Santa Barbara News-Press: May 24, 2023

The Transportation Security Administration reported that this firearm was discovered Tuesday morning in carry-on luggage at the Santa Barbara Airport.

Brad Paisley raises his voice for Unity Shoppe

Proceeds from Santa Barbara Bowl concert go to local nonprofit

By ANNIKA BAHNSEN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

Grammy-winning country artist Brad Paisley made a tour stop in Santa Barbara on Sunday to benefit Unity Shoppe.

Mr. Paisley’s concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl raised money for the Santa Barbara nonprofit. Unity Shoppe is dedicated to providing free essential services to residents impacted by temporary conditions of poverty, natural disaster or a health crisis. The organization provides residents with groceries, clothing and other essentials, as well as job training.

Mr. Paisley and his family have been heavily involved in the organization, volunteering their time and donating money to help Unity Shoppe since learning about it.

Mr. Paisley, who is also a parttime Santa Barbara resident, has also opened a nonprofit grocery store in his hometown of Nashville, which was inspired by Unity Shoppe.

Angela Miller-Bevan, executive director of Unity Shoppe, told the NewsPress that although the final fundraising amount from Sunday’s concert is not going to be released to the public, Unity Shoppe is thankful for the support.

The donations will go directly back to the organization and help with resources that may be needed. The organization has experienced a 50% increase in client numbers over last year, and this fundraiser is a direct help to these new clients.

For more information on Unity Shoppe, visit www. unityshoppe.org.

email: abahnsen@newspress.

com

DeSantis expected to make it official tonight

Florida governor likely will announce today he’s running for Republican presidential nomination - A4

Path to peace in the Middle East

UCSB student Tessa Veksler sees progress during trip to United Arab Emirates - B1

Firearm discovered in carry-on at Santa Barbara Airport

By ANNIKA BAHNSEN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

A Transportation Security Administration officer at the Santa Barbara Airport discovered a male traveler bringing a loaded firearm onto an aircraft Tuesday morning.

The firearm was discovered during a regular X-ray screening of carryon luggage at the airport’s security checkpoint.

The firearm was found when a TSA officer spotted the image of a handgun on the X-ray screen.

TSA notified officers with the Santa Barbara Airport Police, who responded to the security checkpoint and removed the firearm.

The passenger, who was traveling to Phoenix, was escorted out of the security checkpoint by law enforcement. TSA didn’t release the passenger’s name. The firearm was a loaded 9 mm Beretta 92FS that was accompanied by a magazine loaded with 14 rounds of ammunition.

“I cannot speak to the motives of the traveler,” said Lorie Dankers of

TSA Public Affairs.

“What I do know is that firearms have never been allowed in the cabin of the aircraft, so why someone would bring one in 2023 is unexplainable,” Ms. Dankers told the News-Press. “The first rule of firearm safety is to know where your firearm is at all times.”

This is the first firearm discovered in carry-on luggage at SBA so far this year. In 2022, TSA officers discovered two firearms at the security checkpoint.

“Because the discovery of even

one firearm in carry-on luggage is one too many, I am asking firearm owners who choose to travel with a gun on a commercial aircraft to take a few minutes to review the policies and procedures for traveling with a firearm,” said Anita Minaei, the TSA federal security director at SBA.

TSA will review the circumstances of the firearm incident and impose a civil penalty against the passenger. TSA evaluates each incident on a case-by-case basis.

email: abahnsen@newspress.com

Cracking down on parklets

Santa Barbara City Council enforces ADA requirements, denies appeals of decision to remove them

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Santa Barbara City Council took a hard line Tuesday on enforcing ADA accessibility requirements, voting to deny appeals filed by the owners of six outdoor parklets who received notices to take them down for noncompliance.

Despite voicing empathy for some of the owners’ particular circumstances, council members said they had no choice but to enforce federal law requiring such facilities to provide accessibility for people with disabilities.

“As the council, we have demanded that staff get out there” to make sure the parklets are ADA-accessible, Mayor Randy Rowse said.

“The lion’s share” of the parklets are in compliance, he said, and there was no room for any exceptions.

“It’s up to us to enforce the law of the land,” he said.

The parklet owners filing an appeal were Taza Mediterranean Street Kitchen, 413 State St.;

Ca’Dario Restaurant, 37 E. Victoria St.; Courthouse Tavern 129 E. Anapamu St.; Trattoria Vittoria, 30 E. Victoria St.; Foxtail Kitchen and Bar, 14 E. Cota St.; and Folded Hills Wintery, 1294 Coast Village Road, Montecito.

Council members addressed one appeal at a time, with Mayor Rowse noting that they had been instructed by City Attorney Sarah Knecht to vote only to deny or uphold each appeal, without the option of allowing a parklet to continue operating if it followed certain conditions.

Staff said the noncompliant parklets had been inspected multiple times, and that multiple notices of violations had been delivered in person, posted or sent by certified mail, until the final notice of removal was issued April 17.

When staff checked in early May, three of the parklets had corrected their violations: Ca’Dario, Foxtail and Trattoria Vittoria. Taza and Courthouse Tavern were still in noncompliance. And Folded Hills had removed its parklet due to construction on the Olive Mill Road roundtable.

Taza co-owner Hitesh Ambalal said his parents and newborn were in the hospital while the restaurant was going through the inspection and enforcement

appeal.

process, and he “kind of shut down,” allowing “a series of bad managers” to handle things while he was absent.

“Up until last month I didn’t even know about it,” he said.

Two managers have since been fired, he said, and the restaurant has corrected the violations, a small gap between the concrete and the parklet and a table that was not ADA-compliant.

“The table was an oversight,” he said. “I didn’t even realize it was not in compliance.”

Despite this, he admitted, “There was no excuse for it. I wish that there was. But none of it was done in bad faith.”

Councilmember Mike Jordan said he appreciated Mr. Ambalal telling his personal story “and laying down on your sword. It has not gone unappreciated.

“But I cannot find a way through this but to not deny the appeal. Multiple chances were given over a long, long, long time for a process that should not even need noticing. It’s the law.”

Councilmember Oscar Gutierrez, however, said he could not vote to shut down Taza’s parklet.

“I’ve spoken to businesses on the 400 block, and I know how difficult it is. It is my district. I know it has not been treated the same as the other blocks and other streets. Obviously there were errors made, and it has been made clear he is rectifying it. I will uphold the appeal.”

The council voted 6 to his 1 no vote to deny the appeal.

Simon Clark, representing Ca’Dario, insisted the restaurant was not properly noticed, but that the business nevertheless reduced the lip on its ramp to make it ADA-compliant.

He complained the restaurant was not given a picture of “what a good table” looked like and so purchased one that was not ADAcompliant. “But we did it in good faith.”

Such tables are supposed to be at least 30 inches wide and 19 inches deep.

“I apologize and regret it, but we did assiduously try to correct it. We did our best and ask your indulgence for keeping our parklet,” Mr. Clark told the council.

Councilmember Kristen Sneddon said there was no

One dead in crash on Highway 101

Editor’s note: Liam Hibbert, a New York University student, joins the News-Press this week as an intern reporter.

By LIAM HIBBERT NEWS-PRESS CORRESPONDENT

A man died early Tuesday morning after the car he was riding in flipped as he entered northbound Highway 101 at Fairview Avenue in Goleta.

The 55-year-old passenger died after the blue 1999 Ford Ranger came to rest on its roof after spinning out at around 5:15 a.m.

The driver, Pedro Contreras, 64, suffered minor injuries and was transported for caution after the California Highway Patrol, Santa Barbara County Fire Department and American Medical Response ambulance responded to the scene.

excuse for the “lack of oversight compared to the benefit given to operate in city space. That comes with additional responsibilities. I have no confidence going forward that anything will be remediated.”

Mayor Rowse noted that Ca’Dario’s is one of his favorite places to eat. “But these are black-and-white situations to me.”

The council vote? 7-0 to deny the appeal.

No one spoke on behalf of Courthouse Tavern. Staff noted that the restaurant purchased a new table, but it was taller than the maximum height of 34 inches “so it still is not in compliance.

With no discussion, the council voted 7-0 to deny the appeal.

