Category: Health

Sept. 11 — District 216 to present Conscious Connections Roundtable ‘Psychedelic Ceremonies: What to Expect,’ other upcoming events

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

“Psychedelic Ceremonies: What to Expect”

Unearth the uncharted territories of the mind, engage in thought-provoking conversations, and connect with a community of kindred spirits. An evening of intellectual stimulation, introspection, and connection that lasts.

Prepare to have your perceptions expanded as we dive into the potential insights and transformations that psychedelics offer. Through personal anecdotes, scientific breakthroughs, and philosophical pondering, we’ll uncover new horizons and perspectives on the role of psychedelics in the realms of creativity, spirituality, mental health, and beyond.

Sept. 15 — Hospice of Santa Barbara to Celebrate 50th Anniversary and Community Heroes at its Annual Heroes of Hospice Luncheon

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

HSB’s Heroes of Hospice luncheon honors the people and organizations that bring compassion and care, at all levels, to those in need in and near the Santa Barbara community. Hospice of Santa Barbara is deeply appreciative of the community’s support over the past 50 years and how that support continues to shine a light in the darkness for so many families. This year, HSB will honor many of the past Heroes of Hospice honorees.

Sept. 20 — NOAA’s Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council to hold hybrid meeting

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Meeting highlights will include an update on the designation process for the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, a presentation on restoration projects from the Refugio Beach Oil Spill Trustee Settlement, and an overview of the Ocean Protection Council’s 30×30 decision making framework.

Sept. 21 — District 216 announces Live Music! ‘The Great Divide: A Tribute to Phish’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Live Music: “The Great Divide: A Tribute to Phish”

When: Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 6pm to 10pm (Live Music at 6:45pm)

Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)

6:00 PM

Doors Open
Enjoy snacks and beverages
6:45 PM – 10:00 PM

Set 1
Set Break
Set 2 + Encore
In Advance: $12

Day Of / At the Door: $20

Sept. 24 — Cottage to Host FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor Understanding Epilepsy: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatments

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Cottage Santa Barbara Neuroscience Institute presents a FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor event on Tuesday, September 24, from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m., featuring Dr. Michael Gibbs, MD, an epileptologist and the medical director of the Cottage Epilepsy Center. Dr. Gibbs will provide valuable insights into how new techniques are improving outcomes for patients living with epilepsy.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and available treatments for epilepsy. The event will include a Q&A session, during which attendees will have the opportunity to have their questions answered by Dr. Gibbs.

Through Sept. 27 — Bilingual report — County of Ventura to host first-of-its-kind statewide Government and Disability Summit

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura is proud to announce the groundbreaking Government and Disability Summit, the first statewide event of its kind. This historic conference, taking place September 24th – 27th, 2024 represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of more inclusive and accessible communities. The conference will bring together stakeholders from across the state to explore innovative solutions, share best practices, and foster collaboration towards a more inclusive future.

During the conference, participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions and workshops covering a wide range of topics, including transportation, voting accessibility, emergency preparedness, collaboration, technology, and more. Through collaborative dialogues and shared experiences, attendees will work towards developing practical solutions to address access barriers and promote disability inclusion.

Sept. 27 — Bilingual report — 2024 Fall Prevention Forum to be held at CLU

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA —The annual Fall Prevention Forum – co-hosted by the Ventura County Elderly Fall Prevention Coalition and the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging – will return on Friday, September 27 at Cal Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks.

The 2024 forum – “All Aboard the Fall Prevention Train” – will be held at CLU’s Gilbert Sports & Fitness Center (130 Overton Court).

The event is free to attend, but participants are urged to pre-register by filling out the registration form at www.vcaaa.org/falls, or by calling the VCAAA at 805-477-7300. The 2023 Fall Prevention Forum had a near-overflow crowd at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center.

Sept. 28 — Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services presenting $10 Rabies Vaccine Clinic (9/28 at Fairgrounds)

by Amigos805.com • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Our final $10 Rabies Vaccination Clinic will be this Saturday, September 28th from 1:00pm – 3:00pm at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, at 10 W. Harbor Blvd. This is a cash-only clinic and no appointments are needed. Dogs and cats must be three (3) months or older and pet licensing will be available. Please ensure dogs are on-leash and that cats are in carriers.

For questions, please contact VCAS at (805) 388-4341 or info@vcas.us. Thank you for keeping your pets healthy and happy!

