Man I hope we get this event, by then there could be a pretty big city they come and see..

2008 Tampa will look awesome, plus with the 12-15 buildings done and several other cranes going up at that time.

Here's the link..
And do you think we can get it over the other cities..


http://news.tbo.com/news/metro/MGBZEJDU0OE.html

So you get the Republican National Convention in 2008 then you host your 4th Superbowl in 2009..

Wow, then you add the ACC Championship basketball tournament in 2007..



Tampa is starting to take more and more events away from it's neighbors in the southeast..

good for us and our economy :)

Bring on the protestors! Bring on the riots! Bring on the dissent that will be ignored by the high and mighty of the GOP!

Could it be a McCain-Guilliani ticket in Tampa Bay..

Since this is in September 2008, I would love it for Fairmont or Four Seasons to start a DT Hotel soon..

You're not going to see Rudy named to the GOP ticket. He's the most socially liberal republican out there. McCain might get the nomination from the GOP but he's lost his cross-over appeal by leaning further to the right to appease the religious base.

but now I'm going off topic and into politics... But then again, to talk about the National Convention and not to talk about the politics (and I imagine there will be hellacious protesting in whatever city gets the convention) is ignoring that it's a political convention.

But speaking of those protestors -- they will be a boon for the economy as much as the convention goers themselves. That and a hindrence if they cause traffic tie ups and vandalize the city.

I will be pissed off if people riot and undo all of the work that is going on and will be going on in Tampa.

Why did we not even go after the DNC convention?

They're both a huge waste of money, which is why Orlando pulled out. I think both cities could better utilize the necesary funding it takes to make these conventions happen

$.02

^^Kinda like the Olympics. The only thing that really comes out of it is getting your city's name out there and bragging rights.

At this point it is about getting Tampa more on the map. I like all the publicity that we are getting. I think we should hold the RNC and DNC here. If we get one, we should get the other.

Miami Beach did that back in the early 70's, didn't they?

I believe so. Though it is good for publicity for both parties, the public living there might have/had adverse feelings about hosting both.

While I'm inclined to agree with you, there is some public relations benefit to hosting the event that no amount of advertising would ever be able to achieve. Atlanta emerged as a world-class city as a result of hosting the Olympics. Tampa may not be perceived at quite that level yet, but continuing to diversify the types of events it hosts will help to create that perception. The GOP convention may have its short-run costs, but long-run, it's a better investment.

I think that in the next five years Tampa will be on the maps of the Olympic Committees. I think in the realm of the politics, while I would love for both to be hosted here, they won't. I think that Tampa needs to get a little event history under its belt before it will be considered for any other event.

At this point it is about getting Tampa more on the map. I like all the publicity that we are getting. I think we should hold the RNC and DNC here. If we get one, we should get the other.
On the map? Im looking at one right now and there it is: on the west coast of Florida. In all seriousness it would be cool to have, but I dont think it puts you on the map.

Also, check "all the publicity", there seems to be a tendency for forumers to spend all day talking about their city online and to believe that the rest of the country is as well.


Tallaman is correct though, there is a good amount of P.R. benefits. Unfortunately the by-product or the direct gain is hard to measure.

Good luck to Tampa though! :)

I think that in the next five years Tampa will be on the maps of the Olympic Committees. I think in the realm of the politics, while I would love for both to be hosted here, they won't. I think that Tampa needs to get a little event history under its belt before it will be considered for any other event.

You really don't understand the process about these things, do you? I mean, you expect (!) both conventions to be held in the same city. I'm guessing you're not very politically active right??

Republicans and Democrats aren't just "the government" -- they are two political parties with different beliefs and they happen to oppose each other. Both parties are so unpopular with certain factions that they are protested in order to bring light abuses or political disharmony within them. To have the Republican and Democratic national conventions in the same city would be a logistical nightmare along with a security nightmare. Of course, they wouldn't be held at the exact same time but neither party would be happy getting the 2nd billing in the city.

And it's not that the Olympic committees or Super Bowl task forces or the like look at cities and just say "OK, I like that city -- lets add it to our short list." There is a whole process tied to these naming of cities for events (be it the RNC or DNC, the Olympics, the Final Four, the Frozen Four, etc).

You have to organize and make a bid, you have to make a presentation -- you as in the city interested in hosting this event. You can't have a piece-of-crap bid and think the city will be named just because it's got tall buildings or interesting things to do. You have to show there is both local political and commercial support, as well as how you'll tune your city specifically for these events (causing disarray for local residents).

Tampa/St. Petersburg has plenty of events under it's belt -- it's hosted Super Bowl's, the NCAA Final Four, the NHL All Star game, the Stanley Cup finals (not a selected event, but an event none the less) -- along with a plethora of conventions and the like. What else is there to "get under their belt"??

