LACYD July e-Newsletter: Softball Repeat, Laurel Awards and Exciting News About LACYD Members

| Los Angeles County Young Democrats e-Newsletter |
July 2010 |
Repeat! LACYD Wins Annual Softball Game Against SFVYD
For the second year in a row, LACYD edged out the visiting Valley young Dems. Former LACYD President Becca Doten was the hero, driving in Aaron Trask with a one-out, bases-loaded single in the bottom of the eighth inning to give LACYD a 10-9 extra-inning victory.
The groups were joined at the game by Los Angeles County Democratic Party Chair Eric Bauman, Assemblymember Mike Feuer, West Hollywood Councilmember Lindsey Horvath and Los Angeles Unified School District Board Member Tamar Galatzan.
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2010 Laurel Awards- September 23
LACYD's biggest event of the year, the Laurel Awards, has been scheduled for September 23, 2010! This is one of the most highly regarded political events in Los Angeles each year.
This year's lineup of exceptional honorees (which will be officially announced soon) promises to attract a crowd that will continue the tradition of providing LACYD members and supporters the opportunity to rub elbows with City, County, State and Federal decision makers as we celebrate Young Dems in Los Angeles. We will send more details and official event invitations soon. In the mean time, please save the date! WHAT: LACYD Laurel Awards WHEN: Thursday, September 23, 2010 WHERE: Cicada Restaurant, Downtown Los Angeles If you have any questions about the Laurel Awards, or would like to help planning the event, please contact Fundraising Chair Karla Diaz. |
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LACYD Board Members Advise Moroccan Official on Young Voter Outreach
On July 8, members of the Los Angeles County Young Democrats Executive Board met with Mr. Hassan Aghmari, Governor and Director of Elections for the Ministry of Interior in Rabat, Morocco to advise him on young voter outreach.
Mr. Aghmari, who was in Los Angeles as part of a State Department trip, wanted to ask LACYD Board Members, as politically active young professionals, about tactics that we have found to be successful in increasing youth participation in the electoral process. This is especially important information for Mr. Aghmari to bring back to Morocco, where more than half of the population is under the age of 35. The meeting was hosted by the International Visitors Council of Los Angeles.
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LACYD Member to Serve as "Women for Newsom" Co-Chair with Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senator Dianne Feinstein
The Newsom for California campaign recently selected Los Angeles County Young Democrats member Lindsey Horvath to serve as a co-chair of "Women for Newsom," a division of the campaign to elect San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom as the next Lieutenant Governor of California. Horvath, who serves as a Councilmember in the City of West Hollywood and who was honored as LACYD's 2009 "Young Democrat of the Year," is joined by Speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and United States Senator Dianne Feinstein as co-chairs of the committee.
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LACYD Members Triumphant in June Elections
The June 8 California Democratic Primary Elections were a fantastic demonstration of the relevance of Young Democrats in the political process.
Members of the Los Angeles County Young Democrats were elected to seats ranging from Statewide Constitutional Office, to Democratic Party Central Committee seats, to a place on the second-largest City Council in Los Angeles County. |
Thank you for your continued interest and involvement in the Los Angeles County Young Democrats.
Please e-mail me at d.grahamcaso@lacyd.org if you have any suggestions regarding how to improve these communications.
All the best,
David Graham-Caso
Vice President of Communications
vpcomm@lacyd.org
LACYD Members Triumphant in June 8 Primary Elections
Yesterday’s Primary Election was a fantastic demonstration of the relevance of Young Democrats in the political process. Members of the Los Angeles County Young Democrats were elected to seats ranging from Statewide Constitutional Office, to Democratic Party Central Committee to a seat on the second-largest City Council in LA County.
LACYD is very proud of James Johnson, a LACYD member who won his runoff election against an incumbent City Councilmember in Long Beach. Councilmember-elect Johnson epitomized hard-working Young Dems by walking his district (Long Beach Council District 7) for more than 400 days in order to meet voters and talk about his vision for Long Beach. With all precincts reporting, Johnson won nearly 53% of the vote and will now serve as the District 7 representative on the Long Beach City Council.
LACYD member Chris Parker was also victorious Tuesday evening. Parker is now the Democratic nominee to be the next member of the California State Board of Equalization from District 2. Chris had a novel idea when deciding to run for what is traditionally a seat occupied by termed-out Republican legislators. He thought that it would make sense for an actual tax attorney, someone that knows tax policy and could effectively enforce it, to serve in a role that is constitutionally charged with enforcing tax policy. During his Primary campaign, Parker traveled to each of the counties in this absurdly large district (which stretches from the Oregon border, down the eastern part of the state and into Los Angeles County) to talk with voters about how electing someone that is right for this job could bring in millions of dollars of revenue to the State that seat-filler Republicans have ignored for years. LACYD is incredibly proud to count Chris as a member and we are looking forward to working hard to get him elected in the fall.
Young Dems also recorded victories in races to serve on the Los Angeles County Democratic Party’s County Central Committee. Up to seven representatives from each Assembly District in the County are elected to make up the governing body for the Los Angeles County Democratic Party. LACYD members from the San Fernando Valley to the San Gabriel Valley, to South Los Angeles were elected Tuesday, including:
- Noel Barajas Jr. (AD 39)
- Ackley Padilla (AD 39)
- Patty Salazar (AD 39)
- Dante Atkins (AD 42)
- Ricky Choi (AD 49)
- Henry Lo (AD 49)
- Skyy Fisher (AD 52)
(If you are an LACYD member who was elected to Central Committee and your name was accidentally omitted above, please contact David Graham-Caso at d.grahamcaso@lacyd.org and we will correct the omission. Thank you.)
Congratulations to all of our members on their success!
Election Day E-Mail Blast- LACYD Primary Election Guide

Los Angeles County Young Democrats e-Newsletter
June 8, 2010
Election Day Edition
Dear Young Dems and LACYD Supporters,
Happy Election Day! The polls in California open in a few minutes and will stay open until 8pm this evening. If you need help finding your polling place please check out the California Democratic Party's helpful tool at this link.
In the past weeks, Los Angeles County Young Democrats have been hard at work, giving their time and money to get great Democrats elected to office.
Below, you will find your LACYD Primary Election Guide, which has information and links to the candidates and issue campaigns endorsed by the Los Angeles County Young Democrats.
We have also included some information about election night events in the LA-area. We hope to see you tonight!
Democratically,
Katherine Hennigan
President, Los Angeles County Young Democrats
LACYD Primary Election Guide
The Los Angeles County Young Democrats have endorsed the following candidates and issues in the June 8, 2010 California Primary election.
Please print this page out and take it with you to the polls this morning (or just have it cued up on your smart-phone so you don't waste any paper) so you know which candidates and issues Young Dems in Los Angeles support as you cast your ballot.
(read the LACYD press release about these endorsements)
U.S. Senate: Barbara Boxer
U.S. Congress, CA-33: Karen Bass
U.S. Congress, CA-36: Jane Harman
Statewide Constitutional Officers
(read the LACYD press release about these endorsements)
Governor- Jerry Brown
Lieutenant Governor- Janice Hahn
Secretary of State- Debra Bowen
Attorney General- Ted Lieu
State Treasurer- Bill Lockyer
State Controller- John Chiang
Insurance Commissioner- Hector De La Torre
Superintendent of Public Instruction- Tom Torlarkson
State Board of Equalization, District 2- Chris Parker
State Board of Equalization, District 4- Jerome Horton
Statewide Ballot Initiatives
(read the LACYD press release about these endorsements)
Proposition 13: Yes
Proposition 14: No
Proposition 15: Yes
Proposition 16: No
Proposition 17: No
State Assembly Races
AD 36- Linda Jones
AD 37- Ferial Masry
AD 38- Diana G. Shaw
AD 39- Felipe Fuentes
AD 40- Bob Blumenfield
AD 41- Julia Brownley
AD 42- Mike Feuer
AD 43- Mike Gatto
(AD43 voters will need to vote for Mike twice on the same ballot due to complicated special election timing. Please visit Mike's campaign website for more information)
AD 44- Anthony Portantino
AD 45- Gil Cedillo
AD 46- John A. Perez
AD 47- Reggie Jones-Sawyer
AD 48- Mike Davis
AD 49- Mike Eng
AD 50- Ricardo Lara
AD 51- Steve Bradford
AD 52- Isadore Hall
AD 54- Bonnie Lowenthal
AD 55- Warren Furutani
AD 56- Tony Mendoza
AD 57- Roger Hernandez
AD 58- Charles Calderon
AD 59- Darcel D. Woods
AD 60- Gregg D. Fritchle
AD 61- Norma J. Torres
State Senate Races
SD 20- Alex Padilla
SD 22- Kevin de Leon
SD 24- Ed Hernandez
SD 26- Curren Price Jr.
