Author: Community Contributor

Santa Paula Police Explorers Earn an Award in First-Ever Chandler Tactical Competition

In January, Santa Paula Police Department Explorer Post #2350 embarked on its first-ever journey to participate in the Chandler Tactical Competition.  Explorers representing 45 law enforcement agencies from across the nation participated in the highly competitive event in Chandler, Arizona. The Post returned to Santa Paula with a Third Place Award in the “Unknown Alarm Response” Scenario.

The Chandler Police Department in Arizona has hosted this annual event for the past 25 years. Not only does the trip involve continuous training throughout the year, but it also requires strong leadership and mentorship by our Post’s advisors. Participation in this prestigious competition required a lot of logistical planning and a high level of supervision by the adult advisors consisting of volunteers, professional staff, and sworn officers. Interim Police Chief Don Aguilar attended the event to support the explorers and advisors.

Workforce Development Board of Ventura County Invites Public Comments On Regional And Local Workforce Plans

In 2021, the WDBVC developed Regional and Local Plans and incorporated its strategic priorities and vision, in addition to what is required by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Every two years, the WDBVC must update these plans. Therefore, in October 2022, the Board met to update the strategic goals and identify milestones to achieve them before the end of 2023. The Regional and Local Plan updates were developed using various outreach and research methods to ensure that multiple perspectives were identified and heard across sectors and stakeholders and that the reports contained solutions for more robust economic and job growth.

Museum of Ventura County — New Exhibit ‘Finding the Light’ Now Open, upcoming events

Finding the Light:

Works from MVC’s

Permanent Collection

Now Open

at the Museum of Ventura County

Finding the Light explores how artists use light not only to influence shape and color, but also to impart deep meaning. The exhibit, featuring works by renowned and diverse regional artists including Guy Webster, Andrea Vargas, Henry Chapman Ford, and Susan Petty, is the first exhibit installed in the new Esther and Thomas Wachtell Family Gallery.

This gallery has been created through a generous endowment from the Esther and Thomas Wachtell Family Fund and is designed to showcase the Museum of Ventura County’s permanent collection.

Learn more about Finding the Light here.

Ventura Land Trust Preserves Damaged in Recent Storms Set for Extended Closure

Ventura Land Trust (VLT) nature preserves sustained significant damage in the recent storms that dropped 15 inches of rain areas of Ventura County. Harmon Canyon Preserve, Big Rock Preserve, and Willoughby Preserve are closed to the public due to structural blows to trails and roads.

“At Harmon Canyon Preserve, we are dealing with deep mud, sinkholes, unstable slopes, and loose rocks,” says Preserve Director Dan Hulst. “Repairs are underway, but it may be as long as two months before the preserve partially opens and public access is restored. The message we need to get out to the public is that this closure is necessary for their safety. Even when it’s dry and sunny outside, we need people to remember that preserves are still closed.” 

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Economic 411 Labor Market Report

Labor Market Report for December 2022

The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its December 2022 report on Friday, showing a surprising but welcome drop in the Ventura County unemployment rate, from 3.7% in November to 3.2% in December. That places Ventura County well ahead of California’s overall rate of 3.7% and ahead of the national average of 3.3%. For the official December data, click here.

Bilingual report — Congresswoman Julia Brownley presents $640,000 to the County of Ventura for Oxnard Family Justice Center services and resources

On Monday, January 23, Congresswoman Julia Brownley presented a check for $640,000 to the County of Ventura to expand crime victim services and resources in Oxnard and Port Hueneme. The money will help with the expansion of the Ventura County Family Justice Center, a program administered by the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, at a new location in Oxnard.

“This money will help to provide funds for bilingual victim advocates, help children who have been victims of domestic violence by funding youth programs, and it will provide onsite civil legal services at the Oxnard Family Justice Center,” said Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “Congresswoman Brownly has been a steadfast champion of public safety and crime victims. We thank her for continuing to standup for Ventura County’s most vulnerable.”

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — Grants available for Thousand Oaks seniors, households affected by the Thomas Fire

Join VCCDC and the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council to learn about grants that can help seniors living in the areas of Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park and Westlake Village and households impacted by the Thomas Fire with home improvements to prepare their home for wildfires including screening vents, clearing vegetation, tree trimming, gutter cleaning and more!

WORKSHOP DETAILS:
DATE/TIME: Thursday, January 26th @ 6pm
LOCATION: Online (receive link once you register)

Explore Lompoc Announces 2023 Events In Lompoc

A new year brings new opportunities. And in Lompoc, there’s always something exciting, engaging, and new to discover and experience.

