Santa Barbara News-Press: September 30, 2022

and

Holy guacamole!

After a two-year absence, the full-fledged, in-person California Avocado Festival is back in Carpinteria

direct Relief continues to help Florida

Nonprofit also sends aid to South Carolina as Hurricane Ian heads north

By DAVE MASON NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

aid for Florida in the wake of Hurricane Ian.

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The 36th annual California Avocado Festival kicks off this weekend in Carpinteria for two days of celebrating the green fruit responsible for all that delicious guacamole.

After a two-year absence due to COVID, the in-person avocado festival returns Saturday and Sunday to Linden Avenue in the heart of downtown Carpinteria with plenty of entertainment and avocado-based creations for everyone to enjoy. (The festival was strictly a virtual celebration in 2020 and 2021.)

Festival organizers are billing it as “our 36th year of peace, love and guacamole!” as well as one of the largest free music festivals in California, with more than 75 acts on three stages.

While the festival is officially billed as taking place on Oct. 1 and 2, musicians will perform three days — beginning at 1 p.m. today and 10 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.

Festival organizers are urging attendees to come celebrate the importance of the avocado to the Carpinteria Valley by visiting the Expo Tent. The tent is home to avocado agricultural photos, historical photos, lessons in avocado grafting, FFA-restored antique tractors and the Largest Avocado Contest.

“Our food venue will have

FYi

The 36th annual California Avocado Festival takes place this weekend in Carpinteria. For more information, go to avofest.com.

plenty of avocado dishes so come hungry and enjoy some avocado creations!” organizers said.

The 33rd annual California Avocado Festival, the last one held in-person before the pandemic, “was so successful that it surpassed many of our previous accomplishments!” organizers said on their website (avofest.com).

“In prior years, we have had over 75,000 visitors over the course of the three-day weekend. This year, it was over 80,000!!!”

And the 2019 festival’s participating nonprofits and service organizations were able to generate more than $100,000 worth of funds that went back to the community through their

initiatives.

The festival’s Merchandise Committee is working hard on bringing new items to the 2022 California Avocado Festival, and organizers are urging festivalgoers to stop by the newly named Annette Fisher Retail Booth to get their 2022 Avofest gear.

The winner of the 36th Annual California Avocado Festival’s design contest was Carpinteria local Ashley DeVan. Ms. DeVan has been attending Avofest for almost 20 years and has entered the design contest three times previously with other designs. She said she drew her inspiration from this year’s “Back to the Roots” theme and the

event’s musical stages.

“All the good things she loves about the festival are represented,” organizers said.

The official unveiling took place on Sept.15 during the Farmers Market.

Also on tap this year is the contest for best Avofest Guacamole. News-Press Co-Publisher Arthur Von Wiesenberger and Rebecca Brand are co-hosts, and there are a dozen judges.

The idea of the California Avocado Festival began in 1986 at a meeting that included community leaders Rob Godfrey,

Six states sue Biden administration over student loan forgiveness

By KIM JARRETT THE CENTER SQUARE

(The Center Square) – Six states are suing the Biden administration over its plans to cancel millions of dollars in student loans.

President Joe Biden announced his plan last month to cancel $10,000 in student loans for those who meet certain income requirements and $20,000 for students who received Pell Grants who met the same requirements.

The lawsuit was filed Thursday in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri by the attorneys general of Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Carolina. It accuses the Biden administration of violating federal law including “the constitutional principle of separation of powers and the Administrative Procedure Act when he skirted congressional authority to implement this policy.’

“No statute permits President Biden to unilaterally relieve millions of individuals from their obligation to pay loans they voluntarily assumed,” the lawsuit said. “Just months ago, the Supreme Court warned federal agencies against ‘asserting highly consequential power beyond what Congress could reasonably be understood to have granted’ by statute. Yet the Administration’s Mass Debt Cancellation does precisely that.”

President Biden’s claims that student loan borrowers were adversely affected by the

pandemic are disingenuous because student loan payments were suspended, the attorneys general said in the lawsuit.

“Since most borrowers during the pandemic missed no payments (because none were due), and most borrowers during the pandemic accrued no interest (because the interest rate has been 0%), and credit reporting bureaus during the pandemic have been reporting student loans as being on time and the underlying loans as being current (acting to increase an individual’s credit score), there is no pandemiccaused harm in relation to most borrowers’ student loans,” the attorneys general said. “In fact, 80% of all student loan borrowers saw their credit scores increase during the pandemic, with the largest increases among borrowers with delinquent loans at the beginning of the pandemic.”

The attorneys general are asking the court to cancel the student loan forgiveness plan on the grounds it violates the separation of powers under the U.S. Constitution and the Administration Procedure Act.

“President Biden’s unlawful political play puts the selfwrought college-loan debt on the backs of millions of hardworking Americans who are struggling to pay their utility bills and home loans in the midst of Biden’s inflation,” Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge said in a statement. “President Biden does not have the power to arbitrarily erase the college debt of adults who chose to take out those loans.”

1-8-9-9

More FedEx trucks came Thursday to Direct Relief in Goleta to pick up urgent medical

The nonprofit has sent 14 shipments this week to Florida, Tony Morain, Direct Relief’s vice

BREA BURKHOLZ / DIRECT RELIEF

Shipments of medical aid depart Wednesday for multiple health facilities across Florida from Direct Relief in Goleta.

Please see HURRICANE on A5

KENNETH SONG / NEWS-PRESS FILE PHOTOS

Linden Avenue was crowded in 2018 during the California Avocado Festival in Carpinteria. The 2022 festival will take place this weekend.

A pair of oversized avocados are handled by curious visitors at the 2018 avocado festival. By the way, avocados are a fruit, not a vegetable.

California gets a slew of new housing laws

By MADISON HIRNEISEN

THE CENTER SQUARE

(The Center Square) – California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed just short of 40 new housing bills into law Wednesday, including two measures at the center of a hard-fought legislative agreement that will open up underutilized commercial spaces to housing development.

Gov. Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2011 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks and Senate Bill 6 by Senator Anna Caballero, two measures allowing housing to be built on parcels zoned for office, retail or parking. The key differences between the two measures have to do with housing affordability requirements and labor standards – the focus of a legislative agreement reached in August with labor groups and housing advocates.

With the Golden State facing a severe housing shortage and affordability crisis, supporters say the laws will help spur desperately-needed housing development in empty storefronts and create new jobs.

Assemblymember Wicks told The Center Square in August that her bill could result in

up to 2 million new housing units being built.

“What this bill does is it reimagines what our cities can look like,” Assemblymember Wicks said of AB 2011 on Wednesday. “It says you know what, we have an abundance of retail space, we have an abundance of office parks that are no longer being utilized, and we have a real deficit of housing. Let’s use that land for what it should be for – homes so people have housing security.”

AB 2011 develops a streamlined process for residential development in commercial zones that includes a certain percentage of affordable housing units. The law also requires workers to receive prevailing wages.

SB 6 also allows market-rate housing development in commercial zones but requires the use of a “skilled and trained” workforce –meaning some workers graduated from a statecertified apprenticeship program. Both bills take effect July 1, 2023.

