Santa Barbara News-Press: May 17, 2023

Newsom signs $150 million loan program for hospitals

Program designed to benefit not-for-profit and public facilities in distress - A3

Serving the community for 50 years

Carpinteria Rotary Foundation works on many projects - B1

Highway 101 construction disrupts flow of traffic

Caltrans recommends caution after Monday’s fatality; CHP says collision wasn’t caused by road work

By ANNIKA BAHNSEN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

Recent fatal crashes along Highway 101, just north of Ventura, have sparked conversation regarding the current highway construction.

On Monday morning, a Honda CR-V and utility truck collided in a fiery fashion, taking the life of one person involved. This shut down the northbound lanes for multiple hours, causing much traffic backup for commuters, who include Ventura County residents who work in Santa Barbara County.

Although the California Highway Patrol said the cause was not a direct result of the ongoing highway construction, the work has not made any positive impact on the flow of traffic.

Jim Medina, a representative for Caltrans District 7, told the News-Press Tuesday that the work north of Ventura involves

GAS PRICES FALL

U.S., including California and Santa Barbara County, sees historic drop from one year ago

By TOM GANTERT

EDITOR

(The Center Square) — The United States is witnessing a historic drop in the price of gas at the pump, according to an industry analyst.

The American Automobile Association had the national average per gallon dropping from $4.48 a gallon a year ago to $3.53

Tuesday.

Patrick De Haan, an energy analyst with Gas Buddy, said

on Twitter there were only four times in history when the U.S. experienced such a dramatic drop in gas prices.

He said the other times were the 2008-2009 recession ($3.04 Jan. 2008 to $1.79 Jan. 2009); when OPEC increased its production of oil in 2015 ($3.31 Jan. 2014 to $2.12 Jan. 2015), during the COVID pandemic in 2020 ($2.86 May 2019 to $1.87 May 2020) and now due to the war in Ukraine. Gas prices listed are from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

California’s prices remain above the national average, but there’s good news here as well.

AAA reported the state’s average on Tuesday was $4.80 a gallon. That’s down from $5.98 one year ago. On Tuesday, the average price in Santa Barbara County was $4.84 a gallon, down from $5.95 one year ago, according to AAA. The News-Press found lower prices Tuesday at Goleta gas stations. The 76 station at Fairview Avenue and Calle Real

was selling regular gas at $4.539 a gallon for customers paying with credit or debit cards and $4.459 a gallon for cash. Across Calle Real, Fuel Depot was selling regular gas to everyone for $4.519 a gallon. Across Fairview Avenue from Fuel Depot, the Chevron station was a little higher Tuesday than the county’s average, at $4.899 a gallon.

The big news remains the $1

Please see PRICES on A4

Board of Supervisors review proposed improvements at jails

By ANNIKA BAHNSEN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors discussed possible renovations to the Santa Barbara Main Jail Tuesday as well as possible construction at the Northern Branch Jail. Kirk Lagerquist, the general services director for Santa Barbara County, previewed the plan for the new renovations of the jail, which has been in the works since July 2020.

After a negotiated settlement between Disability Rights California and the county, the

requirements called for a change in architecture of the County Jails.

In March 2021, the Board approved a professional services agreement to discuss programming options for the main jail.

Mr. Lagerquist shared the recommended actions to the board, which included: directing staff to proceed with a minimized renovation plan, making Americans with Disabilities Act improvements, as well as eliminating the use of other beds, which was outlined in the conceptual options for renovations reports.

The accessibility compliance

renovations listed were renovating cells, showers, public restrooms, visiting and inmate toilets. Additionally, an ADA path of travel to public parking is required.

Additionally, there’s a reported need for intake improvements. This consists of medical and mental health screenings as well as private meeting spaces for clients to meet with lawyers.

The total cost of these renovations totaled to about $17.5 million, which included the above renovations as well as deferred maintenance needed — such as

Please see JAILS on A4

a multitude of actions, including replacing damaged pavement on two right lanes in each direction, repairing road shoulders, repaving on and off ramps, installing new guardrails and improving drainage systems. This construction has altered the normal traffic flow in the area, reducing a 4.3-mile section of Highway 101 from three lanes to two lanes in each direction for the duration of the project.

Additionally, the northbound traffic pattern has been redesigned with two bypass lanes, including one that crosses over the median. The purpose of this is to block off two right northbound lanes with k-rails for the safety of workers and motorists during construction, Mr. Medina said. Multiple signs are posted to warn motorists about the traffic pattern. Two of the right southbound

Please see 101 on

NEWS-PRESS EXCLUSIVE

Prosecutors say peeping suspect’s lawyer plans to seek suspension of criminal proceedings

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The attorney for Justin Asinobi — the man charged with 26 counts of unlawful electronic peeping — is planning to ask a judge to suspend criminal proceedings against him because of his alleged mental health problems, prosecutors said.

Lawyers for both sides had been talking about possible resolutions to the case, but the last time they appeared in court, May 3, all such discussion was put to a stop, according to Deputy District Attorney Dalia Granados.

“The case was continued to June 21,” she told the NewsPress. “Defense is filing a mental health diversion petition.”

Mr. Asinobi pleaded not guilty to the 26 charges, all misdemeanors, at his arraignment.

Prosecutors say if the case goes to trial and he is convicted, the defendant could get up to six months in Santa Barbara County Jail for each count.

The defendant, 23, has been charged with unlawful electronic peeping between Oct. 1, 2021 and Feb. 15, 2022.

The complaint filed against him alleges that he “willfully and unlawfully used a concealed camcorder, motion picture camera or

photographic camera to secretly videotape, film, photograph or record by electronic means another identifiable person, or through the clothing worn by that other person, for the purpose of viewing the body or undergarments worn by that other person, without that person’s knowledge or consent.” Prosecutors allege he hid multiple devices in private homes where people had a reasonable expectation of privacy.

