Young Democrats of Georgia Featured Content

YDG Fundraiser: Wine Tasting & Prize Drawing!

Jennifer Rafanan jdr.ydg@gmail.com — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:30:47 PST

YDG Newsletter - 08/11/2010

Jennifer Rafanan jdr.ydg@gmail.com — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:29:05 PST

Congatulations to all the Democrats representing us in the General Elections!

The slate for you State-wide Candidates is:

U.S. Senator - Michael Thurmond
mikethurmond2010.com
Governor - Roy Barnes
www.roy2010.com
Lt. Governor - Carol Porter
www.carolporterforgeorgia.com
Secretary of State - Georganna Sinkfield
www.sinkfield2010.com
Attorney General - Ken Hodges
www.kenhodges.com
State School Superintendent - Joe Martin
www.joemartin.org
Commissioner of Insurance - Mary Squires
www.marysquires.com
Commissioner of Agriculture - J.B. Powell
www.votejbpowell.com
Commissioner of Labor - Darryl Hicks
www.darrylhicks.net

Please visit www.sos.ga.gov to see who represents your district in other positions.

We've got a lot of work to do to win big this November. So, make sure to GET INVOLVED! Here's how:

Contact a campaign you'd like to help with (Statewide or Local!)
Canvass
Phonebank
Donate
Read this newsletter often for updates on events and campaign opportunities!
Contact YDG Staff for other ways to take part and make a difference!

Special Congratulatory Shout Outs to Yasmin Neal and Dar'shun Kendrick! Both winners in yesterday's run-offs and both Young Democrats!

YDG Labor Caucus is in its formative stages. Please contact Steve at swgolde@emory.edu if you are interested in helping to form this new group.

*JOB OPPORTUNITIES*

The State House Democratic Caucus is looking for:
Campaign Managers to run campaigns for House candidates. This is a paid position, and requires a full-time commitment between now and the November elections.
Graphic Design Interns who wish to build their portfolios and help get Democrats elected at the same time by designing graphics and logos for Caucus events and candidate activities.

If interested, please contact Don Weigel don@gahousedems.com.

Save the Date! August 14, 2010
The Democratic Party of Georgia - State Convention is coming up in Athens THIS WEEKEND!!

We expect to have a full crowd and an energized group of Democrats ready to take back the Governor’s mansion! Hope to see you there!

EVENTS

Russell Edwards for Congress HQ Grand Opening
Thursday, August 12, 5 - 7 PM

1063 Baxter St. Suite B - Athens

Come out for some refreshments and good company as we discuss our strategy to win this November.
RSVP here: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/event.php?eid=129673910410936

Bartow County Candidates Campaign Kick-Off and Fundraiser
Thursday, August 12, 6 - 9 PM

Manuel's Tavern - 602 N. Highland Ave. - Atlanta

We invite you to join us in the kick off of our campaigns for the General Election in November. We ask that you come out and support the candidates of NW Ga. We're calling upon you to help obtain valuable seats for Georgia Democrats in the State Legislature this fall. We are asking for a $25 min please. Thanks in advance!
More details here: http://www.democraticpartyofgeorgia.org/node/1802

Georgia Association of Democratic County Chairs - Annual Dinner
Saturday, August 14, 5 PM (Recepton) 6 PM (Dinner)

Classic Center in Athens

The event will be after the state convention on August 14. Our Chair, Jane Kidd, will be the recipient of their 2010 Richard B. Russell Public Service Award. It is the GADCC's highest honor, and we're thrilled that Jane will be recognized for her hard work. If you'd like to attend, tickets may be purchased at the GADCC website.

YDG Convention Weekend After Party!
Saturday, August 14, 9 PM - 12 AM

The Capital Room - 247 E. Washington St. - Athens

Just 2 blocks away from where the State Convention at the Classic Center! YDG invites you to join us for an evening of good times! Have a drinkI Enjoy some Tapas! Socialize with fellow democrats. It's time to get your liberal on!

Rabun County Legislative Reception
Thursday, August 26, 5:30 PM (Rally) 7:00 PM (Reception & BBQ Dinner)

Rally - original Dillard House, Dinner - Dillard House Conference Center

Be a part of Rabun County Tradition! A great opportunity to meet with candidates and elected oficials.
Candidates + 1 Guest Free, RSVP 706-782-4812
Tickets $25 for Chamber of Commerce Members/$30 for Non-Members available either at the Welcome Center or at the door.