Owner Vittoria Comin urged the council to uphold Trattoria Vittoria’s appeal, saying its parklet provided a “huge public benefit” by allowing people to eat outside, including their patrons with disabilities.

She admitted “a failing on our part” but noted that when she took over as general manager, her grandfather was in the middle of

Drugs and alcohol are not suspected to have played a role. The crash is still under investigation by CHP, which did not release the passenger’s name.

email: lhibbert@newspress. com

GOP

governors meet with Abbott

By BETHANY BLANKLEY THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) — Nine Republican governors met with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott Monday to discuss a joint border security plan. They did so after they, along with 15 of their colleagues, last week pledged to support Texas’ border security mission,

COURTESY TSA

Sheriff’s office presents awards to employees, community members

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office honored employees and community members at an Annual Recognition Awards Program and Luncheon held last week at the Earl Warren Showgrounds.

The award recipients were recognized for their exemplary service during 2022. Lunch was provided by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Benevolent Posse who have consistently hosted this event as a gesture of support and thanks to the honorees.

The ceremony began with a presentation of service pins, honoring team members who have served the Santa Barbara County for 25 years. They included Sheriff’s Sgt. Dustin Poquette, Deputy Special Duty William Henslin, Deputy Special Duty Douglas Jones, Custody Deputy Special Duty Anthony DeLira, Custody Deputy Sophia Bendele, Administrative Office

Professional Senior Jennifer Tieso, Administrative Office Professional II Socorro Vargas and Custodian Javier Hernandez. The next honorees were community member Jeffrey Stark and Sheriff’s Dispatcher Nichole Sagisi, who were honored with the Sheriff’s Office certificate of merit and the Emergency Medical

Services Agency CPR Save award, respectively for their lifesaving teamwork when Mr. Stark came upon a person in cardiac arrest and provided lifesaving CPR to the patient with Dispatcher Sagisi’s assistance in dispatching first responders and providing CPR instructions over the phone. The patient whose life was saved joined them on stage during the awards presentation.

Twenty-five deputies received a commendation for naloxone saves where they administered Narcan in a manner that resulted in the reversal of a suspected opioid overdose and prevented a victim from dying. These deputies included Deputy Special Duty Jose Alvarez, Deputy Special Duty James Carovano, Deputy Special Duty Thomas Green, Deputy Special Duty Isaac Munoz, Deputy Bruno Bertuzzi, Deputy Christopher Brady, Deputy Eduardo Cazarez, Deputy Tyler Davis, Community Resource Deputy Bryan Dickey, Deputy Torey Dunn, Deputy Hartley Freedman, Deputy Garrett Gish, Deputy Jesus Gutierrez, Deputy Jason Martinez, Deputy Gregory Plett, Deputy Christopher Portman, Deputy Daniel Skall, Deputy Dennis Thomas, Deputy Garrett Weinreich, Deputy Connor Worden, Custody Deputy Jose Alejo, Custody Deputy Cole Knapp, Custody Deputy Joel Mena,

Custody Deputy Matthew Sua, and Custody Deputy Oswaldo Zacarias.

Next was the presentation of the highest civilian award given by the Sheriff’s Office – The Exceptional Civilian Award.

The first recipient was Sharon Byrne, executive director of the Montecito Association, who was honored for her extraordinary dedication to others and her collaborative work with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.

An additional Exceptional Civilian Award will be presented to the founding members of One 805; Eric Phillips, Nina Phillips, Kirsten Cavendish Weston-Smith, Richard Weston-Smith, and John Thyne III, who were unable to make it to last week’s ceremony.

The next awards presented were the Sheriff’s Lifesaving Award — presented to members of the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office, members of allied agencies or civilians who perform CPR or other lifesaving first aid procedures upon ill or injured persons, resulting in the individual surviving their immediate injury or medical emergency. Honorees included Custody Deputy Mason Henslin, Custody Deputy Jose Miguel, Custody Deputy Paul Russ, Custody Deputy Jose Robledo, Custody Deputy Oswaldo Zacarias, Custody Deputy Jose Miguel, Custody Deputy Jasmin Cruz, Custody Deputy Tristin Fichtner,

Custody Deputy Michael Halcomb, and Custody Deputy Blake Martinez.

Next, teams of Communications dispatchers who answered 9-11 calls for patients who were unconscious and not breathing, along with the deputies who responded to the call, were honored with the Emergency Medical Services Agency CPR Save award and Sheriff’s Lifesaving Award for their combined efforts that resulted in the preservation of life. Honorees included Communications Dispatcher Kelsey Gagen with Sheriff’s Deputy Tomas Brownlee and Communications Dispatcher Daisy Cortez with Sheriff’s Deputy Eduardo Cazarez.

Next, Sheriff Brown presented Sheriff’s Sgt. Jarom Kemp and Los Angeles County Firefighter Jason Brody with the Sheriff’s Lifesaving Award for their teamwork in response to a witnessed cardiac arrest incident where the patient survived thanks to their coordinated efforts. The patient whose life was saved joined them on stage during the awards presentation.

Deputy Ignacio Rios Jr. was awarded the Sheriff’s Lifesaving Award for his response to a call of an overdose patient where he responded, deployed two doses of Narcan, and administered CPR

Please see AWARDS on A4

City of Goleta to honor public works employees today

By KIRA LOGAN NEWS-PRESS CORRESPONDENT

The Goleta Public Works department is holding a Public Works Appreciation Event today, in celebration of the National Public Works Week.

The event is set for 3 to 6 p.m. this afternoon at Camino Real Marketplace in Goleta.

National Public Works Week is celebrated from May 21-27 and was created to draw more appreciation for local public works teams.

The Goleta Public Works Department is made up of 28 staff members. Public Works is

in charge of multiple aspects of citizen’s daily life, which includes but are not limited to: infrastructure, parks and open spaces, street maintenance, stormwater management, solid waste and environmental services, and engineering.

“I have a great deal of admiration for our Public Works team,” said Goleta Mayor Paula Perotte.

The director of Goleta Public Works, Charlie Ebeling, said: “I feel very lucky to work with such a great group of people. Public Works staff work quietly behind the scenes to deliver projects and services and are available 24/7 to

respond to emergencies.”

Over the past year, the department has had many achievements, which include: the installation of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon Crosswalks at three school zone locations, vegetation removal at various locations, construction of Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Crosswalk on Calle Real near Encina Lane, repavement of nearly four center lane miles of pavement, creation of a new city-wide Edible Food Recovery Program and a new Commercial Food Scraps Recycling program as part of Senate Bill 1383,. The department has also led Goleta

clean-up events.

The department is also working on future projects, some of which include: Hollister Avenue Bridge Project, which will replace the existing bridge and complete the channel widening south of the bridge to allow greater flood water conveyance capacity; Hollister Class 1 Bike Path Lighting; crosswalk construction at Calle Real/Fairview Center, and construction on the San Jose Creek Bike Path Middle Extent. Thank you messages can be sent to the Public Works staff via email to PIO@cityofgoleta.org.

email: klogan@newspress.com

Commencement slated for over 90 former inmates

By LIAM HIBBERT NEWS-PRESS CORRESPONDENT

Ninety-two formerly incarcerated individuals will participate in graduation ceremonies from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 1.

The celebration will take place in Santa Barbara at the Mar Monte Hotel and in Santa Maria at the Santa Maria Elks Lodge in honor of their accomplishments from the Day Reporting Centers.

The commencement proceedings

are in honor of the clients, who have successfully completed the comprehensive reentry program. Many of their families will be in attendance, while participants will receive their completion certificates as well as certificates of achievement from Senator Monique Limón, D-Santa Barbara; Assemblymember Gregg Hart, D-Santa Barbara, and Supervisor Joan Hartmann.

As in the previous ceremonies, Community Partner awards and special recognition awards,

including Client of the Year and Community Service, will be presented. Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown will serve as keynote speaker to applaud the effort and accomplishments of the graduates to better their lives.

All of the graduates are former state prisoners who were referred to the DRCs from their parole agents and have participated voluntarily. Clients work with case managers and employment specialists to set specific vocational, educational and

personal goals.

The range of topics in the program include, but are not limited to, substance abuse treatment, cognitive behavioral intervention, employment services, career planning, school counseling, transitional housing support and service opportunities.

