Matthew –

I just finished delivering my first State of the Union, and I wanted to send you a quick note.

We face big and difficult challenges. Change on the scale we seek does not come easily. But I will never accept second place for the United States of America.

That is why I called for a robust jobs bill without delay. It’s why I proposed a small businesses tax credit, new investments in infrastructure, and pushed for climate legislation to create a clean energy economy.

It’s why we’re taking on big banks, reforming Wall Street, revitalizing our education system, increasing transparency — and finishing the job on health insurance reform.

It’s why I need your help — because I am determined to fight to defend the middle class, and special interest lobbyists will go all out to fight us.

Help me show that the American people are ready to join this fight for the middle class — add your name to a letter to Congress today:

http://my.barackobama.com/SOTU

We have finished a difficult year. We have come through a difficult decade. But we don’t quit. I don’t quit.

Let’s seize this moment — to start anew, to carry the dream forward, and to strengthen our union once more.

President Barack Obama

In this difficult financial time that has New York State government gripped in disagreement and disarray, there are few paths that lead out of the darkness.  Yes, there must be reform in many areas – especially in Medicaid which not only burdens the state, but many localities – especially county governments. 

In the face of daunting fiscal challenges – governments usually only have two options: to raise taxes or to make cuts to programs and services.  Neither of these are attractive solutions during a major recession which has everyone feeling the pain.  There is however, a third option…

New York State needs to find new revenue sources.  While the natural gas boom is on hold due to the potential environmental dangers it could cause without expensive oversight – there is a new revenue stream which has been ignored by many elected officials. 

This new revenue stream would not hurt anyone, well it might hurt some feelings of pundits, but nonetheless – it is not dangerous to the environment or to our finances.  It will make families stronger and safer despite the fear-based lies which have been sowed and it will help our state rebound by bringing in 1/6th of what the State Legislature cut in December of 2009. 

What is this new revenue stream which would bring in around 200 million dollars to New York State and its local governments?

Marriage Equality!

Former New York City Comptroller Bill Thompson released a report in 2007 that showed that same sex marriage would bring in new revenue through taxes and fees of around 200 million dollars.  Since the state already recognizes same sex marriages performed in other states by Executive Order of the Governor – the state stands only to gain from allowing same sex marriage.  See the following figure from Former Comptroller Thompson’s report:  

For too long have untrue and hate/fear-filled rhetoric have controlled the debate.  It has been shown in other states that allowing homosexuals to marry is not a slippery slope and it will not unravel both society and the law.  It is time to look straight at the logic of the situation.  Laws which do not recognize the relationships between certain members of our society detrimentally affect those citizens both in their need and right to belong within society, their pursuit of happiness and their need to lead healthy lives.  Marriage is the basis whereby families gain legitimacy and safety under the law.  When one is safe – one has the ability to flourish, to grow – to follow the American dream and be all that one can possibly be. 

In this time of fiscal upheaval – we need families to feel safe.  We need them to feel safe enough to invest in new homes, in education for their children, in their ability to provide for their children and the person they love after they die.  In no way does this harm anyone – it can only bring forth benefits which have too long been ignored.  Marriage is a legal basis for fiscal stability.  It can only benefit our communities while it fiscally benefits our state and municipalities.  By allowing the thousands of same sex couples in our state the right to find legitimacy under the law in marriage – by giving our neighbors, our coworkers, our family and friends the rights which should be afforded to all citizens of our great nation – that is the first step towards turning the tide. 

We need to mobilize young adults in this state to spread the knowledge that this is much more than just a civil rights issue; it is also a fiscally responsible move for the state.  We need to make sure that every elected official knows that financial stability is the basis of marriage and now, more than ever, we need every constituent in our state to feel financially stable.  Through allowing all people the right to marry, regardless of their sexual preference, we create a foundation to let all families in our state grow and flourish.  Together we can stand…or divided we can fall. 

So with a $7 billion dollar budget deficit forecasted for next year, we need to find creative ways to raise money for our great state. Our plan will bring in at least $200 million dollars in new revenue. In these times of financial uncertainty how can we afford to pass up on this idea?

Link To Frmr NYC Comptroller Bill Thompson’s Report: http://www.comptroller.nyc.gov/bureaus/bud/07reports/Jun07LoveCountBudgetnotes.pdf

To Purchase Tickets Please Visit: http://www.actblue.com/page/actout

The New York State Young Democrats would like to thank the following individuals for their support of Young Dems Act Out Against.

Host Committee

Producer
Former Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi
Dave Pollak

 Director
Zac Townsend

Ensemble
New York State Senate Tom Duane
Assembly Member Micah Kellner
Matthew Morningstar & Alan Van Capelle
Sean Patrick Maloney

DNC Woman & Clarkstown Town Council Member Stephanie Hausner
Matthew Silverstein
Costa Constantinides
Al Benninghoff
Michael Corbett
Jeremiah Frei-Pearson
Sam Hudis
Benjamin Kallos
Ricki Lieberman
Kate O’Hagen
Ian Rivera
Krisana Silverstein
Yetta G. Kurland

Honorable Mention

Michael Gilberg

Chris Ryan

Amanda Pizzuti

Ciara Pressler

Tajian Jones

New York City Anti-Violence Project

 Nassau County Police Department

Original Story: http://www.playbill.com/news/article/135501-Arnette-and-Mello-to-Lead-Staged-Reading-of-Stop-Kiss-

By Adam Hetrick
25 Dec 2009

Diana Son’s 1998 play Stop Kiss, about two women who are attacked on the streets of New York, will receive a one-night-only staged reading in Manhattan Jan. 16, 2010.

Brian Letchworth will direct the 8 PM reading that is hosted by The New York State Young Democrats. Stop Kiss is the inaugural presentation from Young Dems Act Out Against Hate. Sarah Jane Arnegger produces the event that will take place at Hunter College.

The cast will feature Crystal Arnette as Sara, Jennifer Mello as Callie, Jared Johnston as Peter, Jeremy Seglem as George, Mary Leggio as Mrs. Winsley/Nurse and Bernard Burlew as Detective Cole.

Stop Kiss, according to press notes, “is about loving and the consequences of loving — both wonderful and terrifying, both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Through humor and ordinary interactions, important questions are asked: When do we risk our personal safety for the sake of speaking our truth? What happens when our hearts are open to another person? Taking risks, both personal and emotional, is at the core of Diana Son’s deceptively simple play. Stop… or go forward? Kiss… or keep walking? Speak up… or stay silent?”

Stop Kiss premiered Off-Broadway at the Public Theater. The original cast included Jessica Hecht and Sandra Oh.

For tickets, priced $25, visit ActBlue. The Ida K. Lang Recital Hall at Hunter College is located at 695 Park Avenue.

Message From U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer On Health Care Reform Passage:
I hope I’m not bothering you by sending this message so close to the holidays, but I wanted to let you know the news right away: The Senate finally passed a health care reform bill this morning.

The bill is based on the agreement we reached last weekend, and the next step will be to combine it with the version the House passed so both chambers can vote on a final version.

As I’ve said, this bill is not perfect. A strong, level-playing-field public option would have done more to help keep costs down. But we’re going to stop the worst of the premium increases, impose tough new rules on the insurance companies, and extend coverage to millions.

That’s a pretty big achievement any way you look at it.

So thank you for your support this year. I’ll be in touch soon with more.

Happy holidays,

Chuck Schumer

Today we have the statements from two of the Democratic State Senators who voted against Marriage Equality. We were very disappointed to see that both State Senator Shirley Huntley and State Senator George Onorato were on the wrong side of history, and we will remember this come 2010.

Statement From State Senator Shirley Huntley :

“I firmly believe that my vote against the Marriage Equality legislation reflects the wishes of the vast majority of my constituents. With that being said, I also firmly believe that any decision on Marriage Equality should, ultimately, be made by the people of New York State, not the Legislature .  I would fully support a referendum to allow the people of New York State to decide the issue”.

Statement From State Senator George Onorato:

“I deeply respect the views of the gay and lesbian community on same-sex marriage, although they are not my own, and I have appreciated the candid and most universally respectful dialogue we have had on this issue. Over the years, I have voted in favor of the Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act (SONDA), the hate crimes law, and other legislation of importance to the LGBT community, and I continue to support the Dignity for All Students Act and the Gender Identification Non Discrimination Act (GENDA). But on same-sex marriage, we must continue to agree to disagree”.

A Personal Statement on Marriage Equality

Like many New Yorkers, I was extremely disappointed with the defeat of marriage equality legislation in the State Senate on November 25. I have supported this legislation (A. 7732) as an important step in treating New Yorkers fairly, regardless of sexual orientation, when it comes to marriage.

In one my first acts as a newly-elected member of the Assembly in 2003, I signed on as one of the ten original co-sponsors of first marriage equality bill ever introduced. Since then, the Assembly has passed and I have co-sponsored and voted for this legislation three times; the measure first passed in 2007 and then twice this year. In 2007, I hosted a forum on same-sex marriage with a panel that included the Senate sponsor of the bill, Tom Duane, and representatives from the Empire State Pride Agenda and Lambda Legal Defense. I also co-sponsored the law (Ch. 768 of 2005) that gave domestic partners the same rights as spouses in the disposition of a loved one’s remains.

