The Carsey-Wolf Center screens the restored Ukrainian classic “Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors.”
UCSB — The Current — ‘The Romeo and Juliet of Transcarpathia’ and more news, events
Category: Cultural
Pacifica Graduate Institute Celebrates Black History
In celebration of the historical achievements of Black/African Americans for our country and specifically for our community, Pacifica Graduate Institute and its Alumni Association hosted a landmark celebration on Friday, February 17 at their Lambert Road Campus.
In keeping with this year’s national theme, Black Resistance, as chosen by The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (asalh.org), the Institute emphasized the message with a directive to: “Honor the Past, Embrace the Present, Celebrate the Future.”
“I am extremely proud of our Black students, faculty, alumni, Board of Trustees, and all of our people who have contributed to the illustrious history, growth, and success, not only of Pacifica Graduate Institute, but of our local community,” said Dr. Leonie H. Mattison, President & CEO of Pacifica. “I look forward to supporting, strengthening, and nourishing an equitable and inclusive environment that promotes, respects, and encourages diversity in its fullest sense.”
Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Health, Ventura Coast Milk Bank, Breastfeeding Coalition Of Ventura County, And University Of California Health Milk Bank Partner To Bring First Milk Depot To Ventura County
Recently, a group of non-profit and government partners hosted an inaugural milk collection event to kick-off the opening of the first Milk Depot in Ventura County, located at the North Oxnard Women Infant and Children Program (WIC) site.
The Women Infant and Children Program (WIC) within Ventura County Public Health, a department of the Ventura County Health Care Agency, Ventura Coast Milk Bank, the Breastfeeding Coalition of Ventura County (The Breastfeeding Coalition), and University of California Health Milk Bank (UC Health Milk Bank) collaborated to locally implement a program that will supply premature and medically ill infants with human donor milk.
County of Ventura News Update for Feb. 24, 2023
Storm Update
A winter storm has been forecast to bring heavy rain and snowfall through Saturday, February 25. Evacuation warnings have been issued by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services for the areas of concern in the County.
For updated incident information, please visit www.vcemergency.com.
Dolores Huerta to attend Smithsonian exhibition events on March 8
The only Southern California display of a traveling Smithsonian exhibition on Dolores Huerta will open Wednesday, March 8, at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) with a daylong series of events featuring the 92-year-old civil rights activist reading to children and discussing activism with local leaders.
“Dolores Huerta: Revolution in the Fields/Revolución en los Campos” will run through May 7 in the John Spoor Broome Library Exhibition Hall.
The exhibition shares the compelling story of Huerta and the farmworkers movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Featuring text in English and Spanish, it explores Huerta’s public life as a co-founder of the United Farm Workers Union and what led her to become a Latina civil rights icon. She tirelessly led the fight for racial and labor justice along Cesar Chavez and continues to this day.
“As a Hispanic Serving Institution, it is important that the campus create culturally relevant programming that contributes to all students’ success. The Center for Community Engagement, in partnership with the Broome Library, saw an opportunity to do just that with the hosting of this traveling exhibition that introduces Dolores Huerta’s work as a civil rights icon to the next generation of young leaders and keeps her legacy of activism alive,” said Pilar Pacheco, Director of the Center for Community Engagement. “This is especially important at a time when so much of history is being silenced and erased. Hers is a voice and story that is to be celebrated today and always.”
Bilingual commentary — Who Do You Think You Are?
“Who Do You Think You Are, the Queen of Sheba?” We might hear these words directed at a woman who is perceived to be too demanding, too arrogant, too “privileged.” But how many of us know who this “Queen of Sheba” is?
As it turns out, we really don’t know exactly who she was or where she came from. But we have some ideas, thanks to several ancient texts.
Museum of Ventura County — Black History Month Feature + Lee Herrick Poetry Reading Video
In celebration of Black History Month, Ventura County NAACP President Regina Hatcher-Crawford spoke with MVC Executive Director Elena Brokaw.
Hatcher-Crawford was recognized as the California Senate Woman of the Year for District 19 in 2021. In this interview, Hatcher-Crawford shares insights about her career as a grassroots activist and talks about the legacy of leadership in the Hatcher family.
Hatcher-Crawford’s father, John R. Hatcher III, an Air Force veteran, activist, and civil rights leader, served as President of the NAACP in Ventura County for almost four decades. Hatcher-Crawford talks about the distinct honor that was recently bestowed on her father with the renaming of The US Post Office at 1961 North C Street in Oxnard to the John R. Hatcher III Post Office Building.