By filing the motion for diversion, the defense is not questioning Mr. Asinobi’s legal competency to stand trial, Prosecutor Granados said.

According to a statute, when pretrial Mental Health Diversion is requested, the court, in its discretion, and after considering the positions of the defense and prosecution, may grant pretrial diversion to a defendant if he meets the eligibility requirements and is suitable for that diversion.

Eligibility is based on whether a defendant has been diagnosed with a mental disorder including, but not limited to, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder, but excluding antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder and pedophilia.

“Evidence of the defendant’s

COURTESY PHOTO Kirk Lagerquist, the general services director for Santa Barbara County, previewed the plan for the new renovations of the Main Jail, during Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting.

Santa Maria fire visible from highway

SANTA MARIA — Santa

Barbara County firefighters responded very early Tuesday to a farm equipment fire in Santa Maria.

When firefighters responded at 12:37 a.m. to the fire on East Stowell Road, just east of Highway 101, they found six tractors with trailers fully involved, officials said.

“Flames could be seen from the highway,” the fire department

said.

No injuries were reported. The fire was extinguished by county and Santa Maria firefighters. Crews remained on scene for mop up and fire investigation.

— Neil Hartstein

Police say suspect walked away with gold rings

SANTA MARIA — On April 14, at approximately 4:57 p.m., an adult male suspect entered

Kay Jewelers in the 600 block of East Betteravia and posed as a customer attempting to purchase jewelry for a family member, police said Tuesday.

The suspect was on an active virtual phone call with the family member as he browsed jewelry items.

The suspect used the virtual call (FaceTime) as a distraction and was ultimately able to walk away with two gold rings totaling about $9,000 in value, according to Santa Maria police.

The suspect identified himself to the sales associate as being “Arabic.” He is described as between 5’08” and 5’10” tall, with black hair, brown eyes, and a groomed beard and mustache. He is heavy set and approximately 40 years old. Sales associates stated that he was fluent in English, Spanish and Arabic.

Anyone with any information regarding this case, including the suspect’s identity or whereabouts, is asked to contact Santa Maria police investigator K. Payne at 805-928-3781, ext. 1660 or kpayne@cityofsantamaria.org.

Neil Hartstein

—

Vegetation fire near Los Alamos

LOS ALAMOS – Santa Barbara County firefighters responded Tuesday afternoon to a report of a small vegetation fire adjacent to southbound Highway 101 just north of Los Alamos.

The fire was reported spreading in the grass at a slow rate of speed, officials said.

It was reported by county fire personnel in the area, who called for additional resources. No structures were threatened.

Firefighters stopped the forward progress of the fire at 2:51 p.m. They contained the fire to just over an acre. Resources remained on scene for mop-up.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Memorial Day program to take place at cemetery

MONTECITO — The Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation will hold a free program on Memorial Day to remember the sacrifice of the veterans who served the country.

The ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. May 29 at the Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive, Montecito.

The program will include performances by the UCSB ROTC Color Guard, Gold Coast Pipe and Drum Band, David Gonzales and the Santa Barbara Choral Society, the Prime Time Band and a flyover performed by The Condor Squadron.

Col. Robert Long, commander of Space Launch Delta 30 and Western Launch Test Range, Vandenberg Space Force Base, and Lt. Christia Sandstedt, CGC and USCGC Blackfin, are the guest speakers.

“We are humbled as we remember all of those who served our country and died protecting it,” said foundation co-founder Lt. John Blankenship (formerly of the U.S. Navy).

For more information, visit pcvf. org/memorial-day-ceremony.

— Kiera Logan

24 GOP governors to help Texas

By BETHANY BLANKLEY THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) —

Twenty-four Republican governors have responded to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s call for help to secure the state’s border with Mexico.

“The federal government’s response handling the expiration of Title 42 has represented a complete failure of the Biden Administration,” the governors said in a joint statement, referring to the end of the public health authority, Title 42, which expired at midnight on May 11.

Title 42 allowed for the quick expulsion of foreign nationals who’d entered the U.S. illegally during the COVID-19 pandemic. With its end, an estimated 150,000 foreign nationals from all over the world are waiting in Mexico to illegally enter the U.S. at any moment, border officials say.

This is after at least more than 7 million people have been apprehended or reported evading capture by law enforcement since President Joe Biden’s been in office.

The Biden administration recently sent 1,500 military personnel to the border and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security sent several thousand federal employees to help Border Patrol agents expedite processing of foreign nationals into the U.S., not to block their entry, administration officials have explained.

another service there on May 29.

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“Tap” is played by Howard Hudson and Bob Burtness during the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation’s Memorial Day service last year at the Santa Barbara Cemetery. The foundation will hold

— Neil Hartstein

This is the surveillance photo of a suspect in a theft from a jewelry store in Santa Maria.

Newsom signs $150 million loan program for distressed California hospitals

By RIA ROEBUCK JOSEPH THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) — The California Legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom has created a multimillion dollar loan program with the signing of a hospital “rescue” bill on May 15.

AB 112 - The Distressed Hospital Loan Program is designed to provide interest-free cash-flow loans to not-for-profit hospitals and public hospitals in significant financial distress.

“This new program will help hospitals in extreme financial distress get the assistance they need as quickly as possible,” said Gov. Newsom.

The bill would create a continuously appropriated fund for use by the Department of Health Care Access and Information and would be administered through an interagency agreement with the California Health Facilities Financing Authority for “the purpose of providing loans to notfor-profit hospitals and public

hospitals…. in significant financial distress.. to prevent the closure or facilitate the reopening of a closed hospital.”

Funding will be available until Jan. 1, 2032.