You really need to start thinking things through before posting... Tampa is "on the map" -- as was already stated in this thread. Anyone thinking otherwise doesn't know about Tampa's history the last 20 years with what we've accomplished.

How much will it cost Tampa to host it? I ask b/c Crotty made a big stink about dumping millions into converting the OCCC and hiring security for the delegates and other expenses, coupled with their agenda for other civic projects, when they decided to pull out and throw their support behind Tampa's bid.

Crotty, whose son is famous for sleeping standing up duing a Bush speech... Heh. (search for the Tyler Crotty video and you'll see what I am talking about).

It's going to be upwards of 50 million, that is for sure. Security would be reimbursed by the government, from what the Tribune article on the subject was stating.

John F, what the hell, if you actually read my post I said I wish they would, but it won't.

Mobster, most times I read your posts you're contradicting yourself. You posted both conventions should be held in the same city, then you posted a follow up to someone else's post saying they won't.

12:37 PM:

At this point it is about getting Tampa more on the map. I like all the publicity that we are getting. I think we should hold the RNC and DNC here. If we get one, we should get the other.

1:41 PM:
I think that in the next five years Tampa will be on the maps of the Olympic Committees. I think in the realm of the politics, while I would love for both to be hosted here, they won't. I think that Tampa needs to get a little event history under its belt before it will be considered for any other event.

And it still doesn't erase other points that I made -- that there is a process for this, that this isn't going to happen anytime soon and would be a nightmare for any city... Also how you don't seem to understand the process, nor do you always think things through before you post.

I'm not trying to discourage you but you need to read through things more and post a little less often. Enthusiasm takes you only so far.

Ok so I tend to contradict myself and I do not think things through. I also, might not have studied Tampa's history for the past 20 yrs. because I have only been alive for 21 years.

I'm 26 -- I'm versed enough to know WTF has happened in the past not to make assinine statements time and again. That doesn't come from living through the past, that comes through reading about the past. There's enough information out there to enlighten you and everyone else on topics you are interested in.

Like I told you above -- enthusiasm takes you only so far. When you're enthusiastically posting about what you want for Tampa and don't know how to get it (and posting how you think we'll get it), it ends up not reflecting well on you. I'm not trying to attack you, I'm not trying to scare you off -- I'm trying to tell you to tone it down and read everything through. You don't have to comment every time someone responds - especially if you don't know much about the situation to begin with. "I think we should have both conventions if we get one" just reflects you don't know the bid process, nor the political process. It gets frustrating reading comments like that and seeing them over and over again.

I think it's great that Tampa is going after this, and is the early favorite to host it... Perhaps it will cost plenty, and will be a mess for locals... But it is also a pretty big deal, and will get Tampa ALOT of publicity for weeks leading up to the event.

Besides, if we get this, then I can rent out my townhouse for yet another event for like $5k for the week. I would LOVE to pay for a nice vacation on the dime of people I can't stand. :D

Bringing the GOP to town is like inviting a bunch of STD-infested whores to town. Sans the brief gratification.

Must we whore our city out for the publicity? What will the free-thinking world think of us, after we *invite* MORE Republicans to town?

Since New York had it in 2004. I think Tampa has way more to offer than Minneapolis and Cleveland..

Also the city could pay up to 124 million to get this huge event..

Tampa would be mentioned in every newspaper from Dubai to Beijing ..


http://www.tbo.com/news/nationworld/MGBA37TO3OE.html

It sounds like the facilities are pretty much in place already, barring some minor modifications to fit the purpose. Which is great. The Orlando RFP required us to essentialy build a 15 million dollar seating area in the Convention Center, only to have it torn down 4 days later. At stake also was a potenttial loss of about $200 million in conventions that would have to be canceled or rescheduled for at least three months.

I still dont know, $85 Million dollars in public money goes a long way. If you guys get it, just promise to keep them out of Orlando. NO DISNEY, and NO UNIVERSAL, keep em' in Hillsborough. :)

All in all, I hope you guys get it.

I think this would be great for the city, but I would think the fact that it is during hurricane season could hurt us. With a convention there is no real plan B in case something does happen.

you're right, the GOP convention would attract a bunch of STD infested whores, anarchists, communists and dirty protesting hippy wannabees to town....I love these free thinkers. These wonderful people are the reason the costs are so high.

anyhow, I think the public money could be spent on better things.....ie: mass transit - light rail, cleaning up run down neighborhoods, public housing, riverwalk, the list is endless.

September is also right in the middle of hurricane season.

