Category: Health

Ventura County nurses and health care professionals call on Board of Supervisors to address recruitment, retention, and staffing concerns

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2023 • Comments Off

Registered nurses and health care professionals who work for the Ventura County Health System will speak out about their concerns over patient safety, the lack of recruitment and retention of experienced nurses, and the problem of chronic short staffing during the Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, March 14, the California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU) announced on March 10.

“Throughout the Covid pandemic Ventura County nurses and health care professionals have been on the front lines providing the care our community depends on,” said Gina Parcon, an ICU nurse at Santa Paula Hospital. “But we are seeing too many of our experienced nurses leave our hospitals for nearby facilities with better compensation and better working conditions. Now we are calling on Ventura County to stand with us as we negotiate a contract that will improve patient care and demonstrate the respect that nurses and health care professionals deserve so that we can stop this revolving door.”

County of Ventura Medical Examiner’s Office — Special Report: 2022 Fatal Overdoses

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2023 • Comments Off

2,091 deaths were reported to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office during the 2022 calendar year. Jurisdiction was accepted for 1090 of these deaths, requiring further investigation and certification. Postmortem examinations were performed on 799 cases. Of the cases investigated, 278 deaths were due to overdose with medications, alcohol and or illicit drugs.

Of the 278 overdose deaths, 253 were accidents, 18 were suicides and seven deaths were of undetermined manner. Of these overdose deaths, men accounted for 206 deaths (74%) and women accounted for 72 deaths (26%).

City of Santa Paula Secures Grants for Transportation and Broadband Improvements

by Community Contributor • March 9, 2023 • Comments Off

The City of Santa Paula continues to invest staff time and research in its grant application efforts to supplement the City’s budget. As a result of these efforts, the City received a $1.5 million Transportation Development Act (TDA) grant from the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) to expand the City’s cycling infrastructure. Additionally, Santa Paula was awarded a $192,050 grant through the California Public Utilities Commission’s Local Agency Technical Assistance (LATA) Program to develop a citywide broadband master plan.

“These grants represent a significant step forward in our efforts to make Santa Paula a more vibrant and sustainable City,” said Mayor Andy Sobel. “The new bike infrastructure and broadband master plan will help us advance modernization efforts and offer benefits for residents and visitors to enjoy. I am excited to see these projects come to life and appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation during their implementation.”

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan Appoints Dr. Felix Nuñez its New Chief Medical Officer

by Community Contributor • March 3, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) on March 2 announced the appointment of Dr. Felix Nuñez as its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO), effective immediately.

Dr. Nuñez is an accomplished board-certified family physician and health care leader who brings to Ventura County the experience and expertise gained over more than 25 years of leadership in managed care and health care delivery. A proud native Angeleno and Mexican-American, Dr. Nuñez is passionate about improving health care access and quality of care for underserved and vulnerable populations.

“Dr. Nuñez is an innovator and creative problem solver, a thought and action leader, and above all, his work is dedicated to the communities we serve,” said Nick Liguori, GCHP’s chief executive officer. “We are honored to have him join our executive team and look forward to his leadership as the Medi-Cal program evolves to serve the broad needs of its most vulnerable populations.”

***

CAMARILLO – – Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) anunció el 2 de marzo el nombramiento del Dr. Felix Nuñez como su nuevo Director Médico (CMO, por sus siglas en inglés), con efectos inmediatos.

El Dr. Nuñez es un experto médico de familia certificado por la junta y líder en atención de salud que aporta al Condado de Ventura la experiencia y conocimientos adquiridos a lo largo de más de 25 años de liderazgo en atención administrada y prestación de salud. Orgulloso de ser nativo de Los Angeles y mexicano-estadounidense, al Dr. Nuñez le apasiona mejorar el acceso a la atención médica y la calidad de atención para las poblaciones desatendidas y vulnerables.

“El Dr. Nuñez es un innovador y una persona creativa en la resolución de problemas, un líder de pensamiento y acción, y sobre todo, su tarea está dedicada a las comunidades a las que servimos”, dijo Nick Liguori, director ejecutivo de GCHP. “Para nosotros es un honor que se una a nuestro equipo ejecutivo y estamos deseosos de su liderazgo conforme evoluciona el programa de Medi-Cal para servir las necesidades amplias de sus poblaciones más vulnerables”.