Savannah Regional Central Labor Council Activist Training
Saturday, August 28, 8:30 AM - 4 PM (Lunch provided)

CLC Office/IBEW Union Hall - 1526 Dean Forest Rd - Atlanta

Call Connie or Sherry at 964-5080 to pre-register. RSVP must be received by Friday August 27th.

ACTION ALERTS

Save the Internet! Tell Google: Don't Be EVIL! LINK

Make Democracy Work for the Rest of Us...You know, the other 98%! LINK

Stand with our President to Repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell LINK

Pledge to Buy Gas from Anyone but BP until the oil crisis is resolved LINK

Reform Immigration for America. Stop Racial Profiling in Arizona LINK

YDG MEETINGS

GCSU Young Democrats meetings are every Monday 5:30-6:30 in the Student Activities Center, Maple A in Milledgeville

YDAtl meets the first Wednesday of the every month at Manuel’s Tavern. New Member Orientation begins at 6:30, and the meeting begins at 7:30.

Young Democrats of Cobb County meet twice monthly at various locations throughout Cobb County, please visit us on Facebook for upcoming meeting information.

Young Democrats of Hall County meet twice monthly (1st Wed. evening & 2nd Sat. afternoon of each month) Wed. at the Gainesville Library, and Sat. depend on what the event is. Check us out HERE on Facebook for upcoming meeting information or contact ydhc.ga@gmail.com.

CAMPAIGN OPPORTUNITIES

Roy Barnes for Governor Make Georgia work. www.roy2010.com

Michael Thurmond for U.S. Senate www.mikethurmond2010.com

Ken Hodges for Attorney General seeks Campaign Finance Interns. Please send
us your resume at dre@kenhodges.com or shannon@kenhodges.com

Will Avery for House District 19 Contact Steve- stevenwilliamgolden@gmail.com

Haley Shank for House District 173 Visit http://haleyshank.com/volunteer

Sandy Murray for State House District 80 Contact sandymurray@comcast.net or call 404-273-0906 for information.

Senator Curt Thompson, District 5, encourages you to visit his website at www.makingyourvoicecount.com, to learn more about him and his campaign.

Elena Parent for House District 81 High-level roles are available for qualified YDs. Please contact Jeff Romig at sjromig@gmail.com for more information!

Joan Garner for Fulton County Commissioner, District 6 is seeking interns & volunteers, contact Preston L. Harden at (404) 376-6833 for opportunities or visit www.garnerforcommissioner.com

Alisha Thomas Morgan for State House District 39 is seeking volunteers to phone bank, canvass, and flyer. Weeknights 6-8:30 pm, and on weekends. Interested parties can contact Bre at bre@alishamorgan.com (404) 550-5956.

Dar'shun Kendrick for State House District 94 visit www.kendrickforgeorgia.com!

Eric Christ in State Senate District 40 is running to turn Dunwoody and northwest DeKalb from red to blue. To join the campaign, visit www.christforsenate.com or email info@christforsenate.com

Yvonne Hawks for DeKalb County Superior Court Judge is seeking volunteers to phone bank, canvass, and attend campaign events with and on behalf of the candidate. We are looking for volunteers that can work during the day, in the evenings, and on weekends. Interested parties please can contact Paul at volunteer@yvonnehawksforjudge.com (404) 414-5453 or visit www.yvonnehawksforjudge.com

Jim Nichols for State Senate is looking to hire a Field Coordinator to run our Get out the Vote effort for the final six weeks of the election. Pay rate is negotiable depending on time commitment $500-$1800. If you are not in the metro Atlanta area we have a spare bedroom at campaign central--Jim's house--that you can use. We are also filling intern positions (stipend available). Oh yeah, did I mention... volunteers, volunteers, volunteers!!! Contact Jim at 770 312 6736 or JimN2010@gmail.com.