You guys that say it is hurricane season are apparently not for Tampa being on the global and world stage I guess..

Give me a break it's coming just accept it..

They have many sporting and other events in earthquake areas , plus Miami hosting one back in the 70's. So that wont keep them from coming to the hottest region in the country.. CENTRAL FLORIDA I-4 corridor baby..

[QUOTE=cwat212]you're right, the GOP convention would attract a bunch of STD infested whores, anarchists, communists and dirty protesting hippy wannabees to town....I love these free thinkers. These wonderful people are the reason the costs are so high.QUOTE]
At the risk of sending this into a political debate...sounds like the Democratic convention.

Now I remember why I ban politics across the board in this subforum...

Now I remember why I ban politics across the board in this subforum...

It was innocent until that Republican showed up. :jk:

I think hosting the Republican Convention, overall, will be a plus for the city.

Although Minneapolis, Cleveland and New York are great cities, each in its own capable of managing the logistics, I personally believe that Tampa will be chosen to host the event.

I think it improves the odds when the governor of the state just happens to be the brother of the President.

If Tampa is chosen I won't be attending, but I hope that the visitors will enjoy what our city has to offer.

It was innocent until that Republican showed up. :jk:
I'm not a republican but I appreciate any sentiment that seeks to kill all commie scum

I probably should not have made my last comment and I will refrain from further political comments in this forum - I'd appreciate the other forumers doing the same. Many of the comments were not innocent.

In the interest of staying on topic...the convention represents another rare oppportunity to display the area and the city in a way that cannot be achieved through paid advertising. It places Tampa and the bay area in a fairly exclusive league. It has its costs, but any venture does - you're not going to realize any gain without making an investment. Anyone involved in real estate knows that.

Tallaman...I don't know why you are regretful. You didn't take the first political jabs.

Price of bid for GOP shocks mayor (http://www.sptimes.com/2006/06/07/Tampabay/Price_of_bid_for_GOP_.shtml)

Organizers' bid to host the '08 national convention relied on millions more from the city than the mayor envisioned.

By JANET ZINK, Times Staff Writer
Published June 7, 2006
TAMPA -- Mayor Pam Iorio said Tuesday the city would spend no more than $1-million to stage the 2008 Republican National Convention, even though bid organizers were counting on millions more.

Iorio said she made her limit clear to bid organizers and was surprised to learn Tuesday that the bid included $12.7-million from the city and other local governments. Details of the bid were secret until Monday.

"Any costs above that maximum amount must be reimbursed on a dollar-for-dollar basis by the host committee," she said. "If Tampa is selected as a finalist, it is our intention to include this limitation in the site city agreement."

Iorio said the convention would provide an economic benefit to Tampa, but "our city budget can't support any open-ended commitment."

The definition of "city" according to bid documents includes Hillsborough County and other regional jurisdictions, but Tampa would bear the bulk of the financial burden.

"They've done a great job with the bid and we're moving forward, but it's important to clarify the city's role," Iorio said.

Al Austin, chairman of Tampa's convention host committee, said he promised Iorio he wouldn't "create any extraordinary costs for the city. And if things worked out where she had problems, I'd work with her to resolve them."

Event organizers also hope to get $15-million from the state Legislature next year and to raise $39.2-million privately.

Florida's top Republican, Gov. Jeb Bush, honorary chairman of Tampa's convention host committee, said he will not lobby the Legislature for the money next year.

"I'm going to defer to the next governor and the next Legislature on that,'' said Bush, who leaves office in January.

He left open what role he might later play with the convention committee.

"I told them I wasn't going to raise any money this year for them simply because I want to take the limited amount we can raise and focus on electing Republicans, which I think is the bigger issue," he said. "Next year, we'll see what happens.''

Tampa is competing with Minneapolis, New York and Cleveland to host the event Sept. 1-4, 2008. The GOP is slated to name finalists by July 1 and pick a host city by January 2007.

Event supporters say the convention will bring $180-million in direct spending to Hillsborough County and have an indirect economic benefit of more than $300-million.

That's a big selling point for outgoing Florida Senate President Tom Lee, R-Brandon, who said he would be inclined to support the $15-million request for state money if he were still in the Legislature. He leaves office this year.

"We should expect if the Democratic Party had a similar opportunity, we would do the same thing," Lee said. "Ultimately what we want to do isn't something that will benefit a party or a candidate but will benefit the state from an economic development perspective.''

The next House speaker, Marco Rubio, R-Miami, said he hadn't seen the proposal but noted, "That's a lot of money. ... We'd have to look at the cost-benefit analysis of the bid. Obviously conventions are a big deal."

