Santa Barbara News-Press: December 27, 2022

signs of the season

New hotel opens Monday on s tate s t.

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

Downtown Santa Barbara’s newest hotel, a stylish Courtyard by Marriott hotel featuring more than 120 rooms and a Saint Remy restaurant serving Mediterranean coastal cuisine, opened Monday on State Street.

Following a complete transformation, Courtyard Santa Barbara Downtown, a 122-room modern, coastal hotel, is located in the heart of everything “the American Riviera” has to offer. It’s located at 1501 State St.

Behind the reinvented hotel is Andrew Firestone, star of television reality show “The Bachelor.” who, along with Jess Parker, co-founded StonePark Capital, a Santa Barbarabased hospitality development company, in 2014. StonePark Capital has developed or acquired six hospitality projects on the West Coast totaling over 500 guest rooms.

The property is managed by Azul Hospitality Group, a San Diego-based hospitality management platform focused primarily on lifestyle hotels and resorts.

“As Santa Barbara natives,

At right, a statue moonlights as a rednosed reindeer at the 2000 block Garden Street in Santa

Brian Fallon to take over as new Lompoc Fire Chief

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

On Dec. 9, the city of Lompoc announced that they will welcome Brian Fallon as the new fire chief in early January. Mr. Fallon has more than 20 years of firefighting and emergency response experience and served as the fire chief for the city of Victorville in his previous position.

“Achieving this position is incredibly humbling. I can recall in my college academy, (2002 at Riverside Community College), never thinking I would have the honor to serve the fire department in this capacity. Twenty years later, I remember that feeling vividly and feel

humbled to be trusted with this level of responsibility for the city of Lompoc,” Mr. Fallon told the News-Press.

The News-Press asked Mr. Fallon about his career prior to this: “Prior to being appointed to the position of fire chief for the city of Victorville, I served as one of Victorville’s battalion chief’s. Prior to that, I served the city of Rancho Cucamonga for 16 years, where I worked through the ranks, from firefighter to captain, Ultimately serving nearly 10 years as a fire captain for the city of Rancho Cucamonga.

“Not a day passes that I don’t appreciate the mentoring and

Please see CHIEF on A4

Jess and I are thrilled to reintroduce this classic downtown hotel with timeless mid-century architecture and style,” Mr. Firestone said. “We are also proud to partner with Azul Hospitality to bring to life the first Marriott-branded hotel to the City of Santa Barbara.”

The hotel’s spacious guest rooms combine comfort with functionality and sweeping balcony views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and Pacific Ocean. The well-appointed rooms have a modern design and feature spacious guest baths, walk-in showers, and large vanities. Each room includes a mini refrigerator, high-speed internet access, flat screen TVs and coffee makers. There are also two-room suites available, complete with a wet bar and conference table.

Courtyard Santa Barbara Downtown features a lush pool, whirlpool, firepit and two large rooftop decks, both offering sweeping mountain and ocean views. The arrival experience allows guests to engage in technology and offers inviting, flexible seating spaces throughout the lobby for

‘Herbal Angels’ owners no longer face cannabis-related charges

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

A North County duo who called themselves “Herbal Angels” no longer face criminal charges of illegally growing pot and possessing it for sale. But one of them still has to stand trial for allegedly lying about what they did — and when they did it.

Superior Court Thomas R. Adams discharged defendants Eli Christopher Sheiman and Mariette Wingard from misdemeanor charges of illegal cultivation and possession for sale of cannabis in a written ruling he issued after a lengthy preliminary hearing, prosecutors said.

The pair were co-owners and operators of a pot-growing operation at 2761 Cebada Canyon Road west of Buellton, which members of the Sheriff’s Cannabis Compliance Team raided in December 2019. They seized and destroyed some 3,000 pounds of dried and frozen cannabis products.

In his ruling, Judge Adams dismissed the drug charges filed against the defendants, holding that they possessed state licenses at the time, however they were obtained, Senior Deputy Attorney Anthony S. Davis told the News-Press.

Prosecutors contend they only were able to obtain the licenses because Mr. Sheiman allegedly perjured himself when he filed a false affidavit supporting his application to grow legal medical marijuana.

He was charged with two counts of perjury, and Judge Adams ruled that he be held to answer for that at trial.

Because the drug charges

against Ms. Wingard were dismissed, “she no longer is part of the case,” prosecutor Davis said.

The perjury charges filed against Mr. Sheiman “relate to a false affidavit that Mr. Sheiman filed with the county on Jan. 18, 2018,” the prosecutor said.

“In that affidavit, Mr. Sheiman alleged that he was legally cultivating medical marijuana on that property on or before the moratorium date of Jan. 19, 2016.

“Based on that perjured affidavit, Mr. Sheiman was able to obtain state licenses to cultivate cannabis,” he said. “On Dec. 16, 2019, Mr. Sheiman and Ms. Wingard were found to be cultivating cannabis on the subject property.”

They were charged with illegal cultivation stemming from their operations as of Dec. 16, 2019 “under the theory that the authorization to grow cannabis was based on (Mr.) Sheiman’s initial false statement in the affidavit,” the prosecutor said.

“None of the charges stem from any cannabis cultivation that occurred prior to (Mr.) Sheiman’s filing of the perjured affidavit.”

Mr. Sheiman pleaded not guilty to two felony charges of perjury at his Dec. 6 arraignment, prosecutor Davis said. No trial date has been set, but Mr. Sheiman is scheduled to return to court on Jan. 24 for a pre-trial readiness and settlement conference.

“If he is convicted as charged, the maximum sentence he could face is four years in the County Jail,” he said.

email: nhartsteinnewspress@ gmail.com

Dr. Katrina Mitchell honored by Association for Women in Communications - B1

Please see HOTEL on A4

COURTESY PHOTO

Brian Fallon will take over as Lompoc’s fire chief in early January.

Above, the Nativity scene is played out at Old Mission Santa Barbara on Thursday.

Barbara.

KENNETH SONG / NEWS-PRESS PHOTOS

Carbajal delivers nearly $16,700,000 for SB County community projects

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

On Friday, Rep. Salud Carbajal announced that $16,651,540 in direct federal funding for Santa Barbara County community projects is set to become law after passing both chambers of Congress this week.

