SANTA BARBARA — How do seniors on fixed incomes cover the costs for life-enhancing or medical-related items that they need but can’t afford and that aren’t covered by health insurance? The simple answer is that most of them generally can’t. …
CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) connected more Medi-Cal members with vital health care screenings and immunizations in 2023, surpassing regulatory health care quality metrics and ranking it as one of only four managed care plans in the state to meet required performance levels.
The state Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), the agency that oversees the Medi-Cal program, requires managed care plans like GCHP to report annually on a set of health care quality performance measures known as the Managed Care Accountability Set (MCAS). Health plans are evaluated in 18 measures in four key health categories: children’s health, reproductive health and cancer prevention, chronic disease management, and behavioral health.
Edgar Jahir Trujillo is an architect, researcher, and artist based in Oaxaca, Mexico. Three of his mixed-media paintings are featured in our current exhibition Sangre de Nopal/Blood of the Nopal: Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Contemporary Art on view through April 27th at MCASB. His principal medium for his paintings and sculptural artworks is cochineal. He considers his practice as coexisting with the ancient red pigment and dyestuff, and intended to excite visual pleasure, disrupt conventional reflections on nature, while celebrating an equitable global ecology.
The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is working to rapidly move the California Central Coast to 100% efficient, clean, and renewable electricity to power our homes, businesses, and cars.
In 2023, CEC established Electrify Your Life (EYL), a free service offering personalized support and resources in Spanish and English to help make the switch to green tech solutions like electric vehicles, electric vehicle charging, solar, and home energy efficiency improvements affordable. We’ve helped more than 1,000 residents, businesses, and nonprofits stack incentives that they may not otherwise know they qualify for to save big on going electric.
CAMARILLO — Registration is now open for CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)’s new Master of Health Care Administration (MHA), which will be offered through its Extended University (EU). Classes begin in Fall of 2025.
The program is entirely online, which will make it convenient for working professionals interested in a career in the administrative side of a hospital or patient care facility. What sets CSUCI’s program apart from others is that students will have the opportunity to also earn a certificate in gerontology by completing additional coursework.
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is celebrating new and returning students this spring semester with several Week of Welcome (WOW) activities in early February. WOW provides Hancock students with a chance to meet their peers and instructors, connect with clubs and resources, and receive free food and prizes.
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“This mammoth migration of more than 20,000 whales and 6,000 miles continues to remain a major attraction in Southern California,” said President Cherryl Connally of Island Packers. “Located in scenic Ventura Harbor Village, we invite visitors to plan on booking this “must-see” experience soon as part of their fun for the entire family Spring Break activities. “
SANTA PAULA — On January 18 and 19, 2025, Law Enforcement Explorers from Santa Paula Police Department Post 2350 participated in the “Chandler Tactical Competition” in Chandler, Arizona. There were 12 Santa Paula Police Department Explorers who participated and competed with other explorer posts from across the Country. The young men and women from Santa Paula were successful with a 1st place and a 3rd place award. The national competition, hosted by the Chandler Police Department, included 47 explorer posts from California, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, and Florida.
Particularly since election day last November (for some reason), I have become aware of an expanding phenomenon in this country: outrage exhaustion. What this term means is that we are, in a word (or two), “worn-out” from being angry all the time.
Outrage exhaustion means that we no longer have the capacity for escalating outrage after a long and boisterous presidential campaign that tested our limits of indignation and cyclical anger. We know for certain that we have saturated our outrage circuits when we don’t even get upset with the barista for using steamed milk instead of oat milk in our latte.
Dear City of Ventura Residents and Community Stakeholders,
In light of the recent federal immigration enforcement actions taking place across the nation, including in California, I want to address our community to provide clarity, support, and reassurance. Ventura is a community built on inclusion and mutual respect. Local organizations are available to provide assistance, legal guidance, and resources to those in need.