Ventura County nurses and health care professionals to hold vigil at 6 p.m. Feb. 28 highlighting issues that jeopardize patient care

by Community Contributor • February 28, 2023 • Comments Off

Registered nurses and healthcare professional who work with the County of Ventura will hold a vigil at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, to demand county management address ongoing staffing and retention problems which have intensified over the past few months and jeopardize patient care, announced California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU) today.

“Nurses and health care professionals have been demanding that county administrators address staff recruitment and retention problems,” said Gina Parcon, and ICU RN at Santa Paula Hospital. “The current nursing and health care staff is stretched beyond our limits and yet is continuously being asked to do more and more with less resources and people. We know the County of Ventura has the resources to provide for safe staffing levels and provide compensation and benefits that will attract a new generation of nurses and health care worker talent for this community. Then we can provide the best and safest possible patient care.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Health, Ventura Coast Milk Bank, Breastfeeding Coalition Of Ventura County, And University Of California Health Milk Bank Partner To Bring First Milk Depot To Ventura County

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2023 • Comments Off

Recently, a group of non-profit and government partners hosted an inaugural milk collection event to kick-off the opening of the first Milk Depot in Ventura County, located at the North Oxnard Women Infant and Children Program (WIC) site.

The Women Infant and Children Program (WIC) within Ventura County Public Health, a department of the Ventura County Health Care Agency, Ventura Coast Milk Bank, the Breastfeeding Coalition of Ventura County (The Breastfeeding Coalition), and University of California Health Milk Bank (UC Health Milk Bank) collaborated to locally implement a program that will supply premature and medically ill infants with human donor milk.

County of Ventura News Update for Feb. 24, 2023

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2023 • Comments Off

Storm Update

A winter storm has been forecast to bring heavy rain and snowfall through Saturday, February 25. Evacuation warnings have been issued by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services for the areas of concern in the County.

For updated incident information, please visit www.vcemergency.com.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Winter Storm Warning, Big Strides to Fight Climate Change

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2023 • Comments Off

Winter weather conditions are forecast for Santa Barbara County starting 2/21/23 through the weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for coastal areas from Point Conception to the San Marcos Pass, effective from 2/21/23 at 6 p.m. to 6 am on 2/22/23. A Winter Storm Warning was also issued by the National Weather Service for the county’s interior mountains and is in effect from 2/22/23 at 4 am to 4 pm on 2/25/23.

Extreme cold temperatures, continued wind, and rain are possible through the weekend. Snow levels are forecast for lower elevations and may impact transportation routes including potentially Highway 154 and Highway 166 (Cuyama area). The lowest snow levels in the county are forecast to be roughly 1,500 feet for interior mountains and the Cuyama Valley. Countywide the snow level is forecast to be 2,000 feet-2,500 feet. This weather system will also bring very cold temperatures throughout the county. Gale force winds are also expected at sea. More weather forecast information is available at: https://www.weather.gov/lox/

Precautions and tips to stay safe:
Be careful when driving through wet and potentially snowy road conditions. Roads may be slippery. Drive slowly and be careful. When possible avoid routes that may be impacted by winter weather.
Strong winds can cause power outages. Charge important electronic devices and be prepared in case an unannounced power outage occurs.
Secure belongings that could get impacted by strong winds such as outdoor furniture.
Take care of those who might not be aware of the cold weather hazard or be able to react accordingly – especially the elderly, young children, and pets.
Avoid areas and roadways that appear to be flooding.
Be aware of your surroundings and travel routes. Leave the area if you don’t feel safe and conditions permit safe travel.

Bennett legislation to protect community drinking water sources

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) announced legislation (on Feb. 21) to strengthen the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) and protect drinking water supplies for communities.

AB 1563 would require agencies that issue water well permits, generally county governments, to acquire sign off from the local groundwater sustainability agency prior to issuing the permit.

“There is a loophole in our system. Groundwater Sustainability Agencies are responsible for managing their basins and reaching sustainable pumping levels by 2040. However, those agencies do not have the authority to determine if new wells in their basin are consistent with the sustainability plans. Counties and other permitting agencies typically issue ministerial “over the counter” permits without reviewing for consistency with the plan,” said Assemblymember Bennett.

Ventura County Disaster Recovery Center Changes Location

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Disaster Recovery Center will be open in a new location starting today, February 21, so residents who were affected by the severe storms and flooding can update their FEMA applications.

UCSB — The Current — ‘The Sum of Its Plants’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

Ecologist Leander Anderegg receives an award for research on the interplay between plant physiology and ecosystem dynamics.

