In the meeting tomorrow, I hope Gore makes it clear to Obama/Biden that clean coal is NOT an option to solve our energy crisis. Even better, I hope he explains to President-elect Obama that "clean coal" is actually an oxymoron. There is no such thing as clean coal. It does not exist. It is not a viable option for our energy strategy. Lay the smackdown, Gore. Go get 'em.
I don't expect Gore to take a position in the Obama administration, he's stated several times that he's a "recovering politician" and that he has no interest in becoming the "Climate Czar" or returning to politics. Nevertheless, I believe it's important for Gore to stay involved in the political debate surrounding global warming and energy policy. I mean, he did win an Oscar. Obviously, the man's a climate genius.
There are still 150 coal fired power plants on the drawing board in the U.S. If just one of those plants are built, it will completely "negate in just eight months, California’s recently passed legislation that would cut GHG emissions in new cars by 25 percent and SUVS by 18 percent starting in 2009."
If you don't believe me already, take a look at the Rainforest Action Network's Global Finance campaign, it has a bunch of details about the truth behind "clean coal."
Oh, and if Obama doesn't listen to Gore tomorrow, come with me to Washington, D.C. Feb 27-March 2 for Power Shift 2009, to help me (and the 10,000 other young people at the climate summit) make it crystal clear to our politicians: NO COAL.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Having Thanksgiving with Republicans? Read this
Some pointers from 236.com for what to do if you're having Thanksgiving dinner with Republicans.
Make sure to point out that young people voted overwhelmingly for change this election!
Have a delicious day, everyone!
Make sure to point out that young people voted overwhelmingly for change this election!
Have a delicious day, everyone!
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Candace Gingrich: Time for a Progressive Contract with America
Newt Gingrich, the mastermind (self-proclaimed) behind the Republican takeover of Congress and the Contract with America has an awesome younger sister. Candace Gingrich is the senior youth outreach coordinator for the Human Rights Campaign. She has been an outspoken advocate for the queer community since her memoir "The Accidental Activist" hit bookshelves in 1993.
She was at UCSB for our Equality Rally on October 30 and she spoke about the importance of the youth movement. She told us how important it was to vote down Proposition 8, and also how important it was to get out and educate our peers. I know that the message got through, because in California, young people overwhelmingly rejected Prop 8 and Santa Barbara County (thanks to UCSB) also rejected Prop 8. But as she points out, there is so much more to the progressive movement--we elected Barack Obama, and now we must push the rest of the nation to catch up with what youth already know. When the rest of the nation catches up, we'll be waiting, in our colleges and universities that serve as our own little utopias, complete with equal protections clauses, carbon neutral campuses, and bike paths galore.
If you want to meet Candace, she will be at UCSB again for the Western Regional Conference which will bring together LGBT youth and allies from across the west coast of the United States.
She was at UCSB for our Equality Rally on October 30 and she spoke about the importance of the youth movement. She told us how important it was to vote down Proposition 8, and also how important it was to get out and educate our peers. I know that the message got through, because in California, young people overwhelmingly rejected Prop 8 and Santa Barbara County (thanks to UCSB) also rejected Prop 8. But as she points out, there is so much more to the progressive movement--we elected Barack Obama, and now we must push the rest of the nation to catch up with what youth already know. When the rest of the nation catches up, we'll be waiting, in our colleges and universities that serve as our own little utopias, complete with equal protections clauses, carbon neutral campuses, and bike paths galore.
If you want to meet Candace, she will be at UCSB again for the Western Regional Conference which will bring together LGBT youth and allies from across the west coast of the United States.
Green-Collar Jobs: How to Beat the Recession & Save the Planet
How can we solve the climate crisis, beat the recession, and create 5 million new jobs in the process? By meshing the environmental and economic discussions together to create a clean energy economy!
It's simple: we begin to develop our alternative energy sources (solar energy, wind energy, etc), weatherize and retrofit our buildings and homes to be more energy efficient and the demand for green-collar jobs will skyrocket. Solar panels and wind turbines can, and should be, manufactured in the US. They will need to be installed and maintained. We need more workers who can retrofit our buildings and homes to be as energy efficient as possible.
Really, green collar jobs just make sense. I'd encourage you to do a little research on this issue, as I'm sure (fingers crossed) it's going to play a big role in the climate talks as we move towards finalizing a solution for this country.
Check out this video excerpt from Van Jones speaking about the importance of creating a green job economy at a Center for American Progress event. With President-elect Obama, hopefully we will now be able to move towards solving the climate crisis, and rejuvenating our economy along the way.
I love Van Jones (hence the picture). He just released a new book, "The Green-Collar Economy: How One Solution Can Fix Our Two Biggest Problems" that I'm really looking forward to reading over Christmas break. Check it ouuttt.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Campus Dems Voting Guide
Not sure who to vote for? Confused by the props? What the heck is prop 3 all about? Have no fear, the Campus Dems Voting Guide is here!
*Remember polls open at 7:00am. Vote early to avoid lines!
Elected Officials
President/Vice President: Barack Obama & Joe Biden
23rd Congressional District: Lois Capps
19th State Senate District: Hannah-Beth Jackson
35th State Assembly District: Pedro Nava
3rd District Supervisor: Doreen Farr
Goleta Water Board: Bill Rosen & Lauren Hansen
Goleta City Council: Ed Easton & Margaret Connell
Santa Barbara School Board: Annette Cordero & Susan Deacon
CA State Propositions
YES Proposition 1: A bond to build a high-speed train that will run between San Francisco and San Diego.
YES Proposition 2: A statutory change that requires that animals raised for food be kept in enclosures that allow them to move.
YES Proposition 3: Children's Hospital Bond Act. A bond for improvement projects at children's hospitals.
NO Proposition 4: Waiting period and parental notification before termination of minor's pregnancy.
YES Proposition 5: Nonviolent offenders sentencing, parole, and rehabilitation statute.
NO Proposition 6: Criminal penalties and laws, public safety funding statute.
NEUTRAL Proposition 7: Renewable energy statute. Would require all utilities to generate 20% of power from renewable energy by 2010.
NO Proposition 8: Would eliminate right of same sex couples to marry.
NO Proposition 9: Criminal justice system victims rights parole amendment and statute.
YES Proposition 10: Bond for alternative fuel vehicles and renewable energy
NO Proposition 11: Redistricting constitutional amendment and statute.
YES Proposition 12: Veterans Bond Act of 2008. Provide loans for California veterans to purchase homes or farms.
Local Measures
YES Measure A: Traffic and Road Relief. Improve transportation and alternative transportation in SB County.
Will continue the already existing half-cent sales tax that provides funding for local transportation without increasing taxes.
YES Measure G: Passage of Measure G will replace the existing ordinance with provisions that are consistent with new federal and state laws which modernize definitions so all telecommunications devices are treated the same for the purposes of the tax.
YES Measure H & I: Santa Barbara schools 4 year parcel tax
*Remember polls open at 7:00am. Vote early to avoid lines!
Elected Officials
President/Vice President: Barack Obama & Joe Biden
23rd Congressional District: Lois Capps
19th State Senate District: Hannah-Beth Jackson
35th State Assembly District: Pedro Nava
3rd District Supervisor: Doreen Farr
Goleta Water Board: Bill Rosen & Lauren Hansen
Goleta City Council: Ed Easton & Margaret Connell
Santa Barbara School Board: Annette Cordero & Susan Deacon
CA State Propositions
YES Proposition 1: A bond to build a high-speed train that will run between San Francisco and San Diego.
YES Proposition 2: A statutory change that requires that animals raised for food be kept in enclosures that allow them to move.
YES Proposition 3: Children's Hospital Bond Act. A bond for improvement projects at children's hospitals.
NO Proposition 4: Waiting period and parental notification before termination of minor's pregnancy.
YES Proposition 5: Nonviolent offenders sentencing, parole, and rehabilitation statute.
NO Proposition 6: Criminal penalties and laws, public safety funding statute.
NEUTRAL Proposition 7: Renewable energy statute. Would require all utilities to generate 20% of power from renewable energy by 2010.
NO Proposition 8: Would eliminate right of same sex couples to marry.
NO Proposition 9: Criminal justice system victims rights parole amendment and statute.
YES Proposition 10: Bond for alternative fuel vehicles and renewable energy
NO Proposition 11: Redistricting constitutional amendment and statute.
YES Proposition 12: Veterans Bond Act of 2008. Provide loans for California veterans to purchase homes or farms.
Local Measures
YES Measure A: Traffic and Road Relief. Improve transportation and alternative transportation in SB County.
Will continue the already existing half-cent sales tax that provides funding for local transportation without increasing taxes.
YES Measure G: Passage of Measure G will replace the existing ordinance with provisions that are consistent with new federal and state laws which modernize definitions so all telecommunications devices are treated the same for the purposes of the tax.
YES Measure H & I: Santa Barbara schools 4 year parcel tax
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Use your brain, vote HBJ
Because our planet cannot handle another anti-environmental politician. We need a State Senator who will continue to lead CA in the fight against global warming. Tony Strickland is not that State Senator. Hannah-Beth Jackson is.