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office and Community Solutions opened the Day Reporting Centers in 2010.

email: lhibbert@newspress.com

Electric vehicle car-sharing services proposed for public housing projects

By RIA ROEBUCK JOSEPH THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) — “In

awarding grants … the Secretary shall give priority to eligible entities that serve communities that have been historically marginalized or disproportionately impacted by environmental injustice,” says the EVs for All Act legislation being introduced by U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Rep. Nanette Díaz Barragán (D-Calif.).

Sen. Booker, one of the bill’s sponsors, said, “By expanding access to EVs for residents of public housing, we can empower lowincome communities with clean transportation options and alleviate the burden of high gas prices and pollution. That is why I am proud to join Rep. Barragán in introducing this legislation that represents our

commitment to environmental justice and ensures everyone has a fair chance to benefit from the transition to electric vehicles.”

If enacted, the bill would award grants to entities to operate a proposed electric vehicle sharing service addressing “the infrastructure needs of the public housing project where that electric vehicle sharing service will be operated and the transportation needs of the community surrounding the public housing project.”

“By making EVs more accessible to residents of public housing — who face some of the worst air quality in the nation — we can begin to close the gap in access to clean and healthy transportation, safeguard clean air, and save working families costly trips to the gas pump,” Sen. Padilla said.

The act requires a program to be

developed by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Transportation, which offers grants of up to $1 million to public housing agencies, local governments or nonprofits. Considerations would also be given as to whether an eligible entity has: a plan for outreach that is culturally tuned to the community and can educate residents regarding the proposed electric vehicle sharing service; the economic and operational sustainability of the proposed electric vehicle sharing service; a proposal to install fast-charging stations; a proposal to purchase union-assembled electric vehicles; a proposal to purchase electric vehicles that contain at least 50% domestic content and are powered by battery cells manufactured in

collected, including legal and illegal guns. These weapons surrendered represented a significant step toward reducing the potential risks associated with these weapons, according to Santa Barbara police.

the firearms will be properly disposed of in accordance with legal and regulatory

the United States and proposal to purchase vehicles from certifiable fair labor and worker protection programs.

Annual appropriations of up to $50 million from Fiscal Year 2024 to 2033 provide for the expansion of EV accessibility for low-income residents as authorized by the bill.

Grant recipients are encouraged to hire at least 40% of local and disadvantaged workers who are Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program certified or hold an NEVI electrician certification. “A successful clean energy future requires that every resident, regardless of income, can take part,” said Rep. Barragán. “This model has proven popular at Rancho San Pedro public housing in my district, and I’m excited to reintroduce the EVs for All Act to expand it to every part of the country.”

requirements, the police department said. SBPD would like to thank all the community members who participated in the program, as well as other city departments that contributed to the program’s success.

— Neil Hartstein

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$25 million in grants planned to reduce sale of tobacco to California youth

By RIA ROEBUCK JOSEPH THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) — In a 2020 Student Tobacco Survey, it was revealed that 91.6% of high school students use some form of tobacco or by-product.

These include vapes, hookah, smokeless tobacco, cigarillos, cigars and cigarettes.

“DOJ is all in on the fight to protect California’s youth from harmful and addictive tobacco products,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Our law enforcement partners play an invaluable role in this fight, enforcing state and local tobacco laws that safeguard the health of their communities.

A report by the California Department of Public Health and California Tobacco Control Program, which published the survey, notes: “Among California high school youth who reported current tobacco use, the percent of youth trying to quit cigarettes, little cigars or cigarillos, and/or vapes

increased between 2018 and 2020. Attempts to quit vaping more than doubled in two years.”

Even though tobacco products are only to be sold to adults over the age of 21, retailers continue to sell to underage persons. In another tobacco purchase survey conducted by CTCP, coastal regions in California had higher rates of underage sales in 2019. The Central Coast region had the highest rate of underage sales at 55.2%. The Tri‐County South region had the lowest rate of underage sales at 9.3%.

To help reduce childhood addiction to tobacco and its byproducts, and the illegal sale of tobacco products to minors, the Department of Justice is launching The Tobacco Grant Program.

A grant of $26.4 million is available to law enforcement agencies, cities, counties, public K-12 districts, and public college districts or any local public agency wanting to enforce tobacco-related laws. The grant supports:

• Retailer compliance checks.

• Enforcement of flavor ban laws/ordinances.

• Consumer protection enforcement.

• Illegal online sales and marketing, including use of doorto-door delivery services.

• Retailer training programs.

• Public education outreach.

• Tobacco retail license inspections.

“The Tobacco Grant Program provides valuable resources and tools to aid them in these efforts.

Together, we can build a healthier and happier California,” Attorney General Bonta said in a May 22 release.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 99% of e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can damage the adolescent brain, the effects of which continue into the early mid-20s.

The parts of the brain that control attention, learning, mood and impulse control are

susceptible to nicotine use at a time when adolescent brains are forming synapses at optimum speed. Nicotine changes the way these synapses are formed starting a cycle of dependence.

Once the brain and body becomes used to nicotine, it changes the normal regulation of moods and sleep. This can result in temporary symptoms of nicotine withdrawal when nicotine is not in the body. Symptoms include irritability, restlessness, feeling anxious or depressed, trouble sleeping, problems concentrating and craving nicotine. Eligible organizations can find information about the grant application process or qualifications here: oag.ca.gov/ tobaccogrants.

The California Department of Justice’s Tobacco Grant Program is funded by Proposition 56, the California Healthcare, Research and Prevention Tobacco Tax Act of 2016.

Republicans thrilled as Newsom announces permitting reform

By RIA ROEBUCK JOSEPH THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) — At a site in the Central Valley earmarked for solar energy generation, Gov. Gavin Newsom introduced California’s most ambitious measures on clean energy infrastructure .

Acting on a recently released report, the permitting and project reforms propose to streamline project approvals for the state’s climate, economic and social goals while taking advantage of California’s full share of federal dollars for green infrastructure creation.

Senate Republicans are celebrating the governor’s announcement, which was made last Friday.

“California Senate Republicans have been advocating for CEQA reform for years. We are thrilled that Governor Newsom is finally taking action..” Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones said in a released statement.

The Infrastructure Acceleration Report from Infrastructure Advisor to the State of California, Antonio Villaraigosa, California

Forward, and the Boston Consulting Group, released on May 18 said “to achieve the utmost value for our infrastructure spending, significant and substantial regulatory and governance reform is necessary ... Average infrastructure project time can be significantly reduced by building a new governance model and streamlining processes, permitting, and approvals for project delivery.”

The Investment and Jobs Act, Inflation Reduction Act and $50 billion in state funding together create a $180 billion clean

infrastructure fund for the next 10 years. By eliminating red tape regulations and streamlining permitting through a process of developing new contracts, the state can shorten project timelines by as much as 3 years.

Gov. Newsom noted, “This proposal is the most ambitious effort to cut red tape and streamline regulations in half a century. It’s time to make the most out of taxpayer dollars and deliver results while creating hundreds of thousands of good jobs. Not since the Pat Brown era have we had the opportunity to invest in and rebuild this state to create the clean future Californians deserve.”

Faster permitting and governance reform means projects will be built faster with the potential for 400,000 construction jobs to be realized.

Senate Republicans have been advocating for CEQA reform for a decade and have proposed more than 33 bills to the California

legislature. None of the bills were adopted by the Democratic majority although many addressed the same concerns now advised in the report, including climate considerations, social equity and infrastructure.

The report seems to echo the objectives of some of the bills brought by Republican legislators over the years, but these bills were never heard in committee. A list of projects that could be streamlined, named by the governor — in solar, wind, and battery storage projects, maintenance and bridge projects, transit and regional rail construction, semiconductor fabrication plants, as well as water projects like the Delta Conveyance Project and storage facilities — also appears to be in tandem with the objectives of past bills introduced by Republican legislators.

“California Senate Republicans have been at the forefront of the CEQA reform movement for years,” said Senate Minority Caucus Chair Nguyen.

The report also advised the formation of an Infrastructure Strike Team which Gov. Newsom accomplished by executive order to “track the status of individual projects … as they move through design, permitting and construction phases, and use common metrics to measure progress and identify opportunities for streamlining government operations.”