The new laws represent a compromise reached between housing developers and trades groups, who initially struggled to agree on the labor standards. The solution reached by the groups essentially gives developers a choice. The law with affordable housing requirements does not require a skilled and

trained workforce, while the bill requiring a skilled workforce does not have housing affordability requirements.

The governor and lawmakers praised the compromise Wednesday.

“Doing anything that is big or consequential in the Legislature isn’t easy, and it can be messy,” Senator Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, said Wednesday. “But at the end of the day, all sides came together to get the job done, put aside their differences, put aside politics to ensure housing gets built.”

Dozens of other bills Gov. Newsom signed Wednesday include measures to exempt many university housing projects from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), provide incentives to developments that set aside units for people who are experiencing homelessness, and offer a property tax welfare exemption to non-profit corporations that build affordable housing and sell to lowincome families.

“This is a moment on a journey to reconcile the original sin – the original sin of the state of California – and that’s the issue of housing and affordability,” Gov. Newsom said Wednesday. “These bills matter. They go across the spectrum.”

Newsom signs package of abortion bills into law

By MADISON HIRNEISEN THE CENTER SQUARE

(The Center Square) – California

Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed over a dozen new abortion bills, including new privacy protections and bans on law enforcement providing information to out-ofstate entities regarding abortion in the state. Opponents say the state is committing “infanticide.”

The package of bills, 13 in total, comes after several states have either tightened abortion restrictions or banned the procedure after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.

Following the high court’s decision, Gov. Newsom and several California lawmakers promised to make California a beacon for abortion access.

The state budget signed in June included $200 million for reproductive health care, which included millions in grants to providers who care for uninsured patients and funding to launch abortion.ca.gov, a new website that provides information on abortion providers in California.

101 closures announced

VENTURA — Caltrans plans overnight closures next week for Highway 101’s southbound lanes from Seaward Avenue to Main Street in Ventura.

The purpose is for pavement and joint seal repairs on the overcrossing bridge at Arundell Avenue and Channel Drive (Lemon Curve). Detour signs will be posted. Caltrans said motorists should expect delays.

Northbound lanes will remain open.

For the detour, southbound motorists will exit at Seaward Avenue off-ramp, turn south on Harbor Boulevard, turn north on Seaward Avenue and turn south on Thompson Boulevard until it merges with Main Street. Then motorists will take the eastbound State Route 126 on-ramp or continue past Telephone Road for the southbound on-ramp back onto Highway 101.

Closures are scheduled for 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Oct. 5-6, 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Oct. 7 and and 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Oct. 8. If more work is necessary, the southbound lanes will be closed again from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Oct. 10 and 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Oct. 11.

Caltrans said work is subject to change due to weather or construction-related issues.

Real-time traffic information can be found at quickmap.dot.ca.gov.

— Katherine Zehnder

Fatality victim identified

SAN LUIS OBISPO — The driver killed in a single-vehicle San Luis Obispo collision has been identified.

Justin William West, 20, of Los Osos died Monday morning after he was ejected when his 2001 Chevrolet rolled over near State Route 41 in the San Luis Obispo area. He was pronounced dead at the scene, said California Highway Patrol Officer M. Alvarez.

Officer Alvarez said Mr. West was not wearing his seat belt.

The officer said the San Luis Obispo Communication Center received a call about the collision at 6:40 a.m.

Officer Alvarez said Mr. West was driving south on State Route 41,

Additionally, a budget trailer bill included millions to pay for some out-of-state travel for individuals seeking an abortion in California. Included in the stack of bills

Gov. Newsom signed Tuesday are two measures to increase protections and privacy for individuals who obtain abortions in California. Assembly Bill 2091 prohibits health care providers from releasing medical information about a patient seeking abortion care in response to an out-of-state subpoena.

Assembly Bill 1242 prohibits law enforcement from cooperating with out-of-state entities seeking information about a lawful abortion obtained in California.

“California is setting a national privacy standard,” said Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda), author of AB 1242. “As pro-choice states, we must be just as proactive in protecting abortion rights as extremist states have been in destroying them.”

Among the more contentious measures signed Tuesday included Assembly Bill 2223 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks,

D-Oakland. AB 2223 removes the existing requirement that coroners investigate “known or suspected” self-induced or criminal abortions and prevents people from being prosecuted based on their pregnancy outcome, including miscarriage, stillbirth or abortion.

Religious groups who opposed an earlier version of the bill, including the California Catholic Conference, claimed that it would legalize “infanticide.”

Asseblymember Wicks and other bill supporters have rejected that claim as false.

Other measures in the package of new laws allow nurse practitioners who complete required training to perform an abortion without supervision from a physician, prohibit health care service plans from imposing a cost-sharing requirement for vasectomies, and provide scholarships to health care professionals who will provide reproductive care in underserved areas.

“We’re doing everything we can to protect people from any retaliation for accessing abortion

TRAFFIC, CRIME AND FIRE BLOTTER

south of Bear Ridge Road when he left the southbound lane, traveled across the northbound lane and drove off the edge of the road.

Mr. West’s car overturned and came to rest on a short dirt

embankment near the edge of private property.

The time of the collision is undetermined, but it is believed the collision occurred early on Monday morning, Officer Alvarez

PUBLIC NOTICE

care while also making it more affordable to get contraceptives,”

Gov. Newsom said in a statement Tuesday. “Our Legislature has been on the frontlines of this fight, and no other legislative body in the country is doing more to protect these fundamental rights – I’m proud to stand with them again and sign these critical bills into law.”

said.

Anyone with further information is asked to contact the CHP San Luis Obispo Office at 805-594-8700.

— Katherine Zehnder

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Call today! (805) 564-5230

Harry E. Hagen, Santa Barbara County Treasurer-Tax Collector, announces that the 2022-2023 secured property tax statements will be mailed on or before November 1, 2022, to all property owners, at the addresses shown on the tax roll. If you own property in Santa Barbara County, and do not receive a tax bill by November 10, 2022, contact the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office at the offices listed below.

The FIRST INSTALLMENT of the 2022-2023 property taxes is due and payable on November 1, 2022, and delinquent if not paid by 5:00 p.m., or the close of business, whichever is later, December 10, 2022; thereafter a 10% penalty will be added.

The SECOND INSTALLMENT is due on February 1, 2023 and will be delinquent if not paid by 5:00 p.m., or the close of business, whichever is later, April 10, 2023; thereafter a 10% penalty will be added plus the cost ($30.00) to prepare the delinquent tax records and to give notice of delinquency.

BOTH INSTALLMENTS MAY BE PAID when the first installment is due.

Credit card and electronic check payments may be made by phone or online. Visit our website at www.sbtaxes.org for online payments. If paying by phone, please call 1-805-724-3008 (Local) or 1-877-399-8089 (Toll-Free).

Payments may also be made in person at the County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Offices between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, holidays excepted, at the addresses listed below.

Santa Barbara: County Administration Bldg., 105 E. Anapamu St., Room 109, (805) 568-2920

Santa Maria: Betteravia Government Center, 511 E. Lakeside Parkway, (805) 346-8330

Or mail to: Harry E. Hagen, Treasurer-Tax Collector, P.O. Box 579, Santa Barbara, CA 93102-0579

Mailed payments must be UNITED STATES POSTMARKED BY THE DELINQUENT DATE to avoid late penalties.

