40 Below Kicks Off Political Engagement Speaker Series
40 Below Kicks Off Political Engagement Speaker Series
Historically, data demonstrates that young individuals are apathetic about politics. Concerned about the world around them, tragic events like Katrina often incite activism and voluntarism in our youth. But voter registration (and voting), turnouts at town hall meetings and knowledge of the political process remain low. To combat this trend 40 Below is personalizing politics and offering young people opportunities to both learn and engage in the political process.
40 Below's Political Engagement Speaker Series is a 4-part series featuring elected officials, staff, lobbyists and political operatives sharing there knowledge and views on running for office, fundraising and running a campaign. The series will kick-off with a panel discussion and reception on Wednesday, July 16 and conclude in October with a political debate. Throughout the series participants will be provided with hands on opportunities to volunteer for a local campaign.
For more information please contact Jessica Crawford (jmcrawfo@hotmail.com) at 315-452-8913 or Mitch Patterson (mpatterson457@aol.com) at 315-422-8284.
Running for Office 101
Wednesday, July 16, 2008 @ 5:30pm
OHM Lounge, Armory Square, Syracuse
Cocktail reception begins at 6:30pm co-hosted by Onondaga County Executive Joanne M. Mahoney and Syracuse Mayor Matthew J. Driscoll.
"It takes guts to run for office..." or does it? Tailored for aspiring politicians or those interested in learning more about how the political system works, Running for Office 101 is an opportunity to talk with state and local politicians about what it really takes to run for political office.
Featured panelists include NYS Senator David Valesky, NYS Assemblyman William Barclay, Syracuse City Common Councilors Ryan McMahon and Stephanie Miner, and Onondaga County Legislator Marty Masterpole.
The Art of Fundraising
August 2008
Francesca's Cucina, 545 N. Salina St, Syracuse
Fundraising has historically been the tool for big money and political action committees. Theoretically big money investors bet on certain candidates to win with hopes of benefitting themselves after the victory. Elections were won through hard work on the campaign trail in an "old-fashioned" political setting."
Recent trends have seen new involvement from grass roots and small donations that have offset the old ways. This influx of new contributions has now set forth a modern day campaign where money is the key to survival, as well as to access and information. The 2008 campaigns ($942 million) have already raised $80 million more than the entire 2004 election ($880 million) and $770 million more than the 1976 election. Hear from two local fundraisers who will provide their take on modern day fundraising.
Featured panelists include Ryan Moses of the Wladis Law Firm, former Executive Director of the State GOP and TBD.
How to Run and Manage an Effective Campaign
September 2008
Political consultants are nothing new to American politics. Whether it is campaign wizardry or just plain political genius, campaign managers help the candidate manage the twists and turns often encountered during their run for office. Two experts will share their experiences and lessons learned along the campaign trail.
Featured panelists include Chris Mathey, Federal Relations Director for Constellation Energy and former Government and Community Relations Liaison for NY Congressman John McHugh (R-23rd) and Dan Lucas, Vice President of Political Operations, 21st Century Democrats.
New York's 25th Congressional District Debate
October 2008
This item was published on 07/11/2008
