Category: Health

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Alisal Fire Update & Air Quality Watch

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I know many are concerned about the growing Alisal Fire. The Board of Supervisors today proclaimed a local emergency and requested the Governor declare a state of emergency.  

Below I am sharing information Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann shared earlier today in addition to other recent updates.

The Alisal fire has burned 7,500 + acres, with zero percent containment. There are 800 firefighters responding. Information about evacuations orders and warnings are available below.

Highway 101 remains closed between Highway 1 and Winchester Canyon Road/Cathedral Oaks in both directions. Highway 154 is the alternate route, however expect significant delays on this route.

Please visit https://readysbc.org/alisal-fire/ for status updates on the fire, evacuation zones and road closures. En Español: https://readysbc.org/es/alisal-fire/

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Assemblymember Bennett’s bill increasing enforcement options on idle oil wells signed by the governor

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Legislation was signed this weekend that establishes additional authority at CalGEM to fine and remediate idle gas and oil wells and create options for companies who seek to work with the State on their unpaid fees. Governor Newsom signed AB 896 (Bennett) which authorizes CalGEM to impose a claim or lien on the idle well under specified conditions.

“The recent oil spill in Huntington Beach underscores the need for California to increase regulations on oil producers,” said Bennett. “I want to thank the Governor for signing my AB 896.  The bill  allows the state to pro-actively begin enforcement  before oil producers orphan a well. AB 896 strengthens our enforcement mechanisms and allows the state to recover cost for environmental damage before an operator files for bankruptcy.”

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Grant Program Championed by Assemblymember Irwin to Seize Weapons from Prohibited Persons Announces Open Application Window

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California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the opening of the application period for Gun Violence Reduction Program grants. Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin led a coalition of over 20 of her colleagues in the Assembly to secure this funding in the 2021 Budget Act. Funding will be awarded by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) to county sheriff’s departments to support activities related to seizing weapons and ammunition from individuals prohibited from possessing them.

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County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Oct. 11

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Since Friday, there are 253 new COVID-19 cases reported and 13,900 new tests performed. There are 54 people hospitalized, 4 in the ICU. There have been 0 additional deaths.

80.1% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
81.6% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
73.3% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Booster shot information
COVID test information (State sites closed on October 11)
Get your flu shot

www.vcrecovers.org

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Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Oct. 8, 2021

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Since Thursday, there are 82 new COVID-19 cases reported and 6,569 new tests performed. There are 57 people hospitalized, 10 in the ICU. There have been 0 additional deaths.

79.9% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
81.5% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
73.2% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC Legal Alert- COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Expires

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The requirement for employers to provide supplemental paid sick leave (SPSL) to employees expired on September 30, 2021. Read below to learn more about the recent changes on the federal, state and local levels.

Federal Update

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), which was extended through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) to allow employers to voluntarily continue to provide COVID-related SPSL and still receive the available tax credits, expired on September 30, regardless of whether an employee is on leave at the time of expiration.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Vaccination Verification for Entry in Los Angeles County

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In response to the ongoing community transmission of COVID-19 and the presence of the Delta variant, the new Los Angeles County Health Officer Order requires certain higher risk businesses to take additional steps to ensure the safety of their customers and employees, including verification of vaccination status prior to entry. 

Updated Health Officer Order Requirements 
For Los Angeles County Only

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Port of Hueneme — Dock Talk – Clean Air Day Edition – October 2021

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TODAY IS CLEAN AIR DAY!

IT’S OCTOBER 6 – Join us in challenging yourself to create clean air in your community. Take the pledge and agree to switch to a greener energy vehicle, tool or cleaner; vow to plant a tree or start a community garden plot; or reduce your vehicle emissions by walking/biking to work or taking public transit!

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County of Ventura Medical Examiner’s Office — Special Report: Fatal Overdose Comparison by 6 Month Interval

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For calendar year 2020, the number of accidental overdose deaths (203) represented a significant increase from the previous year (128). Data from 2020 indicated that the rise was almost entirely related to the potent opioid drug fentanyl. The data contained in this report indicates that fentanyl overdose deaths rose dramatically during the second half of 2020 and have continued at a similar rate during the first six months of 2021. If overdoses continue at this rate, the number of accidental overdoses in the county could exceed 250 by year end.