Rep. Carbajal has been advocating for these federal funds since April 2022, and helped ensure they were included in the omnibus spending package crafted over the past six months and sent to President Joe Biden’s desk by the U.S. House of Representatives on Friday.

The funds secured by Rep. Carbajal will help fund expanding U.S. Highway 101 carpool lanes and support upgrades to public spaces in Santa Barbara, Lompoc and Santa Maria.

“As the Central Coast’s representative, my first and foremost responsibility is to deliver real results for our communities and its residents – and today I’m proud to do that again by delivering nearly $17 million for Santa Barbara county to support projects that will improve our quality of life,” said Rep. Carbajal. “With these funds, we will be able to make critical upgrades that will reduce traffic, renovate public spaces, and improve access to food and clean water across the Central Coast.”

Rep. Carbajal specifically requested and pushed for funding for these and other Central Coast projects through the House Appropriations Committee. In total, Rep. Carbajal has secured $22,466,540 for 14 projects across all three counties that he represents in Congress.

Projects funded for Santa Barbara County include:

• $7,000,000 to support construction of one of the two remaining sections of carpool lane expansion on U.S. Highway 101 between Santa Barbara and Ventura. Construction of the remaining HOV lane sections is expected to begin in March 2023 and be completed by summer 2026.

“We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Carbajal for including $7 million of federal funds for the Highway 101: Montecito project in the congressional budget process,” said Marjie Kirn, executive director of Santa Barbara County Association of Governments

(SBCAG)

• $2,000,000 to help fund the acquisition and retrofitting of a new building to serve as an upgrade location for the Orcutt Branch Library in Orcutt. The Orcutt branch is reliant on a leased facility, and the current space is no longer adequate to serve the growing community.

“Funding for a permanent library and community center will greatly benefit the residents in and around Orcutt,” said Bob Nelson, Fourth District Supervisor. “It’s been a pleasure working with Congressman Carbajal throughout this process, and thanks to his advocacy, coupled with the work of library staff, supporters and residents, the largest unincorporated area in the county has made major strides in establishing an educational and constructive home for our families and youth.”

• $1,500,000 to fund part of the total costs of the full-scale renovation of Dwight Murphy Field in Santa Barbara, including a brand new 36,000 square-foot playground. Costs of the project, for which construction is expected to begin as early as summer 2023, are shared by the city of Santa Barbara, the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation and private donors.

“The city of Santa Barbara is tremendously grateful for Congressman Carbajal’s support for the revitalization of Dwight Murphy Field. The new amenities - including the multi-sport field, youth baseball and community green space, outdoor fitness gym and inclusive playground - will bring vital upgrades to serve youth sports, recreation enthusiasts, neighborhood residents and families from all over Santa Barbara. Gwendolyn’s playground, Santa Barbara’s first inclusive play space, will ensure that all children, regardless of ability, will be able to play together,” said Jill Zachary, director of Parks and Rec.

• $1,500,000 to support the retrofitting of the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County’s new South County warehouse in Goleta. Once completed, the warehouse will have the capacity to store more than 750,000 pounds of food. Retrofitting on the facility is estimated to be completed in June 2023.

“The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County, our staff, Trustees, supporters and volunteers are thrilled with this

vital grant that will allow us to complete key elements of our new Sharehouse – comprising both a warehouse and an education center - which will allow us to bring significantly increased amounts of food and food literacy education across the whole of Santa Barbara county,” said Erik Talkin, CEO of the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County. “Thanks so much to Representative Carbajal and his staff to working tirelessly to make this happen.”

• $1,384,040 to help Santa Barbara County stabilize roughly 975 feet of railing roadway on San Marcos Road. San Marcos Road is a key fire suppression and emergency access road during closures of State Route 154.

“The county greatly appreciates Representative Carbajal’s leadership on this project, which will protect a vital transportation link between the Eastern Goleta Valley and State Route 154 and the Santa Ynez Valley beyond,” said Scott D. McGolpin, director of the county Public Works Department. “…These much needed roadway improvements will not only protect access for those who use the road during detours of State Route 154, but also for the people who live in the area and rely on a safe roadway everyday.”

• $1,267,500 to fund renovations and upgrades for the city of Lompoc’s Pioneer Park, including the construction of a new playground and baseball fields. Federal funds secured by Rep. Carbajal would cover roughly a third of the expected cost, with additional funds provided by the city of Lompoc and Community Development Block Grants.

“I want to thank Congressman Carbajal for investing in Lompoc with this funding for Pioneer Park,” said Jenelle Osborne, Lompoc Mayor. “His support will make it possible for the city of Lompoc to move forward on a park long overdue for improvements….”

• $1,000,000 to support the construction and equipment needs of Marian Regional Medical Center’s Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) Residency Program Clinic in Santa Maria. The funds will cover part of the costs associated with the construction of a new 8,700 square-foot clinic for the OB-GYN clinic.

“Marian Regional Medical Center is tremendously grateful

Rep. Salud Carbajal

to Congressman Carbajal for prioritizing the health of the Santa Maria community and for advocating to secure funding for the hospital’s much-needed OB/ GYN Residency Program Clinic,” said Sue Andersen, President & CEO of Marian Regional Medical Center. “...This will allow Marian to expand its prenatal and postpartum care for the community’s underserved and medically-vulnerable OB/GYN patients.”

• $500,000 to support the construction of the Santa Maria Japanese Community Center to honor the original Japanese settlers to the Santa Maria valley. The 10,000 square foot facility would feature memorabilia documenting the lives of the Issei first generation immigrants, part of the 7-acre Smith-Enos History Farm House project supported by the city of Santa Maria and local community groups.

“We are excited about this additional funding for the future community center, which builds upon the $350,000 donation from the Santa Maria Japanese Community Center, and other funding. The structure and grounds will serve as a gathering spot for all cultures within our community, and honor the Issei generation and its contributions to the agricultural industry in the Santa Maria Valley,” said Alice Patino, Mayor of Santa Maria.

