Category: Health

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.

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)

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.

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.

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.

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.

Feb. 16 — CLU School of Management to present ‘Conference on Economic & Social Lives of Undocumented Immigrants on the Central Coast of California’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

According to the most recent information, some 104,000 undocumented immigrants live in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. Some 87,000 of this group have come from our neighboring country, Mexico (83%).

This conference unveils a comprehensive study of the socioeconomic profile of undocumented immigrants and their regional and statewide economic impacts. The economic impacts will be captured through gross regional products, labor income, employment, and tax revenue at local, state, and federal levels.

Sept. 26 — Bilingual report — Cottage Virtual Care Hosts Free Virtual Event in Spanish ‘Stay Healthy: When and Where to Go for Medical Care’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Virtual Care will host a free virtual event in Spanish titled “Stay Healthy: When and Where to Go for Medical Care” on Tuesday, September 26, from 6-7 p.m. This event will feature Maria Rivera, Nurse Practitioner with Cottage Virtual Care, and Cottage Health experts who will be available to share their expertise on different health care options.

During the event, Cottage will provide valuable insights into the differences between healthcare options such as urgent care, virtual care and the emergency department and why understanding these healthcare options is critical to seeking appropriate care. Attendees will gain the knowledge to help make informed decisions about their healthcare.

Sept. 29 — Bilingual report — Ventura County Fall Prevention Forum Set for In-Person Return

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — After being held virtually for the past three years, the annual Fall Prevention Forum – co-hosted by the Ventura County Elderly Fall Prevention Coalition, the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, and the City of Oxnard – will return to an in-person gathering at the end of September.

The 2023 forum – “Fall Back to the ‘70s” – will be held on Friday, September 29, at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center (800 Hobson Way). Registration will begin at 8 a.m., and the program will be held from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event is free to attend.

A Spanish translation service will be made available upon request. A free lunch will be provided.

Kaiser Permanente’s 2023 Rose Parade® Float Showcases ‘All of us for all of you’

by Community Contributor • December 30, 2022 • Comments Off

Kaiser Permanente’s 2023 Rose Parade® float theme, “All of us for all of you,” celebrates the impact that a connected, compassionate care team supported by research, technology, and innovation, can have on individuals and communities. This theme is depicted through the inspiring stories of the float participants riding and walking alongside the float. They are a combination of dedicated Kaiser Permanente physicians, nurses, and employees, and Southern California patients who have overcome health challenges.

This year, Kaiser Permanente’s 17th annual float entry embodies the 2023 Rose Parade presented by Honda theme, “Turning the Corner.” The parade theme celebrates the potential that each new year brings as we prioritize health. The 55-foot-long float features a series of real-life vignettes highlighting the ordinary and extraordinary moments made possible by next-generation care:

Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — Your support is needed!

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2022 • Comments Off

For over twenty years, our caring supportive service teams have responded with compassion, expertise, and a friendly smile to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to be at their best. Whether it’s a visit from a social worker, help with homework, or connections to the community, our counselors, educators, and advocates are alongside in moments of need.

Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association — Grief Support During The Holidays

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2022 • Comments Off

It’s that time of year when the expectations we place on ourselves can be unrealistic, especially when faced with the absence of a loved one. Livingston Memorial’s Grief and Bereavement Program can offer compassion and understanding during this difficult time of year. Livingston offers multiple support groups that focus on restorative activities, seeking meaning and purpose, identifying changes to self, and receiving support in making life good again.

Agromin Expects To Recycle Thousands Of Christmas Trees

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2022 • Comments Off

The weeks after Christmas are a busy time for green waste recycler Agromin. The Oxnard-based company will receive thousands of Christmas trees from local waste haulers in the weeks following Christmas.

Once the holidays are over, tree owners are asked to cut up their trees so limbs and branches fit in their green waste recycling barrel. Waste haulers will collect the trees on regular waste pick-up days and deliver them to Agromin.

December News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Thanks to your continued and generous support, we are encouraged to be ending 2022 strong! Though many challenges came along this year, there has been much to celebrate:

Construction Pipeline: Taking advantage of all possible solutions to the continuing housing crisis, we put 1,300 units into our pipeline. We built new units, substantially rehabilitated existing ones, and secured several new tracts for ‘self-help’ owner builders.
Creative Collaborations: The brick-and-mortar of construction is only part of the multi-faceted challenge of development. The quest for buildable land saw us creatively collaborating with state and local governments, private owners, and faith-based partners.

Friendship Center Adult Day Services Festival of Hearts 2023 call for sponsorship

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2022 • Comments Off

We are excited to be holding our biggest fundraiser event of the year in person again! This year we will also be hosting a preview event online, as well as the in-person event.