The Strike Team will create working groups focused on transportation, energy, hydrogen, environmental remediation, broadband, water, the CHIPS and Science Act, and zero-emission vehicles.

The pairing of the legislative

Lower Colorado River basin states come to an agreement on water conservation

By RIA ROEBUCK JOSEPH THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) — Govs. Gavin Newsom of California, Katie Hobbs of Arizona and Joe Lombardo of Nevada have developed a short-term plan to conserve 3 million acre-feet of water through 2026, to protect the Colorado River system.

“Thanks to the partnership of our fellow Basin States and historic investments in drought funding, we now have a path forward to build our reservoirs back up in the near-term. From here, our work must continue to take action and address the longterm issues of climate change and overallocation to ensure we have a sustainable Colorado River for all who rely upon it,” said Gov. Hobbs.

“The entire Western United States is on the frontlines of climate change — we must work together to address this crisis and the weather extremes between drought and flood,” said Gov. Newsom at Monday’s announcement of the Lower Basin Plan.

The plan proposes early and large conservation of 1.5 million acre-feet of water by the end of 2024 to reduce the risk of Lake Mead and Lake Powell declining to critically low elevations. This is achieved by voluntary

agreements with tribes, cities and agriculture in the Lower Basin states.

Altogether the seven Colorado River Basin States are responsible for the conservation of the Colorado River system, with Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and New Mexico being the Upper Basin states. All seven states representing 40 million waterusers, support the plan as an alternative within the Near-Term Colorado River Operations Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (Draft SEIS). With water being a critical resource for the Western states, Gov. Lombardo affirmed, “Through this partnership, we look forward to equitably advancing our mutual goal of conserving our shared water resources. It’s never been more important to protect the Colorado River System, and this partnership is a critical next step in our efforts to sustain this essential water supply.”

The total compensated System Conservation proposed will be mandatory, enforceable, measurable, verifiable and non-retrievable with up to 2.3 million acre-feet of conserved water federally compensated through the Inflation Reduction Act covering drought mitigation and preparedness, and the remaining 0.7 million

package and the governor’s executive order amends California law, authorizes expedited judicial review, reduces project timeframes and costs, streamlines the CEQA processes and establishes a Green Bank Financing Program that benefits low-income and disadvantaged communities through pollutioncutting climate projects.

“We support his commitment to help build more housing and infrastructure projects. We remain eager to collaborate with the governor and our colleagues across the aisle in a bipartisan manner to fix California with solutions that address our state’s myriad issues ranging from homelessness to housing to water infrastructure,” said Leader Jones.

It is not clear whether the proposed reforms extend to private construction as well. Gov. Newsom’s release referred to “state agencies” and “taxpayer dollars.”

acre-feet “in whole or in part compensated by state and/or local entities or be uncompensated.”

The plan also makes accommodations for Lake Mead’s levels, Glen Canyon Dam operations and Lake Powell releases.

“The Lower Basin Plan is the product of months of tireless work by our water managers to develop an agreement that stabilizes the Colorado River system through 2026,” said Gov. Katie Hobbs.

The governors of California, Arizona and Nevada submitted the plan to Camille Calimlim Touton, the commissioner of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. They asked that the plan be considered as an alternative to the Near-Term Colorado River Operations Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement, published in April by the bureau.

In a separate letter to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the governors of the lower basin emphasized that the implementation of the proposal would allow the basin states to focus discussions on measures that may be required after 2026 to address the impacts of climate change on system water supply availability and the existing overallocation of water.

Gov, Gavin Newsom

Ron DeSantis expected to announce presidential run tonight

By CASEY HARPER THE CENTER SQUARE SENIOR REPORTER

(The Center Square) — Florida

Gov. Ron DeSantis is expected to announce his 2024 presidential bid tonight.

Gov. DeSantis, who currently ranks second in the latest Republican primary polling, is expected to make the announcement during a live stream video on Twitter as part of a conversation with billionaire Elon Musk.

Morning Consult polling of Republican primary voters released last week puts former president Donald Trump at 61% support with Gov. DeSantis in second at 18% support.

“Gov. DeSantis has been the primary vessel for conservatives looking for a different direction post Trump,” Colin Reed, Republican strategist and cofounder of South & Hill Strategies, told The Center Square. “He’s earned his place atop the pack. Now he’s got to prove he is up to the task in a growing field of other talented contenders.”

Gov. DeSantis built his

reputation and conservative following by taking on the “woke establishment” by pairing his tough rhetoric on critical race theory and the LGBT agenda with tangible policy wins.

Gov. DeSantis took on Disney after the company made clear it wants to advance an LGBT agenda in its programming for kids, and he had some success, working with local leaders to strip the company of special tax and governance protections in Florida.

Gov. DeSantis still faces legal challenges from the company, but his battle was largely seen as a victory among Republican voters.

“I will not allow a woke corporation based in California to run our state,” Gov. DeSantis said last year. “Disney has gotten away with special deals from the state of Florida for way too long.”

After the Black Lives Matter riots and following push to defund police, Gov. DeSantis offered bonuses to police officers who would come to his state, drawing attention and praise from conservatives by flying in the face of mainstream media’s narrative around race and policing.

He also took heavy fire from the media for supporting legislation to prevent educators from discussing gender and sexuality topics for young children in the Florida school system. Opponents labeled it the “Don’t Say Gay” bill in the initial controversy, but Gov. DeSantis navigated through it, fighting publicly with the media,

which was later forced to admit the bill does not include those words.

Gov. DeSantis’ decision to stand firm and his Trump-esque battling with reporters bolstered his reputation among conservatives.

Mr. Trump, though, has already started attacking Gov. DeSantis, calling him “DeSanctimonious” and “unelectable.”

Whether Gov. DeSantis will return fire with the same intensity remains to be seen and may be the deciding factor in the primary campaign.

After news broke of the coming announcement, Gov. DeSantis’ wife, Casey, posted on Twitter, “Big if true,” apparently a joke giving a nod to the news.

The news comes after U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., announced Monday that he is also running for president. Sen. Scott comes in well behind at 1% support in the Morning Consult poll.

The first GOP caucus is in Iowa on Jan. 22, 2024, while the first GOP primary is Jan. 30 of the same year in New Hampshire. However, the first cohort of states holding their presidential primary votes is in March of next year.

info

At left, the city council voted 6-1 to deny the appeal of the decision to remove the parklet in front of Taza Mediterranean Street Kitchen. At right, owner Vittoria Comin urged the city council to uphold Trattoria Vittoria’s appeal, saying its parklet provided a “huge public benefit” by allowing people to eat outside, including their patrons with disabilities. But the council voted 5-2 to deny the appeal.

PARKLETS

Continued from Page A1

a legal dispute with his partner and “we were in a huge state of disarray.”

She said she acted to make the necessary fixes once she learned of the ADA violations, but by that time several carpenters were too busy working on other parklets.

“We borrowed a table until we got one delivered,” she said.

Councilmember Eric Friedman said he appreciated her coming forward, “but we’re limited in what we can review and want we can’t.”

Councilmember Sneddon asked whether the legal dispute and change in ownership would make a difference, but the city attorney

ABBOTT

Continued from Page A1

Operation Lone Star. Idaho and Florida already began sending personnel and resources. The briefing was a way to discuss efforts under way and how multistate resources would be deployed.

Adjutant General of the Texas

Military Department Major

General Thomas Suelzer, Texas

Department of Public Safety

Director Steve McCraw and Texas

Border Czar Mike Banks also gave the governors “on-the-ground intelligence about the border crisis,” the governor’s office said.

Gov. Abbott provided an overview of OLS strategies

AWARDS

Continued from Page A2

which resulted in the patient surviving.

Deputies Steven Martinez and Michael Reynoso were awarded the Sheriff’s Lifesaving Award for their response to a vehicle rollover where they worked together to render aid to victims trapped in an overturned vehicle, including applying a tourniquet to a patient’s arm. Their swift and resolute actions resulted in the preservation of the patient’s life.

Deputy Simon Trujillo was awarded the Sheriff’s Lifesaving Award for his response to a call of a motorcyclist down where he applied a tourniquet to a victim’s leg, ultimately saving the patient’s life.

said it wouldn’t.