Before receiving assistance from the program, hospitals would be required to demonstrate the need for financial assistance as a result of hardship by disclosing financial information. They would also be required to submit a comprehensive plan outlining a pathway to regain financial viability.

Madera Community Hospital, which closed Dec. 28, has been given priority for the program. The hospital was forced to close ahead of schedule as efforts to sell the hospital fell through and staffers moved to find new jobs, leaving the hospital chronically understaffed. In a news release announcing its filing for bankruptcy on Jan. 3, the hospital cited “financial and operational challenges resulting from the pandemic,” resulting in “large loss.”

“I am grateful to the governor for prioritizing state assistance so Madera Community Hospital, and

other struggling hospitals, have access to emergency funding,” said Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria, who represents communities in California’s Central Valley.

For Madera Community Hospital, the loss of staff and the complete shut down means the hospital will see some changes as it attempts to reopen. Along with OB, ER, outpatient and surgery services, the hospital also operated The Rural Health Clinics, which closed on Jan. 10. It is unclear whether efforts would be made to reopen these facilities under the Distressed Hospital Loan Program or if they qualify at all.

But Assemblywoman Soria is not deterred by the work that will have to be done. “Reopening Madera Community Hospital has been my top priority this year, and today’s action gives me hope toward restoring emergency health care, labor and delivery services, and preventative care access that is critical to the community,” she said Tuesday.

California has one of the worst sales tax burdens in America, report says

By TOM JOYCE THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) — When it comes to sales tax, California is one of the least business-friendly states in America, according to a report released this week.

California ranked 47th out of 50 states on sales tax in a study conducted by the Tax Foundation. Low-tax states had more favorable rankings on the list, while high-tax states ranked closer to the bottom. California ranked poorly for two

reasons. One is the state’s sales tax. Its 7.25% rate is the highest in the country. Additionally, the state has a mandatory local add-on tax that differs in various parts of the state; 45 of the 50 states have at least some sales tax.

“The tax rate itself is important, and a state with a high sales tax rate reduces demand for in-state retail sales,” the report from The Tax Foundation said.

“Consumers will turn more frequently to cross-border or certain online purchases, leaving

less business activity in the state.”

California also received a low ranking due to its high fuel taxation. California’s excise tax on gasoline is 70.95 cents per gallon; on the low end, Alaska charges 15.13 cents per gallon — a difference of more than 55 cents per gallon.

“Gasoline represents a large input for most businesses, so states that levy higher rates have a less competitive business tax climate,” the Tax Foundation Report said. However, California did not top

Congressmen introduce legislation to create national infrastructure bank

By ANNIKA BAHNSEN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

U.S. Reps. Salud Carbajal

and Daniel Webster, who are senior leaders of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, introduced bipartisan legislation Tuesday in recognition of National Infrastructure Week. This legislation would authorize the creation of a national infrastructure bank.

The bank created by the lawmakers’ bill, the National Infrastructure Investment Corporation Act, would enable private dollars to be pulled to give local governments another way to finance critical infrastructure projects in their communities.

Reps. Webster and Carbajal currently serve as the chair and ranking member, respectively, of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.

“I am proud to stand with my colleague and fellow leader on our

Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Congressman Webster, to recognize the continuing need this Infrastructure Week with the introduction of this simple yet potentially seismic bill that would unlock billions of dollars

a year in private funding to support our nation’s most pressing infrastructure projects,” said Rep. Carbajal, D-Santa Barbara.

The bank created by the NIIC Act would be authorized to provide loans and loan guarantees to local infrastructure projects, giving local governments another potential funding source in addition to support provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law or other federal and state funding sources.

“It is a bipartisan consensus that America’s infrastructure is long overdue for critical repairs and needs advancements,” said Rep. Webster, R-Fla.

The bank’s available funding for supporting local projects would come from municipal, state, and union pension funds loaned to the bank. These would earn interest on the funds and repay the principal in time for the workers to utilize their retirement savings, according to Rep. Carbajal’s office.

email: abahnsen@newspress.com

Student loan debt forgiveness and grants declared tax-free in California

By RIA ROEBUCK JOSEPH THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) — Among a slew of early action trailer bills signed by California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday to take immediate effect, is Personal Income Tax law AB 111.

This bill declares student loan forgiveness and higher education emergency grants related to the COVID-19 pandemic are excluded from taxation.

For taxable years from Jan. 1, 2022, to Jan. 1, 2027, any forgiven unpaid fees due or owed by a student, including a student at a community college, will be excluded from the student’s gross income.

For taxable years from Jan. 1, 2020, to Jan. 1, 2028, specified higher education emergency

grants for post secondary education will be excluded from the student’s gross income.

For taxable years from Jan. 2021 to Jan. 1 2026, the amount of certain student loans discharged, completely or in part, will be excluded from the student’s gross income, in line with federal law. The purpose of the bill’s exclusion of these funds as gross income is to provide financial relief to recipients of specified pandemic relief funds and ease the tax burden of pandemicimpacted individuals.

During oral arguments raised at the U.S. Supreme Court hearing on the matter, proponents of student loan forgiveness said that the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students (HEROES) Act gives the Education Department

secretary the authority to “waive or modify any statutory or regulatory provision applicable to the student financial assistance programs.”

The act does include a provision to ensure that individuals impacted by economic hardship as a direct result of a national emergency are not placed in a worse position financially, “as determined by the Secretary.”

While the HEROES Act does not use the terms “forgiveness,” “discharge” or “cancellation” in connection with federal student loans, opponents say the estimated $400 billion does not describe a waiver and the price tag makes it fall under congressional authority, showing a clear concern for the separation of powers.

the list on tax rates for tobacco, spirits and beer. New York and Connecticut topped the list for tobacco, taxing a pack of cigarettes at $4.35; Tennessee taxing beer at $1.29 per gallon topped the rankings; and Washington taxing spirits at $37.81 per gallon put it above the other states.

