State-of-anything luncheons have a lot in common, whether hosted by Redding, Anderson, Shasta Lake or Shasta County:
Pomp and circumstance, hand-shaking and back-slapping. Public recognition of prominent folks, slide shows and speeches. Finally, lunch that typically consists of an entree in the poultry family, plus green salad, rolls, a vegetable medley and a dessert, usually cheesecake drizzled with some topping.
Forget the menu. State-of events aren’t supposed to be about the food. They’re see-and-be-seen shindigs that require months of planning to attract the most influential citizens, businesses and organizations. Often, perhaps as a professional courtesy, or a great love of chicken entrees, the same core group of influential folks attend many area state-of events.
Generally speaking, state-of luncheons let the hosting entity present a verbal report card about the previous year in the most glowing and positive way possible.
Accomplishments are amplified. Problems are referred to as “challenges” and “opportunities.”
Many of the same people attend these state-of events, dressed in their best business attire, which only heightens that insiders’ club feel.
What’s significant are those who don’t attend state-of events: our population’s majority.
The majority includes people who can’t leave their work or family commitments in the middle of the the day.
The majority includes people on tight budgets who can’t afford the 20 to 30 bucks or more to attend.
The majority includes people who don’t feel part of the “in” business crowd enough to attend.
The funny thing is, the majority is exactly who should attend. Their taxes fund the leaders’ paychecks.
For the first time ever, this year, Redding will host two state-of-the-city events, both on the same day, Mon., Feb. 4
The first one is Redding’s traditional noon state of the city Chamber of Commerce soiree and fundraiser at the Redding Convention Center. Tickets to attend this event cost $30, and are available for sale from the Greater Redding Chamber of Commerce.
Redding’s second state-of-the-city presentation of the day is a non-traditional evening happening, timed precisely so working people can attend.
What’s more, it’s free and held at the extremely gorgeous Cascade Theatre in downtown Redding.
The program begins at 6:15 p.m.; but the Cascade’s doors open at 5:30 for light refreshments, also free. The event should be done by 7 p.m.
Credit goes to Redding Mayor Mary Stegall for dreaming up this novel, encore-presentation concept.
This is yet another reason why I think so highly of Stegall as an elected official and human being. She truly represents the people, then demonstrates it with innovative ideas like this encore event.
She said the concept to hold a second, nighttime state-of-the-city address appealed to her for several reasons.
First, she said that so much work is put into Redding’s annual state-of-the-city events, she felt it was a shame to present it to a limited audience.
Second, she said that although the Chamber’s daytime luncheon sells out each year, it seems to reach the same people year after year. Stegall wanted a broader audience.
Last, she said that because Redding’s annual State of the City address is a fundraiser for the Chamber of Commerce, it’s too expensive for many people to attend.
If Stegall’s maiden, nighttime encore presentation at the Cascade is a success with a good turn-out, she hopes the city will be encouraged to make the evening event an annual offering.
Either way, this year, Mayor Mary Stegall will give her speech, “Redding: Coming of Age,” twice in one day.
In some ways, the afternoon event at the Convention Center is a paid dress rehearsal to the Cascade’s free, encore presentation.
Bear in mind, both state-of-the-city events are open to all Redding citizens, as well as citizens who live in Redding’s surrounding areas of influence, or anyone interested in Redding. Basically, everyone.
Personally, the Cascade event most appeals to me.
I’ll be sure and get there early for my favorite balcony seat.