SD 28- Jenny Oropeza
SD 30- Ron Calderon
Municipal Elections
Long Beach City Council, District 7: James Johnson
Come celebrate primary election victories and the beginning of the main event- the fall campaign season!
From tomorrow until the first Tuesday in November, Democrats will square off against Republicans and work to ensure that we have the majorities we need in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. to improve people's lives. The stakes are high for the General Election and YOURhard work will be necessary if Democrats are going to win. But that's tomorrow- tonight is for celebrating the work we have done thus far!
Below, please find a list of some of the election night events for LACYD-endorsed candidates. Stop by and meet fellow Democrats and watch election returns as the Democratic nominees for the general election are decided.
Jerry Brown for Governor
Club Nokia, LA Live (Downtown LA)
8pm
RSVP link
Ted Lieu for Attorney General
Manhattan Beach Marriott, Terrace Room, 1400 Parkview Ave (Manhattan Beach)
8pm
RSVP link
Hector De La Torre for Insurance Commissioner
17421 Avalon Rd. (Carson)
9pm
To RSVP or for more information, e-mail gbuchert@earthlink.orgor call (323) 895-3240
Gil Cedillo for Assembly, Kevin De Leon for State Senate, Ricardo Lara for Assembly, John Noguez for County Assessor
J Lounge, 1119 S. Olive Street (Downtown LA)
8pm
Facebook Event Page link
Mike Gatto for Assembly
ATSE Local 80 Hall, 2520 West Olive Avenue (Burbank)
8pm
For questions and directions, please contact Roz or Erin at (818) 736-5252 or email roz@mikegatto4assembly.
Reggie Jones-Sawyer for Assembly
7:30pm
Facebook Event Page link
CYD Black Caucus Presents: "Game Changers"
The California Young Democrats Black Caucus Presents: Game Changers: A Celebration of the Founding of the CYD Black Caucus Organizing & Engaging a New Generation of Black Political Leaders
You are cordially invited to join the CYD Black Caucus for the first leg of their kick off tour on Thursday June 10th. It will be a perfect opportunity to not only meet the members of the Caucus, but connect with many young and emerging leaders from around Southern California. There will be many special guests recognizedl during the evening.
The event will be hosted at Suede Lounge, inside the Westin Bonaventure Hotel, because an occasion like this has to be celebrated right! Come expecting great people, great times, and memories you won't soon forget.
For more information about the event or for our sponsorship opportunities, please e-mail blackcaucus@youngdems.org or call 510-415-4881.
Apply for a Presidential appointed position with CYD!
For more information or if you have any questions, please contact CYD Los Angeles-Area Regional Director Dante Atkins.
SAVE THE DATE(S)
Softball Game- July 11
Laurel Awards- September 23
Our Activities Team is planning some exciting events for the remainder of the year. See below and mark your calendars!
July 11- Our annual softball game against the San Fernando Valley Young Democrats will happen on July 11 in the San Fernando Valley. Last year, LACYD rode an impressive offensive output to beat SFVYD 22-20. Make sure you are around to come help us defend our title!
For more information, please contact Activities Director Katrina Drabeck.
September 23- LACYD's biggest event of the year, the Laurel Awards, has been scheduled for September 23, 2010! This is one of the most highly regarded political events in Los Angeles each year. This year's lineup promises to continue the tradition of providing LACYD members and supporters the opportunity to rub elbows with City, County, State and Federal decision makers as we celebrate Young Dems in Los Angeles. More information will follow, but in the mean time, please SAVE THE DATE!
If you have any questions about the Laurel Awards, or would like to help planning the event, please contact Fundraising Chair Karla Diaz.
Please e-mail me at d.grahamcaso@lacyd.org if you have any suggestions regarding how to improve these messages.
All the best,
David Graham-Caso
Vice President of Communications
vpcomm@lacyd.org
What You Need to Know About the Upcoming Primary Elections- LACYD June Update

Los Angeles County Young Democrats e-Newsletter
June 2010
Pre-Primary Edition
Dear Young Dems and LACYD Supporters,
In the past weeks, Los Angeles County Young Democrats have been hard at work, donating time and money to get great Democrats elected to office. The June 8 Primary election is just a week away and there are some very important races being decided by voters in California.
Below, you will find some useful information about the candidates and issues which LACYD has endorsed in this election cycle, as well as some information about how you can help ensure LACYD's endorsed candidates get elected.
The volunteer opportunities mentioned below are only some of the chances you have to help. Please use the links to campaign websites, which accompany our list of endorsements below, to find out how you can help any and every LACYD-endorsed candidate.
Democratically,
Katherine Hennigan
President, Los Angeles County Young Democrats
LACYD Endorsements- June 8 Primary Election
The Los Angeles County Young Democrats have endorsed the following candidates and issues in the June 8, 2010 California Primary election. Please click on the links provided below to find out more information about the candidates and issues supported by Young Democrats in Los Angeles.
(read the LACYD press release about these endorsements)
U.S. Senate: Barbara Boxer
U.S. Congress, CA-33: Karen Bass
U.S. Congress, CA-36: Jane Harman
Statewide Constitutional Officers
(read the LACYD press release about these endorsements)
Governor- Jerry Brown
Lieutenant Governor- Janice Hahn
Secretary of State- Debra Bowen
Attorney General- Ted Lieu
State Treasurer- Bill Lockyer
State Controller- John Chiang
Insurance Commissioner- Hector De La Torre
Superintendent of Public Instruction- Tom Torlarkson
State Board of Equalization, District 2- Chris Parker
State Board of Equalization, District 4- Jerome Horton
Statewide Ballot Initiatives
(read the LACYD press release about these endorsements)
Proposition 13: Yes
Proposition 14: No
Proposition 15: Yes
Proposition 16: No
Proposition 17: No
State Assembly Races
AD 36- Linda Jones
AD 37- Ferial Masry
AD 38- Diana G. Shaw
AD 39- Felipe Fuentes
AD 40- Bob Blumenfield
AD 41- Julia Brownley
AD 42- Mike Feuer
AD 43- Mike Gatto
(AD43 voters will need to vote for Mike twice on the same ballot due to complicated special election timing. Please visit Mike's campaign website for more information)
AD 44- Anthony Portantino
AD 45- Gil Cedillo
AD 46- John A. Perez
AD 47- Reggie Jones-Sawyer
AD 48- Mike Davis
AD 49- Mike Eng
AD 50- Ricardo Lara
AD 51- Steve Bradford
AD 52- Isadore Hall
AD 54- Bonnie Lowenthal
AD 55- Warren Furutani
AD 56- Tony Mendoza
AD 57- Roger Hernandez
AD 58- Charles Calderon
AD 59- Darcel D. Woods
AD 60- Gregg D. Fritchle
AD 61- Norma J. Torres
State Senate Races
SD 20- Alex Padilla
SD 22- Kevin de Leon
SD 24- Ed Hernandez
SD 26- Curren Price Jr.
SD 28- Jenny Oropeza
SD 30- Ron Calderon
Municipal Elections
Long Beach City Council, District 7: James Johnson
LACYD Member James Johnson for
Long Beach City Council
James Johnson, a long-time member of the Los Angeles County Young Democrats, is currently running to serve on the Long Beach City Council. James is a model for how thoughtful and intelligent Young Dems can become a part of the solutions that make their communities better.
James qualified for the runoff election for a seat on the second largest City Council in Los Angeles County by doing what Young Dems do- working hard. He has been walking his district and meeting with people for more than 400 days now, and he needs our help to finish what he started.
On June 8, James will face an incumbent in a runoff election and the final weekend before the election will be crucial to making sure James triumphs in what is sure to be a close race. This last weekend is about getting all of those folks whom expressed their support and willingness to vote out to the polls.
Long Beach, CA 90807
(562) 507-8622
And if you live in Long Beach District 7, remember to VOTE JAMES JOHNSON!
