Santa Barbara News-Press: December 18, 2021 by Santa Barbara News-Press

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Report discusses abuse allegations at Cate School Investigation covers seven former faculty members By FORREST MCFARLAND NEWS-PRESS CORRESPONDENT

Seven former Cate School faculty members were banned from campus due to sexual misconduct and abuse allegations revealed in

CATE SCHOOL REPORT COURTESY PHOTO

Cate School released a report Wednesday concerning allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse.

The full report concerning sexual misconduct and abuse allegations at Cate School can be viewed at.cate. org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/CCAInvestigation-2021-OIG-Report.pdf.

an investigative report released by the school on Wednesday. The investigation conducted by the Oppenheimer Investigations Group LLP detailed allegations against seven respondents including former boys’ soccer coach Dave Mochel. The six other former faculty members include Scott McLeod, Kirk Phelps, Robert Kusel, Martin Lowenstein, Da’Jon James and Andy Campbell. There were additionally 10 unnamed respondents with various sexual misconduct allegations going back decades. In a 2012 investigation ordered by the private Carpinteria school, allegations of an inappropriate relationship against Mr. Mochel

Winter Wonderland Santa Barbara Police Activities League helps families build happy memories

were sustained and resulted in the former coach’s resignation. However, Mr. Mochel was still allowed to reside on campus with his wife, who was still employed by the school. The Cate School retained the investigations group to conduct another impartial investigation on Oct. 13, 2020, after hearing complaints of sexual misconduct and sexual harassment by Cate students and alumni. The report was published by the Cate School on its website alongside the message, “We made a promise to conduct a thorough thirdparty investigation, motivated by our drive to learn as much as we could about the school’s past.” Please see CATE on A6

Health experts anticipate omicron in SB County

KENNETH SONG / NEWS-PRESS

Intensive care unit beds are 85.5% full countywide before holiday breaks.

San Luis Obispo County notified of first confirmed case By ANNELISE HANSHAW NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

KENNETH SONG / NEWS-PRESS PHOTOS

One of Santa’s elves presents a gift to a child during the 21st annual Winter Wonderland, hosted by the Santa Barbara Police Activities League Wednesday at the Carousel House.

A boy attempts to haul away his oversized present during the Winter Wonderland.

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS CORRESPONDENT

Children got to meet Santa Claus on Wednesday when the Santa Barbara Police Activities League hosted its Winter Wonderland for low-income families. This year’s Santa Barbara event was conducted in a walkabout style for the safety of all attendees, families and their children, who walked through the Carousel House on Cabrillo Boulevard. That’s where they got their photos taken with Santa and received a gift and hot chocolate from local police officers. Children also got to take home a gingerbread house during the 21st annual event. For many children, this may be the only gift they receive this year, or this may be the first Christmas that they have received a gift, according to the Santa Barbara Police Activities League. It may also be a child’s first opportunity to meet and take a photo with Santa. Another first for many children is the interaction with law enforcement, especially on a positive note, the league noted. Please see WONDERLAND on A5

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Santa Barbara County is ensnared in a delta-variant wave and reportedly bound for another attack as the omicron variant spreads across the country. Public health experts told the News-Press on Friday they believe the omicron variant is already in the county. The same day, neighboring San Luis Obispo County received notification of its first confirmed omicron case. “This is a very high-risk period of the pandemic for all of us,” Dr. David Fisk, an infectious disease specialist with Cottage Health and Sansum Clinic, said. “Short-term, the most important thing we can do is try not to meet omicron with COVID fatigue right now.” The county’s daily case rate Nov. 26, the day after Thanksgiving, was 9.5 cases per 100,000 people. On Dec. 3, the rate had steadily climbed to 15.8 cases per 100,000 people. Dr. Fisk attributes the rise to Thanksgiving celebrations and a seasonal surge. “Ever since Thanksgiving,

there’s been more people coming in our doors symptomatic,” Dr. Marjorie Newman, the Sansum Clinic medical director, said. “Definitely, case rates are increasing. And we’re all concerned about people gathering again.” Health officials in 40 states and Puerto Rico have detected the omicron variant, as of Thursday afternoon. The number is rapidly growing, much like New York City’s testpositivity rate, which doubled in three days. Dr. Hennings Ansorg, the Santa Barbara County public health officer, is preparing for omicron to become the dominant variant after watching the variant overtake South Africa’s cases. But he said there’s much that experts don’t know yet. “We do not know with any degree of certainty if omicron is more or less aggressive than delta,” Dr. Fisk said. “But it’s clear that there’s going to be a lot of cases, and when there’s a lot of cases, some of them are not going to go well.” After preliminary data showed mild reactions in omicron cases — primarily in young, vaccinated individuals — some hoped the latest mutation would be akin to a cold. But experts throughout the country are warning against premature conclusions. The omicron variant has 50 Please see COVID on A2

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2021

Officials say booster shots imperative COVID

Continued from Page A1 mutations that distinguish it from the spike protein of the delta variant. The mutations help to transmit it from host to host, but it’s still COVID-19, Dr. Newman said. Scientists think the variant mutated as it lingered in an immunocompromised person, she added. Dr. Fisk said the mutations allow the omicron variant to divert some defenses. The spike protein’s shape, so heavily mutated, is less recognizable to the immune systems of those who have previously recovered from COVID-19. The monoclonal antibody treatments given to those with mild to moderate COVID-19 don’t stick to the shape of the omicron variant like it did other variants. The treatments need to adhere to the protein to inhibit the spikes from infecting the cells. And Dr. Fisk, as well as Dr. Newman and Dr. Ansorg, said the booster shots are imperative to protection against the new variant. Dr. Newman said to use “the tools currently in our shed,” referring to vaccination, masking, social distancing, teleworking and frequent testing. She recommends three-ply masks with a good seal around the nose and mouth. The experts repeated these mitigation methods — especially important as they anticipate a holiday surge. All recommended testing before and after travel and

72 new COVID-19 cases reported in Santa Barbara County By FORREST MCFARLAND NEWS-PRESS CORRESPONDENT

COURTESY PHOTO

DAVE MASON / NEWS-PRESS

“I strongly recommend that anyone with cold-like symptoms not meet with others because you can unknowingly spread COVID-19,” said Dr. Hennings Ansorg, the Santa Barbara County public health officer.

“Definitely, case rates are increasing. And we’re all concerned about people gathering again,” said Dr. Marjorie Newman, the Sansum Clinic medical director.

before any gatherings. A COVID-19-infected individual may not receive a positive test result until a few days after exposure, so Dr. Newman recommends retesting 3-5 days after returning from any holiday trips. “I strongly recommend that anyone with cold-like symptoms not meet with others because you can unknowingly spread COVID19,” Dr. Ansorg said. He suggests cutting out unnecessary travel while also balancing mental health. Currently, Santa Barbara County intensive care units are treating 13 patients with COVID-

19, and 65 ICU beds total are in use of the county’s 76 total ICU beds. Dr. Ansorg said ICU admissions are higher this time of year without COVID-19, so he can only hope the surge brings few cases into a hard-pressed healthcare system. Last week, the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department announced the closure of two free COVID-19 testing locations. The American Medical Response Central Training Center in Buellton closed last Thursday, and the Goleta Valley Community Center location will close Dec. 30. The other four Public Health sites will remain open. Dr. Ansorg said the test sites

COURTESY PHOTO

Dr. David Fisk, infectious disease specialist with Cottage Health and Sansum Clinic, said it’s not known whether the omicron variant will be more aggressive than delta. “But it’s clear that there’s going to be a lot of cases, and when there’s a lot of cases, some of them are not going to go well.”

were not being used as much, and grant funding was expiring. Dr. Fisk said he would like to see more funding for Public Health. “Public Health is already playing a very important role in the community’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they are stretched extraordinarily thin due to the need for more public health funding in our community,” he said. Tests from Santa Barbara County have been sent off to test for the omicron variant. It is undetermined when results will be reported.