Check out this video from the Courage Campaign demonstrating Stricklands attempts to seem like a "green" candidate:
Check out this video from the Courage Campaign demonstrating Stricklands attempts to seem like a "green" candidate:
Friday, October 24, 2008
Apple Donates 100,000 to No on 8!
Apple said the following in its statement:
Apple was among the first California companies to offer equal rights and benefits to our employees' same-sex partners, and we strongly believe that a person's fundamental rights-- including the right to marry -- should not be affected by their sexual orientation. Apple views this as a civil rights issue, rather than just a political issue, and is therefore speaking out publicly against Proposition 8.
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2008/10/apple-against-t.html
Hell Yeah!
Apple was among the first California companies to offer equal rights and benefits to our employees' same-sex partners, and we strongly believe that a person's fundamental rights-- including the right to marry -- should not be affected by their sexual orientation. Apple views this as a civil rights issue, rather than just a political issue, and is therefore speaking out publicly against Proposition 8.
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2008/10/apple-against-t.html
Hell Yeah!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
NY absentee ballot says Barack Osama
I can't believe that this seriously happened. How could three rounds of proof-reading not stop "Barack Osama" from getting on the ballot? And how could the county not automatically send out a new ballot to everyone?
Thursday, October 2, 2008
A Case for Intellectualism in Politics
A Case for Intellectualism in Politics:
It is an understandable notion that voters prefer a guy or gal who they could see sitting down and having a beer with. They flock toward affable, middle of the road, average Joe types because they can identify with them on a number of levels. Voters don't want to be patronized or talked down to; they want their leader to be one of them. Having extraordinary charisma has worked for many contemporary presidents like Reagan, G. W. Bush, and Clinton, and dates back far beyond the famous fireside chats of Franklin Roosevelt.
There is nothing inherently problematic about electing a leader with a charming and magnetic personality. Without a doubt, a president of virtuous character and outstanding charisma enjoys many advantages over those without, not in the least their ability to more effectively act as chief diplomat and more easily coerce the cooperation of Congress on key legislation.
The concern is not whether or not a candidate is likable enough to have a beer with or if they are devout enough to promote healthy moral values. Rather, we should ask if they possess the knowledge, wisdom, and work ethic of a truly capable leader. They need not fit the ideal mold of Plato's "Philosopher Kings", who possessed the highest wisdom and intelligence in the land, but they should at least have proven their ability to make rational, sound, and educated judgments. We need leadership that shows respect for the sanctity of facts and honors the truth, instead of distorting and filtering facts to their political advantage.
The leadership I am referring to is not often enough found in the halls of Congress or in the governors' mansions, but teaching in our schools and universities.
This brings us to Woodrow Wilson, the only U.S. president to pursue a career in academia and teach at an institution of higher learning. Wilson taught political economy at Wesleyan and Princeton Universities before being elected president in 1912.
Wilson's record was by no means flawless. He faced challenges both personal and political that would humble a man of any stature. He is well known however, for being a brilliant thinker and philosopher. He was a prolific writer, and a progressive democratic idealist. He preferred diplomacy before military action, but when our nation and allies were attacked, he fought and defeated Germany in WWI. He strongly advocated free trade as a basis for international cooperation, advocated collective international security, and established the League of Nations, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize and evolved into the United Nations of today.
His ideas were revolutionary and idealistic, setting the foundation for 20th century international and domestic policy. The minds of professors, academics, and teachers like Wilson exemplify the mental acuity and thirst for empirical knowledge that is so badly needed to solve the most urgent issues of the day in a rational and logical manner. These are the type of thinkers who can be trusted to weigh all important data and possible consequences before making decisions as important as protecting the constitution or sending the country to war.
There is no doubt that John McCain is both a bright man and an admirable public servant. Despite his ranking of 894 of 899 at the Annapolis Naval Academy and concerns of war related psychological trauma and age related dementia, McCain still displays plenty of wit and intelligence. His sense of humor is keen and he is a respected member of the Senate, authoring key legislation like the campaign finance reform McCain-Feingold Act.
Yet McCain has admitted he is technologically "illiterate" and requires help from his wife to use a computer. Sure, he has performed the complex search engine feat that he calls "a Google" before, but at 72 year old, it is doubtful he could learn and understand the challenges and complexities of 21st century technology that runs our country if he cannot independently use a computer.
His Vice-Presidential choice, Sarah Palin, has by far the most anti-progressive and anti-intellectual record of all the candidates. She is a staunch opponent of stem cell research, abortion rights, and same-sex marriage. She believes wrongly that humans are not responsible for global climate change and that creationism, which spurns the scientific method for religious scripture, should be taught alongside evolution in our public schools. Demonstrating her painful ignorance of foreign policy, in a recent interview Palin was unfamiliar with the "Bush Doctrine" of pre-emptive war. Even more disturbingly, TIME magazine recently quoted Palin as saying "she asked the library how she could go about banning books" while she served as mayor of Wasilla, Alaska.
On the other ticket, Barack Obama has proven his aptitude for academia and critical thinking. He earned his B.A. form Columbia University and later graduated magna cum laude from Harvard Law School. He eventually landed a job at the University of Chicago, according to whose website Obama taught constitutional law for 12 years. He left his job as a senior lecturer when he was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2004.
A July 30th New York Times analysis of Obama's teaching career described him as an "evenhanded" and provocative teacher. Students raved that Obama challenged their political instincts and questioned everything, looking at individual issues through a contextual lens. Obama led discussions by "surfacing all the competing points of view…with neutrality and equanimity". It is precisely this objectivity that has been so conspicuously absent from the Bush Administration of the last eight years, and more recently, of McCain campaign rhetoric.
In the era of Rovian politics, pundits and ideologues have made a dangerous gamble. They have increasingly been willing to manipulate language in a Machiavellian "truthiness," knowing that the information they spew is at best questionable and at worst, outright deceitful. They use fear and paranoia to push their agenda, blaming Mexican immigration or Islamic extremism for many of our problems when our governmental policies are often to blame. They manipulate emotions by casting dissenters as unpatriotic and take opponents' statements out of context. It is an obvious lie that Obama seeks to teach sex education to kindergarteners, yet the McCain campaign continues to play on the fears of social conservatives. This behavior is not only a slap in the face to the intelligence of the American voter, but it is an immoral and dishonest way to run both a campaign and a government.
McCain's campaign manager Rick Davis was recently quoted in the Washington Post as saying "this election is not about issues". Certainly, he would prefer if it were not. This cynical remark should be the last straw for voters who must not be distracted from the issues that matter: a stagnant economy, a collapsing housing market, inflated food and gas prices, a five year war, countless civil rights and privacy abuses, an environment in a critical state of disrepair, failing schools, attacks on gay and lesbian rights, widening income inequality, and countless other issues of the utmost importance.
We Americans must demand that our democratically elected leaders be those who can best address the issues honestly and critically with an even hand and wise judgment. If we fail to be vigilant and choose carefully at the polls, we risk more of the catastrophically poor leadership that has plagued us for the past eight years.
Matthew Weisner
It is an understandable notion that voters prefer a guy or gal who they could see sitting down and having a beer with. They flock toward affable, middle of the road, average Joe types because they can identify with them on a number of levels. Voters don't want to be patronized or talked down to; they want their leader to be one of them. Having extraordinary charisma has worked for many contemporary presidents like Reagan, G. W. Bush, and Clinton, and dates back far beyond the famous fireside chats of Franklin Roosevelt.
There is nothing inherently problematic about electing a leader with a charming and magnetic personality. Without a doubt, a president of virtuous character and outstanding charisma enjoys many advantages over those without, not in the least their ability to more effectively act as chief diplomat and more easily coerce the cooperation of Congress on key legislation.
The concern is not whether or not a candidate is likable enough to have a beer with or if they are devout enough to promote healthy moral values. Rather, we should ask if they possess the knowledge, wisdom, and work ethic of a truly capable leader. They need not fit the ideal mold of Plato's "Philosopher Kings", who possessed the highest wisdom and intelligence in the land, but they should at least have proven their ability to make rational, sound, and educated judgments. We need leadership that shows respect for the sanctity of facts and honors the truth, instead of distorting and filtering facts to their political advantage.
The leadership I am referring to is not often enough found in the halls of Congress or in the governors' mansions, but teaching in our schools and universities.
This brings us to Woodrow Wilson, the only U.S. president to pursue a career in academia and teach at an institution of higher learning. Wilson taught political economy at Wesleyan and Princeton Universities before being elected president in 1912.
Wilson's record was by no means flawless. He faced challenges both personal and political that would humble a man of any stature. He is well known however, for being a brilliant thinker and philosopher. He was a prolific writer, and a progressive democratic idealist. He preferred diplomacy before military action, but when our nation and allies were attacked, he fought and defeated Germany in WWI. He strongly advocated free trade as a basis for international cooperation, advocated collective international security, and established the League of Nations, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize and evolved into the United Nations of today.
His ideas were revolutionary and idealistic, setting the foundation for 20th century international and domestic policy. The minds of professors, academics, and teachers like Wilson exemplify the mental acuity and thirst for empirical knowledge that is so badly needed to solve the most urgent issues of the day in a rational and logical manner. These are the type of thinkers who can be trusted to weigh all important data and possible consequences before making decisions as important as protecting the constitution or sending the country to war.