At 47th on the list, California only ranked better than Louisiana (48th), Washington (49th) and Alabama (50th), all of which heavily rely on consumption taxes for revenue.

COURTESY PHOTO

Gov. Gavin Newsom

Rep. Salud Carbajal

Federal debt ceiling talks continues as June 1 deadline approaches

By BRETT ROWLAND THE CENTER SQUARE INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER

(The Center Square) — Both sides agreed some progress was made Tuesday in talks over the nation’s debt ceiling ahead of a June 1 deadline.

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris met with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell on Tuesday in the White House.

Speaker McCarthy, R-Bakersfield, said a deal could be reached before the June 1 deadline as discussions continue.

“It is possible to get a deal by the end of the week,” Speaker McCarthy said after the meeting, although he said the sides are still far apart on terms. Rep. McCarthy said President Biden’s decision to appoint people Tuesday to work with his negotiating team was “productive.”

Minority Leader McConnell, R-Kentucky, said, again, that President Biden and Speaker McCarthy need to make a deal.

Majority Leader Schumer, D-New York, also said the meeting was productive.

“Everyone agreed that default would be the worse outcome – a horrible situation for America

and America’s families,” he said. “But we also agreed that we need to pass a bipartisan bill with bipartisan support in both chambers.”

House Republicans passed a bill to reduce spending by almost $5 trillion and increase the debt limit by about $1.5 trillion, or until March 31, 2024, whichever comes first. The Republican bill would strip energy and environmental tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act and formally block Biden’s student loan cancellation. It also would put work requirements in place for some federal social programs, such as requiring Medicaid recipients to work 80 hours per month.

Sen. Schumer said that bill was not bipartisan.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said lawmakers must raise the debt ceiling by June 1 or risk a default on U.S. debt obligations. But when exactly the U.S. will run short remains an estimate. On Tuesday, Secretary Yellen said the U.S. Department of the Treasury said “it is impossible to predict with certainty the exact date when Treasury will be unable to pay all of the government’s bills.”

The debt ceiling is the maximum amount of debt the U.S. Department of the Treasury can issue.

“Our current best estimate underscores the urgency of

this moment: it is essential that Congress act as soon as possible,”

Secretary Yellen said Tuesday at Independent Community Bankers of America 2023 Capital Summit.

“In my assessment – and that of economists across the board –a U.S. default would generate an economic and financial catastrophe.”

Last week, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office projected that “if the debt limit remains unchanged, there is a significant risk that at some point in the first two weeks of June, the government will no longer be able to pay all of its obligations.”

Earlier on Tuesday, U.S. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., put the blame on President Biden.

“Why did the president wait until we’re only days away from that X-date when he could have been negotiating back in February?” Rep. Scalise said at a news conference Tuesday morning. “We know the date is not an exact number, it may be a couple of days before, a couple of days after. That’s out of our control. But at the end of the day, we’ve all know it is going to be around this time.”

Majority Leader Scalise said President Biden has yet to put forth his own plan except for asking Congress for a “blank check,” which Rep. Scalise said

even the Democrat-controlled Senate couldn’t pass.

“The president has been running out the clock for months,” Rep. Scalise said.

Last week, the Congressional Budget Office released its Updated Budget Outlook, which projects the budget deficit will total $1.5 trillion this year and rise to $2.9 trillion by 2033. It also projects the national debt will reach a record 107% of the economy by 2028 and grow to 119% by 2033.

Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, said it was time to reduce the nation’s deficit.

“If ever negotiators needed a sign they should be pursuing deficit reduction, this is it. We absolutely must raise the debt limit as soon as possible – without drama and without any threat of default,” she said in a statement. “At the same time, inflation and interest rates are too high, and our fiscal path is unsustainable. We need over $8 trillion of 10year deficit reduction just to hold debt at its current share of the economy.”

Ms. MacGuineas said any plan to address the nation’s debt must include changes to Social Security, Medicare and the tax code. She said progress could be made by enacting multi-year discretionary spending caps.

Food stamps cost double pre-pandemic levels but soon to drop

By TOM GANTERT THE CENTER SQUARE MANAGING EDITOR

(The Center Square) — Food stamp costs in the U.S. still remained at double the cost pre-pandemic in the last month many states offered the COVID-19 supplement.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently released food assistance costs for February, which saw a slight decline but still far above preCOVID spending.

The average monthly benefit per person was $248.48 in February, the lowest cost in the 2023 Fiscal Year which began in October. But it was still more than double the cost of $121.21

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lanes were previously created into bypass lanes, but those were completed in April.

Mr. Median said the project is scheduled to be completed in winter 2023-2024, with three lanes open in each direction,

Mr. Medina also shared some motorist safety tips as you travel through these stretches of Highway 101.

“Caltrans strongly urges motorists to obey the reduced speed limit of 55 mph in the U.S. Highway 101 construction zone for their own safety and that of fellow motorists, as well as

in February 2020, the last month before many of the states imposed COVID-19 lockdowns in response to the pandemic.

The food stamp costs were $10.58 billion in February, compared to $4.47 billion in February 2020. There were 32 states and Washington, D.C. that received the extended COVID-19 supplement through February. For example, in Michigan food assistance was increased by at least $95 more per month due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 stopped the supplements after the issuance of February 2023 benefits, according to the USDA.

workers,” he said.