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Work with Mental Wellness Center Leads to Local Student’s Appointment to California’s Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission

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Mental Wellness Center’s Wellness Connection Council Member Sophie Suh is one of the transformational students participating in the Mental Wellness Center’s newest program, Wellness Connection. The Wellness Connection is a high school leadership program of the Mental Wellness Center that educates, empowers, and engages students to become mental health Upstanders. Council members work together to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health by promoting education, prevention, and advocacy in their communities through their work in Impact Teams.

Sophie was recently selected as a member of the Bullying Prevention Advisory Committee (BPAC) for the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission. 

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Lumina Alliance Welcomes October as Domestic Violence Action Month

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Lumina Alliance is renaming Domestic Violence Awareness Month to Domestic Violence Action Month. The goal is to encourage the community to be proactive in preventing violence through education and purposeful parenting.

1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men will experience some form of violence by a partner. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. These startling numbers are beyond the capacity of most service providers, which is why Lumina Alliance is emphasizing the importance of prevention and community education to stop violence before it starts.

“We are calling on community members to be advocates for change and break the cycle of violence that is all too common,” said Lumina Alliance CEO Jennifer Adams. “Individual actions create a ripple effect that brings lasting change and promotes healthy relationships everywhere.”

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October 2021 Friendly Finch Friendship Center’s Monthly Newsletter

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After fifteen very long months, Friendship Center opened to on-site services August 2. During that time we focused on one thing: Continuing to serve our members, families and the community, even in the most challenging moments.

Now, as we settle in and apply our lessons learned, we’re focused on continuing to provide the most relevant on-site services to our membership. 

For many organizations, the pandemic was a wake-up-call, challenging the way we do business and testing our ability to weather incredible uncertainty. Even though the pandemic is not totally behind us, one thing is certain: We could not have gotten through these stormy months without the support of our board of directors, staff, and our community. This stalwart support has helped us to safeguard our programs and ensure that—without a beat—Friendship Center would pivot, become stronger, and continue to flourish. 

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The Central Coast Climate Justice Network Announces Network Manager

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As regions around the U.S. respond to the U.N. General Assembly’s focus this week on climate change and climate justice, the Central Coast Climate Justice Network (CCCJN) is proud to announce it has hired Michelle Sevilla as its first Network Manager.
 

CCCJN is a collaboration of organizations and community leaders committed to a climate movement that advances social, economic, racial, and environmental justice for Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Through forging a regional partnership between social justice, anti-racism, and environmental movements, the network expands the region’s collective power to advance restorative actions and systems change. Their work centers on communities who bear the greatest burden of climate change impacts.
 

The Community Environmental Council (CEC), the Central Coast Alliance United for A Sustainable Economy (CAUSE), and partnering social justice and environmental organizations launched the network in January 2018 amidst the backdrop of the Thomas Fire and Montecito Debris Flow. Relying on a collaboratively designed charter, the network maintains an intentionally horizontal leadership model that emphasizes leadership by Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and consensus-based decision making. 

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Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Rental Assistance Funds, Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment, & Booster Info

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The County of Santa Barbara Emergency Rental Assistance Program, administered through United Way of Santa Barbara County, is now accepting applications.

So many are still facing evictions and but aren’t aware that this assistance is available to them, so please help us spread the word!

The program is open to Santa Barbara County tenant-households with an annual income at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI), who have experienced a loss of income due to or during the COVID-19 pandemic and experiencing a risk of homelessness or housing instability.

To apply, the income of a household (all individuals on lease agreement, related or unrelated) must be at or below 80% AMI (area median income).

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Shipping companies receive awards for slowing to protect blue whales, blue skies

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The Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies program recognized 16 global shipping companies for reducing speeds to 10 knots or less in the San Francisco Bay Area and the Southern California Region in 2020.

The voluntary program is an initiative to cut air pollution, protect endangered whales, and reduce underwater noise. The 2020 program ran from May 15, 2020 through November 15, 2020.

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Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Sept. 29

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Since Monday, there are 234 (140 today) new COVID-19 cases reported and 13,704 new tests performed. There are 63 people hospitalized, 13 in the ICU. There have been 6 additional deaths of a 53 year old male, 68 year old male, 46 year old male, 51 year old male, 50 year old male, and an 87 year old male. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

79.3% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
80.9% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
72.2% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

96% of total reported COVID-19 deaths in Ventura County were among individuals with comorbidities.