Thank you for considering sponsoring our Festival of Hearts event, raising funds for low income seniors through our HEART program (Helping Elders at Risk Today)- for those who want to attend our program and are in need of financial assistance.

Bilingual commentary — Restroom Blues on Our Public Transportation

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2022 • Comments Off

The past few months, I took it upon myself to become “greener.” I wanted to experience and learn about the public transportation system in our Ventura County region. The system we have is quite good. However, of course, it does not afford the innumerable and frequent options available in the massive systems of metropolises such as Los Angeles, New York, Mexico City, or Tokyo.

One of the great deficiencies of our bus system that I discovered is the lamentable lack of restrooms for passengers and for the bus drivers themselves. The transportation authorities seem to think that we don’t need them. Or possibly they think that our bladders are larger than they are. In any case, passengers are left to “make do,” so to speak, with whatever restroom facilities they can find and access.

Simi Valley Will Soon Become a Quiet Zone

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2022 • Comments Off

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) announced this morning at the Metrolink Station in Simi Valley that $4.5 million in funding was secured in the 2022/2023 State Budget for local improvements. The funding will allow completion of safety enhancements at the one remaining rail crossing that was not part of a previously approved and funded Southern California Optimized Rail Expansion (SCORE) Project.

“With this funding, trains passing through Simi Valley will no longer have to blow their horns creating a “Quiet Zone” while also improving safety,” said Assemblymember Irwin. “I am glad I was able to secure this funding for our community that will ensure that the safety of the public is prioritized and businesses and residents living adjacent to the tracks will no longer be disturbed by the sounding of train horns.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Centering LBTQ+ Women, Nonbinary Health’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2022 • Comments Off

Alison Cerezo leads a program evaluation team for California’s $17.5 million LBTQ Health Equity Initiative.

Ventura County Fire Dept. announces Prescribed Burn Pile Training

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2022 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Fire Department, in cooperation with Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) and the Ventura County Prescribed Burn Association (PBA) District will be conducting a small live fire training exercise on December 9th at a ranch located off of Hidden Valley Road in Thousand Oaks.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Rec Master Plan, Point in Time Count, Vaccinations and more

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2022 • Comments Off

The County of Santa Barbara Rec Masterplan Workshop
All are welcome to join a Virtual Public Workshop for Parks, Recreation, and Trails Planning for the County of Santa Barbara
Thursday, December 8 at 5:00 PM

The Comprehensive Plan provides goals and policies to guide land use and development, and the Land Use Development Code (LUDC) regulates development consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. This existing recreation policy framework is outdated and no longer reflects current and future parks, recreation, and trails needs.
The County is developing potential amendments to its recreation policy framework to guide the long-term provision of parks, recreation, and trails in unincorporated areas. These amendments will provide goals and policies for park and recreation projects and support for the implementation of the Countywide Recreation Master Plan, which is currently under development.

The County is seeking public participation in the development of new goals and policies for parks, recreation, and trails, including:
Parks serving local neighborhoods and communities
Sports fields and courts
Community centers and recreational facilities, including pools and aquatic centers
Trails for hiking, biking, and equestrians
Coastal access and beaches
Camping and low-cost overnight accommodations
Rural and agricultural recreation and agritourism
Equitable access & recreation for all
Sustainable recreation
Community health and active living
Public-private partnerships to support public recreation projects

We invite everyone receiving this notice to spread the word about this important opportunity to participate in recreation planning for the unincorporated areas of Santa Barbara County.

Historic $10.4 Million to Electrify Auto Terminal Will Make the Port of Hueneme the First West Coast Port to Offer All-Electric Plug-in Capable Wharfs

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2022 • Comments Off

The Port of Hueneme received $10.4 million in funding from Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) to help build shoreside power plug-in infrastructure on its North Terminal. The Port also recently received state and federal funding from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust to implement innovative technologies to increase electrification efforts, track air quality progress, and further reduce particulate matter. These environmental wins benefit the Port and its surrounding community.

Three Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Board Members Start New Terms

by Community Contributor • December 5, 2022 • Comments Off

Three incumbent Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) Board members were sworn in at the district’s November 28 board meeting to serve new four-year terms. Returning board members are Jane Nye, Janna Orkney and Ray Tjulander.

All three board members were scheduled to be up for re-election in November but since there were no additional candidates, state law states that in lieu of an election, incumbents who filed nomination papers are to be seated and serve new terms.

