Author: Community Contributor

Family Service Agency (FSA) Unveils Program to Help Older Adults Age in Place

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County, also known as Santa Maria Valley Youth and Family Center and Guadalupe’s Little House By The Park, is excited to announce that it is expanding its case management services to help older adults age in place. The program is open to any Santa Barbara County resident 60 or older and is free, thanks to funding from the Modernization of the Older Californians Act and the Area Agency on Aging.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines aging in place as: “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.”

Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara Announces $1.125 Million Grants Pool for 2024

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara, a philanthropic organization founded 20 years ago by 12 local women, is proud to announce it will award a record-breaking grants pool of $1.125 million as part of its 20th Anniversary celebration. With this significant investment, the Women’s Fund continues improving the lives of women, children, and families in south Santa Barbara County.

Over the past two decades, the Women’s Fund has donated nearly $10.5 million to 142 local nonprofits with impactful grants up to and exceeding $100,000. “We are thrilled to mark our 20th anniversary with this amazing grants pool and applaud the 1,300 women who made it possible with their generous donations,” said Jamie Dufek, Board Chair of the Women’s Fund. “This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those most in need.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Declared Emergency Storm Updates for February 2024 Storm and Flooding

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

As of February 3, 2024 Governor Gavin Newson issued a Proclamation of a State of Emergency for damages to businesses and homes in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties resulting from the Storm and Flooding that occurred February 3, 2024.

See the Disaster Proclamation for the recent February storm HERE.

Ventura County Resources

Report Damage to Homes & Businesses: Ventura County Sheriff’s Emergency Services is collecting data on damaged property following the recent storms. This information is then shared with Cal OES and FEMA to assist with qualifying Ventura County as a disaster area. You can submit a damage report through February 12 HERE.

Gov. Newsom on Winter Storms: ‘We’re Grateful to Our Thousands of First Responders’

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom thanked first responders for their efforts over the past few weeks to help keep Californians safe during record-breaking winter storms.

Starting in late January, Governor Newsom directed an all-of-government response to storms that have impacted nearly all residents. The response included over 8,500 boots on the ground to support communities with roadways, flood operations, rescue teams, sheltering, and more.

State swift water rescue teams, composed of both California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and CAL FIRE assets, made a combined 47 rescues and assisted six locally-led rescue operations. These state operations complemented the work of local governments conducting their own rescues.

Santa Paula Art Museum — This Weekend: Art, Wine & Cider Tasting, Live Music, and More!

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

Art & Aperitifs: “Art About Agriculture”

?Saturday, February 10, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM
$35 per person

Have plans Saturday evening? Spend it at the Santa Paula Art Museum during our all-new Art & Aperitifs event from 4 PM to 6 PM! Enjoy the current “Art About Agriculture” exhibition while sampling locally grown and made wine and cider from Santa Paula Cellars and Anna’s Cider. Listen to live music by Santa Paula chanteuse Shay Moulder, and watch a live painting demonstration by “Art About Ag” artist Gabriel Islas.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Building and Safety Division announces new electronic building permit application system

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Building and Safety Division of the County’s Resource Management Agency is now accepting electronic submission of building permit applications to facilitate and streamline the issuance of building permits for new construction.

“Building permit applicants will no longer need to drive to the Building and Safety office to submit their permit application in person,” said Ruben Barrera, Deputy Director with the Building and Safety Division. “Permit applications will be received electronically and linked directly into the County’s Permit Tracking system for faster processing.”

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Taking Applications To Fill Board Vacancy

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE —The Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) is accepting applications from the public to fill a board vacancy created when Director Janna Orkney resigned on January 29. The appointed director will serve for the remainder of the current term, until December 2024. The deadline for application submissions is March 9 by 5:00 p.m.

Guest contribution — Providing Housing for the Homeless Leads to More Safety and Better Health for all of us, Particularly for Those who Live on the Streets

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Chronic homelessness is a health and safety risk for an entire community, including those who are homeless. High concentrations of homeless persons often result in increased emergency room visits and hospitalizations, police intervention, incarceration and drug and sanitation issues. This is just one reason why organizations like DignityMoves are working to reduce homelessness by providing safe, dignified housing for homeless individuals and families. This service improves the lives of both the residents of DignityMoves housing sites as well as those living throughout Santa Barbara County.