• Know your rights. You have constitutional protections. Review resources and
information from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
• Seek guidance from trusted organizations. Groups like the El Concilio Family Services, and the Mixteco Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) offer legal resources and support.
• Create a family safety plan. Have a plan in place, including childcare arrangements
and emergency contacts. If you are at risk of losing housing, the City also offers rental assistance for transitional age youth (ages 18-24) through our Homelessness Prevention Program.
• Report and document. If you or someone you know is impacted by an enforcement
action, take note of key details and reach out to local support organizations.
VENTURA — Vendor applications for the City of Ventura’s 4th of July Street Fair are now open. This annual event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the 4th of July in Ventura’s Downtown District and brings tens of thousands of participants.
Vendor applications will be accepted until Monday, March 31, 2025, before 5:00 p.m. PST. Applications must be submitted online via the City’s website. Eligible vendor groups include arts and crafts, nonprofits, and food vendors. Sponsorship opportunities are also available and listed online.
Due to the City of Santa Paula’s stalled contract negotiations, unfulfilled commitments, and lack of financial support, starting Feb. 1, 2025, SPARC will no longer serve as the City shelter for Santa Paula. The City’s commitment in 2012 to construct a custom animal shelter, funded through a promised bond issue, has not been fulfilled. When SPARC was initiated, the City had agreed to issue a bond for a dedicated shelter; however, this commitment has not appeared on any election ballots for the past 13 years. In addition, the City provides less than 8% of SPARC’s operating expenses; and SPARC has not received a raise in monthly fees since 2018, creating a financially unsustainable situation for the shelter.
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula remains deeply committed to the welfare of animals in our community and ensuring that residents continue to have access to responsible animal care services. We recognize and appreciate the work that the Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center (SPARC) has done over the years, finding homes for countless animals and providing vital services such as spay/neuter programs and vaccinations. We want to clarify the City’s position regarding SPARC’s recent public statement and assure the community that we are actively working on a transition plan to continue providing essential animal services.
On the first day of his second term, President Trump issued a series of immigration-related executive orders and proclamations that will quickly re-shape the U.S. immigration system. These executive orders affect nearly every facet of a complex and demanding system. Most of the policy changes introduced through these actions are framed as directives to federal departments and agencies. However, their language also aims to stoke fear as a means of testing the boundaries of executive authority.
VENTURA — This winter, Ventura Charter School’s third-grade class released 75 endangered rainbow trout into the lake at Rancho Simi Valley Park, concluding their investigation into California’s watersheds. The classroom expedition was part of “Trout in the Classroom,” a program in partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Students worked on the watershed expedition beginning in August, with a holistic curriculum spanning independent research and activism related to California’s water and wildlife led by teachers Emily Noel and Lindsay Murray and culminating in the release of the fish on Dec. 20.
View this email online The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, February 4, 2025 County Administration Building Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara The public may participate virtually,…
SANTA BARBARA — The UC Santa Barbara Gevirtz Graduate School of Education held its 2025 Fellowship Breakfast on January 24 to celebrate the school’s most promising graduate students who have received fellowships and the community supporting them.
Fellowships are made possible through generous private foundations and individual donors who have contributed to 26 funds that provide annual support to Gevirtz School students. Fellowships were awarded to 52 students, with funds totaling over $255,000.
The Medi-Cal Capacity, Access and Workforce Development Grant Program was recently developed to expand healthcare capacity through strategic funding aimed at provider recruitment, and workforce training and education. Launched this month, CenCal Health will soon award its first round of grants up to $3 million, with a planned total distribution of $6 million over three years.
Happy almost February! February is our anniversary month at the Santa Paula Art Museum (we’ll celebrate 15 years on Valentine’s Day). We think you’ll love our program offerings in the month ahead. Bring the whole family to make Valentine’s Day keepsakes on February 2. Register you and your Valentine or Galentine for a wheel-throwing ceramics course starting February 14. Hear more about currently featured artist Joanne Julian and her love of art on February 22. Find the details for all of our February programs below.