There is no doubt that John McCain is both a bright man and an admirable public servant. Despite his ranking of 894 of 899 at the Annapolis Naval Academy and concerns of war related psychological trauma and age related dementia, McCain still displays plenty of wit and intelligence. His sense of humor is keen and he is a respected member of the Senate, authoring key legislation like the campaign finance reform McCain-Feingold Act.
Yet McCain has admitted he is technologically "illiterate" and requires help from his wife to use a computer. Sure, he has performed the complex search engine feat that he calls "a Google" before, but at 72 year old, it is doubtful he could learn and understand the challenges and complexities of 21st century technology that runs our country if he cannot independently use a computer.
His Vice-Presidential choice, Sarah Palin, has by far the most anti-progressive and anti-intellectual record of all the candidates. She is a staunch opponent of stem cell research, abortion rights, and same-sex marriage. She believes wrongly that humans are not responsible for global climate change and that creationism, which spurns the scientific method for religious scripture, should be taught alongside evolution in our public schools. Demonstrating her painful ignorance of foreign policy, in a recent interview Palin was unfamiliar with the "Bush Doctrine" of pre-emptive war. Even more disturbingly, TIME magazine recently quoted Palin as saying "she asked the library how she could go about banning books" while she served as mayor of Wasilla, Alaska.
On the other ticket, Barack Obama has proven his aptitude for academia and critical thinking. He earned his B.A. form Columbia University and later graduated magna cum laude from Harvard Law School. He eventually landed a job at the University of Chicago, according to whose website Obama taught constitutional law for 12 years. He left his job as a senior lecturer when he was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2004.
A July 30th New York Times analysis of Obama's teaching career described him as an "evenhanded" and provocative teacher. Students raved that Obama challenged their political instincts and questioned everything, looking at individual issues through a contextual lens. Obama led discussions by "surfacing all the competing points of view…with neutrality and equanimity". It is precisely this objectivity that has been so conspicuously absent from the Bush Administration of the last eight years, and more recently, of McCain campaign rhetoric.
In the era of Rovian politics, pundits and ideologues have made a dangerous gamble. They have increasingly been willing to manipulate language in a Machiavellian "truthiness," knowing that the information they spew is at best questionable and at worst, outright deceitful. They use fear and paranoia to push their agenda, blaming Mexican immigration or Islamic extremism for many of our problems when our governmental policies are often to blame. They manipulate emotions by casting dissenters as unpatriotic and take opponents' statements out of context. It is an obvious lie that Obama seeks to teach sex education to kindergarteners, yet the McCain campaign continues to play on the fears of social conservatives. This behavior is not only a slap in the face to the intelligence of the American voter, but it is an immoral and dishonest way to run both a campaign and a government.
McCain's campaign manager Rick Davis was recently quoted in the Washington Post as saying "this election is not about issues". Certainly, he would prefer if it were not. This cynical remark should be the last straw for voters who must not be distracted from the issues that matter: a stagnant economy, a collapsing housing market, inflated food and gas prices, a five year war, countless civil rights and privacy abuses, an environment in a critical state of disrepair, failing schools, attacks on gay and lesbian rights, widening income inequality, and countless other issues of the utmost importance.
We Americans must demand that our democratically elected leaders be those who can best address the issues honestly and critically with an even hand and wise judgment. If we fail to be vigilant and choose carefully at the polls, we risk more of the catastrophically poor leadership that has plagued us for the past eight years.
Matthew Weisner
Thursday, September 11, 2008
What you can do to help NOW
The election is now less than 2 months away. The Campus Democrats have tons of events and volunteer opportunities planned for you once school starts, but you can start volunteering now if you're in Santa Barbara! The Doreen Farr for 3rd District Supervisor, Hannah-Beth Jackson for CA State Senate, Capps re-election, and other various local campaigns all need your help. There are plenty of ways to get involved, check it out:
-Goleta Democratic Precinct Walk, this Saturday & Sunday (Sept 13 & 14). Walk to promote the entire SB Democratic ticket, from Obama to local Goleta candidates. Go door to door to talk with voters and distribute materials. Meet at 81 David Love Place at 10am on Saturday and/or Sunday and get out there! More details on the FB event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=33974495311
-Volunteer @ "Headquarters for Change", the offical HQ of the Santa Barbara Democratic Party. HQ always needs volunteers, so drop by anytime. 30 Chapala Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Phone # (805) 965 803. Taking the bus downtown is highly encouraged. Wednesday night Campus Dems get together and phone bank at HQ, if you're interested, email ucsbdemocrats@gmail.com and we'll arrange a car pool with you.
-Santa Barbara for Obama has several volunteer opportunities, from phonebanking at SB Dem HQs, to organizing trips to swing states like Nevada. SBFBO is going to Las Vegas this weekend, it's not too late to go! Stay in the Obama loop at http://sbforobama.com/
-Dorm Storm with UCSB Non-Partisan Voter Registration on Sunday, September 21. Every year, the UCSB Non Partisan Voter Registration Coaltion goes to every single RA meeting in the dorms to register new students to vote. We need as many volunteers as possible to "dorm storm" with us and make sure we get to register students at every single RA meeting. If you're interested in volunteering, email ucsbdemocrats@gmail.com
-Volunteer/Intern for the Doreen Farr campaign. Last spring about 20 students received academic credit and did a fantastic job interning for Doreen Farr. If you're interested, contact Doreen Farr's campaign HQ at: 805-681-710 and ask to speak with Gina Fischer.
-Volunteer/Intern for Hannah-Beth Jackson, call the HBJ campaign at 805-280-2408
Don't forget to have a good time, too. The Doreen Farr and Lois Capps campaigns are having a special "Thank You Volunteers" and Fall Kick Off Pizza Party at Gio's in Isla Vista on Wednesday (Sept 17) at 6pm. RSVP to the FB event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=33720723082
And don't forget to join the UCSB Campus Democrats email list (ucsbdemocrats@gmail.com) and join our FB group. We keep you in the loop with the latest political news and events. We've got an incredible Fall planned for you guys. Enjoy the last bit of summer, and get out there!
-Goleta Democratic Precinct Walk, this Saturday & Sunday (Sept 13 & 14). Walk to promote the entire SB Democratic ticket, from Obama to local Goleta candidates. Go door to door to talk with voters and distribute materials. Meet at 81 David Love Place at 10am on Saturday and/or Sunday and get out there! More details on the FB event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=33974495311
-Volunteer @ "Headquarters for Change", the offical HQ of the Santa Barbara Democratic Party. HQ always needs volunteers, so drop by anytime. 30 Chapala Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Phone # (805) 965 803. Taking the bus downtown is highly encouraged. Wednesday night Campus Dems get together and phone bank at HQ, if you're interested, email ucsbdemocrats@gmail.com and we'll arrange a car pool with you.
-Santa Barbara for Obama has several volunteer opportunities, from phonebanking at SB Dem HQs, to organizing trips to swing states like Nevada. SBFBO is going to Las Vegas this weekend, it's not too late to go! Stay in the Obama loop at http://sbforobama.com/
-Dorm Storm with UCSB Non-Partisan Voter Registration on Sunday, September 21. Every year, the UCSB Non Partisan Voter Registration Coaltion goes to every single RA meeting in the dorms to register new students to vote. We need as many volunteers as possible to "dorm storm" with us and make sure we get to register students at every single RA meeting. If you're interested in volunteering, email ucsbdemocrats@gmail.com
-Volunteer/Intern for the Doreen Farr campaign. Last spring about 20 students received academic credit and did a fantastic job interning for Doreen Farr. If you're interested, contact Doreen Farr's campaign HQ at: 805-681-710 and ask to speak with Gina Fischer.
-Volunteer/Intern for Hannah-Beth Jackson, call the HBJ campaign at 805-280-2408
Don't forget to have a good time, too. The Doreen Farr and Lois Capps campaigns are having a special "Thank You Volunteers" and Fall Kick Off Pizza Party at Gio's in Isla Vista on Wednesday (Sept 17) at 6pm. RSVP to the FB event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=33720723082
And don't forget to join the UCSB Campus Democrats email list (ucsbdemocrats@gmail.com) and join our FB group. We keep you in the loop with the latest political news and events. We've got an incredible Fall planned for you guys. Enjoy the last bit of summer, and get out there!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The Latest on California's Budget Crisis
When it comes to the state budget, CA is always late. The deadline for the state budget was June 15. Today is September 4. We still do not have a budget, and we don't seem very close to a breakthrough. CA is the only state in the country without a budget for the new fiscal year (which began on July 1).
Let's cut to the chase: California has a $15.2 billion deficit. That's huge. I do not envy the legislatures that have to battle out a budget for us in Sacramento. But, we need to make sure that politicians in CA create a budget that will reduce our deficit, but at the same time not hurt the most vulnerable CA citizens by cutting spending for important safety net programs like Medi-Cal, Cal Grants, etc. Shoutout to Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, and to our Assemblymember, Pedro Nava, for working their tails off these past couple of months.
