OXNARD — 3H Custom Farming Inc. in Oxnard has paid $17,505 in lost wages and agreed to reinstate two agricultural workers to resolve a Complaint filed by the California Agricultural Labor Relations Board (“ALRB”) that the workers lost their jobs…
LOMPOC — Savie Health, a nonprofit clinic that offers free physical and behavioral health care to low-income people without health insurance, will be receiving grant funding from the County of Santa Barbara to support the health and wellbeing of migrant farmworkers in the northern part of the county.
Santa Barbara County is home to an estimated 18,000 migrant farmworkers, many of them concentrated in the north. These individuals are essential to the county’s economy, yet they frequently go without health care and many do not have insurance. Savie Health will partner with Proyecto Campesino, a new farmworker resource center and mobile van operated by the county’s Department of Social Services, to do outreach at farm sites about the free health care available through Savie Health’s clinic.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — Lumina Alliance is recognizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) this October, and inviting all of SLO County to join us this month in shining a light on domestic and intimate partner violence.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) was launched in October of 1987, with the goal of uniting and connecting organizations and people working to end domestic and intimate partner violence across the country. Over 30 years later, DVAM continues to be a time for collaboration, advocacy, and connection with the goal of raising awareness of the impacts of domestic and intimate partner violence. Lumina Alliance is proud to participate in DVAM, and to continue shining a light on intimate partner violence in our community.
VENTURA COUNTY — CDFA has declared a quarantine in Ventura County following the detection of the citrus disease Huanglongbing (HLB), or citrus greening, in two citrus trees on one residential property in the city of Santa Paula. These detections are the first HLB-positive trees in Ventura County. CDFA is working with the USDA and the Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner on this cooperative project.
The detection will require a mandatory five-mile-radius quarantine area around the find site to restrict the movement of citrus fruit, trees, and related plant material. The quarantine area is bordered on the north by Ojai Road; on the south by E Los Angeles Avenue; on the west by Wells Road; and on the east by Balcom Canyon Road. HLB quarantine maps for Ventura County are available online at: https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/citrus/pests_diseases/hlb/regulation.html.
VENTURA — With the Medicare Open Enrollment period about to begin, the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) – part of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency – will again be providing countywide resources and help.
Medicare Open Enrollment begins on October 15 and runs through December 7. HICAP provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling to the public.
In October, November, and December, HICAP counselors — who are registered with the California Department of Aging — will be all around the county, hosting 37 One-Stops to provide individual counseling sessions, as well as 13 “2024 Medicare Changes” presentations.
In “The Virus Touch,” the global studies professor explores relationships between viruses, humans, animals and the environment to show how various forms of media — from news content to lab test results — create our understanding of epidemics.
THOUSAND OAKS — The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Cal Lutheran a $1,241,679 grant to support the Graduate School of Education’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing Credential Program.
The five-year grant will fund Access Teach: Closing the Deaf/Hard of Hearing Educator Gap, a project to support 60 graduate-level students who will leave the program as credentialed teachers of high-need deaf and hard-of-hearing students in public schools. In addition to tuition, financial aid, textbooks and instructional materials, the project will provide mentoring and other support to recruit and retain students.
The grant also allows the program to be restructured to a hybrid format by summer 2024. Classes will be synchronous with some in-person classes on Saturdays. This change will enable the university to accommodate the needs of working professionals across Southern California.
VENTURA — Jiffy Lube and Meals on Wheels have created a partnership that will benefit the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s meal-delivery programs to homebound older adults during the month of October.
From now until October 31, Jiffy Lube customers who receive oil changes, tire rotations, or other vehicle maintenance will have the opportunity to donate $1, $3, $5 or more to Meals on Wheels at checkout. Those funds will be used to support the meal-delivery efforts of the VCAAA, which is a division of the County of Ventura’s Human Services Agency.
Participating Jiffy Lube locations in Ventura County include:
“We care deeply about our patients and want to give them the best care possible, and we need more healthcare workers to better deliver that care, just like every other hospital in California,” said Christine Ague, a Respiratory Therapist at Doctors Medical Center Modesto. “We need more support from Tenet. Worker and patient safety are our top priority.
Tens of thousands of healthcare workers have voted to authorize strikes at Tenet Healthcare, Prime Healthcare, Kaiser Permanente, Fresenius Medical Care, Satellite Healthcare, and other healthcare corporations this fall.
VENTURA — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Sept. 29) announced a proposal to list both species of western pond turtle, the northwestern pond turtle and the southwestern pond turtle, as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The Service is also proposing a 4(d) rule, that would support conservation of both species.
The northwestern pond turtle occurs in Washington, Oregon, Nevada and throughout much of northern and central California. The southwestern pond turtle occurs in southern California from Monterey County south to Los Angeles, Riverside and San Diego counties into northern Baja California, Mexico. The turtles use rivers, lakes, ponds, streams other water sources and terrestrial habitats throughout their lives.
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Fire Academy unveiled its latest multi-use facility on Wednesday; the structure, an apparatus bay, is dedicated to the Academy’s founder, Ed French.Construction began on the $6.4 million state-of-the-art facility in 2019. It provides a learning space for students and cadets to gain hands-on experience with tools and fire science apparatus, helping develop and hone their firefighting skills. The facility also houses the program’s equipment and fleet of firefighting vehicles.
“We are excited to expand our facilities at Oxnard College’s esteemed Fire Academy based in Camarillo,” shared Dr. Oscar Cobian, interim president of Oxnard College. “Our new apparatus bay provides much-needed space for Ventura County’s next generation of firefighting recruits to develop their skills and house the program’s expansive inventory of cutting-edge equipment.”
VENTURA COUNTY — Petco Love, the esteemed national nonprofit organization, has launched an initiative to offer lifesaving grants to local shelters through the Petco Love Stories campaign. This campaign aims to celebrate the profound connections between pet parents and their adopted pets while spotlighting the significance of pet adoption. Petco Love invites heartwarming adoption story submissions through October 31, 2023.
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning and Fire Weather Watch encompassing the Santa Barbara County mountains (including the Santa Ynez Range) and the South Coast.
Red Flag Warning Duration: 5 pm Tuesday, Sept. 26th through 9 am Wednesday, Sept. 27th, 2023. Relative Humidity (RH) may not reach criteria; however, predicted winds are strong enough to warrant Red Flag issuance. Coastal temperatures are forecasted to be between 75-85°F.
Red Flag Watch Duration: 9 am Wednesday, Sept. 27th through 5 am Thursday, Sept. 28th. Fire Weather Watch means warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds may combine to produce a significantly increased risk of fire danger.
A Red Flag Warning signifies that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.
Winds are predicted to come from the North NW-N with gusts of 30-50 MPH. Isolated gusts up to 60 MPH are possible in the Gaviota and Montecito areas. The strongest winds are expected during the evening and overnight hours through and below passes along the Santa Ynez range. If fire ignition occurs, conditions will be favorable for extreme fire behavior and rapid fire spread, which could threaten life and property.
A powerful memoir of poetry and prose, “Loving in the War Years: Lo que nunca pasó por sus labios” explores the author’s interconnected identities as a lesbian and a Chicana, coming of age in a turbulent era of American politics and social change.
SANTA BARBARA — Suicide is a leading cause of death among young people in the United States and approximately 1 million people die by suicide globally each year.
Suicide is one of the top ten leading causes of death across all age groups. Worldwide, suicide ranks among the three leading causes of death among adolescents and young adults.
Losing a loved to suicide is one of life’s most painful experiences. The feelings of loss, sadness, and loneliness experienced after any death of a loved one are often magnified in suicide survivors by feelings of guilt, confusion, rejection, shame, anger, and the effects of stigma and trauma.
Furthermore, survivors of suicide loss are at higher risk of developing major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal behaviors, and a prolonged form of grief called complicated grief. Thus, survivors may require unique supportive measures and targeted treatment to cope with their loss.
September 15 – October 15 is recognized as Latino Heritage Month. During this month-long observation, we celebrate the diverse cultures, values and traditions of individuals with Latin American heritage and who self-identify as Latino/a, Latinx and Hispanic.
We will share personal narratives from County employees as they reflect on their own unique experiences.
This national observation was first introduced in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week, under President Lyndon B. Johnson. On August 17, 1988 Congress passed a law to extend it into a 30-day celebration during Ronald Reagan’s presidency.
?Since then, government institutions have been honoring this national month-long celebration.
Ever wondered why the observation is celebrated during this time? The dates coincide with independence day celebrations throughout Latin America.
Don’t miss the special stories from County employees and follow the celebration on our social media channels!
Dear Friends,
Our shelters are, once again, OVERCAPACITY with cats, kittens, and dogs. To help alleviate the overcrowding we are holding a FEE-WAIVED pet adoption promotion through Sunday, September 24, 2023. This is an urgent call for help from adopters, fosters, and rescue partners. Overcrowding is an ongoing issue despite the success of our recent adoption event, Clear The Shelters, where 115 animals were adopted out.
