Author: Community Contributor

September News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

In honor of National Latinx Heritage Month, we celebrate the innumerable contributions of the heritages and cultures that daily enrich our communities.

At People’s, the majority of our staff and residents identify as Latinx. We are committed to growing in a direction that align with the needs voiced by those we serve, whose lived experience has been shaped by Latinx heritage, and to especially address past disparities and present day inequities.

To further strengthen our Latinx communities, we ask you to continue to support our mission. Your investments and partnership meaningfully impact lives each day. May all go well for you and yours, as we enter the Fall Season together!

Santa Paula Art Museum — October @ SPAM: Spooky Figure Drawing, Dia de los Muertos, and More!

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

Free Family Day

Sunday, October 2, 2022, from 12 PM to 3 PM
Free for all ages

October promises to be scary fun at the Santa Paula Art Museum! First up: Free Family Day on Sunday, October 2. Longtime Santa Paula art teacher and crafting queen Mariann Romero will be leading the activities inside SPAM’s Cole Creativity Center. Create fun, fall-themed crafts, including pinecone wall hangings and scarecrow bookmarks. Admission is free, all are welcome, and all materials are provided.

Innovative and Family Friendly, Ventura County Children & Family Services Offers Strengthening and Support to Keep Families Together

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura County Children and Family Services is working to transform child welfare to better serve our communities in one of the most forward-thinking family strengthening efforts in the State.

For nearly a decade, Ventura County Children and Family Services have sought to shift child welfare practice from traditional methods of removal and compliance to a wellness system approach to strengthening families. This innovative approach better supports families and gives children of all ages in out-of-home (foster) care the chance to be reunified with their birth parents—or never to need to leave home at all.

“Strengthening VC Families was founded on the belief that every child deserves permanency, and every family deserves to stay together whenever it is safe. We also believe that it takes an entire community to help keep a family together,” said Judy Webber, Director, Children & Family Services. “The main goal is to keep children safe while strengthening their families and providing services for their families so they can reunify permanently.”

John Spoor Broome Library 20th Anniversary exhibit chronicles the history of CSUCI from dream to reality

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

It was August of 2001 and CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) was still a year away from opening when Technical and Public Services Librarian Laura Worden worked as a student assistant in the old Library, which is now part of a study lounge of the Student Union building.

“It was very small, very quiet because there were still not a lot of people around,” Worden said. “They didn’t have a cafeteria, they had a food truck that also served the farmworkers. And we had a Java Hut coffee shop in a corner inside the Bell Tower.”

More than 20 years later, Worden was among the Library staff and faculty who sorted through thousands of photos, documents, and artifacts to develop a special exhibit of CSUCI’s history in honor of the University’s 20th anniversary. The exhibit, which was created in partnership with CSUCI’s Communication & Marketing area, is on display now in the John Spoor Broome Library.

Called “Honoring our Past—Building the Future,” the exhibit features a historical timeline spread across the north wing of the Library with an accompanying photo gallery to highlight the milestones since the University started, including inaugural groundbreaking ceremonies.

Somis Union School District Opens New Innovation and Discovery Room

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

Somis Union School District recently held the grand opening of its new Innovation and Discovery Room at Somis School yesterday. As Somis School students continue to engage in coding and robotics, the Innovation and Discovery Room will provide them with the opportunity to access modern technology before, during and after school.

Currently, Somis students in kindergarten through 8th grade are engaged in a coding curriculum, with support from teachers and ongoing professional development led by Dr. Catherine Reznicek from the Ventura County Office of Education. However, the Innovation and Discovery Room will allow students to take the initiative a step further by developing their coding and problem-solving skills in a personalized manner.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Alondra Gaytán Selected as 40 Under 40 Winner -EDC Business Alert

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2022 • Comments Off

On Thursday, September 22, EDC’s Director of Strategic Relations, Alondra Gaytán, was recognized as a 40 Under 40 winner of the Pacific Coast Business Times’ (PCBT) annual 40 under 40 event. Each year the PCBT hosts an event to recognize 40 people who positively impact the Tri-county region.

Since childhood, Alondra has always been committed to serving underserved communities. Alondra shared, “I love that every day I contribute, collaborate and strategize ways to build economic growth in the region for now and our future.” As the Director of Strategic Relations, Alondra oversees vital relationships with the community and businesses.

CLICK HERE to read the full article on all 40 Under 40 Recipients.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — National Drive Electric Week, Clean Air Day, Suicide Prevention Month and More

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2022 • Comments Off

National Drive Electric Week is a nationwide celebration to help the U.S. transition rapidly and equitably to cleaner transportation that protects communities from pollution and worsening climate change impacts. While our transportation modes continue to make vast improvements and tailpipe emissions get cleaner and cleaner, transportation alone is still responsible for more than half of California’s carbon emissions, 80 percent of its smog-forming pollution, and 95 percent of the state’s toxic diesel emissions. Recently, the State announced that by 2035, 100 percent of new cars and light trucks sold in California will be required to be zero-emission vehicles.