Oct. 2 — District 216 presenting Christopher Solomon’s ‘Salvia Divinorum – The Misunderstood Healer,’ more events

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Description: Join Somatic Salvia Guide, Christopher Solomon, for an informative and in-depth lecture about the powerful and often misunderstood plant medicine, Salvia Divinorum. Learn how he uses Salvia with his somatic therapy clients, how you can use Salvia as a pragmatic tool for healing, meditation, and exploring the deep realms of your psyche. This presentation will give you an understanding of how to work with low doses of the plant for therapeutic purposes.

Oct. 9 — District 216 presenting Conscious Connections Roundtable ‘Addressing Challenging Psychedelic Experiences’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Topic: “Addressing Challenging Psychedelic Experiences”

When: Wednesday, October 9th, 2024 from 5pm to 9pm (Conversation at 6:30pm)

Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)

Members are Free to attend The District House evenings, and are prioritized when we reach capacity.

Guests Welcome to purchase $15 tickets (discounted from $50) to The District House evenings.

Format: Networking & Roundtable Conversation. We will be discussing as a group in an open format in the room.

Note: We will *not* be filming this week’s conversation. Refreshments provided.

Oct. 16 — District 216 presenting Off-Site Ventech Panel feat. District216’s Jacob Tell – ‘Altered Horizons: The Business of Psychedelics’ and more upcoming events

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

WEDNESDAY: Off-Site Ventech Panel feat. District216’s Jacob Tell – “Altered Horizons: The Business of Psychedelics” Ventech hosts the region’s top business and technology events. They bring together veteran business leaders and experts to host events designed to educate, inform and…

Oct. 19 — Bilingual report — ‘Unite to Light the Night’ fundraiser + light art festival, community showcase to be held in Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — I am excited to share that Unite to Light the Night is returning to The Community Arts Workshop in Santa Barbara for its third year in support of Unite to Light’s mission: to bring light and power to people living without electricity.

Join us for an exciting community-focused fundraiser and light art exhibition featuring 40 diverse artists, each presenting their unique creations that celebrate the transformative power of light.

Oct. 22 — Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department to host second e-bike safety workshop

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

“E-bike safety, reckless riding, and enforcement have become significant concerns in Ventura, and we are committed to addressing these issues head-on through education and enforcement,” said Chief Darin Schindler. “This workshop is an opportunity for residents to learn about safe and legal e-bike use and to engage directly with our officers. Our goal is to ensure the safety of all road users and foster a culture of responsible e-bike use in our community.”

Oct. 22 — UCSB Arts & Lectures and Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara co-present Nobel Prize-winning Biochemist Dr. Jennifer Doudna at The Granada Theatre

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures and the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara co-present Dr. Jennifer Doudna, CRISPR Gene Editing and the Future of Human Health on Tuesday, October 22 at 7:30 p.m. at The Granada Theatre. The world stands on the edge of an era when gene editing can address many serious ills plaguing humankind, says biochemist Jennifer Doudna, who earned the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for co-developing CRISPR-Cas9 genome engineering technology.

Oct. 23 — District 216 presents ‘Reflection Circle – An Integration Gathering with Dr. Elizabeth Wolfson,’ more upcoming events

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

eflection Circle. We will be discussing as a group in an open (yet facilitated) format in the room. We will not be filming this week’s conversation. This is a confidential space.

Oct. 24 — Cottage to Host FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor Reducing Stroke Risk Across the Age Spectrum: Interventional Therapies for Stroke Prevention

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Cottage Heart & Vascular Center presents a FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor event on Thursday, October 24, from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m., featuring Michael Shenoda, MD, FACC, FSCAI, an Interventional Cardiology and Structural Heart Disease specialist. Dr. Shenoda will discuss how advances in heart health are improving the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease- related strokes.

Dr. Shenoda will provide valuable insights on atrial fibrillation stroke risk, patent foramen ovale- associated strokes and strategies for prevention and treatment. Participants will gain insights into how recent advances in heart health, including medications and minimally invasive procedures, are improving the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease-related strokes.

Oct. 30 — Greg Wolfe’s ‘Elevating Consciousness: Unlocking Deeper Psychedelic Realms with Biohacking and Etheric Energy’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Topic: “Elevating Consciousness: Unlocking Deeper Psychedelic Realms with Biohacking and Etheric Energy”

Description: As biohacking becomes the latest flavor of the month, there are many fundamentals overlooked such as root cause detoxing and the effect etheric/chi/pranic energy on our well-being. As a Certified Health Coach who is one of the few resources to help people go from chronic pain, low energy, & brain fog to optimal health and an additional 20 yrs onto their healthspan, I’d love to share with you some knowledge and tangible experience of this profound, innate, and organic empowerment.