So how do we reduce our deficit, and still keep CA rolling? The Governor and Senate Democrats have proposed a small tax increase (1 cent sales tax- temporary). Assembly Democrats want to raise taxes on the rich and corporations, and remove some businness tax breaks.
The GOP want to borrow $2 billion from the future sales of lottery tickets. Really? Really.
This is where it gets ugly: in addition to borrowing dinero from the lottery, in order to avoid raising taxes the GOP has proposed the following cuts:
- $5.5 billion in education
- $1.5 billion in safety net programs (Medi-Cal, in-home care for the elderly, support for children, Cal Grants, student aid)
- Borrow $349 million from a fund that supports low-income housing across the state
On the front page of San Francisco Chronicle this morning is an article, "Needy Students Face Loss of Cal Grant Aid" that is definitely worth reading (http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/09/03/MNCL12NJAD.DTL&tsp=1).
So that's the latest on the CA state budget crisis. Call your Assemblymember today and tell them not to cut Cal Grant Aid for needy students, not to give into GOP demands that would slash funding from our already crumbling school system and safety net programs.
If you live in Santa Barbara, call Assemblymember Pedro Nava's office at (916) 319-2035 and encourage him to fight the proposed GOP cuts.
Let's cut to the chase: California has a $15.2 billion deficit. That's huge. I do not envy the legislatures that have to battle out a budget for us in Sacramento. But, we need to make sure that politicians in CA create a budget that will reduce our deficit, but at the same time not hurt the most vulnerable CA citizens by cutting spending for important safety net programs like Medi-Cal, Cal Grants, etc. Shoutout to Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, and to our Assemblymember, Pedro Nava, for working their tails off these past couple of months.
So how do we reduce our deficit, and still keep CA rolling? The Governor and Senate Democrats have proposed a small tax increase (1 cent sales tax- temporary). Assembly Democrats want to raise taxes on the rich and corporations, and remove some businness tax breaks.
The GOP want to borrow $2 billion from the future sales of lottery tickets. Really? Really.
This is where it gets ugly: in addition to borrowing dinero from the lottery, in order to avoid raising taxes the GOP has proposed the following cuts:
- $5.5 billion in education
- $1.5 billion in safety net programs (Medi-Cal, in-home care for the elderly, support for children, Cal Grants, student aid)
- Borrow $349 million from a fund that supports low-income housing across the state
On the front page of San Francisco Chronicle this morning is an article, "Needy Students Face Loss of Cal Grant Aid" that is definitely worth reading (http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/09/03/MNCL12NJAD.DTL&tsp=1).
So that's the latest on the CA state budget crisis. Call your Assemblymember today and tell them not to cut Cal Grant Aid for needy students, not to give into GOP demands that would slash funding from our already crumbling school system and safety net programs.
If you live in Santa Barbara, call Assemblymember Pedro Nava's office at (916) 319-2035 and encourage him to fight the proposed GOP cuts.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
McCain's VP pick
On Friday, John McCain shocked everyone (and by everyone, I mean a some people) by announcing his running-mate, Alaskan governor Sarah Palin. As a virtual unknown on the national scene, many people were left wondering, who is Sarah Palin?
Here's some basic background, courtesy of MoveOn.org:
-She was elected Alaska's governor a little over a year and a half ago. Her previous office was mayor of Wasilla, a small town outside Anchorage. She has no foreign policy experience.
-Palin is strongly anti-choice, opposing abortion even in the case of rape or incest.
-She supported right-wing extremist Pat Buchanan for president in 2000.
-Palin thinks creationism should be taught in public schools.
-She's doesn't think humans are the cause of climate change.
-She's solidly in line with John McCain's "Big Oil first" energy policy. She's pushed hard for more oil drilling and says renewables won't be ready for years. She also sued the Bush administration for listing polar bears as an endangered species—she was worried it would interfere with more oil drilling in Alaska.
...I don't know about you, but this doesn't exactly inspire my confidence for a woman who is a heartbeat away from the presidency--the highest office in the United States. She does not have the judgment, the experience, or the record to hold this office, and it is shameful that McCain chose her with (seemingly) the sole intention of attracting disappointed Clinton supporters. Sarah Palin stands on the opposite end of the political spectrum from Senator Clinton; fighting against choice, against responsible sex education, against science-based education, against Clinton's passion for affordable healthcare. Clinton and Palin both represent women who have had great success in the old boys club known as politics--but the similarities end there.
Here are some other interesting links to articles about Sarah Palin.
http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsmemo.com/2008/09/the_palin_meltdown_in_slomo.php
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/greg-mitchell/cindy-mccain-on-abc-today_b_122759.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Palin
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/9/2/16501/55338/100/583660
http://www.akip.org/platform.html
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/9/2/163845/8978/122/583646
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/9/2/16501/55338/100/583660
Here's some basic background, courtesy of MoveOn.org:
-She was elected Alaska's governor a little over a year and a half ago. Her previous office was mayor of Wasilla, a small town outside Anchorage. She has no foreign policy experience.
-Palin is strongly anti-choice, opposing abortion even in the case of rape or incest.
-She supported right-wing extremist Pat Buchanan for president in 2000.
-Palin thinks creationism should be taught in public schools.
-She's doesn't think humans are the cause of climate change.
-She's solidly in line with John McCain's "Big Oil first" energy policy. She's pushed hard for more oil drilling and says renewables won't be ready for years. She also sued the Bush administration for listing polar bears as an endangered species—she was worried it would interfere with more oil drilling in Alaska.
...I don't know about you, but this doesn't exactly inspire my confidence for a woman who is a heartbeat away from the presidency--the highest office in the United States. She does not have the judgment, the experience, or the record to hold this office, and it is shameful that McCain chose her with (seemingly) the sole intention of attracting disappointed Clinton supporters. Sarah Palin stands on the opposite end of the political spectrum from Senator Clinton; fighting against choice, against responsible sex education, against science-based education, against Clinton's passion for affordable healthcare. Clinton and Palin both represent women who have had great success in the old boys club known as politics--but the similarities end there.
Here are some other interesting links to articles about Sarah Palin.
http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsmemo.com/2008/09/the_palin_meltdown_in_slomo.php
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/greg-mitchell/cindy-mccain-on-abc-today_b_122759.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Palin
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/9/2/16501/55338/100/583660
http://www.akip.org/platform.html
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/9/2/163845/8978/122/583646
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/9/2/16501/55338/100/583660
Thursday, August 28, 2008
What about the polar bears?
While the DNC has been putting on an amazing show this week, the jubilation of the DNC is masking many of the important issues that Democrats must resolve once we take back the White House. Let's take a break from all the flag waving and confetti, and have a real conversation about poverty in America, the healthcare crisis, our economy, the war in Iraq...Or how about the most important issue: global warming. New data released today shows that sea ice in the Arctic could hit a record low (again) by September.
A double whammy- as this sea ice melts, it releases methane gas which is 10x more potent as a greenhouse gas (GHG) than carbon dioxide. As if the melting of the arctic ice wasn't punishment enough for the polar bears struggling to make it to the shoreline, now the melting of the ice is intensifying the already catastrophic warming cycle.
IPCC Chairman said that we had "until" 2012 till we passed the tipping point, but could it be happening now??
"Five climate scientists, four of them specialists on the Arctic, told The Associated Press that it was fair to call what was happening in the Arctic a “tipping point.” “We could very well be in that quick slide downward in terms of passing a tipping point,” said Mark Serreze, a senior scientist at the data center, in Boulder, Colo. “It’s tipping now. We’re seeing it happen now.”
Great.
Now you understand why you have to be doing everything you possibly can to live more sustainably. Take those canvas bags to the grocery store, ride your bike, turn off the lights, shut off your laptop, unplug your microwave when not using it, shop at the local farmers market, etc. Every little bit helps.
While Democrats may not be mentioning global warming outright, the Democratic Party went to great lengths to "Green" the DNC as best they could. Check out details here: http://www.demconvention.com/greening-the-2008-democratic-national-convention/
A double whammy- as this sea ice melts, it releases methane gas which is 10x more potent as a greenhouse gas (GHG) than carbon dioxide. As if the melting of the arctic ice wasn't punishment enough for the polar bears struggling to make it to the shoreline, now the melting of the ice is intensifying the already catastrophic warming cycle.
IPCC Chairman said that we had "until" 2012 till we passed the tipping point, but could it be happening now??
"Five climate scientists, four of them specialists on the Arctic, told The Associated Press that it was fair to call what was happening in the Arctic a “tipping point.” “We could very well be in that quick slide downward in terms of passing a tipping point,” said Mark Serreze, a senior scientist at the data center, in Boulder, Colo. “It’s tipping now. We’re seeing it happen now.”
Great.
Now you understand why you have to be doing everything you possibly can to live more sustainably. Take those canvas bags to the grocery store, ride your bike, turn off the lights, shut off your laptop, unplug your microwave when not using it, shop at the local farmers market, etc. Every little bit helps.
While Democrats may not be mentioning global warming outright, the Democratic Party went to great lengths to "Green" the DNC as best they could. Check out details here: http://www.demconvention.com/greening-the-2008-democratic-national-convention/
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Convention has started!!
Well, if you're a political junkie like me who is bummed that they didn't make it to Denver, you've been glued to CNN all afternoon as the Democratic National Convention has begun. Of course, the talking heads are doing an excellent job of over analyzing everything.