SUPPLEMENTAL TAX BILLS are additional taxes due and are separate from the above mentioned taxes. Supplemental bills result from a reassessment of property due to a change of ownership or new construction. These taxes are due upon issuance and become delinquent as specified on the tax statement.

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HARRY E. HAGEN, CPA TREASURER-TAX COLLECTOR COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA

Executed in Santa Barbara, County of Santa Barbara, CA on September 27, 2022

Published in the Santa Barbara News-Press on September 30 & October 6, 2022

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TAXPAYERS OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

NOTICE OF CURRENT PROPERTY TAXES DUE Made pursuant to Section 2609, Revenue and Taxation Code

FAILURE TO RECEIVE A TAX BILL DOES NOT RELIEVE THE TAXPAYER OF THE RESPONSIBILITY TO MAKE TIMELY PAYMENTS

COURTESY PHOTO

Gov. Gavin Newsom

Goleta City Council to discuss bike path project

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Goleta City Council will hold a hearing Tuesday on the San Jose Creek Bike Path Project.

The meeting is set for 4 p.m. at Goleta City Hall, 130 Cremona Drive, Suite B, Goleta.

The project has reached the end of the environmental review phase, and staff will be returning with more information regarding impact to the trees in the project area, as well as the overall cost.

At its Sept. 20 meeting, the city council requested that staff provide additional information regarding the project’s impact on the area’s trees and habitat.

Staff will present the results of a tree survey and other information.

The San Jose Creek Bike Path Project is a component of the city’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The city of Goleta said the path will provide a critical connection between existing bike routes north of U.S. 101 and the Atascadero Creek Bike Path to the south.

It will connect bike routes north of Calle Real all the way to the Coast Route, which connects with Goleta Beach and UCSB and extends into Santa Barbara.

In a news release, the city explained this is a complex project that has involved close coordination with various agencies including Caltrans and Santa Barbara County.

Once approved by the city, the bike path project will go to the California Coastal Commission for the permitting process.

To see the map, go to cityofgoleta.org/projectsprograms/bicycle-projects/sanjose-creek-bike-path-southernextent.

For more information, contact Teresa Lopes tlopes@cityofgoleta. org or 805-961-7563 or Laura Bridley at lbridley@cityofgoleta. org 805-896-2153.

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

Grant to finance improvements at Lompoc library

By KATHERIN ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

LOMPOC — The Lompoc Public Library has received a Building Forward Grant from the California State Library that will enable significant building improvements at the main library branch, including a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

The library’s current HVAC system is about 20 years old, with no air conditioning and poor circulation.

The grant from the California State Library is for $403,442, and the city of Lompoc is providing an additional $201,721 toward the improvement projects.

In addition to providing a new HVAC system, this funding will be used to renovate the youth restrooms at the main branch, 501 North Ave., Lompoc.

The money will also be used to make the building’s original restrooms compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Both projects are expected to take place in 2023.

Over the past two years, the library has made a number of improvements including installing new carpeting, furniture and, most recently, energy-efficient lighting, giving an update to the 1969 facility.

“The Lompoc Library is grateful for this grant from the California State Library that will improve the quality of our library building, making the facility more welcoming and comfortable for the community,” Sarah Bleyl, the Lompoc library director, said in a news release.

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

Safeguarding smiles

Chumash Casino Resort’s Project Pink benefits cancer center

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

Pink sweets, snacks and drinks will consume the Chumash Casino Resort’s eateries starting Saturday for its annual Project Pink campaign, which benefits a local nonprofit in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Beginning Saturday, the resort’s dedicated Food and Beverage Department will have these meticulously crafted creations on display to raise both awareness and funds for breast cancer research.

A portion of this year’s proceeds will be donated, along with a dollar-for-dollar matching grant from the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation to the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center, which is supported by the Cancer Foundation of

MORE ON SUNDAY

For more about the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center, see Sunday’s NewsPress.

Santa Barbara.

“Our Food and Beverage Department pours hundreds of hours into the planning and preparation of our annual Project Pink campaign,” said Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “It’s a win-win for both our guests who love the pink-colored creations and the beneficiaries that rely on these much-needed funds.”

The newest items making their debuts on Saturday in the resort’s Grains & Grounds dessert case for this year’s campaign will be:

• Cherry Matcha Cake.

• Pink Velvet Whoopie Pie.

• Chocolate Raspberry Cake.

• Strawberry Shortcake.

• Hibiscus Coconut Cake.

• Red Velvet Cake.

• Chipotle Chocolate Mousse.

• Guava and Ginger Mousse.

• Fruity Pebble and Raspberry Cupcake.

• Pistachio Rosewater Tart.

These standouts will join the resort’s familiar Project Pink lineup of the popular chocolate molds of high heel shoes, flat shoes, purses and more.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is

SEASON 8

an annual campaign to raise awareness of breast cancer risks and the value of screening and early detection, while also raising funds for cancer research.

“We are tremendously grateful to the Chumash Casino Resort for shedding light on the journey with breast cancer, and for directly contributing to the care of breast cancer patients from Santa Barbara County and beyond,” said Matt Baumann, vice president of oncology at the RidleyTree Cancer Center. “We are honored to use the proceeds from this exciting Project Pink campaign to support Ridley-Tree’s programs and services which are vital to the treatment of breast cancer.

“When our community responds to help us during one of the most challenging seasons in the fight against cancer, RidleyTree Cancer Center becomes betterequipped to advance breast cancer research and treatment, improving survival and quality of life for thousands of patients.”

The Ridley-Tree Cancer Center has facilities in Santa Barbara and Solvang. email: nhartstein@newspress.com

Saturday 10/1

Cox Cable Channel 4 & 1004 at

am & 5:30

TVSB Channel 17 at 7:30 pm Channel 71 at 9:30 pm

Also

www.AnimalZone.org

Cheryl Jackson is feeding Miami’s feral dogs and cats. With the help of volunteers and donors, she has made a considerable difference to abandoned animals in the Miami -Dade area. In this episode, Cheryl explains how the Redland Rock Pit Abandoned Dog Project works to feed dogs, cats and even some ducks!

Then in Palm Beach County, we meet Ashley Miller of Mutty Paws Rescue at an adoption event held at Coastal Karma Brewery. Mutty Paws Rescue is dedicated to saving, rehabilitating and providing medical treatment for ani-

mals on death row in Palm Beach County and surrounding areas.

Later we visit the David A. Straz Manatee Critical Care Center at Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park. The center is the first non-profit acute care facility of its kind specifically dedicated to critical care for wild manatees. It is one of just four federally permitted manatee rehabilitation centers in Florida. Since 1991, the manatee care and veterinary team have treated over 400 manatees, with more than 230 reintroduced into Florida waters.

COURTESY PHOTO

The Chumash Casino Resort is making pink treats as part of its efforts to help the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

KENNETH SONG / NEWS-PRESS PHOTOS

Close to 300 elementary school students were the recipients of oral examinations at Harding University Partnership School in Santa Barbara on Thursday. Held in partnership with Health Linkages, the oral health screening clinic took place from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Great Kitchens Don’t Just Happen... They Happen by Design.

