In a pair of recent papers, David W. Lawson and his team at UCSB’s Applied Evolutionary Anthropology Lab shed light on possible explanations for gender bias. Their research was carried out in an urbanizing rural community in northwestern Tanzania.
Category: Cultural
Bilingual report — Falcon 9 launch cadence increate environmental assessment
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE — The United States (U.S.) Space Force has prepared a Draft Environmental Assessment (DEA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) that evaluates the potential environmental impacts of the Proposed Action (PA).
The PA is to increase Falcon 9 annual launch cadence from 36 to 50 launches per year at Space Launch Complex 4 (SLC-4) on Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), increase Falcon 9 first stage and fairing recovery activities, and expand the recovery area in the Pacific Ocean.
Women’s Economic Ventures Announces the Appointment of Five New Board Members
Channel Islands Maritime Museum unveils Tall Ship exhibit at Zachari Dunes Hotel in Oxnard
OXNARD — The Channel Islands Maritime Museum is excited to announce a new partnership with the Zachari Dunes hotel, located just over a mile from the museum’s home in Channel Islands Harbor. This collaboration, beginning on September 17, 2024, brings a unique maritime experience to hotel guests with the installation of a spectacular tall ship model exhibit in the hotel’s lobby. The first ship to be displayed is the San Felipe, a famed Spanish galleon that sailed from 1690 to 1705, offering a glimpse into that captivating period of maritime history.
Bilingual report — City of Ventura’s Westpark Skatepark Expansion Project starts construction phase
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce the groundbreaking of the Westpark Skatepark Expansion Project. On Friday, September 13, City officials, local dignitaries, and project partners gathered to celebrate the start of construction. The skatepark at 450 W. Harrison Ave will officially close for construction on Monday, September 23, with completion slated for Spring 2025.
Ventura County Art Council — Free Fiscal Sponsorship Workshop | Poet Laureate Nominations
Does your arts or culture organization or group have a project for which you’d like to apply for a grant, or do other fundraising, but lack 501(c)(3) status? Fiscal sponsorship may be an option.
Santa Barbara Arts Collaborative programs and fund development officer Adrienne De Guevara will present this FREE, 1-hour virtual workshop. Registration required.
Register now
West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA) — Longtime resident opens Spring Pharmacy in Oxnard
“We are excited to open our doors to the community and provide a new resource for quality pharmaceutical care,” says owner and pharmacist Dr. Sora Yoon, an Oxnard resident for more than 35 years. “Our goal is to support the health and well-being of our neighbors, and we look forward to building lasting relationships with the people of El Rio and beyond.”
Bilingual commentary — A Lucky Break for a Mexican American
It may seem to be “unfair,” but sometimes we see people who appear to catch a wave of good fortune, experiencing a magical moment in their lives that propels them toward sudden and totally unexpected fame or success (or, ideally, both). These lucky breaks, often appearing as seized opportunities or fortunate coincidences, can dramatically alter one’s path in life. While hard work and perseverance are essential, the element of luck can sometimes play an unexpectedly pivotal role in shaping destinies.
Santa Paula Art Museum — Gail Pidduck’s “8² + 10” Opens Saturday, Sep. 14!
Saturday, September 14, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members
Don’t miss the premiere of Gail Pidduck’s “8² + 10” on Saturday, September 14! Over the past two years, as Pidduck found herself approaching her 74th birthday, the Santa Paula artist gave herself the goal of creating 74 new paintings, 40 of which she selected for this show. With no restrictions as to subject matter, Pidduck let the dimensions of the paintings, 8 inches square, provide the unifying ingredient. Meet the artist and enjoy beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres during the premiere party from 4 PM to 6 PM.
“8² + 10” will be on view through January 12, 2025. All of the artworks will be available for purchase.
U.S. Rep. Julia Brownley — ou’re Invited! Passport Fair on Saturday, Sept. 21, in Camarillo
Now that the summer is coming to an end, travel plans for the holidays are underway for many of you. If you are considering traveling abroad, it is imperative that you keep your passport up to date. It’s important to note that some countries require that your passport be valid six months beyond the date of your trip.
As your representative in Congress, I want to make sure that obtaining or renewing a passport is made as easy as possible. For that reason, I am hosting a Passport Fair on Saturday, September 21, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, at the Ventura County Office of Education, located at 5189 Verdugo Way, Camarillo, CA 93012.
