Category: Health

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula to Celebrate grand opening of Santa Paula Creek Sports Park on May 3

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2025 • Comments Off

The Grand Opening Celebration will offer a full afternoon of fun and excitement for the whole family. Guests will enjoy live drills and demonstrations by Santa Paula’s talented youth softball and soccer teams, showcasing the community’s athletic spirit. A live band will take the stage at the new amphitheater, filling the park with music and energy.

Food lovers can grab a bite from a selection of local food trucks, while kids explore the Parks & Recreation equipment displays or hop aboard a charming kids’ train ride. The celebration will also feature interactive booths hosted by community-based organizations, offering educational resources and hands-on activities.

Ventura County jurisdictions provide 40 tons of Agromin Compost and mulch to local schools during fourth quarter 2024 at no cost to schools

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2025 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The cities of Oxnard and Ventura, along with the County of Ventura, enlisted the help of Agromin, California’s largest organics recycler and manufacturer of environmentally friendly soil products, to distribute 40 tons of compost and mulch to local schools during the last quarter of 2024. This distribution was coordinated by Ventura County Farm to School, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting environmental, agricultural and nutrition education.

Schools receiving compost and mulch for their school gardens included Haycox Elementary School, Lincoln Elementary School, Mesa High School, Oxnard High School, Rio Del Norte Elementary School, Rio Del Sol STEAM School, Rio Del Valle Middle School, Rio Real Elementary, Tierra Vista Elementary, and Sunset Elementary School.

Ventura College Opens Lokahi Lab in Santa Paula, Part of Veterinary Technology Program

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — Ventura College’s Veterinary Technology (Vet Tech) program recently began using the Lokahi Lab, a new 2,000-square-foot teaching space built to support veterinary hands-on skills training. The lab is in Santa Paula, adjacent to Ventura College’s East Campus.

The lab was built with donations to the Lokahi Foundation, a Ventura-based nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the veterinary workforce.

Lokahi Foundation founders Dr. Janis Shinkawa and Dr. Jill Muraoka are two of the founding partners of Ohana Pet Hospital, with locations in Ventura, Santa Paula, and Agoura Hills. In 2017, the two veterinarians collaborated with Ventura College to develop a start-up Vet Tech program to help fulfill the growing need for Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) and qualified veterinary assistants in Ventura County.

Bilingual report — Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival takes over Alameda Park April 26 & 27, 2025

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Now in its 55th year, the community-organized festival is one of the longest-running Earth Day celebrations in the country and is one of the largest Earth Day festivals on the West Coast. Presented by the Community Environmental Council (CEC) and produced by longtime festival partner, CarpEvents, the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival continues to serve as a beacon for environmental advocacy and education.

Ventura County Fire Dept. paramedics administer first whole blood transfusion in the field, a Statewide First!

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — In a landmark moment for emergency medical services, Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) paramedics assigned to Rescue Ambulance 50 administered the first-ever prehospital whole blood transfusion in the state of California during a response in the City of Oxnard last night.

The historic incident underscores the success of a highly coordinated, multi-agency effort involving the Ventura County Fire Department, the Ventura County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Agency, and Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) — all working together to bring this advanced lifesaving capability to the field.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — WE WON’T STOP

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2025 • Comments Off

We get it. The daily barrage of bad news punctuated by heartbreaking environmental crises is enough to make anyone want to shut down.

But the Community Environmental Council’s team of 28 Board and Staff members are not tuning out. We are still very much in this — working every day to ensure that the California Central Coast is a tangible, real-world model of what healthy, equitable, climate-safe communities can look like.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Scientists discover that fruit fly larvae can sense electric fields’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2025 • Comments Off

New research demonstrates that fruit fly larvae navigate toward the negative electric potential using a small set of sensory neurons in their head.

Last Chance! Register now for CEC’s Climate Stewards Course

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2025 • Comments Off

Are you ready to lead grassroots climate action?
CEC’s Spring Climate Stewards Course begins April 16.
CEC Climate Stewards are leading a groundswell of Climate Action across California’s central coast. If you are looking for ways to have a positive impact in your community, CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program can equip you with the skills and confidence to take individual and collective action.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Transparency in government is good for global health’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • April 8, 2025 • Comments Off

A field experiment conducted with cities in China demonstrates that an increase in government transparency causes decreases in pollution, with meaningful effects on health.