When: Wednesday, October 30th, 2024 from 5pm to 9pm (Speaker at 6:30pm)

Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)

Members are Free to attend The District House evenings, and are prioritized when we reach capacity.

Guests Welcome to purchase $50 tickets to The District House evenings.

Note: We will be filming the speaker(s) for the District216 Change Your Lens Series. Refreshments provided.

Nov. 9 — Ventura County Potters’ Guild Presents 3rd Annual Ventura Pottery Market & Bowl of Thanks At Ventura Harbor Village

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

“We are pleased that Ventura Potters’ Guild is bringing this year’s Ventura Pottery Market and Bowl of Thanks back to Ventura Harbor Village with its serene seaside village with stunning Pacific views,” said President of the Ventura County Potter’s Guild Stacy Rowe.

Nov. 13 — District 216 to present Conscious Connections Roundtable ‘Ethical Considerations in Psychedelic Use,’ more events

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Topic: “Ethical Considerations in Psychedelic Use”

When: Wednesday, November 13th, 2024 from 5pm to 9pm (Conversation at 6:30pm)

Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)
Format: Networking & Roundtable Conversation. We will be discussing as a group in an open format in the room.

Tickets ($15) – Wed., Nov 13

Nov. 19 — Cottage Primary Care—Santa Ynez Valley presenting FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor: Partnering with your Primary Care Doctor

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Primary Care—Santa Ynez Valley presents a FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor event on Tuesday, November 19, from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m., featuring primary care physicians, Janina Meissner-Frisk, DO, BD, MS and Nicole Sheikholeslami, MD who will discuss the role of a primary care physician in maintaining health and managing chronic conditions.

Nov. 20 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents ER physician and health equity advocate Dr. Uché Blackstock at UCSB Campbell Hall

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Dr. Uché Blackstock in a talk titled Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons With Racism in Medicine on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m. at UCSB Campbell Hall. FREE copies of Blackstock’s new book, Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons With Racism in Medicine, will be available while supplies last (pick up at event; one per household).

Dec. 4 — District 216 presents ‘Psychedelics & Courage: Taking a Leap of Faith!,’ more news

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Description: Kat shares her personal journey with psychedelics and how they helped her face her fears, awaken her intuition, become an entrepreneur and start over from scratch to build a new, inspired life.

When: Wednesday, December 4th, 2024 from 5pm to 9pm (Speaker at 6:30pm)

Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)

Dec. 6 — Farm Bureau of Ventura County shares information on Mountain Fire Ag Recovery Series

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

As the Mountain Fire continues to affect parts of Ventura County, we want to make sure you have the latest resources and support available to protect your operations, workers, and property. Our hearts go out to everyone impacted, and we’re here to assist however we can.

Partnering with local organizations like VC CoLAB, the Ag Commissioner, UCCE, VCRCD, USDA-FSA, and Thomas Fire victims, and more we have initiated a series of webinars for the ag community to get updates, ask questions, and support eachother in a speedy recovery.

Dec. 10 — Cottage Primary Care—Santa Barbara presents a FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor event

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Dec. 10 — Cottage Primary Care—Santa Barbara presents a FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor event

Dec. 10 — Bilingual Report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors Meeting — Senior Mobile Home Park Conversion Interim Urgency Ordinance Extension, more

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, December 10, 2024
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room
in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.

Dec. 11 — District 216 to present Jordan Richardson’s ‘The 12 Tenets of Talent Management,’ other upcoming events

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

The District House is a benefit of District216. Come by for a portion or all of the evening, meet amazing members + guests, and interact with speakers on a variety of topics.

Topic: “The 12 Tenets of Talent Management”

Description: What is talent? For Jordan Richardson, whose first career was in Hollywood talent management, it’s what leaders in any industry can discover, draw forth, liberate, and celebrate in every employee, aka ‘talent’. In this inspiring talk, Jordan brings to life the idea of leadership as ‘talent management’, with a series of compelling stories from his years managing entertainment projects and learning from iconic celebrities like superstar Snoop Dogg, actress and comedian Nicole Richie, and Rock and Roll legend Steven Tyler. The 12 Tenets of Talent Management is a perfect reminder for any employer, any employee… anyone.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2023 • Comments Off

Santa Paula is on the front lines of a fight against a deadly disease targeting citrus trees. The Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner is calling on the community to help stop the spread of Huanglongbing (HLB) a disease vectored by the Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP).

