CSSI Builds 2000 Democratic National Convention Set
CSSI once again built the main podium for the Democratic National Convention. After successfully completing the 1996 DNC on time and on budget, CSSI was hired for the 2000 convention at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. CSSI acted as the construction supervisor for all of the scenery construction in the bowl of the Staples Center.

Working for Ricky Kirshner Productions, CSSI joint ventured with Cinnabar California, Inc. to complete this job. Cinnabar provided orchestra walls and made shop space available for Chicago Scenic to use in California. CSSI Project Manager Ken Zommer, who was the project manager for the 1996 DNC as well, worked with Cinnabar's Dave Cook, a former CSSI employee. Rene Lagler was also back on board as the convention's designer and John Bradley was the production supervisor. Scenic Express and ABC Production Services of California provided additional scenic elements.

The lectern and podium front wall were mechanized to raise and lower through systems CSSI developed for the 1996 DNC. The systems were reassembled and improved upon for the 2000 convention. Metals Department Head Dan Yuen led the job through the shop and installation along with Carpenters Ken Glucksberg and Chris Kiddle.