Maryline Blackburn for Georgia State House 34 is looking for volunteers and interns! We need both people that can be on site in our South Cobb office, as well as people who need to be based elsewhere but can do computer related work. People who are comofortable on a telephone are encouraged to apply! This is a winnable race and your contribution may make the difference! Please contact Campaign Manager Trevor S. at TSoutherland@votemarylineblackburn.com -- volunteers and interns are needed!

In this critical year, the need for advocacy and action heightens. Please support the Young Democrats of Georgia by clicking the link below with a pledge. Your support is needed more than ever. Thank you! http://www.georgiayds.org/contribute

Newsletter submissions are accepted from all YDG/CDG chapters, Democratic candidates, and other organizations. If you wish to submit, please email Jen at jdr.ydg@gmail.com by Monday night at 5 PM.

YDG Newsletter - 08/04/2010

Jennifer Rafanan jdr.ydg@gmail.com — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:25:13 PST

NEWS

Happy 49th Birthday, President Obama!

It's been almost 2 years since Obama became President. While I'm thankful he won the presidency, it's not enough to fix this country. We got him into office, but we can't stop with that. It's gonna take each and every one of us to get up and get out there, taking an active role in changing the world we live in.

And believe me, there are many ways to get involved. Whether it's sharing at a local Dems meeting, making a contribution to a candidate or organaization (You can contribute to YDGHERE), getting together with some friends and hosting an impromptu discussion of important issues, writing a letter to the editor of your local paper, etc. You can also scroll down to our upcoming events section, and see what's going on in your area.

Today is more than recognizing Barack Obama's day of birth. Today holds the promise of a better future, as each of us rise and answer the call to action.

So, happy birthday, Mr. President. I'm going to celebrate today by going to a Young Dems meeting, followed by another held by our local county party. I'm going to bring my ideas, my thoughts, and my concerns to share with the others who will be there too. I look forward to seeing what we can all come up with. Together, we'll help to turn this country around.

And so I ask you readers...how will YOU celebrate?

Early voting goes on until Friday, August 6.

Voting for Primary Run-offs is Tues, August 10.

For more information, visit: http://www.sos.georgia.gov/MVP/Login.aspx

Obama in the ATL!

President Obama was in Atlanta this past Monday to speak at the Disabled American Veterans convention, and then also attend a DNC fundraiser. The lovely, Kristina Simms (Pres. of the Georgia Federation of Democratic Women) shares her pictures and experience at the DNC event on the GFDW Blog. Check it out:
http://gfdw.blogspot.com/2010/08/photo-scrapbook-dnc-luncheon-for.html

YDG Labor Caucus is in its formative stages. Please contact Steve at swgolde@emory.edu if you are interested in helping to form this new group.

*JOB OPPORTUNITIES*

The House Democratic Caucus is looking for campaign managers to run campaigns for House candidates. This is a paid position, and requires a full-time commitment between now and the November elections. If you're interested, please contact Don Weigel, Director of the House Democratic Caucus, at don@gahousedems.com

The DNC Youth Council is a resource for information and conference calls with top elected and appointed officials. For more info, visit:
www.facebook.com/DNCYouthCouncil OR on Twitter @DNCYouthCouncil

The Youth Council, were formally constituted as a council of the Democratic National Committee in December 2005. The membership consists of all DNC members under age 36, as well as 12 at-large members selected from each of the DNC’s four regions (East, Midwest, South, and West). We work to ensure the Democratic Party maintains a majority of the youth vote and to increase involvement of young people in the inner workings of the DNC and state parties.

Save the Date! August 14, 2010
The Democratic Party of Georgia - State Convention is coming up in Athens!!

We expect to have a full crowd and an energized group of Democrats ready to take back the Governor’s mansion! County elections for delegates must be completed by each local party by July 24th. Please contact your county chair (www.georgiademocrat.org/county_chairs) if you’re interested in being a delegate to the state convention.

EVENTS

Georgia WAND presents: Countdown to Zero
Thursday, August 5, 7 PM
Landmark Midtown Arts Cinema - Atlanta

Join Georgia WAND for a FREE screening of the film Countdown to Zero at Landmark Midtown Arts Cinema. After the viewing, we'll have a panel discussion of the movie.

This movie highlights the global nuclear threat and spells out, in chilling terms, the danger facing everyone if nuclear weapons end up in the hands of terrorists or explode by accident. The film conveys a powerful yet simple message that nuclear weapons are no longer acceptable and should become a part of our past.