Mr. Medina also wanted to remind motorists that fines are doubled for speeding violations. For updated road closures, check quickmap.dot.ca.gov. In addition to Monday’s fatality, a motorcyclist died the evening of May 10 when he crashed into the right concrete K-rail on northbound Highway 101, near the new traffic pattern. The Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the motorcyclist as Richard Vincent, 76, of Santa Barbara. The crash happened near San Padre Juan Canyon Road above Faria Beach.

email: abahnsen@newspress.com

At left, the price for regular gas begins at $4.459 a gallon at the 76 station at Fairview Avenue and Calle Real in Goleta. At right, gas sells for $4.519 a gallon at Fuel Depot at Fairview Avenue and Calle Real.

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decrease from one year ago in Santa Barbara County, California and the rest of the nation.

Mr. De Haan, the Gas Buddy analyst, posted on Twitter: “ ... the entire reason for the $1/gal drop is basically the worst fears

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heating, air conditioning and plumbing— to be done to the jail. It would take about 27 months to complete.

At the Northern Branch Jail near Santa Maria, the county hopes to build two new pods. This would add about 1,200 new beds to the jail. This would cost $142 million.

Jeff Frapwall, an assistant county executive officer, explained that although the county would ideally like two new pods to be constructed, the county has made alternate options for one or one and a half to be built. This could take up to 60 months to complete.

After these renovations were explained by General Services, the board asked some clarifying questions, then opened the meeting up for public comments.

The comments had a variety of voices, some more passionate than others.

A common theme was the positive impact that the jail

PEEPING

Continued from Page A1 mental disorder shall be provided by the defense and shall include a diagnosis or treatment for a diagnosed mental disorder within the last five years by a qualified mental health expert,” the statute says.

“In opining that a defendant suffers from a qualifying disorder, the qualified mental health expert may rely on an

after Russia’s invasion didn’t play out, plus economic headwinds limiting consumption...”.

Andrew Gross, energy analyst for AAA, said the oil market took an “overly negative” view of how the war would impact the oil market, and that’s why gas prices were so high a year ago.

“Now, they are, ‘Oh. Wait. Russian oil is still getting out,’”

Mr. Gross said.

The trend of lower gas prices should continue, barring unforeseen circumstances, Mr. De Haan told The Center Square.

“That’s typical for summer,” he said. “A peak in price before the summer starts due to the transition to summer gasoline and refinery maintenance, but once the transition is done and

refineries are back, supply builds and prices ease.”

The next challenge will be the hurricane season, which starts in the middle of June and lasts until the end of September. Mr. Gross said that could have a big impact on the cost of gas going forward. News-Press Managing Editor Dave Mason contributed to this report.

improvements could have on the community. One community member mentioned the disproportionate number of people of color within the jailing system and said the chance to provide them with better facilities is the least the county can do.

examination of the defendant, the defendant’s medical records, arrest reports or any other relevant evidence.”

For any defendant who satisfies the eligibility requirements, the court must consider whether the defendant is suitable for pretrial diversion based on a qualified mental health expert stating his symptoms caused, contributed to, or motivated the alleged criminal behavior and that he would respond to mental health treatment.

Santa Maria Police Chief Marc Schneider shared his comments as well. He explained that there is a need for mental health services within local jails. After the many comments given by the public, the board reviewed some of their concerns and further questions with Mr.

The defendant would have to consent to diversion, and agree to waive his right to speedy trial.

He also must not pose an unreasonable risk of danger to public safety if treated in the community.

It’s likely the judge would agree with the last criteria, given that Mr, Asinobi was granted pretrial supervised release based on his lack of criminal history, age and lack of new violations.

The terms and conditions of his release are: no contact with all

Lagerquist. No decisions were made in this meeting, but further discussion will expand on these renovation requests.

This portion of the meeting lasted close to two hours, the longest item on the agenda. email: abahnsen@newspress.com

victims, stay away from Isla Vista, GPS monitoring, reside with his parents, a curfew of not being able to leave his home before 7 a.m. and being home by 10 p.m., no electronics/recording devices except for accessing his father’s computer for the purposes of school and medical reasons, and a cellphone with the condition of only using it to call his parents and for medical purposes.

email: nhartsteinnewspress@ gmail.com

DAVE MASON /NEWS-PRESS PHOTOS

RAFAEL MALDONADO /NEWS-PRESS FILE PHOTO

Proposed renovations for the Main Jail in Santa Barbara would cost $17.5 million.

Life theArts

50 years of community service

Carpinteria Rotary Foundation continues its long list of projects

By KIRA LOGAN NEWS-PRESS CORRESPONDENT

‘Service above self” is the Carpinteria Rotary Foundation’s motto, which is to be proven true by its extensive list of community service events and programs.

The Carpinteria Rotary Foundation, specifically the Noon Rotary, was founded in 1973. After several decades, the morning club and sunset club emerged to create, along with the Noon Rotary, three different meeting times for members. The foundation’s mission is to benefit charitable programs and help as much as possible, in Carpinteria and surrounding areas.

The foundation, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary, has been known to collaborate with the Parks and Recreation departments, community events, senior citizens, and mentally and physically disadvantaged people.

Members are very diversified, according to Community Service Chair Bonnie Yonker.

“The ex-mayor, engineers, attorneys, farmers; all kinds of people with different political coming from divergent walks of life are apart of the foundation,” Mrs. Yonker said. “We all work together.”

The Rotary Foundation in Carpinteria holds a myriad of different events throughout the year, all aimed at a different cause of people to help.

The foundation holds an Alzheimer’s support group, Movie in the Parks, and Relay for Life, which only scratches the surface of the help the foundation brings to its local communities.

The foundation also hosts an annual Carpinteria cleanup day and works with the Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, Junior

Chuck Wagon Bar-B-Qs back at Cuyama Buckhorn

By KIRA LOGAN NEWS-PRESS CORRESPONDENT

Cuyama Buckhorn has announced the return of its famous Chuck Wagon BarB-Qs, beginning this weekend with live music and fresh food.

The resort is at 4923 Primero St., New Cuyama.