Since beginning the project in August 2023, each family committed over 40 hours a week to constructing their homes. Under the supervision and instruction of People’s Self-Help Housing, the builders learned all the skills necessary to complete the majority of the labor themselves. After more than a year of hard work, owner-builders finally received the keys to their new homes and celebrated their tremendous accomplishments with a barbeque block party over the weekend.
“It’s amazing to see the fruit from their labor and watch them achieve this dream of home ownership,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “This is an excellent opportunity for these families and one that is hard to come by these days. This is why we keep doing what we’re doing after 55 years and we’re so grateful to be part of their stories.”
VENTURA — As the recovery and rebuilding process continues following the Mountain Fire, the Environmental Health Division and Incident Management Team are pleased to announce that Phase 2 of debris removal is now underway. Site assessments and asbestos assessments are in progress, and debris removal operations are set to begin as early as this week.
Residents can expect to see multiple crews and trucks in affected neighborhoods, working to remove structural fire debris and clean up properties. Debris removal crews will be in place to start operations at 7:00 am and will end operations by 4:30 pm. To minimize dust and ash pollution, all debris will be misted continuously and securely wrapped in trucks during removal. Air quality will be monitored throughout the process, and operations will be paused if weather conditions are deemed to result in safety issues.
The Santa Barbara County Regional Climate Collaborative is looking for three community members to join the Guadalupe-Lompoc Climate Action Initiative (GLI) Coordinating Committee. If you don’t live in North County but know someone who does, share this opportunity with them!
VENTURA — In an ongoing effort to combat homelessness and support vulnerable populations, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors has approved a second amendment to the agreement with the City of Ventura, allocating $1,013,063 in financial support for the operation of The ARCH year-round emergency shelter. The agreement emphasizes both financial responsibility and measurable outcomes to ensure effective use of public funds.
The ARCH, located in the city of Ventura and operated by Mercy House, is a vital resource for individuals experiencing homelessness. This funding, provided on a 50/50 cost-sharing basis with the City of Ventura, supports the shelter’s operations under a newly established performance-based model.
VENTURA COUNTY — In a heartwarming effort to give shelter dogs a second chance, 37 pups from Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) are on their way to Wisconsin to find loving homes—many of whom had been long-stay residents, patiently waiting for their forever families.
This lifesaving transport, made possible by the Humane Society of the United States, comes at a crucial time as VCAS faces a critical overcapacity crisis, recently reaching 142%. “With shelter space stretched beyond its limits, collaborative efforts like these are essential to ensuring every pet has a future filled with love and care.” Says Randy Friedman, Public Information Officer for VCAS.
VENTURA — The County of Ventura celebrated the dedication of 24 employees who have served the community for decades and have a collective 645 years of public service. The recognition took place during the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, January 28.
This special event is part of the County’s Employee Continuous Service Recognition Program, which highlights the contributions of employees who have worked for agencies across the County of Ventura for 25 years or more. Their hard work and commitment invest in County agencies and help improve the lives of residents throughout Ventura County.
“TWSD has positioned itself well to meet the water needs of our customers,” says Shapiro. “In 2025, we will continue to make progress on the Las Virgenes-Triunfo Joint Powers Authority’s Pure Water Project. There have been significant steps forward in advancing the project, which aims to enhance water sustainability in the region and reduce our dependence on imported potable water.”
Our 30th Season kicks off with Bob Eubanks’ Backstage with The Beatles in March, with more special events coming in May. Then join us for a full weekend of music in both July and October. Read on to hear about the latest news, community collaborations, and our full 2025 lineup!
CAMARILLO — In order to fully experience the perils of a young migrant’s journey from Honduras to the U.S., Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Sonia Nazario rode 1,600 miles clinging to the top of seven trains – twice. Her experience turned into a series in the Los Angeles Times, followed by a 2006 book entitled “Enrique’s Journey.”
