul area.

Close to 1,000 hours have been logged by convention staff volunteering at various locations and events such as the 14th annual Minneapolis Earth Day Watershed Cleanup to commemorate Earth Day 2008, The Salvation Army Toy Shop in December, the MN Special Olympics and other weekly service projects.

This week the 2008 GOP Convention interns spent the day helping out at Second Harvest Heartland in Saint Paul. To see an album of their service click here.

Republicans Unveil the 24/7 Town Hall Meeting to Create ‘Forward-looking’ Platform

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 12:37:09 GMT

Imagine a 24/7 town hall, where every American can offer up their opinion on the issues of the day.

Now we have it.

The Republican National Committee today unveiled a new Web site, www.GOPPlatform2008.com, which will give Americans an interactive opportunity to share their thoughts, and even submit videos, as the Republican Party develops its platform inadvance of 2008 Republican National Convention.

Congressman Kevin McCarthy (CA-22), Chairman of the 2008 Republican Platform Committee, explained why the RNC is reaching out to Americans over the Internet:

"We are seeking the most input through this historic opportunity to use a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week Internet town hall. We know Washington is not a place for solutions, so we are reaching out across the nation to create a forward-looking platform rooted in our core values with solutions that create prosperity today, and for the next generation."

Here is a round-up of "What They’re Saying" about opening up our platform to the Internet:

GOP opens another front in the campaign to win the Web - McClatchy Newspapers
Parties open insider process - Politico
RNC Seeks Platform Suggestions - The Atlantic’s Marc Ambinder blog
RNC Launches New Online Platform Discussion Site - Washington Post’s "The Trail" blog
RNC to Solicit Online Suggestions for Party Platform - ABC’s "Political Radar" blog

Senator McCain rallies MN Volunteers and looks towards 2008 GOP Convention

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 11:11:25 GMT

Senator John McCain and his wife Cindy McCain were in town for a brief stop yesterday at his regional campaign headquarters in St. Paul to thank volunteers for their hard work.

"We're going to win this state because of your efforts and we can lose because of your lack of efforts. Let's have some straight talk," Senator McCain said.

The couple also spoke about the upcoming 2008 Republican National Convention that will bring them back to MN in less than 52 days. Bill Salisbury of the Pioneer Press reports:

Cindy McCain told the crowd she's excited the Republican National Convention will be in Minnesota Sept. 1-4.

"I feel like this is nearly a second home," she said. "I can't tell you how many summers I've been here with my children enjoying hockey camp, horse camp, language camp, you-name-it camp ..."

Sen. McCain echoed her sentiments about the convention.

"I think we can showcase our party, our vision for the future and our leadership of this nation," he said. "So I'm very proud and grateful to have the opportunity to accept the nomination of the party of Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan in the Twin Cities and the state of Minnesota."

Click here to view the Pioneer Press photo slideshow of the event

After spending some time with the volunteers shaking hands and signing autographs, Senator McCain sat down with local NBC affiliate KARE 11 for a five-minute one-on-one interview.

Click here to view the broadcast
Click here to view the 1-on-1 interview
Click here to view speech to volunteers

Declaration on Wheels?

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:31:44 GMT

That’s right. During the week of the 2008 Republican National Convention, one of the 25 remaining copies of the Declaration of Independence will be on display at the St. Paul City Hall/Ramsey County Courthouse building.

The document, "printed on July 4, 1776, when the Continental Congress declared the colonies' break from England," is one of "about 200 copies which were printed the night of the historic vote and the following morning," according to the Minnesota Star Tribune.

The document will be displayed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 2-4 in the St. Paul City Hall/Ramsey County Courthouse, 15 W. Kellogg Blvd.

Lunchtime Chats are Back this Friday!

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 19:08:47 GMT

After a week hiatus in honor of Independence Day, the weekly Lunchtime Chats return this Friday at 12 p.m. CST.

Tune in to chat with Matt Burns, Director of Communications for the 2008 Republican National Convention, to get updated on the past two weeks of convention preparations and ask him questions LIVE during the chat or beforehand by emailing chats@gopconvention2008.com.