Booster shot information.
COVID test information.
Get your flu shot.

www.vcrecovers.org

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City National Bank in Partnership with United Way of Santa Barbara County Provides 100 Free Backpacks to Franklin Elementary School

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100 students at Franklin Elementary School received backpacks filled with school supplies compliments of City National Bank in partnership with United Way of Santa Barbara County (UWSBC). These back-to-school backpacks were loaded with tools like markers, pencils, paper, and scissors to help ensure youth have the supplies necessary for a successful school year. City National Bank also provided Franklin Elementary School with a $1,000 Barnes & Noble gift card to fill their library with new books. 

City National Bank has partnered with United Way of Santa Barbara County since 2014 to bring their Back to School Drive program to local students. 

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9th Annual Heroes of Hospice Virtual Event Raises $170k for Hospice of Santa Barbara

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This year, over 450 supporters joined Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) for their 9th Annual Heroes of Hospice virtual event to raise 170k to help support HSB’s work throughout the Santa Barbara community.

Throughout this difficult time of COVID-19, the demand for HSB’s services has been growing. The funds raised from Heroes of Hospice support the organization’s mission of providing care to anyone experiencing the impact of a serious illness or grieving the death of a loved one, free of charge.

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Bilingual report — Ventura County Now Administering Pfizer Booster Shots to Eligible Residents

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Following the Centers for Disease Control and the California Department of Public Health endorsements, eligible County of Ventura residents can begin receiving their booster doses at any sites offering the Pfizer vaccine. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 booster vaccine is recommended six months or later following the primary vaccination series for certain individuals.

People previously vaccinated with Pfizer BioNTech whoSHOULD receive a booster include:

Age 65 years and older;
Long term care residents; and
Age 50 through 64 years with underlying medical conditions or at increased risk of social inequities (including communities of color and others at risk of inequities).

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Bilingual report — New Director to Spearhead Disaster Relief Efforts for Ventura and Santa Barbara Immigrants

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In response to the devastation of wildfires, the COVID-19 pandemic and other disasters, Mixteco/Indigenous Community Organizing Project (MICOP), the Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE), and Future Leaders of America (FLA), with leadership support provided by the McCune Foundation, appointed and welcomed Maria Melo as Executive Director of 805UndocuFund, a collective effort by these trusted community grassroot organizations to ensure that undocumented individuals and families impacted by disaster have the support and resources necessary to recover from disasters in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. The Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) is providing fundraising and fund administrative support.

“Since its creation in 2018, the 805UndocuFund has not only distributed over $8.3M to 6,147 families but has also become a trusted and familiar source of support for the immigrant community when disaster hits,” said Genevieve Flores-Haro, Board Chair of 805 UndocuFund. “That is why we are thrilled to welcome Maria to move this work forward. Maria is a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural Latina immigrant policy advocacy professional who is passionate about her community and has over 20 years of experience in the non-profit and government sectors in Southern California, Washington D.C. and Latin America.”

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Lifeguard Certification Course Offered at Triunfo Family YMCA

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The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is offering a Red Cross lifeguard certification course at its Yarrow Family YMCA branch Saturday and Sunday, September 25 and 26. The two-day program will be held in the Yarrow Y’s indoor pool (31105 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village).  Class hours are 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Participants must be able to attend both days.

The lifeguard certification class will take place in and out of the pool to practice real-life scenarios. Class members will be trained in CPR/Automated External Defibrillator use and first aid. They will receive the skills to prevent, recognize and tend to injuries until EMS arrive.

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United Way on Ventura County welcomes new team members to support United to End Homelessness Ventura

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United Way of Ventura County has hired two new team members to support its United to End Homelessness Ventura County initiative. Carie Bristow is now serving as housing navigation and retention case manager for the nonprofit, and Stefany Gonzalez has joined the team as housing navigator.

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County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Sept. 22, 2021

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We are so grateful for our amazing Respiratory Therapists! Ramiro Mares, Anait Serobyan, Jessica Rodriguez, and Scott Riegman (left to right) are among the many RTs helping COVID patients with breathing complications. Our daily actions help them. Thank you VC for continuing to do your part!

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Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Celebrating National Drive Electric Week & More!