Santa Barbara County reported 72 new COVID-19 cases Thursday. Of those, the highest number, 19, was in Santa Maria, according to the Public Health Department. Neighboring Orcutt had seven cases. Elsewhere, six cases were reported in Lompoc and nearby Mission Hills and Vandenberg Village. Fifteen cases were in Santa Barbara and unincorporated Mission Canyon. Three cases were in the North County areas that include Sisquoc, Casmalia, Garey, Cuyama, New Cuyama and Guadalupe. One case was in Isla Vista. Santa Ynez Valley reported four cases. Two cases were in Goleta. Three cases were in

unincorporated Goleta Valley and Gaviota. Seven cases were in the South Coast corridor, which includes Montecito, Summerland and Carpinteria. The locations of five cases were pending. Thirty-eight patients are recovering in county hospitals. Another thirteen are recovering in intensive care units. Santa Barbara County now has a total of 46,902 cases, of which 405 are still infectious. The total number of deaths remains at 556. The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department reported that 68.1% of the eligible 5-and-older population is fully vaccinated. Of the entire county population (all ages), 64.1% is fully vaccinated. All numbers are provided by the health department. email: fmcfarland@newspress.com

Correction State Street Ballet will perform “The Nutcracker” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at The Granada, 1214 State St. An incorrect time for the Sunday performance appeared in the main text of a story in Friday’s News-Press, but the time was correct in an FYI box that accompanied the story. (The Sunday time was corrected early Friday morning in the website version of the story.)

email: ahanshaw@newspress.com

TRAFFIC, CRIME AND FIRE BLOTTER — Forrest McFarland

Detectives arrest man for sexual assault ORCUTT — Santa Barbara County sheriff’s detectives arrested an Orcutt man Wednesday on suspicion of multiple sexual assaults. The Sheriff’s Office believes there are additional unidentified victims and is seeking the public’s help in locating survivors. Detectives began an investigation on March 12 after receiving a report of a sexual assault that occurred in the Orcutt and identified a suspect, Faustino Urrutia. The 56-year-old Orcutt resident allegedly targeted Spanishspeaking females that he lured to his home as prospective cleaners, said Raquel Zick, the Sheriff’s Office public information officer. After identifying several victims, detectives obtained a warrant for felony sexual assault charges, Ms. Zick said. Mr. Urrutia was arrested in the area of State Route 135 and Foster Road in Santa Maria and is being held at the Main Jail with $100,000

bail. This investigation remains ongoing. Detectives believe there may be other survivors who have not been contacted and encourage anyone with information that may lead to the discovery of other victims to contact the Sheriff’s Office-Santa Maria Detective’s Bureau at 805-943-6170. Those wishing to maintain confidentiality can contact the anonymous tip line at 805-681-4171 or visit their website at sbsheriff. org/home/anonymous-tip. The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind survivors that they can also find support services through their community partners, Standing Together to End Sexual Assault and the North County Rape Crisis & Child Protection Center. Victims of assault can reach a STESA or NCRCCPC advocate at any time by calling their respective hotlines at 805-5643696 or 805-736-7273. Services offered by STESA and the NCRCCPC include a confidential 24-Hour hotline, legal and medical advocacy and accompaniment, and counseling. Ms. Zick said the Sheriff’s Office is aware that survivors of sexual assault and abuse are often reluctant to come forward for many different reasons. She explained sheriff’s

detectives coordinate closely with the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office, Victim-Witness Program to ensure the needs of survivors are not overshadowed by the focus on the investigation and prosecution of the accused. Victim advocates are available to ensure that survivors are kept informed and supported throughout the criminal justice process. Survivors have the option of contacting the Victim-Witness Assistance Program directly at 805568-2400 or toll free at 855-840-3232.

— Forrest McFarland

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SANTA MARIA — A Santa Maria resident was arrested Thursday on charges related to suspicion of possession of child sexual abuse material. In early December, detectives received information that Francisco Jonathan Colima, 29, was allegedly involved in contacting minors over the internet for the purposes of obtaining child pornography, according to a news release. The Santa Maria Police Department Detective BureauSpecial Victims Unit conducted a search warrant operation and took Mr. Colima into custody without incident. Mr. Colima was booked into the Santa Barbara County Jail on charges related to child sexual abuse material with bail set at $100,000. Detectives believe there may be additional victims. People with information for this investigation are asked to contact Detective Matt Silver at the Santa Maria Police Detective Bureau at 805-

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Cal/OSHA reversal: vaccinated could still face quarantine after workplace COVID exposure By Madison Hirneisen The Center Square

(The Center Square) – California workplace safety regulators voted to revise and re-adopt emergency COVID-19 standards on Thursday to protect employees from the spread of the virus at work. After minimal discussion among board members, Cal/OSHA voted 6-1 Thursday to re-adopt and update workplace standards related to COVID-19. The requirements, which include some key revisions for fully vaccinated workers, will take effect on Jan. 14, 2022, and remain in place for 90 days. Under the revised rules, fully vaccinated, asymptomatic workers who come in contact with someone who tested positive will be required to stay home unless they wear a mask and social distance in the workplace for 14 days. The change marks a reversal of previous Cal/OSHA guidance issued in June that allowed vaccinated employees to be exempted from all precautions if exposed to COVID-19 but showed no symptoms. The board’s revised guidelines also removed exemptions for certain testing requirements applying to fully vaccinated, asymptomatic individuals. Under the updated rules, employers are required to make COVID-19 testing available at no cost to all exposed employees, including those who are

fully vaccinated and not showing COVID-19 symptoms. Before the board’s vote, Eric Berg, Cal/ OSHA’s deputy chief of health and research and standards, said these revisions ensure workers stay safe as new variants, such as delta and omicron, continue to emerge and pose a threat to workplace safety. “Workers have a right to protection in the workplace,” Mr. Berg said. “And the [Emergency Temporary Standard] provides these protections against one of the greatest workplace hazards we have seen since the establishment of Cal/OSHA nearly 50 years ago.” Several industry representatives, however, urged the board to reconsider adoption of the ETS before Thursday’s vote, including several agricultural officials. When addressing the board, Matthew Allen from the Western Growers Association said he and other agriculturalists were concerned about re-adopting the ETS because of the revisions applying to vaccinated workers. “We are concerned about the secondary adoption of the ETS, and more significantly concerned that we are discounting the value of vaccinated employees in the workplace,” Mr. Allen said. However, several other commenters urged the board to enact these standards to protect

workers from the risk of exposure, especially as the threat of the transmissible omicron variant looms. Jassy Grewal, legislative director for the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Western States Council, pressed the board to adopt the standard to protect the 180,000 frontline workers the union represents. Since June 2021, Ms. Grewal said the UFCW had seen an 11% increase in deaths among grocery workers and a 17% increase in workplace infections. “We are not out of this pandemic,” Ms. Grewal told the board. “Our workers are still dying and falling ill from this pandemic, from this virus.” Revisions to Cal/OSHA’s workplace safety requirements come just days after state health officials resurrected an indoor mask mandate as COVID-19 cases are on the rise. During a press briefing Monday, Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly said cases have risen 47% across the state since Thanksgiving. Under the state mandate, masks are required in all workplaces “regardless of whether they serve the public,” according to the California Department of Public Health. The state’s mask mandate is scheduled to remain in place until Jan. 15, which nearly coincides with the start date of Cal/OSHA’s revised guidelines on Jan. 14.