Social Justice Fund for Ventura County — February update
As we progress through this year, the SJFVC is thankful for the beautiful green hills, the incredible progress made by our Fellows, and the exciting updates from our SJFVC team:
The SJFVC team met to plan and set goals for 2023.Building on the accomplishments and support of the donors and community members in 2022, we plan to continue to fund up to 5 Fellows in 2023, reinforce our coaching and training efforts for the Fellows, and hold in-person events. Our next in-person event will be held in Nyeland Acres to support that community and the efforts our Fellow Brenda Heredia is making to bring health services to the area. There will also be a celebratory event for the Fellows in the Fall. We will be sending out dates soon!
UCSB — The Current — ‘Celebrating Black Creators’
A new Carsey-Wolf Center initiative shines a light on the influence and impact of Black artists.
CSUCI Art exhibit (Feb. 23 through April 14) focuses on Ventura County farmworkers
A CSU Channel Islands faculty member and student have curated an art exhibition focused on the heritage of agriculture in Ventura County.
“Stories of Labor From the Fields of Ventura County” runs from Feb. 23 through April 14 in the John Spoor Broome Library Gallery. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, Feb. 23, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. The exhibit and event are free and open to the public.
In addition, posters from the 2010 CSUCI exhibit “The Braceros of Ventura County” will be displayed in the rear hallways of the library from March 8 through May 7. The posters include local history and data related to the Mexican guest-worker program.
The art exhibit and braceros display will provide a local perspective on the issues explored in “Dolores Huerta: Revolution in the Fields/Revolución en los Campos,” a traveling Smithsonian exhibition that will be on display in Broome Library from March 8 through May 7.
2022 Santa Barbara Fair & Expo wins 15 awards at the Western Fairs Association’s annual convention
We are proud to announce that the Santa Barbara Fair & Expo, “MEET ME AT THE FAIR” theme held in April 2022 and produced by Earl Warren Showgrounds has won 15 awards for the “small fair category – under 50,000 attendance” at the Western Fairs Association’s annual convention and trade show.
UCSB — The Current — ‘The Sum of Its Plants’ and more news, events
Ecologist Leander Anderegg receives an award for research on the interplay between plant physiology and ecosystem dynamics.
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Black History Month
The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize the month of February as Black History Month. This month is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. During this time, and throughout the entire year, the EDC is committed to supporting Black-owned small businesses. The EDC strives to provide equitable access and inclusive services, leading to stronger economic outcomes that support businesses and our region as a whole. The following are a handful of programs that provide support for Black-owned small businesses:
UCSB — Sal Castro Memorial Conference honors professor Mario T. García and his 47 years at UC Santa Barbara
Among the first generation of professionally trained historians to excavate and record Chicano and Chicana history, UC Santa Barbara professor Mario T. García helped set the foundation for emerging scholars during the past half century.
His body of work as a self-described liberationist historian aiming to inspire progressive social change includes more than a dozen books and several edited collections, all of which advance the inclusion of the poor and oppressed, and spotlight the leaders of social justice movements.
García’s legacy will be the focus of a special symposium as part of the sixth bi-annual Sal Castro Memorial Conference(link is external), Feb. 17–18, in the McCune Conference Room of the campus’s Humanities & Social Sciences Building. Named after Salvador “Sal” Castro, a high school social studies teacher who helped lead the historic 1968 Chicano student walkouts to protest bias and inequalities in the Los Angeles Unified School District, the conference is free and open to the public.
Guest speakers will cover recent books about the Chicano movement, plus history, art and culture. The symposium on García’s work will include a keynote video presentation about his life and career, a panel discussion on civil rights leadership and reflections on his work’s impact on graduate students and fellow academics.
Bilingual report — Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! announces three free performances of Grandeza Mexicana on March 17, 18, 19
Grandeza Mexicana is L.A.’s premier folk ballet company, preserving the traditions and customs of Mexico’s historic past and promising present. A nonprofit performing arts organization founded by Jose Vences in September 2003, the company was formed to advance the field of Mexican folk ballet and to enhance the public’s appreciation for the diversity and depth of Mexican culture. Backed by careful research, Grandeza Mexicana’s work is committed to preserving the traditions and customs of Mexico.
***
Grandeza Mexicana, una compañía de ballet folklórico de Los Ángeles, conserva las tradiciones y costumbres históricas así como también del presente prometedor de México. La organización benéfica de artes escénicas fue fundada por José Vences en septiembre de 2003. La compañía se formó para avanzar el campo del ballet folklórico mexicano y aumentar la apreciación del público por la diversidad y profundidad de la cultura mexicana. Grandeza Mexicana está comprometida a la preservación de las tradiciones y costumbres de México.