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY:
Hector De La Torre for Insurance Commissioner
Hector De La Torre is running to be our next State Insurance Commissioner so he can continue doing what he has done his entire career: taking on tough fights and winning. Hector is the kind of no-nonsense Democrat we need standing up for Young Democrats against insurance companies, and he needs your help in the final week before the primary election.
PHONE BANK FOR HECTOR!
Hector's campaign needs your help to call Los Angeles voters to get out the vote. We anticipate a close election. Every phone call we make can make the difference!
SHIFTS AVAILABLE EVERY DAY UNTIL ELECTION DAY!
The campaign office is open every day so please chose a time, a date, and come join us!
Contact Ryan to schedule a time: (323) 354-5700x24 or info@delatorre2010.com
5015 EAGLE ROCK BLVD, SUITE 100
LOS ANGELES, CA 90041
Ricardo Lara for Assembly
Ricardo Lara is another fantastic Young Dem who demonstrates that our members are qualified, capable and ready to participate in every level of government, not just in the future, but today. The Los Angeles County Young Democrats enthusiastically support Ricardo's bid to represent Assembly District 50 in the State Assembly and we encourage you to help get him elected. The following is a message from Ricardo's campaign:
LAST CHANCE TO HELP ELECT RICARDO LARA TO THE 50TH ASSEMBLY DISTRICT!
SPECIAL GOTV HOURS:
Saturday, June 5 - 9 AM - 5 PM
Sunday, June 6 - 10 AM - 8 PM
Monday, June 7 - 10 AM - 8 PM
Tuesday, June 8 ELECTION DAY: 7 AM - 8 PM
Key Volunteer Hours - 3 PM - 8 PM
To confirm contact: LAURA BARRERA at (323) 810-7004
Campaign Headquarters
3734 Tweedy Boulevard, South Gate, CA 90280
(323) 567-7080
The campaign set up a Facebook event page to coordinate volunteer opportunities. See it here: http://www.facebook.com/event.
The Los Angeles County Young Democrats Executive Board voted on May 16 to ratify recommendations made by the LACYD Legislative Committee. The Los Angeles County Young Democrats support the following legislation.
AB 2199: Civil Rights: Antiquated Mental Health Code Repeal - Asm. Bonnie Lowenthal
This bill would repeal Section 8050 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which declares that "the State Department of Mental Health ... shall plan, conduct and cause to be conducted scientific research into the causes and cures of sexual deviation, including deviations conducive to sex crimes against children, and the causes and cures of homosexuality ..."
SB 906: Civil Rights: Reaffirmation of Religious Freedom - Sen. Mark Leno
The bill reaffirms the separation of church and state and codifies in California law that no member of clergy will be required to solemnize a civil marriage that is contrary to his or her faith. The legislation also reaffirms that churches will not lose their tax-exempt status if they refuse to solemnize civil marriages that do not align with their religious beliefs.
SB 970: Voting Rights: College Campus Early Voting Pilot Program - Sen. Ellen Corbett
SB 970 creates a pilot program aimed at increasing voter participation at California public colleges and universities. This bill allows for early voting at four campuses, to be determined by the Secretary of State.
AB656: Higher education fund: Oil Severance Tax - Asm. Alberto Torrico
AB 656 creates the California Higher Education Fund that would be funded by a new 9.9% oil severance tax. California is currently the only oil producing state that does not have a severance tax. This Fund would be administered by the California Higher Education Endowment Corporation (created by this bill) that would annually allocate the revenue to the three college systems based on the following formula: 60% to CSU, 30% to UC, and 10% to Community Colleges.
AB 1999: Underage drinking: Limited immunity for 911 assistance - Asm. Anthony Portantino
Many young people in California have died due to medical complications arising from alcohol consumption. Several have died because friends were unwilling to call for emergency assistance out of fear of legal jeopardy. AB1999 provides limited immunity for those who would have otherwise been suspected of an underage drinking misdemeanor if they report a medical emergency in good faith.
West Hollywood: Item #2.S, "A Resolution Denouncing Arizona's Anti-immigration Law and Calling Upon the City Manager to Immediately Suspend Official Travel to the State of Arizona and Develop Additional Financial Sanctions Until Such Time as the New Law is Revoked." - Councilmember Lindsey Horvath
This ordinance will respond to Arizona's controversial immigration law, SB1070, by banning official city travel to Arizona and investigating the possibilities for further economic divestiture from the state until the law is repealed. San Francisco has already engaged in a similar action.
*This ordinance was approved by the West Hollywood City Council on May 4, with the support of LACYD.
For more information about these bills, or LACYD's support, pleasecontact Legislative Director Dante Atkins.
Apply for a Presidential appointed position with CYD!
For more information or if you have any questions, please contact CYD Los Angeles-Area Regional Director Dante Atkins.
SAVE THE DATE(S)
Softball Game- July 11
Laurel Awards- September 23
Our Activities Team is planning some exciting events for the remainder of the year. See below and mark your calendars!
July 11- Our annual softball game against the San Fernando Valley Young Democrats will happen on July 11 in the San Fernando Valley. Last year, LACYD rode an impressive offensive output to beat SFVYD 22-20. Make sure you are around to come help us defend our title!
For more information, please contact Activities Director Katrina Drabeck.
September 23- LACYD's biggest event of the year, the Laurel Awards, has been scheduled for September 23, 2010! This is one of the most highly regarded political events in Los Angeles each year. This year's lineup promises to continue the tradition of providing LACYD members and supporters the opportunity to rub elbows with City, County, State and Federal decision makers as we celebrate Young Dems in Los Angeles. More information will follow, but in the mean time, please SAVE THE DATE!
If you have any questions about the Laurel Awards, or would like to help planning the event, please contact Fundraising Chair Karla Diaz.
Please e-mail me at d.grahamcaso@lacyd.org if you have any suggestions regarding how to improve these communications.
All the best,
David Graham-Caso
Vice President of Communications
vpcomm@lacyd.org
Dante Atkins on Daily Kos: Won't someone think of the children?
