Friday, June 19, 2009

Congratulations to Brookings County Democrats!

Sam Dunkle has done a great job getting the ball rolling in Brookings County. Sam, and a group of high school Democrats recently decided that they wanted to expand to a county wide group, as well as charter with South Dakota Young Democrats. Sam was elected president at their first meeting and has big dreams not only about electing Democrats, and pushing for legislation, but also for doing service projects in the community. He recently invited Vice President of SDYD and Kneip Young leader award winner, Amanda Mack, to speak at a meeting. I can't wait to see what Sam and the Brookings County Democrats can accomplish!

Officers are as follows:

President: Sam Dunkle
Vice President: Kiese Hansen
Secretary: Melissa Howard
Treasurer: Woot Hammink

Brookings County Young Democrats: Way to go and I can't wait to meet the rest of you!!!!!

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Coming Up: The Chicago Convention

The National Young Democrats of America Convention will be held in Chicago from August 5th through 9th.

Check it out: http://www.ydachicago2009.com/

We will be taking a DELEGATION to cast votes for the next national leadership team. In addition, we will have the opportunity to attend trainings on issues, becoming a candidate, organizing, etc. We will also be fundraising to help delegates get to the convention.

The first confirmed speaker is... Drum roll please........





Howard Dean!!!!!!!!!!!!
We will release information on applying to be a delegate on Monday.

Houston Spring YDA Conference

Wow! I spent last weekend in Houston, Texas at the spring national Young Democrats of America conference. It was inspiring to hear the stories of so many awesome people across the nation who have built up great young Dem's groups in their state. I can't believe how much groups across the nation have done to pass legislation, elect Democratic candidates, and make sure that the youth voice gets HEARD!

I probably should forewarn you, we might get a sudden influx of visitors as I might possibly have spent the weekend spouting the virtues of our great state. In the few years I have lived here, I have completely fallen in love with South Dakota's diverse and beautiful terrain, independent spirit, and most of all the incredible people who live here. As I travel to other places, I realize more then ever that there is no place like home.

I'd like to give you just a few of the highlights from this weekend:

1. In August at the Convention, we will be electing a new national leadership team. I had the opportunity to meet representatives from both tickets and ask them questions. Colmon Eldridge, a candidate for vice president, will be coming to visit us here in South Dakota. To find more information about his ticket, go to: http://www.ydaworks.com/. You can find information on the other ticket at: http://www.youryda.org/. Watch for more details soon!


2. I had the opportunity to meet with the Minority Caucus to discuss Native Outreach. I learned of the Empowerment Fund, which helps promising young leaders attend conventions. I would like to apply for several South Dakotans. Please let me know if you are interested.

3. I attended a very useful fundraising seminar. We will be rolling out our fundraising plan for Convention shortly.

4. I had the opportunity to meet leaders from around the country who have a wealth of knowledge and experience that they are ready to share with US! Whether it is writing our strategic plan, fundraising, or implementing an action plan, we can turn to states and leaders who will support our efforts.