Pets available for adoption, foster, or waiting to be reclaimed can be found at www.vcas.us/pets, and our adoption process is outlined at www.vcas.us/adopt.
Thank you,
Ventura County Animal Services
*Please note: Promotions do not guarantee the adoption of a shelter pet. All interested parties must participate in the full adoption process to ensure the best possible matches are made. Promotions do not include the cost of a pet license if applicable. This promotion applies to all animals EXCEPT dogs under one (1) year of age.
I am honored to have been elected the Chair of the Central Coast Community Energy (3CE) Policy Board of Directors. For those who don’t know, 3CE formed beginning in 2021 as our new, locally-owned electricity provider. Our reach spans 30 cities and 5 counties, from Carpinteria to the Santa Cruz Mountains. With no investors or shareholders, the revenue generated by 3CE stays local, helps keep rates lower than SCE and PG&E, and provides millions for rebates and incentives that lower greenhouse gas emissions. For example, during last week’s 3CE Policy Board of Directors meeting, we adopted the FY 2022-23 Operating Budget that includes approximately $16M for Energy Programs. During my time as Chair, I am looking forward to increasing the awareness of the important work 3CE is doing.
“When a child is separated from a parent, it impacts every facet of the child’s life in emotional, physical and financial ways,” said Silvia Rodriguez Vega, an assistant professor of Chicana and Chicano studies, whose new book considers hundreds of drawings by children living on the American side of the U.S.-Mexico border.
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara’s (HSB) 11th Annual Heroes of Hospice (HOH) luncheon was held on Sunday, September 10th at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort. This year, HOH raised a record-breaking $215,000 in funds, which will support the wonderful work of HSB in helping bring programs and services, completely free of charge, to adults, children and seniors who are struggling with grief or life-threatening illness.
The luncheon had a special focus on Celebrating Those We Love and their ongoing impact in our lives, and honored the people and organizations that bring compassion and care, at all levels, to those in need in and near the Santa Barbara community. The demand for HSB’s services continues to grow and fundraisers like HOH allow the organization to reach more community members.
VENTURA — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced (Sept. 19) that southern sea otters will retain their status as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. Following an in-depth review of the species’ status, including information provided by species experts, the Service has announced a not-warranted 12-month finding on a petition to remove ESA protection for the southern sea otter.
“While southern sea otters have made strides toward recovery after coming back from the brink of extinction in our recent history, they continue to face significant threats from climate change, shark-bite mortality, and limited range,” said Steve Henry, field supervisor for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Ventura. “Based on scientific projections of future conditions for the species, these threats will continue to impact southern sea otter abundance and connectivity between populations in waysthat will most likely reduce the ability of the species to sustainitself in the future.”
VENTURA — On Tuesday, September 12, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, through unanimous vote, appointed Korinne Bell to the position of Agricultural Commissioner. Bell’s appointment was made following the retirement of the previous Agricultural Commissioner, Ed Williams, in August.…
Friendship Center is looking forward to our 11th Annual Wine Down to be held Thursday, September 14th, 2023, from 4 to 7pm outdoors at our Montecito Center’s courtyard. This delicious and delightful event brings us together to enjoy an evening of great local wines and beer, along with hearty hors d’oeuvres and live music, all for a good cause!
The funds raised from Wine Down benefit Friendship Center’s daily programs offering social, physical, emotional and cognitive stimulation to dependent adults and seniors. These programs, which include music, art, educational offerings and excursions, are uniquely designed to honor and celebrate the remarkable life stories of our Center’s members. Let’s come together, raise our glasses, and elevate lives through the magic of togetherness and giving.
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is opening a new Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic to serve the community. The new clinic will create additional access to women’s healthcare, with a strong focus on a high-quality patient experience.
The new Cottage Ob/Gyn Clinic will be centrally located in Santa Barbara at 2416 Castillo Street, Suite A. The outpatient specialty clinic builds on Cottage’s existing services to provide patient-centered care for women at every stage of life.
Cottage Ob/Gyn Clinic is now accepting new patients. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 805- 324-9400.
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health’s Santa Barbara Neuroscience Institute (SBNI) is the first healthcare provider on the Central Coast to use the latest image-guided laser technology to treat brain tumors, lesions and epilepsy.
The NeuroBlate® System delivers Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT), a minimally invasive surgical technique using MRI-guided laser light to ablate unhealthy brain tissue. It can be an effective treatment option for recurrent and hard to reach brain tumors and lesions. It is also used to treat certain types of epilepsy.
“LITT provides patients with difficult-to-access lesions, recurrent brain tumors and epilepsy with an alternative treatment method,” said Nicole Moayeri, MD, Neurosurgeon affiliated with the Santa Barbara Neuroscience Institute. “Being the first in the region to offer LITT is a testament to Cottage’s commitment to staying at the forefront of neurosurgery.”
Our local transit service Santa Barbara MTD has began a new route serving the Eastside, Carpinteria, and Santa Barbara City College. With only 7 stops in each direction, Line 19X is an express, car-free option to get around.
Taking public transit is not only convenient, but it’s an important step we can all take to address climate change. Across Santa Barbara County, we are not on track to meet our climate goals, solely due to gas-powered car usage.
What we need is more of us “choice” transit riders — folks who usually commute by car, but occasionally choose alternative transportation — to get back on the bus. The experience of being shuttled to your destination, rather than sitting behind the wheel wrestling with bumper-to-bumper traffic, is much more enjoyable. Plus, you can reclaim travel time to do some homework, answer that email, or catch up on your favorite book.
If you drive a car, join me in taking a pledge to ride the bus at least one day a week.
Friendship Center is looking forward to our 11th Annual Wine Down to be held Thursday, September 14th, 2023, from 4 to 7pm outdoors at our Montecito Center’s courtyard. This delicious and delightful event brings us together to enjoy an evening of great local wines and beer, along with hearty hors d’oeuvres and live music, all for a good cause!
For answers, John Protzko and his team looked to philosophers, professionals and laypersons. Their conclusions could help answer moral and legal questions if scenarios in today’s science fiction ever become reality.
SACRAMENTO — On September 1st, 2023, the California Assembly Appropriations Committee voted in favor of the Latinx and Indigenous Disparities Reduction Act. The bill now heads to its final legislative vote on the Assembly Floor before heading to Governor Newsom’s desk to be signed. The bill, which collects and disaggregates more detailed data for Latinx subgroups and Indigenous Mesoamerican nations to improve health outcomes, makes it past this critical vote amidst rising COVID-19 cases and the threat of new variants – in addition to experiencing impacts from recent climate change-related flooding.
This Labor Day I am especially excited to announce that the County of Santa Barbara Community Workforce Agreement is 100% signed by Labor. This is the first-ever local-hire opportunity for workers on County public works projects. Residents across our county — from newly graduated high school students to our veterans returning home, the misplaced workers, or someone who just needs a second chance will benefit tremendously from this agreement. I want to thank the Tri-Counties Building and Construction Trades Council and our County Public Works Department for working diligently to get this agreement across the finish line, and my colleague Supervisor Joan Hartmann and former colleague Assemblymember Gregg Hart for championing these huge opportunities for local workers.
Paying workers and providing good benefits is good, but to truly honor American workers, we must support unionization – the only way to create an equal platform between employer and employees and the only way to empower the American worker. To do this, please buy Union. Here is a list of union products you can buy for your Labor Day BBQ.
The nonprofit co-founded at UC Santa Barbara teams with Direct Relief to provide efficient and clean sources of light and electricity to the Maui community left decimated by wildfires.
VENTURA COUNTY — On Monday, August 28th, 2023, five (5) dedicated members of our Ventura County Animal Services’ Animal Care Team embarked on a compassionate journey 170 miles to Coachella Valley Animal Services in Riverside County. Their mission was to provide mutual aid to Coachella Valley Animal Shelter, whose facility was landlocked by flood waters amidst the aftermath of Cyclone Hilary.
The devastating flooding had rendered their shelter inaccessible, forcing their staff to rely on shuttle rides via 4-wheeled vehicles, trekking over submerged terrain just to reach the shelter. The primary access road, once solid ground, now lay submerged under several feet of water, causing the shelter to close their facility to the public.
Erika Endrijonas, Ph.D., began her new role as SBCC Superintendent/President on Tuesday, Aug. 1, marking her return to SBCC (she was the Dean of Career and Technical Services from 2000 to 2009). Most recently she served as Superintendent/ President of Pasadena City College since January 2019.
“My first week back at SBCC has been wonderful,” said Dr. Endrijonas. “I had my sights set on returning to SBCC for over a decade, and I am still pinching myself that my dream became a reality. I have started to meet folks here on campus — some for the first time, some I haven’t seen in 14 years — and it does feel like I have come home. I look forward to the next few weeks on campus as we launch our Fall 2023 semester and as I start to meet members of our local community who hold a special place in their hearts for SBCC.”