Oxnard Entrepreneur Brenda Allison Honored With Sales Award During National Gathering

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2022 • Comments Off

Brenda Allison, CEO of Coast General Insurance Brokers in Oxnard, received a national sales award during a prestigious industry event. UnitedAg, a member-owned, agricultural trade association, honored Allison for her tireless work helping its members.

Allison received the award during UnitedAg’s 42nd annual conference, “Building for the Future,” held last month in Honolulu, Hawaii.

“It’s such an honor to be recognized by an organization that works so hard to ensure its members have what they need to take care of their businesses, their families and their workers,” Allison said. “That I can play a small role in its efforts is very meaningful to me.”

Southeast Ventura County YMCA Raises $617,000; Honors Chuck and Melinda Carmichael At Its 4th Annual Gala

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2022 • Comments Off

The Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s 4th Annual Gala raised $617,876 to support YMCA programs while honoring Chuck and Melinda Carmichael as the 2022 Joel and Frances McCrea Memorial Award recipient. The event, held September 17 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village, welcomed nearly 300 guests. This was the first in person Gala since 2019 due to the pandemic.

“Chuck and Melinda Carmichael are longtime supporters of the Simi Valley Family YMCA,” says Ronnie Stone, Southeast Ventura County YMCA CEO. “The Y is one of many causes and organizations that receive their backing throughout our community. They inspire us all every day.”

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Board Approves Reducing Sprinkler Irrigation Time From 15 to 10 Minutes Per Station

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2022 • Comments Off

At its September 19 meeting, the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) board of directors approved reducing the amount of once-a-week sprinkler irrigation time per water station from 15 to 10 minutes. The reduction in watering time takes effect October 1.

TWSD gets its water from the Metropolitan Water District (MWD). The TWSD decision follows an MWD directive requiring the more restrictive provision. For more on the one-day-per-week watering restrictions, go to https://www.triunfowsd.com/faq.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Launches New Audio Alert System in Mixteco and Zapoteco to Protect Farmworkers from Wildfires

by Community Contributor • September 27, 2022 • Comments Off

In partnership with the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (VCAPCD), the Mixteco Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP), Líderes Campesinas, the Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE), and the Public Health Institutes Achieving Resilient Communities (ARC) project have added audio alerts in Mixteco and Zapoteco to the recently launched smoke alert system to protect farming communities from wildfire smoke.

California is experiencing longer and more intense wildfire seasons. Wildfire smoke exposure is becoming a growing health threat to farmworkers, who must often continue to work in the fields during wildfires and extreme heat events. Wildfire smoke has been linked to a variety of health problems, including burning eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, and headache, and can also worsen and cause chronic heart and lung disease. Due to climate change, wildfire seasons are getting longer, more intense, and more dangerous: This year’s season in the US is 116% above the 10-year average before 2022, according to the National Center Fire Interagency.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Advances Progress Toward Climate Goals with New 5.8-Megawatt Solar Project

by Community Contributor • September 27, 2022 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura’s General Services Agency has executed an agreement with ForeFront Power to expand solar panels at the Government Center by an additional 5.8-Megawatts, furthering progress toward the County’s climate action goals. The 20-year agreement will result in $10.8 million in savings.

“The County continues to make significant progress towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting climate action goals,” said County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson. “We are grateful to our General Services Agency for identifying this opportunity to expand our renewable energy use and lead by example to reduce emissions in our government operations significantly.”

Adopted in 2020, the County’s Climate Action Plan calls for a 41% reduction in communitywide greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, with additional goals identified for 2040 and 2050.

CSUCI vice provost receives multiple national honors

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Vice Provost Jessica Lavariega Monforti recently received multiple national honors for her academic leadership and her work examining Latino political issues, including a new book on military recruitment.

Inspired by conversations with her Latino students, the book, “Proving Patriotismo: Latino Military Recruitment, Service and Belonging in the U.S,” was written with East Stroudsburg University Political Science professor, Adam McGlynn, Ph.D., and demonstrates why the Latino population is a growing target for U.S. military recruitment and why Latinos seeking to improve their economic station and their acceptance as Americans are open to these overtures.

Hispanics make up a disproportional share of the armed forces and are the fastest growing segment. The Pew Research Center found that the share of active-duty military who are Hispanic rose from 25% in 2004 to 36% in 2017. In 2020, Hispanics accounted for 19% of all Americans.

Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Volunteer Services Awards $27,000 in Scholarships

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital (SYVCH) Volunteer Services has awarded nine $3,000 scholarships to local students who reside or work in the Santa Ynez Valley and plan to pursue college studies in health-related careers.

The scholarship awards totaling $27,000 are made possible through proceeds from the New to You Thrift Store in Solvang. New to You Thrift store is staffed entirely by Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital volunteers who generously donate more than 16,000 hours of their time and talents each year to support the hospital.

Scholarship recipients were selected by SYVCH Scholarship Committee members Jacky Green, Martha Nedegaard, Brenda Loskamp and Susan Snekvik.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Sustainability Division Gets a New Look, Launches New Online Hub to Support Climate Action

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura’s Sustainability Division has launched a new online hub to support local climate action, available at sustain.ventura.org. Community members and partners can now easily access sustainability resources and information about county progress towards meeting climate action goals and find information about local sustainability events and initiatives.