RESERVE your tickets by emailing nichole@wand.org with your full name, telephone number and the number of tickets requested (one or two).

For more information on the Georgia WAND website, visit:
http://gawand.org/2010/07/21/countdown-to-zero-movie/

RALLY: Love + Commitment = Marriage
Saturday, August 7, 12:30 PM
Woodruff Park

The Queer Justice League of Atlanta, Georgia Equality and MEGA Family Project have announced plans for a rally to promote marriage equality in Georgia. Titled "Love + Commitment = Marriage".

The event will occur on the same day The National Organization for Marriage (NOM) stops in Atlanta for their "Summer for Marriage Tour". NOM, founded to "protect ['traditional' or 'straight'] marriage…" has embarked on this tour of multiple cities to promote their belief that marriage is between "one man and one woman." There will also be a silent demonstration following the "Love + Commitment = Marriage" rally in response to NOM's event, scheduled for 2:30pm at the Georgia Capitol building.

For more information
Queer Justice League of Atlanta visit: www.queerjusticeleague.net
Georgia Equality visit: www.georgiaequality.org
MEGA Family Project visit: www.megafamilyproject.org

Georgia Association of Democratic County Chairs - Annual Dinner
Saturday, August 14, 5 PM (Recepton) 6 PM (Dinner)

Classic Center in Athens, Georgia

ACTION ALERTS

Stand with our President to Repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell LINK

Pledge to Buy Gas from Anyone but BP until the oil crisis is resolved LINK

Reform Immigration for America. Stop Racial Profiling in Arizona LINK

YDG MEETINGS

GCSU Young Democrats meetings are every Monday 5:30-6:30 in the Student Activities Center, Maple A in Milledgeville

YDAtl meets the first Wednesday of the every month at Manuel’s Tavern. New Member Orientation begins at 6:30, and the meeting begins at 7:30.

Young Democrats of Cobb County meet twice monthly at various locations throughout Cobb County, please visit us on Facebook for upcoming meeting information.

CAMPAIGN OPPORTUNITIES

Roy Barnes for Governor Make Georgia work. www.roy2010.com

Michael Thurmond for U.S. Senate www.mikethurmond2010.com

Ken Hodges for Attorney General seeks Campaign Finance Interns. Please send us your resume at dre@kenhodges.com or shannon@kenhodges.com

Gail Buckner for Secretary of State Please call 770-473-9039 for more information! Visit us online at www.gailbuckner.com

Will Avery for House District 19 Contact Steve- stevenwilliamgolden@gmail.com

Haley Shank for House District 173 Visit http://haleyshank.com/volunteer

Joan Garner for Fulton County Commissioner, District 6 is seeking interns & volunteers, please contact Preston L. Harden at (404) 376-6833 for opportunities or visit www.garnerforcommissioner.com

Dar'shun Kendrick for State House District 94 are in desperate need of phone bankers and canvassers in the days leading up to the run-off on August 10th. We are looking for those that can work during the day and in the evenings. Please contact Rasti Hollingsworh at (404) 503-6474. You can visit www.kendrickforgeorgia.com for more information!

Eric Christ in State Senate District 40 is running to turn Dunwoody and northwest DeKalb from red to blue. To join the campaign, visit www.christforsenate.com or email info@christforsenate.com

Newsletter submissions are accepted from all YDG/CDG chapters, Democratic candidates, and other organizations. If you wish to submit, please email Jen at jdr.ydg@gmail.com by Monday night at 5 PM.

YDG Newsletter - 07/13/2010

Jennifer Rafanan jdr.ydg@gmail.com — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 19:05:55 PST

I'm back! Did you miss me? I apologize for missing last week's newsletter. Due to some health circumstances, I could not get it out in time.

Speaking of healthcare...I had my first hand experience with trying to get it last week. It's been almost 5 years since I last went to a doctor.With no health insurance offered by my company (and paying on my own not financially feasible) that trip to the ER cost a few grand for the basic bloodwork and tests that were run.

Recently, I had some health concerns with chest pains (likely due to all the financial stress of surviving in our current economy) that got me to finally try to see a doctor, even though I knew I wasn't sure where I'd get the money to be seen.

