Category: Business

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Webinar and Resources on Immigration (webinar on Jan. 29) & CBP Activity

National Immigration Project Webinar on Immigration

Join the National Immigration Project on Wednesday, January 29 at 5pm ET for a free webinar for community defenders, advocates, and impacted community members to go over the basics of what you can do to protect yourself and your community in the face of potential immigration enforcement.

We’ll go over what immigration policies have changed in the first week of the Trump administration; a primer on your Fourth Amendment rights; and ways for families to prepare in case of an arrest by immigration officials. Our 1.5-hour program is meant to address your most burning questions and to remind you of the protections you already have. As policies change, we will continue to provide community defenders with the information and trainings they need to fight back and to keep their people ready to face whatever comes.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Community Update

I want to ensure you’re ready for the extreme conditions forecasted for our area. The National Weather Service and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services are closely monitoring a Red Flag wind event expected to last through Tuesday.

During this period, dry conditions combined with northeast winds of 25 to 40 MPH—and gusts reaching up to 60 MPH—create a heightened risk of wildfires.

Southern California Edison is implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs in wind-prone areas. The primary period of concern for shutoffs extends through Tuesday morning, though circuits restored earlier may still be at risk for additional shutoffs depending on conditions.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Last Chance to Register: CEC’s Climate Stewards Course

When climate disasters strike, knowing how to help impacted communities and habitats can be daunting. CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program equips you with the knowledge to take climate action and connects you with a network of local activists working to promote community recovery and resilience.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College students return for Spring classes

“It’s always exciting when we get to see students back on campus for the start of classes,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Our entire team of faculty and staff are dedicated to helping make their college experience as rewarding as possible.” 

McGenerous! Central Coast McDonald’s Restaurants support Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics on Herb Peterson Day on Jan. 22

SANTA BARBARA — Central Coast McDonald’s restaurants are celebrating the seventh annual Herb Peterson Day this Tuesday, January 21st, by donating the total sales of the iconic Egg McMuffin sandwich to Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC) at participating Central Coast franchises. 

Herb Peterson opened his first McDonald’s franchise in Santa Barbara in 1968 and quickly was overseeing six stores. Peterson noticed a deficit in local breakfast options and hoped to fill the gap. After employing a local blacksmith to design a metal ring that would encase a cooking egg and result in an egg patty that would fit in a sandwich, Peterson took his new idea to McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc who approved the iconic fast-food restaurant’s very first breakfast item. 

Hospice of Santa Barbara Surpasses $1 Million Legacy of Compassion Campaign Goal

SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is thrilled to announce that it has reached and surpassed its 2024 Legacy of Compassion Campaign goal raising $1,155,410 during the year-long campaign which launched, in part, in celebration of the organization’s 50th anniversary. The campaign initiated a multi-stage effort to ensure the continued sustainability of HSB’s free compassionate care services, helping to meet current demand while building a stronger foundation for years to come.  

Ventura College Foundation Provided $738,558 In Direct Student Support During 2023-24 Academic Year

VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and financial assistance to Ventura College students and school programs, distributed $738,558 in direct assistance support to 7,858 students during the 2023-2024 academic year and another $1.33 million to 56 Ventura College programs across 14 departments and divisions.

“The Ventura College student body is made up of 40 percent first-generation college students,” says Anne Paul King, Ventura College Foundation executive director. “Ventura College students know the value of a solid education. They are well on their way to becoming our next scientists, first responders, educators, workforce technicians, public servants and innovators.”

Steering the Ship, Jess Ramirez sworn in as president of Oxnard Harbor District

PORT HUENEME — At a ceremony held at the Port of Hueneme, Jess J. Ramirez was sworn in as president of the Oxnard Harbor District.

Ventura County Supervisor Vianey Lopez administered the oath of office. Ramirez, a long-serving member of the International Longshoreman’s and Warehouse Union Local #46, has dedicated over 51 years to the port, starting as a casual longshoreman and rising through the ranks to a respected leader. Ramirez was sworn in alongside Commissioner Celina L. Zacarias who just completed a successful year at the helm as board president. The presidential baton for 2025 has now been passed to Ramirez.

Bilingual report — January News from People’s Self-Help Housing

This year sees People’s Self-Help Housing celebrate its 55th Anniversary!