“Climate change is presenting challenges and opportunities to Ventura County,” said Chair of the Board Matt LaVere. “Our new Sustainability website provides our residents tools to directly engage with these issues by allowing them to participate in local climate action, social equity, and economic vitality efforts and learn about actions our Board has taken in support of a sustainable and resilient future.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

U.S. COMMERCIAL SERVICE: SHOWCASING THE INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS OF HISPANIC-OWNED AND LED BUSINESSES

Septmeber 28 @ 11:00 am

The U.S. Commercial Service invites you to register below for the eighth session of our “From Local to Global: Celebrating Diversity” event series. In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the U.S. Commercial Service will feature an interactive discussion of how Hispanic-owned and led Southern California-based companies have successfully grown their businesses internationally.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — Governor Appoints Oxnard Councilmember Vianey Lopez as District 5 County Supervisor

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sept. 23 announced the appointment of Vianey Lopez as District 5 County Supervisor to fill the vacancy created by the untimely passing of Supervisor Carmen Ramirez on August 12, 2022. Lopez will serve as appointed District 5 County Supervisor until the next general election in November 2024.

A long-time resident of South Oxnard, Lopez was elected to the Oxnard City Council in November 2018 and re-elected in November 2020. She serves as District Director for Assemblymember Monique Limón in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. Prior to joining Assemblymember Limón, Lopez worked for former Congresswoman Lois Capps. For six years, Lopez served as a Trustee on the Hueneme Elementary School District Board. She served on the Board of Directors of the Future Leaders of America. She is the former vice president of the Ventura County Women’s Political Council (VCWPC) and is an active member of the Ventura County League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).

“I am honored and humbled to have been appointed by Governor Newsom to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors to carry out the term of my friend and mentor, Carmen Ramirez,” said Vianey Lopez. “Carmen was unwavering in her passion for public service and the belief in working together for the greater good. I am committed to this purpose and working towards building a better and brighter future for Ventura County and its residents. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of support I have received from people throughout our community.”

Dr. César Morales Elected as Ventura County Superintendent of Schools

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

For the first time, Dr. César Morales has been elected by voters as Ventura County Superintendent of Schools. He was initially appointed to the role in 2021 by the Ventura County Board of Education to fill the vacancy left by the retirement of former Superintendent Stan Mantooth. Upon his appointment, Dr. Morales made history by becoming the first Latino and first person of color to hold the office since it was created in 1873. Dr. Morales ran unopposed in yesterday’s primary election. His new term will run through 2026.

“I’m extremely gratified to have the opportunity to serve as Ventura County Superintendent of Schools for the next four years,” Dr. Morales said. “As local schools deal with declining enrollment and issues surrounding school safety and student mental health, my office will be at their side to find solutions and strategies that best meet students’ needs.”

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Recognized as National Leader in Treating Sepsis

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

Sepsis is not an infection. It is not contagious. Sepsis is the body’s reaction to an infection.

More than 1.5 million people in the United States develop sepsis each year, and at least 270,000 Americans die from sepsis annually.

Normally, the immune system fights and controls infections, but for unknown reasons, this process breaks down during sepsis. As sepsis progresses, the immune system stops fighting the infection and becomes overactive, which can lead to severe sepsis, and even septic shock.

This can result in irreversible tissue damage, organ failure, and even death. Like a stroke or heart attack, sepsis is a medical emergency that requires rapid diagnosis and treatment with fluids and antibiotics.

Ventura County Office of Education — Fentanyl use by students is a growing concern

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Office of Education is joining state health officials in warning schools and families about a new and concerning version of the synthetic opioid known as fentanyl. In a letter to superintendents and charter school administrators, California Department…

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
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The EDC is proud to support our community by providing professional technical assistance in English and Spanish through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

Start-up Guidance
Marketing & Branding
International Trade
E-commerce & Social Media
Manufacturing Assistance
Legal Compliance
Strategic Planning
QuickBooks & Accounting
And MORE

Metrolink Offers 30% Off Monthly Passes Through End of 2022

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

In celebration of its upcoming 30th anniversary on Oct. 26, Metrolink has introduced a 30 percent sale on its Monthly Pass. The 30% discount is open to all Metrolink riders for three months – October, November and December 2022 and is automatically applied at purchase.

Metrolink’s Monthly Pass also features bonus perks for loyal riders. In addition to unlimited rides between selected station pairs and system-wide access on weekends. The Monthly Pass now includes a “Bring a Friend Pass” and extra SoCal Explorer rewards points at no additional cost. For more information about the Metrolink Monthly Pass and associated perks go to https://metrolinktrains.com/monthly-pass-sale.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation Announce 2022 Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund Scholarship Recipients

by Community Contributor • September 23, 2022 • Comments Off

The Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) recently selected their 2022 class of Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund (RFLF) Scholars. For the 12th-consecutive year, outstanding area high school seniors and college students will be recognized for their academic achievements and pursuits with RFLF Scholarships to support their respective college and trade educations. Seven scholars were selected after displaying a commitment to their community, education and future.