It took me a few hours of research, calling several different numbers, but I spoke with a few people at my local county health department and got 2 appointments made. One with the primary care clinic in late August and one with the women's health clinic in early October. Both being the earliest appointments they had available at the time. Without insurance, my cost is roughly $100-$125 for each appt., but it is based on the patient's income, so it actually could be less.

I'm trying to keep stress levels down and avoid having to call 911 before the first appointment. I know I'm not the only one out there who experiences frustrations with the current health care system. Last year, I was one of several people interviewed for the local paper on my personal story about living without health insurance. This occured during all the craziness to get healthcare reform passed.

I'm sharing this story now because I want to live in a better world and I have power to make that change. Just as you do.

Healthcare, education, transportation, equal rights, immigration...If you aren't happy... DO SOMETING ABOUT IT! Get involved! Use your voice. Speak up. Take action. Head to your local poll and place your vote for the candidate that best represents the changes you want to see made. Make sure the candidate you want, makes it to the race in November if he/she is running in a primary.

That being said, I want to personally thank ALL the democratic candidates running for office in GA, who are stepping up to make their difference how they can. I am especially inspired by the young democratic candidates running. After attending the YDG recognition of young candidates a couple weeks ago at Manuel's, I feel even more empowered and hopeful for our future.

WE CAN DO THIS!!

Make sure you're registered! Vote early if possible! Know what to bring when you arrive at the polls!

Raise your vote! Visit: https://www.raiseyourvote.com/content/GA

Early voting goes on until July 16. Primary Day is July 20.

For more information, visit: http://www.sos.georgia.gov/MVP/Login.aspx

Young Dems Representing GA in DC!
Tune into Bravo at 9 PM Tuesday 07/13 (That's tonight!) to watch Kathy Griffin's My Life on the D-List. Look for Tyler Alley and I representing active YDs from GA, in the front row of the HRC sponsored Repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell Rally in Washington, DC!

Also...excited to report we will have great representation at the YDA Summer Meetinghappening in DC this weekend 07/16-18. We wish our YDG representatives: Jane, Louis, and Nikema, a safe and productive trip and to also have a great time!

YDG Labor Caucus is in its formative stages. Please contact Steve at swgolde@emory.edu if you are interested in helping to form this new group.

*JOB OPPORTUNITIES*
The House Democratic Caucus is looking for campaign managers to run campaigns for House candidates. This is a paid position, and requires a full-time commitment between now and the November elections. If you're interested, please contact Don Weigel, Director of the House Democratic Caucus, at don@gahousedems.com

We’re going to boost Democratic turnout this November, and you can be a part of it. The DPG Victory 2010 Coordinated Campaign is now accepting applications for its Field Organizer positions. Interested applicants should send resumes to:organizer2010@georgiademocrat.org.

And in more DNC Youth Council news...

Recently two of our at-large positions with the DNC Youth Council came open, one representing the South and one representing the West. For the application form, as well as other relevant information to the position, including requirements for at-large members, contact A’shanti Gholar atGholarA@dnc.org or 202.863.8000

If you or someone you know is interested in applying for one of the positions, please note applications are due July 16 at 11:00pm EST. Please feel free to share this information with others.

Save the Date! August 14, 2010
The Democratic Party of Georgia - State Convention is coming up in Athens!!

EVENTS
ATL Solidarity Committee hosts a Solidarity Worker Town Hall
Thursday, July 15, 6 PM
Crowne Plaza Airport South

ATTENTION Community Leaders! On July 15, 2010 the Atlanta Airport Solidarity Committee are asking for you to attend the Solidarity Committee Town hall which will be held at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Airport. Come listen to and participate in a discussion with Delta Airline & Transportation Security Administration employees regarding their day-to-day work, problems that they face on the job and why it is important for them to have real change and a voice at work.
We will start on time!!!! PARKING will be covered. Please RSVP with first and last names to aiverson@aflcio.org or call 404 754 3186. Thank you!

Fly Around Friday with Carol Porter
Friday, July 16, 8 AM - 6 PM

Come join me as I visit four towns by plane this coming Friday the 16th. I plan to stay at the airport for one hour and have a meet and greet with supporters (hope that means you if you are in the area). I will also give a short speech and the press has been invited. Hope to see you there!

