Author: Community Contributor

LEAP in Santa Barbara Receives National Diaper Need Awareness Week Proclamation

The proclamation, introduced by 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann and co-sponsored by 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps, acknowledges the critical issue of diaper need – the inability to afford enough clean diapers. It highlights the adverse impact this has on the health and well-being of children and families. National surveys conducted by the National Diaper Bank Network (NDBN) indicate that nearly one in two families struggle with diaper need, with many parents being forced to skip meals or delay changing diapers to extend their supply.

Rebozo Festival announces 2025 grant application is now open

VENTURA COUNTY — Rebozo Festival Inc. is pleased to announce that awards of up to $30,000 will be granted to qualified non-profit organizations that focus on cultural, social and/or education needs of the Ventura County community. The application process will open Sept. 2 and will close Sept. 30, 2024 at 5 p.m.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Disaster Declaration for Small Businesses Economically Impacted by the July Lake Fire

DISASTER DECLARATION FOR SMALL BUSINESSES ECONOMICALLY IMPACTED BY THE JULY LAKE FIRE

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) declared a disaster on September 4 for damages to businesses resulting from the Lake Fire, which occurred from July 5 – August 4, 2024. This is an opportunity for business owners to apply for working capital for those who were economically impacted by the Lake Fire. The deadline to apply for economic injury is June 6, 2025.

Counties Impacted by the Disaster Declaration

SBA assistance is available in Santa Barbara, Ventura, Kern and San Luis Obispo counties.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Immersive ocean health project opens at AlloSphere for Getty PST ART’ and more news, events

The AlloSphere opens to the public with “Sketches of Sensorium,” a multisensory installation exploring ocean fragility and resilience through art and science. Shows are every second Thursday and fourth Saturday.

Bilingual report — Deadline Approaching in California for SBA Working Capital Loans Due to the December 2023 Storm and Flooding

SACRAMENTO — Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, (on Sept. 11) reminded California small businesses of the Oct. 10, 2024, deadline to apply for an SBA federal disaster loan for economic injury caused by the December 2023 Storm and Flooding in Ventura County that occurred Dec. 21-23, 2023.

According to Sánchez, small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. “Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster’s impact. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the applicant suffered any property damage,” Sánchez said.

United Way of Ventura County now seeking volunteers to provide free tax preparation for low-income earners

Help low-income families and individuals improve their financial stability. Consider joining our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) team of tax preparers and interviewers for the 2024 Tax Year. Volunteers prepare federal and state tax returns at no cost, assisting clients access the tax credits to which they are eligible. Services will be provided at multiple sites across Ventura County offering the opportunity to volunteer during the day, in the evening, or on Saturday. Volunteers are asked to commit four hours per week during the VITA tax season, February 1st – April 30th. Volunteers work in teams led by an experienced tax preparer. Virtual preparation of taxes is also available.

Ventura County nurses and health care workers demand Board of Supervisors stop proposed ICU and obstetrics unit closures at Santa Paula Hospital

VENTURA — Nurses and health care workers from Ventura County will hold an informational picket and address the Board of Supervisors on Sept. 10, 2024, to oppose the board’s approval to close the Santa Paula Hospital intensive care unit (ICU) and obstetrics units, announced California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU). Staff from Santa Paula Hospital in Santa Paula, Calif., will be joined by staff from Ventura County Medical Center, in Ventura, Calif., in opposition to the move.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

SCORE: BUSINESS FORMATION UNCOVERED: NAVIGATING BUSINESS STRUCTURES

September 10 @ 10:30 am

This business formation webinar is tailored to help entrepreneurs and business owners thoroughly understand the advantages and disadvantages of each entity type (sole proprietor, LLC, s-corp.) from legal separate entities, tax reporting structures, non-tax paying entities, liabilities, asset protection and more.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Resource Management Agency appoints new public information officer

VENTURA — The County of Ventura Resource Management Agency (RMA) is excited to announce the appointment of Imosemen Omiunu as the Public Information Officer, a newly created position for the agency. This appointment was made by RMA Director Rob Mullane after a comprehensive recruitment process.

Omiunu brings nearly a decade of experience in community engagement, digital marketing, community outreach, event management, and social media management from both the public and private sectors. Most recently, she served as a Resident Director for the University of California, Santa Barbara in the University’s Residential and Community Living Department.

Ventura County Animal Services — 77 adoptions in 6 hours at Clear the Shelters!