Tuesday’s edition of the Minnesota Pioneer Press recapped the first lunchtime chat which can be watched in its entirety here. The Press quipped, "Visitors to the Republican National Convention's Web site probably aren't expecting to see a GOP staffer munching on a jumbo meatball sandwich while joking with fellow party members..."

While we can’t promise another meatball sandwich all questions are fair game. So clear your schedule and grab a sandwich. We’ll see you Friday.

Minneapolis Saint Paul to kickoff Convention with 24 Hr Arts Celebration

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:02:47 GMT

“Minneapolis Saint Paul’s highly acclaimed arts community will take center stage on the weekend leading up to the Republican National Convention” according to a press release announcing “spark24” which plans to deliver “24 hours of non-stop unexpected performances and entertainment through downtown Minneapolis.”

The free entertainment marathon is scheduled to last from 8 p.m. Saturday, August 30 to 8 p.m. Sunday, August 31, just in time for the first day of the 2008 Republican National Convention on September 1.

Minneapolis Saint Paul is home to 75 professional theaters boasting more theater seats per capita than any other U.S. city but New York. Several theaters, including the Guthrie Theater (a convention venue ), are recent Tony Award winners. “Spark24” will showcase the “award winning Minneapolis Saint Paul arts scene to a global audience.”

Vote Now for the American Neighbor YouTube Contest Winner

Fri, 04 Jul 2008 11:59:28 GMT

Vote now for the winner of 2008 Republican National Convention American Neighbor YouTube Contest. The finalists are five people serving a cause greater than their own self-interest including the founder of a non-profit, a Marine captain, a patriotic 9 year-old, an ER doctor, and a WWII veteran.

The people behind the winning video submission will win a trip to the convention in September and see their video displayed as part of the convention’s official proceedings.

It’s now up to you to decide who will get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness first-hand the nomination of Senator John McCain and all the rest of the action at the 2008 GOP Convention.

You have one week to vote for your favorite video today at www.youtube.com/gopconvention2008. Voting will conclude at 5 PM EST on Friday, July 11th.

Lifetime Video Highlights Women of 2008 GOP Convention

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 18:34:01 GMT

The Lifetime television network has launched their "Every Woman Counts" online election community and highlights the women of the 2008 GOP Convention in a three and a half minute video.

If you’ve looked around our website you already know that women hold many leadership positions with the convention, including President and CEO Maria Cino, Vice President Mel Raines, and Chairman of the Committee on Arrangements Jo Ann Davidson, just to name a few.

Watch the video and meet the women of the 2008 GOP Convention.

Everyone Agrees - 2008 GOP Convention will be Wired!

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 20:36:01 GMT

On the heels of our first "Lunchtime Chat"- promoted on the blog of Wired Magazine- today’s Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that the 2008 Republican National Convention "will be a highly wired act." The article describes the technological infrastructure upgrades being made to the Xcel Energy Center and the surrounding Saint Paul area, as well as some of the new and exciting technological communications tools the convention will employ. In an effort to deliver convention content to more users across a variety of platforms, the convention is using live streaming video and a host of social networks like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and YouTube.

The National Journal is also recognizing the "exponential jump for technology" in a piece that details convention plans to credential an unprecedented number of bloggers and partnerships with major technology companies, such as Google and Microsoft. The story also highlights our work with USTREAM.TV to stream video live during the convention and provide behind-the-scenes access.

Stay tuned to www.GOPConvention2008.com to participate in the most tech-savvy convention in party history.

'Convention Countdown': Pioneer Press gives Republicans 'upper hand' in planning

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:25:48 GMT

Today, Saint Paul's Pioneer Press compares preparations for the Republican and Democratic National Conventions in eight categories and determines that Republican convention organizers hold "the upper hand."

According to the newspaper, Republican National Convention planners in Saint Paul hold advantages in fundraising, media relations, and civic engagement, among others.

Outlining preparations being made in Denver, the Pioneer Press writes:

"Convention officials rescheduled a spring media 'walk through,' where media organizations have a chance to set up their operations. The move was widely seen as a sign of disarray and forced airline reservations to be canceled or switched. Advantage: St. Paul. At an event largely designed to use the media to send a message, upsetting the media is not good strategy."