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Celebrate National Drive Electric Week by attending an Electric Vehicle 101 webinar, e-biking webinar, Goleta or Oxnard EV showcase, or other virtual or live event. As a long-time electric vehicle driver, I can attest to the many benefits of owning an electric vehicle: significantly lower fuel and maintenance costs, various rebates, incentives, and tax credits, and of course reducing your greenhouse gas emissions! See below for some ways to engage and learn more about electric vehicles:

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Community Environmental Council and Electric Drive 805 Coalition Partners Invite Public to Learn About Benefits of Driving Electric through Oct. 2

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The Community Environmental Council (CEC) and Electric Drive 805 coalition partners are proud to sponsor a variety of free, in-person and virtual events leading up to and throughout National Drive Electric Week through October 2, 2021. The public is invited to learn about the wide range of electric vehicles (EVs) that can fit most every lifestyle and budget.

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Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Health Extends Indoor Mask Order

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Ventura County Public Health has extended the indoor mask order, requiring all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, to wear face coverings when indoors in public settings, with limited exceptions. The order will continue to be in effect until October 19, 2021 or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended by the Health Officer. “Our current case rate of 19.3 is still considered widespread community transmission by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the California Department of Public Health,” said Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin. “We need to see a continued decrease in the case rate and hospitalizations before safely lifting indoor masking requirements to help prevent future surges.”

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United Way of Ventura County welcomes new team members to support United to End Homelessness Ventura County initiative

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United Way of Ventura County has hired two new team members to support its United to End Homelessness Ventura County initiative. Carie Bristow is now serving as housing navigation and retention case manager for the nonprofit, and Stefany Gonzalez has joined the team as housing navigator.

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September News from People’s Self-Help Housing

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It’s Hispanic Heritage Month, and we proudly celebrate the many individuals and families we serve here at People’s with heritage stemming from all over Latin America. Throughout our communities, and within our own organization, we honor those whose Latinx histories and cultures, enrich our lives. An estimated 80% of our resident population and 60% of our People’s workforce is Latinx.

Across the United States, Latinos are a vital part of the national fabric that strengthens and binds us together. Accounting for nearly 80% of all new businesses created during the past decade, and as measured by contributions to our Gross Domestic Products (GDP), they annually contribute close to $3 trillion. According to latitude.net, “If US Latinos were a stand-alone country, they would account for the 8th largest GDP economy in the world – larger than the GDPs of Italy, Brazil or South Korea.”

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2021 Heroes of Hospice Online Auction is Now Open for Bidding!

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The 2021 Heroes of Hospice (HOH) online auction is now open for bidding until Thursday, September 23rd at 8:00 p.m. PDT. All are welcome to participate to benefit Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB). Items include fabulous packages and items such as hotel stays, wine, jewelry, curated gift baskets, spa & beauty, restaurant gift cards, and more. 

The online auction is a part of Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 2021 Heroes of Hospice, a virtual event that will be held Wednesday, September 22nd from 6:00-7:15 p.m. PDT featuring #1 New York Times bestselling author, Elizabeth Gilbert as the Keynote Speaker.

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UCSB Virologist Carolina Arias receives the 2021-22 Harold J. Plous Award, one of the university’s most prestigious faculty honors

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Carolina Arias, an assistant professor of biology at UC Santa Barbara, has received the 2021-22 Harold J. Plous Award. One of the university’s most prestigious faculty honors, the award is given annually to an assistant professor from the humanities, social sciences or natural sciences who has shown exceptional achievement in research, teaching and service to the university.

The award is presented by the College of Letters and Science, and was established to honor the memory of Harold J. Plous, an assistant professor of economics. It is the highest honor the College of Letters and Science can bestow upon a junior faculty member.

“Carolina Arias is a prime example of a scholar who uses the tools of her research to help her community,” said Pierre Wiltzius, dean of mathematical, life and physical sciences at UC Santa Barbara. “Her development of rapid COVID-19 testing for our campus was an essential and invaluable part of our response to the pandemic. Carolina is extremely deserving of this award.”

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Bilingual report — County Board of Supervisors provides $70 million in 4 rounds of Business Assistance Grants

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The County of Ventura Board of Supervisors has unanimously supported more than $70 million in Business Assistance Grants for small businesses throughout the County of Ventura since the summer of 2020. The Board received a report at Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting of the latest status and the impact those funds are having on local businesses. More than 7,000 businesses are in the final review to receive $10,000 in grant funding.

“In the midst of such difficult times it’s been extraordinary to stand up for our community and small businesses and allocate funds to address multiple health, social and economic impacts. I am grateful that the County’s strong financial position allows us to support our local economy through supportive programs like Business Assistance,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Linda Parks. “This funding has helped many small businesses keep their doors open.”

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Sept. 15, 2021 —

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The last email update was sent on Monday, September 13, 2021.

