Category: Education

SBCC Board votes to move forward with Physical Education Building replacement with $34 Million in state matching funds

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SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) Board voted 5-1-0-1 (one board member was absent) on Thursday, April 17, to move forward with replacing the Physical Education (PE) Building on the Cliff Drive East Campus. The priority of the PE building replacement project is due to $34 million matching state funds that would expire in the coming year if not utilized. The $34 million would add to the Measure P Bond Extension’s $198 million and maximize facility improvements. 

“We are grateful to our community for passing the Measure P Bond Extension by 66 percent,” said SBCC Board President Jonathan Abboud. “The Physical Education building is being done first because of $34 million in state matching funds that expire in June 2025 if not used — this is money we do not want to lose. Another $71 million from the bond, 36 percent, would go towards this project’s estimated $105 million total cost.”

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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AND GAIN MORE CUSTOMERS

May 7 @ 8:30 am

Whether you are a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this workshop is tailored to equip you with actionable marketing strategies that will deliver results. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your marketing game and attract and gain more customers. Join SCORE Ventura County, City of Thousand Oaks and EDC for this insight-packed workshop that will dive into the key elements of digital marketing to help attract and gain more customers. Address: Thousand Oaks City Hall, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, CA 91362.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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Bilingual report Allan Hancock College hosts art, music, dance and film events (and ?Folklórico Invitational Concert) May 1 through 19

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Hancock will host the 2025 Folklórico Invitational concert and dance performance on May 1-3 at 7 p.m. in Boyd Concert Hall (bldg. F) on the Santa Maria campus. Performers include Hancock students, as well as talented dancers from Righetti, Pioneer Valley and Santa Maria high schools, as well as members of the community. Tickets are $10 each and are available at https://www.hancockcollege.edu/pathways/creative-arts/tickets.php.  

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VCCCD Marketing Teams Honored in Public Relations Awards Ceremony

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CAMARILLO — In a year where authentic storytelling and cultural relevance stood out as creative imperatives, the marketing teams at Ventura College and the District Administrative Center (DAC) rose to the occasion. At the 2025 Community College Public Relations Organization (CCPRO) Pro Awards, both teams were honored for campaigns that didn’t just communicate—but connected.

CCPRO is a statewide professional organization that supports marketing, public relations, and communications professionals at California’s community colleges. The group provides opportunities for professional development, resource sharing, and collaboration across districts. Its annual Pro Awards recognize outstanding work in areas like media relations, advertising, design, and crisis communication.

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UCSB — The Current — ‘Alcohol marketing ushered in a golden age of drinking in America’ and more news, events

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Cultural historian Lisa Jacobson’s new book tells the complicated and fascinating story of how alcoholic beverages morphed from disreputable habit to ubiquitous facet of American life.

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Bilingual report — Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara presents Ballet Nepantla: A Fusion of Ballet, Contemporary, and Mexican Folklórico May 16-18

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SANTA BARBARA — Join ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara!  (Viva) for three free community performances by Ballet Nepantla.

Ballet Nepantla

THREE FREE PUBLIC PERFORMANCES

Friday, May 16 | 7 PM | Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Rd, Goleta

Saturday, May 17  | 7 PM | Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St, Guadalupe, CA

Sunday, May 18 | 6 PM | The Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E Cota St, Santa Barbara

Ballet Nepantla combines classic ballet and contemporary dance with traditional Mexican folklórico, creating a truly special production. Founders Andrea Guajardo and Martín Rodríguez envisioned a new form of expression that fused these two distinct dance traditions, creating an aesthetic that reflects the historical, cultural, and social realities of a broader narrative of being Mexican, Mexican American, immigrant, and trans-cultural.

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Bilingual commentary — Young People vs. Boomers Using AI

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Recently I was helping my eldest grandson with some technical homework he had in his college class. I was flipping through the index of his massive reference book, the way I used to do it in my college days. Meanwhile, he nonchalantly typed in a few words to an app on his phone and rapidly found the answer to the question that we were seeking.

Boomer grandpa asked Generation-Z grandson how he did that. Without batting an eye, he informed me that he was using AI. 

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May at the Santa Paula Art Museum

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Premiere Party:

“Plein Air Visions”

Presented by the California Art Club

Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 Members, $10 Non-members

The prestigious California Art Club was established in 1909 by early California Impressionists to promote the practice of traditional fine arts in the fields of painting, drawing, and sculpture. “Plein Air Visions” will feature 35 contemporary plein air paintings by two dozen current CAC members. The group exhibition celebrates the immediacy and spontaneity of the plein air technique in capturing the ever-changing light, colors, and moods of the California landscape. All of the paintings will be available for purchase.