Boeing suspends vaccine mandate for employees By Ted O’Neil The Center Square contributor

(The Center Square) – Boeing said on Friday it has suspended its requirement that U.S.-based employees be fully vaccinated or face losing their jobs. The announcement comes as several attempts by President Joe Biden to require vaccinations for workers in various settings have been blocked by courts in recent weeks. “Boeing is committed to maintaining a safe working environment for our customers, and advancing the health and safety of our global workforce,” a company spokesperson told KOMO News. “As such, we continue to encourage our employees to get vaccinated and get a booster if they have not done so. Meanwhile, after careful review, Boeing has suspended its vaccine requirement in line with a federal court’s decision

The announcement comes as several attempts by President Joe Biden to require vaccinations for workers in various settings have been blocked by courts in recent weeks. prohibiting the enforcement of the federal contractor executive order and a number of state laws.” A U.S. District Court judge in Georgia on Dec. 7 issued a preliminary injunction against Pres. Biden’s executive order requiring all companies that contract with the federal government to have a vaccine mandate in place. The order was to have taken effect starting Jan. 4. Earlier orders requiring all employers with 100 or more employees to require vaccinations and one requiring all healthcare workers to be vaccinated have also

been blocked by courts. Pres. Biden’s executive order requiring all federal workers to be vaccinated is facing 17 lawsuits, but no judges have granted requests to block it. Courts have also ruled that private employers, states, local municipalities and public universities are able to issue vaccine mandates. In an internal memo to employees obtained by Defense News, Boeing said 92% of its U.S.-based workforce had either provided proof of vaccination or received a medical or religious exemption. “The success of Boeing’s vaccine

requirement to date positions the company well to comply with the federal executive order should it be reinstated in the future,” the memo said. Reuters reported last month that some 11,000 Boeing employees, about 9% of its North American workforce, had requested an exemption. It is unclear how many were granted. Boeing’s decision comes after other federal contractors, including Amtrak, General Electric and Union Pacific, dropped their vaccine requirements. According to the Washington State Department of Health, the state thus far has recorded 798,239 cases of COVID-19 with 9,653 deaths. As of Thursday, there were 495 people hospitalized with the virus, down from 720 at the start of December, with 53 people on ventilators, down from 117 over the same time period.

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Former FEMA official says recovery from Kentucky tornadoes could face challenges By Steve Bittenbender The Center Square contributor

(The Center Square) – Kentuckians impacted by last week’s devastating tornadoes and storms face a long and challenging recovery. That’s according to a former FEMA official with experience managing disaster responses. Josh Dozor worked 13 years for FEMA, including two years as the agency’s deputy assistant administrator for response. The challenges residents in western and southern Kentucky face in moving on are the limited availability of contractors and building materials as well a limited supply of temporary shelters. “There’s only so many hotels, which makes it difficult to enable families to keep the kids in the schools where they want to be with their friends and their teachers,” said Mr. Dozor, who now serves as the general manager of assistance operations for International SOS, a global health and security risk services company. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear

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highest possible rating. Another challenge Mr. Dozor said the region may face is a slower recovery if people most affected by the storms did not have insurance. A high rate of the uninsured will “drastically complicate” the return of the local economy. “Remember, federal assistance can help, but it’s not designed to make folks whole,” he said. That’s another area where officials are looking to help residents. Gov. Beshear said a fund recovery fund set up by the state has received $18.4 million in donations. While a portion of that money will be used to cover burial expenses for those who died in the storm, the state will also look to help uninsured homeowners as well. Mr. Dozor said that people who want to help in the recovery effort can best do so by donating money to causes like the state’s Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund or a charitable nonprofit that’s working to provide services. “They convert your money to what is needed most at the time and the place based on the unique needs of the situation,” he said.

States that owe part of $39.5 billion in unemployment debt seek federal interest waiver

TREE SALE

announced earlier this week the state’s Department of Parks would offer lodging to families displaced by storms. As of Thursday, state parks provided shelter and food for 610 residents and 176 first responders. At least four tornadoes hit Kentucky last Friday night, killing 77 and injuring at least 138. Communities hit the hardest include Mayfield, Dawson Springs and Bowling Green. Mayfield and Dawson Springs were hit by a tornado that traveled nearly 130 miles on the ground. That tornado has been categorized preliminarily as an EF4, the second-highest rating for a tornado. The National Weather Service has estimated the peak winds of that line to be at 190 mph, and it also said the storm’s path was at least a mile wide at times. The weather itself may also present challenges, Mr. Dozor said. With the official start of winter less than a week away, if the ground freezes, that would lengthen the amount of time it would take to rebuild. As officials continue to investigate the damage caused by the storm, it’s possible it still could be upgraded to an EF5, the

9:00AM - 4:00PM www.lasumida.com

(The Center Square) – Illinois is leading a charge with seven other states that carry unemployment trust fund debt looking for a waiver of interest. A total of nine states and the Virgin Islands have a combined $39.5 billion in unemployment trust fund debt, according to the U.S. Treasury. California leads the outstanding balance with $19.4 billion. New York has more than $9.2 billion outstanding. Illinois has $4.5 billion unpaid. Massachusetts has nearly $2.3 billion unpaid. Minnesota and Colorado each have more than $1 billion in unemployment debt. Pennsylvania has nearly $747 million in debt and Connecticut and New Jersey each carry more than $500 million each. The Virgin Islands have nearly $95 million in unemployment debt. Interest is nearly 2.3%. The waiver on accruing interest expired on Sept. 6. The net interest for California is more than $92.4 million. Taxpayers in Illinois already owe nearly $21 million. The total interest for Illinois could be more than $100 million if it remains unpaid for a year. Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza led a letter with seven other states to waive the interest, saying the pandemic is lasting longer than projected. “Taxpayers should not be on the hook for interest just because the pandemic is lasting longer than projected,” Ms. Mendoza said in a statement. “Colorado has over $1 billion in outstanding advancements,” Colorado Comptroller Robert Jaros said in a joint statement with Ms. Mendoza. “Accrued interest is almost $4 million as of

today and will grow to over $20 million if not paid within a year. … Colorado needs more time to address the repayment of the outstanding advancements.” Truth In Accounting Research Director Bill Bergman said the request means that taxpayers in states that are responsibly managed will bear the burden. “There’s no coincidence that the eight states that have requested the extension of the waiver on the interest that’s owed on this program are generally eight states in very bad financial condition,” he said. The states that signed on to Ms. Mendoza’s efforts are New York, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Minnesota. TIA’s Financial State of the States, a barometer of how well states’ finances are performing for taxpayers, shows F grades for Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, a D grade for Pennsylvania, a C grade for Colorado and a B grade to Minnesota. For Illinois, Ms. Mendoza’s letter seeking the interest waiver comes a little more than seven months after her office heralded paying down the state’s backlogged bills. In April, Ms. Mendoza said her office has managed to bring the backlog of unpaid bills from a peak of $16.7 billion in 2017 to $3.5 billion. As of Thursday, the backlog was $5.1 billion. That doesn’t include the $4.5 billion in unpaid unemployment debt the state owes the federal government. Mr. Bergman said waiving the interest won’t teach a good lesson. “People take risks and maybe don’t manage themselves as otherwise they would if the losses can be socialized through the federal government,” Mr. Bergman said.