The Buckhorn’s Chuck Wagon tradition began in 1958, which became a beloved add-on for the original motel. Rediscovered old newspaper clippings with ads for the barbecues inspired the team to bring the tradition back and recreate the original camaraderie.

Daniel Horn, the executive chef, will be cooking open-fire meals with comfort food classics including: tri-tip, smoked brisket, biscuits, mac & cheese, ribs, and potato salad, to name a few.

The team will cook on the motel’s Santa Maria Grill on the garden patio, where guests can watch.

The menu will rotate for each event, though always including multiple proteins, side dishes, desserts, as well as options for kids for each variety. Further, there will be farm-to-glass cocktails and other drink specials available.

There will be live music and entertainment at each Chuck Wagon Bar-B-Q, as well as local vendors on-site. The familyfriendly Chuck Wagon Bar-B-Qs are open to the public and to hotel guests.

Tickets are $30 per adult and $18 per child with various discounts for buy-ahead rates.

Different performers will be rotating each weekend. The

CALENDAR

first weekend, there will be performances by The Turkey Buzzards, local Cowboy Poet and Dick Gibford on Saturday, from 4 to 8 p.m. There will be live music by Fist Full of Nickels on June 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. On July 15 between 4 and 8 p.m., Wally Barnick will perform.

Tracy Morgan will perform on Aug. 19 from 4 to 8 p.m. On Sept. 16 from 4 to 8 p.m., The Soda Crackers will perform. Finally, The Paypals will perform from 4 to 8 p.m. Oct. 2. email: klogan@newspress.com

COURTESY PHOTO

The 37th annual California Strawberry Festival, which includes activities such as a pie toss, is moving this year to the Ventura County Fairgrounds in Ventura from College Park in Oxnard. The event will take place Saturday and Sunday at its new site.

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.

TODAY 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.: The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol Road, has reopened its permanent mineral exhibit of rocks and crystals that is on view in the small hall off the museum’s central courtyard. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays. The exhibit, which opened April 22, is included in museum admission. Members are always admitted free. For others, prices vary from $14 to $19. For more information, visit sbnature.org/minerals.

Noon to 5 p.m. “Clarence

Mattei: Portrait of a Community” is on view now through May at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, which is located in downtown Santa Barbara at 136 E. De la Guerra St. Admission is free. Hours are currently from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays and from noon to 7 p.m. Thursdays. For more information, visit www.sbhistorical. org.

Appointment on weekdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays: “Holly Hungett: Natural Interpretations” is on view through May 20 at the Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara’s gallery, 229 E. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. The gallery is open 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays and weekdays by appointment. For more information, call the foundation at 805-965-6307 or go to www.afsb.org.

MAY 18 3 to 5 p.m. A recruitment reception for volunteer docents will take place at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St. The year-long training course begins each September. For more information or to attend, visit www.sbma.net/docent or contact education@sbma.net.

MAY 19

7:30 to 8:45 p.m.: The Allan Hancock College Jazz Band will perform at the Fine Arts Complex at the Santa Maria campus at 800 S.College Drive.

MAY 20 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The 37th annual California Strawberry Festival will be held at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd. in Ventura. General admission is $15. For active military and their dependents with IDs and seniors 62 years and older, admission is $10, and for ages 5 to 12, admission is $8. Children 4 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www. castrawberryfestival.org or upon entry to the festival.

MAY 21 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The 37th annual California Strawberry Festival will be held from at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd. in Ventura. General admission is $15. For active military and their dependents with IDs and seniors 62 years and older, admission is $10, and for ages 5 to 12, admission is $8. Children 4 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.

Managing Editor Dave Mason dmason@newspress.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2023

At left, members of the foundation participate in a Creek Cleanup Week, cleaning up local creeks around the area. From left are Rotary members Dave Durfl inger, Barry and Pam Enticknap, Tom Collins, Bonnie Yonker, Sophie Yonker, Apple Academy and Jon Everett. At right, the Talent Showcase Rotary Committee meets in the back of Island Brewing to work on details of its biggest fundraiser of the year.

Cuyama Buckorn is located at 4923 Primero St., New Cuyama.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Executive Chef Daniel Horn, seen here at the Santa Maria Grill at Cuyama Buckhorn, will cook an open-

re feast with farm-to-table comfort food with the return of Chuck Wagon Bar-B-Qs at the resort in New Cuyama.

PHOTOS COURTESY ROTARY FOUNDATION

The Rotary Foundation poses with Carpinteria High School’s Interact Club. The foundation is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Please see ROTARY on B2

New 3D catheter used in Santa Maria hospital

By KIRA LOGAN NEWS-PRESS CORRESPONDENT

Marian Regional Medical Center is the first to announce the implementation of the new 3D Intracardiac Echo catheter, called NuvisonNAV, by Biosense Webster.

The Santa Maria hospital noted it has created a significant advancement in the treatment and diagnosis of abnormal heart rhythms. With this new technology, cardiologists can now view an entire chamber of the heart while beating, in 3D, in intricate detail and live-time while performing minimally invasive procedures.

Dr. Brett Gidney, a cardiac electrophysiologist in Santa Maria, was the first to perform this groundbreaking procedure using this new advanced technology at Marian Regional Medical Center.

“I’m proud to say the first ever procedure was a success,” Dr. Gidney said. “While it may take some time for this technology to be adopted globally, Marian Regional Medical Center has been honored as the first institution worldwide to implement the new catheter in patients.”

This new technology is giving access to a better understanding of the heart’s rhythm and allows for increased precision in the maneuvering of catheters within the heart. This should directly point out the source of life-changing and lifethreatening abnormal heart rhythms, according to Marian.

Leah Shady, a Biosense Webster executive clinical account specialist, said Dr.