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Bilingual reports — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — GRANT OPPORTUNITY for California Restaurants, Food Trucks and Caterers

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RESTAURANTS CARE RESILIENCE FUND

Restaurants Care, a nonprofit program of the California Restaurant Foundation, has awarded $7.3 million in grants to 1,603 independent restaurants across California—supporting burger joints, taquerias, bakeries and more. In 2025, Restaurants Care is offering two grant opportunities to help restaurants thrive: $10,000 grants for LA County restaurants and food trucks impacted by the 2025 LA Fires and $5,000 grants for restaurants and commercial caterers in select CA counties (including Ventura & Santa Barbara!) to build resilience. Restaurants Care was created in 2017 as a safety net for food and beverage workers. To learn more about their fund for food and beverage workers, click here.

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Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara celebrating Earth Day with Cole Sternberg

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“In 1969, the devastating images of a massive oil spill from an oil platform off Santa Barbara’s coast galvanized California into action and caught the attention of the rest of the nation, including Senator Gaylord Nelson, founder of Earth Day, who visited Santa Barbara shortly after the spill. The resulting swell of outrage and concern gave rise to the first Earth Day in 1970” (and our colleagues at the Community Environmental Council). 

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Bilingual report — April news People’s Self-Health Housing

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In April we celebrate Fair Housing Month and rightly recognize the passage of the Fair Housing Act of 1968. This landmark legislature came just two years ahead of People’s Self-Help Housing’s incorporation.

The Act, which protects people from discrimination when renting or buying a home, securing a mortgage, seeking housing assistance, or engaging in other housing-related activities, originally had four protected classes – race, religion, national origin, and gender. With the amendment of 1988, two additional classes, ability and familial status were added.

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VCFD Junior Fire Academy registration opens May 1 – May 8

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CAMARILLO — Ventura County Fire Department will accept registrations for our Junior Fire Academy from 9am May 1, 2025 to 5pm May 8, 2025 (or earlier if all spots are filled).

The department will offer three, five-day sessions for girls and boys ages 13 to 15. Sessions are taught by firefighters and include hands-on activities, interactive learning, and field trips. Each session is limited to 30 spaces, which will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants will be able to register for the program starting on May 1st, 2025 at https://vcfd.org/junior-fire-academy

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CSUCI hosts its first-ever Datathon for Ventura County college and high school students on April 26

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CAMARILLO — High school or community college students who would like to learn more about data collection and analysis are invited to a free “Datathon” at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) on Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.…

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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IN-PERSON EVENT: MARKETING MASTERCLASS

April 24 @ 8:00 am

Are you struggling to attract profitable customers and grow your business? Do you want to stand out from the competition and maximize your marketing efforts? This must-attend workshop is designed for established business owners and new entrepreneurs looking to drive real results. Join SCORE Ventura County and EDC for this insight-packed session and discover the strategies you need to attract, win and retain high-value customers. Address: Ventura City Hall, 501 Poli St., Ventura, California 93001.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College sparks conversation on future of AI at summit

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SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College welcomed more than 200 students, educators, industry leaders and community members to its first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit on April 18 at the college’s Santa Maria campus. 

The event, a first of its kind for the college, brought together experts from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, LinkedIn, Cal Poly, Moorpark College, Berkeley College and Hancock for a day of engaging discussions, keynote presentations, breakout sessions and panel conversations. Topics included AI trends, practical applications, ethical considerations and how artificial intelligence is reshaping education, employment, and everyday life. 

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Bilingual commentary — Allan Hancock and Cuesta Colleges receive grant to develop high-tech hubs, cybersecurity degree

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SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College and Cuesta College have been awarded state funding through Uplift Central Coast’s Catalyst Predevelopment Grant initiative to establish the AHC/CC High Tech Hubs: Diversifying Careers Through Education project.  

This initiative aims to address regional workforce gaps by preparing the next generation of aerospace engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and skilled technicians in high-demand industries. The grant is part of Uplift Central Coast’s recent $9 million investment in 36 projects across six counties, supporting economic growth, workforce development, and equitable job opportunities. 

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Bilingual contribution— Post-Action Momentum Continues: April 19 Community Gatherings in Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Isla Vista

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SANTA BARBARA — Following the powerful momentum of the recent Hands Off! action, local organizers are calling on residents to come together again—this time to deepen connections and organize at the community level.