Since 1970, when a group of committed individuals said ‘we can do better to help house our neighbors’, we have been doing just that. Originally building through the self-help program – ten families building alongside each other, working on one another’s homes – and then amplifying those efforts through the development of multifamily housing, the DNA of our organization is mutuality and support.

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — Who runs the U.S. immigration system?

he Laken Riley Act Would Give States Sweeping Power Over Immigration Policy …

Who runs the U.S. immigration system? If the Senate passes the Laken Riley Act this week, the answer might not be Congress?or?the president. The bill, already passed in the House, would hand state attorneys general, like Ken Paxton in Texas, veto power over large swaths of federal immigration policy. 

Register now for Community Environmental Council’s Winter Climate Stewards Cohort starting Jan. 28 in Santa Barbara

When climate disasters strike, knowing how to help impacted communities and habitats can be daunting. CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program equips you with the knowledge to take climate action and connects you with a network of local activists working to promote community recovery and resilience.

People’s Self-Help Housing Begins 55th Anniversary Celebrations 2025 to mark significant milestone in the organization’s history

CENTRAL COAST — This year, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH)celebrates 55 years as an organization. To commemorate this historic milestone, PSHH has launched a new celebratory logo and webpage for its use throughout 2025.
 
“What a privilege for an organization to celebrate 55 years,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “From our origins on the heels of the seminal Fair Housing Act of 1968 to today, we have been proud to participate in the numerous partnerships that have brought tens of thousands of units of affordable housing to the Central Coast.”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Important Extreme Weather Updates and Resources – Jan. 15

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

We continue to share this update and information in an effort to keep you informed of important resources available as we face the ongoing Red Flag Conditions for our area.

On a positive note, we are pleased to report that the forward progress on the Auto Fire, which occurred on Monday evening, has been stopped and it is 50% contained. We’re grateful for the tireless efforts of firefighters and emergency personnel across our County and cities.

As we continue navigating the challenges of extreme weather together, we encourage you to stay informed by remaining connected to Ventura County’s official communication channels. Updates on power restoration, fire containment, and other critical information are shared regularly via vcemergency.com. Staying informed ensures that you and your loved ones are prepared and aware of the latest developments.

Friendship Center Adult Day Services — Free Emergency Respite Care

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

Through our Emergency Respite Care Program, we are providing no-cost, short-term respite care for families who have temporarily relocated to the Central Coast due to the fires. If your family has been displaced and you’re caring for an older adult with dementia, we can offer a safe, supportive space where your loved one can feel comforted and engaged—while giving you time to focus on recovery and next steps.

UCSB — The Current — ‘UC Santa Barbara heads to State Street’ and more news, events

Intending to have a larger presence in the downtown area, and to support the revitalization of Santa Barbara’s primary business corridor, the university will acquire property on State Street.

Read more about the university’s plans

39th Annual California Strawberry Festival seeks sponsors

VENTURA — The California Strawberry Festival is seeking corporate sponsors for its 39th annual event, scheduled for May 17-18 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

The family-friendly festival drew more than 40,000 visitors from across Southern California in 2024, including attendees from Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern, Santa Barbara and Orange counties.

Festival attractions include more than 40 strawberry-themed food and beverage vendors, nearly 150 fine arts and crafts booths, live entertainment on three stages, carnival rides, a children’s Strawberryland and a build-your-own strawberry shortcake tent. Organizers estimate visitors consume 1.5 million locally grown strawberries during the two-day event.

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

VENTURA — On Tuesday, Jan. 14, during the first regular meeting in 2025 for the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, members of the Board who were elected to office following the 2024 elections were ceremonially sworn in. The swearing-in ceremony…

Assemblymembers Irwin and Harabedian Introduce Bills to Provide Mortgage and Housing Relief to Fire Victims

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymembers Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) and John Harabedian (D-Pasadena) have jointly authored and introduced a pair of bills that will provide much-needed financial relief to victims of the Los Angeles County wildfires and expedite rebuilding efforts in impacted communities.