Residents in quarantine zones are asked to not move any plant material – this includes fruit, leaves, branches, and even dirt. The Ventura County Agricultural Comissioner/Weights & Measures Department is working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to mitigate the situation.

The disease is not harmful to humans but it is detrimental to citrus trees. Right now the goal is to slow the spread to give science and research time to develop possible treatments.

Call the CDFA pest hotline at 1-(800)-491-1899 if your trees are showing symptoms of ACP/ HLB and they can arrange to have your tree tested.

Want to learn more? Take a moment to watch the video on how HLB affects local citrus.

Happy Holidays from United Way of Ventura County

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2023 • Comments Off

Wishing you a healthy and happy holiday season from your friends at United Way of Ventura County.

Bilingual report — December News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2023 • Comments Off

Dear Friend,
During this season of gift giving, I’ve been reflecting on all the amazing gifts People’s has received this year:

82 new employees: The need keeps growing, and so do we. The ability of our mission and organization to attract professional, committed individuals is an imperative if we are to continue confronting the housing crisis head on.
$1M in housing impact notes: It takes considerable philanthropic vision to fund project pre-development costs, they are typically not exciting or visible, but they are vital. We were so grateful for this incredible opportunity to move multiple challenging projects forward. Thanks to our Resource Development and Accounting & Finance teams who safely and soundly manage our financial resources, we can accomplish more mission and meet philanthropist partners’ objectives.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Major Storm Impacting Santa Barbara County

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2023 • Comments Off

Heavy rain is expected countywide Wednesday, December 20 through early Friday, December 22, 2023. Impacts are expected across the entire County with heightened risk expected in south Santa Barbara County foothills/mountains.

The National Weather Service has issued a FLOOD WATCH for all of Santa Barbara County until Friday morning, December 22, 2023. Stay away from rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Those living in areas prone to flooding, should stay aware of changing conditions and be prepared to take protective actions, such as going to higher ground, such as a second floor.

The National Weather Service is also advising of a chance of thunderstorms, and a remote risk of small, short-lived small tornadoes, during a tornado watch or warning, the best course of action is to get to the innermost room of your home on the bottom floor, away from windows.

Port of Hueneme Dock Talk 2023 Year End Newsletter is Here!

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2023 • Comments Off

In this issue:
Message from Jess Herrera, President, Board of Harbor Commissioners
Message from Kristin Decas, CEO & Port Director
FIRST Robotics Competition Brings the Excitement of Sport and Rigor of Science and Tech to the Port of Hueneme
Port of Hueneme Signs Memorandum of Understanding on California Ports Data Systems Development
Port of Hueneme Receives Recognition from Oxnard Union High School District for Community Outreach Efforts
Congresswoman Julia Brownley Delivers $375,000 to the Port of Hueneme’s Environmental Initiative
Port of Hueneme Celebrates World Oceans Day by Raising Awareness with ‘Sustaining the Seas Summit’
$80,000,000 for Port of Hueneme’s Green Jobs & Zero-Emission Operations
Port of Hueneme Achieves its Highest Ever Scores for Environmental Stewardship Certification
“August Wave:” Getting Ready for the “Big One”
Anchored in Preparedness: Port of Hueneme Hosts Multi-Agency Emergency Trainings
Going Bananas at the Port of Hueneme’s 10th Annual Port Festival
Port of Hueneme’s Consecutive Wins Represents the Ability to Reach Highest Standards in Government Finance Reporting
Fiscal Review

Cottage Health Recognizes 2023 Physicians of the Year

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2023 Physician of the Year Award, an annual recognition honoring physicians on the Medical Staff for their exemplary performance.

2023 Physician of the Year Award Recipients:

Paul DiModica, DO, Emergency Medicine at Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital

Bryan Goldberg, MD, Emergency Medicine at Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital

·Miriam Parsa, MD, Chief Pediatric Medical Officer at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital

·Chase Warren, MD, Psychiatry at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital

CSU Channel Islands English student uses her grant-writing skills to help rescue dogs

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The power of the written word enabled CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) English alumna Tracy Moore to procure a new van to transport dogs to and from Santa Paula’s Canine Adoption & Rescue League, or CARL.

