Michael Young is the Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist for the Sacramento Regional Transit District. He recently joined the Metro EDGE Communications Committee and, below, shares his reasons for attending the upcoming Regional Action Summit.
Let me start by letting everyone know I’m the new guy at Metro EDGE. I joined a few weeks ago hoping to increase my professional network, become more involved in the local business and civic communities, and maybe have a few cocktails in the process. Probably sounds familiar to most EDGErs.
I decided to attend a Communications Committee meeting shortly after signing up to quickly engage with the organization. Expecting a large group, I was pleasantly surprised when an intimate team was immediately open to my involvement and I was assigned this blog post on the Regional Action Summit :: Blast the Ballot!
The summit is a major Metro EDGE event and will take place October 16 at the California Museum from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Our official media advisory says the event has been designed to “educate the region’s young professionals about what’s really going on with key election issues – who’s weighing in, on what, and why.”
Since we’re still getting to know each other, I will let you in on a secret – I’m not big on politics. Yes, I vote when it’s time and keep up with the issues affecting my industry. What I can’t do is rattle off names of local political players or list the ballot measures from memory like some EDGE members I’ve met. My proposition practice in general has been somewhat laissez-faire, when in doubt, vote no. I want to change this approach and the Regional Action Summit seems like a unique opportunity to do so.
The main attraction of the evening will feature a panel of six speakers moderated by KFBK radio host Kitty O’Neal. Panelists will include the editor of California’s Capitol Greg Lucas, Professor Emeritus Dr. Barbara O’Connor, California Communications Director for the National Federation of Independent Business Michelle Orrock, author Dr. Tony Quinn and Yolo County Supervisor Matt Rexroad.
Our political aficionados will help tackle questions like: Who is really backing the propositions? Why is the governor risking so much with his tax initiative? What local measures have the most potential to affect the pocketbook of Sacramento professionals, young and old?
I’m bringing my inquires too, as there will also be time for an open question and answer session.
But the experts aren’t the only draw. The second presidential debate will play in the background while attendees mingle with the crowd and tap the knowledge of their peers. It is a chance to find out what concerns other young professionals, share thoughts on the key issues and see where a little extra homework might be needed to really make informed decisions.
As an added bonus, the festivities will take place at the California Museum. Anyone who may need a break from the serious business of talking Donkeys and Elephants can tour the first floor exhibits and relive a portion of the California dream.
So, I’ll be attending for a little mixing and mingling with the a-typical political crowd of the best and brightest under 40, staying for a serious education on key election issues, and going home empowered and ready to blast the ballot!
I hope to see you there!
-Michael Young
Event info:
Regional Action Summit :: Blast the Ballot
5:30 – 8:30pm, Tuesday, October 16
The California Museum, 1020 O Street Sacramento, CA 95814
Register here and share on Facebook!
Paid for by Metro PAC. Contributions are not tax deductible.