Councilmember Jordan said because of the change in ownership, and the fact that someone other than Ms. Comin had received the notices of ownership, that he was inclined to uphold the appeal.

He said the council sometimes needs to consider additional information based on “what’s happening in the world.” At the same time, he noted that the council could not consider upholding the appeal with conditions. The city attorney, he said, “has tied our hands.”

And Mayor Rowse again observed that the Americans with Disabilities Act “is not squishable or changeable.” The ADA act is “very technical and hard to understand,” he said, “but it is

being employed to deter foreign nationals from illegally entering along the southern border. Nearly 300 known, suspected terrorists have been apprehended at both the northern and southern border this fiscal year. Gov. Abbott noted that 16 known, suspected terrorists were apprehended last month.

Mr. McCraw discussed the methods Mexican cartels are employing to control the trafficking and smuggling of drugs and people across the southern border, arguing “President Biden’s open border policies” were incentivizing “mass illegal immigration and cartel activity along the border.” He said while the state and DPS have prepared for mass migration scenarios, they aren’t prepared for “the level of global migration

Next, Sheriff Brown presented two Sheriff’s Unit Citations, an award intended to recognize a particular organizational unit for outstanding service resulting from a team effort. Honorees this year were the Sheriff’s Special Operations Response Team, and the Classification and Intelligence Unit along with Custody K9 Units. Next, Sheriff Brown presented the Meritorious Service Award. This award is given to members of the Sheriff’s Office who perform superior accomplishments that result in significant contributions to the efficient operation of the Sheriff’s Office. There were two recipients this year: Community Resource Deputy Justin Schroeder for his service to the Isla Vista community, and Sheriff’s Deputy Kody Kiesow, who responded to a partially submerged vehicle where

the law ,and it’s irresponsible to do otherwise (than to enforce something) everybody else in town has to comply with.”

The council voted 5-2 to deny the appeal, with Councilmembers Jordan and Oscar Gutierrez dissenting.

No one spoke in favor of Foxtail’s appeal. The council voted 6-1 to deny its appeal, with Councilmember Oscar Gutierrez dissenting.

Andrew Bush spoke in favor of Folded Hills Winery’s appeal, even though the business already removed its parklet because of construction on the Olive Mill Road roundabout.

“There is no doubt that we did screw up,” he said, but added that Folded Hills Winery thought its ramp was ADA-compliant when it

invited by the federal government’s inaction at the border.”

Major Gen. Suelzer gave examples of tactics Texas National Guard soldiers are deploying, showing maps of where barriers have been and are being constructed along the border. He also discussed how other states’ National Guard troops or law enforcement officers “could be integrated into Operation Lone Star to help fill the gaps created by President Biden’s open border policies.”

Mr. Banks took aim at the claim made by the Biden administration and Democrats that 90% of fentanyl was being seized at ports of entry when Border Patrol agents have testified to the contrary. Mr. Banks, a retired Border Patrol

he entered brackish and algaeinfested waters to attempt rescue of the driver, and administered CPR, doing everything he could to save the patient who was later pronounced deceased.

Sheriff Brown closed the awards ceremony with presentations of the Distinguished Service Medal, awarded to members of the Sheriff’s Office who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in assigned duties with loyalty and dedication over a prolonged period. This award is not intended to recognize length of service but is intended to recognize sustained distinguished performance above and beyond normal job requirements.

Retired Sheriff’s Deputy Leslie Avila was honored for the positive impact she had on children, educating over

wasn’t.

He said he did not want to spend thousands of dollars to install a new parklet with an ADAcompliant ramp until construction on the roundabout was completed.

“It is our intention to be 100% ADA-compliant,” he said. “We really believe in that.”

But Councilmember Sneddon said there was no excuse for Folded Hills Winery’s failure to be ADA-compliant while its parklet was still up and in use.

“Even if you’re open one day, one hour, one moment at a time, you need to be compliant,” she said.

The council voted unanimously to deny his appeal.

email: nhartsteinnewspress@ gmail.com

agent, also highlighted the record number of 1.7 million gotaways — those who’ve illegally entered and evaded capture, and law enforcement officers don’t know who or where they are.

The governors who participated in the briefing included Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Idaho Gov. Brad Little, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, and Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin. The briefing was held as the number of those illegally entering through the southern border in the first four months of this year outnumbers the population of six states.

10,000 students as the DARE manager and instructor. School Resource Deputy George “Meade” Hedricks was honored for his 11 years of exceptional dedication, guardianship, and commitment to the safety and well-being of the young people and school staff he serves at Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta.

Sheriff Brown closed the ceremony by noting, “Day after day you exhibit physical and moral courage, compassion, caring and dedication to duty.

“Thank you again to our award recipients and to each and every one of you for all you do to make me proud to be your sheriff, and to everyone who made this event possible today.”

email: nhartsteinnewspress@ gmail.com

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. The News-Press cannot accept Death Notices from individuals.

COURTESY PHOTO Gov. Ron DeSantis

KENNETH SONG /NEWS-PRESS PHOTOS

Life theArts

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 2023

Potential for peace in the Middle East

UCSB student Tessa Veksler and other students visit Israel and the United Arab Emirates, two nations with good relations

By DAVE MASON NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

In an example of world peace, a mosque, a church, a synagogue and an educational center are being built to create the Abrahamic Family House.

The site is on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

“This is the future to me,”

Tessa Veksler told the NewsPress, sitting in Storke Plaza at UCSB. “This is what needs to be happening. This is the type of conversation that I wish to be having when I’m talking about the Middle East.”

Miss Veksler, a UCSB junior with a double major in political science and communications, joined 39 other students across the U.S. earlier this year on a trip to Israel and the United Arab Emirates, two countries that are dedicated to peaceful relations through the Abraham Accords.

Made during the Trump administration, the Abraham Accords are a series of treaties that normalized diplomatic relations between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco. The accords covered trade, culture and education, and before the agreement, Israelis couldn’t visit the U.A.E.

Since the accords were signed in September 2020, 130,000 Israelis have visited Dubai.

The trip was made possible by the Geller International Fellowship. Miss Veksler, who’s a member of the UCSB Student Senate, was the only student from UCSB and among the few students from California. She was chosen after a process that included a written application and an interview.

“I had never thought I would get in a million years an opportunity to go to the U.A.E. — not only as a Jewish individual but also as someone who previously lived in Israel,” said Miss Veksler, a 20-year-old Walnut Creek native. She was one of 25 Jewish students who were part of the cohort that visited the U.A.E. and Israel during the trip.

“I think just going and stepping off an Israeli flight to U.A.E. is revolutionary,” said Miss Veksler,

CALENDAR

The calendar appears Mondays through Saturdays in the “Life & the Arts” section. Items are welcome. Please email them a full week before the event to Managing Editor Dave Mason at dmason@ newspress.com.

changed so no one could say the U.A.E. was stepping on the flag of Israel.

“That really stuck with me,”

Miss Veksler said.

She added that she and the students got to walk through the Presidential Palace, which is in Abu Dhabi.

“It’s enormous,” said Miss Veksler, who has visited 21 countries, including the U.A.E. “It’s crazy. I”ve never seen anything like it.”

The students also saw sites such as a museum with a Holocaust exhibit in Dubai.

Called “A Holocaust Memorial Exhibition,” it’s at the Crossroads of Civilizations Museums and features first-hand testimonies of Holocaust survivors.

Miss Veksler, who lived during her gap year after high school in Israel, said it was extraordinary to see a Holocaust exhibit in “a country that no one ever thought would have peaceful relations with Israel.

“You could tell the curator was very passionate about making sure he was getting interesting pieces and that he was telling an accurate story,” Miss Veksler said. “He acknowledged that for a long period of time, the Jewish story had not been considered being told in the U.A.E.”

Miss Veksler also noted, “The U.A.E. is the first country in the Middle East other than Israel to incorporate the Holocaust in its education.”

“Once you go and step foot in these countries, and you have a conversation with leaders who are at the forefront of progress and politics, you see there’s a new Middle East that’s forming,” she said.

The trip to the United Arab Emirati gave Miss Veksler and the other American students a chance to talk with the people of the United Arab Emirates.

