Category: Cultural

CSUCI receives $6M in Hispanic-Serving Institution grants

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2022 • Comments Off

U.S. Department of Education Thursday awarded CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) more than $6 million in Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) grants to launch programs and expand services designed to increase the number of students, particularly Latinos, who enroll in and graduate from college and who successfully pursue careers in education.

CSUCI is receiving $3 million to implement the Caminos (Pathways) for Future Counselors, Psychologists, Teachers and Leaders project and $3 million for Project Student Outreach, Academics and Retention (SOAR) at CI. Under an HSI grant awarded to Oxnard College, CSUCI is also receiving $187,000 to hire a staff member dedicated to helping students who transfer from Oxnard College to CSUCI. This brings CSUCI’s total federal HSI grant funding to more than $42 million since 2010.

Action Week Focuses on Working Together to Support Undocumented College Students

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2022 • Comments Off

Approximately 75,000 undocumented students are enrolled in California public and independent colleges and universities, according to the California Undocumented Higher Education Coalition. To assist these students in their journey, the Ventura County Community College District joins California Community Colleges and statewide partners for the sixth annual Undocumented Student Action Week (USAW), Oct. 17-21.

This year’s theme is “Juntos Podemos (Together, We Can): Collaborative Ecosystems that Support Undocumented Students.” During USAW, Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges will focus on advancing best practices, ensuring authentic, campuswide collaboration and advocating for policy solutions to support long-term success.

Excelencia award recognizes CSUCI’s service to Latino students

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2022 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) is the first college in California to earn Seal of Excelencia recertification, which is awarded for a high level of commitment and effort to serve Latino students.

CSUCI President Richard Yao this morning attended the Washington, D.C., ceremony where Excelencia in Education recognized the first nine institutions of higher education in the nation to earn recertification along with six others that earned the Seal ofExcelencia for the first time.

There are now 30 U.S. colleges that hold the Seal of Excelencia certification. Combined, they enrolled 13% and graduated 14% of all college-going Latinos in the U.S. in 2020, and they plan to continue increasing their efforts to lead the nation.

“Excelencia in Education created the Seal of Excelencia to differentiate institutions that became Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) because of demography and geography from those that are Hispanic-Serving because of intentionality and impact,” said Deborah Santiago, CEO of the 18-year-old Latina-led organization dedicated to accelerating Latino success in higher education.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. (CEDC) — Gov. Newsom Announces Over $1 Billion in Housing Accelerator Awards

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2022 • Comments Off

The Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) announced on Sept. 29 that it has been awarded $26,246,464 from a California Housing Accelerator grant from the California Housing and Community Development Department (HCD). The funding is part of the California Housing Accelerator Comeback Plan, which is designed to assist in ending homelessness and providing affordable housing.

“The quick, strategic investments the state has made through the California Housing Accelerator brings us another step closer to the 2.5 million homes needed by 2030, as outlined in our Statewide Housing Plan,” said Gustavo Velasquez, Director of the California Department of Housing and Community Development. “Just one year after Governor Gavin Newsom announced the California Housing Accelerator, HCD has helped partners unlock the ability to construct over 5,000 quality affordable homes that were stuck waiting for funding. Roughly 80 percent of all Accelerator units will be for extremely low to very low-income households and unhoused residents.”

U.S. Latino GDP now 5th largest in world Latino incomes surged due to work effort during pandemic

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2022 • Comments Off

Researchers from California Lutheran University’s Center for Economic Research and Forecasting and the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine released the 2022 U.S. Latino GDP Report.

Highlights include the following:

The total economic output, or gross domestic product, of Latinos in the U.S. was $2.8 trillion in 2020, up from $2.1 trillion in 2015 and $1.7 trillion in 2010.

Pew Research Center — Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month 2022

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2022 • Comments Off

It’s Hispanic Heritage Month, and, as always, Pew Research Center is committed to studying the rich diversity of the nation’s 62.5 million Latinos, from an exploration of U.S. adults who identify as Afro-Latino to a recent report on Latinos’ varied political views. This month is a celebration of not only the diverse origins of U.S. Latinos and the independence days in the countries of their ancestors, but also of the unique and varied experiences of Latinos across the country. We hope you will continue following our work detailing the nuanced lives of U.S. Latinos.

Lumina Alliance & Cal Poly Safer Welcome October as Dating & Domestic Violence Action Month

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

A Theme of “We Deserve” calls attention to the rights of all people in relationships SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — Lumina Alliance and Cal Poly Safer are calling attention to Dating and Domestic Violence Action Month this October. The theme,…

Rona Barrett Foundation Annual Fundraiser is Back on Oct. 9 with Love, Italian Style at The Sunstone Villa

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

The Rona Barrett Foundation’s annual benefit event is set for a stunning new location after a three-year hiatus. Guests are invited to celebrate in style while supporting vulnerable seniors, at Love, Italian Style, hosted at the Sunstone Winery Villa in Santa Ynez from 4 p.m. to 7:30 pm on Sunday, October 9.

“We’re discovering our community is more eager than ever to join together around the important things in life, and ready to get out from behind our screens to do so in style,” said Tony Morris, Executive Director. “We’re grateful to our sponsors, volunteers and auction donors for setting the stage for Love Italian Style to be a great success.”

United Way of Ventura County — Compassion + Results

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

Dear Friends,

Fall is officially here and it’s hard to believe that 2023 is just around the corner. As we celebrate 77 years of Uniting Ventura County, I am so proud of how your local United Way has responded throughout these challenging times, but our support is only possible because of the continued generosity of our community. It’s your generosity that powers the programs serving those in need and changing lives. Lives like John, a U.S. Air Force veteran. Please read his testimonial.

