No matter who ends up winning this year’s presidential contest, Adam Rainey is planning to be in Washington D.C. for the inauguration of the nation’s 44th president.
‘It’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing,? said the Oxford High School sophomore.
Rainey was recently invited to take part in the Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference Jan. 17-21, 2009.
Sponsored by the Congressional Youth Leadership Council, the event is designed to give young participants a deeper understanding of the history behind the electorial process and allow them to be inspired by the richness of tradition surrounding the inauguration.
Rainey was invited because he participated in the National Young Leaders State Conference in Ypsilanti last year.
As part of the conference, Rainey will witness the oath of office and inaugural address, then attend an exclusive black tie gala inaugural ball. ‘Not many people get a chance to do that,? said Rainey’s proud mother, Jody.
Next year’s inauguration promises to be a historic one no matter which candidate ends up occupying the White House.
If the Democrats win, the United States will have either its first female president or its first black president. If the Republicans win, the country will have its first Vietnam veteran governing from the Oval Office.
Although he admitted he’s ‘not very political,? Rainey said he’s ‘probably? favoring Hillary Clinton right now.
‘I want the Democrats to win so maybe we can start doing some stem cell research,? he said.
Diagnosed with diabetes in the fourth grade, Rainey plans to pursue a career in pediatric medicine.
As part of the conference, Rainey will also be given private access to the Smithsonian Institution on the National Mall and listen to a keynote address by seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong.
Rainey will meet historians, political experts and leading decision-makers from both side of the aisle while participating in debates and round-table discussions designed to expand students? understanding of the presidential election process and the country’s democratic principles.
But before he can starting packing his bags for the Beltway, Rainey has to earn $2,300 for the conference plus airfare.
Rainey’s already received approximately $700 in financial aid from local veterans via American Legion Post 108, AMVETS Post 108 and Ladies Auxiliary Unit 108.
‘We’re very appreciative of all their help,? said Rainey’s mother.
To help earn his way, Rainey is looking for a summer job. He’s willing to do everything from raking and mowing lawns to fixing computers for some extra cash.
Anyone interested in helping Rainey get to Washington D.C. either with a donation or a job is asked to call (248) 969-2133 or e-mail bullitt08@gmail.com.