Friday, December 17, 2010

A TWEET SIGHTING OF DAS WILLIAMS

@leFRENCHPRESS / @ was supporting our local business AND enjoying super mega delicious coffee today!! Yay!

Das Williams' Official Assemblymember Webpage is up

and running....with information on the district, news that affects the district and how to contact his offices.

Capitol Office:
State Capitol
P.O. Box 942849
Sacramento, CA 94249-0035
Tel: (916) 319-2035
Fax: (916) 319-2135

District Offices:
Santa Barbara County
101 W. Anapamu Street
Suite A
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Tel: (805) 564-1649
Fax: (805) 564-1651

Ventura County
201 E. Fourth Street
Suite 209-A
Oxnard, CA 93030
Tel: (805) 483-9808
Fax: (805) 483-8182

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Assemblymember Das Williams Announces Committee Assignments

Assembly Speaker John A. PĂ©rez has appointed Freshman Assemblymember Das Williams to the Education Committee, Health Committee, Assembly Rules Committee and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
 
“I am honored by these appointments,” Assemblymember Williams said. “Education policy is a passion of mine and the Education Committee gives me an opportunity to help craft solid California Education policy.” 

“All Californians should have access to affordable healthcare and as a member of the Health Committee I can help clamp down on runaway health care costs. As a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I will have the opportunity to ensure that the California Department of Veterans’ Affairs is offering quality programs to our veterans.”

Assemblymember Das Williams represents the 35th Assembly District, which includes Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez Valley, Ventura and portions of the city of Oxnard.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Das Williams knows there is much to be thankful for



Dear Friends,

I'd like to wish you a happy Thanksgiving and beginning to the holiday season. We have a lot to be thankful for, and I can tell you that everyday as I begin this job, I am thankful for the support of people like you.

I am being sworn in on Monday, December 6th and am putting forth my first piece of legislation that date as well. I'd like to invite you to join me and my family. While I will not be able to have more than a couple of people on the floor with me when I'm sworn in, we will have a viewing celebration in our new capitol office. Please see below for more details.

If you are not able to join us in Sacramento, I'd also like to invite you to a swearing-in dinner reception we'll be hosting in the district. The cost of the dinner will be used to cover the cost of the event and any additional proceeds will go towards retiring our campaign debt. Please see below for more details.

We will also be opening our district offices soon after I am sworn in. If you have a district related request please send an email to the appropriate county field representative:

Santa Barbara County
Darcel Elliott
darcelelliott@gmail.com

Ventura County
James Joyce
jjoyce06@gmail.com

Thank you for your continued support and Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones.

Sincerely,

Das

Assembly Oath of Office Viewing Celebration
Monday, December 6, 2010 | 12:00 pm
State Capitol

RSVP to Darcel Elliott at (805) 452-1214 or darcelelliott@gmail.com.

Swearing-In Dinner Reception
Saturday, December 12, 2010 | 4:00 pm
$25 per guest
Location provided upon RSVP.

RSVP to Darcel Elliott at (805) 452-1214 or
darcelelliott@gmail.com

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Das Williams taking his leadership to Sacramento

but staying based in Santa Barbara.

Elected in 2003, Williams is the most senior member of the council. He was known as an advocate for affordable housing downtown, increased bus transit routes, and higher wages for city workers.

Beyond his social policies, Williams is a staunch environmentalist, who pushed the city toward greater green awareness. Whether it was requesting that developers use solar panels for their projects, or securing money to replace leaky sewer mains to improve water quality, Williams elevated the environmental conversation at City Hall.

“I feel like there are some important things that we got done together in the last 7 years and the most important was moving the city toward this environmental sustainability in a way that saves the city money and that is a larger institutional change I hope that will continue when I am gone,” Williams said.

He was also an advocate for youth and afterschool programs, which he believes help curb gang violence

Williams wants to continue those policies in Sacramento, where he said he will immediately introduce legislation focused on creating green jobs – one of the platforms of his assembly campaign.

Williams plans to spend four days a week in Sacramento and another two days meeting with constituents locally in the 35th Assembly District.

On the 7th day, he will rest.

...“I am planning on being more active in the community, more in touch with local constituents and put more resources in local staff, doing constituent service rather in the capitol,” Williams said.- DailySound

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Das Williams - Newly Elected State Assemblymember

Congrats, Das.

Honesty, integrity and old fashioned
hard work paid off.

Williams, a Democrat, beat Republican opponent Mike Stoker and claimed the seat by racking up 33,088 votes, or 52.4 percent of the vote, according to final election results early Wednesday morning. Stoker received 29,887 votes, or 47.33 percent. - Noozhawk

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Das Williams

inching closer to being our next State Assemblymember. Yeah!