From heavenly cuisine to cursed pirates. From colorful days in flower fields to electric nights in downtown Lompoc. From winemakers to trendsetters. From now through December 31, 2023, you’ll find all of this and more right here in the Lompoc Valley. All year long.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event, webinar schedule

CALIFORNIA EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATION: 2023 LABOR LAW UPDATE *SPONSORED BY THE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD OF VENTURA COUNTY

January 24 @ 10:00 am

2023 looks to be a bit brighter regarding the pandemic, but the Legislature refocused its attention on passing a multitude of labor and employment bills. This presentation will go over critical updates for California employers. The California Employers Association training is unique in that they will not only cover the new laws, but their HR advisors will also discuss policy updates, practical guidance and available resources. Of course, they will also answer your burning questions!

SBCC’s The Bridge Newsletter — January 2023

Newly elected trustees Ellen Stoddard and Dr. Charlotte Gullap-Moore (pictured in center, left to right) were sworn into the SBCC Board of Trustees by their retiring predecessors, Dr. Peter Haslund and Kate Parker, at the Dec. 15 meeting of the Board. Each will serve a four-year term. Additionally, Jonathan Abboud (left) and Dr. Anna Everett (right) were elected president and vice president of the Board, respectively.
Read about the new trustees on the SBCC Board of Trustees web page.
Read the press release on the new Board appointments.

Meadowlark Service League Hosts a Spring Charity Luncheon and Tennis & Pickleball Tournament

Join the Meadowlark Service League (Meadowlarks) at Las Posas Country Club on Monday, March 6th, for their annual Spring Charity Luncheon, accompanied by a Tennis and Pickleball Tournament, as well as Silent and Live Auctions.  The boutique features a great variety of vendors and is open to the public at no cost. 

The ladies of the Meadowlark have been working hard to continue to create opportunities to raise funds that benefit the many charities that our events support. “This is the 25th anniversary of the Charity Luncheon and Tournament and it continues to give the women of Ventura County a chance to enjoy friendships, sport and special time to themselves,” noted longtime Meadowlark member and event chair, Gwen Speakes, “and we are so excited to host this year’s fun event.  Join us for “Magical Moments.”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura News for Jan. 20, 2023

Since the onset of the January 2023 storms, California has been working closely with federal partners to provide support to impacted communities. On January 8, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom requested a Presidential Emergency Declaration, which was approved by President Biden on January 9, 2023, to include Ventura County. The Presidential Emergency Declaration provides state and local assistance to providing emergency services, such as protecting lives and mitigating damage.

Following the Emergency Declaration, Ventura County continued to sustain damage from the January 9-10, storms that impacted public and private property. Considerable efforts to collect damage reports and conduct field assessments with state and federal partners are currently underway. Residents and business owners are asked to submit reports of damage or requests for assistance in hopes that Ventura County may also be included in a designation for Individual Assistance. Individual Assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Longtime community leader Angela Sanchez joins VISIONALITY along with two more

VISIONALITY kicks off 2023 with the hiring of three new team members just as it wraps 2022 and the celebration of its 10th year in business. Longtime community leader Angela Sanchez joins VISIONALITY bringing 20+ years of finance and banking experience to her new role as the company’s Senior Strategic Relationship Manager. She is joined by Senior Project Manager–Strategy, Jeanette Villanueva and Senior Project Manager–Fundraising & Communications, Katie Pearson.

“When you meet three amazing women, you hire them all,” exclaimed VISIONALITY CEO Emily Barany. “We are a growing team of eight strong women and one brave man.” All joking aside, Barany notes that her experienced team is well-equipped for the big plans she has for the company in 2023. Barany is known as a leader who’s not afraid to jump all-in on behalf of her clients and her community and demonstrates that with these three new hirings.

Bilingual commentary — Will Artificial Intelligence Doom Us?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the quintessential double-edged sword. It has the ability to rescue humanity from some of its most intractable problems. On the other hand, if we are not careful, it could end up subjecting us to its whims, ravaging societies, and, ultimately, destroying us. 

Some scientists and social engineers are giddy with the possibilities of AI. They see it as a means toward achieving things such as advances in medicine, more effective education, better tools for fighting climate change, and stronger and more durable materials. Employers are salivating with the potential of AI to help them trim costs—enormously, in some cases. 