Nazario will draw from her experience retracing the steps of the young Honduran refugee when she speaks at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)’s 2025 Conference for Social Justice in Education, scheduled for Saturday, March 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at CSUCI’s Grand Salon.
SANTA BARBARA — On Sunday, Jan. 26, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in plainclothes and unmarked vehicles carried out operations in Santa Barbara and Goleta. The 805Undocufund Hotline and Alert system intervened to prevent an arrest.
“What we witnessed yesterday was clear evidence that ICE is not targeting individuals with judicial warrants but instead engaging in widespread intimidation tactics to fulfill the administration’s new quota policies,” said Primitiva Hernandez, Executive Director of 805Undocufund.
Through the Rapid Response Hotline and Alert System, the community intervened after an employer reported that their employee was being questioned by ICE agents while in their car. Executive Director Julissa Peña from the Immigrant Legal Defense Center (ILDC) provided assistance, ensuring the individual’s constitutional rights were upheld and facilitating their release from further questioning.
“Yesterday, ICE came into our communities without warrants, dressed in plainclothes, and driving unmarked vehicles. They resorted to verbal and physical intimidation, flagrantly attempting to violate people’s rights,” said Primitiva Hernandez. “One such incident involved ICE agents surrounding an individual’s truck, mocking him, and shouting degrading comments like ‘come out and be a man.’ Thankfully, the ILDC intervened over the phone while outside the individual’s vehicle, empowering the individual to assert their rights and preventing further abuse.”
Help Shape a Creative Ventura County: Take the Arts & Culture Survey!
From museums to murals, theater to street art, car shows to art walks – how do YOU experience arts, culture, and creativity in Ventura County?
Share your story through our community survey and help build a more vibrant creative future for all!
Whether you’re an artist, supporter, or simply love experiencing local culture, we want to hear from you! Your input will directly influence Ventura County’s Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy Strategic Plan.
Take the survey here or by clicking the button below. It only takes 10 minutes. Be included in drawings for local arts & culture experiences.
“It feels special because it’s my nation saying that my life’s work is appreciated. And that is an amazing feeling,” said Tilman, a distinguished professor at Bren School of Environmental Science & Management.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved a series of legislative sponsorships aimed at improving utility accountability, enhancing public safety, and expanding disaster recovery assistance for residents. Patrick Maynard, Director of the Office of Emergency Services, emphasized…
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College and the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District have partnered to bring college-level courses directly to students in Guadalupe, expanding access to higher education opportunities within the community.
The new classes allow high school students in Guadalupe to enroll in general education courses for college credit. The classes include Communication Studies 101: Introduction to Public Speaking and Psychology 101: Introduction to Psychology and are held at the Guadalupe Senior Center.
Each course combines weekly in-person sessions from 5 p.m. to 6:50 p.m. with one hour of online instruction. The classes began on Jan. 21 and will run through May 14, with a capacity of up to 30 students per course.
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is developing a local Master Plan for Aging, inspired by California’s groundbreaking Master Plan for Aging (MPA). This initiative addresses the state’s rapidly growing and diversifying over-60 population, projected to reach 10.8 million by 2030, or one-quarter of the population. The MPA is a comprehensive blueprint designed to prioritize the health and well-being of older Californians and people with disabilities, outlining five bold goals and twenty-three strategies to create a “California for All Ages” by 2030.
Recognizing the importance of supporting its aging population, the Santa Paula City Council incorporated the development of a Senior Master Plan (Master Plan for Aging) into the two-year Strategic Plan under Category F: Community Vitality. This category aims to provide the residents of Santa Paula with sustainable resources and programs, making it a great place to live and grow. Objective #7 within this category specifically focuses on developing a Senior Master Plan tailored to the needs of Santa Paula’s residents.