On Saturday, April 19 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, simultaneous Community Gatherings will be held in Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Isla Vista. These events are designed to create space for real conversations, grassroots strategy, and mutual support as we build a stronger, people-powered movement.

RSVP today at https://t.ly/apr19 to join one of the gatherings.

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Moorpark College — Dr. Julius Sokenu Joins Excelencia in Education’s Presidents for Latino Student Success Network

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MOORPARK — Dr. Julius Sokenu, president of Moorpark College, announced his affiliation with the national Presidents for Latino Student Success (P4LSS) network, an initiative of Excelencia in Education—the nation’s premier authority on efforts accelerating Latino student success in higher education. The network comprises presidents and chancellors who have committed to making their campuses learning environments where Latino, and all, students thrive.

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UCSB — The Current — Giovanni Batz wins book prize for ‘The Fourth Invasion’ for more news, events

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Distilling more than a decade of ethnographic research, the book examines ongoing resource exploitation in Guatemala by multinational corporations that fund and operate hydroelectric projects.

Read more about the “invasion”

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69th Annual Conejo Valley Days seeks vendors; Application deadline is June 1

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THOUSAND OAKS — Vendor slots are now available for the 69th annual Conejo Valley Days (CVD), June 19 through June 29 (dark June 23 and 24) at Conejo Creek Park South (Janss Rd./23 Freeway) in Thousand Oaks. The deadline for vendor application submissions is June 1.

CVD is accepting applications from local businesses and craftspeople wanting to show off their products or services in booths along CVD’s Main Street

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CSUCI Sailing Club makes the 2025 Pacific Coast Collegiate Sailing Conference Championships

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The team will travel to the Bay Area city of Richmond, California to compete in the regatta April 19–20. The regatta is hosted jointly by UC Berkeley and the Richmond Yacht Club. 

The CI Sailing Club landed one of just 18 spots in the championship after finishing 10th in the South Designate Semi-Final Regatta held in the city of Long Beach at the end of March. Their performance placed them ahead of notable sailing clubs from UC San Diego, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Santa Clara University. The CI Sailing Club was only nine points behind one of the region’s top teams – UC Berkeley.  

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Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) — Join us on the LA Art Tours!

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Travel from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles with our MCASB Team & Supporters like you! Immerse yourself in a curated tour of the LA Arts Scene and make new friends. $250/ person, transportation & box lunch included.

We will depart from Santa Barbara at 9am & return 5pm.

Special Ventura pick-up & drop off for our friends in Ojai/Ventura/Oxnard.

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Spring Fever at the Museum of Ventura County!

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vor Davis: Up Close and Personal with Paul Harris

Thursday, April 17
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura

Enjoy a captivating evening featuring legendary photographer Paul Harris, interviewed by Ivor Davis. Doors open at 6 PM for refreshments.
From presidents to movie stars, rock legends to eccentric geniuses, Paul has been behind the lens for history-making moments. Now, he’s ready to share the fascinating inside stories behind his photographs.
?Tickets are on sale: free for members, $10 non-members, $5 non-member Zoom. For more information and to purchase tickets to this event, click HERE.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura receives Excellence in Public Information and Communications Award for 2023 Annual Report

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The award was presented during CAPIO’s 2025 Annual Conference, which celebrated outstanding work in government communications for print and digital assets created by public information officials in 2024. The County of Ventura’s 2023 Annual Report took home top honors in the category. Overall, CAPIO received over 500 entries from public agencies throughout California, including cities, counties, special districts, and state departments for the more than 30 awards categories.

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CSUCI to offer a Master of Science in Business Analytics

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“Business analytics is about understanding data that helps you tell a story to better inform business strategy and business decisions,” explained CSUCI Director of Business Special Sessions Philipa Moguel. “This is a degree program that can help across a wide range of industries like healthcare informatics, digital advertising, government agencies, nonprofits, legal organizations—the possibilities are really wide-ranging.” 

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Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) awarded $50,000 from Uplift Central Coast to support EmpowerPath: A bold new initiative for single parents

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SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) has been selected as one of 36 organizations across the Central Coast to receive Catalyst Predevelopment Funding through Uplift Central Coast. WEV was awarded $50,000 to support early-stage research and planning for EmpowerPath,…

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura recognizes dedicated public service from 23 longstanding employees

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“Behind every County program, service, and local initiative that supports our residents, there are dedicated individuals working tirelessly to make those efforts possible,” said Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “We are proud to acknowledge the career milestones for these employees. Their willingness and dedication to serve the community have made a lasting impact through decades of service and commitment.”