“Cabrillo EDC has a long-standing history of providing community services and growth opportunities for the residents in their communities.” Said Brian Gilpatrick, Regional Manager of Union Bank.
“We are proud to support and be a part of The RFLF Scholarship Program and help support those who exhibit the same commitment and desire to learn, grow and contribute back to the community they live in.”

Bilingual commentary — The Flaw in Biden’s “Cancer Moonshot”

by Community Contributor • September 23, 2022 • Comments Off

Laudably, President Joe Biden has reignited the “Cancer Moonshot” that he had previously launched in 2016 when he was vice president. There is now renewed energy, new leadership, and more advanced medical experience, knowledge, and technology. The goal is now more focused: to reduce the death rate from cancer by at least 50 percent over the next 25 years.

The initiative was termed a “moonshot” to evoke the historic call by the late President John F. Kennedy to land a man on the moon within a decade. So far in our history, nothing compares with the boldness, wisdom, and foresight of that vow to take the “giant leap for mankind.” Nonetheless, a spirited call to take on the current, daunting epidemic of cancer in the United States and save American lives is certainly a necessary step in the right direction.

Bilingual report — Join the Oxnard Fire Department at Upcoming Fire Prevention Week 2022 Events

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2022 • Comments Off

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) created Fire Prevention Week to promote fire safety at home and in the workplace. This year the Oxnard Fire Department joins the association in celebration of Fire Prevention Week’s 100th anniversary and its “Fire won’t wait, plan your escape” campaign with a series of community events throughout Oxnard.

According to the NFPA, you may have two minutes or less to safely leave a home once your smoke alarm goes off. Having a fire evacuation plan will help to keep you and your family safe.

“It’s important for everyone to plan and practice a home fire escape. Everyone needs to be prepared in advance, so that they know what to do when the smoke alarm sounds. Given that each home is different, every home fire escape plan will also be different,” said Stephen McNaughten, Oxnard Fire Marshal. “Have a plan for everyone in the home. Children, older adults, and people with disabilities may need assistance to wake up and get out. Make sure that you plan to help them.”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura News for Sept. 22, 2022

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2022 • Comments Off

September 22, 2022 Good Afternoon, Thank you for continuing to stay informed with the County of Ventura! Going forward, our email newsletter will be sent monthly. For the latest COVID-19 information and data, please visit our website at www.vcrecovers.org. In…

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces $2.5 million predevelopment loan for farmworker apartments in Somis

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2022 • Comments Off

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announces a $2,500,000 predevelopment loan approved for funding to AMCAL Multi-Housing, Inc. (AMCAL) for the Terra Campagna Apartments set to begin construction in November.

The need for affordable housing is felt throughout Ventura County, especially among our most essential workers. The Terra Campagna Apartments will serve the county’s large community of farmworkers and their families with 160 affordable housing units in Somis. This represents the second phase of the Somis Ranch Farmworkers Community development. Phase one consists of 200 units and is currently under construction with an anticipated completion date in the spring of 2024. Both developments will include community centers, social services, outdoor community spaces and play areas for all ages.

Guest commentary — Can United States Democracy Survive the Big Lie?

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2022 • Comments Off

The late great poet, activist and musical genius Gil Scott-Heron, often reminds folks through his work that, “America has always lead the world in selective amnesia and hypocrisy” How can any honest, common sense thinking American disagree? But alas, we Americans are often a hard-headed, selfish, greedy and stupid people in full display of an incredulous world, some watch nervously others cheering madly, as Trump and his MAGA cult push our nation further toward the abyss of totalitarianism.

So to me, the short and long answer to whether will America survive the big lie is as scary as it is obvious. Of course, the United States of America will survive; it may even continue to flourish if and when Trump and his MAGA fellow fascists take over. After all what is more dangerous and entrenched than an army of MAGA/QAnon zealots that have collectively drank the orange Kool-Aid and believe to the marrow of their soul that the country that they ruled for over 245 years is being “stolen from them by the godless hordes of Mexicans, Blacks and other undesirables heathens.”

Museum of Ventura County — Save big on your art!

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2022 • Comments Off

New reduced rate!
$50 $35 for members and students
$65 for non-members

MVC members and visitors supported us during the COVID-19 pandemic, and helped keep Ventura County’s history, art, and culture free and accessible for all.
In thanks, we’re offering this special reduced rate.

Please RSVP by October 7th to secure you place in the class.

Bilingual report — Public Memorial Planned and Scholarship Fund Established to Honor Supervisor Carmen Ramirez

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2022 • Comments Off

Supervisor Carmen Ramirez’s family and staff have established a Legacy Scholarship Fund in collaboration with the Ventura County Community Foundation to honor her lifelong work and support the next generation of public service leaders. Donations can be made at https://bit.ly/Carmen-Ramirez-Legacy-Scholarship-Fund. Inquiries about the Scholarship Fund may be directed to the District 5 Office at 805-654-2613 or District5@ventura.org.

California Clean Air Day in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties Celebrates the Legacy of Ventura County Supervisor Carmen Ramirez

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura and Santa Barbara County residents are invited to participate in the fifth annual California Clean Air Day, which will take place on and leading up to October 5, 2022. This year, Clean Air Day South Central Coast will honor former Ventura County Supervisor Carmen Ramirez for her life and legacy of fighting for clean air in the County.