Organizers also plan to ask the Hillsborough County Commission for $9-million in tourist tax money. Some of that money would pay for a new roof and air conditioning improvements at the Tampa Convention Center.

Those upgrades need to be made whether or not the GOP comes to Tampa, said Gene Gray of the Tourist Development Council, which distributes money from a 5 percent hotel tax.

County Commissioners Ken Hagan and Brian Blair said they would support the request.

"That's what the tourist tax funds are for,'' said Hagan. "It's a heck of a lot preferable to ad valorem or any other revenue. This would be without question the largest convention and the greatest economic impact that the city of Tampa and Hillsborough County have ever seen."

Blair said news media coverage and residual benefits, such as increased convention bookings in the future, make the investment a worthy one. But he encouraged event organizers to ramp up their fundraising.

"It's always better to use private funds than taxpayer funds," he said. "They should shoot for as much as they possibly can."

Tampa City Council member Rose Ferlita, a Republican candidate for the County Commission, said she's "excited, excited, excited" by the possibility of the convention coming to Tampa, largely because of the economic benefit.

But like Blair, she said the fundraising goal of $39.2-million -- only one-third of the total cost of the event -- should be higher.

"That's where we particularly need to be aggressive," she said.

Austin said the budget is preliminary and the private goal may climb.

"We're probably going to make some serious revisions of plans," he said.

Whatever the goal, Austin said he would meet it.

Finance chairman of the Florida Republican Party, Austin is among Florida's most prolific Republican money-raisers, a part of every statewide political campaign since 1972.

He also raised more than $100,000 for the Bush-Cheney presidential campaign in 2000 and more than $200,000 for the president's reelection. He helped organize an annual fundraising dinner in March that raised $3-million for the state party.

"We have a great fundraising team," Austin said.

Some cities that were invited to bid on national political conventions declined to do so because of cost.

Orlando officials spent months reviewing requests for proposals from the Democratic and Republican parties and passed on both.

They determined that the net gain would be "minimal when all economic factors are taken into consideration," according to a letter from a city economic adviser to Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

Miami also took a pass on the Republican National Convention.

"It's a big investment," said Bill Talbert, president of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Beyond the public money required, Talbert said Miami officials were skeptical they could get what they needed from private sources.

"We don't have any big corporate base from which to raise money. We have a handful of Fortune 500 companies, but the list is not that long," he said. "That's a challenge."

In the end, Miami chose piercings and tattoos over red, white and blue: The city wants to keep those dates in 2008 open in case MTV returns for its annual awards show, Talbert said. The music network staged its bash in Miami in 2004 and 2005.

"It's arguably one of hottest, hippest shows on the planet," Talbert said. "We'd love to have them back."

Times staff writers Alex Leary and Adam Smith contributed to this report. Janet Zink can be reached at jzink@sptimes.com or 813 226-3401.
[Last modified June 7, 2006, 06:02:03]

Tallaman...I don't know why you are regretful. You didn't take the first political jabs.
Well, I appreciate that, but this isn't the right place for this kind of discussion and I know that. This forum is for discussion of the benefits (financial and developmental) of hosting a convention and I enjoy reading and participating in it. The politics ruin it though, and I contributed to that. I would discourage anyone from making political comments here, regardless of their persuasion.

TAMPA -- Mayor Pam Iorio said Tuesday the city would spend no more than $1-million to stage the 2008 Republican National Convention, even though bid organizers were counting on millions more.


Wow! A whole million!

Wow! A whole million!'

I think the telltale sign is that Austin and co. put the city down for more money than the City agreed to. They were also fighting to keep that bid private up until the Tampa Tribune sued to have the bid opened to the Public.

The city said one thing (which could have / should have / maybe will kill the bid) and these guys said another to the Party without the cities permission. They also fought to keep that private. That makes this a bigger issue than how small the city's promised contribution is...

I'd say we just lost our bid...$1 million won't cut it.

Lets also not forget Austin stated less money would be coming privately than everyone had planned. He was looking for the State, county and city to fit the bill.

Add this to him proposing to break the law and have McDill personel serve as security and it just looks like a half ass job by Austin and co to get this thing.

THis is really about Florida vs. Ohio vs. Texas. Bare bones, the largest swing state or whatever should get it. Tampa should, b/c when Orlando was in the running, they had a good bid b/c of the region and b/c its Florida. Tampa should be no different.

Well, that's going around the issue of the Tampa bid mess right now... But that's what will likely factor in at the end -- which swing state matters most.

Ohio or Florida. (other two cities are Minneapolis and NYC) With Ohio likely winning out if the funding mess doesn't get cleaned up.

I still think Tampa will get it. The I4 corridor is largely decisive in determining the distribution of Florida's crucial EVs... as we all know...