Caroline Kennedy gave a great introduction to her "Uncle Teddy" after a stirring video tribute. Defying his doctors orders, Kennedy headed to Denver to address the convention. Good ol' Teddy, such a fighter. He gave such a rousing speech. Maria Shriver was brought to tears in the crowd. Where's her hubby?
Michelle Obama also just gave an excellent speecht. I was moved. And the Obama daughters- how adorable are they?
I am a bit disappointed in the lack of focus on environmental issues and the "impressive" greening efforts by the Democratic party to make this the greenest convention ever. The sustainability coordinator for the DNC is a UCSB Environmental Studies Dept graduate! Go figure.
Not in Denver? Don't have TV? Keep watching CNN for coverage, and check out these online news sources and blogs to stay up to date:
Official DNC website- http://www.demconvention.com/ This choice is kind of obvious. You're not going to get the best details /analytical coverage, but you can watch live coverage of the DNC? That's pretty sweet.
Pushback- http://www.pushback.org/ The blog of Campus Progress has several young journalists at the DNC offering their fresh, progressive updates. Definitely check this website out if you tire of all the talking heads.
The Caucus- http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/ NY Times blog offers up to the minute updates on what's happening at the DNC.
Huff Po- http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/25/democratic-national-conve_n_121201.html Huffington Post has a great blog/live video coverage going
Campus Dems will be hosting an Obama speech watching party this Thursday when he accepts the nomination. We'll be at Javan's in Isla Vista.
It's only going to get better as the week goes on.... Stay tuned!
Caroline Kennedy gave a great introduction to her "Uncle Teddy" after a stirring video tribute. Defying his doctors orders, Kennedy headed to Denver to address the convention. Good ol' Teddy, such a fighter. He gave such a rousing speech. Maria Shriver was brought to tears in the crowd. Where's her hubby?
Michelle Obama also just gave an excellent speecht. I was moved. And the Obama daughters- how adorable are they?
I am a bit disappointed in the lack of focus on environmental issues and the "impressive" greening efforts by the Democratic party to make this the greenest convention ever. The sustainability coordinator for the DNC is a UCSB Environmental Studies Dept graduate! Go figure.
Not in Denver? Don't have TV? Keep watching CNN for coverage, and check out these online news sources and blogs to stay up to date:
Official DNC website- http://www.demconvention.com/ This choice is kind of obvious. You're not going to get the best details /analytical coverage, but you can watch live coverage of the DNC? That's pretty sweet.
Pushback- http://www.pushback.org/ The blog of Campus Progress has several young journalists at the DNC offering their fresh, progressive updates. Definitely check this website out if you tire of all the talking heads.
The Caucus- http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/ NY Times blog offers up to the minute updates on what's happening at the DNC.
Huff Po- http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/25/democratic-national-conve_n_121201.html Huffington Post has a great blog/live video coverage going
Campus Dems will be hosting an Obama speech watching party this Thursday when he accepts the nomination. We'll be at Javan's in Isla Vista.
It's only going to get better as the week goes on.... Stay tuned!
Monday, August 4, 2008
If You Like Political Cartoons...
I personally find political cartoons pretty entertaining. If you find really funny ones, definitely post them so that I can laugh.
Monday, June 23, 2008
John McCain in SB on Tuesday, to discuss off- shore oil drilling.
We just found out that Senator John McCain will be in SB tomorrow for an "environmental roundtable discussion." The fact that McCain is choosing Santa Barbara of all places, to discuss environmental issues, when he recently stated his support for off-shore oil drilling, is entertaining. Santa Barbarans ardently oppose offshore oil drilling, after enduring the "oil spill heard around the world" in 1969 (arguably one of the worst oil spills ever), which launched the modern environmental movement in the early 70s. Therefore, Santa Barbara is quite possibly the worst place to advocate for more off shore drilling. And yet, that is exactly what John McCain is doing. Silly Republicans.
Here are more details about the McCain event. Numerous Democrats, environmentalists and activists will be in attendance to protest McCain's environmental record. Attend if you can, and show your support for Obama!
INVITATION TO PROTEST BUSH/McCAIN PROPOSAL TO ALLOW OFFSHORE DRILLING
WHAT: Senator McCain is hosting an "environmental roundtable" to discuss his proposal to lift the moratorium, currently prohibiting offshore leasing of Federal land, to allow new exploration and drilling for oil and natural gas. Areas off the California coast, including Santa Barbara, which has already experienced the devastating effects of an oil spill in 1969, would be impacted. The roundtable will consist of 6 participants, as yet unidentified, and the Governor apparently changed his mind about being on the panel. Access to the event is limited to 275, and those who want to attend have to go to the McCain website to register:
http://www.johnmccain.com/Informing/Calendar/Detail.aspx?guid=38f9148b-be6d-430f-88c7-fcab65510d66
WHERE: The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol Road (off of Los Olivos and just north of the Mission).
TAKE THE BUS TO THIS EVENT! Save some oil (and your $) and carbon, and ride the bus. Oil prices are not going down anytime soon, guys. We can't drill our way out of the current oil crisis. Get used to utilizing some alternative transportation! Take the 24x from UCSB, transfer onto line 22 at the transit center in downtown SB, which will take you directly to the SB Museum.
WHEN: This Tuesday, June 24, 2008.
TIME: Be outside the Museum at 8 am. The event starts at 9 am. People with tickets (available under "events" on the McCain website) have been told to arrive at 7:30 to clear security.
WHAT YOU CAN DO: Please show up with placards, signs, or other expressions of your opposition to the Bush/McCain proposal and in favor of preserving our beaches, our environment, our ecosystem, our community, and our planet. It is an affront that this event would be held in Santa Barbara, the birthplace of our country's environmental movement. We must send a clear message that drilling is not the answer to high fuel prices, especially with the catastrophic consequences the City of Santa Barbara and other U.S. communities have experienced.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. Go get 'em, Dems!
Here are more details about the McCain event. Numerous Democrats, environmentalists and activists will be in attendance to protest McCain's environmental record. Attend if you can, and show your support for Obama!
INVITATION TO PROTEST BUSH/McCAIN PROPOSAL TO ALLOW OFFSHORE DRILLING
WHAT: Senator McCain is hosting an "environmental roundtable" to discuss his proposal to lift the moratorium, currently prohibiting offshore leasing of Federal land, to allow new exploration and drilling for oil and natural gas. Areas off the California coast, including Santa Barbara, which has already experienced the devastating effects of an oil spill in 1969, would be impacted. The roundtable will consist of 6 participants, as yet unidentified, and the Governor apparently changed his mind about being on the panel. Access to the event is limited to 275, and those who want to attend have to go to the McCain website to register:
http://www.johnmccain.com/Informing/Calendar/Detail.aspx?guid=38f9148b-be6d-430f-88c7-fcab65510d66
TAKE THE BUS TO THIS EVENT! Save some oil (and your $) and carbon, and ride the bus. Oil prices are not going down anytime soon, guys. We can't drill our way out of the current oil crisis. Get used to utilizing some alternative transportation! Take the 24x from UCSB, transfer onto line 22 at the transit center in downtown SB, which will take you directly to the SB Museum.
WHEN: This Tuesday, June 24, 2008.
TIME: Be outside the Museum at 8 am. The event starts at 9 am. People with tickets (available under "events" on the McCain website) have been told to arrive at 7:30 to clear security.
WHAT YOU CAN DO: Please show up with placards, signs, or other expressions of your opposition to the Bush/McCain proposal and in favor of preserving our beaches, our environment, our ecosystem, our community, and our planet. It is an affront that this event would be held in Santa Barbara, the birthplace of our country's environmental movement. We must send a clear message that drilling is not the answer to high fuel prices, especially with the catastrophic consequences the City of Santa Barbara and other U.S. communities have experienced.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. Go get 'em, Dems!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
I'm Voting Republican
I'm voting Republican because it's too cold during the winter and thanks to global warming, I can have beach front property in an eternal summer :)
Just kidding!
Just kidding!
Friday, June 20, 2008
McCain and Bush: Identical Cousins
An ad funded by moveon.org. McCain and Bush are identical cousins...two of a kind. Tell me something I didn't know.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUBDM16ylvU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUBDM16ylvU
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Matt Weisner brought this op-ed piece to my attention. Frank Rich does a great job and writes a really interesting article. Thanks, Matt!
"But while the McCain campaign apparently believes that women are easy marks for its latent feminist cross-dressing, a reality check suggests that most women can instantly identify any man who’s hitting on them for selfish ends. New polls show Mr. Obama opening up a huge lead among female voters — beating Mr. McCain by 13 percentage points in the Gallup and Rasmussen polls and by 19 points in the latest Wall Street Journal-NBC News survey.... The ludicrous idea that votes from Clinton supporters would somehow make up for McCain defectors is merely the latest fairy tale brought to you by those same Washington soothsayers who said Fred Thompson was the man to beat and that young people don’t turn up to vote."
Love the shout out acknowledging the power of the youth vote at the end!