UCSB men’s soccer tops UCSD in Big West opener

Showroom Upstairs at

Finn Ballard McBride netted his fourth goal of the season in the win

By MICHAEL JORGENSON UCSB SPORTS WRITER

A first half penalty was all that was needed for the UCSB men’s soccer team to pick up a 1-0 win over UC San Diego in Wednesday’s Big West opener at Harder Stadium.

Playing without key starters once again, the Gauchos (6-2-2, 1-0) controlled the game’s tempo from the outset, trying to find a crack in the final third against the defensive-minded Tritons (4-4-2, 0-1). UCSB would do so in the 24th minute.

“Obviously with some key players out, you’ve got to start making adjustments,” said Coach Tim Vom Steeg. “We need people who can step up for us, and fortunately for us, we do have a surplus of attacking players. I thought Nemo (Philipp) played very well in the first half, he ripped three shots and any one of those could’ve scored. We won the game and that’s what matters.”

After moving the ball around side-to-side, Rene Pacheco took a pass from Lucas Gonzalez and did well to turn at the top of the 18, finding midfielder Nemo Philipp on the left wing just as he came onside. As Philipp took a touch away from goal, a recovering UCSD defender caught him on the leg, earning the Gauchos their second penalty of the season.

Junior forward Finn Ballard McBride stepped up to the spot, hesitating slightly before taking his shot to the left post. UCSD goalkeeper Dominic Peters chose correctly and got a glove on it, but the shot was well-placed with pace and went inside the left netting, 1-0.

The Tritons continued to drop players back on defense, hoping to catch the Gauchos on the counter.

They got their best opportunity on the break in the 72nd minute, when Nick Cirrito got in behind the UCSB back line and fired a shot on goal. A stoic Leroy Zeller stuck his foot out and stopped it in its tracks.

UCSB’s outstanding goalkeeper would make another great save several minutes later, stopping another shot through traffic despite not having a great line of sight to the ball. That gave him three saves in the span of seven minutes, and he wouldn’t be tested the rest of the way.

NOTABLE

• Ballard McBride’s goal was his fourth of the season, good for second on the team and tied for second in the conference. He is now 2-for-2 on penalties in his career.

• Philipp had a phenomenal game for the Gauchos in the attacking midfield, beating defenders with speed, excellent dribbling, and one highlight nutmeg. He finished with a teamhigh four shots, two of which forced saves.

• Santa Barbara earned its second clean sheet of the season. It was the Gauchos’ first shutout since their home opener against California Baptist.

• The Tritons have now been held scoreless in four straight outings. This is the second straight year UCSB has defeated them 1-0.

NEXT UP

UCSB will now get ready for its next home game on Saturday against CSUN at 7 p.m.

Michael Jorgenson writes about sports for UCSB. email: sports@newspress.com

Westmont Golf hosts Shootout at Rustic Canyon

Men take first, Hopper wins for women

By RON SMITH WESTMONT SPORTS WRITER

Westmont Golf hosted the Shootout at Rustic Canyon on Wednesday, inviting Occidental and Providence Christian to participate in the event. The trio of teams is significant to Westmont head coach Josh Ault who has coached at both Occidental and Providence Christian.

The Westmont men notched their second team win of the season, edging out Occidental by a score of 308 to 310. Providence Christian tallied 321.

“They got a win, which was nice,” noted Ault of his men’s team. “We have had two tournaments with three teams and we have gotten a win in both. That will help the team with their confidence going forward.”

Occidental’s Miles Eastman sat atop the leaderboard at the end of 18-holes, carding a two-over 74. One stroke back, in a three-way tie for runner-up, were Providence’s Marc Lengtat, Occidental’s Joshua Wong and Westmont’s Peyton Hendricks at 75 (+3).

“I think this course played about three or four shots more than our last tournament, so our scores are a little higher,” assessed Ault. “What we are looking for is consistency and we have guys shooting in the 70s with regularity. They are picking each other up and leaning into our strategy, which

KZSB to air football games

KZSB — AM1290, the NewsPress radio station— will air broadcasts of football games tonight and Saturday.

The games will also air on

is what we are working on for long term results. I was really proud of that.”

Westmont’s Cooper Allen claimed fifth place with a score of 76 (+4). While Noah Lodewyk tied for six with a 77 (+5). Danny Manginelli posted a score of 78 (+6) to tie for ninth and Andy Knight shot a 79 (+7), taking 11th place.

The women’s tournament turned into an individual event with no team scores when Westmont was the only school to bring enough players to form a team. Westmont’s Mallory Hopper and Occidental’s Rachel Aujero tied for first place with a score of 82 (+10). With the win, Hopper becomes the first women’s golfer to win a tournament in Warrior history.

“Honestly, I wasn’t feeling that good about the round today,” admitted Hopper. “Obviously, I ended a lot better than I was expecting. There were struggles out there, but there definitely were some positives as well. I felt pretty solid off the tee, but around the green and irons I was not at my strongest today. Overall I wasn’t expecting (to finish first), but I am really happy about that.”

Hopper turned in scores of 41 on both the front and back nines.

“I really like the course,” said the freshman from Denver,

AM1290KZSB.com.

Up first is Bishop Diego High School at St. Bonaventure High School. Airtime is 6:45 tonight.

Then it’s Santa Barbara City College at Glendale College at 5:45 p.m. Saturday.

Wide range of medical supplies sent to Florida, South Carolina

Continued from Page A1

president for communications, told the News-Press.

“We pre-positioned medical aid in 12 sites around Florida. As the hurricane was making its approach, we were reaching out to our contacts — pharmacies and health centers — to offer additional assistance,” Mr. Morain said.

Hurricane Ian is expected to make its second U.S. landfall tonight near Charleston, S.C.

And Direct Relief is lending a hand again.

“We have pre-positioned medicine in South Carolina,” Mr. Morain said. “We are in touch with health care centers and clinics throughout the state.”

In addition, Direct Relief sent one shipment this week to South Carolina, Mr. Morain said.

He explained the medical aid for Florida and South Carolina includes antibiotics, insulin, hygiene

products, hypertension medication and naloxone, which is used to treat opioid overdoses.

He added that Direct Relief is prepared to send battery- and solar-powered power generators to health centers that request them.

“Obviously the needs are vast,” Mr. Morain said.

“I think the medicines we’re providing will help hundreds of patients potentially and certain help facilities maintain their operations throughout this emergency.

“Health centers and clinics are relied upon by the people most vulnerable to emergencies like this,” he said. “Making sure they have what they need is critical.”

Mr. Morain said the emergency shipments benefitted from Direct Relief’s experience with its regular, non-emergency shipments to Florida.