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — FEMA Assistant and Beach Closures

There has been a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of California (FEMA-4683-DR) for severe winter storms was amended to include Santa Barbara County for individual assistance, debris removal, and emergency protective measures. Residents of Santa Barbara County will now be eligible to apply for Federal financial assistance, and public agencies will be eligible to seek reimbursement for debris removal. Public agencies had previously been eligible for reimbursement for costs associated with emergency protective measures.

Residents who incurred financial losses due to storm damage are encouraged to apply for assistance as soon as possible online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. An application for assistance can also be made by downloading the FEMA app in the Apple and Google store. This allows documents to be uploaded to FEMA directly and track the status of applications.

If you cannot live in your home at this time due to storm impact causing water damage, mold, mud, or inability to access your home, please make sure you include this in your application.

Hasan elected to Ventura LAFCo

Mohammed A. Hasan, a prominent community and business leader in Ventura County has been elected to the Ventura County Local Agency Formation Commission. The special districts in Ventura County elected him to be an alternate Commissioner

The Ventura County LAFCo decides primarily boundary issues of the county, cities, and most special districts. Every county in California has a LAFCo. They implement state law requirements, state and local policies relating to boundary changes, including spheres of influence, incorporations, annexations, and reorganizations. Commissioners are either appointed or elected. More Information is available at ventura.lafco.ca.gov

Ventura Harbor Village: Take To The Great Outdoors With Island Packers Winter Whale Watching & Excursions To The Channel Islands National Park

Island Packers, the official boat concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, has recently announced daily departures to the Channel Islands National Park from Ventura Harbor Village, and is now offering Winter Whale Watching Excursions through April 2023.  Book your spot today to view these magnificent mammals at  www.islandpackers.com.

Also, visit https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/directory/island-packers/ for more information.

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria Jumps into Second Gymnastics Session

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is kicking off the year with a new session of gymnastics classes, following the success of its first programming session that launched in September. The 10-week program, offered on Thursday afternoons for students in TK-5thgradate, is currently serving 32 girls.

Girls Inc. Gymnastics Coach Kendall Clark stated that internal skills were a high point in the previous session, with participants displaying an increased level of mind-body connection, rotation disciple, and self-confidence. Participants also work on foundational skills including conquering successful cartwheels, handstands and back handsprings.

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces two new Board Directors and appoints new Chair at its Annual Public Meeting

 During its Annual Public Meeting in January, Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announced two new Directors have joined its Board. Executive Director of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Paula, Elenore Vaughn joins the Board bringing with her two decades of experience in real estate development and public affairs. Joining Ms. Vaughn on the Board is longstanding community member and partner at McCarthy Companies, Sarah McCarthy-Garcia, who brings years of local building and business development experience. The 2023 Board is led by 2023 Chair Tracy McAulay, Management Analyst for the County of Ventura Community Development Division and Vice Chair Ken Trigueiro, CEO & President of People’s Self-Help Housing.

January News from People’s Self-Help Housing

At PSHH, we are not afraid to ask questions.

Now in our third year of DEI training, we have more than just poked at the edges; we have gone deep into the DNA of our fifty two year old organization. Marked with further and significant investments of funds and time, the next twelve months will see our staff-led initiatives continue to explore where we are, where we are going, and humbly, where we want to be.

Our continued progress is thanks to the authentic participation of our 200+ team members who have vulnerably shared their feelings and with conviction embraced new opportunities.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Get Green Certified For Earth Day 2023

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS CHALLENEGE

From the California Green Business Network

Most businesses in Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties are now eligible for $500 in incentives to help reduce their operational costs and become a certified Green Business. Start off the new year with a resolution to be green, and get certified by Earth Day 2023! The Sustainable Business Challenge is a great opportunity to start reaping benefits now as your business gets started on its sustainability journey.

Ventura County Academic Competitions Seek Volunteers

Ventura County’s popular academic competitions are returning in person this year, but we need the support of community volunteers to present these events for local students. The Ventura County Academic Decathlon, Mock Trial, and Science Fairwill be taking place over the next several weeks. On average, more than 400 volunteer judges and scorers are needed to support the 2,500 students who participate. Please see below for additional information and links to our online volunteer registration forms.

Bilingual report — Oxnard’s Chief Financial Officer Retires from Public Service; Former City of Phoenix CFO Denise Olson Named Interim

City Manager Alexander Nguyen announced today that Oxnard’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Betsy George announced her retirement from the public sector, effective Jan. 19.

