For Immediate Release:  Sunday, October 25, 2009

SACRAMENTO – The California Young Democrats (CYD) announce the overwhelming success of our Biennial Tahoe Retreat held October 23-25.  Over 400 young and enthusiastic Democrats from across our Golden State came together, answering the call for change and strategized for a strong 2010 Young Voter Revolution Campaign.  Young Democratic Leaders from every corner of California have 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.”

We are excited to announce the election of four new talented CYD officers who were elected today to join the already brilliant CYD leadership:

Erin Carlstrom of Santa Rosa, elected CYD National Committeewoman
Eddie Kirby of Sacramento, elected CYD Vice-President of Finance
Lee Weissmann of Tarzana, elected CYD Communications Director
Nibal Halabi of Merced, elected CYD 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 CYD retreat also brought together some of our state’s promising young candidates running for public office:

Marc Berman, Candidate for Assembly District 21
Nancy Bui, SMUD Board Member
Samantha Corbin, Candidate for Sacramento City Unified School Board, Area #2
Becca Doten, Candidate for CDP - DNC Member
Jason Everett, Candidate for Escondido City Council
Rocky Fernandez, Re-Election to AC Transit Board
Ricardo Lara, Candidate for Assembly District 50
Chris Parker, Candidate for Board of Equalization, District 2
Luis Reyna, Candidate for San Bernardino City Unified School Board
Kai Stinchcombe, Candidate for Assembly District 21
Das Williams, Candidate for Assembly District 35

Moreover, the gathering served as an avenue to train our young Democrats. During the event, participants joined enriching workshops ranging from voter registration to fundraising, health care and labor organizing, and much. These terrific trainings have not only provided our members with a chance to share their ideas but also gain knowledge from top trainers about very crucial issues our state faces today.

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.