The Mirror

The worst party invitation in Washington

Betsy Rothstein Gossip blogger
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Ooh, a Washington party invitation! What fun! The League of Voting Youth has written to invite me and hopefully readers if I freely advertise cover the story of their 10th anniversary party next week.

Invite might be a strong word.

The subject line blares, “MEDIA INVITE.” The note continues on, mentioning an “open bar,” “delectable cuisine” and tells me why I’d want to clink glasses with these people:

“Over the last 10 years, the League of Young Voters has grown from an upstart non-profit into one of the most respected youth civic engagement organizations in the country. More importantly, the League’s national campaigns have made a significant impact in low-income communities of color. Earlier this year, the League partnered with entertainment icon Snoop Lion aka Snoop Dogg for a ‘No Guns Allowed’ campaign inspired by Snoop’s moving single by the same name. The initiative was established to ignite discussions on solutions to end our nation’s gun violence epidemic. By spreading this message of non-violence and enlisting peace ambassadors, the League hopes to urge lawmakers to create responsible gun legislation.”

Did someone say Snoop Dogg? Say no more. Except mid-way through the email my spirits sank as I saw the fine print. Sure, I can come to the party at Bar 7. But I’ll have to pay. Publicist Bree Jones kindly writes, “Please let me know if you would be able to purchase a ticket to attend. It would be great if you could share the event flyer with your readers today as well.”

The “key attendees” include Jasri X, a national recording artist, and Komplex, a local poet/musician. (I don’t want to steal anyone’s thunder, but my friends also sometimes call me “Komplex.”) My price point options, by the way, are vast. I can choose from the full price “supporter” tickets at $30, be a “trendsetter VIP” at $50 or, horribly, opt for a “Friends of the League” package for $500. If none of that appeals, I can just stay home and choose the “birthday” package for however much I want to cough up to not go.

I appreciate a publicist who doesn’t beat around the bush: You’ll pay, and your readers will too.