COLUMBUS, GA- Flightways @ 9:00 am
ALBANY, GA- Eagles of America @ 11:00 am
SAVANNAH, GA- Signature Services @ 2:00 pm
AUGUSTA, GA- Aviation Services @ 4:00 pm

Georgia Association of Democratic County Chairs - Annual Dinner
Saturday, August 14, 5 PM (Recepton) 6 PM (Dinner)
Classic Center in Athens, Georgia

ACTION ALERTS
Stand with our President to Repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell LINK
Pledge to Buy Gas from Anyone but BP until the oil crisis is resolved LINK
Reform Immigration for America. Stop Racial Profiling in Arizona LINK

YDG MEETINGS
GCSU Young Democrats meetings are every Monday 5:30-6:30 in the Student Activities Center, Maple A in Milledgeville

YDAtl meets the first Wednesday of the every month at Manuel’s Tavern. New Member Orientation begins at 6:30, and the meeting begins at 7:30.

Young Democrats of Cobb County meet twice monthly at various locations throughout Cobb County, please visit us on Facebook for upcoming meeting information.

CAMPAIGN OPPORTUNITIES
DuBose Porter for Governor E-mail Steve at steven.golden@youthocracy.org

David Poythress for Governor E-mail Trevor Southerland at tsoutherland@poythressforgovernor.com or visit www.poythressforgovernor.com

Carl Camon for Governor Visit www.camonforgovernor.com for more information!

Roy 2010 is recruiting campus interns for the upcoming gubernatorial race.

RJ Hadley for U.S. Senate Visit www.hadleyforussenate.com for more details!

Michael Thurmond for U.S. Senate Visit his page on Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=98584104984&ref=ts

Ken Hodges for Attorney General seeks Campaign Finance Interns. Please send us your resume at dre@kenhodges.com or shannon@kenhodges.com

Rob Teilhet for Attorney General Visit us at www.robforgeorgia.com. Email resume and questions to David at david@robforgeorgia.com or Rebecca at rebecca@robforgeorgia.com

Angela Moore for Secretary of State Please call 678.888.9001 Visit our website(s): www.mooreforgeorgia.com and for the younger GA voter's www.voteformissangela.com

Gail Buckner for Secretary of State Please call 770-473-9039 for more information! Visit us online at www.gailbuckner.com

Michael Mills for Secretary of State Visit www.michaelmills2010.com

Brian Westlake for Georgia State School Superintendent Please visit www.brianwestlake.com or contact via email campaign@brianwestlake.com or call 912-441-4487

Will Avery for House District 19 Contact Steve- stevenwilliamgolden@gmail.com

Haley Shank for House District 173 Visit http://haleyshank.com/volunteer

Sandy Murray for State House District 80 Contact sandymurray@comcast.net or call 404-273-0906 for information.

Keith Gross for State House District 80 Please visit www.keithgross.com or contact staff@keithgross.com to get involved.

Senator Curt Thompson, District 5, encourages you to visit his website at www.makingyourvoicecount.com, to learn more about him and his campaign.

Elena Parent for House District 81 High-level roles are available for qualified YDs. Please contact Jeff Romig at sjromig@gmail.com for more information!

Simone Joye for Georgia Assembly House District 88 Please send an email inquiry to Pamela Forntey pfortney@joyeforthehouse.com or telephone (770) 573-4210 if you are interested.

Andrew Bostic for State House District 94 Visit www.andrewbostic.com to sign up. Or contact stephanie@andrewbostic.com for more information on how you can Make A Difference!

Joan Garner for Fulton County Commissioner, District 6 is seeking interns & volunteers, please contact Preston L. Harden at (404) 376-6833 for opportunities or visit www.garnerforcommissioner.com

Alisha Thomas Morgan for State Representative House District 39 is seeking volunteers to phone bank, canvass, and flyer. Weeknights 6-8:30 pm, and on weekends. Interested parties can contact Bre at bre@alishamorgan.com (404) 550-5956.

