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Actually, what I received was an invitation from the Democratic National Committee to enter a contest to win a trip — to Los Angeles! — during President Obama's upcoming fundraising trip. I don't have to contribute to be entered and win. (Just give up my email address.) But they provide a nice link anyway, should I choose to contribute. Entries are due tomorrow — and as an extra inducement, entries submitted tomorrow count twice.
When I click on the email, this form appears with the following fine print:
No purchase, payment, or contribution necessary to enter or win. Contributing will not improve chances of winning. Void where prohibited. Entries must be received by 7/16/14. Enter by contributing here, or click here to enter without contributing. All entries received on 7/16/14 count twice. One (1) winner will receive the following prize package: round-trip tickets for winner and one guest from within the fifty U.S. States, DC, or Puerto Rico to Los Angeles, CA; two (2) nights hotel accommodations for winner and one guest; the opportunity for winner and winner's guest to attend a reception in Los Angeles, CA, on 7/23/14 (approximate retail value of all prizes $3,500). Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Promotion open only to U.S. citizens, or lawful permanent U.S. residents who are legal residents of 50 United States, District of Columbia and Puerto Rico and 18 or older (or age of majority under applicable law). Promotion subject to Official Rules and additional restrictions on eligibility. Sponsor: Democratic National Committee, 430 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003.
Wait, if they put me up in a hotel — will I stay out of the rush hour Obamajams? The president comes to town July 23 for a funder hosted by "Scandal" creator Shonda Rhimes and co-hosted by actress Kerry Washington. Tickets are $1,000 to $32,400 per guest, says the Hollywood Reporter. The next day, Obama is scheduled to attend a roundtable discussion at the home of Live Nation's Michael Rapino and his wife Jolene Rapino. That one is asking $32,400 per person.
For bargain shoppers, First Lady Michelle Obama was here today for a roundtable discussion slash DNC fundraiser at the home of of Michael Lombardo, HBO's president of programming, and his partner, architect Sonny Ward. Mrs. Obama will be here Wednesday to take part in the Unite for Veterans Summit in Century City and give the keynote speech for the Grammy Museum's first Jane Ortner Education Award Luncheon. The latter event is at Club Nokia at LA Live and will include a performance by Janelle Monae.