A full list of the projects can be found at https://carbajal.house. gov/constituent-services/fy23community-project-funding.htm. email: kzehnder@newspress.com

Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber accepting nominations for Regional Business Awards

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, from Goleta to Carpinteria, is now taking nominations for the Regional Business Awards that will be presented at the Chamber’s Annual Membership Meeting &

Regional Business Awards luncheon on Feb. 2 at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Members of the community are asked to nominate businesses or nonprofits from Goleta, Santa Barbara and Carpinteria that have made a significant impact in the community over the last year.

To nominate a business or organization, a nomination form must be completed and submitted by 9 a.m. on Jan. 3. The nomination form can be accessed at https://docs. google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdRZfMBcl6PnfCVPHXhylh5OcDzMfSnZQUOuklYf_

Barbara News-Press, P.O. Box 1359, Santa Barbara, CA 93102. Published daily.

KENNETH SONG / NEWS-PRESS

A lit Christmas tree on Stearns Wharf is outshined by the sunlit Santa Ynez Mountains on Dec. 7.

NEWS-PRESS FILE

Cathey named Westmont men’s soccer head coach

By RON SMITH WESTMONT SPORTS WRITER

Robert Ruiz, the athletic director at Westmont, has announced the hiring of Morgan Cathey as the next men’s soccer head coach. Cathey has served as the head coach at Stanislaus State since 2020 and served as the head coach at Whitworth (Wash.) for seven years from 2013-2019.

“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Cathey to the Westmont College community,” said Ruiz. “He brings a wealth of experience as a collegiate head soccer coach, including his most recent stop at the NCAA DII level.

“His experience, combined with a compelling vision for the future of the program, stood out in the process. I believe that his enthusiasm and framework for student-athlete development, both athletically and spiritually, will be an instrumental component to the continued growth of our men’s soccer program.”

Cathey becomes just the fifth men’s soccer head coach in the program’s 58-year history.

“As a collegiate student-athlete at a rival institution to Westmont, I knew of the tradition of competitive success that Westmont has had for generations,” stated Cathey. “What I learned through the hiring process was that these traditions are richer and more profound than what I had originally understood.

“It is extremely humbling to follow in the footsteps of coaches like Russ Carr, Bob Fortosis and Dave Wolf. They maintained such a high level of success and excellence within the program. These men are phenomenal men and phenomenal coaches.”

Cathey played his collegiate soccer as a goalkeeper for Azusa Pacific from 2002 to 2005 and received NAIA All-American honorable mention recognition as a senior.

After graduating from APU with a degree in youth ministry, Cathey played one year for the Cascade Surge in Salem, Oregon in the Premier Development League.

From 2007 through 2009, he played professionally in South Africa for Ajax Cape Town (currently named the Cape Town Spurs Football Club) helping lead the Ajax to a runner-up finish in the South African Premier Division. From 2009 to 2011, Cathey coached professionally in South Africa.

Returning to the States in 2011, Cathey served as an assistant coach at Stanislaus State for three years, during which the program won its first collegiate conference championship and experienced its first NCAA Division II Tournament win.

“Morgan is a dynamic leader whose coaching philosophy aligns with our mission,” noted Ruiz. “I look forward to the impact he and his family will have on our students and our community.”

“Throughout the entirety of the interview process, our family was thoroughly convinced that Westmont aligns completely to our desire to serve a university, not just an athletic department and soccer program,” noted Cathey. “Westmont as a whole is an institution that we thoroughly believe in. We also believe, likewise, that the men’s soccer program provides a platform to be extremely successful in the ways that we value success.

“I believe that success within a collegiate program embodies every form of growth opportunity available. I believe Westmont provides a platform to impact not just the soccer player, but to impact the whole person.

“What we also experienced is that Westmont’s heart is to provide every resource and experience possible to impact the whole person and the athlete. Success for us looks like young men growing to become the best soccer players they can be and, likewise, being equipped to become the best version of themselves when they leave the confines of

Carp boys basketball crushes Hueneme

The Carpinteria boys basketball team defeated Hueneme in

Westmont College. I believe that we will create young men that will be able to make an immediate impact in the world in whatever vocation they go into.

“My goal is to create the most enjoyable college soccer experience possible. What I believe is foundational to that experience is playing the game a certain way that is designed to enjoy every interaction with the game. So, when people come and watch us play, it will be enjoyable to watch because it is enjoyable to play.”

Ruiz shared, “The search committee felt strongly that Morgan would bring a dynamic skill set to the program from which our players will benefit. His recruiting vision, player development philosophy and experience in developing culture are all strengths that he will bring to our program.

“It became evident in the process that Coach Cathey will bring a level of intensity to the training environment that will push our student-athletes to maximize their gifts and talents. I am confident that his deep commitment to his faith and background in ministry will allow him to profoundly impact the lives of each of his student-athletes. We are very excited about the future of Westmont Men’s Soccer.”

“We want to express our gratitude to Dr. Beebe,” said Cathey. “It was great to meet him. Hearing his vision for the institution was something that helped me and helped align our hearts.

“I also want to communicate my extreme gratitude to Robert Ruiz, Dave Odell and Kirsten Moore. They have been nothing short of incredible through this process. They have made the process such an ease and have made myself and my family feel so welcome.”

Cathey and his wife, Cari, have four children: Bauer, a 12-year old son, two daughters – 10 year old Lucca and eight year old Mallie - and a one-year-old son, Duke.

Ron Smith is the sports information director at Westmont College.

email: sports@newspress.com

dominant fashion, winning by a score of 62-21.

Junior Mario Serrano led Carpinteria with 18 points while senior Kainoa Glasgow added 15 points, sophomore Sebastian Campuzano contributed 14 and senior Israel Samaguey scored

ten.

The Warriors improved to 310 overall and 1-1 in Citrus Coast League play. The team will return to action today against Bishop Diego.

-Matt Smolensky

COURTESY PHOTOS

Morgan Cathey has been announced as the Westmont College men’s soccer team’s new head coach.

‘My

CHIEF

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leadership displayed with the city of Rancho Cucamonga. The Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District taught me the value of customer service, caring for others and striving for excellence in both my professional and personal life. The leadership in Rancho Cucamonga displayed a type of decorum that I have never witnessed, and second to none. That example has thoroughly prepared me to care for the men and women of the Lompoc fire department and the city that I will be serving,” said Mr. Fallon.