VENTURA — Ocean water quality results for samples collected this week indicate ocean water quality at the following Ventura County beach sampling location failed to meet State standards for bacteria:
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department and the Santa Paula Unified School District are proud to announce a transformative partnership focused on increasing access to youth sports in the community. This collaboration aims to overcome barriers and provide a comprehensive range of sports opportunities for students in 3rd to 8th grade.
Recognizing the importance of youth sports in fostering physical activity, teamwork, and personal growth, the Parks & Recreation Department and the School District have come together to develop a program that addresses existing challenges. The goal is to ensure that all interested youth have the chance to participate, regardless of financial constraints or logistical hurdles.
The National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center are forecasting the potential for Hurricane Hilary to impact central and southern California counties, including any area within Santa Barbara County. Moderate to heavy rain, strong winds, coastal storm surge and erosion, and hazardous sea conditions are possible. These conditions may start locally as early as Sunday afternoon (August 20).
The National Weather Service has also issued a FLOOD WATCH for the foothills above Santa Barbara, Montecito, Summerland, and Carpinteria and the Eastern Santa Ynez mountain range due to the potential for heavy rainfall from Hurricane Hilary. The FLOOD WATCH is in effect from Sunday (August 20) at 4pm through Monday (August 21) at 11pm.
Here are some resources you can use to get the latest information:
PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme’s operations team joined by security partners, NAVSEA, Amergent Tech, Oxnard Emergency Services, VCFD, ILWU Local 46, City of Port Hueneme, Ventura County OES, California OES, ocean shipping customers, and port operators, led a full day of training at the Port today to highlight the importance of successful and timely incident management during a possible tsunami wave to the US West Coast. This year’s exercise program, an integral part of “August Wave”, was born out of a grassroots effort amongst regional partners throughout the County following the Tonga volcano-spurred tsunami of January 2022. “August Wave” consists of several training events in August and finalizes on August 30. Yesterday the port ran its exercise as part of the series that was coined “August Wave” based on the shared tsunami exercise scenarios all taking place in August.
The idea has gained scientific consensus: Dogs can be just as good — and sometimes better — than our best tests at detecting the stealthy virus and its variants, even when they are obscured by other viruses, like colds and flu.
This quarter’s Livable Communities Newsletter offers three fascinating articles pulled together by the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU). This edition is designed to give you a quick summary that entices you to click on the link for each full article:
This week marked one year since President Biden signed the PACT Act, the largest and most comprehensive expansion of care and benefits for toxic-exposed veterans and their families in more than three decades.
This historic law created presumptions for many respiratory illnesses and cancers, making care and benefits easier and more accessible. The law also streamlined VA’s presumption decision-making process, so that veterans don’t have to wait decades for help that they need today, and the law ensures future generations of veterans are better protected.
CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) today announced the appointment of Eve Gelb as its new Chief Innovation Officer. With a proven track record of success, Eve will serve in a critical role, helping drive excellence, innovation, and quality care for GCHP’s more than 250,000 Medi-Cal members.
“As part of Gold Coast Health Plan’s mission to continue to build and improve equity and access across the Medi-Cal system of services and supports in Ventura County, we thoughtfully added a Chief Innovation Officer position to our Executive Team – which itself is an innovation for the organization,” said Nick Liguori, GCHP’s Chief Executive Officer. “Eve will lead the way as we improve the execution and integration of complex, mission-critical and strategic initiatives that will ultimately lead to better outcomes for our members, greater access to quality care, and a superior member experience.”
Good news! We just got closer to finishing the 101 freeway project. Recently we celebrated the award of $132.4 million to finish the Montecito segment of the project. This funding comes from the State SB1 gas tax and is also some of the first funding from the Biden infrastructure bill. Receiving this funding so quickly means we will avoid the project timeline being drawn out and just get it done. The best part is this funding will also go towards new electric buses for Santa Barbara MTD, more electric vehicle chargers, and pedestrian/bike path connectivity in Summerland and Montecito.
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (SBCH) and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital (GVCH) have earned a five-star rating, the highest rating possible, on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 2023 quality star rating report.
SBCH and GVCH are among 10 percent of surveyed U.S. hospitals that received five stars, the highest rating.
SANTA BARBARA — American Indian Health & Services (AIH&S), at 3227 State St. Santa Barbara, will be celebrating National Health Center Week (NHCW) with other community clinics across the country.
Health centers provide preventive and primary care services to over 30 million people and are the first to respond with wrap around care during disasters and health emergencies. Community Health Centers lower health care costs to the tune of $24 billion a year reducing the rate of chronic diseases and stimulating local economies.
For nearly 30 years, American Indian Health & Services has been serving the Central-Coast’s healthcare needs. At AIH&S we provide medical, dental, optometric, behavioral health, and community cultural services to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and members of the community.
SANTA BARBARA – Cottage Health has received two American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines® achievement awards for demonstrating a commitment to research-based guidelines for the treatment of stroke, leading to more lives saved, shorter recovery times and fewer readmissions to the hospital.
CAMARILLO — Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice is bringing back their beloved Life Story program. This program is designed to provide both community members and hospice patients the opportunity to record their personal memoirs.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS) proudly joins all 50 states in commemorating August as Child Support Awareness Month, celebrating exemplary parents and families who play a vital role in their children’s lives.
Child Support Awareness Month, observed annually, reaffirms the inherent right of every child to receive emotional and financial support from both parents. VCDCSS remains steadfastly dedicated to nurturing supportive relationships between parents and their children, encouraging co-parents to fulfill their child support obligations consistently and promptly.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Clean Power Alliance (CPA) is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2023-2024 Community Benefits Grant Program. Now in its third year, the program, which is a partnership between CPA and Calpine Energy Solutions, has once again increased funding to support nonprofit organizations working to advance clean energy goals. Eligible nonprofits must be working in the 35 communities CPA serves throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties. The program’s application period opens today and runs through Sept. 15.
A total of $275,000 in funding is being made available this year, to an anticipated 12 recipients. In 2022, nearly $204,000 in funding was distributed to 10 organizations throughout both counties. In the program’s inaugural year, eight organizations were awarded $75,000 in grant funding.
Using an Afrocentric and critical race theoretical framework, lead author Sharon Tettegah and co-authors Alison Cerezo, Terrance Wooten and DeLeon Gray review the works of four prominent Black psychologists.
Friendship Center is looking forward to our 11th Annual Wine Down to be held Thursday, September 14th, 2023, from 4 to 7pm outdoors at our Montecito Center’s courtyard. This delicious and delightful event brings us together to enjoy an evening of great local wines and beer, along with hearty hors d’oeuvres and live music, all for a good cause!
The event will feature LIVE music with several wines from our local regions, local craft beer and locally brewed coffee, all paired with a mouthwatering array of delicious hors d’oeuvres.
Your contributions raise funds for LEAP, our Life Enrichment Activity Program, providing music, movement and excursion programs for seniors with dementia, led by local entertainers and instructors, engaging our members in mind, body, and spirit.
SACRAMENTO – California continues to prepare communities against the devastating impacts of wildfires, with Governor Gavin Newsom announcing new investments today that will ramp up defenses around homes, reduce overgrown vegetation, improve evacuation routes for rural communities and more.
The $113 million in new funding, made possible by the $52 billion California Climate Commitment budget, will support 96 wildfire prevention projects across the state – with more than 8 in 10 grants directed towards vulnerable or underserved communities.
(Grants awarded to Wildland Resisidents Association (WRA), Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council, City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department and Fire Department (applicant); California State Parks-San Luis Obispo Coast District, City of Pismo Beach, City of Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo County Community Fire Safe Council; Central Ventura County Fire Safe Council, Inc. and Ojai Valley Land Conservancy. See full grant description HERE.)
SANTA PAULA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors on July 25 voted to approve $1.62 million in funding over the next two years to support efforts to provide housing for homeless individuals in the Santa Clara Valley – serving individuals experiencing homelessness in the cities of Santa Paula, Fillmore, and the unincorporated area of Piru. The funding from the County will match funding provided by the City of Santa Paula and City of Fillmore.
In tandem, the Santa Paula City Council held a special meeting on July 19 to approve an agreement that will contribute $24,000 per month for two years to support the operations of the nonprofit Spirit of Santa Paula Harvard Shelter for the unhoused. The shelter, located at 1498 E. Harvard Blvd., has been providing essential services to 49 individuals, including 19 children, in need of assistance.
“As a Climate leader for California’s Central Coast, we recognize that without community resilience, extreme heat will continue to exacerbate the underlying inequalities within our region,” said CEC Director of Climate Resilience Em Johnson. “Leading a regional coalition of over fifteen government agencies, grassroots organizations and community-based organizations, our vision as an EHRA partner is to reduce our region’s economic and health disparities related to the prevalence of extreme heat.”