Dr. Amir Jalilian Joins Cottage Primary Care–Goleta

by Community Contributor • April 8, 2025 • Comments Off

Dr. Jalilian is board-certified in family medicine and a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree from Iran University of Medical Sciences and Health Services in Tehran, Iran where he also served as a primary care and emergency medicine physician. Dr. Jalilian completed his family medicine residency at University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa and went on to practice medicine at Peace Health Medical Group in Florence, Oregon. Prior to joining Cottage Health, he cared for patients at Santa Barbara Health Care Center, a public health clinic under the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department.

Lumina Alliance launches ‘Light the Way’ lifeline vampaign to dustain vital services for survivors

by Community Contributor • April 7, 2025 • Comments Off

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Lumina Alliance has launched the Light the Way lifeline campaign, a bold three-year, $5 million fundraising initiative to ensure that survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence in San Luis Obispo County continue to have access to life-saving resources. With nearly half of the organization’s funding at risk due to potential federal funding cuts, vital services—including emergency shelter, therapy, and crisis intervention—are in jeopardy.

“For thousands of survivors in San Luis Obispo County, Lumina Alliance is their only lifeline,” said Jennifer Adams, CEO of Lumina Alliance. “Without urgent funding, we risk losing the essential services that help survivors heal and rebuild their lives.”

Gainey Foundation gives significant gift to People Helping People repairs in Solvang

by Community Contributor • April 7, 2025 • Comments Off

“We couldn’t be more grateful to the Gainey Foundation for this remarkable gift,” said PHP CEO, Erica Flores. “They have been a dedicated supporter of our mission for many years and we appreciate them supporting us for this unplanned and unanticipated need.”

Santa Barbara joins national “Hands Off!” Day of Action on April 5 to push back against rising authoritarianism and corporate greed

by Community Contributor • April 4, 2025 • Comments Off

The event, part of a nationwide protest movement, will take place at De La Guerra Plaza from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, with pre-rally sign-making starting at 12:00 PM. It is co-sponsored by Indivisible Santa Barbara and Women’s March Santa Barbara, and is part of a coordinated response to what organizers call an “ongoing crisis of power and greed” from Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and other billionaire elites.

Ventura County Fire Dept. launches emergency blood transfusion program

by Community Contributor • April 4, 2025 • Comments Off

“This program marks a groundbreaking advancement in emergency medicine,” said Chief Gardner. “By equipping our rescue ambulances with whole blood, our firefighter-paramedics can deliver life-saving transfusions at the scene—significantly improving patient outcomes when every second counts.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘How feminist witch studies redefine magic and power’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • April 3, 2025 • Comments Off

In “The Witch Studies Reader,” scholars Jane Ward and Soma Chaudhuri introduce feminist witch studies, exploring how witchcraft functions as a site of power, persecution and decolonial critique.

Friendship Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — The Friendly Finch: April

by Community Contributor • April 3, 2025 • Comments Off

March was a month of exciting growth here at Friendship Center!

We welcomed several new faces to our incredible team, bringing us to nearly 25 staff members strong. And the momentum doesn’t stop there— we’ve just completed the second month of offering our new transportation service, and we’re two weeks into offering programs at the Carpinteria Healthy Aging Hub!

These new offerings are a direct response to what you, our families and community, have told us you need. We’re building not just with our hearts, but with intention and care—because we believe in doing what works, and doing it with love.

Bilingual report — Wildfire season is year-round: Ventura Fire Department urges ongoing defensible space compliance

by Community Contributor • April 3, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Fire Department urges property owners to take proactive steps in wildfire prevention by maintaining flammable grass, trees, and shrubs as part of the annual Fire Hazard Reduction Program (FHRP).

“With recent devastating fires reminding Southern California of the ever-present fire danger, the need for year-round defensible space has never been more urgent,” shared Fire Chief David Endaya. “Wildfires can spread rapidly in Ventura’s dry, drought-prone conditions, and keeping properties clear is critical to reducing structure loss and protecting lives.”