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Continued from Page B1

castrawberryfestival.org or upon entry to the festival. 2 p.m. Free concerts take place at 2 p.m. Sundays through July 9 at Hitching Post Wines’ tasting room, 420 State Route 246, Buellton. For more information, visit hpwines. com.

Las Cafeteras to perform in Santa Barbara County

¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! will present Las Cafeteras in free concerts this weekend to wrap up the 2022-23 season.

Performances are set for:

• 7 p.m. Friday at Isla Vista Elementary School, 6875 El Colegio Road, Isla Vista.

• 7 p.m. Saturday at Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St., Guadalupe.

• 7 p.m. Sunday at The Marjorie Luke Theatre at Santa Barbara

Junior High School, 721 E, Cota St., Santa Barbara.

Las Cafeteras has played everywhere from the Hollywood Bowl to the Montreal International Jazz Festival.

The band is known for its mix of Afro-Mexican rhythms, electronic beats and music varying from Americana to soul, Son Jarocho, rock and hip hop.

¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara!

is a collaboration among UCSB

Arts & Lectures, The Marjorie Luke Theatre, the GuadalupeNipomo Dunes Center, and the Isla Vista School Parent Teacher Association serving Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Maria, Guadalupe and New Cuyama. For more information, see artsandlectures.ucsb.edu/learn/ viva-el-arte-de-santa-barbara.

— Dave Mason

CENTER

At top, a team at Marian Regional Medical Center holds the new catheter technology. Above, “I’m proud to say the first ever procedure was a success,” said Dr. Brett Gidney. “While it may take some time for this technology to be adopted globally, Marian Regional Medical Center has been honored as the first institution worldwide to implement the new catheter in patients.”

Gidney has performed a record amount of ablation procedures at Marian. “His expertise is invaluable, and he has a great excitement for new technology!” This new catheter technology helps reduce the risk of

MAY 22 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. The Allan Hancock College Symphonic Band will perform at the Fine Arts Complex at the Santa Maria campus, 800 S. College Drive.

JUNE 3 4 to 7 p.m. Zoo Brew, the Santa Barbara Zoo’s annual fundraiser that caters to beer and animal lovers alike, will take place from 4 to 7 p.m.

complications and can take less time to complete the procedure than 2D technology, which was used previously, according to Marian.

email: klogan@newspress.com

with a VIP hour from 3 to 4 p.m. The zoo is at 500 Ninos Drive, Santa Barbara. General admission tickets are $75 per person and include unlimited beer tastings and one Zoo Brew 2023 commemorative tasting cup, and VIP tickets are $110. All proceeds benefit the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo. For more information, call 805-962-5339.

— Dave Mason

Las Cafeteras is known for its mix of Afro-Mexican rhythms, electronic beats and music varying from Americana to soul, Son Jarocho, rock and hip hop.

PET of the WEEK

Kekona

Kekona would like to be your friend.

The orange and white tabby is awaiting adoption at Volunteers For Inter-Valley Animals in Lompoc. Kekona, who’s 3 or 4 years old, is known at the shelter for his friendly and sweet personality. He likes to roll into a person’s hand and purr.

When the owner gave Kekona to the shelter for personal reasons not related to the cat, she told the shelter he had some mouth issues.

VIVA took him to the veterinarian, who found it necessary to do a full mouth extraction. Kekona has only his canines remaining, and VIVA said that should take care of any future mouth troubles. Once his gums heal, he will be able to eat dry food again. But for now, he’s doing well with wet food. To meet Kekona, or any of the other VIVA cats, call the shelter at 805-735-6741. Or visit www.vivashelter.org and fill out an application. A coordinator will contact you with a private appointment to meet the cats.

— 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

ROTARY

Continued from Page B1

Carpinterian of the Year and the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History. The organization also awards college scholarships to local students.

The foundation’s work also includes participation in the Heifer Project, in which the foundation buys animals such as goats and cows, which in turn get donated to families. The families utilize their animals and gain milk and food.

Further, Mrs. Yonker explained how the foundation has a strong focus in music education.

The foundation works in conjunction with the Carpinteria Unified School District. They buy students their instruments with a case and a music stand, and pay for students’ afterschool music lessons.

“Over the years, we’ve reached 25,000 instruments for kids,” Mrs. Yonker said. “We have raised so much money for the music program.”

The foundation has global outreach and considers themselves a leading cause for the elimination of Polio.

“Rotary was a huge force in eradicating global Polio. (The foundation) has reduced polio cases by 99.9%, and Rotary

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

members have contributed to more than 2.1 million dollars with the hope to protect children in over 122 countries,” Mrs. Yonker said.

Continuing the extensive list of Rotary Foundation events, its biggest annual fundraiser is the Talent Showcase.

The showcase has been a tradition with the foundation for the past 14 years, and the talent ranges from acrobats to singers — some even known to go onto “The Voice.”

“We have a red carpet rolled out, and we greet people at the door. We offer champagne and beer, then attendees get their program and go sit down,” Mrs. Yonker explained when asked to describe the event.

The Alcar Theatre in Carpinteria has 200 seats, so the most recent showcase, held there on April 15, sold out completely.

“Because of the great sponsorships we’ve had, for the past two years tickets have been free,” she said.

Mrs. Yonker pointed out Roland Rotz, who she said deserves a lot of credit for choosing the talent and working hard with the performers.

There are about 20 performers in the showcase, which is usually accompanied by an auction or raffle to raise more money for the foundation.

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

The considerable list of the foundation’s work does not go unnoticed, and Mrs. Yonker commented, “We’re really there whenever something is needed. We try to help as much as we can.”

The 50th anniversary for the Rotary Foundation is around the corner in July, and the organization is planning to celebrate. The event will be a dinner with tickets sold mainly to rotary members and affiliates, with more details to come.