^I can't help but think along the same lines... I don't know why, but I can't help but think that this is Tampa's to lose. Even with the crap going on in local politics.

Bringing the GOP to town is like inviting a bunch of STD-infested whores to town. Sans the brief gratification.

Must we whore our city out for the publicity? What will the free-thinking world think of us, after we *invite* MORE Republicans to town?


I consider myself an independant, I don't care for either party. That said, your statement above sounds EXTREMELY hypocritical. Eye rolling hypocritical. Hypocritical to the max!! BTW, did I make it clear that statement was hypocritical? :) (Hope I didn't understate the fact that this statement was grossly hypocritical.)

I consider myself an independant, I don't care for either party. That said, your statement above sounds EXTREMELY hypocritical. Eye rolling hypocritical. Hypocritical to the max!! BTW, did I make it clear that statement was hypocritical? :) (Hope I didn't understate the fact that this statement was grossly hypocritical.)

I guess a few don't have a sense of humor, huh? I mean, if you can't laugh at Republicans, what can you laugh at?

If you want a straight response, it was an exaggeration of a leftist's views meant for comedic enjoyment, not actual commentary on the GOP. :)

Sue Carlton at the Times had a good read on something Al Austin said:

Open the coffers for GOP and let loose a throng of protesters (http://sptimes.com/2006/06/12/Columns/Open_the_coffers_for_.shtml)

By SUE CARLTON, Times Columnist
Published June 12, 2006

Sure. Why not host the GOP?

Though an $85-million taxpayer tab for the 2008 Republican National Convention might smack you with some serious sticker shock, Tampa would look great on TV, right?

Except for those protesters. What a buzz kill.

They showed up by the thousands for the Republican National Convention in New York in 2004. Based on that, some predict as many as 500,000 here, pitching tents in the parks and crowding the streets.

Nah, says Al Austin, businessman, big-time Republican and convention host committee pooh-bah.

Austin told St. Petersburg Times reporter Janet Zink last week that we'd get 20,000 protesters, tops.

And if things got crazy, well, nearby MacDill Air Force Base could handle security.

After all, he said: "They're the ones fighting the war on terror.''

So let me get this straight.

Anyone who protests, speaks out against the war or Republican priorities like banning gay marriage is akin to a terrorist?

For disagreeing in public?

Funny. I'd be more inclined to call them "people doing what you get to do when you're lucky enough to live in a democracy.''

It's a shame this forum has to keep veering off into the world of political zingers (funny or not) rather than stick to the topic of the possibility of a major convention that will cost a lot of money but it will bring a lot of publicity. So what about that topic anyway?

How about replying to the post I made just after the one in question, Tall? Or do you think discussing possible protests and "treat protestors as terrorists" is considered a political zinger?

Oh, snap. Quite the editorial. :-O

Protests and protesters certainly fall into the realm of having to plan for the event. It would be true of any political convention. But what does her commentary and her conclusion have to do with skyscrapers, downtown development, etc.? The first part of your question deserves legitimate consideration, but the second part is politically motivated and calls for only a political response. Do you disagree?

I disagree simply because you are writing off part of the argument against hosting this event with thanks to the use of "politics".

Politics are part of this event -- politics are being made part of the reason Tampa Bay is being considered at all to host the Republican National Convention. With the CHAIRMAN of the Tampa bid suggesting that protestors are terrorists along with them falsely claiming how much the city of Tampa would put into their bid, Al Austin has made this a political spectacle of a grand extent. Republican? Democrat? Doesn't matter -- these actions are NOT something to be written off regardless of party. Nor are they something they should be dismissed so the thread can drop back down into "Rah-Rah-Rah" posts about the Convention and what it could mean for the city.

Every major event that any city has to bid for has politics to be played as part of the event. I'm sure as shit not going to brush off the politics of the bid process if you view it as compromising this thread.

Personally, I'd be happy with some protestors - after all they have to eat, drink, & sleep somewhere - all the better for the local economy. Bottom line - hosting a National Political Convention, be it Democrat or Republican would be a VERY good thing for the ENTIRE Tampa Bay Area!

^^ that's all true, which makes Al Austin's comments more bothersome. If you're going to treat protestors like they are terrorists, you're basically presenting Tampa Bay like Big Brother's headquarters. That's not a partisan thing -- that's a liberty thing and a first amendment thing.

This would be the dry season tourist wise, every hotel the Bay Area would see people showing up... Factor that in and I get mroe and more curious why they're talking about treating dissenters like terrorists, or downplaying how many may protest?

Of course politics plays into the decision of where to hold the convention. Ohio and Florida are both swing states and the next president will likely have to win both.

