Inside PBS Blog

The first few days of the Democratic National Convention have been a whirlwind tour of colorful characters, high tech media equipment, and political discourse from experts -- from former Defense Secretary William Perry to rocker Melissa Etheridge. 

For many of us here with PBS' interactive team, including Online NewsHour, Tavis Smiley's Young Voices, and PBS Vote 2008, it's our first time at a political convention. Taking in the sights and sounds of Denver during this busy week has been just as consuming as learning about the political process of nominating a presidential candidate.

Young Voices blogger Tomika Thompson gave a photo glimpse into her first day in Denver, talking to delegates who were also experiencing their first convention, like Jackie Petty from Peoria, Ill:

"Just hearing the speeches, seeing these people," Petty says, "I just can't believe that I'm here in the first place."

For a more whimsical look at a typical day here in Denver, first-time convention-goer Dave Gillette is doing a series of video cartoon blogs for Twin Cities Public Television, taking us to events from the Minnesota delegates' breakfasts to the speeches inside the Pepsi Center.

One of the most exciting places to check out is a first, not just for those who've never been to the conventions, but a first for the media in general. The bloggers tent, with its Digg.com banners and Google retreat is the hip place to see and be seen. While the tent is still far from the action inside the Pepsi Center, you can check your email, charge your phone, get a massage, or drink a limeade smoothie.

You can watch NewsHour's Ray Suarez ask viewer questions to two bloggers from inside the 'Big Tent'.

The official nomination of Sen. Barack Obama is coming up tomorrow. Today will include the roll call of delegates and former President Bill Clinton's speech.  It's a challenge to see it all, but luckily there is no shortage of observers documenting every event - on Twitter, blogs, vlogs and other forms of communication never used at a convention before.

Check back for a glimpse into the Republican National Convention from St. Paul, Minn., next week!

How are you getting your convention news?  What would you like to see more of in convention coverage?  Less of?