Williams - 46,241 (52.3%)

Stoker - 42.166 (47.7%)

68% of Precincts Reporting

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Das Williams speaks out against the political hit pieces


Friends,

Many of you have started receiving mailers in my race from a group calling itself the California Senior Advocates League. The reason that none of us have ever heard of this group before is because they don't represent senior issues at all - they are just a front group for the money being spent against me by the CA Chamber of Commerce PAC and the Republican Party.

If they told you the truth - that this deceptive group has been funded by oil and tobacco companies and other special interests - then voters throughout our district would know not to listen to anything they have to say. The group - which ironically is funded by interests that have lobbied against critical priorities for seniors - has spent $220,00 so far opposing my campaign and supporting my opponent.


They know that once I am elected, I will continue to be a strong protector of our environment and someone who fights for our priorities of a quality public education system and access to affordable health care. The oil and tobacco companies and others that fund this group would obviously prefer someone with my opponent's record.

One of my supporters who actually works on senior issues pointed out that the CA Congress of Seniors - a key advocacy group for seniors in California - had 22 key bills in 2010 and that the Chamber of Commerce didn't support even one of them, but the state Chamber did work hard to defeat many of the bills that would improve the lives of seniors, including a number of bills to make health insurance more affordable and to provide health insurance coverage to more Californians.

During the final days of the campaign, I will be continuing to communicate with voters throughout the district through personal contact and our mail and television ads. We are working to get our message out and to turn out our supporters on Election Day. Any last minute contribution you make will help make it possible to respond to these misleading attacks and to turn out our supporters on Election Day.

Thank you for all of your help throughout the campaign and in this final push.

Thank you.
Das

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

A Personal Message from Das

Don't Let Big Oil Steal This Election

Dear Friend,

Although it's hard to believe, we have now reached
the final week of this long and hard-fought campaign.

Whether it's been walking precincts, phoning voters, taking part in our neighborhood teams or contributing; your efforts have been a crucial part of the success of this campaign. I am proud of how far we've come and what we've been able to accomplish together.


However, it's this final week when we expect my opponent and his supporters to make their most significant attacks against me. We are gearing up for what we expect to be a surge negative media directed at and against me -- funded by oil companies -- to try and steal the election.

DONATE NOW to ensure that our basic principles of preventing further cuts to our schools, protecting our environment and creating good middle class jobs are not at threat. If you can't donate, I hope you will contact one of our organizers to come in for a couple of hours this week and call voters to help combat my opponent's attacks.

We have one week left, but it is the most crucial one yet. Please do what you can to ensure our joint success on November 2nd.


Thank you,

Das

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Help Das Williams and local Santa Barbara Democrats

keep Santa Barbara "Blue" by joining them at Reds.

Help Keep Santa Barbara Blue.
Join Democratic Women at REDS Wine Bar on
Friday October 30th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
to mix and mingle with Democratic candidates
and get inspired for the final GOTV effort.
Special Guests: Lois Capps and Das Williams.

REDS is located at 211 Helena in Santa Barbara

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Jack O'Connell endorses Das Williams

"The sole candidate we can trust to represent the 35th Assembly District is Das Williams,” said O’Connell. “Das is the only candidate I’m supporting in this race. His background and record of fighting for schools, teachers and students is unmatched, and I know he’ll do an amazing job advocating for a stronger education system in our Capitol. In my view, Das will bring the perfect blend of energy, experience and new ideas to the State Assembly.”

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Ventura County Star Endorses Das Williams

The Nov. 2 election is important for many reasons. One is the fact that voters in Ventura County will help select two brand-new legislators to fill two open seats in the state Assembly.

....The Star endorses Mr. Williams out of a belief that he has the outlook, energy and experience necessary to legislate responsibly while seeking creative, bipartisan solutions to the many problems facing the state. Also, Mr. Williams better reflects the views of a majority of the district’s residents, making it more likely that he will have a positive relationship with city and county officials in the district he will represent. - The Ventura County Star

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Das Williams - Endorsed by the Santa Barbara Independent



The Santa Barbara Independent has endorsed Das for State Assembly on the November ballot.

Few Santa Barbara politicians come as prepared, equipped, and temperamentally suited to serve in Sacramento as Das Williams, the politically restless progressive now holding down the left end of the Santa Barbara City Council. Williams is both pragmatist and ideologue, meaning he can grandstand with the best of them but also get things done. With local roots running deep, Williams will remain accessible once ensconced in the weird Twilight Zone of Sacramento. Constituent calls will be returned; their issues, addressed. The same cannot be said for the recent occupant of that seat.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

35th State Assembly District Candidate Forum

sponsored by the League of Women Voters.