LEAP in Santa Barbara Receives National Diaper Need Awareness Week Proclamation
The proclamation, introduced by 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann and co-sponsored by 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps, acknowledges the critical issue of diaper need – the inability to afford enough clean diapers. It highlights the adverse impact this has on the health and well-being of children and families. National surveys conducted by the National Diaper Bank Network (NDBN) indicate that nearly one in two families struggle with diaper need, with many parents being forced to skip meals or delay changing diapers to extend their supply.
Rebozo Festival announces 2025 grant application is now open
VENTURA COUNTY — Rebozo Festival Inc. is pleased to announce that awards of up to $30,000 will be granted to qualified non-profit organizations that focus on cultural, social and/or education needs of the Ventura County community. The application process will open Sept. 2 and will close Sept. 30, 2024 at 5 p.m.
Bilingual report — Deadline Approaching in California for SBA Working Capital Loans Due to the December 2023 Storm and Flooding
SACRAMENTO — Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, (on Sept. 11) reminded California small businesses of the Oct. 10, 2024, deadline to apply for an SBA federal disaster loan for economic injury caused by the December 2023 Storm and Flooding in Ventura County that occurred Dec. 21-23, 2023.
According to Sánchez, small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. “Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster’s impact. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the applicant suffered any property damage,” Sánchez said.
United Way of Ventura County now seeking volunteers to provide free tax preparation for low-income earners
Help low-income families and individuals improve their financial stability. Consider joining our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) team of tax preparers and interviewers for the 2024 Tax Year. Volunteers prepare federal and state tax returns at no cost, assisting clients access the tax credits to which they are eligible. Services will be provided at multiple sites across Ventura County offering the opportunity to volunteer during the day, in the evening, or on Saturday. Volunteers are asked to commit four hours per week during the VITA tax season, February 1st – April 30th. Volunteers work in teams led by an experienced tax preparer. Virtual preparation of taxes is also available.
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule
SCORE: BUSINESS FORMATION UNCOVERED: NAVIGATING BUSINESS STRUCTURES
September 10 @ 10:30 am
This business formation webinar is tailored to help entrepreneurs and business owners thoroughly understand the advantages and disadvantages of each entity type (sole proprietor, LLC, s-corp.) from legal separate entities, tax reporting structures, non-tax paying entities, liabilities, asset protection and more.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Bilingual report — County of Ventura Resource Management Agency appoints new public information officer
VENTURA — The County of Ventura Resource Management Agency (RMA) is excited to announce the appointment of Imosemen Omiunu as the Public Information Officer, a newly created position for the agency. This appointment was made by RMA Director Rob Mullane after a comprehensive recruitment process.
Omiunu brings nearly a decade of experience in community engagement, digital marketing, community outreach, event management, and social media management from both the public and private sectors. Most recently, she served as a Resident Director for the University of California, Santa Barbara in the University’s Residential and Community Living Department.
First District Supervisor Das Williams — Keep Fighting For Our Planet
You may have heard the news that Sable (formerly Exxon) has out-maneuvered the County in the oil pipeline dispute by revising its plans to move the safety valves underground, and outside of our jurisdiction. This will likely lead to a restarting of offshore oil drilling at the Santa Ynez Unit off of Gaviota.
Those of us who were here during the Refugio Oil Spill in 2015 know what is now at stake, and how deeply terrifying that news is.
Livingston Memorial starting Spanish-language Support Group on Sept. 24
VENTURA — El Programa de apoyo para el duelo de Livingston está agregando un grupo de apoyo para el duelo gratuito en español. El grupo de apoyo comienza el 26 de Septiembre de 2024, todos los jueves de 6:30p.m. a 8:00 p. m. en nuestra officina en Ventura. Nuestra oficina se encuentra en 1996 Eastman Ave Suite 101 (Cuarto de Conferencia Harris) Ventura.
CSUCI gets high marks on Washington Monthly’s ‘Best Bang for your Buck’ College Guide
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) is one of the most affordable universities in the West according to Washington Monthly’s 2024 annual College Guide.
CSUCI ranked 24th out of 201 colleges and universities in the western region on the “Best Bang for Your Buck” list, climbing two rungs from its 2023 ranking. Each year, the Washington Monthly creates a region-by-region ranking of public, private nonprofit, and for-profit colleges in its “Best Bang for your Buck” category, based on how well an institution helps students attain marketable degrees at affordable prices.