Mr. Fallon earned his bachelor’s degree in fire science administration from Waldorf University. He also obtained his California State Paramedic License in 2002 and continues to maintain the license. He has full intentions of maintaining his paramedic license through the course of his career. He has also obtained his California State Fire Marshal certifications for both company officer and chief officer. He holds the California State Fire Marshal certifications for a strike team leader as well, as California faces some of the worst wildfires in the nation.

“The duties of the fire chief require that the individual views the department at the 30,000-foot level. Meaning, the fire chief needs to strategically plan the trajectory of the department with his command staff, labor group and individuals in the

department while maintaining alignment with the vision of the city. Fire chiefs manage and are called to be stewards of the fire department budget as well. Projecting the needs of the department, as it relates to hiring, fleet needs and equipment also serve as the fire chiefs responsibility. I will also find myself involved in county level planning with the Santa Barbara County Fire Chiefs to create and maintain unity amongst our departments. With the multitude of changes occurring in the fire industry, it is imperative that there remains a collaborative effort amongst local fire chiefs. The support we can provide one another is invaluable,” said Mr. Fallon.

The News-Press asked Mr. Fallon what his goals are as fire chief: “My primary goals are and will remain to serve the Lompoc firefighters to the best of my ability. I desire to bring further vision and strategic planning to the department.

I desire to work collaboratively with Lompoc city leadership, Lompoc Chief Officers, and the Lompoc Professional Firefighters Local 1906, to ensure the City of Lompoc Fire Department maintains pace with the demands of the industry and provides progressive fire and EMS services.

“My wife and I are incredibly honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve the city of Lompoc. It has been a long-time dream of ours to be part of the Central Coast Community. We are incredibly thrilled and looking forward to what the future holds for our family,” said Mr. Fallon.

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

Report: California one of least charitable states

By TOM JOYCE THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) - It turns out that California is one of the least charitable states in the union.

When it comes to charitability, California ranks near the bottom among the 50 states, according to the World Giving Index created by WalletHub.

California ranks 42nd among the 50 states in this year‘s rankings. It follows the trend

of some border states faring poorly, including Arizona (50th), and New Mexico (48th). While a few border states were near the bottom, the top three most generous states in the ranking are in different parts of the country. Utah was ranked first, followed by Maryland and Minnesota.

California received a 50.97 out of 100 score on the World Giving Index. The state did relatively well in donating money to charitable causes, ranking 10th.

Additionally, California was near the top (fourth) in terms of the percentage of the population that donates money to charity.

However, California finished last in the volunteering and service category (50th out of 50 states). The state’s volunteer rate ranked 46th overall.

The World Giving Index shows that California was somewhat of an anomaly in these rankings.

California is one of the wealthier states in the union but ranks low in terms of its charitable giving.

TRAFFIC, CRIME AND FIRE BLOTTER

Cleanup from wrecked fishing vessel continues

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — A Unified Command continues to manage a response to a discharge of diesel and hydraulic fluid from the Speranza Marie fishing vessel that ran aground on Dec. 15 near Chinese Harbor on Santa Cruz Island, off the coast of Santa Barbara County.

The vessel, owned by Ocean Angel VI, LLC, has a capacity of 4,000 gallons and was estimated to be carrying approximately 1,000 gallons of diesel fuel, as well as an unknown amount of hydraulic fluid.

Representatives within the Unified Command include the U.S. Coast Guard, California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response, Santa Barbara County Fire Department, Channel Islands National Park, Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and Ocean Angel VI.

As predicted, unfavorable weather over the weekend ceased salvage operations. Due to significant swell, crews have been unable to safely assess the vessel to develop further plans for salvage. The vessel remains anchored in deeper water, but current conditions have reduced the stability of the vessel. Plans are being developed to move the vessel into a more stable area within the coming days.

Once more securely positioned, crews will access the status and enact plans to address the vessel while minimizing impact to the environment. There is no active sheening coming from the vessel, but representatives of the Unified Command are monitoring the vessel and surrounding area for any pollution and are prepared to respond.

The Coast Guard has issued a safety zone of 4,000 yards around the vessel. A notice to mariners is in place, and no vessel or person will be permitted to operate or recreate within the safety zone without obtaining permission from the Captain of the Port. The safety zone is necessary to protect personnel, vessels and the marine environment during ongoing salvage

STAGGS, Dwight Dee

At a very young age Dwight knew what it meant to work hard and support his family. He worked for the Santa Barbara County Education f ce for ust shy of 2 years as the Manager of Maintenance and perations Internal Services. Dwight is described by colleagues as kind hearted, hardworking, and ust an all-around G.O.A.T (greatest of all time).

Dwight loved music and had a large, unique collection of The Beatles records and fan memorabilia. In his younger years he even wrote his own song lyrics. Dwight collected many things, some of the coolest items being his records, Hot Wheels, and Neon Bar Signs. His collections could be seen and admired in his man cave at his house where you could nd him watching his football teams, Alabama Crimson Tide ( oll Tide Baby ) and the Los Angeles Chargers. Dwight en oyed a good mystery, and one could always nd a Dean oont book laying around his home. Above all, Dwight loved being with his family, whether that was hosting a party where his family could sing and dance all night long or watching football with his brother Jimmy.

Dwight was a strong patriarch to his family, an ama ing friend to his peers, and had a smile that could brighten anyone’s day.

He was a loving Father to Amanda Staggs, Dwight Staggs, Melissa Staggs, Andy Staggs, Steven Staggs, and step-daughter Heather Hoagland.

He was the proudest grandfather to Ashley Staggs, Travis Staggs, Anthony Marsango, Alyssa Frausto, Joseph Frausto, Lacie Marsango, Tristen Frausto, Matthew Ar ate, Anika Measurall, Logan Staggs, Alora Measurall, and Ariana Staggs. He was a dedicated great-grandpa to Breydon Soechting, Amesty Soechting, Layla Staggs, and Ellie Soechting.

Dwight was larger than life itself. This obituary doesn’t even begin to capture the man that DD was. The dedicated and ama ing father, grandfather, and great-grandfather that he was cannot be expressed in words. He has left a permanent mark on the hearts of all those who knew and loved him. He will be missed dearly A celebration of life will be held in January after the holidays to remember the G.O.A.T: Dwight Dee Staggs

Restaurant features Mediterranean cuisine

HOTEL

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relaxation and business. Guests of the hotel also have access to the state-of-the-art fitness center, EV charging stations, both valet and self-park options and a meeting and event space.