TODAY 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol Road, has reopened its permanent mineral exhibit of rocks and crystals that is on view in the small hall off the museum’s central courtyard.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays. The exhibit, which opened April 22, is included in museum admission. Members are always admitted free. For others, prices vary from $14 to $19. For more information, visit sbnature.org/minerals.

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The James Castle exhibit is on display at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Admission is free from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays. For more information, see sbma.net. Noon to 5 p.m. “Clarence Mattei: Portrait of a Community” is on view now through May at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, which is located in downtown Santa Barbara at 136 E. De la Guerra St. Admission is free. Hours are currently from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays and from noon to 7 p.m. Thursdays. For more information, visit www.sbhistorical.org. Appointment on weekdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays. “Holly Hungett: Natural Interpretations” is on view through May 20 at the Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara’s gallery, 229 E. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. For more information, call the foundation at 805-965-6307 or go to www.afsb. org.

MAY 25

7 p.m. UCSB Department of Theatre and Dance students will perform Anton Chekhov’s “Three Sisters” at UCSB’s Movement Studio, Theater/Dance West Room 1507. The Russian playwright’s story has been interpreted by Libby Appel and is being directed by Annie Torsiglieri. Admission is free.

MAY 26

whose parents and brother were born in Ukraine and left the nation in 1990.

During her trip to the Middle East, Miss Veksler and the other students met with Amir Hayek, the Israeli ambassador to the U.A.E. Ambassador Hayek told the students that there had been $2.3

Tony DeSare to perform Sinatra’s hits with Santa Barbara Symphony

By DAVE MASON NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

The Santa Barbara Symphony will have the world on a string when Tony DeSare joins the orchestra to perform Frank Sinatra’s hits to wrap up the symphony’s 70th anniversary season.

The one-night-only concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. June 15 at The Granada.

Nir Kabaretti, the symphony’s music and artistic director, will lead the orchestra in popular songs like “I’ve Got the World on a String”, “My Way”, “Come Fly with Me”, “Night and Day”, and many more. Often called “two parts Frank Sinatra and one part Billy Joel,” Mr. DeSare is known for his fresh take on old-school class in this tribute.

“An Evening with Sinatra” will no doubt have the audiences humming along or their tapping their feet and sipping festive cocktails.

“We are excited to close this milestone season with such a special tribute concert, honoring the legendary Frank Sinatra,”

Maestro Kabaretti said in a news release. “Our intention this season was to create unique symphonic experiences with audiences across an expansive range of musical genres — from jazz to pop, film scores, theater and even the art of Chumash spoken word. We are honored to have shared this season with you, and thank you for your continued support of the Santa Barbara Symphony!”

Named Rising Star Male Vocalist in Downbeat Magazine, Mr. DeSare won critical and popular acclaim for his concert performances throughout North America and abroad. He has sung everywhere from jazz clubs to Carnegie Hall to Las Vegas, and he has headlined major symphony orchestras.

He placed first in the USA Songwriting Contest and wrote the theme song for the movie “My Date With Drew.” He also has written music for several broadcast commercials and scored five films.

Tickets for “An Evening with Sinatra” can be purchased at granadasb.org.

email: dmason@newspress.com

million in trade between Israel and the U.A.E. since the Abraham Accords were signed.

“He also said, ‘The Abraham Accords can’t fail,’” Miss Veksler said. “It’s the first example to the world what a potential peaceful relationship between a Jewish state and an Arab state might

look like.”

The ambassador told the students that the president of the United Arab Emirates — Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan — replaced the Presidential Palace’s blue carpet with gray because blue is the color of the Israeli flag. The sheik had it

“I never thought I could sit across from an emirate and be Jewish and have them want to engage in a conversation with me,” Miss Veksler said.

“It was very heartwarming to sit with these individuals and know they were as happy to converse with me as I was to listen to them.”

email: dmason@newspress.com

7 p.m . Dos Pueblos Theatre Company is putting on “High School Musical!” at the Elings Performing Arts Center at Dos Pueblos High School, 7266 Alameda Ave., Goleta. The musical chronicles a high school love story, as the main characters Troy and Gabriella find themselves choosing between music and school. Tickets are $8 for general admission, $5 for seniors and students, and free for children 10 and under.

7 p.m. UCSB Department of Theatre and Dance students will perform Anton Chekhov’s “Three Sisters” at UCSB’s Movement Studio, Theater/Dance West Room 1507. The Russian playwright’s story has been interpreted by Libby Appel and is being directed by Annie Torsiglieri. Admission is free.

9 p.m. Spooky Mansion will perform at SOhO Restaurant and Music Club, 1221 State St., Suite 205, Santa Barbara. The concert will also feature Tino Drima. Tickets cost $15 in advance and $18 at the door. To purchase, go to www.sohosb.com. The concert is for ages 21 and older.

MAY 27 7 p.m. UCSB Department of Theatre and Dance students will perform Anton Chekhov’s “Three Sisters” at UCSB’s Movement Studio, Theater/Dance West Room 1507. The Russian playwright’s story has been interpreted by Libby Appel and is being directed by Annie Torsiglieri. Admission is free.

MAY 28 2 p.m. UCSB Department of Theatre and Dance students will perform Anton Chekhov’s “Three Sisters” at UCSB’s Movement Studio, Theater/Dance West Room 1507. The Russian playwright’s story has been interpreted by Libby Appel and is being directed by Annie Torsiglieri. Admission is free.

JUNE 3

1:30 to 4:30 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. The McGuire/Moffet Band and Cadillac Angels will perform at Cold Spring Tavern, 5995 Stagecoach Road, Santa Barbara. For more information, visit www.coldspringtavern.com.

4 to 7 p.m. Zoo Brew, the Santa Barbara Zoo’s annual fundraiser that caters to beer and animal lovers alike, will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. with a VIP hour from 3 to 4 p.m. The zoo is at 500 Ninos Drive, Santa Barbara. General admission tickets are $75 per person and include unlimited beer tastings and one Zoo Brew 2023 commemorative tasting cup, and VIP tickets are $110. All proceeds benefit the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo. For more information, call 805-9625339.

JUNE 4

1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Tom Ball and Kenny Sultan will perform their mix of guitar and harmonica blues, rags and good-time music at Cold Spring Tavern, 5995 Stagecoach Road, Santa Barbara. For more information, visit www. coldspringtavern.com.

— Dave Mason

Tony DeSare has sung everywhere from jazz clubs to Carnegie Hall to Las Vegas

DAVE MASON /NEWS-PRESS

“This is the future to me,” said Tessa Veksler, a UCSB junior and Jewish student who visited the United Arab Emirates, about the potential for peace between Israel and Arab countries.

Tiny Libraries on State Street to return to Santa Barbara

By ANNIKA BAHNSEN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture has announced the return of Tiny Libraries on State, an art installation produced in partnership with the city of Santa Barbara.

The six public art “libraries,” created by local artist Douglas Lochner, will be installed on the State Street from mid-May through July.

Tiny Libraries on State is a

nod to Santa Barbara’s literary heritage. This year’s installation has a special emphasis on summer reading.

Through a partnership with the Creative Project’s “I Madonnari” Italian Street Painting Festival, the sculptures will be accompanied by street painting from local artists Sharyn Chan and Sara Wilcox.

“I Madonnari,” which is scheduled for Memorial Day weekend, supports arts programs, performances and teaching artists in local schools.

Cottage Urgent Care offers discounted physical exams

Cottage Urgent Care is offering discounted pre-participation physical exams for students engaging in sports and summer activities.

Students can get these exams at a discounted rate of just $35 across all Cottage Urgent Care locations.

During the exam, a boardcertified 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 a physical exam.

Pre-participation physical exams are offered at all 15 Cottage Urgent Care locations. These include sites in Santa Barbara,

Montecito, Santa Maria, Orcutt, Buellton and Goleta. While appointments are encouraged, walk-ins are also welcome. Cottage Urgent Care locations are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 365 days a year. To schedule an appointment or for more information, visit cottagehealth. org/urgentcare.