With what she learned in English Lecturer Rachael Jordan’s Introduction to Grant Writing class, Moore was able to write a grant that resulted in CARL receiving $3,500 toward a new transport van. The grant was later reworked by a CARL volunteer and brought in another $25,000.

“I’ve always looked for an opportunity to use my writing to give back to the community,” Moore said. “I volunteered with CARL and loved working with them so much, so I decided to write this grant to help them replace their old van. It’s such an important cause for me. People don’t understand the impact they have on the community when they go out and save dogs’ lives.”

Coastal Keepers Holds End-of-Year Coastal Cleanup Celebration

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — CA District 38 Office of Assemblymember Steve Bennett was scheduled to join Coastal Keepers for their final event of 2023 on Saturday, Dec. 16 at the Port Hueneme Beach Park.

The event included the End-of-Year Coastal Cleanup Celebration and a $10,000 Check Presentation from the Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJFVC).

Participants were invited to help support Coastal Keepers mission to keep the shores of Port Hueneme and Ormond Beach beautiful for generations to come.

District216’s 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY Membership Discount

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2023 • Comments Off

To CELEBRATE an amazing inaugural year of community, education, and 51 gatherings thus far at District216, we are gifting you a LIFETIME discount on Annual Memberships if you purchase before January 1, 2024.

Bilingual commentary — It’s Been Quite a Year

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2023 • Comments Off

Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes •…

Bilingual report — CAUSE and MICOP Host Event Celebrating Art, Stories, and Culture of Farmworker Families

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2023 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — (On Dec. 1), the Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) and the Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) celebrated and honored the farmworker families of Santa María at an event called “La Cultura Cura” (The Culture Cures). More than 60 people attended the event, which aimed to help build a more united community, one that connects and strengthens through art. Music, dance, song, poetry, and painting were the centerpieces of a special night that will undoubtedly remain in the memory of the people present. After a year often marked with painful reminders about the challenges faced by farmworkers, from high-profile investigations of labor violations to the workplace deaths of farmworkers in Guadalupe and Cuyama (see statement here), the “Cultura Cura” event offered an opportunity to reflect in joy and value family bonding moments.

Local Physicians and Cottage Health Partner to Open New Surgery Center in North County

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health, in partnership with physicians Christopher Birch, MD; Erin Haggerty, MD; Michael Kenly, MD; Asher Kupperman, MD; Eli Kupperman, MD; Amit Nathani, MD and Amy Wickman, MD, is announcing plans for a new ambulatory surgery center in northern Santa Barbara County.

Upon opening, the new surgery center, which is co-owned by the independent community physicians and Cottage Health, will increase access to convenient, high-quality orthopedic surgical services and pain management. It will serve as a cost-effective point of care for patients throughout the region from Solvang to Paso Robles. The state-of-the-art, 12,000 square-foot center also will be licensed to expand its scope to additional specialties.

SBCC Nursing Program marks endings and new beginnings at Dec. 15 ‘pinning’ ceremony

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — On Friday, Dec. 15, the most recent cohort of nursing graduates from Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) will formally complete the program with a “pinning” ceremony, earning themselves an Associate Degree in Science in Nursing (ADN). The graduates will have the distinction of completing the program having gone through real-life experiences of the Covid-19 pandemic in the medical field.

This particular cohort – made up of 18 Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) Bridge students and 20 ADN generic students – is special, according to Dept. Chair/Director, Associate Degree Nursing and ADN Program Director Mary Sullivan MSN-Ed, RNC- MNN, as they are “the last group that went through nursing school at SBCC during the full-on Covid-19 pandemic.” Curriculum for the program includes hands-on training at Cottage Hospital, where students and instructors from this cohort experienced varying degrees of challenges and stresses working in the medical field during and after the pandemic.

Lumina Alliance Invites Community to Take the Pledge for Gun Safety

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2023 • Comments Off

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — Lumina Alliance recently announced a Gun Safety Campaign with the goal of raising awareness on the intersection between firearms and intimate partner violence. As part of the campaign, Lumina Alliance is now inviting the community to take a Pledge for Gun Safety, and to commit to taking action to end gun violence In SLO County.

Cottage Health Opens New Primary Care Clinic in Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is expanding access to healthcare with a new, primary care clinic, Cottage Primary Care – Santa Barbara – Oak Park. The new clinic, located at 2329 Oak Park Lane in Santa Barbara is now open and accepting new patients.

Yana Gristan, MD and Arielle Kanner, DO, both of whom completed residency at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, are the lead physicians offering in-person and virtual medical care to adult patients at this new location.