State Street’s stylish newcomer, Saint Remy, is a 50-seat restaurant featuring the freshest locally-sourced ingredients delivered with a Mediterranean coastal twist. The space boasts an easygoing and retro-inspired design with relaxed sensibility and palate that is uniquely Santa Barbara.

Menu highlights include shakshuka benedict on the breakfast menu and the burrata & grilled peach salad and crispy short rib hummus on the dinner menu. The menu will also have a creative selection of beverages using locally-sourced purveyors such as Zaca Coffee; and Blind Burro Rum, Hendry’s Vodka and Celo Rum from Black Market Spirits.

The cocktail menu offers the familiarity of classics like the Old Fashioned while introducing signature sippers like Bad Entropy. Additionally, a hand-selected wine list of local vintners such as One Stone Cellars, a winemaker that gives back to local and global organizations; as well as wines from Argentina, Spain and Oregon. Both indoor and al

fresco dining options are available. Complimentary on-site parking is available for dining guests. Reservations for Saint Remy can be made on Tock.

“Courtyard Santa Barbara is wonderfully located for both leisure and business travelers to indulge in all that the destination is known for, including its beaches, museums, dining options and wineries,” General Manager Antonio Morales said. “At Saint Remy, every meal is uniformly inventive and crafted with the rich history and culture of the coast. It brings the local dining scene a new hotspot for date nights, private parties and gathering with friends.”

Courtyard Santa Barbara Downtown is a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, nine miles from Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) and two miles from the Amtrak Train Station. Its prime downtown location is walkable to all that Santa Barbara has to offer, including the Old Mission, Museums, Santa Barbara Harbor, The Funk Zone, Stearns Wharf and the Santa Barbara Zoo.

Average daily rates start at $250 per night. Reservations can be made by calling (805) 9750660.

email: nhartsteinnewspress@ gmail.com

AWARDS

Continued

Award categories include: Small and Large Business of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Non-Profit of the Year, Hospitality Award, Community Business of the Year and the Milestone Business Award, among others.

Presenting sponsors include Community West Bank, Pacific Premier Bank, UCLA Health and Village Properties.

Corporate sponsors include Agilent Technologies, Atlantic Aviation, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLP, Chevron, Cottage Health, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta, Cox Communications, LinkedIn, MarBorg Industries, Pacific Pipeline Company, Residence Inn by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta, Rusty’s Pizza, Santa Barbara Airport, Signature Flight Support, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Teledyne FLIR and UCSB.

The event is presented by the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce. For sponsorship information, please contact Michele at 805967-2500 ext. 105, or Michele@ SBSCChamber.com.

To register for the event, please visit https://sbscchamber. com/event/2023-annualmembership-meeting-regionalbusiness-awards/.

operations for the fishing vessel.

County Fire puts out resident fire

— Neil Hartstein

SANTA MARIA — Santa Barbara County firefighters responded to a fire Sunday morning in the 3600 block of Tepusquet Road.

Firefighters who arrived at the scene reported an exterior wall fire that could be handled by two engine companies.

Residents were home and smelled smoke, and contacted the fire department shortly after 11 a.m.

Firefighters at the scene noted a hot spot in the wall using a thermal imaging camera and a wall that was hot to the touch. The wall was opened using hand tools and the fire was quickly extinguished.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

— Neil Hartstein

RUSSELL, Chris

October 1961 - December 2022

Chris was 61 years old when he lost his battle with diabetes. He went to be with the Lord much too soon. He will be immensely missed by everyone who loved and knew him.

Born in Laguna Beach and raised in beautiful Santa Barbara, Chris enjoyed his many childhood friends, riding his bike, days on the beach, and the views of the mountains. In high school, he was a proud Santa Barbara Don who wore the number 66 while playing Defensive Guard.

He was a loving husband, uncle, and friend to many. Chris and his wife, Lisa, fell madly in love with one another when they met as teenagers. They enjoyed many hobbies throughout their 43 years together: golf, Volkswagens, raising parrots, RC racing, dogs, camping, shing, just hanging out together, and loving life. In his later years, he developed a passion for collecting and restoring vintage trucks. He was a master autobody fabricator. Perfection was his middle name. Chris found the most happiness when he was oating on the water in his Ranger Bass Boat. He enjoyed bass and striper shing with his wife. Throughout the years he loved to compete and bass sh with his buddies Meade, BJ, Chuck, Clark, Tony and countless others!

He enjoyed being an uncle to his nephews and nieces Adam, Drake, Beck, David, Daniel, Emerald and Lindsey. He is proceeded in death by his sister, Robyn who had a special place in his heart, and brother, Bobbie who meant a lot to him.

There will be no services. In honor of Chris Russell, please make a donation in his name to Sansum Clinic Diabetes Research. PO Box 1200, Santa Barbara, CA 93102.

Today

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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.

Oxnard 61/49/r 61/47/c

Palm Springs 75/51/r 71/49/c

Pasadena 66/51/r 63/47/pc

Paso Robles 59/41/r 57/36/c

Sacramento 56/39/r 52/41/c

San Diego 66/56/pc 62/51/r

San Francisco 58/47/r 57/48/c

San Jose 59/41/r 56/44/c

San Luis Obispo 60/46/r 62/40/sh

Santa Monica 66/59/r 66/50/c

40/22/sh 32/19/c

Tahoe

42/37/pc Dallas 47/39/s 67/58/pc Denver 62/37/pc 51/27/c Houston 53/39/s 73/63/pc Miami 68/57/r 77/69/pc Minneapolis 28/25/c 35/30/c

New York City 36/29/pc 44/34/pc Philadelphia 38/27/pc 45/30/pc Phoenix 73/54/pc 59/48/r Portland, Ore. 54/42/r 46/41/r

