The atmosphere among delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte "seems to be very upbeat," said a local resident serving as a delegate from North Carolina.

The convention, which will officially nominate its candidate for the 2012 presidential election, begins tonight at 5 p.m. and run through Thursday.

Maurice Holland Sr., a longtime resident of the Midway community in Aberdeen, said he has met many interesting people with stimulating opinions during his stay in Charlotte. He said everyone is "fired up and ready to go," as the convention begins today.

Holland said one of the more interesting experiences so far has been being interviewed by a Israeli newspaper reporter.

And for those watching the DNC on television, you may get a chance to see Holland as the North Carolina delegation will be seated right near the podium.