California proposes rollback of solar incentives, fee increases By Madison Hirneisen The Center Square

(The Center Square) – In the latest rift in the state’s ongoing debate over rooftop solar, California’s utility officials have proposed to reduce the value of excess energy routed back to the grid for thousands of homeowners. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) released a proposal on Monday to make changes to a popular Net Energy Metering (NEM) program, which enabled about 1.3 million customers to install rooftop solar systems and reduced demand on the electric grid by up to 25% during midday. Under the program, Californians who utilized solar could receive a financial credit on their bill for any excess energy they routed back to the utility grid. The program applied to and

incentivized customers in Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric Company territories. The CPUC’s proposal unveiled Monday, however, would revise the amount of credit customers receive for selling back solar to the grid. Under the CPUC’s proposal, customers could see their credit significantly reduced – up to 50% for PG&E customers, according to the Sacramento Bee. The proposal also seeks to implement fixed monthly charges of between $22-$40 for customers with solar, with rates varying depending on utility provider. The proposal sparked outrage from advocates of solar energy, who said the decision would “tarnish the state’s clean energy legacy” and “deter many Californians from installing Please see SOLAR on A6

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The Carousel House on Cabrillo Boulevard became Santa Barbara’s version of the North Pole for the annual Winter Wonderland.

Event ‘brings the police, the kids and the community together’ WONDERLAND

Continued from Page A1

“We want the children to feel comfortable calling the police if they are in an emergency situation,” league Executive Director Judie Lugo told the News-Press. “If they have had a positive interaction with law enforcement and developed a relationship with an officer, they are much more likely to feel comfortable.” Each family is referred to the program through the AOK program, an afterschool program for Title 1 schools in the Santa Barbara Unified School District. This ensures that children who are truly in need of the program will benefit from it. In years past, the league has held similar events, dating all the way back to 2000. Most prior events have been a sit-down style Christmas dinner, however, due to the pandemic, that was not an option this year. This is the league’s 21st year of giving out gifts to low-income children and families. In addition to the league, this year’s event sponsors included 911 At Ease International, I3 Vertical and Tri-County Produce Co. These sponsors made it possible for more than 100 children to be served by the league. “This event is one of our biggest events that is the center of our mission,” Ms. Lugo told the NewsPress. “It brings the police, the kids and the community together. It’s not just a gift, it’s a memory. We are rewarding the parents for working so hard each year.

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Houses 70 RANDY GLICK A Santa Barbara police officer presents a gift to a boy at the Winter Wonderland.

“We tell the families that this is Santa’s gift to you,” she said. “This system allows the family member, who is not always the parent, to give the child the gift at the most fitting time. Most families save the gift for Christmas day.

“It’s more than a gift. We want to bring the family together. Most families can’t remember the last time they sat down and had dinner together, which is why we have done sit-down dinners in the years past,” said Ms. Lugo,

“It’s all about family and getting everyone together and experiencing something fun and exciting. We want to give them a memory they will have forever.”

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CALL 805-963-4391 or email: classad@newspress.com Santa Barbara police officers handed out wrapped presents to kids during the Winter Wonderland, hosted by the Santa Barbara Police Activities League Wednesday at the Carousel House.

SANTA BARBARA NEWS-PRESS

NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2021

Nature’s colors

Independent review finds program’s ‘costs substantially exceed its benefits’ SOLAR

Continued from Page A4

KENNETH SONG / NEWS-PRESS

A spectacular sunset graces Isla Vista.

Dos Pueblos, Pacific tie in girls soccer The Dos Pueblos and Pacifica girls soccer teams tied during a match Friday. Neither team scored during the away game. “We tied an evenly fought match against

Pacifica. Our second time playing them in three days!” Coach Ivan Luna told the NewsPress in an email. “The team created chances, and the best one came at the last minute of the game, but unfortunately we hit the crossbar and the game ended right after. It was a great game, and the team fought hard even with tired legs “My shout out goes to Ava Frank as she came

in and gave the team a bolt of energy off the bench,” Luna said. “It was clear she was on the field to win the game. Another notable performance came from Natalie Carranza, who did well to receive on the wings and move the ball forward.” The Royals are now 0-5-3. — Dave Mason

rooftop solar,” leaving the state’s utility grid susceptible to blackouts and power outages. Advocates also feared the proposal would de-incentivize solar for low-income and middleincome households, who make up about 40% of all rooftop solar installations across the state, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). “Only the wealthiest Californians will be able to afford rooftop solar, shutting out schools, small businesses and the average family from our clean energy future,” Abigail Ross Hopper, president and CEO of the SEIA, said in a statement Monday. “The only winners today are the utilities, which will make more profits at the expense of their ratepayers. “We urge Governor Newsom to act quickly to change this decision – at risk are 65,000 solar jobs, the security of our electricity grid, and the health of California residents and our planet.” The CPUC, however, said Monday that reforming the NEM program will move the state closer to its clean energy goals, putting the state on a path to achieve 90-96% decarbonized electricity for all residents by 2045. The commission is promoting reform to the system after an

LOCAL FIVE-DAY FORECAST TODAY

SUNDAY

Cool with periods of sun

Sunny, but cool

INLAND

CATE

Continued from Page A1 According to the report, 54 individuals were interviewed, including 38 students and alumni, seven respondents, five administrators and former administrators and four current or former faculty members. The report details interviews with students and alumni who made the allegations, as well as the named respondents who agreed to participate. OIG additionally used the preponderance of evidence standard, crucially concluding that the alleged conduct was more likely than not to have occurred while not determining whether laws were violated.

The report determined all allegations against named respondents are sustained, meaning their actions constituted misconduct. The investigations group additionally determined all allegations against unnamed faculty members were sustained save for one allegation of sexual activity with students against unnamed faculty member seven and another allegation of enabling behavior by unnamed faculty member five. The Cate School additionally posted a list of all the corrective actions they put in place as a result of the report’s findings. The 13 corrective actions include initiatives to increase student awareness toward sexual misconduct and educate faculty to be aware of signs of inappropriate relationships among

students and teachers. In a letter from the Cate board to the Cate community, President Lisa Browne Stanson and Chair Wyatt Gruber address the report saying, “The report is clear that there were instances where the School’s response fell short and we want to acknowledge that the Board and the Administration made mistakes.” “We are resolute in our commitment to taking the very best care of our students,” the board continues in the statement. “In so focusing our efforts on our mission, we honor the survivors whose experience was the impetus for this report, and we carry their spirit and their strength forward for every young person who chooses to call Cate home.” email: fmcfarland@newspress.com