As the United States Supreme Court has held, the freedom to marry is “one of the vital personal rights essential to the orderly pursuit of happiness by free people,” This bill would finally allow the countless couples and families wishing to express this basic right the opportunity to share such an important bond. Although the New York State Domestic Relations Law contains no specific prohibition against — or allowance for — marriages between individuals of the same sex, the New York State Court of Appeals has held that New York law does not allow for same-sex marriages. The bar against same-sex marriages exists regardless of how long the individuals have lived together or whether they are raising children through legally recognized joint-custody arrangements.

This bill would remove the barriers in New York law that deprive individuals of the equal right to marry the person of their choice. For too long, the same-sex couples who want to be married have lacked basic legal protections taken for granted by married couples. In many areas, including property ownership, inheritance, health care, hospital visitation, taxation, insurance coverage, child custody and pension benefits, married couples receive important safeguards against the loss or injury of a spouse and assurances their marital privacy will be respected.

What’s next in the battle for marriage equality? I will work with the sponsor of the bill in the Assembly, Danny O’Donnell, to ensure that the Assembly passes marriage equality legislation again in 2010 to keep the issue moving forward. I will support State Senators who did the right thing and cast their votes in the affirmative even though a negative vote might have been easier for them. Finally, I will consider supporting challengers to incumbents who stand in the way of progress on this issue. The right to marry is a civil right that all deserve, and now is the time to stand up for the issues we believe in.

In the wake of last week’s defeat of marriage equality legislation in the Senate, I take small comfort in knowing that when my two-and-a-half year old daughter is a teenager, marriage equality will be the law of the land. I believe that she and her generation will grow up in a world where people are respected regardless of their sexual orientation. She will wonder why there was such an effort to stop this from moving forward, in the same way that my generation cannot comprehend how people tried through the law to prevent marriages between those of different races. Achieving marriage equality is not a question of “if” but of “when,” and we must work to ensure that the “when” is sooner rather than later.

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR DAVID A. PATERSON

“It is always darkest before the dawn. The darkest day in the history of the American civil rights movement was in 1857 when the Supreme Court ruled against Dred Scott, making slavery legal north of the 36th parallel. That was the darkest day for the abolitionists. But when we look back in history, we forget that this was only five years before the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation in September of 1862.

“I understand the anger; I understand the frustration; I understand the feeling of betrayal; and I understand the profound disappointment of those who came to Albany today thinking they could get married tomorrow. But I am also here to tell you that we are not back to square one.

“Governors don’t come to the Senate floor after losing a vote. This one does, because this is a fight that is bigger than one legislative vote. This is a civil rights issue. Marriage equality is as important as the emancipation of any group from oppression and the granting of equal rights to any community.

“I believe in my heart that if people had voted their consciences today, we would be celebrating marriage equality tonight. That did not happen. As disappointed as we are today, let’s get up tomorrow and redouble our efforts. We are going to lay the foundation to make people feel comfortable to vote their conscience and not fear political backlash.

“Now we know who we have to talk to. We are going to quash the intimidation; we are going to alleviate the pressure; we are going to move this issue back to the floor of the Senate and we are going to have marriage equality in New York State and equal rights for everybody.”

###

10. Shirley Huntley, D-NYC (Jamaica)
12. George Onorato, D-NYC (Astoria)
13. Hiram Monserrate, D-NYC (Jackson Heights)
15. Joseph Addabbo, Jr., D-NYC (Ozone Park)
27. Carl Kruger, D-NYC (Brooklyn)
32. Rubén Díaz, D-NYC (Soundview)
48. Darrel Aubertine, D-Upstate (Cape Vincent)
58. William Stachowski, D-Upstate (Hamburg)

Today is World AIDS Day 2009. Today we remember all the Americans who have died because of HIV / AIDS.

For those who are unfamiliar with World AIDS Day, here is some helpful facts to better understand the meaning of World AIDS Day.

From: http://www.worldaidsday.org/

About World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day is held on December 1 every year. It is an international day to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS around the world. The first World AIDS Day was held on December 1, 1988.

What is the theme for World AIDS Day 2009?

The UK theme for World AIDS Day 2009 focuses on the reality of HIV today.

The theme uses real people and real situations to present true accounts of how HIV affects people living in the UK, as well as dispelling myths, misinformation and confusion.

The slogan for World AIDS Day 2009 in the UK is “HIV: Reality”

The UK theme translates the World AIDS Campaign international World AIDS Day theme of “human rights and access to treatment” to our situation here in the UK. The international theme also relates closely to the philosophy of “Respect & Protect”

A full range of “HIV: Reality” resources are available from NAT from our online shop

What is NAT’s role in World AIDS Day?

NAT has played a co-ordinating role for World AIDS Day in the UK since the first World AIDS Day in 1988. Each year we work with people living with HIV and other organisations to develop an appropriate theme for World AIDS Day, design posters and information resources and develop and manage the World AIDS Day website, the main source of information for World AIDS Day in the UK. Visit the NAT site

Why do we wear red ribbons to mark World AIDS Day?

The red ribbon is worn as a sign of support for people living with HIV. Wearing a red ribbon for World AIDS Day is a simple and powerful way to show support and challenge the stigma and prejudice surrounding HIV and AIDS that prevents us from tackling HIV in the UK and internationally.

The red ribbon has been an international symbol of AIDS awareness since 1991. The Red Ribbon Project was created by the New York based organisation Visual AIDS, which brought together artists to create a symbol of support for the growing number of people living with HIV in the US.

The red ribbon is the result of collaboration between community artists who wanted to create a non-copyrighted image that could be used as an awareness-raising tool by people across the world.

American families reflect the diversity of this great nation. No two are exactly alike, but there is a common thread they each share.

Our families are bound together through times of joy and times of grief. They shape us, support us, instill the values that guide us as individuals, and make possible all that we achieve.

So tomorrow, I’ll be giving thanks for my family — for all the wisdom, support, and love they have brought into my life.

But tomorrow is also a day to remember those who cannot sit down to break bread with those they love.

The soldier overseas holding down a lonely post and missing his kids. The sailor who left her home to serve a higher calling. The folks who must spend tomorrow apart from their families to work a second job, so they can keep food on the table or send a child to school.

We are grateful beyond words for the service and hard work of so many Americans who make our country great through their sacrifice. And this year, we know that far too many face a daily struggle that puts the comfort and security we all deserve painfully out of reach.

So when we gather tomorrow, let us also use the occasion to renew our commitment to building a more peaceful and prosperous future that every American family can enjoy.

It seems like a lifetime ago that a crowd met on a frigid February morning in Springfield, Illinois to set out on an improbable course to change our nation.

In the years since, Michelle and I have been blessed with the support and friendship of the millions of Americans who have come together to form this ongoing movement for change.

You have been there through victories and setbacks. You have given of yourselves beyond measure. You have enabled all that we have accomplished — and you have had the courage to dream yet bigger dreams for what we can still achieve.

So in this season of thanks giving, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to you, and my anticipation of the brighter future we are creating together.

With warmest wishes for a happy holiday season from my family to yours,

President Barack Obama

For all of this info online go to http://sites.google.com/site/menysite/Home/districts-1

Please make hourly targeted phone calls to NYS politicians:

* Tell them we want a vote on marriage equality in the special session scheduled for Nov 10th!

 * Tell them we expect them to do everything they can, with all of their political strength, to ensure this vote will happen!

* Tell Senators to vote on the side of equality and pass Marriage Equality Bill S.4401! (For info on the bill go to S.4401/Duane)

 Here is the list of NYS politicians and their phone numbers to call: Call on Monday and ask them to urge the NYS Senate to pass Marriage Equality Bill S.4401:

NYS Attorney General Andrew Cuomo (800) 788-9898

NYC Speaker Christine Quinn (212) 564-7757

NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg (212) 639-9675

Counsel to NYC Mayor Anthony Crowell (212) 788-3000

Former US Pres Bill Clinton (212) 348-8882

US Senator for NYS Charles E. Schumer NYC:(212)-486-4430 Albany:(518) 431-4070

 US Senator for NYS Kirsten Gillibrand NYC:(212)-688-6262 Albany:(518) 431-0120

Monday, Nov 9, 2009 9am- NYS Senator Lavalle District:(631) 696-6900 Albany:(518) 455-3121 9am- NYS Senator Breslin District & Albany:(518) 455-2225 10am- NYS Senator Valesky District:(315) 478-8745 Albany:(518) 455-2838 10am- NYS Senator Stachowski District:(716) 826-3344 Albany:(518) 455-2426 11am- NYS Senator Hannon District:(516) 739-1700 Albany:(518) 455-2200 11am- NYS Senator Thompson District:(716) 854-8705 Albany:(518) 455-3371 12pm- NYS Senator Robach District:(585) 225-3650 Albany:(518) 455-2909 12pm- NYS Senator Aubertine District:(315) 782-3418 Albany:(518) 455-2761 1pm- NYS Senator Lanza District:(718) 984-4073 Albany:(518) 455-3215 1pm- NYS Senator Onorato District:(718) 545-9706 Albany:(518) 455-3486 2pm- NYS Senator Foley District:(631) 360-3356 Albany:(518) 455-2303 2pm- NYS Senator Fuschillo District:(516) 882-0630 Albany:(518) 455-3341 3pm- NYS Senator Alesi District:(585) 223-1800 Albany:(518) 455-2015 3pm-

Your Senator- find out who that is http://www.nysenate.gov Monday & Tuesday every hour, on the hour- ALL DAY!