“We do have many safety issues associated with where people are camped here in Santa Barbara County,” said Mark Hatwig, Fire Chief of Santa Barbara County. “Most of these homeless encampments are not safe living spaces. …

Friendship Center hosts 25th Annual Festival of Hearts Event

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Friendship Center successfully hosted its 25th Annual Festival of Hearts. This year’s seaside-elegance themed, Silver Jubilee celebration took place on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 at the stunning Rosewood Miramar Beach, located across the street from Friendship Center at 1759 S Jameson Lane, Montecito.

Dr. Cynder Sinclair, Board President & David Moorman, emcee.
Special honorees included member “Sir Robert” who was featured in a video about his 6 years of coming to Friendship Center and how it improves his quality of life. Shianne Motter spoke passionately about her family and father with dementia and how Friendship Center was a lifesaver for her as a younger caregiver.

Cottage Health Launches New Women’s Heart Clinic

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is pleased to announce the launch of the Cottage Women’s Heart Clinic, the first of its kind in Santa Barbara County. The specialty care clinic is designed to address the unique needs of women with cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular disease stands as the leading cause of death in women, responsible for one in three deaths each year, according to the American Heart Association.

U.S. Rep. Julia Brownley — Weather & Storm Resources

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Neighbor,

Recently, the Counties of Ventura and Los Angeles have experienced devastating flooding and rains impacting the lives of many members of our community and throughout Southern California.

During these extreme weather events, my team and I are keeping a close watch on the conditions and coordinating with local, state, and federal officials to ensure that all the necessary resources are available to support our community. As weather and storm conditions continue in the area, I wanted to provide you with a list of up-to-date resources to be prepared, remain informed, and, most importantly, stay safe.

Museum of Ventura County — Join Us for One of MVC’s Inspired Upcoming Itineraries!

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

6 Generations 200 Years Later

Saturday, February 17

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

@Museum of Ventura County

100 E. Main St., Ventura

Join us for a screening of “6 Generations,” followed by an insightful Q&A session with Chumash elder Ernestine Ygnacio-De Soto and Professor Kristina Foss. There will also be a curated display on the 1824 Chumash Revolt, offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in Chumash history.

Discover the untold stories, triumphs, and challenges that have shaped the shared heritage of the Chumash people. Cost: $10 non-members, free for members at Individual/Family level or higher. Includes admission to the Museum. Made possible, in part, by the Bauer Foundation. Click HERE for more information and to register.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College students present research to prestigious biology organization

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Two Allan Hancock College students were invited to present their research project to a prestigious body of scientists and scholars in Seattle, Washington.

Hancock students Brianna Munoz Gonzalez and Katherine Goldstein traveled to Seattle Washington, where the duo presented their research on native plant and bee populations to the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology (SICB) during the organization’s annual meeting in January 2024.

“Being asked to present in front of a body of other researchers was a humbling and empowering experience,” said Goldstein, who received Hancock’s prestigious Marian Scholarship in 2023. “Every single researcher we spoke to was interested in what we were doing, took us seriously and saw the importance and the value of what we were working to accomplish.”

Two California State Dignitaries Create A Big Splash During First Visit to The Port of Hueneme

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme welcomed two distinguished visitors, Dee Dee Myers, the Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), and Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson, Chair of the Select Committee on Ports and Goods Movement. The two California officials toured The Port of Hueneme’s onsite facilities and learned about its unique Hueneme Way of supporting logistics and trade through its collaboration and utilization of offsite facilities to create more job opportunities for local residents and maximize the throughput and efficiency of California bound cargo. As the only deep-water Port between Los Angeles and San Francisco, The Port of Hueneme serves as a vital link in the supply chain, handling over $15.8 billion worth of cargo annually.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Los Angeles Times columnist Gustavo Arellano to receive Luis Leal Award’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

The author of “¡Ask a Mexican!” (2007), “Orange County: A Personal History” (2008) and “Taco USA: How Mexican Food Conquered America” (2012) will join Mario T. Garcia to discuss his work as a journalist, politics and the future of print media.

Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara announces new Chief Artistic Officer

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

Music Academy of the West is delighted to announce the appointment of Nate Bachhuber to the position of Chief Artistic Officer. Nate is recognized for his collaborative and strategic approach to artistic planning with prestigious performing arts organizations including the LA Phil, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. He takes up this new post on February 26, and looks forward to engaging Santa Barbara’s vibrant communities through music and, with his colleagues, expanding the Music Academy’s future artistic impact.