View the full "Convention Countdown" story here.

Announcing Lunchtime Chats- Join the LIVE Conversation this Friday!

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:53:42 GMT

Got any lunch plans? We’d love to get together and tell you about the preparations being made in advance of the 2008 GOP Convention.

Friday we are launching a weekly online conversation with convention staff called "Lunchtime Chats." With the help of Ustream.tv, the convention's live video streaming provider, Lunchtime Chats will offer informal, interactive, and LIVE question and answer sessions with convention organizers.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the convention progress as senior staff members answer your questions LIVE from their desk at the convention headquarters in Saint Paul, Minn.

Join the conversation by participating in our first chat Friday, June 27, at 12 PM CST, with Director of Communications Matt Burns. Bring your lunch and check us out at http://www.gopconvention2008.com/lunchtimechats.

Construction begins on new home for SGT Marcus Kuboy

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 14:16:18 GMT

Today, convention staff, along with volunteers from local credit unions, the St. Paul Building Trades Council and the National Journal Group kicked off a three-day "build brigade" to construct a home for wounded Iraq war veteran SGT Marcus Kuboy as part of a project for Homes for Our Troops.

Ground was broken on April 28th in Woodbury, MN and over the course of the next three days convention staff and more than 100 other volunteers will work from dawn to dusk to complete most of the exterior construction of the home.

"John McCain has called on all Americans to serve a cause greater than one’s self-interest, and we are proud to honor SGT Kuboy and the many sacrifices he has made for our country with this new, specially adapted home," said Maria Cino, President and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

The Homes for Our Troops project is one of many service initiatives convention staff participates in as part of the American Neighbor program, which began early this year.

Local NBC affiliate KARE 11 was at the construction site and filed this story and also posted a video.

American Neighbor Volunteers: 600 Hours of Service

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:59:01 GMT

Just like every Tuesday, today members of the 2008 GOP Convention staff volunteered at Saint Paul’s Dorothy Day Center which provides meals and medical care for homeless and near-homeless individuals in the metropolitan area. As part of the Committee on Arrangement's ongoing American Neighbor volunteer program, a service initiative aimed at giving back to the host cities, convention staff has logged more than 600 hours of volunteer service with organizations in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area.

The Catholic Charities announced on June 12th, their decision to keep the Dorothy Day Center-which sits directly across the street from the convention venue-open during the 2008 GOP Convention. Immediately following their announcement, Maria Cino, President and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention released a statement supporting their decision and encouraging more people to join in "volunteering for this vital community program."

More press with More Magazine

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 10:56:39 GMT

The 1.2 million readers of More Magazine are treated to a side-by-side interview of GOP Convention President & CEO Maria Cino and DNC Convention CEO Leah Daughtry in its latest issue. More, a magazine that celebrates women 40+, profiled the two women holding the top spot within each convention.

Xcel Energy Center set sights on 2008 GOP Convention

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:24:29 GMT

In less than 70 days the Xcel Energy Center will host the 2008 GOP Convention and they are already gearing up for the big show and proudly promoting the convention on their website homepage. Following two Neil Diamond concerts in mid July, the GOP Convention is the next item on the calendar for this world-renowned facility that plays host to more than 150 events each year.

Ironically, it happens to be the 10-year anniversary of the groundbreaking of the Xcel Energy Center, locally known as "the X". This morning's Pioneer Press had a good piece on the history of "the X", complete with fun facts and all.

All smiles and sun at the MN Special Olympics

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 20:12:41 GMT

Today was the conclusion of a two-day volunteer effort by the GOP Convention 2008 staff with the Minnesota Special Olympics hosted on the University of Minnesota’s campus in Minneapolis.

Volunteers enjoyed the summer sun as they helped organize several track and field events and assisted with games, check in, and other tasks to ensure a successful Special Olympic Games.

A Preview of September- Sen. McCain visits Saint Paul

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:09:59 GMT

If you follow our Twitter feed, you know that Sen. John McCain spent Thursday evening working hard in the Twin Cities. Early in the evening he spoke at a fundraiser in Minneapolis followed by one of his famous town hall meetings at the Landmark Center in Saint Paul later that night.