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Announcing Community Environmental Council (CEC)’s 2025 Environmental Heroes

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The Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival will return to Alameda Park on Saturday, April 26 from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 27 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., 2025. Now in its 55th year, the community-organized festival is one of the longest-running Earth Day celebrations in the country and is one of the largest Earth Day festivals on the West Coast. Presented by the Community Environmental Council (CEC) and produced by longtime festival partner, CarpEvents, the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival continues to serve as a beacon for environmental advocacy and education.

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Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula to Celebrate grand opening of Santa Paula Creek Sports Park on May 3

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The Grand Opening Celebration will offer a full afternoon of fun and excitement for the whole family. Guests will enjoy live drills and demonstrations by Santa Paula’s talented youth softball and soccer teams, showcasing the community’s athletic spirit. A live band will take the stage at the new amphitheater, filling the park with music and energy.

Food lovers can grab a bite from a selection of local food trucks, while kids explore the Parks & Recreation equipment displays or hop aboard a charming kids’ train ride. The celebration will also feature interactive booths hosted by community-based organizations, offering educational resources and hands-on activities.

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Ventura County jurisdictions provide 40 tons of Agromin Compost and mulch to local schools during fourth quarter 2024 at no cost to schools

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OXNARD — The cities of Oxnard and Ventura, along with the County of Ventura, enlisted the help of Agromin, California’s largest organics recycler and manufacturer of environmentally friendly soil products, to distribute 40 tons of compost and mulch to local schools during the last quarter of 2024. This distribution was coordinated by Ventura County Farm to School, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting environmental, agricultural and nutrition education.

Schools receiving compost and mulch for their school gardens included Haycox Elementary School, Lincoln Elementary School, Mesa High School, Oxnard High School, Rio Del Norte Elementary School, Rio Del Sol STEAM School, Rio Del Valle Middle School, Rio Real Elementary, Tierra Vista Elementary, and Sunset Elementary School.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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IN-PERSON EVENT: MARKETING MASTERCLASS

April 24 @ 8:00 am

Are you struggling to attract profitable customers and grow your business? Do you want to stand out from the competition and maximize your marketing efforts? This must-attend workshop is designed for established business owners and new entrepreneurs looking to drive real results. Join SCORE and EDC for this insight-packed session and discover the strategies you need to attract, win and retain high-value customers. Address: Ventura City Hall, 501 Poli St., Ventura, California 93001.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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Ventura College Opens Lokahi Lab in Santa Paula, Part of Veterinary Technology Program

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SANTA PAULA — Ventura College’s Veterinary Technology (Vet Tech) program recently began using the Lokahi Lab, a new 2,000-square-foot teaching space built to support veterinary hands-on skills training. The lab is in Santa Paula, adjacent to Ventura College’s East Campus.

The lab was built with donations to the Lokahi Foundation, a Ventura-based nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the veterinary workforce.

Lokahi Foundation founders Dr. Janis Shinkawa and Dr. Jill Muraoka are two of the founding partners of Ohana Pet Hospital, with locations in Ventura, Santa Paula, and Agoura Hills. In 2017, the two veterinarians collaborated with Ventura College to develop a start-up Vet Tech program to help fulfill the growing need for Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) and qualified veterinary assistants in Ventura County. 

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CSUCI’s new Theatre and Performance Studies program presents the Spring One-Acts play festival

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CAMARILLO — When CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) alumna Sara Ruiz had the opportunity to return to her alma mater as a guest director, she didn’t think twice. The Class of 2020 alumna, who double majored in Performing Arts and Political Science was elated to return to the place that shaped her and share some of her wisdom with current students who are part of the theatre community.  

“To impart the sort of wisdom that I’ve learned at Channel Islands, and since, to bring that back to the young actors who are here now, is just unbelievable, and is something that I am really grateful that I get to be a part of.”  

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Classified Employees of the Year honored across Ventura County Community College District

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CAMARILLO — The Community Colleges of Ventura County proudly recognize Kelly Denton, Academic Data Specialist at Ventura College, as the 2025 Classified Employee of the Year. The annual award celebrates the excellence, professionalism and dedication of classified professionals who make an exceptional impact across our campuses and communities.

“This is our chance to recognize the incredible work Kelly Denton has done and how deeply she is valued by the Ventura College community,” said Board Chair Gabriella Torres. “Kelly was selected because of the meaningful impact she makes every day — through her dedication, leadership and the way she goes above and beyond to support students, faculty and staff alike.”