Bilingual report — Ballots for the March 5, 2024, Presidential Primary Election Are On Their Way to Registered Voters in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Today, Feb. 5, 2024, starts the 29-day countdown to the March 5, 2024, Presidential Primary election and all the activities mandated by California State Election law.

Throughout the State, Vote by Mail ballots are prepared to go out to all active, registered voters. Those voters should expect to receive their ballots within ten days. Military and overseas voters have already been sent their vote by mail ballots to ensure they have enough time to receive and return them and have them postmarked before the 8:00 pm deadline on Election Day.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS MARKETING: SUPERCHARGE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT CREATION WITH THE POWER OF AI

February 28 @ 12:00 pm

Part 2 of the AI webinar series. Explore the real-world applications of AI. Don’t miss out on unlocking the potential of AI for your business success. Offered in partnership with EDC, WEV and SCORE. Spanish interpretation will be available.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Order Lifted and Help Us Assess Storm Damage

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

All Evacuation Orders for Santa Barbara County are CANCELED as of 12:00 PM Monday, February 5.

Several roads and trails may be inaccessible or closed throughout the county due to storm impacts. Ground saturation may cause continued rock falls, minor debris flows and landslides, and tree falls even if it is not raining.

Please refer to State Parks and County Parks for information regarding status of campgrounds.

Residents and businesses that sustained damages as a result of the storm can complete an online Storm Damage Report Form available here: Storm Damage Report Form

Guest contribution — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Improves Lives and Neighborhoods

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) turns “low-income housing” preconceived bias on its head with beautiful architecture and stringent qualifications and rules for their tenants.

Since 1969, the HACSB has been working to provide affordable housing to the city’s lower-income residents. These residents include seniors, veterans, disabled, those with mental health or drug and alcohol issues, or simply trying to create better lives for their families. Over the years, HACSB has helped thousands of people become housed, allowing them the space and opportunity to turn their lives around.

Gov. Newsom Proclaims State of Emergency in Southern California As Powerful Storm Makes Landfall

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO – Gov. Gavin Newsom (on Feb. 4)proclaimed a state of emergency for eight counties in Southern California as a series of winter storms began impacting much of the state with high winds, damaging rain and heavy snowfall. The text of the proclamation can be found here.

The proclamation covers Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. The emergency proclamation includes provisions authorizing a California National Guard response if tasked, facilitating unemployment benefits for impacted residents, and making it easier for out-of-state contractors and utilities to repair storm damage.

Earlier today, the Governor visited the State Operations Center near Sacramento for an update on the storm and the state’s response efforts. B-roll video of the visit can be downloaded here.

Assemblymember Steve Bennett presents World Wetlands Day Resolution with Coastal Keepers

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The California State Assembly unanimously passed Assemblymember Steve Bennett’s resolution, HR 64 (2023-24), proclaiming February 2nd as World Wetlands Day. The idea was presented to Bennett by Oxnard-based Coastal Keepers, a grassroots organization dedicated to the clean-up and stewardship of Ormond Beach.

“Our partnership with Coastal Keepers has been fruitful and inspiring. These young leaders have demonstrated initiative and passion for keeping our public beaches and waterways clean for all. I’m grateful to have collaborated with them on this resolution that is important to our coastal district,” said Assemblymember Steve Bennett.

Cottage Health to Host Blood drives on Feb. 22, 23

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — To bolster local blood supply and contribute to the community’s well-being, Cottage Health, in partnership with Vitalant, is hosting two blood drives in February.

The blood drives are scheduled in Goleta and Santa Barbara on the following dates:

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Order Issued

by Community Contributor • February 4, 2024 • Comments Off

Evacuation Order Issued Due to Incoming Storm EVACUATION ORDERS have been issued for the following areas in Santa Barbara County: Properties along waterways associated with the Thomas, Cave and Alisal burn areas. Properties in the vicinity of Sycamore Creek, from Stanwood…

CANCELED Mountain Stage with Kathy Mattea on Sunday, Feb 4 at the Arlington Theatre

by Community Contributor • February 3, 2024 • Comments Off

Due to the evacuation order issued by the county for parts of Santa Barbara, as well as the warning issued today by the National Weather Service, Mountain Stage with Host Kathy Mattea has been canceled. There is no reschedule date at this time.

As reported by KEYT, “The National Weather Service announced a high risk for life threatening and damaging flash flooding in all of Santa Barbara down to Los Angeles, and stressed the importance of preparation and avoiding flooding roadways.”