Individuals are invited to match the hundreds of organizational partners who have taken a clean air pledge to do at least one thing in their community for clean air. The clean air pledge (found online here) encourages actions such as taking public transit, biking, planting trees, cleaning air filters, carpooling and more. “Pledgers” come together to take collective action on or by California Clean Air Day.

Santa Barbara Supervisor Das Williams, who served as Chair of the regional working group along with Supervisor Ramirez, wants us to do our part: “We may have lost our friend Carmen Ramirez, but we can continue her fight to ensure our community is safe to breathe in. Let’s learn more about taking our local bus system or purchasing a new or used electric car!

CLU awards $180,000 in first Dorfman Incubator Grants

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2022 • Comments Off

California Lutheran University has awarded its first Dorfman Incubator Grants — a total of $180,000 that will provide hands-on educational opportunities for students while helping four alumni and a professor launch their startups.

Unlike other university-sponsored grants aimed at serving students and faculty, those affiliated with Cal Lutheran’s Steven Dorfman Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship program are deliberately further reaching. These grants are designed to simultaneously provide educational benefits to students and local resources to the community as they connect early-stage startups to the entrepreneurial program at Cal Lutheran.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Selects New Arts and Culture Manager

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2022 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura’s Executive Office has selected David Yoshitomi as the new Arts and Culture Manager to lead countywide arts, culture, and economic vitality efforts.

“Arts and culture are a fundamental thread of our community’s fabric and contribute greatly to our economic vibrancy and quality of life,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Matt LaVere. “We are thrilled that David will help lead the County in this area. Our Board created this new position in May this year, and I deeply appreciate Supervisor Carmen Ramirez’s dedication to building support for arts and cultural efforts in Ventura County, making it possible to create this position.”

“We are grateful to welcome David Yoshitomi to the County as his 15-year track record of cultivating community connections around arts and culture will contribute greatly to preserving and promoting the rich culture, traditions, and community bonds that bring our local economy to life,” said County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson.

Museum of Ventura County — Fall in love with these new Museum offerings

by Community Contributor • September 20, 2022 • Comments Off

Oaktober
Sunday, October 2nd from 10am-2pm
at the Museum of Ventura County
Free

Feel connected to your county’s environmental community with the local leaders and creatives creating a more sustainable future.

Celebrate and learn more about oaks and native plants with Dr. David White of Once Upon a Watershed, Jenn Rodriguez of Growing Works, Katie Tilford of TinyPlants, and author Melina Watts of Tree, in partnership with Melissa Baffa of Ventura Land Trust. TinyPlants and Growing Works will also be selling beautiful native plants. So join us, get some gorgeous plants and go wild. Click here to learn more.

Made possible in part by

ArtsVentura

Bilingual report — EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report

by Community Contributor • September 20, 2022 • Comments Off

Labor Market Report for August 2022

The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its August 2022 report on Friday, the overall data showing little change, though an uptick in the Ventura County unemployment rate, from 3.2% in July to 3.5% in August. That increase, however, had less to do with any loss in jobs—in fact, Ventura County had zero change in total industry employment, from July to August—rather its cause was by a change in the total participating in the labor force, specifically by an increase in the total number of officially unemployed workers, up from 13,100 in July to 14,300 in August. We’ll unravel that best we can a bit more in our commentary below. For the official August data, click here.

Santa Barbara City College — The Bridge — September 2022

by Community Contributor • September 20, 2022 • Comments Off

At their meeting on Sept. 15, the SBCC Board of Trustees passed a resolution to join in with others across the United States to proclaim Sept.15-Oct 15, 2022, as Hispanic Heritage Month. National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the invaluable ways in which Hispanics contribute to our society. Read the resolution.

Artwork By Brookside Elementary School 2nd Grader Selected By Metropolitan Water District To Appear in 2023 Calendar

by Community Contributor • September 20, 2022 • Comments Off

Artwork by Delilah Bovatsek, a second grader at Brookside Elementary School in Oak Park, was selected by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) to appear in its 2023 print calendar and digital library.

MWD provides water to 19 million people in Southern California. Students throughout MWD’s service area, including those in the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD), had the opportunity to submit original water-related artwork to MWD’s “Water is Life” Student Art Calendar Contest earlier this year.

Bovatsek and her family attended the TWSD September 19 board meeting where TWSD board chair Leon Shapiro presented Delilah with a certificate of recognition as well as a $100 gift card to Barnes & Noble.

Lauren Bragg to lead National Association of Women Business Owners, Santa Barbara Chapter

by Community Contributor • September 20, 2022 • Comments Off

Goal coach and feng shui expert Lauren Bragg has been named president of the National Association of Women Business Owners, Santa Barbara chapter (NAWBO-SB).

An entrepreneur with more than a decade of experience running her own business, Bragg is a certified goal and health coach. She’s helped thousands of women achieve their dreams through the art of goal setting, and is creator of a Goal Setting Crash Course and the Accountability Academy.