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — Lumina Alliance is honored to announce that it has received $70k in funding from the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls as part of the highly competitive Women’s Recovery Response Grant Program.
This dedicated investment of state funding into organizations serving women and girls locally across the state represents a unique investment in the economic health and well-being of nearly half of California’s citizens.
“The culture in which a person grows up can impact the interpretation of the event,” said UC Santa Barbara professor emeritus Ann Taves. “And certain cultures can encourage people to watch out for and expect to experience these things.”
We are in the midst of a Summer of Celebration here at People’s!
Last week saw the Grand Opening of Templeton Place II – 36 units of truly permanently affordable housing for seniors and veterans, some of whom have come directly out of homelessness. $17M of investment went in this development, substantial amounts of which were injected straight into the local economy through construction subcontracting, including with a designated Disabled Veteran Enterprise. Though many challenges and obstacles showed up along the way, partnerships with multiple federal and state agencies and stakeholders from around the local community, made it happen!
Topic: “Dosage Dialogues: From Micro to Mega & Everything in Between”
When: Monday, July 24th; 5:30pm to 7pm Conversation
Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)
FREE for Members (check email for Eventbrite RSVP Code).
Guests Welcome to purchase $15 tickets.
N?OTE: We will *not* be filming this event. Refreshments provided.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a department of the County of Ventura’s Human Services Agency, was honored twice in the 32nd annual National Mature Media Awards.
The 2022 edition of LIVEWell received Gold honors in the magazine category. It’s the fourth consecutive year that the publication has been recognized, but the first time it has received Gold status after being Bronze in 2021 and 2022 and Silver in 2020. LIVEWell, an annual publication that provides articles and resource listings, is the premier resource guide in Ventura County for individuals 60 and older, caregivers, and people with disabilities.
CEC Expands Capacity for Critical Climate Programs Work With New Staff & Board Member SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) welcomed three new staff members and one new board member to its growing roster, as the organization continues…
SACRAMENTO — California is set to continue its legacy of building upon and strengthening the Affordable Care Act, as its Board of Directors approved enhanced benefit designs that will ensure over 600,000 Covered California enrollees see reduced out-of-pocket costs in 2024.
“Covered California is proud to be a part of another visionary program that strengthens the Affordable Care Act,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “California made history with the State Premium Subsidy program in 2021, and we appreciate the continued leadership from Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state Legislature to make health care access and affordability a priority in our state.”
The new budget package passed by the state Legislature and enacted by Gov. Newsom appropriates $82.5 million of the Health Care Affordability Reserve Fund (HCARF) to Covered California to support a program of financial assistance for coverage year 2024. Per the budget agreement, funding for the program is planned to increase to $165 million starting in coverage year 2025.
SACRAMENTO — Continuing with her commitment to reduce food waste, Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin announced that she has requested California’s Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) to promulgate regulations requiring packaged food sold in California be labeled with clear and consistent expiration dates. The proposal aligns with Assembly Bill (AB) 660, which would assist consumers in understanding how long they can safely keep and consume products before discarding them.
While they confer many ecological benefits, marine protected areas do not shield against the effects of prolonged elevated water temperatures.
PORT OF HUENEME — It’s official! The Port of Hueneme’s annual Green Marine certification results are out, and the Port was certified in June 2023 with its highest scores ever during the annual Green Marine re-certification process. These high scores are an acknowledgement of the Port of Hueneme’s commitment to leadership in environmental stewardship. Green Marine is the leading voluntary environmental certification program for North America’s maritime industry. Green Marine’s Environmental Port Program scores an applicant against a rigorous set of more than 160 performance indicators in nine categories, including environmental leadership, community impacts, greenhouse gases and air pollutants as well as waste management. The scores an applicant receives are based upon escalating requirements, all of which are predicated on going above and beyond mere compliance with environmental regulations. In addition, the program categories evolve annually and require ongoing year over year improvement to maintain, let alone improve on, an applicant’s score. The Port of Hueneme has been part of this program since 2017 and in addition to the annual re-certification process, there is a third-party onsite program audit every other year of an applicant’s participation. The Port of Hueneme was the first port in California to achieve a Green Marine certification in 2017.
SANTA BARBARA — Angels Foster Care on July 13 announced the launch of ‘Family & Friends Together’ (FFT), a new kinship care program that provides intensive, trauma-informed multigenerational support to kinship families caring for foster children from birth to age five in Santa Barbara County.
The local nonprofit – which provides safe, stable, loving homes for infants and toddlers in foster care throughout Santa Barbara County and Southern San Luis Obispo County – partnered with Santa Barbara County Child Welfare Services, the Towbes Foundation, the Bower Foundation, the Hazen Foundation and other private donors to launch and fund the new program.
FFT provides case management, referrals, individualized education, and brief therapeutic intervention to kinship caregivers and the children they are fostering.
SANTA BARBARA — Caring Together Santa Barbara County (CTSBC) (on July 12) announced that it is one of 37 communities selected by the California Accountable Communities for Health Initiative (CACHI) to advance an innovative approach to building community health and equity. CTSBC will receive $500,000 in funding over a 30-month period to implement an Accountable Community for Health (ACH), a sustainable platform for aligning local health and social services while centering community voice and equity.
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (SBCH) is pleased to announce the completion of a significant phase in its Emergency Department (ED) remodel project, made possible by generous community support and donations. The ED remains conveniently accessible from Junipero Street and has been redesigned for improved patient flow.
“Thanks to the renovation, we now have the ability to serve more patients and remain prepared for future healthcare needs,” said Dr. John Anis, medical director for Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital’s Emergency Department. “Prior to the remodel, we were able to see 45,000 patients annually, now we are equipped to accommodate up to 75,000 patients.”
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS), a leading advocate for family well-being, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Empowering Fathers series this August as part of its Child Support Awareness Month Campaign. Committed to its core principle of helping families thrive, The Department of Child Support Services recognizes the instrumental role fathers play in the development and future success of their children. With this in mind, the department has curated a series of presentations that aim to empower fathers with the knowledge, support, and resources needed to overcome obstacles that may hinder their involvement in their children’s lives.
CENTRAL COAST?— 3C-REN (Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura that delivers energy-saving programs, had its $155 million, 8-year business plan approved by the California Public Utilities Commission. The plan permits 3C-REN to continue operating four successful existing programs and launch three new programs to fill gaps in energy efficiency services for commercial and public sector buildings, and the agricultural sector.
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is the first health system on the California Central Coast to offer Focal One’s noninvasive Robotic Focal High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment to patients with localized prostate cancer. HIFU, an outpatient procedure, is today’s most advanced technology for precisely targeted ablation of diseased prostate tissue. Dr. David Laub, urologist with Cottage Health, performed the first three procedures on June 23, 2023, at Cottage Outpatient Surgery Center.
VENTURA — Dani Anderson, Disability Access Manager for the County of Ventura, has been appointed to the California Committee on the Employment of People with Disabilities (CCEPD). The appointment to the committee was made by the Speaker of the California State Assembly Anthony Rendon. Anderson will serve a three-year term that went into effect on June 29, 2023.
“I am very excited to re-connect with efforts to improve and enhance employment opportunities and outcomes for individuals with disabilities, where my career began,” said Anderson. “I have always believed that educating, training, and encouraging youth with disabilities about what their future can hold is crucial to their success. Of the many impactful components of the CCEPD, I look forward to using that mindset to lend to the continued success and even expansion of the Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities, of which I am an alumna. I am honored to be appointed to this vital committee and cannot wait to get started.”
SANTA BARBARA – Following a national search, Cottage Health has appointed Andrew Brown as the new Vice President of Advancement. In this role, Mr. Brown will lead fund development operations and work closely with the foundations providing critical fundraising support for Cottage Health.
Mr. Brown brings more than 20 years of experience in advancement leadership. Most recently, Mr. Brown served as Vice President of Advancement at Macalester College in St. Paul, MN, where he successfully led The Macalester Moment fundraising campaign, a 4-year, $100 million fundraising initiative that exceeded its goal by 26%. While at Macalester, he also implemented community-centric fundraising strategies and doubled total annual fundraising.
Resource managers are increasingly turning toward prescribed burns as a tool for land maintenance and restoration — and for reducing the risk of wildfires.
CAMARILLO — California State University has awarded CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) a grant to develop the statewide system’s first online program in Health Science in order to address the critical need for workers and provide working adults with a convenient way to complete their bachelor’s degree.
The CSU Commission on Professional and Continuing Education awarded CSUCI a $50,000 accelerator grant to launch an online Bachelor of Science in Health Science degree in August 2024.
The U.S. has had a shortage of health care workers for decades, and the COVID-19 pandemic made it worse by driving many to leave the field because of burnout. The shortfall is more pronounced in California. In 2021, there were 34% more health care jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree in Health Science than the national average, according to a report commissioned by CSUCI. The report projected an 18% growth over the next five years, outpacing projected growth nationally.