“Many of our friends and neighbors who have had their homes damaged or destroyed are faced with the prospect of having to make a mortgage payment on a residence that is uninhabitable,” said Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Community update

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

(Jan. 14)’s Board of Supervisors meeting brought significant developments, and I’d like to share the updates with you. But first, I want to remind everyone that Ventura County remains under a red flag warning. Please exercise caution, avoid activities that could spark fires, and stay informed by visiting vcemergency.com. Your safety is always my top priority—let’s all remain vigilant and prepared during these critical conditions.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services — Shelter at 142% capacity! Offering free dog adoptions until Sunday

We are at 142% capacity in our dog kennels. To help relieve overcrowding we are holding a free dog adoption promotion* from January 16th – 19th, 2025 at both the Camarillo and Simi Valley Shelters. Can’t adopt? Please share the flyer above. Thank you.

Ventura County Animal Services

*Please note: Promotions do not guarantee the adoption of a shelter pet. All interested parties must participate in the full adoption process to ensure the best possible matches are made. Promotions do not include the cost of a pet license if applicable.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police to hold DUI Checkpoint on Friday, Jan. 17

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) Checkpoint on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. The checkpoint will be held at an undisclosed location within the City of Ventura.

Carefully chosen based on data reflecting incidents of impaired driving-related crashes, DUI checkpoints play a pivotal role in enhancing public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.

Santa Ana wind event, Southern California Edison public safety power shutoffs

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

VENTURA COUNTY — A Santa Ana wind event has been forecast to impact Ventura County through 6PM Wednesday, Jan. 15 . Low relative humidity coupled with high northeast wind conditions will continue to bring high fire danger to Ventura County.

A RED FLAG WARNING has been issued for Ventura County through 6PM Wednesday, January 15.

Periods of northeast winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts ranging from 40-50 mph. 
The peak of the event will occur early Tuesday morning and last through Tuesday night. 
Relative humidities of 8%-15% will be common with minimal improvement overnight. 

Southeast Ventura County YMCA and California Strong Will Provide Essential Supplies To Fire Victims – Jan. 18 at Proactive Sports Performance

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — California Strong, Southeast Ventura County YMCA, in partnership with Proactive Sports Performance, will provide essential supplies to Los Angeles wildfire victims during an event on Saturday, Jan. 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Proactive Sports Performance (31425 Agoura Rd, Westlake Village).

Available items will include new clothing, toiletries, bedding, baby and toddler supplies, pet supplies, children’s toys and games, shoes and local business gift cards.

“The Southeast Ventura County YMCA has been providing support through its program California Strong to natural disaster victims since the Woolsey Fire in 2018,” says Ronnie Stone, the YMCA’spresident and CEO. “In December, we provided funds to those impacted by the Mountain Fire in Camarillo.”

Bilingual report — Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) Wind Event Community Update 01/14/2025

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

Due to strong winds and heightened wildfire conditions, the City of Santa Paula is experiencing weather-related power outages and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). We want to ensure our community stays safe and informed during this time. Below are essential tips, resources, and important updates to help you navigate these conditions.

Ventura County Community Foundation update on recent wildfires

As we face one of the most devastating fire seasons in our region’s history, our hearts are with all those impacted by the fires across Los Angeles County and here in Ventura County. Please know you are not alone, and if you or a loved one need support, please reach out to 2-1-1 or complete this needs assessment if you are in Ventura County. A team of local nonprofits is working collaboratively together and are standing by to help.

Your community foundation is committed to raising funds to address the immediate and long-term needs of those most impacted by the recent Mountain Fire, while remaining prepared to respond to other disaster-related challenges across Ventura County. 100% of all contributions go directly to those most affected and local nonprofits supporting those most in need.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Important Extreme Weather Updates and Resources

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

Dear Ventura County Residents,

Our hearts go out to all of you as we continue to navigate one of the most challenging fire seasons in our region’s history. We understand the hardships that many of you have faced, particularly with the extended power outages that have left so many without electricity for days. During the current event, we anticipate that there may be prolonged electrical outages once again so we encourage all residents in impacted areas to prepare accordingly. To find out more information please refer to vcemergency.com.

