When John McCain and Barack Obama meet at Hofstra University tomorrow night for this year’s final presidential debate, they’ll be doing a lot to pep up the Long Island economy. Wiring up the reporters and bloggers who will cover the debate from the campus is a major undertaking, to say nothing of feeding everyone.
For starters, the university’s media rate card offers a combination Internet-and-telephone package for $650, including both wireless and hard-wired network connections. Renting a laptop computer costs $250, a laser printer is $550 (supplies included), and a high-speed copier runs $1,650 (including paper). Add on another $15 for an outlet strip to plug everything in.
But bloggers won’t want to work standing up, of course — a four-foot table is $44 ($51.50 for the eight-foot version), and padded folding chairs are $11 each. A mini-fridge? That’s another $150.
For those doing more than just writing, the university has additional offerings. A parking place big enough for a network production trailer and a work trailer costs $3,500 (electrical connections included). A camera platform inside the hall is $6,000, but a stand-up spot outside is cheap at $350. A six-by-eight-foot interview space in “Spin Alley,” in the media filing center, is $400.
TV folks will be happy to know that decorative plants are available for $52.50 each, and mirrors for $26. Need a tent? The university recommends Ace Canvas and Tent. And catering? Available through the university’s dining service, which can even provide glatt kosher menus. Have your company credit card handy. —Lawrence Biemiller