In addition to her private coaching practice, Bragg co-founded The Feng Shui Collective with her mother, Pamela, with whom she works to transform people’s physical spaces to support their goals. She believes that a person’s physical space not only reflects who they are, but also either helps or hinders their ability to succeed and get things done.

Bragg is a cheerleader for other women business owners and enjoys creating space for female entrepreneurs to network and grow their expertise. She co-leads several women’s retreats including The Elevate Retreat in Carpinteria (the next one is scheduled for April, 2023).

“I am a proud member of NAWBO and honored to serve as president of NAWBO Santa Barbara,” Bragg said.

New Legislation Gives Less than Honorably Discharged Veterans a Fighting Chance

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2022 • Comments Off

Assembly Bill (AB) 325 authored by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) was signed by Governor Newsom on Saturday, September 17. AB 325 will create the Veteran’s Military Discharge Upgrade Grant Program to fund local service providers working with California veterans to assist them in filing discharge upgrade applications.

“I am grateful to Governor Newsom for signing AB 325,” said Assemblymember Irwin. “Veterans have bravely fought for our safety, and it is only fair that we now fight for theirs and provide them with the services and benefits that are owed to them.”

The nature of a veteran’s discharge from their military service branch has an effect on what benefits they may be eligible for based on their service. As a result, a less than honorable discharge deprives veterans from accessing important federal and state benefits resulting in veterans paying higher costs for housing, health care, and education.

Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program Announces New Group for LBGTQ+ Community

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2022 • Comments Off

Livingston is pleased to announce a new free 10-week closed-ended grief support group program for our LBGTQ+ community, Understanding Your Grief, written by author, educator, and grief counselor, Alan D. Wolfelt, PhD. The program is intended to companion you on your own unique grief journey.

Registration for the group ends October 3rd. Group will meet in person and space is limited. Please contact Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program for reservations at 805-389-6870 or online at lmvna.org/grief.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Free Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2022 • Comments Off

EN ESPAÑOL: SBA Y SCORE: REUNIÓN VIRTUAL EN ESPAÑOL CON MENTORES DE SCORE

Septiembre 20 a las 4:00 pm

Acompaña a la SBA para hablar con los mentores de SCORE. SCORE es una organización, de voluntarios que prestan su tiempo, gratuitamente. Ayudan a las personas a crecer o a crear pequeñas empresas.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA REGISTRARSE

Gerry Pantoja Named Ventura College Foundation’s Director of Philanthropy

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2022 • Comments Off

Gerry Pantoja has been named Director of Philanthropy at the Ventura College Foundation. He had previously held the position of Director of Major and Planned Giving.

“It is a privilege to work with individuals and organizations who have and continue to seek to improve our community through the power of education,” says Pantoja. “Through their partnerships and ongoing support, our students will go on to earn certificates and degrees or transfer to a four-year university, obtaining the skills and knowledge that will not only better their lives but Ventura as well. In this new role, I look forward to continuing this work with our community partners to expand our ability to make a difference in the lives of the students who will lead and care for Ventura in the coming years.”

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) — Statewide Battery Recycling Programs Created Under New Law

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2022 • Comments Off

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the Responsible Battery Recycling Act today as part of a larger climate action package. Together, SB 1215 and AB 2440 will create a statewide collection and recycling program for consumer batteries and products that contain batteries. The signing of these bills mark the culmination of many years of effort to address battery waste.

California classifies batteries as hazardous waste and bans them from solid waste landfills because of the hazardous metals and corrosive materials that batteries contain. When improperly discarded, batteries pose serious fire, health and safety hazards that disrupt the state’s waste stream and poison the environment. …

“Few people know that batteries are actually hazardous waste and those of us who do have containers of used batteries we don’t know what to do with. This means the majority of batteries end up in curbside waste bins, causing damage to our recycling facilities which ultimately requires rate payers to pay more on our utility bills,” said Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks), author of AB 2440.

Experienced aviation executive opens TruNorth Jets in Camarillo

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2022 • Comments Off

If booking a commercial flight for your next vacation or business trip raises your anxiety level given the state of the airline industry, consider private jet travel that caters to all your travel needs and provides unparalleled VIP service that never leaves you hanging.

Headquartered in Camarillo, the newly opened TruNorth Jets serves clients’ travel needs within the United States to Europe, Mexico, Bahamas and beyond, providing the efficiencies of smaller airports and the exclusive benefits of private aviation.

Sarah Oberman, a Rio Mesa High School graduate from Camarillo who holds a bachelor’s in business management from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, launched TruNorth Jets in January and promises an unmatched, first class travel experience.

“I am so proud to provide a highly customized luxury service that makes travel efficient and stress-free,” Oberman said. “No detail is too small. Our clients fly private to avoid crowded airline terminals, long security lines and large airport delays.”

CSUCI Health Science major is named a CSU Trustee Scholar

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2022 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Health Science major Daisy Morado Navarrete is taking a full load -16 units- this semester, maintaining a 3.92 grade point average (GPA) and spending four hours a week at St. John’s Regional Medical Center helping to translate for Spanish-speaking patients.

