Media Welcome Event at the NC Music Factory...

Mayor of Charlotte, Anthony Fox

The city of Charlotte held a reception gala for all the media today at the NC music factory. Journalists of print, television, and radio media were among the the invited guests to celebrate the kickoff start of the 2012 Democratic National Convention. Politicians such as Anthony Fox pictured above, mayor of Charlotte, was also among the invited guests who took part in the reception gala. The opportunity to meet Mayor Anthony Fox and being able to converse with him about the issues which concern Charlotte was extremely inspiring.  

Democratic National Convention Podium Tour, Time Warner Cable Arena...

DNC Floor 

DNC Podium 

     

DNC Convention Hall, Upper Level 

Today we had the opportunity tour the DNC podium and Convention floor at the Time Warner Cable Arena.

Why was Charlotte chosen to host the 2012 Democratic National Convention?

Panel Discussion at UNC- Charlotte



Honorable Harvey Gantt, Former Mayor of Charlotte, NC








 

Bob Morgan, President and CEO, Charlotte Chamber of Commerce

After a series of guest speakers this morning we had the opportunity to attend a forum at UNC- Charlotte in which focused on the question on why Charlotte was chosen to host the 2012 Democratic National Convention. Among the speakers were The Honorable Harvey Gantt, Bob Morgan, and former Mayor Richard Vinroot. Panelists were asked selected questions by students participating in The Washington Center Academic Seminar. The questions posed by students focused on the individual DNC partner’s opinions on why they believe Charlotte was selected as the host city and what they have to offer as a city that is undergoing a renaissance and being a contestant for the Convention.











A behind the scenes perspective from Ricky Krishner, Executive Producer- DNC 2012...

Ricky Krishner



Ricky Kirshner, Executive Producer- DNC 2012





This morning Ricky Krishner was among various speakers at the DNC academic Seminar. Krishner is the Executive  Producer of the DNC 2012 and has more than 20 years of experience in a variety of television and corporate event production. Next week it will be his sixth time as the Producer or Executive Producer of the Democratic National Convention. Krishner spoke about the technicalities behind the Convention plattform which included the following: logistics, lighting, audio, stage hands, and technicle facilities. Krishner stated "budgeting was a fundamental part of the process in which my experience in economics aided me in that process." Krishner gave us a little insight as to the logistical details of planning and building together a team that he trusts. Krishner stated "Hard work applies to all jobs regardless of industry and should be recognized." The information Krishner provided was helpful in terms of understanding the interaction between the DNCC and the DNC Production team in organizing and coordinating the platform for the 2012 DNC.



Tricia Cotham: A Catalyst for social change in the North Carolina House of Representatives...

Representative Tricia Cotham, (D) North Carolina State Legislator

NC State Legislator Tricia Cotham (D), District 100

This morning, Rep. Cotham was among several speakers who shared her journey while seeking election to a vacant House seat in 2007. Cotham spoke about the obstacles she faced as a single young women seeking elected office. At the age of 25 Representative Cotham handily won, becoming the youngest member of the House- and the youngest woman ever elected to the House. Representative Cotham quickly became a distinguished leading voice for strengthening and reforming North Carolina's public schools. Representative Cotham touched upon the topic of banking regulations and stated "You have to stand for what you believe in, even if you' re the only one left standing", this is why I support banking regulations.

She spoke about her struggles as a newly elected member of the House who happens to be not only young, but also female. Representative Cotham's story was very inspirational and serves a role model for women who have an interest in seeking elected office.

Welcome to Charlotte and the DNC...

Guest Speaker Dr. Dan Murrey

Dr. Dan Murrey- Executive Director, Charlotte 2012 Host Committee

The day began with welcoming remarks and introductions of The Washington Center staff. Among the Guest Speakers present was Dr. Dan Murrey who serves as Executive Director of Charlotte in 2012 Convention Host Committee. Dr. Murrey  talked about the obligations, funding, and his effort in guiding a non-partisan Host Committee that will focus on the best interest of Charlotteans as a community. Dr. Murrey ended with stating that " the 2012 Democratic National Convention will showcase Charlotte, and all it has to offer, to the rest of the country and the world."

Went on a small tour of downtown Charlotte...

Downtown Charlotte

The scenery  in Charlotte, NC is live and full of excitement as the city prepares to host the Convention.