NYS Senate Majority Leader Sampson District:(718) 649-7653 Albany:(518) 455-2788

NYS Senate Majority Temp. Pres. Smith District:(718) 528-4290 Albany:(518) 455-2701

 If you want additional info on the senator you are calling you can go to: http://sites.google.com/site/menysite/Home/districts-1 http://www.nysenate.gov/senators –

Jessica A. Teicher NYSYD GLBT Caucus Chair

Matthew Silverstein NYSYD President

We  are proud of all of the Young Dems who won their races last night. Here is how our YD’s who ran for office this year did after all the votes were counted. 

Clarkstown Town Council                         Vote for 2

Stephanie G. Hausner (YD)                        8,078

George A. Hoehmann                                            7,763

Aney Paul                                                                 7,113

Diane L. Holland                                                    5,181

John R. Maloney                                                    2,750

Clarkstown Town Clerk                            Vote for 1

David Carlucci (YD)                                     12,536

Donna M. Held                                                      3,814

Beekman Town Supervisor                   Vote for 1

Daniel J French(YD)                                     1,712

Barbara A Zulauf                                                   1,189

NYC Council – District 5                              Vote for 1

Jessica Lappin(YD)                                        19,725

Stephen Kaufman                                                  6,815

NYC Council – District 30                         Vote for 1

Elizabeth Crowley(YD)                               11,227

Thomas Ognibene                                                 7,686

Let this prove that YD’s can run for elected office in New York State and win!

If we missed anyone please email NYSYD President Matthew Silverstein at president@nysyd.net and we will add those results to this post.

This Photo Features: MYD President Al Benninghoff as The Monopoly Man, NYSYD President Matthew Silverstein as an Injured Met, Heather James as Sarah Palin & Brian Letchworth as a Ghost (Boo!)

From The Queens Tribune – Thursday October 29, 2009 Issue

To The Editor:

On October 17, hundreds of people gathered in College Point, Queens to share their disgust with the assault of Jack Price, an openly gay College Point resident.  I was one of those New Yorkers outraged that another citizen was brutally beaten to near death simply because of his sexual orientation. What was perhaps more outrageous was the disturbing revelation that was made at the rally.

Did you know that the majority of hate crimes are committed by young people under the age of 24? Think about that. Terrifying and true.

As the President of the New York State Young Democrats, an organization that represents this demographic of offenders, I feel that something must be done to address this issue. I call upon my local, state and federal elected officials to increase the amount of money allocated to tolerance and acceptance education. If we are going to reduce the amount of young people who commit hate crimes we must do so by doing a better job at educating our young people in love, tolerance and acceptance.

Let’s honor Jack Price by calling your elected officials and telling them that you demand an increase in funding for tolerance education.

Matthew Silverstein

New York State Young Democrats President & Bay Terrace Resident

 1. Rockland County Halloween Campaign Invasion

Help Turn Rockland County Blue 

Let’s Help Elect Thom Kleiner As The Next County Executive Of Rockland County!

Date: Saturday October 31, 2009

Time: 10:00am – 6:00pm

Location: Thom Kleiner For County Executive HQ

                    120 North Main Street

                    New City, NY

2. Raid The 36th Annual Village Halloween Parade

Join The Manhattan Young Democrats & Show Your Outrage Over Republican Bloombucks Buying Another Term. Come Dressed Like A Billionaire And Ready To Take Action! We Will Be Handing Out $8 Bloomberg Bucks To Remind The Crowds That “Eight Is Enough”.

Date: Saturday October31, 2009

Time: 6:15pm

Location: Meet @ Corner of Varrick Street & Laight Street

Today, October 20, 2009, Senate President Malcolm Smith and Conference Leader John Sampson announced the creation of a special committee to discuss potential additional disciplinary action for Senator Hiram Monserrate resulting from his conviction on misdemeanor assault charges.
The New York State Young Democrats President Matthew Silverstein called for Senator Monserrate to resign stating that, “Senator Monserrate’s actions and his prosecution severely identify questions of his character as an elected official.  I join many others in calling for his resignation so that the State of New York can move on to the important state-wide issues on the agenda.”
Silverstein went on to commend the Senate Democratic leadership for creating the committee, which will be chaired by Senator Eric Schneiderman and consist of a majority of Democrats.  “The actions taken by Senators Smith and Sampson demonstrate our Democratic commitment to strong moral character and that actions, like those of Senator Monserrate, will not be tolerated or ignored.  I entrust that the State Leadership will seriously consider the findings of this committee and urge all of the other New York State Senators to vote in favor of expelling Senator Monserrate.”
The New York State Young Democrats Women’s Caucus echoed Silverstein  by stating that Senator Monserrate should resign or be expelled as an illustration that domestic violence should not be tolerated or ignored.  Co-Chairs Julienne Verdi and Kathleen O’Hagen stated, “Domestic violence is a serious problem in New York State, nationwide and internationally.  Senator Monserrate’s behavior with his female companion cannot and will not be ignored.  We hope that this egregious situation will shine light on this often hidden issue.”
###
The New York State Young Democrats are the official youth arm of the New York State Democratic Committee. The New York State Young Democrats represent young democrats between the ages of 16-36 in all of New York’s sixty two counties.
If you would like more information on this topic, or to set up an interview with New York State Young Democrats President Matthew Silverstein or New York State Young Democrats Women’s Caucus Co-Chairs Julienne Verdi and Kathleen O’Hagen, please contact New York State Young Democrats Communication Director
Jennifer Royer at jroyer@nysyd.net
###

Today’s Siena Research Institute Poll has Bill Owens IN THE LEAD in the NY-23rd special election race:
 
-33% Bill Owens (Democrat)
-29% Dede Scozzafava
-23% Doug Hoffman

That is an 11% point swing in just two weeks!  We are poised for an upset victory in the NY-23rd just like we did with Scott Murphy and the NY-20th.  But we can’t get there without your involvement. 
 
This special election is 19 DAYS AWAY.
 
Come out to support Bill by joining with young professionals from across NYC on Monday night, October 19th, 2009, 7:00-9:00 at Red Sky Lounge (47 E. 29th Street).

Buy your tickets now at ACT BLUE: http://www.actblue.com/page/billowens1019

We need your support THIS MONDAY NIGHT to help Bill grow his lead and win this race!

Thanks for being in the fight,
Rob Diamond

Queens Chronicle – Thursday October 1, 2009

Want Change? Vote

Dear Editor:
  

 Tuesday was special. On Tuesdaydemocracy happened. On Tuesdaythere was a primary runoff election.
   

But as much as we talk about the greatness of democracy and our country, pundits predicted that less than 10 percent of the people reading this article would actually vote.I am writing to you today to ask you to prove these pundits wrong next time.I am asking you to vote and honor the thousands of people have died defending our country, ensuring that we have the right to vote.
   

Even in the 2008 elections — elections with historic voter turnout — one out of three Americans did not vote.In the 2009 Democratic primary on September 15, nearly nine out of 10 Democrats did not vote.Moreover, not even two-thirds of eligible New York citizens are registered to vote.Given that many city council districts lack Republican opposition, 7 percent of New Yorkers are deciding who is running much of New York City.
   

Then-Secretary of Education Terrel Bell’s 1983 observation about the state of education putting the nation at risk applies to our involvement in the democratic process today.If an unfriendly foreign power had prevented 90 percent of New Yorkers from voting, we would have viewed it as an act of war.Yet people choose to step out of the democratic process.Whether you are a first-time voter, or you missed the election on the 15th because you were busy: vote.If your city councilman is not listening to you: vote.If you like your representatives: vote.
   

Voting is our most basic means of keeping politicians honest.Having worked on several elections, I know there is one thing that politicians follow even more closely than polls: who voted.For example, why have politicianshistoricallymade more cuts to healthcare for the poor than healthcare for the elderly?Older people are more likely to vote than those living in poverty.If your community regularly goes to the polls, you will get the attention of politicians.
   

We can change the politics as usual that we see in City Hall, Albany and Washington, D.C.The voices of the people can be heard above the propaganda of special interests.Whether the issue is achieving meaningful healthcare reform, providing quality education for our children or an energy policy that addresses global warming, in time, we can make these changes — but onlyif you step into the democratic process and vote. 