Across the street from the Xcel Energy Center, which will host Sen. McCain in less than three months, the city of Saint Paul got a preview of the excitement to come during the 2008 Republican National Convention. News satellite trucks lined the streets, Secret Service blanketed the building and people stood in line around the block waiting anxiously to enter and be seated for the town hall.

After a gracious introduction by Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, Sen. McCain took the stage and to give the crowd some straight talk on everything from energy prices to healthcare. Minnesota independents and Democrats in the audience welcomed Sen. McCain's honest answers, accessibility and good humor - often laughing and applauding throughout the two-hour event.

If last night was any indication, Saint Paul will be the center of the universe this September as Sen. McCain is officially nominated as the 2008 Republican presidential nominee.

Check out the picture slide show. Video highlights coming soon.

Eight Days to Enter

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:40:18 GMT

You still have your chance to win a seat at the 2008 Republican National Convention by entering our American Neighbor Volunteer Convention Contest and share with us your story of people making a difference in their community.

Many have entered, but only five videos will be announced as finalists - to be voted on by YouTube users.

Click here to enter...only eight days left!

Upping the Ante for Georgians on GOP YouTube Contest

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:00:55 GMT

Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-GA) is announcing a prize of his own as part of our American Neighbor YouTube contest.

Today Saxby said he will feature videos submitted by Georgians to our contest on his own YouTube channel. He also promised if a Georgian wins the Grand Prize, they will win a trip to his swearing in ceremony in Washington, D.C.

His prize is on top of the Grand Prize already offered by the 2008 Republican National Convention: the winners joining us in Minneapolis-Saint Paul in September, as we nominate Sen. John McCain to become next President of the United States!

A Young Man From Omaha, Who May Perfectly Represent Brooklyn

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:41:59 GMT

The New York Times today writes about a 16-year-old Yosef Abrahamson, an African-American Hasidic Jew from Crown Heights in Brooklyn, by way of Omaha, Neb.

It takes them till the last paragraph, but the Times reports that Yosef’s mother is Republican delegate to the 2008 Republican National Convention, and Yosef will be a page at the convention this summer.

On the streets of DC

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 18:42:53 GMT

Matt Burns, Director of Communications for the 2008 Republican National Convention, was on the streets of Washington, D.C., today when Tammy Haddad of Newsweek’s TamCam blog caught up with him to talk about how the convention planning is going.

Roseville, Minn., teen named ‘Wave the Stars & Stripes’ winner

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:52:33 GMT

The 2008 Republican National Convention announced Friday that Victoria Blackstone, 15, of Roseville, Minn., is the winner of its 'Wave the Stars & Stripes' Essay Contest.

Victoria’s essay, "Pledging Myself to the Flag of the United States of America," was named the top essay over hundreds of entries.

Mark Rugnetta, 13, of Savage, Minn., was the runner up with his essay: "Colors on Cloth."

Blackstone will lead the Pledge of Allegiance at an official convention event, while both Blackstone's and Rugnetta's essays will be published in the June 15 edition of the Saint Paul Pioneer Press. Each student will also receive laptop computers provided by Qwest and Xbox 360 systems from Microsoft.

Essays from the ten finalists will be displayed in the Saint Paul Central Library, while every essay entered into the contest will be sent to the Minnesota National Guard’s 851st Vertical Engineering Company, now serving in Baghdad, so that the Guardsmen can read what the students back home have to say about the American Flag.

Congratulations to Victoria, Mark, and all the students from Minneapolis-Saint Paul who took part in our essay contest!

Interns gearing for GOP Convention work

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:14:46 GMT

The Dallas Morning News highlights one of the new interns at the 2008 Republican National Convention: University of Dallas senior Jessica Rondeau of Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Jessica is in the media operations department, helping out with the preparations to welcome 15,000 journalists from around the world – second only to the Olympic Games; and, as the article says: she is used to hard work.

“Ms. Rondeau is used to hard work: She's paying her way through college, something that makes her appreciate the Republican stance on issues such as tax cuts.”