— Liam Hibbert

Fess Parker Winery introduces

WineStock music series

LOS OLIVOS — You’re invited to join Fess Parker Winery this summer for WineStock — a series of evenings spent enjoying live music from local bands on the winery terrace. The winery is located at 6200 Foxen Canyon Road Los Olivos. WineStock will kick off on June 4 with a live performance from The Double Wide Kings. This Santa Barbara band plays a blend of original music and covers that brings new passion to the

familiar pleasures of roots-rock, Americana and country-blues.

Ticket proceeds from the Double Wide Kings show will benefit Santa Barbara Channelkeeper, an organization that keeps the channels of Santa Barbara free from pollution.

Fess Parker wines by the glass and bottle as well as food from local food trucks — Danny’s Pizza and Hookup Fisheries — will be available for purchase.

Other performances this month

include: Tearaways on July 23, Bryan Titus on Aug. 19 and Harmony All Stars on Sept. 10. Guests are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets to set up on the winery lawn.

Ticket price is $20 per person, $15 for wine club members. Tickets are available for purchase at fessparkerwineshop.com/ Tickets/WineStock-2023.

— Annika Bahnsen

Pearl Chase Society speaker series to cover architecture

SANTA BARBARA — The Pearl Chase Society’s Kellam de Forest Speaker Series will continue from 6 to 7:30 p.m. June 9 at the Carrillo Recreation Center. 100 E. Carrillo St. This is the third installment in the series. Author and editor Douglas Woods will discuss the transformation of Santa Barbara’s

During the first few weeks of the installation, different popup activations will be planned including a street painting demonstration during the June 1st Thursday Art Walk. The books in the libraries are free for the community to keep or borrow, and the community is encouraged to bring books to share with others. For more information, go to www.sbac.ca.gov.

email: abahnsen@newspress. com

architecture following the great earthquake of 1925 to a model Spanish Revival-style city.

Mr. Woods will be speaking about the Spanish Colonial Revival style and its influence on Southern California residential architecture. The more resilient architecture style composed of adobe, stucco, stone, and clay connected the

thread to the city’s Spanish heritage and romanticized past. Mr. Woods’ presentation will include a slideshow of examples of this distinctive style from San Diego to Santa Barbara. For more information or to make a reservation, call 805-403-7053.

— Liam Hibbert

Shelters seek homes for pets

Local animal shelters and their nonprofit partners are looking for homes for pets. For more information, go to these websites:

• Animal Services-Lompoc, countyofsb.org/phd/animal/home. sbc.

• Animal Shelter Assistance Program in Goleta, asapcats.org. ASAP is kitty corner to Santa Barbara County Animal Services.

• Bunnies Urgently Needing Shelter in Goleta, bunssb.org. BUNS is based at Santa Barbara County Animal Services.

• Companion Animal Placement

Assistance, lompoccapa.org and facebook.com/capaoflompoc.

CAPA works regularly with Animal Services-Lompoc.

• K-9 Placement & Assistance League, k-9pals.org. K-9 PALS works regularly with Santa Barbara County Animal Services.

• Santa Barbara County Animal Care Foundation, sbcanimalcare. org. (The foundation works regularly with the Santa Maria Animal Center.)

• Santa Barbara County Animal Services in Goleta: countyofsb.org/ phd/animal/home.sbc.

• Santa Barbara Humane (with

campuses in Goleta and Santa Maria), sbhumane.org.

• Santa Maria Animal Center, countyofsb.org/phd/animal/home. sbc. The center is part of Santa Barbara County Animal Services.

• Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society/DAWG in Buellton, syvhumane.org.

• Shadow’s Fund (a pet sanctuary in Lompoc), shadowsfund.org.

• Volunteers for Inter-Valley Animals in Lompoc: vivashelter. org.

— Dave Mason

KENNETH SONG /NEWS-PRESS FILE PHOTO

Kerri Burns, CEO Of Santa Barbara Humane, spends time with one of the shelter’s dogs on the Goleta campus.

Diversions

Thought for Today

“Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” — Mark Twain

HOROSCOPE

Horoscope.com

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

ARIES — The desire to meet with a romantic partner and look and feel your best could give rise to a lot of short journeys in your area. Perhaps you will want to work out, buy some new clothes, or get a haircut. This might be a good idea. Passions promise to run high today.

TAURUS — It’s time to stop acting like you think others want to see you act, Taurus. The planetary configuration confirms that it’s time to express yourselfyour emotions, desires, and point of view - to take a firmer stand and define more clearly who you are to others and to yourself.

GEMINI — Your energy is high and your stamina particularly strong today. Working out or playing sports could appeal to you now. Running or aerobics could offer valuable exercise and clear your head to allow for new ideas. You also should feel particularly passionate. If you’re involved with someone, Gemini, expect a great evening. If not, don’t be surprised if you get some admiring glances.

CANCER — A reunion with a family member who has been away or out of touch could generate some powerful emotions, Cancer. Memories could come flooding back, making you both nostalgic and maybe a bit angry. Take care to curb the latter. You don’t want to spoil your reunion.

LEO — Today your mind is likely to be on travel, Leo. You might have to spend a lot of time running errands in the car. You could also be planning a long vacation, perhaps one centered on a group function or seminar of some sort. Your physical energy is high, but there’s still a danger of tiring yourself out. Relax at home this evening.

VIRGO — Today you might decide to put in some extra hours on the job or take on an extra project of some sort in order to bring in a little more money. Since you’re feeling strong and energetic enough to move mountains, Virgo, you need to take care not to overexert yourself. Work hard and earn your money, but pace yourself.

LIBRA — Passion and determination mark today. Your energy should be high, Libra, and you should feel strong and

powerful. This is the perfect day to give whatever goals you’ve been trying to accomplish that one last push toward completion. You may surprise yourself with the power and quality of your work and the positive attention your efforts receive.

SCORPIO — Your inner power and awareness should be acute today, Scorpio. Some intense dreams and revelations could come from deep within, allowing you to release old traumas and phobias, and enabling you to move ahead with more confidence. Physical energy is high, though you may feel you need more sleep than usual.

SAGITTARIUS — Working toward goals you share with others could bring you closer together as friends and lovers, Sagittarius. The whole is definitely more than the sum of the parts. You’re likely to produce better results as a group or partnership than you would have otherwise. This is an “all pull together” sort of day. Romantically, you may have an exciting, passionate encounter!

CAPRICORN — Today you might face a task that seems as workable as emptying the ocean with a teacup. But with help from others, you will not only be able to handle it but also produce exceptional results. Physically, you’re likely to feel full of strength and stamina, ready to move mountains. Don’t be too surprised if you actually manage to budge a few!

AQUARIUS — The desire to travel, perhaps to visit a close friend, may come up today, Aquarius. You may put a lot of energy into exploring the possibilities. You might also want to travel to places where you can get some artistic inspiration for creative projects. Your energy and enthusiasm are high, so you should be able to accomplish this without neglecting your other chores.

PISCES — Expect a lot of activity in your home today, Pisces. A group, perhaps a large one, hosted by you or a family member could meet there and provoke stimulating conversations. You could get caught up in the energy, putting you in touch with a new awareness of your feelings. Tonight, expect vivid dreams of travel, strange places, or flying.

DAILY BRIDGE

By FRANK STEWART Tribune Content Agency

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

“I used to believe that truth is stranger than fiction,” Unlucky Louie told me. “Then I had to listen to the excuses my daughters concocted when they came home at three in the morning. After partnering Cy in today’s penny game, I’m back to believing.”

Cy the Cynic plays the dummy like a reckless driver. At 3NT, East ducked the first heart, and Cy won with the ten. He led a club to dummy’s king and next a diamond to finesse with his queen. Ed, my club’s expert, was West and played low with an air of uninterest.

DOWN ONE

“The Cynic then led a spade to dummy’s ace,” Louie said, “and returned a second diamond to his jack. Ed produced the king and led the king and another spade, and East got the ten and queen and his ace of hearts. Down one. I saw it and still don’t believe it.”

Cy went down at an icy-cold game. He can lead the ace of diamonds at Trick Two, then the queen. Even if East has K-10-x-x, Cy wins four diamond tricks to go with a spade, a heart and three clubs.

Your partner opens one heart, you respond one spade and

SUDOKU

CODEWORD PUZZLE

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 through Saturday.