STATE ASSEMBLY - 35th DISTRICT

Thursday, October 7 p.m.
Goleta Community Center
5679 Hollister Avenue

Thursday, September 30, 2010

An Arts and Education Reception for Das Williams



Saturday, October 9, 2010
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm


6965 Shepard Mesa Rd., Carpinteria, CA 93013

Monday, September 27, 2010

The Democratic Women of Santa Barbara County


endorse Das Williams for State Assembly.

It's Sea Otter Awareness Week

And we "otter" save them.
....Current Santa Barbara City Councilman Das Williams said it best… “I say we should embrace the economic and environmental opportunities presented by the otter’s return. They will eat a lot of urchins, and that will impact that fishery, but urchins have decimated kelp forests and the otter’s return may increase the size of kelp forests which also increase the number of other fish species that people once fished in decent numbers. The economic benefit of otters on a town like Monterrey is also very significant financially. Besides, their impact to the urchin fishery may not be devastating in the near term because it is largely males heading south during the female’s season to raise pups, an adaptation to prevent the males competing with the pups for food, so it is for now seasonal trips into our waters.” - Santa Barbara View


Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Are YOU registered to vote?

Did you know you can check your status?

Have you changed your name?
Have you changed your signature?
Have you changed your address?
TIME TO RE-REGISTER!

Did you just move to Santa Barbara County?
You will need to register.
Your registration DOES NOT automatically follow you.

DATES TO REMEMBER -
LAST DAY to register for the November Election - OCTOBER 18.
If you will be out of town on Election Day, APPLY FOR VOTE BY MAIL BALLOT -(pdf)
LAST DAY to Apply for Vote by Mail ballot - OCTOBER 26

Keep in mind that the Santa Barbara County Elections office for Santa Barbara has moved from their old offices in the Naomi Schwartz building on Victoria Street to:


4440-A Calle Real
Santa Barbara, CA 93110

Their new mailing address is:
Post Office Box 61510
Santa Barbara, CA 93160-1510

Their phone numbers are remaining the same:

568-2200
800-SBCVOTE
568-2209 (fax)

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

The Non-Partisan California League of Conservation Voters


is endorsing Das Williams
for the 35th State Assembly District.

Dr. Walter Kohn endorses Das Williams

Dr. Walter Kohn, recipient of the 1998 Nobel Prize in Chemistry and local UCSB Professor, endorses Das Williams for the 35th Assembly District.
“It is one of the biggest highlights of my life to have earned the respect, confidence and support of a world class mind like Walter Kohn,” said Das. “Dr. Kohn understands the importance of a strong K-12 and higher education system, as well as the benefits that come from investments in research and in the new technologies and industries that allow for more renewable, cleaner ways of living.”

“I share Dr. Kohn’s commitment to more sustainable growth and creating an educational system that generates more breakthroughs and advancements toward that end. I will work every day to honor his endorsement of my campaign by
continuing to fight for our schools and teachers, and for greater reliance on renewable energy,” added Williams.

Monday, September 20, 2010

DAS WILLIAMS has served Santa Barbara well

now...let's send him to Sacramento to serve the 35th Assembly District well.


"As a legislative player, Williams has been consistently inventive, shrewd, and creative. On matters budgetary, Williams has supported pay raises for cops while figuring out ingenious ways to keep intact programs serving at-risk youth — indirectly threatened by police pay hikes..."- The SBIndy





Das Williams (CA-HD-35) $


Tuesday, September 14, 2010

DAS WILLIAMS knows it takes education

to strengthen lives...to strengthen communities....to strengthen California.
"....The thing that made California so great was our world-class education system, an education system that was the envy of the world. I was fortunate enough to grow up having good public schools and great teachers. I also had great teachers at SBCC, who helped me secure a scholarship to UC Berkeley and I went on to earn a graduate degree from UCSB. Growing up in poverty, I would not have been able to become the person I am now, or enjoyed the many opportunities in my life, if it weren’t for the public school system.

Every child, regardless of where they grow up, deserves access to the same educational opportunities that helped me succeed. For our state and children to remain competitive in the 21st-century economy, we are going to need the best schools and best teachers. We will meet that challenge not only by securing necessary education funding, but also by ensuring that teachers are not hamstrung and can have the opportunity to provide students with an enriched educational experience so they are prepared to compete in an increasingly competitive economy." - Das

DAS WILLIAMS knows about the 35th District Issues

because Das grew up in and around the 35th District!

"I grew up in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, attending local public schools and solidifying my educational foundation before attending UC Berkeley, where I earned my BA in political science. I followed that up with a master’s in environmental science and management from UCSB’s Bren School of Environmental Science & Management." - Das

Monday, September 13, 2010

Das Williams believes that rebuilding California...

relies upon rebuilding our Middle Class:

"We need to rebuild our middle class by creating new jobs and pushing our state to invest in new technologies and industries. I’ll expand alternative energy and sustainable, clean ways of living and doing business, and will unite our state’s environmental and labor constituencies behind a pro-jobs agenda to ensure that California is not left behind..."
-- Das

Friday, September 10, 2010

Ventura County Professional Peace Officers Support Das Williams

and you should too!