Former City of Phoenix CFO Denise Olson has been appointed by Nguyen to serve as Oxnard’s Interim CFO until a permanent replacement is found.

“We thank Betsy for her public service and the great work that she, and the Finance team, have done to strengthen Oxnard’s financial standing,” said Nguyen. “We’re also grateful to have Denise join our City in the interim. I’m confident that her leadership managing the finances for the fifth largest city in the nation will be an asset to Oxnard.”

Local expert’s guide to evaluating statistics among OLLI classes

The Spring I 2023 session of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) features several new instructors, including a local expert who will explain how to separate the truth from the hype in “Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics.”

Registration is open for the all-new slate of classes for students aged 50 and up. Classes run from Jan. 23 through March 3.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura News update for Jan. 17

January Storm Recovery Information

Since the onset of the January 2023 storms, the State of California has been working closely with federal partners to provide support to impacted communities. On January 8, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom requested a Presidential Emergency Declaration, which was approved by President Biden on January 9, 2023, to include Ventura County. The Presidential Emergency Declaration provides state and local assistance to providing emergency services, such as protecting lives and mitigating damage.

Singers of all ages and vocal ranges encouraged to audition for the CSUCI University Chorus

Auditions are now open for singers who would like to join the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) University Chorus and be part of the Spring 2023 “Choral Spectacular!

Anyone wishing to audition is invited to send an email to University Chorus Artistic Director KuanFen Liu at downbeatplus@gmail.com to make an appointment for an audition from now until January 20.

Auditions are open to singers of all vocal ranges, ages 18 and up, and anyone on the CSUCI campus or in the surrounding community is welcome to audition. Liu is especially hoping to add more male singers to give the chorus more tenor, bass and baritone.

Bilingual report — Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara will reopen on Jan. 22

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara will reopen this month to provide contemporary art and community-focused programming — as it has done since its beginnings as the Contemporary Arts Forum in the 1970s. We invite everyone to take part in MCASB and our collective project of critical thinking, cultural literacy, risk-taking, and discovery.

***

El Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Santa Bárbara reabrirá este mes para ofrecer arte contemporáneo y programación centrada en la comunidad, como lo ha hecho desde sus inicios como Foro de Arte Contemporáneo en la década de 1970. Invitamos a todos a participar en MCASB y nuestro proyecto colectivo de pensamiento crítico, conocimiento cultural, toma de riesgos y descubrimiento.

Bilingual report — Natalie Hernandez named new County Public Information Officer

The County of Ventura is pleased to announce that Natalie Hernandez has been selected to serve as the Public Information Officer for the County Executive Office. The appointment was made by County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson following a lengthy search which included strong internal and external candidates.

Hernandez has over a decade of experience working in public relations, crisis communications, and event management across the public, private and nonprofit sectors. She comes to the role having served most recently as the Public Information Officer for the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and, prior to that, as the Assistant Public Information Officer for the County Executive Office.

“I am excited to have Natalie rejoin our team”, said County Executive Officer, Dr. Sevet Johnson. “Natalie’s extensive experience working with our diverse communities to share vital and important information will help enrich our service to the public.”

Applications sought for Santa Barbara County Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation

Calling all vocalists and musicians. The deadline to apply for the Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation’s annual awards competition is fast approaching.

Formed in 1982 to provide financial aid to deserving vocal and instrumental students with professional performance potential who live or study music in Santa Barbara County, PASF has announced a deadline of midnight Friday, March 3, for applications.

Auditions will be held April 7 and 8 at Weinman Hall, Music Academy of the West, 1070 Fairway Road in Santa Barbara. The competition is set for 3 p.m. on April 23 at the Academy’s Lehman Hall in the Marilyn Horne House.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

iHub² TIPS AND TRICKS: BOOT STRAPPING WITH PAUL SHRATER

January 18 @ 6:00 pm

Entrepreneur Paul Shrater co-founded Minimus.biz, the world leader in all things travel-sized and individual-sized. He navigated his company through all its growth stages, developing the marketing, sales, purchasing, operations, administration and accounting departments. Paul acquired extremely valuable tools, processes and strategies along the way and will share these best practices with attendees. A graduate of the acclaimed Wharton School, Paul received a Bachelor of Science in Economics with a concentration in Entrepreneurial Management. He has spoken at several conferences and guest lectured at universities on topics such as film finance, marketing, intellectual property and screenwriting. Location: 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd. Community Room Camarillo, CA 93012.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — WEV (Women’s Economic Ventures) presenting free Emprendimiento Program on Feb. 7

SANTA PAULA — WEV (Women’s Economic Ventures) will present a free Emprendimiento Program in Spanish from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 at the Blanchard Community Library, 119 N. 8th St., Santa Paula.