Since Monday, there are 371 new COVID-19 cases reported and 11,050 new tests performed. There are 97 people hospitalized, 32 in the ICU. There have been 4 additional deaths of a 55 year old female (not vaccinated), 67 year old female (not vaccinated), 93 year old female (not vaccinated), 79 year old male (vaccinated). Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

78.2% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
79.9% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
70.7% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

www.vcrecovers.org

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Community Environmental Council, El Gato Channel Foundation, And The City Of Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation Department Hold Ribbon Cutting To Celebrate New Hydration Stations In Public Parks

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The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is proud to announce the addition of two bottle filling hydration stations in Alameda and Shoreline parks. CEC is hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, September 17 at 11:00 a.m. at the Alameda Park hydration station, located near the Kids World playground.

City of Santa Barbara Mayor Cathy Murillo will speak, in addition to representatives from CEC and project partners El Gato Channel Foundation, and City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department. Commenting on the impact these new hydration stations will have on residents and tourists enjoying the parks, Mayor Murillo observed, “They will encourage everyone to use refillable bottles and embrace a sustainable lifestyle.”

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Grants up to $15,000 awarded to non-profit organizations by the Rebozo Festival Inc.

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The Rebozo Festival Inc. has awarded grants up to $15,000 awarded to qualified non-profit organizations focusing on the Ventura County communities deeply affected during this difficult time.

In accordance with COVID-19 restrictions, the 2021 Rebozo Festival Inc .annual event has been postponed to May 15, 2022 and the application process is suspended.

The awarded non-profit organizations are:

Clinicas Del Camino Real Inc. — “Feeding the Frontlines”
Boys and Girls Club of Camarillo 
Friends of Field Workers — “Grocery Security Network” (GSN)

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Gold Coast Health Plan and AmericasHealth Plan Partner on Three-Year Medi-Cal Pilot Program

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Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) and AmericasHealth Plan (AHP) announced their collaboration on a pilot program to serve Ventura County’s Medi-Cal beneficiaries.

The three-year program would give up to 10,000 of GCHP’s more than 200,000 members the option of choosing AHP, a subsidiary of Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. (Clinicas), as the administrator of their health care benefits in the first year. As members of AHP, Medi-Cal beneficiaries will have access to Clinicas’ network of medical, dental, optical, preventive, specialty, ancillary, and institutional providers and will benefit from having their care coordinated by one entity. Members will maintain their access to GCHP’s providers for pharmacy, transportation, and mental health services, and to its 24-hour advice nurse line.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Sept. 13, 2021

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The last email update was sent on Thursday, September 9, 2021.

Since Thursday, there are 1,146 new COVID-19 cases reported and 33,781 new tests performed. There are 111 people hospitalized, 34 in the ICU. There have been 6 additional deaths of a 79 year old female, 67 year old male, 75 year old male, 71 year old female, 35 year old male and a 87 year old male. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

78.1% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
79.7% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
70.1% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Testing information: www.vcrecovers.org/testing

Vaccine information: www.vcrecovers.org/vaccine

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Oxnard Non-profit seek support to help children in Guatemala through online fundraiser on Sept. 13

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The families in this community scratch out a living by scavenging at the landfill, and their children attend the local school. However, even though the school serves the most impoverished people of Guatemala, it receives little governmental support. It lacks basic infrastructure that brings dignity and safety for the kids. With your help we will feed the children and build a lunchroom and assembly room for them to eat in, and gather during hurricanes and other times.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Sept. 9, 2021

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The last email update was sent on Tuesday, September 7, 2021.

Since Tuesday, there are 233 new COVID-19 cases reported and 9,719 new tests performed. There are 143 people hospitalized, 37 in the ICU. There have been 8 additional deaths of a 44 year old male, 78 year old female, 82 year old male, 79 year old male, 83 year old female, 85 year old male, 74 year old female, and an 83 year old female. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

6 of the 8 deaths reported since Tuesday were among unvaccinated people.

77.7% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
79.4% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
69.6% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Testing information: www.vcrecovers.org/testing

Vaccine information: www.vcrecovers.org/vaccine

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League of Women Voters and Community Environmental Council Invite Public To A Screening And Panel Discussion On Powerful New Climate Documentary through Sept. 30

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The League of Women Voters of Santa Barbara (LWVSB) and Community Environmental Council (CEC) are proud to present a month-long virtual screening and culminating expert panel discussion of The Race to Save the World by Emmy award-winning filmmaker Joe Gantz. 