Santa Barbara City Councilmember Das Williams is proud to report today that his campaign for Assembly District 35 has picked up an endorsement from the Ventura County Professional Peace Officers Association (VCPPOA).

“Das Williams has an exemplary record when it comes to public safety and helping local law enforcement do their jobs protecting our communities,” said Diane Hubbard, President of VCPPOA, which represents 325 deputy probation officers, corrections services officers, harbor patrol officers, airport operations officers and park rangers in Ventura County. “We are eager to work with him on important issues as our District’s next Assemblymember.”

VCPPOA joins a number of other major public safety groups in the region and state in endorsing Williams’ candidacy for this open Assembly seat, including the Peace Officers Research Association of California, Santa Barbara Police Officers Association, AFSCME Local 685 Deputy Probation Officers, the California Asian Peace Officers’ Association, the California Association of Highway Patrolmen, the California Professional Firefighters, Ventura County Professional Firefighters Association, the Santa Barbara City and County Firefighters, and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Firefighters (CDF Firefighters).

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

DAS WILLIAMS

Experienced and endorsed by so many terrific citizens and organizations.
Das is ready to serve US...the 35th Assembly District constituents...


Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Das Williams walks the walk...AND

works the work.
Das Williams Yesterday I did a " day (home health care) provider's shoes". They do tough work for very little money, and the Governor wants the program cut in half, and the elderly and disabled on the street or in institutions that don't have the capacity for them. Thank you Bonnie for teaching me about you and Alan!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

DAS WILLIAMS earns California public safety support

Das supports funding for public safety...and those who work in public safety recognize there is a difference for who you vote for.....
The largest rank-and-file public safety group in the state is backing Santa Barbara City Councilman Das Williams in his bid for state Assembly.

The Peace Officers Research Association of California represents 62,000 sworn public safety officers across the state.

...."These men and women risk their lives every day for our communities and I will do everything I can to continue to honor their work and contributions in the State Assembly," Williams said in a statement. - The Daily Sound

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Monday, August 9, 2010

DAS WILLIAMS is supported by State and Local Firefighters

California now experiences a year long fire season. Firefighters know the dangers and hazards of battling terrifying blazes in order to keep our communities safe...they know the dangers of having elected officials with no understanding of what fighting fires entails...of having elected officials who put cost cutting above human lives...they also know the dangers of privatizing firefighting.

That's why Firefighters are supporting Das Williams for State Assembly.

Firefighters know that Das really understands the issues..and CARES. They know that Das is just the sort of elected official who will work hard to keep funding fire fighting efforts for the safety of us all, not just for the privileged few.
Das Williams is proud to report that his campaign for State Assembly has been endorsed by the California Professional Firefighters (CPF) and the Ventura County Professional Firefighters Association (VCPFA).

CPF represents more than 30,000 rank-and-file firefighters and over 180 affiliates statewide. VCPFA represents all firefighters in the Ventura County Fire Protection District (VCFD), and the Santa Paula City Fire Department (SPFD) through the rank of Captain.

Das Williams has a long and proven record of supporting those working on the front lines of public safety,” said Lou Paulson, President of CPF. “Throughout his tenure on the Santa Barbara City Council, Das has shown a unique understanding and concern for the issues firefighters face every day. Das Williams will be a great representative for this Assembly district and we’re proud to support him.”

CPF and VCPFA join both the Santa Barbara City and County Firefighters, and the CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Firefighters (CDF Firefighters) in supporting Das Williams for this open Assembly seat.

"I am honored to have earned the support of our state’s firefighters,” said Das Williams. “The service they provide to our communities each and every day is truly invaluable, and I will do whatever it takes to continue to support their work and mission in the Assembly.” - Das Williams for State Assembly

Sunday, August 1, 2010

DAS WILLIAMS is up for the challenge

and he needs our help.
"With all the challenges our communities face, we need real leadership in Sacramento. I have a proven record of getting results for our community and with your help we can do it again in Sacramento.

With all the challenges our communities face, we need real leadership in Sacramento, not a Tony Strickland protege. I have a proven record of getting results for our community and with your help we can do it again in Sacramento.

I need your help to ensure we have the resources we need to win in November. Help ensure victory by supporting our campaign today."
November is just around the corner and this is a crucial race to win.

The health and access to our coastline depends upon it.
The elderly and the youth of our community depend upon it.
Those who protect and serve our community depend upon it.
(Firefighters, Police, Social Services, etc.)

Our educational system depends upon it.
Our economy depends upon it.
Our State's future depends upon it.