“I’m honored to continue to represent Triunfo Water & Sanitation District customers for another four years,” says Director Nye who has served on the board since 2020 and is currently board vice-chair. “We strive to protect the environment and maintain public trust and confidence as demonstrated by the Las Virgenes/Triunfo Pure Water Project. The Pure Water Project is an important step to assure that everyone in our community has a safe, drought-resilient and sustainable source of potable water.”

Two Channel Islands plant species reach recovery thanks to Endangered Species Act protections

by Community Contributor • November 30, 2022 • Comments Off

Two plants that live on California’s Channel Islands and nowhere else on earth – the Santa Cruz Island dudleya and island bedstraw – have reached recovery thanks to Endangered Species Act (ESA) protections. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is proposing to remove the two island plants from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants.

“The recovery of these island plants is the result of long-term cooperation and conservation efforts by scientists and land managers,” said Paul Souza, director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Pacific Southwest Region. “That’s what the ESA can bring to the table – attention, resources, and incentive for sustained conservation work that produces meaningful results.”

Rotary Club of Montecito awards grants to 11 community organizations

by Community Contributor • November 30, 2022 • Comments Off

The Rotary Club of Montecito Foundation has awarded a total of $11,000 to support the work of 11 Santa Barbara-area nonprofit organizations.

The grants awarded under the Foundation’s annual Community Grants Program were $1,000 each and go to organizations benefitting a wide range of constituents, including children, seniors, low-income families, and animals. All grants are funded by bequests and ongoing contributions from Rotary Club members.

“Rotary Club members are committed to raising funds for good causes, and supporting activities and projects that make our communities stronger,” said Montecito Rotary Club Foundation President Bruce McRoy. “These grants allow us to support a wide variety of services to our community and are a great example of the cooperative spirit that’s an essential part of Rotary’s work.”

Port of Hueneme Scores Big with EPA Receiving a $500,000 Grant for Air Quality Monitoring

by Community Contributor • November 29, 2022 • Comments Off

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently announced their selections for the American Rescue Plan Enhanced Air Quality Monitoring Competitive Grant. The Port of Hueneme was selected among 131 other projects, in 37 states, to receive a portion of the $53.4 million allocated to conduct air monitoring of pollutants in communities across the country with environmental and health outcome disparities stemming from pollution and the pandemic.

The EPA awarded the Port of Hueneme $500,000 for its “Ventura County Community Air Quality Monitoring Network” project that will expand the Port’s existing monitoring network by installing four air monitoring stations to better understand and communicate air pollution burden from freight and transportation networks in the Oxnard Plain.

UCSB — The Current — ‘A Legacy of Research’ and more news, events

by Amigos805.com • November 29, 2022 • Comments Off

As Sedgwick Reserve marks 25 years of groundbreaking science, an upcoming art show will benefit the UCSB Natural Reserve System.

Hasan Re-electeed to United Water Conservation District Board

by Community Contributor • November 28, 2022 • Comments Off

Mohammed A. Hasan, a longtime business and environmental leader in Ventura County has been re-elected to United Water Conservation District board.

The District boundary encompasses Lake Piru to Ventura harbor along the Santa Clara River valley, and the Oxnard coastal plain. The cities of Santa Paula, Fillmore, Oxnard and Port Hueneme, and the eastern part of the City of Ventura are part of the district. This public agency was formed 75 years ago, currently offices in North Oxnard. The district diverts surface water from the Santa Clara River, manages and serves groundwater to farmers and cities. More information is available at unitedwater.org

Cottage Health Sees Rise in Serious RSV Cases -Urges Caution Ahead of Holiday Gatherings

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2022 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage is seeing a significant increase in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases and urges the community to take precautions to protect those most at risk, especially infants and adults over 65 years of age, as holiday gatherings…

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Announces New Environmental Grant Program

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2022 • Comments Off

As part of its ongoing commitment to addressing climate change impacts and enhancing wildlife habitat, the County of Ventura is pleased to announce its new Environmental Grant Program. Schools, nonprofits, and community organizations can apply for funding to implement shovel-ready projects or activities that support wildlife habitat restoration, species conservation, environmental education and stewardship, and/or address climate change impacts. Eligible grant awards will receive up to $15,000.

Check out Friendship Center’s 2022 Veteran’s Day Celebration!

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2022 • Comments Off

Friendship Center hosted a private Veteran’s Day luncheon celebration on Thursday, November 10th honoring Friendship Center members who are veterans, and their families. The event was coordinated by Kim Larsen, Family Services Manager, and Sophia Davis, Development Director.

Cottage Health Honors 2022 Physicians of the Year

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2022 • Comments Off

Cottage Health has announced its 2022 Physicians of the Year Awards, which recognize physicians on the Medical Staff for exemplary performance.