Bilingual commentary — Artificial Intelligence and Robots: Advising Our Children
I wrote recently about the rising influence of artificial intelligence (AI). This revolutionary advancement is no longer something far off in the distant future. Nor is it a nascent technology that is just now making an appearance. It has been creeping into our lives for decades.
Closely related to the field of AI is the science of robots, which are likewise invading our lives. For example, we are dependent on ATMs, installed at our banks and scattered around our cities. The check-in kiosks at medical offices and airports have replaced myriad jobs.
We order meals from some of our restaurant tables using digital devices. In more technologically advanced restaurants, robots are beginning to deliver those meals to our tables.
February News from People’s Self-Help Housing
Dear Friend,
Out of the 67,000 mortgages insured by the GI Bill, less than 100 went to African Americans. Black History Month gives us the opportunity to learn more, and sit longer with hard to absorb facts such as these.
Here are two more. According to the Pew Charitable Trusts and data derived from the US Census Bureau:
In 2022, 74.6% of White households owned their homes, compared with 45.3% of Black households
In 1960, the White homeownership rate was 65%, and the Black rate was 38%
The gap is widening.
Homeownership is often referred to as the ‘American Dream’ but this ‘dream deferred’ is what is behind the crushing poverty of so many of our citizens. As a housing developer, we see the positive effects every day of what takes place happen when the opposite happens when the dream is realized.
Thank you for your support of affordable housing in your neighborhood,
Bilingual report — Be a Hero: Plant Trees with the City of Santa Paula to Celebrate Arbor Day!
The City of Santa Paula is excited to begin its annual celebration of Arbor Day this March! The City is planning a month of celebration with fun-filled events that promote tree planting efforts throughout the community. The City invites residents to “Plant a Tree, Be a Hero” and participate in the upcoming ceremonies.
“Arbor Day is an opportunity for us to come together as a community and celebrate the vital role trees play in our environment, our health and our daily lives,” said Parks and Recreation Director Greg Barnes. “We are proud to be hosting a month-long celebration of Arbor Day this March and invite everyone to join us in planting, learning about and appreciating the beauty and benefits of trees.”
UCSB — The Current — ‘Toward Fatter Understandings’ and more news, events
Feminist studies postdoctoral scholar Caleb Luna centers fat experiences in cultural critique through research, podcast and poetry.
Early Summer Day Camp Registration Begins At Southeast Ventura County YMCA Branches
Southeast Ventura County YMCA branches are taking early registrations for their summer day camps. Camp is from June 20 to August 18 through the Yarrow Family YMCA and from June 5 to August 4 through the Simi Valley Family YMCA.
Campers in TK to 5th grade can attend full-time (four to five days a week) or part-time (two to three days a week) for the entire camp session or selected weeks. Leadership-In-Training camp is for 6th to 8th graders (full-time only).
Onsite activities include sports, swimming, arts and crafts and in-person shows based on the campers’ age group. Camp hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Extended care hours are 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at no additional charge.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Asphalt Volcano Communities’ and more news, events
Marine scientists compile the first detailed description of the species living on and around a rare underwater habitat.
By Strengthening Their Relationship, Parents Can Improve Outcomes for Children
“Strengthening your relationship can not only improve your personal happiness, but improve the overall wellbeing of the family,” said Alison Espínola, Family Service Agency’s Health & Human Services (HHS) Grant Manager. “Research shows that children are safer, healthier, and more likely to thrive when adults in their lives have healthy relationships—whether or not they are married or romantically involved.”
Maintaining any relationship requires on-going effort. The good news is that there are tools available to help couples achieve their goals in relationships and with their family.
Santa Paula Art Museum — It’s Our Anniversary
The Santa Paula Art Museum will celebrate its thirteenth anniversary on Valentine’s Day—an auspicious date, as this Museum runs on a whole lot of love. We hope you’ll join us for the Museum’s 13th Anniversary Party on Saturday, February 25, 2023. The event is one of SPAM’s biggest fundraisers of the year. Enjoy an exciting evening of art, live music by Studio C featuring Sophie Holt, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, and more. Tickets to the event are $100 per person and include two complimentary drink tickets. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.
Submit a nomination for the 80th annual ‘Person of the Year’ awards
Nominations are open for the 80th Annual Person of the Year awards. The Santa Barbara Foundation invites the community at large to nominate an individual, couple, or family. Nominations are accepted now through 5pm on February 24, 2023. Nominations will be accepted online at https://www.sbfoundation.org/person-of-the-year-nominations/.