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Celebrate Earth Month with Us!

by Community Contributor • April 3, 2025 • Comments Off

Connect with a community of activists.
Join us on the first Friday of each month, when local climate activists, students, and community members gather to exchange information about regional climate issues and opportunities for action. This month, Santa Barbara organizations will share Earth month actions that the community can take part in, including Sable pipeline advocacy opportunities.
Friday, April 4, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
CEC’s Environmental Hub
1219 State St., Santa Barbara

Community Environmental Council (CEC) to co-host 55th annual Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival on April 26, 27, more news

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2025 • Comments Off

As Federal climate leadership stalls, cities, states, and local organizations are taking action to build climate resilience from the ground up. In this vein, the Community Environmental Council (CEC) remains committed to fostering grassroots climate action along California’s Central Coast.

This month, CEC is proud to co-host the 55th annual Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, an opportunity to educate, advocate, and mobilize around climate action. The theme for Earth Day 2025 is Our Power, Our Planet, inviting everyone around the globe to unite behind renewable energy, and to triple the global generation of clean electricity by 2030.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Visibility, inclusivity and community: UCSB Women’s Center celebrates 50 years’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2025 • Comments Off

Five decades after its founding, the support the center provides — and the community it has cultivated — are as crucial now as they were in 1975.

Community Environmental Council — Save up to $12,000 on an EV—Get Free Help Applying

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2025 • Comments Off

The Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) helps income-eligible Californians save big on an EV lease or purchase, EV charging, and other clean transportation benefits.

Bilingual report — Building Healthier Communities, Together: CenCal Health’s 2025 Annual Report

by Community Contributor • March 28, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — CenCal Health, the Medi-Cal health plan for Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, presented its 2025 Community Report at a regular bimonthly meeting of its Board of Directors, held this month in San Luis Obispo.

First-in-the-World Online Pesticide Notification System launched, impacting farm working communities in Ventura County and elsewhere in California

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Irene Gomez, an Oxnard resident and member of the Coalition Advocating for Pesticide Safety – Ventura County or CAPS 805, raised a remaining concern: “When my community in Nyeland Acres had the pilot notification project, our biggest issue was that you couldn’t find out exactly where the pesticides would be applied – which farm? That’s still a problem with Spray Days. You can only know pesticides are being applied within a square mile, but not whether it’s coming from behind your house, across the street, or even a mile away.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Fire Department announces release of new Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map for public input

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2025 • Comments Off

The draft Fire Hazard Severity Zone map for Ventura provides an updated assessment of local fire hazards and will help guide local fire prevention efforts, inform building regulations, and support emergency response planning. The map updates previous version approved in 2011 to reflect current fire risk conditions and new data. Hazard areas are rated moderate, high, and very high depending on the factors that contribute to fire behavior, like historical fire patterns, vegetation growth, weather, and terrain, among others.

Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics Encourages Community to be Screened for Colon Cancer

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, which aims to highlight a deadly but preventable cancer responsible for more than 50,000 deaths in the U.S. each year. According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, over 154,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with colon and rectal cancer in 2025, making it the fourth most common cancer in the U.S. Though the disease is highly treatable when diagnosed at an early stage, it is the second most deadly cancer in the U.S., which is why, every March, healthcare providers including Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics, work to educate people on how to detect and treat it.

Bilingual report — Ventura Fire Department first in Southern California to launch next-generation cardiac monitoring technology

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Fire Department is proud to announce the launch of a new fleet of cardiac monitor defibrillators, marking a significant advancement in emergency medical care for the community.

The department has acquired 20 new LIFEPAK 35 devices, ensuring every fire unit is equipped with a monitor and replacing older models that have served the department for the past 15 years. To support the purchase, City leaders approved an investment of $1.28 million from the General Fund in July 2024. The department began field testing the new units in January 2025 to ensure a smooth transition before full deployment.

UCSB Arts & Lectures presenting three new Spring Events — ‘Justice for All’

by Community Contributor • March 21, 2025 • Comments Off

Illuminating a wide spectrum of systemic injustice, the Justice for All programming initiative looks to today’s great minds and creators and to the courageous leaders across the globe who are forging a new path forward. Join us as we learn from those confronting uncomfortable questions, solving difficult problems, and guiding us all toward a more equitable world.