EMERYVILLE, Calif. — Grocery Outlet Bargain Market, extreme-value grocery retailer, on June 28 launched its 13th consecutive Independence from Hunger Food Drive to combat food insecurity. Through July 31, 2023, the campaign will collect cash donations and pre-made bags of nonperishable foods in-store at Grocery Outlet’s 450 locations that will be distributed to local food agencies partners. In the Ventura County area, the program will benefit Foodshare Ventura County and Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank,among other non-profit charities.
With the ongoing inflation, families continue to turn to food banks as 34 million people in the United States are currently food insecure. Specifically in the Latino community, one in six is food insecure. Each independently owned and operated Grocery Outlet store is committed to giving back to their community and have partnered locally to bring the community together in providing families nutritious food.
SANTA BARBARA — This week the Community Environmental Council (CEC) released its 2022 Impact Report, which provides key highlights of how the organization is working to immediately tackle the urgent threat of climate change on California’s Central Coast. The report is accessible at cecsb.org/impact.
We’re pleased to share with you our latest video highlighting our Community Impact programs.
Learn more about Women United, VITA, Stuff the Bus, United to End Homelessness VC, and Building Healthy Smiles initiatives and the outcomes we’ve accomplished together!
Please hit play to take a look!
Remarkably well preserved after 11,000 years, the botanical materials at El Gigante reflect the transition from foraging to farming, providing a rare glimpse of early foraging strategies and changes in subsistence.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Fire Department placed four rescue ambulances into service today in Camarillo, Santa Paula, Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley to improve service for people experiencing medical emergencies.
The ambulances are assigned to Station 50 in Camarillo, Station 26 in Santa Paula, Station 30 in Thousand Oaks and Station 41 in Simi Valley. They are staffed by the firefighter paramedics who had been assigned to squads at those stations. The new rescue ambulances allow those paramedics to continue their existing work and provide vital transportation service to patients when emergency activity creates potential delays in transport to a hospital.
“After initial assessment and medical assistance, it is important to get patients who need higher levels of care to the hospital quickly,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said.
SAN LUIS OBISPO — On Thursday, June 22 a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open in Oceano to provide resources to residents who were affected by the February and March storms. The DRC is a partnership between the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), and County of San Luis Obispo.
The DRC will be open Thursday, June 22 through Monday, June 26 from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM at the Oceano CSD Board Room, 1655 Front Street in Oceano.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD), in cooperation with the Ventura County Prescribed Burn Association (VCPBA), the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy (OVLC), Ventura County Resource Conservation District (VCRCD) and the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (VCAPCD) will be conducting prescribed burns on two adjacent properties, June 22 and June 23, at OVLC’s Ventura River Steelhead Preserve and Nye Ranch, respectively. Both properties are located off Santa Ana Road in Casitas Springs and the burns will occur on approximately 40 acres of grassland currently inundated with non-native and noxious weed species.
“Dad, I feel like I am cured!” Those were the words that my son, Aaron, said to me, this past Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 11:16 AM. In my wildest dreams and nightmares, I was not remotely prepared for this miraculous news. My mind, heart, my entire world froze temporarily. I was left speechless and breathless. I was catapulted to an unknown realm between ecstasy and terror. Then I saw the loving faces of my jefitos and our sacred elders and I was finally able to breathe. It took some eternally long seconds to finally wrap my head around what my son was telling me. Aaron repeated again, “Dad, I believe that I am cured!” I move the phone away from my month, and as quietly as I possibly could I tried to control myself, and I silently wailed thanks and praises to the spirits over these four little miraculous words that my family and close friends have been praying and waiting to hear from Aaron for these past 18 years.
In the 2017 Thomas fire and the 2018 Woolsey fire, water shortages hampered firefighters’ ability to protect structures. Ventura County frequently experiences conditions of low humidity, high winds and dry brush, conducive to dangerous wildland fires. Ventura County has ninety-six percent of its rural and unincorporated lands classified as very high fire zones.
The 2022-2023 Ventura County Grand Jury conducted an investigation of current protocols and procedures utilized by 15 Ventura County public water purveyors to supply adequate water for wildland fire suppression.
The Grand Jury finds that having written procedures for actions taken by public water purveyors during a Fire Weather Watch, Red Flag Warning, active fire and/or Public Safety Power Shutoffs due to wildfires is a best practice that is lacking in Ventura County.
The Grand Jury finds that most public water purveyors do not have adequate backup power in the event of disruptions due to fire damage or loss of utility power.
SANTA BARBARA — Senior Expo is returning after a three-year hiatus during the pandemic. Family Service Agency (FSA) today announced that the 32nd Annual Senior Expo of Santa Barbara, the largest active aging fair in our area, will take place on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Earl Warren Showgrounds. The deadline to register as a sponsor or exhibitor is August 1, 2023.
Organizations have the opportunity to engage more than 1,000 local seniors and caregivers and network with more than 100 booths focused on the needs of seniors and caregivers in our community. Exhibit space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis, and is expected to sell out early.
“The Expo is the only event of its kind on the Central Coast. Attendees receive great information on the plethora of services resources available to them,” said Lisa Brabo, FSA CEO. “With the support of our sponsors and exhibitors, and the help of more than 50 volunteers, we are really proud to be able to bring the Senior Expo back to the community this year.”
At its regular meeting on June 7, the Santa Paula City Council advanced the City’s agreement with the Clean Power Alliance (CPA) by selecting a default rate option for the City and its residents.
CPA is Southern California’s locally operated electricity provider and gives the power of choice to customers, allowing them to choose the plan that works best for their particular circumstances. CPA sources clean, renewable power such as wind, solar, bioenergy, geothermal and small hydroelectric at competitive rates, which helps communities achieve their climate action goals and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Services are still delivered and billed by SCE, preventing any disruptions to customers’ power supply when they switch.
“By moving forward in this process, Santa Paula is taking a significant step toward a cleaner, greener future,” said Mayor Andy Sobel. “We are proud to provide our residents with access to clean energy options, ensuring a sustainable path for our community.”
The students graduating from Ventura County high schools in 2023 had anything but a typical experience. They were in the second half of their freshman year when the pandemic forced classrooms to close. They had to adapt to distance learning and all of the challenges that went along with it. Many faced the ordeal of seeing loved ones pass away or fall ill from COVID-19. And when in-person instruction resumed, social distancing and masking became a part of their daily routines.
Despite it all, there is no shortage of students in the class of 2023 who have achieved incredible things during their high school years. Several have overcome obstacles that go well beyond the pandemic to reach this important milestone. In our annual graduation edition of Focus on Education, we are proud to share some of their inspiring stories with you.
Dr. César Morales
Ventura County Superintendent of Schools
People often seek the company of a pet. Their reasons for doing so vary as much as their personalities.
Deciding whether to take on the responsibilities of owning a dog can be fraught with conflicting needs. For example, you may anxiously anticipate the joys of having a furry companion but end up loathing the many inevitable inconveniences that this entails.
Let’s first ponder some of the advantages of owning a dog.
Last weekend I had the opportunity to join Moms Demand Action Santa Barbara to participate in Wear Orange Weekend. Together we helped pick up trash and weeds at Ortega Park and celebrated the historic murals. We know what it takes to stop gun violence. Having beautiful and clean spaces for our youth is a big part of that. We also need action. Common sense gun safety measures like the Gun Violence Restraining Order law I authored in the State Assembly have prevented over 58 mass shootings in California since 2016, by temporarily removing guns from those who pose harm to themselves or others. Our Member of Congress Salud Carbajal is leading the effort in Washington, D.C. to incentivize states across our nation to adopt these laws because they work. But these laws only keep us safe when our friends and neighbors are informed about them and utilize them in times of need.
Below you will find information about Gun Violence Restraining Orders and how different people in contact with people who may be at risk of hurting themselves or others with a gun utilize them.
Please help us spread the word about this tool and visit speakforsafety.org to learn more.
In celebration of World Oceans Day, the Port of Hueneme held a “Sustaining the Seas Summit” on Thursday, June 8 at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum in Oxnard. The event was an opportunity for the Port of Hueneme, maritime industry companies, environmentalists, and community organizations to gather to discuss partnerships focused on the sustainability of the world’s oceans.
“We are the only planet that has an ocean, and we must sustain it for generations to come,” said Jess Herrera, President of the Oxnard Harbor Commission. “The Port of Hueneme is committed to a clean and sustainable environment and ocean. That is why we are here today to learn more from leaders on efforts concerning ocean-based technology, advocacy, and management. Understanding the status and the change in our oceans is a complex issue.”
Between the overlapping arrangement of two lattices, physicists find some interesting material behaviors that have never been seen before
Lumina Alliance has received a $600,000 grant funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to expand parenting, healthy relationships, and sexual health education in local elementary, middle, and high schools over the next 5 years.