For more information, go to www.directrelief.org.

email: dmason@newspress.com

SANTA BARBARA NEWS-PRESS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 A5 THE FINEST ORIENTAL & MODERN FLOOR COVERINGS SANTABARBARA design center YOURHOMEFURNISHINGSSOURCE ALL FURNITURE FROM THE PROGRAM IS AVAILABLE AT SANTA BARBARA DESIGN CENTER 17TH SEASON PREMIERS THIS SATURDAY 9:30PM ON Design Santa Barbara An Award-Winning Interior Decorating Show SB County is third largest avocado producer in North America

Connie Korbel, Debbie Murphy, Fran Puccinelli, Bob Ealee and John Franklin. They were brainstorming to create a weekend event to raise money for local nonprofits — and promote Carpinteria as a weekend getaway at the same time.

The answer came as something the committee members could easily hold in their hands.

The California avocado.

It made sense. After all, Santa Barbara County is the third largest avocado producer in North America, and the avocado is an American plant with a long, distinguished history.

Today, the most popular variety is the Hass. The mother tree of all Hass avocados was born in a backyard in La Habra Heights.

The avocado (Persea

americana) originated in southcentral Mexico, sometime between 7,000 and 5,000 B.C. But it was several millennia before this wild variety was cultivated. Archaeologists in Peru have found domesticated avocado seeds buried with Incan mummies dating back to 750 B.C., and there is evidence that avocados were cultivated in Mexico as early as 500 B.C.

Spanish conquistadores loved the fruit but couldn’t pronounce the Aztec word for it and changed it to the more manageable “aguacate,” which eventually became avocado in English. The first English-language mention of avocado was by Sir Henry Sloane in 1696.

Fast forward to 1871. Judge R.B. Ord of Santa Barbara successfully introduced avocados to the U.S. with trees from Mexico. By the early 1900s, growers were seeing the avocado’s commercial

potential, and ever since, growers, enthusiasts and researchers have been hunting for improved varieties.

By the 1950s around 25 different varieties of avocados were being commercially packed and shipped in California, with “Fuerte” accounting for more than twothirds of the production. Even though Hass was discovered in the early 1930s and patented by Rudolph Hass in 1935, it was not until large-scale industry expansion occurred in the late 1970s that Hass replaced Fuerte as the leading California variety.

Today, California is the leading producer of domestic avocados and home to about 90% of the nation’s crop. Most California avocados are harvested on 60,000 acres between San Luis Obispo and the Mexican border, by about 6,800 growers.

email: nhartstein@newspress.com

Westmont golfers return to action Oct. 11-12

GOLF

from Page A4

and the different washes. I think I played to that strength, but it was tough. It is definitely not an easy course. I think I did pretty well adjusting for the wind. The greens were tough - there were a lot of tiered greens and you had to make sure you put it in the right place.”

Westmont’s Elizabeth Oloteo claimed third place just two strokes off the lead with a score of 84 (+12). Sydnee Magpoc carded an 85 (+13) to finish fourth and Meredith McDougal claimed fifth with a score of 88 (+16).

“I am super proud of Mallory,” said Ault. “She was a little frustrated at her play but I helped

her keep perspective because it is a hard course. Elizabeth shot an 84 as a freshman, so good for her.

“We have been talking with the women’s team about speed in putting. We think that is an area where we can technically get better and shave strokes off.”

Westmont will next be in action Oct. 11-12 when they participate in the TMU Dutch Classic at the Alisal Ranch Course in Solvang.

Ron Smith is the sports information director at Westmont College.

email: sports@newspress.com

I want to thank YOU, the YTS Productions, the featured Interior Designers and my hard working crew for making the last 17 seasons a wonderful experience for me and the viewers from around the world. With appreciation, Michael Kourosh

HURRICANE

BREA BURKHOLZ / DIRECT RELIEF

Medical aid, which includes everything from insulin to antibiotics, is stacked inside the Direct Relief warehouse in Goleta.

Recreating iconic ‘Star Trek’ characters

By DAVE MASON NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

LAS VEGAS — Rebecca Romijn has tackled the challenge of playing a character Majel Barrett portrayed in the first “Star Trek” pilot: Number One, the Enterprise first officer.

“Well, of course, it starts with Majel,” Ms. Romijn told fans in late August at Creation Entertainment’s 56-Year Mission Convention at Bally’s in Las Vegas.

“But there was only a total of 13 minutes of screen time for Majel as Number One,” said Ms. Romijn, who portrays the same character on “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.”

Ms. Romijn, who talked to fans during a panel that featured key actors from the “Strange New World” cast, said the mid-1960s pilot episode “The Cage” simply showed Number One performing tasks. “She was not a fleshed-out character.

“I took whatever I could from her performance to infuse the character, but moving forward, I took artistic liberties and expanded it,” Ms. Romijn said.

“Strange New Worlds” premiered this year and has been praised by fans for its episodic approach and a return in tone to the original “Star Trek” series. The entire first season can be watched on the Paramount+ streaming service.

The second season of “Strange New Worlds” was filmed this year and is scheduled to stream on Paramount+ next year. Carol Kane joined the cast for the second season’s new recurring role of Pelia, an engineer.

The first season established that Ms. Romijn’s character, Number One or Una Chin-Riley, is an Illyrian. Her people have made genetic modifications to themselves that Starfleet opposes because of Earth’s tragic experience with the Eugenics War.

“Strange New Worlds” is examining the prejudice that lingers in the Federation against the genetically enhanced, and Ms. Romijn said the storyline reminds her of when she played Mystique, the shape-shifting mutant in the “X-Men” movies.

She and Anson Mount, who portrays Capt. Christopher Pike in “Strange New Worlds, first played their characters on “Star Trek: Discovery” before the crew of Discovery traveled from the 23rd century to a thousand years into the future.

When asked if he was inspired by Jeffrey Hunter’s portrayal of Capt. Pike in “The Cage,” Mr. Mount said, without missing a beat, “I’m a big believer in stealing.”

The fans laughed.

“I watched ‘The Cage’ and ‘The Menagerie,’” Mr. Mount said. (“The Cage” didn’t air during the original run of “Star Trek,” but creator Gene Roddenberry expanded the story into the two-part “Menagerie” episode, combining “The Cage” with new footage.)

A longtime “Star Trek” fan, Mr. Mount said he’s amazed he’s on a “Star Trek” series. “To realize I’m doing that is so surreal and makes me feel fortunate as an actor in a way that I’ve never felt that way before.”

One of the most iconic characters in “Star Trek” — Spock — is played by Ethan Peck, the grandson of legendary movie star Gregory Peck.

When asked about the weight of playing the character made famous by actor Leonard Nimoy, Mr. Peck said he needs time to process that.

“Ask me that again in 10 years,” he said. “I’m just experiencing it and having the experiences written for me on the set. I’m incredibly grateful. It’s the adventure of a lifetime.”

Portraying another character first played by Ms. Barrett is Jess

‘Strange New Worlds’ cast members play Capt. Pike, Uhura, Nurse Chapel

At top, Celia Rose Gooding plays a young Uhura on “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.” Above, the series features Jess Bush as nurse Christine Chapel, Rebecca Romijn as Number One and Babs Olusanmokun as Dr. M’Benga. Majel Barrett played both Christine and Number One in the original “Star Trek” series, and Booker Bradshaw portrayed Dr. M’Benga on the original series.

