* I’m doing a speaking gig tomorrow and, unlike most of my appearances, the Illinois Technology Partnership has asked that I publicize it here.
First, the flyer. Click it for a better image…
Ormsby explains…
The Illinois Technology Partnership has snagged Rich Miller, publisher, editor, and chief scribe of the Capitol Fax newsletter and The Capitol Fax Blog and columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times to speak to the role of blogs and other social media tools in Illinois politics at the group’s conference – ”Illinois 2.0″ – in Springfield on March 25.
Aviva Gibbs, the organization’s Executive Director, will talk to legislators, staff, candidates, and media regarding reaching larger and targeted audiences, such as constituents, via blogs, Facebook, Twitter and other online gizzmos once the exclusive preserve of whizz-bang college students.
In a recent survey of legislators, the group found as many as 50 percent were already using social networking sites, while another 25 percent expressed interest in learning more. Gibbs will share some battle-tested best practices and digital “do’s and don’ts”.
“Blogs and social networking tools like Facebook and Twitter have become a much more relevant way for not just college students, but businesses, organizations and the government to connect, interact and share ideas,” said Gibbs.
Miller will comment on the influence of digital media on news coverage and the impact on political and public policy processes.
“While traditional media is cutting back considerably, digital platforms are becoming an influential way to get and write the news,” said Miller. “I break stories all the time on my blog and have hundreds of readers add comments and share posts in real-time. With social media becoming so popular, I’m seeing more politicians getting in on this than ever before.”
“ Illinois 2.0” will be held at the Statehouse Inn in Springfield from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. or immediately following session.
This should be an interesting and fun event. They’re even serving “complimentary refreshments and appetizers.” Mmmm.
But space is limited, and spots are filling up very fast (I’m not kidding, they only have a handful of open slots left), so you should RSVP as soon as possible to: aviva@iltechpartner.org.