Drs. Gristan and Kanner understand the importance of building strong patient-physician relationships and look forward to providing personalized care and treatment plans for wellness and prevention, early detection and management of health conditions.

Documentary on life of Oxnard resident biologist and writer René Corado wins awards at Guatemala film festival

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — “El Lustrador (The shoeshine Boy),” a documentary about the life of a long time Oxnard resident biologist and writer René Corado, received the award for Best Guatemalan Short Documentary and an Honorable Mention for best International Direction at the Guatemala at The Festival internacional Academia de Cine Antigua 2023 (International Film Festival Antigua 2023) Dec. 8, 2023.

The documentary was produced and starred the long time Oxnard resident and Guatemalan migrant, biologist and writer René Corado in his native country Guatemala.

“We did it, we won at the Festival, I am super happy!, Corado stated on his social networks shortly after receiving the awards.

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County December Update

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2023 • Comments Off

SJFVC Fellow Marisol Gonzalez Building

Fillmore Relationships

Last week, SJFVC Fellow Marisol Gonzalez and Board Member Kim Marra Stephenson presented to the Fillmore Lions Club about SJFVC and Marisol’s work in establishing the Fillmore Conservation Corps.

Bilingual report — 34 cadets graduate from Allan Hancock College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Academy

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — After 16 weeks of classroom and field instruction, 34 cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Academy on Dec.7. The cadets were recognized for completing the Emergency Medical Services Academy 1A during a ceremony at Hancock’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.

Upon completion of the training, the cadets can provide basic life-saving skills and have passed a national registry test to become emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center Introduces Titan: The Resilient Pup Adopted, Rehomed, and Abandoned at Another Shelter Has Been Saved Thanks to a Microchip!

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center (SPARC), Ventura’s leading and only no-kill animal shelter, introduces Titan, a remarkable dog with an extraordinary story of resilience and hope. Titan, a 2.5-year-old big-hearted puppy, is patiently awaiting his new chance at a loving forever home, again.

In March of 2022, Titan’s journey began when he was adopted as a 1-year-old adorable, goofy puppy from SPARC and was subsequently adopted into a loving home. Little did anyone know; Titan would then experience unspeakable heartbreak of being bounced around from home to home. But fate had a different plan for Titan, leading him to an unexpected detour that would ultimately bring him right back to SPARC.

CSUCI students headed to Lahaina to do research and help with restoration

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The historic Hawaiian village of Lahaina has been integral to CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) student and faculty research for years. Lahaina has been the base for CSUCI student research led by Professor Emerita and whale biologist Rachel Cartwright, Professor of Mathematics Cindy Wyels, and Associate Professor of Environmental Science & Research Management (ESRM) Clare Steele.

Lahaina is now four months into what will be years of cleanup and restoration following the fires that tore through Maui in early August, causing billions of dollars’ worth of damage, destroying 3,000 structures, and reducing the historic town of Lahaina to smoldering ruins. Several of CSUCI’s non-governmental organizations (NGO) partners lost their homes.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — New Clean Energy Coming Online

by Community Contributor • December 11, 2023 • Comments Off

This week, Central Coast Community Energy 3CE announced signing a contract with Pattern Energy to receive electricity from SunZia Wind, a new renewable energy project in New Mexico that will be 12% of all the power for the 5 counties in our energy provider 3CE. While most of our renewable projects are in California, having a different “load profile” from a project in a neighboring region provides energy that is accessible at different times of the day than we typically get. This is a big deal for our efforts to have more reliability as we get closer to 100% carbon-free energy.

New Grief Support Groups at Livingston’s Camarillo Grief Center

by Community Contributor • December 11, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Livingston’s Camarillo Grief Center is adding new grief support groups that cater to specific bereavement needs this coming January. These close-ended support groups are Healing Grief Through Journaling (January 15th through February 8th), Loss Due to Accidental Overdose (January 16th through March 19th), and Loss of an Adult Child (January 18th through March 21st). For reservations, contact 805-389-6870 or online at lmvna.org/grief. Space is limited.

SBCC Nursing Program marks endings and new beginnings at Dec. 15 ‘pinning’ ceremony

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2023 • Comments Off

Bilingual report — A Win for Equitable Park Access: NatureTrack and Wilderness Youth Project Receive Nearly $400,000 through California Natural Resources Agency Grant

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — In a significant stride toward fostering equitable access to parks and nature, NatureTrack and Wilderness Youth Project have been awarded grants totaling nearly $400,000 through the California Natural Resources Agency’s Youth Community Access program.

Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Seibel lead the state’s Outdoors For All Strategy, which recently allocated a total of almost $18 million to 71 projects statewide. Notably, two projects in Santa Barbara County—NatureTrack and Wilderness Youth Project—received grants to the tune of nearly $400,000.

Santa Ynez Valley-based NatureTrack received $97,400 to support outdoor field trips for underserved, low-income K-12 students in the north county of Santa Barbara County. Older youth will be recruited from local colleges to work as trip docents.

Ventura County Area Agency on Aging announces Fall Prevention Classes resume in January

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Sign-ups are now available for a new series of Fall Prevention classes that will begin in January. These award-winning classes are put on by the Ventura County Elderly Fall Prevention Coalition and the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency.

Four classes, with 12 sessions to choose from, will be offered in five Ventura County cities. The January offerings include:

Bingocize (Fillmore Active Adult Center)
A Matter of Balance (Simi Valley Senior Center, VCAAA office in Ventura)
Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance (HELP of Ojai, Oxnard Public Library, County of Ventura California Room in Ventura, Community Presbyterian Church in Ventura, Ventura Church of Christ, Buenaventura Mobile Home Estates in Ventura)
Walk With Ease (Fillmore Active Adult Center)

Oprah Winfrey Delivers Inspiring Keynote Address at Cottage Health’s Annual Medical Staff Dinner

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health was honored to welcome world-renowned global media leader, producer, actress, author and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey as the keynote speaker at its Annual Medical Staff Dinner. Winfrey delivered a compelling address on the profound impact of the human connection between healthcare professionals and their patients.

Winfrey set the tone for an evening of reflection and appreciation for the significant role physicians play in the lives of patients with a powerful quote on doctoring by physician and professor Francis Peabody, who once said, “For the secret of the care of the patient is in caring for the patient.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Illuminating the benefits of marine protected areas for ecotourism, and vice versa’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 30, 2023 • Comments Off

Research in California’s Northern Channel Islands provides strong evidence of the benefit of marine protected areas for the recreational scuba diving industry in Southern California and highlights that the diving community should be considered a key stakeholder in decision-making about the future of MPAs.

People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) receives $5,000 Gift from The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County for its Emergency Assistance Fund

by Community Contributor • November 29, 2023 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has received $5,000 from The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County as a part of the Foundation’s ‘Opportunity to Thrive Initiative’.
This generous award will support PSHH residents in San Luis Obispo County through the Emergency Assistance Fund, which will provide emergency financial support for medical, food and utilities to residents in deep need. Funds are utilized when all other potential resolutions and community resources have been exhausted. Each year, thousands of dollars are distributed to those facing urgent financial emergencies.

“Our thanks go to The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County,” said Ken Trigueiro CEO & President, “With this incredible gift, residents can feel safe and secure at home and within their neighborhoods no matter what challenges they may be facing.”

State Assemblymember Bennett secures $500,00 from state budget for Meiners Oaks Park

by Community Contributor • November 29, 2023 • Comments Off

MEINERS OAKS — Assemblymember Steve Bennett, in partnership with Senator Monique Limón, secured $500,000 from the State Budget to create a community park in Meiners Oaks. The 2-acre county-owned parcel is located on 312 E. El Roblar Drive, Meiners Oaks, CA. The current design concept features native vegetation, interpretive education, and social gathering areas. A check presentation is being coordinated with Supervisor LaVere’s office for early 2024.

“Open space has been at the heart of my work since I entered public office. I’m pleased to preserve more public spaces for Meiners Oaks, and deeply grateful to our partners who helped make this happen,” said Assemblymember Bennett.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Core textbook on computer music distills ‘vast information space’ in a definitive tutorial’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 21, 2023 • Comments Off

An updated and expanded edition of Curtis Rhodes’ work maintains its volume as a seminal textbook.

District 216 — WEEK OFF: Enjoy Your Thanksgiving Holiday, See You Next Week!

by Community Contributor • November 20, 2023 • Comments Off

RECAP – Unveiling the Mysteries of Microdosing: A Dive into the Neuroscience of LSD with Dr. Conor Murray

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

2023 State of the County: A Triumph in Safety and Progress
Celebrating 150 years as a County, on November 2nd, community members gathered at the iconic Ronald Reagan Presidential Library for the State of the County address by CEO Dr. Sevet Johnson. In a visionary speech, Dr. Johnson delivered an update on the County’s programs, initiatives and future endeavors.