Ticket sales have begun for Chicana/o Studies at CSUCI celebrates ‘Nuestra Quinceañera’ fundraiser on Feb. 22

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Chicana/o Studies at CSUCI celebrates “Nuestra Quinceañera” at 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10 at the Grand Salon at CSU Channel Islands.

Join us to mark our 15th year milestone! You are cordially invited to Nuestra Quinceañera: 15 Years of Chicana/o Studies at CSU Channel Islands. This fundraising dinner and celebration will honor the impact of Chicana/o Studies at CI and beyond. We will be featuring live music, delicious food, and engaging speakers. Taking place on February 10, 2024 (Saturday) from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Grand Salon, CSUCI.

Bilingual commentary — Learning English Can’t Be Easy

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2024 • Comments Off

We who have spoken English all our lives cannot possibly appreciate the magnitude of the gift we possess. English has become the de facto “universal language” that people throughout the world resort to when they have the need for a common tongue.

Most of the rest of the world who wants to learn English struggles mightily with the immense challenges posed by this lingua franca.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Sea otters stabilize salt marsh banks as they recolonize a California estuary’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2024 • Comments Off

A new study finds that some features essential to the resiliency of Elkhorn Slough, a salt marsh-dominated coastal estuary in Monterey County, are improved by the return of sea otters and their insatiable appetite for herbivorous marsh crabs.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Two Storms Coming – What We Know

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Rain is on the way, and now is the time to prepare.

The National Weather Service is forecasting two storms that are heading toward our area. The first will arrive tonight and last through tomorrow, February 1, and a stronger storm is likely arriving Sunday, February 4th and lasting through Wednesday, February 7th.

The first storm arriving tonight may bring moderate impacts which include flooding of roadways, creeks and areas that are prone to flooding risk during moderate storms.

California Mobilizes Ahead of Next Round of Storms, Urges Communities to Prepare

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Working proactively to keep communities safe, California is mobilizing a whole-of-government response to a series of potentially dangerous incoming storms.

Beginning Tuesday evening, a series of storms will hit the state for the next 10 days and is expected to bring significant rain, high winds, deep snow as well as potential flash flooding and power outages.

At the direction of Governor Gavin Newsom, the State Operations Center in Mather is being activated to coordinate a unified response to these storms across state, local and federal agencies.

Conference Explores Challenges and Economic Impact of Undocumented Immigrants in California

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Undocumented immigrants contribute more than $151 billion to California’s economy, according to the 2023 study “Demographic Profile and Economic Impact of Undocumented Immigrants in California: Separating Myths from Realities” by Jamshid Damooei, Ph.D., of California Lutheran University School of Management’s Center for Economics of Social Issues (CESI). To discuss and explore the findings, Cal Lutheran is holding the timely conference, “Separating Myths from Realities: Challenges Undocumented Immigrants Face and Their Economic Impact in California.” The conference will be held from 8 a.m. – noon on Feb. 22 in the Lundring Events Center on the Cal Lutheran campus.

February @ SPAM: Art & Aperitifs, Secrets of the Impressionists and More!

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

Art & Aperitifs: “Art About Agriculture”

Saturday, February 10, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM

$35 per person

Elevate your taste in art and beverages during Art & Aperitifs, an all-new event at the Santa Paula Art Museum! Experience a new appreciation for the Museum’s current “Art About Agriculture” exhibition while sampling locally grown and made aperitifs, including wine and cider by Santa Paula Cellars and Anna’s Cider. Enjoy live music by homegrown Santa Paula musician Shay Moulder, and a live painting demonstration by “Art About Ag” featured artist Gabriel Islas.

Advance ticket purchase is required and space is limited. (Please note, this event is for 21-and-overs only.)

MORE INFO + GET TICKETS

Bilingual report — Covered California Announces More Time to Enroll for Coverage in 2024

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Covered California announced today that it will give consumers until Feb. 9 to sign up for coverage in 2024.

“We’ve seen record-breaking enrollment nationally, and Covered California is surging with heightened demand,” said Covered California Executive Director Jessica Altman. “We want any Californian who needs health insurance to have the opportunity to get covered for the rest of 2024, and extending the open-enrollment period will ensure they have the time they need.”

People’s Self-Help Housing Celebrates Grand Opening of New Affordable Housing in San Luis Obispo

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

SAN LUIS OBISPO — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has opened its newest affordable housing development: Broad Street Place.