Cottage Health staff members submit nominations every year to the Physicians Reward and Recognition Team. The selection of award honorees is based upon the most nominations in four criteria: dedication to the profession and patients, respect and courtesy, collaborative practices, and efficient use of resources.

“Nominations for the awards come from staff who work closely with the physicians,” said Dr. Ed Wroblewski, Vice President of Medical Affairs & Chief Medical Officer at Cottage Health. “All four physicians honored have earned high praise for the care and respect they give to patients and colleagues. They always strive to collaborate with staff to do what’s best for the patient.”

Bilingual report — Covered California Launches New Television Ad Campaign to Promote Enrollment and Encourage Californians to Sign Up for Quality Health Insurance

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2022 • Comments Off

Covered California launched its new television advertising campaign on Monday, to promote enrollment and encourage the uninsured throughout the state to sign up for quality health insurance. The multi-language campaign builds on the successful theme of “This Way to Health Insurance,” which has helped Covered California enroll a record-high 1.7 million people.

“Covered California is reaching out to our state’s diverse population to make sure all Californians know about the increased and expanded financial help that is available to help bring the cost of quality coverage within reach,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “We want to make sure people know that Covered California is here to help them get and pay for quality, brand-name health insurance.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Gallery ‘Game Day’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2022 • Comments Off

The annual MFA open studios at Harder Stadium offer a unique opportunity to see where artists work — and what they’re working on.

Cottage Health Hospitals Earn National Awards Hospitals in Santa Barbara and Goleta Valley receive “A” ratings from Leapfrog, while Santa Ynez Valley location earns 4-stars from Medicare

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2022 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital both received an “A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade for fall 2022 from the Leapfrog Group. The national distinction recognizes the two hospitals for achievements in protecting patients from preventable harm and errors.

“This Leapfrog award marks the third consecutive time that Cottage hospitals in Santa Barbara and Goleta Valley have earned the ‘A’ Safety Grade. We received the honors in fall 2021, spring 2022 and now fall 2022. This is a tremendous accomplishment made possible by the commitment of everyone in our organization to keep our patients safe,” said Dr. Babji Mesipam, Chief Medical Quality Officer for Cottage Health.

VCFD Awarded Grant to Increase Child Passenger Safety Awareness

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2022 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Ventura County Fire (VCFD) received a $74,210 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to educate the community on preventing motor vehicle injuries to children, the agencies announced today. In collaboration with Safe Kids Ventura County…

Bilingual commentary — The Decision To Become a Doctor

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2022 • Comments Off

A considerable number of children of immigrants decide to “do their family proud.” They decide to commit to studying medicine to become a doctor or dentist. Some of them are first-generation college students who become first-generation professionals.

Although their ambition and successes are admirable, the backgrounds of immigrants’ children may not thoroughly prepare them for the financial jolts they will receive along the way as medical professionals. It is entirely possible that no one in their family ever sat down with them and talked about that traditionally taboo topic: money. It is entirely conceivable that no one talked with them about financial planning because the parents and other relatives themselves had little money with which to plan much of anything.

Calls Mount for Advance Warning of Ag Pesticide Spray

by Community Contributor • November 8, 2022 • Comments Off

Dozens of farmworkers and their allies were scheduled to hold a news conference and rally prior to Monday’s California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) “workshop” on plans for a statewide pesticide notification system. The news conference, sponsored by the Coalition Advocating for Pesticide Safety 805 (CAPS 805), was held outside the site of the DPR workshop, the Oxnard Performing Arts Center (800 Hobson Way, Oxnard). CAPS 805 and allies are concerned that the County’s pilot notification system and DPR’s current draft plans will not serve the community without the address or farm location of the pesticide application, among other issues.

UCSB — The Current — ‘A Needle in a Coastal Haystack’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 8, 2022 • Comments Off

A tiny species known only from fossils is found alive in the tidepools of Santa Barbara.

Westminster Free Clinic and Care Center announces funding of $1.5M from the State of California to support their programs and services

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2022 • Comments Off

Westminster Free Clinic and Care Center received funding of $1.5M from the State of California to support their programs and services. Budget request was made by Assemblymember. Steve Bennett.

CSUCI selects early childhood center site, nears 50% funding mark

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2022 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands has chosen a site for construction of an early childhood center designed to address the dire need for quality, affordable and accessible care for children of CSUCI students, 40% of whom earn less than $24,000 a year, farm workers’ children in the region, and other community members, as well as for the children of University employees.