In collaboration with the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence, Lumina Alliance will support parents, caregivers, and youth by providing them the tools necessary to prevent sexual and intimate partner violence before it starts through three innovative programs.
June is a special month at VCCDC! We celebrate National Homeownership Month! At the core of our mission is the belief that a home is more than a place to live. It is the cornerstone of any individual’s and family’s economic, environmental and social well being.
Sustaining the Seas Summit
The Port of Hueneme will host four short sessions on June 8th, seeking to inspire change and celebrate World Oceans Day. The presenters and topics showcased during these sessions will highlight individuals whose organizations, projects and initiatives align with the port’s mission of promoting a blue economy while simultaneously protecting and preserving one of the most crucial components of our biosphere.
June 8th, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Channel Islands Maritime Museum, 3900 Bluefin Circle, Oxnard, CA 93035
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
GOLETA – In a display of community support and celebration of mothers everywhere, the 4th annual Miles for Moms 5K run/walk drew an impressive 550 participants. This event, held on the eve of Mother’s Day, paid tribute to the selfless dedication of mothers while also raising $100,000 to benefit Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital (GVCH).
Declared a national holiday in 1971, Memorial Day is observed in remembrance of our veterans and the men and women who died while in service to our nation.
This message goes out to our staff, our Board members, members of our Center, caregivers, volunteers, patrons, grantors, donors, artists and community partners: It takes a village to care for our cherished elders and their caregivers, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have served our community!
Thank you everyone for being such an important part of my 38 FABULOUS YEARS serving seniors at Friendship Center!
With much love and gratitude,
Heidi Holly
Executive Director
Cottage Urgent Care is pleased to offer discounted pre-participation physical examinations for students engaging in sports and summer activities. Students can benefit from these examinations at a discounted rate of just $35 across all Cottage Urgent Care locations.
During the exam, a board-certified advanced practice provider, either a nurse practitioner or physician assistant, will assess the student’s overall health, evaluate fitness levels and address any recent health changes and concerns. In California, students who plan to engage in sports or summer activities, such as camp, must undergo physical examination.
The Ventura County Fire Department is proud to announce the addition of an Advanced Life Support (ALS) Squad vehicle to Simi Valley today. Squad 41 will be staffed by two firefighter/paramedics and deliver an enhanced level of service.
Squad 41 will be stationed at Fire Station 41 on Church Street near E. Los Angeles Avenue in Central Simi Valley.
The Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) received an award to support its Voz de la Mujer Indigena (Voice of the Indigenous Woman) program, which provides resources and case management to indigenous survivors of domestic violence. MICOP utilizes a holistic healing approach to support survivors in finding their voices and creating safer and healthier environments for themselves, their families, and their communities. With this new support, MICOP plans to hire additional case managers in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties and allot funds for emergency food, shelter, transportation, and financial assistance.
Physicians, nurses, UCSB scientists and other researchers gathered in March for the 2023 Collaborative Research Symposium, hosted by the Cottage Health Research Institute (CHRI) in collaboration with Santa Barbara City College; California State University, Channel Islands; University of California, Santa Barbara and Westmont College.
The event at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara provided an opportunity to bring together healthcare providers, academic faculty and other researchers to share ideas, make new connections and attract grant funding. Nearly 200 participants gathered in person and virtually for the free one-day event that included topics on health disparities and equity in the workplace.
Recently, the CA Coastal Conservancy awarded $455,000 to the Santa Barbara County Wildfire Resilience Collaborative (WRC) to develop and execute three wildfire resilience and habitat restoration projects: a creeks and open spaces initiative for Goleta, a collaborative project in partnership with The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County in the Arroyo Hondo Preserve, and the refinement of essential tools for resilience planning. These three priorities were identified through the Santa Barbara County Wildfire Regional Priority Plan (RPP).
Ventura Land Trust (VLT) has been awarded a $1.3 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for fuel load reduction and erosion mitigation in Harmon Canyon Preserve. The funded proposal is designed to mitigate wildfire risk between Harmon Canyon Preserve and the residential neighborhood of Clearpoint.
While winter rains have resulted in robust growth of waist-high lupine, perennial bunchgrasses, California peony, and coast live oaks, invasive plant species have also had a record year.
VLT has until May 2024 to reduce fuel loads primarily made up of invasive annual grasses, thistles, tumbleweed, and mustards, while minding the structural integrity of erosive slopes and the ecological conservation of the Preserve.
Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) visited the Port of Hueneme to deliver a check in the amount of $375,000 in support of the Port of Hueneme’s Reducing Emissions, Supporting Health (PHRESH) Plan that will assess and address emissions, air quality requirements and goals, as well as look at future growth scenarios, emission control strategies, community involvement, strategy funding, implementation, and monitoring.
For the past 50 years, Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center (SMVYFC) has provided vital mental health counseling and family support services to Santa Maria youth and families—often at their most critical times of need. The Center, which merged with Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County in 2017, empowers families to tackle mental health challenges, poverty, and parenting issues as they take steps toward strengthening their families and achieving wellness.
“Strong families are the cornerstone of strong communities,” said Brian Zimmerman, Director of Student and Family Services for the Santa Maria Bonita School District (SMBSD). “Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center has helped students and their families in our district for generations.”
The County of Ventura Sustainability Division will celebrate National Bike Month this year by hosting CycleMAYnia Mini-Expo. CycleMAYnia Mini-Expo is a free event open to the public that aims to inspire more people to embrace cycling as a sustainable, eco-friendly, and health-enhancing mode of transportation. The community is encouraged to attend the event happening on Wednesday, May 31stfrom 10 am – 2 pm at the Ventura County Government Center Lot G.
The Oxnard Union High School District (OUHSD) selected businesses in the community to recognize for its 2023 Business Champions Awards. This celebration was an opportunity to thank the Port of Hueneme and other businesses for their efforts to create prosperity in communities through collaboration, college readiness efforts, and career preparation.
The County of Ventura was selected to receive the 2023 Sustainability Award for Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). The award, which is the most prestigious given by SCAG, was given in recognition of the Resource Management Agency’s Agricultural Worker Housing Ordinance. The County was recognized at SCAG’s Regional Conference and General Assembly on May 4 in Palm Desert, California.
“Our Board of Supervisors has long championed the promotion of housing for those working in our agriculture industry,” said Kim Prillhart, Director of the Resource Management Agency. “I couldn’t be more pleased by the innovations in this ordinance that ensures a sustainable path forward to build quality housing for our agriculture workers in Ventura County. It is a testament to the quality of the work that we do at the County of Ventura to have those efforts recognized by SCAG’s most prestigious sustainability award.”
Conversations around mental health issues can be challenging and complicated. Using the tools of Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA), adults can help take the fear and hesitation out of starting a difficult conversation that may end up saving someone’s life. A new slate of YMHFA classes have been scheduled starting this May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month.
The free training teaches adults how to spot warning signs of mental health risks and substance abuse in youth, and how to prevent a tragedy. Join the more than 1,600 Santa Barbara County parents, mental health providers, educators, and counselors have already been trained.
Heidi Holly, Executive Director of the Friendship Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara for over 38 years is planning to retire in July. The adult day program provides services for aging and dependent adults and respite for their caregivers. Friendship Center brings social activities to enhance seniors’ quality of life, promote self-esteem, and increase their ability to continue living at home.
CAMARILLO – Several Ventura County property owners in fire risk areas have shared concerns recently about notices from their insurance companies that indicate coverage would not be renewed unless certain steps to reduce fire risks were taken.
The insurance companies appear to be acting on new rules from California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara that went into effect in April. The regulation was not made by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors or the Ventura County Fire Department.
The state’s new rules were intended to create more transparency in the process when insurance companies determine premiums or decide whether to cancel a policy.
More than 1,800 vegetable plants were distributed at Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture’s (SEEAG) first annual Plantopia U Pick Transplant Fundraiser on Earth Day. The fundraiser raised over $5,000 to help with SEEAG’s agricultural education programs that teach students about the farm origins of their food, water resources, soil health, entomology and locally grown fruits and vegetables.
Plantopia was held at SEEAG’s Farm Lab at Petty Ranch in Ventura and Plantel Nurseries in Santa Maria. In addition to tomatoes, zucchini, squash, basil and pepper seedlings, SEEAG provided 500 bags of potting soil donated by Agromin in Ventura County and Engel and Gray in Santa Barbara County to give plants a healthy start.
“We plan to make Plantopia an annual event,” says Mary Maranville, SEEAG’s founder and CEO. “It’s a great way to kick off planting season, remind people of the importance of our farmers and celebrate Earth Day.”
After a three-year pause during the pandemic, the Cottage Health Volunteer Awards Luncheon was back in person this past April at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.
Over the past year, 450 Cottage volunteers have donated close to 95,000 hours of service at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital and Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital.
Cottage volunteers serve across nearly every department, including Emergency, Surgery, Intensive Care, Physical Therapy, Orthopedics and Wound Care.