Dr. Johnson also proudly highlighted the County’s achievements and distinction as not only fiscally healthy but as the “safest large county in the State of California.”

Cottage Children’s Medical Center Hosts Holiday Toy Drive

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Children’s Medical Center (CCMC) is hosting its annual holiday toy drive to bring some extra joy to pediatric patients during the holiday season and throughout the year. The community is encouraged to participate in the toy drive by donating new, unwrapped toys, games and supplies for activities.

There are three ways to participate in the holiday toy drive:

In-Person Drop-Off: Purchase toys and drop-off the unwrapped gifts at the front entrance of Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (400 W. Pueblo St.) on Tuesday, December 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Wednesday, December 20 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Contactless Delivery: Purchase toys, supplies and gift cards through our wish list at MyRegistry.com by searching for Cottage Children’s Medical Center.

Donate: Make a monetary contribution to help purchase toys by visiting cottagechildrens.org/cmn/donate

UCSB — The Current — A ‘Paris Agreement’ for plastic could slash plastic pollution to almost zero and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

A comprehensive new analysis leverages AI to lay out how a UN plastics treaty — currently under negotiation — can achieve nearly zero plastic waste by 2040. Without intervention, say scientists, plastic pollution is set to rise 60% by 2050.

Caring Together Santa Barbara County — November is National Family Caregivers Month

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — Caring Together Santa Barbara County (CTSBC) and its partner organizations are observing National Family Caregivers Month during the month of November. This month we recognize the people who lovingly care for a loved one, friend, or neighbor.

“Family caregivers provide love and support to their older parents, spouses and other loved ones. They are the unsung heroes who are managing medications, preparing meals, helping with bathing and dressing, and assisting with other daily activities. It is one of the most important jobs they will ever have, but it can be one of the most difficult,” says De Rosenberry, Senior Services Program Director at Family Service Agency.

Bilingual report — November News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

Dear Friend,
Previously living in an unheated trailer, with no running water or basic sanitary amenities, this month a family of seven moved into PSHH affordable housing. These are the moments we work for, these are the significant victories where we can all pause and celebrate.

And while despite our collective best efforts, the scale of the housing crisis seems only to increase, for those who do not have the assurance of a safe and comfortable place to call home, our work continues.

The upcoming weeks give us so many opportunities to express our gratitude. So, whether you are a fellow houser, a funder, a policy maker, a developer, an elected official, a voter, a donor, or any one of the myriad partners needed to bring solutions to the over 15,000 people patiently waiting on our housing lists, during this season of thankfulness, I want express my appreciation for your dedication and service.

Ventura County Fire Awarded Grant to Enhance Child Passenger Safety

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) received an $86,880 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to educate the community on preventing motor vehicle injuries to children, the agency announced (Nov. 15).

This funding will support VCFD’s mission to raise awareness and educate the community on preventing motor vehicle injuries to children. The grant will facilitate a range of vital initiatives aimed at enhancing child passenger safety within Ventura County.

The California Office of Traffic Safety’s investment in our community underscores the shared commitment to protecting our youngest residents while traveling on our roadways.

“Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our community,” stated Fire Chief Dustin Gardner. “This grant will help us strengthen our initiatives in child passenger safety and raise awareness about the importance of properly securing children in vehicles.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘A ‘fish cartel’ for Africa could benefit the countries, and their seas’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2023 • Comments Off

By organizing and selling access to their fisheries as a unit, African nations can make more from their fisheries on the global market, while protecting their seas’ biodiversity.

Bilingual report — Fallen Firefighters to be Remembered at Ventura County Memorial

by Community Contributor • November 9, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The fire agencies of Ventura County will come together to pay tribute to the firefighters who have lost their lives in service to community members. The annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial remembrance will be hosted on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the Ventura County Government Center, located at 800 S. Victoria Avenue.

This year, the name of Ventura City Firefighter-Paramedic Matthew Clapsaddle will be added to the roll call of the fallen.

Clapsaddle, 59, passed away on August 20, 2022. He served the Ventura City Fire Department for 28 years. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and son, Tanner.

“As Matt’s name is etched in stone, our hearts continue to ache at losing our teammate and friend. Matt was an energetic mentor, infusing our fire family with his boundless joy and unwavering excitement for life,” shared Fire Chief David Endaya. “Matt’s sacrifice and dedication serve as a lasting testament to the valor of our firefighting community.”

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