“We are thrilled to recognize these inspiring leaders who exemplify the spirit of service and dedication that LEAP stands for,” said Lori Goodman, Executive Director of LEAP. “Dr. Fitzgibbons, through her exceptional medical leadership and education efforts at Cottage Hospital, and Ernesto Paredes, with his unwavering commitment to accessible transportation and community advocacy, have positively impacted countless lives. Amir Abo-Shaeer, as our Distinguished Alumnus, represents the transformative power of LEAP’s programs, and we are proud to celebrate his journey and contributions.”
In late 2024 USDA unilaterally downgraded its inspection obligations by shifting orchard inspections to Mexico. Shortly after, detections of stem and seed weevils in packing facilities increased with APHIS acknowledging that “the number of recent interceptions is notable given the infrequency of such interceptions over the history of the program.”
To date, the Commission has not convinced USDA to reverse course so we are outreaching to newly appointed leadership at USDA (see letter here) and are asking all of you to support the effort.
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) announced AB 276 today to ensure continuous, quality care for foster children at community care facilities.
On average, out-of-state background checks take almost three months to complete. These long waiting periods to onboard staff adversely affect community care facilities’ ability to provide top-rate services and programming for foster children and youth. The bill would allow these facilities (which include childcare facilities and foster family homes) to address staffing shortages by allowing qualified applicants to work at a facility while waiting for out-of-state clearance.
“Foster youth and families suffer when programs can’t hire the qualified staff they need due to lengthy background check delays,” said Adrienne Shilton, Vice President of Public Policy for the California Alliance of Child and Family Services. “By aligning state policy with federal law and adhering to California’s rigorous safeguards, this bill ensures that agencies can meet the urgent needs of California’s most vulnerable populations.”
VENTURA COUNTY — Camarillo resident Rebeca Elliott, an agent with Comfort Real Estate, was installed at the 2025 President of the Ventura County Coastal Association at the annual Installation Event on Jan. 16 along with this year’s officers and directors.
Elliott has been a Realtor for over 20 years after serving as a flight attendant for United Airlines and the administrative assistant to the CEO of Tenet Health Care, which was then based in Santa Barbara.
“They decided to relocate to Texas and the CEO asked if I wanted to relocate as well, and I said no,” Elliott recalled. “Soon after, I saw an ad about getting a real estate license, and I thought that would be a fun career move. I passed the test, and here I am – loving it.”
“Creating equitable opportunities for our community requires resources, and we appreciate the support from U.S. Bank, which helps us continue to build and expand the innovative programs we’re proud to offer,” said Victory Brady, interim COO/CFO of Cabrillo EDC.
When I used to work in offices and organizations, I heard all the excuses from colleagues for not exercising, such as:
I don’t have enough time for exercise
I’m too tired to do exercise after working all day
I’m not interested in exercising
Too much effort is required to exercise
I don’t have to lose weight
Exercise is “not necessary”
But in an era of unprecedented rates of obesity and lifestyle-induced diseases, it becomes imperative for us to somehow, in some way, carve out sufficient time for exercise in our daily lives. For without exercise in our routine, the body, designed for motion and exertion, begins to naturally degenerate.
Community event to be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 25 at La Casa de la Raza, 601 E. Montecito St., Santa Barbara
— A Call to Unite. The IAC is calling on community partners, including service organizations, advocacy groups, faith-based organizations, elected officials, and the broader public, to join forces and address this urgent issue. Together, we can protect the most vulnerable children and families, and ensure the continued vitality of our protected-class neighborhoods.
Mountain Fire: SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s authorized representative, Director Nancy Ward, of the California Office of Emergency Services on November 25. The disaster declaration makes low-interest federal disaster loans available to residents and businesses the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and Kern who were affected by the Mountain Fire that began November 6.
Wildfires and Straight-line Winds: SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman announced that low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Southern California businesses, homeowners, renters and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations following President Joe Biden’s major disaster declaration. The declaration covers Los Angeles and the contiguous counties of Kern, Orange, San Bernardino, and Ventura due to wildfires and straight-line winds that began on January 7.
