SB battalion chief named Elks Citizen of the Year
The Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge No. 2640 has named Santa Barbara Fire Department Battalion Chief Matt Farris as its Citizen of the Year.
“Mr. Farris’ bravery and leadership from fire to mudslides made this a very easy decision for me,” said lodge Exalted Ruler Stefan Ornelaz. “It was my true pleasure to give him this award.”
For more information about the Santa Ynez Valley Elks, visit syvelks.com.
Continued rebuilding cancels Circle V summer camps
As rebuilding efforts continue at Circle V Ranch Camp, St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles has announced that its camp near Lake Cachuma will not host camps this summer.
“We are continuing to rebuild after the Whittier wildfire that burned through our camp and surrounding areas on July 8, 2017. We regret that we will not be offering 2018 summer camp sessions for more than 1.000 children from throughout Southern California. Our strong goal is to reopen in 2019,” said David Fields, executive director of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles, operators of the camp.
“Our staff and volunteers are sad that Circle V is not quite ready yet to welcome back campers,” Camp Director Ray Lopez added. “We are continuing to work with our rebuilding crews and look forward to opening as soon as we can in 2019. We thank everyone for their continued patience and support.”
The Whittier wildfire began on July 8, 2017, burning throughout the camp and surrounding areas. Circle V lost its water system and many buildings.
Donations to help in rebuilding can be made at www.svdpla.org/donate/rebuild-camp.
State cattlemen group endorses Justin Fareed
Republican candidate Justin Fareed in California’s 24th Congressional District has received the endorsement of the California Cattlemen’s Association (CCA).
“The ranching community would be proud to have you as our representative and our ally in the halls of Congress,” said CCA President Dave Daly.
“As a third-generation California rancher, I am honored to have the support of such an esteemed organization,” Fareed said.
Fareed cited the importance of Central Coast agriculture as a $3.8 billion industry that brings more 40,000 jobs to the region.
“I am firmly committed to presenting solutions in Washington that help create jobs on the Central Coast and to reining in burdensome regulations to afford family farmers and ranchers the opportunity to thrive,” he said.
Fareed also is president of a small business in Santa Barbara, Proband Sports Industries. He graduated from UCLA with a degree in political science and worked for a senior member of Congress, where he handled various matters pertaining to foreign relations, small business, agriculture, commerce, manufacturing and trade.