Considered one of the Santa Barbara area’s most prestigious awards, the Person of the Year awards honor Santa Barbara area individuals, couples, or families whose extraordinary service represent a meaningful commitment to the community; address a real community need or enhance the quality of life; or has demonstrated exemplary acts of generosity, kindness, or innovation in the Santa Barbara area. Recipients are selected from a wide range of candidates nominated by community members.
VCCU supports financial inclusion with employee promotion and new hire
To support Ventura County Credit Union’s ongoing efforts to ensure representation of all community members as it works to boost financial wellness and inclusion, the credit union has promoted Arturo Zaragoza to director of financial equity programs and hired Jaime Doniaz as financial inclusion and education manager.
Zaragoza has served as a branch manager at VCCU for nine years and has more than 16 years of experience working in the financial services industry. His efforts to support the financial well-being and inclusion of diverse individuals and groups throughout the community have earned him recognition and awards from the Pacific Coast Business Times, Oxnard High School District, Consulate of Mexico and Oxnard Chamber of Commerce. He is also a Ventura County Leadership Academy graduate, advisory board member for the UCSB Customer Experience Program, Food Share volunteer and youth soccer coach.
Bilingual commentary — Is the Pandemic “Over”?
For many people there never was a pandemic. They have carried on with their lives wondering what all the fuss was about. After all, wasn’t COVID-19 simply a hoax foisted on us by the liberals? If those who claimed this had the misfortune of becoming infected with the virus after not being vaccinated, they often demanded that ivermectin be administered to them. After all, that’s what their “research” or a talk show host told them was the appropriate response. Health professionals beg to differ and usually refuse the request for ivermectin.
For those at the other extreme, the pandemic continues in full swing. They continue to social distance, wear masks, avoid crowds, and pretty much isolate themselves as much as possible.
The Central Coast Climate Justice Network Announces Network Manager
Since its launch in 2018, the Central Coast Climate Justice Network (CCCJN) has grown into a strong community partnership with over a dozen participating organizations spanning the California Central Coast region. As CCCJN continues to expand its environmental and social justice work this year, the organization is proud to announce Ana Rosa Rizo-Centino as its new Network Manager.
CCCJN is a collaboration of organizations and community leaders committed to a climate movement that advances social, economic, racial, and environmental justice for Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. By forging a regional partnership between social justice, anti-racism and environmental movements, the network expands the region’s collective power to advance restorative actions and systems change. The organization’s work centers on communities who bear the greatest burden of climate change impacts.
Cal Lutheran Holds Conference on Undocumented Immigrants on Feb. 16
On Thursday, February 16, 2023, the Center for Economics of Social Issues at California Lutheran University will hold What Does It Take to Call a Place a Home?, a conference that explores the social and economic lives of undocumented immigrants and their regional and economic impacts on the Central Coast of California. The conference lasts from 8:30 am to 2 pm in the Lundring Events Center.
The program for the conference includes a short video of a visit by a group of students and faculty to migrant shelters in Tijuana. Cal Lutheran professors together with their students will share some of the findings of interviews carried out by the students under their supervision.
FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center opens in Ventura
A new FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Ventura County, where residents who were affected by the severe storms and flooding can register for assistance, update their FEMA application and learn about state and county programs or other community resources available.
Top things to do in Lompoc on Valentine’s Day
The super sweet time of the year is almost upon us. If you’re feeling the love this Valentine’s Day, head to Lompoc, California for a romantic getaway! Take a scenic drive through the beautiful flower fields, spend a cozy evening at a nearby winery sipping on local wines, indulge in a delicious dinner for two at one of our top restaurants, and more!
If you’re in or around Lompoc on Feb. 14, 2023, you might want to consider taking your special sweetheart to one of the area’s Valentine’s Day events.
No matter what you end up doing, enjoy it—and one another! Here’s to you. Here’s to love.
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Bruce Stenslie Selected as Business Leader of the Year
Bruce and his team of advisors and staff have worked diligently for years helping small businesses in the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. They have helped countless number of businesses throughout many disasters and the current COVID-19 pandemic. VCLA’s recognition of Bruce as the 2023 Business Leader of the Year is a representation of how hard Bruce and his team worked and continues to help the small business community.
Under Bruce’s leadership, in 2022 the EDC has counseled over 1,657 entrepreneurs and helped approve over $73 million in access to capital for small businesses across the region.