Das' campaign depends upon us...the COMMUNITY...for our involvement and support. Donate now at ACTBLUE, attend an upcoming event, host a neighborhood party or send a check to:


Das Williams for Assembly
2631 State Street #1, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

Saturday, July 24, 2010

The Das Speech Not Given

The speech I had written out to give at the BBQ today...but didn't. Not enough time. Not enough intestinal fortitude.

My name is Jill...and, like you, I am a proud to say that I was...and AM...a volunteer for Das Williams for the 35th State Assembly District. We are not just any volunteers, mind you, we are volunteers for a truly DASsome candidate. A local boy done good. A local boy gone far. Our very own locally grown, City Councilman Das Williams.

I don’t know about you, but I had a DASsome time during the primary. Talked to some terrific people while phone banking. Met some amazing people while precinct walking. Saw some gorgeous gardens. Knocked on quite a number of beautiful doors. Heard heartwarming stories of how Das has helped constituents and made a difference in their lives. Laughed at quite a number of bad jokes...and some not so bad. Ate some amazing meals thanks to some very generous local businesses, other volunteers and Malcolm’s wife, Thip. Who knew that “work” could be so much fun...and rewarding...and tasty, too.

And...you know what. It’s time to do it again. June was a only the Primary. The “big” election is coming just around the corner in November.

The media will remind everyone how much money is being raised by this candidate or that candidate, but don’t listen to them. The true powers behind any political campaign are the volunteers. No. Really. Sure money can supply the phones, but they are powerless unless there is a voice at the end of the line doing the dialing. Money can buy ad time, but the powerful impact of personal stories told face to face...from one human being to another is priceless. Money can assure there are lights on in the campaign office, but the real energy is supplied by volunteers, like us, who show up and make a commitment to making their country a better place...one community at a time. One phone call at a time. One door hanger at a time.

I’m committed to making a difference. I’m committed to our community. I’m committed to sending Das to Sacramento. Are YOU?

Don’t let the political climate get you down.
Don’t be disheartened.
Don’t think that voting doesn’t matter.
Don’t let them tell you all politicians are the same.
Always remember the wise words of the late Tip O’Neill. “All politics is local.”
The safety and availability of the local food we eat relies upon policies decided by politicians we elect.

The safety and availability of the local water we drink relies upon policies decided by politicians we elect.

Access to quality local education relies upon policies decided by politicians we elect.

The ability to travel on local roads or use local public transportation relies upon policies decided upon by politicians we elect.

The very existence of social safety nets like unemployment insurance and social security relies upon policies decided by politicians we elect.


No. Don’t let them tell you all politicians are the same. Who we elect here locally affects our lives...affects other Californians lives and the differences between Das and his Republican opponent, Mike Stoker (Mr. Grekka Oil) are many...and important. And if we want to make make our community better. Our State better. Our future alternatively powered better. We must commit to making sure Das wins in November.

I’m committed. Are YOU?

And...speaking of local. It is my distinct honor to introduce to you another committed local politician making good things happen....The very honorable Mayor of our little red tiled city by the sea, Helene Schneider.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Congresswoman Lois Capps endorses Das Williams

Our esteemed Congresswoman, Lois Capps, officially announced her support of Das Williams for the 35th CA State Assembly District seat.
“I am confident Das will be a real champion for Central Coast communities in Sacramento,” Capps said. “He has the right experience and a proven track record of getting things done on the issues that matter most to the residents of this district — improving schools, balancing budgets and creating jobs.” - Noozhawk

Sunday, July 11, 2010

The Santa Barbara Elections Office has moved

Want to take this time to remind everyone that the Santa Barbara County Elections office for Santa Barbara has moved from their old offices in the Naomi Schwartz building on Victoria Street to:

4440-A Calle Real
Santa Barbara, CA 93110

Their new mailing address is:
Post Office Box 61510
Santa Barbara, CA 93160-1510

Their phone numbers are remaining the same:

568-2200
800-SBCVOTE
568-2209 (fax)

Remember:
  • If you moved - REREGISTER!
  • If you changed your party affilition - REREGISTER
  • If you changed your signature - REREGISTER
  • If you changed your name - REREGISTER



View Larger Map

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

DAS WILLIAMS isn't done yet!



We won the first stage of this campaign and now we are staging for the second.

After summer, we will once again need our volunteers to do their magic... and -- now as well as then -- we also need your donations to the campaign so that Das prevails against Mike Stoker, in November.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Das Williams - Gives Thanks



Dear Friends and Supporters,

By now the Election Day festivities have faded away and I've had some time to reflect on our shared win. This last year has been an incredible experience for me and I have been touched by each and every one of you who has helped us get to this point.

I want to give a special thanks to all the volunteers who gave so much of their time and energy to this campaign. We've worked hard for more than a year to make this happen. Hundreds of people walked and phoned voters in the District to share our positive message of change. Our grassroots operation was unprecedented. This has always been your campaign and I believe that message was strongly voiced on Tuesday.