Dar'shun Kendrick for State House District 94 is looking for volunteers on Election Day for two shifts: (1) 7 am -1pm and (2) 1-7 pm to provide a presence throughout the district and at the polls. Dar'shun is the past Youth Coordinator for YDG during the 2002 cycle and current Communications Director for Young Dems of DeKalb. Victory Party to follow that night! Sign up to volunteer at www.kendrickforgeorgia.com or call (678) 323-7887 or email dkendrick@kendrickforgeorgia.com.

Eric Christ in State Senate District 40 is running to turn Dunwoody and northwest DeKalb from red to blue. To join the campaign, visit www.christforsenate.com or email info@christforsenate.com

Newsletter submissions are accepted from all YDG/CDG chapters, Democratic candidates, and other organizations. If you wish to submit, please email Jen at jdr.ydg@gmail.com by Monday night at 5 PM.

YDG Newsletter - 06/29/2010

Jennifer Rafanan jdr.ydg@gmail.com — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 18:43:31 PST

NEWS\

Q & A with YDG Exec. Member of the Month:
Jason L. Chitwood - Regional Director (ATL)

How long have you been involved with YDG?
I have been involved with YDG since 2007. While in graduate school I helped to revive the dormant Kennesaw State chapter and since graduating I have been involved with the county YD chapter here in Cobb.

What keeps you involved? Why is it important for young people to step forward?
I stay involved in YDG because I think it is important to keep the organization strong in Georgia. While we have had some setbacks this year it is a testament to our members that we have continued to make our presence felt. This is a critical time for the future of our organization and for the Democratic Party of Georgia. It's not easy right now, but I love the challenge.

What are some words of wisdom on how others can get involved?
Do your part. Chapters are only as good as the individuals in it. While there are perennially strong chapters like YD Atl, UGA, and Georgia Tech it is the work of individuals in the lesser known chapters that really strengthens the statewide organization. One person can take over a dormant chapter and turn it into something to be proud of in a short period of time. If your chapter only has 3 active members take it upon yourself to change that. If you see something that needs to be done, do it!

With this delicious recipe, Jason, a vegan, shares another element of himself with you!!

Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients:
1/4 cup vegan margarine
1/4 cup flour
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional)
2 14 ounce cans French style green beans, well drained
1 3 ounce can French-fried onions

Preparation: Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. In a small saucepan, melt the margarine and add the flour. Add the vegetable broth, soy sauce, garlic powder and onion powder, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens. Whisk in the vegetable oil and nutritional yeast.

Toss together the sauce and green beans in a casserole dish. Bake for ten minutes. Remove and sprinkle the French fried onions on top of the casserole. Bake for another ten minutes.

YDG Reg. Dir. (ATL) Jason Chitwood, w/ lovely wife, Jennifer
at the Grillin' and Chillin' event for Young Dems of Cobb!

This is a movement made of people of all walks of life and crosses political affiliations. This movement is not about politics; it is about protection of our coastal economies, oceans, marine wildlife, and fishing industry. Let us share our knowledge, energies and passion for protecting all of the above from the devastating effects of oil drilling.

Just a few of the many sponsors of this event included Sierra Club, Greenpeace, MoveOn.org, 350, CleanEnergy.org.

Some of our YDG members, joined hands and took part in this remarkable event. What a great way to get involved and take part in speaking out for a better, cleaner, healthier world! A couple links from the event listed below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1pNnPev5VE

http://savannahnow.com/news/2010-06-27/tybee-beachgoers-join-hands-against-offshore-oil-drilling

Make sure you're registered! Vote early if possible! Know what to bring when you arrive at the polls!

Raise your vote! Visit: https://www.raiseyourvote.com/content/GA

Early voting goes on until July 16. Primary Day is July 20.

For more information, visit: http://www.sos.georgia.gov/MVP/Login.aspx

YDG Labor Caucus is in its formative stages. Please contact Steve at swgolde@emory.edu if you are interested in helping to form this new group.

The Young Democrats of America 2010 Summer National Conference in Washington, D.C. is only four weeks away on July 16 - 18. This will be our final national meeting before Election Day in November, and we plan to use the conference to officially launch our 2010 midterm campaign to turn out young voters across the country.

*JOB OPPORTUNITIES*

And in more DNC Youth Council news...

If you or someone you know is interested in applying for one of the positions, please note applications are due July 16 at 11:00pm EST. Please feel free to share this information with others.