Bilingual report — Kaiser Permanente awards $315,000 to support health initiatives in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • March 21, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Kaiser Permanente began 2025 on a high note by awarding a total of $315,000 in community benefit funding to 15 nonprofit organizations in Ventura County.

These grants recognize the organizations’ commitment to improving local health. The grantees were recently celebrated at a reception held at California Lutheran University where each of the funded programs was highlighted.

Bilingual report — New in-demand healthcare training program offered for 250 low-and middle-income Ventura County residents

by Community Contributor • March 20, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County is launching a groundbreaking initiative to train 250 low- and moderate-income individuals in healthcare occupations. The Ventura County Healthcare Employment Accelerator (VC Heal Healthcare Careers) program focuses on strengthening the county’s healthcare workforce and expanding career opportunities for residents. With nearly $7.5 million in funding, this program aims to improve healthcare infrastructure, support economic recovery after the 2018 wildfires, and promote overall community well-being.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Sharks are dying at alarming rates, mostly due to fishing. Retention bans may help’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2025 • Comments Off

A team led by UCSB researchers highlights the importance of monitoring shark populations and combining different strategies for managing their numbers.

Bilingual report — First Mountain Fire Properties Cleared for Rebuilding as Debris Removal Progresses

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Just over 100 days after the Mountain Fire began, the Ventura County Environmental Health Division and the Mountain Fire Incident Management Team are pleased to report substantial progress in recovery efforts. A total of 100 properties have completed…

CSUCI biology professor partners with Cottage Health to research the effect of artificial sweeteners

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — How do artificial sweeteners affect a woman managing a chronic disease like cancer, diabetes or hypertension? CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Professor of Biology Nitika Parmar plans to research this question in partnership with Cottage Health, thanks to a $28,477 grant from the Cottage Health Research Institute-CHRI. The award was made possible through support from Santa Barbara philanthropists Alex Pananides and Janet Larson Dunbar.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura receives over $9 million in funding to address homelessness

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2025 • Comments Off

“This grant will provide much-needed support for individuals living in encampments,” said Ventura Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “Addressing homelessness remains a top priority for our City Council, and we are committed to investing in programs that tackle root causes while offering both immediate and long-term solutions.”

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meeting of March 18 — Topics Include: 2025 Women’s History Month Service Awards, Santa Barbara Bowl Annual Report, Cannabis Odor Ordinance Amendments, Update on Cannabis Taxation, Compliance, and Enforcement

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, March 18, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation’s 2025 Tiara Ball Raises $730,000 to Support Emergency and Critical Care Services

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Tiara Ball recognizes healthcare professionals and celebrates donors for their commitment to healthcare in the region. The event’s program featured remarks from Heather Hambleton and Lisa Iscovich, Tiara Ball event co-chairs; Eric Seale, Chair of the Cottage Health Board of Directors; Dr. Anne Rodriguez, Chief of Medical Staff; and Ron Werft, President and CEO of Cottage Health. The special honorees for the evening were Ron and Mary Werft, who were celebrated for their leadership and service to Cottage Health and the Tiara Ball event for over two decades.

Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) Program’s 10th year yields big environmental gains

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Research results show that the 10th annual season of the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) Program in 2024 reduced the risk of deadly ship strikes to whales by 50%, underwater noise by 38%, smog-forming pollution by 1,400 tons and greenhouse gases by nearly 50,000 metric tons along the California coast.

UCSB — The Current — ‘SeaSketch helps stakeholders explore changes to MPAs’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2025 • Comments Off

The open-source marine spatial planning platform is poised to assist with updates to California’s Marine Protected Areas.

Gold Coast Health Plan announces appointment of Marlen Torres as Chief Member Experience and External Affairs Officer

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) (on March 4) announced the appointment of Marlen Torres as its Chief Member Experience and External Affairs Officer. In this key role, Ms. Torres serves as the leader and visionary for member satisfaction and engagement, with the goal of ensuring the best health outcomes, greatest access, and superior member experience for GCHP members.

“Marlen’s leadership and vision for enhancing the member experience and her ability to forge meaningful external partnerships make her the ideal choice for this critical role,” said Dr. Felix Nuñez, GCHP’s acting chief executive officer (CEO). “Her years of experience in public policy and community engagement here in Ventura County will be instrumental as we continue to connect our members with high-quality care.”

Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara seeking Community Outreach Coordinator

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2025 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara is seeking a part-time Community Outreach Coordinator to expand awareness of their programs supporting cancer patients and their families. This role involves engaging with healthcare providers and community organizations, participating in outreach events, and managing marketing materials. The position requires bilingual Spanish fluency, strong communication and organizational skills, and a flexible schedule. Compensation is $21-22 per hour. Interested candidates should send their resumes to jobs@cancersupportvvsb.org

Join us for the March 11 Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meeting. Topics Include: Battery Energy Storage Systems, Jail Health Monitoring, Five Year Capital Improvement Program, Environmental Health Services Fees

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2025 • Comments Off

View this email online The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, March 11, 2025 Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building Board Hearing Room 511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria The public may participate…

Longtime campus supporter and alumna disability advocate to receive honorary doctorates at CSUCI commencement

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Two women who championed CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) in different ways will receive honorary doctorates at commencement ceremonies scheduled for Saturday May 17, 2025.

Guest contribution — Seminal court ruling certifies class action against cannabis grower for odor nuisance

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — In a landmark legal victory, a California judge has certified a class action lawsuit against Valley Crest, a commercial cannabis cultivation facility in Carpinteria, allowing residential property owners within a one-mile radius of the operation to collectively seek damages for the persistent and pervasive cannabis odors invading their properties. This ruling is the first of its kind in California, setting a powerful precedent for future cases against cannabis growers who fail to control malodors impacting residential communities.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Spanish-language writers and the making of a U.S. literary tradition’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2025 • Comments Off

Professor Emeritus Víctor Fuentes’ new book, “Florilegio,” traces centuries of Spanish-language literature in the U.S. — spanning from the 16th to the mid-20th century — revealing a deep and often overlooked literary tradition.

Children and Family Bereavement Needs on the Rise at Hospice of Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — It’s not just adults who are impacted by grief and loss in our community. Children are as well. One in five children will experience the death of someone close to them by age 18, and one in twenty children will experience the death of one or both parents before reaching adulthood. Although death and grief are inevitable parts of life, these statistics highlight just how many children are impacted. Children are especially vulnerable when they lose a close loved one, and without professional support, grief can be especially paralyzing and overwhelming.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Businesses invited to provide feedback for City’s Strategic Plan Update

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2025 • Comments Off

This session is specifically designed for businesses located along Harvard Blvd., but all Santa Paula businesses are welcome to attend. The feedback gathered during this discussion will be presented to the City Council as they consider updates to the Santa Paula Strategic Plan, which outlines the City’s vision and goals for the next two years, guiding decisions on economic development, infrastructure improvements, public safety, and community programs.

Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) bill to create accessibility committee for state parks

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2025 • Comments Off

Since the turn of the century, we have seen major advancements towards the inclusion of disabled people in public society. However, the remnants of overlooking this underrepresented demographic continues to affect all visitors of our parks. Thus, a dedicated advisory body to support the Director of California State Parks in enhancing accessibility for the state’s lands can be helpful in remedying the systemic issue.

Ventura County Fire Dept. and CAL FIRE to conduct rescheduled prescribed burn in Adams Canyon on March 4

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) plan to conduct a prescribed burn in Adams Canyon, north of Santa Paula, on March 4, 2025, weather permitting. This controlled burn is part of ongoing efforts to improve ecosystem health and reduce wildfire risk. This prescribed burn was initially scheduled for November 18-21, 2024.

Friendship Center — The Friendly Finch March newsletter

by Community Contributor • March 3, 2025 • Comments Off

With sunshine peeking through the trees and filling our courtyard with energy, it’s the perfect time for something exciting—and Friendship Center is ready to welcome it with bells and whistles!

On March 18th, we’re officially opening the Carpinteria Healthy Aging Hub! This innovative satellite program captures our day program expertise and brings it right to the heart of town. Hosted at the Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center on Tuesdays and Fridays, this program will offer connection, support, and engaging activities for older adults and caregivers in this special seaside community. We can’t wait to welcome new friends through our doors!