Mitchell Rosenberg named agent of the year

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

SAN FERNANDO — A longtime leader in the region’s financial services sector received the prestigious Agent of the Year Award by the San Fernando Valley General Office of New York Life. It is the fifth time in eight years that…

Bilingual report — VCFD Awards Recognize Community Heroes

by Community Contributor • February 17, 2023 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Fire Department honored 59 people today for their outstanding service in support of public safety during the 26th annual VCFD Awards.

“Each of the people honored today rose to the occasion to enhance public safety in our community,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “They exemplify excellence. And some went far, far above expectations to save lives. They are role models and inspirations for all of us to emulate.”

Captain Zach Trottier, Engineer Logan Hershman, Firefighter Austyn Frailey and Ventura County Sheriff’s Deputy Austin Whittaker received Medals of Valor for saving a 16-year-old girl and her mother, who were being attacked by six Cane Corso mastiffs and a Pitbull mix in Thousand Oaks. The Medal of Valor is the highest honor the department bestows.

Bilingual report — Be a Hero: Plant Trees with the City of Santa Paula to Celebrate Arbor Day!

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2023 • Comments Off

The City of Santa Paula is excited to begin its annual celebration of Arbor Day this March! The City is planning a month of celebration with fun-filled events that promote tree planting efforts throughout the community. The City invites residents to “Plant a Tree, Be a Hero” and participate in the upcoming ceremonies.

“Arbor Day is an opportunity for us to come together as a community and celebrate the vital role trees play in our environment, our health and our daily lives,” said Parks and Recreation Director Greg Barnes. “We are proud to be hosting a month-long celebration of Arbor Day this March and invite everyone to join us in planting, learning about and appreciating the beauty and benefits of trees.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Toward Fatter Understandings’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2023 • Comments Off

Feminist studies postdoctoral scholar Caleb Luna centers fat experiences in cultural critique through research, podcast and poetry.

Observing National Caregivers Day 2023 (on Feb 17)

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2023 • Comments Off

National Caregivers Day, observed on February 17 this year, honors individuals who selflessly provide personal care, and physical- and emotional support to those who need it most. Caregivers can be family members, friends or professionals. Some of them are not paid for their role, which is why it is important to recognize and thank them.

Here are some interesting facts about caregivers:

Nearly one in five Americans are providing care to an older adult, such as a parent.

Many people providing care find themselves in a situation with little training or support. The good news is that there are supportive services that will help caregivers adjust and find resources.

FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Centers closing this week in SLO, Santa Barbara, remaining open in Santa Maria, Ventura

by Community Contributor • February 13, 2023 • Comments Off

Two FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Centers will permanently close this week:

February 14th – 7:00pm

Veterans Hall

801 Grand Street

San Luis Obispo

February 15 – 7:00pm

Direct Relief

6200 Wallace Becknell Road

Santa Barbara

Bilingual commentary — Is the Pandemic “Over”?

by Community Contributor • February 10, 2023 • Comments Off

For many people there never was a pandemic. They have carried on with their lives wondering what all the fuss was about. After all, wasn’t COVID-19 simply a hoax foisted on us by the liberals? If those who claimed this had the misfortune of becoming infected with the virus after not being vaccinated, they often demanded that ivermectin be administered to them. After all, that’s what their “research” or a talk show host told them was the appropriate response. Health professionals beg to differ and usually refuse the request for ivermectin.

For those at the other extreme, the pandemic continues in full swing. They continue to social distance, wear masks, avoid crowds, and pretty much isolate themselves as much as possible.

Community Environmental Council Welcomes New Staff and Board Members, Elects New Slate of Board Officers

by Community Contributor • February 10, 2023 • Comments Off

The Community Environmental Council (CEC) continues to expand upon its mission to tackle pressing climate impacts across California’s Central Coast region, and recently welcomed five new staff members and one new board member to its growing roster. In addition, the Board elected a new slate of Ocers.

New to the Board this year is Christopher Knowlton, former staff writer and London Bureau Chief for Fortune Magazine and the retired president of Knowlton Brothers Inc. See bio below. CEC’s Board of Directors is composed of 16 community leaders with a diverse breadth of experience in business management, non-profit governance and financial oversight, providing strong direction and leadership to help CEC fulfill its mission.

FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center opens in Ventura

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2023 • Comments Off

A new FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Ventura County, where residents who were affected by the severe storms and flooding can register for assistance, update their FEMA application and learn about state and county programs or other community resources available.

Cottage Health Appoints Lorenzo Olivarez Jr., Vice President of Finance

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2023 • Comments Off

Following a national search, Cottage Health has named Lorenzo Olivarez Jr. to the role of Vice President of Finance.

Olivarez most recently served as Division Chief Financial 0fficer/Sr. Vice President at Baptist St. Anthony’s Health System in Amarillo, TX, where he oversaw financial management of multiple medical centers, clinics and physician groups and was recognized as Ardent CFO of the Year.

“We welcome Lorenzo to Cottage Health and Santa Barbara,” Kristin Tufvesson, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, said. “His extensive knowledge of healthcare finance and proven leadership experience will be instrumental in providing oversight and strategic direction to ensure Cottage Health’s fiscal responsibility and continue strong financial stewardship to help grow programs and services for the community. We are very fortunate to have him in this important leadership position.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — NEW COVID-19 Prevention Non-Emergency Regulations

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2023 • Comments Off

On December 15, 2022, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board voted to adopt non-emergency COVID-19 prevention regulations. These regulations took effect on February 3, 2023 and will remain in effect for two years after the effective date, except for the recordkeeping subsections that will remain in effect for three years.

These regulations include some of the same requirements found in the COVID-19 Prevention Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS), as well as new provisions aimed at making it easier for employers to provide consistent protections to workers and allow for flexibility if changes are made to guidance in the future from the California Department of Public Health.

Note: These regulations apply to most workers in California who are not covered by the Aerosol Transmissible Diseases standard.

Hospice of Santa Barbara Shares Ways to Navigate Valentine’s Day for Those Who Have Lost a Romantic Partner

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2023 • Comments Off

It is the time of year for pink and red balloons, heart-shaped candies and chocolates, stuffed animals, and bouquets of roses. It is a day meant to celebrate loving someone and being loved. However, for those grieving a lost loved one, holidays such as Valentine’s Day may bring up difficult emotions and memories of a romantic partner who has passed away.

Whether it is the first Valentine’s Day without your loved one, or several years without them, it is natural to miss them during this holiday. A variety of emotions may surface and that is okay. It is natural to feel overwhelmed, lost, confused, angry, guilty, and sad.

Hospice of Santa Barbara understands navigating a holiday centered on love and unity can be especially difficult for those who are grieving. The following tips can help you cope with the loss of your special someone.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency battles a growing problem of illegal dumping that costs taxpayers millions of dollars in clean-up costs

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2023 • Comments Off

Illegal dumping is a serious problem for the communities in Ventura County. Waste poses an environmental threat to both humans and wildlife. Illegal dumping, along with a $3,000 fine plus clean-up costs and community service, can be avoided by locating the proper information on disposal and recycling options. Ventura County Public Works Agency’s “Don’t Dump On Me, VC!” campaign encourages the community to keep Ventura County beautiful by providing information on simple and easy ways to dispose of waste.

Eric Seale Joins Cottage Health Board of Directors

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2023 • Comments Off

Eric Seale has joined the volunteer Board of Directors for Cottage Health, a not-for-profit leader in providing advanced medical care to California’s Central Coast region.

Seale is a managing partner at Accufy Analytics, a financial software firm specializing in renewable energy financing structures. He holds a master’s degree in finance from the MIT Sloan School of Management in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and computer science from Princeton University in New Jersey.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura News update for Feb. 3

by Community Contributor • February 3, 2023 • Comments Off

FEMA Individual Assistance for Storm Recovery Efforts

The January storms resulted in widespread damage across Ventura County, prompting Sheriff Jim Fryhoff to sign a Proclamation of Local Emergency. This proclamation was later ratified by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors and sent to the California Governor requesting his support for the Major Disaster Declaration. Subsequently, and with unanimous support of local congressional delegates, a Major Disaster Declaration was authorized by President Biden, to include Ventura County. This Major Disaster Declaration is key to activating various disaster assistance programs for residents, businesses and public agencies. As a result of those efforts, we are excited to announce that Ventura County has been awarded a Major Disaster Declaration and area residents may be eligible for FEMA Individual Assistance, as well as assistance from other state and federal agencies.