...But where did she say they would treat dissenters like terrorists?

These stupid conventions have turned into nightmares and incredible security would be needed. The military could help. Is that unreasonable?

Every American has a right to peacefully protest. They DO NOT have a right to cause harm to others or destroy property. Do you not believe that there would be a threat of terrorism at a political convention? Anarchists are terrorists and they love to show up at these conventions to do nothing but destroy property.

It is amusing how the first amendment is always brought up. We must protect the dissenter's right of free speach when they are trying to take away the same from people with whom they disagree. :okay:

Of course politics plays into the decision of where to hold the convention. Ohio and Florida are both swing states and the next president will likely have to win both.

...But where did she say they would treat dissenters like terrorists?

These stupid conventions have turned into nightmares and incredible security would be needed. The military could help. Is that unreasonable?

Al Austin said it, not she (Sue Carlton). Austin insinuated that protestors are terrorists and that the military should deal with them.

As for it being unreasonable -- It's against the law. The Posse Comitatus act:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posse_Comitatus_Act

20,000 protestors ? Well, isn't Tampa trying to lure folks downtown ?

Tampa needs to make up its mind.

What is illegal?

Al Austin said it, not she (Sue Carlton). Austin insinuated that protestors are terrorists and that the military should deal with them.

As for it being unreasonable -- It's against the law. The Posse Comitatus act:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posse_Comitatus_Act

Nowhere did Al Austin insinuate that protesters are terrorists. Sue Carlton (who happens to be a liberal columnist writing for a liberal newspaper) took two quotes from Al Austin and basically filled in what she wanted to believe the blanks were. It is no secret that Tampa's bid package cites the proximity of Macdill as an advantage in providing security in case of a terrorist attack. Their bid for the 2004 convention took the same approach.

You can read it as you want, 97roll, and you can play the "Liberal bias" card. I'll read it as the other percentage of the population reads it as Al Austin being above the fray and saying those in the dissenting faction who protest are terrorists and should be dealt with by the military.

Catoe and Austin also downplayed concerns about protesters [If Tampa lands the RNC Convention]. Documents released last month by the city predicted as many as 500,000 protesters could show up in Tampa and pitch tents in city parks. That estimate was based on reports from the 2004 Republican National Convention in New York City.

But Austin thinks that’s not likely to happen in Tampa because the city’s transportation network isn’t evolved enough to handle so many people. He predicts 20,000 protesters tops.

“The idea of tents in Tampa? That’s impossible. It won’t happen in Florida,” he said.

And if it does, he said security could easily be handled from MacDill Air Force Base.

“They’re the ones fighting the war on terror,” he said.

Now you tell me -- if those in charge think the military is in a highly important War on Terror, why do you bring them in to stand against protestors?

Better yet, the whole tent quote from Austin -- is he that out of touch that he never knew of a person who has camped out during summer in Florida?

John, that is B.S.

The Military and Department of Defense have been providing security for these conventions for years.

The Coast Guard, National Guard and DOD all provided security for the DNC Convention here:

http://www.gwu.edu/~action/2004/dem...fact071404.html

I have no doubt that Austin is underestimating the number of protesters that would show up for this thing. But again, show me a direct quote where he says that "those in the dissenting faction who protest are terrorists and should be dealt with by the military"

The Times is putting their own spin on the issue and you are accepting this as being fact.

John F: It is clear from my reading of the quote that what Austin meant was that the soldiers were well equipped to handle security at the convention because they are very experienced from the fight against the Islamic terrorists. Nowhere did he equate protestors with terrorists. Never let the facts get in the way of your political agenda.

Thanks RG, I didn't think I was seeing things. Looks to me like Sue Carlton showed her ass by putting words in Al Austin's mouth.

[Dale - "20,000 protestors? Well, isn't Tampa trying to lure folks downtown ?
Tampa needs to make up its mind."] :hilarious

ummmm, I don't think that's what we had in mind. :drunk:

You can read it as you want, 97roll, and you can play the "Liberal bias" card. I'll read it as the other percentage of the population reads it as Al Austin being above the fray and saying those in the dissenting faction who protest are terrorists and should be dealt with by the military.
It's a mindset. You're either with us or against us... Dissent cuts against the grain of power no matter who's in charge.

Now you tell me -- if those in charge think the military is in a highly important War on Terror, why do you bring them in to stand against protestors?
Because when you posess all of the toys AND the power, you CAN!