Located at 3720 Broad Street in San Luis Obispo, this new construction development is comprised of 40 units with three commercial spaces available. Residents have access to a community center, shared kitchen, barbeque space, outdoor patios, laundry facilities, bike storage, playground, electric vehicle charging stations, on-site property management, free internet, and supportive services. Some units provide ADA-certified accessibility for those with mobility, hearing, and vision limitations.

“This is a very collaborative project. While we can do a lot on our own, we do so much more when we work together.” said Ken Trigueiro, CEO & President. “It’s really fun to celebrate this moment.”

3C-REN Celebrates Successful 2023 with over $800,000 in Energy-Saving Incentives Serving over 500 Homes in the Tri-County Region

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Throughout 2023, 3C-REN (Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura, served more than 500 homes in the region with energy-saving projects, representing a local investment of over $800,000 via incentives paid out to projects. 3C-REN also upskilled hundreds of local workers and supported design and trade professionals adjusting to new, more efficient building codes.

“We are very proud of the work we accomplished and the energy-saving projects we completed in 2023 as we move our region closer to meeting local and state climate goals,” said Marisa Hanson-Lopez, 3C-REN Multifamily Program Manager. “As we continue to provide new opportunities to save money and energy, we encourage residents and businesses to get in touch when replacing furnaces, air conditioners, water heaters, windows and more. 3C-REN incentives for these systems can lower energy bills while creating healthier, more comfortable homes that are better for the planet. We know it can be confusing, but we can help!”

Westlake, Channel Islands, and Thousand Oaks High Schools Take Top Spots in 2024 Ventura County Academic Decathlon

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024Ventura County Academic Decathlon, which was held over the past few weeks. The winners were revealed at a ceremony this evening in Camarillo. The three teams with the highest overall scores this year are:

1st Place: Westlake High School
2nd Place: Channel Islands High School
3rd Place: Thousand Oaks High School

Registration opens Feb. 12 for free Safety Around Water Classes at Yarrow Family YMCA

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Registration will open on February 12 for Safety Around Water (SAW) classes at the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village. The free, six-session program provides water safety and basic swimming skills to children with little or no water experience.

The once-a-week sessions are offered on Mondays March 4 through April 15, and on Wednesdays March 6 through April 17. Class times are 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. SAW is for elementary-aged children. It teaches participants how to exit a pool safely and other water safety skills.

Registration has opened for Ventura County Public Works Day on May 21

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

Registration closed March 4

VENTURA — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) has announced that registration has opened for Ventura County Public Works Day, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 21 at the Ventura County Government Center, 800 South Victoria Ave., Ventura.

Click here to register.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Emergency Preparedness Guide for Small Businesses and Nonprofits

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative is proud to support Pacific Coast Business Times’ Emergency Preparedness guide. The guide is designed to help small businesses and nonprofit organizations prepare for natural disasters and be aware of recovery options.

If disaster strikes, is your business prepared? View the report HERE.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Extreme drought hits grasslands and shrublands harder than anticipated’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

A global experiment covering 100 sites, undertaken to generate a baseline understanding of the potential losses of plant productivity in these vital ecosystems, quantifies the impacts of extreme drought across six continents.

SBCC Nurturing a Pathway for Professional Journalism in the South Coast

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Channels, the student news outlet of Santa Barbara City College (SBCC), welcomes the campus and community to tour their new collaborative workspace on the East Cliff Campus during a grand opening celebration from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8 in Room A180 of the Administration Building. (See below for more event information.)

The Channels newsroom has relocated from a portable classroom on the edge of the East Cliff Campus to a newly redesigned space in the Administration Building at the heart of SBCC. This places students in the center of the action, giving them easier access to the administration, faculty, and staff and fellow media arts programs on campus. This move and investment emphasizes SBCC’s commitment to supporting and valuing students’ freedom of press and expression, recognizing journalism’s critical role in democracy and social justice, and operating with transparency. The new newsroom allows students to practice their craft within a professional space with state-of-the-art technology.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approve adoption of Disability Access Strategic Plan

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Through unanimous vote during the regular meeting on Tuesday, January 23, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the adoption of a 2024-2027 County Disability Access Strategic Plan. The plan outlines key goals that advocate for increased transportation options, ensuring digital accessibility, enhancing physical access to facilities, prioritizing community relationships, education, and emergency preparedness. The plan is the first of its kind for the County of Ventura and represents a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to fostering a more inclusive and accessible community.