Bill Clinton once said: "When people think, Democrats win." That statement likely has some validity: after all, if voters were to actually examine the statistics behind which major political party has done the most to improve the living standards of middle-class Americans and ensure equal opportunities for everyone, Democrats would come out ahead every time. Unfortunately, however, emotional narratives often trump hard reality. The fact that the TEA Party movement--an acronym for "Taxed Enough Already"--is able to draw any media oxygen whatsoever despite the fact that 98% of Americans received a tax cut this year is evidence enough of the insufficiency of mere facts. Drew Weston's recent book, The Political Brain--a must-read for progressives of all interests--demonstrates this point with even more certainty. While Democrats seek to persuade voters with facts, statistics and numbers, conservatives play to emotional narratives that reinforce existing ideological perceptions. This not only makes their voters more committed to them, but also creates a smooth, coherent narrative that can appeal to the 20% of the population that is actually persuadable. Democrats may not be able to count on people "thinking" to be able to win elections. But there's one thing they could do much better than they're doing now: connecting to and turning out the voters who are already receptive to their facts and narratives. And who are these voters? The youth. Becca Doten is California's only elected member to the Democratic National Committee who qualifies to be a Young Democrat (age 35 or under). In a recent article on the Huffington Post, Doten outlined the specific importance of reaching out to young voters: Issue polls show us that young voters are progressive voters. A recent Public Policy Institute of California study found that Californians age 18-34 support marriage equality 66% to 49%. Republican political strategist Dan Schnur wrote a column in the LA Times last week citing a poll that young voters - regardless of race - opposed denying services to undocumented immigrants by a 20 point margin. Schnur wrote, "age has become the primary factor determining opinion on illegal immigration in California." And young voters don't just support progressive causes; we support the candidates who champion them. The aforementioned PPIC poll also found that Jerry Brown leads Meg Whitman 44% to 30% in voters aged 18-35 and "younger voters prefer Boxer (56% to 30% for Fiorina)." This is night and day from the results of the polls of all likely voters, where these races are neck-and-neck. The young voters of America are in a unique political position. Our America is increasingly tolerant and welcoming of other races, cultures and orientations--despite the last, violent gasps of a movement chiefly contained to a region that for so long has been on the wrong side of all our advances in the arena of social justice. We are progressive. We do not share the longstanding prejudices of the many generations that came before. And we will vote our progressive consciences--just as soon as we get off of Facebook. And therein lies the problem. Young activists--as well as the young voters that young activists are supposed to turn out--are caught in a vicious circle. Because a young vote is a statistically less reliable vote compared to our older peers, campaigns do not spend nearly as much time and resources engaging the inherently progressive youth who may not be the most politically aware. For more local campaigns with limited resources, that decision does make a certain modicum of sense in the short term--but it doesn't help solidify the progressive values of what should be a core Democratic constituency. That would be tolerable if that lack of short-term outreach were overcome by a significant long-term strategic investment at the national level in turning out young voters, solidifying our generation's progressive tendencies, and recruiting young activists to be the future leaders of the Party. Currently, however, that investment is not being made at the proper level. In California, for instance, Young Democrat and College Democrat clubs essentially function as independent entities who are mostly, if not solely, responsible for their own fundraising, outreach and voter turnout programs in their local areas. There is not as much connection as there should be with the California Democratic Party, and very little outreach at all from any national organizations or Party Committees. The Republican Party, however, has well-connected youth outreach efforts--not so much designed to turn out young conservative voters, because that is generally an oxymoron, but rather to bring young conservatives with talent into the fold of the Republican Party and provide them with the leadership opportunities they need to hone their skills. The RNC, for instance, sends out fundraising letters on behalf of its national College Republican organization, and the RNC's Young Eagle program has been in the news recently for all the wrong reasons. The Democratic Party would likely never have this problem, if for no other reason than a Young Democrat organization would likely never find itself that close to a DNC expense account. It would make sense for a Party to invest in the demographic groups that identify most closely with it, and there is far more the Democrats could be doing in this regard at a national level. As Doten says: There is no silver bullet that will turn out young voters. As with every other constituency, it takes a strategic effort and focus of resources to reach young people. Ensuring young voter turnout, and in turn ensuring Democratic victories, means more than paying us lip service. It means including young voter outreach in campaign plans and investing resources in turning out our demographic. It means having young supporters play an active role in campaigns by reaching out to millennial voters with a message that resonates on a peer-to-peer level. Young voters need to understand their stake in the election, that their vote means something to their lives and that the candidate is someone who will fight for what they believe in - which is a progressive, positive agenda. There are many things that could be done to make accomplish some of these objectives right now, such as a strategic investment in Young Democrat organizations; investment in online and mobile voter registration technology; promoting early voting locations on college campuses; and a dedicated youth outreach program for national and statewide campaigns, just to name a few. When young people vote, Democrats win. We just need a little reminder--especially if it comes by iPhone.http://www.dailykos.com/story/2010/4/18/857819/-Wont-someone-think-of-the-children
Won't someone think of the children?
by Dante Atkins
Sun Apr 18, 2010 at 04:00:05 PM PDT
Pre-Convention Newsletter
Dear Young Dem,
The annual California Democratic Party convention will be held in downtown Los Angeles starting tomorrow and running through the weekend. Attending the convention is a great way to learn more about the Democratic Party in California and to rub elbows with Party leaders and elected officials.
Below, please find out some information about the convention and how you can join the Los Angeles County Young Democrats as we welcome Democrats from around the state to Los Angeles.
LACYD/SFVYD Convention Party-
Tomorrow!
The Los Angeles County Young Democrats and San Fernando Valley Young Democrats will be co-hosting the premiere Young Dem event of the convention on this Saturday, April 17.
This party is meant to simultaneously celebrate the work Young Dems have done in recent years, and to offer a way for previously unengaged Young Dems to find out more about our organizations and how they can get involved. Regardless of your membership status, you are invited to what should be a memorable event.
You are invited to spend an evening with the progressive young professionals who are working across Southern California to secure Democratic victories in 2010.
Janice Hahn, LA City Councilmember and Candidate for Lt. Governor
Hector De la Torre, Assemblymember and Candidate for Insurance Commissioner
Ted Lieu, Assemblymember and Candidate for Attorney General
Alex Padilla, State Senator
Mark Leno, State Senator
Gil Cedillo, State Senator
Fiona Ma, Assembly Speaker pro Tempore
Mike Davis, Assemblymember
David Chiu, San Francisco Supervisor
Ash Karla, San Jose City Council Member
Lindsey Horvath, City of West Hollywood Councilmember
Evan Low, Mayor of Campbell
Robert Garcia, City of Long Beach Councilmember
Steve Zimmer, LA Unified School District Board Member
Nury Martinez, LA Unified School District Board Member
Oscar De la Torre, Santa Monica School Board Member
Steve Ngo, San Francisco Community College Board of Trustees Member
Ben Allen, Santa Monica Malibu School Board Member
Chris Braun, Santa Monica Rent Control Board Member
Rocky Fernandez, Alameda County Transit Board President
Nancy Bui, Sacramento Municipal Utility Board Member
Becca Doten, Democratic National Committee Member
and many, many more!
Event co-hosted by the Stonewall Young Democrats, Young Latino Democrats of the San Fernando Valley, Loyola Law School Democratsand the UCLA Bruin Democrats.
WHAT: LACYD/SFVYD Convention Party
WHEN: Saturday, April 17, 8pm
WHERE: Hotel Figueroa, "Rick's Room" (939 S. Figueroa St.)
Active LACYD members can skip the line!(Sign up or re-up your membership here. Active members have either paid dues in 2010 or attended the Laurel Awards last year. Please contact Membership Director Sofia Samiwith any questions about the status of your membership.)
Please email any questions about this event to LACYD Activities Director Caroline Carr.
Hector De La Torre's Convention Block Party

The De La Torre campaign is looking for a few more volunteers to help us set up, guide the crowds, and breakdown the site.
They are asking volunteers to assist between 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM. If you can only do a few hours within this time, please let them know.
There is free parking for volunteers, and free food. And it will be fun.
If you are interested in helping Hector win by volunteering at the Block Party, please contact Javier at javier@
The event will be held at the Health Care Partners parking lot located at:
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Thank you!
LACYD Endorsements in June Primary Races
One of the main focuses of the Convention is to decide the California Democratic Party's endorsements for the primary elections that will be held on June 8. LACYD has already endorsed candidates in most of these races and we encourage you to support the following candidates in whatever way you can.
Statewide Constitutional Officers
Governor- Jerry Brown
Lieutenant Governor- Janice Hahn
Secretary of State- Debra Bowen
Attorney General- Ted Lieu
State Treasurer- Bill Lockyer
State Controller- John Chiang
Insurance Commissioner- Hector De La Torre
Superintendent of Public Instruction- Tom Torlarkson
State Board of Equalization, District 2- Chris Parker
State Assembly Races
AD 36- Linda Jones
AD 37- Ferial Masry
AD 38- Diana G. Shaw
AD 39- Felipe Fuentes
AD 40- Bob Blumenfield
AD 41- Julia Brownley
AD 42- Mike Feuer
AD 43- Mike Gatto
AD 44- Anthony Portantino
AD 45- Gil Cedillo
AD 46- John A. Perez
AD 47- Reggie Jones-Sawyer
AD 48- Mike Davis
AD 49- Mike Eng
AD 50- Ricardo Lara
AD 51- Steve Bradford
AD 52- Isadore Hall
AD 54- Bonnie Lowenthal
AD 55- Warren Furutani
AD 56- Tony Mendoza
AD 57- Roger Hernandez
AD 58- Charles Calderon
AD 59- Darcel D. Woods
AD 60- Gregg D. Fritchle
AD 61- Norma J. Torres
State Senate Races
SD 20- Alex Padilla
SD 22- Kevin de Leon
SD 24- Ed Hernandez
SD 26- Curren Price Jr.
SD 28- Jenny Oropeza
SD 30- Ron Calderon
If you have any questions, please contact Dan Taylor, Political Committee Co-Chair.