Her talent, determination, academic excellence and generosity of spirit are among the reasons she has received the 2022 CSU Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement. Navarette is among the 23 students—one from each CSU campus—chosen by the CSU Board of Trustees as a 2022-2023 scholar.

The CSU Trustees’ Award is the university’s highest recognition of students who demonstrate superior academic performance. Each donor-funded scholarship bears the name of a donor; Navarette is the recipient of the TELACU scholarship.

All the scholars will be honored on Tuesday, Sept. 13 as part of the CSU Board of Trustees meeting.

The First-Ever UndocuFund Summit hosted by 805 UndocuFund, UndocuFund, and Latino Community Foundation, Calling for Equitable Disaster Relief to be held Sept. 18-20

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2022 • Comments Off

UndocuFund, 805 UndocuFund and The Latino Community Foundation (LCF), will co-host the first-ever UndocuFund Summit during the start of peak wildfire season in California. From September 18-20th at North Bay Organizing Project (NBOP) in Sonoma, the Summit will convene leaders from over 30 grassroots immigrant-serving organizations across California that responded to the pandemic and other disasters. Community leaders will highlight the experiences of undocumented Californians throughout the state and explore collective state and federal advocacy efforts.

“Undocumented workers contribute billions to the economy, yet are excluded from federal disaster aid,” said Beatrice Camacho, Director of UndocuFund in Sonoma County. “Without a safety net, California’s undocumented essential workers have labored through wildfires and smoke, 110 plus degree heatwaves, and the pandemic. They were forced to risk their lives to keep food on the nation’s table during devastating disasters. Now it’s time for California to make them a priority.”

California is home to 10.6 million immigrants (foreign-born individuals) who comprise 27 percent of California’s population. Recent data shows that one in five children in the state are U.S. citizens living with at least one undocumented family member (1.7 million children in total).

Bilingual commentary — The Angry Sun

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2022 • Comments Off

As we know all too well, Californians have been suffering recently with the “heat domes” that seem to enjoy settling, for days at a time, over our region in the Southwest. The resulting inferno bakes us, unmercifully, in a sweltering heat. The suffering we experience forces us to admit that yes, despite those who rant and confuse climate with weather, we are in fact facing a potential collapse of earth’s climate systems.

And yet many of us here in Ventura County live relatively close to the beach. We along the coast, at least, are consistently among the cooler spots in this entire corner of the country—if not the entire country (except for Alaska—usually). We are indeed fortunate when we compare our climate to that of California’s Central Valley, for example.

Still, we suffer, though our suffering is relative. We can’t help but feel that we’ve angered the sun when in fact we’ve angered the earth.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Hispanic Heritage Month, COVID-19 Bivalent Boosters Available, REAP 2.0 Funding, County Electrification and more

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2022 • Comments Off

Supervisor Lavagnino and I sponsored and presented a resolution declaring Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15th, 2022 through October 15th, 2022 to the Carpinteria Latinx Collective, Mujeres Makers Market, and Casa de la Raza. This year’s theme is, “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation,” this theme reinforces the need to ensure diverse voices and perspectives are welcomed in decision-making processes, thereby helping to build stronger communities, and a stronger Nation, and reminds us that we are stronger together.

Community Environmental Council, Electric Drive 805, and Community Advocates Invite Public to Explore the Rapidly Growing Electric Vehicle Landscape

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2022 • Comments Off

The Community Environmental Council (CEC) and their Electric Drive 805 coalition partners are proud to sponsor a variety of free, in-person, and virtual events leading up to and during National Drive Electric Week, scheduled for September 23 to October 2, 2022. The public is invited to learn about the wide range of electric vehicles (EVs) that can fit most every lifestyle and budget—and provide independence from fossil fuels.

National Drive Electric Week is a nationwide celebration aimed at helping the United States transition rapidly and equitably to cleaner transportation in order to protect communities from pollution and worsening climate change impacts. Transportation is the largest source of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in California. To prevent further climate impacts and protect our air, the California Air Resources Board issued a rule last month that fully bans the sale of new gas-powered cars starting in 2035.

FATHOMWERX Summit Highlights Innovation & Collaboration

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2022 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — Opening day of the 2022 FATHOMWERX Summit on Sept. 14, 2022 was a success with hundreds of people representing partner organizations gathered to explore the intersection between technology and the Department of the Navy. The two-day event was held at the FATHOMWERX Lab located at the Port of Hueneme.

Guest contribution — Take The Ultimate Fall Trip To Lompoc On Scenic California Highway 1

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2022 • Comments Off

With cooler temperatures on the way, fall is the ideal season for a road trip to Lompoc! Sip award-winning wines from Sta. Rita Valley wineries, warm up with a pumpkin latte in one of our cozy coffee shops, take a lazy drive on our scenic country roads or relax at Jalama beach, catch a rocket launch from Vandenberg SFB, and stay at one of our comfy hotels!

Whether you visit for a week or a weekend, the comfortable weather conditions clear the way for outdoor activities like these:

Carola Smith to serve as Vice President of SBCC School of Extended Learning

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2022 • Comments Off

At their meeting on Sept. 15, the Santa Barbara Community College District Board of Trustees announced that Carola Smith has been selected to serve as Vice President, School of Extended Learning, for Santa Barbara City College (SBCC). She will begin serving in the role immediately.