The convention is proud to have Jessica and her 25 other colleagues join us here in Minneapolis-Saint Paul.

Media Lizzy and her friend Matt

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:12:00 GMT

We came across this on the Internet this afternoon, a record of Communications Director Matt Burns’ interview with Media Lizzy about the American Neighbor YouTube Convention Contest .

Very informative stuff here.

By the way, entries continue to pour in and nearly 85,000 people have watched our video call for entry. Enter by June 26 for your chance to attend the 2008 Republican National Convention.

A Grand Old Day for the Grand Old Party

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 12:16:52 GMT

As you might have seen on our Twitter feed, the city of Saint Paul celebrated the traditional kickoff to summer with the 35th annual Grand Old Day festivities on Sunday.

The hot sun beaming down on the historic Grand Avenue reminded participants that summer has officially arrived in Minneapolis-Saint Paul, and it reminds us that we are only 91 days away from the 2008 Republican National Convention – slated to be the most energetic and exciting in Republican history.

Local musicians, a petting zoo, a 5k and 8k run/walk, strongest man and woman competition, and a teen battle of the bands kept people entertained throughout the day. More than 140 outdoor food and merchandise vendors lined Grand Avenue while thousands of spectators enjoyed the sights and sounds of marching bands, dancers, bag pipes, unicycles, vintage cars and art cars.

However, the Grand Old Day parade was the headliner event as the Grand Old Party’s Saint Paul contingent was out in full force supporting Republican candidates running for local and state offices, and reminding everyone that Saint Paul will play host to the nomination of Sen. John McCain.

Sen. Norm Coleman, the former two-term mayor of Saint Paul, also had a large contingent of supporters in the parade as well as friends in the crowd on every block. If yesterday was any indication of the support he has behind him, then Senator Coleman is in good shape for November.

American Neighbor YouTube Convention Contest: Connecticut GOP Chair to put film degree to use

Thu, 29 May 2008 18:37:44 GMT

While the blogosphere continues to be very receptive to our convention YouTube contest , Chairman Chris Healy of the Connecticut Republican Party , plans to put his college degree to use and participate, according to The Everyday Republican.

"I'm going to enter a video," said Healy, who has a B.A. in Film from Denison University. "And I'm in it to win it. It's about time I use my college education".

We here at the convention congratulate the Connecticut GOP for spreading the word of our contest, and hope all of you: Republicans, Democrats, and Independents alike, will choose to answer Sen. John Mccain's. call to "serve a call greater than one's own self-interest."

Since Friday, more than 54,000 people have watched our call for entry.

Thank you troops

Mon, 26 May 2008 10:36:35 GMT

This Memorial Day, please join us in saying "thank you" to the brave men and women who are serving and have served in our nation's armed forces. We all enjoy the freedoms they help defend on a daily basis, so please join us in saying thank you to our troops today and every day.

American Neighbor: Convention announces national YouTube contest

Fri, 23 May 2008 12:40:53 GMT

This morning, the 2008 Republican National Convention announced a nationwide YouTube video contest that highlights public service, and gives the winners a chance to attend the convention held at the Xcel Energy Center, Sept. 1-4.

The contest calls on Republicans, Democrats and Independents alike to share their stories of people making a difference in their community through our partners at YouTube . It is part of the convention’s American Neighbor Volunteer Program, which reflects Senator John McCain’s call to “serve a cause greater than their own self-interest,” through making people realize that they can help their neighbors and make a difference at home.

You can upload your video at the convention’s YouTube Channel through June 26. Five finalists will be named on June 27, and you can vote on the winner through July 3. The winner will be announced on Independence Day.

The winning video will be played during the official proceedings of the 2008 Republican National Convention. The producer and person profiled in the winning video will be invited to attend the convention.