“With only social security, and no family to fall back on, I began a search for a place I could settle down in. The money I had on hand didn’t last long and then the pandemic hit. At this point, I didn’t have a place to call home and I started living in my car. I connected with United Way and they gave me a sense of hope in the real possibility of finding somewhere to live. They helped me find a place in a senior living apartment complex. They also helped with furniture, bedding, dishes, and utensils. The compassion and care they showed gave me confidence that things would work out. I feel fortunate because of their efforts.”

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.

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.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Delight in the Arts’ and more news

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2022 • Comments Off

The fall quarter offers a stellar line-up of exhibitions, film screenings, theater, dance and more.

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.”

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.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Safe Harbor’ and more news

by Community Contributor • September 27, 2022 • Comments Off

Marine research and conservation institutions band together to expand whale-saving technology to the San Francisco Bay.

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.

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.”

Bilingual report — Celebrate Oxnard’s Diversity at Free Multicultural Festival on Oct. 1

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2022 • Comments Off

Join the community in celebrating Oxnard’s cultural diversity at the 25th Annual Multicultural Festival on Saturday, Oct. 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Plaza Park (500 S. C St.). The event is free and open to the public.

The Multicultural Festival features a variety of fun, educational activities, entertainment and exhibits for all ages. Activities include:

Musical performances by Caliente805 Band, Kaylanie Barrera, DJG-Cut (A Female Vibe), and more!

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

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 — 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.”

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!

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.

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.”

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.

Bilingual report — Discover Latino Heritage by Metrolink Train

by Amigos805.com • September 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Southern California is home to millions of people of Latino heritage, many with family roots in California going back centuries. It is no surprise that Latino culture has influenced almost every aspect of life in SoCal, ranging from food and…

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:

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.”

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 — County of Ventura News & COVID-19 Update for Sept. 13

by Community Contributor • September 13, 2022 • Comments Off

Today, the life and legacy of Supervisor Carmen Ramirez was honored at the first Board of Supervisors meeting since her passing. We are grateful to all who joined to remember and celebrate her life and dedicated service.
View the meeting recording here.

CSUCI gets high rankings from US News & World Report

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2022 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) rose in three major categories in the recently released U.S. News & World Report 2022 college and university rankings.

CSUCI falls into the Regional Universities West category where this year the University ranked No. 28, up 13 spots from its previous rank of No. 41. CSUCI was ranked No. 12, up eight rungs from No. 20 in the Top Public Schools category. And for Social Mobility, CSUCI ranked No. 11, climbing from No. 17 last year.

“The credit for these rankings goes to the campus students, faculty and staff, but also to the members of the community who have supported us through the years,” said President Richard Yao, Ph.D. “As we celebrate our 20th anniversary and look toward our third decade as the county’s only public university, we take pride in the national recognition and in the quality of graduates who join the work force to keep our economy thriving.”

The Foundation of VCCU gives $47,500 in grants to benefit community

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2022 • Comments Off

The Foundation of VCCU, a philanthropic nonprofit organization established by Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU), has provided $47,500 in grants to support 10 local nonprofits’ efforts to support the Ventura County community.

The Foundation honored the grant recipients at a virtual celebration on Sept. 8, where representatives from each organization shared their stories.

The grant awardees include Reel Guppy Outdoors, Fit 4 the Cause, Ventura Family YMCA, Coalition for Family Harmony, For the Need Foundation, National Disaster Search Dog Foundation, Andrea Grace Soter-Simonson Memorial Foundation, Ojai Unified School District Family Fund, Housing Trust Fund Ventura County, and Community Action of Ventura County.

Grant enables CSUCI Teacher Residency Program to add three new credential programs

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2022 • Comments Off

Now that CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Teaching Credential candidate Marina Luque is student teaching at her elementary school alma mater—Norma Harrington Elementary School—Luque’s former first grade teacher, Patricia Oropeza, has asked Luque to call her “Pat.”

“But I still call her Miss Oropeza,” Luque said. “I’m 33, I’m a mom, but I call her Miss Oropeza. And sometimes I walk through the halls and think ‘No running in the halls!’”

Ayde Almaraz, 44, is spending her residency in a bilingual classroom at Rio Real Elementary in the Rio School District. Her childhood was difficult, and, having immigrated from Mexico, she knows what it’s like not to speak English, and to struggle with basic needs. She wants to help other children who may be having the same experience.

“If a student doesn’t want to do anything, they probably haven’t had enough sleep, or they haven’t eaten,” Almaraz said. “I want to be there for them to assist them with their needs.”

TOLD Foundation donates $2.5M to provide Scholarships will aid low-, middle-income students

by Community Contributor • September 9, 2022 • Comments Off

California Lutheran University has received $2.5 million to provide scholarships to accomplished students from low- and middle-income families.

The donation from the Camarillo-based TOLD Foundation is the largest that Cal Lutheran has ever received for scholarships outside of an estate gift.

The Rod Gilbert Achievement Scholarship is designed to address the fact that a growing number of students with financial need are attending Cal Lutheran. The share of the university’s undergraduate students who are eligible for federal Pell Grants, which are awarded to those with exceptional financial need, increased from 16% to 30% during the last 15 years. In the 2021-2022 academic year, 60% of undergraduates received state or federal need-based financial aid. These trends align with the Hispanic-Serving Institution’s successful efforts to enroll and graduate students from diverse racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.

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