The foundation meets the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. “We try to have an interesting speaker come to our lunch,” Mrs. Yonkers said. “We talk about our community projects and such.”

Mrs. Yonker explained anyone can join the foundation: “You don’t have to know anyone! You can just come in and say hi. If you want to come to a meeting and have a plan to do something, we will help you.”

Mrs. Yonker explains how happy she feels when she gives back, and how she wants other people to feel that same optimism.

The Rotary Foundation’s 50th anniversary is on the horizon, with a multitude of opportunities to become involved in.

email: klogan@newspress.com

PHOTOS COURTESY MARIAN REGIONAL MEDICAL

COURTESY PHOTO

Diversions

Thought for Today

“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” —

Zig Ziglar

HOROSCOPE

Horoscope.com

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

ARIES — A number of loving communications may come your way from people who live in distant states or exotic lands. You’re feeling especially affectionate now, Aries, particularly regarding those closest to you. It might not be a bad idea to get on the phone and talk to people you may not have seen in a long time.

TAURUS — A small amount of money might come your way today, Taurus. It could be a gift, dividend, or bonus. You may want to squander it on gifts for yourself and others rather than put it to more practical use, which is perfectly fine! Books may be especially appealing, particularly those on new spiritual or metaphysical ideas.

GEMINI — You should feel and look great today, Gemini. Your charm and social skills are at a high level, and your joviality and gift for conversation should make you a welcome guest at any social event. And you should be invited to a lot of them - perhaps too many! Enjoy this special time of sociability and friendship.

CANCER — Your psychic abilities and imagination are operating at a very high level, Cancer. You face other people with a profound, spiritual love. They will return it! You might want to write down your thoughts or draw pictures of whatever pops into your mind, even if you don’t feel you have talent.

LEO — Some friends associated with a group you admire might take you to some kind of rally, Leo. This could be a lot of fun for you. You could make some new friends. You’re naturally inclined toward humanitarian concerns, and these might be the focus of some animated discussions today.

VIRGO — You’re naturally a kind, compassionate person, Virgo. Today your feelings are likely to be focused not only on those close to you but also on all the world’s population. A feeling of unity with the billions you’ve never met could overwhelm you now. You might want to write down your impressions so you can refer to them later.

LIBRA — With today’s planetary aspects, Libra, you’re likely to feel a rush of love. This

includes love for family, friends, partner, and all life forms. The reality of spiritual advancement through love is all around you. Your artistic sensibilities are very high, so you might want to write, draw, or paint something that captures your thoughts and feelings.

SCORPIO — You’re feeling especially loving and passionate, Scorpio, and likely to want to pursue a romantic encounter with the special person in your life. Money matters look positive, as your intuition regarding money management has been working well and is likely to continue. Your psychic and intuitive faculties are wide open and receptive.

SAGITTARIUS — Today is a great time to form or strengthen romantic relationships, Sagittarius. If you aren’t involved, chances are you will meet someone. If you are, expect your relationship to develop a new spiritual bond. New friendships, particularly with people who share your interests, are on the horizon.

CAPRICORN — This is an ideal day to begin a creative venture, Capricorn. You’ve had many ideas and creative urges. Today it’s time to choose one and take the first step to making your vision a reality. You will find that the form will change. This is no reason to be discouraged. It’s part of the normal evolution of any work of art. The key here is to begin.

AQUARIUS — Your naturally loving nature gets a boost today, Aquarius. You could look especially attractive, so don’t be surprised if you draw admiring looks from strangers. Romantic novels and movies could seem appealing now, but you’re more interested in the real thing. If you can, try to schedule alone time with the special person in your life.

PISCES — Your energy might turn toward beautifying your home, Pisces. Perhaps you’ve decided to repaint or go in a completely new direction in your decorating taste. Posters or other souvenirs of foreign lands might also be especially appealing now. Expect someone to drop by and bring some interesting news that might get your mind going a thousand miles an hour.

DAILY BRIDGE

By FRANK STEWART Tribune Content Agency

Wednesday,May17,2023

SometimesIthinkanadditional callshouldbeavailableinthe auction:Whenaplayerdoublesa contractforpenalty,heshouldbe abletore-examinehand,reconsider —andundouble.

Intoday’sdeal,EastraisedWest’s onehearttotwo.WhenSouthbidtwo spades,Westjumpedtofourhearts, andaftertwopasses,Southtriedfour spades.West’sdoublewasill-judged.

SouthruffedWest’ssecondhigh heartwiththekingoftrumps.He ledhisfivetodummy’ssevenand returned the three of clubs to his jack. Westtookthekingandledanother heart.Southruffed,wenttotheace oftrumpsandletthetenofclubsride.

REMORSE

Westwasstartingtohave doubler’sremorse,butitwastoo latetoundouble.Southnextleda diamondtohiskingandlostonly onediamond.Makingfour,doubled. Wellplayed.

“Idon’tknowwhyIdoubled,” Westsaid,“butheneededtheseven oftrumpsindummytomakeit.”

Actually,Southcansucceedwith best play if dummy’s trumps are A-2.

DAILYQUESTION

Youhold: A7 963 6532 10943. Yourpartner openstwoclubs(strong,artificial), yourespondtwodiamonds(negative

SUDOKU

CODEWORD PUZZLE

INSTRUCTIONS

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

Sudoku puzzles appear on the Diversions page Monday through Saturday.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers to previous CODEWORD

How to play Codeword

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

orwaiting),hebidstwoheartsand youtry2NT.Partnerthenbidsthree hearts.Whatdoyousay?

ANSWER: Partnerpromisesnine winnersinhisownhand.WithA7, 963,K532,10943,you would haveraisedtwoheartstothreeto showsomevalues.Withthreetrumps andanace,yousurelymustbidfour heartsnow.

Westdealer

Bothsidesvulnerable