Linn County Democratic chairman Loyd Henion is going to his first presidential national nominating convention, and he said he's "pumped."

"My schedule is getting full," he said. "This is not for people who require a lot of sleep."

He leaves today for the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, where the party's presumptive nominee, Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois and his vice presidential running mate, Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware, will officially be recognized as their party's ticket in the presidential election on Nov. 4. The DNC runs Monday through Thursday.

Thirteen caucuses are planned during the week, and Henion plans to attend many of these meetings. Of course, Henion will be at Oregon's caucus every day, but he said that he's also interested in learning more about the veterans' and interfaith caucuses. Henion has signed up to represent the Green Caucus, which fits with his personal commitment to more sustainable living; he drives an electric car and has solar panels on his house.

Convention business is scheduled from 4 to 9 p.m. each day. Other activities and meetings will continue late into the night, Henion said. Henion said he is excited that he'll be able to meet and speak with prominent Democrats such as Sen. Ted Kennedy and the Democratic leaders from other states.

Delegates from Arizona and Washington will be staying at the same hotel as those from Oregon, the Hyatt Regency.

North Albany resident and Benton County Democratic chairman Sam Sappington also is going, along with a handful of other Benton County representatives.

Convention

Loyd Henion offered to report back to the Democrat-Herald about his experiences at the Democratic National Convention. Look for his comments in the coming days.