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Urgent: Help SBCFAN Weather the Funding Freeze

by Community Contributor • February 28, 2025 • Comments Off

Dear Friends,

The federal funding freeze is impacting nonprofits across the country, and while we thought SBCFAN would be spared—since we don’t receive federal funds—we are now feeling the ripple effects. Many funding institutions have redirected their support to organizations that lost federal funding, leaving gaps for others–including us.

We cannot afford to slow down. We are at a pivotal moment, with ready to launch projects that will create jobs, generate income, and reinvest in our local food economy:

Respected healthcare leader Scott Wester selected as president and CEO of Cottage Health

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Cottage Health Board of Directors has selected experienced healthcare leader Scott Wester, MHA, as Cottage Health’s next president and CEO. Mr. Wester will assume his post April 7, 2025.

Cottage Health chose Mr. Wester after an extensive national search. He replaces Ron Werft, MHA, who will retire after 38 years at Cottage Health, the last 25 as president and CEO.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Board of Supervisors vote to support new state legislation for fire safety

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

We have experienced devastating fires in the last seven years and this bill aims to address the issues we have seen in water delivery,” stated 1st District Supervisor Matt LaVere. ““Supporting AB 367 is a critical step toward ensuring our community has the resources needed to fight fires even in the most challenging circumstances.”

SBCC Awarded Grant from Uplift Central Coast Coalition

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

“With gratitude to the Uplift Central Coast Coalition through the State’s California Jobs First program and our Ocean Collective partners, SBCC will lead the way in enhancing the Blue Economy in Santa Barbara County,” said Superintendent/President Erika Endrijonas, Ph.D. “This grant takes us one step closer to expanding our local economy and developing yet another sustainable workforce pipeline. We are excited to get to work!”

County of Ventura Medical Examiner’s Office — Special Report: 2024 Fatal Overdoses

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — 1,931 deaths were reported to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office during the 2024 calendar year. Jurisdiction was accepted for 903 of these deaths, requiring further investigation and certification. Postmortem examinations were performed on 701 cases. Of the cases investigated, 200 deaths were due to overdose with illicit drugs medications, alcohol or other substances.

Of the 200 overdose deaths, 183 were accidents, 15 were suicides and two deaths were of undetermined manner. Of these overdose deaths, men accounted for 145 deaths (72.5%) and women accounted for 55 deaths (27.5%).

Ventura County Credit Union Kicks Off 75th Anniversary by Giving Back $750,000 to Local Nonprofits

by Community Contributor • February 20, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU) is celebrating 75 years of service to the community by giving back in a big way—donating $750,000 to 10 local nonprofits that make a difference in the lives of Ventura County residents. Kicking off this milestone initiative, VCCU has awarded the first two donations to Food Share of Ventura County and Turning Point Foundation, two organizations dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable members of the community.

CLU School of Management Center’s For Economics of Social Issues — One Week Left to Register & Join Community Conversation – 2025 Conference

by Community Contributor • February 20, 2025 • Comments Off

The Center for Economics of Social Issues invites you to register now for its upcoming conference, which will be held on February 28th at California Lutheran University’s campus. We implore you to come and see what is going on around you. The conference will release a comprehensive study that sheds light on the urgent challenges of enjoying a dignified life on the central coast of California.

Join us at our next Community Environmental Council (CEC) Youth Climate Workshop: Sustainable Fashion on March 1

by Community Contributor • February 19, 2025 • Comments Off

In this workshop, we’ll focus on the impacts of the fashion industry and what we can do to lighten our footprint. Come meet local experts and enjoy fun activities!

Ventura County Civic Alliance February Livable Communities Newsletter

by Community Contributor • February 18, 2025 • Comments Off

Volume 20 / Number 73 / February 2025 Your Livable Communities Newsletter VISIT OUR WEBSITE For almost 20 years, the Ventura County Civic Alliance Livable Communities working group has been publishing its quarterly newsletter. These newsletters were grounded by the American…

Nicholas ‘Scott’ Vincent joins the Board of Directors for the Foundation for Cottage Rehabilitation & Goleta Valley Cottage Hospitals

by Community Contributor • February 18, 2025 • Comments Off

Vincent holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Bucknell University and earned a J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law. He served as legal counsel for numerous departments at the City of Santa Barbara from 2004 until his retirement in 2018.