Smith has served as the Interim Vice President, School of Extended Learning, for nearly one year and has been with SBCC for more than 25 years. During that time she worked extensively with a variety of academic and student support programs, including Study Abroad, International programs, Business, and Media Arts. Prior to becoming an administrator, she served as faculty in several departments, including the School of Modern Languages, English as a Second Language (ESL), Work Experience and Personal Development.

Bilingual report — Bird Tests Positive For West Nile Virus

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2022 • Comments Off

On September 13, 2022, the Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) received confirmation from the California Department of Public Health that a bird collected during the fourth week of August from the City of Simi Valley area tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the first bird collected in 2022 to test positive for WNV in Ventura County. There are no confirmed human cases at this time.

WNV is considered endemic, so we can expect the virus to stay in our environment.

Guest contribution — PODS® Local’s On-Site Storage Helps Contractors Save Time and Money

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Major construction companies waste billions of dollars every year due to process inefficiencies. As the final product typically takes priority, other areas, like the storage of equipment and materials, often fall by the wayside. Large pieces of equipment are left unsecured, leaving them susceptible to theft. Project managers and team members are burdened with shuttling tools and materials back and forth to off-site facilities, further expending valuable time. According to construction software company PlanGrid, these sorts of process inefficiencies cost the construction industry $177 billion every year. PODS’ simple solution of on-site storage containers can help increase efficiencies by keeping tools, materials, and equipment at the job site.

Here are four of the biggest reasons to use storage containers on your construction site:

Bilingual report — Road Closure Due to Bradley Road Bridge Replacement

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2022 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) announces the replacement of the Bradley Road Bridge, beginning August 26th, 2022 until December 2nd, 2022. The old bridge, built in 1930 will be replaced to bring the structure up to the current safety standards. The public can expect delays. Please avoid the area if possible. In order to build the new bridge, Bradley Road will undergo the following:

8/26-9/2 – Single lane will be closed either direction
9/6-11/8 – Full road closure
11/9-11/30 – Single lane will be closed either direction

Ladies of the evening, Buddhism, space exploration and Trump’s place in history among CSUCI Fall OLLI offerings

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Classes are underway, but anybody 50+ is welcome to join one of the classes offered by CSU Channel Islands Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI).

This Fall the OLLI roster includes 10 different six-week lecture topics from popular local instructors, as well as national experts who can speak on everything from astronomy to national politics to Ventura County’s ladies of the evening.

A Maryland academic with three doctorates in world religion, B.N. Hebbar, Ph.D., is teaching a comprehensive course on the history, doctrines, practices, sects, and the major historical figures in Buddhism, which is the majority religion in 13 countries in Asia.

“Some of the metaphysical and ethical teachings of Buddhism are most certainly applicable to the everyday lives of people,” Hebbar said. “If that were not the case, Buddhism would not have remained relevant despite its 2,600-year history.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘On a Rankings Roll’ and more news

by Community Contributor • September 14, 2022 • Comments Off

The campus again lands in U.S. News & World Report’s Top 10, ranking No. 7 among the country’s top public universities.

US News ranks Cal Lutheran 6th in West

by Community Contributor • September 14, 2022 • Comments Off

California Lutheran University has jumped two spots to its highest position ever in the U.S. News Best Colleges rankings — sixth among 130 ranked regional universities throughout 15 Western states.

The overall U.S. News rankings consider student outcomes, faculty resources, academic reputation, per-student spending, admissions selectivity and alumni giving. The 2022-2023 list, released Sept. 12, includes universities in the West that provide a full range of undergraduate majors and master’s degrees, and a few doctoral programs.

The university jumped seven spots from 14th to seventh on the Best Value Schools list, which factors in academic quality and cost after accounting for total expenses and financial aid. At Cal Lutheran, 97% of full-time undergraduate students receive need-based financial aid.

Bilingual report — Unpermitted Food Vendors – Residents and Visitors Beware of Foodborne Illness

by Community Contributor • September 14, 2022 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura’s Environmental Health Division (Division) advises the public against consuming food and beverages made or sold by street vendors that do not possess a valid health permit.

Informational Flyer

Food trucks and food carts that operate with a health permit are expected to follow food safety laws and are subject to routine health inspections by the Division. These vendors will have an identifying sticker issued by the County of Ventura on the vehicle or cart that looks like this:

The Division is seeing an increase in unpermitted food sales from food carts and pop-up food stands throughout the county. Many unpermitted vendors are coming from areas outside of Ventura County. These vendors are unfairly impacting local vendors who have obtained their licenses and training to do business in Ventura County.

Learn About the Ventura County Grand Jury: Jurors Available for Speaking Events

by Community Contributor • September 14, 2022 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Grand Jury seeks opportunities to speak to community organizations, non-profit organizations, and similar groups as part of its education outreach program.

The Grand Jury investigates matters affecting aspects of government in Ventura County. Jurors serve as a “voice and conscience” of Ventura County residents concerning their local governments. The Jury comprises 19 citizens who are impaneled by the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court.

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