MONDAY

Mostly cloudy and Mainly cloudy and Cloudy and cool cool cool

INLAND

58 41

57 44

56 38

57 37

56 37

57 43

59 47

COASTAL

Pismo Beach 60/38

COASTAL

WAGNER , D. William

D. William “Bill” Wagner, 78, passed December 7th, 2021, at home in Santa Barbara, CA surrounded by his wife and sons. Bill was born to Earl and Lois Wagner in Dixon, IL and raised in Sterling, IL. A lifelong love of language and people led him from consecutive statewide debate championships for Illinois in 1960 and 1961 to Northwestern University to study Political Science and Government, continuing at Northwestern University School of Law where he graduated Cum Laude and was a member of the Law Review. Bill started practicing law in Chicago and moved to Los Angeles in 1981 as a partner at Sidley & Austin, specializing in corporate and commercial real estate law for over forty years. He was a champion of human and legal rights for all. His advocacy began early with work for the National Institute for Education in Law and Poverty in Chicago and continued with thirty years of service as a board member for Housing Options for People to Excel (HOPE) transitional housing in Venice, California. After moving to Santa Barbara, he served for eight years as vice chair on the steering committee for Human Rights Watch and as a board member for the Legal Aid Foundation. Bill was preceded in death by his ﬁrst wife Barbara and survived by his sister Marcia, loving wife Sue Aldrich Wagner, sons Peter and Nicholas, their wives and his four grandchildren. He was a remarkable human being, beloved by family and friends, and will be remembered for many gifts, but perhaps most prominently for always being ready to share a companionable smile and a kindred voice. Those wishing to do so are invited to make a donation in his name to the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara (www.lafsbc.org, 301 E. Canon Perdido Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101) or Santa Barbara Human Rights Watch (11500 W. Olympic Blvd. Suite 608, Los Angeles, CA 90064.)

Longtime Montecito resident Ralph Baxter died peacefully on December 5th of nonCOVID related causes. He was 96 years old. Born in Hamburg Germany, he and his family immigrated to England in 1935 to escape the rapidly growing Nazi threat. In 1941, the family was able to immigrate to the US and settled in New York City. In 1943, Ralph enlisted into the US Army and returned to Europe as a combat soldier in 1945. After Germany’s surrender, the Army’s “counter-intelligence” branch enlisted Ralph’s fluent German language skills to capture and interrogate suspected war criminals. Returning from the war in 1946, Ralph enrolled at UCLA and then transferred to UC Berkeley, graduating in 1949 with a degree in mechanical engineering. His work responsibilities focused on engineering and manufacturing issues at multiple companies including Revell, Reim, Hunt Foods and Avery (which ultimately became Avery-Dennison). Ralph retired in 1990. In 1960, Ralph met and then married Jan Phillips. They settled in La Habra Heights and raised three sons. In 1991, Ralph and Jan moved to Montecito. Santa Barbara had always been a favorite Baxter summer vacation destination. After settling into their new community, Ralph was determined to find some interesting and challenging volunteer opportunities in the local, non-profit community. Over the years he held various position on the boards of the Montecito Association, Jewish Family Services, Anti-Defamation League, Casa del Herrero and Catholic Charities. He also served one year on the Santa Barbara County Civil Grand Jury. Ralph continued to indulge in his lifetime love of tennis, playing until he was well into his 80s. For over 20 years, he took ceramic courses at SBCC and produced hundreds of handmade clay pots and vases. As longtime classical music fans, Ralph and Jan were supporters of the SB Music Academy enjoying the master classes and performances annually. Other favorite activities included gardening, reading historical biographies and travel. For over 20 years, Ralph and Jan traveled the globe to a variety of locations. Ralph was predeceased by Jan, his wife of nearly 58 years. He leaves behind three sons and one daughter-in-law. Contributions in Ralph’s name may be sent to Jewish Family Services c/o The Jewish Federation of Santa Barbara.

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 Tuesday through Friday’s editions is 10 a.m. on the previous day; Saturday, Sunday and Monday’s editions all deadline at 12-noon on Thursday (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.

COASTAL

Shown is today's weather. Temperatures are today's highs and tonight's lows. Maricopa 51/36

Guadalupe 59/37

Santa Maria 58/36

Vandenberg 57/40

New Cuyama 57/28 Ventucopa 59/35

Los Alamos 62/32

Buellton 61/31

Solvang 60/29

Gaviota 57/42

SANTA BARBARA 56/38 Goleta 59/37

Carpinteria 58/41 Ventura 58/44

AIR QUALITY KEY Good Moderate

Source: airnow.gov Unhealthy for SG Very Unhealthy Unhealthy Not Available

High/low Normal high/low Record high Record low

61/39 64/40 77 in 2013 29 in 1990

PRECIPITATION 24 hours through 6 p.m. yest. Month to date (normal) Season to date (normal)

0.00” 2.38” (1.28”) 3.59” (3.28”)

City Cuyama Goleta Lompoc Pismo Beach Santa Maria Santa Ynez Vandenberg Ventura

STATE CITIES Bakersfield Barstow Big Bear Bishop Catalina Concord Escondido Eureka Fresno Los Angeles Mammoth Lakes Modesto Monterey Napa Oakland Ojai Oxnard Palm Springs Pasadena Paso Robles Sacramento San Diego San Francisco San Jose San Luis Obispo Santa Monica Tahoe Valley

50/35/s 54/30/s 44/14/s 53/21/s 60/49/s 48/35/pc 67/34/s 52/47/c 49/36/pc 66/43/s 41/11/s 51/38/pc 56/40/s 49/33/pc 50/38/s 63/40/s 60/42/s 68/43/s 66/43/s 56/29/pc 46/34/pc 65/43/s 50/41/s 53/37/s 62/37/pc 63/40/s 40/16/c

Sun. Hi/Lo/W 59/31/s 55/35/s 59/40/s 55/42/s 59/38/s 57/31/s 56/41/s 57/44/s

69/52/c 37/34/sn 39/24/c 53/33/t 44/24/s 73/47/t 83/74/sh 23/11/c 44/39/r 49/43/r 67/44/s 51/38/r 43/26/c 31/17/pc 48/37/r 58/45/c

POINT ARENA TO POINT PINOS

Wind north-northwest 4-8 knots today. Wind waves less than a foot with a south swell 1-3 feet at 13-second intervals. Visibility clear.

POINT CONCEPTION TO MEXICO

Wind north-northwest 4-8 knots today. Wind waves less than a foot with a south swell 1-3 feet at 13-second intervals. Visibility clear.

SANTA BARBARA HARBOR TIDES Date Time High Time Dec. 18 Dec. 19 Dec. 20

8:15 a.m. 10:23 p.m. 8:44 a.m. 11:04 p.m. 9:14 a.m. 11:47 p.m.

LAKE LEVELS

5.9’ 3.5’ 5.9’ 3.5’ 5.8’ 3.5’

Low

1:53 a.m. 3:43 p.m. 2:24 a.m. 4:16 p.m. 2:57 a.m. 4:51 p.m.

2.5’ -0.5’ 2.6’ -0.5’ 2.7’ -0.5’

AT BRADBURY DAM, LAKE CACHUMA 57/35/s 54/30/s 46/16/s 52/20/s 57/48/s 49/40/pc 65/37/s 55/47/c 53/38/pc 65/46/s 39/7/s 53/37/pc 57/43/pc 47/36/pc 52/45/pc 60/41/s 60/42/s 65/43/s 64/47/s 55/33/s 47/34/pc 63/42/s 54/48/pc 55/42/pc 60/40/s 62/42/s 42/19/pc

NATIONAL CITIES Atlanta Boston Chicago Dallas Denver Houston Miami Minneapolis New York City Philadelphia Phoenix Portland, Ore. St. Louis Salt Lake City Seattle Washington, D.C.