  GREAT NEWS to share!  Despite the HEAT WAVE, 77 shelter animals got adopted at our Clear the Shelters event on Saturday, September 7th. Thank you for supporting our lifesaving mission! Ventura County Animal Services   View Adoptable Animals Support…

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Keep Fighting For Our Planet

You may have heard the news that Sable (formerly Exxon) has out-maneuvered the County in the oil pipeline dispute by revising its plans to move the safety valves underground, and outside of our jurisdiction. This will likely lead to a restarting of offshore oil drilling at the Santa Ynez Unit off of Gaviota.

Those of us who were here during the Refugio Oil Spill in 2015 know what is now at stake, and how deeply terrifying that news is.

Livingston Memorial starting Spanish-language Support Group on Sept. 24

VENTURA — El Programa de apoyo para el duelo de Livingston está agregando un grupo de apoyo para el duelo gratuito en español. El grupo de apoyo comienza el 26 de Septiembre de 2024, todos los jueves de 6:30p.m. a 8:00 p. m. en  nuestra officina en Ventura. Nuestra oficina se encuentra en 1996 Eastman Ave Suite 101 (Cuarto de Conferencia Harris) Ventura.

CSUCI gets high marks on Washington Monthly’s ‘Best Bang for your Buck’ College Guide

CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) is one of the most affordable universities in the West according to Washington Monthly’s 2024 annual College Guide.  

CSUCI ranked 24th out of 201 colleges and universities in the western region on the “Best Bang for Your Buck” list, climbing two rungs from its 2023 ranking. Each year, the Washington Monthly creates a region-by-region ranking of public, private nonprofit, and for-profit colleges in its “Best Bang for your Buck” category, based on how well an institution helps students attain marketable degrees at affordable prices. 

“I am proud of how CSUCI opens doors to higher education for individuals who may not have previously considered higher education. A degree not only transforms their lives but also uplifts their families and contributes to greater social mobility,” said President Richard Yao. “This recognition reflects our commitment to empowering students and enhancing communities through education.”

Bilingual commentary — Reaching for the Light—Just as Plants Do

As I was making lunch in my kitchen recently, I became intrigued by a phenomenon I’d noticed in the past but had not pondered to any great degree.

A plant on the countertop by the window was increasingly growing toward the sunlight. All of its leaves seemed to magically stretch toward that window. 

One805Live! Launches Online Auction in Support of Santa Barbara County First Responders

SANTA BARARA — One805 is excited to announce the launch of its One805Live! 2024 auction. This year’s auction features an extraordinary selection of exclusive items and unforgettable experiences. 

Bids and donations will benefit Santa Barbara County’s First Responders, and will help provide essential safety and life-saving equipment, along with vital mental wellness counseling, ensuring our local heroes are well-equipped to manage the challenges of their demanding roles. 

The online auction is now open for bidding and can be accessed via www.One805.org. 

Ventura County Community Development Corp. (VCCDC) reminder — Kern County Homeownership Conference on Sept. 14

Your journey to ?homeownership starts HERE!

Are you renting and dreaming of owning ?your own home in Kern County? Join us ?for a free, exclusive event tailored for ?hopeful homebuyers in Kern County like YOU! ?This is your opportunity to access the ?latest information on homebuying assistance programs, valuable resources, ?and expert advice all under one roof. ?You’ll have free access to a panel of homebuying experts, workshops and exhibits. Plus get a free pre-qualification from one of our loan experts at our on-site Loan Center. Reserve your spot now and take the ?first step towards securing your future ?home!

Bilingual report — Award-winning author Karin Klein to visit Allan Hancock College for discussion, book signing

Klein will visit the college’s Santa Maria campus on Wednesday, Sept. 18 to discuss her latest book, Rethinking College: A Guide to Thriving Without a Degree. The event will be held at the Boyd Concert Hall in the Fine Arts Complex (building F) at the college’s Santa Maria campus. The evening will begin with a community discussion at 5 p.m., followed by a book signing from 6-6:30 p.m.?

September at the Santa Paula Art Museum

Saturday, September 14, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members

Setting to work on her newest series of paintings in 2023, longtime Santa Paula artist Gail Pidduck found herself with a childlike desire to “just make art.” Her adult sensibilities insisted on a focus. Pidduck compromised with the decision to use 8″ x 8″ panels as the constraint for her paintings, while allowing herself to paint anything she wanted. Thus, “8².” The “+ 10?” 8² + 10 = 74, Pidduck’s age when the exhibit hangs, and her goal to produce 74 new paintings from which 40 will be exhibited. Join us for the premiere of Gail Pidduck’s “8² + 10” on Saturday, September 14. The exhibit will be on view through January 12, 2025. All of the artworks will be available for purchase.