President Trump wasted no time trying to radically change the U.S. immigration system. On his first day in office, he issued 10 executive orders that seek to redefine America—excluding everyone from asylum seekers to countless children of immigrants.
In the American Immigration Council’s new fact sheet, After Day One: A High-Level Analysis of Trump’s First Executive Actions, we break down what these policy changes seek to accomplish immediately and what they will mean for immigrants and all Americans in the future.
Read the Analysis
“LULAC wholeheartedly affirms the decision of the federal judge to stop this attack on one of our nation’s most treasured constitutional protections,” said Roman Palomares, LULAC National President and Chairman of the Board. “Any child born on our soil has the right to be called a citizen, and that right is irrevocable and should not be tampered with. We call upon all Americans to rise in unity and respect for this important and invaluable right.”
The associate professor, an expert in energy, climate and environmental politics, was recognized for her exceptional contributions and public engagement.
The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on fourteen different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment and strategic importance to the state or region.
Application Period Timeline: For fiscal year 2024-2025, GO-Biz will accept applications for the California Competes Tax Credit during the following periods:
January 6, 2025 – January 27, 2025
February 24, 2025 – March 10, 2025
This remarkable group will help grow the Academy’s mission to provide musicians and audiences alike with transformative music experiences through public performances and community programs. Newly elected Board officers and members began their terms on January 1, 2025.
Central Coast residents can receive up to $12,000 to purchase or lease an electric vehicle (EV) thanks to funding that was just released through the California Driving Clean Assistance Program. Combined with other incentives, participants could save up to $24,000 on an EV. You must be income-eligible to receive funding, and you must pre-qualify online before shopping for an EV.
Owens is a partner with the global law firm of McDermott Will & Emery LLP and a member of the firm’s management committee. He has served as counsel to a variety of healthcare clients throughout California and across the United States, with a primary focus representing nonprofit hospitals and health systems in mergers and acquisitions and other complex transactions. His expertise also encompasses clinical integration and physician contracting, regulatory compliance, corporate governance and joint ventures.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions exist.
Smoke from the Hughes Fire is causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone in Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Oxnard, Piru, Santa Paula, Simi Valley and Ventura. Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles that can harm the lungs and heart.
The district issues Air Quality Alerts when the AQI has reached or is forecast to reach an unhealthy level for all. A lower AQI can affect sensitive groups. This includes children, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.
The alert is in effect until conditions improve.
We recognize the challenges that come with facing yet another period of Red Flag conditions and Public Safety Power Shutoffs.
We know these weather conditions and power shutoffs disrupt routines, create uncertainty, and make it difficult to meet essential needs. Please know that we stand with you during this time, and we are here to provide support and resources to help you navigate these challenges.
We are committed to keeping you informed of resources that keep you prepared and provide support as we navigate this challenge together.
Your patience and resilience are deeply appreciated as we work together to navigate these conditions and keep our community safe.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we face these challenges together.
The wildfire hazard is defined by fire severity zones – very high, high, and moderate. Click the image below to find your risk level. Even those in lower risk areas should be prepared for the impacts of wildfire smoke on their operations.
Choose a date that works for you:
Saturday, January 25th (online)
Saturday, February 1 (online)
Sábado, 8 de febrero (Oxnard)
Saturday, February 22 (online)
To reserve your seat, simply click below to sign up. We can’t wait to help you achieve your dream of homeownership!
LOMPOC — Lompoc is gearing up to welcome 2025 with a lineup of exciting events! From now until December 31, 2025, immerse yourself in the small-town charm of this vibrant community. Explore the unique festivals and experiences that make Lompoc Valley stand out. Wine lover or history buff, Lompoc Valley has something extraordinary to offer for every type of adventurer!
Sangre De Nopal Curator Talk on Thursday, Jan. 30.
