2026 Honorees
Alexander Kowblansky, MD; David Lebell, MD; Jerry Marynuik, MD
Retired Physicians of the Year
As founding members of Ventura Emergency Physicians, Drs. Alexander Kowblansky, David Lebell, and Jerome “Jerry” Maryniuk launched what would become a legacy of exceptional emergency care in Ventura. Before 1985, Community Memorial’s emergency services was a single nurse-staffed treatment room — until their vision established our hospital’s first Emergency Department. Initially serving 500 patients, this vital team now serves more than 75,000 each year.
Retired Physicians of the Year
As founding members of Ventura Emergency Physicians, Drs. Alexander Kowblansky, David Lebell, and Jerome “Jerry” Maryniuk launched what would become a legacy of exceptional emergency care in Ventura. Before 1985, Community Memorial’s emergency services was a single nurse-staffed treatment room — until their vision established our hospital’s first Emergency Department. Initially serving 500 patients, this vital team now serves more than 75,000 each year.
Ventura Emergency Physicians
Active Physicians of the Year
VEP is an award-winning ER team with 41 years of service, recognized for excellence in geriatric, cardiac, STEMI, sepsis, and stroke care. Their low transfer rate keeps over 95% of emergency patients here in Ventura. They are long-time supporters of Community Memorial Foundation, fueling our mission to provide leading-edge care.
Active Physicians of the Year
VEP is an award-winning ER team with 41 years of service, recognized for excellence in geriatric, cardiac, STEMI, sepsis, and stroke care. Their low transfer rate keeps over 95% of emergency patients here in Ventura. They are long-time supporters of Community Memorial Foundation, fueling our mission to provide leading-edge care.
Tony Fowkes
Community Leader of the Year
For more than 50 years, Anthony “Tony” Fowkes has championed every major campaign and fundraising effort in support of Community Memorial Hospital. He was a founding member of the Benefactors’ Ball committee, which later became the Foundation Board that we know today. Now an Emeritus member, Tony leaves a lasting impact rooted in generosity, compassion, and community.
Community Leader of the Year
For more than 50 years, Anthony “Tony” Fowkes has championed every major campaign and fundraising effort in support of Community Memorial Hospital. He was a founding member of the Benefactors’ Ball committee, which later became the Foundation Board that we know today. Now an Emeritus member, Tony leaves a lasting impact rooted in generosity, compassion, and community.