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — People’s Place – Accepting Pre-Applications | Pre-Solicitudes disponibles para People’s Place

  View this email in your browser People’s Place, Santa Paula Accepting Pre-Applications | Aceptando las presolicitudes How to Apply: Visit pshhc.org/PPL to download the PDF pre-application Pre-applications are accepted by: Mail: ATTN: People’s Place, 167 S. Palm, Ventura, CA 93001…

Arlington Financial Advisors Names Financial Professional to Guide Strategic Business Development

SANTA BARBARA — Arlington Financial Advisors has named an trust professional, Frank Tabar, to guide Strategic Business Development for the Santa Barbara-based firm.

Before joining Arlington in May, Tabar spent 12 years as a Senior vice president technology officer with the Farmers & Merchants Trust Company of Long Beach; the last seven of those years he was also a senior vice president trust manager with the Farmers and Merchants Trust Company, Santa Barbara Branch. He spent two years with Bank of the West as vice president and strategic project and trust operations manager, and 15 years at Santa Barbara Bank & Trust in a variety of roles including trust client management, trust operations and compliance.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Pooch’s World: Art, Design & Architecture Museum celebrates the artistic life of Keith Puccinelli’ and more news

The exhibition situates Puccinelli’s career within the constellation of his local and regional contemporaries. 

Read more about the art opening

Oxnard College Receives $50,000 Grant Renewal from Metallica’s All Within My Hands’ Scholars Initiative

OXNARD — Oxnard College has received a $50,000 grant renewal from the Grammy Award-winning band Metallica’s foundation, All Within My Hands (AWMH). The award follows an initial grant of $100,000 issued last year and will continue supporting students in the college’s Culinary Arts, Dental Hygiene and Fire Academy programs as the band continues its multimillion-dollar investment in critical workforce programs at community colleges nationwide.

CenCal Health — Tuning in to Youth Mental Health

SANTA BARBARA — Often overlooked, mental health is a crucial aspect of a healthy childhood. Understanding emotions and developing effective coping strategies are essential milestones in a child’s social and emotional development. Mental wellness doesn’t simply mean the absence of a mental health disorder. It involves children being able to manage emotions, develop, and sustain a quality of life that includes everything from friendships to sports to family relationships. During the exciting early weeks of a new school year, parents have a valuable opportunity to tune in to their child’s mental health. 

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department announces DUI checkpoint on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired. 

During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Southeast Ventura County YMCA to receive $165,000, part of Ballmer Group donation to California State Alliance of YMCAs

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is one of nine YMCAs to share a portion of a $20 million donation from Ballmer Group to the California State Alliance of YMCAs. The funding will take place over three years and will be used to expand the YMCAs’ ability to provide programs to low-income youth. The Southeast Ventura County YMCA will receive $165,000.

Museum of Ventura County — Open-Air Dining, Vampires, and Art – All in one Newsletter!

Taste of History Dinner

Thursday, September 12
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura

Journey back in time for a classic evening of refined taste and unexpected histories. This open-air dinner will transport diners to an elegant mid-century supper club with a three-course meal and wine pairing. The decadent evening, with Al Lowe as emcee, will begin with a cocktail hour and red carpet followed by dinner, an art auction, and entertainment including a live jazz quartet, cooking demonstration, historic artifact gallery, and an oral history reading. Tickets are available HERE!

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

SCORE: EFFICIENT INVENTORY MANAGEMENT WITH QUICKBOOKS ONLINE

September 3 @ 10:30 am

Discover how to manage your inventory efficiently using QuickBooks Online. Accounting Expert & QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, Juliana Ramirez from JR Bookkeeping will demonstrate how to track inventory levels, set up reorder points and analyze inventory costs to maximize profitability.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Gold Coast Health Plan Announces Dr. Felix Nuñez has been named Acting Chief Executive Officer

Dr. Nuñez joined GCHP in 2022 as associate chief medical officer. In 2023, he assumed the role of chief medical officer. He is an accomplished board-certified family physician and health care leader with nearly three decades of leadership in managed care and health care delivery. Prior to joining GCHP, Dr. Nuñez served for eight years at Molina Healthcare of California as the regional medical director for the Inland Empire. A proud native Angeleno and Mexican-American, Dr. Nuñez is passionate about improving health care access and quality of care for underserved and vulnerable populations.