Ron Werft, President & CEO of Cottage Health, praised the vital work of volunteers during the awards luncheon with 150 volunteers in attendance.
“As volunteers, you have chosen to generously share your gifts, and we are all better because of you,” Mr. Werft said. “Your service is seen through every area of Cottage Health, and you are truly part of the care team.”
We are thrilled to share with you our 2022 Annual Report. We had very successful and busy year. We hope this snapshot provides a glimpse into our daily lifesaving activities during the 2022 calendar year. Thank you for your continuing support of our lifesaving mission!
At its April 24 meeting, the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) board of directors voted to lift Stage 1 Water Shortage conditions, which have been in place since August 2021. TWSD’s nearly 14,000 Oak Park residential and business potable water users are no longer required to limit their outdoor water use to one day per week.
“Our customers did a great job reducing their water consumption,” says Jane Nye, TWSD board chair. “Along with their efforts and the unusually wet winter, we now can confidently move out of the Stage 1 level.”
County of Ventura launches 150th Anniversary Website
In honor of the County’s 150th anniversary, we’re excited to announce that our VC 150 Memories website has launched!
VC 150 Memories is a community-driven project that aims to celebrate and preserve the cherished memories of residents in Ventura County. The goal is to collect and archive photos that capture special moments and experiences that people have had in the county both past and present. Residents are invited to submit their favorite images, which will be featured in a public photo gallery and used to create a visual representation of the county’s rich history and diverse community.
The project is a celebration of the people, places, and events that make Ventura County such a unique and special place to live.
Visit www.venturacounty150.com and share your favorite memories and why you love Ventura County!
View Dogs Vea Perros Ventura County Animal Services | 600 Aviation Drive, Camarillo, CA 93010
Major new antibiotics research has significant implications in the fight against bacterial resistance.
Cottage Health is now accepting applications for the 2023-25 Behavioral Health Initiative Community Partnership Grants. The grant opportunity is open to organizations working to address behavioral health needs for children and youth and their families in south Santa Barbara County. Using evidence-based interventions, grantees in the initiative will collaborate on community-based work to increase access and use of behavioral health services and to improve the health and quality of life of adolescents and their families.
A new app from Cottage Health provides patients with easy access to their health information. The Cottage Health MyChart app helps users easily manage health information and care for themselves and their family. App services include accessing test results, managing and pre-registering for appointments, and communicating with physicians. Consumers can also use the tool to find a physician, locate nearby healthcare services, and access 24/7 Virtual Care and Urgent Care appointments with just a click.
“The Cottage MyChart app provides patients secure online access to their health record in one location,” said Sheri Ribeiro, Chief Information Officer, Cottage Health.
LOMPOC — Savie Health, a free medical clinic in Lompoc for people without health insurance, is now offering a limited range of women’s health care services, with plans to add more soon.Patients can now receive the following services for free…
Congratulations to The Towbes Group and Shepard Place Shops for installing Carpinteria’s first EV Fast Charger! As a Board member of the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District, we are supporting projects just like this across the County. This one received $100,000 as part of our regional strategy to promote zero-emission vehicles. Beginning today, you can view the draft report Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy report, and on April 20, attend a virtual public workshop to provide feedback on potential charging station locations: www.centralcoastzevstrategy.com
The County of Ventura is making it easier for local residents to take steps to address the climate crisis by launching the Climate Resilient VC campaign (www.climateresilientvc.org). The campaign provides an online platform with a comprehensive list of actions residents can take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve resiliency, and create stronger community connections. Each action category provides specific steps, educational tools, and information on existing programs and financial incentives.
Mosquito Awareness Week is April 16-22, and it is a reminder that it is more important than ever to eliminate standing water from your property. This year, the very active rainy season has left us with an abundance of mosquito breeding sites, from large flooded low-lying areas to small back yard sources.
In addition to native mosquito species, some of which can transmit West Nile Virus (WNV), the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito has become established and is spreading in many areas of Ventura County. These small aggressive mosquitoes are day-biting, can breed in as little as a teaspoon of water, and have evolved to survive and thrive in and around our homes. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes have the potential to transmit several viruses, including dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever. These viruses are not currently known to be transmitted within California, but now that these mosquitoes are present, an infected traveler returning to our area could be a source of local transmission.
Three Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) ‘illuminate’’ Speaker Series presenters, Nora McInerny Purmort, Joan Halifax and Frank Ostaseski, were featured on Oprah Daily’s “The Best Books to Comfort a Grieving Friend.” HSB’s ‘illuminate’’ Speaker Series addresses the feelings of anxiety, grief and uncertainty that accompany a challenging time. ‘illuminate’’ speakers inspire, educate, encourage deeper inquiry and action, create community discussion, and help bring people closer together.
“Each author offers unique insight, wisdom and guidance about dealing with grief and challenging times,” said David Selberg, Hospice of Santa Barbara CEO. “Hospice of Santa Barbara is very fortunate to have them as part of our ‘illuminate’ Speaker Series line-up.”
Ventura Land Trust (VLT) will hold a special Legacy Wall dedication ceremony on Wednesday, April 19th at 9:00 am to commemorate donors who supported the Harmon Canyon Campaign for Harmon Canyon Preserve. The ceremony will take place at the Harmon Canyon Preserve trailhead.
The $10 million Harmon Canyon Campaign supported the establishment of Harmon Canyon Preserve, 2,123 acres of permanently conserved open space in Ventura, and a stewardship endowment that allows Ventura Land Trust to care for the land in perpetuity.
Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation’s 7-year philanthropic campaign, Reaching Higher Together: The Cottage Campaign for Excellence, has raised $150.6 million to support Cottage Health in providing our community with world-class care and access to future innovations and advances in health and medicine.
“The response of our community inspires us to do our best work,” says Ron Werft, President and CEO of Cottage Health. We are so grateful to have the trust and confidence of Santa Barbara and the surrounding region.”
During the campaign, 183 generous donors made gifts of more than $50,000, including two unprecedented gifts of $15 million. One from visionary philanthropists Mary and Richard Compton to create an endowment fund for medical excellence and innovation. And most recently in an extraordinary commitment to providing the finest emergency services and facilities to our community, Naomi and Ben Bollag made a $15 million gift to Cottage’s Emergency Department Expansion Project.
The 2023 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count was conducted on January 24, 2023 in the ten cities and unincorporated areas within Ventura County. People experiencing homelessness were surveyed and observed by the federal definition which includes those living unsheltered or in places not meant for human habitation, as well as those staying in emergency shelters and transitional housing programs on the night of January 23. Approximately 400 volunteers assisted with the unsheltered surveys from dawn until mid-day across the County.
The productivity of brine flies is tied to overall health of salt lake ecosystems; both are in decline.
VENTURA COUNTY — Registered nurses and health care professionals who work for the Ventura County Health System in California (on April 7) voted overwhelmingly in favor of ratifying a new 5-year contract winning protections to improve patient safety and staff retention along with pension enhancement and a competitive benefit package, announced California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU).
“We are so pleased that the nurses and the health care workers stood strong and united to win this important contract that will help us attract and retain experienced health care professionals who are committed to our community,” said Gina Parcon, an ICU nurse at Santa Paula Hospital. “
… “We urge our members to update their contact information with their local Department of Social Services to ensure they receive the renewal package in the mail. This is especially important if the member has moved or their mailing address has changed in the last two years,” said CenCal Health Chief Customer Experience & Health Equity Officer Van Do-Reynoso, MPH, Ph.D. “Access to care is a critical step towards health equity. So please – check, update, and respond to keep yourself and your family covered.”
Savie Health, a free clinic offering no-charge health care to the uninsured population in Santa Barbara County and beyond, is pleased to welcome three new physicians to its team of dedicated volunteers.
Drs. Gilbert Andersen, Lawrence Li and Hafez Nasr are currently volunteering part-time to see patients at Savie Health’s medical clinic in Lompoc, which is open weekly from Wednesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The non-profit clinic, which relies on volunteers, provides free, high-quality, non-emergency care and offers medical, preventive and behavioral health services.
At today’s April 4th Board of Supervisors Meeting, the Board will receive an update on the Housing Element Update. Thanks to the cooperation of property owners and public comment from community members, the County has added 19 new sites, including 60 units of housing for workers at The Miramar Hotel and the Biltmore Hotel in Montecito.
The Housing Element Process takes place every 8 years. This year, due to the failure of counties and cities across California to meet affordable housing goals in previous cycles, the State is scrutinizing our plans more closely. Being out of compliance means we could lose most discretionary authority over zoning and land use.
The community of Nyeland Acres celebrated the start of National Public Health Week on Saturday April 1st, 2023. The Spring Health Fair took place at the Nyeland Acres Community Center. At the event, various health agencies set up a series of booths and distributed educational materials. All residents had the opportunity to receive free health screenings from Westminster Free Clinic, including glucose and blood pressure testing. Residents also had the opportunity to participate in a fun Zumba class. Every family that attended received a box of berries donated by Reiter Affiliated Co. and bananas donated by The Port of Hueneme. There were about 220 residents that attended the health fair.
