2008 Republican National Convention Launches Website
One Year Out, GOP Making Strides in Minneapolis-Saint Paul
SAINT PAUL, Minn. - One year out from the 2008 Republican National Convention, the Committee on Arrangements (COA) today launched the initial phase of its official convention website, www.GOPConvention2008.com. Additional phases, offering visitors expanded information and interactive capabilities, will be unveiled throughout the coming year. The website launch is another important step in organizing the four-day event in Minneapolis-Saint Paul.
The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held at Saint Paul's Xcel Energy Center from September 1-4, 2008. An experienced team is hard at work in the host cities, making great strides in the areas of housing, operations, hospitality, administration, information technology, among others. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, members of the media, volunteers and other guests are expected to attend the convention - and www.GOPConvention2008.com will allow millions more to participate in the event from around the world.
The initial website structure features the latest news and headlines from convention headquarters; a frequently asked questions or “FAQ” section; information on volunteering; and the option to subscribe to regular electronic updates, among other components. Future phases will incorporate more cutting-edge features, including video and additional forms of user-generated content.
“Our website, www.GOPConvention2008.com, will be more than a one-way communication tool that provides information to those traveling to the convention,” COA President and CEO Maria Cino said. “In the coming months, it will become a fully interactive community that encourages everyone to become involved in the Republican Party's nomination of the next President of the United States.”
Cino is currently leading a convention team of more than 15 COA staffers in Minneapolis-Saint Paul, and that number will eventually grow to more than 150. The COA and the 2008 Minneapolis-Saint Paul Host Committee are each doing their part to ensure that the convention is a triumph for the Republican Party, as well as for the host cities.
After a thorough site selection process, Minneapolis-Saint Paul was chosen for its vibrant communities, outstanding hotels and event venues, and a clear enthusiasm to host the convention. Staff is in the process of contracting with nearly 100 hotels and 70 venues throughout the metropolitan area - and the local business community is already reaping the benefits of the additional visitors scheduled for 2008. In total, the host cities are projected to receive an estimated $150-$160 million positive economic boost.
“With planning on track and momentum building on the ground, we're confident the 2008 Republican National Convention will provide our nominee with an effective vehicle to share his vision for the future of America,” Cino added. “The boost the convention provides will propel our nominee to victory in November.”
The latest news and headlines will continue to be posted on www.GOPConvention2008.com - the source for convention news in the year to come.