"But while the McCain campaign apparently believes that women are easy marks for its latent feminist cross-dressing, a reality check suggests that most women can instantly identify any man who’s hitting on them for selfish ends. New polls show Mr. Obama opening up a huge lead among female voters — beating Mr. McCain by 13 percentage points in the Gallup and Rasmussen polls and by 19 points in the latest Wall Street Journal-NBC News survey.... The ludicrous idea that votes from Clinton supporters would somehow make up for McCain defectors is merely the latest fairy tale brought to you by those same Washington soothsayers who said Fred Thompson was the man to beat and that young people don’t turn up to vote."
Love the shout out acknowledging the power of the youth vote at the end!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
The Supreme Court Calls On the Bush Administation to Give Guantanamo Detainees Their Day In Court
"The laws and Constitution are designed to survive, and remain in force, in extraordinary times," Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote. "Liberty and security can be reconciled; and in our system they are reconciled within the framework of the law."
Justice Kennedy showed respect for the Constitution and its foresight in protecting Americans from gross abuses of government power. While the Bush administration has let Guantanamo detainees rot in prison for as long as six years without a trial, the Court once again affirmed the detainees' right to a trial in federal courts. The strength of our Constitution and our laws are never more evident than when they are tested under the most extreme circumstances. With this ruling, America can once again resume a place of prestige in the international community for our undying commitment to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Justice Kennedy showed respect for the Constitution and its foresight in protecting Americans from gross abuses of government power. While the Bush administration has let Guantanamo detainees rot in prison for as long as six years without a trial, the Court once again affirmed the detainees' right to a trial in federal courts. The strength of our Constitution and our laws are never more evident than when they are tested under the most extreme circumstances. With this ruling, America can once again resume a place of prestige in the international community for our undying commitment to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Propositions and Prostitution
This is a pretty amusing article about how crazy propositions are! I thought you guys might enjoy it. A nice little excerpt for you:
"'DADDY, what is a proposition?'
'Well, son, when you get a bit older, you may be driving in a certain part of town when an attractive lady will motion you to stop and ...'
'No, Daddy, not that proposition, the one you vote on.'
'We'll get back to how you know about the first one later, but the proposition that we vote on is very similar to it. Both are presented by people with dubious backgrounds, both offer very attractive fronts, both contain hidden dangers, both will cost you money and leave you worried about the long-term effects.'"
http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_9352808?IADID=Search-www.dailynews.com-www.dailynews.com
"'DADDY, what is a proposition?'
'Well, son, when you get a bit older, you may be driving in a certain part of town when an attractive lady will motion you to stop and ...'
'No, Daddy, not that proposition, the one you vote on.'
'We'll get back to how you know about the first one later, but the proposition that we vote on is very similar to it. Both are presented by people with dubious backgrounds, both offer very attractive fronts, both contain hidden dangers, both will cost you money and leave you worried about the long-term effects.'"
http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_9352808?IADID=Search-www.dailynews.com-www.dailynews.com
Monday, June 2, 2008
IV Polling Place Locations for June 3 Election!
Here is a map with precinct locations for Isla Vista. Click on the picture so you can read the locations.
Polls are open from 7am to 8pm.
Note that all of the 6800 blocks in Isla Vista vote at FT.
San Mig and San Nic dorms vote in San Mig, and all the Channel Island dorms (Santa Rosa, Anacapa, Santa Cruz) vote in Santa Rosa Hall.
Past elections have been decided by an 8 vote margin, so your vote does count on election day! Make sure to vote, and take friends with you to the polls.
VOTE GREEN, VOTE DOREEN!
Friday, May 30, 2008
Campus Progress National Student Conference!
What are you doing on Tuesday, July 8th this summer?
Wait, wait, don't answer that question. Because by the time you finish reading this post, I know exactly what you will be doing:
You'll be in Washington, DC with 1,000 other progressive students for the fourth annual Campus Progress National Student Conference!
And who is the keynote speaker? None other than Sen. John Edwards himself. Sigh.
Other speakers include Ryan Gosling (mmmm...), hip-hop artist M-1, US House Rep Linda Sanchez, spoken word poet Paul Flores (he's amazing), Ted Leo....the list goes on. Speakers at past conferences have included President Bill Clinton, Senator Barack Obama, Senator Russ Feingold, Speaker Pelosi, etc, etc.
Besides the incredible speakers, the day is jam packed of trainings, panel discussions on all sorts of issues ranging from global warming to affirmative action to immigration to healthcare to practically every single progressive issue there is.
This is an amazing opportunity to network and mingle with 1,000 super cool progressive students from all over the country.
How are you going to get out to DC, you may ask? CP has a limited number of travel scholarships available, but you must apply now!
See you in DC!
http://campusprogress.org/common/2851/2008-campus-progress-national-conference-home
Wait, wait, don't answer that question. Because by the time you finish reading this post, I know exactly what you will be doing:
You'll be in Washington, DC with 1,000 other progressive students for the fourth annual Campus Progress National Student Conference!
And who is the keynote speaker? None other than Sen. John Edwards himself. Sigh.
Other speakers include Ryan Gosling (mmmm...), hip-hop artist M-1, US House Rep Linda Sanchez, spoken word poet Paul Flores (he's amazing), Ted Leo....the list goes on. Speakers at past conferences have included President Bill Clinton, Senator Barack Obama, Senator Russ Feingold, Speaker Pelosi, etc, etc.
Besides the incredible speakers, the day is jam packed of trainings, panel discussions on all sorts of issues ranging from global warming to affirmative action to immigration to healthcare to practically every single progressive issue there is.
This is an amazing opportunity to network and mingle with 1,000 super cool progressive students from all over the country.
How are you going to get out to DC, you may ask? CP has a limited number of travel scholarships available, but you must apply now!
See you in DC!
http://campusprogress.org/common/2851/2008-campus-progress-national-conference-home
Murdoch predicts McCain will lose
Rupert Murdoch, the owner of Fox News and other right-wing media outlets said he thinks McCain will lose in a landslide. Anyone who has watched the documentary 'Out Foxed' should know how right-wing and propagandist Fox News is, and for the owner to say he knows the Republican candidate will lose in a landslide says a lot about McCain's campaign and chances in the fall.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Unmasking McCain
Listen up Democrats! I know this campaign season has seen gotten ugly and you all have your chosen candidate. But please, Dems, I beg of you, do NOT vote for John McCain if your candidate loses.
This election is about more than the candidates: it is about issues and our future. At the end of the day, Clinton and Obama have much more in common than either of them do with John McCain. The article that I have attached focuses specifically choice issues--McCain believes Roe must be overturned and has voted against choice in 125 of his 130 votes in his career in the Senate.
But the differences between John McCain and the Democratic candidates don't end there. Don't let McCain's maverick reputation fool you: he is for extended occupation of Iraq, against a woman's right to choose, has a zero rating from the League of Conservation Voters, and reduce regulation on health insurance providers.
...Moral of the story? Even if your candidate does not win the nomination, do not abandon the issues that are important to you.
This election is about more than the candidates: it is about issues and our future. At the end of the day, Clinton and Obama have much more in common than either of them do with John McCain. The article that I have attached focuses specifically choice issues--McCain believes Roe must be overturned and has voted against choice in 125 of his 130 votes in his career in the Senate.
But the differences between John McCain and the Democratic candidates don't end there. Don't let McCain's maverick reputation fool you: he is for extended occupation of Iraq, against a woman's right to choose, has a zero rating from the League of Conservation Voters, and reduce regulation on health insurance providers.
...Moral of the story? Even if your candidate does not win the nomination, do not abandon the issues that are important to you.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Burning the Future
One new medium sized coal fired power plant will completely negate all of California's attempts to reduce their GHG emissions (such as AB 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act, which was passed back in 2006, to reduce GHG emissions by 25% by 2020).
There are over 150 new coal fired power plants on the drawing board today.
A new documentary, entitled "Burning the Future" displays the harsh dangers and reality of coal mining, specifically mountaintop removal practices, in West Virginia and Appalachia. Coal mining has HUGE impacts on people, it's destroying their homes, their water, their land, their air....
Watch the powerful trailer: http://www.burningthefuture.org/movietrailer.cfm
Sign a petition here: http://www.cleanenergyaction.net/callaction.cfm
Take ACTION this summer and attend a Mountain Justice Summer Camp: http://www.mountainjusticesummer.org/
Other climate change related summer opportunities here: http://itsgettinghotinhere.org/summer-opportunities/
There are over 150 new coal fired power plants on the drawing board today.
A new documentary, entitled "Burning the Future" displays the harsh dangers and reality of coal mining, specifically mountaintop removal practices, in West Virginia and Appalachia. Coal mining has HUGE impacts on people, it's destroying their homes, their water, their land, their air....