I mean, isn't it the media who point this out who is really at fault? They need to stop pestering our great leaders and do what they do best - Shock and Awe ... oh ya, and shameless corporate and self promotion. :poke:

Oh, if you're reading this Lou Dobbs, you're the ONLY exception. :wink2:

Better yet, the whole tent quote from Austin -- is he that out of touch that he never knew of a person who has camped out during summer in Florida?
My guess is that he's not a Seminole Indian. :D

all "tongue-in-cheek." Lighten up, guys.

The convention is probably coming, so batten down the hatches, pull your pants down, bend over, and just say "thank you." There's $$ to be made!

The bottom line is that political conventions have become a joke! And conventions provide many politico's their only chance to become television stars for a week. It's their "mini hollywood" so to speak... and you all thought they hated those hollywood types. Who knew? :cheers:

^"The bottom line is that political conventions have become a joke!"

You got that right, Q. No mystery as to what's going to happen at a convention. It's all PR for the chosen one - which makes it ideal for Tampa to get some benefit from the PR.

I guess a few don't have a sense of humor, huh? I mean, if you can't laugh at Republicans, what can you laugh at?

If you want a straight response, it was an exaggeration of a leftist's views meant for comedic enjoyment, not actual commentary on the GOP. :)


I'm rather late responding to your comment because I hadn't read it til now, but, yes, I do have a sense of humor. And, yes, I took it as a straight response because there wasn't anything about that comment that alluded otherwise. I know, and know of a lot of "liberals" who have that exact mindset. And, to answer your rhetorical question about what we can laugh at if we can't laugh at Republicans....we can laugh at Democrats (and just so no one takes this personally, I used to be one myself).

We should know sometime soon, who the 2 cities will be that will get a chance to host the RNC.. Looks like August now..

After that sometime in 2007 we will know the winner..

More info..

http://publicbroadcasting.net/wusf/news.newsmain?action= article&ARTICLE_ID=9332938sectionID=1

Scroll down to business section first article..


http://tampabay.bizjournals.com/tampabay/stories/2006/06/12/daily34.html

They are saying that Tampa finished 2nd to New York for the 2004 convention, because they wanted it to go to the big apple to help restore there economy after the 911 attacks..

Look for Tampa to win this going away..

:) :) :runaway:

the prostitutes and lap-dancing clubs should do quite well during the republican convention.

Is prostitution and lap-dancing that synonymous with Republicans? I think that is funny.

http://www.tbo.com/news/metro/MGB1FHZQBQE.html

If Tampa gets the GOP convention, it's going to be a non-stop party here for 3 days. That's all conventions generally are, a chance to go somewhere and party and drink and schmooze. And Republicans know how to party in style (the religious nutjobs aside).

I'm all about it, and not just because I'm GOP. :cheers:

If Tampa gets the GOP convention, it's going to be a non-stop party here for 3 days. That's all conventions generally are, a chance to go somewhere and party and drink and schmooze. And Republicans know how to party in style (the religious nutjobs aside).

I'm all about it, and not just because I'm GOP. :cheers:

I couldn't agree with you more about all the partying that will be going on during that time and also having the national spotlight cast on the entire bay area as well!!

http://www.tbo.com/news/metro/MGBDL466DQE.html

Anyway you look at it, this is a great victory for Tampa. Congratulations :okay: There is so much competition out there that you should be VERY proud for your city's initiatives.

these RNC people will apparently be here from this coming Sunday to Tuesday... Seems like an odd day to start a trip for such a thing...

these RNC people will apparently be here from this coming Sunday to Tuesday... Seems like an odd day to start a trip for such a thing...

You never can understand those Republicans...

Jilted! Tampa loses GOP convention to Twin Cities
Tampa Bay Business Journal - 5:57 PM EDT Wednesday
by Larry Halstead


Despite the good vibes exchanged between the Republican National Committee and Tampa Bay area officials, Minneapolis has been selected as the host city for the 2008 Republican National Convention, said Al Austin, member of the host committee, at a press conference Wednesday.

The four-day event will be held at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, home of the Minnesota Wild hockey team.

"This was not the press conference we were hoping for, but in politics, that's the way the ball bounces sometimes," Austin said.

The RNC "loved Tampa, but had some concerns," he said. Ken Mehlman, chairman of the RNC called Austin to tell him the committee was concerned about hurricanes and how they might disrupt a convention.

But there was speculation that politics were more involved in the decision than hurricanes, a source close to the Tampa bid process said.

With Minneapolis bidding for both parties' conventions, the GOP selection of the Twin Cities is like a pre-emptive strike that forces the Democrats to choose between Denver and New York, with both cities undergoing problems with union hotels, according to published reports. Picking Minneapolis now takes it out of the mix for the Democrats, who demand exclusivity for their convention city.

In 2004, the GOP held its nominating convention in New York.