Matt Bishop,Communications Director 
Queens County Young Democrats 
Astoria

Link To Original Story: http://www.cityhallnews.com/news/127/ARTICLE/2173/2009-09-28.html

We are pleased to report that Queens County Young Democrats President Costa Constantinides was named by City Hall News as their 2009 Rising Stars: 40 Under 40. We are very proud of the work Costa has done as President of the Queens County Young Democrats. We know that big things are in store for Costa. Keep up the good work Costa!

This is the second year in a row that an active member of NYSYD & QCYD was named by City Hall News to their Rising Stars: 40 Under 40 list. Last year NYSYD President Matthew Silverstein, was also named to that list.

Dear Mr. Silverstein:

Thank you for writing to me about the current state of our healthcare system.  I share your concerns and am committed to finding a solution that will give quality, affordable health care to every American. 

I believe that by opening up a not-for-profit public health plan like a “Medicare for all,” we can ensure that every American has access to quality, affordable healthcare where anyone could buy in at an affordable rate, such as 5% of their income.  In the world’s wealthiest nation, it’s unconscionable that people are turned away from coverage because of a pre-existing condition and that families are just one illness away from bankruptcy.

Offering a public health care plan option to compete with private insurers is the best way to truly lower health costs, improve quality of care and ensure access to care in rural and other underserved areas.  Injecting healthy competition into the health care market is the only way to achieve real health care reform.  I am committed to addressing this important issue and will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle toward a bipartisan solution.

 Again, thank you for contacting me about health care.  Please keep in touch with my office regarding any future legislation and concerns you may have.  For more information on this and other important issues being discussed in the United States Senate, please visit my website http://gillibrand.senate.gov and sign up for my e-newsletter.

Sincerely Yours,

Kirsten Gillibrand
United States Senator

Message From YDA President Crystal Strait:

Now is the time for us to come together to get YDA working again. While in the past it was common for the Executive Committee to set the agenda for an administration, this time all of YDA’s leadership, from the National Committee to Caucus and Committee leaders, will be planning out the future of our organization at our Fall Conference in sunny Orlando, Florida on November 20-22, 2009.

The clock is ticking on the 2010 Election season and this is our opportunity to plan our strategy for the next 11 months to continue engaging young voters and exercise our generation’s power by sending Democrats back to Congress and our state, commonwealth, and territorial capitals.

Fall Conference Schedule: http://action.yda.org/t/497/content.jsp?content_KEY=2436

Take advantage of great savings with the Early Bird Registration for only $45. Prices will go up to $65 on October 15th at Midnight (Eastern) and will be good through November 18th at Midnight (Eastern). After this, you will have to register on-site in Orlando for $75.

Register For Conference: https://yda.wiredforchange.com/o/720/t/497/l/eng/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=13037

Don’t forget to make your hotel reservations! We have a block of rooms reserved at the Orlando Doubletree Hotel for the bargain price of $89/night plus tax. You can make your reservation online with Group Code “YDA” or call 1-407-351-1000. Don’t forget to mention you are with the YDA group. The YDA room block closes October 28th at 5:00pm (Eastern).

Orlando Doubletree Hotel
5780 Major Blvd
Orlando, FL 32819
1-407-351-1000

We are curious to hear from our members.

Resolution in Support of H.R. 1283, The Military Readiness Enhancement Act

Sponsored by the New York State Young Democrats

WHEREAS, Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans have served and continue to serve honorably in the United States Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, the Armed Forces are weakened when competent and qualified individuals
are involuntarily discharged solely due to their sexual orientation; and

WHEREAS, the National Defense Authorization Act of 1994 (Public Law 103-160) created the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy; and

WHEREAS, under the restrictions of the current policy, an average of two service members are discharged from the military every day simply due to their sexual orientation; and

WHEREAS, over 13,000 service members – the equivalent of 3 ½ combat brigades – have been discharged as a result of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell;” and

WHEREAS, in the last five years, while our country has been engaged in two wars, the military has discharged over 800 mission critical troops under of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” including over 50 Arabic linguists; and

WHEREAS, up to $1.3 billion in taxpayer money has been wasted discharging otherwise qualified troops under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell;” and

WHEREAS, it costs the military at least $60,000 to recruit and train each new service member, and much more to prosecute and pursue separations under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell;”

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the New York State Young Democrats hereby supports H.R. 1283, the Military Readiness Enhancement Act, repealing the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.

“For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dream shall never die.”

These words have been used a lot over the past few weeks as the nation remembers Senator Edward Kennedy. Indeed, they are of particular relevance when considering the issue of health care reform and its impact on the millennial generation. Many critics have said lately that my generation has gone AWOL from this battle. Well consider this is a plea to my generation to get back into the fight.

The millennial generation is the largest uninsured demographic in America, with only 1 in 3 living with health insurance. In 2007 approximately 13.2 million young people were uninsured. Young people are especially vulnerable to the rising costs of health care. The price tag of individual health coverage, which is expected to reach over $16,000 in 2040, is already sprinting past $5,000 annually. More and more young people are incapable of purchasing even the most basic coverage plan. This leads to a higher rate of worker absenteeism due to preventable illnesses, which in turn decreases production and results in poorer economic performance. So why pass comprehensive reform? As James Carville once so succinctly put it, “It’s the economy, stupid!”

Health care reform is the single most important issue that faces the millennial generation. Too often the millennial generation walks around feeling young and indestructible, and not interested in old people issues. This is an attitude that we must correct before someone gets hurt. Health Care Reform was the dream and the life mission of the late Senator Kennedy. He might have passed the torch, but now we must be the ones who carry it across the finish line. If we truly are the next generation of American leaders, we must show that we are as passionate as Senator Kennedy was regarding this issue. If we do not act now, millions of our young brothers and sisters face the risk of getting sick and without proper health care coverage someone is going to get hurt or possibly die.

I encourage all millennials to make sure you voice is heard in this fight. Contact your elected representatives and make sure that they know just how important Health Care is to you. Attend Health Care Reform rallies to show you support this issue. Go to a Health Care Town Hall and participate in the debate. Just because we were the driving force behind the election of President Barack Obama does not mean the work stops there. We must support the President efforts to continue the cause of Senator Kennedy life. It is up to us to insure that the dream lives on.

Matthew Silverstein is 27 years old and is the President of the New York State Young Democrats, an organization which represents identified Democrats from ages 16-36 throughout the State of New York.

The results are….

Stephanie Hausner – 1,680

Aney Paul – 1,562

John Maloney – 1,298

Queens Chronicle – Thursday, September 10, 2009

Allow gays in military 
  

 Dear Editor: 

 On the campaign trail, President Obama spoke out against the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy that prevents gays and lesbians from serving openly in our armed forces. Now, as commander in chief, the president has a chance to do something about it.

All qualified Americans should be able to serve openly in the military regardless of sexual orientation.Don’t ask, don’t tell is the only policy that mandates firing a person because of their sexual orientation. Nearly 13,000 service members have been discharged from the military since it was put in place. Of those, more than 800 have skills considered to be “mission-critical.”

The Military Readiness Enhancement Act would repeal don’t ask, don’t tell and allow all qualified Americans to serve openly regardless of sexual orientation. 

The time is now for President Obama to fulfill his campaign pledge to end this discriminatory law that prevents brave men and women from serving their country. It’s time for the president to partner with Congress to pass the Military Readiness Enhancement Act and get rid of don’t ask, don’t tell once and for all. 
   

Matthew Silverstein 
President, New York State Young Democrats

If You Have Health Insurance the President’s Plan:

• Ends discrimination against people with pre-existing conditions.
• Limits premium discrimination based on gender and age.
• Prevents insurance companies from dropping coverage when people are sick and need it most.
• Caps out-of-pocket expenses so people don’t go broke when they get sick.
• Eliminates extra charges for preventive care like mammograms, flu shots and diabetes tests to improve health and save money.
• Protects Medicare for seniors.
• Eliminates the “donut-hole” gap in coverage for prescription drugs.

If You Don’t Have Insurance, the President’s Plan:

• Creates a new insurance marketplace — the Exchange — that allows people without insurance and small businesses to compare plans and buy insurance at competitive prices.
• Provides new tax credits to help people buy insurance.
• Provides small businesses tax credits and affordable options for covering employees.
• Offers a public health insurance option to provide the uninsured and those who can’t find affordable coverage with a real choice.
• Immediately offers new, low-cost coverage through a national “high risk” pool to protect people with preexisting conditions from financial ruin until the new Exchange is created.

For All Americans, the President’s Plan:

• Won’t add a dime to the deficit and is paid for upfront.
• Requires additional cuts if savings are not realized.
• Implements a number of delivery system reforms that begin to rein in health care costs and align incentives for hospitals, physicians, and others to improve quality.
• Creates an independent commission of doctors and medical experts to identify waste, fraud and abuse in the health care system.
• Orders immediate medical malpractice reform projects that could help doctors focus on putting their patients first, not on practicing defensive medicine.
• Requires large employers to cover their employees and individuals who can afford it to buy insurance so everyone shares in the responsibility of reform.

On behalf of the entire New York State Young Democrats family, I would like to wish everyone a very Happy Labor Day!