WEV’s Emprendimiento Program is free, taught in Spanish, and an incredible opportunity for any Ventura County business owner/new entrepreneur. Our 8-week class will help Spanish-speaking business owners learn the steps to grow their business, write a business plan, understand budgeting, projecting profit and expenses, and gain additional resources for their business journey. And, after completing the course, participants will have the opportunity to apply for a $7,500 small business grant plus additional assistance from mentors and advisors!

Bilingual report — Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura (AHA) accepting applications beginning Feb 1 for the Public Housing Program from low income households

The Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura (AHA) will be accepting applications beginning February 1, 2023 for the Public Housing Program from low income households.

Applications will be accepted online beginning Wednesday, February 1, 2023 at 8:00am and will close on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 4:00pm. Applications will be accepted via an online portal at onlineportal.ahacv.org

Click on image for more information

Bilingual commentary — The Closure of Camarillo State Hospital

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 •…

California Strawberry Festival is Back – at a New Venue

After a three-year hiatus due to challenges brought on by the pandemic, the 2023 California Strawberry Festival will take place May 20-21. For the first time ever, the event will be held at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

“We are thrilled to relaunch the California Strawberry Festival in 2023 at the Fairgrounds,” says Dean Kato, Chairman of the California Strawberry Festival Board of Directors. “We realized that the event had outgrown the available space at our longtime venue, Oxnard’s College Park. It’s our ‘comeback’ year – and we want to come out bigger and better than ever.”

WVCBA Announces the 2022 Chairperson’s Awards of Excellence Recipients

The West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA), the chamber of commerce serving Camarillo and Oxnard, is pleased to announce its annual Chairperson’s Awards of Excellence recipients, the Ambassador of the Year, and the Ken Cunningham Award winner. By tradition, all were selected by outgoing 2022 Chair of the Board Dawn Simmons, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones.

Honorees will be celebrated at the WVCBA’s Annual Meeting and Installation of Directors on Friday, January 20, beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Spanish Hills Club in Camarillo. Tickets to the luncheon are $60 for members and $75 for non-members. Registration is available online at www.wvcba.org or by calling (805) 738-9100.

First ‘Be Like Carter’ Scholarships Awarded

The first two “Be Like Carter” scholarships were awarded to Agoura High School students in December. The scholarships are awarded in memory of Carter Stone, an incoming freshman at Agoura High who passed away unexpectedly just before the start of the school year and after making the football team.

Winners are Giacomo Likavec a 10th grader who is co-captain of the Agoura High JV football team and a wrestler and Veorah Feddanich, a 9th grader who holds the number one position on the girls’ varsity tennis team.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — All Evacuation Orders Are Lifted in Santa Barbara County

First of all, I want to sincerely thank every single person who evacuated and otherwise followed guidance from safety officials regarding sheltering in place and staying off the roads. Because so many followed the orders, our first responders were able to focus their attention on those who most needed it. Thanks to your efforts there have been no fatalities or serious injuries reported.

Effective immediately, all evacuation orders are lifted for the Alisal, Cave, and Thomas fire burn scars and all of Montecito, Toro Canyon, Padaro, and Carpinteria. There are still restricted areas to allow for the draining of storm water and clearing of debris. In particular, North Jameson Lane will be closed from Sheffield to Olive Mill. Roads that are only accessible from Jameson will be accessible to residents only. Show proof of residency and safety officials will let you through.

Aera Energy and Ventura College Foundation establish endowment to award scholarships to students studying STEM and pursuing energy careers

Aera Energy, a longtime leader in the California energy industry, and the Ventura College Foundation (VCF) are excited to support young adults interested in pursuing future careers in energy, through a new endowment that provides STEM scholarships.

The Aera Energy STEM Scholarship Fund will award annual scholarships to students studying and seeking a degree in STEM disciplines and interested in pursuing a career in the energy sector. The endowment was launched through an initial $25,000 donation from Aera in December. A $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a student every April.