Wind from the west at 4-8 knots today. Wind waves 2 feet or less with a southwest swell 1-3 feet at 13-second intervals. Visibility clear.

TIDES

LOCAL TEMPS Today Hi/Lo/W 57/28/s 59/37/pc 58/36/pc 60/38/pc 58/36/pc 61/29/pc 57/40/pc 58/44/s

MARINE FORECAST

SANTA BARBARA CHANNEL

TEMPERATURE

Evelyn Nichols, born 9/24/1921, passed away peacefully at her Santa Barbara home on June 8, 2021, three months shy of her 100th birthday. Evelyn, the older daughter of Gussie and Samuel Lishner, grew up in Brooklyn, New York, attended Erasmus Hall High School and then Brooklyn College. During the war years, she put her keen interest in science to work at Langley Field, VA. assisting in the installation and calibration of the Norden bombsight in the B-17 and B-25 bombers that were so key to the war effort. Evelyn and her husband Milton Schwartz bought their ﬁrst home in Merrick, Long Island in 1952. When their 2 small children became of school age, Evelyn returned to college earning a Masters Degree in Education and started what would become a long, rewarding career teaching 4th and 5th grade elementary school. Shortly after the death of Milton, Evelyn retired from teaching, setting the stage for the next chapter in her life story. Evelyn moved to Santa Barbara in 1977, often referring to it as “the best decision I ever made”. Evelyn married her second husband, Andrew Nichols in 1982. Together they travelled the world and enjoyed a rich, rewarding marriage of over 30 years until Andrew’s death in 2014. Evelyn was an avid reader, and her Santa Barbara years were ﬁlled with creative labors of love including being a docent at the Santa Barbara museum of Art, teaching reading to inmates at the SB County Jail, and writing and publishing her memoirs“Framing A Childhood, from Kovno to Brooklyn”, and “Lifelines, A Guide to Writing Your Personal Recollections” (along with Anne Lowenkopf). In 2005 Evelyn and Andrew hired Lily Franco to help with cooking, shopping and light housekeeping. Evelyn and Lily developed a close friendship and special bond over the years, and in 2014 Lily became Evelyn’s live-in caregiver. Theirs was a trusted and loving relationship that endured until Evelyn’s death. Evelyn is survived by daughter Wendy Schwartz and her husband Mark Dowie, son Andrew Schwartz, loving caregiver Lily Franco, extended family and many friends. Her wisdom, curiosity and kindness are missed by all who had the good fortune to know her.

INLAND

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Santa Barbara through 6 p.m. yesterday

BAXTER, Ralph

INLAND

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NICHOLS, Evelyn

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

61 29 COASTAL

School posts list of corrective actions taken as result of findings

independent review found that the program’s “costs substantially exceed its benefits.” According to the CPUC, customers who participate in the NEM program only pay about 9-18% of utility distributors’ costs to serve them, leaving customers who do not participate in the program paying a larger share for service. The latest estimates suggest that Californians spend about $3 billion a year to support NEM programs, the CPUC said. The proposal would have a significant impact on many lowincome residents without NEM systems who end up paying between $67 to $128 more per year because of the NEM program, according to the CPUC. Without reforming the program, CPUC said rates will likely “increase substantially” by 2030. The earliest the commission could vote on this proposal is during a meeting Jan. 27, where they will also consider the establishment of a new “Equity Fund” under the current proposal. According to the CPUC, the Equity Fund would allocate up to $600 million for clean energy and storage programs for lowincome residents. The program would also exempt some lowincome customers, including those who live in “disadvantaged communities and tribal households” from paying a Grid Participation Charge.

57/41/c 38/21/pc 37/29/s 49/34/pc 58/29/s 58/43/c 84/69/sh 30/21/pc 41/27/pc 44/27/pc 68/44/s 45/39/r 42/25/s 34/19/s 43/36/c 47/28/pc

At Lake Cachuma’s maximum level at the point at which water starts spilling over the dam holds 188,030 acre-feet. An acre-foot is 325,851 gallons, equivalent to the amount of water consumed annually by 10 people in an urban environment. Storage 92,143 acre-ft. Elevation 711.59 ft. Evaporation (past 24 hours) 6.2 acre-ft. Inflow 31.1 acre-ft. State inflow 11.9 acre-ft. Storage change from yest. -18 acre-ft. Report from U.S. Bureau of Reclamation

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Today 7:00 a.m. 4:52 p.m. 4:32 p.m. 6:42 a.m.

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Sun. 7:01 a.m. 4:52 p.m. 5:20 p.m. 7:37 a.m.

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Today Sun. City Hi/Lo/W Hi/Lo/W Beijing 41/13/s 44/19/s Berlin 46/42/c 45/31/c Cairo 64/51/s 63/50/s Cancun 83/71/t 84/71/t London 51/43/sh 48/41/sh Mexico City 71/46/pc 72/46/pc Montreal 24/20/sn 26/10/s New Delhi 65/42/pc 66/43/pc Paris 48/38/s 45/39/c Rio de Janeiro 80/72/t 78/69/t Rome 56/34/s 54/37/s Sydney 88/74/pc 92/70/t Tokyo 47/36/s 52/39/s W-weather, s-sunny, pc-partly cloudy, c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow flurries, sn-snow, i-ice.

PAGE

Managing Editor Dave Mason dmason@newspress.com

Life

S AT U R DAY, D E C E M B E R 18 , 2 0 21

Snow in Santa Barbara! Miracle happens at Storyteller Children’s Center campuses By DAVE MASON

NEWS-PRESS MANAGING EDITOR

ids were thrilled when snow unexpectedly fell Wednesday in Santa Barbara — in one specific location. Storyteller Children’s Center, a nonprofit preschool, welcomed snow that turned its campuses on State and De la Vina streets into a winter wonderland. The kids reached for the sky and grabbed flakes, some of which naturally became shaped like hearts. Some, in fact, tasted the snow and compared it to strawberries. The sweet magic was made possible by snow machines brought by the Scribner family and an anonymous donor. “We are thrilled to bring the joy of the holiday season to our children who have faced so many challenges, particularly over the past two years of the pandemic,” said Executive Director Susan Cass. “This is just another way we can support — and bring cheer — to the families we serve.” “Our donors have really shown up in support of Storyteller over the past year,” Ms. Cass told the NewsPress in an email. “Today was just another example of our community’s commitment to not only our programs, but also our children and staff. “It is so important to infuse joy and laughter into our day to day, especially during these challenging times, and the surprise ‘snow day’ provided just that,” she said. “We are truly grateful to all who made it happen.” Preschool teacher Genezaret Cardose explained what the snow meant for the kids. “Many of the children have never experienced snow, and it’s never Please see SNOW on B2

COURTESY PHOTOS

Children react with delight to unexpected snowfall at Storyteller Children’s Center campuses on State and De la Vina streets.

A member of the Scribner family interacts with a child as snow falls. The family and an anonymous donor provided snow machines to make Wednesday’s miracle happen.