Watch the powerful trailer: http://www.burningthefuture.org/movietrailer.cfm
Sign a petition here: http://www.cleanenergyaction.net/callaction.cfm
Take ACTION this summer and attend a Mountain Justice Summer Camp: http://www.mountainjusticesummer.org/
Other climate change related summer opportunities here: http://itsgettinghotinhere.org/summer-opportunities/
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Great series of articles on Climate Change
So I was wasting a lil bit of time at the library and stumbled across these great Wired articles. What I mostly liked about them is they offer very realistic views about some of the sacrifices related to climate change. For example, they discourage buying a Prius, encourage living in a city, and poo-poo cap-and-trade! Interested yet? Check it out
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Truth about John McCain
I don't think too much needs to be said about this video. In case your a lil shaky where John McCain stands, this video will not help.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Santa Barbara Independent Endorses Doreen Farr for Third District Supervisor
The Santa Barbara Independent is in good company: Doreen Farr is also endorsed by Campus Democrats at UCSB, Lois Capps, Democratic Women of Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Democratic Party, and the Sierra Club.
Check out the article. It doesn't even begin to cover all of the reasons you should vote for Doreen Farr this June, but it does cover why you shouldn't vote for the others. If you have any doubt about the race, visit Farr's website http://doreenfarrforsupervisor.com/
And there is still time to ask her any questions you have: she is very responsive to students and will be on campus and in Isla Vista between now and June 3
Check out the article. It doesn't even begin to cover all of the reasons you should vote for Doreen Farr this June, but it does cover why you shouldn't vote for the others. If you have any doubt about the race, visit Farr's website http://doreenfarrforsupervisor.com/
And there is still time to ask her any questions you have: she is very responsive to students and will be on campus and in Isla Vista between now and June 3
California Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage
For those of you who have been living under a rock, the California Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage today! The court ruled that it is unconstitutional to bar same-sex couples from getting married. The suit was brought by the city of San Francisco, which you may remember became the focus of attention a few years ago when mayor Gavin Newsom married hundreds of gay and lesbian couples.
I will be celebrating all day. But, I won't lose sight of the fact that there are still thousands of gay and lesbian couples across the country who are not as lucky. In fact, California is still at risk: this November, there will be an initiative on the ballot to amend the California Constitution to ban same-sex marriage. We need to keep our eye on the prize and make sure that this initiative is defeated come November.
To find out how you can help, visit hrc.org
or contribute (not tax-deductible) at https://www.kintera.org/AutoGen/Simple/Donor.asp?ievent=110778
I will be celebrating all day. But, I won't lose sight of the fact that there are still thousands of gay and lesbian couples across the country who are not as lucky. In fact, California is still at risk: this November, there will be an initiative on the ballot to amend the California Constitution to ban same-sex marriage. We need to keep our eye on the prize and make sure that this initiative is defeated come November.
To find out how you can help, visit hrc.org
or contribute (not tax-deductible) at https://www.kintera.org/AutoGen/Simple/Donor.asp?ievent=110778
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Some Detainees Are Drugged For Deportation
So this is pretty shady....
The U.S. government has injected hundreds of foreigners it has deported with dangerous psychotropic drugs against their will to keep them sedated during the trip back to their home country, according to medical records, internal documents and interviews with people who have been drugged.
The government's forced use of antipsychotic drugs, in people who have no history of mental illness, includes dozens of cases in which the "pre-flight cocktail," as a document calls it, had such a potent effect that federal guards needed a wheelchair to move the slumped deportee onto an airplane.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
The Gasoline Tax 'Holiday': Possibly the Stupidest Idea Ever
Ever since John McCain proposed the idea of a holiday from gasoline taxes this summer, I have been a little worried that people may actually buy into this idiotic idea. Unfortunately, my fears have become reality: this week President Bush and many prominent members of Congress stated that they would consider the gasoline tax as a possible solution to rising gas prices. Barrack Obama stands alone as the only presidential candidate (except probably Nader) who has the courage to point out the fact that this is an extremely stupid idea. The tax itself is less than 20 cents--about 5% of current gas prices--and would save Americans no more than $30 over the course of the summer. In all likelyhood though, it wouldn't save consumers anything: lower prices would drive demand for gasoline up, and because there is no way to increase supply, prices would continue to creep up. In part, as a result of the gas tax 'holiday'!!!
It also really worries me that these candidates are so quick to abandon their commitment to the environment. Rather than offer long-term, substantive solutions to rising energy costs, McCain has chosen to appeal to voters by making them think that he cares. The presidential candidates could have used this opportunity to encourage Americans to bike, or use alternative modes of transportation, including public transit. They could have used this opportunity to encourage more development of renewable electricity sources and more research into cars with better gas mileage. Instead, we got a stupid 'holiday'. The proposed tax break will not bring America out of its economic decline, it will not lower the cost of gasoline, it will divert tax money from vital transportation projects, which are currently funded by the gas tax, and it will not help solve global warming. I should have expected something this ludicrous and shallow from McCain, but I want to commend Obama for his determination to keep our focus on long-term solutions.
For more about this, click on the link above, or: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/04/29/gas-tax-holiday-splits-cl_n_99296.html
It also really worries me that these candidates are so quick to abandon their commitment to the environment. Rather than offer long-term, substantive solutions to rising energy costs, McCain has chosen to appeal to voters by making them think that he cares. The presidential candidates could have used this opportunity to encourage Americans to bike, or use alternative modes of transportation, including public transit. They could have used this opportunity to encourage more development of renewable electricity sources and more research into cars with better gas mileage. Instead, we got a stupid 'holiday'. The proposed tax break will not bring America out of its economic decline, it will not lower the cost of gasoline, it will divert tax money from vital transportation projects, which are currently funded by the gas tax, and it will not help solve global warming. I should have expected something this ludicrous and shallow from McCain, but I want to commend Obama for his determination to keep our focus on long-term solutions.
For more about this, click on the link above, or: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/04/29/gas-tax-holiday-splits-cl_n_99296.html
Monday, April 28, 2008
Roger Waters rocks out at Coachella
Maybe I'm still a little blown away from going to Coachella this year, but I found this article particularly interesting. Roger Waters, the ex-bassist from Pink Floyd, finished the 3-day event by playing Dark Side of the Moon in its entirety. During the set, Waters also unfurled an inflated pig that said "Obama" with a checked box on the bottom. Check out the link for a video
Sunday, April 27, 2008
DNC Ad Against McCain, Framing the Debate
The DNC just released it's latest ad against McCain. This is what we as Democrats need to be focusing on right now. The media and much of the country believe John McCain is a "moderate maverick" in the Republican Party. He's not. On foreign policy, healthcare, and the economy John McCain is indistinguishable from President George W. Bush, and we need to be saying so now. Not 3 months from now, not even next week, but now, before McCain has a chance to define himself for the media and for the country. I really don't care if you support Hillary Clinton, or Barack Obama, or Mike Gravel (what ever happened to him anyway), the important thing is that as Democrats right now is our best, and possibly only, opportunity to show the country exactly who and what John McCain is, just another George W. Bush. Please don't waste it.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
One Care Now
Last night, the local chapter of health care for all came and presented to Campus Democrats. They showed a video and talked about some legislation that is currently being considered in the state assembly. For those of you who missed the presentation, the title is the link to the video they showed. If you want to get involved, visit their website healthcareforall.org to find out more about the local chapter, volunteer to distribute petitions, or just educate yourself on this important issues for Democrats.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
5 things to look out for in the PA primary
Good article from Politico talking about how to interpret the soon-to-be gathered results of the PA primary. They even got it down to understanding how the leads of either voter could dramatically change based on the time of day. Crazy!
Monday, April 14, 2008
The Legacy of Representative Walter Capps
The Santa Barbara Independent has an excellent article about the legacy of the late Walter H. Capps, which I encourage you to read.
The Campus Democrats of UCSB mention Walter Capps quite a bit. While the Campus Democrats existed at UCSB before he ran for political office, his race in 1996 galvanized our club into the organization that it is today. Because of his years of service and involvement to both our community and our causes, no one embodies the spirit of our organization more than Walter Capps.
The article is thoughtfully written, and sheds light onto the life, and caring persona of Walter Capps. I wish I had the chance to know Walter. However, we are fortunate that his legacy lives on not only through the Walter H. Capps Center for the Study of Ethics, Religion, and Public Life at UCSB, but also through his wife, Rep. Lois Capps, who continues to fight valiantly for the most important issues of our day (healthcare, environmental protection, etc) and reach out to her community with open arms.
The Campus Democrats will work to always keep the legacy of Walter H. Capps alive. Enjoy the article!
The Campus Democrats of UCSB mention Walter Capps quite a bit. While the Campus Democrats existed at UCSB before he ran for political office, his race in 1996 galvanized our club into the organization that it is today. Because of his years of service and involvement to both our community and our causes, no one embodies the spirit of our organization more than Walter Capps.
The article is thoughtfully written, and sheds light onto the life, and caring persona of Walter Capps. I wish I had the chance to know Walter. However, we are fortunate that his legacy lives on not only through the Walter H. Capps Center for the Study of Ethics, Religion, and Public Life at UCSB, but also through his wife, Rep. Lois Capps, who continues to fight valiantly for the most important issues of our day (healthcare, environmental protection, etc) and reach out to her community with open arms.
The Campus Democrats will work to always keep the legacy of Walter H. Capps alive. Enjoy the article!
Friday, April 4, 2008
SIMCONG's To Do List
I am in Professor Smith's Congress simulation class this quarter along with a ton of other Campus Democrats. Given that the Democrats will probably head most if not all of the committees and run Congress, I have compiled a list of things that I would like to see done this quarter. Some of these probably wouldn't happen in the real Congress, but in the alternate reality that is Smith's class, this is what I would like to see done, they are not really in order. Please feel free to add (or subtract if you disagree).