St. Louis 33/28/s 50/45/pc

Salt Lake City 49/33/r 40/24/sh Seattle 50/40/r 46/40/sh

Washington, D.C. 42/28/pc 48/32/s

33/16/pc 35/15/pc Berlin 43/35/pc 47/44/c Cairo 69/53/s 68/52/s

Cancun 77/68/t 78/72/s London 50/47/r 53/43/r

Mexico City 65/44/pc 66/48/pc Montreal 22/17/pc 33/28/sn

New Delhi 68/43/pc 68/47/pc

Paris 47/44/pc 53/49/r

Rio de Janeiro 80/74/t 89/76/c

Rome 64/47/s 62/44/pc Sydney 83/67/s 84/68/s Tokyo 54/41/s 54/42/pc

The Legend It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Dwight Dee Staggs (DD) at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital on November 17th, 2022. He was 65 years old. Dwight was born on January 6th, 1957, in Seattle, Washington to Merryle Coy Pinkerton Beckham and James Clebert Staggs, Sr. As a boy, Dwight grew up in various places, such as West Covina, Hawaii, Las Vegas, San Diego, Argentina, Goleta, and Alabama. But he spent most of his life in Santa Barbara.

primary goals are and will remain to serve the Lompoc firefighters to the best of my ability’

Life theArts

CALENDAR

Advocate for women’s health

Association for Women in Communications honors Dr. Katrina Mitchell

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

Dr.

She recently received the Lois Phillips Founder’s Award during the Association for Women in Communications Santa Barbara

Dr. Mitchell is a breast surgeon, lactation consultant and perinatal mental health provider at Sansum Clinic and Ridley-Tree Cancer Center.

“I am very honored to receive an award from an organization that celebrates women in communication,” Dr. Mitchell told the News-Press. “The key to improving health care for all women is having venues

to connect, collaborate, and communicate.”

Dr. Mitchell explained what this award means to her. “It means that I brought attention to unmet needs in our community.

Professionals of all different backgrounds are coming together to address gaps in our current women’s healthcare and roadmap a plan for improvement in the future.”

Dr. Mitchell was a history major in college and did her senior honors thesis on the topic of involuntary sterilization of Native American women in the 1970s.

This investigation into women’s reproductive justice and bodily autonomy led her to work after college at a women’s public health clinic in Philadelphia.

After that experience, she knew that she wanted to go to medical school and focus on women’s

health.

MORE INSIDE

During clinical rotations, she fell in love with surgery. When she was doing research in Tanzania, during her surgery residency, she came back to women’s health and decided to do additional specialty training in breast surgery.

The News-Press asked Dr. Mitchell how she hopes to continue the fight for women’s health.

She said she received great feedback from the community on her commentary in a local publication and decided to follow up on that by creating the Santa Barbara Women’s Health

Coalition. She organized the coalition’s first meeting.

“It has taken off from there thanks to the involvement and leadership of very talented women in this town who have far more experience with project development than I do!” Dr. Mitchell said.

“The physical and mental health needs of women are unique and can be challenging to manage for patients and physicians alike,” she said. “ I like the multifaceted aspects of caring for women and treating the whole person (and sometimes the family, too), rather than just doing an operation or prescribing a medication.”

Dr. Mitchell spoke of how she is actively making advances in women’s health and making healthcare more accessible in Santa Barbara: “We need a large-scale development plan

that addresses everything from the cost of living and housing to identifying where the largest and most urgent gaps exist. There are many of us individually who seek to provide exceptional care to women, but we haven’t previously had the venue to communicate and collaborate. Individuals can fill voids temporarily, but creating a women’s healthcare system is the goal in sustainability.”

“I want to continue to be a voice for improving our system of care locally and providing care myself to women in need at various junctures in their reproductive life cycle. I absolutely love my day-to-day work as a surgeon, but I recognize it’s also my responsibility to use the platform I have to advocate for creating sustainable change.”

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

TODAY 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Interlopings: Colors in the Warp and Weft of Ecological Entanglements” is an exhibit that runs through March 12 at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, 1212 Mission Canyon Road, Santa Barbara.Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The exhibit features weavings dyed with pigments from non-native plants on Santa Cruz Island. The weavings were created by artists Helen Svensson and Lisa Jevbratt. For more information, see sbbotanicgarden.org.

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The exhibit “Parliament of Owls” runs through Feb. 5 at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol, Santa Barbara. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays. For more information, go to www.sbnature.org.

DEC. 31 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Santa Barbara Symphony will perform its annual New Year’s Eve concert, featuring music varying from The Beatles to James Bond to Broadway, at The Granada, 1214 State St., Santa Barbara. Pops conductor Bob Bernhardt will conduct the concert, which will feature renowned soprano Mela Sarajane Dailey. There will also be champagne, noise-makers and, of course, party hats. To purchase tickets, go to thesymphony.org or thegranadasb.org or call the symphony at 805-893-9386.

9 p.m. The Boogie Knights and Spazmatics will perform during the New Year’s Eve Disco Boogie Ball at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez. Tickets cost $50. To purchase, go to chumashcasino.com/ entertainment.

JAN. 3

10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Vitalant blood drive at the Marian Regional Medical Center, 1400 E. Church St., Santa Maria. For more information, go to vitalant.org.

7:30 p.m. The American Theatre Guild will present the North American tour of “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.,” a theatrical concert celebrating the music of Aretha Franklin, at The Granada, 1214 State St. Tickets cost $59 to $114. To purchase, go to granadasb.org.

JAN. 4

7:30 p.m. The American Theatre Guild will present the North American tour of “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.,” a theatrical concert celebrating the music of Aretha Franklin, at The Granada, 1214 State St. Tickets cost $59 to $114. To purchase, go to granadasb.org.

JAN. 5

1 to 5 p.m. Vitalant blood drive at the Lompoc Police Department, 107 Civic Center Plaza, Lompoc. For more information, go to vitalant.org.

JAN. 13

7 p.m. Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar will perform a free concert at Isla Vista Elementary School, 6875 El Colegio Road, Goleta, as Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara resumes its programming.

JAN. 14

7 p.m. Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuélla will perform a free concert at Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe. The concert is presented by Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara.

JAN. 15

7 p.m. Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuélla wlil perform a free conceert at The Marjorie Luke Theatre at Santa Barbara Junior High School, 721 E. Cota St., Santa Barbara. The concert is presented by Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara.

JAN. 17

1:30 to 6:30 p.m. Vitalant blood drive at the Santa Barbara County

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.