Cottage Health Appoints Lorenzo Olivarez Jr., Vice President of Finance
Following a national search, Cottage Health has named Lorenzo Olivarez Jr. to the role of Vice President of Finance.
Olivarez most recently served as Division Chief Financial 0fficer/Sr. Vice President at Baptist St. Anthony’s Health System in Amarillo, TX, where he oversaw financial management of multiple medical centers, clinics and physician groups and was recognized as Ardent CFO of the Year.
“We welcome Lorenzo to Cottage Health and Santa Barbara,” Kristin Tufvesson, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, said. “His extensive knowledge of healthcare finance and proven leadership experience will be instrumental in providing oversight and strategic direction to ensure Cottage Health’s fiscal responsibility and continue strong financial stewardship to help grow programs and services for the community. We are very fortunate to have him in this important leadership position.”
Museum of Ventura County — Celebrate 5 years of the Ag Garden, upcoming events
Behind the Curtain:
An Insider’s Look at
The George Stuart Historical Figures®
New Set of Figures
Now On Display!
Visitors can now experience a new rotation of George Stuart Historical Figures®, each with a magnifying glass for an up-close look.
Each Figure in this exhibit shows the comprehensive historical research and artistic details behind its creation, such as the use of a goose egg for the Pope’s hat!
Made possible in part by the Fred W. Smith Gallery Fund and additional support from Bethe and Tim Sullivan in memory of Rosemarie Magness
Bilingual report — County of Ventura reaches settlement with CoLAB regarding 2024 General Plan
The County of Ventura (“County”), the Ventura County Coalition of Labor, Agriculture and Business (CoLAB), and the Ventura County Agricultural Association (VCAA) are pleased to announce the settlement of CoLAB’s and VCAA’s lawsuit challenging the County’s approval of the 2040 Ventura County General Plan (General Plan). Resolution of the lawsuit resulted from constructive discussions involving multiple County officials including Agricultural Commissioner Ed Williams, Resource Management Agency Director Kim Prillhart, Planning Director Dave Ward, as well as CoLAB’s Executive Director Louise Lampara, VCAA’s President and General Counsel Robert Roy, and members of Ventura County’s agricultural community.
“Agriculture has played a central role in our County’s history, and it is imperative we work with the agricultural community to ensure it remains a thriving feature of our local community for years to come,” stated Supervisor Matt LaVere, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “I look forward to continuing conversations about how the County can best support our farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers.”
UCSB — The Current — ‘A Groundbreaking Voice’ and more news, events
Bilingual report — Ventura County Language Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC) Accepting New Applications for 2023
The Ventura County Elections Division is seeking applications for its Language Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC). This committee is part of the federal and state-mandated outreach requirements to ensure all voters are included in the election process.
Ventura County’s diverse community of voters includes those who speak Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tagalog and Gujarati proficiently but who may be less practiced in English. Elections is looking for volunteers who have experience with these language-diverse communities and are also interested in elections, to provide insight and ideas on how to best serve these communities. The LAAC will be reviewing past distribution of election information and materials and discuss the direct accessibility for all Ventura County voters.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura News update for Feb. 3
FEMA Individual Assistance for Storm Recovery Efforts
The January storms resulted in widespread damage across Ventura County, prompting Sheriff Jim Fryhoff to sign a Proclamation of Local Emergency. This proclamation was later ratified by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors and sent to the California Governor requesting his support for the Major Disaster Declaration. Subsequently, and with unanimous support of local congressional delegates, a Major Disaster Declaration was authorized by President Biden, to include Ventura County. This Major Disaster Declaration is key to activating various disaster assistance programs for residents, businesses and public agencies. As a result of those efforts, we are excited to announce that Ventura County has been awarded a Major Disaster Declaration and area residents may be eligible for FEMA Individual Assistance, as well as assistance from other state and federal agencies.
How to apply:
OPAC + El Concilio announce a COVID-19 Poster Art Contest with $1,500 in cash prizes!
The Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC) and El Concilio Family Services have teamed up for a COVID-19 Poster Art Contest which is accepting submissions now through March 3, 2023. There are two categories for entries: Grades K-5 and 6-12. Prizes will be offered for the top 3 winners in each category: 1st place – $500 cash prize, 2nd place – $200 cash prize, and 3rd place a $50 Target gift card. Prize Sponsor is The Children’s Workshop and funding is provided in part through the California VA58 Campaign.
COVID-19 took a devastating toll on our community and we’re still dealing with the virus and its impacts. We need your help to make sure our friends, family members, neighbors, and peers stay protected because the virus has not gone away.