To all our donors who so believed in this campaign and gave what they could, when they could, thank you. I'm proud that we have over 1,000 individual donors, of which, 75% live right here in the 35th Assembly District.

The primary election victory is critical to our effort of bringing change to Sacramento, but our work continues. The general election will be a difficult fight. In the coming months we will be working to prepare to run another winning campaign in November. We must continue to spread our message of positive change that focuses on bringing real solutions to our budget crisis, building a high quality education system, protecting our environment and investing in the green economy to create good family-supporting jobs right here at home.

I am truly honored that you have chosen me to be your Democratic candidate for the 35th State Assembly District and I look forward to working together towards our victory in November.

Thank you,

Das

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

DAS WILLIAMS....Get ready...cuz here he comes!

“I am incredibly humbled that the people in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties would choose me and desire that I would continue my service to them,” Williams told the Daily Sound. “I am very much aware that this is not just my victory. This is a victory for the hundreds of volunteers and thousands of supporters who believe in our message of change and our message of real results on positive issues."

GO DAS, GO!

Das Williams gives thanks

To all those volunteers who have given so much time and energy to his true grassroots campaign.
Thanks to all the many, many volunteers who are in this fight to the end. In Oxnard, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Goleta and Isla Vista, we are reaching thousands of people a day, reminding them where their polling stations are and to support our campaign. We're still at it and will be right up to the close of polling stations at 8pm
So..VOTE DAS...Give him your endorsement. We LOVE DAS!

Monday, June 7, 2010

If you haven't mailed your VBM Ballot yet...

DO NOT MAIL IT TODAY!!!
TAKE YOUR BALLOT TO A POLLING STATION TOMORROW INSTEAD!


If you put it in the mail today, there is no guarantee that the Elections Office will receive it by the close of polls tomorrow. And, if they don't get it in time...YOUR VOTE WON'T COUNT!

To be safe, turn in your completed VBM ballot in to ANY polling place in Santa Barbara County, tomorrow, Election Day. it does NOT have to be your polling place. That way, you can make sure your vote for Das Williams for State Assembly will count!

You can also look up the status of your VBM ballot online. Click HERE.

Saturday, June 5, 2010

Das knows we need to "Get Oil Out"

Get Oil Out! (GOO!)

is a Santa Barbara based public interest group dedicated to the protection of the Santa Barbara Channel and coastline from the deleterious environmental, economic, and esthetic impacts of oil development.

GOO! was founded in the aftermath of 1969 oil blow out at Platform A in the Santa Barbara Channel, and is widely recognized as the first grass-roots environmental group in the United States.

So, when GOO sends a letter, people should listen:
Dear Councilmember Williams,

On behalf of Get Oil Out! (GOO), I would like to commend you for your vision, courage and leadership in the effort to bring an end to oil production in California.

The nightmare of the 1969 oil spill served as a wake up call to this community. In the wake of this disaster, grassroots activists united and built a powerful environmental movement to defend our beautiful coast line. You are one of the great leaders representing the next generation of the movement and your efforts are emblematic of the values of this community.

Your leadership at the City; opposing expansion of oil drilling, taking an official position against onshore drilling projects and calling on the federal government to terminate plans to add new onshore oil development, has helped California move a step closer to our goal of ending oil drilling. Thanks to your commitment to strategic, long term solutions -- rather than succumbing to the short-term fixes that so often bring with them gratification today along with a new set of problems for tomorrow -- we believe that our common goal of securing a permanent end to oil drilling is within reach.

In addition to your important work and commitment to end oil drilling, you have shown great leadership and vision, by spearheading a public policy that has moved our region away from oil addiction and towards a future of renewable energy.

Thank you for all of your work on behalf our community and our environment.

Sincerely,

John Abraham Powell, President

Friday, June 4, 2010

Das Williams knows our local issues

Because Das Williams IS local...
and isn't that what being represented in Sacramento is all about?
Someone who KNOWS us? Someone who will fight for us?


Thursday, June 3, 2010

Environmentalist Linda Krop supports Das Williams

From her letter to the Ventura County Star:
I know from personal experience that Das Williams is an outstanding and effective environmental advocate. He has been part of our local environmental movement his entire life. As a board member of the Environmental Defense Center, Williams fought hard to oppose new oil leasing off our coast. As staff to former assembly member Hannah-Beth Jackson, Williams helped author legislation supporting the federal oil moratorium and blocking new oil tankering. As a Santa Barbara City Councilmember, Williams has taken a leadership role in the city, opposing offshore oil development and helping author the resolution adopted by the city opposing new leasing in federal waters.