We want you to know that your safety and well-being remain our top priority. To address the ongoing power issues, we have engaged directly with Southern California Edison executives at the highest levels to advocate for the urgent restoration of electricity to our communities as soon as it is safe to do so. We have also reached out to State and Federal authorities to emphasize the critical need for swift action.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Official Update — Red Flag Conditions

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

National Weather Service Update

The National Weather Service is forecasting Red Flag Conditions starting today, Monday, January 13 through Wednesday, January 15. Ventura County and nearby areas will experience very strong Santa Ana winds and extreme fire danger. Conditions will be very dry, with humidity between 10–20% (and not much better at night). Because of these dry conditions and strong winds, any new or existing fire could spread very quickly.

Winds in coastal and valley areas: 25–40 mph
Winds in mountains and foothills: 30–45 mph
Peak gusts could reach 45–70 mph (especially on Tuesday).
Highest wind impact: Tuesday 4 AM – Wednesday 12 PM
Areas at greatest risk: Simi, Moorpark, South Mountain, Piru, Fillmore, and Santa Paula

Free, online “Fearless Femme Summit” from Feb 3 to 6 offers career-boosting advice for women in STEM

SANTA BARBARA — More women than ever are working in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, but they’re still vastly outnumbered by men. For many women professionals that can lead to a feeling of isolation, as well as problems with discrimination, unconscious bias and a lack of role models and support.

Leadership coach Mary Jean Vignone, Ph.D., aims to change that. From Feb. 3 to 6 she will be hosting the second annual “Fearless Femme Summit: Propel Your Career in STEM” The free event, which will be held entirely online from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day, is designed to help women in STEM reach new heights in their careers and become authentic leaders.

Registration is open to STEM professionals, students and the public at no cost by signing up at www.fearlessfemmesummit.com. Participants can also sign up for a paid group coaching program and individualized emotional intelligence assessments that include free access to Fearless Femme Summit speaker videos.

Cottage Health Announces Eric Seale as New Board Chair

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health has elected Eric Seale as Chair of its Board of Directors. Seale succeeds Steven Zola, who served as Board Chair for a three-year term and will continue to serve as Immediate Past Chair.

Seale has been a dedicated member of Cottage Health’s Board of Directors for two years. Prior to that, he served on the Board of Directors for the Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation from 2016 to 2022.

Bilingual report — Ken Ostini joins Allan Hancock Board of Trustees

SANTA MARIA — Lompoc resident, veteran and Bulldog alumnus Ken Ostini is the newest member of the Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees. Ken was elected in November 2024 to represent Area 4, which covers Lompoc, and brings decades of leadership and service to his new role. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Ken Ostini to the Board of Trustees,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “His extensive leadership experience and deep connection to our community will undoubtedly strengthen our mission of changing the odds for students.” 

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — 211 Ventura County is an incredible resource

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

As we continue to recover and rebuild from the Mountain Fire and face power outages from other So Cal Fires, I want to make sure you know that help is available, especially for those still without power or dealing with other challenges.

? 211 Ventura County is an incredible resource that connects people with assistance for a wide range of needs, including:

? Shelter and housing support
? Food assistance
? Transportation services
? Utility assistance
? Health care resources
? Mental health support
…and much more.

Allan Hancock College cybersecurity grant to enhance digital resilience

“We are honored to receive this grant and are committed to enhancing our cybersecurity infrastructure to safeguard the college’s digital resources and the data of our students and community,” said Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “This funding will play a vital role in strengthening our defenses against evolving cyber threats.”

Bilingual report — Kaiser Permanente Donates Money to Assist Farmworkers Impacted Heavily by the Recent Mountain Wildfire in Ventura County

VENTURA COUNTY — In an effort to assist residents who were heavily impacted by the recent Mountain Wildfire in Ventura County, Kaiser Permanente has donated $95,000 to 805UndocuFund to provide relief to farm workers impacted by the destructive blaze.

The fire that erupted last month sent thousands fleeing, injured multiple people and destroyed at least 240 structures. It had a particular economic impact on the Ventura County agricultural sector, including the farmworker population. Many of these residents are undocumented or live in mixed-status households and have been disproportionately affected by the loss of work and wages, and the lack of access to available state and federal relief programs. 