Mental Wellness Center Hires Resident Chef for its Fellowship Club Program

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2022 • Comments Off

Just a few short years ago, David Medina was looking at a future much different from where he is now. He and a friend had a plan to open a new restaurant in Santa Barbara. The funding was confirmed, and the restaurant was about to get off the ground when the pandemic hit, shutting down in-person eating and effectively derailing Medina’s plans.

Fortunately, Medina wasn’t one to sit at home waiting for another opportunity to present itself. He still had a skill set, and people still needed to eat; he just needed to figure out how to get his food to them.

Ventura County Fire Department Provides Matching Funds for Localized Fire Hazard Mapping Project

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2022 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Fire Department will provide $125,000 in matching funds to the Ojai Valley Fire Safe Council to support a localized fire hazard mapping project.

The county Board of Supervisors approved the funding Tuesday, Nov. 1, on a unanimous vote.

“The Ojai area is among the highest wildfire risk areas in the entire state,” said Board Chair Matt LaVere, who represents the Ojai area. “The 2017 Thomas fire and the many even larger wildfires throughout the state that have occurred since that time has shown us the significant role burning embers play in the astonishing speed at which these fires spread and threaten our communities.”

National Family Caregivers Month: A Time to Honor Those Caring for a Loved One

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2022 • Comments Off

National Family Caregivers Month – celebrated each November – is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness of caregiving issues, educate communities, and increase support for caregivers. If you are caring for an elderly or disabled loved one, know that you are not alone. Caring Together Santa Barbara County is a network of organizations here to support you.

Caring for family members affects persons from all walks of life. It is estimated that 80-85% of care provided is by family members. Whether the person receiving care is in the final stages of Alzheimer’s Disease or has another physical or cognitive impairment, the role of the caregiver is a challenge.

Livingston Memorial presenting Survivors of Suicide Loss Grief Support Group

by Community Contributor • October 27, 2022 • Comments Off

If you have experienced the loss of a loved one due to suicide, do not hesitate to join our Survivors of Suicide Loss grief support group. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program are committed to maintaining an open, accepting, confidential atmosphere. All are free of charge.

UCSB — The Current — ‘The Environmental Footprint of Food’ and more news

by Community Contributor • October 25, 2022 • Comments Off

Researchers map the environmental pressures of global production for all foods on land and ocean.

Eight more Clean Power Alliance Communities Choose 100% Green Power as their primary energy option to create a healthier and more sustainable future

by Community Contributor • October 24, 2022 • Comments Off

Seven cities and one county within Clean Power Alliance’s (CPA) service territory have chosen 100% Green Power as their default energy option this fall, making their communities and Southern California cleaner, healthier, and more resilient. CPA leads the nation in serving the most customers with 100% renewable energy.

Beginning this October, Beverly Hills, Camarillo, Claremont, Hawthorne, Redondo Beach, unincorporated Los Angeles County, and businesses in Rolling Hills Estates and South Pasadena are joining other CPA communities that have already established themselves as environmental champions by selecting 100% Green Power. CPA residential customers in Rolling Hills Estates and South Pasadena have been on the default option since 2019.

As a not-for-profit clean energy provider, CPA offers three default energy options to the many communities it serves: 100% Green (100% renewable energy), Clean (50% clean energy) and Lean (40% clean energy). With the addition of this year’s communities, 21 of the 32 communities CPA serves are now on 100% Green Power.

Jonathan Grunzweig Joins Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation Board

by Community Contributor • October 24, 2022 • Comments Off

Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation (SYVCHF) has elected a new member, Jonathan Grunzweig, to join the Board of Directors for 2022 and serve on its Finance & Investment Committee.

A resident of the Santa Ynez Valley since 2005, Mr. Grunzweig previously served as the Chief Investment Officer of DigitalBridge. He received a Bachelor of Arts from Cornell University and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School. Prior to his time at DigitalBridge, he was a partner at the Skadden Arps law firm in Los Angeles. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, he resides in Ballard with his family.

On 50th Anniversary, Community Environmental Council Launches Largest Capital Campaign in its History $15 Million “Protect Our Climate Campaign”

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2022 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Community Environmental Council (CEC) CEO/Executive Director Sigrid Wright on Oct. 20 announced the public launch of Protect Our Climate: CEC’s 50th Anniversary Reverse, Repair, Protect Campaign – a $15 million fundraising campaign that will bolster CEC’s work to confront the climate crises.

Until Thursday, the $15 million campaign had been in a quiet phase, during which CEC leadership ensured a strong foundation and resources for a successful campaign. The campaign comes at a pivotal time when state and federal climate policy is dramatically accelerating; the success of those laws depends on local and regional implementation. The action by the California Legislature and the federal government’s recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act provide the strongest tailwinds for climate progress that the United States has ever experienced.

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