Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and the events of last Jan 6th shows us how precious our system of government is, and how we could lose it. My best wishes for you this 4th of July is to celebrate our nation’s birth, but also to renew our determination to ensure that our republic is not a momentary blip in history.

Happy 4th!!!

Our pets are so important to us, let’s make sure to keep them safe during this 4th of July holiday!

SBCAS Tips & Tricks

• Make sure your dog is wearing a current license tag and update its microchip information. If your animal is not microchipped, Animal Services, Santa Barbara Humane, C.A.R.E4Paws, and CAPA offer free microchips which includes lifetime registration.

• Keep pets inside. Bring indoor/outdoor cats and dogs inside. Set up a nice quiet spot in a windowless room, if possible, or keep them in a crate or kennel.

• Leave the TV or radio on to distract pets.

• Walk your dog before the fireworks start.

• Do not bring your pet to a fireworks display.

If your dog or cat is especially noise sensitive, consider having someone stay home with them, taking them to a boarding facility, or discussing sedatives with your veterinarian.

Vaccines for children under 5 have arrived in our community and will be available through local pediatricians and some pharmacies.

The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department is recommending that community members reach out to their healthcare providers or visit https://vaccines.gov to schedule a vaccination appointment.

As we brace for a very dry and active fire season, I encourage the community to attend this Wildfire Preparedness meeting to review the Ready! Set! Go! guide and discuss how to implement your wildfire action plan. The Montecito Fire’s Wildland Specialists will discuss the current fire weather outlook and preparedness actions residents can take to harden their homes, such as creating defensible space.

Hope to see you there!

The Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3C-REN) has partnered with the local libraries to bring you the Home Energy Savings DIY Toolkit!

Thursday afternoon

June 23rd, at 4:00 PM

at the Goleta Valley Library

DIY Toolkit Presentation which will cover the tools, equipment, and a guide to help you save energy and increase the comfort of your home. The kit has FREE items (Yes, we said it, “FREE!”) for you to install in your home as well as tools to conduct your own home assessment and later return after use. Additionally, the presentation will cover how 3C-REN can help you save energy and make your home healthier and more comfortable. Register today! Light refreshments will be provided!

Check DIY Toolkit availability at Santa Barbara County Libraries

I was joined by elected officials from across the County of Santa Barbara to celebrate the opening of our brand new carpool lanes on the National Dump the Pump Day, encouraging commuters to forego their cars by using public transportation.

The opening of the 101 Carpool Lane in the Carpinteria Corridor, will reduce traffic congestion and allow for an easier commute. We are 1/5 of the way to new carpool lanes between Carpinteria and Santa Barbara. It has taken over 20 years of community conversation and commitment from our federal, state, and local partners to get us here. Thank you to all who participated in bringing this project to fruition. A special thanks goes to the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments staff! #DumpthePump