Save the Date! August 14, 2010
The Democratic Party of Georgia - State Convention is coming up in Athens!!

EVENTS

YDG Reception for Young Democratic Candidates
Thursday, July 1, 6:30 PM - 10 PM

Manuel's Tavern - Atlanta

We are honored to have a great number of YDG's own running for office in 2010, and we are throwing an event to honor their service and commitment to a better Georgia. Please attend, and meet these young candidates!

Join Team Wilkerson in Marietta Independence Day Parade
Saturday, July 3, 8:45 AM (check in) Parade starts at 10:00 AM

David Wilkerson, a former Chair of the Cobb County Democratic Party and former YD Cobb President, is running for State Representative in the 33rd House District in Cobb County! On July 3rd, we will show our Team Wilkerson spirit in Marietta’s annual 4th of July parade. Walk and wave with David and his family as they greet the citizens of Cobb County and celebrate Independence Day!

To participate, contact Anderia Bishop @ Anderia@comcast.net or (404) 394-5092.

Young Dems of Hall County Summer Cookout Social
Saturday, July 10, Noon - 3 PM

Dogwood Park, 2nd Pavillion (past the tennis courts) - Gainesville

YDs in Hall County invite you to join us for a summer cookout! Believe it or not, there are liberals in this part of GA! Come socialize with fellow democrats, including some democratic candidates running for office!

And...it's FREE!

For more information, or detailed directions, contact Al T. at pkx904@gmail.com.

ACTION ALERTS

Stand with our President to Repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell LINK

Pledge to Buy Gas from Anyone but BP until the oil crisis is resolved LINK

Reform Immigration for America. Stop Racial Profiling in Arizona LINK

YDG MEETINGS

GCSU Young Democrats meetings are every Monday 5:30-6:30 in the Student Activities Center, Maple A in Milledgeville

YDAtl meets the first Wednesday of the every month at Manuel’s Tavern. New Member Orientation begins at 6:30, and the meeting begins at 7:30.

Young Democrats of Cobb County meet twice monthly at various locations throughout Cobb County, please visit us on Facebook for upcoming meeting information.

CAMPAIGN OPPORTUNITIES

DuBose Porter for Governor E-mail Steve at steven.golden@youthocracy.org

David Poythress for Governor E-mail Trevor Southerland at tsoutherland@poythressforgovernor.com or visit www.poythressforgovernor.com

Carl Camon for Governor Visit www.camonforgovernor.com for more information!

Roy 2010 is recruiting campus interns for the upcoming gubernatorial race.

RJ Hadley for U.S. Senate Visit www.hadleyforussenate.com for more details!

Michael Thurmond for U.S. Senate Visit his page on Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=98584104984&ref=ts

Will Avery for House District 19 Contact Steve- stevenwilliamgolden@gmail.com

Haley Shank for House District 173 Visit http://haleyshank.com/volunteer

Sandy Murray for State House District 80 Contact sandymurray@comcast.net or call 404-273-0906 for information.

Keith Gross for State House District 80 Please visit www.keithgross.com or contact staff@keithgross.com to get involved.

Senator Curt Thompson, District 5, encourages you to visit his website at www.makingyourvoicecount.com, to learn more about him and his campaign.

Elena Parent for House District 81 High-level roles are available for qualified YDs. Please contact Jeff Romig at sjromig@gmail.com for more information!

Simone Joye for Georgia Assembly House District 88 Please send an email inquiry to Pamela Forntey pfortney@joyeforthehouse.com or telephone (770) 573-4210 if you are interested.

Andrew Bostic for State House District 94 Visit www.andrewbostic.com to sign up. Or contact stephanie@andrewbostic.com for more information on how you can Make A Difference!

Brooke Nebel for State Representative House District 51 Please visit
www.voteforbrooke.com for more information.

Joan Garner for Fulton County Commissioner, District 6 is seeking interns & volunteers, please contact Preston L. Harden at (404) 376-6833 for opportunities or visit www.garnerforcommissioner.com

Newsletter submissions are accepted from all YDG/CDG chapters, Democratic candidates, and other organizations. If you wish to submit, please email Jen at jdr.ydg@gmail.com by Monday night at 5 PM.