“I am proud of how CSUCI opens doors to higher education for individuals who may not have previously considered higher education. A degree not only transforms their lives but also uplifts their families and contributes to greater social mobility,” said President Richard Yao. “This recognition reflects our commitment to empowering students and enhancing communities through education.”
Bilingual report — Award-winning author Karin Klein to visit Allan Hancock College for discussion, book signing
Klein will visit the college’s Santa Maria campus on Wednesday, Sept. 18 to discuss her latest book, Rethinking College: A Guide to Thriving Without a Degree. The event will be held at the Boyd Concert Hall in the Fine Arts Complex (building F) at the college’s Santa Maria campus. The evening will begin with a community discussion at 5 p.m., followed by a book signing from 6-6:30 p.m.?
September at the Santa Paula Art Museum
Saturday, September 14, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members
Setting to work on her newest series of paintings in 2023, longtime Santa Paula artist Gail Pidduck found herself with a childlike desire to “just make art.” Her adult sensibilities insisted on a focus. Pidduck compromised with the decision to use 8″ x 8″ panels as the constraint for her paintings, while allowing herself to paint anything she wanted. Thus, “8².” The “+ 10?” 8² + 10 = 74, Pidduck’s age when the exhibit hangs, and her goal to produce 74 new paintings from which 40 will be exhibited. Join us for the premiere of Gail Pidduck’s “8² + 10” on Saturday, September 14. The exhibit will be on view through January 12, 2025. All of the artworks will be available for purchase.
Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — People’s Place – Accepting Pre-Applications | Pre-Solicitudes disponibles para People’s Place
UCSB — The Current — ‘Pooch’s World: Art, Design & Architecture Museum celebrates the artistic life of Keith Puccinelli’ and more news
Oxnard College Receives $50,000 Grant Renewal from Metallica’s All Within My Hands’ Scholars Initiative
OXNARD — Oxnard College has received a $50,000 grant renewal from the Grammy Award-winning band Metallica’s foundation, All Within My Hands (AWMH). The award follows an initial grant of $100,000 issued last year and will continue supporting students in the college’s Culinary Arts, Dental Hygiene and Fire Academy programs as the band continues its multimillion-dollar investment in critical workforce programs at community colleges nationwide.
Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department announces DUI checkpoint on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired.
During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Museum of Ventura County — Open-Air Dining, Vampires, and Art – All in one Newsletter!
Taste of History Dinner
Thursday, September 12
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura
Journey back in time for a classic evening of refined taste and unexpected histories. This open-air dinner will transport diners to an elegant mid-century supper club with a three-course meal and wine pairing. The decadent evening, with Al Lowe as emcee, will begin with a cocktail hour and red carpet followed by dinner, an art auction, and entertainment including a live jazz quartet, cooking demonstration, historic artifact gallery, and an oral history reading. Tickets are available HERE!
Gold Coast Health Plan Announces Dr. Felix Nuñez has been named Acting Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Nuñez joined GCHP in 2022 as associate chief medical officer. In 2023, he assumed the role of chief medical officer. He is an accomplished board-certified family physician and health care leader with nearly three decades of leadership in managed care and health care delivery. Prior to joining GCHP, Dr. Nuñez served for eight years at Molina Healthcare of California as the regional medical director for the Inland Empire. A proud native Angeleno and Mexican-American, Dr. Nuñez is passionate about improving health care access and quality of care for underserved and vulnerable populations.
Bilingual commentary — Voting ‘Emotionally’
Bilingual report — Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Celebrates Latino Conservation Week (Sept. 14-22) with Bilingual Outdoor Events
SANTA BARBARA — In celebration of Latino Conservation Week, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is excited to host a range of bilingual events from Sept. 14 to Sept. 22, 2024. These events are an invitation for the Latino community and others to enjoy the outdoors together and participate in activities that help preserve our natural resources. In 2014, the Hispanic Access Foundation, through its Latino Conservation Week celebration, has recognized the Latino community’s vital contributions to conservation and environmental stewardship while expanding opportunities for outdoor engagement.
Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula provides update on Santa Paula Sports Park progress
“We understand that the community is eager to start enjoying the Sports Park, and we share that excitement,” said Greg Barnes, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Santa Paula. “It’s essential that we open the park when the facilities are in the best possible condition. The additional time spent ensuring the health of the turf and finalizing other details will pay off in the long run, allowing residents to fully enjoy the space without concerns about damaging newly installed turf.”