Are You Serving a Cause Greater Than Your Own Self-Interest? (Politisite)

Win a Trip to the GOP Convention - on YouTube (citizentube)

Vid-Biz: Flay, White Spaces, GOP (NewTeeVee)

“A very cool idea. Your move, DNC” (Personal Democracy Forum)

GOP Convention Launches YouTube Contest (MediaLizzy)

Second Cup - YouTube your way to the GOP Convention (TechRepublican)

Red, White and Zubaz

Tue, 13 May 2008 21:39:03 GMT

Today was the day to be at the Mall of America, as our friends at the MSP2008 Host Committee put on a fashion show, unveiling the official gear of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

Convention President and CEO Maria Cino served as an emcee, along with Host Committee President Cynthia Lesher.

And, yes, the Zubaz are back – and, as a local product, we are more than happy to welcome them as part of the official convention collection.

We’d also like to thank Ian Alexander (Brewster, N.Y./Eden Prairie, Minn.), Nicole Barton (Los Angeles, Calif.), Emily Dahl (Lincolnshire, Ill.), Bill Godoy (Tuscaloosa, Ala.), Alexandra Redman (St. Louis, Mo.), Paul Sorenson (Greentown, Ind.) and Rachel Suttles (Raleigh, N.C.) from our convention staff who worked it on the catwalk (Paul even broke out the “Blue Steel” pose).

Democrat Donkey an Undecided Superdelgate

Tue, 06 May 2008 16:22:09 GMT

A guy in a donkey suit, a few pounds of walleye, and a police officer...

Tell me if you've heard that one before...

But seriously, a guy in a donkey suit did show up to our convention offices to sing a song of thanks for the walleye we sent our friends in Denver to settle our bet for the Colorado Avalanche's win over the Minnesota Wild in the NHL playoffs.

The donkey turned out to be a superdelegate - and an undecided one at that!

Looking forward to handing over the keys

Fri, 02 May 2008 18:52:30 GMT

It was a powerful event on Monday, when the ground was broken at the site of soon-to-be-built new home of Minnesota National Guard SGT Marcus Kuboy.

Convention President and CEO Maria Cino was joined by Governor Tim Pawlenty, Rep. Michelle Bachman, and Homes for Our Troops founder John Gonsalves on a gloomy day in Woodbury, which was warmed up by the well-wishers, friends, and loved ones of SGT Kuboy.

According to Cino:

"Taking care of our men and women in uniform is not a Republican issue. It is not a Democrat issue. It is an American issue. As Sen. McCain often says, every American has a duty to serve a cause greater than one’s self -interest. SGT Kuboy epitomizes selflessness – and we are honored to participate in this project as a small gesture of our appreciation for his honorable service and great sacrifices. We look forward to working on the construction of SGT Kuboy’s home, and to the day we can present the keys.”

Click on the video to learn more about the event, and click on the links below to see how the local media covered the event:

Wounded Robbinsdale vet gets new home (KSTP-TV, with video)
Wounded vet to get accessible house (Rochester Post-Bulletin)
Wounded soldier accepts thanks, future home (Saint Paul Pioneer Press, Twincities.com)
Injured vet will get adapted home in Woodbury (Minneapolis Star-Tribune)

American Neighbor: Home for Our Troops

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 21:32:33 GMT

The sign has gone up at the future home of Minnesota National Guard SGT Marcus Kuboy.

The 2008 Republican National Convention is joining with Home for Our Troops, the National Journal, and the Credit Union National Association to build a specially-adapted home for this hometown hero.

We can't wait until Monday's groundbreaking and the opportunity to swing some hammers to get SGT Kuboy's home built by September.

American Neighbor: 14th Annual Earth Day Watershed Clean-Up

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 13:14:55 GMT

In anticipation of Earth Day, dozens of our staffers gave up their Saturday to give back to the Minneapolis-Saint Paul community by participating in the 14th Annual Earth Day Watershed Clean-Up, sponsored by the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation board.

We spent the morning picking up everything from cigarette butts to bottles and cans at Minnehaha Park, on the banks of the Mississippi River, in Minneapolis.

We definitely enjoyed the warmer weather but, as you can see from the pictures, we still needed to wear a coat. We hope to enjoy Minnehaha Park as we move toward the summer months, and the 2008 Republican National Convention.