SANTA BARBARA NEWS-PRESS

NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2021

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Disneyland offers discounts to Southern California residents

Disneyland Resort plans to start the new year with discounted weekday admission for Southern California residents. The discount begins Jan. 3. People can get into Disneyland or Disney California Adventure for as low as $67 a day if they purchase a three-day, one park-per day

weekday ticket. The three-day tickets vary from $199 to $319 and will be available through May 26. Each three-day ticket is for one park of the buyer’s choice. The three days can be used consecutively or at any time during the five-month period. You just

need to go on a weekday. So you could get into Disneyland on Jan. 3 (a Monday) and come back, for example, on Feb. 11 (a Friday) and maybe May 18 (a Wednesday). There are no restrictions on the dates as long as they’re not on a Saturday or a Sunday. In addition, Disneyland’s hotels

are offering Southern California resident special rates on standard and premium rooms for a limited time. To purchase tickets or for more information, go to disneyland. disney.go.com. — Dave Mason

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

SNOW

Continued from Page B1

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805-966-7171

snowed in Santa Barbara,” the instructor said. “So this is a beautiful way to experience the season and taste snow. They said it tastes like strawberries! So we thank our community for bringing us this joy.” Toddler teacher Gloria Vasquez said the sudden snow day made the kids excited. “It is an amazing time for them,” she said. “These are the experiences that create memories that stay with us.” In addition to the sudden snow, Davies Public Affairs/ Blaze PR donated large Christmas trees for the classrooms and miniature trees for students to take home. And volunteers, including many members of the National Charity League, have sponsored holiday gifts for all Storyteller families. There’s more excitement ahead for the kids. They will get to see Santa Claus, who visits the center every Christmas. (If you look closely, you’ll see that for the last 30 or so years, Santa has resembled volunteer Kenny Slaught.) For more about Storyteller Children’s Center, go to storytellercenter.org. email: dmason@newspress.com

COURTESY PHOTO

The sudden snow day made children happy at Storyteller Children’s Center.

SANTA BARBARA NEWS-PRESS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2021

Diversions HOROSCOPE s PUZZLES

SUDOKU

Thought for Today

ARIES — It may be hard to make a decision today. You’re so bombarded by facts and information that you’re unsure how to proceed. Don’t get overwhelmed. You’re the master of analysis and organization. If anyone can sort things out, it’s you. Trust your ability and make it happen. Keep things light and energetic. Don’t get too bogged down with details. TAURUS — This is a great day for you. You’re able to get a lot done. You might find a marked seriousness to your emotions that helps you stay on track with everything you need to do. Integrate your plans with others and see what kinds of incredible breakthroughs you can have. You can maintain a pleasant demeanor in every social situation. GEMINI — It may be difficult to fit in with the current trends of the day. The energy is light and airy, while you feel the need to get more deep and penetrating. Take a break from your usual intensity and try to keep things light. Stay on the surface and be social. By integrating with the mood of the day, you might be more balanced and well rounded in general. CANCER — You may experience an emotional climax today. Things could come to a head. Don’t be surprised if you run into some serious opposition. Disperse your energy freely, but don’t be surprised if other people try to pull you in the opposite direction. Flexibility is a key aspect for you. Free yourself from restraints and improvise. LEO — You may want to go in many directions today, yet something seems to keep you from going anywhere. This annoying conflict of energies may make it difficult to make the most of your day, but you can handle it. Don’t act too hastily. Evaluate all your choices before you make a final decision. If nothing seems to fit, don’t push it. VIRGO — There’s a somber mood hindering your emotions today, but things favor you generally. The contacts you make now can be extremely valuable. You could gain a great deal of information from social interactions. This is a good day to multitask and cross as many

things off your list as possible. LIBRA — It may seem like people have lost their sensitivity today. Meanwhile, you’re left feeling indecisive and unsure about which way to turn. People want to hear from you. They want to know what you’re thinking. Don’t be afraid to say your peace even if it goes against the general mood. Don’t get down if things don’t exactly go your way. Things will get better soon. SCORPIO — Your emotions may be dampened today, but don’t let it get you down. To make the most of this day, it would behoove you to work with the energy. Engage in tasks that require more discipline and willpower. Get in serious mode and get things done. Tackle practical tasks that require a steady hand and focused thought. You can get quite a bit accomplished. SAGITTARIUS — There’s a fast-paced frenzy to the day that might leave you feeling a bit left out. You may want to take things more slowly, yet the day’s energy doesn’t allow for hesitation or delay. This is a good time to get out and be social. Make important contacts with others and try to multitask. Keep your humor handy and your manner flexible. CAPRICORN — This is an excellent day for you. People are on your wavelength more than usual. You can get quite a bit accomplished. You might want to take a disciplined approach today. Consider being a bit more realistic with your actions. Overall, you should enjoy a good mood all day. Your quick wit and humor will carry you through with flying colors. AQUARIUS —This is a much better day to get out and be with people than it is to sit at home. Communicate with others on a personal level and share some of your wisdom. At the same time, open yourself up to receiving important knowledge from others. Don’t take things too seriously. No one will be in the mood for deep conversation on a day like today. PISCES — There’s a great deal of fuel for your fire today, so go for it. Spend time with children and be creative. Put your funloving personality to good use by encouraging others to play along. This is a good day to offer your talents to group efforts. You’ll be a welcome addition to every social situation.

DAILY BRIDGE By FRANK STEWART Tribune Content Agency

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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.

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

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Horoscope.com Saturday, December 18, 2021

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“I’d rather be optimistic and wrong than pessimistic and right.” — Elon Musk

CODEWORD PUZZLE

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

(Answers Monday) <esWerday·s

Jumbles: ICING WAIVE PIGLET NOTION Answer: The twins usually knew what each other was thinking because they were — “IN-TWO-ITIVE”

NEWS

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Newsom’s budget proposal to include more than $300M to combat retail theft By Madison Hirneisen The Center Square

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2021

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(The Center Square) – Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a slew of new funding Friday to address crime across California, marking the state’s latest effort to crack down on retail theft after a series of smash-and-grab robberies last month. The governor, joined by Attorney General Rob Bonta, offered a preview of around $335 million in funding proposed in his January budget to address organized retail crime and theft after a series of stores were robbed last month in the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Gov. Newsom is asking for $250 million in grant funding in his budget proposal for local law enforcement to address retail theft, $20 million in grants for district attorneys to investigate and prosecute theft, $20 million for border issues, $20 million in grants for small businesses affected by theft and $25 million to support local gun buyback programs. The governor’s proposal will have to be reviewed and approved by lawmakers before any funding is allocated, meaning it could be months until any of these grants take effect. Gov. Newsom is set to formally introduce his budget to the Legislature in January. “Crime and violence is top of mind all throughout not only the state of California, but all across the United States; highlighted recently by some high profile retail operations,” Gov. Newsom said Friday. “These organized retail gangs, these organized retail mobs that are not only increasing and heightening the anxiety that people are feeling but, more importantly, are expressing themselves in a way

that has a profound impact on our feeling of safety here in this state, this region and, as I note, across this country.” The governor’s announcement came a few weeks after dozens of looters ransacked several high profile stores in the Bay Area, stealing thousands of dollars worth of merchandise and causing several San Francisco stores to board up their windows. Similar thefts were reported in Los Angeles. While promising an increase in funding for law enforcement to pursue thieves and perpetrators of crimes, Gov. Newsom said Friday new funding will not roll back the state’s commitment to violence intervention programs. The state allocated $200 million over three years in last year’s budget for the advancement of such programs. “We’re not walking back on our commitment in the state to advance comprehensive reforms. We’re not walking back in this state to right the wrongs of the past,” Gov. Newsom said. “But we also have to recognize this moment we’re in, and we have to recognize people’s fears and anxieties.” Gov. Newsom’s budget proposal also will spur the creation of a full-time California Department of Justice team that would be dedicated to investigating and prosecuting retail theft in California, working in conjunction with Mr. Bonta. The attorney general said Friday the additional funding will bolster the department’s efforts to “tackle organized retail theft” and “crack down” on violent crime. Critics have attributed the spike in retail theft to Proposition 47, a 2014 ballot initiative that lowered sentencing for some nonviolent offenses, including crimes where