The last time a national convention was held in Minneapolis-St. Paul was in 1892, when the Republicans chose Benjamin Harrison in an unsuccessful re-election campaign.

Austin wouldn't speculate as to why the GOP went north, saying that he wanted to leave the door open in case negotiations with Minneapolis stalled.

"If they hit a bump in the road, I want them to be able to come back to us."

The host committee spent approximately $60,000-$70,000 on the site selection visit, Paul Catoe, president and chief executive officer of the Tampa Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau, said. No public money was spent on the bid process, he emphasized.

Had Tampa been successful with its bid, it would have had to raise approximately $40 million from the private sector, a feat that Austin assured was no problem, especially if the current Republican candidate for governor wins in November.

"With Charlie Crist as governor, we could have raised all we needed," he said.

^^^ Dang

Well, maybe next time... ;)

It should have been in FL. This is a mistake for the Republicans IMO.

Jilted! Tampa loses GOP convention to Twin Cities
Tampa Bay Business Journal - 5:57 PM EDT Wednesday
by Larry Halstead


Despite the good vibes exchanged between the Republican National Committee and Tampa Bay area officials, Minneapolis has been selected as the host city for the 2008 Republican National Convention, said Al Austin, member of the host committee, at a press conference Wednesday.

The four-day event will be held at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, home of the Minnesota Wild hockey team.

"This was not the press conference we were hoping for, but in politics, that's the way the ball bounces sometimes," Austin said.

The RNC "loved Tampa, but had some concerns," he said. Ken Mehlman, chairman of the RNC called Austin to tell him the committee was concerned about hurricanes and how they might disrupt a convention.

But there was speculation that politics were more involved in the decision than hurricanes, a source close to the Tampa bid process said.

With Minneapolis bidding for both parties' conventions, the GOP selection of the Twin Cities is like a pre-emptive strike that forces the Democrats to choose between Denver and New York, with both cities undergoing problems with union hotels, according to published reports. Picking Minneapolis now takes it out of the mix for the Democrats, who demand exclusivity for their convention city.

In 2004, the GOP held its nominating convention in New York.

The last time a national convention was held in Minneapolis-St. Paul was in 1892, when the Republicans chose Benjamin Harrison in an unsuccessful re-election campaign.

Austin wouldn't speculate as to why the GOP went north, saying that he wanted to leave the door open in case negotiations with Minneapolis stalled.

"If they hit a bump in the road, I want them to be able to come back to us."

The host committee spent approximately $60,000-$70,000 on the site selection visit, Paul Catoe, president and chief executive officer of the Tampa Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau, said. No public money was spent on the bid process, he emphasized.

Had Tampa been successful with its bid, it would have had to raise approximately $40 million from the private sector, a feat that Austin assured was no problem, especially if the current Republican candidate for governor wins in November.

"With Charlie Crist as governor, we could have raised all we needed," he said.

This is awful news, Is this legit?? They WEREN'T SUPPOSE TO ANNOUNCE THIS UNTIL JANUARY..

Can someone see if this is official..

Why would they not want to come to the 3rd largest state with many more electorals than little Minnesota with it's 10 electorals..

I hope the Democrats win Florida if this is true.. :rant: :fart:

:bash: :bash:
http://www.wkyc.com/news/_article.aspx?storyid =57354

Minnesota does win..


Like I said they are worrying about Minnesota and Iowa going to the Democrats..

When Florida is the swing state with much more to lose..

This link is not working but if you Google 2008 Republican convention, there are several stories..

I really hope this backfires on the RNC, and the Democrats still win Minnesota and Iowa.

LOL, SD4K! I am not a Republican, but I would have seen the influx of money into Tampa's economy.

For those who don't follow politics, the GOP considers Florida already "red" (theirs), and Minnesota is considered "blue" (the bad guys). They hope to draw positive attention from Wisconsin (blue) and Iowa (swing) as well.
This way they won't have to rely on another Kathrine Harris in Florida, or Don King in Cleveland to win National elections.
I never thought we had a chance to begin with. Hurricanes my ass!
Which one are you?
Cut and Run ::) : or Lie and Die:nono:

KJ -- Cleveland's mayor had gone so far as to say Tampa was a shoe in. I wasn't shocked by being one-upped by Minneapolis, but I was surprised.

Tampa Rail.org cites the Haiawatha rail line as just one of the reasons why Minneapolis/St. Paul was named. But your political reasoning is correct.

(That's why the Democrats would be fools to hold their convention in NYC -- it's rallying their base instead of trying to make inroads across the country. Denver is the only other candidate city still available to them -- unless the Dems suddenly decided to pick Tampa's Republican bid (they didn't make a Democratic bid).