His previous board experience includes serving on various committees with the Foundation for Santa Barbara City College for ten years, including a four-year term as Board President. He is also active in volunteering and fundraising for several local charities such as Calm, the Alzheimer’s Association and Transition House.

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — This Week in Immigration

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Trump Is Sending Migrants to Guantánamo Bay to Look Tough Your weekly summary from the Council. LATEST ANALYSIS Sending Migrants to Guantánamo Bay Is a Costly, Optics-Driven Shift in Immigration DetentionPresident Trump ordered the Secretary of Homeland Security to expand…

Bilingual report — Ventura celebrates Marina Park Playground groundbreaking

by Community Contributor • February 13, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is thrilled to announce the official groundbreaking for Marina Park’s new playground. This project represents a key milestone in the revitalization of one of Ventura’s most treasured parks, delivering a modern and thoughtfully designed play space for the Pierpont Bay community and surrounding areas.

In 2022, the original playground was removed due to structural deterioration after years of exposure to seaside conditions. Plans were immediately made to replace the equipment with a more resilient design using traditional wood materials, better suited for the coastal environment.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Postdoc scholar (Daniela Soto) receives competitive award to investigate the genetic changes that shaped the human mind’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 11, 2025 • Comments Off

Daniela Soto has earned a prestigious fellowship with eight years of funding to study the evolution of human brains from a genomic perspective.

Cottage Ob/Gyn Clinic Welcomes New Providers to Team

by Community Contributor • February 11, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Cottage Obstetrics & Gynecology (Ob/Gyn) Clinic is pleased to announce the addition of two obstetrician-gynecologists, Dr. Britta Gray and Dr. Helen Matthews, along with certified nurse midwife Maribeth Claassen. This expansion of the care team furthers the clinic’s mission to enhance access to comprehensive Ob/Gyn services for women.

Joining Medical Director Dr. Lisa Lepine, the expanded team will continue caring for patients at the Cottage Ob/Gyn Clinic, located at 2416 Castillo Street, Unit A, in Santa Barbara.

The Cottage Ob/Gyn Clinic is a practice led by women specialists offering comprehensive medical services—from routine wellness examinations to diagnosis and treatment of gynecological conditions, and complete obstetric care from pre-conception to pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum visits.

Assemblymember Steve Bennett authors protecting pets from predatory practices act

by Community Contributor • February 11, 2025 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) introduced AB 506 to increase transparency from online pet brokers on the original source of a pet. This bill is part of a legislative package aimed at stopping the puppy mill pipeline, including AB 519 (Berman) and SB 312 (Umberg).

California has made concerted efforts to disrupt the lucrative puppy mill industry, the operations of which have been underpinned by online brokers. These anonymous sellers leverage steep nonrefundable deposits against consumers as a paywall to withhold where they’ve acquired the animal and the conditions in which it was raised.

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan distributes $225,000 for fire relief and preparedness efforts

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) (Feb. 5) announced the distribution of $225,000 in sponsorships to community-based and national organizations to support Ventura County and neighboring communities to provide relief to victims of the recent fires and strengthen preparedness efforts for future emergencies.

In response to the growing needs arising from the devastation of the recent fires in Camarillo and the Greater Los Angeles area, GCHP distributed $225,000 in total funding to support the following organizations:

Guest commentary — The Fire Bell of Students

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2025 • Comments Off

On Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, hundreds of angry Oxnard Union High School District and Oxnard School District students sounded the tocsin of resistance to the ICE raids unleashed by President Frump. They walked out in protest from the campuses of R.J. Frank Intermediate and the high schools of Channel Islands, Del Sol, Hueneme, Oxnard, Pacifica, and others. Some lined the streets and avenues adjacent to their campuses; others marched and drove to the City of Oxnard’s ombligo, la placita, where mi raza, in alliance with other working-class gente, historically organized similar rallies demanding immigrant rights as well as the end to police violence.

Cars and pickup trucks roamed the intersection of Fifth and C Streets to affirm the students’ cause with repeated honks, blaring banda music, and the deafening revving of V8 engines. The students responded in kind with hoots while pumping their pawky placards and Mexican colors. School administrators and teachers protectively observed the youth as did boomers like me, Gen Xers, and millennials—yes millennials you are no longer young.

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