On Saturday September 12, 2009 we will once again march in the New York City Central Labor Council’s Labor Day Parade and March with our brothers and sisters from Teamsters Local 814 & Joint Council 16. We will be meeting at 10am on 46th Street between 6th & 7th Avenues in Manhattan. Please contact Mike Corbett at mcorbett@nysyd.net for more information.

Labor Day is the day we honor and acknowledge the hard work of union members across the country. As Congress comes back into session, organized labor continues to advocate the passage of The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA)and we must continue to support this effort. This bill would enable working people to bargain for better benefits, wages and working conditions by restoring workers freedom to choose for themselves whether to join a union. Please call your elected members of Congress and the Senate and urge them to support EFCA.

As Labor Day unofficially marks the end of Summer, I would like to reflect on our accomplishments over the past few months:

The 2009 YDA National Convention was a huge success for NYSYD. The Manhattan Young Democrats were once again honored as the YDA Chapter of the Year. MYD was also honored for the best one time program for their Open Seat Project. We are all so proud of what MYD has achieved.

 In addition, two of our members were seated on the YDA Executive Committee: Stephanie Hausner was appointed to the Democratic National Committee by YDA President Crystal Strait. Michael Corbett was elected Chair of the Young Democrats of America Labor Caucus. We are proud of Stephanie and Michael as well as the other New Yorkers who were elected to YDA Caucus offices.

A reminder to all members…

Please do not forget to vote in the upcoming primary elections. If you need information on looking up your voter registration or locating your polling place please visit the New York State Board of Elections web site at https://voterlookup.elections.state.ny.us/votersearch.aspx

In Solidarity,
Matthew Silverstein                           Mike Corbett, Chair
NYSYD President                                YDA Labor Caucus

2009 NYC Straw Poll Final Results

(Brooklyn, Queens & Manhattan Combined Totals)

Mayor

Bill Thompson – 85.1%

Tony Avella – 14.9%

Comptroller

John Liu – 50.5%

David Yassky- 43.8%

Melinda Katz- 3.8%

David Weprin- 1.9%

Public Advocate

Eric Gioia- 45%

Bill de Blasio- 24%

Norman Siegel- 17%

Mark Green- 14%

Manhattan District Attorney

Cy Vance- 59.3%

Richard Aborn- 28.8%

Leslie Crocker Snyder-11.9%

* This DA Straw Poll Was Only Conducted At Manhattan Location

Dear Mr. Silverstein:

Thank you for contacting me and expressing your support for government-run public option in health care reform. I wholeheartedly agree that a public option will help enhance access to quality and affordable health care for every American.

Our country is facing a crisis in health care. The cost of health insurance is skyrocketing, and too many New York families are caught in the middle. Like you, I believe it is absolutely unacceptable that more than forty-six million Americans do not have health care coverage. Both the health of our citizens and the health of our nation are at stake, and we must act soon.

I strongly support the establishment of a public health insurance option which would create a not-for-profit insurance plan, started by the government, which would compete on a level playing field with existing private health insurance plans. Because the public health insurance option would be not-for-profit, it should require lower premiums and, therefore, exert downward pressure on the premiums of existing insurance plans. This change is pro-consumer because it adds competition to insurance markets, allowing New Yorkers and all Americans one more choice of affordable and comprehensive health insurance.

Too many Americans are either uninsured or underinsured and Congress must act soon to provide the necessary catalyst we need. The Senate Finance Committee, of which I am a member, is working with all stakeholders in the health care community to develop a strong bill that can help solve our current health crisis.

Thank you for contacting me about this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact me again if I can ever be of assistance to you on this, or any other matter.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Schumer
United States Senator

I never met Senator Kennedy in person but I remember attending a meeting at the Senator’s Washington D.C. office last year. As I was sitting in the reception area waiting for his staff to meet with me, I was awe struck by all of the pictures of Senator Kennedy, his family and the world leaders the Senator met during his political career. Senator Kennedy was larger than life and I was saddened yesterday to hear that the Liberal Lion of the Senate had lost his long battle with brain cancer.

As President Barack Obama said yesterday, “our country has lost a great leader who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time”. Senator Kennedy helped push through the Americans with Disabilities Act, he extended prescription drugs to seniors, he helped to ensure health care coverage for children from low income families and he was a champion of Civil Rights.

Senator Kennedy’s 1980 Democratic National Convention speech still is a very powerful message for all of us today: “For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dream shall never die”. The work does go on, the cause does endure, the hope does still live and we must not let the dream die.

I believe that  now is the time for Young Democrats all across New York State to join together, start local chapters in areas where Young Democrats have no voice, and let our elected officials know where we stand on health care reform, equality for all New Yorkers, education and any other issue that matters to you.

Senator Kennedy has passed the torch to our generation, but we must now be the ones to carry that torch. This is our opportunity and we must not let our beloved friend down.

I need your help now more than ever!

There are still places in New York where Young Democrats have no one or no place to turn to. Please join me as we work to strengthen the New York State Young Democrats and ensure that our voices are heard.

For more information on the New York State Young Democrats or on how to start a chapter, please visit our website at www.nysyd.org
 
Sincerely,
Matthew Silverstein
President

Delegation Chair: Matthew Silverstein

Vice Chair: Tajian Jones

Whips: Michael Corbett & Chris Smith

National Committee Members: Dustin Hausner & Kate O’Hagen

Delegates:

1. Michael Gilberg
2. Matt Silverstein
3. Stephanie Hausner
4. Michael Corbett
5. Tajian Jones
6. Kate O’Hagen
7. Mara Blumenthal
8. Dustin Hausner
9. Chris Smith
10. Brian Letchworth
11. Matt Peter
12. John Salka
13. Tedd Collins
14. Dion Powell
15. Sarah Jane Arengger
16. Daniella Johnson
17. Jenni Royer
18. Ian Rivera
19. Julienne Verdi
20. Kevin Caneco
21. Amanda Pizzuti
22. Erich Reimer
23. Al Benninghoff
24. Carolyn Schultz
25. Chelsea Kadish
26. George Kevgas
27. Kevin Lawrie
28. Jeff Sterling
29. Ciara Pressler
30. Heather James
31. Sam Hudis
32. Emmy Suzuki Harris
33. Julie Blitzer
34. Taylor Stirek
35. Emilie Simone
36. Chris Bailey
37. Melissa LaMontanaro 

Alternate Delegates 

1. Jessica Shearer
2. Michelle Shaljian
3. Josh Waters
4. Chas Danner 

CONCERNING: Comprehensive Health Care Reform 

WHEREAS, the New York State Young Democrats believe all Americans, regardless of life station or social position, have a right to high quality, affordable Health Care; and,

WHEREAS, one in six or 45 million Americans are currently uninsured and another 20 million are underinsured, which places and expensive burden upon the nation’s emergency services and proliferates contagious diseases; and,

WHEREAS, young people aged 18-29 comprise the largest uninsured group in the United States, with nearly a third living without Health Coverage; and

 WHEREAS, Health care costs have increased 85% in the last ten years, with the expectation of exponential increases in years to come, forcing as many as 72 million Americans onto the roles of the uninsured by 2040; and,

 WHEREAS, the increasing costs of Health Care will lower the take home wages of Americans by nearly $25,000 in 2040, detrimentally impacting the United States’ Gross Domestic Product and saddling future generations with insurmountable national debt; and,

 WHEREAS, the Obama-Biden Health Care proposal seeks to expand coverage, improve quality, lower costs, expand preventative care, and promote innovation and advancement in medical technologies, at an affordable cost to America; therefore,

 BE IT RESOLVED, the New York State Young Democrats and its members actively recommend and encourage the passage of President Obama’s Health Care plan to the members of the 111th Congress; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, New York State Young Democrats officially and publicly add its name to the growing list of progressive organizations which support the Presidents Health Care plan.

Dear New York State Young Democrats,

As President of the New York State Young Democrats, I would like to wish everyone in the LGBT community a very happy Pride!  This is a very special year, as this marks the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots, and the birth of the LGBT Liberation Movement.

As the 39th annual Gay Pride Parade marches down Fifth Avenue, I urge all young democrats to remember what is at stake this year. Homosexual couples still are unable to marry in New York State. True equality is within our reach, but we need your help! I urge everyone to join our Marriage Equality Campaign and remind your State Senators that we demand equality now!

Please visit our campaign at nyequality.com

Remember that together we really can make a difference, and someday soon we will truly have Equality.

Matthew Silverstein

President

Nina has always had an interest in politics and being very involved in her community. I should know, we’ve known each other since we were thirteen! I first met Nina during our freshman year at Sacred Heart Academy. Then, as now she was a smart and driven young woman with a lot of heart! In the past few years, both as an undergraduate and a law student at St. John’s University she has made every effort to better her community.

Whether it is being a part of Action Long Island, working tirelessly leading the charge to bring more affordable housing for young people and young families, or staying involved in her alma mater and church, Nina has never been one to sit back on the sidelines. She has been recognized for her achievements by being honored as one of the “30 under 30” on Long Island. She is a great leader, and will make an amazing County Legislator.