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Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Flex Alert at 4 p.m. (Sept. 8), Community Choice Energy Enrollment, and more!

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Due to extreme heat throughout the state, the California Independent Systems Operator (which manages the flow of electricity throughout the state) has issued a statewide Flex Alert from 4-9pm TODAY. Due to the extreme heat, energy demand is expected to be high, and if demand exceeds supply, they will implement rolling power outages. To avoid outages, residents are being asked to conserve energy from 4-9pm today to reduce strain on the energy grid.

Please avoid using major appliances between 4-9pm today!

Before 4pm:
Pre-cool your home if you use air conditioning
Close window coverings to keep home or apartment cool
Use major appliances
Charge electric devices and electric vehicles

Between 4-9pm:
Set your thermostat to 78 or higher, health permitting
Avoid using major appliances like dish washers and clothes washers and dryers
Turn off unnecessary lights

Sign up for Flex Alert notifications here.

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Bilingual report — When Science Becomes the Enemy

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There has always been a certain degree of distrust toward science in this country—sometimes justifiably so. But over the past year and a half, that distrust has been amplified to literally dangerous levels, mostly via social media (many people’s only source for “news”) and extreme right-wing hysteria on the news channels. 

The severe lack of science education in this country has fomented the massive paranoia that brings many of our fellow citizens to misunderstand, misinterpret, despise, and deny scientific information. National and state leadership that plays into the hands of an insidious disinformation campaign are decimating conservative bastions throughout the country with completely preventable illness and death. 

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County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Sept. 1, 2021

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September 1, 2021 – COVID-19 Update COVID-19 Update Since Tuesday, there are 183 new COVID-19 cases reported and 5,585 new tests performed. There are 124 people hospitalized, 24 in the ICU. There have been 5 additional deaths of a 58…

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Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Initiates Stage 1 Water Conservation Measures

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The board of directors of the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District voted to initiate Stage 1 water conservation measures for its nearly 14,000 Oak Park residential and business potable water users. The measures, which were originally established in 2018, go into effect immediately.

Stage 1 water conservation measures include:

–Watering or irrigation of lawn, landscape or other vegetated areas with potable water is limited to three days per week. The provision does not apply to watering by hand-held hoses equipped with self-closing water shut-off devices. Other exclusions apply. …

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Ventura County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program

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The County of Ventura has launched the fourth COVID-19 Business Assistance
Grant Program for businesses and nonprofit organizations that did NOT receive a grant during any of the County’s previous business grant programs. Businesses
and nonprofits based in Ventura County may be eligible for a $10,000 grant.
The County Board of Supervisors has supported more than $65 million in grants
to help local businesses move forward.

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Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Homeless Encampments Funding, Los Padres Closure, CWPP, & COVID-19 Update

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(Aug. 31), our Board approved nearly $1.5 million in American Result Plan Act funding to implement an expanded Encampment Resolution Strategy to eliminate homeless encampments in the county. This is in addition to the work and $48 million in funding that has been invested in the 2020-2021 Fiscal Year. The outcomes of some of this work and funding over the last 6 months are detailed on the slide below. All of the Supervisors were in full agreement that encampments are not safe for those who live in them or the residents who live in the vicinity of them and we all expressed our eagerness to solve this problem. In order to move those who live in encampments out of those encampments, we need places for them to go. I have, personally, been working hard to determine locations, such as empty parking lots, where we can put temporary housing to move folks into a more safe and clean setting as we work on placing them in permanent housing. If you have a location we could put temporary housing and are interested in partnering with the County, please let me know.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Aug. 31, 2021

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Since Monday, there are 242 new COVID-19 cases reported and 3,835 new tests performed. There are 125 people hospitalized, 22 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of two males ages 60 and 74. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

76.9% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
78.6% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
68.5% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Anyone age 12 and older can get vaccinated for free in Ventura County. Anyone who is immunocompromised 12 or older can get a booster at any vaccine location.

Find information about COVID-19 vaccines and testing at www.vcrecovers.org

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Air District Seeks Candidates for Hearing Board

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The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is seeking an attorney and a public member interested in serving on APCD’s Hearing Board. Candidates for the attorneymember position must be active members of the StateBar of California.