Dear Friends & Supporters,
You made my heart go pitter patter!! The 24th Festival of Hearts held at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort in February was by far the most successful… in part due to your participation!!! Thank you for putting your “heart and soul” into making this event fly by sponsoring, making donations, bidding on live auction items and heart art, purchasing tickets… and just showing up! A shout out to the amazing events committee, board of directors, staff, “heart wrangler” Sharon Morrow, and many volunteers. Fundraising events support our operations and our seniors and families who matter most to us. Below is a brief video produced by David Harlow, our videographer extraordinaire, and some testimonials that come from the heart!
Gold Coast Health Plan’s (GCHP) partnership with AmericasHealth Plan (AHP) is expected to end on March 31, 2023, following a recent notification from Clinicas del Camino Real about its business decision to wind down operations of AHP, a wholly owned subsidiary. As such, GCHP will end its three-year subcontract with AHP after 18 months and transition the health care administration of more than 9,000 Medi-Cal beneficiaries back to GCHP on April 1, 2023. Member benefits and services will not be affected by the transition. Members who have an assigned primary care provider will be able to continue with that provider or select a new one.
While the opioid crisis is nothing new, the sudden arrival of fentanyl on the scene has dramatically increased the risks and dangers to our community and our students. I want you to know about two important events that are being held this May to help address this crisis.
On May 2, the Ventura County Office of Education will host a workshop for school administrators and nurses about the current fentanyl and opioid crisis. And on May 9, Ventura County Behavioral Health will launch a powerful fentanyl and opioid awareness campaign geared specifically toward students. Called “Real Talk: Fake pills, 100% danger,” it’s a 45-minute video that schools are encouraged to show students. It includes heartbreaking stories from parents who lost children to fentanyl.
Learn more about local efforts to protect students from the dangers of opioids in this column I recently wrote for the Ventura County Star.
The Community Environmental Council (CEC) proudly announces the recipients of its 2023 Santa Barbara Earth Day Environmental Hero Awards. CEC will honor Nalleli Cobo and Cesar Aguirre, who both work tirelessly in their communities to combat the devastating effects of the fossil fuel industry. The awards ceremony will be emceed by past Environmental Hero Award recipient Florencia Ramirez, kitchen activist, podcaster, and author of “How to Eat Less Water.”
Cesar Aguirre
Activists like Cobo and Aguirre have dedicated their lives to making an impact on climate change and set an example for people across California. Their activism lights the way for communities everywhere. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, April 30 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the main stage in Alameda Park.Both awardees will be on stage to accept their awards.
Tina Frontado Takes Reins of Organization while Salvatore “Tory” Milazzo leads the Board of Directors
Bingocize, a nationally recognized evidence-based program, will join the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging and the Ventura County Elderly Fall Prevention Coalition’s award-winning lineup of classes next month.
Bingocize strategically combines the game of bingo, exercise and health education, according to the National Council on Aging. During the 10-week program, participants play a traditional game of Bingo twice a week, with each session also including exercises (range of motion, balance, muscle strengthening, and endurance) and health education questions.
After a two-year pause, the Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation recently welcomed more than 400 guests to its annual black-tie gala, the Tiara Ball, held March 25, 2023, at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Goleta. This year’s event raised over $500,000 to benefit emergency, trauma and critical care services at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital.
Organized by a 15-member committee of community volunteers and hospital staff, the event designers converted the resort ballroom with metallic spheres and dance floor, a celestial gold and blue color-theme, and ethereal floral arrangements. Heather Hambleton and Lisa Iscovich co-chaired the event, also known as The Party of the Year.
When Juana “Jenny” Cue began working at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (SBCH), it was 1953 and Dwight D. Eisenhower’s first year as president. Jenny was 30 years old.
On March 22 this year, Jenny turned 100 and retired after 70 years of service at Cottage Health. Cottage honored Jenny and her amazing milestones by hosting a special celebration at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. 25 of the 26 members of Jenny’s family that joined her at Wednesday’s event were born at Cottage.
“We are extremely grateful for Jenny,” said Ron Werft, President & CEO of Cottage Health. “She’s been an important part of Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital for more than half its 131-year history and has had a positive impact on countless patients. We are definitely going to miss her.”
Health Care Foundation for Ventura County (HCFVC) recently launched its 8th annual drive for WeGive Employee & Retiree Giving for its county employee donation campaign. This annual campaign is an opportunity for county employees to support the most urgent medical needs of their community, with one hundred percent of every donation invested back into the local healthcare system. To date, this campaign has provided over $475,000 in critical medical equipment.
At more than 12 million pounds reported use per year, 1,3-D is the third most heavily applied pesticide in California agriculture, used as a pre-plant soil fumigant for berry crops along the Central Coast
Private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship and other faith-based organizations, may be eligible to apply for federal assistance to help recover from damage in the California counties affected by the severe January winter storms and flooding.
Funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program can be used to pay for emergency protective measures, debris removal and restoring disaster-damaged facilities.
Private nonprofits that provide critical services, such as hospitals and other medical treatment facilities and utilities can apply directly to FEMA. Other examples of critical services include water, sewer and electrical systems; private schools that provide elementary or secondary education or institutions of higher education.
Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announces a $1,100,000 acquisition loan approved by its Board for funding to Many Mansions for the Aspire Apartments in Oxnard set to begin construction in 2024. The nonprofit had previously approved and funded a $250,000 pre-development loan back in January 2020. This brings the total funding from Housing Trust Fund VC to $1,350,000 in support of this development.
Aspire Apartments will consist of 56 one-bedroom units and 32 two-bedroom units, including a manager’s unit, for a total of 88 apartments. Residents, comprised of extremely and very low-income families and individuals, and homeless and disabled individuals, will enjoy a community center, laundry facility, common area kitchenette, and recreational space. Uniquely, the second floor of the building will feature an outdoor community green space complete with BBQ and picnic area to help build an inclusive neighborly environment. Additionally, Oxnard Development Commission Successor Agency has partnered in this project to acquire and develop a pocket park that will be accessible to the public.
March is Women’s History Month, and the history of People’s has primarily been shaped by women. Starting in our earliest years nearly five decades ago, under the leadership of our founding Executive Director, through today’s governance lead by our Board of Directors Chair, principally women have driven our successes.
History continues to be made by the women of People’s through the talents of our women, representing over 60% of our staff, more than 66% of our supervisors, and a majority of our Board Members. Since the majority of our residents are women, it’s fitting that the voices of women are the primary decision makers and policymakers historically and today at People’s.
This will continue to be a priority value for our organization, to approach our ongoing strategies for meeting needs of women, designed by women for women, under our guiding principal of “nothing about her without her.”
The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) hosted its monthly Healthy Food Pantry event on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Presidio Springs Community Room located at 721 Laguna St, Santa Barbara, CA. The Healthy Food Pantry events are a collaboration between HACSB, 2nd Story Associates, and the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County, who provides the supply of food.
Every third Wednesday of the month, the Housing Authority and Foodbank of Santa Barbara County provide local community members with a bag of fresh produce and nonperishables. Approximately 145 bags of food are given out at each event.
??”Food insecurity is still prevalent in our community and it is a fundamental need in Santa Barbara. The Housing Authority’s monthly food distribution aims to fill that necessity and continue to provide this important resource to those experiencing a hardship,” said Leticia Zuniga, HACSB Resident Programs Specialist.
Last month, Senator Monique Limón (California Senate District 19) introduced Senate Bill 675 to enhance wildfire mitigation efforts by expanding support of statewide prescribed grazing. On Wednesday, March 22, she will join the Community Environmental Council (CEC) and its partners for a community webinar that will dig deeper into this new legislation and how prescribed grazing can help Central Coast communities build climate resilience.
The free webinar, offered in English and Spanish, runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific. Hosted by CEC’s Climate-Smart Agriculture Program Manager, Molly Taylor, presenters include representatives from Cuyama Lamb, Channel Islands Restoration, and the California Climate & Agriculture Network (CalCAN), who will discuss the importance of prescribed grazing as an ecological and fire resilience tool – and how SB 675 will ensure that prescribed grazing is better integrated into existing statewide wildfire resilience programs and strategies.
Soirée at the Ranch is Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice’s 75th Anniversary celebration theme. The dinner will be held at the exclusive Petersen Ranch in Somis on Saturday, June 10th. The event, which features live music and dancing, will honor Terri & Mark Lisagor for their lasting contributions to Livingston while inspiring others.
“Our mission is to serve everyone with the highest quality home health care and compassionate hospice and grief services,” explains Teresa Pavan, Livingston President & CEO. “We are humbled and inspired by community leaders like Terri & Mark, who share our commitment to serving the community.”