Her campaign has gotten off to a great start! She has been out every day meeting people and getting to know what matters most to those living in the third legislative district. The announcement of her candidacy can be found on Huffington Post, as well as Newsday and the NY Daily News. All of us in Nassau County are extremely excited for this race, and to elect Nina into the County Legislature in November!

Earlier this week State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. was named President Pro Tempore of the New York State Senate after he and fellow Democrat Hiram Monserrate turned their back on the State Senate Democratic Majority and backed an attempted Republican Coup which has crippled the New York State Government.

To give some background, the New York State Young Democrats have put together the following “10 Things To Know About Pedro Espada, Jr.” As you read this, contemplate the irony in his claims of bringing change and a new era to Albany after everything he has been accused of in his political career.

We hope you will join us in 2010 as we work to defeat State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr.

1. According to the New York Daily News, he’s called “the Bronx’s ‘Teflon Pol’ for good reason- nothing ever seems to stick to State Senator Pedro Espada Jr. except maybe the whiff of trouble”.

2. The Riverdale Press reported that as of April 16, 2009 State Senator Espada did not even have a district office in his district.

3. The New York Times reports that State Senator Pedro Espada “owes the City of New York $61,750 in fines for fraudulent campaign fund-raising going back to 2001″.

4. The New York Times also reports that State Senator Pedro Espada “has failed to file 41 reports with the State Board of Elections, and has racked up $13,553 in penalties since 2002″.

5. New York State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is apparently investigating State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr to determine if he used his nonprofit organization Soundview Health Clinic as a slush fund for his political campaigns.

6. The Bronx District Attorney Robert Johnson is apparently investigating claims that State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. lives in Westchester County rather than his Bronx district.

7. Before turning his back on the Democratic Party & State Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith, State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. requested $2 million dollars in State Senate earmarks for two organizations that he founded, which were rumored to have been created to receive those grants. In April State Senate Democrats rejected the grant applications when they could not confirm that these organizations were legitimate.

8. According to the New York Times “In 2005, three employees of a Bronx nonprofit health care company run by Mr. Espada, the Soundview HealthCare Network, pleaded guilty to diverting $30,000 from programs for family care and AIDS treatment to one of his campaigns. Mr. Espada was never charged.”

9. In 2002, State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. announced that he would switch parties and become a Republican. He never actually changed his voter registration, but he did sit with the Republican majority to participate in the party’s conferences.

10. According to Project Vote Smart: The Voter’s Self Defense System “Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. repeatedly refused to provide any responses to citizens on the issues through the 2008 Political Courage Test when asked to do so by national leaders of the political parties, prominent members of the media, Project Vote Smart President Richard Kimball, and Project Vote Smart staff.”

Cityhallnews.com is reporting…… “Shortly after reaffirming his support for Pedro Espada and Dean Skelos on the Senate floor, Hiram Monserrate once again entered into negotiations with the Senate Democrats on Thursday to rejoin the caucus. He remains in those meetings as of late this afternoon, and some have speculated that his intent is to return to the Democratic fold.Monserrate’s spokesman, Wayne Mahlke, said he could not confirm or deny the meetings are taking place.”All I know is he was on the floor of the Senate this morning,” Mahlke said, “where he stands right now, I have not heard.”

The Albany Times Union Reports State Senator John Sampson(D) supports Majority Leader Malcolm Smith.

“Sen. John L. Sampson, the Kings County Democrat, said he is supporting “Majority Leader” Malcolm Smith and disavowed claims that he was taking over the Democratic conference as minority leader.
He said he respects Sen. Pedro Espada, who received 32 votes on Monday to become the president pro tem of the 62-member Senate, and will continue having discussions with him. But his loyalty, he said, remains with Smith”.

Below is a list of 10 key things about Sonia Sotomayor that you might not know. Can you check it out and send it to 10 friends today? If each of us forwards the list, we can start to get the word out about Judge Sotomayor, and help to ensure that she gets a speedy and fair confirmation process.

Ten Things To Know About Judge Sonia Sotomayor

1. Judge Sotomayor would bring more federal judicial experience to the bench than any Supreme Court justice in 100 years. Over her three-decade career, she has served in a wide variety of legal roles, including as a prosecutor, litigator, and judge.

2. Judge Sotomayor is a trailblazer. She was the first Latina to serve on the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and was the youngest member of the court when appointed to the District Court for the Southern District of New York. If confirmed, she will be the first Hispanic to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court.

3. While on the bench, Judge Sotomayor has consistently protected the rights of working Americans, ruling in favor of health benefits and fair wages for workers in several cases.

4. Judge Sotomayor has shown strong support for First Amendment rights, including in cases of religious expression and the rights to assembly and free speech.

5. Judge Sotomayor has a strong record on civil rights cases, ruling for plaintiffs who had been discriminated against based on disability, sex and race.

6. Judge Sotomayor embodies the American dream. Born to Puerto Rican parents, she grew up in a South Bronx housing project and was raised from age nine by a single mother, excelling in school and working her way to graduate summa cum laude from Princeton University and to become an editor of the Law Journal at Yale Law School.

7. In 1995, Judge Sotomayor “saved baseball” when she stopped the owners from illegally changing their bargaining agreement with the players, thereby ending the longest professional sports walk-out in history.

8. Judge Sotomayor ruled in favor of the environment and against business interests in 2007 in a case of protecting aquatic life in the vicinity of power plants, a decision that was overturned by the Roberts Supreme Court.

9. In 1992, Judge Sotomayor was confirmed by the Senate without opposition after being appointed to the bench by George H.W. Bush.

10. Judge Sotomayor is a widely respected legal figure, having been described as “…an outstanding colleague with a keen legal mind,” “highly qualified for any position in which wisdom, intelligence, collegiality and good character would be assets,” and “a role model of aspiration, discipline, commitment, intellectual prowess and integrity.”

Judge Sotomayor is an historic, uniquely qualified nominee to the Supreme Court. Let’s get the word out and make sure we get a prompt, fair confirmation on her nomination.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture “The Food Stamp Program helps people with little or no income buy nutritious food. Food stamp benefits are not cash. They come on an electronic EBT card that you use like a bank card to buy food. Most grocery stores take food stamp benefits. To get food stamp benefits, your income and other resources have to be under certain limits”.

Generally speaking if your gross monthly income is $1,107.00 or less, you will most likely be eleigible for food stamps. If you would like to see if you might be eligible to get food stamps, visit www.foodstamps-step1.usda.gov . If you would like to find your local food stamp office please call 1-800-221-5689 or visit www.fns.usda.gov/fsp/outreach/map.htm

For the month of January the average benefit for food stamp recepients (per person) in New York was $112.82. I strongly encourage all New York State Young Democrats to research this program and if you know someone who might be eligible to receive food stamps educate them about the program and try to convince them to join.

You may have heard about the special election on March 31st to fill the congressional seat left vacant by the recent appointment of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. You may also know that we are supporters of the Democratic Candidate in that race, Scott Murphy. Unfortunately, too many people don’t realize that the race is less than 4 weeks away or think that this race is in the bag. It is not!

The Republican Nominee in this race is Assemblyman Jim Tedisco, the current Republican Leader of the NYS Assembly. His candidacy has brought on the full onslaught of the Republican Machine. They’re throwing every dollar and ounce of influence they have into this race because they want to make this race a referendum on President Obama’s economic policy. Think about the message it would send to the rest of the country if the Republicans squeeze out a victory in our backyard at a time when the media is looking for any event to gauge public reaction to the fiscal crisis. It could undermine everything we are trying to do in Washington. We need your help, and we need it now.

Here are five (5) things you can do:

1) PHONE BANK any day of the week. Weekdays from 6PM to 9PM and weekends from 12PM to 8PM at the NYS Democratic Party Headquarters (461 Park Avenue South @ 31st St., 10th Floor). Bring your friends. RSVP for any of the phone banks on our website at www.manhattanyoungdems.org/events/

2) JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP “NYC for Scott Murphy” and invite your friends to join:

www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=134393085132

3) LISTEN TO SCOTT IN PERSON on March 12th at Retreat Lounge (37 W 17th Street @ 5th Ave). This event will be hosted by DL21C, and they’re charging $7 for admission. RSVP here. (www.dl21c.org/rsvp.php?event_id=306)

4) CONTRIBUTE at  www.scottmurphy09.com  and learn about Scott.

5) FORWARD this message to all of your friends to get the word out about this campaign and Scott Murphy.

A little bit about Scott Murphy:

Saving and creating jobs, growing small businesses, and finding new ways to tackle old problems – these are the things Scott has done successfully for more than 15 years.

While professional politicians just talk about the need to create jobs, Scott has first-hand experience actually creating them. He’s built successful companies, helped create over 1,000 jobs, and worked to make small businesses the economic engines of their communities. Scott’s been blessed to live the American dream. After graduating from Harvard, Scott became a high-tech entrepreneur. He founded Small World Software, later sold to iXL. Scott has also worked as an aide to two Democratic Governors, Mel Carnahan and Roger Wilson, serving as the Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Roger Wilson of Missouri.

Get active, get involved, invite your friends, change the world!

Do it TODAY!

Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis is all smiles at the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee hearing earlier this month.

After weeks of stalling on the part of the Republicans, the full US Senate voted to confirm Hilda Solis as the Secretary of Labor. The 80-17 vote officially ends the eight years of a business oriented department and shifts the balance of power back to the working class and labor unions. Now, with Secretary Solis at the helm, we can feel more confident that the Department of Labor will protect and promote union interests and that the Labor Movement will remain strong, especially in this time of economic uncertainty. In fact, I am reminded of how much the election of a Democratic President and appointment of a strong, progressive woman as Secretary of Labor effected our country simarly during the height of the Great Depression.

In 1932, the country rallied behind a governor from New York who made a pledge: a New Deal for the American People. After taking office, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt acted swiftly on many fronts. This included what can arguably the most import Cabinet appointment in the history of the United States. President Roosevelt tapped his longtime friend Frances Perkins to become Secretary of Labor. Perkins’ name into the history books immediately as the first woman in the Cabinet, and thus the first to enter the Presidential Line of Succession. However, Frances Perkins mark on history did not end there. Over the course of the FDR Administration, it was Secretary Perkins who set the tone.

Secretary of Labor Frances Perkins guided the New Deal, whether it was advising FDR (left) or supporting Collective Bargaining rights of Pennsylvania Steelworkers (right, with hat on shaking hands)

It is she who convinced President Roosevelt not send federal troops to San Francisco to stop a Longshoremens’ strike. History now remembers this as the San Francisco General Strike of 1934, which led to the unionization of all the ports on the West Coast. Also in 1934, Secretary Perkins was touring steel mills in Pennsylvania when she asked the town of Homestead for meeting space. When the mayor refused to allow such a meeting on city property, Perkins found an alternative venue and held the meeting anyway, informing the workers of their Collective Bargaining rights.

Frances Perkins was also a force in the Capitol as well. In fact, you can link most of the main pieces of legislation that ended the Great Depression to the Secretary of Labor. From the Fair Labor Standards Act, which established minimum wage and overtime standards, to the revolutionary Social Security Act of 1935, just to name a few, the name Frances Perkins is written all over the New Deal. It is also a name which you see each time you enter the Department of Labor, which is housed in the Frances Perkins Building. Not to put all of this pressure on the incoming Secretary of Labor, but for the United States to climb out of the depths of this recession, Hilda Solis must become our Frances Perkins, the voice of the working class.

President-elect Barack Obama looks on as his nominee for Secretary of Labor, Representative Hilda Solis (D-CA), talks to the media.

In December, the president-elect nominated then-Representative Hilda Solis (D-CA) to join his Cabinet as Labor Secretary. That’s when the right wing circled the wagons, hoping to shoot down the chances of  having Secretary of Labor that has long been a supporter of unions. After seeing Cabinet Member after Cabinet Member pass through confirmation, it finally came time for Secretary of Labor. The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) heard the testimony of Hilda Solis in early February. After numerous delays, the committee approved the nomination by voice vote and sent the confirmation to the Senate Floor. Members of both parties praised Solis. “Hilda Solis comes from a working family herself so she understands how the troubled economy is hurting average Americans. American workers deserve to have her voice and her leadership as their Secretary of Labor, and I’m pleased that our committee approved her,” said Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA), Chairman of the HELP Committee. Ranking minority member Senator Michael Enzi (R-WY) added,  ”I look forward to working with her in her new Cabinet position as Secretary of Labor and her staff on the this and the many other labor and economic issues facing our country.”

The full Senate voted in favor to confirm on February 24, and the vote included a majority of the Republican caucus voting for the confirmation.

Full Senate Vote for the Confirmation of Hilda Solis as Secretary of Labor

Now that we can officially say Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis, the intiatives are simple…Employee Free Choice Act, revamping the National Labor Relations Board, increase the minimum wage. These are just some the issues that will come across Secretary Solis’ desk in the coming weeks and months. I am confident that under her leadership, this country will once again flourish as it has in the past- under the strength of the middle class and working families. I am proud to call Hilda Solis Secretary of Labor, and look foward to a brighter future for the Labor Movement. I have no doubt Hilda Solis will be today what Frances Perkins was to our grandparents- a Champion.

Yesterday, Kirsten Gillibrand was sworn in as the Junior United State Senator from New York. After a long wait to find out who would fill the vacancy left by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, we got an answer and, as we have done as a party over the last year, unite around the choice. However, many New York Democrats have refused to even give Senator Gillibrand a chance.

Governor David Paterson appointed then-Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand to the vacant US Senate seat shortly after Inauguration. There was an almost instantaneous reaction, but it was a surprise to me that the negative reaction came from many Empire State Democrats. Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D-Long Island) all but announced she will run in the Democratic primary election next year after appearing on cable news programs. The congresswoman, whose husband was killed and son injured by a gunman on the Long Island Railroad, based her decision on the National Rifle Association’s previous support of Senator Gillibrand. In addition, New York City Council Councilman Joel Rivera (D-Bronx) organized a protest on the steps of City Hall based on the senator’s immigration stance. 

The New York 20th, 2006 - Incumbent Representative John Sweeney (R-NY) and his challenger Kirsten Gillibrand

As we know, Kirsten Gillibrand comes from a highly conservative area of New York State, and her political views are representative of that of her district. This point only makes sense, considering my views represent a lifelong resident of Manhattan. The 20th district emcompasses parts of ten counties in an area that almost completely surrounds Albany. In running for Congress in 2006, Gillibrand was running against a strong incumbent in Representative John Sweeney. During the race, Gillibrand meshed her core Democratic values to those of her fellow residents of the 20th. Although a recording of a 911 call made by Sweeney’s wife claiming domestic abuse probably put her over the top, Gillibrand would not have been close had her viewpoints been as liberal as someone from New York City.

The logo of the Blue Dog Conservative Democrats

The Democratic Congressional candidates who were victorious in 2006 were mostly Conservative Democrats, known as “Blue Dog Democrats,” a coalition of moderate and conservative Democratic members of the House of Representatives. There are currently 47 members of the coalition, including Congressman Michael Arcuri (D-NY) and former Congresswoman Gillibrand. Without them, Republicans may have stayed in the majority in 2006, which may have led to a different result in the recent Presidential Election. As I mentioned, these are not your cookie-cutter Democrats, as they come from conservative areas of their respective states.

There is no precedent however to Blue Dog representatives becoming Senators; Kirsten Gillibrand will be the first. Now we come back to fellow Democrats objections to the appointment of Gillibrand to the United States Senate. I do agree that representing a conservative congressional district do not allow for one to be as liberal as the whole of New York State would prefer. However, in the past week, Senator Gillibrand has been more than receptive to speak with those who may be concerned with her viewpoints. I am optimistic that over the next few months, we will discover a more liberal Gillibrand than we have previously seen. This is why I wish my fellow New York Democrats would hold their criticism until Senator Gillibrand has a chance to get her feet wet in her new job. I also think it is wrong to judge someone on only one political viewpoint, such as gun control or immigration. The fact that the NRA has given Gillibrand a 100% rating on issues relating to gun owners has been mentioned at length. However, I have heard very little about the fact that Gillibrand also garners a 100% rating from the American Civil Liberties Union, and her views on a woman’s right to choose and laws protecting gay couples are consistent with the Democratic party platform.

Congresswoman Gillibrand campaigning for re-election last year with President Bill Clinton.

Personally, I would like to focus on the positive reasons behind the appointment of Kirsten Gillibrand. The first that sticks out is that at 42 years old, Gillibrand is now the youngest member of the United States Senate. Considering the average age of Senators is 62, I am encouraged that somone from my own state is now, for all intents and purposes, the Young Democrat in the Senate. In addition, there are still 17 women remaining in the Senate chamber. Considering the previous holder of this seat just made 16 million cracks in the glass ceiling and, more importantly, the subsequent damage done by the unfortunate vice presidential campaign by Governor Sarah Palin (R-AK), I feel it was important to appoint another strong woman to this office. I can think of few who fit that description as well as Kirsten Gillibrand. Finally, I feel strongly that this seat will safely remain in Democratic hands for years to come. Not only does Gillibrand give an upstate-downstate balance to New York’s two US Senate seats, but her approval rating among New York Republicans is even higher than that of Democrats throughout the state. Combine this with the fact that Gillibrand raised in excess of $4.6 million for her reelection bid this past year, outraising her opponent and former Republican State Chair Sandy Treadwell 4-to-1 in the most expensive Congressional race in 2008 (Note: Though Treadwell had over $7 million in his campaign account, he only “raised” $1.1 million, while self-financing the campaign to the tune of $5.9 million; he still lost). Put simply, Kirsten Gillibrand is what can only be called a political powerhouse for the Democratic party, and will be for years to come.

In short, I want to express my great pleasure in the appointment of Kirsten Gillibrand as the Junior United State Senator from New York. Together with Senior Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY), we have two people in Washington, DC that will continue to bring resources, prowess, and pride back home to us here in the Empire State. Things continue to look bright here in New York…or should I say, bright blue!

