Google Joins The Circus

Google is joining the circus. The media circus that will take place at both the Democratic and Republican conventions. In this day and age where blogging appears to rule, Google is making available an 8,000 sq. ft. convention space to house bloggers. The service will not be free, which is kind of surprising since one would think that this would be great PR for Google. Instead the bloggers will pay $100 to use the facilities. The fee is reasonable so I doubt there will be many complainers.

According to the Wall Street Journal:

 Four years ago, Google wasn’t a significant presence at the Democratic and Republican conventions. Its high-profile presence at both conventions this year mirrors the growth of new media, which will provide their takes on events and compete with established media companies via Google’s YouTube video site and other social-media outlets.

Which just goes to show how much has changed in 4 years. Also of interest was this statement:

Not only will bloggers have Internet access, workspaces and couches for napping in the “Big Tent” headquarters, they will be provided food and beverages, Google-sponsored massages, smoothies and a candy buffet. On the final night of the convention, Google is co-sponsoring a bash with Vanity Fair magazine for convention-goers and journalists that has become one of the hottest party invites.

What happened to the gourmet meals Google is noted for? Oh well. Maybe the bloggers will have something to complain about after all.:-) Another observation that will be made, is that with cell phone cameras, there may be little privacy for anyone attending the events.

Will you be watching either convention on the tube?

Comments welcome.

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