“Understanding the urgent needs of this vulnerable population, Kaiser Permanente has chosen to partner with 805UndocuFund to support their mission of providing direct assistance to farm workers during this challenging time,” said Murtaza Sanwari, senior vice president and area manager for Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills/West Ventura County. “This organization will offer undocumented farm workers and individuals in mixed-status households financial aid and resource coordination to help them through the lengthy rebuilding and recovery process following the devastating wildfire.”

Bilingual commentary — Immigration Triggers a Civil War

One of the major reasons that got Donald Trump elected to the U.S. presidency for the second time was his thundering promise to conduct a mass deportation of all illegal immigrants. For many of his supporters, this promise was all they needed to reinforce their commitment to their fearless leader. 

Meanwhile, “co-president” Elon Musk ignited a civil war within MAGA world well before Trump’s inauguration when he declared that immigrant labor is essential for the engineering talent required to keep America great. This outlook flies in the face of those who strongly support the view that Americans are quite capable of providing that expertise. Some among the MAGA faithful were triggered, resulting in even more racist rhetoric that hinted at the tainting of our white American blood.

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — Mass deportations will make us less safe

President-elect Trump’s mass deportation plan will target thousands of people who richly contribute to their families, communities, and our local economies often for decades. While Trump and his advisors claim they will start with “criminal immigrants,” their plans will include millions of people who pose no public safety risk at all—just as we saw during his first administration. 

H-1B Modernization Rule Provides Some Comfort But Also Raises Concerns 

By issuing a final rule, the Biden administration has made it more difficult for the Trump administration to reverse some agency practices with which it disagrees. 

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Power outages

I want to acknowledge the significant inconvenience and frustration caused by the ongoing power outages affecting our area. Many residents, myself included, have been without power for more than three days.

I have reached out to Southern California Edison (SCE) to urge them to expedite efforts to restore power in Ventura County. Unfortunately, their response has been slower than we hoped, but I remain committed to advocating for a swift resolution.

During this challenging time, I encourage you to stay informed and access available resources:

Outage Updates: SCE provides an outage map at www.sce.com/outage-center/check-outage-status.
Emergency Information: The latest updates and emergency services can be found at www.vcemergency.com.
Food Assistance: For those in need, Food Share offers support. You can find more information at foodshare.com.

CSUCI faculty, students and staff join seven other CSUs in Hispanic-Serving Institution Action Network

CAMARILLO — College was at times overwhelming for CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Psychology major Arisay Diaz, whose family immigrated from a small village in Mexico when she was a child. Having programs in place, such as Peer Education & Equity Programs (PEEP), made all the difference to students like Diaz, who was the first in her family to attend college. 

“We needed to have that sense of belonging and we have to create a culture of education from the ground up,” said Diaz, who is also minoring in Chicana/o Studies. “Not just as a student, but in our families. Many of them are immigrants from rural villages and didn’t get past elementary school. Nobody tells us how to manage a system of life and education here in the U.S. It’s nothing like we had back home.” 

Successful programs and practices that encourage Latina/o students to thrive in higher education and beyond are the type of information CSUCI and seven other CSU campuses are sharing as part of the California State University Hispanic-Serving Institution Research Network. 

Bilingual report — Oxnard’s Housing Director Departs for New Role in Riverside; Brenda Lopez Named Interim Director

OXNARD — Housing Director Emilio Ramirez has left his position to serve as Chief of Staff to Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina. City Manager Alexander Nguyen has appointed Assistant Housing Director Brenda Lopez as Oxnard’s Interim Housing Director while the City begins a formal recruitment process for the position.

Said Nguyen, “Emilio gave Oxnard nearly six great years of service. His intellect and creativity were outsized only by his heart. He left the Housing Department in a much, much better position looking towards the future.”

Since joining the City in April 2019, Ramirez has led the transformation of the Housing Department, improving the operations of the Housing Authority and beginning an Asset Repositioning Implementation Plan, which allows the City to preserve and improve its affordable housing stock by moving away from the traditional public housing model. 

Teatro de las Américas — Taller de Cine 2025 | Vision Board | Kid’s Workshop

¡Comenzamos el 11 de enero!
Taller de Cine 2025
Proyecto cooperativo en español para realizar un corto de ficción de aproximadamente 15 minutos de duración en el que los participantes idearán, escribirán, actuarán y producirán una película original a lo largo de 12 sesiones semanales