Congress Member Anthony Weiner campaigning for Mayor in LIC Queens back in 2005

Watch out Mayor Bloomberg, Congress Member Anthony Weiner is catching up to you in the race for New York City Mayor in 2009. A new poll was released yesterday by New York 1. The New York 1 poll has Mayor Michael Bloomberg leading U.S. Congress Member Anthony Weiner 43%-36% with 17% still undecided.  The poll also had Mayor Bloomberg with a 64% approval rating.  The New York 1 poll has Mayor Bloomberg leading NYC Comptroller Bill Thompson 45%-32% with 19% still undecided.  These numbers are sure to send shockwaves through New York City political circles. Look for the 2009 Mayoral election to heat up real soon.

The New York State Young Democrats would like to congratulate State Senator Malcolm Smith on being elected as the majority leader of the New York State Senate. We are so proud that after many years of hard work the Democratic Party has retaken the majoirty in the New York State Senate. We look foward to our continued work with Majority Leader Smith and the rest of the new Democratic majority in Albany to increase our new majority.

Senator Claiborne Pell was best known as the sponsor of the “Basic Educational Opportunity Grants Program’ which was passed in 1972. This program later became known as the Pell Grant in 1980. Pell Grants provideds  billions of dollars to young people looking to attend college.

The New York State Young Democrats mourn the passing of Senator Pell and on behalf of all the young people who have benefited from Pell Grants we would like to say thank you to Senator Pell. You will certaintly be missed.

Rep. Hilda Solis (D-CA) addresses the Democratic National Convention in August. President-elect Barack Obama has nominated Solis to become Secretary of Labor.

President-elect Barack Obama filled the positions in his Cabinet relatively fast. However, one spot continued to remain blank, that of Secretary of Labor. I, along with others in the labor movement, held our breath with cautious optimism waiting for a name. Would the president-elect back off on his promise to give new life to unions across the country? Did the overwhelming support of rank-and-file members and their families mean nothing? Would we ever have a labor friendly inhabitant of the White House?

Then, the news came out that a relatively unknown Congresswoman from a district outside of Los Angeles, CA would take the reins of Secretary of Labor. I was worried, but upon further review, I saw that the daughter of a Teamster Shop Steward and United Rubber Makers union member was exactly what we need. Hilda Solis was exactly what we need.

UNION YES! Then-State Senator Hilda Solis demonstrating with members of UNITE HERE to protect prevailing wage standards for state government contracts, which was vetoed by Governor Pete Wilson

Rep. Hilda Solis joins fellow Congress Members Rosa DeLauro, Jan Schakowski and George Miller along with Former Miss America Carolyn Sapp and AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson in 2005. This was a campaign called "Love Mom, Not Wal-Mart" protesting against gender discrimination within the conglomerate. Behind them is a giant Mother's Day card which all signed.

Throughout her years in Congress, Hilda Solis has been one of the most ardent supporters of the middle class around the country. Rep. Solis has a near perfect voting record when it comes to the interests of working families, according to themiddleclass.org. In fact, when it comes to the most important issue to unions today, the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA), Rep. Solis signed on as a co-sponsor to the bill introduced by fellow California Congressman, Rep. George Miller (D-CA). When the debate on EFCA hit the House floor, Hilda Solis made no bones about her strong support for the passage of the bill.

As a third generation member of a union, and a second generation union officer, I will be proud to have Hilda Solis heading the Department of Labor.

Change is coming.

Which side are you on?

On Thursday October 2, 2008 New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced that he was interested in seeking a third term as Mayor of New York City. The biggest question lately is what party would Mayor Bloomberg run as? Would he seek another term as a Republican, would he run as an Independent, would he create a new party, would he run as a Democrat or would he run on all lines.

It has been reported that at a press conference at City Hall today a reporter asked the Mayor about the trend that he has been trying to associate himself lately with important leaders in the Democratic Party.  The reporter noted that the Mayor was set to appear on New Year’s Eve with President Clinton and Senator Clinton. Bloomberg said “I don’t know that my links to the Democrats are growing any more than my links to Republicans, who are not growing, depending on who you ask.”

We would like to hear what you think about Mayor Bloombergs re-election bid and what party you think he should as. Maybe Mayor Bloomberg should not run at all. That would certainly solve all of our problems.

(Albany, New York)

Congress Member-Elect Paul Tonko was officially sworn in as Congress Member of the 21st Congressional District this morning. The New York State Young Democrats & The Albany County Young Democrats would like to congratulate Mr. Tonko and we look foward to working with him in the future. We would also like to thank Congress Member Mike McNulty for all of his years of service to the residents of the 21st Congressional District.

According to the poll “New York State voters split 40 – 41 percent on whether Caroline Kennedy is qualified to be a U.S. Senator, but they expect by a 48 – 25 percent margin that Gov. David Paterson will name her to the Senate seat being vacated by Hillary Clinton, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released today. Offered a choice, 33 percent of voters say Gov. Paterson should name Ms. Kennedy, while 29 percent say Attorney General Andrew Cuomo should get the nod.  Another 4 percent pick Albany-area U.S. Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand, while 24 percent want someone else and 10 percent are undecided, the independent Quinnipiac University poll finds. Kennedy leads Cuomo 42 – 27 percent among New York City voters and ties Cuomo  30 – 30 percent among suburban voters, while Cuomo leads 31 – 27 percent among upstate voters.  Men back Kennedy over Cuomo 32 – 27 percent while women back her 33 – 31 percent. Republicans prefer Cuomo 33 – 20 percent while Democrats back Kennedy 41 – 27 percent and independent voters back Cuomo 33 – 30 percent”.

So the big question of the day is what do the Young Democrats of New York State think about Caroline Kennedy’s qualifications. We want to hear from you! Feel free to post your comments on who you think Governor Paterson should pick to be our next Senator. If you have some free time please visit our new web page at www.nysyd.org and vote for who you think should be the next senator.

Later I went on my computer and started talking to my friend about Chanukah and how problematic it was that we had a holiday based on oil. Now, I didn’t mean it from a religious point of view. I don’t have a theological problem with the holiday. It is a nice story of heroes, miracles, and the Maccabbees. No, my problem is with the observance. My problem is with the oil. After all, living in suburban NY, I am constantly reminded by NYC Mayor, Michael Bloomberg, that oil and fat are unhealthy. So how do we make a holiday about oil healthy? How do we justify the few times of year we splurge for 8 nights on Latkes and doughnuts?
 
Oil has been on the brains of NYers and Americans for the past several months. First we were paying too much for it, now not as much, but no one has any money left to take advantage of the low oil prices and travel for the holidays is at a low. With a recent bailout plan for the Big 3 Auto industry, there was much talk of energy efficiency and hybrid cars. As heating bills increase consumers think of alternative ways to heat their homes and offices. So maybe I should look into alternative ways to make my latkes? Maybe I should re-think the doughnuts? For our Christian friends, how about Christmas lights? Are they worth the energy? Or maybe we should just deal with this next year—after the holidays….

…either way something to think about. Happy Chanukah☺

The meeting portion of the conference was held at The Otsega Hotel and Conference Center, right on the lake. This provided a beautiful setting for a productive session where many important issues were discussed. The Policy Committee proposed four central areas for NYSYD to focus on in our platform: Health Insurance, Environmental Issues, Higher Education, and Equality rights of minorities, disabled persons and women. The discussion was abundant with viable ideas on how to create and promote our positions on these important issues.

We took a look at what NYSYD and its’ chapters had been actively doing in 2008 and made a list of accomplishments. Then the focus moved on to the future of our organization.The meeting then set goals for Fundraising for the State and Local Chapters, Communications between Chapters and with the National YDA, chapter building in new counties, increasing membership in present groups. We then focused on methods to attain these goals; such as helping High School and College chapters form and working more closely to help these students transition through the levels of our organization. We also focused on the importance of internships and the resume bank which has been created to help members find internships and/or employments within the political field in New York State. Further, we looked into potential community service opportunities, events and potential for political training for interested Young Democrats.

We then focused on planning for the YDA winter meeting which New York will be hosting at the Sheraton in Times Square, NYC on February 20-22, 2009. There is a lot of excitement leading up to this meeting and NYSYD is excited to host this meeting and host Young Democrats from all over the United States.

While our focus is on the upcoming Winter Meeting, NYSYD is also focusing on scheduling and planning out Chapter Leader Planning Conference to help with Chapter Building (possibly in March/April 09), Part 2 of the Executive Committee Planning Retreat (possibly in June 2009), preparations for the YDA National Convention and 2009 Elections, as well as getting our new website up and ready.

We hope that you will stay informed about NYSYD and considering joining and/or supporting our organization. Together, we can make a big difference.

Jennifer Royer
NYSYD Communications Director

Welcome to the official blog of the New York State Young Democrats.  We hope that you will check back here for all of your Young Democrats news.

The New York State Young Democrats are the official youth arm of the New York State Democratic Committee. The New York State Young Democrats represent young democrats between the ages of 16-36 in all of New York’s 62 counties.

If you are interested in starting a Young Democrats chapter in your county please email msilverstein@nysyd.net