Local youth in Grades K-12 are encouraged to create posters that remind people about COVID-19 safety and the importance of vaccines. Posters can show how COVID has affected students or their community. They can also be more general and encourage mask-wearing, getting the vaccine or getting boosted.
Ventura Music Festival — 4 weeks & county
Who are the Mnozil Brass?
A septet: 3 trumpets, 3 trombones and a tuba whose music embraces a mix of folk, jazz, pop and classical. They play with both jaw-dropping talent and serious comedy gold.
UCSB — The Current — ‘When Flood Follows Fire’ and more news, events
Geographers, climate scientists and ecologists weigh in on the risks of debris flows following large storms.
CLU School of Management — Announcing the Keynote Speaker & Panelists!
Susana Cruickshank
President of the Centre for International Cooperation and Public Management Studies (CECIG)
Susana Cruickshank currently directs the civil society organization Centre for International Cooperation and Public Management Studies (CECIG), where she works on projects that accompany the day laborer population in the states of Morelos and San Luis Potosí and, as part of the “National Network of Day Labourers and Agricultural Day Labourers,” in Oaxaca, Sinaloa, Guanajuato, Chiapas, Guerrero, and other states. Her work at CECIG includes extensive research to produce comprehensive diagnoses and proposals on agricultural day laborers’ living, working, and wage conditions.
Bilingual report — Cottage Health Launches Spanish Virtual Care
To help increase access to care, Cottage Health is excited to announce that Cottage Virtual Care is now offered in Spanish. Launching today for California residents, Cottage Virtual Care – Spanish is always open, offering 24/7 coverage for virtual care visits.
Anyone can visit cottagehealth.org/atencion-virtual using a smartphone, tablet or computer to start a visit in Spanish. Patients start by creating an account and entering their symptoms and health information. Choose from an online interview or have a video consultation with a Cottage Health provider. Within an hour, users receive a treatment plan, and – if needed – prescriptions are automatically sent to a pharmacy of choice.
Bilingual report — 20th Annual County of Ventura Employee, Retiree, and Family Art Show award winners announced
On Friday, January 13, 2023, the winners of the 20th Annual County of Ventura Employee, Retiree, and Family Art Show were announced by the Ventura County Arts Council and the National Arts Program at a special awards reception. The reception took place on the Main Plaza of the Atrium Gallery, at the County of Ventura Government Center, Hall of Administration, with art entries on display throughout the building.
County Executive Officer Sevet Johnson, PsyD, was in attendance and provided opening remarks, along with Ventura County Arts Council Board Chairperson, Carolyn Mullin. David Yoshitomi, County’s Arts and Culture Manager, announced the winners.
“It was such an honor to announce the winners for this year’s show,” said Mr. Yoshitomi. “The level of talent and creativity connected to the County of Ventura team is so impressive,” he continued, “and it’s wonderful to see it all on display on the walls of the Government Center.”
Ventura County Arts Council — See Ventura County Employee, Retiree & Family Art Show Winners
Congratulations to the winners of our annual, all-ages competitive art show for Ventura County employees, retirees and their family members. The show is hosted in partnership with the County of Ventura and is generously sponsored by the National Arts Program.
You can see the show now through Friday, February 3, 2023during business hours in our Atrium Gallery inside the Ventura County Government Center Hall of Administration located 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura, CA 93009.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors ratify declaration of local emergency for Ventura County following winter storms
On Tuesday, Jan. 24, the Board of Supervisors, voted to ratify the proclamation of a local emergency put forth by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services in order to provide assistance to residents in relation to the storms that affected the county beginning on January 8. The vote to ratify occurred following the date of the proclamation since the Board was not in session on the date the proclamation was authored.
“We are hopeful that our county will soon receive approval from FEMA for the Individual Assistance Program,” said Patrick Maynard, Director of Emergency Services. “This program is vital to supporting residents through the recovery process. The Individual Assistance Program provides several types of help to residents including temporary rental assistance as well as funding for debris removal and repairs. We are working closely with our federal elected representatives to advocate on behalf of Ventura County to ensure residents receive the assistance they need.”
Museum of Ventura County — New Exhibit ‘Finding the Light’ Now Open, upcoming events
Finding the Light:
Works from MVC’s
Permanent Collection
Now Open
at the Museum of Ventura County
Finding the Light explores how artists use light not only to influence shape and color, but also to impart deep meaning. The exhibit, featuring works by renowned and diverse regional artists including Guy Webster, Andrea Vargas, Henry Chapman Ford, and Susan Petty, is the first exhibit installed in the new Esther and Thomas Wachtell Family Gallery.