But Williams doesn’t just say “no.” He also finds solutions. He has led the city in transitioning to a renewable energy future, making the city a leader in our state and nation. Under his leadership, the city has doubled its use of alternative energy and created hundreds of green sustainable jobs.

To pretend that Das Williams is pro-oil is the same as saying that congresswoman Lois Capps, former assembly member Hannah-Beth Jackson, Santa Barbara County Supervisors Salud Carbajal, Janet Wolf and Doreen Farr, and Santa Barbara Mayor Helene Schneider are pro-oil. They all joined Williams in supporting a plan to end existing drilling off Santa Barbara County’s coast.

I support Das Williams for State Assembly because he is a visionary and will move our community and state in a positive direction.

Linda Krop
Santa Barbara


Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Das Williams is dedicated to something larger

Das Williams is dedicated to our community, our environment, our residents.

Das honored service members and remembered his grandfather yesterday on Memorial Day. He honors his grandfather's legacy by dedicating himself to something larger....dedicating his life to public service.
“The characteristic that wins a war is the same characteristic that makes a society work, and that’s self-sacrifice,” said Santa Barbara City Councilman Das Williams, whose grandfather was a POW in Japan from 1942-45.

He said that although his grandfather had to sit out the majority of World War II, the greatest lesson he passed on to his family was that little bits of self-sacrifice and dedication to something larger than oneself is what ties together the fabric of U.S. society. -
Noozhawk

Friday, May 28, 2010

Das Williams thinks "outside the bag"

Yes. "Outside the Bag." Das has been working to get rid of single use plastic bags for quite some time.
....next stop was Goleta State Beach where KCOY news interviewed Will Palamino, UCSB senior. Goleta Mayor Eric Onnen, City Councilmember Margaret Connell, and Santa Barbara City Councilmember Das Williams also stopped by the beach to speak in support of reducing plastic pollution. - Calpirg students


Now, it seems, the California legislature has finally caught up


Legislation that would ban many California stores from giving away single-use plastic bags has taken a step closer to becoming law. AB 1998 was passed by the Assembly Appropriations Committee on Friday and will be voted upon next Friday by the full Assembly. If passed and signed by the governor, the law would go into effect Jan. 1, 2012. - LATimes
Forward "Outside the Bag" thinking.

That's how I like MY State Assemblymembers or "soon-to-be" Assemblymembers.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Das Williams is working hard to earn your vote

Das Williams enjoys meeting and talking with people in the 35th Assembly District. And, most importantly, he listens.

He's the only politician I know who gives out his personal cell phone number so constituents can give him a call when something is on their mind.

Das Williams will fight for us because he talks TO us...not down to us, and really, shouldn't it be the 35th Assembly District residents who vote for their representative instead of Sacramento insiders pre-ordaining one?

Das Williams is not expecting your vote...he's working hard to earn it.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Das Williams knows there are more issues to discuss

than a non-existent agreement. There are fires and fire prevention, for example. Das Williams has dealt with those issues on a local level. He has the experience on these issues to take to Sacramento.

It has been a year since the Jesusita Fire ravaged the hillsides above Santa Barbara, and a vote of support from the City Council on Tuesday aims to keep fire damage at bay from homes in that area.

Most of the homes in the foothills above the city are part of a special district — the Wildland Fire Suppression Benefit Assessment District — that pays taxes to help mitigate the effects of wildfire. The City Council approved an extension for that yearly assessment and gave the program its blessing to continue.

....The program received unanimous support on the dais, and Councilman Das Williams called it “one of the most important programs we’ve established.”

Mayor Helene Schneider echoed support.

“As tragic as the fires were,” she said, “they would have been much much worse had this brush not been cleared.” - Noozhawk

There is a reason why Das Williams has the support of:
  • Santa Barbara County Firefighters
  • Santa Barbara City Firefighters
  • California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Fights (CDF Firefighters)
  • Warner Mcgrew, Retired City of SB Fire Chief

Monday, May 24, 2010

Today was the last day to Register to Vote

for the June 8th Primary Election.

BUT...if you are already registered, you still have time to register to receive a "Vote by Mail" ballot. The deadline to get your application for a "VBM" ballot is June 1.


Download a form at the Santa Barbara County Elections website (pdf) then mail, fax or drop it off to the Santa Barbara County Elections Office.

As a VBM voter, you can mail your ballot (make sure it is IN THE ELECTIONS OFFICE ON OR BEFORE JUNE 8) or, you can turn in your voted ballot to ANY polling place in Santa Barbara County, including the Elections Office. How easy is THAT?

Speaking of polling places, do you know where yours is? Sometimes they change. Double check HERE.

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Das Williams is not afraid of hard work or hard questions

While other candidates let volunteers do the hard, exhausting (but rewarding) work of canvassing neighborhoods, Das Williams goes canvassing with them. He stops and answers any questions voters may have of him, whether they agree with his stances or not. He even gives out his cell phone number for them to continue the conversation or to ask further questions. How many other politicians do you know do this?