“The future of reliable, safe and affordable energy for this and future generations of Californians relies, in part, on investment in our future workforce. These students are tomorrow’s engineers, teachers and geologists. That’s why Aera supports education in the communities where we operate,” said Amy Fonzo, external affairs advisor at Aera-Ventura. “We’re proud to help the VCF support young adults who are pursuing STEM education. These energy workers of the future will help power our state while innovating new technologies to meet the state’s climate goals.”

Bilingual report — MICOP — Safety Net for All Coalition Statement on the Governor’s Budget 2023 – 2024

The Safety Net for All Coalition is deeply disappointed to see that Governor Newsom’s proposed budget does not include unemployment benefits for excluded immigrant workers. An Excluded Workers Program is an essential step to creating a more equitable and resilient economy that works for all Californians.  

California’s immigrant workers are the foundation of our economy, contributing to its standing as the 4th largest economy in the world. Seventy-eight percent of California’s undocumented immigrants work in industries that are “essential and critical” to the economy, such as agriculture, construction, and domestic work. Yet, due to historic racist exclusions from our safety net, California’s undocumented workers are not able to access economic support when they face unexpected job loss. Despite the fact that California employers pay an estimated $485 million annually into the Unemployment Insurance system on behalf of these workers, these workers are prohibited from accessing these benefits.  

Bilingual report — Ventura County elected officials ceremonially sworn in at Board of Supervisors meeting

On Tuesday, January 10, in the first County Board of Supervisors meeting for 2023, County officials who were elected to office following the 2022 elections were ceremonially sworn in by Judge Kevin DeNoce. The officials sworn into office were:

Supervisor Jeff Gorell, District 2
Supervisor Janice S. Parvin, District 4
Assessor Keith Taylor
Auditor-Controller Jeffery S. Burgh
Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion
District Attorney Erik Nasarenko
Treasurer-Tax Collector Sue Horgan

Happy New Year from MVC!

Behind the Curtain
George Stuart Historical Figures®
New videos series!

The “Behind the Curtain: An Insider’s Look at The George Stuart Historical Figures®” exhibit offers visitors the opportunity to investigate each of George Stuart’s figures closely so that they can decide if they’re works of art, historical objects, or something else entirely. This new video series offers viewers the very same opportunity from the comfort of home. Watch more here.

Students Create the Future at Hackathon by the Sea

More than 100 students from 40 different high schools throughout Ventura County stayed up all night as they competed in the annual Hackathon by the Sea last weekend in Camarillo. Participants spent an entire night creating apps and websites with the assistance of volunteer mentors.

Presented by the Ventura County Office of Education and the Hacker Fund, the Hackathon encourages students to use technology in creative ways to solve problems and engage users. At the end of the event, student teams presented their creations to judges, who awarded prizes.

Friendship Center Festival of Hearts 2023 — ONLINE PREVIEW SALE coming Thursday!

New for 2023 :we are having a Preview Sale so that you can peek at the fantastic heart art created by local artists and purchase any must have pieces before the live event at a set price – haggle free!

Also, a chance to purchase great auction packages, even if you cannot attend the live event.

The link to the sale will be sent via email on Thursday morning at 10am and you will have 2 weeks to shop before the live event.

Please keep your eyes peeled for the link Thursday morning, and happy shopping!

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Monday Storm Update

Our County first responders held their 3rd emergency press conference Monday at 4 pm. I’ve included the video of the press conference below.

We expect heavy rain and potential thunderstorms overnight, with a high risk for flash flooding throughout Santa Barbara County and our neighboring counties. The request from our first responders is to please stay off the road unless you are evacuating or otherwise absolutely need to be. If you went to work today and must commute home, please do not attempt. Stay put for tonight. The northbound 101 freeway is closed from Highway 33 to Santa Claus Lane and again at the Gaviota tunnel, along with Highway 154 in both directions. The County has one emergency shelter open at the Wake Center located at 300 North Turnpike in the Eastern Goleta Valley between Goleta and Santa Barbara and is looking to open more. Please check the County of Santa Barbara’s social media and other news sources for updated emergency shelter information. You can also call 805-678-3073 for more Evacuation Center information.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) January Event and Webinar Schedule

EN ESPAÑOL: CLASE GRATUITA DE COMPUTACIÓN BÁSICA

Comenzando el 10 de enero los martes a las 6:00 pm y los sábados a las 10:00 am

Este curso de 6 semanas enseña a estudiantes adultos conocimientos esenciales de computación que son necesarios en la vida diaria. Este curso está diseñado para personas con un mínimo o ninguna cualificaciones digitales que operan una computadora y es especialmente útil para los estudiantes adultos que necesitan más conocimientos de computación para conseguir un trabajo o pasar a un trabajo mejor pagado.