Porch piracy runs rampant in San Francisco, driving some residents from city By Madison Hirneisen The Center Square

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the retail value of stolen goods does not exceed $950. After last month’s series of thefts, some Republican lawmakers said they would introduce legislation to repeal the proposition. Gov. Newsom addressed the criticism Friday, saying Proposition 47 has nothing to do with retail thefts and promised the state would hold offenders accountable while also reforming the criminal justice system. “I’m just sick and tired of this either/or debate, which I think is rather lazy and unfortunate,” the governor said. Senate Republican Leader Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, issued a statement after Gov. Newsom’s announcement that was critical of the governor’s investment in public safety despite “encouraging soft on crime policies.” “The Democrats’ relentless push for their ‘criminals first’ agenda has turned this oncemajestic state into a sanctuary for criminals,” Sen. Wilk said. “It shouldn’t have taken increasing homicide rates, widespread news reports of smash-and-grabs, and pleas from Californians for Democrats to come to this realization.” Other groups, however, praised Gov. Newsom for his efforts and applauded him for new investments in combatting retail theft. “The budget package announced today by Governor Newsom designates significant resources for improved public safety and prosecutorial efforts. This is welcome news,” California Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jennifer Barrera said in a statement. “We urge the Legislature to approve this budget package so the problems created by these organized theft rings can be most effectively addressed.”

(The Center Square) – Pauline Li knows what it’s like to be targeted by porch pirates. From groceries to feminine products to electronics, Ms. Li has lost track of the number of packages that have vanished from her porch because she was not home when the delivery arrived. “It’s well-known common knowledge that if you live in San Francisco, you’re going to experience package theft during your stay in the city, no matter where in the city you live,” Ms. Li told The Center Square. “We have experienced countless porch thefts. I can’t even begin to count how many, but pretty much, if you’re not there to pick [the package] up right away, right after it got dropped off on your porch, it’s going to get taken.” This regular pattern of porch theft became a magnified nuisance during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms. Li said, as she and many other families in the city frequently were ordering groceries and other necessities for home delivery. When packages full of food disappeared, including allergen-free items for her child with food sensitivity, it was enough to make Ms. Li consider a life for her family elsewhere. After two and a half years of living in the city and dealing with rampant porch theft, Ms. Li decided to move her husband and two children out of San Francisco to Walnut Creek, a suburb about 30 minutes outside of the city, earlier this year. Now that she’s settled into her new home, package theft is no longer a regular problem for Ms. Li and her family, and she does not have to deal with the inconvenient loss of necessities delivered in the mail. The ongoing plague of package theft earned San Francisco second place in SafeWise’s latest ranking of the worst metro cities for package theft. The city was outranked by Denver, ending San Francisco’s three-year reign. SafeWise’s recent survey of 1,000 American adults showed 64.1% of respondents said they were a victim of porch theft in the past year; a stat SafeWise estimated equates to about 210 million packages stolen. The survey also found 53.5% of people surveyed had multiple packages stolen over the past year. Some analysts expect instances of porch theft to increase during the holiday season because of the massive amount of packages that will be delivered across the country ahead of Christmas. “Package theft is a crime of opportunity,” Dr. Ben Stickle, a member of the SafeWise advisory group and an expert on package theft, said in the latest report. “The more packages left for longer periods of time on a porch, the more likely they are to be stolen. As the Christmas gift season gets into full swing, there will be a significant increase in packages on a porch.” San Francisco experienced 28,947 instances of larceny theft, which includes any theft of property without the use of force, between Jan. 1 and Dec. 12, according to data from the San Francisco Police Department. This represents an 18% increase in larceny theft year over year, up from more than 24,000 instances of larceny in 2020. The SFPD does not track package and mail theft in separate statistics, so it’s impossible to say whether this increase was driven by a rise in porch piracy. “There are a number of factors that may indicate increases and decreases in certain crimes,” SFPD Public Information Officer Adam Lobsinger told The Center Square in an email. “As a department, we are constantly evaluating all crime trends and different ways to combat those trends throughout the city. This includes the redeployment of resources and increased patrols, foot beats and officers on fixed post in crime hot spots. This not only allows us to

rapidly respond to crimes in progress, but also act as a visual deterrent to would-be criminals. “We encourage anyone who thinks they are the victim of a crime to contact us so we can fully investigate the incident.” Ms. Li said she never reported package theft to San Francisco police, even when she had video of the suspect on her Ring doorbell system. She said some people share their Ring video footage on apps such as Citizen, which alerts neighbors of potential crime and police activity in the area, though she does not know anyone who has contacted the police regarding porch piracy. “Most houses have those Ring doorbells or some sort of a camera on their doorbell, and it just is not a deterrent at all,” Ms. Li said. “[Porch pirates] will just wear a hat and most people are masked up anyway during the pandemic, so I would think that it will be harder to catch them because they’re bundled up in some sort of a way.” Instances of widespread porch piracy statewide, including in Bay Area cities, was enough to draw the attention of some members of the California Legislature earlier this year. Sen. Brian Jones, a Republican representing Santee, introduced Senate Bill 358 in February. It would have allowed judges to impose up to a year in jail for anyone who stole packages from a person’s home, business or along a mail route. Under existing law, judges can sentence offenders for six months. The bill did not make it to the governor’s desk during the past legislative session, but Sen. Jones said he plans to continue efforts to address porch piracy in the Legislature. “California has recently been riddled with crimes – from smash-and-grab robberies to porch piracy,” Sen. Jones said in a statement to The Center Square. “Sadly, the most vulnerable in our community, such as seniors and disabled people, rely on their packages for survival, and the so-called ‘Porch Pirates’ often target delivery trucks and commit multiple thefts in that neighborhood throughout the day.” Sen. Jones said some police agencies are so desperate for tools to combat porch piracy, they have “resorted to planting decoy packages in an attempt to curb the epidemic.” He said the issue remains a priority for him heading into the next legislative session, which begins Jan. 3. “With porch piracy and crime overall on the rise in California, the fight is not over, so I will try again this year to convince my colleagues across the aisle that their coddling of criminals is dangerous to our families and hurting our communities,” Sen. Jones said. Some businesses, including Amazon, have made efforts to deter porch piracy by setting up a program where packages can be delivered inside a garage. Amazon’s program, called Amazon Key for Garage, allows customers to monitor their garages via camera and receive notifications once a package is dropped off inside. While this may be a good option to prevent theft in some areas, Ms. Li said a garage is a luxury few people have in the city, or if they do, it often is shared with other apartment units. For now, as theft continues to run rampant in San Francisco, Ms. Li said it is an ongoing “pain point” for many people, especially for families with children. The frequency of theft was enough for her to decide leaving the city was the best option for her children. “Just the fact that people will blatantly just do something like this or just take somebody else’s package in broad daylight anytime of the day, it certainly doesn’t make me feel any safer,” Ms. Li said. “As much as we love the city, we just felt that it just wasn’t the kind of environment that we want our children to grow up in. And that’s why we left.”