COURTESY PHOTO Boogie Knights, above, will perform 1970s hits during the New Year’s Eve Disco Boogie Ball at 9 p.m. Dec. 31 at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez. And the Spazmatics will play hits from the ’80s. Tickets cost $50.

Katrina Mitchell has been recognized for her work to advocate for women’s health.

holiday gathering.

From left are Dr. Katrina Mitchell, the Lois Phillips

Founder’s Award recipient; Carolyn Jabs, past president of the AWC-SB; Lauren Bianchi Klemann, the 2022 AWC-SB Member of the Year, and Lisa Osborn, the current AWC-SB president. They’re at the AWC-SB’s recent holiday part at the Villa Wine Bar in Santa Barbara. At right, Dr. Mitchell enjoys a moment with the AWC-SB at the holiday party.

KENNETH SONG /NEWS-PRESS PHOTOS

Dr. Katrina Mitchell addresses the Association for Women in Communications Santa Barbara after receiving Lois Phillips Founder’s Award. “I want to continue to be a voice for improving our system of care locally and providing care myself to women in need at various junctures in their reproductive life cycle,” she told the News-Press.

10 things to do when you feel stuck

Sometimes when we are trying our best to move forward, something comes along to block us. Here are 10 tips to help you keep moving in the right direction.

1. Get out of the house or office. If you can’t get your mind clear, sometimes stepping outside can give you a new perspective. Getting some fresh air will enliven your senses, and your brain will start to think of new things.

2. Start writing. Turn on your computer, or get out a pad and paper and write down whatever is in your head. Once you’ve cleared out most of the extemporaneous thoughts, the ones you want will appear.

3. Work on a different project. If you can’t do what’s immediately in front of you, find something else to occupy your thoughts and energy. It doesn’t really matter what it is.

You are taking this action to clear your mind by temporarily putting aside whatever you’re stuck on.

4. Clean your desk. Sometimes we have so many irons in the fire that we can get bogged down with what to do first. As you clean your desk, not only will you break a pattern of inactivity but you will find things that you’ve already completed and can put away. Doing so will give you some more room to process your thoughts.

5. Take a deep breath. You would be surprised at how many people hold their breath when they feel tense. When you cut off the oxygen supply from your brain and body, you can’t function as well. Breathing deeply a few times can reenergize you and give you that little extra bit of

clarity that you need.

6. Take a shower. Even if it’s the middle of your day, a shower can change your perspective and help you get going. We all feel better when we get clean, and though it seems like a small step, it may be just the trick you need to get back on a positive path.

7. Call a good friend. Hearing the voice of someone you care about and spending a few minutes getting involved in his or her world can give you a new outlook on yours. Making this positive emotional connection may be just what you need to get moving again.

8. Move your body. Dance, get up and walk around the room, pick up your clothes, or do some exercise. Get those endorphins

circulating through your brain. Being sedentary retards your ability to come up with new ideas. 9. Read. Someone else’s words of wisdom can give you some new ideas. Reading can also help you relax and recharge your mental batteries.

10. Listen to your heart. What is it trying to tell you about where you are and what you are attempting to do? Perhaps there is a missing piece that will help you solve the puzzle.

Barton Goldsmith, Ph.D., is an award-winning psychotherapist and humanitarian. He is also a columnist, the author of eight books and a blogger for PsychologyToday. com with more than 28 million readers. He is available for video consults worldwide. Reach him at barton@bartongoldsmith.com. His column appears Saturdays and Mondays in the News-Press.

Women’s Economic Ventures to lead webinar

VENTURA — Program staff from Women’s Economic Ventures will join the Ventura County Library to lead a financial education webinar titled “How to Navigate your Budget with Confidence and Purpose.”

This program will take place virtually via Zoom.

The 75-minute workshop is

designed to help participants identify their financial priorities. This interactive session will be facilitated by Irene Kelly, WEV’s financial education and community engagement manager.

The English-language version of this program will take place at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 17.

A Spanish-language version of

this program will take place at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 18.

For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at (805) 218-9146 or ron.solorzano@ventura.org.

Instructions for registering for this event on Zoom can also be found at www.vencolibrary.org/ library-events.

This event is free and open to

the public.

To register in English, go to us02web.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_ vVeMNgWFSSm71RROvmKASw.

To register in Spanish go to us02web.zoom.us/webinar/ register/WN_8VPUR1M4TLKXahN0n1QLg.

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

Women’s Health Coalition establishes committees

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

More than 100 community members and leaders attended the inaugural Santa Barbara Women’s Health Coalition meeting in October.

The event was hosted by Dr. Katrina Mitchell, a local breast surgeon, and Kathy Kelly the development director at Montessori Center School.

The coalition arrived at several key takeaways. Most notable was that women are experiencing significant challenges accessing comprehensive healthcare in

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Sheriff’s Office, 4436 Calle Real, Santa Barbara. For more information, go to vitalant.org.

JAN. 19 2 to 5:30 p.m. Vitalant blood drive at the Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara, 524 Chapala St., Santa Barbara. For more information, go to vitalant.org.

JAN. 21

7:30 p.m. The Santa Barbara Symphony will perform its “Plains, Trains & Violins” concert at The Granada, 1214 State St. The concert includes Miguel del Aguila’s Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, “The Journey of a Lifetime” (El viaje de una vida) with violin soloist Guillermo Figueroa and the concert world premiere of Elmer Bernstein’s “Toccata for Toy Trains.” The orchestra will also perform Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 (“From the New World”). Tickets cost $35 to $175. To purchase, go to granadasb.org.

JAN. 22

3 p.m. The Santa Barbara Symphony will perform its “Plains, Trains & Violins” concert at The Granada, 1214 State St. The concert includes Miguel del Aguila’s Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, “The Journey of a Lifetime (El viaje de una vida)” with violin soloist Guillermo Figueroa and the concert world premiere of Elmer Bernstein’s “Toccata for Toy Trains.” The orchestra will also perform Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 (“From the New World”). Tickets cost $35 to $175. To purchase, go to granadasb.org.

4 to 5 p.m. “Roy Dunn: Capturing Imagery of Our Wild Neighbors” will take place at the Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, 1511-B Mission Drive, Solvang.