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Bilingual report — Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival takes over Alameda Park April 26 & 27, 2025

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Now in its 55th year, the community-organized festival is one of the longest-running Earth Day celebrations in the country and is one of the largest Earth Day festivals on the West Coast. Presented by the Community Environmental Council (CEC) and produced by longtime festival partner, CarpEvents, the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival continues to serve as a beacon for environmental advocacy and education.

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Community Environmental Council (CEC) — WE WON’T STOP

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We get it. The daily barrage of bad news punctuated by heartbreaking environmental crises is enough to make anyone want to shut down.

But the Community Environmental Council’s team of 28 Board and Staff members are not tuning out. We are still very much in this — working every day to ensure that the California Central Coast is a tangible, real-world model of what healthy, equitable, climate-safe communities can look like.

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Santa Paula Museum of Art — Inbox Art Exhibit: “A Brush With Nature: Three Artists’ Perspectives”

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“A Brush with Nature: Three Artists’ Perspectives”

?
Sandy Fisher, Mardilan Lee Georgio, and Charlotte Mullich

On view now through May 4, 2025

Artists Sandy Fisher, Mardilan Lee Georgio, and Charlotte Mullich highly recommend joining your local arts organization. The three friends met through the Santa Clarita Artists Association and later formed their own modest alliance to trade advice and support one another. All three women began their professional fine art careers later in life after raising children, though Charlotte has been teaching art for many years, and all were encouraged towards the arts from a young age.

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805UndocuFund receives $32,000 in total grant support from the Fund for Santa Barbara to strengthen immigrant rights advocacy and Emergency Response

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SANTA BARBARA — 805UndocuFund is proud to announce it has received a total of $32,000 in grant funding from The Fund for Santa Barbara to expand its immigrant rights advocacy and strengthen rapid response and disaster relief efforts across the Central Coast.

The first award—a $10,000 Emergent Needs Grant from The Fund for Santa Barbara—will provide general operating support for the 805 Immigrant Rapid Response Network, which monitors and responds to immigration enforcement actions across Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo Counties.

The second award—a $12,000 Donor Advised Grant, also from The Fund for Santa Barbara—provides additional general support for the Rapid Response Network, further sustaining the network’s capacity to verify ICE activity, deploy trained legal observers and community responders, and provide emergency assistance to impacted families.

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Bilingual commentary — The Enigmatic Nature of the Blowing Wind

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As I write this, the wind outside is causing trees to sway and birds in flight to move erratically. These must be the March winds in April.

I recalled reading about the beliefs of the Aztecs regarding the wind. They surmised that the wind served as a bridge between the realms of the physical and the spiritual. They depicted Ehécatl, the Aztec god of the wind, as the sacred entity that breathed life into humanity. 

The Aztecs venerated the wind and lived in awe of its dual nature; it gave life, but it could also chaotically take it away. For them, the wind carried both messages and benedictions from the gods. It was a transformative force to be reckoned with. It moved and changed the elements of the world around them. 

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Ventura County Ethnic Studies Downtown Oxnard Walking Tour to be held April 18

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OXNARD — The Ventura County Ethnic Studies Downtown Oxnard Walking Tour will be held from9 a.m.to 1:30 p.m. Friday, April 18.

Led by Professors José Alamillo and Frank Barajas, the 2.5 mile tour of the historic and cultural sites of downtown Oxnard will be followed by lunch and conversation.

A driving option is available for those with mobility issues.

RSVP to Patty Colman (pcolman@vccd.edu) by Wednesday, April 16 as space is limited.

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Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy — We Deserve Clean Air. Safe Water. A Just Future

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Everyone deserves clean air, safe water, and a healthy community – no matter your race, income, or zip code. But right now, low-income communities and communities of color are still being hit first and worst by pollution and climate change.

Environmental justice means we don’t just survive – we thrive. It means organizing, speaking out, and demanding bold changes that put our health, our safety, and our futures first. And this month, you’ve got three powerful ways to take action with our community:

Speak Up at the State Lands Commission – Monday, April 14

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Santa Barbara Museum of Art to open expanded educational space on April 13

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“Education is at the core of SBMA’s mission,” states Eichholz Family Foundation Director Amada Cruz. “The new expanded space for classes and workshops at the Museum is a game-changer. From the minute you walk into the light-filled white ART LEARNING LAB, you are immersed in a space for art-making with colorful pencils, crayons, sketch pads, and drawings on the wall.”