Bilingual commentary — Voting ‘Emotionally’

Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes •…

Bilingual report — Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Celebrates Latino Conservation Week (Sept. 14-22) with Bilingual Outdoor Events

SANTA BARBARA — In celebration of Latino Conservation Week, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is excited to host a range of bilingual events from Sept. 14 to Sept. 22, 2024. These events are an invitation for the Latino community and others to enjoy the outdoors together and participate in activities that help preserve our natural resources. In 2014, the Hispanic Access Foundation, through its Latino Conservation Week celebration, has recognized the Latino community’s vital contributions to conservation and environmental stewardship while expanding opportunities for outdoor engagement.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula provides update on Santa Paula Sports Park progress

“We understand that the community is eager to start enjoying the Sports Park, and we share that excitement,” said Greg Barnes, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Santa Paula. “It’s essential that we open the park when the facilities are in the best possible condition. The additional time spent ensuring the health of the turf and finalizing other details will pay off in the long run, allowing residents to fully enjoy the space without concerns about damaging newly installed turf.”

Kevin Costner & Modern West to open One805LIVE! benefit on Sept. 20

“We are thrilled that Kevin Costner is our opening act and rounds out an incredible line-up of entertainment across the musical spectrum,” said Kirsten Cavendish Weston Smith, One805 Co-Founder and CEO. “Kevin has been such a huge asset and partner to One805and our local first responders as a board member and with his annual “donation” of his incredible property for our One805Live! event.  “His generosity has been remarkable and now, he is literally lending his ‘voice’ to the cause!” said Cavendish Weston Smith.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Dept. urges drivers to prioritize pedestrian safety

“Our roadways are extremely busy, and everyone deserves to reach their destination safely,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “It’s crucial for drivers to stay alert and watch out for pedestrians. Slow down, avoid distractions, and never drive impaired. Safety on our streets is a collective effort, and we all have a part to play.”

Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center Calls on Adopters to Share Their Heartwarming Pet Adoption Stories

SANTA PAULA — National nonprofit Petco Love, in partnership with BOBS® from Skechers®, is thrilled to announce the launch of the 2024-2025 Petco Love Stories campaign. Pet adopters across the nation, including in your area, are invited to share their inspiring stories of how their adopted pets have transformed their lives for the better. 

The Petco Love Stories campaign is a celebration of the unique love adopted pets share with us and the profound ways their love changes our lives.

One805Live! Launches Online Auction in Support of Santa Barbara County First Responders

SANTA BARBARA — One805 is excited to announce the launch of its One805Live! 2024 auction. This year’s auction features an extraordinary selection of exclusive items and unforgettable experiences. 

Bids and donations will benefit Santa Barbara County’s First Responders, and will help provide essential safety and life-saving equipment, along with vital mental wellness counseling, ensuring our local heroes are well-equipped to manage the challenges of their demanding roles. 

The online auction opens for bidding on September 4, 2024 at 4 pm and exclusive items will be unveiled at One805’s preview party that same day. The auction can be accessed via www.One805.org. 

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara presents ‘Come Paint With Us! – September Paint at Paseo’

Paint at Paseo
MCASB, Paseo Nuevo, De la Guerra Place
Celebrate summer with @omepache, a local Mexican muralist living the Chicano experience in Santa Barbara! Join a 90-minute acrylic painting session, perfect for artists of all ages. Supplies—canvases, paints, aprons, and brushes—are provided. Best of all, this monthly event is free for everyone to enjoy!

Bilingual report — Call to Artists: Beautifying Trash Bins Public Art Project

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites artists and artist organizations to participate in a new public art initiative to beautify large trash bins near the coast. Selected artists will be uniquely able to beautify four trash bins along the Pier and Promenade area. Online applications are now open through Friday, September 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/PublicArt.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Study of Nicaragua’s Sandinistas argues for multilevel analysis of civil war violence’ and more news, events

William Davies King’s new book covers Nobel Prize-winning playwright Eugene O’Neill masterpiece of American drama, “Long Day’s Journey into Night,” and the context of its creation.

Seven cadets graduate from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy

SANTA MARIA — Seven cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy on Aug. 23 during a ceremony held at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.? 

“You are the beginning of a career in one of the most demanding fields out there,” said Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown. “Your choice to serve your community is honorable and admirable.”

