SAINT
PAUL, Minn. - Today, the 2008 Republican National
Convention unveiled the podium from which John McCain will accept the
Republican Party’s nomination to be the next president of the United
States.
The podium used for the first three nights of the convention was
modified to enable John McCain to deliver his acceptance speech from
the center of the Xcel Energy Center. The new podium is a reflection of
the town-hall style that has been a hallmark of McCain’s campaign. In
the new forum, he will be surrounded by the delegates that nominated
him the night before.
The new podium was constructed by removing the front corner sections of
the existing platform and extending its midsection by 30 feet. The
extension will be eight feet wide. Near the conclusion of tonight’s
program, Sen. McCain will address the convention from a lectern
positioned near the end of this newly-constructed extension. To
accommodate the modified platform, delegates from the state of Ohio
will be re-seated on either side.
"The extended podium will serve as a fitting complement to John
McCain’s preference for direct interaction with his fellow citizens,"
said Maria Cino, president and CEO of the 2008 Republican National
Convention. "We look forward to a tremendous speech by America’s next
president, and a successful conclusion to this year’s convention."
For the first three days of the convention, speakers and program
participants appeared on a black hard laminate stage measuring 51.5
feet wide by 34 feet deep. The stage is bordered by 101.5 feet of
recessed lighting and backed by an impressive video wall that gives
everyone in the convention hall a perfect view of the proceedings.
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
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