Bilingual report — Ventura Police Dept. urges drivers to prioritize pedestrian safety
“Our roadways are extremely busy, and everyone deserves to reach their destination safely,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “It’s crucial for drivers to stay alert and watch out for pedestrians. Slow down, avoid distractions, and never drive impaired. Safety on our streets is a collective effort, and we all have a part to play.”
One805Live! Launches Online Auction in Support of Santa Barbara County First Responders
SANTA BARBARA — One805 is excited to announce the launch of its One805Live! 2024 auction. This year’s auction features an extraordinary selection of exclusive items and unforgettable experiences.
Bids and donations will benefit Santa Barbara County’s First Responders, and will help provide essential safety and life-saving equipment, along with vital mental wellness counseling, ensuring our local heroes are well-equipped to manage the challenges of their demanding roles.
The online auction opens for bidding on September 4, 2024 at 4 pm and exclusive items will be unveiled at One805’s preview party that same day. The auction can be accessed via www.One805.org.
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara presents ‘Come Paint With Us! – September Paint at Paseo’
Paint at Paseo
MCASB, Paseo Nuevo, De la Guerra Place
Celebrate summer with @omepache, a local Mexican muralist living the Chicano experience in Santa Barbara! Join a 90-minute acrylic painting session, perfect for artists of all ages. Supplies—canvases, paints, aprons, and brushes—are provided. Best of all, this monthly event is free for everyone to enjoy!
Bilingual report — Call to Artists: Beautifying Trash Bins Public Art Project
VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites artists and artist organizations to participate in a new public art initiative to beautify large trash bins near the coast. Selected artists will be uniquely able to beautify four trash bins along the Pier and Promenade area. Online applications are now open through Friday, September 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/PublicArt.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Study of Nicaragua’s Sandinistas argues for multilevel analysis of civil war violence’ and more news, events
Oxnard To Unveil Vibrant New Mural by D.J. Javier Under the Third Street Bridge
OXNARD — The Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA) and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC) are thrilled to announce the installation of a new mural titled “Don’t Forget The Neighborhood,” created by renowned Santa Barbara-based muralist D.J. Javier. This striking mural, located under the Third Street Bridge in Downtown Oxnard, serves as a powerful visual representation of the city’s diverse and dynamic community and will be installed Monday through Friday, August 25-30, 2025.
NASA grant will enable CSUCI students to shadow Jet Propulsion Lab planetary scientists
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) students majoring in a STEM (science, technology, engineering or mathematics) field have a chance to shadow NASA planetary scientists, thanks to a $375,000 grant procured by Assistant Professor of Physics Kevin Hayakawa.
All CSUCI undergraduates are eligible to apply, but should submit their application by Aug. 30 at tinyurl.com/H2O-App. Students can be STEM majors or planning to pursue a STEM major.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule
SBA: WOMEN OWNED SMALL BUSINESS OFFICE HOUR FOR RFIS
August 27 @ 8:30 am
Do you have a Request for Information (RFI) from the WOSB Certification Review team? The Women-Owned Small Business Program is excited to announce a new webinar series: WOSB Office Hour for RFIs! This series is intended for applicants who have applied to become WOSB/EDWOSB certified and who have received a Request for Information (RFIs) from the certification review team but are unsure of how to proceed in responding to the RFI. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions in an open forum about responding to RFIs from members of the WOSB Program staff. Sessions will be held virtually every Tuesday and Thursday at 8:30 am.
Bilingual Report — The latest news from the County of Ventura
County of Ventura to hold public listening session on Request for Proposal for local ambulance services
On Wednesday, September 4, 2024, from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM, the County Executive Office will conduct an in-person and online listening session to solicit comments from stakeholders and the public on the initial draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for an Exclusive Emergency Ground Ambulance Transport and Related Medical Services Provider. Written and verbal comments will be considered in the final draft submitted to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors.
Cal Lutheran Begins 2024-25 Academic Year with New Students, Programs and Interim President
“It’s an exciting time to be at Cal Lutheran as we begin this academic year,” said Cal Lutheran Interim President John A. Nunes, Ph.D., who joined the university June 1. “I am animated by two things: the Cal Lutheran student body and our mission. Ours is a multiethnic student body, a significant percentage of whom are the first in their families to attend college. We are providing all our students with the tools they need for a rewarding career and a life of meaning.”
Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! Unveils an Exciting 2024-2025 Season Lineup with Renowned Latin American Musicians and Dancers
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) is excited to announce its highly anticipated 2024-2025 season, featuring an outstanding lineup of Latin American performers guaranteed to captivate audiences across Santa Barbara County.
This season, Viva will present five acclaimed acts that exemplify the vibrant and diverse cultural heritage of Latin America.
Port of Hueneme Dock Talk August Newsletter — 10-Year Strategic Plan Review – JOIN US!
Your voice is important and your port wants to hear it!
Join us next Tuesday, August 27 at the Port of Hueneme 333 Ponoma St. from 12PM – 6PM for the Port’s final draft presentation for feedback before adoption of the plan.
To comment and review the draft visit: https://www.portofhueneme.org/10-year-strategic-plan/
Bilingual commentary — Was He a King? And Did He Sell Razor Blades?
Have you ever found yourself wondering why a place is called something intriguing, such as “Whynot?” There are communities with that name in Mississippi and North Carolina.
Or how about “China” in Texas?
Hinting at scandal, we have the town of “Hooker” in the panhandle of Oklahoma. The locals are quick to assure us that “it’s a location, not a vocation.” I’m glad they clarified that.
There are always equally intriguing reasons how places like these got their names.
Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing August News
Santa Barbara Museum of Art Celebrates “A Legacy of Giving” with Free Community Day on Sept. 8
Celebrate the exhibition A Legacy of Giving: The Lady Leslie and Lord Paul Ridley-Tree Collection with free admission for all (1 – 4 pm) with related art activities, family gallery guides, docent tours, music, and refreshments. This event also coincides with SBMA’s Free 2nd Sunday for Tri-County Residents (Santa Barbara, Ventura, San Luis Obispo) (11 – 5 pm).
Bilingual report — Ventura announces Emily Fox as New Assistant Parks & Recreation Director
“Emily’s extensive experience in local government, combined with her deep commitment to our community, will bring transformative leadership to our department,” said Stacey Zarazua, Parks and Recreation Director. “Her talent for guiding complex projects and creating sustainable strategies will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the quality of life in Ventura.”
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — From Ventura County to India: Biotech Trade Mission Promotes Growth and Innovation
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Biotech Trade Delegation reaches a significant milestone as it wraps up its successful visit to India. Initiated by Ventura County District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell and organized in collaboration with BioScience Alliance Founder and Chairman Brent Reinke, EDC Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Director Dr. Ray Bowman and EDC SBDC Trade Specialist Simona Filip Racek, CGBP, this mission profoundly strengthens ties between Ventura County’s thriving biotech sector and India’s rapidly expanding biotechnology market.
The mission was made possible with support from the U.S. Commercial Service Offices in Ventura County, New Delhi, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development and the Organization of Women in International Trade Orange County.
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Call for Entries: Deadline Extension and Other Reminders
MCASB presents Cassandria Blackmore: Khioni Diptych, on view through September 29, 2024 in the museum’s window box gallery – 24 hours a day.
Blackmore’s paintings are reverse painted shattered glass. The shattering creates a vortex quality to the surface of the painting that draws the viewer in. At times one is seeing the painting through the transparent surface while later one might see the reflection of the environment around it thus obscuring the artist’s physical mark. In the artist’s own words: “It’s the essence of breaking down an image and restoring it to another version of itself that intrigues me.”
Cassandria lives and works in Santa Barbara, CA. Her work is in the permanent collection of the Crocker Art Museum, Racine Museum of Art, Fitchburg Art Museum, Oakland Museum, Portland Art Museum, The Fort Wayne Museum of Art, and The Imagine Museum. She is a recipient of the Hauberg Fellowship for painting on glass. Cassandria Blackmore is a Trustee on the Board of The Pilchuck Glass School founded by Dale Chihuly.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Big sharks have a big impact — and a big problem’ and more news, events
Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — Back to School, Mobile Library, Financial Literacy, and more
A Back to School Message
From Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools
The start of the new school year is always a magical time as classrooms and schoolyards come roaring back to life after summer break. Ventura County’s public school system serves nearly 125,000 students and provides a comprehensive range of educational services. This school year will see expanded learning opportunities for students of all ages, from the continued expansion of transitional kindergarten (TK) to new career education options. Some of the most exciting new initiatives are highlighted in my annual back to school message, which I invite you to read at this link.