A different view of Denver: Democratic convention offers chance to promote city's modern brand.

Notwithstanding the historical significance of the first African-American nominee for the White House in our country's history, August 25-28 may very well represent one of the most defining moments in the history

of Denver.

More than 35,000 visitors from around the world will descend upon the Mile-High City for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the economic impact of which has been estimated at $200 million. The long-term benefit of these four days will be judged by the presidency of the United States and Denver's ability to utilize the DNC as a springboard to encourage the 35,000 delegates, members of the press and Democratic supporters to revisit our great city and encourage others to do the same.

Let's not screw it up.

Denver is not a difficult proposition to sell, especially when we focus on the features that make it worth traveling back to again and again. My biggest fear is that when we roll out the welcome mat, it will be flanked with people wearing cowboy boots and hats directing delegates and members of the press to the entrance of "The Wild West Rodeo" where they will be served buffalo, elk or worse--Rocky Mountain oysters.

I mean no disrespect to the heritage of the West or those of us who fancy wild game. First-time visitors to Denver might expect such an event and cuisine. But this stereotype will continue to support the notion that we are a cow town, while also fostering the perception by many business professionals on the East and West coasts that Colorado is a "fly-over" state. We don't want these first-time visitors to be one-time visitors.

What is the Denver experience we want them to have? What is the Denver brand, and how can we activate it in a meaningful way?

The Mile-High City is a moniker that has significant equity worldwide. Although some might associate our 5,280-foot elevation with cold weather, football or an extra 15 yards off the tee box, there is no mistaking the Rocky Mountain imagery the name evokes. The mountains are our brand's foundation, and whether visitors to Denver happen to enjoy a hike, or simply find themselves in awe of their splendor, the purple mountain majesty influences every aspect of our city.

The mountains represent the independent spirit of the early settlers who discovered gold at the base of the Rockies, a spirit that thrives today in the global businesses, Fortune 500 companies and successful entrepreneurs and leaders who call Denver home. They inspire the creativity that feeds our artists, actors, musicians, writers and chefs. They attract the adventurers, athletes and outdoor recreationists who seek the challenge, escape and solace the terrain provides.

I have lived here for 14 years, and I am still left breathless every time 1 cast my eyes west. And although 1 never seem to spend as much time as I would like actually in the mountains, just knowing they are there is enough. Their magnificent presence shapes my view on life.

The Denver view is inherent in who we are: a city without pretense that values the ideas, creativity and diversity that promotes positive change. Rated one of the healthiest cities in our country, we are active--even restless--as we seek productivity. Our residents are friendly, open and engaging with a tremendous commitment to philanthropy. Deemed one of the most intelligent cities in America, our locals are driven but far from arrogant.

The view is the Denver brand. The mountains are the foundation of our view, literally and figuratively. And although we might not be able to package our view and sell it as a souvenir, it is contagious. And in the tourism industry, we can measure contagiousness.

So from August 25-28, let's just be ourselves and let the mountains do their thing. There is no need to parade around in costumes and force people to eat food that few of us who live here actually eat. Let the 35,000 visitors who are coming to Denver simply experience the Denver view.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

They'll be back.

John Harris is president of Karsh\Hagan, the advertising agency of record for the Denver Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau. John can be reached at [e-mail]