The choice has been made (as reported in the NYT--Feb 13th). The 2016 Democratic National Convention will be held in Philadelphia. PA. After much discussion, visitation and debate. Phila is the choice, over Brooklyn, NY or Columbus, Ohio. The Republican party reacted with the usual vile comments. The "Dems don't want the Ohio vote" which was not a major factor in the choice process, just the opposition's usual sour grapes and criticism.. And, of course, the contenders and leaders in Brooklyn, NY and Columbus, OH. were disappointed. That is understandable. Vying for the spotlight is coveted, putting the chosen city in the limelight. But, at the same time the city must carry the burden of preparation, planning and could face great financial risk.
Of the three mentioned, I believe Phila is the best choice. We are fortunate to have a dear friend in Brooklyn who showed us the Barclays Center and surrounding area. It is indeed, a busy and vibrant part of town, but the congestion, lack of hotel space, dense population and other factors are bold and in your face. Columbus is a lovely city, but again lacking enough hotel, road surface and venue space to manage the crowds of a major convention. The long history of Philadelphia is of course rich and deeply embedded in the building of our nation. The infrastructure in already pretty much in place, tried and true.
How many "winning" cities in the past have suffered huge debt, rushed projects to meet the impending deadlines, tough criticism from the population and jabes and jibes after being chosen to hold major conventions, games, musical extravaganzas and then almost buckled in preparation for the deadline looming over them? The leaders have scrambled to finance, plan and build by the deadline, side stepping the needs of the citizenry and raising the ire and level of desperation of the those whose needs for special services are cut or ignored.
The event takes place and is over quickly, After the event, roads, venues and the huge facilities often go unused, facing decay and ridicule in the years following the few days of glory. The decaying sports stadium in Havana, Cuba comes to mind. For the week of July 25, 2016, the eyes and ears of the nation will be focused on Philadelphia. The good news--the sights and sounds of our country's historic birth will be featured. Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and other sights may lure families to take an educational tour of Phila, enlightening a new generation of young people learning to love and respect history. In the week preceding the Phila convention, the Republican National Convention will be held in Cleveland, OH. Ready, set, go!!
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