Great news! Arrangements for an Escondido office for the 2010 campaign are coming together. A location has been identified at 128 E. Grand Avenue in downtown Escondido. Financial contributions from the San Diego County Democratic Party, North County Unity, the Escondido Democratic Club (pending), the San Diego Voter Project (pending) and endorsed Democratic candidates will fund the rent and other costs of the office.

Current plans, which are still tentative, are to move in to the office around September 14 and to hold a kick-off party at the office on Saturday, September 18, according to EDC VP for Membership and City Council candidate Jason Everitt, who has been instrumental in finalizing arrangements. “Opening an office in Escondido demonstrates the San Diego County Democratic Party’s commitment to Escondido and North County in general and we’re excited about our prospects in November,” Everitt said.

EDC’s executive board will unanimously recommend to members at the September 11 meeting that they approve use of $1,000 already in a political action account for the Club’s share of the office costs. EDC’s VP for Political Action Chris Nava said “the opening of an Escondido office is great news for Democratic leaders, candidates, and troops on the ground, who are set to go into action in the last lap before the November election.

“A local Democratic office offers huge benefits to all endorsed Democratic Party candidates by providing an operational center where candidate campaigns, the Go Team, OFA’s Neighborhood Team, the S.D. County Voter Project,  and others can collaborate and work together towards a common effort.  As importantly, and a not to be overlooked benefit, is a certain spirit and energy that is created when people come together to achieve a common goal.  We become energized by each other!” Nava added.

Fundraising is still underway. The San Diego Voter Project will hold a fundraising event from 4 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, September 11 at the home of Bill and Connie Flores, 1512 Robyn Road in Escondido. Admission is $35 per person to benefit the project, which encourages voters from under-served communities. RSVP to sdcvprsvp@gmail.com or call 619-922-2209.