CROSSWORD 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

he bids two clubs. What do you say?

ANSWER: This problem is tough.

Assuming you judge the hand worth inviting game, a bid of three spades would suggest a longer suit. A raise to three clubs or a jump to three hearts would show better support.

Since you have three useful honors, stretch slightly and bid two diamonds, a forcing “fourth-suit” call.

South dealer

vulnerable

Are U.S. tax dollars funding Taliban? Lawmakers say Biden admin is skirting Afghanistan oversight

By CASEY HARPER THE CENTER SQUARE SENIOR REPORTER

(The Center Square) — U.S. House Oversight Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., called out the Biden administration Tuesday, accusing it of skirting congressional oversight in the aftermath of the deadly and chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan in 2021.

The claim comes after the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction John Sopko testified before Congress last month that American taxpayer dollars may be funding the Taliban.

“There are still major problems in Afghanistan that this committee should be alerted to,” Mr. Sopko testified.

The U.S. has appropriated about $2 billion for Afghanistan since the withdrawal.

“While I agree, and we all agree that Afghanistan faces a dire humanitarian and economic situation, it is critical that our assistance not be diverted by the Taliban,” Mr. Sopko said.

of the Department of State’s, the U.S. Agency for International Development’s, the Department of Defense’s, and the U.S. Department of Treasury’s refusals to cooperate with SIGAR’s ongoing evaluations,” the letter said. “This lack of cooperation is unacceptable. The Administration will neither avoid SIGAR’s important oversight work nor flout accountability to the American people for its catastrophic failures in Afghanistan,” The Center Square reached out to each of these agencies but did not receive a request for comment in time for publication.

Large-scale federal funding programs normally see some fraud and abuse, but recently the levels of those unaccounted for funds going into the hands of wrongdoers has soared. For instance, as The Center Square previously reported, some estimate that $560 billion in federal taxpayer dollars were lost to fraudsters.

EFFECTIVE JUNE 5, 2023 APPLICATIONS FOR VERA CRUZ VILLAGE WILL BE ACCEPTED

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Announces Applications will be accepted online only at www.myaccount.hacsb.org

beginning June 5, 2023 at 8:00 AM.

If you require a reasonable accommodation and/or paper application, please contact our office at the number below.

To apply scan or visit www.myaccount.hacsb.org

Vera Cruz Village is a 28-unit studio complex designated for 1-2 member households who are currently homeless or at risk of homelessness. To qualify applicants must also be 62 years of age or older, a person with a disability or a household of 2 members. All units will have Project Based subsidy so tenants will pay a portion of their income toward rent and the remainder is paid by the Housing Authority. Waitlist ranking is based on date and time of application and preference points.

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara

808 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 www.hacsb.org ( 805) 965-1071

TTY (EN)(800) 735-2929 (SP) (800) 855-3000

Housing Authority de la Ciudad de Santa Bárbara anuncia

A PARTIR DEL 5 DE JUNIO DEL 2023 SOLICITUDES PARA Vera Cruz Village SERÁN ACEPTADAS

Las solicitudes serán aceptadas por la página web www.myaccount.hacsb.org a partir del 5 de junio del 2023 a las 8:00 AM.

Si necesita adaptación razonable y/o una aplicación en papel, favor de comunicarse con nuestra oficina al número a continuación.

Para aplicar, visítenos a www.myaccount.hacsb.org

Vera Cruz Village es un complejo de estudios de 28 unidades designado para hogares de 1-2 miembros que actualmente no tienen hogar o corren el riesgo de quedarse sin hogar. Para calificar, los solicitantes también deben tener 62 años o más, una persona con una discapacidad o un hogar de 2 miembros. Todas las unidades tendrán subsidio basado en el proyecto, por lo que los inquilinos pagarán una parte de sus ingresos para el alquiler y el resto es pagado por Housing Authority. La clasificación de la lista de espera se basa en la fecha y hora de solicitud y los puntos de preferencia.

“Unfortunately, as I sit here today, I cannot assure this committee or the American taxpayer that we are not currently funding the Taliban.”

Now, Mr. Sopko’s office said the Biden administration is failing to cooperate in his oversight efforts even as those funds may be going to the Taliban.

Citing this problem, Rep. Comer sent a letter to Secretaries Antony Blinken, Lloyd Austin, Janet Yellen and Administrator Samantha Power demanding they submit to oversight.

“SIGAR has notified the Committee on multiple occasions

In this case though, instead of fraudsters, those funds could be going to militant terrorists who have actively worked to kill Americans, often successfully. “As U.S. taxpayer dollars continue to assist the people of Afghanistan, it is imperative SIGAR’s mission remain unobstructed,” Rep.Comer’s letter said. “Congress has granted SIGAR authority to carry out this mission of providing wholeof-government oversight, and it is Congress’s authority alone to determine SIGAR’s jurisdiction and scope of mission.” Casey Harper works at The Center Square’s Washington, D.C., bureau.

Mother of woman killed by El Salvadoran gang member testifies before Congress

By CASEY HARPER THE CENTER SQUARE SENIOR REPORTER

(The Center Square) — The mother of a woman killed by a gang-affiliated illegal immigrant shared her story through tears Tuesday during testimony before the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security and Enforcement.

Tammy Nobles is the mother of Kayla Marie, a 20-year-old autistic woman who was raped and killed last summer.

In March of last year, officials apprehended Ms. Marie’s alleged killer crossing illegally into the U.S. at Rio Grande City, Texas, just a few months before Marie’s death. The unaccompanied teenager from El Salvador is allegedly affiliated with MS13, which is largely based in El Salvador and Honduras.

MS-13 is a violent gang that has extended its reach northward into the U.S. in recent years. Its motto is “kill, rape and control.”

Ms. Nobles pointed to a broken immigration system during her testimony, saying that because the suspect was a teen and not an adult when he illegally entered the U.S., he was allowed to go live with his aunt in Maryland. He rented a room in the same trailer as Ms. Marie, the same trailer where she soon was found dead.

“Kayla’s murderer was living there less than five days before he viciously murdered my daughter,” Mr. Nobles testified. “Kayla had two jobs. She was working at a cleaning company and at Weis grocery store. Kayla had autism, but she was determined to live independently and make her way in this world. And my baby paid the ultimate price.”

The suspect was arrested in January of this year and was charged with first-degree murder using DNA evidence.

Ms. Nobles went into graphic detail before Congress about how her daughter died.

“The murderer went into Kayla’s room startling her, grabbed her IPod charger and wrapped it around her throat and face while strangling her to death,” Ms. Nobles said. “Kayla grabbed her phone and called her boyfriend but it went to voicemail. The voicemail of the

murderer strangling Kayla was 2 minutes and 30 seconds long. The murderer then violently sexually assaulted Kayla. Kayla’s boyfriend came home from work and found her dead on the floor. The charger cord was so tight around her neck and face that her boyfriend had to use his teeth to get it off.”

Ms. Nobles told lawmakers that for her, this issue is not about politics, but about safety.

“This could have been anyone’s daughter,” she said. “Kayla wasn’t doing anything wrong, and she didn’t deserve to be murdered. I don’t want any other parent to live the nightmare that I am living. I am her voice now, and I am going to fight with everything I have to get her story told and bring awareness of the issue at the border. I will make sure her memory lives on.”

Ms. Nobles blasted government officials, saying they could have done more to keep this from happening.

“The government could have placed a phone call to authorities in El Salvador and found out that he was a gang member,” she said. “But they didn’t. If we had stricter border policies, my daughter would still be alive today. Nothing will bring my daughter back nor fix the pain of not having her here, but I want to prevent this from happening to someone else’s child. This isn’t about immigration. This is about protecting everyone in the United States.”

The testimony comes as illegal immigration into the U.S. has soared under the Biden administration. As The Center Square previously reported, federal immigration data shows that the number of people illegally entering the U.S. through the southern border through April of this year is larger than the population of six U.S. states.

During the hearing Tuesday, Rodney Scott, a former border patrol officer who now works for the Texas Public Policy Foundation, testified about the explosion of illegal immigration and how it has “effectively transferred control of our southwest border into the hands of the Mexican drug cartels.”

Casey Harper works at The Center Square’s Washington, D.C., bureau.