2:00pm - 8:00pm: CYD Registration & Technology Center JW Marriott Diamond Salon 1
5-7 pm: CDP Workshop: Introduction to Mobilize, Organize, & Elect (MOE)
5-7 pm: CDP Workshop: Field Tools and Training
6:00pm - 8:00 pm: California Young Democrats Rules, Credentialing Committee and Resolutions Committee Meetings JW Marriott Platinum A
8-10 pmChair's Welcome Reception: Blue Carpet Premiere: All officially credentialed CYD delegates and all DEM2010 members are free of charge JW Marriott Diamond 4-5
9pm-midnight: CYD Party with Organizing For America
10-12 am: Hospitality Suites
9am-10am: CYD Veterans Caucus Meets JW Marriott Diamond Salon 1
10am-11am: CYD Latino Caucus Meets JW Marriott Diamond Salon 1
11am-noon: CYD Black Caucus Meets JW Marriott Diamond Salon 1
noon-1:00pm: CYD Queer Caucus JW Marriott Diamond Salon 1
12-1:30pm Luncheon - Special Guest Speaker: Arianna Huffington (Tickets $60)
1:00pm: CYD Labor Caucus Meeting JW Marriott Diamond Salon 1
1:30pm-3pm: Workshop: California Young Democrats Youth PanelJW Marriott Platinum A
3pm-7 pm: California Young Democrats/CCD/HS caucus meetings & CYD Awards Ceremony JW Marriott Platinum C
6 pm Dinner- Special Guest Speaker: AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (Tickets $120)
8 pm:Day-One Fund Concert Featuring "Los Lobos" (The 'Day-One Fund' will help with Voter Registration and our Get Out the Vote program for November 2010. All officially credentialed CYD delegates and all DEM2010 members are free of charge. Just show your CYD credential or DEM2010 sticker at the door!)
8pm-1am: LACYD-SFVYD Convention Party
9:30am-2pm: CDP General Session
For more information, please visit http://www.youngdems.org/
Please e-mail me at vpcom@lacyd.orgif you have any suggestions regarding how to improve these communications.
All the best,
David Graham-Caso
Vice President of Communications
vpcom@lacyd.org
Becca Doten: Don't Call Us "The Future" If You Want to Win Now
Originally posted to Huffington Post on April 13, 2010.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/becca-doten/dont-call-us-the-future-i_b_535825.html
Don't Call Us "The Future" If You Want to Win Now
This coming weekend, Democrats from across California will be converging on Los Angeles for the annual California Democratic Party State Convention. Activists, elected officials and candidates will attend the convention to shake hands, take meetings and look for the election trifecta -- endorsements, money and volunteers. On Saturday, candidates will also stop by theCalifornia Young Democrats' meeting, looking for a chance to address hundreds of young activists, ages 18-35, as we gather for our annual convention, which is held concurrently with the full CDP convention. Candidates will get a minute or two to tell us why Young Democrats should engage in their campaign and, if the CYD meeting is anything like years past, they'll tell us how, at one time, they were a Young Democrat, too. In their best attempts to pander to our demographic, many will repeat the oft-used phrase that "Young Democrats are the future." And to be fair, many of us will continue to be involved in politics and the Democratic Party for years to come, and some of us will take on additional leadership roles in the Party or run for elected office. So, in that way, we are the future. But labeling Young Dems simply as "the future" downplays the importance of our demographic now. Young voters are not a constituency to be considered in the perpetual "future." Rather, young voters are one of the most potentially powerful demographics within the Democratic Party today. It is a very simple equation -- when young people vote, Democrats win. Polling shows that some very important races are terrifyingly close in California. Not only will there likely be close general election races for Governor and the US Senate, but Democrats throughout the state will face Republican opponents who are banking on a historical election trend. They are hoping that, as in years past, when the party of the President changes, there will be a large shift of seats away from the Party now in power. Gov. Tim Kaine, the Chair of the Democratic National Committee, put it bluntly: "The average president loses 28 House seats, four Senate seats and governor's races. And we're not living in average times." We've already seen inklings of this trend. In January, the country was stunned when Martha Coakley lost to Scott Brown in the race for the late Edward Kennedy's Senate seat. Yes, Democrats fielded an unfortunately weak candidate in Coakley, and there were lessons learned from the defeat. But in the lessons that we take from the race, there is one that has been largely overlooked -- young voters, aged 18-29, still voted overwhelmingly for Martha Coakley. In fact, almost 60% of young voters in the Special Election voted for the Democrat, even though she only ended up with 47% of the vote. So where was the disconnect between the young voter's choice and the final results? Only 15% of young voters went to the polls and cast ballots. This is a marked difference from 2008, when a whopping 52% of young Americans voted. It was clear in the 2008 Presidential election and it was clear in the Massachusetts Special Election -- when young people vote, Democrats win. Issue polls show us that young voters are progressive voters. A recent Public Policy Institute of California study found that Californians age 18-34 support marriage equality 66% to 49%. Republican political strategist Dan Schnur wrote a column in the LA Times last week citing a poll that young voters - regardless of race - opposed denying services to undocumented immigrants by a 20 point margin. Schnur wrote, "age has become the primary factor determining opinion on illegal immigration in California." And young voters don't just support progressive causes; we support the candidates who champion them. The aforementioned PPIC poll also found that Jerry Brown leads Meg Whitman 44% to 30% in voters aged 18-35 and "younger voters prefer Boxer (56% to 30% for Fiorina)." This is night and day from the results of the polls of all likely voters, where these races are neck-and-neck. The question facing campaigns this fall is not about how to convince young voters that Democrats are on the right side of issues of importance. Our generation has demonstrated a widespread acceptance of the progressive values which, for a large part, make up the Democratic Party platform. The question is how to activate these young voters and get them to the polls. There is no silver bullet that will turn out young voters. As with every other constituency, it takes a strategic effort and focus of resources to reach young people. Ensuring young voter turnout, and in turn ensuring Democratic victories, means more than paying us lip service. It means including young voter outreach in campaign plans and investing resources in turning out our demographic. It means having young supporters play an active role in campaigns by reaching out to millennial voters with a message that resonates on a peer-to-peer level. Young voters need to understand their stake in the election, that their vote means something to their lives and that the candidate is someone who will fight for what they believe in - which is a progressive, positive agenda. President Barack Obama did it right. He had a message that spoke to young voters, one of hope and a new direction for our country. He took bold stances and he made sure he got the word out to young voters - on our own playing field. His use of technology was strategic and innovative and it translated traditional campaign tactics to a medium accessible to our generation. The California Young Democrats' slogan is, "the margin of victory." In these coming elections, young voters can be the margin of victory for Democrats throughout the state. But it won't happen if there are not concerted efforts to reach out to young voters and give us a compelling reason to go to the polls. Maybe that's why, this year, the California Young Democrats' Convention slogan is simple: We vote, Democrats win.
April 2010 Newsletter
Dear Young Dems,
Spring is here, and just like the weather, the 2010 election cycle is heating up throughout California! In the past month, LACYD has been meeting and screening the candidates vying for statewide and local offices and deciding who will best serve Young Democrats in Los Angeles County as elected officials.
In the following newsletter, you will find information about these recent endorsements, as well as information about some exciting upcoming events (including one of the BIGGEST parties LACYD has ever hosted!)
Thank you for checking out this newsletter. As always, the LACYD Executive Board appreciates you continued involvement and we look forward to seeing you all at the upcoming California Democratic Party convention in Los Angeles later this month.
LACYD/SFVYD Convention Party-
Saturday, April 17!
The annual California Democratic
Party convention will be held in downtown Los Angeles from April 16-18. Attending the convention is a great way to learn more about the Democratic Party in California and to rub elbows with Party leaders and elected officials.
You can register for the California Young Democrats convention (held concurrently with the CDP convention) here. For the first time, ALL Young Democrats who register for the CYD convention will have access to the CDP Convention, which, as in years past, promises to have interesting and exciting speakers.
Caucus meetings, speakers and exercises in parliamentary procedure are great and all, but to be honest, the best part of the annual convention is the series of parties that organizations and campaigns host after the sun sets on each day of the Convention.
The Los Angeles County Young Democrats and San Fernando Valley Young Democrats will be co-hosting the premiere Young Dem event of the convention on Saturday, April 17. This party is meant to simultaneously celebrate the work Young Dems have done in recent years, and to offer a way for previously unengaged Young Dems to find out more about our organizations and how they can get involved. Regardless of your membership status, you are invited to what should be a memorable event.
WHAT: LACYD/SFVYD Convention Party
WHEN: Saturday, April 17, 9pm
WHERE: Hotel Figueroa, "Rick's Room" (939 S. Figueroa St.)
Active LACYD members can skip the line! (Sign up or re-up your membership here. Active members have either paid dues in 2010 or attended the Laurel Awards last year. Please contact Membership Director Sofia Sami with any questions about the status of your membership.)
Please email any questions about this event to LACYD Activities Director Caroline Carr.
April 14, 2010
The California Young Democrats are proud to present a "Women in Politics" event featuringLos Angeles City Councilmember and candidate for Lt. Governor Janice Hahn.