JAN. 24

2 to 6 p.m. Vitalant blood drive at Camino Real Marketplace, 7046 Marketplace Drive, Goleta. For more information, go to vitalant.org.

7 p.m. UCSB Arts & Lectures presents mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato and a music ensemble in “Eden” at The Granada, 1214 State St. “Eden” explores the individual human connection with nature and features music from four centuries. Tickets cost $46 to $131 for general admission and $20 for UCSB students with ID, one hour before the performance, and youths 18 and younger. To purchase, go to granadasb.org.

JAN. 25 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vitalant blood drive at Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College, Santa Maria. For more information, go to vitalant.org.

Santa Barbara County, according to a news release from the coalition.

SBWHC seeks to drive healthcare innovation focused on the unique needs of women throughout all phases of life. The coalition’s goals include developing a space for women in both of these arenas to feel heard, seen, supported, and safe.

Since the October meeting, SBWHC established committees that are tasked with conducting a community needs assessment focused on the following areas of women’s health: adolescence through young adults, chronic

health conditions, health equity and racial health disparities, LGBTQ+ health, maternal health, and menopause and aging.

SBWHC will then present its findings to local organizations and discuss shared opportunities to improve women’s health in the Santa Barbara community.

“Women are the foundational caregivers in our society, driving medical decisions for children, parents, partners, and countless others,” Dr. Mitchell said. “It is important to investigate and address challenges to accessing and providing comprehensive and equitable care for the

unique needs of women in our community.”

The coalition recently named the committee chairs, whose role will be to drive discussions and the completion of the needs assessment in their assigned area of women’s health.

The SBWHC is welcoming more participation. If you are interested in joining a committee, contact sbwhc2022@gmail.com.

email: kzehdner@newspress.com

COMING UP: More about the coalition will appear in Wednesday’s News-Press.

KENNETH SONG /NEWS-PRESS

A California scrub jay scrounges for food in downtown Santa Barbara.

Diversions

Thought for Today

HOROSCOPE

ARIES — After a brief break, your luck returns in full force when Jupiter reenters your sign Today. As we get ready to enter 2023 with confidence, it’s a great time to think about what you want to achieve next year.

TAURUS — You might be feeling a little lost as we get to the end of 2022 and enter the cold winter. Especially when Jupiter reenters Aries, moving into your privacy zone. While things look dark, remember there is light at the end of the tunnel.

GEMINI — The year 2022 is ending on a social note when Jupiter enters Aries, moving into your friendship zone today. Thanks to good connections, things that you’ve been working hard toward suddenly become easy as you receive a windfall.

CANCER — This is a great week to make some big career moves when Jupiter enters Aries, moving into your career zone Today. Your public image and reputation get a boost as you feel confident about the direction your life is going.

LEO — You’re approaching the new year with an open mind and heart this week when Jupiter enters Aries, moving into your expansion zone today. This is an ideal time to finish the traveling and exploring you’ve been doing this year and take it to the next level. Be bold and brave, VIRGO — Today begins with a period of rebirth when Jupiter reenters Aries, moving into your transformation zone. You’re ready to enter the new year with the confidence that things are going to work out for the best. Release any negative thoughts you’ve been holding on to and work toward building a legacy of possibilities.

LIBRA — The relationship you had during the spring and summer comes back in full force as Jupiter reenters

Aries, moving into your partnership ztoday. Over the next few months you’ll be lucky in love, so solidify all your commitments and stand by them. If you’re unattached, you could find your better half right now.

SCORPIO — If you’ve been backsliding on those habits you started in the spring, you’ll have the opportunity to get back on track when Jupiter reenters Aries, moving into your routine zone today. You’re feeling healthy and ready to achieve anything. However, don’t get too cocky. It could lead to injury.

SAGITTARIUS — The year is almost over, Sagittarius, so let’s have some FUN this week! Jupiter reenters Aries today moving into your pleasure zone and giving you a major boost of luck and passion that will last for the next few months. You’ll be optimistic about love, life and your own talents, so dive headfirst into creative projects. Enjoy!

CAPRICORN — Home is where the heart is this holiday season, especially when Jupiter enters Aries, moving into your family zone today. As we get cozy in winter, this is a great opportunity to look for a new home, make some renovations or even add a new family member. Keep an open mind.

AQUARIUS — It’s the most social time of the year for you, Aquarius, as Jupiter reenters Aries, moving back into your communication zone today. This is a period of bright, vibrant ideas that you can work to turn into reality. Attend big events to share your ideas with others or start a study group.

PISCES — End the year on a lucky note when Jupiter reenters Aries, moving into your value zone on today. The investments you made last spring are finally coming to fruition. From financial windfalls to self-esteem, just make sure you don’t spend all your good fortune in one place.

BRIDGE

By FRANK STEWART Tribune Content Agency

“We’ll doublecross that bridge when we come to it.” — a philosophy a devious declarer might embrace.

Something went wrong in today’s auction: North-South landed at four spades when they lacked the three top trumps plus an ace. North was at fault: His jump to three spades was forcing, and he didn’t have enough firepower to force. If North had bid two spades, South would have passed.

Against the “hopeless” game, West led a heart. South could have offered to concede down one, but instead of giving up, he went for a doublecross. He took the ace of hearts and cashed the K-A of clubs. When East’s queen fell, declarer continued with the jack.

OVERRUFF

East might — maybe should — have been suspicious, but he ruffed with his deuce of trumps. Declarer overruffed, led a trump to East’s king, won the heart return and led another trump. Great was the fall thereon: The ace and queen fell together, and South wound up losing only a diamond to the ace besides. Making four!

10 7 8 5 2. Your partner opens one club, the next player overcalls one spade and you double

(negative). Partner jumps to three hearts. What do you say?

ANSWER: Partner’s jump invites game. If he had a minimum hand such as 7 6 5, A K 6 2, K 3, K 10 7 3, he would have bid two hearts, “raising” the suit your negative double implied. You had minimum values for your double, and your queen of spades may be a worthless card. Pass.

INSTRUCTIONS

SUDOKU

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

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

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

CODEWORD PUZZLE

Answers to previous CODEWORD

How to play Codeword

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

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

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

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

PUZZLE

“Wonder is the feeling of the philosopher, and philosophy begins in wonder.” — Plato