California Young Democrats Training Attracts 400

SACRAMENTO – The California Young Democrats (CYD) enjoyed overwhelming success with its biennial Tahoe retreat held October 23-25. More than 400 enthusiastic young Democrats from across the state answered the call for change and gathered to plan strategy for a strong "Young Voter Revolution Campaign" in 2010. Young Democratic leaders from every corner of California pledged to bring the revolution to their respective communities and neighborhoods.

"It is wonderful to see young Californians from all backgrounds come together and show their excitement about how can they make a difference," said Alissa Ko, President of the California Young Democrats. "California´s young Democrats are ready to work hard and have their voices heard in the 2010 campaign season."

Four new CYD officers were elected to join the CYD leadership team. Erin Carlstrom, Santa Rosa, was elected National Committeewoman. Eddie Kirby, Sacramento, was elected Vice-President of Finance. Lee Weissmann, Tarzana, was elected Communications Director. Nibal Halabi, Merced, was elected Central Valley Region Director.

The California Young Democrats were joined by several elected officials. State Controller John Chiang gave the keynote address speaking on the state of the state and what needs to be done now. Assemblymembers Hector De La Torre, Dave Jones, Pedro Nava, Alberto Torrico, and LA City Councilmember Janice Hahn were also in attendance, along with CDP First Vice Chair Alex Rooker, and CDP Vice Chair Eric Bauman. Additionally, Chris Kelly, Chief Privacy Officer for Facebook and candidate for Attorney General, attended. The retreat also featured some of the most promising young Democratic candidates running for public office.

They included Assembly District 21 candidates Marc Berman and Kai Stinchcombe, Assembly District 35 candidate Das Williams, Assembly District 50 candidate Ricardo Lara, Board of Equalization candidate Chris Parker, Escondido City Council candidate Jason Everett, Sacramento School Board candidate Samantha Corbin, San Bernardino School Board candidate Luis Reyna, AC Transit Board incumbent Rocky Fernandez, SMUD Board Member Nancy Bui, and DNC candidate Becca Doten.

Participants joined enriching workshops ranging from voter registration to fundraising, health care, and labor organizing. These trainings provided members a chance to share their ideas and gain knowledge from top trainers about very crucial issues the state faces today.

"Young Democrats were ready to elect a Democratic President in 2008," said Amos Young, Fontana, who is the CYA Inland Empire Regional Director. "Returning from Tahoe this past week we will be even stronger in our efforts to elect a Democratic Governor in 2010. We applaud all the participants for their time and support of CYD´s causes. Through dedication and hard work, we will keep California blue, and bring the change our citizens truly deserve."

The California Young Democrats (CYD) is the official youth arm of the California Democratic Party, comprised of progressive people ages 14-35. The California Young Democrats are committed to creating a bloc of young voters who will elect Democrats for an entire generation. Using proven peer to Peer campaign methods, Young Democrats have made significant differences in races all over California. Young Democrats in California work everyday to promote social justice, women's rights, peace and stability in the world, and many other progressive values.

The California College Democrats (CCD) is the official College student arm of the California Democratic Party, comprised of progressive students. The California High School Democrats (CAHSD) is the official High School student arm of the California Democratic Party, comprised of progressive students.