“This strategic plan will provide a strong foundation for the County’s work in disability access,” stated Supervisor Kelly Long, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “I appreciate the internal and external focus on expanding disability access within our local community and finding new and innovative ways to partner with the community.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: FRANCHISING 101 FOR VETERANS

January 31 @ 1:00 pm

Did you know that 1 out of 7 franchises is owned by a Veteran? Franchises appreciate the mindset and skills that military professionals possess and in appreciation, reward them with discounts and incentives if they are awarded a franchise. There are many misconceptions surrounding franchises and how a successful placement works. Also, with thousands of brands across nearly 100 categories, how would one really know which one is right for them? If a franchise is something you are thinking about for now, or someday this webinar is for you.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

805 CoWorking Collective launches to offer flexible workspaces from Westlake to Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Remote and hybrid workers traveling in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties can now access flexible office spaces at multiple points along U.S. Route 101 under the newly launched 805 CoWorking Collective.

Comprised of four coworking spaces on the Central Coast, the Collective spans almost 60 miles from Westlake to Santa Barbara. Member spaces are Workzones in Santa Barbara, Coastal Coworking in Ventura, Collab District in Camarillo, and Hub101 in Westlake Village.

All of the spaces offer drop-in day passes to members and non-members alike. Travelers who are members of any one space within the 805 CoWorking Collective will receive discounted day passes when they visit the other flex spaces. Non-members pay standard rates.

“With so many people working from home or in a hybrid work model, being able to access a professional space for a few hours or a day while traveling is far superior to working out of a coffee shop,” said Pam Tanase, the Collective’s organizer and Workzones cofounder. “The 805 CoWorking Collective has been created to give people more options when they travel along the 101 to support their flexible workspace needs.”

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District 2023 Year in Review

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The welcomed rainfall in 2023 shored up Triunfo Water & Sanitation District’s supply and put the district on a solid foundation for 2024.

60th Anniversary

The rainy weather helped celebrate TWSD’s 60th anniversary in 2023. The rain prompted TWSD to rescind its Stage 1 Water Shortage restrictions implemented because of the drought, although permanent water restrictions remain in place.

“Last year’s storm events brought a very different picture to our ongoing drought status,” says Jane Nye, TWSD 2023 board chair. “Unprecedented winter storms replenished water supplies throughout the state, and we hope that this year will deliver the same.”

Ventura County Animal Services — We did it! 205 beds donated in 36 hours thanks to you!

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

WE DID IT! Thanks to you! 205 dog beds were donated in just 36 HOURS by shelter supporters in the community! The folks at Kuranda said, “We’ve NEVER seen a donation drive this big go this fast!” They asked how we did it, and we told them we have a close-knit community of animal lovers who know us, trust us, and believe in our lifesaving mission! That’s how we did it!

Thank you to ALL who donated to this Donation Bed Drive! Will be having a Build-A-Bed event on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024. Stay tuned for event details.

Jalama Beach in Lompoc: California’s Best-Kept Secret For Sun And Surf

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Situated on California’s gorgeous central coast, Lompoc’s Jalama Beach is waiting to be discovered. With its wild beauty, rugged charm, and off-the-beaten-path location, this beach offers an authentic California experience unlike any other. Join us on a journey as we explore the allure of Jalama Beach and why it’s perfect for your next beach adventure. https://explorelompoc.com/jalama-beach/

Bilingual report — Donald Aguilar Appointed Santa Paula Chief of Police

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is pleased to announce the appointment of Donald Aguilar as the City’s permanent Chief of Police. With an illustrious, nearly four-decade career in law enforcement and a proven track record of leadership in Santa Paula, Chief Aguilar brings a unique combination of local knowledge and experience to the Santa Paula community.

“Chief Aguilar has provided stability and effective leadership to the Santa Paula Police Department and has earned the respect and support of our community during his term as our Interim Chief,” said Mayor Leslie Cornejo. “His vision for public safety aligns seamlessly with our core values as a City. I am confident that under Chief Aguilar’s leadership, we will continue to build on the progress we’ve been making to strengthen our Police Department.”

Bilingual commentary — Raising A Daughter

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2024 • Comments Off

This is an updated version of one of the first articles, with this same title, that I wrote for Amigos805 in October 2011.

I have had the experience and privilege of raising a daughter. Many people throughout the years have indicated to me their belief that I had accomplished this task successfully. It was not always easy nor without considerable reading, research, reflection, and discussion with other parents.

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