Please see STAR TREK on A8

MARNI GROSSMAN/PARAMOUNT+ PHOTOS

Ethan Peck said he needs time to process the full impact of playing Spock, the character made famous by Leonard Nimoy. “Ask me again in 10 years,” said Mr. Peck, who fi rst played Spock on “Star Trek: Discovery” and reprised the role for “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.”

At top, Anson Mount stars as Capt. Christopher Pike on “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.” Above, Rebecca Romijn, left, and Melissa Navia play Number One, aka Una Chin-Riley, and Erica Ortegas at the helm. Ms. Romijn said she started with watching Majel Barrett’s original portrayal of Number One, then expanded the character from there.

Santa Barbara native builds on Seabees’ 80-year legacy

By ALVIN PLEXICO

GULFPORT, Miss. — Since 1942, sailors assigned to the U.S. Navy’s Construction Force have been building and fighting around the world.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Steffany Jobe, a Santa Barbara, native, is one of those sailors.

Eighty years ago, members of Navy Construction Battalions were fittingly nicknamed, “Seabees,” a play on the C and B initials. They are responsible for building military bases and airfields, supporting humanitarian efforts and conducting underwater construction projects.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Jobe graduated from San Marcos High School in 2010 and from Santa Barbara City College in 2013.

“I’d like to thank my friends and family for their support,” she said. “I also want to recognize my daughter. She’s the reason I continue to serve.”

The values required to succeed

in the Navy are similar to those found in Santa Barbara.

“From my parents, I learned to work hard and try to do your best every day,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Jobe.

She serves as a utilitiesman with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 at the headquarters for naval construction forces in Gulfport, Miss.

Serving in the Navy means Petty Officer 2nd Class Jobe is part of a team who is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“The Navy provides a global force to keep the peace around the world and maintain our freedom at home,” she said.

With more than 90% of all trade traveling by sea, and 95% of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy

officials continue to emphasize the importance of accelerating America’s advantage at sea.

“Maintaining the world’s best Navy is an investment in the security and prosperity of the United States, as well as the stability of our world,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “The U.S. Navy — forward deployed and integrated with all elements of national power — deters conflict, strengthens our alliances and partnerships, and guarantees free and open access to the world’s oceans. As the United States responds to the security environment through integrated deterrence, our Navy must continue to deploy forward and campaign with a ready, capable, combat-credible fleet.”

Petty Officer 2nd Class Jobe has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I’m proud that I’ve made it eight years in the military,” she said. “I’ve dealt with some personal adversity, which has

made me more resilient. The structure in the military helped me get through these times.”

Petty Officer 2nd Class Jobe can take pride in continuing an 80-year legacy of service in the United States Navy.

“Serving in the Navy means I can show my patriotism to this great nation.”

email: dmason@newspress.com

Shwayze to perform at SOhO

SANTA BARBARA —

Rapper, musician and actor Aaron Smith, aka Shwayze, will perform at 9 p.m. Oct. 8 at SOhO Restaurant and Music Club, 1221 State St., suite 205, Santa Barbara.

Doors will open at 8.

The Malibu native released his debut album “Buzzin’” in 2008 with singer-producer Cisco Adler. The duo toured together, and Shwayze has gone on to work with various producers and to release independent albums such as “Shwayze Summer.”

Shwayze has recorded

chart-topping singles such as “Corona & Lime.” He also has a reality show on MTV and has acted in various movies and TV shows.

The concert is for audience members 21 and older.

Tickets cost $23 in advance and $30 at the door. To purchase, go to www.sohosb. com.

To make dinner reservations, call SOhO at 805-962-7776, ext. 6.

For more about the musician, see www.shwayze.com.

— Dave Mason

Event to help homeless and at-risk veterans

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Santa Barbara County Veterans Stand Down on Oct.15 is designed as a safe place for veterans to get the help they need — healthcare screenings, employment assistance, on-thespot assessments, crisis counseling and more.

The free annual event is geared toward homeless and at-risk veterans, and will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

The event is limited to the first 500 veterans, legal spouses and dependent children younger than 18, according to a news release.

Applications for veterans who want to attend the Stand Down are available at the Santa Barbara County Veterans Stand Down website: www.sbcountystanddown. com or by calling Supervisor Steve Lavagnino’s Office at 805-346-8402. Transportation courtesy of the Chumash Casino is also available, with information and pick-up times and locations listed on the website.

Stand Down organizers have created a link for donors to select much needed items at walmart.com and have them delivered directly to Stand Down. Follow the directions at www.

sbcountystanddown.com and select from dozens of items needed by veterans. Donations of gift cards are appreciated and will be used to fill unmet needs for the day of the event.

Stand Down volunteers will also be available at a drive-through donation center Oct. 5-12 at the Santa Maria Fairpark. The site at the small livestock barn (enter at Gate 5, on West Stowell at Depot Street) will be open from noon to 2 p.m. on those dates.

A collection in Lompoc will be from 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Walmart, 701 W. Central Ave. New items, such as sweatpants, sweatshirts and longsleeve shirts are greatly needed, according to the news release.

Veterans may also bring small pets to Stand Down for vaccinations and grooming. The Stand Down Pet Zone is in need of donations, including 4-foot and 6-foot leashes, small dog and cat collars, small bags of dog and cat food, oatmeal pet shampoo and dog and cat beds.

Stand Down organizers are also in need of volunteer barbers and stylists for the event.

For more information, email volunteer@sbcountystanddown. com.

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

Education office plans Breakfast with Authors

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Santa Barbara County Education Office will host its Breakfast with the Authors from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 15 at SBCEO auditorium, 4400 Cathedral Oaks Road, Santa Barbara.

Students in grades 4-12, parents, teachers, librarians and residents are invited to attend.

In its 70th year, Breakfast with the Authors is an opportunity to hear local children’s book authors and illustrators discuss their craft over breakfast.

Authors and illustrators attending include: Nikki Barthelmess, Mike Bender, James Burks, Anita Perez Ferguson, Joan Bransfield Graham, Mary Penney Hershey, Bonnie Lady Lee, Andrea J. Loney, Alexis O’Neill, Greg Trine, Henry Turner and Lee Wardlaw.

Texas Original Charley Crockett

SW!NG OUT

Raffle prizes are planned throughout the day, and

participants are encouraged to dress up as their favorite literary character or author. Chaucer’s Books will be selling the authors’ books on site, and there will be opportunities for book signings. This is a feast of fun no book enthusiast would want to miss.

Deadline for registration is Oct. 7. To register, go to sbceo.k12oms. org/569-223899.

Space is limited to allow for personal interaction with the authors and illustrators, so early registration is recommended.

Tickets are $16 for students (grades 4-12) and $20 for the general public. The price includes breakfast of quiche, fruit, donuts, coffee, tea and juice.

More information is available at www.sbceo.org/breakfast or by contacting Rachel Lawton at 805964-4710, ext. 5222, or rlawton@ sbceo.org.

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

STAR TREK

Continued from Page A7

Bush, the Australian actress who portrays nurse Christine Chapel.

Ms. Bush said she looked at Ms. Barrett’s portrayal for inspiration and said she picked up on the character’s sarcastic, dry nature. “I pulled that and used that to generate what she is now.”