Come canvass with Das today!

1:00 p.m. - Goleta Community Center
680-6479 for more questions or to RSVP.

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Das Williams has remained consistant in his opposition to offshore drilling.

Das Williams helped former Assemblymember Hannah-Beth Jackson write legislation prohibiting new oil tankering off the Santa Barbara Coast.

Das also helped craft a state resolution calling on the Feds to terminate all offshore oil leases.

Das has made very public statements that both offshore and onshore drilling are unacceptable.

Das has been, and still is, fighting to protect our environment on so many fronts...championing Alternative Energy....Public Transportation....Energy Efficiency.

Unfortunately, the truth doesn't make for good copy on deceptive campaign literature that is being sent out by his opponent(s).

Visit Das Williams' website and learn the truth.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Das Williams is running a clean campaign.

Das Williams knows that by running a clean campaign, he honors and respects the voters, and their intelligence. Das signed a pledge to "keep it clean" and he is sticking to his word. While his opponent is sending out false hit pieces, trying to gin up fear and distrust, Das is showing his commitment to the voters of the 35th State Assembly District by continuing to run a positive campaign.

Keeping it positive.
Running on his merits.
Keeping his word.

NOW THAT'S INTEGRITY THAT YOU CAN BELIEVE IN.


Thursday, May 20, 2010

Don't be fooled....Das Williams is not pro-oil

I have had one goal and one goal only throughout my career: to end oil drilling permanently. I grew up on the Central Coast and, like so many others in this community, we have lived with the constant threat that oil drilling poses on a daily basis. Not only must we work to do everything possible to end drilling for the sake of the environment and public health and safety, but make a steady and persistent transition to a clean-energy future. As a legislative aide for former Assemblywoman Hannah-Beth Jackson, D-Santa Barbara, I helped write landmark legislation that ended the practice of transporting oil from oil rigs by tanker, therefore significantly reducing the risk of oil spills. I also helped craft a resolution calling on the federal government to terminate all offshore oil leases. As a city councilman I have staunchly opposed all oil development off our coast, including the current proposal by Venoco to build an onshore oil rig in the city of Carpinteria. Here in the city of Santa Barbara, we have had much success in transitioning to green, alternative energy sources and helping reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Since I was first elected in 2003, we have more than doubled the city’s use of renewable energy and created tough energy-efficiency standards.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

DAS WILLIAMS - Fighting for our future

The following is from "Das Gets the Last Word on PXP," at the Santa Barbara View:

“The disaster in the Gulf of Mexico has strengthened my resolve to bring an end to oil drilling and move towards a fossil free energy future that relies on clean renewable energy.

“In order to end our dependence on oil we need a comprehensive strategy that stops oil drilling and promotes clean renewable energy. At the City Council, my colleagues and I have strongly opposed new and existing oil drilling as well as created tough renewable energy and energy efficiency standards that have created jobs, reduced our dependence on fossil fuels and helped protect the environment.

“The proposed Tranquilion Ridge agreement would have brought an end to oil drilling on four platforms in fourteen years. Without it, oil drilling will now continue for at least another two generations. For four decades we have been unsuccessful in our efforts to stop existing drilling. In fact, the platform that caused the 1969 oil spill still operates to this very day. If we are going to end drilling we need to continue to do everything in our power to end our dependence on oil.”

-- Das Williams, Santa Barbara Council Member

Saturday, May 15, 2010

Das knows the importance of Community Colleges

He knows that they have an impact on lives and futures of community residents and of the communities themselves. Santa Barbara City College certainly had an impact on his.
"I have several teachers that influenced me at my time at Santa Barbara City College. I was 17 and it was the year I moved out of my volkswagon bus into an apartment, first started in politics and became a Christian. Dr. Craig Fusaro (who now leads efforts to restore local fish species) taught me Environmental Science with an emphasis on the SCIENCE, Dr. John Kay taught me the basics of government, Dr. Peter Haslund international relations and Dr. Manou Eskandari taught me how to teach." (from an interview with Brian Dennert of the Ventura County Star)

Friday, May 14, 2010

Das knows that lives of real people matter

“It’s clear that Governor Schwarzenegger’s priorities have nothing to do with the well-being of children, working families, seniors or the disabled. Once again he asks nothing of corporations or wealthy CEO’s, and everything of our most vulnerable populations, which have already sacrificed so much. It’s unconscionable, not to mention fiscally imprudent, that his proposal protects tax breaks and loopholes for big oil companies and yet calls for the complete elimination of CalWORKS, as well as further spending cuts to Medi-Cal, community mental health, and in-home care. I urge legislative leaders to reject the Governor’s misguided proposal.”