This is part of a "Women in Politics" series, where prominent political women speak to Young Democrats about their experiences in the political arena, with a specific angle on being a woman in politics.
Becca Doten, Regional Director, CYD Region 5
Katherine Hennigan, President, LACYD
Daisy Pisana, President, SLACYD
Bianca Villanueva, President, LBYD
Carrie McFadden, President, Bruin Democrats
Klementina Pavlova, President, CSUN Democrats
EVENT DETAILS
This event is FREE and open to all those who are interested - both women and men are welcome. Food will be provided, with a no-host bar.
LOCATION
To be determined (check the Facebook event page for updates)
EVENT SCHEDULE
6:30: Networking
7:00: Conversation with CM Janice Hahn
8:00: Post-conversation networking
For more information or to rsvp, contact CYD Region 5 Director Becca Doten. We look forward to seeing you on April 14!
featuring LA Councilmember Janice Hahn
WHEN: Monday, February 15, 2010, 6:30pm - 9 pm
WHERE: To be determined
LACYD Endorses Candidates in Los Angeles-Area Assembly and Senate Primary Races
LACYD hosted a membership meeting on March 31 in Culver City to decide our organization's endorsements in races to represent Los Angeles County districts in the State Assembly and State Senate. After hearing from a great panel of candidates vying to represent our membership, the membership voted on a series of endorsements for Assembly and Senate Democratic primary races.
Please find the fantastic slate of LACYD-endorsed candidates below. Hyperlinks to candidate's campaign websites have been included where available. We encourage you to check out the sites and get involved in these campaigns!
State Assembly Races
AD 36- Linda Jones
AD 37- Ferial Masry
AD 38- Diana G. Shaw
AD 39- Felipe Fuentes
AD 40- Bob Blumenfield
AD 41- Julia Brownley
AD 42- Mike Feuer
AD 43- Mike Gatto *Special election on April 13
AD 44- Anthony Portantino
AD 45- Gil Cedillo
AD 46- John A. Perez
AD 47- Reggie Jones-Sawyer
AD 48- Mike Davis
AD 49- Mike Eng
AD 50- Ricardo Lara
AD 51- Steve Bradford
AD 52- Isadore Hall
AD 54- Bonnie Lowenthal
AD 55- Warren Furutani
AD 56- Tony Mendoza
AD 57- Roger Hernandez
AD 58- Charles Calderon
AD 59- Darcel D. Woods
AD 60- Gregg D. Fritchle
AD 61- Norma J. Torres
State Senate Races
SD 20- Alex Padilla
SD 22- Kevin de Leon
SD 24- Ed Hernandez
SD 26- Curren Price Jr.
SD 28- Jenny Oropeza
SD 30- Ron Calderon
If you are not sure which district you live in, you can figure it out on the Assembly's website.
For a full list of all LACYD endorsements (including the Statewide Constitutional Officer endorsements decided earlier this year, please visit our website.
If you have any questions, please contact Dan Taylor, Political Committee Co-Chair.

Voting in the California Democratic Primary Elections begins next month! Add the dates below to your calendar to be sure you are able to help select the candidates that will represent our Party in the November General Elections.
May 10- Vote by Mail (absentee) Ballots mailed to voters
May 24- Final day to register to vote in order to be allowed to cast a ballot in the June primary elections.
June 1- Final day to apply for a vote by mail/absentee ballot
June 8- Election Day
Please e-mail me at vpcom@lacyd.org if you have any suggestions regarding how to improve these communications.
All the best,
David Graham-Caso
Vice President of Communications
vpcom@lacyd.org
February 2010 Newsletter
Dear Young Dems,
2010 is a very important year to be a Democrat. With what is already shaping up to be both an exciting and nerve-wracking series of elections later this year, it is as important as ever for young Democrats to be active and informed.
This newsletter is one small way the Los Angeles County Young Democrats are trying to help ensure that young Dems in the Los Angeles-area give California an encore performance of 2008, when young Dems were the margin of victory in elections across the country.
Below, you will find information about an upcoming LACYD endorsement meeting, as well as other opportunities to engage in the democratic process.
Thank you for all you do.
Democratically,
Katherine Hennigan
President, Los Angeles County Young Democrats
| Endorsements to be Decided at the Next LACYD Membership Meeting- Thursday, February 18
As Californians, we have a lot riding on the elections being held in 2010. Our state is in dire need of leadership to steer us through the difficult decisions that must be made to address serious financial and social challenges. This summer, Democrats across California will choose our nominees for such critical positions as Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General and Insurance Commissioner, among others. The Los Angeles County Young Democrats will be issuing endorsements in statewide primary races for Constitutional Officers at our next membership meeting, scheduled to be held on February 18. You are invited to join us at this meeting and help us decide who we will back in these races. On Saturday, February 6, the LACYD Executive Board met to interview candidates and debate endorsement recommendations. Our Executive Board endorsement recommendations can be seen at the link provided below. Please download the document and come to the meeting ready to offer your opinion and your vote for the candidates you believe will do the best job representing the interests of young Democrats in Los Angeles County. WHAT: LACYD Membership Meeting
WHEN: Thursday, February 18, 2010, 6:30p - 8p WHERE: El Paseo Inn (11 Olvera Street Los Angeles, CA 90012) DETAILS: Reception 6:30p and the program starts at 7pm. Appetizers will be provided. Parking is available in LA City Lots on Main, Alameda & Los Angeles Streets. There are 4 lots total. The Metro Red Line also stops at Union Station, across the street from Olvera Street. GO GREEN, TAKE PUBLIC TRANSIT! Please email any questions to LACYD Activities Director Caroline Carr. |
|
LACYD Fundraising Committee Meeting- February 15, 2010
LACYD has a very active year planned, but we need to raise the funds to make it all happen! Do you have interesting fundraising ideas? Do you want to help plan our upcoming spring and fall fundraisers? Do you have ideas for a cool t-shirt or other items we could sell to raise money? Come to our first fundraising committee meeting of 2010 and share your thoughts. We'll be discussing our calendar for the year and ways to incorporate fundraising into each event. Additionally, we will brainstorm themes for a fun spring fundraiser. WHAT: LACYD Fundraising Committee Meeting
WHEN: Monday, February 15, 2010, 8p - 9p WHERE: Room 5 Lounge (143 North La Brea, 2nd Floor) Please contact Fundraising Director Karla Diaz if you have any questions. |
| Volunteers Needed for the California Democratic Party Convention in Los Angeles this April
The annual California Democratic Party convention will be held in Los Angeles on April 16-18. Even if you are not a delegate to the convention, you are invited to attend the meetings as an observer to see first hand how our state Party operates. The CDP is looking for 800 volunteers to facilitate a productive and enjoyable convention for the approximately 3,500 delegates, guests and press in attendance. Volunteers are needed in several areas - some assignments will require sitting while others may involve standing or acting as a runner. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete the volunteer form by March 1, 2010. If you have any questions, please contact Christopher Guerrero, Deputy Political Director at (916) 442-5707 or email volunteer2010@cadem.org. |
|
Democratic Party of the San Fernando Valley Candidate Forum- March 6
The Democratic Party of the San Fernando Valley will host a candidate forum for Democrats running for Constitutional Office (Governor, Lt. Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General, State Treasurer, State Controller, Superintendent of Public Instruction and State Board of Equalization) on March 6 in the San Fernando Valley. Please visit www.dpsfv.com for more information about the event. |
| Make Advocation Your Vocation! Check Out the LACYD Job Board
We know the LACYD website isn't fantastic, but we are working on developing an updated site that will serve as your portal into young Democratic activism. In the mean time, we have been updating the job board on the site frequently to make sure you know about any politically-related jobs available in the Los Angeles-area. |
All the best,
David Graham-Caso
Vice President of Communications
vpcom@lacyd.org
::
January 19- Special Haiti e-mail
Dear Young Dems,
As you are undoubtedly well aware, the aftermath of the devastating earthquake last week in Haiti continues to require both our attention and assistance.
As members of the Los Angeles County Young Democrats, we believe that at the core of each individual, there is good nature that drives each us to reach out and help neighbors in need. Facing moral responsibility is not an exclusive partisan issue- it is an imperative human issue. It is the responsibility of every one of us to help when help is needed, to give when we can afford to give and to improve the world in which we all live by donating generously to people that require our generosity.