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

An evacuation warning has been issued for the Alisal, Cave, and Thomas Fire burn scars ahead of a projected storm coming in Monday evening. Public safety officials will be meeting tomorrow morning to make a decision on whether the warning will be elevated to an order. Stay alert and be prepared for the worst-case scenario.

If you are in a position where you are safe and secure, please consider joining our Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors for our installation ceremony during the first Board hearing of the year on Tuesday January 10th at 9am. During the ceremony, I will be installed as Chair for the 2023 Board of Supervisors and we will be celebrating the swearing in of recently elected County officials. 

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — New 2023 California Laws

Happy New Year! The new year has brought many new laws into effect. Read on and check out the links to learn more!

Minimum Wage: Effective January 1, 2023, the minimum wage is $15.50 per hour for all employers. Some cities and counties have higher minimum wages than the state’s rate. There is a list of City and County minimum wages in California maintained by UC Berkeley.

Wage Transparency: SB 1162 requires businesses with 15 or more employees to include information about salary ranges for all job postings. Workers will also have the right now to know the pay scale for their current position. Companies with 100 or more employees are required to submit pay data and wage history to the state by May of each year or face penalties. More information can be reviewed in this Fisher Phillips overview.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) celebrates National Mentoring Month with Starbucks

January is National Mentoring Month, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is celebrating by recruiting mentors through Starbucks locations across the county for the 80 Littles on their waitlist.

All month long, QR codes placed at over 15 Starbucks locations will connect patrons to a video where a waiting Little shares what they hope to do once they are matched with a Big. These QR codes are displayed with an item representing a waiting Little’s interests – like a miniature bike to represent Madeline, who wants to ride bikes with her future Big Sister.

Santa Maria High School Spanish Teacher Enedina Castañeda performs two poems at the Cultural Center of Tijuana (CECUT), Mexico

Santa Maria High School Spanish Teacher Enedina Castañeda recently joined more than 60 artists from the United States and Mexico to perform two poems at the Cultural Center of Tijuana (CECUT), Mexico.

Castañeda, who is a member of the 3rd Binational Congress for Mexican Artists Residing in the United States, was accompanied by the music of guitarist and tenor Iván Orellana.

Castañeda presented two poems on stage, Paz and La Tierra Distante. Along with her poem, Peace (Paz), she exhibited the banner of peace during the performance. The Distant Land (La Tierra Distante) is a nostalgic poem conveying the feeling of missing your country when you’re standing on a foreign land. Castañeda recited that piece holding dirt from Mother Earth.

Bilingual commentary — And We Think We Have Problems…

When all four of my grandparents escaped the violence in Mexico and arrived in the U.S. in 1923, they couldn’t stop feeling gratitude for the sense of safety that they were experiencing. Despite the prejudice and spiteful attitudes of some of the people around them in Los Angeles, they felt at peace. For them, any societal problems in the city were relatively minor compared to what they had experienced at the hands of the revolutionaries in Mexico.

And yes, of course, we had, and still have, problems in our society. Lots of them.

But sometimes we have to place things in perspective.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces California Competes Tax Credit Program

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 twelve 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 the remainder of the 2022-2023, applications for the California Competes Tax Credit will be accepted during the following periods:

January 3, 2023 – January 23, 2023
March 6, 2023 – March 20, 2023

Cottage Health Appoints Dr. Miriam Parsa to Chief Pediatric Medical Officer

Cottage Health has appointed Dr. Miriam Parsa, a board-certified pediatrician and pediatric rheumatologist, to the role of Chief Pediatric Medical Officer.

As Chief Pediatric Medical Officer, Dr. Parsa will continue to help advance the development of pediatric services and community partnerships. She will also provide leadership in maintaining Cottage’s high standards of clinical quality and patient experience.

Dr. Parsa joined the Medical Staff of Cottage Health and the Cottage Children’s Medical Center in 2013 and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Rheumatology.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Issued

An EVACUATION ORDER has been issued due to an incoming storm Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at 10 PM, with the potential to produce flooding and mud and debris flows. This EVACUATION ORDER is effective immediately and applies to the identified properties and parcels in and around the Alisal, Thomas, and Cave Fire burn scars.