The young version of another iconic character, Uhura, is portrayed by Celia Rose Gooding.

Like Nichelle Nichols, the actress who originally Uhura, Ms. Gooding has a background in music and dance.

“Nichelle was a dancer. You could see it in her posture, how she sits, how she reaches for stuff,” said Ms. Gooding, who has performed on Broadway.

She said she didn’t know she was auditioning for the iconic role when she appeared at an audition. She was told the character had a

FYI

different name. Then finally, Ms. Gooding was getting a ride on Uber when her casting director called her and told her the news.

“He said, ‘I don’t know if anyone called to tell you yet, but you’re playing a young Uhura,’” Ms. Gooding said. “I screamed so loud!”

Her scream surprised her driver, but she explained she had just received the greatest news of her life.

Ms. Nichols, who recruited women and minorities to become astronauts, died July 30 at age 89 at her home in Silver City, N.M.

“I feel her presence everywhere,” Ms. Gooding said. “Anybody who had the opportunity to meet Nichelle knows how warm and loving she was. She gave so much of herself to this franchise.

“I’m just happy to be a fraction of her legacy.”

email: dmason@newspress.com

A

COURTESY PHOTO

Petty Officer 2nd Class Steffany Jobe

COURTESY PHOTO

Shwayze has recorded chart-topping singles such as “Corona & Lime.”

KHAREN HILL/PARAMOUNT+

Carol Kane will appear during the second season of “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” in a recurring role as Pelia, an engineer.

The entire first season of “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” is streaming on Paramount+. Filming has been completed for the second season, which will stream sometime next year.

Diversions

Thought for Today

“There are people who have money and people who are rich.” — Coco Chanel

HOROSCOPE

Horoscope.com

Friday, September 30, 2022

ARIES — Expect some positive developments today that impact the whole family, Aries. Perhaps you or your mate will receive word of a significant raise or great job opportunity. Perhaps you meet the one who is right for you, and you know it the instant you lock eyes. Whichever it is, don’t let the opportunity pass.

TAURUS — You should be feeling especially confident today, Taurus. You’ve been working especially hard lately, and the recognition you’ve received goes a long way toward reinforcing your feelings of self-worth. Your life goals suddenly seem more attainable and you’ll pursue them with renewed vigor. Your confidence is grounded in reality. You will surely succeed.

GEMINI — This is a day made for fun and frivolity, Gemini, not one in which you’re likely to get many of your chores done. Try as you might to focus on the task at hand, there are distractions everywhere you turn. Your email pals could be sending you jokes and notes, and your friends could be bugging you to join them for whatever type of outing is possible now. You may as well give in.

CANCER — You’re a person of many talents, and today you’re likely to discover yet another one, Cancer. The delivery of a new piece of equipment makes you feel like you’ve been given a toy for your sole enjoyment. But once you get the computer or piece of machinery up and running, you need to share it with your coworkers!

LEO — Don’t be surprised if a lot of people contact you today, each one anxious to confer with you. It seems that you’re the authority on all topics, Leo. All the attention is flattering, but it makes it difficult to get any work done. Do what you can to help your co-workers, and then tell them that the help desk is closed for the day.

VIRGO — Don’t let yourself be manipulated by needy friends, Virgo. With today’s planetary energies, it’s a good time to think about setting clear boundaries. You know which friends are there for you and lift you up and which ones tend to drain all your time and energy with the constant need for your immediate attention.

LIBRA — This is a good day for sharing friendship with pals and co-workers, Libra. People will be in a light, socializing mood and not much in a working frame of mind. There’s really no use fighting this energy. Enjoy yourself today and allow yourself to detach from work issues. You can all get back to the grindstone later.

SCORPIO — Your technical skills take a real leap forward today, Scorpio. It seems all that training you’ve done is finally paying off. Your new skills will greatly increase your efficiency and enhance your marketability. If you’ve been thinking about applying for a new position, get your resume ready to send out when you see an appealing ad. Any move you make will be for the better

SAGITTARIUS — Don’t be surprised to see your coworkers acting a bit silly today, Sagittarius. There is no getting around the high spirits that permeate the work environment. It’s almost impossible to get anything done with today’s planetary atmosphere. Rather than cracking the whip and trying to increase productivity, why not join in? Lighten up a little.

CAPRICORN — Life’s been a real whirlwind lately, Capricorn. You may feel a bit overwhelmed by everything that’s been going on. It’s fun to catch up with everyone, but a bit daunting to renew ties with old friends and try to remember things that are going on with new ones. Take a deep breath, Capricorn, you’re doing just fine.

AQUARIUS — With all the conversations you’ve had lately, Aquarius, it’s likely that you’ve talked with some people in the healing professions. These doctors, nurses, and technicians could be useful to you later. Be sure to file their contact information away for future reference. On another front, expect to receive some good news concerning your finances.

PISCES — You may discover an untapped talent today, Pisces. Perhaps there’s a new machine in the office and you’re the only one who can figure out how to use it. Maybe drafting a simple business proposal makes you realize how much you enjoy the writing process. This is a good day for any kind of creative endeavor, as well as for paperwork of all sorts.

DAILY BRIDGE

By FRANK STEWART

Tribune Content Agency

SUDOKU

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill in the grid so every row, every column and every 3-by-3 grid contains the digits 1 through 9. that means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.

Sudoku puzzles appear on the Diversions page Monday-Saturday and on the crossword solutions page in Sunday’s Life section.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

CODEWORD PUZZLE

Answers to previous CODEWORD

How to play Codeword

Codeword is a fun game with simple rules, and a great way to test your knowledge of the English language.

Every number in the codeword grid is ‘code’ for a letter of the alphabet. Thus, the number 2 may correspond to the letter L, for instance.

All puzzles come with a few letters to start. Your first move should be to enter these letters in the puzzle grid. If the letter S is in the box at the bottom of the page underneath the number 2, your first move should be to find all cells numbered 2 in the grid and enter the letter S. Cross the letter S off the list at the bottom of the grid.

Remember that at the end you should have a different letter of the alphabet in each of the numbered boxes 1- 26, and a word in English in each of the horizontal and vertical runs on the codeword grid.

PUZZLE

By David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek

Unscramble these Jumbles, one letter to each square, to form four ordinary words.

Now arrange the circled letters to form the surprise answer, as suggested by the above cartoon.

THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME

Murder takes flight in Goleta

EDD touts progress, but customer response issues remain

By MADISON HIRNEISEN THE CENTER SQUARE

(The Center Square) – More than two years after California’s Employment Development Department was flooded with unemployment claims and saw billions in fraudulent benefits, state auditors say the department has made progress, but “time will tell” if it’s prepared for the next downturn.

State auditors told lawmakers this week that EDD has implemented 19 of the 21 recommendations made in recent audits, declaring that the department has come a “long way” since the early days of the pandemic when jammed phone lines and stalled payments left customers on hold for hours at a time. A recent report from the Legislative Analyst’s Office found that as many as 5 million claimants experienced payment delays during the pandemic, and as many as 1 million were improperly denied benefits.

