Ed Morrissey got sticker shock when he looked at internet access prices at the Xcel Center in St. Paul for the 2008 Republican National Convention. The cheapest plan from Qwest is $850 for four days of plugged-in service. After handling his hyperventilation Ed asked the convention’s press office about other options. There are:
Internet access is available to all media outlets, including bloggers, in several ways. Some will choose to purchase hard-wired access, others will choose to use their own wireless Internet card, and all will have hard-wired access at no cost in our state-of-the-art press filing center.
Within the Xcel Energy Center, drastic steps are being taken to provide the utmost accessibility for all members of the media. Cellular bandwidth has been increased by unprecedented proportions compared to what was offered in past conventions and cellular providers are increasing their coverage capabilities to accommodate expected rise in usage.
I’m glad to know I won’t need to worry about another unexpected expense. However, I do need your help to get me to St. Paul. My fundraising drive is still hovering at $110. I need at least $500 for an airline ticket, and I’ll need it soon before prices go up any higher.
You can help me in two ways. First, donate. Donors will get exclusive access to my convention coverage as well as offering ideas to help me report on all the happenings. A donation as small as $5 would help a lot. Simply click on the ChipIn widget below to make a donation. All I need is $500 to cover my airline ticket. the $2000 goal would cover the hotel and incidentals.
Second, forward this post to your friends and family. Link to this on your weblogs, MySpace, and Facebook profiles. Embed the ChipIn widget into your own website. Spread the word.
Help me get to St. Paul. I’m counting on you.
“Republican Convention Bloggers: Qwest Has a Big Surprise for You”