How to apply:

Save the Date: Santa Barbara’s Flagship Earth Day Festival Returns to Alameda Park April 29 and 30, 2023

by Amigos805.com • February 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Two-day festival includes the longest running green car show in the U.S. SANTA BARBARA — After a three-year hiatus, Earth Day returns to Alameda Park on Saturday, April 29 from 11am to 7pm and Sunday, April 30 from 11am to…

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Upcoming events in VC!

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2023 • Comments Off

The Center for Economic Research and Forecasting (CERF) at California Lutheran University will present the latest Ventura County economic forecast at the County’s premier networking event. CERF will provide in-depth analysis of the county’s economic performance through COVID-19 and into the post-pandemic environment. CERF will also present its award-winning forecasts for the United States and California. The event will provide important context for individuals and organizations operating in the current policy environment. Featured speakers will include: Kimberly Strassel, member of The Wall Street Journal editorial board, and Matthew Fienup, Executive Director of CERF.

CLU School of Management — Announcing the Keynote Speaker & Panelists!

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Susana Cruickshank
President of the Centre for International Cooperation and Public Management Studies (CECIG)
Susana Cruickshank currently directs the civil society organization Centre for International Cooperation and Public Management Studies (CECIG), where she works on projects that accompany the day laborer population in the states of Morelos and San Luis Potosí and, as part of the “National Network of Day Labourers and Agricultural Day Labourers,” in Oaxaca, Sinaloa, Guanajuato, Chiapas, Guerrero, and other states. Her work at CECIG includes extensive research to produce comprehensive diagnoses and proposals on agricultural day laborers’ living, working, and wage conditions.

Bilingual report — Cottage Health Launches Spanish Virtual Care

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2023 • Comments Off

To help increase access to care, Cottage Health is excited to announce that Cottage Virtual Care is now offered in Spanish. Launching today for California residents, Cottage Virtual Care – Spanish is always open, offering 24/7 coverage for virtual care visits.

Anyone can visit cottagehealth.org/atencion-virtual using a smartphone, tablet or computer to start a visit in Spanish. Patients start by creating an account and entering their symptoms and health information. Choose from an online interview or have a video consultation with a Cottage Health provider. Within an hour, users receive a treatment plan, and – if needed – prescriptions are automatically sent to a pharmacy of choice.

January/February 2023 Friendly Finch Friendship Center’s Bi-Monthly Newsletter

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Dear Families & Friends,

As we embrace the new year… I always choose a word to set my intentions and expectations for the year ahead, in 2023 my word is “Imagine.” Not just because I love the Beatles and John Lennon, however “Imagine” is a reflection on 2022 and hopes for the year 2023.

“Imagine all the people…”
I have high hopes for this new year. 2023 is the year of reconnection and to “come together” after all these difficult times due to the pandemic. I’m so thrilled that once again our Festival of Hearts will be an “in person” event after a two-year hiatus. I believe there have been missed opportunities and we’re hungry for this reconnection. It seems as though we used to ‘meet-up’ more often and we were always going from point A to B. As crazy as this may sound I kind of miss it. We are back in the world, needing to reconnect. This year I believe is the time to reassess how we do that and what type of world we truly want to be part of.

UCSB — The Current — ‘A Forest Journey’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2023 • Comments Off

Now expanded, redesigned and re-released, John Perlin’s book details the inextricable link between civilization and forests.

California unveils bold plan to sustainably manage pests and eliminate high-risk pesticides by 2050

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2023 • Comments Off

State leaders on Jan. 26 unveiled a roadmap of ambitious goals and actions to accelerate California’s transition to sustainable pest management and eliminate prioritized high-risk pesticides by 2050. The Sustainable Pest Management Roadmap for California (SPM Roadmap) was developed by a cross-sector Work Group of stakeholders facilitated by the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) with the California Environmental Protection Agency (CALEPA) and the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). It charts a course toward sustainable pest management in agricultural and urban settings. Documents available at https://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/sustainable_pest_management_roadmap/

Bilingual report — County of Ventura announces new scholarship for EV workforce development

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2023 • Comments Off

Ventura County Regional Energy Alliance (VCREA) and Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition (C5) are pleased to announce the “Power Your Future” Scholarship, open to all state-certified general electricians in the central coast tri-county region.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors ratify declaration of local emergency for Ventura County following winter storms

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2023 • Comments Off

On Tuesday, Jan. 24, the Board of Supervisors, voted to ratify the proclamation of a local emergency put forth by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services in order to provide assistance to residents in relation to the storms that affected the county beginning on January 8. The vote to ratify occurred following the date of the proclamation since the Board was not in session on the date the proclamation was authored.