"That responsibility obviously is magnified when the devastation that's been suffered is so near to us. Haitians are our neighbors in the Americas, and for Americans they are family and friends. It's characteristic of the American people to help others in time of such severe need. That's the spirit that we will need to sustain this effort as it goes forward."
January 15, 2010
It would be easy to become inundated with the flood of information released from various organizations directing you to the many ways you can help the victims of this crisis. Below, you will find information about how you can help the humanitarian aid efforts underway in Haiti. We encourage you to give as generously as you are able.
Thank you,
The Los Angeles County Young Democrats Executive Board
| How You Can Help People In Haiti
The following article was posted to CNN.com and provides a good sample of charities accepting money for Haitian relief efforts.
(CNN)- As relief assistance continues in Haiti, agencies are asking people for money, not material goods, to keep those efforts going. Most organizations will use the money donated to purchase immediate needs, such as water, food, shelter and medical supplies.
These agencies have set up phone lines, online donation pages and even texting for individuals to contribute to their relief efforts.
We've compiled a list of a few organizations who are in Haiti helping those in need.
These resources include the highest-rated charities by CharityNavigator.org, which is an independent, nonprofit organization that evaluates charity groups based on effectiveness and financial stability. These sites are vetted by CNN journalists for credibility.
American Jewish World Service
The agency supports grass-roots, community-based organizations in remote locations whose needs are not always met by larger organizations. To donate to its Haiti relief efforts, go to ajws.org/haitiearthquake/ or mail a check to 45 W. 36th St., 11th Floor, New York, NY 10018. Make checks out to American Jewish World Service, and in the memo section write "Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund."
You may also call 1-800-889-7146 or 212-792-2900. The group will use the funds for immediate needs, such as psychological and social support; health services and education on hygiene and disease prevention; mobilizing volunteers in Haiti to help with rescue and aid distribution; and aid to the Haitian Dominican community, who can coordinate with the Dominican government for greater support; in addition to long-term rebuilding plans.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross' primary focus during the initial response of an emergency is feeding, sheltering and supplying any other basic needs. To donate: Go to RedCross.org, hit donate now button at top and then International Response Fund. You also can text "Haiti" to 90999 to donate $10 to the International Response Fund. The money will go directly to relief efforts in Haiti. Or call 1-800-Red-Cross.
AmeriCares
This nonprofit disaster relief organization delivers medicine, medical supplies and aid to people in crisis around the world. To donate, call 1-800-486-HELP or go to AmeriCares.org. Donations will go toward medicine and medical supplies and for expenses for providing that medical aid.
Care
This humanitarian organization's main focus is to fight global poverty, specifically by empowering marginalized women and girls. To donate to the Haiti relief fund effort, go to Care.org or call 1-800-521-CARE. Money will go toward food, water and sanitation, shelter and emergency health response.
Catholic Relief Services
Catholic Relief Services is an aid agency that works with emergency relief, micro-finance, AIDS/HIV relief, agriculture, water and sanitation, among other projects in countries around the world. To donate, go to crs.org, or call 1-877-HELP-CRS. You also can text RELIEF to 30644. You will receive a text message back with instructions on how to donate. You can send a check to Catholic Relief services, P.O. Box 17090, Baltimore, MD 21203-7090. Write "Haiti earthquake" in memo area. The money will go toward immediate needs, which includes water, food, hygiene kits, bedding and basic cooking utensils, among other items.
Direct Relief International
Direct Relief provides medical attention to those in need on an ongoing basis and in emergencies. Monetary donations go toward medical aid, supplies and equipment in Haiti. To donate, go to directrelief.org or call 805-964-4767 and 800-676-1638, or go through Google Checkout.
Food For the Poor
The agency delivers food, medical supplies and other goods that are donated to the poor. To donate to its Haiti relief efforts, go to foodforthepoor.org, or call 1-800-487-1158. For those living in South Florida, bring donated items to the Food for the Poor headquarters office at 6401 Lyons Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33073. The charity will accept canned fish, canned meat, canned milk, canned baby formula and bottled water. Monetary donations will go toward purchasing food and supplies as well as shipping costs.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity provides affordable, safe shelter for low-income families and people in need. Money donated for Haiti relief efforts will go toward recovery and rebuilding. To donate, go to habitat.org or call 1-800-Habitat.
International Medical Corps
This emergency response agency focuses on health in emergency situations. Monetary donations go toward purchasing medical supplies, medicine and emergency kits and transporting these supplies. Call 1-800-481-4462 or go to imcworldwide.org
International Relief Teams
The nonprofit organizes volunteer teams to provide medical and non-medical assistance to victims of disasters and poverty. To donate, go to irteams.org or call 619-284-7979. Checks can be made out to International Relief Teams, 4560 Alvarado Canyon Road, Suite 2G, San Diego, CA 92120-4309. The money will be used for medical supplies, medicine and other relief supplies, and to support volunteers heading to Haiti for relief efforts.
Love a Child
The Christian-based humanitarian relief agency focuses on giving aid to children and their families in Haiti. To donate, go to loveachild.com, or call 1-800-645-4868. You can mail a check to P.O Box 30744 Tampa, FL 33630-3744. Please write "Haiti Earthquake" or "where most needed" on memo line of check. Monetary donations will be used for food, clothing, shelter, schools and medical needs, among other program services.
Medical Teams International
The Christian global health organization sends volunteer medical teams and supplies to those in the midst of disaster or poverty. Monetary donations will go to supporting the medical teams being sent to Haiti and to the cost of shipping the medical supplies donated by corporations. Donate by going to medicalteams.org and clicking on the "Donate Now" button, or call 1-800-959-HEAL (4325) or send a check to Medical Teams International, P.O. Box 10, Portland, OR 97207.
Medecins sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders)
The humanitarian organization delivers medical care to people caught in crisis. Donations to its Haiti relief efforts will go toward repairing the obstetrics and trauma hospitals in Haiti that were damaged in the earthquake. They also will go to transporting an additional 70 doctors and medical supplies to the island in an effort to set up makeshift emergency medical response centers. To donate, go to doctorswithoutborders.org or call 1-888-392-0392.
Mercy Corps
The organization provides humanitarian assistance and economic opportunities in the world's toughest places, specifically those dealing with poverty, conflict and instability. To donate, go to MercyCorps.org. Money will go toward immediate humanitarian needs in Haiti, which may include, food, water and temporary shelter.
Operation USA
The international relief agency provides funding for reconstruction and development aid to communities that have experienced disasters, disease and poverty. For its Haiti relief efforts, the agency plans to use donations for health care materials, water purification supplies and food supplements. To donate, go to opusa.org or call 1-800-678-7255, or mail a check to Operation USA, 3617 Hayden Ave., Suite A, Culver City, CA 90232.
Project Hope
Project Hope responds to crises with medical supplies and medical volunteers, and it is committed to long-term sustainable health care. To donate, go to projecthope.org or mail a check to 255 Carter Hall Lane, Millwood, VA 22646. Monetary donations will be used for shipments of medicine and medical supplies and for deployment of volunteer doctors and nurses to Haiti.
Project MediShare
The agency's sole purpose is to improve the health and well-being of Haitian people. To donate, go to ProjectMediShare.org, or you can send a check, cash or in-kind donation (including medicines and medical supplies) to Project MediShare, 8260 NE Second Ave., Miami, FL 33138. Money will go toward medical care in Haiti and to send medical teams there.
Samaritan's Purse
The nondenominational evangelical Christian organization works through local churches and partners on the ground. The aid agency provides spiritual and physical aid to the poor, sick and suffering. To donate, go to Samaritanspurse.org, or call 1-800-528-1980. To give by mail, send donations to Samaritan's Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607-3000. Money will go toward temporary shelter, water purification, hygiene kits, blankets, medicine and medical teams.
Save the Children
The independent organization focuses on children in need in the U.S. and globally through programs for health and nutrition, child protection and education. To donate, go to savethechildren.org, or call 1-800-728-3843 or 203-221-4030. Donations will go toward purchasing relief items, such as hygiene kits, family kits (pots, pans, food preparation items) and tarps.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army's mission is to provide food, shelter, clothing and spiritual comfort during disasters. To donate money, go to salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Make sure you designate the donation for "Haiti Earthquake." Money will go to the Salvation Army in Haiti, which will determine the country's immediate needs, including water, food, medicine and transportation.