To Do:
To Do:
- Give D.C. a vote
- Give statehood to all U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, etc.)
- Bring the Troops home
- Change priorities in the War on Drugs from enforcement to prevention and rehabilitation
- Pass Comprehensive Global Warming legislation (i.e. Renewable Electricity Standard)
- Amend the Civil Rights Act to include protections for sexual orientation and gender identity
- Pull funding from No Child Left Behind. Increase funding to early childhood education, after school programs, and Music and the Arts
- Create a single-payer healthcare plan
- Repeal the $22 million subsidies to oil and coal companies
- Send aid to the Sudan and Rwanda
- Get rid of abstinence-only sex education; incentivise comprehensive sex-education.
- Lower the voting age in federal elections to 16
- Impeach Bush and Cheney
- Welfare Reform along the lines of what Professor Crouch said
- Repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell
- Instate publicly-funded elections (or another form of campaign finance reform, this happens to be my favorite)
- Automatic voter registration
- Fight "Real ID" (thank you Patrick)
- Repeal the Patriot Act
- Mandate Net Neutrality
- Adjust Minimum Wage automatically to inflation
- Bring back "Fairness Doctrine" in the media
- Close Guantanamo Bay
- Close "Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation", formerly the School of the Americas
- Address sub-prime mortgage crisis
Monday, March 10, 2008
Gays are worse than terrorists?
I can't believe that she seriously believes this. I am so glad I don't live in Oklahoma. Is there really that many gays going after 2-year-olds in schools?
Monday, February 25, 2008
"doomsday" seed vault
I'm glad someone has finally made a seed vault in anticipation for "doomsday". I wonder if they have marijuana seeds...
Monday, February 4, 2008
The Real State of the Union
One of my professors sent this to me. It's really interesting, it includes a lot of stats that compare our well-being pre-Bush and post-Bush. Basically tells us what we already knew though, that George Bush is a terrible president and that the American people are worse off than they were before he took office.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Exxon Mobile Shatters Profit Records
It is ridiculous that an oil company who turns out the highest profits in the history of United States corporations is also being granted government subsidies...to ease their burden? It must be pretty rough bringing in $1300/second.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
We're #1- UCSB registers the most voters in the NATION
UCSB has preserved their spot as the university with the highest percentage of registered voters in the nation!
According to the Daily Nexus, "With 5,031 students officially registered to vote in the upcoming California primaries, UCSB has claimed the highest proportion of registered voters of any university in the nation, accounting for nearly 39 percent of all registered University of California voters. According to a UC Student Association press release, the UC Students Vote! project, which mobilizes students across the state to do peer-to-peer voter registration, recruited a total of 12,918 voters system wide. UCSB was trailed by UC Los Angeles with 1,787 graduate and undergraduate students registered out of about 36,000 total students."
Now, take into consideration that UCSB has a student population of 20,000, compared to UCLA's 36,000. 25% of our student body is registered to vote, compared to just 3% of UCLA's student body. WHOA.
So we have the highest % of registered voters than any other campus in the nation, now let's make sure we get the highest % for voter turnout on election day!
GOTV February 5th!!!
According to the Daily Nexus, "With 5,031 students officially registered to vote in the upcoming California primaries, UCSB has claimed the highest proportion of registered voters of any university in the nation, accounting for nearly 39 percent of all registered University of California voters. According to a UC Student Association press release, the UC Students Vote! project, which mobilizes students across the state to do peer-to-peer voter registration, recruited a total of 12,918 voters system wide. UCSB was trailed by UC Los Angeles with 1,787 graduate and undergraduate students registered out of about 36,000 total students."
Now, take into consideration that UCSB has a student population of 20,000, compared to UCLA's 36,000. 25% of our student body is registered to vote, compared to just 3% of UCLA's student body. WHOA.
So we have the highest % of registered voters than any other campus in the nation, now let's make sure we get the highest % for voter turnout on election day!
GOTV February 5th!!!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Monday, January 7, 2008
Young Voters are on the move!
Young people came out in record numbers during the Iowa caucus last week! Check out these numbers:
-56,000 folks under the age of 30 showed up to caucus last Thursday night, even when students were in the middle of their winter break
-According to CNN Entrance polls, 22% of Democratic caucus-goers were between the ages of 17 and 29
-The number of young caucus-goers equaled the number of voters over 65, according to CNN
I worked at a caucus last Thursday night registering caucus goers and unregistered Iowans (Iowa recently adopted a day-of voter registration policy), so I personally witnessed how many young people showed up to caucus that night, and I was SO PROUD.
Woo-hoo! Now let's make sure to register tons of voters in Santa Barbara, and turn them out for our upcoming elections. Let our voices be heard!
-56,000 folks under the age of 30 showed up to caucus last Thursday night, even when students were in the middle of their winter break
-According to CNN Entrance polls, 22% of Democratic caucus-goers were between the ages of 17 and 29
-The number of young caucus-goers equaled the number of voters over 65, according to CNN
I worked at a caucus last Thursday night registering caucus goers and unregistered Iowans (Iowa recently adopted a day-of voter registration policy), so I personally witnessed how many young people showed up to caucus that night, and I was SO PROUD.
Woo-hoo! Now let's make sure to register tons of voters in Santa Barbara, and turn them out for our upcoming elections. Let our voices be heard!
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
....And she sold her vote for 2 t-shirts
I am in Iowa City, Iowa working for the Edwards campaign for the caucus coming up on Thursday. As you can imagine, it's getting pretty intense out here (not to mention freaking cold), and I've heard some pretty ludacris stories of dirty politicking.
Today, an Edwards precinct captain in a rural part of Iowa called the office to say that she had switched over to the Clinton campaign. "Sorry!" she said. Apparently, two Clinton campaign workers had trekked through the cold snow and offered this woman not just one, but two, TWO, beautiful, Hillary t-shirts (undoubtedly crafted by some poor exploited worker in a developing country), if she would switch over from Edwards to support Hillary. Of course, the woman had to accept! Those Clinton campaigners just looked so cold and miserable, that she felt obligated. Oh, but don't worry, the woman still hopes that John Edwards will win the caucus, and will vote for him in the general election.
Did I mention that this precint only selects one delegate, and that only 17 people are expected to show up at this caucus? Soo..it is kind of a big deal.
This event is disturbing on several fronts:
1) Outright bribery. I hate to see politics sink to this level, where's the integrity in convincing people to vote for you by offering them t-shirts?
2) The precinct captain fell for the outright bribery! How can you switch who you are supporting for the president of the United States by merely accepting two t-shirts? Clearly, the woman does not realize how disproportionatily important her vote is for the entire presidential election.
3) The Edwards campaign really does need this woman's support. No action has been taken yet, but will we have to stoop to the Clinton campaigns level and "bribe" the former precinct captain back? Is this really what we've come to?
Unfortunately, I've noticed that most (but not all!) Iowans seem not to realize the importance, and privilege, of the role of the Iowa caucus. Only 6% of registered voters in Iowa usually participate in the caucus. Since Iowa plays such a pivotal role in the entire presidential election, what does that say about democracy in the US?
As with the 1968 Democratic convention, "the whole world is watching" Iowa, and is anxiously waiting to see what will happen come Thursday evening.
Now, who has some Edwards t-shirts they'd be willing to give up?
Today, an Edwards precinct captain in a rural part of Iowa called the office to say that she had switched over to the Clinton campaign. "Sorry!" she said. Apparently, two Clinton campaign workers had trekked through the cold snow and offered this woman not just one, but two, TWO, beautiful, Hillary t-shirts (undoubtedly crafted by some poor exploited worker in a developing country), if she would switch over from Edwards to support Hillary. Of course, the woman had to accept! Those Clinton campaigners just looked so cold and miserable, that she felt obligated. Oh, but don't worry, the woman still hopes that John Edwards will win the caucus, and will vote for him in the general election.
Did I mention that this precint only selects one delegate, and that only 17 people are expected to show up at this caucus? Soo..it is kind of a big deal.
This event is disturbing on several fronts:
1) Outright bribery. I hate to see politics sink to this level, where's the integrity in convincing people to vote for you by offering them t-shirts?
2) The precinct captain fell for the outright bribery! How can you switch who you are supporting for the president of the United States by merely accepting two t-shirts? Clearly, the woman does not realize how disproportionatily important her vote is for the entire presidential election.
3) The Edwards campaign really does need this woman's support. No action has been taken yet, but will we have to stoop to the Clinton campaigns level and "bribe" the former precinct captain back? Is this really what we've come to?
Unfortunately, I've noticed that most (but not all!) Iowans seem not to realize the importance, and privilege, of the role of the Iowa caucus. Only 6% of registered voters in Iowa usually participate in the caucus. Since Iowa plays such a pivotal role in the entire presidential election, what does that say about democracy in the US?
As with the 1968 Democratic convention, "the whole world is watching" Iowa, and is anxiously waiting to see what will happen come Thursday evening.
Now, who has some Edwards t-shirts they'd be willing to give up?
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