“We are hopeful that our county will soon receive approval from FEMA for the Individual Assistance Program,” said Patrick Maynard, Director of Emergency Services. “This program is vital to supporting residents through the recovery process. The Individual Assistance Program provides several types of help to residents including temporary rental assistance as well as funding for debris removal and repairs. We are working closely with our federal elected representatives to advocate on behalf of Ventura County to ensure residents receive the assistance they need.”

Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program Announces New Group for LGBTQ+ Community

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2023 • Comments Off

Livingston is pleased to announce a new free 10-week grief support group program for our LGBTQ+ community. The group will meet every Tuesday from February 7th through April 11th. The group will meet in person at our Camarillo Grief Center. Please contact Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program for reservations at 805-389-6870 or online at lmvna.org/grief. Space is limited.

Congressman Salud Carbajal Visits Ventura Port District to Survey Winter Storm Damage

by Community Contributor • January 25, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — California Congressman Salud Carbajal, U.S. Representative of California’s 24th District, visited the Ventura Port District recently to survey the impacts of the early January Atmospheric River Rain Events to the Ventura Harbor area. In the past weeks, severe winter…

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — Grants available for Thousand Oaks seniors, households affected by the Thomas Fire

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2023 • Comments Off

Join VCCDC and the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council to learn about grants that can help seniors living in the areas of Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park and Westlake Village and households impacted by the Thomas Fire with home improvements to prepare their home for wildfires including screening vents, clearing vegetation, tree trimming, gutter cleaning and more!

WORKSHOP DETAILS:
DATE/TIME: Thursday, January 26th @ 6pm
LOCATION: Online (receive link once you register)

SBCC’s The Bridge Newsletter — January 2023

by Community Contributor • January 23, 2023 • Comments Off

Newly elected trustees Ellen Stoddard and Dr. Charlotte Gullap-Moore (pictured in center, left to right) were sworn into the SBCC Board of Trustees by their retiring predecessors, Dr. Peter Haslund and Kate Parker, at the Dec. 15 meeting of the Board. Each will serve a four-year term. Additionally, Jonathan Abboud (left) and Dr. Anna Everett (right) were elected president and vice president of the Board, respectively.
Read about the new trustees on the SBCC Board of Trustees web page.
Read the press release on the new Board appointments.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura News for Jan. 20, 2023

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2023 • Comments Off

Since the onset of the January 2023 storms, California has been working closely with federal partners to provide support to impacted communities. On January 8, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom requested a Presidential Emergency Declaration, which was approved by President Biden on January 9, 2023, to include Ventura County. The Presidential Emergency Declaration provides state and local assistance to providing emergency services, such as protecting lives and mitigating damage.

Following the Emergency Declaration, Ventura County continued to sustain damage from the January 9-10, storms that impacted public and private property. Considerable efforts to collect damage reports and conduct field assessments with state and federal partners are currently underway. Residents and business owners are asked to submit reports of damage or requests for assistance in hopes that Ventura County may also be included in a designation for Individual Assistance. Individual Assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — FEMA Assistant and Beach Closures

by Community Contributor • January 19, 2023 • Comments Off

There has been a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of California (FEMA-4683-DR) for severe winter storms was amended to include Santa Barbara County for individual assistance, debris removal, and emergency protective measures. Residents of Santa Barbara County will now be eligible to apply for Federal financial assistance, and public agencies will be eligible to seek reimbursement for debris removal. Public agencies had previously been eligible for reimbursement for costs associated with emergency protective measures.

Residents who incurred financial losses due to storm damage are encouraged to apply for assistance as soon as possible online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. An application for assistance can also be made by downloading the FEMA app in the Apple and Google store. This allows documents to be uploaded to FEMA directly and track the status of applications.

If you cannot live in your home at this time due to storm impact causing water damage, mold, mud, or inability to access your home, please make sure you include this in your application.

Friendship Center — Festival of Hearts 2023 — Online Preview Sale Starts Now!

by Community Contributor • January 18, 2023 • Comments Off

NEW this year:
‘Buy it Now’ at our
Heart Art & Experience Package
Preview Sale starting NOW!