This gallery has been created through a generous endowment from the Esther and Thomas Wachtell Family Fund and is designed to showcase the Museum of Ventura County’s permanent collection.
Learn more about Finding the Light here.
Bilingual report — Congresswoman Julia Brownley presents $640,000 to the County of Ventura for Oxnard Family Justice Center services and resources
On Monday, January 23, Congresswoman Julia Brownley presented a check for $640,000 to the County of Ventura to expand crime victim services and resources in Oxnard and Port Hueneme. The money will help with the expansion of the Ventura County Family Justice Center, a program administered by the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, at a new location in Oxnard.
“This money will help to provide funds for bilingual victim advocates, help children who have been victims of domestic violence by funding youth programs, and it will provide onsite civil legal services at the Oxnard Family Justice Center,” said Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “Congresswoman Brownly has been a steadfast champion of public safety and crime victims. We thank her for continuing to standup for Ventura County’s most vulnerable.”
Meadowlark Service League Hosts a Spring Charity Luncheon and Tennis & Pickleball Tournament
Join the Meadowlark Service League (Meadowlarks) at Las Posas Country Club on Monday, March 6th, for their annual Spring Charity Luncheon, accompanied by a Tennis and Pickleball Tournament, as well as Silent and Live Auctions. The boutique features a great variety of vendors and is open to the public at no cost.
The ladies of the Meadowlark have been working hard to continue to create opportunities to raise funds that benefit the many charities that our events support. “This is the 25th anniversary of the Charity Luncheon and Tournament and it continues to give the women of Ventura County a chance to enjoy friendships, sport and special time to themselves,” noted longtime Meadowlark member and event chair, Gwen Speakes, “and we are so excited to host this year’s fun event. Join us for “Magical Moments.”
Longtime community leader Angela Sanchez joins VISIONALITY along with two more
VISIONALITY kicks off 2023 with the hiring of three new team members just as it wraps 2022 and the celebration of its 10th year in business. Longtime community leader Angela Sanchez joins VISIONALITY bringing 20+ years of finance and banking experience to her new role as the company’s Senior Strategic Relationship Manager. She is joined by Senior Project Manager–Strategy, Jeanette Villanueva and Senior Project Manager–Fundraising & Communications, Katie Pearson.
“When you meet three amazing women, you hire them all,” exclaimed VISIONALITY CEO Emily Barany. “We are a growing team of eight strong women and one brave man.” All joking aside, Barany notes that her experienced team is well-equipped for the big plans she has for the company in 2023. Barany is known as a leader who’s not afraid to jump all-in on behalf of her clients and her community and demonstrates that with these three new hirings.
Bilingual commentary — Will Artificial Intelligence Doom Us?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is the quintessential double-edged sword. It has the ability to rescue humanity from some of its most intractable problems. On the other hand, if we are not careful, it could end up subjecting us to its whims, ravaging societies, and, ultimately, destroying us.
Some scientists and social engineers are giddy with the possibilities of AI. They see it as a means toward achieving things such as advances in medicine, more effective education, better tools for fighting climate change, and stronger and more durable materials. Employers are salivating with the potential of AI to help them trim costs—enormously, in some cases.
Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — FEMA Assistant and Beach Closures
There has been a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of California (FEMA-4683-DR) for severe winter storms was amended to include Santa Barbara County for individual assistance, debris removal, and emergency protective measures. Residents of Santa Barbara County will now be eligible to apply for Federal financial assistance, and public agencies will be eligible to seek reimbursement for debris removal. Public agencies had previously been eligible for reimbursement for costs associated with emergency protective measures.
Residents who incurred financial losses due to storm damage are encouraged to apply for assistance as soon as possible online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. An application for assistance can also be made by downloading the FEMA app in the Apple and Google store. This allows documents to be uploaded to FEMA directly and track the status of applications.
If you cannot live in your home at this time due to storm impact causing water damage, mold, mud, or inability to access your home, please make sure you include this in your application.
Ventura Harbor Village: Take To The Great Outdoors With Island Packers Winter Whale Watching & Excursions To The Channel Islands National Park
Island Packers, the official boat concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, has recently announced daily departures to the Channel Islands National Park from Ventura Harbor Village, and is now offering Winter Whale Watching Excursions through April 2023. Book your spot today to view these magnificent mammals at www.islandpackers.com.
Also, visit https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/directory/island-packers/ for more information.
Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces two new Board Directors and appoints new Chair at its Annual Public Meeting
During its Annual Public Meeting in January, Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announced two new Directors have joined its Board. Executive Director of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Paula, Elenore Vaughn joins the Board bringing with her two decades of experience in real estate development and public affairs. Joining Ms. Vaughn on the Board is longstanding community member and partner at McCarthy Companies, Sarah McCarthy-Garcia, who brings years of local building and business development experience. The 2023 Board is led by 2023 Chair Tracy McAulay, Management Analyst for the County of Ventura Community Development Division and Vice Chair Ken Trigueiro, CEO & President of People’s Self-Help Housing.
January News from People’s Self-Help Housing
At PSHH, we are not afraid to ask questions.
Now in our third year of DEI training, we have more than just poked at the edges; we have gone deep into the DNA of our fifty two year old organization. Marked with further and significant investments of funds and time, the next twelve months will see our staff-led initiatives continue to explore where we are, where we are going, and humbly, where we want to be.
Our continued progress is thanks to the authentic participation of our 200+ team members who have vulnerably shared their feelings and with conviction embraced new opportunities.
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Get Green Certified For Earth Day 2023
SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS CHALLENEGE
From the California Green Business Network
Most businesses in Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties are now eligible for $500 in incentives to help reduce their operational costs and become a certified Green Business. Start off the new year with a resolution to be green, and get certified by Earth Day 2023! The Sustainable Business Challenge is a great opportunity to start reaping benefits now as your business gets started on its sustainability journey.
Teatro de las Américas announces Kids Workshop, Auditions, Taller de Cine
Kids Workshop
Adventures in Theater with Ms. Alina
WHEN:
Wednesdays
January 18 – March 22, 4:30pm – 6pm
(Jan 18, 25, Feb 1, 8, Mar 1, 8, 15)
(No class Feb 15 and 22)
Show: Mar. 22, 5:30pm
Singers of all ages and vocal ranges encouraged to audition for the CSUCI University Chorus
Auditions are now open for singers who would like to join the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) University Chorus and be part of the Spring 2023 “Choral Spectacular!
Anyone wishing to audition is invited to send an email to University Chorus Artistic Director KuanFen Liu at downbeatplus@gmail.com to make an appointment for an audition from now until January 20.
Auditions are open to singers of all vocal ranges, ages 18 and up, and anyone on the CSUCI campus or in the surrounding community is welcome to audition. Liu is especially hoping to add more male singers to give the chorus more tenor, bass and baritone.
Bilingual report — WEV (Women’s Economic Ventures) presenting free Emprendimiento Program on Feb. 7
SANTA PAULA — WEV (Women’s Economic Ventures) will present a free Emprendimiento Program in Spanish from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 at the Blanchard Community Library, 119 N. 8th St., Santa Paula.
WEV’s Emprendimiento Program is free, taught in Spanish, and an incredible opportunity for any Ventura County business owner/new entrepreneur. Our 8-week class will help Spanish-speaking business owners learn the steps to grow their business, write a business plan, understand budgeting, projecting profit and expenses, and gain additional resources for their business journey. And, after completing the course, participants will have the opportunity to apply for a $7,500 small business grant plus additional assistance from mentors and advisors!
Bilingual report — Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura (AHA) accepting applications beginning Feb 1 for the Public Housing Program from low income households
The Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura (AHA) will be accepting applications beginning February 1, 2023 for the Public Housing Program from low income households.
Applications will be accepted online beginning Wednesday, February 1, 2023 at 8:00am and will close on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 4:00pm. Applications will be accepted via an online portal at onlineportal.ahacv.org
Click on image for more information
Bilingual report — MICOP — Safety Net for All Coalition Statement on the Governor’s Budget 2023 – 2024
The Safety Net for All Coalition is deeply disappointed to see that Governor Newsom’s proposed budget does not include unemployment benefits for excluded immigrant workers. An Excluded Workers Program is an essential step to creating a more equitable and resilient economy that works for all Californians.
California’s immigrant workers are the foundation of our economy, contributing to its standing as the 4th largest economy in the world. Seventy-eight percent of California’s undocumented immigrants work in industries that are “essential and critical” to the economy, such as agriculture, construction, and domestic work. Yet, due to historic racist exclusions from our safety net, California’s undocumented workers are not able to access economic support when they face unexpected job loss. Despite the fact that California employers pay an estimated $485 million annually into the Unemployment Insurance system on behalf of these workers, these workers are prohibited from accessing these benefits.