Do not attempt to drive while it is dark or raining as roads may be damaged and your car may be swept away by moving water or debris.
Strong winds are also expected, which can cause debris to fall onto roadways and power outages.
BE PREPARED to sustain yourself and your household for multiple days if you choose not to evacuate, as you may not be able to leave the area and emergency responders may not be able to access your property in the event of road damage, flooding, or a debris flow.
For Evacuation Center information, contact the American Red Cross at 805-678-3073.
For animal evacuation information, call Santa Barbara County Animal Services at (805) 681-4332, Monday-Friday, from 8 am-5 pm.
If you need animal evacuation support outside those hours, please call the County Animal Services after-hours phone line at (805) 683-2724.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Weather Advisory

A Weather Advisory has been issued for Montecito and the Thomas Fire burn area in preparation for another significant storm event this week. Heavy rain, strong winds, and high surf are expected in Montecito Wednesday into Thursday. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for our area through Thursday.

During a Weather Advisory, community members are urged to:
Monitor the weather.
Plan how to get out and where you might go.
Prepare and protect your home.

The Weather Advisory has been issued in light of the recent storms that have produced 8-13 inches of rain in the last 30 days, plus the forecast incoming storm that may produce 4-8+ inches of rain across Montecito and the Thomas Fire burn scar.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost events and webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

IHUB² TIPS AND TRICKS: BOOT STRAPPING WITH PAUL SHRATER

January 18 @ 6:00 pm

Entrepreneur Paul Shrater co-founded Minimus.biz, the world leader in all things travel-sized and individual-sized. He navigated his company through all its growth stages, developing the marketing, sales, purchasing, operations, administration and accounting departments. Paul acquired extremely valuable tools, processes and strategies along the way and will share these best practices with attendees. A graduate of the acclaimed Wharton School, Paul received a Bachelor of Science in Economics with a concentration in Entrepreneurial Management. He has spoken at several conferences and guest lectured at universities on topics such as film finance, marketing, intellectual property and screenwriting. Location: 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd. Community Room Camarillo, CA 93012.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — $7.3M Payout Rewards Physician Excellence in Healthcare on Central Coast

On March 1 of 2022, CenCal Health launched the Quality Care Incentive Program (QCIP) to maximize the quality of care for its health plan members on the Central Coast. QCIP is a value-based incentive program that directly rewards plan providers who deliver exceptional medical care in their community. After nine months, the innovative initiative has resulted in a distribution of over $7 million in payments to participating primary care providers (PCPs). QCIP emphasizes the clinical priorities of significance to CenCal Health members, such as diabetes and asthma care, breast cancer and cervical cancer screenings, and child and adolescent well-care visits. In Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, CenCal Health is the Medi-Cal plan that partners with over 1,500 local physicians, hospitals and other providers in delivering patient care to more than 225,000 members. Medi-Cal is the name of California’s Medicaid benefits program; the federal government administers Medicaid.

Cottage Health Welcomes New Year’s Baby

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital welcomed the first babies of the new year.

Por Soua (PAW-SHOO-UH) and Grayson Peters of Goleta welcomed their first child, a daughter, named Rose, into the world at 3:33 am today at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. Rose weighed 6 pounds, and was 18.75 inches in length.

Ventura Harbor Village (Ventura Port District) Recognized With Jewel Key Award for Beautification At Ventura Chamber of Commerce 25th Annual Poinsettia Awards in Ventura

The Ventura Port District has been honored with the prestigious Jewel Key Award by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce at the 2022 Poinsettia Awards for beautification of the Ventura Harbor Village. The Chamber selects the recipient of this significant annual award based on overall improvements over the past year. 

Accepting the award from the Ventura Chamber of Commerce was Ventura Port District General Manager Brian Pendleton and Ventura Port District Board Chairman Chris Stephens.

Santa Paula Art Museum — New Year, New Everything!

Exhibit Premiere

Mary Neville’s “Field Trip: 30 Days at a Higher Elevation”

Premieres Saturday, January 14, 2023, from 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM Members / $10 Non-members

Meet Ojai artist Mary Neville at the Santa Paula Art Museum on Saturday, January 14, for the premiere of her solo exhibition, “Field Trip: 30 Days at a Higher Elevation.” With all-new mixed media paintings and works on paper, Neville unpacks her recent, month-long artist residency at Ghost Ranch in northern New Mexico, once home to legendary artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Wine, beer, and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Reservations are not required.

“Field Trip” will be on view January 14, 2023, to May 7, 2023. Many of the artworks will be available for purchase.