Bilingual report — County of Ventura News update for Jan. 17

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2023 • Comments Off

January Storm Recovery Information

Since the onset of the January 2023 storms, the State of California has been working closely with federal partners to provide support to impacted communities. On January 8, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom requested a Presidential Emergency Declaration, which was approved by President Biden on January 9, 2023, to include Ventura County. The Presidential Emergency Declaration provides state and local assistance to providing emergency services, such as protecting lives and mitigating damage.

Bilingual report — Natalie Hernandez named new County Public Information Officer

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2023 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura is pleased to announce that Natalie Hernandez has been selected to serve as the Public Information Officer for the County Executive Office. The appointment was made by County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson following a lengthy search which included strong internal and external candidates.

Hernandez has over a decade of experience working in public relations, crisis communications, and event management across the public, private and nonprofit sectors. She comes to the role having served most recently as the Public Information Officer for the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and, prior to that, as the Assistant Public Information Officer for the County Executive Office.

“I am excited to have Natalie rejoin our team”, said County Executive Officer, Dr. Sevet Johnson. “Natalie’s extensive experience working with our diverse communities to share vital and important information will help enrich our service to the public.”

Bilingual commentary — The Closure of Camarillo State Hospital

by Community Contributor • January 11, 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 •…

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — All Evacuation Orders Are Lifted in Santa Barbara County

by Community Contributor • January 10, 2023 • Comments Off

First of all, I want to sincerely thank every single person who evacuated and otherwise followed guidance from safety officials regarding sheltering in place and staying off the roads. Because so many followed the orders, our first responders were able to focus their attention on those who most needed it. Thanks to your efforts there have been no fatalities or serious injuries reported.

Effective immediately, all evacuation orders are lifted for the Alisal, Cave, and Thomas fire burn scars and all of Montecito, Toro Canyon, Padaro, and Carpinteria. There are still restricted areas to allow for the draining of storm water and clearing of debris. In particular, North Jameson Lane will be closed from Sheffield to Olive Mill. Roads that are only accessible from Jameson will be accessible to residents only. Show proof of residency and safety officials will let you through.

UCSB — The Current — ‘A Multifaceted Sensation’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • January 10, 2023 • Comments Off

Researchers reveal an added layer of nuance in our sense of smell.

Friendship Center Festival of Hearts 2023 — ONLINE PREVIEW SALE coming Thursday!

by Community Contributor • January 10, 2023 • Comments Off

New for 2023 :we are having a Preview Sale so that you can peek at the fantastic heart art created by local artists and purchase any must have pieces before the live event at a set price – haggle free!

Also, a chance to purchase great auction packages, even if you cannot attend the live event.

The link to the sale will be sent via email on Thursday morning at 10am and you will have 2 weeks to shop before the live event.

Please keep your eyes peeled for the link Thursday morning, and happy shopping!

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Monday Storm Update

by Community Contributor • January 9, 2023 • Comments Off

Our County first responders held their 3rd emergency press conference Monday at 4 pm. I’ve included the video of the press conference below.

We expect heavy rain and potential thunderstorms overnight, with a high risk for flash flooding throughout Santa Barbara County and our neighboring counties. The request from our first responders is to please stay off the road unless you are evacuating or otherwise absolutely need to be. If you went to work today and must commute home, please do not attempt. Stay put for tonight. The northbound 101 freeway is closed from Highway 33 to Santa Claus Lane and again at the Gaviota tunnel, along with Highway 154 in both directions. The County has one emergency shelter open at the Wake Center located at 300 North Turnpike in the Eastern Goleta Valley between Goleta and Santa Barbara and is looking to open more. Please check the County of Santa Barbara’s social media and other news sources for updated emergency shelter information. You can also call 805-678-3073 for more Evacuation Center information.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Warnings Issued

by Community Contributor • January 9, 2023 • Comments Off

An evacuation warning has been issued for the Alisal, Cave, and Thomas Fire burn scars ahead of a projected storm coming in Monday evening. Public safety officials will be meeting tomorrow morning to make a decision on whether the warning will be elevated to an order. Stay alert and be prepared for the worst-case scenario.

If you are in a position where you are safe and secure, please consider joining our Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors for our installation ceremony during the first Board hearing of the year on Tuesday January 10th at 9am. During the ceremony, I will be installed as Chair for the 2023 Board of Supervisors and we will be celebrating the swearing in of recently elected County officials.

UCSB The Current — ‘Communication Breakdown’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • January 5, 2023 • Comments Off

The Pahl Initiative funds a two-year study of border-separated families.