A Wild Season

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 12:58:01 GMT

The State of Hockey will have to wait another year for the Stanley Cup as the Minnesota Wild took it to the final seconds of game six in Denver before losing the game, 3-2, and the first-round series, 4-2, to the Colorado Avalanche.

It was an exceptional season for the Northwest Division Champions, and an exceptional season for the staff of the 2008 Republican National Convention - some of whom watched their first-ever NHL games this season.

It was an exciting series, which mirrored the way the season went for the Wild - who fought hard against evenly-matched rivals to earn their first-ever division crown.

There was a friendly wager on this series, as many of you know. Since the Wild play at the Xcel Energy Center (site of our convention), and the Avalanche play at the Pepsi Center (site of the Democratic convention), a bet was made between the convention CEOs. Now, our staff will have to send Minnesota Walleye to our friends in Denver (if the Wild had won, we would have received Colorado-raised beef).

We hope our friends in Colorado enjoy the Walleye, but we know it won't be as much as we enjoyed watching the Wild play this season.

Thanks guys!

Sincerely,
Proud members of the Team of 18,000.

P.S.

Here are a couple of Walleye recipes for you:

MINNESOTA WALLEYE AND WILD RICE

SAUTEED WALLEYE WITH SOUR CREAM

Civic Fest Announced

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 17:38:21 GMT

Our friends over at the MSP 2008 Host Committee today announced the dates for Civic Fest - "A vibrant civic festival celebrating Minnesota and American History, democracy and the U.S. presidency."

The event will be August 29 - September 4 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman (R-Minn.) was joined by Mayors Chris Coleman of St. Paul and R.T. Rybak of Mineapolis in announcing the event.

Gerard McTernan will produce the event.

Drop the Puck: The Team of 18,000 vs. Colorado

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:22:09 GMT

It's that time of year, when men on ice don't shave - all in pursuit of the opportunity to drink cheap champagne from a silver cup they won't get to touch until June.

The race is on for the Stanley Cup; and this year, the trail to the Cup and the White House go through the Xcel Energy Center, home of the Minnesota Wild and 2008 Republican National Convention.

The first round series for the Wild is against the Colorado Avalanche, who play their games at the Pepsi Center - the location of the Democratic Convention.

Of course, you knew there would be a little friendly wager between the conventions.

Here is the deal: If the Wild wins, our friends in Denver will send Colorado-raised steaks. If the Avs win, we send Minnesota walleyes.

Personally, we're looking forward to having some surf-and-turf, State of Hockey-style.

Hotel Announcement Event on YouTube

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:19:39 GMT

Yesterday's hotel announcement marked an important milestone in convention preparations, so if you haven't done so yet you can check out the listing of delegation hotel assignments here (link). Watch the video below to see the announcement made by Convention President and CEO Maria Cino, Minneapolis Saint Paul Host Committee CEO Jeff Larson and Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Ron Carey.

Blog Madness: Grand Ol’ Blog

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 08:52:52 GMT

Thanks to everyone which made Blog Madness a resounding success!

Twenty-eight days ago, we started with 32 names offered up by our friends in the blogosphere (some were repeats).

Since then, you have weighed in and helped us pick the name of the official blog of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

It was a blow-out.

The Grand Ol’ Blog, representing the Lincoln Bracket, trounced Trunkated, 79-21.

Congrats to the number of bloggers which included the Grand Ol’ Blog (or something similar) in their submissions after our YouTube call for names.

So, welcome to the Grand Ol' Blog – the official blog of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

"Pivotal" step forward

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 14:51:48 GMT

The 56 delegations representing the states, territories, and the District of Columbia now know where they will be staying when they come to Minneapolis-Saint Paul for the 2008 Republican National Convention.

Convention President and CEO Maria Cino joined MSP 2008 Host Committee CEO Jeff Larson, Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Ron Carey and Pete Bauchle, General Manager of the Saint Paul Hilton Garden Inn, to the welcome banner for the Minnesota Delegation – which is staying at the hotel.

It was also announced that the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis will serve as the headquarters hotel for the Republican National Committee.

Several members of the local media, as well as our cameras, were on hand for the announcement.

For the complete list of delegation hotel announcements, click here.