On Aug. 31, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to move forward with a plan to get individuals out of homeless encampments by providing needed services and coordinating across cities and the county. Department of Housing and Community Development Homeless Assistance Program Manager Kimberlee Albers and Deputy Director Dinah Lockhart presented a […]
Taylor O'Connor
The Santa Ynez Valley Riders hits the trails to enjoy the equestrian community
After months of lockdown and social distancing, Santa Ynez Valley Riders President Kathleen Rosenthal is eager to hit the trails once again and invites others to join the club, with half-priced memberships offered through the end of 2021. “It’s a good way to get outside and get exercise. It’s really good for your health; it’s […]
The Good Samaritan Shelter works with Lompoc and Santa Barbara County to provide Pallet sheltering for homeless in the community
Outside the Bridgehouse Homeless Shelter in Lompoc, 18 8-by-8-foot sheds sit on freshly laid asphalt in a circle. Beds, flowers, a bag of snacks, and water inside each welcome their guests. Picnic tables sit under the shaded middle of the neighborhood with potted plants scattered around. The white buildings—which will be painted purple, red, and […]
Local community colleges push students, faculty, and staff to get vaccinated
At its Aug. 10 meeting, the Allan Hancock College board of trustees voted 5-0 to require students, faculty, and staff to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by Oct. 1. This new mandate puts the college in line with other higher education institutions including the California State University and University of California systems and more than […]
New Lompoc Fire Chief Alicia Welch discusses her plan and strategy for the improvement and the future of the fire department
While working at the Long Beach Parks and Recreation Department early in her career, Alicia Welch turned over her pay stub to see that the city’s fire department was recruiting females. Immediately she knew she wanted to become a firefighter. More than three decades later, she continues to pursue her calling as Lompoc’s new fire […]
Santa Barbara County to consider requiring vaccine or frequent testing for county workers
On Aug. 24, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted to discuss vaccine or frequent testing requirements for Santa Barbara County employees at its next meeting. Second District Supervisor Gregg Hart made the suggestion following a presentation on COVID-19’s resurgence. “It’s very good news that the FDA [Food and Drug Administration] has completed their […]