The department still needs to resolve customer service issues at its call center. Identifying “why people choose to call the call center for assistance rather than use the self-service options” on the EDD website is a concern, Acting Deputy State Auditor Bob Harris said. He also told lawmakers that the EDD needs to “sustain” its progress to ensure it can provide “effective service” in the future.

Mr. Harris emphasized that the department has made “significant progress” in addressing many issues exposed at the start of the pandemic, but when asked by lawmakers if the department is adequately prepared for the next economic downturn, his answer was uncertain.

“Are we better prepared than

we were before? Yes,” Mr. Harris said. “Are we prepared enough? Time will tell.”

In terms of addressing fraud, EDD officials said Wednesday that the department had blocked over $125 billion in fraudulent attempts. Officials also said their estimate that $20 billion in fraudulent payments were distributed during the pandemic remains the most “accurate assessment” despite recent media reports indicating that number could be billions higher.

EDD Director Nancy Farris told lawmakers that more than $1 billion in fraudulent benefits had been recovered thus far, adding that the department has enacted identity verification measures to thwart future fraud attempts through ID.me.

Lawmakers emphasized the importance of resolving the remaining problems at the EDD, particularly as the state braces for a possible recession. Though EDD has been required through Senate Bill 390 to develop a recession plan, some lawmakers raised concerns about the time it takes to train staff, interfering with the efficiency of getting claims paid out.

Assemblyman Jim Wood said some of his own staff in his district office had to step in during the pandemic to address the “logjam” at EDD. He shared the story of one of his constituents who waited on hold for 11 hours with EDD and said the department’s identity authentication process “made the process nearly impossible for legitimate claimants.”

Assemblyman Wood also pondered the number of individuals denied benefits from the EDD and the state’s rent relief program, which struggled to get payments out to people in need.

HUBER, Nelson

Nelson Huber came here for one purpose, to make music. For him, music was a sacrament capable of healing us and lifting us out of the ordinary and into the sublime. The term sui generis - in a class by himself - does not even begin to describe him.

He tells the story of his discovery of music in the following way: At the age of sixteen, he sat down at the piano and the music came rushing out of him. It was as if it was coming through him, not from him. His fingers just knew where to go.

Nelson lived for beauty. He collected crystals because their unique, timeless quality mirrored something ineffable inside him. He loved cultivating roses and luxuriated in their primal, delicate sensuality. When asked what he imagined heaven might be like he said, “An English garden in full bloom.”

One of his most cherished memories was falling asleep on a secluded beach in Hawaii, then waking up completely surrounded by giant sea turtles.

Nelson saw God’s face in manifest creation. Whether it was the thunderous drum of the ocean as it met the shore, or the flawless Fibonacci sequence of a nautilus shell, he saw what most others could not see. An exalted piece of music would make him weep with joy. A well-crafted film was like a Tarte Tatin, that magnificent French creation consisting of an upside-down fruit pastry that’s traditionally made with caramelized apples and puff pastry. Art fed his soul.

Though he loved Christ, he was fascinated by the Chinese philosophy of Taoism. In fact, he did his master’s thesis in choral conducting referencing Taoist principles. In particular, he was inspired by the notion that alignment with the natural order creates harmony and meaning. He was intrigued by the Taoist concept of wu wei –sometimes incorrectly translated as “non action.” What it really means is “the absence of superfluous action.” This was the secret of his gift. He instinctively knew the precise formula for creating music that transports the listener—not too much, nor too little.

Wherever he chose to play, he filled the space with a deep and penetrating light made of sound. His music lit the path so that we could find our way home.

As awe inspiring as his musical gifts were, his bold, spontaneous personality concealed his shy, introverted nature. He identified with the Okapi, also known as the forest giraffe, a gorgeous, exotic creature that is essentially solitary. Although he was at home with solitude, he found profound joy in connecting with pure beings who seemed to recognize and love him unconditionally--most notably, his “niece” Lauren’s baby boy, Kasper, with whom he yearned to spend more time.

Nelson gratefully spent much of the latter portion of his life with his closest and dearest friend, Vicki Archer. She has been the truest and most loyal family to him, just as he was to her. Though Nelson was an introvert by nature, he had many friends across the globe. You know who you are. He requested that some special colleagues be acknowledged: Val Underwood, Hawaii Performing Arts Festival, Emma Lou Diemer, Marilyn Skiold, Josephine Brummel, Julie Neufeld, Gary Smith, Erin Bonski-Evans, Jacqueline Greenshields, Steven Thomson, Temmo Korisheli, Kristen Dittman, Mary Dombek, Christine Hollinger, Ed Thompson, and all of the wonderful, creative people with whom he shared a love of music.

On Sunday, Sept. 18th, 2022, Nelson peacefully joined (perhaps to conduct?) the Heavenly choir of angels. We shall miss him along with his inimitable musical improvisations, and all that he brought to every occasion for which he was asked to play.

To truly understand Nelson’s tender heart, here are some of his final words: “I feel the Cosmic Love falling all around me, through me and from me. I am one with It, as It is with me. At last, dancing.”

If anyone feels inclined to donate in his memory, he requested that the offering be sent to Hawaii Performing Arts Festival. Please send to: Irma Singer, HPAF Director of Finance, Nelson Huber Scholarship Fund: 340 Old Mill Road, Space 266 Santa Barbara, CA 93110. https://www.hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org/donate/

A memorial will be held for Nelson on October 1, 2022, at 1:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church, 21 E. Constance Ave., Santa Barbara, CA, 93105

Obituary notices are published daily in the Santa Barbara News-Press and also appear on our website www.newspress.com

To place an obituary, please email the text and photo(s) to obits@newspress.com or fax text only (no photos) to (805) 966-1421. Please include your name, address, contact phone number and the date(s) you would like the obituary to be published. Photos should be in jpeg format with at least 200 dpi. If a digital photo is not available, a picture may be brought into our office for scanning. We will lay out the obituary using our standard format.

A formatted proof of the obituary and the cost will be emailed back for review and approval.

The minimum obituary cost to print one time is $150.00 for up to 1.5” in length -- includes 1 photo and up to 12 lines of text, approximately 630 characters; up to approximately 930 characters without a photo. Add $60.00 for each additional inch or partial inch after the first 1.5”; up to approximately 700 characters per additional inch.

All Obituaries must be reviewed, approved, and prepaid by deadline. We accept all major credit cards by phone; check or cash payments may be brought into our office located at 715 Anacapa Street.

The deadline for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday’s editions is at 10a.m. on Thursdays;

Tuesday’s edition deadlines at 10a.m. on Fridays; Wednesday’s edition deadlines at 10a.m. on Mondays; Thursday’s edition deadlines at 10a.m. on Tuesdays; Friday’s edition deadlines at 10a.m. on Wednesdays (Pacific Time).

Free Death Notices must be directly emailed by the mortuary to our newsroom at news@newspress.com.

July 10, 1949 – September 18, 2022

Hundreds of crows take to the sky above Fairview Avenue in Goleta on Sunday in a scene that would have done famed director Alfred Hitchcock proud. Fittingly, a group of crows like this one or the one featured in Hitchcock’s 1963 horror classic “The Birds” is called not a flock, but a murder.