We’re thrilled to present an intimate conversation with two of the exhibition curator’s and a walkthrough of the exhibition. We’ll discuss the research and development of the exhibition and address major themes with in the larger critically acclaimed Sangre de Nopal/Blood of the Nopal project that spans two exhibitions, two museums, the artworks of over twenty four artists, and the forthcoming catalog. Followed by our first Peña Nights live music by Natalie Espinoza and reception. Catch up on recent press here.
National Immigration Project Webinar on Immigration
Join the National Immigration Project on Wednesday, January 29 at 5pm ET for a free webinar for community defenders, advocates, and impacted community members to go over the basics of what you can do to protect yourself and your community in the face of potential immigration enforcement.
We’ll go over what immigration policies have changed in the first week of the Trump administration; a primer on your Fourth Amendment rights; and ways for families to prepare in case of an arrest by immigration officials. Our 1.5-hour program is meant to address your most burning questions and to remind you of the protections you already have. As policies change, we will continue to provide community defenders with the information and trainings they need to fight back and to keep their people ready to face whatever comes.
I want to ensure you’re ready for the extreme conditions forecasted for our area. The National Weather Service and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services are closely monitoring a Red Flag wind event expected to last through Tuesday.
During this period, dry conditions combined with northeast winds of 25 to 40 MPH—and gusts reaching up to 60 MPH—create a heightened risk of wildfires.
Southern California Edison is implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs in wind-prone areas. The primary period of concern for shutoffs extends through Tuesday morning, though circuits restored earlier may still be at risk for additional shutoffs depending on conditions.
When climate disasters strike, knowing how to help impacted communities and habitats can be daunting. CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program equips you with the knowledge to take climate action and connects you with a network of local activists working to promote community recovery and resilience.
“It’s always exciting when we get to see students back on campus for the start of classes,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Our entire team of faculty and staff are dedicated to helping make their college experience as rewarding as possible.”
SANTA BARBARA — Central Coast McDonald’s restaurants are celebrating the seventh annual Herb Peterson Day this Tuesday, January 21st, by donating the total sales of the iconic Egg McMuffin sandwich to Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC) at participating Central Coast franchises.
Herb Peterson opened his first McDonald’s franchise in Santa Barbara in 1968 and quickly was overseeing six stores. Peterson noticed a deficit in local breakfast options and hoped to fill the gap. After employing a local blacksmith to design a metal ring that would encase a cooking egg and result in an egg patty that would fit in a sandwich, Peterson took his new idea to McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc who approved the iconic fast-food restaurant’s very first breakfast item.
Culminating a multiyear effort to unite library collections and services in a central, state-of-the-art space, the newly opened facility also represents the vision of its namesake, a longstanding donor to campus
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is thrilled to announce that it has reached and surpassed its 2024 Legacy of Compassion Campaign goal raising $1,155,410 during the year-long campaign which launched, in part, in celebration of the organization’s 50th anniversary. The campaign initiated a multi-stage effort to ensure the continued sustainability of HSB’s free compassionate care services, helping to meet current demand while building a stronger foundation for years to come.
VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and financial assistance to Ventura College students and school programs, distributed $738,558 in direct assistance support to 7,858 students during the 2023-2024 academic year and another $1.33 million to 56 Ventura College programs across 14 departments and divisions.
“The Ventura College student body is made up of 40 percent first-generation college students,” says Anne Paul King, Ventura College Foundation executive director. “Ventura College students know the value of a solid education. They are well on their way to becoming our next scientists, first responders, educators, workforce technicians, public servants and innovators.”
PORT HUENEME — At a ceremony held at the Port of Hueneme, Jess J. Ramirez was sworn in as president of the Oxnard Harbor District.
Ventura County Supervisor Vianey Lopez administered the oath of office. Ramirez, a long-serving member of the International Longshoreman’s and Warehouse Union Local #46, has dedicated over 51 years to the port, starting as a casual longshoreman and rising through the ranks to a respected leader. Ramirez was sworn in alongside Commissioner Celina L. Zacarias who just completed a successful year at the helm as board president. The presidential baton for 2025 has now been passed to Ramirez.