Oxnard To Unveil Vibrant New Mural by D.J. Javier Under the Third Street Bridge

OXNARD — The Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA) and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC) are thrilled to announce the installation of a new mural titled “Don’t Forget The Neighborhood,” created by renowned Santa Barbara-based muralist D.J. Javier. This striking mural, located under the Third Street Bridge in Downtown Oxnard, serves as a powerful visual representation of the city’s diverse and dynamic community and will be installed Monday through Friday, August 25-30, 2025. 

NASA grant will enable CSUCI students to shadow Jet Propulsion Lab planetary scientists

CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) students majoring in a STEM (science, technology, engineering or mathematics) field have a chance to shadow NASA planetary scientists, thanks to a $375,000 grant procured by Assistant Professor of Physics Kevin Hayakawa.

All CSUCI undergraduates are eligible to apply, but should submit their application by Aug. 30 at tinyurl.com/H2O-App. Students can be STEM majors or planning to pursue a STEM major.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

SBA: WOMEN OWNED SMALL BUSINESS OFFICE HOUR FOR RFIS

August 27 @ 8:30 am

Do you have a Request for Information (RFI) from the WOSB Certification Review team? The Women-Owned Small Business Program is excited to announce a new webinar series: WOSB Office Hour for RFIs! This series is intended for applicants who have applied to become WOSB/EDWOSB certified and who have received a Request for Information (RFIs) from the certification review team but are unsure of how to proceed in responding to the RFI. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions in an open forum about responding to RFIs from members of the WOSB Program staff. Sessions will be held virtually every Tuesday and Thursday at 8:30 am.

Bilingual Report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

County of Ventura to hold public listening session on Request for Proposal for local ambulance services
On Wednesday, September 4, 2024, from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM, the County Executive Office will conduct an in-person and online listening session to solicit comments from stakeholders and the public on the initial draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for an Exclusive Emergency Ground Ambulance Transport and Related Medical Services Provider. Written and verbal comments will be considered in the final draft submitted to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors.

Cal Lutheran Begins 2024-25 Academic Year with New Students, Programs and Interim President

“It’s an exciting time to be at Cal Lutheran as we begin this academic year,” said Cal Lutheran Interim President John A. Nunes, Ph.D., who joined the university June 1. “I am animated by two things: the Cal Lutheran student body and our mission. Ours is a multiethnic student body, a significant percentage of whom are the first in their families to attend college. We are providing all our students with the tools they need for a rewarding career and a life of meaning.”

Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! Unveils an Exciting 2024-2025 Season Lineup with Renowned Latin American Musicians and Dancers

SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) is excited to announce its highly anticipated 2024-2025 season, featuring an outstanding lineup of Latin American performers guaranteed to captivate audiences across Santa Barbara County. 

This season, Viva will present five acclaimed acts that exemplify the vibrant and diverse cultural heritage of Latin America.

Port of Hueneme Dock Talk August Newsletter — 10-Year Strategic Plan Review – JOIN US!

Your voice is important and your port wants to hear it!

Join us next Tuesday, August 27 at the Port of Hueneme 333 Ponoma St. from 12PM – 6PM for the Port’s final draft presentation for feedback before adoption of the plan.

To comment and review the draft visit: https://www.portofhueneme.org/10-year-strategic-plan/

Bilingual commentary — Was He a King? And Did He Sell Razor Blades?

Have you ever found yourself wondering why a place is called something intriguing, such as “Whynot?” There are communities with that name in Mississippi and North Carolina. 

Or how about “China” in Texas? 

Hinting at scandal, we have the town of “Hooker” in the panhandle of Oklahoma. The locals are quick to assure us that “it’s a location, not a vocation.” I’m glad they clarified that.

There are always equally intriguing reasons how places like these got their names.

United Way of Ventura County — Thank you for making our 19th Annual Spirit Awards Gala a success!

United Way thanks all who made this a spectacular evening!

We’re pleased to share with you our latest video highlighting our Community Impact programs.

Learn more about Women United, VITA, United to End Homelessness VC, Stuff the Bus, and Building Healthy Smiles initiatives and the outcomes we’ve accomplished together!

Please hit play to take a look!

Ventura County Animal Services — Outbreak of illness at Camarillo Shelter. Adopters urgently needed!

We are facing a critical situation at Ventura County Animal Services. Due to a recent 140% kennel capacity issue, a severe illness has taken hold within our dog population, with several cases escalating to pneumonia.  To control the outbreak and ensure the recovery of our sick dogs, we urgently need to increase adoptions.