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150 artisans will display their designs and crafts at 39th annual California Strawberry Festival

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While strawberry-themed foods and beverages are a big draw for the nearly 50,000 people who attend each year, the festival is well-known for unique handcrafted works by artists and crafters. Over 150 artisans showcase their original items including paintings, ceramics, children’s toys, wearables, photography, outdoor furniture, jewelry and specialty foods. Many incorporate strawberries into their creations.

“For many festivalgoers, their first stop is the arts and crafts booths to see what’s new,” says Dana Hale-Mounier, director of Pacific Fine Arts Festivals and coordinator of the festival’s arts and craft booths. “Meeting the artists at the festival makes the experience special. You learn about their inspiration and the creation process and appreciate what goes into every item.”

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CLU School of Management announces April events

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‘Life in Tune” with Freddie Ravel
Tuesday, April 22 | 12:00 PM
Zoom Webinar

“Life in Tune” is a one-of-a-kind program designed to challenge and inspire organizations to discover their untapped potential. The format is fast-paced, entertaining, and as the secrets of the world’s undisputed international language of music are revealed, full of surprises.

Freddie will be taking questions that will be moderated by Gerhard Apfelthaler, Dean of the School of Management. Everyone is welcome to join the conversation.

Registration is required. Registered participants will be sent information about joining the Zoom webinar.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura awarded $550,000 Catalyst Grant to establish Advanced Air Mobility Innovation Center

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VENTURA — The County of Ventura’s Economic Vitality Unit, in partnership with the Department of Airports and key regional partners, has been awarded $550,000 to establish an Advanced Air Mobility Innovation Center. The grant is part of a $9 million…

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SEEAG Selected To Receive A Target Circle Community Grant

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“SEEAG is honored to be chosen to participate in this special charitable giving campaign, sponsored and funded by Target,” says Caitlin Paulus-Case, SEEAG executive director. “The more points SEEAG receives, the larger portion of Target’s charitable funds will go to fund SEEAG’s mission.”

Nonprofits were selected by region based on their impact and address pressing issues in their community. Points are accumulated through June 1.

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Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Take a Look at What’s Coming Up!

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Join us for an evening of Cochineal Dye Demonstrations, Mezcal Tasting, and Delicious Oaxacan Cuisine at Sangre De Nopal artist Porfirio Gutierrez’s Studio in Ventura.

Funds raised will provide critical support for museum exhibitions and programs like Sangre de Nopal currently on view.

For further questions email hello@mcasantabarbara.org

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Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — Get your tickets for the 2025 Builder Games on April 26

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Saturday, April 26 | 3-7 PM | 1060 Kendall Rd, San Luis Obispo
 
Want to join the fun at the 2025 Builder Games? Reserve your spot now!

Cheer on teams as they race against the clock and face fun challenges to build one-of-a-kind playhouses for children. Enjoy Santa Maria style BBQ, local wine, beer, and music! All funds raised benefit the Supportive Housing and Camino Scholars programs of PSHH.

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Last Chance! Register now for CEC’s Climate Stewards Course

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Are you ready to lead grassroots climate action?
CEC’s Spring Climate Stewards Course begins April 16.
CEC Climate Stewards are leading a groundswell of Climate Action across California’s central coast. If you are looking for ways to have a positive impact in your community, CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program can equip you with the skills and confidence to take individual and collective action.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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IN-PERSON EVENT: OXNARD’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS: MARKETING AND RESOURCES FOR RESTAURANTS

April 9 @ 9:00 am

Join SCORE Ventura County and Economic Development Collaborative to learn about Oxnard’s Recipe for Success. This workshop aims to equip restaurant owners with the tools and strategies to maximize social media and highlight the power of collaboration between restaurants, local districts and Visit Oxnard from a panel of local businesses. Address: Oxnard Main Public Library (251 South A St, Oxnard, CA 93030). 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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County of Ventura Supervisor Jeff Gorell announces inaugural Supervisorial Leadership & Excellence Awards

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Ventura County Supervisor Jeff Gorell is proud to announce the honorees of the 1st Annual Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards, a signature event recognizing extraordinary individuals whose leadership, dedication and compassion have made a lasting impact across Ventura County’s District 2.

The awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 PM at the Amgen campus in Thousand Oaks. This inaugural celebration will honor “Great Navigators” those who have shown excellence in Public Safety, Education, Prosperity and Economy, Conservation and Environmentalism and Community Leadership.

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