Sammy Hagar rocks faces of Georgia politicos, lobbyists at RNC
Friday, September 5th, 2008Lobbbyist parties held by Southern Co. for “the Southern delegation” sound like they’re just a step up from fraternity band parties.
Case in point: According to CQPolitics, Atlanta-based utility giant Southern Co. co-sponsored a private party last Sunday in honor of our distinguished gentlemen that featured Sammy Hagar, world-famous curly-haired rocker and tequila enthusiast .
From the article (bold text added to imply outrage and disgust):
For example, the rules weren’t necessarily as tough for the Southern Company sponsoring a Sammy Hagar concert Sunday at the venue First Avenue, billed as a tribute to the Southern Delegation.
Posters and television screens reminded guests of numerous sponsors, including “partners” the National Association of Home Builders and Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America, and “additional sponsors” such as Aflac, Wal-Mart and Lockheed Martin.
The message might have been lost on giggling women spilling out of limousines ahead of men with their collars loosened and ready to rock and roll.
But the doormen studiously lined up congressional aides and other guests with convention credentials, for tickets priced at $75 or $125. The House ethics committee had ruled that, depending on a performer’s fame, staffers should pay for tickets to avoid receiving a gift of free entertainment.
“Southern Company co-hosted this event along with many others,” said spokeswoman Valerie Holpp. “We fully complied with rules.”