The Hearing Board is a quasi-judicial body that acts upon petitions submitted by operators of air pollutionemission sources, APCD staff, and   the public. It conducts public hearings and makes various decisionsregarding air pollution sources in Ventura County.Typical decisions made by the Hearing Board include whether temporary relief from APCD      rules should be issued; whether the APCD’s denial, suspension orconditional granting of a permit was warranted; and determining whether a Permit to Operate should berevoked.

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Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation’s Gold Ribbon Campaign Raises Awareness for Pediatric Cancer Throughout September    

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Each September, Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation (TBCF) invites the community to join them in celebrating National Childhood Cancer Awareness month through their Gold Ribbon Campaign. The community’s participation noticeably demonstrates that families fighting pediatric cancer are not alone. That they live within a community of compassionate allies who are united in solidarity with TBCF in a collective effort to fight for the most precious among us, our children. 

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Update on County of Ventura Santa Clara River Clean Up Effort

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Supervisors LaVere and Ramirez, Districts 1 and 5, are the representatives for the area of the Task Force effort to address Santa Clara River bottom encampments. They, individually, and along with members of their staff, have accompanied the County Executive Officer, Sheriff, and County public health and other staff several times to see for themselves the encampments. They have observed the accumulation of trash and debris in the Santa Clara River bottom. They also recently went with the County’s Backpack Medicine team which offers help and services to the people living in the watershed. This is being done ahead of a major clean-up effort that is planned to take place in September. The County Executive team is leading the effort coordinating with the Sheriff’s office, Ventura and Oxnard Police, and Public Works Agency staff to make access easier and to clear pathways for the future clean-up event. More clearing of brush and vegetation, which pose a fire danger, will occur after the sites which are abandoned have been removed.

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Jerry Hannula named SBCC Interim Athletic Director

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Santa Barbara City College is pleased to announce that Mr. Jerry Hannula has been selected to serve as Interim Athletic Director.

Originally from Morro Bay, Calif, Hannula earned a bachelor’s degree in Sports Information from the University of Southern California with an emphasis in public relations, and a master’s degree in kinesiology from California State University Long Beach with an emphasis in sport management.

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Bilingual commentary — The Mask Wars

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Several months ago, I was sitting in a doctor’s office waiting to be called in.  Facial masks are required. After all, this is a medical building. Given our circumstances over this past year and a half, medical staff is intensely focused on maintaining an atmosphere in which patients can feel relatively safe. 

I was reading a book as I waited. I didn’t notice that my mask had fallen below my nose. The receptionist kindly reminded me to lift the mask up so that it covered my face properly. I apologized and immediately took care of the problem.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Aug. 26, 2021

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Shout out to our team of respiratory therapists for their incredible work in helping COVID patients breathe. This crew was on the night shift helping people survive… it is monumental. Their work saves lives. May we all make small choices to make big impacts on the health of our community. Thank you, Ventura County!

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Mental Wellness Center Welcomes Scott Lochridge to its Board of Directors

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The Mental Wellness Center announces the addition of Scott Lochridge to its Board of Directors. Scott Lochridge is an executive and strategic advisor to multinational corporations, nonprofits, and early-stage companies. He has over four decades of experience working with CEOs and executive teams to create and scale highly effective organizations, develop dynamic strategies for growth, create new capabilities, pursue new market opportunities, achieve sustainable operating & financial performance, and lead major change initiatives.

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Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Aug. 24, 2021

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Since Monday, there are 259 new COVID-19 cases reported and 3,985 new tests performed. There are 147 people hospitalized, 34 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of a 56 year old female and a 60 year old male. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

76.0% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
77.8% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
67.5% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

For more information visit www.vcrecovers.org

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Port of Hueneme — Exciting Day for Clean Air – Port’s Goal to Become a Zero Emission Hub

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When a blueprint is created, it identifies and outlines a plan of action with the big picture in mind. In the case of the Port of Hueneme, their “blueprint project” known as SPARC (Sustainable Power Advancement & Resiliency for our Community) was created to chart a pathway to zero emission operations which is the Port’s overall long-term goal for air quality improvement and climate change adaptation. The plan will include an attainable timeline for the complete transition to a zero emission Port operation.

“This project will be an essential element in charting the Port’s pathway to a zero-emission future as part of the Port’s commitment to being a steward of the local environment,” said Jason Hodge, Oxnard Harbor District President. “The Port recognizes the urgency of addressing the climate crisis facing the globe and is undertaking multiple projects to facilitate reducing air pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions from Port operations.”

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