Cottage Health Appoints Dr. Miriam Parsa to Chief Pediatric Medical Officer

by Community Contributor • January 5, 2023 • Comments Off

Cottage Health has appointed Dr. Miriam Parsa, a board-certified pediatrician and pediatric rheumatologist, to the role of Chief Pediatric Medical Officer.

As Chief Pediatric Medical Officer, Dr. Parsa will continue to help advance the development of pediatric services and community partnerships. She will also provide leadership in maintaining Cottage’s high standards of clinical quality and patient experience.

Dr. Parsa joined the Medical Staff of Cottage Health and the Cottage Children’s Medical Center in 2013 and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Rheumatology.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Issued

by Community Contributor • January 4, 2023 • Comments Off

An EVACUATION ORDER has been issued due to an incoming storm Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at 10 PM, with the potential to produce flooding and mud and debris flows. This EVACUATION ORDER is effective immediately and applies to the identified properties and parcels in and around the Alisal, Thomas, and Cave Fire burn scars.

Do not attempt to drive while it is dark or raining as roads may be damaged and your car may be swept away by moving water or debris.
Strong winds are also expected, which can cause debris to fall onto roadways and power outages.
BE PREPARED to sustain yourself and your household for multiple days if you choose not to evacuate, as you may not be able to leave the area and emergency responders may not be able to access your property in the event of road damage, flooding, or a debris flow.
For Evacuation Center information, contact the American Red Cross at 805-678-3073.
For animal evacuation information, call Santa Barbara County Animal Services at (805) 681-4332, Monday-Friday, from 8 am-5 pm.
If you need animal evacuation support outside those hours, please call the County Animal Services after-hours phone line at (805) 683-2724.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Weather Advisory

by Community Contributor • January 3, 2023 • Comments Off

A Weather Advisory has been issued for Montecito and the Thomas Fire burn area in preparation for another significant storm event this week. Heavy rain, strong winds, and high surf are expected in Montecito Wednesday into Thursday. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for our area through Thursday.

During a Weather Advisory, community members are urged to:
Monitor the weather.
Plan how to get out and where you might go.
Prepare and protect your home.

The Weather Advisory has been issued in light of the recent storms that have produced 8-13 inches of rain in the last 30 days, plus the forecast incoming storm that may produce 4-8+ inches of rain across Montecito and the Thomas Fire burn scar.

Bilingual report — $7.3M Payout Rewards Physician Excellence in Healthcare on Central Coast

by Community Contributor • January 3, 2023 • Comments Off

On March 1 of 2022, CenCal Health launched the Quality Care Incentive Program (QCIP) to maximize the quality of care for its health plan members on the Central Coast. QCIP is a value-based incentive program that directly rewards plan providers who deliver exceptional medical care in their community. After nine months, the innovative initiative has resulted in a distribution of over $7 million in payments to participating primary care providers (PCPs). QCIP emphasizes the clinical priorities of significance to CenCal Health members, such as diabetes and asthma care, breast cancer and cervical cancer screenings, and child and adolescent well-care visits. In Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, CenCal Health is the Medi-Cal plan that partners with over 1,500 local physicians, hospitals and other providers in delivering patient care to more than 225,000 members. Medi-Cal is the name of California’s Medicaid benefits program; the federal government administers Medicaid.

Cottage Health Welcomes New Year’s Baby

by Community Contributor • January 3, 2023 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital welcomed the first babies of the new year.

Por Soua (PAW-SHOO-UH) and Grayson Peters of Goleta welcomed their first child, a daughter, named Rose, into the world at 3:33 am today at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. Rose weighed 6 pounds, and was 18.75 inches in length.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Year’s End Review

by Community Contributor • January 3, 2023 • Comments Off

Throughout this year, we have witnessed modern-day war as there are continued attacks on Ukrainians and their sovereignty. We have all experienced the transition out of COVID-19 and continue to see its devastating effects on our mental, physical, and emotional health. This year we have also seen communities continuing to come together to work towards common goals, like the completion of the Randal Road Debris Basin. After two long years of a global pandemic, we finally gathered to celebrate fiestas, birthdays, and other community events. I have continued pushing and advocating for more housing and alternative transportation methods. As we enter 2023, I will continue to advocate for local community needs, help improve our infrastructure and stand up against injustice. Thank you for all your support. Best wishes and a Happy New Year from my family to yours.