The California Congress of Republicans kicked off it’s 2011 Biannual Convention at the Embassy Suites In Santa Clarita Friday evening. The event is being hosted by both the Santa Clarita Valley and the Hollywood Congress of Republicans.

To a room of about 75 people, California State President Mark Vafiades welcomed the group along with the Presidents of both the Hollywood and Santa Clarita clubs.

Attendance this week is expected to be upwards of 150 members.

Vafiades said that the event has a twofold purpose. It informs active republicans about what is going on in the party, the game plan, and the strategy for moving forward and the event is held to nominate and elect the new slate of statewide officers.

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“What we do at this 2 year convention we want to train republicans on what is going on in the world of politics california, nation wide,” said Vafiades. “But it is also our election.”

Beginning 9 a.m. on Saturday, a series of panels will discuss what will happen in california nationwide. Sunday will be officer elections. Speakers include Shawn Steel and George Runner. Assemblyman Cameron Smyth will be the keynote speaker at lunch. Additionally, a panel discussing Hollywood’s influence on elections will include, Clint Howard, and Morgan Brittany.

Embassy Suites is located on 28508 Westinghouse Place, Valencia.

For more information, visit www.scvcr.com.