Shelterbox
The nonprofit delivers boxes of supplies to families of up to 10 people. The boxes contain a tent and essential equipment to use while individuals are displaced or homeless. To donate, call 941-907-6036 or go to shelterboxusa.org.
U.S. Fund for UNICEF
The national committee for UNICEF is responsible for the organization's fundraising. UNICEF uses the money for health care, clean water, nutrition, education and emergency relief. To donate, go to Unicefusa.org or 1-800-4-UNICEF.
World Concern
The organization lifts people out of poverty, beginning with disaster response and ending when families can live sustainable lives. To donate to its relief effort, go to Worldconcern.org or call 1-866-530-5433. You can also mail checks to 19303 Fremont Ave. North, Seattle, WA 98133. Please specify that the check is for "Haiti Disaster Response." Money will go toward water supplies, shelter, blankets, distribution of food and long-term needs, such as job training, education, loans and home construction, among other projects.
World Food Programme
The food assistance agency's main focus is to fight hunger worldwide. The organization is working to bring food to Haiti. To donate, go to wfp.org.
World Neighbors
The agency trains and educates communities to solve hunger, poverty and disease. To donate, go to wn.org or call 405-752-9700 or you can mail a check to World Neighbors, 4127 NW 122nd St., Oklahoma City, OK, 73120 and write "Haiti Fund" on memo line. Monetary donations will be used to support short-term needs (i.e. food, water and supplies) and long-term development programs.
World Water Relief
The agency's main focus is bringing clean water to developing countries. To donate, go to worldwaterrelief.org or mail checks to 8343 Roswell Road, Suite 455 Atlanta, GA 30350-2810 or call 404-242-1601 or 214-500-9417. Money will go directly to water filtration systems that will be installed in Haiti.
Yele Haiti
This organization, founded by Wyclef Jean, creates projects to improve the quality of education, health, environment and community development in Haiti. To donate to to its Haiti relief efforts, go to yele.org or text YELE to 501501 to donate $5.
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Respectfully,
David Graham-Caso
Vice President of Communications
vpcom@lacyd.org
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January 2010 Newsletter
Dear Young Dem,
Hello and welcome to 2010! I hope you had a great holiday season and are having a happy New Year thus far. My name is Katherine Hennigan and I am the President of the Los Angeles County Young Democrats. I would like to take this opportunity introduce you to your 2010 LACYD Executive Board and to let you know about some exciting opportunities and events coming up in the New Year.
Last month, we hosted our annual LACYD Holiday Party/Executive Board elections. I am very excited to report that the members present at the event elected some very capable board members for 2010, including some familiar faces and a few new additions to LACYD. Please find a list of board members below. Feel free to contact any of them at the e-mail links provided if you have any questions.
David Graham-Caso, Vice President of Communications
Kyle Serrette, Vice President of Programming
Ruben Zaragoza, Vice President of Administration
Dante Atkins, Legislative Director
Caroline Carr, Activities Director
Karla Diaz, Fundraising Director
Sean Gabe, Treasurer
Odest Riley, Political Director
Sofia Sami, Membership Director
Clinton Schaff, Editorial Director
Daniel Taylor, Political Committee Co-Chair
Paulina Velasco, Publicity Director
Dan Witzling, Outreach Director
Our new board is committed to working diligently to fulfill our organization's mission statement:
I look forward to working will all of you in the coming year to help achieve this lofty and deserving goal.
Democratically,
Katherine Hennigan
President
Los Angeles County Young Democrats
| LACYD Committee Open House and Mixer- January 20, 2010
New to LACYD and looking for a way to get involved? Wondering what we do and what we have planned this year? We have answers! Our first membership event of 2010 will be a networking mixer on next Wednesday, January 20. The Fundraising and Activities Directors will be present and sharing the slate of events planned for this year. Both committees are open for new members and will be answering questions on how to get involved with LACYD. Even if you are not interested in joining a committee, you are invited to join us for a happy hour mixer to meet more of your fellow LA County Young Dems, network and talk politics. Please RSVP on the Facebook event page and contact Activities Director Caroline Carr if you have any questions. WHAT: LACYD Committee Open House and Mixer
WHEN: Wednesday Jan. 20, 6p - 8p WHERE: BottleRock in Downtown LA (entrance is near corner of Hope and 11th) DETAILS: Street parking is available and there are $5 parking garages on Hope. Happy Hour menu includes $4.50 microbrews, $4 select wines by the glass and $5 menu items. |
| California Democratic Party Convention in Los Angeles this April
The annual California Democratic Party convention will be held in Los Angeles on April 16-18. Even if you are not a delegate to the convention, you are invited to attend the meetings as an observer to see first hand how our state Party operates. We will keep you informed of any events (or more importantly, convention parties) that are planned. The convention is also looking for 800 volunteers to help run things smoothly throughout the weekend. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete the volunteer form at www.caldem.org/volunteer2010 by March 1. If you have any questions about volunteering, please contact Christopher Guerrero, CDP Deputy Political Director at volunteer2010@caldem.org. |
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LACYD is proud to be a sponsor of the San Fernando Valley Young Democrats' RFK Awards happening later this month. The event will be held on January 28 at the Sportsman's Lodge in Studio City. Included in this year's honorees is former LACYD President and recently-elected Democratic National Committee Member Becca Doten! Visit www.sfvyd.org for more information about the event and how you can attend. |
| Citizens Redistricting Commission Accepting Applications to Shape the Future of Politics in California
When Proposition 11 narrowly passed in the fall of 2008, the process began to hand the responsibility for drawing political district lines over to regular citizens. The proposition created a "Citizens Redistricting Commission" that is to be made up of 5 Democrats, 5 Republicans and 4 Decline to State Voters. People that meet the eligibility requirements have until February 12 to submit their initial applications to be a part of the process. So far, of the more than 5,000 applicants that have been tentatively deemed eligible, nearly 80% of the applicants are men and more than 70% are Caucasian. These statistics obviously do not accurately reflect the demographics of our state. We need your help to fix this problem! Please visit www.wedrawthelines.ca.gov, read the information provided there and if you are eligible, consider applying for the commission. As a young Democrat, your opinion would be invaluable to this process. Please contact LACYD Legislative Director Dante Atkins if you have any questions. |
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On January 7, the California State Assembly elected Los Angeles Assemblymember (and friend of the club) John A. Perez as the next Speaker of the California State Assembly. In addition to being a fantastic leader with a history in the labor movement, Perez becomes the first openly gay official elected to lead a state legislative body in history. Read LACYD's statement on Perez's election. |
All the best,
David Graham-Caso
Vice President of Communications
vpcom@lacyd.org
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LACYD Endorsements for June 2010 Primary Election
The Los Angeles County Young Democrats have endorsed the following candidates in the June 2010 Democratic Primary election.
Statewide Constitutional Officers
Governor- Jerry Brown
Lieutenant Governor- Janice Hahn
Secretary of State- Debra Bowen
Attorney General- Ted Lieu
State Treasurer- Bill Lockyer
State Controller- John Chiang
Insurance Commissioner- Hector De la Torre
Superintendent of Public Instruction- Tom Torlarkson
State Board of Equalization, District 2- Chris Parker
State Assembly Races
AD 36- Linda Jones
AD 37- Ferial Masry
AD 38- Diana G. Shaw
AD 39- Felipe Fuentes
AD 40- Bob Blumenfield
AD 41- Julia Brownley
AD 42- Mike Feuer
AD 43- Mike Gatto *Special election on April 13
AD 44- Anthony Portantino
AD 45- Gil Cedillo
AD 46- John A. Perez
AD 47- Reggie Jones-Sawyer
AD 48- Mike Davis
AD 49- Mike Eng
AD 50- Ricardo Lara
AD 51- Steve Bradford
AD 52- Isadore Hall
AD 54- Bonnie Lowenthal
AD 55- Warren Furutani
AD 56- Tony Mendoza
AD 57- Roger Hernandez
AD 58- Charles Calderon
AD 59- Darcel D. Woods
AD 60- Gregg D. Fritchle
AD 61- Norma J. Torres
State Senate Races
SD 20- Alex Padilla
SD 22- Kevin de Leon
SD 24- Ed Hernandez
SD 26- Curren Price Jr.
SD 28- Jenny Oropeza
SD 30- Ron Calderon
LACYD Accomplishments
Remarks from Katherine Hennigan, LACYD President, at the 2009 Laurel Awards reception:



